Jan/Feb, 2006 Vol.80/Issue:4

Name CampaignNews:Page 4

Newest faculty memberCreek Speaks:

Page 12

Mardis Gras SpiritRekindledFeatures:

Page 7

Valentine’s “I Love You”Centerspread:

Pages

“No-Run Fun Run” supports ScholarshipDanielle Leal and Anne BrownCreek-Speaks Editors

The Clear Creek HiLife newspaper staff is hosting another event for a good cause. Students continue to raise money in the name of a fallen soldier.

February 9, 2006 is the date declared by Mayor Shults for the “No-Run Fun Run.” This event is a fundraiser set to raise needed money for the Ray Joseph Hutchinson Scholarship.

The scholar-ship is dedicated to Ray Joseph Hutchinson, a 2001 Clear Creek graduate who died in Iraq on December 7, 2003 while serv-ing his country under the 101st

Airborne Divi-sion.

Rayʼs death inspired Wynette Jameson, the HiLife News-paper advisor at Creek, and her students to start some-thing in memory of such an awesome hero.

Since his death, the stu-dents of Clear Creek HiLife have done all they could to help spread the word of Rayʼs life and raise money for his scholarship.

The purpose of the scholarship is to give students, who are not in the top 10 percent of their class, money to attend college.

This stems from a dream that Hutchinson had. He wanted every person to be able to achieve his or her goal, no matter the circumstanc-es. In the past, the recipient of the scholar-ship, including several other qualifications, had to overcome some hardship in their lives, but this requirement is no longer in effect.

To participate in the “No-Run Fun Run,” all one must do is buy a T-shirt. There is no running; in fact, participants never even have to break a sweat.

This shirt displays a picture of Hutchinson on the front and the words “Honoring A Hero” in bold, red letters. The back of the shirt features the logos of businesses that have opted to sponsor the run. Since the No-Run Fun Run has begun, students in the newspaper staff have gone out to several businesses and told the story

behind the scholarship to raise enough money this year for the scholarship.

For $200, businesses bought a logo on the back of the shirt to show their support for the scholarship. All of the money goes to the scholarship fund.

Some sponsors include Jack W. Janoe M.D. at the South Shore Medical Center, Bay Runner and SCENE magazines, Pris-cilla Ennis with Re/Max Realtors, Clear

Lake Lexus, Lyondell Chemical Company, Hometown Bank in League City, and Trade Show Exhibit & Company. In all, 24 logos are to be fitted on the back.

Although a large sum of money is likely to be expected from the sale of the logos, the T-shirt sale is expected to top it. Shirts were $15 until January 15, and are $20 until the event. The company that buys the logo and orders the most shirts also gets a t-shirt with a signed by the President.

Free with the purchase of the shirt is admittance to the “Finish Line” at the Harbour Club in the South Shore Harbour Hotel and Conference Center. The finish line is the celebration of the scholarship and all the money that was raised, where

people can enjoy snacks and soft drinks. However, without a shirt, general admis-sion will be $20.

Dr. Fred Hayes, principal of Clear Creek High School, has also pledged that he will donate $5 for every employee or student of CCHS that wears the “No-Run Fun Run” T-shirt on February 9.

The date chosen to host the “No-Run Fun Run” would have been Ray Joseph Hutchinsonʼs 23rd birthday. He was born on February 9, 1983. The event is a great

way to honor and remember such a heroic figure.

As Deborah Hutchinson, Ray Joseph Hutchin-sonʼs mother, said, “ To con-tribute to the Ray Joseph Hutchin-son Scholarship is to honor not only him, but all soldiers ev-erywhere who make sacrifices of their lives to do their duty. The commitment

and brave works of all our sol-diers are honored when the Ray Joseph Hutchin-son Schol-arship is allowed to grow and do its noble work.”

On January 31, the several members of the Clear Creek High School HiLife News-paper were featured on Fox 26 News talking about the “No-Run Fun Run” and the Ray Joseph

Hutchinson. Kristine Galvan reported on the generosity of the high school students and what the scholarship was about. Both Rachel Keith and Dixie Hairston, two editors on Creekʼs newspaper, told Fox 26 about why they were helping with the scholarship.

The scholarship is a good cause used to help students with their future, and to allow the memory of a great hero and Creek-graduate to live on. The scholarship is meant to remember all soldiers that have fought in the war, and give students some-thing great to look up to. All members of the community are encouraged to partici-pate in this scholarship.

If you would like to purchase a shirt in support of the Ray Joseph Hutchinson “No- Run Fun Run”, contact hutchfund@yahoo.com, or call (281) 284-0020.

T-shirt logo by Melissa Wiland.Ray photos by fotki.com/mrsjPhoto of Hilife staff and Fox News reporter Kristine Galvan by Fallan Drago

A look inside...

2 3OpinionSurveyClearCreek

Hilife

Centerspread Editor: Rachel Rogers Photographers: Lauren Pourgjahan

Sonia Alihossini Olivia Huynh Jsaniese Parham Zach Bartel Jada Hunter Rachel Rodger John Brouillard Matrex Kilgore Feara Smith Fallan Drago Laura Lebran Stephanie Welcome Jose Espinoza Amelia Looper Micah Wesley Neil Golden Tabatha McCall Jade Vitela Kelly Groce Mel Paetz

Principal: Adviser: Technical Adviser:Executive Editor:Editor-In-Chiefs:

News Editors:Features Editor:Diversions Editors:Online Editor: Jessica OʼNeil Sports Editor: Kelsey WileyCreek Speaks Editor: Anne Brown Ads Managers: Shaeleah Glidewell

Dr. Fred HayesWynette Jameson Richard RaschJan O ̓NeilCory Stottlemyer Dixie Hairston and Ashli PendletonLibby Sanders and Rachel Kieth Danielle Leal

Clear Creek High School HiLife Newspaper

2005-2006 HiLife Staff

Email us at Hilifenews@yahoo.comVisit us at www.texas.ihigh.com/clearcreekPrinted monthly. For advertising rates call:

(281)-338-5696 or fax:(281)-338-5631

F r e s h m e n S o p h o m o r e s

S e n i o r s

J u n i o r s

“One resolution is to become a Sith Loard with a red lightsaber. Another is to make the Cavaliers!” - Kurosh Avandsaleh

“My New Yearʼs resolutions are to make A̓ s and do better in band.” - Cara Zachary

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is be more committed to reaching my goals.” - Zach Sweers

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to make better grades, cuss less, and be nicer and find the secret to the universe.” - Silis Borromat

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to get into the next level at dance at my studio and to get into the studio company.” - Arielle Stuehrk

ʻTo get to the rank of staff sergeant hopefully by the end of the year.” - Seth Powers

“My New Yearʼs Resolution for 2006 is to go to my church more often.” - Kelsey Parnell

“My New Yearʼs Resolution for 2006 is to work harder to reach my goals, aspirations, and hopes/wishes.” - Rebecca Bellay

“Not to drink cokes anymore and get all A̓ s second semester.” - Eryn Bright

“My New Yearʼs Resolution for the year 2006 is to treat people better and be less judgemental and help others in need.” - Britany de la Houssaye

“To get into the top ten percent of the junior class.” - Brittanie Yuen

“The day came when I had to make a New Yearʼs Resolution and it was to fill my education, my faith, and myself with surprises.” - Sunayana Chopra

“My New Yearʼs Resolution would have to be to get in shape and improve my attitude towards my brother.” - Natalie Sanchez

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to get stronger and faster, because itʼs going to be my last year of football next year and I want to go further than what we did this year.” - Jesse Baum

“I want to keep my grades up so I can get into the Honors Pro-gram at UT.” - Tori Wycoff

“I want to get all A̓ s in all my classes for the rest of this year.” - Kaitlin Flaherty“To create the best opporutunity for scholarships for myself for college.” - John Christopher

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to not take things for granted and to not refuse the small things.” - Catrina Meissler

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to have a great basketball year and make the right decision in finding a college.” - Coy Custer

“I want to get better at playing my video games.” - Josh Janik

“My New Yearʼs Resolution for 2006 is to grow stronger rela-tionships with my family and friends and putting in a better effort with school and work.” - Brittney Becker

“I donʼy make New Yearʼs Resolutions because I never keep them. But I suppose I could try and stop drinking soda, and actu-ally keep to it.” - Veronica Pena

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to show more compassion towards my family, friends, and enemies.” - Nelita Taplet

“To graduate and be able to get some scholarship money to SFA.” - Stephanie Redwine

“To lose fifteen pounds, and meet the guy who plays Harry Potter.” - Megan Dean

“Most people say ʻI want to lose weight. ̓Well, my New Yearʼs Resolution is to gain weight, I weigh 102, and my goal is 115.” - Brittany Marquez

“My New Yearʼs Resolution is to live life out to its fullest.” - Katherine Thompson

“To get a job and save money for a car.” - Tiffani Killiann

WhatareyourNewYear’sResolutionsfor2006?

2 3EditorialClearCreekHilife

Hardcore With

Cory

Dixie HairstonNews Editor

Earlier today as I sat filling out schol-arship applications I found myself wonder-ing about what lies ahead. I thought about school next year and the much bigger question of how to pay for it. Where will I be in four years, ten or even fifteen? I know itʼs corny, but I found my-self really questioning my future.

Even though it is February we seniors are making plans for spring break, prom and the last summer before we all go our separate ways. Yeah, it is sort of early to be thinking about leaving but really we only have four more months until we embark on a whole new chapter of our lives. Are there people that I will never see again? Are there friends that I will not keep in touch with? Will we really drift apart?

I have spent four years of my life working toward one goal: college accep-tance. Now that I have it I am apprehensive about following through. What is it about high school? You hate it while you are here but when it comes down to leaving you want more time.

I think that the realization hit me only about two weeks ago when I was hanging out with my two best friends one Friday night. It hit me like an on- coming train.

We were dancing to “Goldigger” and I started to think about all the great times that we have had during our four year stint at Creek. The inside jokes that no one else has any idea about (like the secret family recipe or P.F.s), and for those of you who know me you know what I am talking about.

It made me sad to think that this will be my last year with my best friend whom I met in first grade. Next year she will be in Dallas and I will be in Austin. Most people only consider how they are going to feel when they leave a boyfriend or girlfriend behind, but leaving a best friend is worse. What do you do when your con-stant net of supporters is spread out all over the state or even the

nation? Granted I am going to University of Texas and many of the Creek seniors will be there, but will it be the same?

We have had great times over the past four years. Buffalo Wild Wings, Astros games where they fold burritos “like crazy,” screaming our heads off trying to get on camera, toga parties and Christmas Dance…. and thatʼs only senior year.

As I sit here and write, memories of surprise parties, the hallowed golf cart es-capades (before we all got cars) and Firet-ron all come flooding into my mind. What

It seems we live in a culture where television and movie stars are viewed as gods and every teenager across the country seems to be mimicking their every move. Itʼs impossible to walk through Creek without hearing gossip about the latest trends in Hollywood or the status of the hottest celebrity couples. What really irritates me is the way people seem to go out of their way to copy what they see on TV and in the movies, causing pointless high school drama. I hear about parties being held that are similar to those on TV, and the drama that ensues when certain people are not invited. I hear ridiculous remarks from girls about how their boyfriends are pulling a “Stephen” from MTVʼs “Laguna Beach”. I hear about cliques forming at school that resemble certain cliques from movies such as “Mean Girls”. Why do some girls at Creek feel the need to shove their popularity into the faces

of everyone? Do you feel any more famous or popular than you were before? Besides, does anyone really care? Seriously, what pointless fact are you trying to prove? Does acting like characters from movies that are not real make you feel more famous or something? I guess as a guy I will never fully understand the way girls socialize, and hopefully, I will have to try to. Iʼm not trying to sound harsh or cut anyone down, but I guess Iʼm just confused. I want to know why do todayʼs teens feel the need to have Hollywood tell them how they should act, how they should dress, what they should like, who they should like, and how they should define themselves It all just seems pointless and silly to me. I will be honest, I find myself at times glued to VH1 or E! soaking up every bit of information I can about Hollywoodʼs finest, but most of the time I have to laugh at it all and just questions what makes it so interesting?

You see magazines at the store flaunting images of young Hollywood actors and actresses with their own definition of the “perfect body”. For guys, the definition of perfection is being six feet tall with a body that would make any Greek god jealous. For girls, being emaciated seems to be todayʼs “look”.

For some reason, however, I find it completely unattractive if a girl is so skinny that any small gust of wind can blow them from the portable to the T-shacks. But thatʼs just my opinion.

Drama is another aspect of Hollywood that seems to be copied at Creek, whether intentionally or not. Every simple fight, whether over gossip, relationships, or something else as equally pointless, just makes the people involved seem childish and immature. I know that as long as teenagers attend high school, drama will roam the hallways. But at least make it over something important. Arguments and disagreements will always happen, but

Duringthe lastweekendofJanuary,,several buildings on the Main Campuswere vandalized. Crimestoppers is of-fering an award to anyone with anyinformationaboutthevandalism.Thosewith informationareurged to contactCrimestoppersat(281)-480-TIPSoranyschooladministrator.

most of the times, they should have never happened in the first place. Fights over name-calling, gossip, copying of outfits, jealousy, and misunderstandings are just samples of some of the fights I have been in this year alone.

I think its sad how Hollywood has taught us to react in certain situations. During times of breakup, we see Hollywood split into “teams”, each side supporting one or the other who was involved in the split. At Creek, I see the same thing happen. Girls flock to comfort each other and plot their revenge, while the ex-boyfriend makes up his own rumor to get his own revenge.

I think students at Creek need to take a step back and just ask themselves if all the tears, emotional scarring, and stress is really worth it all? I think everyone needs to put down the remote and flashy magazines and go out and find something important to fawn over. Life without Hollywood seems so much simpler.

Guest Editorial: Dixie HairstonI am going to miss the most are the things that that make me break into hysterical laughter at the mere mention of them.

Even though our high school career is in the final chapter, I know this spring will bring more phenomenal memories. To all my friends… here is to a senior year that

we will never, ever forget. “Gone people all careful and con-

sumed, gone. Gone going, gone every-thing…Gone be the birds if they donʼt want to sing. Gone people, all awkward with their things, gone”

-Jack Johnson

4 5News ClearCreekHilife

The Name CampaignThe international campaign to stop kidnapping and child torture in Africa

Music Dept. makes waves at State

Ashli PendletonNews Editor

A typical day for a student at Clear Creek high school might go a little some-thing like this: wake up and go to school. Take care of any responsibilities such as homework or an after school job. Maybe participate in a hobby, sport, extra curricu-lar activities or maybe just relax and enjoy the day, then at the end of the day being able to lay in bed and fall asleep peacefully without a thought of surviving the next day.

Now how about travel half way around the world to Uganda, Africa and take a glance at how many of those teens spend their days.

Many of these teens definitely do not lie in a warm, comfy bed at night. As a matter of fact many people in Uganda are lucky to even have a home. It is a war-affected country that has left many children, adults, and teens, the same age as the students at Creek, alone, trapped in a terrifying night-mare. With no home to wake up to every morning, or a school to go to, these children are left with one responsibility: survive.

During passing periods when walking down the halls at Creek, the numerous triv-ial complaints are heard. It might be how much a student hates homework, or a cer-tain teacher. It might be a tragic tale of how mean and unfair parents are these days. It could be a petty problem with friends. They

are all average topics that teens complain about, but in Uganda the topics are quite different.

In Uganda kidnappings, rapes, kill-ings, ransacking, and other unimaginable

war crimes take place to children who are as young as five. This is the result of a civil war that has taken place for the last nineteen years.

The plight of these children is something to consider when deter-mining just how lucky and fortunate many teens at Creek are by simply living in “the land of the free.”

“I had no idea about the conditions that so many people, even my age are struggling through on a daily basis. It

makes me feel very lucky and appreciative for the life that I live.” Senior, Ali Owen comments on the suffering African nation.

There are definitely going to be mis-fortunes and tragedies that teens at Creek face, but not one student can say that they wake up in the morning and deal first hand with a war that is taking place, literally, in their backyards.

Some find solace by night commut-ing. These people leave their homes every morning make their way to safer areas

where they are less likely to be abducted. These “Night Com-muters” are of-

ten adolescents and very young children.This is brought to your attention to

give students at Creek a walk in another, much less fortunate, teenʼs shoes. It is also to inform students directly about how they can help with the Name Campaign. All you need to participate is ten dollars, a signa-ture and concern for the children who are not as fortunate as Creek students.

First, purchase a dog tag for ten dol-lars. Before receiving the tag however, the donor must make pledge to tell the story of their child to everyone who asks. Even-tually, the goal of the Name Campaign is to focus international pressure on the Ugandan government to put an end to the conflict.

Three hundred dollars covers the cost of education, room, board, and medical

expenses for one child. Every cent that is made from the dog tags will go directly to Rachelle Rehabilita-tion center, which will provide for as many children as possible. When you buy a dog tag you are in a sense “adopting a child.” Afterward letters from your child will be sent to show just how much they are appreciate your help.

Maybe when walking down the hall from now on instead of thinking of teenage drama, think of the lives of the thousands of war affected children in Uganda and their terrible

fate. Why not take a walk in another teens shoes? Why not feel appreciative for the good things in life? Why not help out?

Evelyn Akello, is a thirteen-year-old girl who lived in Northern Uganda. She, like the 30,000 other African children, experienced first hand the devastation of war. As seen in the picture above, Evelynʼs face is distorted because of a bomb. This thirteen year old girl had to relive that horrific experience every time she looked at herself in the mirror. Well, until she received some help. Amy and Kathy Eldon, who are sponsors of the Global Tribe organization that is dedicated to helping others and improving the environment, also held out a helping hand to Evelyn. Alyssa Solomon, a sophomore and coordina-tor of Creekʼs place in the Name Campaign says, “Every time I look at Evelynʼs picture she reminds me of why Iʼm working so hard to help others in similar situations. Evelyn has been taken back to the United States to receive corrective surgery for her face injury.

One Surviviorʼs Story:Evelyn Akello Amelia Looper

Reporter

Every year, band students participate in the TMEA Region Band competition, which allows them to compete against other students in their area. Students play very high-level try-out pieces for a panel of judges, receive a score, and are ranked. Simple as the process may sound, the vig-orous practice and does not make success easy.

Region competition has many levels that students can progress through, begin-ning with district auditions. Auditions took place at the Clear Lake Ninth Grade Center on December 1st.

Students, on some of the more popular instruments such as flute and trumpet, had to sit in an audition room for almost five hours before try-outs were over. Every participant in the competition was required to play an excerpt from each of the 3 full-length pieces they had been practicing ever since the beginning of the school year. With some instruments sporting nearly 50 individual players, the audition process was often lengthy.

Even after the auditions themselves were completed, many students had to wait at the Ninth Grade Center until as late as 10 ʻo clock before they found out the results. Students could potentially be placed in ei-ther the district or region category. Those who qualified for region band would at-tend a region chair test later in December, where the competition would extend to other schools in the area.

There are 3 region bands a student can

be placed in: Symphonic Winds, directed this year by Dick Clardy, Wind Symphony directed by Michael C. Crain, and Wind Ensemble directed by Gary Green. All three of the above performed Saturday, January 14th, (in Slocumb Auditorium at San Jacinto College), after rehearsing only twice in the previous two days. The mem-bers of all three bands showed great skill by learning a full concert program in such a short amount of time.

Those who placed high enough on their respective instrument then moved on to the area level. Auditions took place on Saturday, January 7th. Schools from all of the Gulf Coast area were represented, tak-ing the challenge to a whole new level.

After area these musicians move on to the pinnacle of high school band competi-tions in the state of Texas: the few talented musicians who qualified for the All-State level. This level consists of the best play-ers in the entire state; the top 1% of Texas ̓band population.

Eleven Creek musicians received this honor: Vani Rajendran, Sarh Idriss, and Zehra Hussein on clarinet, Michael Fer-nando on contra bass clarinet, Jon Carlo Cabrera on bass clarinet, Justin Wood on trumpet, Jonathon Cardinal and Joey Majdi on French Horn, Garrett Bridges on bass trombone, and Jennifer Rodgers and Me-lissa Stout in percussion.

“I was really proud of everyone in the music department this year” says

These musicians will perform at an exclusive All-State clinic later this year. The biggest congratulations go out to all of them.

Photos by uganda.blogspirit.com

4 5PALs

The PALs have been mentoring kids at elementary and intermediate school. This past month they went to a leadership con-vention in Austin.

NewsClearCreekHilife

A Change in Latitude: Sydney, AustraliaLaura Lebron Reporter

Sydney, Australia, also known as the Emerald City, is admired for its amazing harbour, beautiful coast-line, warm, pleasant climate and the cosmopolitan culture. It is located in a coastal basin between the Pacific Ocean in the east and the Blue Moun-tains to the west. Sydney is home to Port Jackson, one of the largest har-bors in the world. As well as seventy other harbors and beaches including the beautiful Bondi Beach.

Founded in 1788, Sydney is the largest and oldest city in Australia. It is a major global and domestic tourist destination and is home to 4.3 million people. Sydneyʼs diversity makes this city one of the major hot spots for historical landmarks, nightlife, and amazing scenery.

Sydney was the hosted the 2000 Olympics and will host the 2008 World Youth Day. Sydney is recognized for two major international architectural triumphs, the Sydney opera house and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Jern Ultzon, was named the chief architect, after impressing judges with his design at the competition Sydney held be-

fore construction began on the opera house. With the help of engineer, Ove Arup, con-struction finally began in 1959. Ultzon and

Arup worked on a number of concepts for the construction of the roof shells and final-ly arrived at the “spherical solution” which was approved for construction in 1962.

After completion, Queen Elizabeth II officially opened the opera house on Octo-ber, 20h, 1973. The Sydney opera is now one of the largest presenting companies in the world. Each year the company produces a mixture of artistic and cultural activities.

Some of the major productions in-clude the Opera Australia, the Sydney Symphony, and the Australian Ballet.

Other organizations that perform at the opera house are the Aus-tralian Chamber Orchestra, the Bangarra Dance Company and The Bell Shakespeare Company.

The second major architec-tural spectacle in Sydney is the

Harbor Bridge. This bridge is one of the most well-known and photographed landmarks. It is the worldʼs largest steel arch bridge with the keystone of the arch towering one hundred thirty four meters

above the harbor. Francis Greenway propositioned the

building of this bridge in order to connect the northern harbor to the southern harbor in 1815. After World War I, grants and con-struction plans were approved and finished in March of 1932.

The top of the arch rises and falls about 180 millimeters due to changes in tempera-ture and that in order to test the load capacity

of the bride 96 steam loco-motives were positioned in various ways. This fasci-nating landmark recently celebrated its 70th birthday in 2002.

The majestic city of Sydney provides the right weather and landscape for a number of exhilarating outdoor activities such as rock climbing, cycling tours, encounters with exotic Aus-tralian animals, hot air bal-loon rides, horse riding and much, much more.

Sydney is home to a blend of culturally diverse people, traditions, and attractions that brings people from all over the world to experience its unique and fascinating atmosphere

photo by www.visitsydney.com

photo by www.eurekaphotos.com

FFA

Last month FFA participated in a district wide student barn dance on the 20th and a Buyers kickoff dinner on the 22nd. They par-ticipated in the CCISD livestock show on the 23rd through the 25th and the livestock auction on the 26th.

Ready, Set, Teach!

Students prepare for a great spring se-mester. The class is designed to allow stu-dents the opportunity to work with teachers in CCHS feeder schools. Students create lesson plans for these classes and then teach them to the students at schools such as Hall, Ross and Ferguson.

Heart and Soul

Ladies! There is now a club that is completely dedicated to you. Heart and Soul is a new “ all girls” organization with the sole purpose of bringing Creek girls together. In December, the girls went to Nursing Homes were they sang carols. Meetings are held every Wednesday in B-3 in Coach Irelands room.

Anmie

This past month the Anime club participated in a Pocky-selling fundraiser. They also entered many art contests and participated in a game and quiz day.

6 7FeaturesClearCreek

Hilife

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day, and the Frappucinos aren’t cutting it

Photo by Libby Sanders, Brent Salbert mixes up fresh smoothies at Jamba

Juice in Webster

Neil GoldenReporter

“You need to eat more fruits or vege-tables,” is an all too common saying that is heard from either our motherʼs or doctors. Okay, maybe not at our ages, but nonethe-less, getting your daily vitamins and min-erals is a very crucial part to a healthy life-style. Yes, exercise has to be added into the on-going health cycle, but the best place to start to live a healthy life is by what you eat during the day. Especially during the school year when students get caught up with studying and the loads of homework

that teachers pile on just to bring a smile to their faces, living healthy can become a little tough.

Breakfast, which we all know is the best and most critical meal of the day, is the meal that defines how we will act or behave during the day. Breakfast gives us all a great boost of energy and protein, which leads to better concentration during the school or work day. Often times when you donʼt eat breakfast, you can feel out of place and have no “push” behind you to do the daily tasks at school. One hot breakfast item on the teenage market nowadays is the frappuccino. A calorie loaded, chilled

coffee drink chock-full of fat, sodium and carbohydrates- low in what breakfast is all about. For instance, one grande coffee-fla-vored frappuccino from Starbucks contains 260 calories, 52 carbohydrates, and 44 grams of sugar. What does this flavorful drink not con-tain? Vitamin A and C essential to a healthy diet.

However, a trip over to Jamba Juice just might be more worthwhile and healthy. In most of Jamba Juiceʼs bever-ages, youʼll be able to find a few things that make that spe-cific drink ex-tremely healthy. A sixteen-ounce Strawberry Surf Rider contains an out-standing 90% of your Vitamin C daily nutritional value. Jamba Juice also fea-tures “boosts,” supplements you can add into your drink, featuring protein, energy, vitamin, and fiber boosts. Plus, all of their drinks are made with either fresh or fro-zen fruits and vegetables, and all different types of fruit juices.

Just because there are so many juice bars where healthy drinks are prepared for you, doesnʼt mean that a homemade smoothie prepared by yourself canʼt be just as healthy as store bought. You can get a lot, if not all of the recommended morning nutritional values from just a simple smoothie containing bananas and

strawberries. If youʼre a more traditional person

when it comes to breakfast, cereal is per-fectly healthy. Also, common breakfast

foods like eggs, ba-con, and other fruits give you the needed nutrition to get you through the day.

Re-member, breakfast is the most important part of the day, and it seems that people are too caught up in their busy lifestyles that they completely

forget to eat breakfast, and run out the door with their backpack and a cup of coffee. Breakfast is what helps you keep going throughout the day and helps you better concentrate in those early morning classes. Studies even show that students who eat a healthy breakfast perform better in school during the day, and on morning tests. So even when you think you donʼt have enough time for breakfast, just think of how many healthy nutrients are in ev-eryday household foods, grab a banana, and go.

6 7FeaturesClearCreek

HilifeHurricane Katrina will not destroy New Orleans ̓Mardi Gras spirit Rachel KeithFeatures Editor

The New Year brings about many exciting events. One event that many look forward to is Mardi Gras. This year, Mardi Gras 2006 will be an especially extraordi-nary event. It will take place on February 28th, and is said to be the most extravagant and festive of all Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras is French for fat, Gras, and Tuesday, Mardi.

Because of the recent tragedies of September 2005, New Orleans was in absolute turmoil. No one imagined that the city would ever be the same. The “City that Care Forgot” would not be the same had Mardi Gras not been such an important tradition. Despite the damage the hurricane possessed on the city, New Orleans will, as always, be the prime spot for Mardi Gras 2006.

New Orleans will yet again open their arms with southern hospitality to all of those who loves New Or-leans. There will be much excitement in the streets for all of those who love New Orleans, as well as those who have never experienced such an amazing tradi-tion.

Habitué of New Orleans will have the opportunity to enjoy the unique culture,

dazzling restaurants, jazz in the streets of the French Quarter, riverboat cruises, and so much more.

Mardi Gras was first held in New Orleans in 1837. This coin-cides with the day of the very first street parade.

The carnival season starts on January 6th, which is also known as the Twelfth Night, when the three kings came and visited the Christ child. This day is the be-ginning of the masked balls that are held until the day of Mardi Gras.

Many patrons of Mardi Gras associate the celebration with that of Lent. Lent is a forty-day cel-ebration that ends the day before Easter. It begins on Ash Wednes-day, and the Sundays are not

counted as part of the forty days. This year Ash Wednesday will fall on march 1st. Fat

Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, is the most elaborate and final celebration of Mardi Gras.

Many who celebrate Lent observe the day of fasting and abstinence, which is said to begin on Ash Wednesday and last the full forty days, excluding Sundays, which is a day of worship, for Jesus ̓resurrection.

The parade is held on the day of Mardi Gras, and consists of floats, which are elaborately decorated. The floats transport the Krewe members, who are respon-sible for the throwing of the

dubloons, beads, and many other festival

items. Some celebrities also ride on the floats, while marching bands perform throughout.

Many of those who attend the parade dress in cos-tumes and masks of green, purple, and gold. They stand on the side of the streets, asking the Krewe members to throw them beads.

There is the tradition of the King cake, a lavishly decorated and baked cinnamon flavored cake, where whoever finds the baby that is hidden in the cake is

responsible for hosting the next party and providing the next king cake.

Mardi Gras is legal holiday in New Orleans, and has been

held in New Orleans for years, with the exception of the periods through which World War I and II lasted. The people of New Orleans see it as another tradition that draws visitors to their beautiful city.

The damaged of which Katrina in-flicted on New Orleans was devastating, but at the same time salutary to the citizens of the Southern coast. It gave them a sense of compassion and willingness to come to-gether as the great city they are and work to regain their strength. The damage of Hur-ricane Katrina will not keep New Orleans from celebrating one of the most euphoric events known to their city, and Mardi Gras will, as always, be held in New Orleans.

Photos by Alex Oliver at NOLA.com A few select floats at the various parades for Mardi Gras 2005.

8 9ClearCreekHilife

To: Caitlin Boyle Grade: 12From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

Helllllooooo! Look at our past, it’s basically amazing! You are my best friend and always will be! BLINN!! I Love You!

To: L

aure

n Nye

Grad

e: 12

From

: Mor

gan W

atkin

s

Grad

e: 12

Hey g

irl! Y

ou an

d me a

re ba

sicall

y the

best

of th

e bes

t. So

many m

emor

ies fr

om lu

nch a

nd ch

urch

. I Lo

ve Yo

u!

To: Chelsea Parker

Grade: 12

From: Morgan Watkins

Grade: 12

Hey oxymoron! Or was it Jill? Haha! I love you!

You’re the cutest, goofiest member of the RKC!

To: Dustin Dobbins Grade: 12

From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

Hello date! You are the best guy friend

ever! I absolutely love you and your big smile.

RKC forever, fool!

To: Zach Creason Grade: 11From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

Hey boyfriend! I love you! Welding, ERS, and lunch brighten my life. You are the funniest guy I have ever met. I love you!

To: J

erem

iah

Grad

e:12

From

: Kris

ty Fl

ores

Gr

ade:

11

I lov

e you

. I’m

glad

that

we a

re to

geth

er.

I hop

e tha

t not

hing c

omes

betw

een u

s. I t

hink I

can s

ay yo

u are

the b

est t

hing t

hat h

as ha

ppen

ed

to m

e.

To: Jarrod Nix Grade: 10From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

I love you! You know why?! Because we’re twins. We got it going on. You’re great! I love you.

To: Ashley Beck/ Rebound Crew Grade: 12From: Swate Grade: 12

My bestest friend in the whole, wide world! I love you very much. Thank you for everything. Friends 4ever! Until the end!! Kacy, Blair, Alex, Jaleesa, Candice.

To: Anthony Rueben Grade: 11From: Cherelle Grade: 11

Hey baby!! Happy Valentine’s Day. I hope that you’re thinking about me as much as I do you. I love you! (When I’m in a good mood! =P)

To: DaddyDoo! Grade: 10From: MommaDoo! Grade: 11

Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you so much!! You are my everything! This is our first Valentine’s Day together- we have 499 to go! =) Don’t make me lick your nose! Hehe! FOREVER!

To: Trisha Haydon Grade: 12From: Ashli Pendleton Grade: 12

Hey kiddo! Just wanted to say Happy Valentine’s Day! You are the bestest friend a friend could have! You crack me up and I love you mucho!

To: Ashleigh Alford Grade: 12

From: Trey Thomas Grade: 12

Happy Valentine’s Day. You’re beautiful. Your hair is like the sun.

You will always be my little sunshine.

To: Brook Baker Grade: 9From: Michael Chalk Grade: 9

Even though the Aggies are last, you will always be first to me!

To: Kenzie Grade: 9From: Andrew Grade: 9

Happy Valentines Day. “I love you.”

Happy Valentine’s Day!

To: Heather McCall Grade: 10From: Tabatha McCall Grade: 11

Hey! Lil’ sis this is Tabatha. Well I just want to tell you Happy Valentine’s Day and I love you!

To: Dani T. and Kami L. Grade: 12From: Leah Leal Grade: 12

I love you guys! Best friends for life! Oh yeah and…Happy Valentine’s Day!!

To: Emily Curlin, Matt Lara, & Lil’ Jon Grade: 9 & 10From: Jader Mash Pataters Grade: 9

I love you guys!! Yayuh! This will be the best Valentine’s Day ever!! Let me see your grill….

To: Persian Gangsta, Bearded Lady, and Mighty Mouse Grade: 12From: Ashli Grade: 12

Ya’ll are all my BFF’s!! I <3 you so much! Mucho memories!

To: Kacie Grade: 11From: Andrea Grade: 11 I have an important question...will you be my valentine? I love you so mch! Thanks for being my best friend.

8 9ClearCreekHilife

To: Zach Creason Grade: 11From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

Hey boyfriend! I love you! Welding, ERS, and lunch brighten my life. You are the funniest guy I have ever met. I love you!

To: K-nut

Grade: 10

From: Kino

Grade: 10

No matter what you do, I’ll always be

behind you!

To: Ashley Beck/ Rebound Crew Grade: 12From: Swate Grade: 12

My bestest friend in the whole, wide world! I love you very much. Thank you for everything. Friends 4ever! Until the end!! Kacy, Blair, Alex, Jaleesa, Candice.

To: Josie Grade: 12From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

I love you. Seeing your face always brightens my day!

To: Ashleigh Alford Grade: 12

From: Trey Thomas Grade: 12

Happy Valentine’s Day. You’re beautiful. Your hair is like the sun.

You will always be my little sunshine.

To: Brittni East Grade: 9From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

Hey freshman! You’re my favorite! Everything you do makes me smile. This has to be school appropriate- so I guess that’s all! =) I love you!

To: Alex, Joey, Chris, Krissy, Krisen, Alisha, Britany, Anthony Grade: 9 & 10From: Stephanie Welcome Grade: 10

I love all you guys so much! You all mean so much to me! I don’t know what I would do with out ya’ll!

To: Chelse Solonika Grade: 9From: Kelli Love Grade: 12

Hey girl! I miss you being in my 6th period class sooooo much! Just wanted to hope you have a WONDERFUL Valentine’s Day! I <3 you!

To: Trooper School and Miss Christine Grade: 11 & 12From: Ashli Pendleton Grade: 12

Hey friends! Whatʼs the deal? Itʼs Ash. I just wanted to say Happy Valentineʼs Day! I love yaʼll- except for that Zach kid! Hehe just kidding- you are awesome. Iʼve had a great year and lots of memories. Thanks!

To: Mikey T A.K.A Dork Grade: 12From: Your Village Pizza Co-worker! Grade: 12

Hey amigo! I just wanted to say Happy V-Day! Thanks for always being there to crack me up! Oh and your no bueno! See you later kid!

To: Jon Grade: 12From: Sarah Grade: 12

You are the most amazing person I know, and you have made the past year and some odd months absolutely spectacular. You are beautiful in every way, and all the flowers, drawings, and notes left on my car wouldn’t mean a thing from anyone else. I love you. “If the sun refused to shine, I would still be loving you.” – Led Zeppelin

To: William LeFevers Grade: 11From: Margayle Hockenberry Grade: 10

I Love you, Coach! Have a good day!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

To: Kalyn Mullen Grade: 12From: ??? Grade: ???

Happy Valentine’s Day!

To: Josie!! Grade: 12From: Kasi Grade: 12

Remember when you, Chata, and me used to sit together in lunch in 9th grade? I love you and you’re awesome!!

To: Heather McCall Grade: 10From: Tabatha McCall Grade: 11

Hey! Lil’ sis this is Tabatha. Well I just want to tell you Happy Valentine’s Day and I love you!

To: Laura Smiley Grade: 11From: Darin Dean, a.k.a D-Ren! Grade: 11

Hey girly! Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you so much, we are soul sistas!! Haha! I’m so glad to have you as a friend.

To: Dani T. and Kami L. Grade: 12From: Leah Leal Grade: 12

I love you guys! Best friends for life! Oh yeah and…Happy Valentine’s Day!!

To: Andrea Berg Grade: 11From: Kacie Hillsman Grade: 11

Andyyy!! OMGosh, I’m so glad that we have been friends for so long, you are like my sister and you mean so much to me! I’ll always be here for you and I love you so much! Have a great Valentine’s Day!

To: Haley Lusson & Catherine Enos Grade: 11From: Alex Mair Grade: 11

I love my “sisters” so much! Happy Valentine’s Day! Have a great day!

To: Darius Mayfield Grade: 12From: Your secret admirer Grade: 12

You don’t know me, but I just want to say how much I like you. You are so fine to me.

To: Lauren Nye Grade: 12From: Morgan Watkins Grade: 12

Hey girl! You and me are basically the best of the best. So many memories from lunch and church. I Love You!

To: Jonathan Ortega Grade: 9From: Katie Wologo & Kaitlin Duby Grade: 9

Hey, hope you have a great Valentine’s Day. We love you

10 11JustForFun ClearCreekHilife

Quigmans

10 11AdvertisementClearCreekHilife

12 13CreekSpeaks ClearCreekHilife

Danielle LealCreek Speaks Editor

Clear Creek High Schoolʼs newest member to the staff is Robert Blair, the new sign language teacher. What is so unique about this teacher is that he has worked his way up to where he is now, even though he has a language barrier, but that has not stopped him.

Mr. Blair is originally from upstate New York, close to Canada border, but has done some traveling through college and through his jobs. He attended Gallaudet University in Washington, DC. and re-ceived his bachelors degree in mathemat-ics. Gallaudet University is actually the only deaf liberal university that includes bachelors, masters, and PHD, in the world. For his masters degree in Deaf Education and deaf Studies, Mr. Blair went to Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.

When asked what interested him into the teaching field, Mr. Blair said, “Teach-ing has been my nature.” He has been tutoring at college levels since he was 17 years old, and has been teaching for the past nine years. “I love teaching. This is my thing. I enjoy educating students to know about Deaf more and their learning inspires me.”

At the age of three, was the first time Mr. Blair started to learn sign language after starting school at New York State School for the Deaf in Rome, New York. Before attending this school he had no communication at all at home, since he has been the only deaf member in his family, which meant he had no language at all be-fore the age of three.

The school he attended was a 24 hours/ five days a week sign language communication accessible type for all the deaf students. He learned sign lan-

guage from his peers, the teachers, and the residential counselors etc. In order to be able to learn sign language and get his education he stayed at school (ate, slept, and learned) from Monday morning until Friday afternoon, then had the weekends off. This schedule was continuous for him, until the school year ended.

For the past couple of years, Mr. Blair has had his fair share of different areas in teaching, what he loves best. He has had lots of experi-ence in different schools and states. He taught at Montgomery College in the Fall of 2005. Before that, he was in New Jersey from 2000 to 2005. In 2004 to 2005 he was a sub teacher for the Deaf program in K to 12 grade levels. From the years 2000 to 2004 he was a professor in Interpreter Training Program and ASL/Deaf studies Program at a community college. He was brought here to Texas after being accepted into Alterna-tive Certification Program to achieve a certificate in ASL to teach secondary level. This year with Clear Creek is both his pro-bationary year and mentor year.

After hearing positive things about

Clear Creek High School, and his Alterna-tive Certification Program at Cy-Fair rec-ommended this school, Mr. Blair decided this would be a good school to start at. Mr. Blair recently said, “Once I started work-ing here, I am so glad I chose this. There are more positive things I never knew before.”

While Mr. Blair has definitely achieved a lot of great accom-plishments in his life-time, there are plenty of difficul-ties that he has had to face while being a teacher and be-ing deaf. Cultural conflicts between

hearing and deaf people; Change of the learning environment from listening and writing to a full visual usage with no writ-ten, no talking, no voice.

“This is the most difficult I have faced here. Some adapted well, some donʼt adapt to this easily, and some just do not respect to the needs of ASL language learning outcomes. In fact, this is a visual language class so everyone needs to use this fully to achieve their skills in ASL easier and faster,” Mr. Blair said.

Facing ignorance and discrimination daily is one of biggest challenges in his

life, while being deaf. In his lifetime he has gone through a numerous amount of classes and people that he has met, and he has realized that hearing people were not educated about deaf people enough in schools. “I became STRONGER going through this every day. They (people) think I donʼt recognize or donʼt know those re-actions, actions, etc., but deaf people DO. They are obvious.”

Last but not least, there are a couple of stereotypes that Mr. Blair would gladly like to clear up. First off, expecting deaf people to read lip, as a matter of fact deaf people can only read five percent of conversation through lip. When deaf people show their emotions, they are not trying to be rude. All people have facial expressions when talking, as do deaf people. It is apart of lan-guage and culture. Most importantly, deaf people are not disabled, they can do any-thing hearing people can do except hear. It is called a language barrier. Although there are more, the ones with the most impor-tance, Mr. Blair decided to share.

Clear Creek High School welcomes Mr. Blair to our community, and everyone is definitely excited to have someone with such a straight- forward attitude at this school, especially students who are en-rolled in Sign Language classes.

“People who have just been blowing off the class are now actually learning something and having fun,” said Junior and Sign Language student Nathan Robinson. “Iʼm looking forward to being able to actu-ally have a conversation in sign language.”

Students at Creek can learn a lot from him through his teaching skills, since he has a different approach and views after be-ing a deaf teacher, and having to face such difficulties in life. Mr. Blair enjoys educat-ing students, and fits in great at Clear Creek High School.

Photo by Micah Wesley

Deaf teacher joins the Clear Creek Staff

12 13AdvertisementClearCreek

Hilife

14 15Sports ClearCreekHilife

Who do you want the Houston Texans to draft in the 2006 NFL draft with their number one selection?Why?

“Vince Young proved himself at the Rose Bowl and should be drafted by the Texans. Iʼm pretty sure the Texans will pick Bush and Young willgo to Tennessee, alongside his friend Steve McNair.”

Tori Wycoff- 11th grade

“Reggie Bush no doubt. He had one bad game and it really was not that bad. He is the Heisman Trophy winner for a reason so I hope the Texans get the best player in the nation from the Trojans of USC.”

Austin Yancy- 12th grade

“I am an Aggie, so naturally I do not want them to draft Vince Young. They re-ally have a lot of needs, but they also need to win back the fans- I would draft Reggie Bush.”

Coach Simonds- Teacher

“I do not think we should take the number one draft. We should trade it for a few good linemen or a couple of first sec-ond picks. We do not need a new quarter-back or runningback we need linemen.”

Max Tuley- 11th grade

Kelsey WileySports Editor

As Creek students begin their spring semester this year the Creek golf teams are in full swing. After a successful fall season, for both teams, the Creek golf players are looking forward to their spring season.

The schedules for both teams are identical for when and where they play. Though the district tourna-ment is not until April 10 golf is one of the few sports that play year round. District play for the athletes will be tough because of the com-petitive teams they will be up against. “To be the best you have to prepare by playing the best,” says Coach Fuchs, the girls golf team head coach.

The boys golf program consists of four teams: the freshman, junior varsity, and two varsity teams, one and two. The freshman team took first place in the Mag-nolia Creek Tournament on October 18 and

second on October 31 in the Willowisp CC Tournament. Junior varsity also took first in their division at the Magnolia Creek Tournament. Varsity two took second in

the Wilderness Golf Tournament and fourth in the Timber Creek Tournament. Rounding out the

boys ̓ teams was the varsity one who took third at the Humble Tournament and took first in the La Porte Tourna-ment.

The girls golf program consists of three teams: ma-roon, white, and sub varsity. “The girls are

great, they play like equals and do not care who gets first place in the tournaments,” says Coach Fuchs.

Having a year round season the prepa-ration never stops. The teams practice during their class periods and after school at the South Shore golf

course. Prac-

ticing and playing in all these tournaments takes up a lot of time. But the boys golf teams

found time to get together with the girls golf teams to go visit the Shriners hospital.

Creek golf swinging success on more than one courseWhile they were there they gave the little children Creek golf shirts and visited and played games with the older children. “I think the golf program should give kids

rewarding experiences not just on the golf course. You just cannot be a person who receives things all the time, you have to give back to the

people who need it the most. If you could see the eyes of the Shriners kids when we took the time to come down and give them a tee shirt and then inter-act with the kids it is something special,” says Coach Mc-Whorter.

With a very good season behind them the Creek golf teams are continuing the hard work for spring. With the spring season quickly approaching the athletes are sure to perform well in the upcoming season.

Photos by: Den Staff photographer Wendy Wright

14 15SportsClearCreekHilife

Athlete of the Month Up Coming Games...

Boys/Girls Golf02/3-4 Greatwood Austin

02/08 Cinco Ranch Cinco Ranch02/13 South Shore Clear Creek

Kelsey WileySports Editor

Not many sports are year round or de-mands more dedication from the athletes as golf. That is why this editionʼs male Ath-lete of the Month is Sean Skellenger.

At the young age of four Sean was al-ready on the golf course. “My parents and grandparents play,” says Sean. Obviously golf is a sport that runs in this family. With his family cheering him on its no wonder he has excelled at golf.

“Practice doesnʼt make perfect, per-fect practice makes perfect,” says Sean. This piece of advice has helped him the most and it shows on the course. Every-day during eighth period and after school the Creek golf team practices at the South Shore golf course. “I think weʼre very good this year and have a lot of potential. Just as long as everyone passes,” says Sean.

All that practice has paid off for Sean and the team. He has made the all-district first team and lettered in golf for all four years he has been at Creek. “The greatest highlight for me has been winning tourna-ments and especially winning district every year here at Creek,” says Sean.

After graduating this year Sean has plans to go to the University of North Texas. He is in the process of receiving a scholarship for golf.

With all these great accomplishments Sean has still found the time to make the National Honor Society. Because of his outstanding skill in golf, Sean Skellenger is the male Athlete of the Month.

Kelsey Wiley Sports Editor

The girlʼs soccer season is off to a kicking start this year. With players like this editionʼs female Athlete of the Month, Erin Mackey, the team will go far.

Erin started playing soccer at the age of four on an Illinois city team. “My mom coached me for two years,” says Erin. Her mother did an excellent job teaching her the basics of the game.

Erin is one of the six sophomores that make up this yearʼs Creek varsity soccer team. “I feel that this yearʼs time is really good and we have been training hard to get into top shape,” says Erin about the Creek team. Erin is not only involved with Creek soccer where she plays as sweeper but also on the outside club team Chal-lenge, as a center midfielder. “Never give up,” Erin says is the advice she would tell anyone just starting to play.

Even though Erin is only a sophomore she has already proven how talented she is in soccer. “One of my highlights of play-ing soccer would be last year I received the defensive MVP award and the new comer award for the district,” says Erin. On top of that Erin lettered last year and made the all-district first team.

After high school Erin is planning to continue to play in college on a soccer scholarship. She has already shown Creek her skills and will no doubt achieve her goals. Erin is a key part of this varsity soc-cer team and that is why she is the female Athlete of the Month for this edition.

Sean SkellengerErin Mackey

Photo by: Fallan Drago

Zack BartelSports Reporter

Wildcat basketball is underway at Clear Creek High School. The Wildcats are playing well on all cylinders and are using their height, speed, and jump shot to win games. They have finished the non-district part of their schedule and have now begun district play. The season is only halfway over and yet it is already a season to remember.

Creek opened the season by hosting the Spring Westfield Mustangs. The Mus-tangs at the time were number two in the state, and are now ranked number one and fourth in the nation. The Wildcats came up short but facing this talented opponent was a wake up call to the team.

The basketball team participated in the McDonaldʼs Texas Invitational, it is known for having tough competition. The Wildcats went 1-1 in pool play and were going to participate in the silver division of the tournament. By defeating two teams from San Antonio, Creek took the third place finish.

Another highlight for the basketball team was when they hosted the CCISD Classic. This tournament is filled with competitive teams from around the area

and a few excellent teams from out of town. As the defending champions of the tournament, the Wildcats were hoping to repeat their outstanding performance from last year. The Wildcats lost to the Clear Lake Falcons but defeated the Clear Brook Wolverines to take the third place finish.

The next big game for the Wildcats was against the de-fending state cham-pions. The King-wood Mustangs were the Texas class 5A state champions last year. Led by a duo that has given other teams night-mares, the Wildcats were hoping to pull off an upset. The Wildcats were down by fourteen with a few minutes left in the game and rallied back to pull within strik-ing distance. However, the Mustangs held pulled through and defeated the Cats. Al-though the outcome was disappointing, the Wildcats showed a tremendous amount of heart and showed great improvement from the beginning of the season.

Arbyʼs restaurant is famous for their roast beef sandwiches and curly fries but in Bristol, Tennessee they are famous for their

annual basketball tournament. The tourna-ment is held once a year at Tennessee High School in Bristol. The tournament features teams from Alaska, Canada, the Bahamas, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Virginia. Because of the amount of teams in the tournament, the games attract an audience of around 5,000 people. The

Wildcats wanted to get in on the tour-nament and were hoping to show the other teams that everything is better in Texas. The Wild-cats opened the tournament against an Alaskan team that has won state

for the past several years. The Wildcats handily defeated them by a score of 66-51. They now moved on to face the best team in Canada. The Wildcats defeated them and were now rolling on to the semifinals.

As well as holding high school bas-ketball games all week, the Arbyʼs Clas-sic showcases a slam-dunk contest and a 3-point contest. The 3-point contest had 2 Wildcat participants in Phillip Butler and Lance Pevehouse. They both shot extreme-ly well and came up short as one athlete

from Tennessee barely beat out Lance to take the crown.

The Wildcats played the team ranked seventeenth in the nation during the semi-finals. They hung with them the whole game but came up short. The Wildcats played tough and fought hard in the third place game but in the end, the Science Hill, Hilltoppers were just a little too much for the Wildcats. The Cats took home a fourth place trophy in a tournament filled with an excellent amount of talent. Seniors Coy Custer and Lance Pevehouse were both named to the All-Tournament team.

Sophomore Ian Davis said, “I had a lot of fun in Tennessee and it was really cool to see how many people were at the games. There was close to 5,000 people at almost all of our games and it was cool because little kids would come up and ask for our autographs like we were superstars. It was an awesome feeling.”

The Wildcats non-district schedule is over with and it is now time for the district race to begin. The Wildcats would like to carry the momentum over from the suc-cessful pre-district season into their quest to repeat as district 24-5A champions. They have what it takes to do the job and know how much work they will have to put into it.

Boys Basketball02/07 Tues. Home 7:3002/10 Fri. Away 7:3002/14 Tues. Home 7:30Girls Basketball02/03 Fri. Home 7:0002/07 Tues. Away 7:0002/13 Mon. Home TBA

Boys Soccer02/07 Tues. Away 7:3002/10 Fri. Home 7:3002/14 Tues. Away 7:30

Girls Soccer02/07 Tues. Home 7:3002/10 Fri. Away 7:3002/14 Tues. Home 7:30

Wildcat basketball scores points in Tennessee

16 Photofinish ClearCreekHilife