TheDecember 2012 QuillVolume 1, Issue 2

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SHOPSHOP ‘TILL‘TILL YOUYOU DROPDROP -- 44 SEASONHHolidayoliday eexxtratravvaganaganzzaa -- 99 Page 2 • The Quill • December 2012

Kimberly Peck (12) Lana Honning (12) Nastassja Jocson (12) and Thoa Pham (12) Lauren Tidman (12) and Sarah Lambert (11) Courtyard garden taking shape National Honor Society CHOPPER MAKES A VISIT members provide the muscle Keshauna Parker Quill Staff Writer or the longest time the culinary arts department has had it eye on the court- yard as a possible spot for growing a garden to harvest things it could use in the Fkitchen. The National Honor Society is always looking for projects to help with, so the garden project was beneficial to both organizations. On Saturday, Nov. 10th, the two teamed up. The culinary team and NHS worked together to get started on laying bricks and filling dirt for the garden. “It was tiring and everyone got a little scratched up,” Brian Ho (11) said. About half the project was completed, so it’s currently still a work in progress. There are two more quarter-circles to put in but it should be up and running soon. There won’t be a fence surrounding the plots but the garden will be highly super- vised especially during lunch times and passing periods to ward off any intruders in the student body. There are four responsibilities a member in the National Honor’s Society must fulfill: Academics: Having high grades, you must have a GPA of 4.0 to qualify for NHS. After touring the Texas Department of Public Leadership: Being a role model to peers at school and in the community and take Safety (DPS) Helicopter and learning all about it, up leadership roles such as captain of a team or editor of the newspaper, or part of a students had their photo taken with the aircraft. club. The CRHS Law Academy Honor Guard had its photo taken (above) with Criminal Justice teacher Character: Means doing the right thing. They don’t get in trouble, they have Michael Crane and Jeremy Gonzalez in the front good attendance ect. row. In the back row (L to R) are Arian Lopez, Service: The last and perhaps the most important – doing something good for the Elijah Simmons, Jordan Raines, Jason Tran, Bryce school and community. Carson, and Layne Crow. One by one, students “I joined NHS because there’s an abundance of benefits that come along with the like Kelsey Avants (right) got to check out the membership such as strengthens applications, creates memories to cherish, and provides inside. The DPS helicopter responds to a wide the opportunity to give back to the community,” Alex Quach (12) said. variety of law enforcement support requests in- NHS has decided in honor of the service responsibility to implement a garden in cluding pursuits, manhunts, search and rescue, the courtyard. Not with just flowers but with actual herbs and vegetables that will be disaster relief, surveillance, aerial photography, harvested and cooked with as they mature. criminal transport, domestic marijuana eradica- tion, and border security operations. Mr. Crane “We will plan our products around what comes to harvest. Winter planting will had the DPS fly the helicopter to the school on include cabbage, greens and lettuce. Herbs will be used for stock and sauces,” Reid John- Friday, November 30th. son, the culinary arts instructor, said. Just imagine how much money the school could save on its grocery bills when this garden is producing.

Bon Moser (11) December 2012 • The Quill • Page 3 I don’t mind if I have to sit on the floor at“ school. All I want is education. And I’m afraid of no one. Malala“ Yousafzai

Education rights activist Malala Yousufzai, at left in her hospital bed, poses for a photograph with her father Ziauddin, second right accompanied by her two younger brothers Atal, right and Khushal. Malala was shot in the head on Octo- ber 9 by Taliban gunmen as she headed home from school in the northwest Swat Valley, Pakistan. She was later evacu- ated to Birmingham, England for treatment. (AP Photo / University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust) Malala Yousafzai recovering after MALALA TIMELINE January 2009 The Taliban orders all private schools closed in the northwestern Pakistan near fatal gunshot on October 9 where Malala lives. Malala writes about the experience for the BBC. Later, Noor El-Saad she is interviewed by the New York Times. She was 11 at the time and Quill Staff Writer wanted to be a doctor. May 2009 alala Yousafzai, a 15-year-old education activist who lives in Pakistan, is still recovering in England after The Taliban seizes control of the Swat Valley where Malala lives. Thousands being shot in the head on October 9 by the Taliban because the teenager had been campaigning for girls’ flee the region as violence breaks out when the Pakistani government tries education. Her farther Ziauddin Yousafzai ran a school for all girls in Swat, Pakistan. After the Taliban to remove the Taliban. The move was largely successful, but some militants took over his hometown, he closed the school to keep the students safe. This incident occurred when she remain. wasM walking to the school bus, then she was shot by a Taliban gunman. November 2011 All this happened because girls’ education is under threat in Pakistan. It was an attack that shocked the world Malala continued to speak out for all Pakistani girls. She is awarded the when Malala was shot in the head as punishment for the “crime” of campaigning for girls’ rights to go to school. country’s first National Peace Prize for Youth, with a $10,500 award. The This has been a turning point in Pakistan. For the first time all political parties and all faiths including Urdus, government later renamed the honor the National Malala Peace Prize. Christians, Sikhs, have been praying for Malalas’ recovery from this violent attack. Malala is slowly recovering from this Oct. 9, 2012 incident and is getting better as the days go by. This past Sunday, the BBC reported that Pakistani President Asif Ali On her way home from school, Malala is shot in the head. Gunmen pull over Zardari visited Malala, who is now able to get out of bed, stand and sit up at a table in the hospital room. her school bus and ask for Malala by name. Severely injured, she was rushed “What happened to Malala was very devastating,” Madeline Boicey (12) said. to a local hospital, and then taken to another hospital for surgery. The The Daily Beast recently reported that Malala has been inspired and humbled by the thousands of cards, messages Taliban claims responsibility. and gifts that she has received while in the hospital. Oct. 10, 2012 Doctors remove a bullet that was lodged near her spine. Malala was later “I feel like Malala’s story is something we can all learn from. We need to learn to speak out against violence and flown to England for continued treatment. She is recovering and on Sunday oppressive forces within our world,” Daniela Ricardo (11) said. met with the president of Pakistan to came to the hospital to see her. Malala is very grateful that people across the world are interested in how she is doing. Madonna dedicated one of her songs to Malala at her tour in New York. One in 10 of the world’s children “Malala is such an inspiration to young people everywhere,” Hannah Fenske (12) said. “If something like this would have happened here in America, it would have been completely unacceptable and people would protest and who don’t go to primary school revolt. But since it happened in Pakistan, people were more indifferent since it is more common. A Facebook page has been set up for Malala with over 112,000 likes. Malala is also in the running for Time Maga- live in Pakistan. zine’s person of the year. Right now, the public vote has her in third place. There is a wide group of individuals from Quote, photo and factoid from Malala’s official Facebook page: all around the world who come together to raise money to the Malala Fund. The goal is to raise enough money to https://www.facebook.com/malalayousafzaiofficial help Malala pursue her visions for girls’ education and empowerment. Support will help her survive and stay strong. Page 4 • The Quill • December 2012

‘TIS THE SEASON

Long lines of customers snake though the aisles waiting to check out, of

If you were looking for a deal, the Best Buy store in Tyler, Texas, after it opened at midnight. Sheriff

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Cyber Monday vs. Black Friday: How do you prefer to shop? Many ger this year, and because Christmas is on e a C e C people work on Thanksgiving day so they take advantage of online shop- a Tuesday the final weekend on December P ping the night before. Wal-Mart reported record sales of up to 5,000 items 22 and 23 will help sales. sold per second between 8 p.m. and midnight on Thursday. • 30% of Americans’ haven’t even “On Black Friday I got the best deals online from the Apple Store I got started their Christmas shopping yet. a good price on my new Mac Book,” Briana Alford (9) said. Raiders Decenber 2012 • The Quill • Page 5 Shopping can’t wait online is to celebrate taking over the holidays Free shipping, no Great food, family, crowds are just time off and presents two reasons to are what make the shop online holidays really special Stephanie Kelley Keshauna Parker QUILL STAff WRITER QUILL STAff WRITER he best thing that has happened since the invetion of the Internet is the shopping t’s offi cially holiday season. Whatever it is that you Tdeals on the Internet. celebrate, we can all agree that this time of year is Back in 2005 not everybody had Internet exciting and perhaps spiritual. The majority of us at home, or it they did they had dial-up service Icelebrate Christmas, but we have a vast variety of that was slow, so they had to wait to go to cultures here at Cedar Ridge. work that Monday to shop oneline, therefore Aside from great gifts and family bonding, there’s creating Cyber Monday. also great food. Depending on what your customs are, Ever since Cyber Monday has been intro- the traditional holiday meal may be slightly different. duced to the American public back in 2005 it’s “Tamales are a tradition for Christmas in my family,” something that we can’t get enough of. Missing Brianna Urias (10) said. Cyber great deals from Black Friday doesn’t hurt as “I love gingerbread cookies on Christmas, or my much when you know that you can see it again uncle’s macaroni casserole,” An Nguyen (11) said. on that following Monday, if not for the same “I don’t celebrate Christmas. My family and I partici- price or better. pate in Chinese New Year,” Monica Sek (10) said. “Our “Although I went shopping on Black Friday holiday meal consists of rice noodles and meat.” I also did some shopping on Cyber Monday”, “On Christmas morning my [mom] makes banana Ashley Prime (12) said. “I got a lot of great Monday deals.” nut pancakes,” Jessica Slaughter (11) said. “I bought books, purses, and clothes from And then the most anticipated part of the holiday Nationwide, shoppers spent Michael Kors, Rebecca Minkoff and J Crew,” season: GIFTS! Most the student body seems to want Katherine Mitchell (10) said. money or the latest tech gadget, including Apple prod- $1.5 billion on Cyber Monday, As long as you know your security code on ucts. What else is on the Christmas list? up 20% from last year your card then you will have the ball of a life- “Lime green or purple beets!” Brianna Decker (10) time. It’s also a good time to get your Holiday and Brandy Esiovwa (10) both said. On “Cyber Monday” Nicholas Lerma gets packages ready for shopping done and over with. “A Hermes Birkin Purse,” Katherine Mitchell (10) shipping at the Amazon.com 1.2 million square foot fulfi ll- “I bought Christmas gifts for all my family said. ment center Monday, Nov. 26, 2012, in Phoenix. Americans in New York,” Lilly Woldehawariat (12) said. Don’t forget that mid-terms week is from Monday, clicked away on their computers and smartphones for deals If you missed out on this past Cyber December 17 to Thursday December 20. Then we leave on Cyber Monday, which was the biggest online shopping day Monday then no need to fear there is always for break and come back to school on January 7th. in history. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) next year to be a part of this amazing shopping Happy Holidays Raiders! event.

Janaya Lavalais The fi rst 300 in line not only received this “fashion pass”, but QUILL STAff WRITER also obtained a free H&M t-shirt. Everyone else in line was given a $10 off card of a purchase of $50 or more, and a card giving them $10 off People lined up as early as Friday afternoon anticipating the opening any future purchase at H&M. H&M opens of the Domain’s new addition, H&M, on Satur- You could then present your receipt to a taco day November 17. stand that was outside the store and enjoy a Hennes & Mauritz, or H&M, is a Swedish free taco. In addition to these prizes, a DJ was store that has outlets in 43 countries, now with present for the event in order to hype up the at the Domain, eight locations in Texas. Before the addition in line of people. the Domain the closest H&M was in Houston, “When I got in there were 600 people, and Texas about 3 hours away. Some people would really long lines,” Bianca Pisa (11) said. go even farther to be able to go H&M. “The lines were ridiculous,” Jackie Palacios (10) “I’ve been to the Dallas [H&M], the Atlanta said. “Millenniums passed by while I was still in just in time [H&M], and a 3-story [H&M] every year when I line.” visited Las Vegas,” Brittney Diep (11) said. The rewards were necessary in order to keep For the grand opening of H&M a plethora the long line into the store happy. of prizes were given out Overall H&M’s opening day was a success and we can now ex- for the holidays The fi rst 500 shoppers in line for the store received a “fashion pect that it will become one of the most popular stores in the Austin pass”, which was a gift card, containing anywhere from $10 to $500. area. Page 5 • The Quill • December 2012 RAIDERS TIARAS Guys strut their stuff in this instant classic Janaya Lavalais part of Raiders and Tiaras was getting to see all the other guys dressed up as Quill Staff Writer girls,” Mereness said. “All but one of& us were football players, so watching all of them especially Myles) was hysterical.” n November 30th Cedar Ridge’s Peer Assistance and Leadership ( Tyler Tomasino, Miss India, won an award for Miss Photogenic and the title (PALS) group held the first ever Raiders and Tiaras fundraiser. Raiders and Tiaras is an event in which eight senior and junior boys of Queen. Grand Supreme winner was Torres, Miss Mexico. wear drag, competing for the chance of Miss Ultimate Grand Su- The winner of the whole event, who was crowned as Miss Ultimate Grand Opreme, Grand Supreme, Queen, Miss Photogenic, and Miss Congeniality. Supreme, was Truvillion, representing the country of Kenya. “I was happy with “When I was in High School our Spanish club put on something very similar my success at Raiders and Tiaras,” Truvillion said. “I plan to move on to bigger to this and it was always a big hit,” said Kristi Mitchell, the orchestrator of Raid- things.” ers and Tiaras. “I wanted to do something that can involve both students and The judges who decided the winners were Ryan Harvey, Dan Fuchs, Arthur staff, while also having fun!” Mitchell said. Davis, Len Bryan and Thomas Trinh, who dressed for the event. The eight students who participated in Raiders and Tiaras were Tyler To- “I participated in Raiders and Tiaras, because I lack the ability to say no,” masino (12), Tucker Martin (11), Juan Varela-Berrospe (12), Bon Moser (11), Bryan said. “The talent portion was my favorite, because you could tell they Myles Ryan (12), Gio Truvillion (11), Manny Torres (11), and Will Mereness (11). really practiced.” These eight contestants were able to represent a country of their choice, dress The first Raiders & Tiaras pageant was an overwhelming success at Cedar up for the talent and participate in the evening wear portion, with the top five Ridge with approximately 350 people attending. advancing to the interview portion. “I will definitely go next year if they have it, because it was fun and enter- Will Mereness, Miss Ireland, won the award for Miss Congeniality. “The best taining,” Sydney Thomas (10) said. Tyler Tomasino (12)

The dress rehearsal was captured and no doubt posted on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Bon Moser (11) Gio Truvillion (11) December 2012 • The Quill • Page 6 RAIDERS TIARAS Guys strut their stuff in this instant classic part of Raiders and Tiaras was getting to see all the other guys dressed up as girls,” Mereness said. “All but one of& us were football players, so watching all of them (especially Myles) was hysterical.” Tyler Tomasino, Miss India, won an award for Miss Photogenic and the title of Queen. Grand Supreme winner was Torres, Miss Mexico. The winner of the whole event, who was crowned as Miss Ultimate Grand Supreme, was Truvillion, representing the country of Kenya. “I was happy with my success at Raiders and Tiaras,” Truvillion said. “I plan to move on to bigger things.” The judges who decided the winners were Ryan Harvey, Dan Fuchs, Arthur Davis, Len Bryan and Thomas Trinh, who dressed for the event. “I participated in Raiders and Tiaras, because I lack the ability to say no,” Bryan said. “The talent portion was my favorite, because you could tell they really practiced.” The first Raiders & Tiaras pageant was an overwhelming success at Cedar Ridge with approximately 350 people attending. “I will definitely go next year if they have it, because it was fun and enter- taining,” Sydney Thomas (10) said. Tucker Martin (11) Juan Varela-Berrospe (12) Manny Torres (11)

Annie Jipp (12) and Emily Martin (12) help Tyler Tomasino with makeup and hair.

Will Mereness (11) Claudia Munoz (11) adjusts Mereness’ wig. Judge Dan Fuchs. Myles Ryan (12) Page 8 • The Quill • December 2012 Art in the round RAIDER NEWS BRIEFS An American in Paris Sign up for Home Run Hogs Cedar Ridge is offering an educational travel Sign ups for the Home Run Hogs has begun. This opportunity to Paris and Barcelona in the summer of is a student led rally team to support the Cedar Ridge 2014. The cost for each student will be $3,500, or Softball team. We will officially begin when the season $197 a month for those who want to start paying starts. Lets get out there, get loud, and support the now in installments. Students will visit Paris, Provence softball ladies as they start their return to playoffs. and Barcelona. In Paris, the tour will inclue the Lou- vre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Stock Market Game In Barcelona, they will visit the Pablo Picasso museum, The Money Matters students in the Business and the famous Sagrada Família Basilica by Gaudi. It is Academy competed in The Stock Market Game where going to be an amazing trip visiting the different types they learned about stocks and bonds. This was a of arts and touring around France and Spain. For more simulation game where they bought, sold and traded information, contact the Cedar Ridge Art Department stocks and bonds. There were 15 teams from Cedar Ridge par- All-District Volleyball Honors ticipating in the West/Central Texas Stock Market Game. There were a total of 288 participating within The Cedar Ridge High School Lady Raiders our Region and 1677 within the State. Our school’s Volleyball team is pround to announce that several first place team place 16th in the Region and 101th in players received District 16-5A All-District Honors. the State. Shelby Cox (11) won 1st Team All-District. Ken- All the students as they earned great skills with- dall Montgomery (10) received 2nd Team All-District out actually having to put up actual money. honors. And Madison Smith (12) and Destiny Chavez (12) each received honorable mentions. Cold & flu season is here Band hosts All-Region Auditions The Polar Express roared through central Texas earlier this week – an easy reminder for everyone that This past weekend, Cedar Ridge HS hosted the the cold and flu season is here and several students Region 26 Texas Music Educators Association All- have already gotten sick. Region Band Auditions. It’s the first step in the elimi- If you become ill, stay home to prevent spread- With the new recycling program underway here at Cedar Ridge, some students were putting regu- nation process towards earning the title of “Texas ing it to others. Always remember to wash your lar trash into the recycle bins. To help solve the problem, PTSA member Debra Nelson, who is in All-State” Student Musician. hands, cover your cough, increase water intake, and charge of the organization’s on-campus recycling program, asked the art classes to decorate sev- This is the highest honor that an individual get plenty of sleep. eral bins. The new works of art in the round were presented to the PTSA at its November meet- music student in the state of Texas can achieve, and ing. Art teacher Brittany Skillern unveiled the new bins with students Sara Sheehan (10), Lindsey promptly leads to college acceptances and thousands Browning (12), and Taylor Hodge (11). of dollars in college scholarships. Read your way to Toros tickets The Raider Band had 28 musicians earn a spot Coming soon! CRHS students will have the in the Region 26 All-Region Bands and four students opportunity to earn a free ticket to the Austin Toros earned district only patches. These students demon- basketball game on March 3, 2013! strated technical, tonal, and musical abilities that were Students, all you need to do is read four books History in a book rewarded in the placements this weekend! and complete a very simple reading log by February Eleven Raiders also placed high enough to 15. Reading logs will be available at the beginning of advance to the All-Area Auditions in January, which is January, but you can include books you read over the Excalibur documents what happens on The Ridge the last elimination process before All-State! holiday on your log. s the school year speeds by there needs to never seen such The following students advanced to the All-Area Turn this reading log in at the library and we’ll Auditions: Holly Roper, Flute-4th Chair, Holly Burk, be someone documenting all the fun and a talented group order you a ticket. It’s that easy. CRHS librarians will exciting things that go on, that’s where of people. Yeah Bass Clarinet-2nd Chair, Devon Sheets, Alto Sax-2nd be providing bus transportation to and from the game A Chair, Chris Kreger, Tenor Sax-1st Chair, Hannah on Sunday, March 3 if you need a ride. yearbook comes in. Who’s in charge of it all? sometimes we fight Grasso, French Horn-8th Chair, Avinda DeSilva, You can also order discounted tickets for family Editor-in-chief Hannah Fenske, along with adviser but it all works its Trumpet-11th Chair, Seth Polizzi, Tenor Trombone- and friends. The order form is available in the library. Thomas Shands, run the show with a full class of self out. 3rd Chair, Tyler Hardee, Euphonium-2nd Chair, Sean Grab a book and join in on the fun! See Mrs. Runyen, 28 helping put it all together. Q: What’s the Yi, Percussion-1st Chair, Joel Wright, Percussion- 2nd Mr. Bryan or Mrs. H in the library if you have ques- Q: How did you get involved in yearbook? most difficult Chair, and Christian Gold, Percussion-4th Chair, tions. I was in Shands’ journalism class my freshman task in year- The following students were also recognized year and I fell in love with the field of journalism. book? during the weekend auditions: Josephine Luna, Bb Lady Raiders on a roll! Clarinet-15th Chair, Marie White, Bb Clarinet-27th He had me run a few yearbook errands for him The hardest Chair, Hannah Keefer, Bass Clarinet-7th Chair, Chris The Lady Raiders basketball team are 12-2 and and I was infatuated with how student were able part of yearbook is Valero, Alto Sax-9th Chair, Josh Wesley, Tenor Sax- rolling along in 5A play! 1-0 in District play. Their next to produce a legit product and balance a huge keeping us on task 4th Chair, Taylor May, Trumpet-21st Chair, Cooper home game is on December 21st against Hendrickson, budget. we all are a bunch Wilson, Tenor Trombone12th Chair, DJ Roper, with four more home games when we get back from Q: What made you want to join yearbook? of freaks. So when Tenor Trombone-16th Chair, Truman Masters, Bass Christmas break. I wanted to join because I wanted to pursue you put us togeth- The girls are ranked 20th by the Texas Basket- Hannah Fenske Trombone-3rd Chair, Lyric Ludden, Euphonium-7th journalism further. er barely anything Chair, Dante Esquivel, Tuba-7th Chair, Ryan Ram- ball Coaches Association, and are currently 14-2 and busch, Tuba-10th Chair, West Fox, Percussion-6th 1-0 in district play. Q: How does it feel to be editor in chief of gets done. Chair, Cosme Belmonte, Percussion-7th Chair, Tate Some of the Raiders leading scorers are: the yearbook? Q: What’s your favorite thing about being Gregory, Percussion-9th Chair, Vishal Kale, Percussion- Kryshona Carter, averaging 12.5 points per game, Being Editor in chief is the most amazing, in yearbook? 12th Chair, and Mikey Sheeran, Percussion-14th Chair. Melina Merritt, 12. 4 points, Jade Jones11.7 and Tiaira incredible, horrific, terrible, stressful, annoying, My favorite thing about yearbook is being And the following students earned District Pitts 9.6 points per game. great, fantastic feeling in the world. It’s like I’m in in charge of such a huge responsibility. Like I’m in only honors: Kelsey Morgan, Eb Clarinet-3rd Chair, charge of the only tangible piece of Cedar Ridge charge of an $80,000 project so I feel pretty cool. Lauren Smajstrla, Bass Clarinet-9th Chair, Nicholas HOSA students receive awards history so that’s cool, but it’s so stressful, I like Q: How is yearbook going to make us re- Rooch, Euphonium-13th Chair, and Zach Juan-Sing, Last week, 12 Health Science Students of don’t sleep sometimes because of it. member? Percussion-21st Chair. America (HOSA) competed in online testing as a Q: Was it difficult to get the yearbook This yearbook is going to be inspiration like All-State Choir Honors pre-requisite to the next level of competition. Several started? everyone is going to cry. Like I’m not supposed students moved on to the next level: Oh my goodness, yes. We had such a hard to talk about it but there’s a big surprise. When The following singers qualified for the Texas All Anisha Mehra advances to STATE competition time getting the third volume of the Excalibur we were at yearbook camp, and we told the State Choir audition in January: Bianca Talabis, Jessica in Dental Terminology. Ryan Horony and Greg Wick- started. But we’re on a roll now. advisors our ideas, they would be like “are you O’Brien, Joshua Hill, Anibal Martinez, and Jay Gonzalez wire advance to AREA competition in CPR/First Aid These singers are at the top of our region and Alyssa Nester/Travis Purser advance to AREA compe- Q: How has it been working with the staff? sure you want to do this?” it could be horrific or have worked incredibly hard to get there. tition in CPR/First Aid. We’ve definitely had our challenges, but I’ve great. Holiday Extravaganza Decenber 2012 • The Quill • Page 9

JAY JAY ALSTON (11) & RENEE SLAUGHTER (9) IN ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

MELISSA TOLLE (12)

ETHAN WILLISTON (12), MARIEL ARDILA (11), ZACH GUFFEY (12) CHRIS KREGER (12) & ALEXIA BEASLEY (10) & JACQUELINE PALACIOS (10) CATHERINE THOMAS (12)

MARIA NEFF (10), DEJA JACKSON (10) & AUDREY MILLER (10) TAPPING TO A ‘ROCKETTE CHRISTMAS’ KORINA LURIE (10) Sister act working their way to the top Emily Dugan our music and keep us going!! We love them!” Said the duo. Quill Staff Writer They also look up to the fellow sibling band, The Jonas onnie and Brookie, a sister singing duo originating from Brothers. “The Jonas Brothers have had a huge influence on us Arizona, back in 2009 they competed in Radio Disney’s from the start. We met them when they just started and we JNext Big Thing (NBT). It was the first time NBT aired, and were also trying to get our music out! It was awesome watch- with eleven competitors the road to achieving their goals was ing a sibling band, just like us, follow their dreams.” Jonnie and tough, but also gratifying. Brookie said. “NBT was super fun and a great experience! We were Looking up to their idols while having the support from the very first winners in 2009.” Jonnie and Brookie said. In the family and friends definitely gives these girls the courage to process of the competition they had the chance to open for achieve their dream. Corbin Bleu on the Disney Cruise and they were able to hear They also had some advice for some of the aspiring sing- their original songs on Radio Disney. ers out the saying, “You’ll hear it a billion times but never give The competition was a “super fun and a great experi- up!!! It gets hard and you feel like you’re doing the wrong ence” for them and in that process they “met so many amaz- ing people that we are still friends with today!” Friends and thing. Like nothing is going to work out, but you gotta follow family also play a big part in these sister’s lives. your dreams and work harder!” “We wouldn’t be near where we are without them! This amazing singing duo is still working their way to the They have helped us every step of the way and believe in us so big time and you can hear their music on their Facebook page much! We have really amazing friends that have supported us or YouTube. For mor information, just visit their web site at: as well. They come to our shows, share our videos online, buy http://www.jonnieandbrookie.com/ Page 10 • The Quill • December 2012 Charlotte’s Web

Ghostland Observatory performs at the Doritos Jacked Maxim Par- tyin Austin during SXSW. Lead singer Aaron Behrens gets out front during the performance. (Darren Abate/AP Images for Doritos) Ghostland Observatory Elise Ledbetter (10) lives up to its Austin roots

It’s funny how Jeadean Meade the rest is history” said Behrens. Quill Co-EDITOR With humble beginnings, their shows con- children’s plays ustin is known for its wild and outlandish sisted of anywhere from 25-150 audience mem- characters, but that comes with the ter- bers, which is quite a difference in comparison to aren’t just for kids MARIA TOVAr (12) Aritory of being the live music capital of their shows of thousands. The Fillmore (a historic the world. Local band Ghostland Observatory is music venue) even awarded them a metal for selling out their show. he second annual children’s show lit up befriending a spider. Not only is this children’s definitely on the list of unusual bands. With songs the school stage November 15th and story entertaining but it has also been praised full of demanding intros, mesmerizing synthesizer “I think our biggest break would have to be 16th with a final presention at the PAC for teaching children the value of friendship and riffs, and energized vocal, this duo defines what it when we got asked to play ACL festival for the T first time. Nobody was doing electronic rock at on November 30th for Round Rock ISD third that no person’s purpose is too small. is to live in Austin, like no other. graders . Children’s theatre is defined as plays “It was fun being double casted because “I like characters. People who are truly the time and we stood out. We went up there preformed for children. I could watch someone else do the same role themselves and not afraid to be that,” said Aaron and just killed it; blew everyone away!” Not only do storylines differ when you differently,” Smart said. Behrens, lead singer of Ghostland Observatory. You walk into a Ghostland Observatory have a younger audience, but so do acting This year’s children’s show, like last years’, With the sound combination of funk and elec- show over whelmed by the strobe lights and la- styles. was double cast. While the benefits of double tric rock, the duo manages to achieve a level of ser expecting to be entertained not only by Aar- “We had to be more animated and loud!” casting can most obviously be seen; many don’t uniqueness unmatched by other bands. on’s outrageous stage performance, or Thomas’s Echo Leander (11) said. consider the handicap it places on the actors. With such a bizarre sound and unique style you mysterious cape, but also by the dancing fans Lucky for Cedar Ridge students, there is a “Being double cast is a good safety net in may wonder what molded Behrens. most of which are dressed rather idiosyncrati- semester-long theatre class offered to teach just case you get sick or hurt, though you don’t get “I’ve been performing since I was 9 and cally. that. The children theatre class also welcomed a as much rehearsal time,” Mickey May (10) said. when I got into high school I really fell in love “I get to run around stage and act like a cra- new theatre teacher this year, Laura Kieler. Rehearsals are an essential part to any with poetry and writing music as an outlet for zy person! It’s great to get paid for having your “Ms.Keiler was amazing to work with,” good production; charlotte’s web was no ex- my personal expressions. From there I moved to own psychotherapy sessions in front of an audi- Orlando Smart (10) said. ception. Austin and bounced around a couple bands until ence,” said Behrens. You see the crowd jumping The two children’s theatre casts preformed “The rehearsal process for this show was I met my buddy Thomas, through the musician’s and fist pumping in sync with Berhrens, you can a stage interpretation of E.B. White’s classic relaxed in class but hard work after school,” ad section in the Austin Chronicle. From there feel the music. children’s book Charlotte’s Web. May said. “The third graders really enjoyed the play Fortunate for both Charlottes Web casts because it’s a good story preformed by good members, all their fun and hard work paid off. actors,” Hollis McNutt (10) said. “It felt like we did something special,” Red is Taylor Swift’s best yet Charlotte’s web is a timeless tale of a pig Leander said. Hannah Fenske her typical country styling and Quill CoNTRIBUTOR adventures into the territory With her first three of indie pop with a hint of Call of Duty will earn you bragging rights albums setting all-time records, dub step in select songs. If the style changes weren’t Stephanie Kelley level. the expectations for Taylor Swift’s fourth and latest album, drastic enough, her lyr- Quill Staff WRITER As you travel from the ics switch from her typical future to the past in flashbacks Red, were set unbelievably Being one of the most high. happy-go-lucky lyrics to sad, and play as a special operative anticipated games of 2012 Call Red did not disappoint dark and slightly depressing in missions in Central America of Duty takes us on a vigorous the fans. From the upbeat and poetry epitomizing the feeling ride with its new weapons, and Afghanistan during the quirky anthem Stay Stay Stay of heartbreak. Red is focused more zombies and multiple time of the Soviet Union inva- to the melancholy balled Sad on a single relationship and endings in the campaign mode. sion. Beautiful Tragic, Miss Swift of- progresses through every step Every move depending of the heartbreak. With the first person rocket launchers will help you fers a song for everyone. point of view in the campaign on whether or not a character However, Red comes with Overall, the work as a in better kills to get your KD you’re filled with anxiety and lives leads you to multiple end- a host of changes. As Swift whole is her best album yet anticipation as you experience ings either good or bad. New up giving you bragging rights. matures, her music does as and will have a hard time at- tempting to top this one. the game on a more personal assault and sniper rifles with Five/Five Stars well. This album strays from Decenber 2012 • The Quill • Page 11 Suzanne Straube accompanied by folk sounds. Her singing consists of unorthodox Quill Staff Writer techniques and raw, original sound that promises to never disappoint. Regina Spektor recently graced Austin’s Bass Concert Hall with Having studied at a conservatory, a college specializing in classical Quirky, abstract, her presence on November 5th. The venue was music, her show was free of auto-tune and con- completely sold out from the luxurious orchestra sisted of authentic, pure music. In all of her songs seats to the balconies a mile away from the stage. she showcases her storytelling abilities, painting But even those in the furthest seats were given a extraordinary characters and situations. She has an Regina Spektor promise that they would not be disappointed, as insight into the human life unmatched by most. assured in Regina Spektor’s newest album “What Her gift of narration isn’t surprising, consider- We Saw from the Cheap Seats.” ing she is quite a character herself and came from leaves Austin Her show could be described as quirky, interesting beginnings. The Moscow born musician eclectic, and abstract; it left every member of the immigrated to the Bronx from the former Soviet audience feeling reflective and nostalgic. Spektor Union after the policy of perestroika under Mikhail feeling nostalgic is a part of the anti-folk movement, a music genre Gorbachev was put into action. She is now touring that holds attitudes and subject matters similar to the punk genre with her husband Jack Dishel from Only Son, who performs as her opening act.

Moonrise Kingdom A Christmas Story Created by Blair Bartholomew Moonrise Kingdom (2012) A Christmas Story (1983) SUDOKU #2 Starring: Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Starring: Melinda Dillon, Peter Billingsley, Darren Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward McGavin and Scott Schwartz 9 2 5 7 3 Directed by: Wes Anderson Directed by: Bob Clark Five/Five Stars Five/Five Stars When Sam and Suzy, two “A Christmas Story” captures the essence of 7 8 1 9 2 5 teenagers that have been pen being a kid who just wants a possibly danger- pals for some time, decide to ous toy. It tells the story of a little boy, run away together. It results in Ralphie, who is trying to convince everyone 5 1 2 8 7 9 an eventful search party and a that a B.B. gun is just what he needs. It ac- fight for true love. “Moonrise curately portrays all the stupid things you Kingdom” is one of those Indie want to try while you’re still young and can 3 7 5 movies that not everyone can appreciate. It’s a little quirky but get away with it. “A Christmas Story” docu- wonderfully shot and extremely well done. Made by the same ments his Christmas experience, the good director that brought you, “Fantastic Mr. Fox”, expect the and the bad. It’s a humorous film that takes it’s place among 1 4 2 5 9 same basic sort of stiff mood. Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward the great Christmas classics, like “Miracle of 34th Street” and effortlessly pull off the misunderstood, in love teenagers. It’s “It’s A Wonderful Life”. It’s a fun movie that you can’t help a movie where once it’s over, you sit there for a minute and but laugh along with. 5 9 6 4 ponder the brillance that is “Moonrise Kingdom.” A Year Without a Santa Claus elves and Mrs. Claus have to spread the word that Christmas is still important, even though 9 7 1 5 8 3 The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974) Santa is sick and can’t bring presents to Starring: Shirley Booth, Mickey Rooney, Dick Shawn everyone. It’s a cute movie with catchy music and George S. Irving resembling the animation of “Rudolph the 2 3 8 7 9 1 Directed by: Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr. Red-Nosed Reindeer”. It’s a movie that you Four/Five Stars watched when you were little and can still “The Year Without a Santa Claus” tells the story of how two watch it now and laugh. 1 4 9 7

Sagittarius (11/22- like a diamond in the sky. too close to Cancer (6/22-7/22) short to waste it. this wave is 12/21) Pisces (2/19-3/20) love them. It Go to your best friend’s stringing you You’ve got to follow the You haven’t seen each feels like you house around Virgo (8/23-9/22) along, just spiders into other in a are just too this round- You’ve got both feet on know you’re the Forbidden Month, but close to love about. Don’t the ground. You’re burning not alone Forest. Don’t you may need them. You have to be true go tongue-tied. it down. You’ve because this place is your be scared; that more space. to yourself. And it feels like Don’t wave no got your head home. Don’t pay mind to spider is only This is just you are just too close to goodbye. Go to your best in clouds and the demons. They fill you the size of a small elephant. solidifying the fact that you love them. friend’s house. you’re not with fear. Trouble might are never ever ever getting backing down. drag you down. But have no Capricorn (12/22-1/19) back together. Gemini (5/21-6/21) Leo (7/23-8/22) You’re on fire. fear, if you get lost, you can Just keep following the A brilliant month for you. Don’t lay around and always be found. heart lines on Aries (3/21-4/19) You will have to work hard, whine and mourn for Libra (9/23-10/22) Song Lyrics From: “Follow the Spiders” by Harry and your hand. Just It’s time to but the benefits somebody that did you You need to the Potters keep following build from the are worth it. wrong. You ain’t here for remind yourself “Heartlines” by Florence + the the heart lines bottom of the You will excel a long time. You’re here that times Machine “Diamonds” by Rihanna on your hand. pit right to at all you at- for a good could be much “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Keep it up, I know you can. the top. You tempt. Trust time. Take worse. Go take Together” by Taylor Swift may get a little bigger, but your instincts, for although the chance, a walk. Take a walk, take “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons “Too Close” by Alex Clare Aquarius (1/20-2/18) then admit you’re the same certain actions may seem dance the a walk, take a walk. You “Tonguetied” by Grouplove Shine bright like a diamond. as you ever were. Never bizarre, they will work out dance, it might should take a walk. “Here for a Good Time” by George Find light in the change. It’s time to begin. in ways you never expected. be wrong but then again Strait beautiful sea. Understand that things will it might be right. There’s Scorpio (10/23-11/21) “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys “Take a Walk” by Passion Pit Choose to be Taurus (4/20-5/20) work out and you don’t no way of knowing what You shall roll down this “Home” by Phillip Phillips happy. You’re It feels like you are just need to stress so much. tomorrow brings. Life’s too unfamiliar road and although By Blair Bartholomew HOROSCOPES Page 12 • The Quill • December 2012 Texas has lots to offer for higher ed Decide what you want, Priorities then choose a school Setting Everyone is looking to gain a different experience from college, so Depending on your personality type, it’s important to choose a college that will give you what you’re Suzanne Straube you may have preferences as to what looking for. You have to consider what specific experience that Quill Staff Writer kind of setting you’d like to be in. Do college will offer you. you appreciate the hustle and bustle of ike most of us do, you probably think about your future. a city? Are you partial to the sleepy life- For high school seniors, the future is often closer than we style of the countryside? Or would you anticipate. The majority of colleges accept applications on L prefer a happy medium? Each option has Dallas – Dallas Baptist University has the deadline of January 1st, less than a month away. Many think its perks and downfalls. a student population of 5,000. the task of choosing a college overwhelming, but here are a few SAT-1500 ACT-21 factors you can consider when picking a college.

Location North Texas – The University Houston – The University of Houston Over 80 percent of college freshman go to school without of North Texas has 35,000 stu- has a student population of 40,000 and is crossing a state line. For some, the option is just more practical. dents and is in suburban Denton. located in urban Houston. Thankfully, Texas has a wide range of cities and colleges from SAT-1610 ACT/No SAT- 1610 ACT-23 which to choose So what are your interests? A large city? A suburban area? South Texas? North Texas? Right here in central Texas? Whether Medium – Stephen F. Austin State you are a sophomore, junior or senior, if you are looking down University has a student population the road it’s never too early – or too late – to look around the of 13,000 and is urban Nacogdoches. state and see which area interests you most? SAT-1500 ACT-22 Cedar Ridge graduates are lucky because we’re right here in Austin, the exciting live music capitol of the world, and there are lots of choices in the area. Large – The University of Texas has a student West Texas – Texas Tech has a population of 50,000 student population of 31,000 and is and is in urban Austin. in the urban Lubbock. SAT-1813 ACT-28 SAT-1625 ACT-20

Academics – Rice Uni- Small – Concordia has a student versity is the most selective population of 2,000 and is college in Texas. It has 6,000 located in suburban Austin. students and is in urban SAT-1500 ACT-20 Houston. SAT-2000 ACT-30

Urban – Baylor has a student Austin – St. Edwards University has 6,000 students and population of 15,000 and is is located right in Austin. located in the college town of Waco. SAT-1625 ACT-24 SAT-1320 ACT-24

Suburban – The University of Rural – Schreiner University Texas at Arlington has 33,000 has 2,000 students and is in students. scenic Kerrville. SAT-1300 ACT-22 SAT-1050 ACT-22

Liberal Arts – Trinity Univer- South Texas –This A&M location is in urban Corpus sity has a student population Christi and has 10,000 of 6,000 and is in urban San students. Antonio. The University of Texas at SAT-1500 ACT-22 SAT-1750 ACT-26 San Antonio has 30,000 students and is in a subur- ban area. Cost – For the top 30% of Cedar SAT-1070 ACT/No Size Ridge students Sam Houston University People often underestimate the importance of size and how vital is offering to pay for the first two years Social Life – Texas State it is to know whether you’ll be compatible with the sheer number of college. This is a practical choice for has 33,000 students and is of students some universities have. A larger classroom could mean people concerned about the cost of in suburban San Marcos. that teacher’s aides are teaching a class of 400 college freshmen, college. There are 18,000 students and SAT-1500 ACT-15 making it easy to get lost in the crowd and eventually being only is located in urban Huntsville. a number. On the other hand, you might not enjoy being at a col- SAT-1500 ACT-22 lege that has less students than Cedar Ridge.