Volume 40 Issue 3 March 2015

What’s InsideWhat’s Inside

Tigertalk NEWS STAFF

Co-Editors: Alicengrace Gray and Kenzie Messer

Staff Writers, Photographers, Designers: Cindy Aguilar, Patty Bazan, Raegan Davis, Karla Landeros, Na’Chyna Rogers, Lauren Williams,

Yami Zuniga

Journalism 1 students: Abigail Amerson, Yasmin Alvarado, Ashley Blalock, Stacy Brown, Ashlynn Burns, Tia Culmer, Cameron Dale, Ariana Garrett,

Caitlyn Gillean, Crystal Gomez Heavenlee Griffi th, Briana Gutierres, Daniela Gutierrez, Abi Hobbs, Dylan Ingram, Madora Jemison, Carolina Martinez, Julia Martinez, Angel Medina, Jennifer Mora, Lissette Moreno, Oscar Munoz, Allison

Norfl eet, Melissa Ortiz, Connor Reese, Kendria Roberson, Miranda Swanson, Payton Tyler Nora Viramontes and Jennifer Zuniga.

Advisor: John Whitten

The Tigertalk is published fi ve-six times a year by the newspaper and journal-ism classes of MPHS. Address is P.O. Box 1117, Mount Pleasant, Texas 75455. Letters to the editor are encouraged but must be signed and the staff reserved the right to edit because of space. Submit all letters to Mr. Whitten in Room 401 of the CATE Building.

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SStories& Photos

Flanagan signs..Page 2

Culinary...Page 3

Health Science...Pages 4, 7

Ready, Set, Teach...Pages 5, 7

FFA........Page 6

Cosmetology...Page 8

Electrical Trades....Page 9

Journalism.....Page 10

Construction....Page 10

FBLA....Page 11

UIL....Page 12

Band.......Page 13

Tigers Got Talent...Page 14

Senior Party....Page 15

Basketball...Page 16

Soft ball.....Page 16

Soccer.....Page 17

Teacher Feature.....Page 18

Tiger Roar...Pg. 20

Letter of IntentMPHS Senior Sarah Flanagan signs a letter of intent to play volleyball next year at Independence Community College in Independence, Kan.

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Students learn culinary skillsBy KARLA LANDEROSTigertalk Staff Writer The culinary classes at MPHS have given students the opportunity to succeed in a restaurant and kitchen type environment. The program has allowed students to express them-selves by learning and cooking amazing food that could easily be the envy of the party anywhere. Being a great cook gives the stu-dents a chance to participate at local, state, and nation-al levels depending on how much knowledge of cooking they have learned from their teacher. “The culinary program arts program offers students a creative outlet. There are ba-sic guidelines to plating food but in the end your plating design is just an extension of your personality,” teacher Crystal Anschutz said. The program emphasizes a large amount of areas in skill that many of the stu-dents will need to know if they ever wish to become a professional. The study of restaurant positions is also a major factor in this class. It is important to know the ins and outs of the food busi-ness. “Through led demonstra-tions, lectures, and student work groups the culinary arts courses will focus on mastery of the following skills sets: safety and sanitation, food service management, work ethic, and work excellence, basic knife skills, cooking, and problem-solving. This in-depth study of the food service industry includes departments within a restau-rant such as hosts, servers, chefs, management, human resources, and accounting,” Anschutz said. Students said they like the

interaction with other stu-dents and learning to cook. “I like working with the students and helping the kids learn how to cook,” Nathan Gonzales said.“I always wanted to be a chef and to learn everything I can. An international restaurant is where I would want to cook.” Gonzalez said he has learned a lot about culinary this year. “At fi rst, I just cooked to cook, but then I learned dif-ferent things from breads to about different (food) virus-es to what utensils to use and many more,” Gonzales said. Zelma Nard said, “Culinary has pushed me into becom-

ing a more responsible per-son by mentoring and teach-ing me not only about food but also the importance of becoming a better person. These classes have given students the chance to learn a variety of way to cook along with other aspects of work-ing in a kitchen setting. Anschutz used a quote from Plato to sum up what she wants her students to learn. “Do not train a child by force or harshness: but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.” – Plato.

Students stay busy in class,

making a vari-ety of delectable dishes. Students

learn how to cook various dishes.

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Clinicals provide real skillsfor health science studentsBy ALICENGRACE GRAYTigertalk Co-Editor The Mount Pleasant High School health sci-ence program helps pre-pare students that plan to specialize in a health ca-reers such as veterinary science, medicine, nurs-ing, rehab, dental careers, radiology and much more. Students in the advanced levels attend clinical ro-tations that take place around the community or at Titus Regional Medical Center. They also veteri-narian and dental offi ces in the community. “Our partnership with our clinical sites adds an important element of rel-evance to the training we provide,” health science teacher Suzy Whitten said. “Students assist with basic patient needs and observe in the clinical set-ting.” On a daily basis students follow around medical staff and participate in hands on activities. “I’ve learned how to do proper feeding, baths, and transfers just to name a few,” senior J.T Watson said. “It gives a helpful hand in becoming what I plan to become later in life.” Watson, who hopes to be-come a registered nurse, is part of the CNA program at MPHS. Students say being part of a clinical setting gives them a clearer picture about the job and expec-tations.

“Some things a textbook just can’t teach you, and having personal, hands-on experience with some of the best in the fi eld is a major plus,” senior Mark Quiring said. The nurses and doctors share as much of their knowledge as possible to benefi t the students. “I have learned more than I could dream of,” Quiring said. “Being able to actually see and experience what goes on in a normal day at the hospital is very excit-ing. The nurses, doctors, and many others are able to teach you and guide you through what they do in their fi eld.” Not only are the students learning skills required for the medical fi eld, but

they are building relation-ships with the staff. “All the people at the hospital are really nice so they include you in what they are doing,” senior Jenny Reeder said. The health science faculty at the high school includ-ed Kristi Houchin, Tricia Bowen, Sandy Dunson, and Suzy Whitten. “We pride ourselves in providing a valuable learning experience for students interested in any health care career,” Whit-ten said. Health care students also take part in Health Occu-pations Students of Amer-ica (HOSA). They re-cently had some students advance to state.

See Health Science, Page 7

Anayeli Rodriguez and Alexis Amerson work in ICU.

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Ready, Set, Teach! preparesstudents as future educatorsBy CINDY AGUILARTigertalk Staff Writer Students who desire to become an educator one day have an opportunity to experience it fi rst-hand through the Ready, Set, Teach! Classes at MPHS. “Ready, Set, Teach! is a wonderful program that allows students to experience classroom activities and management from a different perspective,” teacher Aimee Sweeden said. “The students are prepared to enter a class-room with confi dence as they experience the multi-grade levels and campuses of MPISD.” Students experience different campus settings throughout the year so they are exposed to dif-ferent learning environments. “Students learn how to identify and meet the individual needs of others in elementary or middle school classrooms. Prospective teach-ers rely on their own personal experiences as well as the effective teaching method of the classroom teacher to create and implement les-son plans that are fun and engaging,” Sweeden said. Senior, Mayte Tejeda said she enjoys the kid’s presence and how they make her feel. “Being with the kids takes your mind off of your own problems. You’re so focused on helping them that you lose track of time, “Te-jeda says. Children grow accustomed to people they are

around constantly. Sometimes, they give the individual a nickname. This signals a child growing closer to the individual. For Tejeda, this seems to be the case. The children she helps during her time in Ready, Set, Teach! already have nick-names that not only shows them growing closer to her but also her growing closer to her. “The best feeling is when the kids run up to me and yell ‘Ms. Mayte!’ It’s an amaz-ing experience that I will cherish forev-er,” Tejeda said. Bri Juarez said she likes that classes give her a glimpse into the future of pro-spective educators. “I like that Ready, Set, Teach! Is a small preview of what we as future teachers will get to experience,” Juarez said. “There is nothing fi ltered or candy coated. The re-ality of working one on one with students and connecting the greater depth than just reading about it is something I absolutely love.” Students said they have learned a lot through the program. “The environment and education is dif-ferent at each school, and one has to learn to adapt quickly,” Juarez said. “Also it’s possible to be a friend to the students but

Junior Jazmin Acuna helps elementary students with their work.

See RST, Page 7

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Students have variety of choices in Ag

By ZAC ROLF Every year our Agriculture science teachers Mr. Chitsey, Mr. Phillips, and Ms. Hearron book a date for the Texas FFA State Offi cers to come to Mount Pleasant High School and put on a leadership workshop. Last month, state offi cers stopped in Mount Pleasant on their year long road trip across Texas.

President Gracie Hendrix, 1st Vice Presi-dent Jeb Hogan, and Vice President Micah Newton were given 6th, 7th, and 8th period to encourage FFA members at MPHS. The State Offi cers theme this year is “What is Service?” Throughout their presentation they chal-lenged our FFA members to step up and an-swer the call to serve our community.

State Ag Offi cers visit FFA students

By MADORA JEMISONTigertalk Staff Writer Agriscience classes prepare students for more than just a career in agriculture. “The skills students gain in our program will prepare them for a career in many different areas, not only in agriculture related fi elds, but you will have the work eth-ics to be successful in any job related fi eld that the stu-dent uses,” Ag Teacher Ca-sey Phillips said. Phillips along with Clint Chitsey and Susie Hearron are the three ag instructors at the high school. Freshman students start off with a Prin-ciples of Ag class. They then have the choice of going many different routes. Some of the classes offered are Livestock, Equine Sci-ence, Wildlife and Forestry, Horticulture, Floral Design and Ag Mechanics. Students also have the op-portunity to be involved in FFA, a student organization

for agriculture students. “Being involved in the FFA organization and learning what true leadership is what I will always carry with me,” FFA student Jessica Wil-liams said. Agricultural programs pre-pare students in varies of ways. Students learn to have proper work ethics and to obtain success in a job fi eld. “The FFA better prepares you for the real world by knowing what can harm you and what is ok to consume in your everyday lives,” FFA student Sarah Bradley said. This program has grown on the majority of FFA students. It creates a home environ-ment where they can grow together to achieve more. “FFA has made such a big impact on me, I wish to make Agriscience teaching my ca-reer,” FFA student Shelbi Roberts said. FFA also participates in competitions from livestock to mechanics. They encour-

age all students to partici-pate in competitions. FFA also serves the community by Adopt A Highway a cou-ple of time every year. The students also volunteer at the animal shelter, and donate food and clothing to Titus County Cares. “I’ve competed in almost everything, from showing heifers at majors, showing hogs at county, Parliamenta-ry procedure, wildlife team, horse judging team, etc,” Roberts said. Agricultural program offers more to the student than just information. They welcome students in their community with open arms. More importantly they en-courage the students to suc-ceed and become a part of something great. “No matter what your back-ground is, whether you live in the city or the rural areas, we have a place for you,” Phillips said.

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Health Science from Page 4Health Science from Page 4

Watson prepares to make a bed during CNA clinicals.

RST from Page 5RST from Page 5there has to be a fi ne line be-tween student-teacher roles.”Tejeda said “every day was something new, and I love that…it’s really fun and it feels good to know the kids are actually understanding the concept with my help.” Sweeden said like most CATE programs, there are prerequisites one must take in order to be a candidate for Ready, Set, Teach! “Students who are inter-ested in becoming a teacher should take Child Develop-ment which seems to be a student favorite. Students learn about children from conception to delivery and beyond. “Students have the oppor-tunity to experience weight gain of a pregnancy with the “Empathy Belly” and bring home a baby for three days that requires them to meet the needs of an infant,” Sweeden said. Students have the opportu-

nity to develop toys out of household items for toddlers and this is also an event in the FCCLA completions an-nually. Both Tejeda and Juarez said they plan to become teachers. “I would love to become an elementary teacher,” Tejeda said. “Through this experi-ence I’ve realized just how much I love kids, and I love

to help them in any way I can.” Juarez said the program has helped her decided what age group to teach. “Ready, Set Teach! Gave me the opportunity to realize second or third grade levels I want to focus my attention on. Elementary students in general because I love their excitement, especially to learn.”

“Our students compete in a wide variety of compet-itive events and showcase their skills in competition against other schools,” Whitten said. Juan Castanon advanced in Medical Art and Jen-ny Reeder advanced in Health Care issues. Students give back to the community through health fairs, Relay for Life and Kid Safe Saturday. They appreciate the expe-rience and the knowledge they get from clinicals. “Getting to contribute to the health care fi eld as a high school student is one of the most heart-warm-ing experiences there is,” Quiring said.

Ready, Set, Teach! students take time out for a photo.

Cosmetology class is morethan just learning to cut hairBy RAEGAN DAVISTigertalk Staff Writer Hair, nails, and makeup are just a broad explana-tion of what goes on in the MPHS cosmetology class. These students not only deal with cosmetics, but build re-sponsibility, teamwork, and communication along with business organization and successful retailing. “What I have learned in cosmetology that will help me in the future is responsi-bility and work ethic,” senior Regina Buendia said. Responsibility and organi-zation skills help MPHS cos-metology students keep up with all the tools and equip-ment they handle on a daily basis. “I learned how to work in-dependently, but also how to work with multiple people if I needed to,” senior Andrea Banegas said. Teamwork is needed many times within the cosmetolo-gy fi eld because many beau-ticians specialize in different techniques and have to work on a client at one time. “Cosmetology classes will help me in my future because I’ve learned great communi-cation skills, chemistry, frac-tions, business, and account-ing,” senior Chelsea Davis said. MPHS cosmetology stu-dents contribute to the com-munity by visiting local nursing homes, shelters, and partnering with local orga-nizations to apply what they have learned in class. These acts of kindness help the stu-dents gain real world experi-ence, a chance to raise mon-ey for competition and the state board exam. “Cosmetology classes are

important to MPHS stu-dents because it prepares the student before going out into the real world, learning and meeting new people,” Davis said. The state board exam is a test cosmetology students are able to take when they graduate to earn their cos-metology license without college experience. “This department allows the student to receive a cos-metology license once he/she has graduated from high school and that’s a great op-portunity,” Banegas said. The cosmetology license allows the students to be able to get a real job as a

beautician while in college to help pay for tuition. “Cosmetology is important to my success because with it I will be able to have a career and help me pay my way for college to the career I really want to pursue,” Bu-endia said. Many MPHS cosmetology students will continue in the cosmetology through col-lege and others will go into other fi elds such as a phys-ical therapist or psychology. “Real success is doing what you love and being loved for what you do. Sometimes the hardest part is getting start-ed,” MPHS cosmetology teacher Aleshia Rivera said.

Aleshia Rivera oversees the work of students.

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By MADORA JEMISONTigertalk Staff Writer Electrical Trades teacher Tim Davis instructs his students on the proper use of dealing with electricity. His program is used to teach students the needs of to-days’ market. “Students learn how to use and install electricity, how to wire and install branch circuits, and load-center,” Davis said. The electrical industries are constantly evolving and demand requirements in-crease. Students who want to go in this type of work force after high school gain experiences. Not only do they gain experience how-ever, they also gain an advantage over other upcoming electricians. “Electrical trade classes offer a fresh new opportunity for all students. It al-lows students to learn a very valuable trade,” student Omar Perez said. Electrical Trades students also have the opportunity to compete in SkillsUSA. It is an organization for students to compete in technical, skilled and service

careers. The electrical students have the opportunity to design and construct electrical exhibits and prepare them-selves to compete in Construction Wir-ing. “Competitions are held in Waco, and Corpus Christi, Texas. The electrical lab is open after school for student’s preparing for the competitions,” Davis stated. Electrical Trades is an essential to stu-dents going into the electrical career clusters. The class gives them a boost for the future and knowledge for the in-dustry. “In electrical trades I have gained the knowledge and skills needed to enter the work force with safety, training and basic understanding of electricity,” stu-dent Mason Blalock said. Perez said each day is different in the class. “One day we could be in the lab wiring for a test,” Perez said. “On other days, we work in the book getting certifi ed to help out in the future.”

Power in learning Electrical TradesPictured are Electrical Trade Students who competed at SkillsUSA.

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By PATTY BAZANTigertalk Staff Writer Creating a yearbook or newspaper takes time, ded-ication and creativity. Those traits are what makes a school publication success-ful. Journalism students stay busy producing a yearbook along with publishing 5-6 newspapers throughout the school year. Students like the impact they make with working on the yearbook. “I love being a part of an organization that makes an impact on students’ lives not only in the present, but in the future too,” Alicengrace Gray said Gray is both co-editor of Tigertalk, the newspaper, and Editor-in-Chief of Ar-rowhead, the yearbook. Students do a variety of chores in yearbook class. Each member of the year-book class has a specifi c duty to do. The yearbook members also have due dates for these pages, not only do they edit pages but also take them. “I work on pages and download/scan photos into

the computer,” Sports Edi-tor Rachel Fernandez said Although, the yearbook pages are eye-catching and well done there is more to them then just making a page look nice. “The biggest challenge on building a page is creating a good template and being very creative,” Yearbook Assistant Editor Crystal Go-mez said. Ad manager Maci Dorsey

making sure the yearbook ads stay up to date.“On a daily basis I make sure ads are up to date and build ads if needed, I also work on my individual pages that I was assigned,” Dorsey said. Gray said that being on the newspaper staff has helped her in many ways.“Journalism has helped me grow as a person in charac-ter. It has also improved my writing skills,” Gray said.

Students enjoy the challengeof making yearbook, newspaper

Tigertalk Co-Editors Kenzie Messer and AlicengraceGray look over a copy of the newspaper.

Students building construction skills In construction classes, stu-dents are giving the opportu-nity to participate in hands-on activities that enable them to learn more about the world of carpentry. “I’ve learned how to use tools that will be necessary for the occupation I intend on doing,” senior Larry Johnson said. “Also, I have learned techniques and tips on how to do things easier but that are still stable and secure.” Johnson is in Mike Huff’s construction class and also competes in SkillUSA.

He recently qualifi ed for state at the district competi-tion. Juan Zuniga said construc-tion classes are important because it shows students how to work in a variety of environments. Students also learn about construction and much more in Jim Alston’s classes. “I have learned to become a better leader and to always help out and never stand back and watch,” James Moore said. “In the future, this will help me make a good impression

on my boss.” Moore said some of the projects that students do include building benches, swings and dog houses. Emmanuel Gonzalez said that students try to improve the look of the school on a daily basis. “We rebuild damaged fl ow-er bed and make our school a better place for everybody,” Gonzalez said. Moore said, “these classes are important because they show students how to work tools and how it would be on the job.”

By KENZIE MESSERTigertalk Co-Editor The Mount Pleasant FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) chapter recently had 23 students compete and ad-vance to state. The Area VI Leader-ship Conference was hosted at Region VIII and served as the fi rst step of competition for the stu-dents. Twenty-three stu-dents competed and all advanced to the State Leadership Conference in San Antonio in March. Should students qualify for Nationals, they will go to Chicago this sum-mer. “FBLA is the organiza-tion the students are en-couraged to join,” FBLA Sponsor Jackie Scoggins said. “FBLA has proven to be a good tool for pre-

paring students in leader-ship roles.” Career Preparations pre-pares students for the workplace. Each class fo-cuses on teaching the stu-dents about the marketing industry. Students learn employability skills not only in the classroom, but on the job. Students work in a va-riety of jobs also through the co-op program. Scog-gins also teaches market-ing classes. In FBLA, students are exposed to business like settings which prepares them for their future. “FBLA will help me in my future because it will help me to become a bet-ter presenter and to be more comfortable,” senior Hunter Lide said. “I need to improve by memorizing my lines,

but I plan to take fi rst in PSA (public service an-nouncement). The thing I like best about FBLA is getting to dress up and act like a businessman, doing a presentation in front of judges.” Career and Academic Planning class is designed to prepare students for college and a career. Stu-dents will apply for col-leges, scholarships, and FAFSA in this class. “FBLA will help me to become a better leader and more confi dent,” se-nior Jennifer Lopez said. “I like meeting new peo-ple and the experiences that it’s brought. In the event that I do, it will pre-pare me for future job in-terview. I need to ask more questions, and have more confi dence to improve af-ter area.”

FBLA students pose with their state qualifying certifi cates.

FBLA has 23 advance to state

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By YAMI ZUNIGATigertalk Staff Writer UIL Academics has en-tered its competition mode and each team has been competing very hard, trying to place at each meet. There have been several meets since January and multiple students have been doing their best in these competi-tions. It’s all in preparation for the district meet later this month at Texas High. Mount Pleasant has en-joyed success at both of its meets and also at North La-mar, Pine Tree and Halls-ville this year. Mrs. Regina Crouch is the head coordinator of the UIL program and is also the coach for the Spelling team. Crouch likes to coach Spell-ing and fi nds it very import-ant for students to know how to spell. “I enjoy coaching Spelling and think that it is very im-portant to be able to spell. Spellers understand how things work together to complete a whole,” Crouch said. Last year, Crouch’s spell-ing team made it to Region-als and she hopes that they become better and advance to Regionals once again. She hopes that several oth-er teams make it to state this year too and get MPHS recognized as a top school around Texas. “Well, I hope we all make it to state! But I also look for the spellers to go far this year since they made it to regionals last year,” said Crouch. State is where every stu-dent in UIL plans to make it to for the glory of the school,

UIL Academic Teams are in heat of competition as district nears

an astonishing scholarship worth $10,000, and to be proud of their achievement for making it that far. For those lucky state quali-fi ers, they are automatically eligible for a UIL scholar-ship from the state of Texas. Jacob Baker, a sophomore here at MPHS believes that his team has a chance at making it to state. “I believe we have a real good chance this year, we just have to work hard and push ourselves,” Baker said. Competing and traveling to other schools is what UIL basically is, and several stu-dents enjoy the chance to be able to visit other schools around East Texas. “It is fun especially after I compete because then I can hang out with my friends and meet new people,” said Baker.

The whole trip itself is a wonderful experience to students in both an educa-tional and social way. For those who are not sure what UIL is or what it does, it is a program for stu-dents who want to compete against other schools in topics such as math, social studies, creative writing, computer science, journal-ism, and several more. Once they compete, they have the chance to win a medal or trophy for plac-ing in the top six or eight, depending on the competi-tion. UIL academics hosts 23 competitions in differ-ent schools throughout East Texas. It is an educational pro-gram that is favored by sev-eral schools across Texas and will continue to assist students academically.

UIL students show off their trophy from the MPHS Meet held in January.

Tigertalk Pg. 13

Band students qualify for statein Solo, Ensemble competition Thirty-fi ve Mount Pleas-ant High School Band Students earned fi rst divi-sion medals at the recent UIL Region IV, Solo and Ensemble Contest at Tex-as A&M University in Commerce. They have advanced to the State Solo and En-semble contest to be held in Austin in May. To earn a fi rst divi-sion medal and advance to state, these students logged many hours of practice over the past three months on chal-lenging musical selec-tions chosen by the Texas University Interscholas-tic League. They then had to per-form the work before a judge, a challenge for any young musician. The fi rst division awards they earned represent a supe-rior performance and are the same as fi rst place fi n-ish. “I congratulate all of these students for this accomplishment,” said MPHS Band Director

fl ute/clarinet trio of Lexi Hughes, Meg Lomeli and Agustin Garcia; the fl ute/clarinet trio of Na-taly Ruan, Roxie Campos and Emily Mott; the clar-inet trio of Ashley Heim, Yaritza Romero and Adri-ana Rodriguez; the sax-ophone trio of Nathon Segovia, Allen Ruan and Marcelino Vicente; the saxophone trio of Tristan Zuniga, Julie Vasquez and Donte Rosborough; the clarinet quartet of Agustin Garcia, Anthony Martinez, Emily Mott and Pablo Gutierrez; the eu-phonium quartet of Javier Martinez, Gavin Dethrow, Joshua Mennhenett, Ste-ven Mendoza; the brass sextet of Jack Gris-som, Katelyn Holt, Ali-cen-Grace Gray, Ceasar Villa, Presley McClendon and Javier Martinez; and the percussion ensemble of Mathew Shelton, Ma-rio Rodriguez, Ryan Phil-lips, Madison McDaniel, Nathan Gonzales, Eryn Armstrong and Black Moulton.

Theo Luckett. “They all worked very hard to earn the privilege to go to state. The three students who qualifi ed on solos also qualifi ed as part of an ensemble. “Four of the students qualifi ed as part of two ensembles. This is an amazing accomplishment and one that doesn’t hap-pen often. I am extremely proud of the Mount Pleas-ant band students.” The 35 MPHS Goin’ Gold Band students qual-ifi ed for the State Solo and Ensemble Contest by earning a fi rst divi-sion rating on a class one (the most challenging) solo played by memo-ry or by performing in a fi rst division ensemble. Qualifying on a solo were Jack Grissom (Trumpet), Katelyn Holt (Trumpet) and Alicen-Grace Gray (Trumpet). Ensemble members qualifying for state are: the fl ute trio of Alexa Hughes, Meg Lomeli, and Aracely Sanchez; the

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Tigers Got Talent About 20 different acts took part in Tigers Got Talent held recently at the high school auditorium. Sadrian Olvera was voted the top musical performer by judges. Taking second place was Kailyn Mendoza and third place went to Christina Kes-sler. The event proved a hit for the crowd as they enjoyed the variety of performances. Other students who per-formed included Kerry Harp-er, Abby Sneed, Longtin Hang, Theater Drama Skit, Rashid Eldoma, Star Wil-liams, Anthony Martinez, Jennifer Flores and Erika Swanson, Christopher Dyke, Alicengrace Gray and Kait-lyn Holt, Kadaisha Hopkins and Adriana Garrett, Ladarius Patterson and J.T. Watson. Anthony Martinez soars during routine.

Erika Swanson and Jennifer FloresJ.T. Watson

Abby Sneeed Adrianna Garrett Kaitlyn Holt

Tigertalk Pg. 15Page Designed by Nora Viramontes

Seniors recently got together and dressed up in their favorite decade

for the Seniors Decade Party. A wide range of decades was represented at the party. The seniors will have their Western Party later in the year for

their fi nal senior party.

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By LAUREN WILLIAMSTigertalk Staff Writer As softball kicks off their season, players and coaches are optimistic they will do well. “The outlook and goals of this season is to stay healthy through tournaments play with our main focus being March 10 when district be-gins,” Coach Jeremy Tarrant said. “We are playing a tough non-district schedule to help prepare us for district. Our main goal in district play is to challenge for the district title, stay in the mix and fi nd a way to get into the play-offs.” The new additions to the team and as far as them be-ing all young there is one re-turning senior Labrisha Har-grave. Six out of fourteen players are very dependable

to varsity from being return-ing players. Coach Tarrant said, “These six have varsity experience, especially Bri-sha, Tyshanae and Pre-cious. They are going have to carry us at times this sea-son and I really need them to take charge on the fi eld and lead us.” Freshman fi rst baseman Lauren Lesher said she en-joys playing on varsity with older kids, because they have more experience to help her push further to play and achieve goals for herself. The Lady Tigers have a competitive district this sea-son. Hallsville and Sulphur Springs are supposed to be very challenging this year, Texas High and Marshall are competitive teams as well. Being the youngest team in the district with four fresh-

man, three sophomore, six juniors and one senior is go-ing to be a tough come up. “We are going to have grow-ing pains that we will face; just going to have to get af-ter it and compete,” Tarrant said.Precious Thompson said the love and anticipation of soft-ball makes the game easier, because you’ll never know what happens next. Varsity players include Sa-karia Grant, Kayla Howard, Tyshanae Huey, Brisha Har-grave, Nikki martin, Cassidy Russell, Brookelyn Cheek, Breann Smallwood, Brooke Smallwood, Lauren Lesher, Kamille Gill, Blakely Cheek and Destinie Myers. “It is a district that is very strong and we can’t afford to take a night off,” Tarrant said.

Softball gears up for new season

Chism leads Tigers to playoffs In his fi rst season as head boys basketball coach, Joey Chism was able to lead the Tigers to the playoffs. Chism, a MPHS graduate and former basketball stand-out, said the season was a great one. “The basketball season has been great this year!” Chism said. “I’m proud of the way the players have battled over the course of the season as a team. The Tigers clinched a play-off berth with a big win over Texas High. Even though they lost in the fi rst round of the playoffs, Chism said the win over Texas High was one of the team’s highlights. “The two biggest highlights this year has been winning our fi rst game of the year and beating Texas High in over-time to seal a playoff spot,” Chism said. Chism said one of his

challengs was balancing the program as a fi rst year head coach. As far as the team went, he said “one of the biggest challenges has been teaching guys how to overcome ad-versity as a team.” Chism said making the playoffs as a coach rather

than as a player had its dif-ferences as well. “As a player, you just go play because that’s all you know, how to do,” Chism said. “As a coach, prepara-tion is the key. You have to be able to put your team in a situation where they can be successful.”

Chism leads his team during a district game.

Tigertalk Pg. 17

By NA’CHYNA ROGERSTigertalk Staff Writer Despite injuries and a slow start in district play, the girls soccer team has hung in there and grown this season. They started off district with several girls out from injures. "The team has grown closer, their work ethic has improved and their confi dence as individuals has too. They have been able to compete against teams that before we could not compete against, they have improved as a whole," Head Coach Gloria Zaldivar said. The girls’ soccer team has faced a number of challenges under their new coach. "Them having a new head coach this year with different expectations on and off the fi eld along with a new and tougher district. Also, the lack of support my girls have,” Zaldivar said. “No one likes to come to a cold girls’ soc-cer game, it hurts my girls because they work just as hard if not harder than the other teams and we hardly have people come watch them play.” The team is working together which has al-lowed them to stay in the playoff race despite injuries to team members. "The girls have became a unit.. a family. They work hard, encourage eachother, they rely on each other. They desire to do good as a team not as individuals. They have shown great improvement every game," Zaldivar said. Senior defender Betsy Moreno and junior attacking mid Mayra Villarruel both good

friends on an off the fi eld have many things in com-mon. Both ladies were inspired by their fathers to play soccer and they both have lots of support from their families. "When I step on the fi eld I feel like a whole differe-nent person. I can express my feelings in the game. It's a big part of my life and it's a part of my everyday life," Villarruel said. The district is very tough, but Texas High is probably the toughest opponent. "A hard team to play will be Texas High because they are a very good team, and they play very well togeth-er," Villarruel said.

Lady Tigers overcome injuries

By NA’CHYNA ROGERSTigertalk Staff Writer This season the Boys Varsity soccer team has done a really good job in district. Their re-cord is 11-2-1 overall and 6-1 in district. Head Coach Jason Mayfi eld is very proud of the boys. Captain/Forward Jose Moli-na, Wing Daniel Zuniga and Coach Mayfi eld thinks that Pine Tree will be there tough-est team to play. These boys are very dedicat-ed to the sport that they play and that they love. They will work from start to fi nish with their hard work and dedica-tion. Zuniga said “I play to the last minute no matter if we win or lose.”

Boys soccer leads district race

“My family are my biggest supporters, they push me to do my best and they go to games when they can. Also all of the coaches, they always expect

great things from me, and I try not to let them down,” said MolinaZuniga said, “My biggest sup-porter is God.” Daniel’s cousin inspired him to play soccer. “Time will tell how the rest of the season will go,” said Mayfi eld. The 1st round district is re-ally tough, a win is worth 3 points. MP is fi rst with 18 points followed by Hallsville with 16 points, Longview with 15 points and Pine Tree with 14 points. The fi rst round of district was very challeng-ing for them to stay in fi rst. With one loss and a tie the boys will drop dramatically from the fi rst place spot to ei-ther third or fourth.

Lurvy Lava controls the ball for MPHS.

Roy Garcia looks to pushthe ball up the fi eld.

Pg. 18 Tigertalk

20 Questions with Ms. WilliamsBy STACY BROWN& DANIELA GUTIRREZTigertalk Staff Writers Each issue of Tigertalk, the newspaper staff features a different teacher. This issue focuses on Karen Williams, who teaches Biol-ogy and is also Lady Tigers track coach. The following are 20 questions to learn more about Williams. 1. What do you plan on doing after retirement? Even though I have a long time to think about it, I plan on traveling, relaxing, and spending time with family. 2. Will you miss the stu-dents, even though they sometimes drive you cra-zy? I will defi nitely miss my students. I love them, and I truly enjoy what I do. 3. How do you inspire your students? I try to inspire them in many different ways…most-ly through verbal encourage-ment. 4. What are your hobbies? I enjoy going places, such as movies, comedy shows, and malls. I also enjoy working out. 5. Do you like animals? I like them fi ne from a dis-tance. 6. What is the toughest subject in school? None of them are tough if one puts in the work. 7. Who was your best friend from high school? Amanda Savage 8. What were your dreams back in your youth? I dreamed of becoming a fashion model, graduating from college, and being suc-cessful. 9. Did you accomplish any? Yes, I did. 10. What made you to de-cide to become a teacher? I decided to try teaching un-

til I could fi nd a job in my fi eld (Biology). Within two weeks of me starting my ca-reer here, I knew I was ex-actly where I was supposed to be. 11.What do like about high school? I love the students and the people with whom I work. 12. What is the best com-pliment you have received? My students know that I genuinely care about them. 13. What type of music you listen to? Mostly gospel…some R&B 14. Do you have a favorite book or read much? Why or Why not? BIBLE….I was always a very big reader. I used to read a lot more before I had my son.15. Who is your hero? Jesus 16. What is the most mem-

orable class you have ever taken? Field Biology in college…we took an over-night fi eld trip to the Ozarks. Vertebrate Zoology….we were given a fetal pig that we had to keep up with for a semester. 17. What is your dream vacation? Anywhere tropical18. List someone you know, and describe them. Tiffany Taylor: funny, dra-matic, nice. 19. What are some of your favorite movies? I am not big on favorites…I enjoy so many. 20. Who in your life has infl uenced you the most? How did they do it? My mother….always super patient and sweet…would give anyone anything they needed.

Williams favorite book to read is the Bible.

Tigertalk Pg. 19

Tiger RoarTiger RoarWhat are your plans for Spring Break?

Tiger Roar page by Tigertalk Co-Editor Kenzie Messer

Pg. 20 Tigertalk

“Visit University of Texas at El Paso.”

Mayra Villarruel, 11

“Keeping book

for baseball tournaments.”

Sophie Sanchez, 11

“Going to watch

‘Duff’ with my year-book friends.”

Na’Chyna Rogers, 11

“Going to Nashville to visit my dad.” Cailyn Mendoza, 9

“Come to soccer practice and tournament and celebrate my birthday (March 14).

Abel Rios, 9 “Working at the movies.”

Abigail Amerson, 9

“Working on

nursery.”Mr. Cody Morris

Debate Coach

“Going skiing in Colorado.”Hannah McBride, 12

“Play baseball and sleep.”Conrad Stobnicki, 12

“Going to Galveston for a Tiger Doll Competition.

Shelby Gillette, 12

“Going to Beavers Bend and hanging with my friends.”Zack Luker, 10

“Going to Dallas to

help take pictures for my sister’s cupcake

business.”Star Williams, 11

“Hanging out with

friends and going to my houseboat.”

Austin Dryden, 10

“Going to a

Mavericks game.”Annie Trout, 10