The Rider
Mansfield Legacy High School 1263 North Main Street Mansfield, TX 76063 817-299-1100
News Briefs Change Drive
Upcoming Events 10/17/09
October 16, 2009 Vol. 3 Issue 1
The Student Newspaper of Legacy High School: Covering Bronco Nation
MISD Board Approves Construction of Fine Arts Center BY GREGORY URIBE Editor-in-Chief
Teachers collected $925.82 in change as a donation for late superintendent Vernon Newsom’s grandchildren. According to Key Club sponsor Shelly Burkett, instead of flowers, Mr. Newsom’s family specifically requested money for his grandchildren’s college fund. In order to assist in the accumulation of change, both Key Club and Interact Club members came together to collect. “I think it’s good that everybody is cooperating with us,” Key Club President Riley Reidmiller said. Interact Club members distributed plastic bags for collecting money which contained a note explaining the reasons of donating while Key Club members were responsible for creating posters and informing the student body of the change drive. “We hope, for a person who had such an effect on our district, Legacy can contribute to such an important cause,” Interact Club sponsor Dionne Harris said. Mr. Newsom recently retired from the district after serving for the last 13 years. Newsom planned to spend much of his new time off with his grandchildren. “He’s given so much to our district,” Reidmiller said. “We’re trying to give back.”
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Pictured above is the computer-generated rear side of the new Fine Arts building placed behind the Ben Barber parking lot. Another site near 287 and Broad was also offered. Submissions for name suggestions are currently being accepted by MISD. PROJECT SCHEDULE
Sock Hop Dance 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. Spectator Gym
10/24/09
Breast Cancer Walk 4 p.m. - 12 a.m. Track
10/26/09
Red Ribbon Week All Week All Campuses
Location Option: Land near 287 and Broad offered for new facility • The land will be given to the school district at no cost to the district. • The school district will retain 100% ownership of the facility. • The district will incur no additional cost to the overall construction price if we decide to move the facility to the The Shops at Broad Street. • If any non-MISD group wants to use the facility, they will pay a rental fee. • There will be no special consideration given to the City of Mansfield for the use of the facility.
NEWS
FEATURE
APs enforce dress code on body/facial rings
Trouble with the law awaits teens who send pornographic images
Piercings
PAGE 3
Sexting
PAGES 6-7
Construction of a New Fine Arts building was approved on Sep. 22 at the school board meeting with a vote of 6-0. Completion of the facility is predicted for March 19, 2012 at a projected cost of $39 million. “The board believes t h i s building will have a positive impact for the district,” Director of Communications and Media Ritchie Escovedo said. “There’s a variety of needs, and this facility will meet those needs for the district.” Projected cost for a fine arts building seating 5,000 was estimated for $50 million in 2005. Because of the current construction market, MISD saved $11 million for this facility. Designed to accommodate 5,500 people, including 500 on stage, the building will be used to host a multitude of events including graduation which is currently held at the Potter’s house. “I think this will meet our needs and allow us to be on the districts schedule instead of the Potter’s House,” Assistant Principal Mrs. Murphree said. Included in the facility’s design is a Teacher Professional Development section, allowing for all the teacher trainings in the district to occur at one location. “It’s an investment not only for the students,” Mrs. Murphree said, “but for the teachers as well.” According to Librarian Pamela Pinkerton, because of the size and new technology, professional development is see “Fine Arts” on page 2
SPORTS
Clean Sweep
State ranked tennis team heads to region PAGE 4
2 | News
Fancy Dancing
October 16, 2009 Ballroom Club works to perfect old fashioned formals
The Rider
Problematic Piercings
APs crack down on body, facial rings
Ashley Deam Photo
CUTTING A RUG-Tiana Vick, 12, teaches Caleb Downs, 11, the steps of the foxtrot.
BY Chase Tremaine staff writer Near the end of the 08-09 school year, Tiana Vick and sponsor Sandra Villarreal created the Ballroom Dancing club, where students learn how to foxtrot, cha-cha, swing and salsa. Vick, now a senior, teaches the class for dancers of any experience level. But now, Vick has a full year she can take advantage of, and expects the extra time will help. “I want to end up having a ballroom dancing team and start up clubs at the other Mansfield schools to have competitions,” Vick said. Vick’s own dance instructor, Charlie Bradford, will occasionally come join the club
and teach the class. Throughout the year, the club will host fundraisers to pay Mr. Bradford back for his lessons. These fundraisers will also raise the money needing for entering contests if the students wish to take their dancing outside of school. “Ballroom dancing never goes out of style,” Mr. Bradford said. “It’s good for social education.” All students can come dance, or at least watch, at any time throughout the year, and the club will provide dance partners for anyone who can’t bring their own. The club meets every other Monday in the cafeteria from 2:45 to 3:45.
District To Add New Fine Arts Building continued from page 1 held at Legacy’s labs, taking away time from the teachers and creating scheduling conflicts. “Opening this new facility will alleviate the use of our labs which will make it more available to our teachers and students,” Librarian Mrs. Pinkerton said. “I think it’s going to be great to not have to tell the teacher’s ‘no’,” Beneficial to all the fine arts departments, the new building will also be rented out for public use. “I think it’s good not just for our district,” choir teacher Mrs. Owens said, “but for the community as well.”
As of Oct. 2, MISD will now accept name submissions for Performing Arts Auditorium and Professional Development Center. Parents, students, staff, and community members are invited to use the School Name Submission Form found on MISD’s website in order to supply the School Board with options to help decide on a facility name. The name submissions forms will be collected, compiled, and distributed to a School Board sub-committee that will bring forward a recommendation to the full Board of Trustees.
Piercings, aside from earrings and other ear wear, recently became a problem for Christine Englert and various APs reinforcing the dress code. Assistant Principal Chris Englert first noticed the problem taking place with the office aides. The aides would go to classes with piercings in their nose or lips, blatantly ignoring the dress code. “Students would say if it’s okay for office aides to wear piercings, why can’t they,” Mrs. Englert said. After personally going to all of the offices, making sure the secretaries informed their aides of the dress code, Mrs. Englert received no further complaints about the rule. Now the task of addressing the student body at large fell to the APs. “The rule says nuh-uh,” AP Louie Trammel, “Why do it to start with?” The APs, including Mrs. Englert, have been met with some resistance on the dress code. “Last week there was a girl with a lip ring,” Mrs. Englert said, “She didn’t care for what I was saying and said ‘Everyone else has one.’” While the students complain about removing the piercings,
BRITTNEY nICHOLS PHOTO
BY WILL RITCHIE ONLINE EDITOR
Matthew Canright, 10, pierced his ears in grade 7. “At the time, none of the other guys at school had them,” he said.
Mr. Trammel has found a solution to the problem, not to put them on in the first place. “Don’t give us a position to call out on it,” AP Trammel said. Mrs. Englert has h e a r d t h e e xc u s e s , the reasons,and the c o m p l a i nt s about how s t ud e nt s c a n n o t r e move their piercings but she wi l l p o i nt t h e m t o t h e h a n d b o o k f o r t h e i r a n s we r s . U n l i k e w h a t t h e s t u d e nt s m i g h t believe, she knows they will get caught if they break the dress code. “If you’ve got eight teachers, it’s kind of difficult for a student to say [we’re] picking on [them],” Mr. Trammel said.
If you’ve got eight teachers, it’s kind of difficult for a student to say [we’re] picking on [them]. -AP Louie Trammell
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The Rider
October 16, 2009 News | 3
Club Briefs
Legacy’s Infinite Campus V. TCC’s Campus Crusier
National Honor Society The yearly NHS Can Drive approaches again this fall season. NHS members and sponsors want to collect as many cans possible to donate to local Mansfield food banks. “I’m hoping that classes will get really into it and compete, giving us the chance to have a lot to give to the food banks,” NHS sponsor Michelle Hurst said. The drive starts on Oct 26 and teachers accept donations until Nov 5. Contributions are collected through students’ third period class and counted on a can per student basis. The winner will be announced at the pep rally on the 6th and receives a pizza party.
Problems with grading systems hold server to blame BY JOSH PERRY STAFF WRITER
Take Note Brett Walker Graphic
Infinite Campus has been loved and disliked by teachers and students throughout the school. According to Mrs. Patterson, so far this year the system has run smoothly. A fault with Infinite Campus’s server caused the downtime, rather than the system itself. “I personally like Infinite Campus,” Mrs. Patterson said. “Any system will not work as planned. We’re just not getting what we expected.” Problems with Infinite Campus occur with the grade-averaging software. Teachers complain they have to monitor it closely. Another dilemma arises when a student’s schedule changes and Infinite Campus doesn’t allow the grade to move with the student. According to Mrs. Patterson, teachers met the 10 a.m. deadline for grades Monday morning, but Ben Barber grades remained invisible
The homepage of TimeCruiser, which Campus Cruiser is a part of, beside Infinte Campus’s homepage.
on Infinite Campus through the Parent Portal. In addition, Coaches trying to determine a student’s eligibility must visit each teacher to keep up with grades. “Infinite Campus is late on updates and grades
won’t show up on the system fast enough,” senior Chris Rojo said. Campus Cruiser, another grading system, has begun to develop a following. TCC students and teachers use Campus Cruiser over
Infinite Campus because they believe it works with more efficiency. “In Campus Cruiser, everything is broken down. It has my classes and my grades for me to see on the side,” Rojo said.
Get Involved: BY NICK FAILOR STAFF WRITER
Whether getting in touch with foreign cultures, or practicing on a guitar, students can find a wide variety of clubs to choose from. Mondays: Invisible Children club meets after school in Mrs. McGuinness’s room A-Y307. They raise money to help children in African countries so they can live a better life. Tuesdays: Key Club meets after school and in the mornings in Mrs. Burkett’s room A-Y317. They do community service to benefit the city. Rodeo Team meets after school at Cowboy Church. They participate in Rodeo events every weekend. Wednesdays: BASIC meets in the mornings in Mrs. Schimming’s room E-B101. They are a group who learn more about Christ.
The campus website tops the district in schoolsite hits. With 5,121 hits between Aug. 24 and Sep. 24, the website’s hits exceeded Mansfield High’s at 4,218, Summit’s at 4,331 and Timberview’s 4,333. “Legacy’s website has passed them so much, I was surprised,” Mrs. Roberts said. Parents going to the website for info, students looking for scholarships, extracurricular info, or a teacher’s e-mail address put Legacy way ahead of the pack. “This many hits just means students are caring about school, and I bet it will rise,” Mrs. Roberts said.
The What, Where, and When of a few clubs
Foreign Club’s first meeting is Oct. 14 after school in Mrs. Hernandez’s room A-J107. The club was formed to learn more about foreign countries. Thursdays: Bronco Brigade meets after school in Mrs. Lowry’s room A-S219. They try to boost the students’ attitudes in games. Guitar Club meets after school in Mrs. Gross’ room A-V302. They bring guitars and play a variety of genres and teach lessons to newcomers. NHS meets first Thursday of every month in Mrs. Hurst’s room A-U102. They work in charity groups to help needy people. Chess Club meets Fridays after school in Mrs. Kamphaus’ room A-W310. They sometimes have tournaments. Mission Improvable practices impromptu comedy. They have shows about once every month.
Lucy’s Donut Coffee, Donuts, Sausage Rolls, Ham & Cheese 640 West Debbie Lane #120 Mansfield
4 | Sports
October 16, 2009
The Rider
Two From The Top
an elite ranking. Olympic gymnasts such as Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin She stands ready, await- are ranked level elites. She ing the sound of the music. trains for 25 hours a week Her eyes wander through and doesn’t get Fridays or the flashing cameras, over- Saturdays off. McGee also whelmed by the enormity attends AP classes and runs of the crowd’s presence. with cross country, which As she continues to skim makes managing time hard through the crowd, four for her. particular people catch her “Sometimes I questioned, eye, the judges. She takes a why gymnastics? But it deep breath and silences the grew into something I liked, crowd from her mind. She then into something I loved. closes her eyes and says a After I compete in a meet brief prayer, and I do really asking God well, I realize I do all things through Christ. why I love the for strength and courage. I rely on him to let my body sport,” McGee An instant remember all the hours I’ve said. later, the muMcGee origitrained and all the positions I nally started sic plays. She opens her out at aerials need to be in. eyes, assumes gymnastics, but her beginning when her skill stance, and improved, she begins her routine. and her mother realized it Sophomore Chandler was time to move on. At the McGee has been active in recommendation of a friend, gymnastics since she was they went to Hurst Gymnasthree-years-old when her tics. As time passed, McGee’s mom saw she had talent in talent grew and she moved tumbling. She is currently to two more gyms before ranked at a level nine, she settling at Texas Academy falls only two levels below Gymnastics.
-Chandler McGee, 10
Scoreboard Recent Scores Varsity Football Fri, Oct. 9, vs. Everman 0-63 L
Varsity Volleyball Fri, Oct. 9, vs. Everman 3-0 W
Men’s Varsity CC Thur, Oct. 8 Placed 1st overall
Varsity Tennis Fri, Oct. 9, vs. Timberview 18-1 W
Failor Not Failure: by William Davis Sports editor The forward comes to oppose her. It all comes down to this fraction of a moment this split second of adversity. She is oneon-one with her opponent and from this point on. She pulls a defensive maneuver robbing the ball from her foe and quickly getting the ball back to mid field back to her offense. Freshman Ashlyn Failor has been playing competitive soccer since she was six-yearsold for the Mansfield Starlets and has been a stand out at sweeper. “No one ever gets by me. I’m able to predict the other player’s movement and steal the ball from them,” Failor said. Ashlyn’s team went
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Gymnast Chandler McGee, 10, performs a split leap on the balance beam at one of her practices in preparation for upcoming competitions.
performed well enough on other events to qualify. “After the first fall I was like okay I can still pull this out. But after the second I was about to cry. I had to find inner strength to pull myself out and hit all my other events,” McGee said.
McGee continues to improve, which raises the question, are Olympics a possibility in the future? “I know it is a long shot to the Olympics, but I would love to train and become an elite or do college gymnastics,” McGee said.
Freshman Tries To Make Difference By Trying Out For Legacy Soccer
two undefeated seasons, equaling around a total of 40 games. Ashlyn has performed strategically, making sure she was preventing the other team from scoring, playing a role in her team’s victories. “I feel accomplished. We were really dominant defensively. We hardly let any goals go by us,” Failor said. Ashlyn plans to transfer her talents to Legacy by trying out for the soccer team. She had the opportunity to play for a select team, but declined. She’s had a lot of time to prepare and is ready to make an impact on Legacy’s team. “I think they could really use me on defense. I add a lot of skill and leadership,” Failor said. Even if Ashlyn does
I’m able to predict the other player’s movement and steal the ball. -Ashlyn Failor, 9
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“I noticed as we switched gyms the workouts and conditioning were a lot harder,” McGee said, “But I had a lot of talent and my mom knew I could advance.” A new gym brings new training. McGee performs in floor, vault, and bars, with floors being her forte. In floor, McGee must memorize several moves and execute them with precise accuracy, as footwork is a big part in scoring. Chandler has her own way of completing floor routines. “I do all things through Christ. I rely on him to let my body remember all the hours I’ve trained and all the positions I need to be in,” McGee said. McGee has attended several competitions and meets and has been successful, scoring around a high 37 most of the time. However, there are times when she makes a few mistakes. In a meet where she was trying to qualify for regionals, she fell twice on bars. Although it took a heavy toll on her score, she still
William Davis Photo
By William Davis Sports Editor
Ashley Deam Photo
Gymnast Intends To Achieve Final Two Ranks To Become Level Elite
Starlete sweeper Ashlyn Failor, 9, positions herself to kick the ball during practice.
make the team, she still intends to play for the Starlets as well. The team chemistry and great success she had with them kept her from
making her departure and aided her in decision to stay. “They’ve been my team forever. I don’t want to leave them,” Failor said.
Pink Kisses
The Rider
October 16, 2009 Sports | 5
Won’t Back Down
HALEY FARABEE PHOTO
Volleyball Team Not Phased After First District Loss
Varsity Volleyball setter Rebekah Dorsey, 12, dribbles the ball in preparation to serve.
BY JOSH PERRY Staff Writer With a current district standing of 7-1, the varsity volleyball team has experienced a winning season. Although the girls played a hard game, they just couldn’t
catch up with Seguin. Their first and only district loss this season against Seguin took place at home Sep. 29. “Once we got up we didn’t keep up,” senior Natalie Viskozki said. “When we play we go out strong and put them away fast,
but that night we played scared and timid.” The Broncos lost 1-3 to Seguin, while every other district game was won 3-0. According to Coach Chandler, the Broncos went into the game position to position wise the
better team, but also stating nothing can be taken away from Seguin because they are a great team and outstandingly athletic. Playing the Seguin game showed how hard they need to work to win games in district. “Hopefully this will work as a wake up call to get more motivated,” Coach Chandler said while talking about the Seguin game. For the second half of district the volleyball team will work to further develop their killer instincts. Going match by match and game by game, the team is continually improving on the little things. “We just need to take care of the game or match at the time and not focus to far ahead about the future,” Coach Chandler said. “We need to take care of that match first before we can even figure out what will happen next.” When playing Joshua Oct. 2 and Crowley Oct. 6, the Broncos won both games 3-0. The Broncos facedoff against Everman Oct. 9, Timberview Oct. 13, and Grandbury Oct. 16.
Tennis Team Undefeated Through 5 Games, Look To Continue Success By megan henry staff writer
Jasmine McMasters Photo
Tennis team to Regionals
After starting off undefeated, the tennis team plans to continue their dominating success at Regionals. The team is currently district champions after beating Timberview 18-1 on October 9, changing their record to 6-0. If the team manages to pull it out and win regionals, they will have the chance to compete at state and take the title.
Cheerleaders Raising Funds
The cheerleaders are holding a fund raiser at Palio’s Pizza on Tuesday night, October 27 from 5:30 to 7:30. The fund raiser is open to anyone to come. The money obtained goes toward funding Legacy’s cheer program.
More Online Leslie Jackson Makes 1,000th Kill
What’s all the Racket?
Tennis player Dallas Dunn, 12, hoists himself at the ball to prevent a point.
Sports Briefs
Individuals win matches. Broncos win championships. The varsity tennis players worked hard as a team to win matches and become champions. The team’s win against Crowley increased their record to 5-0 in district play, 17-2 this season, and are ranked number 16 in the state. The team won despite the absence of their number two boy, Mike Kojder, junior, who was out sick. “I really wanted to come and now I may not get district honors,” Kojder said. Kojder’s absence caused changes in the boy’s matches. Filip Ciric, freshman, and captain Spencer Basham, senior, played number two boy’s doubles. Basham and Kojder normally played number one doubles together. “I felt pressure because he is number one,” Ciric said.” But I focused on the game and hit the ball the best I could. We
made good teammates.” Blake Brown, junior, and Dallas Dunn, senior, moved up from number two doubles to number one. They had to change their mind set going into the doubles match. “It brought back memories from last year,” Dunn said. “[I focused on] getting my returns in and getting inside their heads.” Brown and Dunn won their doubles match as well as their singles matches. “Blake and I are a good doubles team,” Dunn said. “The matches are fun and we’re never close to losing.” The girls’ side won all their doubles matches and most of their singles matches. Overall the team defeated Crowley 16-3. “We played really well,” Kristin Weems, junior, said. “We went out and got it done.” The team will compete at regionals in late October and hopes to make it far. “We should win one to two rounds,” Kojder said. “If we want to get far in state we have to pull off big matches.”
What Are The Odds?
Sophomore Hits Hole In One at Tangle Ridge Golf Course.
For full stories and videos, visit therideronline.com
Upcoming Games Varsity Football Fri, Oct. 16, 7:00 PM vs. Granbury @ MISD Stadium Varsity Volleyball Fri, Oct. 16, 5:30 PM vs. Granbury @ Legacy Varsity Boys CC Fri, Oct. 16, 8:15 AM @ Mansfield Sports Complex
6 | In-Depth
October 16, 2009
Sexting: Unforseen Consequences
The Rider
by michelle heath featureS editor
TECHNOLOGY AND TEENS
After sending inappropriate photos in a text mess Sarah Smith* (name has been changed) fell asleep clutching her brown teddy bear. With her phone a couple of inches from her head, she never thought any one would find the secret inside. It was just a picture. An innocent photo taken a few minutes after arriving home from her double date. But the next morning proved her actions were less than harmless. On March 28, Sarah went to see The Haunting in Connecticut at the Movie Tavern with her boyfriend, Owen*, (name has been changed) and two of his friends. Over a plate of quesadillas and French fries, the couple sat in the dimly lit movie theater as the horror film flickered on the screen. Taking a sip of her Dr. Pepper, Sarah moved a little closer to her date as the eerie music intensified. He smiled when the scary parts made her jump. The scary parts made her move closer as she tightened her grasp around his hand. After the kiss goodnight the evening would have
ended, but Sarah’s cell phone remained in her hand. They sent flirty texts back and forth. They joked about things they could do, but Sarah’s actions did not stop there. She locked her door and took a picture. A picture her mother would find while Sarah was sleeping. “It was the one time my mom came in my room in the middle of the night,” Sarah said. “I feel stupid for doing it and not deleting it.” Sarah woke up at 6:30 a.m., an unusual hour for a Sunday morning. She drowsily reached for her phone, but she couldn’t find it. Like an extension of her body her phone was always by her side. After ransacking her room, she knew her phone was not there. Sarah slipped into her mother’s room unnoticed, looking for some sign of what had happened.
Then she saw it. Her mother’s phone unattended. She searched through the text and found a message sent to her father, “I think we’ve got a problem.” Sarah hid in her room for hours, afraid of the consequences living outside her wall. She never thought a picture, only meant for her boyfriend’s eyes, would come into her parent’s possession. Her parents came in her room and told her what they had found. Her father took a more laid back approach to the issue. As a regular Radio Talk listener he was aware of sexting and its’ affect on teens. Though Mrs. Smith remained angry for what would become months, she agreed they must confront Owen and his parents. Sarah sat in the living room of her boyfriend’s home. It was the first time
“It can really change your life if it gets in the wrong hands.” -Sarah Smith*
she had met his mother and Sarah couldn’t stop crying. Owen stayed asleep in bed, unaware his girlfriend was even in his house. Over Sarah’s sobs and his wife’s anger, Mr. Smith tried to lighten the mood. “It appears we have a little problem,” he said. “I couldn’t laugh because I was in such a bad mood,” Sarah said. “I was so distraught.” When Sarah didn’t answer his texts, Owen started texting Mrs. Smith asking what was going on and if Sarah was okay. Sarah suspects Owen warned his parents before the meeting because of their reaction. “His parents were shocked,” Sarah said, “but they kind of had a ‘boys-willbe- boys’ mentality.” After confronting Owen’s parents, Mr. Smith needed to figure out the legal matters involved. The family took a trip to the Mansfield Police Department where they met Officer Polley. Sarah sat down in a chair across from the police offi-
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Michelle heath photo
The Rider
October 16, 2009 In-Depth | 7
sage, students learn repercussions
cer. A six inch thick law book ay between them. “Why did you do it?” Oficer Polley asked. “I don’t know,” Sarah said. “You’re parents trusted you enough to give you a phone,” he said, “and you disrespected that.” As a family man, Officer Polley told her his personal perspective on the matter and how he would feel if his daughters were to participate in such an act. During their visit, the amily found out what would happen if Owen distributed he picture. Sarah’s parents were worried their daugher’s reputation could be runed by a senseless act. “I think sexting shouldn’t be done,” Sarah said. “It really can change your life if it gets into the wrong hands.” If a minor decides to take a picture of themselves in an inappropriate manner hey could be charged with possession and production of child pornography. If they send the photo the charges hen include distribution of
child pornography and they person who receives the photo could then be charged with possession. After Owen woke up and talked to his parents, he sent Sarah’s mother a seven page text message apology. Despite his efforts, the couple was forced to break up and Sarah was grounded for the rest of the school year. “It was always more my idea to do stuff than him,” Sarah said. “I wasn’t worried about getting in trouble that much.” After hearing about the growing popularity of sexting Teen Leadership teacher, Dena Schimming, decided to show her class a clip from Law and Order and required them to read an article. “It’s horrible that someone could be labeled a distributor of child pornography for the rest of their life,” graduate and former Teen II student Chandler Cliburn said. “I think if people want to do it, it’s their body.” Though a picture conceals itself in a phone, sexting has
become an issue at Legacy. If a teacher or administrator finds an inappropriate picture at school they will turn the phone or camera over to the police and they will proceed with an investigation. “It is extremely inappropriate to send pictures of yourself in that type of manner,” Principal David Wright said. “Students become bolder through texting.” Though Sarah did not become a registered sex offender, the consequences changed her mind about sexting. “I would be lying if I said I regret actually doing it,” Sarah said. “I mean, I shouldn’t have done it. But I don’t believe in regretting anything. It was a learning experience, and I will definitely never do it again.” Learn more about sexting at therider-online.com. Read Michelle’s blog on her experience writing the story and what she thinks about abusing cell phones and social media outlets. *names have been changed
“I think it is awesome that I can push a button and call someone 7,000 miles away.” Favorite Gadget: Compaq Laptop
Michael Baker, 12
“I like to use my cell phone to interact with people. Using it is a much easier way to get in touch with people instead of riding a tricycle over there, you can just call them up.” Favorite Gadget: iPhone
“It [technology] enables me to play World of Warcraft. W.O.W. makes me feel powerful along with the leveling up. ” Favorite Gadget: iPod Touch
by: russel kirby Assistant Editor From name-calling to arson, the Legacy Student Handbook outlines nearly every situation pertaining to student behavior. Even the realms of social media fall under the school’s jurisdiction and a student’s misconduct off campus isn’t necessarily protected from an administrators’ judgment. Although a clear set of rules have not yet been established for social media, policy-makers are well aware of its direct effects on campus as a result of its sheer accessibility. According to administrators, students can get reprimanded at school for something they post online at home. “We’re really on the forefront of this,” Assistant Principal Kim Murphree said. “This isn’t something that we had to worry about five years ago.” Restricting student use of online networking and multimedia presents itself as a fairly new problem. Individual clubs and organizations, however, hold their own constitutions that may already name limits on internet behavior. Cheerleaders, for example, cannot display any pictures of themselves in uniform on non-Legacy sponsored websites. “I think it’s important, first of all, to protect cheerleaders and other organizations from predators,” said Cheer Coach Cassidy Fears. “Secondly, the media seems to portray cheer negatively and it keeps them from being shown in that kind of light.” Depending on the level of offense and whether or not there are violations of penal code, assistant principals’ jobs as administrators include determining what consequence is valid for a situation. They must make the decision on whether or not it is causing a disruption on campus, or more specifically “a disruption to the educational environment”. “I think this is acceptable when it has to do with the safety of the others,” Mrs. Murphree said. “Our primary goal is to make sure everyone is safe and we need some authority.” At which point an offense becomes level III (see handbook page 53), it does not matter where the crime occurred. Such offenses are, at minimum, subject to 30 days in BIC. Even if school officials get wind of something online that’s not as serious, it could still be taken into account for future reference. “I think it’s good for the police, even if they don’t issue a citation, to be aware of the issue in case it escalates further later on.” Mrs. Murphree said. Despite the widespread use of social networking, there have been minimal cases at Legacy where it’s caused a problem. “We’re into this new digital age and I think rules haven’t caught up with the technology,” Mrs. Murphree said.
“Our primary goal is to make sure everyone is safe and we need some authority.” - Mrs. Murphree
How do you use technology in your life?
Hunter Shipley, 9
Where’s The Line?
Sierra Sutton, 11
WHAT THE LAW SAYS .07 3 3 e d o C Penal states that “Internet Impersonation” is a 3rd degree felony. A crime is committed when a person uses Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, or any similar program with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate or threaten any person.
1.15 2 e d o C l a Pen states that “Improper Photography
or Visual Recording” is a state jail felony. A crime is committed when a person transmits a visual image or video recording of another without the other person’s consent or with the intent to gratify the sexual desire of any person.
.07
42 Penal Code
states that “Harrasment” is a Class B misdemeanor. A crime is committed if a person initiates communication by telephone, in writing, or by electronic communication and makes a comment or suggestion that is obscene with the intent to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment, or embarrass another.
8 | Entertainment
October 16, 2009
“Fame” Attempts to Ressurect Franchise
Nick’s Niche
He’s strange. He’s awkward. And he’s funny. So we gave him a
I, Geek. “Hey fat boy! Look over here!” A gruff, loud voice from the row behind me shouts. All of the seniors were bunched together in the JV gym for our panoramaic picture. Class of 2010, look how far we’ve come… I know immediately that he’s talking to me. It’s a spider sense all geeks are equipped with. We know when a muscular jerk calls us fat or pathetic or a loser. We could be in a room full of nerds, but if it’s you they’re yelling at, you immediately know it deep in your gut, beneath the fat. It had been awhile since I had been bullied. In fact, I had to go all the way back to Worley Middle School. Those were dark days. It was then I learned I was goofy-looking and unattractive. I always knew I was overweight, but it wasn’t until Worley that I knew it was one of the worst things you can be. High school has been different; I had found theater and newspaper. Departments made of people that were like me. People who liked me, who enjoyed having me around. Suddenly, being able to quote Star Wars or talk in funny voices was a good thing. I became pampered. I became complacent. I had forgotten what it was like to get called names and picked on by strangers. “Hey, what’s with the poofy hair man? That don’t look good.” It’s another voice; this one takes the extra step of grabbing at my hair. I don’t look at them. I was astounded. Am I being bullied? Are they making fun of me? I had worn my geekiness with pride for so long that I had forgotten why I ever hid it. This is why. At that moment, being chubby and weird looking wasn’t endearing, or charming; it was a liability. I was back at Worley. I was truly a geek again. Only this time, I wasn’t hurt. Back at Worley, someone calling me fat would’ve made me cry on impact. “Hey, nice man boobs.” Boom, tears. But now, I was more puzzled and annoyed than hurt. Is stating facts really an insult? Yes, I’m fat. Yes, I have poofy hair. I’m wearing jeans too slick; you want to mention that as well? Now, being bullied by these jocks (Oh, they were jocks, trust me. Spider sense.) just made me kind of angry. I wondered why this was. I wondered why it didn’t sting as much as it used to. The answer came after the panoramaic picture was taken. I went back to the gym floor and was greeted by my friends. Funny, charming, awesome people. They greeted me with kind words, smiles and laughter. They liked me. They like the human I am, man boobs and all. And I found this ridiculously reassuring. The bullies before were insulting me because I’m fat and have funny hair. But my friends like me because of everything that mattered. This was something I didn’t know back at Worley. It was a lesson that I had to learn. I had grown up. Now, I can graduate. Now, I can leave.
By Chase TremainE Staff Writer Apparently, the original Fame was a groundbreaking music movie in the same ranks as Footloose, Saturday Night Fever, and Dirty Dancing. I honestly wouldn’t know because I haven’t seen the original. So I may be an uninformed viewer of 2009’s Fame, a remake by a first-time director, but either way the new Fame is a decent film with plenty of glamorous musical productions, adequate acting and dazzling cinematography. It would be easy to compare this film to High School Musical 3, but the two teen muiscal films are surprisingly incomparable. Whereas HSM3 concerns students in a regular high school randomly breaking out into Disney-style musical numbers, Fame centers on students of a performing arts high school enduring all four years of rejection, hardship, trial and music. Fame only contains a few musical numbers, which all flow through the natural feel of the setting, in a school where everyone is musically inclined and endlessly yearning for moments to perform. Nearly all of these students give fine performances, but none of them are quite notable when compared to the adult leads such as Kelsey Grammar.
The main problem of the film is most of the characters and story lines are stock, meaning they are clichéd ideas any screenwriter can pull out of their sleeve for common use. Troubled teens with unsupportive parents try to achieve fame through hard work and sweat, while other characters succeed throughout their four years effortlessly. The character named Denise Dupree, played by Naturi Naughton, sums up these weaknesses. Even though she is one of the movie’s focuses, she is a bland caricature of a classical pianist who starts becoming a hip-hop singer behind her parent’s back. This movie works mainly for an audience of musicians. Musicians will see the beauty in the musical numbers, be amazed by how the camera-work captures the performances, and understand the passion that fuels all of the characters. Musicians will also pick up on many funny subliminal jokes and enjoy picking apart the pieces of the musical numbers when they’re shining and derivative. Personally, I enjoyed this movie to a surprisingly high degree because I was with a group of musicians and friends, making jokes throughout the film and making memories that were unfortunately more potent than the film itself.
(Writer’s note; I won’t name the guys that were making fun of me, but I will say that if you have a senior panoramaic picture, look for my poofy hair. and then look at the row above me, and you will see them.)
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Quick Stats The first Fame hit theatres in 1980. Here are other events that took place that year. The Empire Strikes Back was top grossing movie of the year. The United States Olympic Hockey Team defeats the Soviet Union in the Winter Olympics; known as the Miracle on Ice.
Pac-Man is released in arcades across America. John Lennon is shot and killed in New York City.
Entertainment | 9 October 16, 2009
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photo courtsey of amazon.co.uk
Great Movies For Halloween Season
Karen O and the Kids Make Loose Sounds By Chase Tremaine Staff Writer If you aren’t wildly excited about the Spike Jonze’s upcoming film adaptation of the famous children’s book Where the Wild Things Are, then you must have never seen the movie trailer. Many people suspect the same magic from the film’s soundtrack, is made up of music from Karen O, lead singer of indie band Yeah Yeah Yeahs. One of the things that made the film trailers so magical was its music, a re-recorded version of Arcade Fire’s “Wake Up,” so it’s a little disappointing that this song doesn’t appear on the album. What does appear are fourteen tracks that meld acoustic indie pop with frenzies of instrumental score. Some of the more exciting tracks, like “Rumpus” and “Animal,” present intriguing journeys of an array of instruments, soundbites from the
movie, and Karen’s oddball vocals. These songs have enjoyable musical merit, especially for Yeah Yeah Yeahs fans, even without any attachment to the film. “Building All is Love,” a reprise of the album’s first single “All is Love,” ends with a simple electric guitar solo playing over one acoustic guitar, and the result is one of the simplest yet earcatching points of the record. Another curve ball is “Hideaway,” possibly the album’s best song because it manages to be a perfect indie pop song mixed in between scores that manages to fit perfectly and also be quite likeable. The album definitely has moments that are less than spectacular and enough strangeness to scare off the kids and kids-at-heart who adore the book, but Karen O’s soundtrack still has music capable of creating a movie experience as magical as I can hope for.
Drag Me to Hell star Alison Lohman meets her new college room mate.
BY nick jiminez entertainment editor Halloween is a fun holiday. You get to dress your house up all spooky; find, or make an awesome costume; and best of all, you don’t have the pressure of a big feast to plan or gifts to buy. One of the most fun things to do around Halloween is gather a bunch of your friends together and watch scary movies. But what to watch? Sure, you could just to go to a Blockbuster and pick up whatever dumb, generic remake that’s just hit DVD, but that’s no fun. Here are some Halloweenfriendly movies that are scary, inventive and a perfect way to spend your Oc-
tober Spooktacular. Drag Me to Hell- This movie bombed at the box office last summer when it was in theatres, which is too bad, because it’s one of the best made horror movies of the decade. Evil Dead mastermind Sam Raimi outdid himself with this funny, over-the-top, and expertly crafted scareshow about a young bank employee who must outrun a gypsy curse. Drag Me to Hell is more fun than most haunted houses in Texas, and it’s a lot cheaper too. Trick ‘r Treat- Released in a handful of film festivals in 2007 and 2008, this movie won a lot of buzz from film geeks and horror movie fans before finally hitting DVD earlier this month. The movie is
an anthology, four scary stories strung together in the same style of Tales of the Crypt, so it’s almost like you’re getting four movies for the price of one. Trick ‘r Treat is like a bloodier, better Goosebumps, a perfect rental. Paranormal Activity- The only movie on this list that’s in theatres, this low-budget horror movie about a couple who suspect their home is housing ghoulish spirits has quickly become the mustsee movie of the Fall thanks to a clever internet marketing campaign and good oldfashioned word of mouth that’s hyping the movie up as utterly terrifying. For more Halloween fun, check out therideronline. com all month long.
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10 | Our Views Our Opinion
October 16, 2009
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User’s Ignorance Enables Internet Predators, Abuse
Illustration by Jasmine McMasters
It’s always in the headlines. ‘MySpace predator abducts middle school girl,’ or ‘Students harassed through Facebook messaging.’ People carelessly use social networking sites without considering the possible consequences. Most trouble people get into through Myspace, Facebook, or other similar
websites is easily avoidable by using caution when uploading personal information and selecting the appropriate security options. It should be common sense to not put your full name, address, age, phone number, IM account, favorite places to hang out, list of friends, list of family, workplace and schedule all in a
single public place anyone can see. It’s just asking to get robbed or stalked. Users need to use privacy settings so their information will only be visible to friends and family. Or just don’t put so much personal information online. Giving fake information can also compromise user’s security. Myspace automati-
Fees Drain School Spirit, Student’s Wallets By Will Ritchie Online Editor Hypothetical senior arrives at Legacy. We’ll call him George. He keeps his grades up, and joins NHS. He buys his lunch from the cafeteria and stops at the StuCo store to get a senior shirt. One day he forgets his ID, then gets caught sending a text in class. Total cost for George’s week: $48.25. While nothing is free in life, the constant fees and costs students pay drain both the student’s and the parent’s wallets. It makes sense to have students pay for the return of cell phones when the rule states such devices are not allowed on campus, but $15 is too high. When shirts cost $10, but a student has to
pay essentially for one and a half shirts to get their phone back, the likelihood of them wanting to show off their Bronco spirit becomes slim. A more appropriate price for the cell phone is $5. Sure $15 ensures they will not break the rule again, but the lower cost could raise the sale of PTSA’s cookies, school shirts and cafeteria lunches as the students have more cash. Prices should stay constant and advertised correctly. Posters around the school show the cost of a new ID for five dollars, but this is incorrect. At the beginning of the year IDs with a lanyard were only five dollars, but starting in the middle of the second week of school however the price changed to six. Yet the signs still read
Editor-in-Chief Gregory Uribe
cally locks accounts of people under the age of 15 into private mode, but some users lie about their age for whatever reason. Young girls in particular put themselves at risk when lying about their age, as they are an Internet stalker’s main target. Following security guidelines and using common sense of not talking to strangers can prevent them from ever becoming a threat. Victims of bullying or harassment usually only need to block their attacker’s accounts or ignore their messages. Replying to these messages only encourages their sender to attack more intensely, and rarely solves anything. Anyone registered to a social networking site can prevent most Internet safety issues by carefully considering what they post online, and abiding by security guidelines. Predators and bullies look for easy targets, and someone who freely gives out their personal information couldn’t be any easier.
Added Fees Make Purchase Of Spirit Wear Unlikely
the former price. To avoid any confusion or students putting any fines on their accounts, these signs must be corrected or the fee lowered. The administration or the district may say all these fees are necessary to support programs; the money collected from cell phones goes toward crime prevention services, the ID money for the machines which make them, but hiking prices or maintaining high ones should not be a means to this end. In this struggling economy anyone needs money any way they can get it, but if the district’s money comes from the mis-
fortunes of students this collection is unjustifiable. Not all fees are ‘wrong’, maybe not even the price of said fee, but the excessive ways the fees are applied to the student body prevents outside business spending by these students. If the school wants to be fair to students, and potentially increase various shirt or other spirit wear sales, two things must happen. First the district must re-evaluate the different ways they collect money from students, and second there needs to be a district-wide change on high charges such as cell phone fees.
If the district’s money comes from the misfortunes of students, this collection is unjustifiable.
Managing Editor Aaron Sakowski News Editor Brett Walker Features Editor Michelle Heath Entertainment Editor Nicholas Jimenez Sports Editor William Davis Visual Editor Jasmine McMasters Business Manager Heather Bailey Online Editor Will Ritchie Staff Writers/Photographers Holly Baselice Ashley Canterbury Ian Cook Ashley Deam Julianna DiNapoli Nadley Doerge Nick Failor Alex Gustafson Olivia Hebert Megan Henry Russell Kirby Marquis Martin Jamila Obied Allex Ohler Caroline Paleschic Josh Perry Clarke Rahrig Marcus Robinson Arial Robertson Allyson Sekerke Aaron St. John Chase Tremaine Rosanne Trinh Adviser Leland Mallett Principal David Wright
The Rider is a student publication of the Legacy Student Media Department and is free to all students. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the administration of the Mansfield Independent School District. The Rider is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference (ILPC) and governed by all UIL guidelines. The Rider is also a member of TAJE, NSPA, CSPA and Quill & Scroll. Any complaints, comments or letters to the editor may be submitted to the below address. Ads are sold for $20 per column inch. For advertising information, see our web page: www. legacyjournalism.org The Rider is printed by the production staff of the Greater Dallas Press in Garland, Texas.
Fact or Fiction
FICTION: Senior pranks not allowed; not even minor ones. Harsh punishment awaits any attempt at a senior prank.
FACT: Mission Improvable surpassed its goal of raising $2,000 at the Crunk Comedy for a Cure show for Pink Fest.
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Nay! Mondays: Going to bed late Sunday night. Waking up groggy the next morning. Trudging through the daily grind only to get home and realize there’s a whole week ahead before another weekend makes Monday the worst day of the week.
Yay! Tennis: The varsity Tennis team continues its domination of district competition, having only taken two losses in 20 games. Only The semi-finals tonight stand in their way to the district finals, and possible regional victories.
Nay! Moving Water Fountain Spigots: Getting sprayed with water when going for a drink at the water fountain always gets on our nerves. Culprits often include people filling up water jugs for after school practice. Remember to turn the spigot back.
Yay! Dressing up on Spirit Days: Whether it’s a nerd, a cowboy (or girl), a time-traveler from a past decade or a superhero, they all show spirit. Anyone who’s willing to dress up like this deserves a 38 word applaud in the school newspaper.
Yay! 100 years of MISD: About eight complete cycles of K-12 school later, MISD continues its tradition of excellence into the 2009-10 school year. Keep it up for 210910. Hover buses anyone?
see who else we yay & nay @ therideronline.com
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October 16, 2009 Our Views | 11
AGAIN By Aaron Sakowski Managing Editor YouTube has been inaccessible to students and teachers on every computer on campus since late last year. The benefits of YouTube in the classroom outweigh the potential misuse of the website, and the banning should either be lifted completely, or more selectively filtered to allow useful videos in the classroom. Teachers could previ-
ously use YouTube to show educational videos, recorded college lectures and videos that could help better explain concepts in lessons. Now they must apply for a website pass 48 hours before they can access the videos they need. Far too long when the video they need often gets suggested by students during the lesson. When teachers have different classes each day, and sometimes different classes from hour to hour, planning out the exact video they need two days in
advance presents a lesson planning nightmare. Federal law requires all school districts to put filtering systems in place for eligibility for federal funds. Current filtering programs do not allow for selective blocking of inappropriate videos, so the entire website must be blocked if such videos get accessed by a campus computer. While the technology department has almost finished upgrading their filtering program, Lightspeed, for increased control for teachers, the
policy of collective punishment for the faults of a few should be discontinued. Supporters of the block believe students misuse the site and look up inappropriate content, distracting them from class. Almost every classroom only has a single computer; the teacher’s. Only technology classes and journalism have enough computers for YouTube distraction to be a threat, and the technology classes use NetSupport in every classroom. And for fear of getting our eyes scratched out,
Giving the Cold Shoulder
Classrooms Remain Frigid Despite Complaints
Jackie Kuenstler Photo
By Russell Kirby Assistant Editor
Crunk Comedy for a Cure: Mission SNAP THOUGHTS Improvable hosted a Pink Fest show on Oct. 6, where all the proceeds went to benefit
breast cancer research. After meeting their goal of $1,000 the previous year, a new goal set at $2,000 was made for this year. Not only did the troupe members meet this goal, but they surpassed it as well. We applaud the efforts of Legacy’s theater department to help assist in the fight against breast cancer, although we suggest that some of money be put in a “sturdier jeans” fund for Trevor Callerman, in case his pants rip on stage again.
If the Shirt Fits By AARON SAKOWSKI Managing editor
Two recent administrative decisions have caught my attention. While closely related, they each have their own distinct problem. Administrators recently approved the ‘Fit Happens’ club, which benefits students looking for a healthier lifestyle. The problem, however, lies in the name. They banned alternative senior shirts with the words ‘We’re Bucking Crazy’ written on the back. Ad-
journalism students definitely don’t put themselves at risk of getting caught not working. The benefits of using YouTube as an educational tool should not be ruined by a few students who found a way to abuse it. After the Lightspeed security program receives its update, the technology department and teachers should show more leniency in their filtering policy, so online video can reach its full potential as an instructional supplement.
haps because it is noisy, too hot or too cold, the furniture Since the first days of is uncomfortable or the peoschool, Legacy’s climate has ple around us are stressing been nothing short of un- out.” This description fits comfortable. From the typical classroom room to room, stuenvironment precisedents and teachers ly. Keeping the temhave come to expect perature down conharsh conditions tributes to these focus ranging from chilly issues, only lessening to arctic, and have Russell a student’s chance Kirby, 11 coped with them by for success in school. dressing as if it were When condiwinter. These classroom tions became unbearable, settings are unacceptable. some teachers attempted According to an article to take matters into their from Cambridge Univer- own hands, covering their sity, “It is much more dif- room’s temperature monitor ficult to concentrate if our device with ice packs. Dessurroundings keep intrud- perate instructors hoped the ing on our awareness, per- system would start provid-
ing warmer air. Adversely, the system would shut off, leaving the room with a stagnant, bacteria-ridden atmosphere. Teachers emphasize they have no control over the thermostats and are unable to contact anyone who can change them. Keeping the temperature so low during summertime months is a costly practice. If saving money and energy is a side effect to turning up the heat a little, there is no excuse for not doing it. The maintenance department needs to accommodate both students and educators and help create the best learning environment possible by raising the temperature.
Inconsistent Rule Enforcement, Sub-Par Voting System
ministrators should not pick and choose where the rule applies. They must choose; either the derogatory puns are allowed, or they’re not. Supporting the name ‘Fit Happens,’ while banning the shirt shows inconsistency with a rule. People who don’t know the source of the pun will not know why the problem with the shirt exists, and those who do know obviously use the pun and would not find it offensive. Legacy administrators have prided themselves on stringent rule enforcement
in the past, but in this case they have lost their focus. The alternative shirt versus official shirts debate carries a separate controversy of its own. The current senior shirts, with ‘2 Legit to Quit’ on the front, have received mixed reactions, and rightfully so. It has nothing to do with Legacy. It was voted upon by a small group of people. The alternative shirts at least relate to Legacy. If anything, the alternative shirts and the school spirit shown by their creators should be sup-
ported by administrators. As one who submitted a shirt design, attended the senior meeting and voted on the shirt, I can see the voting process was ineffective. It should have been open to all seniors during second block, not just the select group who had time for the meeting. Administrators should support both the official shirt and the alternative. Legacy
students show the most school spirit in the district, and the alternative shirts only prove it.
12 | The Back Page
October 16, 2009
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(Left) Brighton Beach Memoirs cast participate in warm up before rehearsal.
(Above) Sophie Smith, 12, Sarah Gaines, 9, Konnar Hunter 12, Hunter Canedy 12, and Nick Jimenez, 12 receive stage directions from Ms. McIntyre. (Right) Kat Evlrom, 12 goes over lines with Sarah Gaines,9 during rehearsal.
A Day At The Beach BY RUSSELL KIRBY Assistant Editor Madi Ward was shaking. With each deep breath she tried to calm down. “Oh God,” she whispered. “I think I’m next.” She gripped her audition
(Above) Konnar Hunter, 12 writes blocking notes in her scripts for future performances.
Actors audition, rehearse for upcoming play Brighton Beach Memoirs
form tighter. “Sarah Gaines!” Ms. McIntyre called. Madi let out a sigh of relief. It wasn’t her turn. An air of anticipation filled the performing arts center. All of the initial frenzy was over but the
JASMINE MCMASTERS PHOTO JASMINE MCMASTERS PHOTO
JASMINE MCMASTERS PHOTO
JASMINE MCMASTERS PHOTO
JASMINE MCMASTERS PHOTO
(Below) Director Melanie McIntyre gives critiques and advice for improving the performance.
performers could still feel its effects. “I get nervous every time,” Olivia Hebert spoke softly to the girl on her left, “It’s awful but it’s also fun.” She mused through her monologue, A Visit to the Archive, once more.
Carson Rahrig took her place in the spotlight, performing a speech about romance. When it was done she stepped down proudly. A moment of applause would follow the actor off the stage. Each time the fellow auditionees spoke
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read the full story at therideronline.com nothing but positive words. “You did awesome!” When all twenty-eight actors had finished, the pressure was released. Each left the auditorium anticipating the announcement of callbacks the following morning.
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