Granger high school
Tri-Color Times
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An open forum for student opinion and expression.
Want to fight? You’d better think twice. Granger High School students will now be fined $50 for participating in a fight
By Kenadee Hatch STUDENTS considering handling their conflicts by fighting are going to have to think twice. As of now, there is a $50 fine for any student caught fighting here at Granger High School. “The purpose of this is to have a strategy for students not to be involved in fights,” said Principal Haslam. “It’s an opportunity to consider the other options, like talking the issue out or going to an adult, instead of resorting to violence.” You might be asking yourself, what exactly does this mean? In the most basic definition, any person involved in mutual combat or assault will face these consequences: suspension, law enforcement referral, and a $50 fine to be paid as soon as possible. “I think it’s good to break up
fights,” said Tevita Sekeni (11). “Fifty dollars is a lot of money, kids are going to get scared.” “When people fight,” said Principal Haslam, “there’s always the chance of serious injury and we don’t want that.” It was our very own principal who came up with this idea. After asking himself what he was doing to prevent fights, he came up with this rule. Those at the district agreed and did what it took to put this plan into action. Granger is the first school that’s using this fine. We’re the pilot school, the test of sorts. If we get fewer fights, then there’s the chance that every school in our district next year will use this same fine. One thing’s for sure, this is one rule that’s going straight to Granger’s student handbook.
Now we’re faced with the issue of “What if I don’t have the money?” There is only one alternative if you can’t pay the $50. Students will be able to work off the fine in school service at a rate of $5 per hour. That’s a solid ten hours of work. “I don’t know too many kids who will be willing to pay $50 to throw a couple punches,” said Andrea Cahoon (10). “It’s just not worth it.” The next question to come up may be “What if I’m jumped?” Any student who is attacked will not be charged the fine. This is something that will be decided by our school detective, Officer Randall. All students need to be aware of this new rule, because there won’t be any exceptions. We’re getting the word out so that it’s well un-
derstood. “I’m not looking to make money,” said Principal Haslam. “I hope I don’t have to collect $1 of this fine from any of our students.” We’re fined when our library books are late so we’re not tempt-
ed to steal them. We’re fined when we’re late to class so we can push ourselves to work a harder to be on time. This fine is only going to help the atmosphere at Granger so that every student can feel a little safer. We’re working together to the goal of a better school.
With the new fine in mind, Jessikah Maycock (11) shows how to walk away from conflict with Taylor Pili (11).
Welcome to the cloud
Ms. Woodward received recognition for her outstanding teaching during the 2011 legislative session. Utah Capitol photo courtesy of MangoMan88 at Wikipedia.
Woodward honored by the state
By Mario Gomez AFTER 36 years of teaching, Ms. Woodward finally received the recognition she deserved. On February 18, of this year, Woodward was honored in both the House and the Senate. Representative Steve Eliason, Granger class of 1989, was elected to the State House of Representatives and noticed that 6 other members of the House had also attended Granger High. He decided to pay a tribute to his most influential high school teacher. One of the legislators was Senate Daniel Thatcher, who also attended Granger, took part in this event.
Representative Eliason was the only one of the 6 who she taught, but she had taught one of their children a couple of years before. Ms. Woodward was invited by e-mail. It was a surprise, and she didn’t know what to expect. “I felt like a mouse. I was so nervous in this big room filled with politicians. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen,” Woodward said. The legislators compared Ms. Woodward’s desire to teach to a couple of examples from feature films. Films like Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995), a film about a composer who takes on a teaching job, trying to make his impact on
the world. Her strong desire to teach was also compared to Stand and Deliver (1988). In her honor, Ms. Woodward received a State House of Representatives paper weight, a pin, a senate bookmark given to those who give great service to the state, and a standing ovation from the entire house to show how much they appreciated her work. “Although Granger has a bad reputation, everyone needs to see that Granger kids have great potential to make something of themselves, and these 6 politicians make for great proof,” Woodward said. “Everyone should
see this because more Utah state representative and senators have graduated from Granger than any other school.” Nora Abu-Dahn (12) would like to be a lawyer after she graduates. She said she’d rather be a part of the cause, than just sit there and whine about things. She said Ms. Woodward is very strong and determined, and it shows in her teachings. “She inspires me to make a difference in my life,” Abu-Dahn said. “She’s very intricate with her work, she’s strict but it’s because she wants things done a certain way, she knows what’s best from teaching so long.”
By Brandon Shatzel WHAT IS cloud computing? Cloud computing is accessing files from a remote location. An example of cloud computing is Google Docs. Google Docs allows you to write documents, make power points, and spreadsheets. In fact this article was written in Google Docs. All you need to get started with Google Docs is a g-mail account. If you don’t have one yet, don’t worry you can sign up for free. Just go to www.gmail.com to create your e-mail address, and once you have your account you can go to www.docs.google.com. Once there, you will need to log in if you are not already logged in, and then you can start creating new documents. To start a new document, click on the create new box. There will be a drop down menu that lists the following options: document, presentation, and spreadsheet. Having a document on Google will allow you to save your work on Google’s server, and it will allow you to edit your paper later. To edit the document, you do the same as you would in Microsoft Word. The cool part about Google Docs is that it has an auto save option that by default should be enabled. If not all you need to do is click the ‘save now’ button. Presentation is similar to document just with slides, and spreadsheet is just like Microsoft Excel. If you need to have several people working on a document, slide show, or spreadsheet you can do that too by giving the other users permission to edit the document. You can also download the document and edit it on your computer. With Google Docs you can edit and save a document anywhere.
March 2011, page 2
VOL. LIII Issue 5
Owned by your cell phone
Many students don’t want to admit that their cell phones controls them!
Andre Muhumuzi spends his time going around to classes to help refuge students, like Dominik Philip (10).
Speaking in tongues
By Karla Herrera BZZZZZZ, check your phone. Everyone is doing it! Cell phones have taken over many people’s lives at Granger. They hear a bzzz and right away they have the urge to check it. “It’s like a mystery box,” Andrew Garcia (11) said. Just like everyone else, when you get a text you have the urge to see who just texted you. Yet not everyone who texts gets a text back. Garcia said that some people might text him, but he might not want to text back. “It depends on the person, and if
they’re pretty or ugly, if I want to text them back,” Garcia said. “You never know when it’s an emergency,” Kevin Guzman (11) said. Many people use this excuse to check their phones. Most teens at Granger will say that they don’t believe that their mobile has them on a leash, but they even checked their phones during these interviews. “I disagree that my phone has a leash on me,” Guzman said, “I can stop checking my phone whenever I want.” “Ill stop doing whatever I’m doing to text back, even when I’m
Teacher aide who can speak 6 languages!
By Vanessa Chacon ANDRE Muhumuzi is an aide who helps with refuge students. He can speak up to 6 different languages such as French, Swahili, Lingual, Kirundi, Ugandan, and of course English. He has been working at Granger High for two months, but came to the U.S in 2002 from African Congo, where he used to be a teacher for young students. Muhumuzi enjoys his job and plans on staying here for as long as he can. “I like it a lot and there is always so much to learn,” said Muhumuzi. You can find him anywhere walking up and down the halls helping students, but he does have an office in room 205 that he shares with Jilles, Henri Michal, Jeni Togiai, Traci, Roceio Cuenca. His job is to help refuge students succeed. “I like to help people succeed when they have the opportunity,” Muhimuzi said. Muhimuzi does well to our
school and helps discipline kids who need it. He also is in ESL classes helping these students understand and succeed in the U.S. “He’s very helpful to our refuge students,” Ms. Okelberry said. “It’s nice to have Andre here because he can communicate very well with the refuge parents and it makes them feel comfortable and welcome.” He studied in Africa where he learned Swahili, lingual, and Uganda. He continued to study here in Utah and learned French. “He does a great job and it’s good to have him here,” Officer Randal said. One of the students he works with is Emmanuel Irafasha (11). “He helps me understand everything and anything I need help on and he’s very helpful to my parents too,” Irafasha said. Andre is an inspiring speaker and tries he’s best to see a difference in these kids. He enjoys it just like the students and parents he helps do.
Kids work at the mall
By Paul Garcia THIS PAST year Valley Fair mall has gone under remodeling for multiple reasons. One reason is simply to make it look nicer. A fountain was added outside of the main entrance, they also added a more lights, music, and even had a giant Christmas tree during the holidays. With remodeling came room for more stores to open, stores like Edge, Footaction, Ross and also Famous Footwear. This gives a great opportunity for people looking for a job to get hired. Granger students have taken a great advantage from this. For many, Valley Fair Mall is a great place to work in because it is not very far from home, and they have a wide variety of stores so whether you like to work with clothing, shoes, electronics, and maybe even foods, there is something for you. “I like working at Valley Fair Mall since I see a lot of my friends, and most of the other employees at the mall are very nice and friendly,” Roman Cuenca (12) said. Many students go and hang out to see their friends at Valley Fair. Therefore, that’s one of the biggest reasons why so many stu-
dents choose to work at the mall. “I love seeing old friends that I haven’t talked to in a while, once they know where you work they come back and visit,” Cuenca said. He also likes his new job, because he likes to have time to hang out with his family and friends, plus he likes to plan out his weekends. The mall closes at 9 p.m. from Monday-Saturday, and at 6 p.m. on Sundays. This gives the students a little bit of free time so they could catch up on any homework or if they just want to go out and have fun. “I don’t like how people label Valley Fair as being ghetto; I think everyone that tries to act hard is a want to be gangster. I think someone should stand up to them because it is their fault that Valley Fair has a bad reputation,” Yvonne Huynh (12) said. One thing Huynh does not like about working at the mall is that it is too small, so it is hard for her to get sales working in retail. Overall the mall is not that big, but students feel like there is more of a variety of stores and the environment is hospitable. Even if you do not shop there, it is a great place to hang out with your family and friends.
Andrew Garcia’s (11) cell phone has him on a leash.
driving,” Maria Lopez (12) said. Many students do the same. One of the biggest problems is arguments about students’ extreme habits of texting. Students will text in all moments and from almost everywhere. “I especially hate it when people text when I’m trying to have a serious conversation with them, it gets annoying,” Lopez said. Yet everyone at a certain point has been irritated by some people who only texted back an “ooh,” “ok,” or “why?” Cell phones continue get more advanced, and many students are learning ways to text without getting caught by their teachers. “I have the keyboard memorized, so no one can usually know when I’m texting,” Lopez said. Although others say they can stop texting whenever they want, the majority can’t stop at all. “I have tried to see if I was able to not text back, but I couldn’t even last an hour without texting back,” Lopez said. Texting is like an addiction, and it can be a rude or even dangerous one – one that could kill someone who has the urge to text and drive. Or kill someone else: a passenger, another driver or a pedestrian.
Future of LGBTS alliance uncertain
By Aubery Hensley LAST YEAR, Granger was the home to the LGBTS (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and straight) alliance club. The club only lasted a year however. Yet, many think that it Granger should still have this club, including the club’s director Mr. Johansson. “LGBTS was a club where kids of all orientation could come and get to know one another. They wouldn’t have to worry about being judged or ridiculed. The whole purpose was to create an atmosphere where everyone felt safe,” said Johansson. “The students would interact through activities or by having discussions,” said Johansson. Students could talk about their experience of coming out to their parents or if students found out if
their best friend was gay. “I really think Granger needs to start this again because these kids need somewhere they know they can go to. Especially since a lot of them don’t have anywhere else they feel comfortable going,” said Johansson. And it’s not just Mr. Johansson who thinks it would be a good idea. “Well, I’m straight. So I really wouldn’t care about their clubs, but if Granger did have one it would be a good way for all the people that live that lifestyle to get together. It would give the people at school a place to unite and talk about that kind of stuff,” said Rhett Brady (11). “It would give the people that choose that lifestyle a chance to get together. But don’t expect me
to go to it or support it. I’m not dissing on them, it’s just not my scene. I don’t live that kind of lifestyle,” said Brady. Many people think Granger needs this club. The teens involved are students that really would benefit from it. How can a student be expected to succeed if they aren’t allowed to express who they are? “I think we should have one. It shows that Granger actually cares to help, you know?” said Alejandro Garza (11). “It will show that students don’t need to be afraid of who they are. We were born this way and it’s perfectly natural!” said Garza. LGBTS is a student organized club however, so in order to have one next year, students must talk to Mr. Johansson and organize it.
By Matthew Hansen APPARENTLY YouTube was opened to the public of Granger High School, to see how it would be used. Not only for the students use but the teachers use as well. Studies and a lot of recordings show that a whole 2% of students are using YouTube for educational use, the way the school hoped they would use it for. On the other hand teachers are using YouTube for a lot of educational clips, and look up good research. They also get a lot of lesson tips off YouTube. Karen Broadhead is one of the faculties in the library; she records and monitors everything that gets looked up on the internet, so she sees what gets looked up on YouTube. She is really not surprised what
is being looked up on YouTube, she wants YouTube to be shut down, and she will fight to get rid of YouTube at Granger for good. If that can’t happen then she would really like the teachers to keep access to it, and have all the
would like YouTube to stay accessible to Granger High and that he would change what he looked up to keep YouTube accessible to the students. Yes there are only a few students at Granger High using YouTube for educational purposes, but that’s no reason to shut it down, the other students will come around, plus all the teachers are using it well. Villapando said, “We shouldn’t punish the 2% of students that use YouTube correctly.” Karen Broadhead says students are taking advantage of this privilege. She hopes that most of the students will change the way they use YouTube. If students don’t start using YouTube for school-appropriate educational use, then it probably will be shut down soon.
YouTube access may not stay
No matter what happens with YouTube here at Granger high, it will not affect the way we learn. students blocked. YouTube is said to be a waste of the network. Ralph Villapando (12), a student at Granger High School said that the only thing he has looked up on YouTube at school is music videos; he says he doesn’t get on it much in school. He also said he
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VOL. LIII Issue 5
Working out from the couch
By Josh Zitting ONLINE gym may sound like a new thing to most people, but in many states including Utah it’s becoming a reality. Online gym is a class where you will do all your workouts from home and send your results to your teacher through email. You would be able to do what exercises or activities you want as long as it’s productive. This means you can get credit for riding your bike or tossing the Frisbee with your friends. Even if you’re taking a karate class after schoo,l it could count as being part of your daily exercise routine. Online gym will not take up one of your 8 periods so you could still take an elective class instead of a gym class, but you still get gym credit. “Online gym would be a good idea if the kids keep working out at home every day, but if they start slacking off or faking it, then it is a bad idea. Only the kids that will not cheat should take the class,”
Jesse Jiron (10) said. Now students may think it’s easier to cheat in this class, but the teachers will know if you lie. There would be an end of the year fitness test and sometimes they check your heart rate. Jeffrey Fulton (10) said, “It is a stupid idea.” This idea of online gym all started in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Where the class has
“Every time you workout with a buddy, you do better than you do by yourself. We have good gym equipment, so why make it go to waste?” Babcock feels like students will only do what they want to do like surfing the web, lounging in front of the T.V., and playing relentless video games. Kids would find doing these things easier than working out at school because the teachers aren’t watchOnline gym is a class where ing what they are doing. you will do all your workouts So as they are sending the workout information to from home and send your re- their teacher, they would sults to your teacher through get distracted by their Facebook or Twitter. email. The big reason why this idea of a class came up is that they want kids to been proven very popular. The work out on their own time. When they are finished buildclass would involve worksheets that may involve healthy eating. ing the new school, this class Instead of stretching or doing car- might not be that far away. This dio runs, students will have to do would make it a lot easier to get a grade for something as simple as more written work. “To be honest I think it’s a walking the dog or shooting some lame idea,” said Mr. Babcock. hoops at home.
Teen cell phone restrictions out of service House of Representatives defeat S.B. 45
Opinion By Heather Larson DON’T GET me wrong, texting while driving is a stupid move but I don’t see anything wrong with checking a text and sending a quick reply at a red light or a stop sign. Kids just need to be smart about knowing when to text and when to put their phones away. Texting has become an addiction for most youth, but we shouldn’t allow it to control us to the point of endangering our lives. Utah State Senator Ross Romero proposed S.B. 45 also known as the Wireless Telephone Restriction for Minors in Vehicles. It was approved by the Senate on February 17th and was referred to the House of Representatives on February 23. The House then defeated the bill on March 8. Sen. Romero declined to comment for this article. Sara Fowles (12) said, “I think it’s a good idea to make it illegal to be on the phone and drive. It’s hard to concentrate while texting and driving. Calling someone is especially hard even if you have a headset.” S.B. 45 outlawed teens under the age of 18 from using a cell phone while driving. This currently is a secondary offense, which means a driver cannot be pulled over solely for talking on a cell phone. This bill would have
Texting while driving can be even more dangerous than drunk driving.
made it a primary offense with a fine of $50, but no points would be added to the driver’s record. The bill also included hands free devices such as blue tooth headsets and even speakerphones. However, there would have been exceptions for calling because of a reporting medical emergency, reporting a road hazard, calling parents, or calling the police. Researcher Frank Drew from the University of Utah concluded that talking while driving is too overwhelming and drivers that text decrease their minimum following distance and their reaction time is severely delayed. His website also reports that teens are too easily distracted to be talking and driving all at once and it is
Highlighted Provisions from SB 45, twhis bill: --prohibits a person younger than 18 years of age from using a wireless telephone --while operating a motor vehicle; --provides affirmative defenses to the wireless telephone prohibition; --specifies a penalty for violating the wireless telephone prohibition; and --prohibits the Driver License Division from assessing points against a person’s --driving record for being convicted of violating the wireless telephone prohibition.
said that the cognitive part of the brain is not yet fully developed in teenagers therefore making judgments is more difficult for them than adults. Many republican legislators said that cell phone use should be a matter of personal responsibility and not an issue with the law. Some Legislators believe this bill to be an attack on freedom. Keila Akers (12) said, “I think that if you’re on the phone it doesn’t matter because most people drive with one hand anyways. But texting makes you take your eyes off the road and when you’re driving things can happen in a split second.” David Strayer from the University of Utah’s department of Psychology has done many studies about texting and driving. He has found that drivers are 6 times more likely to get in an accident if they are texting. He also discovered that texting while driving can even be more dangerous than drunk driving. If they were going to try restricting cell phone use for teenagers, they should restrict everyone. Apparently, talking on the phone while driving, even if it’s a hands free device, is a distraction for all drivers. Although you won’t be fined $50 you should still be careful on the road with your phone.
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Hang time at the wall
By Mario Camarillo MANY STUDENTS at Granger High have different places they hang out at or where they meet their friends after classes. Whether it’s at the stairs, the hallway, outside, or the cafeteria, some students might hang out at “The Wall”, is what they call it. “The Cool” people seem to hang out there with their friends after classes or during lunch. It’s by the stairs next to the library. One of the students that hang out there is Ivan Carbajal (11). He has been hanging out there since his sophomore year. “The reason I hang out there is because all my friends are there and all the fights happen there, too,” Carbjal said. Talking to one of the assistant principal, Mr. Wessman said, “Nobody can get through, just don’t stop, and keep moving to class. It’s not anything important to see, more kids would be on time if nobody stood there.”
Wesman tries not to be rude, but he wants students to get to class without sitting or standing there. Other students that also hang out there is Raven Rivera (10), she has been hanging out there for a couple a months now and she thinks it’s too crowded to get through to go to her class. She said, “I like to hang out at the wall because my friends are there and I just like to chat for a bit.” Martin Vasquez (11) said, “I hang out at other places but I like to hang out at “The Wall” because everybody I know hangs out there after class, everything happens there.” Some people might think it’s dumb to just stand at “The Wall”, but Vasquez disagrees. He does not care what people think, as long as he is with his friends. “It’s a hangout; it’s also like a busy crossroad to go to the relos, gym, lunch, upstairs, and it’s an inconvenience,” Mr. Murdock said.
Tri-Color Times Staff Editors Julie Hor -- Layout Yaritza Madrigal -- Photos Liana Tan -- Articles Journalists Celeste Anguiano Maria Camarillo Jonathan Carrasco Brittnee Chacon Vanessa Chacon Ashley Chambers Daniel Christensen Brittany Edwards Yenny Estrada Karen Garcia Paul Garcia Mario Gomez Matthew Hansen
Journalists
Kenadee Hatch Aubrey Hensley Karla Herrera Carlos Hurtado Heidi Izarraras Rebecca Jeter Heather Larson Melissa Lorton Paola Mascorro Jeannette Mikkelson Tule Nau Katelyn Paff Wendy Rojas Tatiana Romero Ezra Tapusoa Angel Zazueta Joshua Zitting
The Tri-Color Times serves as a student forum for student opinion and student expression. The views expressed herein reflect neither the opinions of Adviser John Carlisle and Granger High School, nor those of Granite School District. The Tri-Color Times invites and publishes letters to its editorial board; all letters will be edited for taste, length and legality. Granger High 3690 South 3600 West West Valley, UT 84119 385 646-5320
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VOL. LIII Issue 5
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VOL. LIII Issue 5
Defending their title A baby for Ms. J
By Carlos Hurtado GRANGER tryouts were held April 28th, March 1, and March 2 as many boys went to see if they are champions. As Opie pep talked everybody to give it their best shot and that all the spots are open on the team, no spots are reserved for nobody, but you have to win your right to be on the team. 95 people tried out to see if they would be able to make the team, but Opie had to cut people off. With a cold fist he started sending boys home. “We need people who want to play for Granger, we need fast people, you cannot teach speed,” yelled Coach Cousins to motivate the boys. Many students expect that the soccer team will make it to regions. “I expect Granger’s soccer team to win Regions,” said Gloria Alvarez (10), “I will go and support them because I have school
spirit”. Many people have said that the boys will take Granger for another win at regions. “I want Granger to kick butt at their game; because we are good at soccer,” said Trisha Le (10), “we cannot lose a game so we can prove to the other schools that we will win regions”. Three days of proving that you belong on the team, and that you are strong enough to play against other schools. Many kids left the soccer field sore from their legs from the hard work out Opie and Cousins were handing out to them. They made them run, sprint, and see their ability on handling the ball. The first cut of the team was because of grades. “We just cut 20 people off the try-out list because of their grades,” said Opie at try-outs. You must have a strict 2.0 or higher to be legible to play
soccer. Many kids walked off the field in disappointment. “When I found out that I made the soccer team, I freaked out. I didn’t know I would make it this far,” said Jose Cabello (11). Cabello, and 35 soccer players made the team as well. The boys’ first game will be on March 7th, as they face Timpview. Some call it the beautiful game because they get to play in a real field and they have the spokesperson call out their names like they are real professionals. “I hope we can beat them, beacause Timpview is a very fast team” said Victor Valle (11). “I believe we have a chance of winning, we have new players on the team”. Good luck to the boys’ soccer team and may they have an oustanding season.
Will it be a boy or a girl?!
By Brittany Edwards “She is an amazing teacher and I am glad that life has blessed her with the bounty of children,” said Nora Abu-Dahn (12) of Ms. Jaramillo’s pregnancy. Ms. Jaramillo or Mrs. J as she likes to be called as well is very excited for this pregnancy. Her and her husband, Geno, have been trying for quite some time to have baby, so this pregnancy is a blessing. Mrs. J, who has twins, Zach and Zaylie, 9, from a previous marriage, is thrilled to be pregnant. “This will be my husband’s first child so he is super excited,” said Ms. J. But Geno is not the only one excited. All of her family, friends, and students are thrilled! “So far my pregnancy has been OK. I am super sick in the morning and very tired. I can only drink water now too, which sucks because I love my Diet Coke!” said Jaramillo. Ms. J, also says she hasn’t has any weird cravings, only that she loves to eat vegetables and fruit. That is definitely healthier than pickles and ice cream. “My husband is being great,”
said Ms. J. “He always cleans up the house and makes dinner every night now. “My due date is September 15, and we can’t wait to find out what it is going to be,” said Ms. J. “My husband and kids are all hoping for a girl. Zach, because he wants to be the only one to play ball, and Zaylie so she can drive her to dance and do her hair.” “I am excited for Ms. J to be pregnant. We are pregnant together, which is kind of cool,” said Lily Gutirerrez (11). “I hope she has a really good pregnancy, without any complications, and that her baby is very healthy.” “We want a big surprise so we are not going to be finding out the sex of the baby,” said Ms. J. But what we do know is that it is only one baby this time, which is a relief,” says Ms. J. “A baby is hard, but twins are double the work.” “I thought she was going to have triplets! But now it’s only one!” said Abu-Dahn. “My premonition is that it is definitely going to be a girl.” “I also believe that this pregnancy will not be as bad as her first, and that she will not barf in class…I hope.”
Victor Valle (11) fights for control of the ball. Photo courtesy by Ms. Judy.
Water boy is to be missed
By Jonathan Carrasco his dream on hold. soccer players aren’t my players FERNANDO Carvajal (12) is When Carvajal fully healed but his. It’s crazy I think he should Granger’s own local celebrity. He from his tragic injuries, he came coach the team,” said Okasen. first came to stardom in his first back to school after spending a Fernando Carvajal has really appearance as water boy for the sever amount of time in the hos- matured from his sophomore year Granger Lancers track team back pital, he was focused in school, when he started being the water in 2008-2009 during his sopho- and became really active in was boy to now his senior year. He more year. Carvajal went under he believed was his calling, being was made captain of manager the guidance of Coach Cousins, a water boy. squad this year. He even had trywho at the time was the coach for Carvajal said, “I really enjoy outs to find an assistant. the track team, but due to a very being a water boy. It’s great. I alHow will he cope with having unsuccessful year, hung up his ways meet new friends. There’s to move on in life and retire from track shoes. Carvajal left as well always new experience weather a high school profession he loves in an attempt to follow another so much? dream of his. Carvajal simply replied, “Life After a very untimely degoes on I had my fun, I’ve met parture from water boy, and new people, I’ve seen new the unfortunate retirement of things, and I’ve learned a lot.” Coach Cousins, Carvajal then Carvajal will be replaced, and made an attempt to follow he even thinks whoever takes his dream. He started his own his spot will be even better. Youtube show, simply calling Even though he is moving it Badafuko, the name was on, Carvajal said, “I know that used in an attempt to create I will leave this school a region something that would catch soccer champion, but most all, Granger’s beloved water boy, Fernando the audiences’ attention. a lots of memories.” Cravajal (12) His videos would consist of Roman Cuenca (12) said, “It’s senseless humor, where he would on the court or on the field.” going to suck not having him on cause bodily harm to himself Granger soccer team, Coach the side lines wearing my number in order to fulfill laughter to the Okasen has been with Carvajal (11), or having him on the camera audience. Badafuko would only since the beginning of his career. recording my super sick goals. I last for a few episodes due to Fer- He is really close to Carvajal and am going to miss him.” nando’s health, where he had to has the upmost respect for him. Fernando Carvajal will be spend several weeks in the hospi“Fernando is really passionate missed next year. He brought joy tal after and incident (he wish not about what he does on the field to so many people and showed us to disclose that information) that with the players; he is always how to smile, as Fernando Carvahappened prior to him filming an- there for them and is always on jal always said, “One man down other episode. Carvajal had to put task. Most the time I believe the one heart up.”
Ms. Jaramillo starts to eat healthy fruits and vegetables for her pregnancy.
The dream act
By Yenny Estrada THE DREAM act is one of the things that every illegal student is working for. The Dream act gives the student’s the chance to go to school and study to get a better future. Some Senators didn’t want the dream act. “I was really looking for word to The Dream Act; because I came here when I was really little I came to do better and to get a better education and I really need it to get through this life,” said Mario Garcia (11). “I want to grow up and be able to take care of my family without having to worry about me not having enough money.” All the students want is to get an Education to be able to have money without having to worry about it. Every one need a chance to do better in the world it shouldn’t matter if you are illegal or not. As long as you work hard you should have the chance to show what you can do. “The Dream Act means a lot to me and all my family, it won’t only help me it well help my
mama and family,” Garcia said, “I want to make mi mama proud of me, I want her to stop working and stay home so I can take care of her like she tucks care of me all my life and I want to do the same for her.” Most students want to keep on studying but they think they can’t because of the problems with the documents, or with the money that they need. A lot of students are going to do anything they can to go to school. “Latinos don’t give up, Latinos are always going to fight. No matter what we are going to fight for what we want,” said Juan Ramos. “I think it is messed up that they won’t let us keep on going with are education, we worked as hard as other student’s did.” “Why do they get to keep on going and we don’t,” Ramos said. “Im working as hard as I can to keep on going. And with the Dream act it seems like I am going to make it.” The Dream is going to help out a lot of students. Let’s all keep our heads up and hope it does pass.
March 2011, page 7
VOL. LIII Issue 5
Don’t drink the water
By Tatiana Romero THE PLAY “Don’t Drink the Water was about a hilarious family that had gone to vacation to Europe. The family was really excited since it was their first time going to Europe; their vacation wasn’t what they expected, well at least for the parents it wasn’t. The “Love Interest” was played by Devora Mayorova (10); she played the daughter of the family. Mayorova enjoyed playing her part as the daughter and she thought the play was hilarious. She had an enjoyable time working with the other people from the play, “The experience to play the love interest was a really fun! Especially for it being the first play I’ve been in at Granger,” she said. The practices were not all that great, said Devora, but the boring practices really make up for the fun you get when you get on that stage and perform. In the play, the family was accused of being spies; this caused the family a really hard time and made them have to stay in the ambassador’s embassy. The father played by Skyler Edvik (11), had gotten really frustrated because he wanted to go to a calmer place. The mother played by, Jennifer Thomas (10), thought that it was something that not everyone gets
to experience. Mckenzie Ujhely (12) went to go watch the play and she said, “The play was really funny. My favorite actor was Devora Mayorova. She did her part perfectly and she was really cute.” Mayorova was the main reason that Ujhely went to watch the play. The play was filled with many surprising and funny acts. There were many hilarious and serious scenes. In the play, there was a really funny part when the father doesn’t want to eat none of the food that the chief prepares, so the chef played by Walter Shamo (11) brings out a live bunny, asking the father if this is what he would like to eat for dinner, this was a really interesting part
Skyler Edvik (11) and Jennifer Thomas play the father and mother in Don’t Drink The Water.
Locker partners for life Teenagers that are tying the knot
By Katelyn Paff “50% OF ALL people marry their high school sweethearts” said Aubrie Hensley (11), “So is it surprising to think that many of these real life marriages begin with a proposal in high school?” According to many teens, this isn’t as strange as we’d think. Hensley has been dating Ricky Rowley since March 27th, 2010. They got engaged at Junior Prom of this year. They met through her best friend at the time, Kyrstin Rogers (11). Rowley had been looking for a girl he could just hang out with and not have any strings attached, so he talked to his friend Rogers. She knew that Hensley had just gotten out of a bad relationship and thought the best way to cheer her up would be to set her up with someone new. So she told Hensley about this guy she knew and they all decided to hang out one day. “He wouldn’t quit texting me! It was really weird, like he was stalking me. But it was pretty cute at the same time,” Hensley said. After two months of dating, he was forced to move to Hawaii. “The plan had been to just stay friends,” Hensley said, “but it took him leaving for both of us to realize how much we really cared about each other. So he started working and saved up for seven months to buy his plane ticket home.” “I knew he was the one for me the moment he stepped off the plane at SLC international. He came back for me, I didn’t actually think he would, but he did,” Hensley said. “Her mom absolutely hates
as the father chased the chef and it seemed real as the lights were switched on and off to make an illusion. Another actor was Denton Ngo (11) as he played “Father Drobney,” this father was no ordinary father as he knew how to do magic tricks. This father was stuck in the embassy for many years and he just started doing his own things, like learning to do tricks. This play took place in the auditorium, on the stage, it was from the 24th-28th. The director of this play was Michael Curfew (12). This play made its audience have many laughs and also made the audience have a really good time, it was funny yet really interesting.
me,” Rowley said, “but she’s slowly starting to get it through her head that I’m not leaving her daughter. I even went to my first school dance with her. I wanted to propose to her, so I had to find some way to outdo all the other guys she’s dated, so prom just kind of worked!” Alexandria Erickson (12) has been dating Brian Hurst (11) for almost nine months. Hurst gave Erickson a promise ring about four months after they started dating. He now plans to propose to her in the next couple of months. “We all knew it was going to happen eventually. I mean, when you are as in love as we are, there is no doubt in my mind that we’re going to last for a very long time,” Erickson said. In most cases, things begin to change after you get engaged, or in some cases- promised. But for Erickson and Hurst, things changed for the better. “Things between us just became more fun and more meaningful. I highly doubt things will change between us; we have been through so much together. We can make it through anything life throws at us,” Erickson said. Alex and Brian even got through telling their parents. His mom likes her, her mom likes him. “All my mom cares about is that he gets a job, hahaha” The only thing Alex is scared of is losing Brian. She said, “We can’t live without each other! And the thought of losing one another scares the living crap out of both of us.” No matter what age, you will always find somebody to love.
Lost of home courts Boys tennis team forced to play at Granite
By Daniel Christensen “I THINK no matter where our courts may be we will always carry the legacy of Granger High’s tennis spirit with ourselves,” said David Au (12). Au feels like having our courts at a different school is only an obstacle that will prove how strong we are as one. Granger High’s Tennis team has to play at Granite High School. It’s an inconvenience that might test how good the team actually is. “Our game does not reside where the courts are, we will always stay strong, and proud to represent ourselves at Granger Lancers,” said Au. Losing your home court advantage in sports can usually mean you’re in for a grueling season, but members of Granger High’s Tennis team do not think that will mean so much. Many of the players see that going to Granite High after school every day as a hassle but they do not think it will matter. “I don’t think it will affect how I play,” said Adam Fulton (11). Coach Bullock said, “I don’t think playing at Granite will affect the team, but it is a problem we can play through.” “It’s a bit different playing there. It’s annoying having to bus down there every day, because it cuts into the time we could be spend-
ing practicing,” said Adam Kirk (12). Kirk feels like he has not lost home court advantage, but it is a trouble that their opponents and their team have to be bussed down there. Kirk also said, “I don’t think it will affect my game all that much, cause we have to play at many different places. The courts shouldn’t make any difference.” The plus side in having to bus down to Granite all the time is the bond the boys have with each other. Each day they get closer and closer to becoming a family. All the players seem to have readjusted to the playing, conditions, and are excited for the upcoming season. Although they are facing a challenge about where they are playing they are working hard and becoming a unified team. Hope fully we can see that the team who travels together wins together. Obviously Granger’s Tennis team is coping well and getting familiar to their home away from home. Bullock is doing the best with what he has. He has got an interesting season ahead of him having to play away from home. With all this said the team is moving forward and there season is under way. Their first match was against Murray.
Gleek every other day
If you want something fun to do on Thursdays, come to room one and join the fun! By Brittnee Chacon LAST YEAR, Liana Tan (12) created Glee. “In Glee, we take some funs songs, and dance and sing to them.” Said J.J Freeman. (12). Next year, Mrs. Spjute will be the teacher! With only a few students, Glee is becoming well known around Granger. Glee is also a lot like the television show. “The club was actually inspired by the show.” Said, Tan. The students in the club do a lot of the same things as the television show. “We are very diverse, and we have our own ‘Sue Sylvesters’ that try to sabotage our club, it seems.” Said Tan. Glee students do not sing the same songs as the show, nor do they copy the dances. Tan, being the creator of Glee is happy that it will be turning into a class
next year. “I’m also sad because, I know that we will be losing some members because, many don’t have room in their schedules. I know we will get a lot of people, and I’m just happy that the program will be staying at Granger after I leave.” Tan said. Mrs. Spjute wants to keep things similar to this year, and it will be very student-opinion based. “They will be singing pop songs, dancing and the kids get to pick the songs and help with the choreography.” Said, Tan. This year, Glee tried a new system where a student can sign up for each performance he or she wants to be in, that idea brought new and different members for every performance. “Nora AbuDan is our choreographer, and she has been dedicated to every
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performance.” Said, Tan. Glee did a performance last year for Mesa Parent Night. The club would like to do more after school performances, but with the meetings only once or twice a week, it’s harder to perform. The club likes to get together and have fun. “We aren’t worried about competing and we don’t rank people on skill.” Says, Tan. Every Glee member has their own part. “We usually change around the lyrics to fit Glee Club and Granger, to make it more entertaining for the audience.” Says, Tan. The Club does not lip sync! “We only lip sync, unless it’s part of our performance. Once, we had J.J Freeman lip sync to Mariah Carey!” Tan says. “We hope that Glee continues to grow.” Said, Tan.
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Photo: Weston Colton
March 2011, page 8
VOL. LIII Issue 5
Lancer drives through fence What’s the word? Josh Bluck tells his side of the story
By Paola Mascorro GRANGER High School student Josh Bluck (12) was driving his blue Mustang on his way to an appointment when he had an accident. “I was just turning left on the light, but my foot slipped on the acceleration, and lost control as I tried to balance it to stay steady, but I went through the fence,” said Bluck. He ended up on the lawn of the St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. The car is manual so it’s pretty hard to drive in a small car when I know I’m a pretty big guy. Other than that I’m OK, although I thought I was going to get in trouble with my parents, but I didn’t,” said Bluck. As Bluck was in the car Officer Randall ran towards him to see if he was OK. Officer Randall said, “I pretty much had a good
idea about what happened, but more than anything it was just an accident. I tried to help him get out the car, but since the fence was under the car it went through were the door car connects and it got jammed. He was able to get
Randall said, “She was in shock when she saw the car, but she wanted to know how were they going to fix the fence. So I gave her the case number and Josh’s insurance.” Bluck’s insurance will pay for the broken fence. As other people saw, Sandra Bounthisane (10) had it happened right in front of her. “I was just walking outside through the vending machine doors and I see the blue Mustang going for a left turn and I was able to see it speeded just a little, bounce from the sidewalk and went into the church. It was surprising to me but, it did look like he was showing off, then getting distracted,” she said. Until his car is repaired, Bluck will drive a truck. He will be getting his blue Mustang by April 1. “I hope it’s not a prank from the shop since it will be April Fools’ Day!” said Bluck.
“If you want to go to the church, don’t cut through the fence.” out through the passenger side.” Randall suggested that Granger students slow down. Officer Randall called the traffic officer down to where the accident occurred. The traffic officer gave Bluck a ticket of exhibition/ speed contest. Josh has now court on April 4. Randall also talked with the secretary from the church. Officer
Officer Randall checks on Josh Bluck (12) after his new blue Mustang crashed through a fence.
Vocabulary usage in teens drops to the lowest it has ever been in sixty years, being replaced with profanity By: Kenadee Hatch IN THE year 1950, the average 14 year old student had a vocabulary of 25,000 words. According to a study done in the year 1999, found on www.axioun.com, “The current 14-year-old has a vocabulary of only 10,000 words.” What happened? We ask ourselves. Where did the drop in intellect come from? Where did the diminishing literacy and thirst for knowledge go? As a society, we are placing more value on things like TV, movies, and gaming systems rather than face to face conversations and books. When was the last time anyone picked up a fine piece of literature for fun? Twitter, Facebook, and yes, even Myspace are limiting the amount of space we have to get our point across. We have let technology dissipate our language use. Research done by Ruby Payne shows, that if a teen’s vocabulary were improved by 200 words, their grade would improve by one whole letter. That’s the difference between a pass and a fail! As I’ve seen the vocabulary levels drop, I have seen the profanity levels rise. This isn’t just a personal thought, this is a proven fact. In a recent bill, the federal court system allowed broadcasters their “First Amendment right” to use any kind of language at any time
of day, even with children around. This means that the use of cuss words in prime-time television has increased 69.3% from the year 2005 to 2010, according to The Habitat for Profanity. Now, as we walk down the hallways of Granger High School, we are bombarded with profanity, the likes of which I have never personally imagined. In casual conversation, the typical student will drop an “F-bomb” without even a shudder at the obscenity that has just escaped their mouth. We can classify this as a problem when a student is simply asked “How was your weekend?” and the answer is comprised of curse words. I say: pick up a dictionary, read a book, buy a darn word of the day calendar. If we let the number of words we know to continue to drop, where will this leave our future generations? It’s widely understood that, “You are what you say.” So, let the words escaping your mouth be something that you would want to be known by. That is really the key to success, vocabulary. If we assemble a vast vocabulary for ourselves, then we can come across as knowledgeable. This is the doorway to going anywhere in life. In layman’s terms, foul language is gross. Let’s find something else to say.
MAN, HAIL YEAH!