Sunday picnics commence for seniors in AP courses.
Gold Dusters attend pageant for dancers in California .
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Boys varsity swimming wins big at State.
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Volume thirty-seven Issue five
Jersey Village High School
As technology progresses at a rapid rate, the art of music follows close behind. Artists at school use advanced technologies to mix vocals, create electronic beats, and record real live tracks. Undiscovered groups like New Era Entertainment are exposed as more than just students.
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7600 Solomon Houston, TX 77040
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A House Divided New section shows glimpse of future school
april ‘09
MANDY HOGAN
1. The spacious bathroom areas promote gathering with friends and conversing with other students while providing a community-like atmosphere. “I like the nice, clean bathrooms in the new school,” Rasmey Chhin, senior, said. 2. The hallways are noticeably brighter than the old area. 3. Construction continues on the main entrance. 4. The new facade provides a modern and clean exterior.
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photos by MANDY HOGAN
news editor The bright lights, tiled walls, and roomy bathrooms of the new section of JVHS contrast the old area, now closed to students due to construction. Soon the remaining areas of the building will undergo renovation. “JVHS is in Stage II. We have three total phases with II and III both having an A and B stage. Starting now to July, they will be working on the section we just moved out of. We are on schedule at this time,” Mike Ray, assistant principal and construction liaison, said. Stage II includes renovating the old building, including the Art, ROTC and former math and history areas. Stage III includes finishing the library, administrative offices, commons and all other areas. Construction will be complete by fall 2010, or after the current juniors graduate. Students will face even more changes and transitions into and out of sections of JV, the most recent move out of the old section into the new section. Despite the difficulty of adapting to changes, students and teachers alike recognize the positive aspects of renovation. “The move went fine. The
against theclock Primary and secondary education seems to continue forever. The thirteen years from kindergarten to twelfth grade, from first pencil to graduation cap, students spend copious amounts of time in school. Actually, in the time that a student spends from kindergarten to twelfth grade, he could walk Compiled by around the entire earth at the equator almost six times, or JESSE PYLE and MANDY HOGAN exactly 5.92 times, even at a slow pace of three miles per hour.
teachers did an awesome job,” Ray said. “My classes have new desks and boards and are roomier. The new building makes me feel positive,” Jesus Manjarrez, freshman, said. Most students accommodate to the differences, neither praising nor bemoaning the renovations. “There are no negative aspects. I just got used to the differences,” Shin Chiu, senior, said. Very few students, however, dislike the changes and refuse to change their habits. Some students complain about not being allowed to bring drinks and snacks into the new area. Other students criticize the building itself, citing inconveniences. “I don’t like the new building because there are no water fountains and the A/C has two extremes: either really cold or really hot,” Jennifer Wilson, senior, said. Despite the difference in opinions, ongoing renovation greatly aids JVHS in the long term. “The new building is a better learning environment and more comfortable. Something more advanced will come out of this,” Hunter Frizzel, junior, said.
how much time do students spend in school?
13years 2,236days
15,653 939,120 hours minutes
56,347,000 seconds
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top THIS top THAT
Texas law faces pressures from UT admissions
KELLY HARRISON
staff writer Under the current top ten percent state law, students in the top ten percent of their graduating class are allowed automatic admission to any public Texas university. The provision allows only for admission into the university of the applicants choice, not necessarily into a certain school within the university. The plan, enacted through House Bill 588, passed in 1997 in reaction to the Hopwood v. Texas decision, banned affirmative action practices in the University of Te x a s admissions office.The top ten percent rule was an attempt by Texas universities to increase diversity in the student body, and allow more minority students easier access into flagship universities. Recently, the plan has come under fire from critics who argue that the rule bars well qualified, well rounded students who may have missed out on the top ten percent by only a few tenths of a grade point. Seeing as nearly 85 percent of the University of Texas at Austin’s 2008 freshmen class was admitted under the top ten percent rule, the universities themselves argue that they have been backed into a corner as far as admissions are concerned. Senator Jeff Wentworth is one outspoken
critic on both sides of the issue. “It’s unfair to the more rigorous student. It’s also unfair to the other one who’s not as prepared. Because what happens is they get in these flagship institutions and they’re not prepared academically for the very rigorous training they get at that higher education institution. And some of them don’t last. They wind up quitting, very frustrated because they weren’t prepared even though they graduated in the top 10 percent of their high school graduating class,” Wentworth said. However some students feel the plan is a justly earned reward for the work and dedication needed to maintain a GPA. “I like the Top 10 percent rule because it provides students with a safety net and takes off some of the stress involved in applying to universities. Students work hard for four years of high school to achieve this,” Simar Singh, senior, said. As of late March, the Texas Senate passed reform SB 175, allowing the University of Texas at Austin limit their freshmen class to 60 percent top ten percent applicants, and leave the remaining forty percent open for students to be considered under their “Holistic Review” procedure. The legislation would take effect for the freshmen class of 2010, and if passed, would expire in six years. The plan also calls an amendment to provide economically disadvantaged students with scholarships up to the cost of
“Something really needs to be done to level the playing field.”
81.1%
68.4%
68.4%
65.7%
68.8%
42.5%
49.5%
45.8%
44.7%
66.8%
Percent of incoming class admitted under HB 588
tuition who graduate in the top ten percent of their senior class. “I think limiting the Top 10 percent plan to a Top 4-6 will help kids who are not in the top ten percent of their class, but are strong in other aspects of their education,” Jessica Gambhir, senior, said. Regardless of future changes to the law, the class of 2009 must make do with the law as is. While Texas A&M University is only marginally affected, with their percentage of freshmen in the top ten percent hovering around 50 percent, students hoping to gain entry into the University of Texas at Austin are feeling the crunch. Due to the record number of applicants during the fall of 2008, the university has been forced to end its Summer Freshmen program which allows students to get their basics out of the way the summer before their freshmen year and enter as a regular freshman in the fall. “The fact is now that many well qualified, well rounded students are denied admission to the University of Texas at Austin not because they are not excellent students, but because there just isn’t any room. Something really needs to be done to level the playing field,” Nick Harbaugh, senior, said.
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California
Dreaming Dancers receive opportunity to compete to become Miss Dance Drill Team USA
LAURA HEBERT
co-managing editor Their feet glide upon tender wood. Their arms flow completely in sync with the music. As they dance, a judge watches their every turn. In the selection, four talented dancers from Jersey Village are chosen in the top ten at Miss Dance Drill Team Texas qualifying Ashley Landry, and Paige Edwards, seniors, and Kim Sheeran and Hannah Franklin, juniors, for Miss Dance Drill Team USA. From April 2nd to 4th, these Gold Dusters were sent to compete against some of the best dancers in America. Each state was represented and these girls were four out of ten representing Texas. The pageant called for a solo, a dance modeling, a ball gown, an opening dance and an interview portion. These rigorous sections required stressful and time consuming practice. All the work has helped the girls become better
dancers and competitors. “I had the unique opportunity to watch and compete against amazing dancers and it has really made me expand my horizon,” Sheeran said. In the preparation to this competition they also had to mentally prepare themselves for the interview portion, which they were most nervous about. “I love dancing with all my heart and when I go out on the dance floor regardless of the nerves I had before it is just so fun, but when you have to sit in front of a bunch of judges who are there to mark off for every ‘umm’ and ‘uh’ you say, that is what is really nerve wracking,” Landry said. None of these dancers had ever been in a pageant and had never thought of themselves as pageant girls. These girls had to put away the “world peace” image of pageant and truly prove
themselves as Miss Congeniality. “I never thought I would be in a pageant, but I was really excited about going to California for such a great opportunity,” Franklin said. While in California the girls we treated with a trip to Disney Land as a reward. Though the dancers tried their hardest, no one returned home with the title of Miss Drill Team USA. Hard feelings were shadowed with the lessons learned and memories made while in California. “We were up against some of the best dancers in the nation so it is a bit demanding when it came to the type of skill you needed to show,” Landry said. With this opportunity, the girls were excited to represent Texas and prove themselves worthy of being more than just gifted dancers. Their experiences will stay with them as they continue dancing with the Gold Dusters. PREPARED Officers gather in their leotards before a performance at the Miss Dance Drill Team USA competition. photo by COURTNEY STURHAN
photo by SKYE COMSTOCK
photo by COURTNEY STURHAN
STRIKE A POSE Miss Drill Team USA qualifying Gold Dusters, Paige Edwards, Kim Sheeran, Hannah Franklin, and Ashley Landry spend the day at Disneyland as reward for top ten qualification. photo by SKYE COMSTOCK
SEQUINED In a team novelty dance, Ashley Landry, senior, wears her performance smile. BUST A MOVE Paige Edwards , senior, performs a modern dance during the Gold Duster Showcase.
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LOVE IN A NUMBER Student Council raises awareness about human trafficking MIKELA MELAKIS staff writer
A small group of friends walked into a brothel in South East Asia undercover posing as customers. In there they looked through a large window and saw little girls in red dresses being sold as commodities staring blankly at a TV. All the girls’ eyes were blank and empty, starring robotically ahead at the television set, except for one girl whose eyes were filled with fight, filled with hope, she was not looking at the TV like the other girls, and she was standing at the window looking back It is estimated that two children are taken every at the men watching them. On her dress minute were the numbers 146. It was this girl whose hopeful eyes inspired one of the undercover customers Rob Morris to create the organi-
zation Love 146 whose main goal is to get children out of child sex trafficking. After Lily Nhoisykham heard about Love 146 at church, she decided to bring the subject up during an officer meeting. It was because of Nhoisykham, junior, and Student Council members that Love 146 was brought to the school’s attention. With the staffs support Student Council decided to incorporate the organization into their month long project to raise awareness. “Little girls are suppose to be playing dress up or begging for Hannah Montana concert tickets, not being sold as sex slaves,” Nhoisykham said. Every Friday they brought out a poster for the student body to sign and for every signature student council donated 25 cents to Love 146. The Student Council members grew very passionate about the organization. “Human trafficking is a global issue happening right under our noses. These humans are being dis-
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enfranchised in the worst way with no one to speak for them,” Kelly Harrison, senior and president of Student Council, said. Human trafficking is the second largest illegal money maker in the world. It is estimated that two children are taken every minute. Despite astonishing facts like these many students were unaware of the problem. “I had no idea human trafficking was such a huge problem. When I listened to Student Council explain it all I could think was wow I can’t believe stuff like this is actually going on right now,” Paige Meyer, sophomore, said. Although Student Council’s campaign is over they still hope to continue promoting the cause they feel so strongly about. “Even if we inspired one person to go out and take action, I think we were very successful with raising awareness,” Harrison said.
Traf-fick-ing [ traf-ik-ing ] -
Trafficking is the recruitment, harboring, transporting, providing or obtaining, by any means, any person for labor or services involving forced labor, slavery or servitude in any industry
1 4 6 The UN’s Protocol to Protect puts the number of people the victims of human trafficking at any given time at 12.3 million.
The State Departments conservative estimate calculates that 2-4 million people are trafficked annually, but some estimates range as high as 27 million
600,000-800,000 people are trafficked across international borders every year
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Cinemagic
Film activist searches for sponsor for movie club TIM MARDIS
staff writer The stresses of schooling melt away in just a matter of hours with a serene Hollywood flick. This fantasy could very easily become reality if a sponsor is found for the “Movie Club.” “I wanted to start the club because I love to watch movies, and I thought it would be fun to start up a new club,” Michael Nguyen, junior, said. At this point, the Movie Club exists only as an idea, an opportunity for students to gather and share a common interest in cinema. One more critical step remains to transform the idea into actuality. “I’ve been told that I just need to find a sponsor willing to allow time,” Nguyen said. The idea is simple, yet robust: ending the school day with a relaxing afternoon visit to the cinema. There
are certain limits, obviously. Most evidently that if the students cannot go to the cinema, the cinema must come to the students. “The movies would take place inside of school,” Nguyen said. No longer will getting up to use the rest room require awkwardly shimmying through three different families. The layout will be adapted to fit a classroom, allowing for the easiest transition between a rough school day and a peaceful trip to the Movie Club. Once Michael finds a sponsor, the subsequent step will be determining which days the Movie Club ought to meet. “I’m edging towards Mondays or Thursdays since they don’t seem so busy. On the first meeting we will see what day the majority of the members can make,” Nguyen said. In fact, the club will revolve around
appeasing “the majority.” No action can occur during a movie which is more detrimental to one’s experience than a physical distraction, be it an obnoxious ring tone, a wailing, or a host of the immature teens who feel the need to broadcast their inside jokes during the presentation. The Movie Club will aim directly at filtering out these stimuli through an appeal to the majority. “The ground rules for moviewatching etiquette will be decided upon by the members who attend the club. Obviously you don’t want people chatting during the movie,” Nguyen said. Moreover, no rational person can subdue the agony of trying to focus on an emotional moment in the film while there is a young couple getting hot and heavy directly in front of him or her; not to mention the other forms of obscenity which people can resort
to in theaters. “PDA’s will not be tolerated while watching the movies. No one wants to see people making out. They want to see the movie,” Nguyen said. Overall, feedback from curious students has been positive. “I think a movie club is exactly what the youth need. The lack of appreciation for the cinema has become an epidemic, and this seems like the best way to boost it up again,” Brett Robinson, junior, said. “After a day full of classes like Mrs. McMillan’s, a movie would really let me relax and enjoy the afternoon,” Hannah Cory, sophomore, said. Movies at school – every student’s dream, and if Michael finally works out a plan with a sponsor, this dream will receive the opportunity to provide tranquility to the student body for at least the remainder of this school year.
DU
New generation takes initiative to be environmentally friendly MUMTA MITTAL
CE
staff writer As the world begins to crumble against the destructive forces of humanity, the turning point has arrived. Now, everyone does all they can to protect the earth. From environmental advertisements to promotional recycling, “Going Green” has swept the nation. While Apple calls MAC the environmentally safe notebook, and the Brita Water Filter Company works against the plastic water bottle killer, it is only a matter of time before individuals will be forced to take their own measures. Student Council and Environmental Club are the two main organizations that have added their efforts into saving the world. “If we pick up on the simple things like a more organized form of recycling, then our school would be going a lot farther to contribute to the environment,” Missy Tovarez, junior, said. Many companies have been promoting this new trend, by using materials that will not be disposed in landfills; such as aluminum water bottles. “My aluminum water bottle was only five dollars and it motivates me to be more environmentally responsible,” Kristy Nguyen, junior, said. Student Council has also contributed to this cause. Since batteries are the number one radioactive contributor to landfills, Student Council promoted the recycling of old batteries. By recycling these commonly used
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materials, not only is the earth being saved from vicious half-life materials, but reusable substances for future batteries are being provided. “I think the battery drive is very important because technology contributes a lot to destroying the environment. By recycling batteries, we minimize the amount of space used for landfills,” Cybil Zhang, junior, said. Aside from the basics, one individual has gone above and beyond to promote going green. Yahya Khan, junior, who is the executive officer of the Student Council energy sector, is in charge of all green promotions and the upcoming earth week dedication. “In order to promote energy and environment consciousness, we offer our members hours for ink cartridges and aluminum cans they bring for recycling. We have also organized many environmentrelated projects throughout the year, such as the battery drive, trash pick-up, and water shortages. Also we are organizing earth week to inform students about the earth and environment,” Khan said. Though Student Council fills the hallways with water awareness posters and Environmental Club makes their weekly recycling routine, many other school districts have promoted further recycling techniques. This school is not far behind; contributions and awareness will fill the student body, especially during the upcoming Earth Week.
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STEPHANIE GALLAGHER
staff writer Strong, powerful beat, smooth lyrics, and a fresh new sound are some of the most important components to making a song sell. However, if the artist or musician does not have the motivation, dedication, and passion in the music industry, they might as well pick a new path because being a musician is one of the toughest jobs out there. Although Jersey Village plays home to multiple students who are aspiring musicians, one is already recording, and on the way to stardom. “I just love music; I have had a passion for it ever since I was little,” Marquis Johnson, senior, said. Johnson, like many others has been trying to “make it” in the music industry. “I write and sing songs. I really just don’t see it [singing] as a competition; I’m just in it because I love it,” Johnson said. Johnson, a talented young singer, has even recorded some of his own music. “I’ve been recording for about three years
Ambitious artist sings his way to fame
but I’ve been singing since I was about eight. I would sing R&B and about things in my life that inspire me,” Johnson said. The music business has been getting more difficult for people to succeed in. Luckily for Johnson, he has the support of the people close to him. “My aunt really wants me to do this; she knows that I’m good at it (singing) and my friends are really supportive, they all like the idea of me singing. This is what I want,” Johnson said. Johnson also has the support of others close to him like his friends, seniors Tony Neely and Trey Preston. “I’m really good friends with him. We’ve known each other since elementary school. He’s a good singer and I hope to see him succeed,” Neely said.
Check out Marquis Johnson’s music at www.myspace.com/462271650
Johnson was not sure that singing was what he wanted to do with his life, but now he is positive that this is the path that he has chosen. “I think with a little more work he could make it in the big time,” Trey Preston, senior, said. Johnson, his family, and his friends have big hopes for this young musical artist. “In ten years, hopefully I see myself in the music business, being successful, and maybe winning a couple of awards as well,” Johnson said. Maybe in ten years instead of seeing Usher or P. Diddy Feeling on MTV, Jersey Village the music alumni will see Marquis Marquis Johnson, Johnson singing his way senior, passionto the stars; and touching ately sings one of the world’s heart along his songs the way. photo by Chelsea Boyer
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Promising
Proposal
JESSE PYLE
business manager
At high schools all across the country, the sense of Prom season fills the air. Seniors wait anxiously for this time of year in hopes of having the perfect Prom. Dresses, tuxedos, limos; the aspects of prom fall together in a crazy way all at once, but before these topics can be addressed, one big decision remains: finding a date. Signs of Prom activity have been occurring all around the school. In the lunchroom, in the hallways, secret coded messages, students managed to find the most creative ways to find a date to Prom. Teresa Cheung, senior, asked her boyfriend, Gurjit Singh, to Prom through an elaborate scavenger hunt in downtown Houston. In the course of the day, the scavenger hunt led Singh to many memorable places from their relationship. The hunt ended at BJ’s restaurant, where all of Cheung’s friends stood, revealing the words “Will you go to Prom with me?” Singh gladly agreed to the request.
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Seniors step outside box to find dates to Prom
Meredith Van Hooser, senior, was asked in a situation where her peers were there to witness. “I walked in the band hall, went and put my backpack in my locker, and looked around for my boyfriend like I always do. Then I noticed the bright, yellow, six foot poster that read ‘Meredith, will you go to PROM with me? – Luke’ It was written in blue and red paint, hanging across the wall for everyone to see. I of course said ‘yes’ with a huge smile on my face. It was sweet and clever of him to ask me in the place where we first met and where we’ve spent a lot of time together over the past several years,” Van Hooser said. Tony Morrow, senior, sent several secret messages over the course of five days to his oblivious potential Prom date. Inside envelopes, poker chips decoded a message reading “Will you be my Prom date?” Morrow’s hopes were fulfilled when Kelly Harrison, senior, was delighted by the creative gesture and accepted the invitation. Nick Weinheimer, senior, went as far as to set up
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photo courtesy of Michael Johnson
PROMENADE Surprised Alex Bruce, senior, receives his vehicular invitation to Prom from his date Michael Johnson, senior. Johnson “sticky noted” Bruce’s car. a scenario outside of school to ask his date to Prom. “I put a big sign with lights in her back yard when she wasn’t there. When she came home, she saw the note that I left her, which said to follow the flower petals outside and look in her backyard. She saw the sign and called me to say yes.” Weinheimer said. As one of the biggest events in high school, Prom will remain an event taken seriously by students all over the school. These creative ways of asking dates to Prom are becoming more and more innovative each year.
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music, as told by innova
photo by SKye comstock
RHYTHM Evan Klinge, senior, plays Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek” using a synth at this year’s Mr. Falcon competition. kelsey o’briant
T
co-managing editor
echnology has painted its face with the colors of life, from practical necessity to sheer entertainment. Technology’s visage changes day to day, year to year, but now more than ever, the face of technology has taken on and artistic look. When technology met music, it was love at first sight for all involved. In recent days, technology has transformed the face of music, giving birth to new genres and sub genres. With the unbelievable variety of mixers, synthesizers, programs, and the like, the world of music technology can be mind boggling. For those involved, it is a way of life. Andy Bailey, senior, makes a wide variety of experimental music under the name “ABC,” and recognizes the strong importance of technology in his musical life. “I use a combination of Fruity Loops Studio, my Gearbox Toneport recording interface and Audacity which I can use to record anything I want at anytime with my laptop or desktop. [Because of technology] I can come up with an idea or thought of what I want to make and I can do it! Through experimentation, I'm able to diversify my recordings and create something I can feel proud of,” Bailey said. Indeed, there exists a sub culture of musicians, even within the school’s four walls, thriving on tech-
nology to create a sound. Whether the music has ambition behind it or boredom, the raw electricity is still present. “All [of my music] has electronic influences. Overall it depends on the day though. Some days I just want to make a happy pop song that people could tap their toes to. Other days I want to make something mellow and airy; something thought provoking and solemn. When I get excited, for some reason I really want to make rap beats,” Evan Klinge, senior, said. Some artists, despite their use of recording technology and their appreciation for such, have doubts about technology’s saturation in the world of music. “I like [technology’s] convenience, but some aspects of it, such as over-production, detract from the music. The seemingly limitless potential of experimentation can also cause over-indulgence in such facilities, and convoluted music as a result. In the end, inspiration, creativity, and life experiences are the most important weapons in a musician’s arsenal,” Kevin Nguyen, senior, said. In any case, musicians tend to unite under a general concept: feeling and experience. They are what drive these musicians to create in the first place; giving voice to a sound they already feel passionate about. “As a musician, I am influenced by your typical, teenage angst, the occasional feelings of worthlessness and loneliness in my life and the evil that I often see in the world. While on the flip side, I am also influenced by thoughts of hope, the wishful thinking of true love in my future and the touch of the little miracles of my day such as my friends and family. Honestly, as cliche as it may sound, music is my therapy and my escape from the world. When ever something is really bothering me or I feel like I can't quite control my life, I can vent my feelings or thoughts into a song all my own,” Bailey said. But song writing aside, music's relationship with technology knows no bounds. New artists are find-
ing more advanced yet easier ways to get started, creating an unprecedented excitement within amateur and professional artists alike. “My biggest interest in music technology is in the production of the newest recording software. I love how easily the music engineers and program designers are making it for starting musicians (like myself ) to record and create unique music for the newest generation of music lovers. The changes in music making and recording are already present, with musicians like me starting to make their way in the industry and the presence of programs such as GarageBand which come standard with all Apple Macs,” Bailey said. “The presence of the internet, with web sites such as Myspace, Purevolume and even Youtube are making music distribution easier than ever. Do-ityourself technology has made and is continuing to be made every day to help anyone with ambition become an artist. From self-tuning, 'robot guitars' to pitch/key adjusting 'Auto tone' and voice correctors can help the most inexperienced musician catch a glimpse of that rock-star status. It's all very exciting and very surreal at the same time,” Bailey added. With the constant use of technology in making music, a genre of purely electronic music has emerged. While using a basis of classic instruments such as guitars, techno and electronica, all sub-genres included, has taken on a life of its own in the world of music and is gaining popularity at an exponential pace. A common interest in the music is its energy and vitality... its 'danceability'. “I really enjoy the kind of music that, no matter who is in the room or, what kind of music they listen to, the music can make anyone get up and dance. [What sets electronic music apart is] the fast pace sound that can make you move,” Jessica Urton, senior, said. Whether in creation or sound, technology has an undeniably close relationship with music and media. In fact, its prevalence has created a new field of
study a in stud media nology in cult determ involve “Th produc ence a cal [be thinkin side of electric Tra lightly, band, workin to both derstan ogy an Tec formed with n of soci the wo betwee the ar cians alike h years. techno nance as evin startlin While of mu never o sion th today.
“ Do-it-yourself technology has made and is continuing to be made every day to help anyone w
]]]
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and careers. Lily Tran, senior, is one interested dying electrical engineering and comparative studies at Massachusetts Institute of Techy, which translates into the tracking of media ture, both in the past and today. Tran has not mined her exact plan of action, but plans to be ed with music in her professional future. There's a part of me that would love to be in ction, but a lot of people already have experiat my age, so [for me] production is impractiecause] I don't have much experience. I was ng probably steering toward the engineering f music technology, so basically building, using cal engineering to apply to music,” Tran said. an is not taking her future in music technology y, though. She is currently a drum major in the and has done an in-depth internship at Rice ng with robots. Tran hopes that her dedication h fields will serve her well in the future of unnding the fusion music/media with technolnd culture. chnology has d a relationship nearly every aspect iety, but never has orld seen a bond en technology and rts the way musiand music lovers have in the recent In the future, ology’s predomiwill only increase, nced by its already ng progression. e the tech aspect usic thrives, it will overcome the pashat defines music
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photo by kelsey o’briant
CONNECTION A few members of New Era Entertainment, a collaborative rap group, share their signature handshake after rehearsal. (Below) DJ kelsey o’briant Wilson, freshco-managing editor man, records his hey gather in the crowded bedroom, lovcontribution to ingly dubbed ‘the studio,’ where recorda New Era Ent. ing and musical equipment lays scattered about. As they pile in, one by one, the boys of “New song.
NEW ERA OF SOUND
T
”
with ambition to become an artist. -Andy Bailey
Era Entertainment” exchange playful insults and their signature handshake, preparing to make music, but mostly to enjoy themselves. New Era Entertainment, an eclectic group of rappers, started as any musical endeavor does: a group of friends growing up together and discovering their own talents along the way. Through their closeness, New Era has built chemistry over the years that has brought their sound together in a surprisingly professional and passionate way. “We get our inspiration from each other. We go to each other’s houses to work on stuff everyday, constantly. We started at a young age because we grew up together,” DJ Wilson, freshman, said. Much of their music is based on their lives and observations, drawing from what they see and know to create a unique sound. “I talk about fly stuff, like what I see and what I wear, but on the other side, what inspires me is life. I like to talk about what I go through and I like to let everybody hear my story,” Eric Hartfield, senior, said. The term fly is heard frequently when the group talks about their style and their general image. “Your look all depends on how you rap. ‘Fly’ is colorful clothes and shoes. Basically, it’s standing out from the crowd but not too much,” Hartfield said.
Image aside, the music is what really matters to New Era. As Felix Garcia, junior, known as “Prospector G,” starts a recorded, homemade beat on the computer, the group jumps into action, each member throwing out their unique flow as the beat progresses. Their freestyle takes a professional tone, showing off their innate cleverness and their devotion to their art. Each person contributes a new side of rap to the group, complimentarily fusing their strong suits together. One concept they do agree on is their purpose, and what they want to avoid in their art. “The music today is going out. People aren’t taking rap seriously. They’re making dance songs like ‘Crank Dat Soulja Boy.’ That’s not real music…that’s a type or style of music but that’s not something you get street credit from. It’s more party music. ‘Dance! Do this, do that!’ It’s just catchy,” Wilson said. The group is not opposed to creating ‘danceable’ music, but they refuse to fall into a trend that many main-stream artists have adopted by producing a generic sound. On their first mixtape, Collision Volume One, released less than a month ago, they implement this exact philosophy. “Track 6 is a song called Jump. It’s party music and we believe that people will listen to it and like it, but it’s something we still get street credit from,” Derrius Wilson, junior, said. Their music can be found scattered across Myspace, with different songs on different member’s individual pages. Despite each of their eccentricities, their musical fusion demands attention and appreciation as a group creating one sound out of many.
complete member list: DJ Wilson, Derrius Wilson, Eric Hartfield, Derrick Hartfield, Felix Garcia, Nick Lang
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Picnic ON A Sunday Study group merges weekend homework with recreation
GLORIA LERMA
photo editor One park, three hours, plenty of water, potatoes chips, and one jar of spinach-onion dip, all scattered across the table along with textbooks and backpacks. Four dark haired boys, two sitting on the picnic table with English books open converse. Two boys playfully toss a volleyball to each other. Three girls sit on the same picnic table as the two boys wanting to complete Scholastic Adventures calculus homework. These are all the Reading their books Timmy Ly, Jin components for a picture perfect moCho, and Chan Pham, seniors, relax in ment for a few high school students, the beauty of the sunlight. who found a way to balance all the elephoto by JASPER GATES ments of their senior year. Madeline Vu, Debbie Pham, Teresa Chueng, Andy Li, Tom Li, Fabian Garavito, and Timmy Ly, seniors, created a picnic study group, a new approach of understanding homework with the help of peers. “We got work done and then we played volleyball. It was just a group of friends doing work and having fun on a nice day,” Tom Li said. The picnic study provides a differ-
ent approach to studying and spending time with friends, playing sports, and reaching a different level of understanding far beyond the literal text of book. Analyzing, peer editing, annotating, and group discussions where students are pushed to defend their view points are components of what English teachers are looking from their students, especially Marte Parham. “My focus is to get students to analyze for more than what is written. When you have a discourse with someone else you are rising to another level of study,” Parham said. From the time the group of students started to meet periodically at Winchester Trail Park on Sundays to study for their rigorous classes they have seen improvements on their grades and in class participation; all while spending time with their friends and playing sports. “I would definitely encourage other people to do it, because it helps us out educationally and physically,” Timmy Ly said.
feature
13
PEREGRINE
photo by Deby Thorp
the
issue five
Death Toll for Military Recruiters 10 Steps to
Recruitment
-Step One
Learn about the military.
-Step Two Decide if you are ready.
-Step Three
Choose your military branch.
-Step Four Meet with a recruiter.
-Step Five Ace the ASVAB.
-Step Six Get your dream job.
-Step Seven
Complete the medical check.
-Step Eight
Swear into the service.
-Step Nine
Prepare for boot camp.
-Step Ten
Ship out for boot camp.
Army reacts to record high suicide rate DEBY THORP
sports editor Mourners crowded around a grave site as a 32-year old Army Captain, and Iraq veteran, was lowered into the ground after shooting himself in the head. Two years later on March 6, 2007 Sgt. Nils “Aron” Andersen, a two-tour Iraq veteran, shot himself in the head in a Houston downtown parking garage and quickly after Cassy Ann Walton, his wife of two days, followed him. Tragedy struck again when Staff Sgt. Larry G. Flores Jr. committed suicide after telling his friends and colleagues that his battalion’s command sergeant major had publicly humiliated him and forced him to admit that he was a failure and that he only wanted to quit, reported The Houston Chronicle. The fourth recruiter to commit suicide in Houston was Sgt. 1st Class Patrick G. Henderson when he hung himself behind his shed. All of these deaths are related because all of them were Army recruiters who had been stationed at various Houston recruiting centers before committing suicide. In fact, since January 2005, the previous suicide rate among army recruiters, out of an estimated 1,000 recruiters nationwide has risen 75 percent. Known causes of the rise are poor leadership practice, bad morale, and thrusting Iraq and Afghanistan veterans into recruiter positions without a full psychological analysis. Nationwide 17 recruiters have been confirmed for committing suicide and eight of them have been assigned to Houston, Texas. Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn ordered an investigation into the problem. The investigation will be sent to a special committee in the Senate for handling military affairs which is headed by Senator Carl Levin, Michigan (democrat) and the senior member is Senator John McCain Arizona (republican). “The situation has been investigated and will be continued to be observed. Sen. Cornyn believes that it can be
taken care of before any more senseless deaths occur,” an aide to Sen. Cornyn said. The Army suicide rate has reached catastrophic proportions. For the first time since the Vietnam War, the suicide rate for the Army recruiters might exceed that of the general U.S. population’s rate of suicide. The problem reached the point that Secretary of the Army Pete Geren ordered a one-day stand-down on February 13, 2009 of all Army recruiting across the nation. Such measures have rarely been implemented except in the events of national tragedy. Instead of recruiting the day was spent emphasizing leadership training, suicide prevention and recruiter welfare. “I was supposed to go to a local high school that day but instead all of us were at the battalion headquarters. It was a somber day and I am happy that HQ is starting to look into this,” Staff Sgt. Aaron Richards, army recruiter for northwest Houston, said. For many students the rapid decline of the recruiters is concerning. When a student begins the process of induction into a military branch, it is very personal and bonds are formed between recruit and recruiter. How a recruiter acts and how they are treated is a recruit’s first glimpse into a military world, often helping the student to decide between branches or even if the recruit would want to enlist. “Why would I want to join a branch that didn’t even take care of its own recruiters? I would be concerned about whether they could help me in that situation or if I would end up like the others and feeling that suicide is my only answer,” Christina Uschak, senior, said. The situation is continued under review and since Feb. 13 there has not been another confirmed suicide in Houston. The deaths of Sgt. Andersen and his wife, and Staff Sgt. Flores, as well as the others have spurred the policy change in the military and the measures to keep such tragedies from happening again.
“I was supposed to go to a local high school that day but instead all of us were at the battalion headquarters.”
the
14
sports
april ‘09
PEREGRINE
STATE BOUND. Prior
to the championship meet Ian Thompson, Tim Navarro, Collin Courtright, Billy Schoelman, Ryan Allen, and Max Lewis relax on their way to the University of Texas Natatorium in Austin.
photo by Carmen Brown
VICTORY SMILE After completing his event Billy Schoelman, senior,
StateSuccess
starts his exit from the pool at the Cy-Falls meet.
photo courtesy of KURT SCHOELMAN
Varsity swimmers take their place with champions
ANNIE kELLUM
staff writer They wake up at 5 o’clock in the morning, walk out into the freezing winter air, and then dive into an even colder pool of water every day. For senior varsity swimmers Max Lewis, Tim Navarro, Billy Schoelman, Ryan Allan, and Ian Thompson and sophomore Collin Courtright, this is their life. “It’s a sport that allows me to just get in the water, think about stuff, and cool down every day. And at the same time I’m staying in shape and hanging out with the other swimmers,” Thompson said. The boys’ dedication to the sport did not go without its rewards. Their commitment, hard work, and talent qualified each of them for state after winning third place in district with a time of 1:36.98 for the 200 medley relay. “In order to make state, our relay time had to be in the top 16 times throughout all of Texas
at the district meet,” Schoelman said. Once they made their spot in state, it was time to head to the University of Texas Natatorium in Austin where they became the ninth fastest relay team in the state of Texas. “When I got my gold medal placed around my neck, it was a huge breath of fresh air. Just making state was an honor because this was definitely the fastest and toughest year for high school swimming in Texas,” Lewis said. For these five boys, swimming has become more than merely a sport. It is a passion and a talent. “I am so passionate about swimming. It’s always been something I have been good at without even having to try hard. I can go to practice and do absolutely nothing and still compete with swimmers at the top of the field,” Navarro said.
Although the talent these boys have is obvious, their accomplishments did not come without work. They pushed not only their bodies, but also their minds to the limit at times. “I worked pretty hard, waking up early every day and going to bed late is hard. After morning practices, we are physically tired and then after school we’re mentally tired, then we have afternoon practice, so we got pretty irritable,” Lewis said. Together, these boys led their high school to the state meet. These five swimmers are driven and intense about their sport, and each of them felt honored and excited to qualify and compete in state.
photo by Carmen Brown
MAKING A SPLASH Collin Courtright, sophomore, takes a warm up lap during the Cy-Falls meet.
photo by Carmen Brown
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR Ryan Allen, senior, takes a breather in the pool before his swimming event.
FLASHING BY Steven Ellis, junior, runs to first base while competing against Cy-Ridge High School. The diagram below illustrates Ellis’ elbow before his injury.
15
PEREGRINE
the
issue five
sports
DEADARMWALKING
Former pitcher overcomes injury
KATHY ROMERO staff writer
photo by CHELSEA BOYER
Steven Ellis, junior and varsity baseball player, differs from the rest of the team. His once torn ligament located on his right arm separates him specifically from the others. His tendon problem started happening his eighth grade year while he was practicing with friends. “I was hitting the ball when my arm popped and slightly tore it,” Ellis said. This caused him to sit out for six months with the addition of wearing a brace. His slightly torn tendon did not become a problem until summer of 2008. “I was pitching when I felt my arm pop again! But this time it swelled up real big,” Ellis said. When he went to the doctor to find out what actually happened to him he found out that around his
bone spur he tore his ligament. Ellis had the option to get surgery. If he decided not to get the surgery he would have to suffer pain when playing any type of sport. Without any thought he had the surgery. “They had to cut my elbow, go in and take out what was torn; drill through the bone out to the side then shaved the bone spur and separated all the nerves and replaced the torn tendon with a dead man’s ligament,” Ellis said. His surgery had him sleeping on the couch but only on the couch because he wore a sling and a brace. It took three months for Ellis’ arms to recover. “I’m not yet fully capable of playing. It’ll take about a year to be back to normal,” Ellis said. He had hoped that baseball would have taken him to college. His accident was not a bad enough barrier for him to not overcome it so he is willing to keep trying and show every one that nothing can stop him. He is very confident that when he makes his comeback as a pitcher he will come back as a stronger and better athlete.
PEREGRINE
the
16
reflections
Rules & Regulations
april ‘09
Thoughts on unnecessary red tape
TIM MARDIS staff writer
“Rules are made to be followed.” – “Rules are made to be broken.” While the latter is more generally swept aside on grounds of insanity, the former is equally as insufficient. Even if rules are made to be followed, it remains to be answered why one ought to follow a rule. This purpose lies only in the usefulness of the rule itself, the universal behind the rule aiming to be advanced. For instance, drunk-driving laws prevent deaths, curfews encourage well-rested youth, and cologne protects the public from one’s “stink of the day.” Unfortunately, over time these universals wither away, and the justifications for rules become tautological, grounded in themselves (“Rules are good because they are rules”). However, this deduction de-
In a
Bar
KELSEY O’BRIANT managing editor
mands the absolute enforcement of a rule, regardless of whether the universal (which posits the need for a rule in the first place) itself has been violated, but this logic is the most pressing threat to order itself, allowing authorities to disregard these universals. Last semester at Cypress Ridge High School, a student was subjected to this bureaucratic abuse when he parked his car on campus with several items of alcohol (which had been purchased by competitors at the golf course which employs him) in the his car. As the police swept the lot that day with drugsniffing dogs, the items were promptly detected, and the administration sent the student to ALC for the remainder of the semester. The student had a clean record, good grades, and the items were only just a few of the many articles of trash which he tossed in his car after cleaning up the golf course. (Ironically enough, he failed to notice it because he was rushing to get home to finish a project). A student’s responsible act was interpreted as grounds for severe punishment.
The male ideal is complex and multifaceted, symbolized by a wide variety of mediums and taking many different forms. There is no model of the male ideal, at least not one that can encompass every aspect of it. However, the female ideal can be found in a children’s toy. Whether one views the perfect woman as successful and ambitious or gorgeous and bubbly, the Barbie doll has filled the role of “woman” in totality. On March 1, 2009, Barbie turned 50. While she certainly does not show it, what with her platinum blonde, flowing locks and a waistline most women cannot even achieve with surgery, Barbie has been going strong since 1959. This is not to say, however, that Barbie doll has not kept up with the times. Barbie is always changing, or at
world e bi
least adding on to, her already versatile personality. She has held countless careers, taken various vacations to every corner of the world (and galaxy), and has lived in every form of shelter imaginable. Barbie seems to have accomplished the impossible in 50 years as a woman in America. Some may argue that because of her physique, Barbie is a poor role model for young children. They argue that her bottomless wardrobe and perfect veneer project the wrong image, convincing children that a woman must be beautiful to be accepted and loved. I, on the oth- e r hand, believe very differently. At this point in time, the makers of Barbie have done an impeccable job of allowing Barbie to fill very admirable roles as a member of society. After all, she started as a fashion model doll, and
This example is reflective of the way nearly all public schools perceive rules. Jersey Village administration even resorted to the ominous announcement, “Rules are rules.” The idea is no longer to serve a purpose, such as keeping students sober – the idea is to serve a purpose in a specific manner, such as punishing anyone who carries even a trace of alcohol onto campus, regardless of whether they had anything to do with its consumption. The consequence is drastic and inexcusable: Students become judged according to how well they conform to the “letter of the law” rather than the values of their character. Taken in this sense, the insensibility of ruleworship becomes quite clear: students can ace tests, yet fail classes – behave well, but face severe punishments – get good grades, but receive citations. Molds are created for students to fall into in order to be successful, but many students are most successful outside of these prescriptions, and unfortunately those students have to take precarious steps, for the system has left plenty of cracks for them to fall through.
Memories shared of a cherished toy
look how she has progressed. She is an astronaut, a doctor, a mother, an Olympian, a soldier, a presidential candidate and a myriad of other roles. We can’t begin to expect as much from women like Kate Moss, a fellow fashion model. I tend to believe that Barbie instills in girls a notion that it is entirely possible to fill the role of her choice, and not only that, but she can mix and match them like outfits. Also, Barbie is represented by a variety of cultures and races, and has made over 60 friends over the years, each represented by a different background. Barbie may be beautiful, but she sure has the personality to back it all up. Barbie is not setting a standard or a requirement. Of all of the talking Barbies, none have suggested that girls
follow their exact lead and try to be everything and everyone at once, while also looking flawless. If nothing else, Barbie has supported free thinking and dream following all the years of her existence. Our human vanity suggests that we denounce Barbie for petty reasons, but I feel there is much to be learned from this super-woman. Every year, and sometimes every day, Barbie is breaking down barriers society sets for her. Sure, she has never donned a pair of plus sized jeans or had a terrible hair cut, but she has taken risks in her career and her social life that are not always precedented. So on this 50th birthday, I choose to celebrate Barbie’s life, not lament it. I thank Barbie for being a creative outlet for me and not protesting when I dare to swim against the current. Barbie, while she may not be able to talk or think on her own, has unmistakably changed the lives of girls across America, and I am no exception.
The Sex Talk
PEREGRINE
the
issue five
reflections
17
Sophomore expresses frustration with abstinence program Mikela Melakis
staff writer
Some people may remember the song ‘On the Hotline’ by Pretty Ricky for its catchy tune or for its grind-ability. I however appreciate it for its simple lyrics, “Let’s talk about sex baby. Let’s talk about you and me”. Although the context has a slightly different meaning in the song these lyrics bring up a question I have for the school districts in Texas. Why do you avoid the topic of sex by promoting abstinence only education? When I hear the topic of “abstinence only” I can not help but find myself rolling my eyes. Not only has a large percent of the school already “tested the mattress” (a term my mom uses when referring to intercourse) but the pregnancy rate in Texas has increased even with the program in place. The irony is almost unbearable because the state of Texas has spent more than 18 million dollars in the year 2007 alone, more than any other state in the country, on a sex education program that proves to be ineffective. The world is changing and the people in it are evolving. Four score and generations ago, it use to be considered scandalous for
a girl’s dress to show her ankles and now students walk around the hallways baring all (even the unpleasant) in tube tops and saggy pants. My school days are much different than my parents and grandparents. My mom never even heard of pregnant girls in high school. Last year there were at least 50 babies’ mommas walking the halls of the school. It blows my mind that the school districts can see such large numbers like this and not wonder why it came to be. They believe that talking in-depth about intercourse and contraceptives encourages kids to have sex. In reality students need teachers to correctly inform them about sex, STD’s, and other prevention methods. A commander does not send a man into a war and say “just do not get shot and you will be alright”. One needs to know what happens if they do get shot and all the ways they can dodge the bullet. Instead of being educated students are being shamed and stereotyped into believing that if they are not abstinent they are dirty, or bad people. Students are being misled with exaggerated facts on condom failure and other contraceptives. WAIT training, one of the sources used in the abstinence program in 56 districts tells kids “condoms at best provide a 50% reduction in the transmission of syphilis, gonorrhea, and Chlamydia.” Not only is
this wrong (they provide a larger reduction), but with diseases like AIDS on the rise I will not stand by and let a faulty program jeopardize our youth’s health just to scare them out of having intercourse. Besides wrong information, there are many other flaws in the abstinence only education program and it really is a big issue. I am not saying that abstinence is bad but ignorance is. We can still suggest abstinence but we should promote a comprehensive sex education that accepts that students do have sex and informs them on how to really be safe. If I am not afraid to talk about sex, school districts should not be either.
Taking the Stage
Aspiring actor embarks on his first lead role
Te n s i o n rises as the lights dim in the Jersey Village Theater. Whispers and murmurs scatter throughout the audience as they anxiously await the start of the play. Backstage, a different mood fills the air as actors rush to their starting places and stage managers make last minute technical preparations. As I wait nervously behind the curtain, millions of thoughts dart through my mind. “Is my costume okay? Do I have all of my props? Do I remember my first line?” The smell of hair spray and sweat fill my nostrils and my hands begin to shake. I fiddle with the golden tassels on my costume coat. The low lights cast a faint silhouette across the set. The entire stage has an eerie silence to it. Suddenly, without staff writer
JESSE PYLE
warning, the curtains begin to open and the time for my entrance has come. My defining moment as an actor has arrived. This play consumed my life. For four months, I contributed every ounce of effort in my body to this production. Memorizing 300 lines, attending every late rehearsal, all I had worked for boiled down to just one moment; my first entrance on opening night. Accepting the lead role of a play remained a challenge that I had never faced. But when I successfully acquired the role of Mozart in the play, Amadeus, I knew that this role would define me as an actor. I will never forget those late nights of memorizing my lines, my eyes bloodshot from staring at the endless pages of my script. From the beginning, everyone doubted me. Nobody thought that I deserved this role, simply because I have never acted as a lead character in my life. Determined to prove them all wrong, I strived
to play the best Mozart in the world. In order to portray the character Mozart, I had to become Mozart. I had to become a musical genius with the mind-set of a giggling child. I did not just have to memorize my lines; I had to claim them as my own. In the weeks leading up to opening night, I prayed the production would work out smoothly. Luckily, all of my hard work paid off. As the curtains opened on opening night, I felt more ready for this play than ever before. I positioned myself behind the opened curtain, to where the audience had no sight of me. The introduction music started to play, and I prepared for my big entrance. “This is it.” I whispered to myself. “It’s my time to shine.” Then, a surge of pride and self confidence rushed through my body as I took my first step toward the open stage. At that moment, as I walked out into the bright stage lights, I became a true actor.
PEREGRINE
Stepping Up
april ‘09
the
18
reflections
TOMS Shoes provide fashionable charity
the Game KELLY HARRISON
staff writer
The shoes may not be cute, but they fight for a cause. As one walks down the halls of the school, or the streets of this city, and spot someone in the tell-tale canvas bottomed shoes, and know. One pair of TOMS shoes has just been donated to a child in need around the world. The idea is genius in its simplicity. For every pair of TOMS shoes purchased, the company donates one pair to struggling children in the poverty stricken corners of the globe. The TOMS family sums up their philosophy in three simple words: One for One. Beginning in 2006, TOMS is the brain child of Blake Mycoskie. After witnessing extreme poverty and sick-
ness on a trip to Argentina, Mycoskie sought a way to help. Realizing the under utilization of the region’s alpargata industry, Mycoskie brought his business to fruition in only a handful of months. According to the TOMS web site, TOMS sold more than 10,000 shoes in the first year of business. In order to bring the donated shoes to Argentina, Mycoskie orchestrated the Shoe Drop- a week long trip to various locations designed to bring life changing shoes to the needy. The first TOMS shoe drop occurred in Argentina, the location which first inspired the project. In a time filled with materialism and the celebrity culture, TOMS has overcome a hurdle once considered impossible: making social consciousness “cool”. By hosting hip mixers designed to bring about awareness, TOMS shoes are now a staple of the hipster crowd. Beyond the fashion facet, TOMS go beyond providing something to walk
SKYE COMSTOCK
ad designer
The blue light of my computer lights up my face as I blankly stare at it, racking my brain for one sentence to write. For two hours I sat and stared in silence, until my eyes were bloodshot and my head was spinning. I was waiting for the words to come and fill in the blank page before me. My troubles were derived from terrible and dreaded scholarship essays. Every application I have ever filled out makes me write some sort of epic sob story about an adversity I have overcome. Everyone says write on a topic that will pull at a heartstring or write on a topic that will make them cry. Personally, I am tired of it. I am done with Sally Sob Stories. My most recent melodramatic narrative request
on. I n southern Ethiopia, for example, hookworm and diseases abound, passed mainly from person to person through cuts in children’s feet. When TOMS first came to my attention, I figured it was just another charity. Not that a charity can ever be bad, but most tend to fit the mold. After researching more about TOMS, I came to realize the company has actually forged a whole new path. Every time I browse TOMS online store, place an order, or spy someone walking by wearing TOMS, I smile to myself, and think of the child halfway across the world wearing the shoes.
• TOMS Shoes products also come in boots, shirts, hoodies. • Sizes range from infant to adult. • One can volunteer for a shoe drop, an event in which TOMS Shoes distributes shoes to countries that need them most.
One learns the truth is better than sugar-coated fabrication
came in an application for the Hispanic Journalist Scholarship. I found that I had not one word to say after just giving my life story in the four long paragraphs above. Unable to grasp an original idea from my head I enlisted the help of my mother and father. There were the usual melancholies suggested which consisted of “Tell them how shy you were,” “How outcast-ish you were,” or “Write about your sister,” “Write how you deal with her multiple sclerosis.” The dead horses I have been beating since I was 10. The entire time all I could think of was, “I am happy! Is that such a crime in essay writing?” After much deliberation I wrote this: Scholarships and college applications always want the applicant to have overcome adversity or difficult situations. Yes, I was the shy, odd kid that sat in the back, now I am not. My sister has multiple sclerosis, I do not. One just took time and persistence to overcome. The other, as of now, time nor persistence can overcome. However I will always want to be there to sup-
port her through this disease that has no cure. I love my sister and my entire family. We have always been there for each other, which has buffered me from much of life’s adversity other than the mean people in school. Life will be what it will be and I will meet whatever life throws at me head on, with the support of my family and friends (and a college education.) I wrote this in all honesty, a quality in writing that I and many others have forgotten how to do. Spending years on how to perfect the art of Sally Sob Story writing, we have gained the uncanny ability to make judges and teachers cry. Somehow, along the way, we lost the capability of telling the truth; of writing an honest and sincere essay. Being so worried about passing the test and making the grade, we locked our true story away. We get so caught up in the melodramatic dramas and over exaggerated sob stories we weave, that we are completely blinded by the wonder and magnificence of our own true stories. In all honesty the truth is way more interesting.
PEREGRINE Peregrine Staff
the
issue five
Frustration occurs when useless regulation receives greater attention than education
say that they have felt embarrassment when asking the college they hope to someday attend to seal, sign, date and verify their visit. At the High School of Performing and Visual Arts in HISD, many students take a similar day to audition for prestigious fine arts programs at colleges and universities. They, however, are not required verify visits because HSPVA wants a student’s entire focus to be on the audition and not his or her return to the high school campus. This philosophy dismisses bureaucracy and is in total favor of the student’s education even if it is after high school. If a dishonest student here at school chooses to skip instead of attending a college, that choice will eventually catch up with him or her instead of an honest student who does visit a college and only gets caught up in the red tape that prevents many from taking college day at all. A rule for the sake of rules seems to be a constant here at school. Many times students
“
I was trying to turn my project in before 7:15am, but was told to go back, so I had to carry it around all day in fear of it getting ruined.
”
YAHYA KHAN 11th
students speak out
“
The college day application process is too lengthy. You waste too much time of your college day trying to find someone to get you a letterhead.
”
2008-2009
have been shocked when they were required to bring in a proof of death after attending a family funeral, in the form of a program, in order to explain an absence. There is a negative lesson learned by this requirement; it certainly teaches a lack of compassion for someone who may be in mourning. It is frustrating experiences like these that stick with a student and leave a smudge on a high school’s great attention to bureaucracy. Education goes past learning equations and memorizing vocabulary. When a student graduates they should be able to appreciate the value of education and take away some life experience. Jersey Village should strive to eliminate rules for the sake of rules, take the bureaucracy out of education, and cut back some of that restricting red tape.
17 Y
ays
4N
ays
PEREGRINE position
the
Red Tape
A waiter never seeks a birth certificate when a guest claims it is their birthday; they simply bring them free desert. When it is closing time, stores do not lock the doors on their customers, but instead give them time to make purchases and leave. Even CFISD teachers are not required to verify when they take a personal day. Simple trust and consideration in man is common among many. However, here at school it seems learning is set aside to deal with the bureaucracy that’s purpose is miniscule compared to the value of an education. Second semester juniors and seniors are given the privilege of an excused absence that stands as a College Day. This day allows college bound students to visit the campus of their choice and attend fairs, speak with admissions, audition for schools, or simply visit dormitories. Of course students are required to prove their visit, but the extensive requirements to remove the absence become inadequate and unnecessary. Some will even
JENNIFER SCHUSTER 12th
Cutting the
REBECCA ORTIZ 10th
19
editorial
“
I used my college day for my music audition. My focus was on the audition, not getting my [college form] signed. I realized on the plane ride home I forgot to get the paper signed.
”
editor-in-chief JACQUI BONTKE managing editors KELSEY O’BRIANT LAURA HEBERT photo editor GLORIA LERMA news editor MANDY HOGAN sports editor DEBY THORP advertising designer SKYE COMSTOCK
business manager JESSE PYLE delivery manager JASPER GATES contributing artist EMILY JOHNSON staff
SHANNON BEEHNER, ERIN CUMING, ANTHONY ESPINOSA,
STEPHANIE GALLAGHER, KELLY HARRISON, ARMANDO HUERECA, ANNIE KELLUM, SAM KELLY, TIM MARDIS, MIKELA MELAKIS, MUMTA MITTAL, AND KATHY ROMERO
adviser MARGIE COMSTOCK principal RALPH FUNK
Jersey Village High School Student Publications’ Newspaper Policy The Peregrine is the official student publication of Jersey Village High School and is published by the Advanced Journalism Newspaper class at Jersey Village High School, 7600 Solomon, Houston, Texas 77040 (713-8963400). It is distributed free to the student body. Subscriptions can be bought for $15, and copies of the paper will be mailed to your residence. Unsigned editorials represent a majority agreement of the staff. The Peregrine is read in advance of publication by the JVHS administration. Advertising is sold by the 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and full page. The staff has the right to reject, edit, or cancel any advertisement at any time. The advertising policy is stated on the advertising contract. Advertising is not an endorsement from the staff, the adviser, the administration, or the Cypress Fairbanks Board of Trustees. The Peregrine is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference, Quill and Scroll, and the National Scholastic Press Association. The Peregrine is printed by Texas Student Media in Austin, TX. The opinion of readers is held in high regard. Please send all feedback or questions to our address or room 1712. Letters to the editor need to be limited to 150 words. We reserve the right to edit for spelling and grammar. Letters must be signed.
1. Despite the strong gusts of wind experienced by Jillian Hernandez,
junior, and ECP student Amari Jackson, they were able to enjoy their ECP Umbrella Parade. “The most memorable thing was Amari asking me if he could have my umbrella. It was adorable,” Hernandez said. 2. Flaunting their umbrellas Jennifer Wilson, senior, and ECP Tigers walked around the school campus. “I loved Umbrella Day because the babies were really excited to walk in big school,” Wilson said. 3. Not even the extreme wind could stop the traveling duo Jessica Gambhir, senior, and ECP Tiger from enjoying Umbrella Day. “I had a great experience and I would love for others to join ECP next year,” Gambhir said. 4. Weather week not only allowed ECP students to show off their umbrellas, but they also learned some math skills from Colleen Dayton, junior. 5. As part of the ECP experience Katelyn McCreary, senior, assisted an ECP Bear in the Umbrella Parade.
1.
photos by GLORIA LERMA
april showers
ECP students enjoy a walk along side their teachers
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