Peregrine The
Jersey Village High School 7600 Solomon Houston, Tx 77040 Issue 1 - November ‘11
Clubs for Causes; Organizations work to raise money, awareness pages
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Issue 2 - November‘11
Before G4
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Book of rhymes from brother begins career for local rapper
l by LeandraLEE, senior editor As he walks into the small, hot recording booth, he anxiously waits for the recording light to turn on, and then begins his rap. He first starts out his song with a slow steady pace, then continues on into a fast paced rap. For five years Wedell Mendez senior, has been writing and producing his own rap songs. Mendez was first introduced to writing and rapping by his older brother Joe. He then became motivated to write music, when Joe gave him his first book of rhymes. From then on he wanted to do all the rapping on his own. While he became more and more dedicated to his raps, his other older brother Essay Pelon decided he wanted to be involved, and decided to be his full time manager. “There’s much to be said about my brother’s raps whether you listen to the lyrics or just get lost in the music, the rhythm will take you to another world. Everyone can hear the pain in voice and his mixed emotions through his lyrics, this is what he loves,” Pelon said. Mendez first began writing when he was 11 years old, but he did not start recording until the ninth grade. Through his writings, he felt he could escape himself. Mendez’s raps about his life experiences, life situations, and when life brings him joy or pain. “I get my inspirations from various things, depending on the song and my situations. But my inspiration will determine the flow of the song. My family can be an inspiration, my friends, my experi-
ences, and even my relationships, good or bad,” Mendez said. A year ago Pelon created a record label called “Lend Me Yo Ear.” Mendez has been working with that label ever since. Mendez is also known as “G4” to his fans. His largest fan groups are his friends in school, and also his family. When Mendez comes out with a new CD, he gives them to his friends around school to advertise, and promote himself. Last year, Mendez made G4 shirts and gave them to his friends all over Houston “The thing I like most about his music is that it’s relaxing and helps me escape from the chaotic world, when I am stressed. He also has other types of songs that gets me pumped and excited,” Carmen Roman, senior, said. Mendez raps as a solo artist, and occasionally does collaborations with other rappers. Mendez feels that in collaborations he gives it his all. When Mendez does collaborations, he works with Anjo Showd Up, The Guvna, Mississippi Sno, and Veneno. “We’ve recorded three songs together. I like that Wedell represents where he is from to the fullest and shows a lot of respect to others,” Angel Moreno, (Anjo Showd Up), said. Mendez said he plans on going into the big music industry, and hopes to become a famous rapper. “I do hope music can take me far, but it’s up to me to choose how far I want to go with it,” Mendez said.
Rappers all around Each with his own distinct sound various Falcons express their musical talent by writing their music and taking it to the public through rapping.
l Photo by Leandra Lee
l Photo courtesy of DJ Wilson
l Photo by Leandra Lee l Photo By Leandra Lee
Rappers all around Rappers at the high school included upper left Ben Synder, senior; lower left, Trey Hardy, senior; top, DJ Wilson, senior, and left, Arnoldo Garcia, sophomore, who is also known as Dynasty.
l Photo courtesy of Wedell Mendez Leanding His Ear Singing to the beat of his own song Wedell Mendez, senior, prepares to record and finish his song. Many of his songs are taped and recorded on CD’S and given away as a sample of what he has to come.
Mendez shares thoughts l by WedellMENDEZ, guest column contributor “Are we recording? Ok let’s get it!” As the beat drops the inflection of my voice changes based on the type of beat and song that I am recording at the time. Like my homeboy Anjo would say “Music Is Life” and that my friends, is very true. Whether you listen to music 24-7 like me, or just when you want to get away and escape the world when you plug in those head phones to your ears. I truly feel like this world would not be as beautiful as it is without music. I even try to imagine how life would be like with out it. But me I just do not listen to music, I also make it and create it. As my thoughts get spit on a notebook, it later gets heard. I am Wedell Mendez to many, Dell to a few, but G-4 to the music industry. Nowadays many people can record and
put their music all over the net. The internet is a great way to get heard, but even if you put your music out there you must remember that you cannot come weak. You have to go hard. You have to make sure people will not say “this stuff ’s whack” because once they do they will never want to hear of you again. On a hot day in Houston the studio will be extremely hot because every studio I have been in has been hot for some reason. This is what I love to do and I am not going to stop for nobody or nothing. My biggest influence in this rap game has been my older brother, Joe and the South Park Mexican (S.P.M.). They influenced me dramatically because growing up in Houston, back in 2000’s there were not many Hispanic rappers getting heard. I am glad they had an impact in my life because if it was not for them many people would not have heard of G-4.
Issue 2 - November ‘11
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SENIOR Yearbook Portraits
Seniors must take their yearbook senior portrait by December 15 to be included in the senior section of the 2012 yearbook. Senior portraits for the yearbook must be taken by Prestige Portraits, 12946 Willow Chase Drive. Call 281-897-8300 to make an appointment. Questions? Come by room 1720.
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enior Congratulatory Messages
Add a movie or photo story to your yearbook message
QR Codes
1/8 page = $45 1/4 page = $90+ 1/2 page = $170+ full page = $340+ If you would like to add a video or photo
message, the cost is $60.00 added to the 1/4 page, 1/2 page or full page senior message price. The school must reserve the right to review the video for school appropriate content. See example at: http://www.bal4.tv/ sth6jbg8 What is a QR Code? A QR Code is a two-dimensional barcode that can be read by QR readers on smartphones and tablets. Similar to a bar code, the QR code high-contrast symbol contains encoded information, such as links to URLS (will be viewable on the web) or videos, which are revealed when read by a compatible device.
story to your senior message, this year we will be able to add a QR code to your senior message. You will be responsible for producing the video or photo story. We will upload it to the site. The video How long will the codes be active? will be online for at least 30 years. We All codes in the platform will be supwill accept the video through April 30, ported for a period of 30 years. 2012. A parent doesn’t need to have the video ready to purchase a code. Come by 1720 for a flyer wtih In order to add this to your senior
more information.
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Issue 2 - November ‘11
An Experience to be Remembered
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Observation time helps determine profession future l by AmberDAY, staff writer Injured patients burst through the hospital doors as they wait for needed medical assistance. As the doctors and medical assistants aid their injured patients, the Health Science II students Nathan Nguyen and Brethny Bock observe in hopes of one day performing the same practices. Health Science I, the introductory to Health Science II, offers medical terminology and information pertaining to health science. Health Science I and II are classes for people who are interested in a career in the medical or health field. However, Health Science II is not an easy course to get into. “You have to take Health Science I and go through an application process and an interview process. You also have to make good grades. It gets pretty competitive to get in. I have 131 students taking Health Science I and typically we do not take more than 25 students for Health Science II. A lot of people who apply will not get in because there are so many applicants,” Liz Albrecht, Health Science teacher, said. Those students that are accepted into the class are able to gain incite on what goes on inside of a hospital. The students work in different departments and facilities of hospitals as Cypress-Fairbanks Hospital to Kindred Hospital and assist at Emirtes, an assistant living facility. Shadowing hospital staff, the students decide if the medical field is a career they would like to pursue.
“They learn advanced skills related to a wide variety of health careers. They achieve hands-on experience through clinical rotations and career preparation. They rotate through all the different departments like the emergency room, exrays, administration, physical therapy and sports medicine. They get to see a little of everything. It really gives them a lot of experience with getting to see all the areas in health care. If their doing a rotation in a certain area they might discover that they really love that area or that it is not for them,” Albrecht said. All the students are required to wear scrubs during their rotations. Jeans and other casual wear can carry germs and bacteria that could be exposed to already ill patients. Working alongside medical professionals requires the students to look professional. “We wear scrubs for sanitary reasons. You would not want a patient’s blood on your regular clothes. We also wear them for hygienic reasons. You would not want to treat a patient while you have bad hygiene because the patient might think badly about the clinic,” Bock said. Having close contact with patients, Bock, Monisea Sears and Nguyen have been exposed to shocking injuries. The students have seen injuries varying from life treating wounds to mild cuts. Each student leaves the hospital learning something new each day.
lPhoto by Liz Albrecht
All Scrubbed Up Dressed for JVTV’s Celebrate LibDub, Health Science students participate in the music production through their student organization HOSA. “I saw a woman that had a pole stuck in her back,” Sears said. “I saw tubes, lots and lots of tubes. They ran everywhere through the patient’s body their mouths, groins, stomachs. It was tough to be in there for long,” Nguyen said. All the unique experiences have had a positive impact on the students. “Going to the hospitals gives me hands on experience. It also shows me more of what I want to do in different areas,” Sears said. “Shadowing the personnel has opened my eyes to other fields like radiology and nursing. I am grateful to Health Science for giving me this experience,” Nguyen said.
We Got Spirit How ‘Bout You Improved pride invades student body through new organization
l by KiaraBOOKER, staff writer Shaking Pom Poms, bouncing back and forth game time had come. Cheering loud, “Who’s in the house The Falcon in the house” the Spirit Club members gets enthused when a varsity team plays. Their cheeks began to redden as they scream to cheer on the team. Wearing purple and gold paint on their faces the members expressed their spirit and love for the football team. “I am so happy that the school has more spirit than it has since I’ve been here and I am a senior. It makes me feel like a true Fal-
con and happy that I attend Jersey Village,” Kelsi Wiechkoske, senior, said. Sponsor Amy Mitton with assistance from Leslie Wendt, Lisa Beyer, Shannon Thomas, Moniqua Battle, teachers, and members Edy Sosa, president, Celina Nguyen, vice president, Wiechkoske, secretary, Rolando Rocha, Bree Buggs, historian, Simon Tesfalul, and Samantha Eaden, social officers, have contributed ideas and opinions on how to improve school spirit, and to bring students closer as one unified body. “In Spirit Club we have created more
lPhoto by Carmen Resendiz
Spirit Comes Alive As Varsity football begins to play, Spirit Club members give a loud cheer and roar to show their support for the football players.
school spirit. We made dress-up days to get the school pumped up for the games and it really seems to work, “ Wiechkoske said. Spirit Club has become a movement throughout the school. Students are more active in school. The students have a sense of belonging and unity, which improves behavior and grades. The leaders of the Spirit Club have shaped a lot of students into positive young men and women. “Yes, spirit has greatly improved. I think that a lot of factors have positively influenced an increase in our school spirit. Beginning with the freshmen all receiving purple spirit shirts, the lip dub taking place, the faculty stepped up to show more spirit with dress up days and the male teachers dance, and an overwhelming amount of students joined Spirit Club and spread their positive energy around,” Mitton said. In the past years there’s been a lack of school spirit, which caused a lot of students to lack pride in their school. Mitton wanted to change the way students thought about their school, and to bring about change in behavior and students attitudes; so she initiated the Spirit Club. “I noticed a lack of spirit in our school, but I also noticed a lot of students who wanted to make a change and wanted to show pride in our school, so I formed the Spirit Club, “ Mitton said.
Sosa, saw the school spirit lost its grove. She wanted students to be proud of their school; she decided to help make a change. There are themes for the football games and we have a battle with other classes every Friday saying “we got spirit yes we do, we got spirit how about you”, so students could get evolved in school. “Compared to other years at Jersey Village, this year has definitely been the most spirited. So many people have participated and our school feels so united. We came up with themes for students and teachers to participate in. We’ve had War with the Wildcats where we did camo out. We’ve had Ride the wave to Victory and have Hawaiian out, then We’ve going to Outshine the eagles by wearing Neon, and bobcat fight dyes tonight wear tie dye,” Sosa said. School spirit has increased around the entire school. It’s become a major deal with some students; now looking forward to coming to school. Students are thrilled to say they attend jersey village. Spirit at the football games has improved tremendously. The members of the Spirit Club and other students cheer with the cheerleaders, and the drum line comes down to play and cheer along. “For the first time I was able to get drum line to come cheer with us,” Nguyen said.
Issue 2 - November ‘11
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Issue 2 - November ‘11
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Issue 2 - November ‘11
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Keeping Fair Play Petite woman with BIG say controls game field l by SarahCHO, staff writer Players scuttle across the field, fighting for a ball, as an aggressive soccer game goes on. With a whistle in hand, she scrutinizes every movement that the players make. Knowing that even the slightest play could call for a foul, she analyzes the field. As the seconds count down, ending the game, she blows her whistle, indicating that no foul play could escape her. Talice Melendez, senior, has been refereeing for U.S. Soccer affiliated games since the summer of her sophomore year. Recruited and trained by the South Texas Soccer Referees Inc., she referees for colleges. To become a referee, Melendez attended “Entry Level Clinics,” mandatory classroom training sessions, and was awarded with a referee badge. She passed a written examination after completing the course, and is now refereeing professionally. A soccer player since the age of 8, she now mediates girl soccer games at universities. Melendez arbitrates games every Saturday and Sunday. She has refereed for the Uni-
versity of Houston Girls, Lonestar Cy-Fair Girls and Boys, Lonestar Tomball, Houston Community College, and University of Houston downtown. Although she is devoted to her job Melendez perceives bad points and obstacles that obstruct her from being the best referee she can be. “People are really mean,” she said. “They can be very rude, personally because I’m a girl and just in general.” However, Melendez has no problem overcoming obstacles such as these, and believes that refereeing has taught her many beneficial points. “I learned to be patient and focused. I love being in shape and that helps a lot,” she said. “I also learned to take a stand for myself. There’s nothing better than proving people wrong at what they think of me. I’m small, a lady, and young, but I still referee very well and people get surprised.” Alan Vasquez, freshman at Lonestar-Tomball College, feels as if Talice has done an exceptional job as a referee. “I feel it’s amazing my best friend Talice is a referee, because she’s not just pushing herself to things other girls can’t do but also she’s setting a perfect example for every female in this world that a girl can do as much as a guy or even more,” he said. “When she referred my soccer games this season, she
didn’t do just good, she did great. She doesn’t let pressure, intimidation, or screaming get to her and her calls are very accurate.” Lorena Trujillo, Talice’s mother, is proud of her accomplishments and ability to stay strong as a referee. “I feel very satisfied of all her accomplishments and that people recognize the good work and good ethics she has,” Trujillo said. “I’m very proud of the fact that she didn’t let the size and women detour her from her goal, and that sets a great example to anybody, not just young women. She can be looked at and admired for her work.” Overall, she is glad that she has been accepted into the career of refereeing, as she enjoys and benefits from it. “I love being a referee,” Melendez said. “I learned a lot about myself. I learn to be very optimistic Game Face On Determined about situations and I love be- to meet any challenge Talice ing able to prove to people that Melendez, senior, kicks the soccer regardless of my size or me be- ball as part of the school’s playoff ing a girl, I can still be a good team last year. This aided her with referee, like a like a man could her present refereeing. be.”
Army Aspirations
Step by step recruit strives to meet all requirements l by MaritzaFLORES, staff writer Stepping onto the weight scale, her anticipation rises for the final numbers to appear on the scale screen. As Dalia Viveros, senior, awaits her results, her mind travels to the future, where her dreams of joining the United States Army are finally achieved. Viveros snaps back into reality and takes a deep breath before returning her eyes to the scale, where the last requirement to enlist in the U.S. army lies. Viveros met all the criteria to be accepted into the army except one, her weight. With her being a young female at 5’3, she had to weigh less than 145 pounds, but did not. For most people, this would be discouraging news, but this news was far from discouraging to her. This was an opportunity to prove to everyone that she could lose the weight and achieve her goal of becoming a parachute rigger. Parachute riggers are the soldiers that check airdrop equipment and supplies, but not only do they check inventory, but they are also the people that jump out of airplanes and helicopters. “Just to test out my adrenaline and resistance, I’ve been getting on the scary, deadly
rides at the carnival along with watching scary movies. I’m just preparing myself to jump out of helicopters from a bazillion feet in the air,” Viveros said. Viveros admits that the road to losing weight was bumpy, but her motivation to meet her weight requirement, helped her overcome that obstacle. She reminded herself of two main ideas, exercising and eating right. She was placed in the soccer class, which gave her an advantage because she was able to work out on a regular basis. During the work outs, assigned by the coach, she would give 100% effort, in order to get positive results. On the other hand though, she admits that eating a healthy diet was more difficult to stick with. “Thank God I’ve finally achieved my three month goal and dropped all the weight necessary to enlist in the Army. I’m extremely determined and I will not let anything
or anyone hold me back. HOOAH,” Viveros said. Vivero’s interest in the Army grew during her sophomore year, after she researched information and realized that the military was meant for her. She began to gather more information on enlistment, because her plan was to meet all the requirements before the end of her senior year. The main reason why her interest in this career increased was because of multiple benefits that she would get if she joined, such as: money for education, health care and reasonable vacation time. Viveros’ parents are the most encouraging people in her decision to join the military. Not only is Viveros thankful for such a supporting family structure, but her parents also feel
blessed to have such a goal-oriented daughter. “We have gained an incredible amount of respect towards her. We honestly thought she had nothing but boys and make-up stuck in her mind, but we were wrong. She has her future set unlike other kids,” Viveros’ parents said. Her parents admit that they did not exactly believe that she was going to go through with the enlistment, but shortly after, they started to take her seriously. Even though sometimes they fear the safety of their daughter, they are still so very proud to have a daughter that knows what she wants and will do whatever it takes to achieve it. “The less the conversation comes up, the better! She’ll have the best training in the world, but she’s our baby and her safety comes first,” Mrs. Viveros said.
Taking Future Control Dalia Viveros, senior, sets her goals high, as she continues on her journey of joining the Army. Her interest grew during her sophomore year. Upon enlisting, she was told she needed to lose weight, but this was not discouraging news; she worked to achieve permission to enlist, finally meeting all the criteria to fully be allowed to enlist in the army. She anticipates the real challenges and adventure that await in her future of becoming a parachute rigger.
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The Peregrine
A Habitat for CHANGE
by JoeybethGILBERT, Editor-in-cheif Covered in paint, full of generosity, and making a difference, the members of Student Council changed the lives of the underprivileged. This September Student Council participated in the painting of a home for Habitat for Humanity. This experience not only impacted the lives of the people who received
the home, but impacted the students’ outlook on life. “It was a very engaging experience to see the whole process and be able to see the outcome of our work,” Lauren Caton, senior, said. In the day that they spent there, the Student Council members able to complete the painting of an entire home. They were also able to meet the family that would be mov-
ing into the home and work with them on the project. “Seeing the work the people put into the building of their own home help me realize just how privileged I am to have a roof over my head,” Maya Ramy, junior, said. The completion of this project helped a family in need and changed the lives of the students who helped.
Issue 2 - November ‘11
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Team supports cancer cure
by LeandraLEE, senior editor As they finished cutting out all the pink paper volleyballs, they stacked them up and divided them equally among all the team members. They then began walking classroom to classroom and began the explanation of the pink paper volleyballs. The volleyball teams worked together to raise money to help find a cure for cancer. Last year the team displayed volleyballs in honor of various people. The idea to ask for donations with the pink paper volleyballs originated with Carrie Schneider, varsity coach.
Participating in the paper volleyball donations impacted not only the recipients of the donations but also many of the team members. It helped them feel accomplished, and helpful. “It felt really good. I want to find a cure for breast cancer because my grandma was diagnosed with it and she is a survivor of it,” Lauren Greenspoon, sophomore, said. Since the proceeds would be going to a great cause, getting people to donate was not as hard for the players, as they might have thought. “I like helping a cause that I know can possibly affect my future and surprisingly it was not hard to get people to donate. People knowing it was for a good cause helped a lot,” Kaila Overton, sophomore, said. In addition the volleyball team coordinated a team for the Race for the Cure and spearheaded the high school having the largest team school group participate.
Clu fo Cau
Clubs wo money,
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PALS
INVOLVED IN GIVING Student Council members that participated in Habitat for Humanity’s house painting included: 1) Tyler Cook, senior, Briceon Wiley, senior. 2) Maya Ramy, junior. 3) Ashley Goin, sophomore. 4) Amie Tran, junior. 5) Stephanie Valle, sophomore, Maryn Horn, sophomore, Amanda Hua, sophomore, Megan Flores, sophomore. 6) Lauren Caton, senior.
Cupcakes tackle leukemia
by PeytonSMITH, contributing writer A group of students in green shirts with the words “Less Cancer, More Cupcakes” written on them filled the commons as they lugged around boxes and pushed carts filled with iced cupcakes. The PALS students had 1,000 cupcakes to sell, and they began to wonder if they would ever be able to get rid of all of them. Although a hassle to lug around, the students had a purpose that made it worth the struggle, and even resonated more deeply in some hearts. “The PALS sponsor’s best friend had leukemia, which jump started our participation with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. But I soon learned that my mom has leukemia, and that kept me coming back,” Michael Brand, senior, said. With their purpose constantly in the back of their minds, the PALS students began the preparations needed to organize the cupcake sale in order to raise money to help LLS. They decided to team up with the culinary class, which would bake the cupcakes for PALS to sell. Next, the students and their sponsor, Mrs. Leslie Wendt bought shirts to support the “Less Cancer, More Cupcakes” cause, organized the sale, bought the supplies and ingredients, and put up posters around the school to advertise.
“We had many discussions to carry out the plan, but we wanted to help make a difference,” Kasey Zabadal, senior, said. In addition to raising money for the society, PALS participated in the annual Light the Night walk put on by the Leukemia and Lymphoma society for the second year in a row. The event raised money and included a Remembrance Ceremony and a walk throughout The Woodlands. “It was basically an all night party and fund raiser that raised money for Leukemia research,” Brand said. This extreme devotion to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma made the students feel even more proud to be part of such an important class. “Everybody was more excited for the walk because we were selling cupcakes: all the PALS that went had a great time and it got us pumped up for the future community service events,” Carmen Resendiz, senior, said. The PALS enjoyed getting active in support for the cause; they got involved both physically and mentally to support their cause. “I could’ve walked for hours! Light the Night was a small way to show my thankfulness toward our friend’s victory against cancer,” Jamie Meun, junior, said.
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Ryan Garcia, senior “I have high expectations in myself, and I’ll put on a show every time I step on the floor.”
Jonathan Miles, senior “My favorite part of basketball is that it takes my mind off of the troubles in my life.”
Everette Rideaux, senior “We will do good this year because we have had the same team since freshman year.”
Simon Tesfalul, senior “We have played together ever since freshman year to now, as seniors on varsity.”
Everton Morris, senior “We are all coming together as one now that the season is here.”
Chad Breaux, senior “My favorite part of basketball is scoring the ball and winning.”
Tyler Bruns, senior “We are really close, we lookout for one another as if we are brothers.”
Matt Richardson, senior “We are very close this year, we have been together since freshman year.”
Jameel Jordan, senior “We are making strives to come close, and have been on varsity for a year now.” lPhotos by Cameron Korenek
Sports
November ‘11 >>
Seniors rule the court Nine experienced players lead varsity team l by MattDUBOSE, staff writer Coming off a noncompetitive team last year, basketball coach Reggie Childress hopes the nine returning seniors to his varsity team can turn them around. Jonathan Miles, Tyler Bruns, Everette Rideaux, Ryan Garcia, and Jameel Jordan were juniors on the varsity team last year. Matthew Richardson, Everlon Morris, Simon Tesfalul, and Chad Breaux were on the junior varsity team last year. But all nine of them are teaming up this year, their senior year, to become the leaders of the varsity team. With all the experience and chemistry, the Falcons have, playoffs on their minds. The last time the Falcon basketball team made playoffs was 2003, which was Childress’ third year with the Falcons. The Falcons get their leading scorer senior guard Ryan Garcia back. “I have high expectations in myself and I’ll put on a show every time I step on the floor,” Garcia, guard, said. Garcia, having high expectations, puts a lot of pressure on the other Falcons because if one player has a high outlook for himself, the other players need to have high outlook for themselves too. This leads to better playing and a better season. It also leads to great chemistry due to everyone trying their hardest and working together. This team has been together so long that any chemistry now would be a bonus to the success for them in their future. “We have played together since freshman year,” each player stated. With all this experience the team hopes to take the game to a whole new level. Through experience comes talent, with talent comes points, and with points come wins in basketball. “I believe if we work hard we will make history,” Miles, guard, said. Miles has faith in his team and wants to make history this year by going to playoffs, which is what the basketball team needs with an eight year playoff drought. This team is very capable of success. They just need to work hard and work together if they want to reach their destiny. With nine seniors the imaginable is on the horizon. “We are all coming together as one, now that the season is here,” Morris, guard, said. A close team is a good team. The Falcons have had four years to grow close and gain trust in each other. “My favorite part of varsity basketball is when our team wins, because it means that we are flowing on all cylinders,” Tesfalul forward, said. The varsity team won few games last year, so Tesfalul looks to change that with his experience on the court. The falcons have more experience on their varsity team than all of their other teams. If Tesfalul wants a fun season he and his teammates need to win games, to fulfill his favorite part of the game, winning. “The team is really close, but getting much closer,” Rideaux, center, said. Most people think a team can get so close before they start to break apart, but the Falcons are getting closer together. During their four years together the team has a lot of time spent together under their belts. “Everyone is like my brother,” Breaux, guard, said. Bruns also agrees with Breaux when he said they are like family. “We are very close, we lookout for one another as if we are brothers,” Bruns, guard, said.
Breaux and Bruns both see the team as a family. Each and every one of them are brothers to one another. The chemistry that a family setting brings to this team is evident. The closer the team members are to one another the better. Without chemistry with each other a team would not advance in any sport. One can watch any team in any sport and if the members have not been together long they never reach the goal of a championship. The playoffs are the goal of this close team. They have their eyes set on the prize. “I think this year we will finally go to the playoffs because most of us played together since the ninth grade,” Bruns said. All of the Falcons agree with Bruns. Experience, chemistry, and talent will lead them far this year no doubt about that. The Falcons are coached by Reggie Childress, who has taken a Falcon basketball team to the playoffs one time. He is at the helm for his 11th Falcon year. “I hope we have a better season because we didn’t have a competitive season last year,” Childress said. During the previous season the Falcons had a 3-10 district record. This did not satisfy Childress one bit. He looks to coach this team better than he’s coached any other. He want this team to be better than any other team he has ever had. Childress wants to go farther in the playoffs than his last appearance which was the first round. “We are going to be tremendously better. We aren’t going to be very big, but we are very athletic,” Childress said. The Falcons have always had a short team, but the athletic part is new, and really needed. The Falcons have one of the best teams they have had in a long time. Childress looks to coach the Falcons to the playoffs for only his second time in his coaching career at this high school. With the team he has in these nine seniors, playoffs seem inevitable.
01/03 • 01/06 • 01/10 • 01/13 • 01/17 • 01/20 • 01/24 • 01/27 • 01/31 • 02/03 • 02/07 • 02/10 • 02/14 •
Cypress Springs @ Jersey Village Jersey Village @ Cypress Falls Cy-Fair @ Jersey Village Cy-Woods @ Jersey Village Jersey Village @ Langham Creek Cypress Creek @ Jersey Village Cypress Falls @ Jersey Village Jersey Village @ Cy-Ridge Cypress Ranch @ Jersey Village Jersey Village @ Cy-Fair Cypress Lakes @ Jersey Village Cy-Ridge @ Jersey Village Jersey Village @ Cypress Ranch
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Senior District Leaders With just 56 yards away from placing first in rushing yards for the district, Victor Brown, senior and running back, rushed a total of 1,397 yards this season with an average of 8.37 yards a carry and 17 touchdowns. Placing 4th in passing Clay Magnuson, senior and quarterback, had a total of 1,677 passing yards and 20 touchdowns this season. He also completed 118 passes out of a total of 214. The Falcons finished the season with a 3 - 6 district record and a season record of 4 - 6.
Season highlights individual achievements
lPhoto by Cameron Korenek
Placing Second Overall Keeping a steady pace and giving it his all, Caleb Stodgsdill, junior, placed 2nd out of 133 competitors with a time of 18:11 in the 3 mile race in the junior varsity division at the district cross country competition at Spring Creek Park.
lPhoto by Khoi Dao
Running the Mile Never giving up, Elizabeth De Silva, senior, placed number 18 out of 72 competitors with a time of 14:12 in the 2 mile race at the district cross country competition at Spring Creek Park.
lPhoto by Cameron Korenek
Making First Team With a record of 9-0 in girls singles, Laura Galvan, freshman, took the first position in the first All-District team named by the coaches from the district after the Region III tournament on Oct. 29 in Deer Park.
lPhoto by Khoi Dao
lPhoto by Cameron Korenek
lPhoto by Khoi Dao
lPhoto by Manjot Jawa
Fourth In District Caitlyn Cooney, senior, recorded 282 kills, an impressive number more than any other player on the varsity team, and the fourth highest in the district.
Second Highest Kills Courtney Jennings, senior, holder of the second highest number of kills on the varsity team, blocks a kill during an early season game against the Cy-Falls Eagles.
12 Peregrine Clean-Up Detail
Columns
The
Issue 2 - November ‘11
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Lunch discipline invites more of same actions
l by MattDUBOSE, staff writer “If you have lunch detail don’t forget to sign in” is the line everyone hear five minutes before every lunch period ends. Lunch detail is a legitimate reason for students to miss the first seven minutes of class. In seven minutes the teacher can explain what is going to happen that day and begin teaching, or on a test day review the students for that test. Lunch detail students miss that. Teachers, assistant principals, and principals want students to prosper and fulfill all the potential they have in a classroom, but missing the first seven minutes of class makes the teacher have to stop and re-teach what he/she already has taught which then wastes time for the students who already learned it. This benefits no one. We know that the school has fewer
lillustration by Khoi Dao
custodians than last year, but last year we still had lunch detail. If anybody in the school should be helping thecustodians it should be the kids in DMC. They have no classes to be late to, plus they have more time to do their work than a student who has a passing period and has to wait for the tardy students and the teacher to pass the work out. Students that get interrupted from the students who come
Career Costume
lillustration by Khoi Dao
in late from lunch detail do not like the lunch detail idea, nor do most of the students who do lunch detail. If a student needs to be punished for an action, assistant principals should not take class time from them, but take after school time or their Saturdays away with detention. This would teach them not to do what they did again, while lunch detail invites them to be tardy.
Dress up day provides questions attached to profession dreams
l by MannyJAWA, staff writer November 4th was the first senior dress up day, and despite how I felt about their silly nature, I would have to stick myself in a costume for eight hours. But of course, no task could prove simple for me. To me, picking a career to dress up as is a statement of who you really want to be. I could haven taken the silly way out and just dressed up as a bum, or you could have taken the snazzy dressed up business person. Whatever everyone decided, it’s a statement of their dreams and aspirations for their life. What should have been an hour of work quickly turned into a week-long twisted, mind puzzle simply trying to answer a single question - What do I really want to be after all of this? Personally, I like having plans made out; from short terms plans telling me what how I am going to end this column to long terms plans as to when I will buy my first house. Maybe I am exaggerating on that, but still. It scares me not knowing what I will be doing next. I get scared a lot. I have no plans as far as my career goes, I do not know what I want to proclaim to be my life choice. “You’d be a great doctor,” my mom said. “You’d be the best engineer,” my dad said. “You’d be a great watchamacallit,” my brother said. “You’d be a great writer,” my friend said. But will I really? So then the question would become: What do you dream to be?
As a part of the both the journalism and JVTV programs at school, I have the photo, video, editing, writing, directing, and public relations management skills stored in my noggin. With those, I could either be a journalist, photographer, videographer, editor, director, writer, public relations manager, or any one of the hundreds of careers that go with being involved all of the student press media I am doing. Of course that just made it that much harder to pick a costume for Friday that would show my real dreams. Do I listen to my family? My teachers? My friends? Or do I listen to what I want to do? If you would have asked me freshman year if I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would not take even a second to respond with my answer. But right now, asking me, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Is just like asking me; “What is the meaning of life”? And surprisingly, I’m ok with not being able to answer that, because I know that my future is what I make it, and whatever I chose to be, it will be the person that I want to be. No one has to pick their future right now, find what you like, what is close to your heart, and what you would actually enjoy doing day in and day out. In the end, you will be you. No career title defines you, no career will ever be a perfect fit, expect for the one you create. In case you are wondering, I chose to dress up as a journalist. Maybe that really is who Manjot “Manny” Singh Jawa is. But do not tell my parents that little theory just yet.
Issue 2 - November ‘11
Columns
The Peregrine
Eyewitness to European protestors
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Changes in Greece surprise junior as she travels abroad for summer trip l by AmberDAY, staff writer As the mysterious gas filled the subway car my eyes and nose began to sting. At first I just thought it was my allergies but then I noticed that everyone in the car began to cover their noses. The other passengers looked concerned as they spoke amongst themselves. Although I could not understand what language they spoke, I could hear the distinct concern in their voices. As the car approached the next station, a white cloud of smoke descended upon the room as people disappeared up the staircase. The train came to a halt and the doors did not open. A new crowd of people poured into the room, their faces were stained white as they covered their noses. Abruptly, the train jolted off into the dark tunnel in front of us. The sudden contrast between the starch white smoke, to pitch black darkness left many of the passengers confused, including me. I had no idea what just happened, I felt like I would never find out due to all the drastic changes that just took place.
The train dropped us two blocks away from our intended route. As I climbed up the stairs into the light, I took in all of the fresh air. I admired the beauty of the flowers and birds as I observed my beautiful surroundings. My family and I went to sit down at a near by café to collect our thoughts. As I was ordering my coffee, I happened to see a crippled man with the same distinct stained white face and clothes. I asked the waiter if he knew what was going on. He told me that there were riots taking place in Syntagma Square. The young people were rioting against the government. Ironically, Greece was known as the home of democracy. Now the Greek citizens feel trapped and cheated by their own government. The waiter told us that the rioting had been going on for three weeks now. The young and old grew tired of their government and decided to take matters into their own hands. Thousands of Greeks quit their jobs and refused to work. Under the hot boiling sun, the already angered protesters were tempted to test the police. They burned down trees, trash cans and vandalized a near
Daughter misses mother while mom serves in Army l by MaritzaFLORES, staff writer The last step seemed so far away, but it was within arms grasp; as I reached it I knew that many people would not get the chance to see the sight that I was about to see. As I looked over the edge of the Eiffel tower, I admired the city that stood below me. It was not the first time I had felt that way. I was overwhelmed about many opportunities I had, such as: walking up the leaning tower of Pisa, exploring the great Coliseum, riding the Double Decker busses in London and watching as the young man rowed our boat over the beautiful waters of Venice. My eyes have witnessed many ideal places, which many people only dream about, so what was missing? The military is to blame for the sights that I have seen. Although, blame is not the correct word to use, because I am very appreciative to have seen the sights that I have seen. But what about the pieces of my life that I was missing? A gap is missing somewhere in me, specifically, a sense of home. Being born to an active duty soldier seemed “cool” to everyone else, everyone who did not have military parents. The reality of it though, is what everyone else does not think about. While everyone else was learning their ABC’s, I was trying to comprehend why I was not able to see my mother for 12 months, not knowing what she did or the possibility of her getting hurt in Kosovo. She returned and I moved once again, normal for me, but abnormal for people who live their whole life in one house. My second misconception happened while I was in third grade, at a school Christmas party. My mom was the only parent not there and I was not quite sure how to explain that my mom was
once again gone for 12 months, this time in Iraq. She returned to my siblings and I with no injuries, only pictures of what she had see. I was not “old enough” to look at them, but I could only imagine the gruesome patients she had to care for. The second time she returned, such as before, we moved to Fort Campbell, which is a military base in Tennessee. Everyone who lived in this town was a veteran or active duty military and I reassured myself that there was no way they would take my mom again, why would they? They had all these other soldiers to choose from. I settled into the small town and told myself that Fort Campbell was my home; it was the closest to a home that I had come to. I lived there for four years, but of course, my mother’s name was put on the list to deploy again, and I was once again left without her. The last and final time I had to deal without her was two years ago, when she received orders to go to Afghanistan. This time I had company; my younger brother and sister were alongside of me as we watched my mom get on the long 24 hour non-direct flight, to her home for the next 12 months. Eliana was the youngest; being only four, she did not understand why she was left without her mom. Her mornings started with tears and her days ended with questions similar to, “do you think mommy misses us?” … Of course I knew she missed us, but Eli’s four-year old brain only focused on the fact that they were separated. As I look back and reflect on all of the houses I have lived in, the schools I have attended, all the people I have met, the places I have visited, and the times without my mom, I have realized that “a place to call home” was never meant to define me. I, unlike other people I consider to be lucky, have the chance to call everywhere my home and everyone my friend.
by kiosk. The police tried to persuade the angry protestors by yelling at them to stop and threatened to enforce the law in hopes of calming them down. Unfortunately, the protestors ignored them and broke out in a brawl. The police used tear gas to stop the unruly crowd, which led some protestors to scatter and descend underground into the subway. Some protestors were able to withstand the teargas and attacked the police. The police retaliated and began to beat the protestors with clubs. The entire event was captured on the news. As I watched the event from the TV in my hotel room I was in shock of how bad the riot actually was. I felt like I was watching some dramatic event out of a movie. As I turned the TV off I wondered how such a beautiful country could have so many problems. Greece seemed like the perfect utopia. Greece is such a beautiful country, rich with culture, food and beauty, home to ancient ruins and artifacts. Sadly, now Greece is the blame for the entire financial downfall. Will the other European countries be willing to pay the price to save Greece?
Living Military Lifestyle Sharing moments with family and her mom Maritza Flores, senior, held those moments dear to her heart. Flores and her mother spent much time apart as her mother served in the United States Army. As the child of an active military parent Flores also moved from town to town a lot.
14
The Peregrine
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Issue 2 - November ‘11
Issue 2 - November ‘11
Editorial
Efforts Appreciated
The Peregrine
Counselors, teachers take extra measures to aid senior plans
S
eniors stress out about their upcoming futures, without knowledge of their potential majors or careers. They wonder about scholarship opportunities, unsure of which to sign up for. Different possibilities of colleges stump the students, as they ponder on their choices. Counselors and teachers spend hours helping these students, and we congratulate them on the large amount of effort they put in. They provide advice for these students, to ease their worries about their futures. All counselors call in seniors individually, to discuss their plans and to answer any questions they may have. Whether the student is planning to enroll in college or in the military, the counselors provide information for either choice. Along with the additional help, counselors offer Lunch & Learn sessions, where they offer workforce programs and short term work programs, sessions tied to college and careers. Norma Phelan coordinates the Lunch & Learn sessions and has seen some success in their attendance. Eva Magallan, counselor secretary, takes care of the scholarships applications for students. She distributes requests for letters of recommendation for teachers to fill out for students. She then puts together the scholarship packets, and sends the completed applications to the desired college. Michele Landry, counselor, confirms that Lonestar has applications of all the students enrolled in SAT prep. The students then have a college transcript at Lonestar, and can later get it electronically transferred to their desired college. In addition, all teachers put in numerous hours into writing recommendation letters for students, where they elaborate on the diligence and personal character traits of the students. They take great care in detailing the time that the applicants have taken in their extra curricular activities.These letters are a big part of students’ applications and play a major role in their acceptance. Because of these teachers and counselors, students now have a better understanding of their futures. Once unclear and vague, their colleges and careers are now decided on. A big thanks goes out to those who take Nays Yays the time and effort to aid students in The position their acceptance to colleges.
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0
Peregrine
lillustration by Khoi Dao
the
student
VOICE l by KiaraBOOKER
How has the assistance from others helped you apply for colleges?
“ The application process can be really confusing if you don’t know what you’re doing. I had to ask for help in this process. Thanks to all the help I received.” l l l Gladys Perez, senior
“ My classmates have reminded me constantly to apply and that has helped me tremendously. I have applied to my top four colleges.” l l l Keishonna Smith, senior
“ Initially, I had no idea what I was doing. If it wasn’t for all the help that I have received I wouldn’t have a clue on how to apply for college.” l l l David Ngann, senior
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Peregrine Staff 2011-2012
editor-in-chief joey beth gilbert senior editor leandra lee illustrator Khoi dao staff writers sarah cho Amber Day ManJOT Jawa annie sanders ritz flores kiara booker matt dubose staff 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 (713-896-3400). 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 or email subscriptions can be purchased for $6 and a PDF copy will be sent to your email address. 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 business card 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, the National Scholastic Press Association and supports the Student Press Center Law Center. The Peregrine is printed by Mirror Publishers, Inc in Texas City, TX. The opinion of readers is held in high regard. Please send all feedback or questions to our address or room 1720. 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.
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The Peregrine
Photo Essay
Wood Shop
Issue 2 - November ‘11
Cosmetology
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lphotos by Manjot Jawa
lphotos by Manjot Jawa
Measure Twice Cut Once Wood shop students work with various hand and electric tools to design and build various projects. Brian Taylor, freshman, carefully cuts a piece of wood using the table saw. Using the lathe, Mason Pafford, freshman, measures the wood before he starts turning the wood.
Building Futures
Armed with the skills and knowledge gained from Career and technology classes students prepare to face a changing job market and tough economy.
On The Set Advanced video production puts students into the film-makers seat, working on creative projects and newscasts. Preparing to get the shot they need, Andres Rodriguez, freshman, Chris Garcia, sophomore, Colby Kuykendall, and Chris King, juniors, line up the camera. Mannesha Collin, junior, and Alyssa Soler, sophomore, review the footage they captured.
Advanced Video Production
Makeover In Progress After 1000 hours of instruction and a passing grade on the state exam at the end of the year the Cosmetology II students will receive their official license. Megan Annis, senior, practices cutting hair using a razor blade. Preparing to cut more hair, Carolina Castro, senior, readjusts the hair before she continues.
Metal Shop
lphotos by Manjot Jawa
Agricultural Mechanics
Auto Tech
lphotos by Manjot Jawa
Revving Up From tires to engines, automotive technology students learn the process of working on a vehicle. Mike Garcia, senior, lines up the puller. Working together to rebuild an engine from the bottom up, Ramon Patino, Angel Garcia, and Ashley Wiles , seniors, tighten up bolts on the engine block.
Digging In Agricultural Mechanics gives students the opportunity to build various devices used in the agricultural industry. Brandon Foteh, senior, fires up the cutting torch to cut metal for his project. Using a grinder, Dustin Dugan, senior, cuts material for their project.
lphotos by Vanessa Morales
lphotos by Manjot Jawa
Fired Up Empowering students to work with metal using different welding, cutting, and smoothing techniques. Israel Hernandez, senior, uses the cut-off wheel to cut a piece of metal. Using the grinder, Kevin Castillo, sophomore, and Christian Sorto, freshman, smooth out rough edges on their project.