Tri-Color Times 2015-10

Granger high school

Tri-Color Times

An open forum for student opinion and expression

TRICOLORTIMES.COM

October 2015 LVIII-2

Granger’s reputation changes in a Miracle Minute Spirit leader

By Isabel Jackson idea just that day. us one, we are family, Lancer is thing that we did for Lehi. I have steals show COACH Carla Grow was struck “Money isn’t everything you more than a title, Granger is more a lot more respect for Granger by lightning while enjoying a meal with her family on Sunday, August 30.

Grow was a beloved Softball coach for Lehi High School, and her softball players believed that she was a big part of their softball family and that they really needed her.

After the strike, her family performed CPR and soon admitted her to Intermountain Medical Center where, she lost in the fight for her life that Wednesday night.

Granger Lancers came together to aid their family at the September 4 Granger vs. Lehi football game by hosting a “Miracle Minute”.

The “Miracle Minute” involved the student government asking Lancers to give donations to the Grow family for the whole minute.

The SBOs came up with the

can give, but it helps,” Angel Sedgwick (11) said. “People will always be there, even if you don’t know them.”

This wasn’t much about pride and attention; it was about doing something outstanding for someone in need.

It has changed the atmosphere in the school.

“Other schools may have thought that Granger was ‘ghetto,’ but now I believe they think we are thoughtful,” Sedgwick said.

Luis Rendon (11) had the same thought, “Hopefully this makes a couple people think differently, I hate that we are known for being a ‘ghetto’ school but that’s not true at all,” he said.

Granger has a creed that students repeat every Monday: “We believe: our difference make us stronger, our similarities make

than a school, we stand up, stand strong, stand together, we are Granger!”

“Lehi couldn’t say enough, they were so appreciative of what we did for Lehi -- we lived the Lancer Creed” Dr. Dunn said.

Granger is becoming a better school; the students are reaching out to others when they are in need.

It is changing other peoples point if view on Lancers.

“I feel like that’s just the standard Granger has now, I really like how Granger as a school and student body does anything to help others,” Rendon said.

Lancers have done a wonderful thing by living the creed for Lehi.

They are highly praising to Lancers and what they have done for them.

“This was such a wonderful

and our student body,” Calissa Loomis (10) said.

Granger’s donation impressed Lehi and helped the Grow family.

This shows everyone that no matter whom he or she is, where he or she comes from or what his or her story is, Granger will be there to help when someone is in need.

“I love what we did for Lehi, and I hope other people know that we will be here when they are in need. We won’t leave anyone abandoned. If they ask for it or not -- they will know that we will be here for them,” Tristan Corona (11) said.

Lancers have done such an amazing thing for Lehi and Lancers will keep in up trying their best to be there for anyone in need. Granger is now viewed differently in more than one way, and will try hard to keep it going.

The student body officers organized a ‘Miracle Minute’ fundraiser at halftime for a Lehi student whose mother had recently been killed in an accident.

Kids completed tasks to become “True Lancers”

By Kaitlin Cluff THE TRUE Lancer project at Granger High School began at in 2006 with Jason Steinmann and his desire to spark a tradition that would last for many years to come. It’s a fun activity that has evolved into a series of pointbased tasks students complete to become a ‘True Lancer.’

Lancer Action Team was in charge of this exciting week of ongoing activities for many Lancers.

This year, Granger took it up a notch.

Students that participated had to earn a total of 5,800 points to receive the title of ‘True Lancer’ and get a free t-shirt, but the real prize is that whether or not Lancers earned that many points, how-

ever many points they earned could be turned into Ms. Turner, then put towards that Lancers class points for the ongoing spirit bowl. Talk about a prize.

Different activities included cleaning up Bangerter Highway (a service project), donating at a blood drive, reciting the Lancer Creed, supporting the football team at an away game, meeting the principal and SBO president, singing the school song to the choir teacher (yikes) and others.

This challenge was going on at the same time as homecoming week and the spirit that Granger Lancers put forth was the best it’s been in years.

Participating Lancers included: Huy Tran (12), Kaitlin Cluff (12), Kaylee Winters (12),

Kylee Neilson (12), Agustin Silvera (12), Elise Fulton (11), Caden Cousins (11), Annie Turner (12), Kenna Barney (12), Jorge Gutierrez (12), Jazelle Johns (12), Tommy Trinh (12), Alexis Topacio (11), Chloe Topacio (9), Britney Munson (12), Omar Sanchez (9), Richard Dinh (9), Valerie Bui (11), Karina Carrasco (11), Sarah Roberts (12), Diana Dinh (11), Wendy Yu (11), Sydney Bell (11), Tanner Lundgreen (11), Taylor Francis (12), and Amanda Mackay (11).

Ms. Beck, a teacher, also completed the task of becoming a “True Lancer.”

Many students may have not been able to complete tasks for various reasons, and some Lancers may have not heard the an-

nouncement or they heard about it far too late to participate.

Lucky for them, there will be another opportunity to earn the title of “True Lancer” once basketball season begins.

Obviously the activities will be different, but every Lancer should at least attempt to be a “True Lancer”.

Granger also let teachers and administration participate.

Lundgreen earned 7800 points.

“It was really interesting, and a good experience,” Lundgreen said. I did everything except for sing the school song. I don’t think I would have done all of those things if it weren’t for the opportunity though. The hardest thing to do was not being absent or tardy for the days required,” he said.

By Skye Rouse GRANGER High School has created a new SBO position. Spirit leader is a role that is meant to inspire students.

“Sometimes we meet a special kid, but they have disabilities. Well Rosevelt Acoff (12) is a student who is very giving and loving.” Ms. Neibaur said.

“We thought Rosevelt would be a great person for spirit leader because he touches lives that not many people can. It’s time for us to look beyond ourselves and have the ability to make a difference, because he is truly an inspiration,” Neibaur said.

Student government is a group of kids who work hard and who help lead Granger High. Some students think that he is the perfect fit for spirit leader.

“I think that’s it’s really cool and really amazing that we have such a good student body and faculty that this is able to happen,” Christian Mora (12) said. “I was pretty surprised when they called Rosevelt on stage because not even the SBOs knew about it,” Mora said.

It’s crazy that not all the student body knew about this.

Granger high is really surprising.

“I am so happy and proud to be able to share office with him,” Maleini Tanaki (12) said. “I really feel like we made a great decision for him to be spirit leader; he’s always pumped up and loves to dance, and when he dances the crowd gets pumped up, too,” Tanaki said. “I think just really shows that anything is possible and that there is really no excuse.”

It is so amazing that the SBOs having such a good attitude and such good spirit.

“I didn’t know until right before the assembly started, as soon as I found out I knew that it was about to get real,” Tyler Burton (10) said. “Knowing Rosevelt, I know that he will boost the Crimson Crowd’s spirit by the way he acts and works,” he said. “I’m really excited for him to be able to have this experience.

“Not many kids can even do this without the challenges he faces and I think it’s really cool and awesome that he can,” Burton said.

It’s great that our student body is happy and supporting their new spirit leader.

“I’m so happy for him and the school because so many kids love his enthusiasm, and he’s so well known for his dancing and how he gets kids hyped up -- that’s good because he makes kids want to show school spirit, and that’s what he’s supposed to do,” Yozuany Peseyin (10) said.

Lancers are excited to see Rosevelt in this role.

Want more Granger High School news? Check articles at tricolortimes.com or add us on twitter.com/tricolortimes.

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

October 2015, page 2 STUDENT LIFE

The Crimson Crowd is loud and proud

By Tina Huynh FRIDAY night lights: those three words are what many Lancers wait for the whole week.

They hold so much meaning, excitement, and anticipation for this school.

The real fun begins after the bright lights are lit, the whistles are blown, and the first ball is kicked.

Granger’s student section is by far the best in the West, and these Granger Lancers know how to represent their school well.

They’re powerful, they’re passionate…, they’re Granger’s Crimson Crowd.

“Our student section is so loud.

We all have a really big connection when we all sit together. We have the best sportsmanship and we’re really loud and supportive, even when our team loses. We still let the team know that we support them, and that it’s going to be OK. I do wish we had more people come out to the home and away games, though. And that that small group of people wouldn’t act so negatively when

we lose or when something goes wrong,” Samantha Gonzalez (12) said.

Although it’s still early in the season, the Lancers’ football team has shown signs of improvement and growth.

“I love our football team and our Crimson Crowd. The boys are doing so great. I seriously can’t wait for the rest of the season,” Gonzalez said.

As amazing and energetic Granger’s student section is, a little help from the Lancers’ cheerleading team helps get the crowd hyped every single game.

Lancers have been taught many cheers and chants to help cheer on the players in the game.

The electrified cheers and everyone’s booming voices really set the pace and mood for the rest of the game.

“My favorite part is doing all the cheers with the cheerleaders. We not only have spirit, but sportsmanship, as well. It’d be nice if we got everyone involved and not just everyone who is usually involved,” Britney Munson

(12) said.

While cheering on their great football team, the Lancer fans can show their support by following the cheerleaders or starting chants by themselves.

the sweat pouring off our faces as we cheer and cry together. It really gets my soul going,” Kenna Barney (12) said.

The school’s student section really is something to be a part

Be a part of the massive Red Sea that is the Granger High Crimson Crowd

It’s a lively time that Granger’s students want to enjoy.

“I love all the energy from the students. Everyone’s always cheering and dancing. I love all

of and experience, if they haven’t already.

The Crimson Crowd started in 2011 and it has already grown out of control.

“We always have big crowds at away games and we have good sportsmanship. We always represent and support our school, win or lose,” Barney said.

Granger’s Red Sea is one that’s really hard to beat. The Lancer crowd is filled with fantastic fans, superior students, and proud parents.

“The fact that everyone there is pumped, loud, and cheers is so great. They’re all there to have fun. We make our school look good. When we did the ‘Minute Miracle’ for Lehi, all the people were donating and being very respectful. We held up the ‘I love you’ hand signs and showed them to their crowd, their SBOs, and the student who lost his mom. It was so great,” David Young (12) said.

Lancers show their pride through their outrageous outfits and their crazy face paintings, but through their compassion, character, and sportsmanship The Lancer football program still has many games for students to catch.

Teen parents strive for educational success

By Azucena Magallanes TEENAGE pregnancy is sometimes seen as the sign of broken society, but that doesn’t mean that teen mothers have to give up on themselves.

With extra effort, they can graduate and create better futures for themselves through educa-

tion.

Nancy Ramirez (12) had Yaitsah Jayleen Availa Thanksgiving night, November 27, 2014. Nancy Ramirez is a senior at Granger High School despite all the difficulties and obstacles.

“Being a teen parent made me more motivated and determined

to graduate from high school,” said Ramirez. “It’s important, because I can give my daughter a better future and I can show her that no matter what comes your way it’s possible to accomplish what you want.”

It’s a difficult situation when everyone is telling teen moms that they are wrong and the course of action their life has taken is wrong, making them believe they can’t achieve success.

“I was doubted by family, and basically told I wouldn’t graduate. I am on track, and I am doing it all for my baby. I am not going to drop out,” said Ramirez. She is successfully on her way to graduate from Granger High School on May 27.

With the support Teenage parents are trying their best to succeed in school as well as be great parents. of her parents, good

daycare, and a part time job she worked, Ramirez was able to rise above the difficulties that come with teen parenting, and she did what she had to do the get an education.

Alaniyan Tillman (11) had Amiyah Malayisha Zakaya Tillman on July 16, 2015, and she appreciates the support she gets from her family.

“I was always told I was too young, you’re not going to graduate high school, so many people thought I was going to drop out and give up once she was born,” Tillman said.

Tillman is working towards graduating. “I am just going to continue to do what I have to do to get my credits and do my best to stay motivated. Without the support of my family, I don’t know what I would do,” said Tillman.

Being a teen parent and a fulltime student is difficult, and she explained how she accomplishes class work and cares for her baby.

“During the day when Amiyah sleeps, I do class work so I can be

up with her during the night when she doesn’t sleep. I wake up go to school, while my mom cares for her, and repeat the process all over again,” said Tillman.

Having a child is difficult of course, but it creates motivation and becomes more of a top priority for young mothers to make it possible to care for their children and provide for better futures.

“Graduation and everything will be a little more difficult and challenging for me, but I am going to stay focused and do what I have to do for my daughter. Now you can’t even get a job at McDonalds without a high school diploma,” said Tillman.

These teen parents are ready to take on the challenges of proving everyone wrong and completing all high school credits through their dedication and hard work as they make the best out of their situations.

This challenge will not be easy, but Lancers never take the easy way out. With the support of their friends and families, they know that they can do it.

Granger students offer opinions about shoes

By Pablo Arellano DRESSING well with shoes has changed; it’s not the same as it used to be.

“There are many different styles for shoes to dress with

Vans are less popular than Jordans.

now,” Anthony de la Cruz (11) said.

He said that Nike are more in style right now, they style with everything dress, street, and lazy day.

He said that high top is something he will wear with anything. “Comfortable shoes are Nike and Jordans no other shoe that I have worn has ever beat Nike or Jordans with being comfortable.” He dislikes Vans, and said that they are uncomfortable because they always slip off the back of the heel. They’re more for skating than wearing in style.

“Everyone in school wears shoes, but not all shoes fit with style,” Alan Nava (11) said.

Nava’s favorite brand for shoes is anything that looks good on that he is wearing it could be Adidas, Nike, Vans, Jordans, and Supras. “I style my shoes with what I wear like a button up black shoes but, if I wear a t-shirt depends on my shirt and the color of my jeans. “The shoes I dislike are Filas because they don’t last more than two months.” He ranges his budget at $25-$60 “Why spend more than $100 on shoes that might last one month or a few years you may never know if the material is good to last or not?”

“Basketball shoes make everybody look fresh no matter what,” Anel Alajic (10) said. He said that Jordans are the shoes for style. They look flashy to people, and a lot of people admire them.

“DC Shoes, who still wears those, they’re my least favorite shoe brand because they are uncomfortable and look like fat shoes: they look like clown shoes, no lie. I range my price in the $50-$200 because Jordan brand always releases new or retro shoes,” he said.

“Vans are the best brand for style in my opinion I can wear others,” Charles Manzanares (11) said. He said likes skating shoes he most likely buys skating shoes. He said Converse and Vans what he would spend his money on but mostly buys Vans. He dislikes DC Shoes which he said were fat and ugly and felt like wearing a cactus, they’re painful and uncomfortable. “My shoe budget is $0-$65 because I get

discounts at Famous Foot Wear; my friend works there so he gives discounts to friends.”

“People stress over shoes because they’re afraid how people may criticize then,” Steven Lujan (11) said. He said he doesn’t care what shoes he wears, and he’s grateful for what he has. He said that he’ll spend from $0-60 on shoes he doesn’t want to spend $100 on a pair of shoes because they mostly don’t last. He know that if shoes are maintained, they’ll last.

“There is no shoe I dislike; I’ll wear them all, even if they’re uncomfortable.” He said his favorite shoe brand is Vans, even if a lot of people don’t like them. He said he likes dress shoes because they make him look fancy.

October 2015, page 3 STUDENT LIFE

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

2016 Seniors are already excited for graduation

By Angel Antonio EVERYONE dreams of graduation day, graduation is very important.

Think of the future imagine not graduating and wondering what would have changed.

“Well I think it important because it’s a new chapter in life that you haven’t experienced today,” Joseph Gutierrez (12) said.

Coming this far is not easy, but anyone can determine whether this year is a great year or a pretty bad one.

Not dropping out is success, because making it to senior year is pretty hard work.

“I think the reason people say that graduation matters is because of the feeling you get when you know you did something right,” Gutierrez said.

Just imagine family members crying tears of happiness because of this accomplishment.

Senior year is a wonderful year for many and a whole new experience for others.

“Attitude determines how you feel about your senior year,” Saira Meza (12) said.

Having a good attitude helps students get through the tough times students may have in their life.

Having school pride can motivate students to graduate with their class.

“As long as you love the school you attend you will want to get everything done and even do more than you thought you can do,” Meza said.

No one is ever alone; there will always be someone there.

Students feel connected to their school and they love it. “I love the teachers here because they can help whenever, and as long as you need them, they will do anything to help you pass,” Meza said.

Memories can be made here.

Lancers dish about dress code policy

By Julie Burgie THE FIRST few weeks of school are always hectic.

People are trying to find their classes, they’re getting their schedules changed, and much more.

Then, Granger throws in the constant reminders about the new policy.

The new hat policy is one of them that is a bit of a concern.

The school is so strict about hats, so that’s why they’re enforcing the dress code a bit better this year.

Luciano Lopez (10) says that on the first day of school, he wore clothes that would be considered a dress code violation for females, yet the office or the teachers didn’t dress code him. “They should dress code everyone equally. I feel that the dress code for females is a lot more strict than the dress code for guys,” Lopez said.

A few other people have the same feelings towards the dress code and how strict it is for the females than the males.

Lexi Gibbons (10) has the same opinion as Lopez, to a point.

“I think it’s not fair because girls should be able to wear what they want without having to worry about guys. It’s not fair to us girls.” Gibbons said.

Then, there are other people, that don’t really care about the dress code.

As long as people wear clothes to school, they don’t think much

about it.

“I think the dress code is alright except for the same color thing.

I think that’s a little ridiculous.

I also think that they enforce it enough. I’m just happy guys are wearing shirts at all. Technically, as Americans we, do have a right of voice. If that’s how they express it, I guess it’s OK,” Melanie Dutton (9) said.

“I think people should just wear whatever they want just as long as they don’t show anything inappropriate like their underwear or go nude. I don’t care if people wear drug-related shirts, but I do care is if they wear like people showing pornography. I think that is bad,” Seth Jones (10) said.

The rule book reads, “Granger High School students are expected to dress in a clean, neat manner that will not take attention away from the learning process.

“While we all want our students to be comfortable, confident, and able to express themselves, there are certain guidelines all students are expected to follow.

“If a student is not wearing proper clothing, the student will be issued clothing from the front office or suspended until appropriate clothing is acquired. The Granger High School Administration reserves the right to make the final determination if an item of clothing is inappropriate for the school.

“Some of the most common rules of the dress code that are constantly broken are standards of propriety and decency dictate

that outer clothing should not reveal underclothing, slogans or advertisements, which by their very nature are controversial or obscene, are not allowed clothing which depicts, through words or images, disrespect toward any race, culture, religion or gender will not be allowed no clothing depicting criminal activity, violence, weapons, drugs, alcohol or tobacco will be allowed, and no overcoats, sunglasses, hoods, or clothing that disguises identity or carried items may be worn.”

The school has said certain things that are not allowed, but some students still get away with wearing them.

Granted, there are over 3,000 kids that go to Granger, but that is no reason to ignore the dress code.

At some point in their lives through elementary school until now, some have broken the dress code at least once, either intentionally or unintentionally.

While some students find it ridiculous that the administration doesn’t dress code everyone, it’s not the easiest thing to dress code at least 1,000 kids a day that break it.

The faculty, teachers, and administration have to enforce the dress code to try and keep the school appropriate and safe.

While Lanecrs may not like the dress code, many do support it and understand the reasons for enforcing it much more this year.

And some Lancers are grateful for all the effort.

Friends can be there to help through the struggle.

“My friends help me whenever I need them to be there for me, and I will be there for them when they need me,” Gutierrez said.

Hard work and dedication is necessary to succeed in this life.

Nothing is easy: just have confidence and school pride, and high school will be extraordinary.

Life is to be enjoyed so don’t get down and sad -- everyone can still make it.

It’s never too late to succeed in life.

Make a comeback and have a better future. School is not tor-

ture, but it’s meant to help make a fortune.

Talk to the counselors here at Granger; they can help to keep anyone on track. Better now then never, because life is short.

Keep up with life, and show that Granger isn’t just any school.

Graduation is very important and it’s the target in each student’s sights.

Juniors, sophomores, and freshmen: graduation is definitely the greatest thing that will happen in a high school career. Good luck in the many years to come at Granger High School and have great year.

Tri-Color Times Staff Editor in Chief Kaitlin Cluff Copy Editor Tina Huynh

Social Media Editor Skye Rouse Photo Editor Jazelle Johns

Reporters Angel Antonio Soria Pablo Arellano Kimberly Armeta Julie Burgie Ashley Cartmell Miriam Ceballos Chastin Christiansen Jordyn Christopher Kaitlin Cluff Salina Eaton Fancisco Gallardo Ashley Garcia Christian Giles Joseph Gutierrez Noah Herrera Tina Huynh Samuel Irakoze Isabel Jackson

Reporters Jazelle Johns Kailee Justensen Arriya Khopa Azucena Magallanes Jessie Martin Ezra Masters Saira Meza Jelani Nelson Madisen Nelson Aislyne Olsen John Quezada Hayley Rigby Lisandro Rivera Skye Rouse Emma Sanok Justin Thurman Jorge Vargas Taylor Wolfey

The Tri-Color Times serves as a student forum for student opinion and student expression.

The views expressed herein reflect neither the opinions of Adviser John Carlisle and Granger High School, nor those of Granite School District. The Tri-Color Times invites and publishes letters to its editorial board; all letters will be edited for taste, length and legality.

Granger High School 3580 South 3600 West West Valley, UT 84119 (385) 646-5320

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

October 2015, page 4 ACADEMICS

Early graduation tempts seniors who want more time/money

By Chastin Christiansen GRANGER High and its amazing students are getting out of school sooner or later.

Some Lancers would prefer to leave high school a little bit earlier than most students.

There is so much pressure to excel quickly that graduating now seems like the best option.

Having all the credits needed to graduate can get students graduating with their associate’s degree or even their generals.

“Yes, it is worth graduating early. It gives you better opportunities to find better colleges and to find yourself. Another benefit of graduating early is that you don’t have to go to school anymore or wake up early. But if you end up leaving earlier, you could end up missing the teachers and the connections you have with them. There is not much to miss, but I definitely wouldn’t miss the hallways,” Dulce Pacheco (11) said.

On the other hand, graduating early does have some of its bad qualities including missing

friends, not walking with the class, and no longer being a kid, and now being an adult.

Most students who want to graduate early leave only a semester earlier, but others might leave a whole year earlier or even during their sophomore year.

Graduating early is not easy, but it is not impossible.

It is not every day that it happens, so it is really rare when it does.

“I don’t believe in graduating early. I feel like you should graduate with your class because you’ve been with these kids for years, and you might as well graduate with your class. But at the same time, I feel like if you work after you graduate early, that would be a smart way to earn money. I feel like you would save more money just staying in high school,” Kuei Makol (12) said.

Early graduation can open scholarships for those Lancers, but that’s nothing compared to taking classes that will go towards college credit.

CE and AP classes will earn a

high school student college credit for the price of almost nothing.

It is very difficult to pass AP and CE classes, but it is worth it if a student wants to earn an associate’s degree while in high school.

“I’m super stoked to graduate. I think it is better if you have the experience graduating with your class. The only good thing about graduating early is that you are finished with high school earlier. You should graduate early to get to your career much faster and if you want to work and save for college. I personally would never want to graduate early, because I want to have a full high school experience.

I personally suggest graduating with your class. It makes it fun and it can be a good experience. If I graduate early, I would miss the activities given to us to enjoy our last year at Granger High School,” Merisah Herrera (12) said.

Whether or not graduating early is an option, high school

is always an experience to be ful- will walk across the center stage filled. and recieve their diplomas at the The graduating class of 2016 Maverick Center on May 26.

Merisah Herrera can’t wait to “exit” Granger High School and start her future.

Granger’s faculty challenges Lancers to be leaders

By Kaitlin Cluff “THIS YEAR will be the best year ever.” That quote is something that every person always hopes for during at least one year of high school.

It’s not as easy as it might seem. Administrators, faculty,

and students have been trying to make experiences as amazing as possible since the school was opened.

Leadership plays a huge part in trying to make the school year go smoothly and make activities fun and well attended.

“I think it is pretty important, because we need to be leaders in our lives in more ways than one.

It is helping in so many aspects of our lives,” Krista LeFevre (11) said.

Not only is it helpful when it comes to the school year, but also in the future too. It’s important to consider the future and be able to look back on high school experiences.

Being a leader teaches people skills on how to work together and trust one another when it is necessary.

“I feel like the school isn’t just a school; it’s like a small community and everybody is so much friendlier and kinder and the SBOs and other leaders are doing an amazing job,” Emir Sabic Krista LeFevre and Dayne Mortensen love leadership at Granger High School.

(12) said.

It’s easy for Lancers to be supportive and get hyped about the school year when their classmates are the ones helping to plan activities and make the year more oriented towards what those students think is important.

“It’s awesome. Maybe now the leaders will come out and be an example for others,” Dayne Mortensen (11) said.

It’s not hard to understand that being the leader or example isn’t always the easiest, or most rewarding thing to do.

Granger is a family, as stated in the Lancer Creed. Knowing this makes it a lot easier.

“I love the new leadership! I feel like we are becoming more of a family. I can’t wait to see what we can become in this year that we have,” Staci Allen (12) said.

Acknowledgment is key. In life, acknowledgement is not usually given even when deserved.

At Granger, it’s important to everyone to make all the effort and hard work put into the school well known.

“The leaders are doing ex-

ceptionally well considering everything is brand new and we’re making the school’s new traditions and legacy. Everyone is putting in so much effort that should definitely be acknowledged more often,” Sabic said.

Another important aspect is reputation. While Granger hasn’t always had the best rep, Lancers are determined to be the leaders and make that change.

“I think the effort is good. But in order for that to happen the leaders need to be the example and inspire other people or else nothing will change,” Mortensen said.

It’s safe to say that the administrators, faculty, and students hear loud and clear what the expectation for the year is and are trying their best to make progress.

The goal is still a work in progress, but it is in sight and ready to be achieved.

Lancers are determined to make the school a friendly, loving, and more family-oriented school.

Be a leader here at Granger.

always looking for new members.

It is so easy to join and it is fun to look through all of the clubs and athletics that you think you may be interested in. Visit the Granger High School website to find out more about all of the different clubs and activities going on.

Students wish that they had been more involved during their high school years.

“I wish that I would have been more involved in my sophomore and junior year. If I would have been, I wouldn’t have missed out on so much,” Lisandro Rivera (12) said.

Being involved is very important. It helps you succeed in school.

Students will want to come to school more when they have something to look forward too.

Many of the clubs here at Granger are during school as one of your class periods, I know that being involved in clubs has made me want to come to school. Some of the clubs such as LAT, LIA, Key Club, and many more that teach you to volunteer around the community.

It is not too late to join. Clubs are always welcoming new members.

Remember you only get one chance at a remarkable high school experience; don’t miss out on all the fun by not being involved.

Step out of your comfort zone and try your best to have some fun.

Do something that you wouldn’t normally do, and you might end up loving it. Good luck in whatever you choose.

Granger Lancers should get more involved in clubs Opinion by Kailee Justesen MANY STUDENTS at Granger High School are getting to their senior year and are realizing that they do not have any extracurricular activities to put on their college applications.

Extracurricular activities not only help with your college applications, but they help you be more involved.

There are many benefits of being involved in extracurricular activities.

Being involved in extracurricular activities teaches students organization and time management skills.

These skills will not only help you in the activity, but in your everyday lives. Most students find this is the most challenging part when going into college.

They learn that in college, they

must be on time and that they can no longer procrastinate.

Being involved in extracurricular activities can help raise your self-esteem.

Students develop a sense of belonging. You meet others with the same interests as you and make many friends.

‘Everyone wants to find something that they are really good at, and extracurricular activities provide them with a way that they can get involved in something and really shine’as stated on the mycollegeguide. org website.

Colleges look for students who are involved; they look for students who will be a great asset to their schools.

Being involved doesn’t mean that they want someone who is on every single club or team.

‘Most colleges prefer someone who does a few extracurricular activities with consistency and passion over someone who belongs to every club at her [his] high school but isn’t deeply in-

“It is not too late to join. Clubs are always welcoming new members.” volved in any of them,’ as stated on the mycollegeguide.org website.

Getting involved in a club or team is not hard at all.

Granger High School has many clubs and teams. They have clubs about anything from anime, to Key Club, to theatre. Clubs are

October 2015, page 5 ACADEMICS

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

Lancers are prepared for beginnning of the year testing

By Jessie Martin THE START of school is also the start of testing, and everyone worries about doing well on them. Here’s some advice on how to get ready and prepare for upcoming tests.

“I need it to be quiet and find someplace to be alone. I highlight while I’m reading, write down questions, and try to learn new things. I don’t give up if it’s hard,” Ms. Robinson said.

Being organized and being prepared is key. Ms. Robinson looks up words that she doesn’t know with the dictionary on her phone and makes flash card to help memorize them.

Ms. Robinson believes that no one should multi-task, listen to music, watch TV, or be on a phone while trying to study.

“You should limit distractions,” Ms. Robinson said.

Of course, everyone has his or her own way of studying. Some

students like to listen to music “Tuna with an energy drink while studying to help concen- or a smoothie with fruit and vegtrate or relieve the boredom of gies,” Campos said. studying.

Lisa Campos (12) listens to music while she is studying.

“I love to listen to peaceful piano music or orchestrated music…it helps me relax,” she said.

A tip from Campos is to spread out study time and not cram the night before. Staying up all night cramming can confuse the brain.

Kolby Smith relaxes while dancing with his friends On the morning of a test day, eating a good “I study enough to at least breakfast is a great way to wake learn about what I’m studying,” up. Campos likes to eat a healthy Daniel Flores (10) said. breakfast before a big test.

Flores studies step-by-step in-

structions and takes notes while studying.

“Ask a lot of questions,” Flores said.

Asking questions and finding answers is a great way to learn more.

“You don’t get smart all of a sudden,” Flores said.

Flores knows from experience that if someone studies, tries a little harder, and asks lots of questions, he or she can get smarter.

Although not everyone studies as carefully as Campos and Flores do, everyone can still do well on upcoming tests.

“Everything that’s on the test, you probably learned in class.

Just go to class and you’ll be fine,” Kolby Smith (11) said.

Smith studies only two or three hours a week, but still gets good grades because he goes to class and pays attention.

“I like reading my AP book because it has pictures and it’s fun, so I don’t look at that as studying,” Smith said.

Finding a way to study that is interesting makes it easier.

“Do your homework,” Smith said.

Doing homework is like studying and it can help with remembering what is important.

“To relax, I like to wiggle my toes in grass and dance, even while I’m sitting,” Smith said.

It is important not to get too stressed out about the test. Finding a way to relax and not worry about the test will help anyone do better.

By studying and following the advice from these Lancers, everyone can be ready for testing this year.

Granger automotive gives future jobs for students

By Ezra Masters GRANGER offers an automotive class for both collision repair and automotive.

There are many students that want to be in the class, but only a handful get to take it.

Working on cars for some people is just a job, something to do, or something to pass time.

“I’m looking forward to working on my car and learning more things to enrich my knowledge about cars, and I’ll use that in my future career in the automotive industry,” Cristaian Amador (11) said.

The automotive program will prepare people with knowledge that they will use. It will help them work on their own cars and projects. ”I have been into cars ever since I was a little kid. I have al-

ways wanted to be able to work on my own car,” Thomas Heredia (12) said.

There is a large number of automotive opportunities and careers after high school.

“Automotive will prepare and teach me stuff that I will use, and it will help me work on my own cars and have a job secured for me that I love and that I’m passionate about,” Amador said.

In the automotive class, you can do and learn a lot. There are two different classes relating to the automotive industry. They are auto collision repair and then automotive itself.

There are different classes for the experienced and the less ex-

give me choices to pick a job after high school,” Heredia said.

These classes are very handson and students don’t spend much time in the classroom. They bring it into the field for better a learn-

ing experience.

Antonio Loredo (12) is definitely ready and excited to work in the shop this year.

The complexity of the motor, the speed, and the racing are what got Loredo into cars.

Granger provides an amazing program for the students that want to be involved in the automotive industry.

If more people got involved, that would be great. There are a lot of people in the classes already, but some of them are in there for an ‘easy A.’ If Balew and Johnson found more students who were more motivated to learn, fix, and get

dirty with the work, there would be more opportunities after high school.

“I will be involved in cars for the rest of my life. I have always loved the adrenaline, the speed, the fixing, and everything about it. I will have a love for cars for as long as I live,” Amador said.

It doesn’t matter if you have the nicest car in the world or the worst rust-bucket there is. What does matter is that you love cars or are very passionate about working with and being around cars.

Some people might not like working on cars, but considering how many people drive cars every day, the world needs more people in the automotive industry if they want to take on the challenges with all of these people driving cars now.

help with that.

Now, here are some tips that can be used for aspiring Lancer artists.

Art includes many forms and

es of what’s to be created. Don’t worry if things don’t go well the first time. Practice is always good for improving an art skill.

With that image in mind, go

Once a rough sketch is drawn, outline important details in the drawing.

Don’t be afraid to erase unneeded parts, either. Details will remain intact if they’re well outlined and if smaller details are erased lightly.

When shading, it’s always important to know where the lighting in a drawing is directed. Make sure to keep the shaded parts only lightly colored in to make sure a person likes where the shading is placed. Then, go ahead and darken it.

The shading will give the sketch some dimension and help it to look better. Although shading is optional, it’s not always needed and necessary.

Color schemes can be important, even if drawing a fictional character, landscape, or just scenery.

Let colors clash well so that it’s not boring, but still pleasing to the eye. But it’s always fun to mix things up.

These tips may also be helpful when painting.

Be creative. Make art to be proud of. Every detail counts in artwork. Create whatever comes to mind. Have fun with it and good luck.

perienced.

“I am glad that I am able to take both of the automotive classes this year. It will help me and

“I’m looking forward to working on my car and learning more things to enrich my knowledge about cars, and I’ll use that in my future career in the automotive industry.”

Art classes have useful tips for Lancers who create

By Salina Eaton IN MR. CHRISTIANSEN’S class, Taryn Otto (11) is learning how to draw with different materials.

“We’re currently learning about how to use good symmetry and perspectives as well,” Otto said.

Otto is a good artist, alongside some friends who can do pretty well with their art skills.

With learning all these different angles and perspectives, Otto can help her class better define their art, especially when drawing buildings.

In Ms. Heidinger’s Ceramics 3 class, she’s teaching her students the basics and different ways of creating sculptures.

“Ceramics 3 is the most advanced ceramics class offered at Granger,” Ms. Heidinger said.

With students practicing with paper clay and creating small hand-made sculptures, they are also advancing their ceramics skill.

“The small sculptures the students are currently learning how to make are with ‘paper clay.’

They make a small object and then place a message inside to burn into their sculptures as a way of giving their creations a better

meaning as it is baked to stay in its form,” Ms. Heidinger said.

The students will continue making detailed sculptures on the wheel or by hand and finish

Ms. Heidinger showing off one of her current sculptures

their creations with a variety of colorful paints and a glaze to seal them off smoothly and beautifully. If students enjoy sculpting and being able to make small clay creations, ceramics can definitely

styles from painting and pastel to charcoal and color pencil.

For beginner artists, here are a few tips for sketching. Before drawing or painting, make sure to have a good image or a few imag-

ahead and make sure everything is planned out the way it’s intended to appear.

When sketching, guidelines can often help a lot, especially when drawing people or animals.

October 2015, page 6 PHOTO COLLAGE

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

October 2015, page 7 PHOTO COLLAGE

October 2015, page 8 SPORTS

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

Granger athletes are reaching their college goals

By Joseph Gutierrez STUDENT’S are wondering how athletes are reaching their goals and college dreams, and what they have to do at school to get their dreams to be reality.

“It’s easy becoming an athlete,

but the work and dedication is a whole different story,” Omar Suarez (12) said.

“You not only have to worry about improving on the sport you do, but also worry about the grade you’ll get in class.” A lot of stu-

Adan Ayala enjoys working hard towards his goals

dent athletes are working hard in and out of school so they can be where they want to be.

“It’s important to be on task every day if you want to become someone big in college,” Carlos Meneses (12) said. “The only reason athletes are working so hard, is because they want to achieve their goals and reach that college goal.”

Many athletes at Granger High wonder if sports are that important for their future education. Some think it’s a risk to put everything they have worked for on one sport they are dedicated to. “It’s both enjoying and important for me,” Adan Ayala (12) said.

“It’s the idea of

hoping one day, a dream like that can come true, but for now I just want to be educated and focusing on my work,” he said.

It’s true a lot of young athletes want their dreams to become a reality; some even go beyond it and make it a priority.

There are also the doubters that think these athletes won’t make their goal.

There are people who think it’s just a waste of time on playing sports here at Granger high. That doesn’t change the fact that the athletes won’t stop doing what they do best.

It’s like a motivation for them when they hear negative talk from other students. “Everyone might think it might change my mind, but honestly it makes me more excited to get back there and work even harder than before,” Angel Antonio (12) said.

“Athletes shouldn’t be thinking negatively about a dream they want to achieve. They should be more pumped when they hear people talking negatively about us. All athletes must work even

harder to reach their dream and also succeed in school,” he said.

There are even young students who wish to follow other athletes’ footsteps. They see their dedication to the sport they love, they know they work hard and focus on school.

They are inspired and wish to do the same and improve on the sport, and pushing them to work harder at school.

“Being new at Granger, I can already tell that I’m going to work hard just to achieve my goal for college just like the other seniors here,” Alex Rodriguez (12) said.

“I know what I have to do for the next for years here and I am going to do the best I can to achieve my goals. It’ll be difficult at first, but if the seniors at Granger high can do it, then I can, too,” Rodriguez said.

Every athlete will do whatever it takes to take their talents to a whole other level, they know school comes first, and will soon become a star and will proudly say they came from Granger High School.

Granger Softball working towards a great year

By Hayley Rigby IN THE upcoming season of softball many people are excited for the new coach and the new possibility of going to state.

“I’ve been playing softball for five years and I’m excited to see what the new coach is like and what he has to offer,” Taylor Hensley (10) said.

Hensley has been on a few teams within the five years of playing.

Last year when Hensley was a freshman, she lettered in softball.

That is a big achievement in high school softball.

Speaking of this year’s softball coach, Steve is excited to experience teaching at Granger and seeing what they have to offer.

“I think we are going to surprise a lot of people, we have a great group of incoming freshman plus some experienced sophomores, juniors, and seniors on the team,” he said.

“I have been coaching for eight years, and I still play men’s fastpitch in which I just finished my twenty-third year,” coach-

Steve said.

Steve has been playing softball for a long time and knows the game very well. Steve is a very respected man in the softball community, and many players enjoy having him as a coach.

Almost all of Granger’s team is excited to have Steve be the new coach.

One of the old softball players is very excited.

“I am excited that the new coach is someone I respect so much, and I am excited to get new uniforms, I have been playing softball for 10 plus years and still enjoy it,” Katie Tanner (11) said.

Tanner is one of the very athletic students at Granger; not only does she play softball, but she also plays tennis.

Tanner also lettered last year in the High School season and is hoping to get the opportunity to letter again this year.

Ann is another very excited softball player.

“I am excited to get the opportunity to play with some of my

close friends and be able to travel around, I have played softball almost my entire life and I can’t wait to play again this year,” Ann Banuelos (10) said.

Banuelos has had many situations where it has made it hard for her to play softball.

Banuelos really misses the excitement of playing with her friends and playing competitively.

Banuelos really hopes to make the team again this year.

Speaking of being excited Alexis Breeze (10) is very excited for the new season.

“I think it will be fun to have someone with so much experience being a coach. I really hope that I will be able to play and make the team again this year,” Breeze said.

Breeze is trying hard and working hard after last year being her first year of playing softball.

She played baseball most of her life when she decided to switch to playing softball.

She is hoping for Granger

to go to state this year, and she hopes she gets to play varsity if she makes the team.

Most of the softball players

from last year are very excited to have a new coach and are looking forward to seeing what Granger’s new team can do.

Katie Tanner is very excited for the upcoming season

Bowling isn’t just fun and games for this Lancer

By Jelani Nelson HIGH SCHOOL bowling is a competitive sport where you compete with different high schools and win scholarships.

“Bowling gives me something to look forward to and it’s just fun,” Hailey Koopman (11) said.

Bowling isn’t something you usually see in the everyday life of a student in high school.

High school bowling starts in October every year and is played every Monday and Wednesday.

It starts at All Star Lanes in West Jordan.

Afterwards, the bowlers travel to different bowling lanes around the state.

Not only is high school bowling fun, but it also has many of the benefits of team sports.

“Getting to know people is

fun, and we can all get along and learn to cooperate with people one is easy to work with,” Kaylee that’s what gets us into it,” Marshall, a junior at TaylorsKoopman said. ville, said.

Bowling isn’t something Although this seems like it that people really think about would be easy, it’s not always when kids are in high school. that way. There are requireIt’s usually football, basments the bowlers have to ketball, volleyball, and softfollow in order to bowl. ball. Getting to know a person Students need to dress apwho likes the same uncompropriately, and wear the shirt mon sport as others that isn’t they give them otherwise easy, and it’s a good way to they can’t bowl that day. make new friends.

“High school bowling There is also the downfall only affects me when I have a of team sports as well. lot of homework that day, and Competitive bowling can it affects my time because it be fun and all, but not everyis after school. We have to be one has the same thoughts there on time,” Marshall said. about it, meaning that not evIt’s not only the students eryone is going to take bowl- Hailey Koopman, Granger’s high school bowler. who participate in this activity, ing competitively or seriously. parents get to join in, too.

“Yes and no to team sports, who don’t take things seriously The parents can see how they people can find new friends and like they should, but not every- progress and how much their con-

fident levels increase.

The coaches are always there to help the students bowl better to earn better scholarships.

The scholarships get them to where they want to go in life, and that makes it easier when they are doing what they love to do.

For some, bowling might just be an activity to do on the weekends when people are out with their friends, but this way it makes the sport a hobby.

Something that gives kids something to do other than homework or be on the Internet.

“What I most enjoy is visiting the parents and the excitement of the kids when they win the scholarships. I feel amazing and a little emotional when they get happy because they win what they wanted,” she said.

October 2015, page 9 SPORTS

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

Granger’s Cross Country captains support team

By Kimberly Armenta AMANDA Mackay (11) and Huy Tran (12) are cross-country captains for the first time in their high school years.

Both have been running their entire lifes, but never for crosscountry.

“The main thing about being a cross country captain is that I try to start stretches and everything together. I know we won’t always be at the same pace because we all have different capabilities of running, but as captain, I’m in charge of pushing my team and encouraging them to try harder and to not stop or to give up,” Mackay said.

The cross-country captains are ready and prepared to be the best and to support their team members.

“Cross-country takes effort, hard work, and willingness. Our captains are expected to encourage and help our team out,” Isabel Hernandez (9) said.

It’s been two meets already and our cross-country team is still going and trying to take the lead.

“As cross-country captains, Amanda and Huy are doing great.

After having no experience as captains, they encourage and bring our team great workman-

ship,” Iker Oregel (10) said.

The cross-country team is satisfied with their captains and happy for the way they make them feel about themselves and the way they contribute with each other.

They encourage each other as a team to do better and try harder.

“Our captains are passionate about cross-country. I can tell they care for the team and they’re just cool people in general. I don’t necessarily feel that there is something that should change.

They’re doing what’s needed and I’ve got no complaints,” Alexis Topacio (11) said. “In terms of running, I’ve gotten a few pointers or techniques here and there.

They have definitely encouraged me to try hard as they also try hard themselves. They cheer on the team to keep going, especially when you just feel like passing out,” Topacio said.

As captains for the first time, Mackay and Tran are doing amazing.

After all, being a captain is not all that easy.

Having to look after themselves and their team is a big responsibility.

“I’m enjoying being captain.

It’s cool and a new experience. I

think I’m doing a good job as cap- never obstacles they won’t be learned from Huy that there’s tain, but I think I’ll let my team- able to overcome that will keep always something you can do to make yourself a better athlete,” mates give you a better answer. them from doing so.

“Their dedication is making Leslie Velasquez (12) said.

The only thing I expect from my Hard work and effort is what team is to have fun. Track and us feel like a team. Running is a field is what got me into running. solo kind of thing, but with Huy keep people on their feet.

When someone falls, all a perThe feeling of pushing yourself and Amanda as our captains, they is what I love. It’s a unique feel- show you that you’re not alone son has to do is get back up. In ing that makes me feel successful and that we can always improve cross-country, there will always when I reach that point,” Tran as a team. I have learned from be supportive and encouraging Amanda that if you want it, you’ll people there to help a runner get said.

“I have sports induced asthma, reach anywhere to get it. I’ve back up and finish the race. and this may sound dumb, but it doesn’t stop me from running. I’m a very lazy person, but if I can get the first three steps out of the way, I just don’t know how to stop until it’s over,” Tran said.

When it comes to running, it’s easy to see that nothing can stop Granger High’s cross-country captains.

As for the things they love Cross Country captains love each others’ confidence before every race to do, there are

Drill team is preparing for the competition season

By Madisen Nelson IF ANYONE ever feels like watching people dance I recommend everyone go watch the drill team.

“There are four kinds of dances: military, dance, hip-hop, and every other year we switch to character or kick. Those are the primary dances,” Maria Alvara-

Maria Alvarado shows off her flexibility.

do (9) said.

Military dancing is dancing with walking patterns, kicks, and arm sequences. Kick dancing is all about legs, and the majority of it is kicking. Dance is doing grace, pirouettes, and leaps.

Drill isn’t something people really think about when dance pops into their head.

It’s usually cheerleading or the regular dance classes.

Drill is competing, going up against another drill team, and dancing to win.

If they think it’s going to be an easy practice for an hour then leave, it’s not that way.

“Morning practice and after school practice are about three hours long,” Alvarado said.

Also, make sure to wear the uniforms; no one wants to be the odd one out.

Tryouts are normally in May and April right before the school’s next season.

Preparing in the summer

should give them enough time to be perfect for their winter competition season.

Teams in the top four get to go to state competition.

“During practice we wear practice outfits and when performing we wear dance clothes.

For competition we have special types of clothes,” Alvarado said.

Be prepared to wear different clothes for different dances.

Drill starts in high school and leads to doing professional drill.

Drill dancers can go from dancing for Granger to dancing for the NBA or NFL. Drill teams must follow the policies and guide lines of the regional manual.

Coaches and judges must attend the UHSAA clinic and past their tests.

The day of competition they have 20 minutes floor time and an hour practice session.

No videotaping is allowedwhile they perform.

Drill members have to wear what their director assigns them.

A record will be kept of what uniforms they are wearing.

Drill members will have to pay money if they lose, abuse, or tear the uniforms.

Attendance is a big part in drill. Missing 20 minutes of practice is an absence.

All absences have to be accompanied by the parents or principal.

Members are only allowed five unexcused absences after that they are put on probation, which lasts a three-week period.

Members are only allowed ten excused absences. If they end up with an eleventh absence, they are then dropped from the drill team.

Don’t be the one to make that mistake.

Go and watch the Granger drill team, make sure to cheer and root for them.

Make them feel the proudest they’ve ever been.

Coaching the Lady Lancer soccer team is rewarding

By Taylor Wolfley IN THEIR pre-season, the girls soccer team played teams such as: Taylorsville, Provo High, and Canyonview.

Now that the official season has begun, the whole team is ready to go to state, including Coach Okeson.

Okeson has coached for seventeen years, twenty-eight high school seasons total.

Okeson has always loved the art of coaching, “Watching athletes grow, and become successful human beings,” he said.

Coaching gives chances to watch your work develop into something absolutely beautiful.

While coaching is all about teaching, and practicing and working to get better, Okeson and

his team have a unique bond.

During practices or games, he and his team joke and laugh together.

When someone starts to tease or kid with a teammate, Okeson jumps right in with him or her.

“We have a coach-player relationship to bond with the team. I play, practice, and condition with them,” Okeson said.

Coach Okeson has his own style of coaching that he calls “Opie soccer.” This involves playing the game as he sees fit, as well as pushing the girls to play their best and hardest.

“I feel like if we want to succeed on Opie’s team, we have to work hard,” Julyssa Lopez (12) said. “I like how he coaches because he wants us to improve.

You can tell that’s his main goal.”

“I want to teach the skills necessary to be successful,” Okeson said.

Coach Okeson tries his hardest to make his girls the best; this includes soccer five days a week.

Practices are on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and games on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Games for Varsity are usually 3:30 p.m., Jr. Varsity games are at 5:30 p.m. and Practices run from 2:30 p.m., to 4:30 p.m.

Practices contain pure soccer training.

“He makes me better by pushing me and the girls. He rarely lets our best be good enough for him,” Lopez said.

Coaching is a job that requires time, “I spend about twenty hours

a week physically, and forty hours a week mentally,” Okeson said.

This head coach is also a math teacher here at Granger, and yet he always makes time for soccer.

“He really pushes you to succeed,” Vanessa Silvera (11) said.

“You know what he expects from you, even when he doesn’t tell you.”

Coach Okeson expects a lot out of his players, and when the team needs an extra push, he is always right there to keep them on track.

Okeson is also another person Lancers can rely on, “He isn’t just your coach, you can trust him with a lot. He is really understanding,” Silvera says.

Coach Okeson has so much to bring the table, weather it’s new

drills to do at practice, or a new cheesy joke.

“I enjoy being on Opie’s team, he a lot to bring to me and the other girls,” Lopez said.

Not only do the girls like to be on his team, but the assistant coach Mr. Eden also loves working with him.

“It’s awesome. He teaches me new things, and pushes me and the team to be better,” he said.

Whether it’s playing, or coaching his team, Coach Okeson always finds his way back to his release, soccer.

Granger is excited to see how well the Lady Lancers do thoughout the rest of the soccer season.

Good luck, ladies.

This reporter is a member of the girls soccer team.

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

October 2015, page 10 PROFILES

Camille Thompson’s recovery is an inspiring story

By Arriya Khopha LAST YEAR, Granger Lancer Camille Thompson struggled with IBS. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habit.

“For the first few months, none of my doctors knew exactly what was wrong,” Camille Thompson (12) said.

IBS is hard to detect, it also varies widely from person to person, and its symptoms often resembles those of other diseases.

“No x-rays, cat scans, or even surgery would reveal the problem. I was losing weight dramatically despite already being small,” Thompson said.

Some of the symptoms include abdominal pain or cramping, a bloated feeling, gas, and mucus in the stool. Often times, many people refuse to seek medical attention because these symptoms are standard.

“I was 114 pounds, and dropped to 70. It was terrifying because often times, people

judged me without having the slightest knowledge of how embarrassing it was and how I wished to change it,” she said.

Camille was put on very strong pain medicine that was powerful enough to make her forget about the whole day.

It can control many aspects of a person’s emotional, social, and professional life.

Persons with moderate to severe IBS must struggle with symptoms that often impair their physical, emotional, economic, educational, and social wellbeing.

Treatments are available for IBS to help manage symptoms.

Not all treatments work for all people because there is no known cause to IBS. There is also no known treatment.

“Through trial and error, I discovered foods I can and can’t eat,” Thompson said.

Most people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle, and stress. Others may need counseling.

Her advice to anyone strug-

gling with health problems is to stick it through and to not to give up.

“One of my doctors thought my time was either going to be

weight. Although she has a long way to go, she feels better than she ever has before.

“Camille is a fighter. I am very proud of her for being so strong

Amy Brewerton, Camille’s best friend, was there for her through everything.

cut short, or I’d live miserably forever,” Thompson said.

She kept searching for answers and ways to ease the pain. She is now almost back to her former

through all of this,” Alyssia Holland (12) said.

Even if missing out on some foods and activities may seem horrible, after a while, it becomes

easier to cope with the situation.

“I’ve known Camille for quite some time, and she has never been one to give up under any circumstances,” Amy Brewerton (12) said.

Camille’s story is very inspiring to many people. She learned to cope and accept what she has.

Throughout her situation, she has remained positive and many can learn from her.

For anyone that is experiencing something difficult, don’t ever give up.

Remain positive, even though it may be tough. Positivity can go a long way.

Accept the situation and talk about the feelings that occur, and don’t isolate from the rest of the world.

Everybody knows someone who is currently undergoing a challenging situation.

Often times, people may not understand what others are going through.

The background information for this article came from the aboutibs.org website.

Granger High’s SBOs have a lot of responsibility

By Ashley Garcia EVERY year, Granger has new student body officer elections.

Students are competing and running for certain positions.

The purpose for student government is to plan activities for

the whole student body.

SBOs plan assemblies, dances, and a whole lot of other things involving the whole school.

They come up with things like the themes for dances and activities for spirit week during lunch.

Luis Tobar, sophomore president, represents Granger High School.

They also save teachers a little work by doing these things because only students know what other students are into and what they like.

“I think you should only run for student government if you have a lot of spare time and are willing to sacrifice it,” Luis Tobar (10) said.

It’s nothing like he expected.

“I thought it was just fun and games, but in reality, it’s a lot of hard work and time. But it’s OK because you forget about the stress when you’re surrounded by the rest of the student government team,” Tobar said.

In order to run, an applicant has to have 20 people sign a paper agreeing that he or she has the capability

for the position, including having four teachers fill out recommendations on paper and having to email Hopkins.

“It was kind of like a mug shot,” he said.

Students would also have to get a high GPA from last year, including writing some essays.

Then, students running for student government will have to represent themselves at the campaign by giving out anything to encourage people to vote for them.

“Team work is everything,” Angele Ngyuen (11) said. “One of the most important things is that in order to make a strong team, everyone needs to contribute and put in equal effort.

Being yourself while being a part of this team is such an important factor, because life is too short to pretend to be someone you are not.

Wear clothes that make you feel empowered, work towards success, and be an overall caring human being.

“Being a class officer was

nothing I expected because I used to think this stuff was ‘lame,’ but I got a little taste of it for myself and I love doing what I do with all my heart,” Nguyen said.

Student government isn’t just all fun and games.

“I had to prepare myself mentally,” Anahi Vega (9) said. “It takes a lot of work and responsibility.”

Students in the student government will have the opportunity to be more involved within the school.

Their being a part of this team is also great for their college applications.

Student government does more than just represent the study body to the faculty and the administration; they are the voice of the students and help make Ganger a better school.

Being a part of this team can also help students increase their confidence.

Being involved will give these students the opportunity to also meet new people and make tons of new friends.

shooting for the stars. How can the sky be limit if there are footprints on the moon? What if I don’t make it to the moon?” Dior said.

Before he got the confidence he has today, he thought he wasn’t going to last once he put name out there. He wanted to let people know who he was.

“Dior is one of the best photographers out here. He keeps everything working great,” JP Mata Lean, a 17-year-old Wavy photographer, said.

Social media is a powerful tool if you know how to use it. People have to be smart about it. The technology now days can have connections all around the world.

Members in Wavy are the people he believes in that can put in work. If he sees that his employees are not working, he will let

them go. He said he could get a replacement any time.

To be a part of Wavy, they have to make him believe that they’re willing to put in work.

Dior believes with the right people working for Wavy, it can be big. He knows that his website is going to be one the biggest websites in the world.

People at Granger know him by his work. Some people even wear his shirts and sweaters.

Dior is at the point where he’s working with people that own Lamborghinis. He first started taking pictures of Subarus, but now he’s a taking picture of one of the most expensive cars in the world.

Sometimes he can’t believe how many people view his work.

“Wavy is tight. They got a bunch of talented photographers

putting out content all the time.

Max is a beast for running everything and making everything smooth. Wavy is the best,” Wilson Murphy, a 17-year old Wavy photographer, said.

Two weeks ago, he saw some freshman wearing his shirts and sweatershirts and it makes him happy knowing that there are people out there that love what he does.

Wavy is like a second home.

It’s full of great, hard-working people.

“Wavy is small group of the best photographers who share their passion for automotive photography. It’s growing really fast, but hasn’t been up for very long,” Paul Glyde Vu, a 17-year old Wavy photographer, said.

“I love Wavy works. It’s really cool that he started all this.”

Granger High School student starts his own company

By Samuel Irakoze MAX DIOR (12) started his wavyintl.com website last year.

It’s a car photography-based service for race car owners.

Before everything started,

Dior sent emails to other websites asking them if he could be part of their website. He told them he had good ideas, but replied.

Dior never got an answer. Every day, he would check if they emailed him back.

He got tired of waiting, but he knew they weren’t going to email him.

He then decided to start up his own website. From that day, his website keeps getting bigger.

Dior is wearing his own sweater “ I ’ m

October 2015, page 11 PROFILES

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Granger encourages Lancers to get on track

By Lisandro Rivera CREDIT recovery is a chance for students to make up their failed classes.

When doing credit recovery, students should take it seriously because that’s the only opportunity for them to succeed.

“I am so glad that credit recovery is a thing. Without it, I don’t think that I would be able to graduate,” Michael Tan (12) said.

Tan was far behind on credits and was afraid he would not graduate.

He got his mind back on track and found a way to succeed.

“When I was missing some credits, it wasn’t great because that meant I had to work more to get caught up,” he said.

Credit recovery might be hard on some students, but it is worth the effort for getting where they’re supposed to be.

There are so many reasons why students don’t pass classes because of issues they might have that no one may know.

“I failed because I wasn’t motivated to come to school,” Tan said.

Granger cares about each student’s education, especially since it’s giving a second chance to make up the credits kids failed for

whatever reason.

Whatever the reason is for not showing up to class, students

In the end, it’s important that Lancers get caught up with everything so they don’t have to worry

opportunities for the students that didn’t have enough credits or have transferred from different

“Smiling through thick and thin keeps me successful,” Michael Tan said.

should not miss class because, at the end of the day, it’s really not worth it.

If students want to wait and do credit recovery, it’ll make earning credits more difficult for them.

about graduation anymore.

Putting less pressure on students is better for them.

Credit recovery is a great thing.

Granger has it because it gives

states, but the credits were handled differently.

If students can’t take it seriously, then they don’t deserve a second chance.

“One thing I learned from

credit recovery was to not mess up again,” he said.

No matter if students have zero credits or more, credit recovery will still help with everything that they need to graduate.

Granger is willing to help those students graduate.

Even if they cannot do credit recovery during school, they can always do it during the summer.

During the summer, students can either do the credits in packets or just take classes.

Students usually like to choose classes because there are teachers helping them with the course so they can understand it better.

If any students are behind on credits, they shouldn’t feel unmotivated because Granger will help them get them back up.

Don’t stop trying to earn all the credits because Granger will give Lancers a chance and motivation.

Lancers can make it through the end if they put effort in and stand together as one.

Never stop trying until all the credits are reached.

Believe that students can do it, make it to the top, and complete everything to be on track to be successful and on their way to having a better future.

Armando Meneses’s experiences at Granger High School

By Jorge Vargas ARMANDO Meneses (9) is a freshman at Granger High.

Meneses thought the first day went pretty well, although he thought it was crowded and that there are too many people at this school.

“It would have been better to leave ninth grade in middle school,” Meneses said.

Meneses is into soccer so and he wants to try out going to for Granger soccer this year.

Meneses also thinks that there are way more people here than in middle school.

It is harder to get to classes; Meneses thinks that’s the main reason why everyone usually is late, because the halls get too crowded, and becomes harder to get around.

The older kids don’t really intimidate the freshmen.

Meneses thinks it’s a good thing to start looking for some

classes so later on in the year because he said he wanted to graduate Granger High early.

Meneses thinks it’s pretty hard because now that the middle school kids are in high school now, grades actually matter, because they need to have good grades and pass all classes, especially core classes, in order to get all of the needed credits. So there’s no slacking off or else it’ll be downhill from there.

The older kids don’t really intimidate, Meneses thinks they may be distracting, but not intimidating.

Meneses said “I feel the older kids here at Granger are a distraction because I feel that they don’t really care about their classes or grades anymore just because they are almost out of high school,” Meneses said.

Meneses feels like he is going to end up doing what the older kids are doing.

Meneses thinks all the classes let school be their main focus for ly because high school will be his are way harder then they were now. main focus on school and also, in middle school. “Now that the Meneses thinks he will be able Meneses thinks that he won’t classes are harder, this means to graduate from high school ear- have any distractions.

I’m not going to have time for any alone time or any time to play soccer,” he said.

M e n eses feels that way because teachers gave more h o m e work and harder assignments.

Freshmen have to get their heads straight to Armando Meneses loves being a freshman at Granger High School

VOL. LVIII Issue 2

October 2015, page 12 ENTERTAINMENT

A peek at the delicious food available at Spitz, a hideaway restaurant in Sugar House.

Spitz is a unique, cozy restaurant

Opinion By Jazelle Johns I KNOW what you are thinking: Spitz? What kind of name is that?

Why is it called that? Do they spit in your food or something? Well, let me assure you, this is definitely not the case.

Spitz is a hidden treasure in Sugar House.

It’s tucked away amongst construction and modern buildings.

This hideaway restaurant has a sketchy, retro theme that makes the place surprisingly cozy. It’s a bit hard to find, so I suggest taking a GPS with you.

The setting is nice and laid back with a fantastic staff to match. From the second you walk in the door, they make sure you are comfortable and are ready to help you out in a flash. The nice thing about the staff is they are willing to talk and joke around.

They make you feel like you’re already old friends.

This Mediterranean restaurant has a simple and healthy menu

with few choices, but still a delicious selection. This diner has a choice of either wraps or sandwiches. Whichever you choose, there is a selection of meats to choose from. They stuff their meals full of healthy veggies and they can even make it in a combo.

Yet again, they also have a small selection of sides, but each one is just as yummy as the last.

Their main side is fries, but there are multiple styles. They have loaded kind of fries, plain fries, and if you’re trying to be healthy, they have sweet potato fries. In all honesty, it won’t matter what kind you get because they are cooked to perfection.

At Spitz, you just walk in and choose a seat. When you are ready to order, someone is ready and waiting at the front to hear what you’re hungry for. They cook up the food right then and even bring it out to you.

The best part is that everything is cooked to perfection. The fries

are crisp, yet fluffy, and the meat is cooked enough to be tasty, with just enough juiciness to have an amazing flavor.

Then, there’s their delicious cinnamon sugar pita strips dessert. They are cooked and coated just right. Those things could get you addicted.

The thing about Spitz is that they serve up well-proportioned sizes for the prices they charge.

You can order one combo and split it between two with neither person going home hungry. The food is affordable and totally worth the price. I’d suggest heading to this lovely little place on a date to split a combo with one of their yummy desserts for a lovely finish to the evening.

The best part is that you won’t spend more than twenty bucks that way. Sounds like the perfect place for a date.

If you are still not convinced, the only thing I have to say is don’t knock it until you try it.

Harry Potter is still enjoyable for teens

Review by Jordyn Christopher THE NOVEL “Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince” is the sixth awe-inspiring novel in the Harry Potter series.

Written by British author, J.K Rowling in 2005, this book helps readers enter a world where Harry must expose the secrets of the Dark Lord Voldemort to fully understand how to finally defeat him.

Guided by Hogwarts Headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, Harry will find a way to beat the Dark Lord and end the large threat on his home and family that has been growing larger ever since The Dark Lords rebirth and resurrects.

Local reviews report that the book took a darker turn than its predecessors, but has still remained one of the most loved books in the series.

Since its release date on July 16, 2005, it has since had over 9.5 million copies sold. This proves that people will want to dive deeper and deeper into the series and the world of magic and mystery no matter how suspenseful it can get.

For a Hogwarts student and the only known person to survive the killing curse, Harry has many more difficulties to overcome than any other.

Under the belief that Harry

must use the past as a weapon against Voldemort, Harry discovers that the Dark Lord may be using an ancient form of magic known as Horcruxes to split his soul in order to live throughout the many battles the two have encountered.

As the story progresses, friends will be betrayed and the prophecy will finally be cleared to wandering minds as the fragile bond between life and death will be shattered.

As acclaimed by the New York Times, “The Half Blood Prince” has various themes and suspenseful storyline will keep readers working through the entire book, continuing to want more, and always waiting for the next book.

More audiences agreed that “The Half Blood Prince” bears the markings of pure genius on every page.

This novel has won several acclaimed awards including the 2006 British Book of the year award and the 2006 Royal mail award for children books shipped to the United Kingdom and the United States.

As this particular book was acclaimed to be “far darker than any other book in the series,” the regular age group is more teen to young adult than children. This makes it harder to review for ini-

tial summary but is possible on account of young readers in the United States.

These young readers claim that the book is more violent than the other books in the past, but is so suspenseful that we can’t stop reading. It is a well known fact that most of the nation absolutely adores the series and cannot get enough of it.

As the second best selling book next to “The Deathly Hallows,” this book is still in consideration as to why the author, J.K Rowling, has so suddenly changed the entire perspective of the series with such different roles.

J.K Rowling has said that roles and aging of the characters has to change in order for the book series to continue. The continuation of the story arouses questions and answers to the storyline that she acclaims will all be answered in her final installation to the series, “The Deathly Hallows.”

Until that time, we are left to ponder the deepest secrets of the Dark Lord and the final showdowns core. Only one will be allowed to live while the other survives.

All of these secrets and more will be answered in the next review on the final book of the series, “The Deathly Hallows.”

Until next time, stay tuned.

Just chilling with the enthralling book, “As Simple as Snow.”

As simple as snow

Review by Aizy Olsen “AS SIMPLE as Snow” by Gregory Galloway is an enthralling novel about a bland teenager whose life drastically flips once he meets the vivid goth girl, Anna Cayne.

This boy, whose name is never revealed, narrates the story going back to when he first met Anna and how their romance started.

After seven months, Anna disappears leaving a dress and unanswered questions.

Throughout the first half of the novel, it describes how Anna and the protagonist meet and everything they did up until her disappearance.

We all get a peek at some of the weird gifts Anna gives the protagonist.

Music albums surrounded by feathers, weird knick-knacks such as marbles and little charms, letters quoting H.P. Lovecraft, and all sorts of odd items.

As soon as Anna Cayne disappeared, the narrator was desperate to figure out what happened to his girlfriend.

He analyzed every gift, poem, note, text, and email that she had left for him.

She keeps him addicted and wanting more love and attention, which he might never receive.

Galloway keeps the mystery going as readers must wonder if Anna got into an accident, or just decided to leave or what.

“As Simple as Snow” is a type of love story that most people can relate to and has a unique plot.

It would be perfect for anyone who likes mystery, romance, and stereotypes.

It all started with the typical high school groups.

There were the popular jocks, the goths, the nerds, the geeks, and the people that do not belong anywhere.

Anna fit into the goth group

while the narrator was a social outcast.

When others discovered their relationship, they received hateful notes in their lockers.

Although they received those hateful messages, that did not stop Anna Cayne or the narrator.

Anna started to send odd little gifts to her boyfriend like CD’s surrounded by unique objects and obituaries.

We also learn a lot throughout the novel.

We learn small secrets detailing to the townspeople, Anna Cayne, and the protagonist himself.

We learn of the clues that Anna left for the narrator and how he grew as a person.

He finds out who he is, what he needs to do, and where life will take him.

Towards the end of “As Simple as Snow,” the protagonist learns what type of person he really is and what he needs to do, making the ending acceptable and genuine.

As the novel winds down to a stop, it’s obvious that “As Simple as Snow” is different than your average teenage love story in the way it finishes..

This is what makes the plot of “As Simple as Snow” unique and simple in the end.

It’s good aspect of the book because it lets the readers invest themselves in the ending of the story .

All in all, “As Simple as Snow” is a great book for anyone interested in stories that involve mystery, comedy, drama, stereotypes or plain and simple romance.

This love that the protagonist shares with goth girl Anna Cayne is a mysterious and simple teenage love that is simply amazing, and it will entice you the whole time.