Granger high school
Tri-Color Times An open forum for student opinion and expression
December 2016 LIX-IV
TRICOLORTIMES.COM
Election results impact Lancers in different ways By Flavianna Hawley THE PRESIDENTIAL election was the center of much controversy and divisiveness for several months now, hitting its climatic finale on November 9, when the election results became official and it was announced that Donald Trump would be the next president of the United States. Reactions varied throughout the nation, ranging from elation to despair. Regardless of individual responses, most everyone can agree that the election has brought a wave of uncertainty over many as the country awaits the inauguration of President-elect Trump. Just as mixed emotions have plagued the nation, GHS has had a variety of responses as well. Many students had been talking about the election throughout the year, particularly those in classes
such as U.S. Government 12. Ms. Robinson, gave some insight into the reactions of her students. “I think it was a lot of surprise and a little bit of fear. I think that fear factor is growing as we hear about the transition, because there’s just so much unknown,” she said. Many students have echoed this. “I think the feel of the school is kind of sad and shocked. Some kids are scared, too. I’ve heard a lot of people say they’re scared for their friends, their family,” Dylan Jensen (12) said. While the sense of alarm many people, Granger students included, are feeling may seem overwhelming, Ms. Robinson reminded students that they are not powerless and stressed the importance of taking care of one another. “I feel like we have a re-
ally strong community at Granger and that we need to continue to stand up for what we believe in, but make sure that we do it in an appropriate way so that the message doesn’t get lost,” she said. Other students had different reactions to the election results. “When I first saw that Donald Trump won, I wasn’t bummed out or sad about it because I didn’t think Clinton was any better of a choice. At this point, it was the choice of a lesser evil,” Yelena Dragicevic (10) said. She spoke about giving the President-elect a chance to prove himself and not doubt him before his term begins. “We need to keep an open mind,” she said. “As long as people keep protesting and not entering these next four years with open minds, I feel the divide we’ve seen throughout the coun-
try will continue.” As for whether or not the divisiveness of the election has created a divide in Granger High, many are still unsure. “I think it’s too soon to say whether or not this has divided us,” said Ms. Neibaur. “My hope is because we are so diverse, and because we have friends from all different backgrounds, it will bring us together.” “We talk about being thoughtful, empowered, and connected in our school. But are we? I think it’s time to put those words into action.” Ms. Neibaur said. While uncertainty may be the climate of both the country and the Granger community in the wake of the election results, most can agree that coming together and lifting one another is the most practical way to move forward.
Jelena Dragicevic encourages her peers to keep an open mind about the results of the election.
Granger’s nurse is ready to help Lancers improve their health By Stephanie Perez LANCERS need to take some time to get to know the school nurse. Jaime Ferdinand is located in the counseling office where she makes sure that every student that walks in her door is getting the proper care they need. Ms. Ferdinand graduated from Montana State University almost 39 years ago, with a Bachelor’s degree in nursing. Her nursing experience includes hospital, public health, and school health. She practiced for four years in different states, but the last 12 years she has been working here in the Granite School District. Before living in Utah, Ms. Ferdinand and her family had the opportunity to live in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Wyoming.
Ms. Ferdinand is in charge of over 8,000 students all over Granite School District. However, only around 125 students here at Granger have visited her this year. Ms. Ferdinand has been working as a nurse here at Granger for two years now. In fact, there had not been a nurse’s office until she came along. Although many don’t know about Ms. Ferdinand, she is more than willing to help students. “For those students who have trouble seeing in class, I’d be more than glad to do a free eye exam for those who want it,” Ms. Ferdinand said. Many students love Ms. Ferdinand, although she may not know it. “She’s kind and always has a beautiful smile upon her face. It
just amazes me, if only more people knew about her,” Alejandro Zavala (10) said. She makes sure that every student that walks into her office is getting the proper care they need so that when they walk out, they have a huge smile on their face, feeling better than before. Helping out students, teachers, staff, and parents and assisting them in dealing with their health or seeking health is one of Ms. Ferdinand’s favorite tasks. She enjoys knowing that she’s providing the proper care they need on a daily basis. However, sometimes we may feel as if most of our staff doesn’t get appreciated as much as they should. Ms. Ferdinand wakes up every morning to help out hundreds of students, not only here
at Granger but all over Granite School District. “I want Ms. Ferdinand to get more known. Whenever a friend isn’t feeling well, I’ll make sure to recommend Ms. Ferdinand,” Zavala said. She’d like to get the word out and let students know that she’s available to help out anyone who needs health care. Even if she’s in a rush to go to another school, she will take some time to help students before she heads off on her rounds. Outside of school, Ms. Ferdinand loves to be with her family. Going home every day to the people she loves the most makes her happy, and that feeling of love and comfort is what she needs after a long day at work.
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Scholarships
By Ariana Rojas IT CAN be very difficult for students to find out about scholarships or ways to get a scholarship, but one way to make it easier is to get a head start. Freshmen should pay attention to grades and afterschool activities in order to prepare for scholarship application requirements and essays. Planning now creates success later. “I haven’t applied for any scholarships, but I would really want to apply for one. I want to apply for a scholarship as soon as possible. So far in school I been getting good grades like A’s and some B’s. I’m trying really hard to get good grades to get a scholarship for my college. I choose to get good grades to make my parents really happy about me,” Jessica Arellano (9) said. Grades are an important part of scholarship readiness, and as a ninth grader, Arellano is smart to keep her GPA high from the start. A few F’s freshman year can make it hard to qualify for scholarships as a senior. “Scholarships are really hard to find but I’m trying to see what kind of scholarship do I want. My favorite subject in school is biology because I feel like I learn a lot in that class, and it’s super easy. Another scholarship that I’ve been thinking of is a defense lawyer scholarship. School can be hard, but you’ll see that it’s not that difficult if you try,” Arellano said. It is a great idea to find a scholarship early. Getting good grades and doing your work can get you on the scholarship track. Looking up scholarships early is a great idea, so check the career center and talk to the college adviser. That way, after school is finished, there’s a scholarship that can pay for most of college. Try to find a scholarship that can pay for all tuition. “I’d like to get a scholarship so I won’t have to pay for everything for my college. I’m getting good grades to show my parents that I can do it. I would like to apply for a scholarship at a school in Denver. I keep my grades up by writing down my homework assignments and checking them off. I would like to be a children’s doctor. I have been looking for scholarships, but so far none have been interesting to me,” Serena Cano (9) said.
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Tri-Color Times VOL. LIX Issue 4
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The Granger High app offers Lancer-specific features By Mireya Ruiz GRANGER High School has recently launched its own app for smartphones. Many students did not know that there was an app for the school. On November 2, GTV made an announcement about the new app. But in many classes, students talk to each other and use their phones during GTV, so they aren’t really paying attention to the announcements. The app was created just recently, and it has surprised some students that attend Granger. “The app is shocking. I just wouldn’t have expected us to get an app that relates to the school. It’s quite different,” Ismael Hernandez (9) said.
To other students, it’s just another app. “I think that being able to have a school app is nice and many schools don’t get an app. However, I wouldn’t use it. I watch the announcements and I never have fees or anything, so for me, it’s not really useful,” Andrea Lopez (10) said. Some students think that the app is useful, but others don’t have any need for it. Then there’s some Granger students that have the app who think it’s amazing. “This app is sick, honestly. It has a lot different resources that can really help me once I download it. The only suggestion I would make is add some games to it. That’d be make it super interest-
ing,” Francisco Salazar (9) said. In the app store, just type in ‘Granger High School’. Then it’ll bring up the school’s logo with the school colors. Then, click download. After installing it and opening it, the home page has a list of things that are going on at the school each day. There’s usually event alerts daily so the user can stay informed on what’s happening. So if the app hasn’t been checked in a while, it’ll have a list of reminders about what had happened throughout the days the app wasn’t checked. After being on the home page, it may seem like that’s all to the app. But it’s really not. There’s
tons more of undiscovered features. If the user swipes left, it brings up more features. It has other new discoveries like the home page, events, contacts, map, quick links, documents, pay fees, register athletes, order yearbooks, portal, and a link to the school website. With this app, it keeps the user informed on what’s going on with the school. If a parent is too busy and never really has time to come in, then they can check this app. Paying fees, registering athletes, and ordering yearbooks becomes a lot easier. Then there’s also the ‘tools’ features, which includes ‘assignments’, ‘tip line’, and ‘share the
app’. There’s the social part, too. It links the user to of school’s Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube channel. There are also settings that let the user individualize the way they use the app. “We try to make the school the best we can in any way possible,” Dr. Dunn said. Accessing this app on the go is like going to the school and handling the errands, but in half the time. It makes the school better in many ways. It is useful to both students and parents while showing that Granger High is advancing more. This app will also make it easy for students to check and see if they purchased yearbooks.
Swim team hopes for a successful season
By Megan Peterson SWIMMING is something that is enjoyed by all ages. However, when most Lancers think of swimming, they don’t think of lane lines, sprints, the butterfly, and the medley. They tend to think of splashing around in water. In contrast, the swim team students think of hard work and dedication. These students swim hundreds of yards daily. They practice diving off on a block into the water. They attempt to beat their times and win their heats. They swim as fast as they can, even when it feels like their lungs are burning. It takes time and dedication, and these students are doing it. Swimming doesn’t have games, but has meets. Swim meets are made up of different events that the swimmers swim. “Meets are the best thing about swimming for me,” Luis Medellin (12) said. He is the Captain of the boys team, and he loves how fast-paced and energized he gets during the meets. “I listen to my music, and I get
amped up and ready to win,” Medellin said. He believes that athletes have to get prepared mentally as well as physically in order to perform well in events. He thinks that if someone believes they can do something, they will. “We are a family and can always trust that our team will be there when we need them,” Jayde Holloway-Brown (12) said. A good team is a family. The swim team does all sorts of activities together. They go hiking and do monthly activities outside of the pool to help build the team together. He feels like these outings are necessary to build relationships with the team. HollowayBrown feels that it’s easier to talk away from the pool instead of between rests at practice. “I love how Mary coaches, and she’s honestly a second mother to me,” Holloway-Brown said. He spends a lot of time at the pool. Sometimes between swim and work, he is at swim more than he is at home. “I love how I can talk to Mary and get advice on things I am struggling with,” said Hollo-
way-Brown. He says even though he hates practices, his team and coaches make him love the sport even more than he loves competing. Right now, in the middle of their season, the team is having a great time. They also will be competing in the Thanksgiving invitational. This meet is a bunch of high schools throughout Utah that get together for a two-day meet. “I am so excited for the invitational, this is Granger’s third year being invited,” Holloway-Brown said. Holloway-Brown feels that Granger is going to make a statement at this meet. “We are gonna bring it this year,” he said. Swim may not be as exciting to watch as football, but it is very entertaining. The team loves the support of Lancers. However, most lancers don’t come to support these students. The team usually has meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Check the calendar, find a meet, and go see these Lancers swim faster than mermaids. They are going to have an amazing year.
The Excaliburs are competition ready By Chuck Manzanares DRILL team is preparing for this year’s competition season, which starts in December. Drill team members are anywhere from nervous to really excited or somewhere in between. Kenia Gonzalez (12) is pretty nervous for competition. “Competition coming up makes me nervous, but I think we’ll do great this year,” Gonzalez said. The drill team is an amazing thing here at Granger High. It is a program that gives students a chance to express themselves through dance. Some drill team members have been dancing for quite a while. Anjelus Lettig (10) has been dancing for years. “This is my fourth year of dancing, and I have been dancing since 7th grade at West Lake,” Lettig said. The members of the drill team each have their own favorite thing about being on the drill team.
“My favorite thing about drill is the team does are pretty intense, performing out on the football but that does not stop the team, “I field during games,” Briana Gar- joined the team because I wanted to see what it was like and push cia (10) said. The other girls’ favorite things myself to become a better dancinclude how close they can be er,” Lettig said. There are many types of rouwith the other drill members or a favorite routine. “My favorite tines that the team does such as routine to do is probably dance, hip-hop, military, and dance. “I because I enjoy it the most,” Let- love performing hip-hop and military the most,” Gonzalez said. tig said. Many of the members of the drill team like being on the team because they get so close with one another, “I like how close I am with the team, they really feel like sisters to me,” Gonzalez said. Many of the drill routines Herrera Jeanette (9) and Perkes Taunya (9) get ready.
Kevin Tann is ready to dive head-on into the sports try-outs with full confidence
Sports try-outs are nerve-wracking By Kiana Dalpiaz HIGH SCHOOL is a perfect place to go out and try for a sports team. If a student is interested in playing sports in college or professionally, then high school is a good place to start. Although it would probably be better for students to start at a younger age, high school still is a good place to start. Trying out for a sports team is always a nerve-racking experience. Depending on the team that a student may go out for, any sport or club can differ very much. This process can be very intimidating when first looking at it from a different point of view. If someone is very passionate about a sport, then that person should go and try for that sports team or club. It is important to remember when trying out for a sports team, grades have to be one of an athlete’s main focuses. They are called ‘student athletes’, so academics must come before the athletic part – students first, athletes second. The school will not allow a student to be on a team without at least a 2.0 GPA. Especially considering honors classes, a student has to have a well-planned schedule in order to balance both sports and school. The more a student keeps up to date with checking grades and stays on task in class, the easier it will be for him or her to be on a sports team. The word “team” is implies that, as a whole, all team-
mates are working together, and each athlete has an important job, which can greatly affect the team if he or she is not willing to work hard enough. Another step to being on a sports team is being able to maintain commitment to that team. Being passionate is already one big step and can already be a problem. “Be motivated and go to as many open gyms as you can,” Kevin Tann (9) said. A team should not have to be affected if an athlete decides that he or she does not actually have time to participate. Make sure that sports fits into your life and that the team or personal things do not mess with each other’s times. Trying out for a sports team can be rather difficult at times and this may be nerve racking for a student who has not been through the process already. It helps when having older siblings to ask for advice on and what they can do better. Siblings can always help but not just siblings, also people that the athlete look up to who can help give advice. Once a student finds out if they have made the team or not this is the final step of trying out for a sports team. If a teammate has made the team that does not mean they can completely stop trying. Always maintain a good grade point average and be a good student.
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Tri-Color Times VOL. LIX Issue 4
MESA is a fun club with room for more members By Ramon Martinez III CLUB MEETINGS are constantly being announced on GTV, and one of those clubs is MESA club. Sometimes there is that nearperfect club that many Lancers
would love to be a part of, but sadly, it is hard for them to find any info on the school website, which should have information about all of the clubs. Many students looking to join
MESA wonder where they could sign up, but online there is no info except for a reference to the club advisor, Ms. Hayward. MESA (Math, Engineering, Science Achievement) is a club
There’s a club for students interested in math, engineering, and science achievement. MESA is recruting new members.
in this situation, and it is hurting from it with little of less than 10 members that came to the first meeting on Wednesday, November 2. The meeting looked empty” “I thought that the meeting was canceled or I was in the wrong room,” Zeniff Mena (12) said. He was not the only member with a confused face, as a bit more approached the door and asked if that was where they should be. The first meeting involved a building project with the goal to build a steady structure made out of uncooked spaghetti and small marshmallows. This objective got the members ecstatic. “If I knew MESA was like this, I would have joined years ago,” Mena said. People joined up as a group of two or more to try and build a superstructure that people can only
make if a person had more than two hands. When the meeting was coming to a close, the members looked around to check out everyone’s structures. Some didn’t make it to the end because of risks that people took to add height for their spaghetti/marshmallow tower. The meeting lasted for about 45 minutes, but for others it felt shorter. “It was the most fun I had at school in a while, and I’m happy that I joined this year,” Moises Tejeda (11) said. At the end of the meeting many were overheard saying that they cannot wait for the next meeting, and half of the members told a friend about the club experience. MESA and other similar clubs host fun activities, and more students are welcome to join.
Granger seniors suffer from senioritis By April Hendriksen THERE are 691 seniors enrolled at Granger High School. It is common knowledge that seniors consistently have worse attendance than grades. Seniors have more unexcused absences than any of the other classes. Some may find it questionable that seniors are so close to earning their high school diplomas, but some end up dropping out or their grades drop and they leave with no diploma. “They want to get out of school quicker,” Marty Leavitt (9) said. There are typically two times during high school where students feel senioritis the strongest: freshman year and senior year. Mrs. Gaskins suffered senioritis her first year of high school. “I felt itchy and antsy to move on to the excitement of being an adult in college,” she said. “We’ve all felt it. It’s hard to stay motivated intrinsically, so you start to care less about your grades, you’re tired, especially when you’re going to school twelve-plus years.” Mr. Anderson has seen senioritis hit many times during
his career. “Seniors have spent a long time in school and are eager to grow up. But then when they grow up, they wish they were young again. So it’s quite an inverse relationship,” he said. Serious senioritis symptoms include sluffing both required and elective classes, taking days off without being sick, justifying their actions by telling themselves they’ll soon get a job, and neglecting their classwork and homework. Unfortunately, these symptoms prevent many students from earning their high school diploma and learning the skills necessary to survive in the adult world. Although learning is important, the habit of attendance is more important as life goes on. According to the human resources office at Merit Medical Center, 70% of employers fire employees for non-attendance. When students get into the habit of non-attendance, their future employers are not happy. Employers prefer employees they can count on to come to work and do their jobs. Ms. Havea has a plethora of
ideas for preventing senioritis. “The number one reason seniors drop out is because of the social economic pressure to get a job,” she said. Most senior students in high school have a job and find that they’re tired of school and already making money. There are, of course, more reasons behind non-attendance, such as pregnancy, overwhelming credit makeup, bad attendance history, lack of friends, and lack of home support. These are challenges that can’t always be easily fixed, but can be coped with in several different ways. Being involved in extracurriculars typically makes school more enjoyable and tolerable for students. “Sports. Get involved with sports,” she said. It’s also important to have a plan.“Vision. Students who have an excellent understanding of who they are, where they are, and where they’re going don’t typically get senioritis,” Mr. Anderson said. It is difficult to acquire a perfect vision of one’s self, seniors can start by making some realistic goals for their desired lifestyles.
Michael Vey books: an interesting series
Review by Jonathan Jordan MICHAEL Vey: Fall of Hades, by Richard Paul Evans, is the sixth book in the ‘Michael Vey’ series. The story follows a boy named Michael Vey and his friends. They travel to many parts of the world in order to save the people they care about. The author based it on one of his children who has Tourette’s Syndrome, like the main character in the book. Like any story, there are good and bad parts. Some of the good things include the character development and all the locations they visit. It always keeps the book interesting and always grabs the reader’s attention. Two of the bad things, though, are the number of cliffhangers throughout the story and all of the missing background information. If he would have added a little more background information about the characters in this book, it would be on the top. This series of books took the world by storm. People flooded stores in order to get their hands
on the first book. As each book came out, the series earned more fame. There have been five other books: Prisoner of Cell 25, Rise of The Elgen, Battle of The Ampere, Hunt for Jade Dragon, and Storm of Lightning. By the time all the books are done, there will be a total of seven books in the series. The last book comes out in late 2017. Throughout every one of the stories, the plot is almost identical. There’s a problem that happens, then there is some chaos or a death, then Michael does whatever he can to save the day. It’s usually always the same action when it comes to Michael Vey. But with this book, the plot is different than expected, which makes this book more interesting. Evans certainly has an entire world built up in his mind. The book series of Michael Vey and his many adventures fit into multiple of group genres. In the book there’s drama, action, romance, comedy, adventure, and crime & punishment. If there is
something missing or needed in everyday life, this book has it all. It also has amazing facts that most people wouldn’t know at all. Ostin in the series is known as the book worm. He tells everyone facts about places, animals, and history. At stores, this book can usually be bought for ten dollars or more. This is a pretty reasonable price for most people. The whole series can be bought together as a set at certain stores. It might cost more, but people get more bang for their buck. There are many things in books people like and this one has all of them. There are also many secrets hiding within the books. Readres thinking of getting this book should just head to the nearest store or go on anyone’s phone. This book is totally worth it and it always leaves hidden things to be discovered through a re-read. I highly recommend this book to those who love to read about adventure.
Tri-Color Times Staff Editor in Chief Amanda MacKay Managing Editor Skye Rouse Reporters Doris Ah Ching Samantha Barman Ryan Beckstead Tahliea Bernard Dailyn Brinas Lexee Buckner Oswaldo Cabrera Valencia Kayla Carter Kiana Dalpiaz Stephanie Dorantes Britney Evans Ashley Garcia Suiry Gregorio Flavianna Hawley April Hendriksen Lupita Hernandez Tina Huskic Katherynne Jaco
Online Editor Hayley Rigby Photo+Social Editor Vanessa Holt Sports Editor Taylor Wolfley Reporters Jonathan Jordan Chuck Manzanares Ramon Martinez III Madison McCurdy Ana Montelongo Andalynne Moore Jessica Nateras Stephanie Perez Megan Peterson Jasmine Raya Ariana Rojas Mireya Ruiz Anna Sayasith Diego Serrato Gabriela Thompson Arei Turner Alexandra Valdez Anissa Voa
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 liability.
Granger High School 3580 South 3600 West West Valley, UT 84119 (385) 646-5320
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Granger High Lancers: thoughtf
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ful, empowered, and connected!
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Granger High goes over the rainbow with the Wizard of Oz
Review by Skye Rouse WHEN GRANGER High puts on the Wizard of Oz, it’s a play that no one will forget. It is exciting and even gets the crowd involved by having them clap when needed and exchange real money for OZ
money that will be used in the play. They had many different kinds of effects that amazed the crowd, like the fireball thrown at Scarecrow played by Nathan Musselman (10) and the hot air-balloon
that came down from the ceiling to take Dorothy played by Rachel Guerra (10) back home to Kansas. The balloon was purchased for $500 from Pioneer Theatre Company, and it was very well spent because when it came down everyone seemed impresses. There was a mix of emotions throughout the play, it was very suspenseful and kept everyone entertained. My favorite thing about the play was when they had elementary kids crawl up from the isles and had them play the munchkins. The bubble machine and fake snow was also a plus and really made me feel like I was in the movie, it felt as if it had taken me over the rainGranger Theatre’s magical production of Wizard of Oz impressed Lancers and guests.
bow. The different kinds of costumes really brought out the different types of characters and personalities of everyone in the play like the Winkies, the trees, and flying-monkeys. The Winkies were strong and synced, and their spears were very intimidating. The trees were sassy and their costumes were very bold. The flying-monkeys were small but big, they had a lot of them and even had one on roller-skates. There were many witches all over the auditorium, and their shrieks were loud and terrifying. Their laughs were crazy. They did an amazing job at making it seem like the wicked witch was truly wicked. They even had a real dog as Toto, he was a Yorkie and was very obedient and seemed to be the star of the show. He walked wherever he was directed to and didn’t even bark and definitely enjoyed the spotlight.
The songs in the play were performed very well and the microphones only cut out from time to time. The choreography in the play was amazing and was spread throughout the whole stage and everyone even the cast seemed to love it, and it looked really fun, even from the audience. There were many dedicated hours invested in the weeks that made the play as great as it was and you could tell how much time and effort everything took. There was even a student puking right before his scene on stage, but he wouldn’t let that get him down, because the show must go on. The show was an amazing experience and I would say that it’s one of the best shows Granger High has put on in a while. I liked hearing the laughter of the crowd and the gasps when Dorothy was taken by the Wicked Witch. The effects made it come to life and made it feel surreal and like I was in the play.
District’s dance students raise money for Sub for Santa By Andalynne Moore CHRISTMAS is the season for giving, and it started a little early this year. On October 26th, 2016, Dance Company and Drill Team put on a dance benefit concert. For a $5 entrance fee, a guest could watch Granger High School’s dance teams, as well as other school’s teams, perform with passion. All of the proceeds went to a good cause. Every year, thousands of kids in this community go without a Christmas; in order to help these children get one, Sub for Santa donates everything from books to clothes. This nonprofit organization cannot do it all alone, however, and accepts
help from the community. This is where the benefit concert helped. “It’s doing what I love, but it’s a service, not a trouble. I’m spreading what I love while helping people,” Brittany Petersen (9) said. The concert was very beneficial, not only for the charity, but also for the students who were able to help. Students were able to help people while following their passions, which is a goal for many. “It feels good. You get to do two things you love -- help people and dance. From my perspective, it feels good because you know you’re helping people by dancing,” Edwin Perez (9) said.
The students were able to raise hundreds of dollars for their cause. Halfway through the event, there was a miracle minute. During this short time, they collected roughly $200 dollars in donations from the audience. “I think it’s great. It opens a lot of doors and opportunities for something that is beneficial for the community,” Mr. Jackson, an assistant principal at Granger High School, said. Something else that made for a truly splendiferous concert was the fact that other schools came to perform as well. Students from other schools such as Taylorsville and Skyline came to Granger High School for the concert. “I
think that’s great. It makes us an ambassador and lets us showcase our school. We take a lead. Other schools could’ve offered to do it, but we’re the ones who hosted the benefit,” Mr. Jackson said. Those in attendance thought it was great to just see all of the dancers perform. “You get to see what the others have been working on. They’ve been working so hard and they’re so talented. It’s great to see people doing what they love,” Petersen said. This concert was important for other reasons, too. Dance has a great effect on many student’s lives, and being able to show it off is wonderful. “I started dancing in fourth grade. I like per-
forming and twirling. It makes me happy. The concert was fun. It is something that I want to do in life,” Raja Benning (9) said. Having programs like dance help Granger students out so much. It is great that the school has them. “Having avenues like dance opens new opportunities and brings culture. It’s a great thing,” Mr. Jackson said. Dance also teaches students how to persevere. “A lot of people think dancing is so easy; they think you just lift your leg, but it’s more complicated than that. It’s a process. It’s physically and mentally challenging. It’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” Petersen said.
Christmas-themed movies make the holiday season sparkle Review by Gabriela Thompson IT’S THE most wonderful time of the year. Christmas is the time for hot beverages, beautiful lights, and spending time with the family. One family-oriented activity is watching the “25 Days of Christmas” on Freeform, formerly known as ABC Family. From well-known cartoons to popular movies, it certainly leaves viewers feeling the Christmas spirit. For the young ones and the old ones, there’s The Year Without Santa Claus. Opening with Mrs. Claus, she tells a time when Old Saint Nick became sick and had to stay in bed, which results in him taking a vacation, due to believing that kids don’t really care about Santa or Christmas. Two elves and Mrs. Claus try to show Santa that the kids do care about him by showing the kids still have Christmas spirit. Watching this movie will give you doleful and light-hearted moments at every turn. Whether it’s the songs that revert in your brain like, Blue Christmas or the characters’ personalities that will carve their way into your heart. Having the old ones wishing they were young again and the young ones reinforcing their Christmas spirit. If you’re wanting to watch this movie, it’ll show a few times in December. For adolescents and adults
there’s Elf. When he was a toddler, Buddy was accidentally transported to the North Pole where he spent his childhood with Santa’s elves. When he grows into an adult, Buddy starts feeling restless and experiences a sense of not belonging. As a result, Buddy goes on a journey to find his father. Buddy meets new friends and a harsh society, but he also finds out what family means. In Elf, there are some laughout-loud moments, involving elf
fights, and heart-melting movements that can only come with two people falling in love during Christmas. This coming-of-age film will have anyone reminiscing of memories of their childhood. Which can lead to affectionate actions to friends and family. If you’re wanting to catch this movie, it will be showing until Christmas. At last, for the adults there’s Santa Baby. When Kris Kringle starts going through a late-life
crisis he tries to enlist his daughter, Mary, to step in his place. Being a businesswoman in New York and trying to trying to pursue a romantic relationship, Mary doesn’t feel up to the challenge. Yet, when a willing participate steps up to help the “claus” in question. Mary must find out if connecting with her estranged father or pursuing her career in the business world is worth it. To catch this show, tune in midDecember.
These classic holiday movies are perfect for sharing with family and friends.
There are many more movies that most know and those that have never been heard of that will be showing for the 25 days of Christmas. It’s fun to sit with little brothers and sisters or nieces and nephews and watch their reactions. When ready to binge watch these movies and more, snuggle with the family and enjoy the holidays. Although these movies often center around a specific age group, they can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
December 2016, page 7
Tri-Color Times VOL. LIX Issue 4
Freshmen are not the youngest students at GHS By Stephanie Dorantes THIS EVENT was taking place here in Granger all around the school. On Oct. 27, the preschool children were walking around in their costumes and going from
classroom to class room trick-ortreating. “I saw the children walking in D-hall, and they all looked so happy to be walking around Granger in their costumes trick-
or-treating. They were all so well behaved,” Mr. Anderson, an assistant principal, said. “All the children where following the directions, so everything was more mellowed. I loved
Perla Valdez was happy to see all the kids come around and thrilled that she could share in their Halloween excitement.
the fact that I got to have fun with the children and that I got to see them in costumes,” Perla Valdez (12) said. With big smiles on their little faces, they explored more of the school than just the preschool area in the school. It also makes Lancers more aware of the programs here for the preschool kids. “I always have fun to see the children have their own fun when it’s time for trick-or-treating. They all move at a different pace. They all like to go in different directions, but to know that they all are having a good time is enough for me. I also gave out candy to the staff so they wouldn’t feel obligated to have something ready for the children,” Ms. Mosher said. “It’s important for people to be aware of the programs we have here at Granger.” People who were walking around saw the kids. The children where all behaved well, and they all followed the directions that they were kindly told. “I got to see all the costumes
on the kids. There was nothing that I would change everything went very well, and all the children where well behaved,” Savannh Mejia (12) said. It was enjoyable to see the children in their costumes having a wonderful time exploring more of Granger than just the preschool. All of the Lancers who help Ms. Mosher found this helpful for them. They learned how to act with the children and to know exactly how excited a child can get while trick-or-treating. “I liked how exited the kids where for the little trick-or-treating around the school. I feel like I should be a good role model for them, so they can learn to like being in school. That way, they’ll want to study, but they’ll also learn good manners and know how to talk to people the right way,” Elise Fulton (12) said. And the Lancers that helped her out really liked this new experience that they got. And in conclusion, they all learned new and valuable from this experience.
Open a hidden doorway to secret menus
Kaluhikaua is Granger’s Hero By Tina Huskic SOME GRANGER High students may not know that there is a social worker here at Granger. Many students do know about him because he isn’t just in his office, but actually out on the sidelines with the football boys. Granger’s social worker is Mr. Kaluhikaua, and he is also one of Granger High’s football coaches as well. Mr. Kaluhikaua is always a radiant and bright person. He really does rub off on his students and anyone he comes in contact with. Many students have seen him and even talked to him in the halls without knowing who he is, and what he does at Granger. Mr. Kaluhikaua has his own office in upper E-Hall, and he is always welcoming new faces in. He is a social worker, which means he is here to listen to students’ problems and try to figure out solutions. Everyone needs a great listener, and that is what he does: he listens. If a student is just having
the worst day of his or her life and needs to talk to someone, Kaluhikaua is the right person to find for a good talk. He helps Lancers figure out their school problems, whether it be drama with friends or problems with classes. He often has an answer for everything and anything students throw at him. Mr. Kaluhikaua is a caring person and here for anyone who needs him. He deals with many students a day and has been doing this for many years. He deals with students that have no homes to students who are suicidal. He is a big deal at our school, and he needs to be appreciated for what he does for us. You should not be afraid to go to him, or even be embarrassed, because he really is here to help the students at Granger High. And if you didn’t know, we now have a behavioral health assistant, as well. Ms. Auld is Mr. Kaluhikaua’s wing woman, and she does similar work to what he does.
By Katherynne Jaco CREDIT recovery is a class with a high class size of about 40 students for each period. For those who don’t know, credit recovery is a class taught by Mr. Hopkins in E203. Credit recovery helps kids earn credits, pass classes, and eventually graduate. Credit recovery offers packets in math, English, science, social studies, art, PE, and computer tech. In this class, Mr. Hopkins gives students packets to work on for the whole class period. He also checks grades and makes sure students are on track and where they’re supposed to be. He says
it definitely helps students stay on track and even graduate. Hopkins claims his credit recovery class has helped about thirty or more seniors graduate this year. This class may be attended by all grades here at Granger High School. There are currently no freshmen in credit recovery, because freshman just arrived and do not have any missed credits to make up. Students are required to do a pretest, and if they receive an 80% or higher, they automatically receive the credit. But if the student scores under an eighty percent, they have to do the packet
Review by Vanessa Holt HUSH. It’s a secret. That’s right, Starbucks, In N’ Out, and Fiiz Drinks have a secret. It’s their secret menu. Now just imagine walking into Starbucks early in the morning just when you can see the sun peeking right over the horizon, and nothing presses your start button like a fresh cup of coffee. You walk through the doors and are instantly hit with the scent of rich, sweet coffee. Your usual drink, maybe a Caramel Frappuccino, just suddenly doesn’t appeal to you. You need something new. You scan over the menu with sadness in your eyes; absolutely nothing appeals to you on that big, fancy board. Well I got your back. Time to press-D for delicious to get a view of the secret menu. It’s up to you to decide how you want to level up. Want something to get into the mood of the wintery holiday? Try a Candy Cane Frappuccino. It is a standard Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with a few shots of peppermint syrup added. Or snag
yourself the very limited Pumpkin Pie Frappuccino, made simply as a Pumpkin Pie Frappe with a few pumps of the cinnamon dolce syrup to really perfect the pumpkin pie taste. Hurry though. It’s only going to last for this month. Now you just got off a long day of work, you aren’t feeling like making yourself dinner, so you take yourself down to one of your favorite restaurants: In N’ Out. You aren’t feeling the plain and simple; it’s like playing the same game for the fifth time, taking all the easy ways out just to pass that familiar level. It’s time to open a different door and try the animal style burger or fries. It is In N’ Out’s special sauce coating over the delicious, sizzling burger or the freshly fried fries – it’ll give your meal a nice twist. Or take up the challenge and jump up the ladder and risk your life and order a three-by-three burger stacked sky high. Just a fair warning, you better have a big appetite if you want to stick that landing. Before you return home for the day you go out for a late night
drive, you’re feeling kind of parched. Coffee isn’t so appealing during the night. You probably need something sweet and simple with a nice little twist to jazz things up. I have the perfect place for you. Stop by one of the sixteen shops of Fiiz Drinks. It’s a nice little shop that takes you back to the ‘90s with their old school layout. Fiiz Drinks serves you your favorite soda with a few shots of flavored syrup from the variety of syrups from Torani. With the best customer service around and best tasting beverages, you’ll be craving it on a daily you’ll start visiting daily. Don’t just stop at just snagging a beverage. If you need something to munch on while you down that drink, purchase one of their many choices of macarons or cookies made by one of the famous Food Network chefs who own Fillings & Emulsions. From just going through the drive-thru to snag a drink for a pick me up for the day, or spending a night out with friends Fiiz Drinks is a must have in your life.
In-school credit recovery helps Lancers graduate and retake the test. “It’s boring. Especially if you don’t have work to do,” Julian Perez (10) said. Perez is currently working on packets for math and English. He feels this class has helped him keep his grades up as well as receive the required credits for the classes he needs. Perez said his packets are really hard. Walking into the class for the first time, a change of environment can be felt, because the classroom is very quiet. All students are focused on what they’re doing, and they all know exactly what their assignment is. Every student in the class has something
to do. Some students may say the packet is not that hard, though. Nathan Hernandez (11) said the class has helped him graduate by collecting the essential credits and giving him more knowledge than he already had. He is only doing an English packet, and he claims his packet is only mildly difficult. He described the class to be quiet and strict. “There’s no messing around” he said. The students work very hard and are very respectful of Mr. Hopkins. Hopkins helps keep his students focused and check on their grades to assure they are on
track and doing what they’re supposed to be doing. Students who are struggling or missing credits may talk to their counselors and switch into a credit recovery class for second semester. Counselors will help students change their schedule in order to get them into a credit recovery class to do a packet, take a pretest, make up their credits, and eventually graduate. This class has most definitely helped students, especially seniors, graduate. If a student needs help with credits and keeping grades up, credit recovery is highly recommended.
Tri-Color Times VOL. LIX Issue 4
December 2016, page 8
With new determination, the basketball boys feel ready to win
By Madison McCurdy SCORE. A new boys basketball team has been chosen, and Granger Lancers could not be more excited. The Lancers are getting ready for the upcoming basketball pre-season with a first pre-season win against Cyprus (51-38) on November 22. “If everyone buys in and does what they should, we will make it to playoffs. If they don’t, we won’t,” Coach Chandler said. The coaches are optimistic that this year will be the year the team will make it into the playoffs and hopefully to state. The past seasons have been somewhat bleak for the team, but they hope to bring their reputation back. Granger’s boys are hard at work with holding tryouts, practicing, and getting their team ready for this upcoming season. Tryouts were a brutal test of running, teamwork, and many injuries. It was a mix of all grade levels, many Granger Lancer guys came out and showed their talent. Many returning teammates came to rejoin the team and earn their place on the team once again.
A returning senior is very excited for this upcoming season, though he will miss his team, “Playoffs are in our sights. We have all the pieces, and we have been together for so long,” Jordan Taylor (12) said. “Our athletics class has been great, hardworking, and we have really been coming together as a team, I’m proud of all of everyone,” he said. The boys are pumped to be facing Granger’s rival school, Hunter, but they are also excited to face Layton. Layton will be an exciting game for the Lancers because it will be senior night and they are also another rival of Granger’s since their mascot is also the Lancer. East and Cyprus are also other teams that the team is excited to face because they always bring a good game. “I’m excited to face East, because I know a lot of people on the team over there,” Jason Murillo (11) said. The tryouts were an exciting scene, and the sportsmanship that the guys showed for each other was outstanding. They cheered on their possible teammates as they ran across the court or hyped
them up to finish their last lap. “Roulervee Vann (10) is our most improved athlete since last year and I’m excited to see what he will bring to the court this season,” Coach Chandler said. Most teammates would say their athletic class is great, but for others it has been a bit more difficult. “This class has really been pushing me to do my best,” Anel Alagic (11) said. Every sport should push athletes to be better. Granger’s boys basketball preseason begins November 22, and the team couldn’t be more excited and ready to begin. Granger’s coaches and team are working hard on just about every aspect of making this the best team possible. It appears that Granger’s team will not disappoint this year. For more news and to keep up on game scores, just visit the tricolortimes.com website. Sports editor Taylor Wolfley (10) will keep the scores updated and let the Lancers know on all things sports related. Make sure to come and support the boys basketball team at their games and help them make it to playoffs and state.
The basketball boys are excited to take it to the state championships.
G-House Customs connects students to their future careers
By Britney Evans G-HOUSE Customs is an exuberant club full of Lancers with a love for cars and close friends. Every Thursday at 2:25 p.m. These students meet in the auto shop to socialize and learn. GHouse Customs may have a reputation for being strictly about cars, but the members of the club want students to think otherwise. “It’s not all about the cars,” Michael Gorski (12) said. He is the vice president of G-House Customs. He loves the club because it is like one big family and everyone gets along. He is happy about how many more students have joined the club compared to other years. “There are more people, and people are more active,” he said. The club hosts different fun activities often. In September, the students ar-
ranged a day to go to a local indoor go-karting track named Fast Kart. Mr. Ballew, Granger’s automotive teacher, went with and watched over everyone. “It went really well,” he said. There were about 25 kids who participated and overall, they did three races. After the competitive racing, a group of the students who didn’t want the night to be over went out to eat nearby. On October 1, G-House Customs decided to do a car wash to raise funds for the club. They asked for a minimum of $5 for washing and vacuuming, although the customers could donate any amount above the price asked if they wanted. The fundraiser was very successful and there were about 20 students who helped. They raised an impressive $288 which will go towards the
club’s future activities. When the members of GHouse Customs meet on Thursdays, they discuss their future plans and afterward they can bring in their cars for open shop time if they choose to do so. It becomes a fun environment to socialize and make friends. That’s one of Mr. Ballew’s favorite things about having the students around the shop. He said he likes talking to the youth and he often has open conversations with students. Both Mr. Ballew and Gorski have high hopes that more students will get involved and join G-House Customs. The club still has numerous exciting ideas to plan for upcoming activities. With all of the activities taken into consideration, G-House Customs is an excellent club to get
hands-on experience and knowledge in the automotive industry. “Besides it being fun, it is a really great place to learn,” Mr. Ballew said. If students take advantage of the open shop time, they get a chance to learn about cars in-
dividually or with their friends. Any Lancers who want to join G-House Customs are welcome to meet after school on Thursdays in the auto shop. The club officers and members hope to see new faces around soon.
Mr. Ballew, the G-House adviser, discusses auto careers with Esdras Esquivel.
Granger High School’s swim team kickstarts its season
By Megan Peterson SWIMMING is something that is enjoyed by all ages. However, when most Lancers think of swimming, they don’t think of lane lines, sprints, the butterfly, and the medley. They tend to think of splashing around in water. In contrast, the swim team students think of hard work and dedication. These students swim hundreds of yards daily. They practice diving off on a block into the water. They attempt to beat their times and win their heats. They swim as fast as they can, even when it feels like their lungs are burning. It takes time and dedication, and these students are doing it. Swimming doesn’t have games, but has meets. Swim meets are made up of different events that the swimmers swim. “Meets are the best thing about swimming for me,” Luis Medellin (12) said. He is the Captain of the boys team, and he loves how fastpaced and energized he gets during the meets. “I listen to my music, and I get
amped up and ready to win,” Medellin said. He believes that athletes have to get prepared mentally as well as physically in order to perform well in events. He thinks that if someone believes they can do something, they will. “We are a family and can always trust that our team will be there when we need them,” Jayde Holloway-Brown (12) said. A good team is a family. The swim team does all sorts of activities together. They go hiking and do monthly activities outside of the pool to help build the team together. He feels like these outings are necessary to build relationships with the team. Holloway-Brown feels that it’s easier to talk away from the pool instead of between rests at practice. “I love how Mary coaches, and she’s honestly a second mother to me,” Holloway-Brown said. He spends a lot of time at the pool. Sometimes between swim and work, he is at swim more than he is at home. “I love how I can talk to Mary and get advice on things I am struggling with,” said Hollo-
way-Brown. He says even though he hates practices, his team and coaches make him love the sport even more than he loves competing. Right now, in the middle of their season, the team is having a great time. They also will be competing in the Thanksgiving invitational. This meet is a bunch of high schools throughout Utah that get together for a two-day meet. “I am so excited for the invitational, this is Granger’s third year being invited,” Holloway-Brown said. Holloway-Brown feels that Granger is going to make a statement at this meet. “We are gonna bring it this year,” he said. Swim may not be
as exciting to watch as football, but it is very entertaining. The team loves the support of Lancers. However, most lancers don’t come to support these students as they compete. The team usu-
ally has meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Check the calendar, find a meet, and go see these Lancers swim faster than mermaids. They are going to have an amazing year.
Luis Medellin is ready to swim!