Welcome to our first set of articles for the new year, as well as a new staff! We hope you enjoy each and every article as much as we do. For information on the writers you're loving, simply click on the writers name at the end of their story to read a bit more about them!
The SCUC Mask Mandate
The dispute, discussion, and education on mask wearing.
As COVID-19 cases rise, the debate between whether to mandate masks in schools wages. A survey conducted showed that about sixty percent of parents at SCUCISD high school and junior high levels favor masks, while about forty percent oppose.
When asked whether masks should be mandated in school, Julian Flores (09) said, “Masks should be mandated in school, because when you don’t make it mandatory nobody cares, and it just isn’t taken seriously.”
An executive order was given by Governor Greg Abbott to prohibit the mandate of masks in public schools, but it has since made its way through the Texas Supreme Court. This permits the temporary restraining orders on Abbott’s ban to stand, which for the time being leaves the mask mandate up to schools.
Brianna Martinez (09) thinks the executive order is a good thing. “I’m okay with the executive order. Personally, I like it because when I would walk up the stairs at school I felt like I couldn’t breathe.”
An SCUC emergency board meeting was held on Aug. 26th to discuss the conflict over masks, and parents came to speak during commentary. The verdict came back with the continuation of masks by choice, but SCUCISD “strongly recommends mask wearing in all district facilities.”
Paige Galleti (09) believes the mask mandate should evolve with the situation. “I think the mandate should depend on how many cases there are at the school.”
At the time this article was published, there were forty nine active COVID-19 cases at Samuel Clemens High School, and a total of 278 in the district. Due to the precarious nature of the situation, the most up to date information can be found on the SCUC website.
Franky Mitchell (10) thinks masks should be up to the authority of the school. “I think schools should have the power to mandate masks, because it’s their own place and they should run it how they want to.”
Masks are not mandatory in the SCUC district, but the topic is still up for debate in the eyes of students.
“It’s a nay and a yay,” Galleti (09) said. “Like there is light at the end of the tunnel that COVID could be ending, but at the same time people who do have it could be spreading it.”
Hailey Gorzell (09), Staff Writer
When asked whether masks should be mandated in school, Julian Flores (09) said, “Masks should be mandated in school, because when you don’t make it mandatory nobody cares, and it just isn’t taken seriously.”
An executive order was given by Governor Greg Abbott to prohibit the mandate of masks in public schools, but it has since made its way through the Texas Supreme Court. This permits the temporary restraining orders on Abbott’s ban to stand, which for the time being leaves the mask mandate up to schools.
Brianna Martinez (09) thinks the executive order is a good thing. “I’m okay with the executive order. Personally, I like it because when I would walk up the stairs at school I felt like I couldn’t breathe.”
An SCUC emergency board meeting was held on Aug. 26th to discuss the conflict over masks, and parents came to speak during commentary. The verdict came back with the continuation of masks by choice, but SCUCISD “strongly recommends mask wearing in all district facilities.”
Paige Galleti (09) believes the mask mandate should evolve with the situation. “I think the mandate should depend on how many cases there are at the school.”
At the time this article was published, there were forty nine active COVID-19 cases at Samuel Clemens High School, and a total of 278 in the district. Due to the precarious nature of the situation, the most up to date information can be found on the SCUC website.
Franky Mitchell (10) thinks masks should be up to the authority of the school. “I think schools should have the power to mandate masks, because it’s their own place and they should run it how they want to.”
Masks are not mandatory in the SCUC district, but the topic is still up for debate in the eyes of students.
“It’s a nay and a yay,” Galleti (09) said. “Like there is light at the end of the tunnel that COVID could be ending, but at the same time people who do have it could be spreading it.”
Hailey Gorzell (09), Staff Writer
Transportation Troubles
Buses are arriving late causing parents to get mad.
Hot, steamy afternoons, kids soaked in sweat while they waited for their bus. The day droned on and time started to slow. With the lack of bus drivers, buses are arriving late causing a once 20 minute ride to become a never ending delay.
Bus drivers feel the stress as they take on other routes. They are using different tools such as: combining, splitting and if it is necessary do double-runs (dropping off one group and going back for another). They have used those options sporadically in the past, but this year, they are using them on a daily basis.
“I think that the bus drivers are feeling frustrated and tired because of the extra workload that has been put on them,” mrs. Garza, a geometry teacher at Samuel Clemens High School said. “The bus department has started hiring coaches to drive the buses in order to give the bus drivers a break.”
With the lack of bus drivers, buses are arriving late causing an abruption of traffic.
“The buses being late causes a lot of traffic which delays plans and other personal needs.” Edith Hernandez (10) said.
Routes have changed causing buses to do the same. Whether it be with substitute buses or a new bus driver altogether, the ways of the buses are changing and with it the ways of the community.
“Please know that we are working extremely hard to minimize the impact as best we can. We understand the importance of getting to school on time and getting home early enough to go to work or spend time with your family,” said Francisco Perez, the SCUC ISD bus director.
Madyson Isenberg (10), Business Manager
Bus drivers feel the stress as they take on other routes. They are using different tools such as: combining, splitting and if it is necessary do double-runs (dropping off one group and going back for another). They have used those options sporadically in the past, but this year, they are using them on a daily basis.
“I think that the bus drivers are feeling frustrated and tired because of the extra workload that has been put on them,” mrs. Garza, a geometry teacher at Samuel Clemens High School said. “The bus department has started hiring coaches to drive the buses in order to give the bus drivers a break.”
With the lack of bus drivers, buses are arriving late causing an abruption of traffic.
“The buses being late causes a lot of traffic which delays plans and other personal needs.” Edith Hernandez (10) said.
Routes have changed causing buses to do the same. Whether it be with substitute buses or a new bus driver altogether, the ways of the buses are changing and with it the ways of the community.
“Please know that we are working extremely hard to minimize the impact as best we can. We understand the importance of getting to school on time and getting home early enough to go to work or spend time with your family,” said Francisco Perez, the SCUC ISD bus director.
Madyson Isenberg (10), Business Manager
Congestion, Capacity & Covid
Buffaloes Packed In Like Sardines On Crowded Campus
Due to being back at 100 percent capacity this year, the hallways and cafeteria spaces are overcrowded by students who are new or just returning from virtual learning. The overcrowding is brought out by the removal of one lunch period and online learning.
“I think the challenge with taking away a lunch is that last year, we didn’t have our whole student body here. Because of the pandemic, we offered virtual learning,” Associate Principal Dr. Falcon said. “Now we have our student body back on campus so we’re having more students on campus than in the past. That means it’s going to get crowded in hallways and the cafeteria.”
This year, there are only three lunch periods compared to previous years’ four periods. While this helps with teachers’ schedules, it means that there are more students in the cafeteria and other dining areas than in previous years.
“The biggest problem has been finding a table and my friends before it gets too crowded,” Alexandria Goymerac (11) said. “I had third lunch last year. I think [the change is] both good and bad. On one hand, students don’t have to worry about having lunch so early, but on the other hand, lunch can get pretty crowded.”
Goymerac was on campus for most of last year, so to her, the difference is apparent. In addition to the shortened amount of lunch periods, the hallways are also packed with students. Last year, Clemens was offering virtual learning which decreased the on-campus student body. At the end of that school year, the school was at around 70% in person versus this year’s 100%.
“Honestly, it’s a little nerve-racking and very frustrating,” Goymerac said. “Sometimes, I’m late to class because of the crowding.”
This may be due to all the new students that don’t know their way around. Not including the incoming freshman, Clemens received over 100 new students that have moved in or transferred schools. Those new students may not know all the side routes yet, so they go through the mall area, adding to the traffic.
“The crowding is a huge problem. It makes getting to class on time unnecessarily difficult,” Xiomara Williams (11) said. “I think the main areas are so crowded because they’re easy to get to and everyone knows where they’re at.”
Williams tries to go through side routes whenever possible. To avoid the crowding, it is important to use the side routes unless it is impossible. There are stairs at the end of the major hallways, and are usually less crowded than the mall area stairs. There is still Covid going on, so the less crowded path is the safer path.
“When the main route is crowded, I usually go through a side route, but sometimes those are also crowded,” Williams said. “The overcrowding stresses me out. I heavily dislike being late and the overcrowding increases those chances.”
“I think the challenge with taking away a lunch is that last year, we didn’t have our whole student body here. Because of the pandemic, we offered virtual learning,” Associate Principal Dr. Falcon said. “Now we have our student body back on campus so we’re having more students on campus than in the past. That means it’s going to get crowded in hallways and the cafeteria.”
This year, there are only three lunch periods compared to previous years’ four periods. While this helps with teachers’ schedules, it means that there are more students in the cafeteria and other dining areas than in previous years.
“The biggest problem has been finding a table and my friends before it gets too crowded,” Alexandria Goymerac (11) said. “I had third lunch last year. I think [the change is] both good and bad. On one hand, students don’t have to worry about having lunch so early, but on the other hand, lunch can get pretty crowded.”
Goymerac was on campus for most of last year, so to her, the difference is apparent. In addition to the shortened amount of lunch periods, the hallways are also packed with students. Last year, Clemens was offering virtual learning which decreased the on-campus student body. At the end of that school year, the school was at around 70% in person versus this year’s 100%.
“Honestly, it’s a little nerve-racking and very frustrating,” Goymerac said. “Sometimes, I’m late to class because of the crowding.”
This may be due to all the new students that don’t know their way around. Not including the incoming freshman, Clemens received over 100 new students that have moved in or transferred schools. Those new students may not know all the side routes yet, so they go through the mall area, adding to the traffic.
“The crowding is a huge problem. It makes getting to class on time unnecessarily difficult,” Xiomara Williams (11) said. “I think the main areas are so crowded because they’re easy to get to and everyone knows where they’re at.”
Williams tries to go through side routes whenever possible. To avoid the crowding, it is important to use the side routes unless it is impossible. There are stairs at the end of the major hallways, and are usually less crowded than the mall area stairs. There is still Covid going on, so the less crowded path is the safer path.
“When the main route is crowded, I usually go through a side route, but sometimes those are also crowded,” Williams said. “The overcrowding stresses me out. I heavily dislike being late and the overcrowding increases those chances.”
Game On (Schertz Magazine)
Local varsity High School teams are ready to rumble for the new season
As the football and volleyball season round the corner for the current school year, the Steele and Clemens varsity competitors couldn't be more ready to show the community the focal point of their persistent effort. Despite the fact that preparation techniques differ from team to team, all players and coaches center around a single word: victory.
“The goal of the team and myself is one of the same, we’re set on playing this season as one big family and leaving as a family, but with a ring on our fingers.” Steele Varsity Senior cornerback, Daveon Hook, said.
Due to the past few years being overrun by Coronavirus, the teams are evermore elated to show the community the result of their long and tiring hours they spent preparing. The great amount of games allows Varsity Volleyball players to have a preseason, which they didn’t get the opportunity for last year. This gives them the chance to work out any kinks early on and further helps with the growth of the teams overall. With all players being affected by the scarce number of games played last year, they’re truly prepared to give us their all and leave their mark, all while continuing to carry the torch of past generations.
“Because of covid last year we had way less games than this year which gave us less exposure and play time as a team.” Holly Miller, Junior Defensive Specialist, said. ”Now that we can have a preseason, it’s a huge positive because it will help us build up to be the best team we can be.”
Each team being strong in their own unique way brings about many different training methods used among the school's coaches. For the Varsity Clemens and Steele football teams, many players spent nearly all their summer days watching film, working as a team, and strengthening themselves physically and mentally. For Varsity Volleyball teams, they spent their time working on their mental strength, communication, attending strength and conditioning camps, and pinpointing certain situations so they’re truly prepared for anything.
“My goals are to help my team in any way I can to ensure we as a team have the success we all want. As a team we've matured and gained experience and we plan on using that as an advantage to win games throughout the season and into the playoffs.” Varsity Outside Linebacker, Xadrian Moore, said.
This upcoming season, the Varsity seniors as well as the mighty underclassmen are up for the task of making history. In doing everything as one huge family, they’re guaranteed success in some way, shape, or form.
”A goal of which we strive to achieve each year iis winning the state championship.” Kylee Molder, Senior Clemens Defensive Specialist, said. “Maintaining the team’s overall health throughout the covid pandemic is challenging, but we have adjusted practice procedures to ensure safety for our teammates and coaches.”
Kennedi Adams (12), Editor-in-Chief
“The goal of the team and myself is one of the same, we’re set on playing this season as one big family and leaving as a family, but with a ring on our fingers.” Steele Varsity Senior cornerback, Daveon Hook, said.
Due to the past few years being overrun by Coronavirus, the teams are evermore elated to show the community the result of their long and tiring hours they spent preparing. The great amount of games allows Varsity Volleyball players to have a preseason, which they didn’t get the opportunity for last year. This gives them the chance to work out any kinks early on and further helps with the growth of the teams overall. With all players being affected by the scarce number of games played last year, they’re truly prepared to give us their all and leave their mark, all while continuing to carry the torch of past generations.
“Because of covid last year we had way less games than this year which gave us less exposure and play time as a team.” Holly Miller, Junior Defensive Specialist, said. ”Now that we can have a preseason, it’s a huge positive because it will help us build up to be the best team we can be.”
Each team being strong in their own unique way brings about many different training methods used among the school's coaches. For the Varsity Clemens and Steele football teams, many players spent nearly all their summer days watching film, working as a team, and strengthening themselves physically and mentally. For Varsity Volleyball teams, they spent their time working on their mental strength, communication, attending strength and conditioning camps, and pinpointing certain situations so they’re truly prepared for anything.
“My goals are to help my team in any way I can to ensure we as a team have the success we all want. As a team we've matured and gained experience and we plan on using that as an advantage to win games throughout the season and into the playoffs.” Varsity Outside Linebacker, Xadrian Moore, said.
This upcoming season, the Varsity seniors as well as the mighty underclassmen are up for the task of making history. In doing everything as one huge family, they’re guaranteed success in some way, shape, or form.
”A goal of which we strive to achieve each year iis winning the state championship.” Kylee Molder, Senior Clemens Defensive Specialist, said. “Maintaining the team’s overall health throughout the covid pandemic is challenging, but we have adjusted practice procedures to ensure safety for our teammates and coaches.”
Kennedi Adams (12), Editor-in-Chief
The Lost Class
Acknowledging the Class of Yesterday
As drone videos show sweeps of thousands of empty white plastic chairs, overlaid audio from 911 calls bring in the terrified voices of students trapped in schools while bullets are flying. Change the Ref, a gun safety organization founded by Manuel and Patricia Oliver, whose son Joaquin was murdered in the Parkland, Florida, school shooting, released a touching video on The Lost Class.
When the camera pans, there is a haunting scene of thousands of empty white chairs – 3,044 to be exact – with no students to fill them. These represent the seniors from, James Madison Academy, this year’s graduating class who died from gun violence. The statistics are real but not the school.
In the The Lost Class video, John Lott Jr., author of "More Guns, Less Crime," denounces universal background checks. Claiming more guns have led to less crime. Although the 3,004, class of 2021 empty chairs tell a different story. Starting Sept. 1, Gov. Greg Abott will sign a permitless carry bill into law. Texans can carry handguns without a license or training. This means Abbott’s signature sealed a win for many conservative activists who have long sought this measure.
Among other Senate changes that made it into the law was a requirement that the Texas Department of Public Safety offer a free online course on gun safety. “I don’t entertain it, I don’t encourage it and I don’t like it,” said Naomi Mithanga, mother of two high school students in Texas.
Graduation day is meant to symbolize achievement and potential. But for this group of students, it was a day to wonder what the rest of their lives would have looked like. Although the futures of those in The Lost Class may have been taken away, they can still make a difference in the future of America by urging the government to require universal background checks on gun sales.
“I think on September 1st if every Black person in Texas purchased a gun, see how quickly the GOP decides they need to put “some” restrictions in place,” said Sarah Parra, a Clemens High School student, and strong advocate for student’s safety in schools.
In 2021, 3,044 members of the high school were killed by guns. Firearms are the leading cause of death for American children and teens. According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, every year 15,000 children and teens are shot and killed or wounded and approximately three million are exposed to gun violence. Since 2013 there have been at least 635 incidents of gunfire on school grounds.
Mary Mithanga (12), Staff Writer
When the camera pans, there is a haunting scene of thousands of empty white chairs – 3,044 to be exact – with no students to fill them. These represent the seniors from, James Madison Academy, this year’s graduating class who died from gun violence. The statistics are real but not the school.
In the The Lost Class video, John Lott Jr., author of "More Guns, Less Crime," denounces universal background checks. Claiming more guns have led to less crime. Although the 3,004, class of 2021 empty chairs tell a different story. Starting Sept. 1, Gov. Greg Abott will sign a permitless carry bill into law. Texans can carry handguns without a license or training. This means Abbott’s signature sealed a win for many conservative activists who have long sought this measure.
Among other Senate changes that made it into the law was a requirement that the Texas Department of Public Safety offer a free online course on gun safety. “I don’t entertain it, I don’t encourage it and I don’t like it,” said Naomi Mithanga, mother of two high school students in Texas.
Graduation day is meant to symbolize achievement and potential. But for this group of students, it was a day to wonder what the rest of their lives would have looked like. Although the futures of those in The Lost Class may have been taken away, they can still make a difference in the future of America by urging the government to require universal background checks on gun sales.
“I think on September 1st if every Black person in Texas purchased a gun, see how quickly the GOP decides they need to put “some” restrictions in place,” said Sarah Parra, a Clemens High School student, and strong advocate for student’s safety in schools.
In 2021, 3,044 members of the high school were killed by guns. Firearms are the leading cause of death for American children and teens. According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, every year 15,000 children and teens are shot and killed or wounded and approximately three million are exposed to gun violence. Since 2013 there have been at least 635 incidents of gunfire on school grounds.
Mary Mithanga (12), Staff Writer
Daily Discrimination
Racism Comes in All Forms in Sports
When it came down to the final shoot-out, on Sunday, July 11, 2021, Manchester’s United Team lost in the Euro Soccer Championship final between England and Italy at the Wembley stadium in London. Due to the loss, Manchester’s United Player 11, Marcus Rashford, is faced with a rush of comments saying horrible things about the person he is, just because he missed the penalty. Rashford said he's sorry to his fans, but that he will never apologize for who he is and where he came from.
People understood where he was coming from, others did not. Leigh-Anne Pinnock (29 years old) took the issue to Instagram, saying, “you can live here but be quite.You can work here but be not all of you.You can speak at the table but not too loud. You can play for us but you can't lose. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Black British Experience.’’
Following England's defeat to Italy on Sunday, the Metropolitan Police said it would investigate "offensive and racist social media comments aimed at footballers." Others urged Twitter and Instagram to crack down on the use of racist language and tropes on their platforms. This kind of loss is familiar to England's long-suffering fans and might have stoked a round of recrimination beyond the reaches of social media.
“I have experienced racism in my sport. I told my teammates, and some said not to cause a problem, while others said to tell the coach. Racism can be affected by everyone except white people,” Xrariah Hughes said.
Mr. Southgate took responsibility for the substitutions that sent two of the young players onto the field just minutes before the end of extra time to face the immense pressure of the penalty shootout despite the loss.
“When I was little, my volleyball coach said something really offensive. I told My family and they said I was too little to understand and my grandma was really upset. I think Racism affects different people by taking it too personally and end up hating the sport.I’m glad no one does it at samuel clemens. I’m very happy im a part of a healthy community,’’ said Isabella Cantun (9)
English soccer history also has a rough side. Two hours before the match, hundreds of people breached a security barrier and squeezed through turnstiles without tickets as excitement outside Wembley Stadium increased.
“I’ve grown into a sport where I expect to read things about myself, whether it be the colour of my skin, where I grew up, or, most recently, where I decide to spend my time off the pitch,’’ said Rashford.
“I told my mother about an old friend who made racist jokes constantly and aggressively. As we were moving, we couldn't do much about it. Racism can affect people physically and emotionally. During my time at this school, everyone has been really chill and really supportive of my sport.’’ said Mia Mata.
Keyla Ruiz (09), Staff Writer
People understood where he was coming from, others did not. Leigh-Anne Pinnock (29 years old) took the issue to Instagram, saying, “you can live here but be quite.You can work here but be not all of you.You can speak at the table but not too loud. You can play for us but you can't lose. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Black British Experience.’’
Following England's defeat to Italy on Sunday, the Metropolitan Police said it would investigate "offensive and racist social media comments aimed at footballers." Others urged Twitter and Instagram to crack down on the use of racist language and tropes on their platforms. This kind of loss is familiar to England's long-suffering fans and might have stoked a round of recrimination beyond the reaches of social media.
“I have experienced racism in my sport. I told my teammates, and some said not to cause a problem, while others said to tell the coach. Racism can be affected by everyone except white people,” Xrariah Hughes said.
Mr. Southgate took responsibility for the substitutions that sent two of the young players onto the field just minutes before the end of extra time to face the immense pressure of the penalty shootout despite the loss.
“When I was little, my volleyball coach said something really offensive. I told My family and they said I was too little to understand and my grandma was really upset. I think Racism affects different people by taking it too personally and end up hating the sport.I’m glad no one does it at samuel clemens. I’m very happy im a part of a healthy community,’’ said Isabella Cantun (9)
English soccer history also has a rough side. Two hours before the match, hundreds of people breached a security barrier and squeezed through turnstiles without tickets as excitement outside Wembley Stadium increased.
“I’ve grown into a sport where I expect to read things about myself, whether it be the colour of my skin, where I grew up, or, most recently, where I decide to spend my time off the pitch,’’ said Rashford.
“I told my mother about an old friend who made racist jokes constantly and aggressively. As we were moving, we couldn't do much about it. Racism can affect people physically and emotionally. During my time at this school, everyone has been really chill and really supportive of my sport.’’ said Mia Mata.
Keyla Ruiz (09), Staff Writer
New Additions in Town
City of Schertz Finally Resumes Development of Skate Park
The city of Schertz, Texas has designated a place for skateboarding in 2014 and had planned to start the second phase of development in December of 2020 but was delayed because of Covid-19.
A skater living in Schertz, Texas, Colton Revell, shares his opinions of the development.
“I’ve been skating for three years and I’ve known about the development since spring break,” Revell (9) said.
A former skater who also lives in Schertz, Thalia Cuevas, shared her opinions as well.
“I used to skate a lot when I was young, for about three years. I didn’t know they were updating it until my best friend Tristan told me,” Cuevas (9) said.
The skate park has been around since 2014 and people have known about the new developments for a longer time than others. However, skaters have been going to the same old Schertz skatepark for six or seven years; a few skaters might’ve been there when it first opened in 2014.
Last but not least, a more experienced skater, Josh Villarreal, shares his opinion over the new developments.
"I’ve been skating for 10 years and I saw that they were upgrading it on Instagram three weeks ago,” Josh Villarreal (10) said. “It’s cool because it got kind of boring and it’s pretty small because there’s only three obstacles. Hopefully there will be a halfpipe.”
Now that Covid-19 isn’t as much of a problem as it first was, the city is just starting to continue development again now that they have an opportunity to do so.
“I think it’s a good thing that they got back into it and want to finish it and not wait to upgrade it,” Cuevas said. “I personally think it’s a good idea because people who skate can have their own area.”
“I think it’ll bring more people to the park and will be better for the community, I’d probably go skate at the park more than usual,” Revell said.
In 2018 a Schertz citizen, Jason De Reese, launched a petition to continue phase two of construction of the skate park and only four hundred and thirty nine out of one thousand signatures were reached. The mayor was contacted about the concerns of this person and said there would be an update soon. Now that the city has continued development, skaters are now looking forward to seeing new additions to the park.
"I’m looking forward to more ledges and rails and maybe some benches too,” Revell said.
“I don’t think it will affect me but if I were still able to skate to this day it would change where I would skate instead of being on the roads and it would be more safe,” Cuevas said.
Now that the city is going to finish the second phase of the park’s development, the people of Schertz will have to wait and see what new additions await them.
Tristan Perez (09), Staff Writer
A skater living in Schertz, Texas, Colton Revell, shares his opinions of the development.
“I’ve been skating for three years and I’ve known about the development since spring break,” Revell (9) said.
A former skater who also lives in Schertz, Thalia Cuevas, shared her opinions as well.
“I used to skate a lot when I was young, for about three years. I didn’t know they were updating it until my best friend Tristan told me,” Cuevas (9) said.
The skate park has been around since 2014 and people have known about the new developments for a longer time than others. However, skaters have been going to the same old Schertz skatepark for six or seven years; a few skaters might’ve been there when it first opened in 2014.
Last but not least, a more experienced skater, Josh Villarreal, shares his opinion over the new developments.
"I’ve been skating for 10 years and I saw that they were upgrading it on Instagram three weeks ago,” Josh Villarreal (10) said. “It’s cool because it got kind of boring and it’s pretty small because there’s only three obstacles. Hopefully there will be a halfpipe.”
Now that Covid-19 isn’t as much of a problem as it first was, the city is just starting to continue development again now that they have an opportunity to do so.
“I think it’s a good thing that they got back into it and want to finish it and not wait to upgrade it,” Cuevas said. “I personally think it’s a good idea because people who skate can have their own area.”
“I think it’ll bring more people to the park and will be better for the community, I’d probably go skate at the park more than usual,” Revell said.
In 2018 a Schertz citizen, Jason De Reese, launched a petition to continue phase two of construction of the skate park and only four hundred and thirty nine out of one thousand signatures were reached. The mayor was contacted about the concerns of this person and said there would be an update soon. Now that the city has continued development, skaters are now looking forward to seeing new additions to the park.
"I’m looking forward to more ledges and rails and maybe some benches too,” Revell said.
“I don’t think it will affect me but if I were still able to skate to this day it would change where I would skate instead of being on the roads and it would be more safe,” Cuevas said.
Now that the city is going to finish the second phase of the park’s development, the people of Schertz will have to wait and see what new additions await them.
Tristan Perez (09), Staff Writer
Attack of Afghanistan
Afghanistan returns to Taliban control after U.S soldiers cleared out of the country
After a twenty year-long war within the country, training the Afghan army and fighting Taliban and terrorist rule, there is no longer any U.S personnel there and the Taliban have re-emerged and taken over. As of Aug. 24th, the U.S had started packing up and evacuating soldiers, now, Tuesday, Aug. 31st, the last U.S soldier has left Afghanistan.
Rowdy Adams (09) spoke on the news, “It's been a mess for the past 20 years. The troops shouldn't have been withdrawn all at once; it should've been a gradual withdrawal of forces and equipment. We also should have found a better way to hand it off to the Afghan Government/military. So they could take over where we left off.”
The idea to leave this ‘Forever War’ was first introduced by former President Donald Trump, and was carried out by current President Joe Biden. Since February 2020, there was talk of pulling out from Afghanistan, but now as it is happening, it is not going as planned.
“I think we shouldn't have been in Afghanistan in the first place. All we achieved through being there is putting the Taliban to rise back into power. It's a tragedy, to be honest,” Rebbeca Peters (12) said.
While the U.S was withdrawing in a rush, there were many pieces of ‘equipment’ left behind in Afghanistan that reportedly the Taliban had acquired. This long list includes hundreds of MRAP’s, (mine-resistant ambush-protected), thousands of Humvee’s, as well as a plethora of Cargo Planes, jets, tanks, and Blackhawk Helicopters. Such Blackhawks have been spotted in videos recently being flown by Taliban members, even after the U.S military deemed them unusable and "demilitarized". This “demilitarized” equipment was recently seen being flown and operated by Taliban members.
Coach Rogers, Clemens world history teacher, “I think we should go back and get our equipment and people, and let the Afghans figure it out for themselves,”spoke on the topic of equipment.
“I think it's unnecessary bloodshed and we need to get all of our people out of there and leave the Afghan Government to figure it out.”
Aug. 26th, 2021, two suicide bombers and ISIS gunmen attacked Afghanistans and soldiers at Kabul International Airport. These 13 U.S soldiers aging from 21-30 were killed along with 60+ civilians. These heroes have arrived back home where President Biden attended their Funeral Ceremony.
“We should continue to bring as many Americans out of Afghanistan, but I also think we have an obligation to help the Afghanistans, whether it be monetary or humanitarian needs,” Peters said.
On Aug. 30th, General Chris Donahue was the last U.S troop to exit Afghanistan thus making him the end to an era between the U.S and Afghanistan. Now that the U.S is completely out and the country is being attacked and taken over again, other countries are sending in their troops to help.
Ryan Sund-Perez (09), Staff Writer
Rowdy Adams (09) spoke on the news, “It's been a mess for the past 20 years. The troops shouldn't have been withdrawn all at once; it should've been a gradual withdrawal of forces and equipment. We also should have found a better way to hand it off to the Afghan Government/military. So they could take over where we left off.”
The idea to leave this ‘Forever War’ was first introduced by former President Donald Trump, and was carried out by current President Joe Biden. Since February 2020, there was talk of pulling out from Afghanistan, but now as it is happening, it is not going as planned.
“I think we shouldn't have been in Afghanistan in the first place. All we achieved through being there is putting the Taliban to rise back into power. It's a tragedy, to be honest,” Rebbeca Peters (12) said.
While the U.S was withdrawing in a rush, there were many pieces of ‘equipment’ left behind in Afghanistan that reportedly the Taliban had acquired. This long list includes hundreds of MRAP’s, (mine-resistant ambush-protected), thousands of Humvee’s, as well as a plethora of Cargo Planes, jets, tanks, and Blackhawk Helicopters. Such Blackhawks have been spotted in videos recently being flown by Taliban members, even after the U.S military deemed them unusable and "demilitarized". This “demilitarized” equipment was recently seen being flown and operated by Taliban members.
Coach Rogers, Clemens world history teacher, “I think we should go back and get our equipment and people, and let the Afghans figure it out for themselves,”spoke on the topic of equipment.
“I think it's unnecessary bloodshed and we need to get all of our people out of there and leave the Afghan Government to figure it out.”
Aug. 26th, 2021, two suicide bombers and ISIS gunmen attacked Afghanistans and soldiers at Kabul International Airport. These 13 U.S soldiers aging from 21-30 were killed along with 60+ civilians. These heroes have arrived back home where President Biden attended their Funeral Ceremony.
“We should continue to bring as many Americans out of Afghanistan, but I also think we have an obligation to help the Afghanistans, whether it be monetary or humanitarian needs,” Peters said.
On Aug. 30th, General Chris Donahue was the last U.S troop to exit Afghanistan thus making him the end to an era between the U.S and Afghanistan. Now that the U.S is completely out and the country is being attacked and taken over again, other countries are sending in their troops to help.
Ryan Sund-Perez (09), Staff Writer
Trends, Teens, and Things Between
Upcoming trends swamp the internet
With teens and tweens around the country spending an increasing amount of time swiping and scrolling, creative minds produce entertainment for millions without even realizing, let alone planning it. As TikTok is becoming an app that’s been around since Sept. 2016, it can be surprising just how many trends people can come up with every day.
“My favorite trends are probably the dances, and my least favorite currently is the 'love predictions’ filter, because it doesn’t give me the answer I want,” Jayden Hicks (12) said.
Along with the extensive amounts of dances that hit the fan every new day, there are also trends that spread throughout the platform and catch the attention of anyone and everyone, such as the ‘Adult Swim’ trend, but that’s just one of thousands. The ‘Adult Swim’ trend is similar to others, yet different at the same time. Creators across the nation came together to swamp the “for you” pages of everyone who is on the app, combining their own personal talents and the trend, to make their videos unique for themselves. The individuality of everyone’s videos are also apparent in voice-over sounds, where they are able to use their own personal experiences or hypothetical situations to make people around the world laugh and come together.
“My least favorite is that one that goes ‘it just needs a little bit of shaping’ and then goes on for literal years, and my favorite is the quote from Black Widow that says ‘it wasn't real who cares’ and she says “don’t say that it was real to me,” Amanda Hoffman (12) said.
With new trends making headlines, new albums are having the same effect on the world, catching everyone off guard by the new and improved artists they are experiencing first hand. The albums that have come out in the past year include Planet Her by Doja cat, which has been used for many different transition trends on tiktok. Others include Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish, SOUR by Olivia Rodrigo, Call Me If You Get Lost by Tyler the Creator, Fearless (Taylor’s Version), by Taylor Swift, and quite possibly the most anticipated album of 2021, Donda by Kanye West. The second the album dropped on Sunday, Aug. 29th, it was all the eyes could see on social media. While many had mixed feelings about all albums as any community would, it's no doubt that creators of all kinds have blessed listeners with content this year, and everyone is surely going to be prepared for more to come.
“The album was really good,” Brady Davis, Clemens alumni, said. “I’m waiting to see what happens with it, since the explicit version isn’t out yet.”
For an example of the 'Adult Swim' trend, click the link here: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMR92TteW/
Kennedi Adams (12), Editor-in-Chief
“My favorite trends are probably the dances, and my least favorite currently is the 'love predictions’ filter, because it doesn’t give me the answer I want,” Jayden Hicks (12) said.
Along with the extensive amounts of dances that hit the fan every new day, there are also trends that spread throughout the platform and catch the attention of anyone and everyone, such as the ‘Adult Swim’ trend, but that’s just one of thousands. The ‘Adult Swim’ trend is similar to others, yet different at the same time. Creators across the nation came together to swamp the “for you” pages of everyone who is on the app, combining their own personal talents and the trend, to make their videos unique for themselves. The individuality of everyone’s videos are also apparent in voice-over sounds, where they are able to use their own personal experiences or hypothetical situations to make people around the world laugh and come together.
“My least favorite is that one that goes ‘it just needs a little bit of shaping’ and then goes on for literal years, and my favorite is the quote from Black Widow that says ‘it wasn't real who cares’ and she says “don’t say that it was real to me,” Amanda Hoffman (12) said.
With new trends making headlines, new albums are having the same effect on the world, catching everyone off guard by the new and improved artists they are experiencing first hand. The albums that have come out in the past year include Planet Her by Doja cat, which has been used for many different transition trends on tiktok. Others include Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish, SOUR by Olivia Rodrigo, Call Me If You Get Lost by Tyler the Creator, Fearless (Taylor’s Version), by Taylor Swift, and quite possibly the most anticipated album of 2021, Donda by Kanye West. The second the album dropped on Sunday, Aug. 29th, it was all the eyes could see on social media. While many had mixed feelings about all albums as any community would, it's no doubt that creators of all kinds have blessed listeners with content this year, and everyone is surely going to be prepared for more to come.
“The album was really good,” Brady Davis, Clemens alumni, said. “I’m waiting to see what happens with it, since the explicit version isn’t out yet.”
For an example of the 'Adult Swim' trend, click the link here: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMR92TteW/
Kennedi Adams (12), Editor-in-Chief
Witnessing Climate Change First-Hand
The problem with climate change is it's getting really hot in Texas and we have little rainfall because it's so hot it makes it harder to do outside activities and instead you might wanna stay in cool air conditioning all day.
Climate Change’s Effects
Over time many studies have shown that humans have been harmful to the earth. Pollution to the land, sea and air will most likely worsen over time, so we need to conserve energy, find a better way and use renewable energy. Climate change causes wildfires that are very dangerous to us and the environment. These events linger and cause an increase in air pollution. Air pollution can cause illnesses, so we are not just hurting ourselves, but also hurting our planet.
To continue, Global warming can be something that can give us opportunities, but it will continue to do the opposite to another area of the world. For example one area could be experiencing a drought and one could be experiencing intense rainfall, but it only lasts for so long. Weather is such an unpredictable thing, but thanks to science, people are able to make logical conclusions.
Climate Change: Real Life Examples
Just a few days ago in San Antonio, Texas at around 2 pm, an unexpected burst of rain came and clouded the skies with thunder and grey. Recently, Louisiana got hit with a hurricane and that is an example of a natural disaster affecting the land and changing its circumstances.
There's so much you can do to lessen these problems everyday by reducing the amount of fossil fuels we use everyday. Two examples that come to mind are solar energy and geothermal energy. solar energy could be used to replace some electrical powers we use. Geothermal energy has already been used to heat buildings and generate electricity. For example, California has been able to generate electricity since september of 1960.
Julissa Tootle (09), Staff Writer
Climate Change’s Effects
Over time many studies have shown that humans have been harmful to the earth. Pollution to the land, sea and air will most likely worsen over time, so we need to conserve energy, find a better way and use renewable energy. Climate change causes wildfires that are very dangerous to us and the environment. These events linger and cause an increase in air pollution. Air pollution can cause illnesses, so we are not just hurting ourselves, but also hurting our planet.
To continue, Global warming can be something that can give us opportunities, but it will continue to do the opposite to another area of the world. For example one area could be experiencing a drought and one could be experiencing intense rainfall, but it only lasts for so long. Weather is such an unpredictable thing, but thanks to science, people are able to make logical conclusions.
Climate Change: Real Life Examples
Just a few days ago in San Antonio, Texas at around 2 pm, an unexpected burst of rain came and clouded the skies with thunder and grey. Recently, Louisiana got hit with a hurricane and that is an example of a natural disaster affecting the land and changing its circumstances.
There's so much you can do to lessen these problems everyday by reducing the amount of fossil fuels we use everyday. Two examples that come to mind are solar energy and geothermal energy. solar energy could be used to replace some electrical powers we use. Geothermal energy has already been used to heat buildings and generate electricity. For example, California has been able to generate electricity since september of 1960.
Julissa Tootle (09), Staff Writer