Volume 29 - Issue 4 December 2014 Robert E. Lee High School, Houston, Texas, 77057 Lee eliminates winter school, possible credit appeal offered over spring break Guadalupe Rodriguez News Writer Credit appeal season is here and students complete it. It will be signed by Ms. Litles will soon start receiving their invitations and once signed by her it will be given to Ms. to begin their credit appeals for the spring Martin who will then restore the credit” semester of 2014. For this semester Washington, Litles, and Despite not having a winter school, Lee Martin are focusing on the credit loss from High School is still ensuring that every single the spring semester of 2014, next semester student that has lost credit receives it. they will focusing on the credit loss for the “Students who have excessive absences current fall semester 2014. will receive an asterisk on their report card or “We are trying to be proactive and think an ‘NG’ which is a non-grade on their tran- outside the box, right now we are doing credit script,” Ms. Washington said. “Those items appeals from last year so next semester which are coming from the district because the stu- is going to be the spring we are going to be dent has excessive absences in that particular doing credit appeals for the fall,” Washington class for the semester.” said. However the decision of eliminating winter Although there is most likely no winter school has upset many students. school for this school year, there has been “A lot of students would consider winter some speculation about a possible spring school as a huge impact and help to a faster school according to Assistant Principal graduation, and regaining credits,” Senior Tammie Moran. Karina Chicas said. “I found it helpful when “I think it’s a good idea they at least have I was a freshman so the fact that they’re a replacement for winter school, even if it’s going to take it away is unfair to the under- during the spring,” Chicas said. classmen.” Spring school has been confirmed as of Even if a person receives a passing grade December and there is a high possibility that in a certain class, if they have too many it will be held during spring 2015. absences, they will lose credit and have to go “We should be having spring school this through credit appeal in order to gain it back. year, it’s going to be geared towards credit “So basically that student might have recovery from fall courses and really towards passed that class with a 70, 80, 90 or above, seniors,” Moran said. “I want to run spring BUT because of their absences they will not school for seniors who may have missed out get the credit,” Washington said. on a course or two and want to graduate. We The credit appeal process includes signing are also thinking of gearing it towards some a contract, keeping a full attendance as well juniors.” as retaking the course of lost credit on grad The dates for spring school 2015 have lab. not been set but are in the works with Lee’s “[The students] have to sign the credit administration. appeal application that states that ‘I will “We may do it during spring break or we comply with these following rules,’ which may do something more creative and pos- are coming to school with no unexcused sibly holding it over four to six Saturdays absences, 100% attendance for the month of depending on the class,” Moran said. “With credit appeal,” Washington said. “Also what- spring break it’s a little difficult because most ever class they did not get credit for they have teachers want their break, so we may run it to take that class in grad lab and they have to over four to six Saturdays.” Photo Taken By Marcelin Kamdoum Winter dance held at Lee High School

Paola Dembe News Writer Lee High School is having a win- celebrate winter during the long it won’t be hype, but I’ll still sup- ter dance on December 12th at the period between homecoming in port my school,” Junior Nathaneal school, the pre-sale tickets cost $8 autumn and prom in May. Heylimarium said. during both lunches every day and “I think is great idea to give the “I will come if it’s going to $10 that Friday at the door. kids and opportunity to socialize be better than the homecoming The dance is from 6pm to 9pm on in a school environment,” Algebra dance,” Senior Mounir T. said. Friday night.. Teacher Ms. Hubbard said. “I’ll love to go because I’m going “Teachers are invited no charge Winter dance has many of the to have fun with my friends, having for them,” School Counselor Ms. same characteristics as a prom, some last moments with my senior Broanex said. having a band to play music and a friends,” Junior Cedric Grisby said. The dance is a school sponsored catering service. Buy tickets from Ms. Broadnax Photo Contributed By wordpress.com event for High School students to “I’ll go to the dance even though in room 235.

Do It Yourself Dress to Advice and Sports Holiday opinions impress Page 8 Projects Page 4 Page 7 Page 3 The Traveler Page 2 December 2014 Upward Bound seeks to prepare students for college and SAT/ACT Dejanee Cherry News Writer Upward Bound is one of the new- Upward Bound at Lee High School. day sessions, and interact with fellow est clubs at Lee High School. This He is located in the College Center students,” Spears said. program has been at Lee for about a and said he would be happy to an- According to Spears, Upward year and it is a great way to interact swer any questions students may Bound is more than just work, it is with students from other schools. have about the program. also very fun! According to the U.S Department “Upward Bound is a free college “Upward Bound students go to of Education, “Upward Bound prep program that takes high school different places throughout the provides fundamental support to students from diplomas to degrees summer,” Spears said. “Some places participants in their preparation by offering ACT/SAT programs, include Six Flags, Texas State Fair, for college entrance. The program afterschool tutorials, and college Medieval Times, and Kemah.” provides opportunities for partici- experiences,” Spears said. Not only is the program through- pants to succeed in their precollege This program is open for freshmen out the year, Spears said that the performance and ultimately in their and sophomores eager to venture out participants also meet together to do higher education pursuits.” in the world to see what the world interesting summer activities as well. The program serves students from will be like when they become “Students participate in a summer low-income backgrounds or whose seniors and have to choose which enrichment program at Rice Univer- parents never graduated from col- college they would like to attend. sity where they are given the college lege. The goal of Upward Bound is Upward Bound is supposed to experiences and rewarded with trips to increase the rate at which partici- help students to prepare for college on Fridays to new and exciting plac- pants complete secondary education and get ready for the jobs and career es,” Spears said. and enroll in and graduate from insti- paths in the “real world.” So, if you are interested in learning tutions of postsecondary education. “Students are required to do one more or joining Upward Bound, talk Photo Contributed By upwardboundpendleton.blogspot.com Mr. Spears is the new mentor of hour of tutorials monthly, two Satur- to Spears in the college center. End the fi rst semester Donate to ‘Toys for Tots’ and make with accomplishments the holidays extra special for a child Bryan Eriza Jennifer Coyoy News Writer News Writer

Many different students share higher on all my fi nals,” Gamino different end of semester goals. said. “I’d like to maintain good Let’s see what end of semester grades in order to join the soccer goals Lee High School students team this upcoming January. I’d have. really like to get an advanced “My goal was to pass all my score in my U.S. History STAAR classes and to establish good test.” teacher student relationships Senior Elizabeth Aguilar would with my teachers,” Junior Gua- like the Girls basketball team to dalupe Bonola said. “I learned a win most of their games. lot of new material this semester “I hope our Basketball team and I’m really thankful that my can make it to district,” Aguilar teachers put in the work and said. “I think we can do it if effort to help me get through the we work very hard. GO LADY semester.” GENERALS!” Junior Ronnie Mason says he Senior Guadalupe Rodriguez should start studying in U.S. His- was fortunate enough to get ac- tory because it’s cepted into Penn his last STA- “I want to re- State University AR test and he thanks to her hard Photo Contributed By toysfortots.org Photo Contributed By toysfortots.org wants to receive work and dedica- ceive an 80% or Every year there are many kids that Marine Corps Reserve Unit, and Stafford, Virginia on December 16, a very good tion to school. wake up on Christmas day to toys collected and distributed 5,000 toys bringing with her a truck-load of toys score. “My biggest higher on all my under the tree. But not every kid gets to needy children. collected from the White House Staff. “I’d like to achievement this something for Christmas. The organization was a success and Mrs. Obama assisted with the pass all my semester was not fi nals.” In December 1947 an organization it kept growing through the years. sorting of toys and also took the classes with at going insane,” called “Toys for Tots” was founded On November 23, 2009 the Pres- time to meet and thank the many least an 85% or Junior Christopher Gamino Rodriguez said by Major Bill Hendricks after the ident & CEO of Marine Toys for Marines and volunteers that higher,” Mason “I’ve done great night that his wife made a Raggedy Tots received a call from the White have made the northern Virginia said. “My biggest accomplish- in debate and I have become a Ann doll and asked him to deliver it House with news that the First Lady campaign so successful over ment so far this semester was published journalist.” to an organization that would present had declared her support for the 2009 the years. receiving a 100% in AP U.S. Every student has different end the doll to a needy child. Toys for Tots Campaign and invited If you want to donate to Toys History.” of semester goals. Major Hendricks could not fi nd the President & CEO to join the First for Tots, check the website and Junior Christopher Gamino It doesn’t matter what they are, one that provided that service. That Lady for a media event to announce you can find a local sight to says he has been studying in order as long as you accomplish them. same year major Hendricks got her support. The First Lady visited donate. to pass all his fi nals. Did you accomplish your end together with other members of his the local campaign warehouse in The website is www.toysfortots.org “I want to receive an 80% or of semester goals? Construction projected to begin

Elizabeth Aguilar News Writer A lot of changes have been hap- will be bought and they will be torn “They have been working on pening this school year but one of the down. The purchasing of the property moving the Baylor Teen Clinic and main ones is the construction going will close the 15th of this month,” it is almost fi nished,” Mata said. on; Lee High School is fi nally being freshman assistant principal Joseph “There’s a good chance that once we rebuilt. The new building, bringing Mata said. “Once this is done they come back from Christmas break we an updated 21st century look to our will start tearing down more parts of will see a change. It will take some campus will be started very soon. the school and the construction will time, but once the apartments and There have been a lot of times that get started.” back wing are demolished we are we’ve heard about this change but That same week the property is going to see a difference.” hadn’t actually seen any changes bought they will start getting rid of Slowly the new building for our until now. Let the change begin. the back wing of the school. The school will start to show. What is the plan with the initial Baylor Teen Clinic will be moved Students will fi nally see the be- construction? to its new location, as well as the ginning of the transformation of Lee Photo Contibuted By hisd.org “The apartments across the street daycare. High School. December 2014 The Traveler Page 3

Theater students Great show their talent places to on the ‘big stage’ eat in the Come support your fellow classmates as they put on their final performance for the semeter. Lee com- Michelle Belmarez News Writer munity Are you tired of the same old The students you know and love routine? from Lee will be performing many- Maria Ramirez Seeing your teacher talk every different kinds of plays acted and Entertainment Writer day, don’t you think your teacher theatrical performances. needs a break? There will be shows by the The- Rosie’s Do you want to watch the future ater Production Crew and the other stars of America perform even be- theater period groups, periods 2, 3, Carrabas fore they become famous? 4, 6, 7, and 8. If so, then be one of the fi rst to These performances are the fi nal witness the amazing acting talent projects for the students from the of Lee High School. class, so if you want to support your Ask your teachers to come out and future Broadway stars, don’t miss bring your classmates to the Winter out on seeing them before they hit Theater Show! the big spotlight. It will be held in the black box in Performances are free as long room 403 on Thursday, December as your teacher signs the class up 11, 2014. to come. Do it yourself When I went here for the fi rst Guadalupe Bonola time, I felt almost overwhelmed News Writer at the elegant atmosphere. Every- thing seemed expensive, and the Do it yourself ornaments service was very well handled. I’m planning on celebrating my 18th To make this cool holiday tree decora- birthday there with my family. The tion, you need bottle caps, paint, ribbon, food is amazing! Would you like buttons, and hot glue gun. Firstly you take a special someone, to a special paint your bottle caps white. If you’d like, place? Carrabas is the place to go! you can add white glitter while the paint is still wet. You let it dry completely then you glue all three bottle caps together. After that you could use a bobby pin or a Pappasito’s dotting tool to make the eyes and mouth with black paint. Next you make the snowman’s nose with a paint brush and orange paint. Lastly you decorate with ribbons and buttons. Hope you enjoy your holiday decorated tree!

To make this adorable ornament for the holiday tree you need glitter, a paint of your choice, ribbon, and a hot glue gun. Next you

paint the pine cones and while the paint is Photo Taken By Marcelin Kamdoum still wet you spray it with the color glitter of your choice. Finally you take the ribbon, hot glue it on the pine cone, and hot glue a loop to hang it on the tree. It’s going to look adorable and you can make a whole bunch! This place caters to Lee every day! It’s a great place to go eat For this amazing and easy tree with friends, and to hang out. The ornament all you need is a yellow chips and queso are beast, and I ornament or you can spray paint one. highly recommend this place to the When you have your yellow orna- students and faculty of Lee. ment you draw a thin rectangle on it with black paint then add the mouth and strands of hair. Next let it all dry before painting the eyes with silver, Chipolte white, and the color of the eyes you want or simply with some eye stickers from a craft store. After the whole or- nament has dried add a gloss spray to give it shine and hang it in your tree!

Do it yourself candy cane sleighs

To make this awesome gift all you need is candy, ribbon, and tape. First you stack the can- dies on top of each other, and Chipotle is life! This place is put two candy canes as a base. awesome for all kinds of eaters. Next you tie them together, You may want a healthy salad bowl using tape if you need to, with one day, or a burrito fi lled with ribbon and add a cute bow at fajita and yummy goodness. It’s the top. Now there is a sweet so good, and everyone should eat holiday treat that will make a there all the time! Ha-ha! great holiday gift! Photo Taken By Marcelin Kamdoum The Traveler Page 4 December 2014 How to dress to impress for holiday parties Noor Al Yacoub Entertainment Writer

Do you love Christmas parties, glitzy outfit and appropriately dar- keep it knee-length or longer. Bring you feel uncomfortable baring that large, flashy jewelry for the occa- but you’re not really sure how to ing shoes and accessories. Finish a jacket or a large scarf to wrap much skin, stick with a skirt that sion, but there is still such a thing dress up for one? What if you are your look by highlighting your best around your shoulders. This is an falls at or just above the knee. as “too much of a good thing.” shy and just want to make a good facial features with dramatic make- especially good idea if you don’t Choose a length that makes you Instead of wearing several large first impression? up… know the people at the party and look and feel your best, regardless pieces of jewelry, find one piece A big part of the fun of Christmas Not to worry – These steps below there’s a chance you can be over or of tradition. that can take center stage—like parties is in dressing up and prepar- will tell you everything you need underdressed in comparison. 6) If a sequined dress is too much extravagant chandelier earrings or ing for it. to know about dressing and gener- 3) Dress casual unless you have sparkle for your style, opt for a an ornate necklace—and keep the What you wear, however, can ally getting ready for an awesome an indication that the Christmas sequined skirt instead. Match the rest of your jewelry, if you wear have a big impact on how you are Christmas and New Year’s Eve party will be formal. Casual, how- skirt with a simple fitted tank top or any, simple and subdued. perceived by others and, ultimately, party: ever, does not mean jeans and a blouse. A solid black top offers an 9) High heels covered in straps on how comfortable you feel at the 1) Find out in advance if there white T-shirt. Instead, pair the especially nice contrast with your have a festive, flirty ambiance and party. In the other case, if you have is a dress code for the party. If the jeans with a nice blouse or a pastel shimmery skirt. look great with many dresses. been lucky enough to be attending Christmas party is being held in a shirt and a pair of boots or sandals. 7) If you plan on attending a casu- 10) Coat yourself in glitter. Look a New Year’s Eve party, you need restaurant, theater or rented space, 4) Wear something red or gold, al party or ringing in the New Year for an eye-shadow or lipstick previ- to know how to dress for the occa- the organizers can probably tell you the traditional colors of Christmas. with a small group of close friends, ously infused with glitter, or brush sion in an eye-catching manner. what they expect the atmosphere to Avoid holiday sweaters or anything keep things simple by wearing a a light coating of glitter dust over Most parties are festive and a be. Even just a general idea, such overly Christmas related. Instead, metallic jean. Metallic jeans have a your cheeks or along your collar- little wild, and your style needs as casual attire, black tie, or formal wear an elegant accessory such as a tint of gold or silver overlaying the bone. Do not overdo it, though. to reflect that. To leave a lasting will guide you in your selection of shawl or jewelry in the right colors. denim, making them a little dressier Pick one feature to accentuate impression with your hosts and clothes. 5) Short skirts are relatively stan- than your everyday jeans. with glitter and only apply a light the other guests, choose a daring, 2) If you are wearing a skirt, dard for New Year’s Eve, but if 8) You can get away with some amount. Students from all backgrounds share favorite holiday traditions Fernando Campos & Ashley Perez Entertainment Writers What’s your favorite winter hol- Students don’t just celebrate junior Mohamed Calise said. “Our iday? Christmas the majority of the family never misses it. Although Most people would say Christmas Muslim students celebrate Eid. some people don’t know that and/or Christmas Eve. Christmas “Eid is the Muslim Christmas Hanukah is even a holiday, I take is on Thursday, December 25th, where we buy new clothes and get pride and joy because it brings my which is only a few days from money from older people or fami- family together and makes my dad today. Although Christmas isn’t the ly members,” sophomore Zubaidah proud of our family traditions.” only holiday people celebrate at Faiz said. “It’s celebrated on the There is, however, one holiday Lee High School, it’s one of the last day of Ramadan, which is after that everyone shares around this biggest and most popular of the sea- we finish fasting.” time of year: New Year’s Eve and son, and many students’ favorite. Not only is winter holiday about New Year’s day. But, not everyone However, it is also important to giving and getting it also is about celebrates it the same way. remember that not everyone cele- caring and gratitude. “For New Year’s my whole brates Christmas and a lot of fami- “Christmas is not about my par- family makes plans and buys fire- lies have different special traditions ents giving me presents, it’s about works,” sophomore Ashley Perez that they participate in during the how happy I am when I’m gathered said. “My favorite part is when we holiday season. around with all the important peo- eat the 12 grapes, which means you “Christmas is a time when all my ple in my life, especially the ones I make a wish for each month.” family gets together and exchanges haven’t seen in a long time,” fresh- Other people celebrate New gifts,” sophomore Estefany Romero man Gabriella Maldonado said. Year’s with sparkling clothes, said. “We also dance and eat dif- Most students aren’t aware about dancing, fireworks, or maybe even ferent types of food, for example other holidays from different cul- some champagne or sparkling water tamales, oatmeal, pozole, and much tures or religions. when the Ball drops, signifying the more.” “Hanukah is a Jewish Holiday,” new year. Photo Taken By Marcelin Kamdoum Gift ideas from The Traveler’s most wanted list Cristian Moralez Entertainment Writer

The new Nintendo The new What is life without Spend time with Amiibo figures are iPhone 6 is also a gift card? They’re loved ones and a portable, built-in one of America’s small, fast and amaz- show your grati- memory saver for the most wanted ing. Express and tude for those spe- Nintendo Wii U. These presents this Victoria’s secret gift cial people in your figures save games and holiday. It has a cards are two of the lives with a nice updates to share and better image and most wanted on the card and some car- battle friends anywhere larger screen for list for this season’s ing gestures, like any time. your eyes. fashion. chores or favors. December 2014 The Traveler Page 5

Holiday play- lists to spread Jolly Old St. Nicholas joy and cheer Kymyatta Gabriel is coming to town soon Entertainment Writer Do you believe in Santa Claus? The story behind the man and how students from different countries and traditions celebrate the bearded present bearer! Ronnie Mason Entertainment Writer

It’s getting to be that time when Santa would give my aunt & uncles “Santa is an old man that puts a milk and a plate of cookies; in Brit- we have to put our Christmas dec- my present so later they would give smile on kids’ faces when he comes ain and Australia, he is sometimes orations up and make it safe for the it to me & say it was from Santa.” around for Christmas,” Student Ri- given sherry or beer, and mince pies big, red-coated man known as Santa As stated in Wikipedia, since the cardo Rodriguez said. instead. Claus. Is Santa really known around 20th century, popularized by the What are you planning to leave In Sweden and Norway, children the world as well as in your home? 1934 song, “Santa Claus Is Coming for Santa? leave rice porridge. In Ireland it is Photo Conrtibuted by activedayton.com According to Wikipedia, Santa to Town,” Santa Claus has been Well according to Wikipedia, in the popular to give him Guinness or Claus, also known as Saint Nicho- believed to make a list of children United States and Canada, children milk, along with Christmas pudding 1. All I Want For Christmas las, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle throughout the world; categorizing traditionally leave Santa a glass of or mince pies. Is You- Mariah Carey and simply “Santa”, is a fi gure with them according to their behavior, legendary, historical and folkloric naughty or nice. He delivers presents; 2. Feliz Navidad- Jose origins in many Western cultures. including toys, and candy to all of the Feliciano Every year on the eve of Christmas, well-behaved children in the world, 3. It’s Beginning to Look A December 24th, the Jolly man visits and sometimes coal to the naughty Lot Like Christmas- Johnny the home of all the good children to children. All of this on the single Mathis leave them presents to open when night of Christmas Eve. they wake on Christmas morning. High school students are also 4. Last Christmas- Wham Did you know that in some Europe- expecting things from Santa this 5. Have Yourself a Merry an countries children receive their Christmas. Little Christmas- James presents on St. Nicholas’ Day, 6 “I want him to bring me lots of Taylor December? food so I can give it out to the ones in Santa doesn’t do everything alone need this holiday,” sophomore Yesly 6. Frosty The Snowman- as in going house to house, he also Espinal said. Jimmy Durante gets help from 9 special animals that Old Saint Nick or better known as 7. Do You Hear What I you may or may not know by name. Santa has looks of his own. As you Hear- Whitney Houston “The 9 reindeer that help Santa are may know he has a Mrs. Claus but 8. O’ Holy Night- Mariah named Comet, Cupid, Vixon, Dancer, how does the old man look? Prancer, Donnar, Blitzen, Dasher & “Santa is at least 5’10, chubby, Carey the oh-so famous Rudolph,” Junior big red cheeks as if he was blushing, 9. Jingle Bell Rock- Glee Bryan Eriza said. bald from the top of his head, big 10. Most Wonderful Time When you were young you be- white beard and a wrinkled face,” of The Year- Andy Williams lieved Santa was the real deal right? Eriza said. “Yes I used to believe in Santa with Describing Santa could be pretty all my heart,” Eriza said. “I believed easy to some. Photo Contributed By garcya.us Celebrated holidays Stories by Sabrina throughout the year

Bryan Herrera Mixed Hearts Part 3 Entertainment Writer Sabrina Miller Entertainment Writer As you know Lee High School holiday EID Fater. Usually we cut is a very diverse school with many the meat and then we cook it and we cultures, ethnic groups and religions. share the meat with our friends and Prince During the winter break, most neighbors,” Kanwal said. people spend their time with their Teachers of Lee High School also I can’t believe I picked her up but she looked so peaceful and surprisingly cute. family or friends. celebrate different holidays during I walked with her to her mother’s offi ce but when we got there it was locked. Don’t you ever wonder what other the winter break, as well as spend it Jewel takes out her phone. “Oh its 4:30. My mom has an appointment at 5:00. I can’t believe I forgot.” She religions or ethnic groups do on their by eating similar foods and celebrat- turns and leaves me standing there alone. As I start to follow her my phone rings. holiday or what kind of foods they ing similar holidays. “Hello.” eat during this time of year? “Holiday-wise I celebrate EID, it’s “Hey son,” answers my father. “Did you fi nd Jewel?” Students at Lee High School cel- pretty much Muslim, it’s where we “Yes, she just left. She was willing to talk to her father but you guys left.” ebrate unique and different holidays eat a lot of Lamb,” Math Teacher “Oh, well tomorrow invite her over for dinner. Got to go, bye son.” where they participate in a variety Dahirou Ndiaye said. “During this He hung up without letting me say anything else. That’s surprising he usually makes me hang up. of traditions. break I plan to eat turkey even though When I got home I found my mother in the kitchen and my father fast asleep in his room. “We celebrate EID and Ramazan, I don’t cook it.” “Son come down. We need to talk,” yells my mother from the bottom of the stairs. that holiday we wear new clothes and Many would say that the big hol- I put my book bag on my bedroom fl oor and changed out of my uniform. On my way down the stairs I heard then on Ramazan we fast,” Sopho- idays for them are Halloween, New the bathroom door open. I see both my parents on the couch talking. more Ramsha Kanwal said. Years and even their birthday, but “Who’s upstairs?” During the holidays they also meet not everyone agrees with this. Others My father looks toward me and doesn’t answer. I turn around to see James (Jewel’s dad.) with friends and family to celebrate think that Father’s Day and Mother’s together, to have an exciting time Day are very important. Jewel during the holidays, and to get closer “During this time of year, wait- to their religion and heritage. ing for December and New Year’s My mother doesn’t get home until 8:00. “We meet family and friends. We is pretty much my favorite,” said “Sorry for being late, have you ate dinner?” She walks into the kitchen and I follow. eat traditional foods our moms make Ndiaye. “The big holiday for me is “Yeah, I guess Dad must have snuck in because there was spaghetti set out for me.” and our friends come buy it” Kanwal Father’s and Mother’s Day for par- “Oh, that’s why he asked for a copy of my key.” Mom looks into the fridge and pulls out a chocolate cheese said. “We celebrate this time of year ents, thanking them for being alive.” cake. “Yum, my favorite. It was defi nitely him.” with friends and family to get closer Different ethnic groups and reli- My mom goes on and on about her day until I decide to go to my room. to the Muslim religion and to get gions celebrate a variety of tradi- “I have honors homework. I’ll see you in the morning. Night mom.” I give her no time to speak and run closer to Allah.” tions and eat many foods from their up the stairs. On these holidays they do several country. The differences between I stayed up until mid-night doing homework and playing video games. As I lay on my bed I dose off into traditions like sharing different and people make everybody from around a dream. common traditional foods with the world and from each country I see Prince standing in a corner surrounded by girls then he disappears. The girls turn toward me and I friends, neighbors, and family. uniquely different in the best way to wake up to my alarm clock. “Our big holiday is EID the big represent their heritage. The Traveler Page 6 December 2014 Lee students are awaiting the construction and the new school Jackie Correa Opinion Writer

Everyone has heard the rumors foot facility will include state-of- about the school being rebuilt and the-art technology with flexibil- how it’s going to fit more into the ity to allow for future upgrades. 21st century style. The school will The two-story school will be be beginning its official rebuild divided into four neighborhood during our winter break, but will wings with open spaces and plen- that effect our school’s studying ty of windows to maximize natu- environment? Will it cause us to ral light, says HISD.org. get distracted? Some students expressed their Many questions are being opinion on the rebuild of the asked but few answers are given. school Everyone should have gotten a Mark Perez, a sophomore at brochure sometime during summer Lee high school, said when he vacation or during the beginning thinks the school will be rebuilt of the school year. It presented and when it will finally be fin- some pictures and information ished. about how the school would look. “Well, from what I have heard, If you did not receive it you can the school will be finished when look it up on the HISD website. we graduate, but due to the fact There was even a meeting about that I haven’t seen anyone doing the rebuild and how the plans for it anything about the repairs, I think would look. the school will be done in 2 or 3 “There is a lot to like about the years after we graduate,” Perez design – plenty of natural light, said. openness and small group learning Are you exited? “Yes and no, Photo Contribute by HISD.org and tutoring areas,” said Lee High I’m excited to see the school School Principal Jonathan Trinh. transitions, but I’m not exited that The plans for the new school are almost finalized and there is still a question as to when the construction “It will provide a college-type for- some of the history and memories will begin. It is possible that during the winter break, the 600s hallway will be torn down to begin building. mat for student learning. I think of Lee High School will go away said. ing will hopefully make everyone have a bigger cafeteria and more it will draw kids who are going with its new rebuild.” The school will definitely look try to work harder to finish high tables because there is always trou- outside the neighborhood back to Do you think the new building much better in its new style. When school and continue onto a great ble with finding seats or the food their home school.” will have an impact on the stu- going to classes it is always really path. lines become so long that by the Through HISD’s 2012 bond dents? “Yes and no, some students dark and dreary but the light pro- Although Lee High School’s time you get to your table, either program, $73.8 million has been will like how the technology will vided by the sun will definitely memories will be gone, new mem- your chair is gone or you only have allocated to build the new Lee HS influence it BUT some students make everyone feel more happy ories will be made in the new ten minutes until the bell dismisses campus. The new 240,000-square- may take advantage of it,” Perez and excited. The new school build- Lee. Hopefully the new school will you to your next class! Appreciate all the teachers of Lee Nicole Adnani Opinion Writer Teachers, we have many of them the most wonderful experi- ways of Lee. ey are not here to you. get tired of misbehaving students, them here at Lee High school, ence so they can grow and so they play around. ey are here to teach Even if the teacher is bugging but they still do their work, be- many are new, and some have been stay next year. and learn from their students. you, you have to cope with it and cause the education of our genera- here a long time. You might not like them in the ere are also substitutes that be respectful. tion depends on it. New teachers might not have as beginning, but they don’t expect sometimes have to  ll in the whole Being a teacher is not an easy We need to do our best in much experience with students as you to. Getting used to a new year. task to have. It’s hard, but if you en- experiencing learning with our the older teachers. ey might not teacher every year is not easy. Be thankful for the hard work- joy doing it, you can bring out the teachers, and appreciating what know what to expect. Many new teachers have gotten ing teachers and substitutes that best in your students. they have done for us, and what We, as students, need to give accustomed to the students and the are here to work with you and help Most of the time, teachers do they have to o er. How Lee changed this year Cindy Wakiyama Editor-In-Chief

It was clear that with a new copy room. And the calculators TV periods alternate weeks for principal, there would be chang- are able to perform functions uploading their episodes, each es in the school and thankful- that the TI-83 and TI-84 wish group gets about two weeks to ly Principal Jonathan Trinh has they could perform. Finding the put an episode together. A lot been a great addition to the cam- derivative of complicated func- less stressful for the creators pus. tions would be nearly impossi- which guarantees better quality The best thing about Trinh is ble without the TI-Nspire. episodes for the viewers. his clear devotion to the school. The Traveler got a great deal The school saw an increased He has become more than just of support this year. Trinh’s help number of seniors in intern- a principal, he is a General. He with funding allowed the paper ships this year who are allowed has frequented football games, to be published more frequently to wear professional dress to UIL competitions and other than last year. The writers are school. Those students not only school events. Always showing getting more experience as they are branching out to show the support for his students while get to write more articles. There many talents and abilities of the guiding them to success. was no need for the students to Generals, but they also serve He has also showed a lot of fundraise, therefore students are as role models for underclass- support for academics by pro- able to spend more time in the men. Any General is capable of Photo Contributed By chron.com viding all teachers with personal classroom or around the school acquiring an internship and all teachers who teach those sub- class and fundraising ideas with- printers in their classrooms and perfecting their art. Generals should reach to be an jects and are able to give extra out having to stay after school. new, more advanced calcula- Lee TV has been a part of exemplary student in their senior help outside of class. The stu- And seniors who are on track are tors for the AP Physics and AP Friday advocacy for a few years, year. Not having to wear the uni- dents who are on track are able able to use this time to apply for Calculus classes. but now having the two broad- form is also a plus. to get extra time to work on colleges and scholarships. The printers keep the teach- cast classes, a bigger number SWAT period has been a big whatever. The senior ambassa- Generals, great things have ers from having to leave their of students are able to create help this year. Students who dors are able to use this time come to us this year. Let’s keep room or send a student out to content without having to stay were falling behind in certain to plan activities for the senior improving our school. get a necessary document in the after school. As the two Lee subjects were paired up with December 2014 The Traveler Page 7

Generals...Always! Advice for succeeding in high school Ixchel Perez Melanie Hauser Opinion Writer Alumni Vice President ‘Tis the season. To make lists. To Some teachers put up small Christ- I still remember the fi rst day of to apply to college they will ask for those tests very seriously because I shop. To celebrate. To honor family mas trees, but there was no Christmas freshman year in high school. I was your high school record. Colleges knew that they will make a differ- traditions. To trim trees. To make sure dance. Instead, groups of senior girls scared and nervous all at once. I did give more priority to the students ence in my college options. the little ones are still in awe of Santa would get together and throw invita- not know who I was going to meet who have excellent grades, play Something that is very important Claus. tion-only holiday formal dances. Yes, or what was going to happen that sports, and help the community and to do right way when school starts And to start wondering if it’ll be it was girls asking the guys. Always. day. All I knew is that I was going to the ones who are involved in many is to start applying to colleges and fl ip-fl op or sweater weather on Dec. 25. But it wasn’t all punch, cookies, and make my high school experience the other afterschool activities. scholarships early. That will give Forget about a white Christmas. construction paper. There were some greatest memory of my life. My third year in high school was you more chances and opportu- Give or take some random snow- semester fi nals, a lot of senior angst I made good choices my freshman probably one of the best. I was a nities to win. We all know that fl akes some years, it’s been that way over the SAT test you took in the fall, year; I always had A’s and B’s. I also straight A student and I joined two college is expensive that is why is since Lee High School opened back in and those college applications that had played sports such as basketball different sports: volleyball and very important to apply to as many 1962. Actually before. to get in the mail. Yes, mail. Stamps, and track. wrestling. I was also part of Lee TV scholarships as possible. But other things have changed in the envelopes. The internet was only a Freshman year is a very important and The Traveler (the newspaper). One of the greatest things about halls of Lee the last fi ve-plus decades. glimmer in a few techies’ eyes. year of high school because your Junior year is one of the most my senior year is that I have an In the 60s and 70s, we started the day The football banquet was a December grades will one day determine your important years of high school internship with the Houston Chroni- with a homeroom and one of our annual tradition and capped the end of a big GPA senior year. Many students do because that’s when you have to cle and I am still part of Lee TV, The traditions was that each homeroom season. By the time Christmas break not take that year very seriously take the SAT and is also the year Traveler and the Yearbook class. decorated the classroom door for the rolled around, the basketball team was because they think it’s a fun year that colleges will rely on in order to I will also graduate in the top 10 holidays. ready to tip off in at least one holiday to slack off. However, that is not determine whether you get accepted percent of my class. Some were outstanding works of tournament. correct. into their college. Just a few weeks ago I was ac- art, some merry, some sparkly, some Yet through all the celebrations, Sophomore year I thought I was My fi rst weeks as a senior I was cepted to Texas Tech, which has religious and others were just plain Generals gave back – and generously. cooler since I was no longer a fi sh. very happy and I felt so good to been my dream school since soph- fun. It was a contest with winners and The service clubs – the Key Club, I had so much fun. I made many fi nally be in the last step before omore year. I hope to go there next honorable mentions and bragging rights Anchor Club and others – hosted par- friends and I also became well college. I was ready to get the year year and make college the second for the next year. ties for underprivileged children in the known in school. My grades were over with and leave behind my high greatest memory of my life. A few years, students even painted city. They played Santa, baked cookies, always great and I did not stop school with a great reputation. Remember to never give up on stained glass art on the windows in the trimmed trees and made sure there were playing sports. In fact I also joined I took all of the testing that I a test or a class, “passing” a class cafeteria. loads of smiles and hugs and sometimes the cross country team. needed, such as the SAT and ACT. in not good enough. You should Early on, the Generals celebrated presents. As a student it’s always important Those tests are extremely important always aim high because High with Christmas programs highlighted And just like today, one of the un- to get involved in many sports, because they will play a big role School is just a small step to a by the two choruses – the all-female spoken traditions – for students and clubs, and even do community in your college application. I took successful life. Dixiliers and the mixed chorus South- faculty -- was being able to walk out service hours because when you try ernaires. Some years there were ballet those doors on the fi nal day of class and dancers or programs. By the 1980s, the say goodbye to school until next year! group Razz m’ Tazz took center stage Lee students plan ahead for holiday financial needs at the holiday program with incredible Generals always! Melissa Garcia improv. Editor-In-Chief Spending a lot of money is a to make money. are technically giving back. big part of the upcoming holidays. Other students who work save When all fails, you can always This can be challenging if you are up by depositing money in an old make homemade holiday cards or a high school student who only fashion piggy bank. bake something your family is sure works around 20 hours a week or “For Christmas I get my mother, to enjoy. We all have that one drawer who doesn’t have a job. However my father, my brother, my sister, that is full of forgotten items that we buying your loved ones the gifts my uncle something and this year I believe might be useful someday. they deserve so much doesn’t have have a girlfriend so her too,” Junior This is when the objects inside it to be so diffi cult. Lee students share Bryan Eriza said. “I save up by come in handy, be creative and make the different ways they manage their buying a piggy bank and every time something unique. money so that everyone they love I get paid I put a little bit of money After all, the holidays bring great gets something special. in there. So whatever I have I spend opportunities to share special mo- “ Since I don’t have a job, some- on the people I love. If I don’t have ments with those who you care times I give people rides and charge enough, then I save the last check I about deeply. It is a time to forgive them for it,“ junior Kimberly Hipo get before Christmas and use that to and forget, to start off the New Year said. “ As the holidays get closer buy gifts.” without any grudges and negativity and closer, I start to save up little Although he doesn’t know what holding you back. by little. This is really benefi cial for kind of gifts they want, he makes Although we may forget the true me because by the time Christmas sure to remember the little things meaning, it is essential to always Is here I have already saved enough they say they want throughout the come back to earth and enjoy those for my entire family.” year. who are with us for that very mo- This is a smart way to use the “I usually ask my dad for money a ment. Whether you are able to give things you already own to your couple of months before Christmas, them a gift or not it is the thought advantage. then he forgets about it so I just that matters. “This was one of the easiest ways I buy gifts with that,” Senior Alex Whether it’s with gifts or not, this found to save up,” Hipo said. Dillman said. holiday season, don’t forget to make The best part about this idea is that This is a clever way to obtain mon- sure to show your loved ones how anyone can do it and it’s a quick way ey for Christmas gifts because you important they are to you. Work age for teenagers Yesly Espinal Opinion Writer

What are you doing during these holidays? Maybe you want to go out on the weekends and have some fun time buying holiday gifts for everyone. You might even go to the store and see things you would like to buy like shoes, clothes or other things that you would like to have or even give out this Christmas. Trust me, you will fall in love with most of the things you see. There are other things that you also would like to do like save up money for your education after High School. For all of this, you need a job and you need to get a paycheck fi rst before starting to make plans. If you’re under age 14 you might not get too lucky to fi nd a job, you may have to choose instead to work for yourself cutting lawns, dog-sitting, or babysitting, etc…. In the United States, there are regulations on hours worked, set wages, and also safety requirements for minors in jobs. The Fair Labor Standard Act sets the age of 14 as the minimum age of employment. As long as a teen has good grades, doesn’t have too many other activities, and can arrange safe transportation to work, they should be able to handle a job. “I believe the proper age you should be able to work is 16, at the age 16 you should have the mindset of a future adult. In two years you’ll be considered a legal adult, and the best way you could prepare for the future is by working at the age of 16 so you can actually experience it,” Junior Ronnie Mason said. If you try to get a job don’t forget to follow some of these tips that would help you out a lot. You should always have your resume in order and if you get an interview, try to dress formal. Lastly use proper language and look at him or her in their eyes, it will show respect and show them that you are interested in the position. Here is a useful link in case you are looking for a job: http://kids.usa.gov/teens/jobs/ The Traveler Page 8 December 2014 Rockets start the Lee’s soccer team begins tryouts, prepares for the upcoming season season strong, Adrian Castillo Sports Writer

With the soccer season coming “We will meet our goals by “The schools are going to have can they hold on? up, Mr. Carrillo prepares his play- focusing more on practices and a tournament,” Mr. Carrillo said. ers for all the upcoming games. also make the players take their “All three teams are going to play Mr. Carrillo sets goals to help classes seriously,” Mr. Carrillo with other schools to see their Rosaria Casia his players to accomplish and said. skills.” Sports Writer prove they are a team that puts in Thanks to Mr. Carrillo, all of his The strategy prepared by Mr. a lot of effort to prepare for the players stay on track in their aca- Carrillo will lead the teams to win The Rockets opened the 2014-2015 preseason in Dallas with a 111-108 season. demics as well as their behavior. the upcoming games and head to win over the state rival Mavericks. “My goals for this year are for “I will keep my players on track the play-offs this year. Rocket player Chandler Parsons paced the team in the first half with both teams to come in first in the by talking to their teachers about “To win we are not going to a high 14 points. Nearing the end of the game, Jeff Adrien’s tenac- district,” Mr. Carrillo said. “I also the students,” Mr. Carrillo said. switch players around instead we ity around the rim created enough second chance buckets to cut the want them to stay with the pro- “I will also send a list and if they are going to focus on the same Mavericks lead down to just 2 points heading into the fourth, where gram and move onto varsity.” have problems they will let me players,” Mr. Carrillo said. “We Kostas Papanikolaou hit back-to-back threes to give the Rockets the To make sure they stay on track, know.” started captain practices earlier so lead. It was an intense night playing the Mavericks, and a great way to Mr. Carrillo keeps an eye on his Mr. Carrillo said he is prepared they are going to have a more sta- start the preseason. students for the team’s goals to for the opening of the soccer sea- ble physical condition.” Fast-forwarding to the end of preseason, Isaiah Canaan and James be met. son. Good luck Generals! Harden helped to deliver the 96-87 win over the San Antonio Spurs. Trevor Ariza as he had done in almost every preseason game set the tone in the first quarter coming up with a loose ball, finishing with a break- away slam, on the opening play. Basketball coaches push Isaiah Canaan checked in to start the second quarter, which was a bit earlier than he had checked in most of the preseason, but Coach McHale said before the game that he wanted him to play more tonight as season roster decisions loomed. Canaan responded with five points in his first stint, helping the Rockets build a 49-32 lead at halftime. their teams to succeed In the third, James Harden caught fire. The Beard erupted for 20 of his Oscar Renteria game-high 25 points in the quarter, punctuated by a beautiful step-back Sports Writer three off a Papanikolaou tipped offensive rebound to build an 18-point lead, Houston’s biggest of the night. Their next stop was L.A., as the Rockets opened the 2014-2015 season, Tuesday October 28th, against the Lakers. With a win to kick of the season against the Lakers, the Houston Rockets have battled their way to first place in the Southwest with a 16-4 winning record. With such tough competition, however, Memphis, San Antonio, and Dallas are all on the Rockets’ heals; trailing by only a win or two. With James Harding posting stats such as 25.2 average points per game, an 89.6 free throw percentage, 6.6 assists per game, and 1.9 steals per game (www.NBA.com); the star guard, posting nearly double the points as forward Trevor Ariza, will lead the Houston Rockets through this sure to be exhilarating season and make it a great one to be a Rocket Fan. For more information on the Rockets and their 2014-2015 schedule visit http://www.nba.com/rockets/

Basketball coaches and basket- UCLA shooting drills,” Todd said. well, but I feel we need to practice ball players express their hopes Coach Loza’s rigorous training more because Yates is a good team,” and goals for the beginning of the sessions have proved how e ective Hutchings said. basketball season and how they are they are while the players play on e training provided by the getting prepared. the court. Coach Loza says that she coach is very hard but gives amaz- Coach Alyssa Loza trains her is proud to see her students show ing results, according to Hutchings. students to be great and ready for progress in the court. Coach Todd “Yeah, coach tries his hardest, Photo Contributed By nba.com any upcoming game. said he has also seen a lot of prog- he stays a er school to 6 or 7, even “My methods of training my ress from his students. though he has a family to be with,” students are to make them do drills, e training provided is very Hutchings said. “He makes sure we repetition of actions to make the hard and Coach Loza said her get our plays right.” plays etch into their memory,” Loza students respond to her methods of Basketball player Taylor Mann said. training. speaks of her skills on the court in Coach Todd also has a very “ ey think I’m mean,” Loza the  rst couple of games. similar method of training with a said. “But at the end of the day, they “On the  rst game, we won 27- sequence of drills and repetitions. see the good that is does to them.” 26 points. In the second game, we Coach Loza tries to help each of Training for a sport is never easy lost 23-50 and I scored 4 points,” her students to be  t and not get and Coach Todd explains how his Mann said. “We didn’t give up until hurt with quick warm ups every students react to all the hard work the end even though we were losing day. the students go through. and we just kept playing until the “What I make them do at are “At  rst, it took them a while to e n d .” two laps around the track and then understand what we were doing,” Mann said she thanks the we hit the gym,” Loza said. “I also Todd said. “But a er constant daily coaches for their hard work in the make my students do both dynamic reps, they’re getting it now.” training them because she says that stretches and regular stretches Coach Todd believes that they the training paid o . before anything.” have the personnel to have a suc- “Yes, we have a lot to learn but Coach Todd explains the process cessful basketball season if they stay our coaches are extremely good,” for warming-up his students for positive regardless of any negative Mann said. Basketball practice. issues that could occur. Mann said she wants to encour- “First, we make them run three Basketball player Jialon Hutch- age all of Lee High School to come laps in the gym, stretch and then ings said he feels very con dent and see the basketball teams play they do several drills such as the about the  rst upcoming game. and to help support all the sports Photo Contributed By imgkid.com three-man weave, shu e and “I feel that we are going to do teams at home.