What ID's ???

On Wednesday February 27, 2008 the male Tech Tigers took on the MS 244 Patriots in a basketball game at M.S 244. We arrived a little late due to transportation difficulties. When we arrived in the gym, the team got dressed quickly. During warm-ups before the game, the coach for M.S 244 asked our coach, Mr. E, for our team's IDs. We were like "what IDs?" The IDs are designed for the coaches and referee's to make sure every player in uniform is listed on the roster. There was a disagreement about whether we needed these IDs, and we almost had to leave and forfeit the game. The staff discussed the problems, though, and after 2-3 minutes we were ready to play under the condition that the game would not be recorded because there was no IDs shown.

Under two minutes into the game the Tigers were ahead with an 8-0 lead. Through the rest of the game the scores for both teams went up and down with the lead changing hands many times. Then the 244 Patriots open the fourth quarter with three three pointers, leaving the Tigers down by seven with just 25 seconds to go. We were not able to come back.

The teams lined up and shook hands. Even though we lost, it doesn't matter. The Tigers are still undefeated at home. So we are still 6-1 in my mind.

The Prey Gets Away

The male Tech Tigers lost their second game of the season. Damon, a player from the team, said that they didn't get much practice, but that they would continue to work hard and represent 339 and the Tech Tigers to the fullest. I personally feel that it was a disadvantage because they were at there home and there there Monday threw Friday practicing and playing in there gym.

Mixing it up

Today is Mix-Match Day, and not all people are mixed or matched. As for me, I’m just mixing styles but not clothes or colors. But there is someone that caught my attention: Jalaysa.
She looks colorful & crazy.

There are a lot of students in our School that look crazy yet fresh today. Mix-Match day is all about having fun with colorful mixes & styles. I saw a lot of 7th graders mix & matching. It was kind of strange to me at first. The problem is that people need to get more into the spirit days for them to be fun and crazy. Still, I think that this spirit day is going to go well.

Franklin on Food: Tastes like chicken

Chicken was today's lucky number. Yeah, it's a sad number. I'm not a fan of the chicken, but Jalaysa from class 805 is. She said it was the best. She took a piece from a kid named Alex and jumped on line to get a ticket. It was her first time eating in school and she loved it. I hope she keeps on eating school lunch.

Sorry, but Shon and Michael from 806 didn't didn't like the food. Too bad for them. They didn't like it because it was not seasoned and too dry. They said they wish that at lunch they could have crispy chicken, juice, well-cooked French fries, and shrimp. I wish there was Shrimp in school. That'd be cool.

P.S. Mr.Homan, please don't be a hater like before.

For all of Franklin's cafeteria reviews go click HERE or go to franklinonfood.blogpost.com

February VACATION !!!!

Everyone went or did something over the vacation, but I went to Ohio and went bowling, ice-skating, etc… Gisselle stayed in the Bronx taking care of dolly, and went to new rock city. We went around interviewing teachers on what they did over the spring break. First, we went around asking many different people, but we found out that hardly anyone went anywhere or did something exciting. Until we interviewed Ms. Levine the Inquiry science teacher…

Here are some questions we asked and what we found out.

MS. LEVINE

Q: What did you do during the February vacation?

A: “I went to Pennsylvania for the Penn State dance marathon. It’s where people dance for 46 hours straight. You can’t sit or sleep. The point was to raise money for children with cancer.”

Q: What did you miss most when you were on vacation?

A: “The students at 339 because as much as they do
drive me crazy I still love them.”

Q: Were you hoping to come back to school or stay home relaxing?

A: “Uh, I was happy to come back, but on Monday, but I was really tired”


After we asked Ms. Levine, we asked Ms. Cubidies what she did during the vacation, and this is what we got…

MS. CUBIDIES


Q: What did your do during the spring vacation?

A: “Cleaning, grading papers, but nothing really exciting.”

Q: What did you miss the most?

A: “I missed visiting my family in Florida, because last year during this vacation I went over there to vist.”

Fashion's Destiny: Painful Pumps

As I was reading an article called "Painful Pumps" in Cosmogirl, I found out that high heels define high fashion and they make our legs look great. But they can damage our feet! Let's say you want to go to your best friend's birthday party. You could where a black baby doll dress with funky accessories by Betsey Johnson. The final touch could be the new four-inch pink peep-toe pumps. Can the term "beauty is pain" really be true? I read online that heels actually cause a series of problems such as back pain, corns, callouses, bunions, and hammertoes. Pretty gross, right? I learned that when we wear high heels, the bones in our feet are at major disposition and they cramp up. Sadly, pointy-toe flats and non-insulated ballet flats do the same.

Simply put, feet are not made for heels. They need cushion and support. However, if you can’t imagine life without heels, choose styles with squared-off toes and shorter, chunkier heels instead of stilettos. If you aren’t the wide-heel type of girl, look for thicker soles to absorb shock better. And more important, don’t wear heels for too long.

Here is the website I found this article on:
http://www.cosmogirl.com

To read more of Destiny R's fashion writing, click HERE or visit www.fashionsdestiny339hardline.blogspot.com

Two Thumbs Up for Step Up 2

Nohely’s thoughts about "Step Up 2 The Streets"
This movie was the hottest movie so far this year. Briana Evigan really was an amazing little dancer (lol), and Robert Hoffman was just too sexy (lol) and a great dancer. If you haven’t seen this movie, you are really stupid too miss out on a great experience like this. Not that I want to ruin the ending for people, but that’s the hottest part of the movie. So for people who haven’t seen it yet I suggest you hurry and go see it before it’s out of theaters.

Grade: A

Amerlin’s thoughts about "Step Up 2 The Streets"

I can’t really say this was my favorite movie so far this year, but I can say that is was the one with the most flavor, originality, and spice. Throughout the movie, there were many dance moves I saw that I didn’t even know existed, that’s how cool they were. My favorite part was the ending when the main characters performed. That is a part that I will never forget.

Grade: A-

Movie Info:

Release Date:
February 14, 2008

Director: Jon M. Chu

Created By: Toni Ann Johnson and Karen Bama

Cast: Briana Evigan; Robert Hoffman

Earnings In Box Office: $41,419,000

Reviews and research by Nohely M and Amerlin B

Lady Tech Tigers Do It Again

On February 25, 2008 the Lady Tech Tigers played a basketball game against M.S 246 in the CIS 339 gym. Early in the first quarter the tigers took a 6-0 lead over the under-sized M.S 246 ball players,who all seemed to be under five feet. In the opening minutes of the second quarter M.S 246 came back strong, hitting two three point shots to tie up the game. Later the rest of the quarter went with-out a single point scored by either team.

In the second half, the Tech Lady Tigers went for the kill, scoring three lay-ups and refusing to allow 246 a single point that quarter. Going into the fourth quarter, the Tigers led 12- 6.

Unfortunately, the Tigers did not have a chance to seal their win. Suddenly, as the last quarter was about to begin, school safety announced that the game had to end because it was time for everyone to exit the school. Since the fourth quarter wasn't played, in their next game against M.S 246 the Tech Tigers will need to play a fourth quarter as if it was the last quarter of the this game.

Can the Tech Tigers get one more killl?

Tomorrow the Tech Tigers will try to catch some more prey and improve their record to 6-1 when they take on M.S. 244. Alfonso, a player from the team, said: "Going into this game, I feel very confident in my team and that they will be able to cooperate defensively and offensively. "

The game will begin at 4:00pm at M.S. 244. They hope everyone can come and show support toward the team.

Opponent Information:
The New School for Leadership and Journalism
120 West 231 Street Bronx, NY 10463
Phone: (718) 601-2869

Hard Line takes a rest

The 339 Hard Line will not publish for the next ten days while its staff enjoys a much deserved vacation. Feel free to read and make comments during this period. Happy mid-winter break!

Students assemble before break

An emergency eighth grade assembly was held eighth period on Febuary 15, the last day of school before mid-winter break. The assembly was to announce to the entire grade the upcoming dates and activities that will affect the senior class. There was a slide show created by Porfirio O (me) and edited by Ms. Batchelor. Ms. Bolton, the eighth grade assistant principal said, "It's a great way to bring the eighth grade together."

Article by Porfirio O

Spirit days

Yesterday was Crazy Sock Day, a typical spirit day at 339, but hardly anyone dressed up for it. I guess everyone was focused on Valentines Day and other things.

There were a few trend-setters who actually wore socks though. I asked Chris A in 804 if he wore crazy socks, and he said that he did; they were his mommy's socks. LOL. Other people said that they wore crazy socks but just didn’t flaunt them. Crazy sock day was fun, but we had more things coming our way today.

I interviewed three of my classmates in 804 about Twin Day.

Question 1: Who do you plan on having as a twin?

Andres: “Nobody I’m bringing a mirror to school”

Jamal: "Tayquan"

Natalie: "Yvette, Paola and Amy because they're my close friends."


Question 2: What color are you guys wearing?

Andres: “Uniform color”

Jamal: Black and Yellow

Natalie: Brown and Black


Question 3: Why did you decide to have that person as a twin?

Andres: “Because I have a unique style.”

Jamal: "Because we have the same clothes."

Natalie: "Because they're my close friends."


Question 4: Are you dressing up as a different gender?

Andres: “No, darn it!”

Jamal: No

Natalie: No

Article and interview by Paolo G.

Tigers avenge only loss

On Valentine's Day in the CIS 339 gym there was a basketball ball game between the male Tech Tigers and the M.S 129 Bulldogs. The team's record going into the game wass 5-1, their only loss having come against the Bulldogs during the fist game of the season when the Tigers still didn't have a center to play on the court. In last night's game, 339 put the Bulldog's center on lock as he scored only ten points all night. In the last game he scored over twenty-five points. In that first meeting, the Tigers Lost 21 to 53 but now..... It's 2008, a new year, a new roster, new plays, and a new outcome. Last night the 339 Tech Tigers defeated the Bulldogs 44-34.

M.S 129 came back into the 339 Tiger's Den more confident than ever. Unfortunately for them, they didn't know how the Tigers practice as a team, do suicides as a team, and yell as a team. 339 came out strong and did their warm-ups, rocking new jerseys, shorts, and warm-up shirts. Now that they look like a team, they started playing like a team.

During the first half they played in a formation called black into zone. In the second half they played in black again, but this time in 2-3 man coverage zone. They started strong, played hard, and now the only team in the league that had defeated them is returning home having been eliminated from the tournament.

The Tigers came out to play and are here to stay.

Shout-Outs to:
Mr.Levy- Principal
Ms.Cruz- A.Principal
Mr.Coleman 8th grade A.Principal
Mr.E, Ms.Sa and Ms.Katlin- Coaches

Just in: Student accepted into Bronx Science

Rogelin Fernandez has been accepted into The Bronx High School of Science, one of the most prestigious high schools in the city. Rogelin must be very intelligent in order to be the only student from CIS 339 to get accepted in the last 10 years. Being accepted to one of the greatest high schools in the Bronx must mean a lot to him and especially to the school. He is an eighth grade student at 339 and a member of 801. Rogelin was not available for comment, but we will post an interview as soon as possible.

The Bronx High School of Science is an extremely big school located at 205th St between Goulden & Paul Avenue. The school has high expectations for its students. For example, in order to graduate with a Bronx Science diploma, every student must complete all required courses, which include English, Global History, U.S. History, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math A, Math B and last -- but certainly not least -- a Regents test in ANY Foreign Language.

"I was ecstatic and overcome with emotion when I heard that Rogelin got in. His sixth and seventh grade teachers should be proud of their work," said Ms. Batchelor, the Inquiry team leader and Rogelin's English teacher. "This is definitely a sign that our school is improving academically. As a teacher, it is this type of achievement that becomes our reward."

Andres D. co-wrote this story with Gisselle G

Tigers pounce on prey

Yesterday the 339 Tech Tigers beat 337 by 22 points pulling another big win to add to there outstanding record 4-1.

"It was an easy win," said Eric R, a former player on the team. "Wesley [P] started scoring early, and the other team kept making turnovers. It was a blowout." In the end the score was 53-31.

The team practices hard and play there hearts every game. This victory is only one of many games they will win, and they will continue to represent 339 to the fullest.

School rocks pink & red

Valentines day hit 339 today. Students and teachers rocked red and pink clothing. The tone of the building was totally different than normal days. It was stunning to see a day go by without people fighting or arguing.

"Today the classes were more hyper then usual," said Ms. Sowin, an eighth grade science teacher. She said some of the students in her class were very sad because they didnt get the gifts they wanted and some of them didnt really get gifts at all.

One boy I know came to prepaired for the big day, looking good and having a big present for his girlfriend in his hand. She nearly cried. It was so romantic.

Staff Editorial: Fashion Lost at 339

Hi! My name is Destiny, and I'm in class 8o8! I am going to be talking about the fashion here at cis 339. Well one thing I will say, and I know everybody will argree with me on this one, is that the school uniform here stinks!

The whole CIS 339 logo on the shirt is really weird! I think instead of us buying a shirt from the school, we should buy our own blue colored shirt, and wear it with our own pair of cute jeans, not Dickies pants that cost like $30 per pair! A really cool girl's uniform would be a plaid skirt, a white collored shirt with a boy's tie, a cute blazer, knee high sox's or stockings and knee high boots or hush puppies. For the boys dark pants, with a button down shirt white collared shirt, same colored tie, and hush puppies would look cute.

Click Here to read the rest of the story.

Behind the scenes with Ms. Heiser

The 8th grade is reviewing all pre-March math standards and going through old test books in preparation for the state math test on March 10 and 11. The 8th graders will have to complete three books over the two days. 6th and 7th graders only have to do two books.

According to Ms. Heiser, an eighth grade math teacher and Content Area Team Facilitor, "the first two weeks after mid-winter break are going to be critical in ensuring the success of each student. The students are prepared but we must keep working over break to make sure we are ready for the test!" When asked about the use of laptops in math classes, Ms. Heiser said that every teacher does things a little differently. "Some teachers are using laptops," she said. "There's just so much to review, and the test is not online."

For extra practice over the vacation, online students can practice math on Ms. Heiser's blog starting on Friday at 2:20.

New section sheet system hits the 8th grade

The new section sheet is great. Students can win prizes for coming to school and having good behavior. With the old system no one ever won anything no matter how well the class behaved. Now, each class gets scored as a whole group. Individually you get points and win prizes like gift certificates and 339 sweaters and other things. Classes have the opportunity to win pizza prizes and other fun stuff.

I sat down and talked to Mr. Minton this afternoon and asked him his thoughts on the new sheet. According to him, he and Ms. Batchelor created the new section sheet system. He said that he hopes the sheet will encourage "students to take school more seriously." He believes that students will love it after they see the cool prizes they can buy.

Prom planning proceeds

Hey, it's Paola and I'm blogging on the school's newspaper about prom planning and upcoming trips. I spoke with Ms.Bolton, the eighth grade assistant principal, and asked her questions about the prom. She couldn't answer everything, but I still have some information about how the planning is coming.

According to Ms. Bolton, the prom will take place some time in June, likely close to graduation. It will be held at Maestros, which is the place the school has used for the last several years. They have yet to reserve a specific DJ, but Ms. Bolton says that they will go with an affordable person they've used in the past.

Anyways, let's talk about the Senior Trip because I can't wait until the day comes. Ms. Bolton told me that senior trip will take place at High Meadows in Gramby, CT. It's on June 10th. Graduation, the moment of tears and joy, will be held at Lehman High School on June 23 at 12pm. That's all for now, but I you can count me for up-to-date news on all 2008 senior activities!

Emergency Tech Tigers B-Ball Meeting

Yesterday, the whole C.I.S 339 Tech Tigers basketball team had a meeting about rules and regulations. The meeting covered the following topics:

Commitment
Attitude
Sportsmanship
Academics
Uniform Policy
Practice

During the meeting it was announced that each player must commit to the team and everything the group does together. The also promised to respect all officials, adults, and teammates. There agreed not to swear and that in future games and practices they will make positive comments only.

On the academic side, the team was told that they have to be students first and basketball players second. All of the players agreed that students who cannot maintain a seventy-two-point average have not shown their committed to the team. As a result, these students will not be allowed to play in games, but they will still be allowed to practice

The meeting also covered the team's uniform policy for away games. In the future, the team will be required to show up at the away team's building looking the part to represent CIS 339 by wearing polos with the school logo on the chest and navy blue pants.

The team will start the new rules and regulations after the mid-winter break, which is Feburary 22,2008.

Tigers not meant for snow

Today was a snowy and rainy day. Tons of teachers and students were absent. People struggled just to get through the snow. It is surprising that the snow was a problem because usually rain melts away snow. Both students and teachers showed up with big boots and raincoats.

According to Miss Dixon-Hall, an eighth grade literacy teacher, the weather was "wet and sloshy, but not too cold. It was very hard to get to school today. It took almost 45 minutes to get to the doctor, and it usually takes 25 minutes." She added that just because of the snow she had to take a taxi to get to school.

"It's mushy and ugly outside," said Paola T, an eighth grader. She walked to school this morning and complained that water got in her sneakers.

It was very surprising how you couldn't see anything that was far away. It was so blurry out there! When I was walking to school. I saw a girl that stepped into a big puddle of water. The weather was crazy today!

Tech coach stumped

Ms. Jenkins, former Hard Line executive editor and long-time CIS 339 technology coach, finally met her techno-match today when she could not devise a way to moderate blog posts from contributing posters. Once considered the school's foremost expert in the blogofield, Jenkins has cause for pause after this latest incident, the second such embarrassment in as many days following her ouster from the Hard Line staff just 15 hours ago.

Jenkins resigns as executive editor

After several hours of tense conversations involving senior Hard Line editors, Ms. Jenkins has resigned her position as executive editor of The 339 Hard Line. While the editorial board has said that they want to weigh all of their options before naming a successor, sources close to the blog say that Ms. Heiser will succeed Ms. Jenkins.

339 Hardline Starts Its Cyberpresses

The 339 Hardline, a student-operated blog representing the Bronx middle school CIS 339, began publishing today. Check-in daily to see updates from our talented staff of student writers and collaborators. Many thanks to Ms. Jenkins for accepting the position of executive editor. We know you'll do great!