The Pepperbox
December BOX BRIEFS
December 11-13th: AIBT December 13th: ACT Test Date December 19th: Winter Assembly Dec 21st-Jan 4th: Winter Break January 12-16th: Finals January 16th: End of Semester 1 January 19th: MLK Day, No School
January 20th: THRIVE Day, No School January 24th: SAT Test Date January 24th: Junior Prom February 3-4th: CASHEE Testing February 7th: ACT Test Date February 11th: Blood Drive February 16-20th: President’s Break
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EDITORIAL STAFF Gillen Martin Editor-In-Chief Zoe Ziegler Editor-In-Chief Sara Davis Managing Editor Terra Clarke News Editor Kaeyln Tuermer-Lee News Editor Hannah Finley Feature Editor Alley Perry Feature Editor Neel Rao Sports Editor Craig Broadman Sports Editor CJ Gray Opinion Editor
Ryan Ghisetti A&E Editor Carson McHaney Art Director Alyssa Day Business Manager Izzy Ensminger Online Editor Claire Robinson Copy Editor Alec Perrone Executive Producer Bodie Yonts Assistant Producer Indigo Davis Photo Editor Jesse Bareilles Assistant Photo Editor Caitlyn Patterson Social Media Director
REPORTERS Mozara Abdalla Amanda Andrews Scott Ballinger Taylor Camp Isaiah DuFresne Marlena Tavernier
Darik Gaston Emma Harris Gabe Hunt Isabel Luu Ellen Keil Claire Rockwood
Anna Nelson Solo O’Neill Triston Pigg Josh Winter Peter Shao
The Pepperbox would like to thank Western Web, based in Samoa, for printing at-cost. Western Web supports student journalism throughout Humboldt County and has made publications like the Pepperbox possible for decades. We appreciate their dedication to keeping print media alive. Western Web
IN THE BOX Bocce Ball Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Maker Workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Upperclassmen Weekends . . . 8 PB Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Arcata A’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 & 11 Homeless Students . . . . .12 & 13 Vaccinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Girls Soccer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Fall Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 & 17 Alternative Sports . . . . . . . . . .18 Crowds vs. Gender. . . . . . . . . . 19 Through a Child’s Eyes. . .20-21 Sixth Men. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Cheerleader Perspective. . . . .23 AIBT Rosters. . . . . . . . . . . . 24-27 WAIBT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Day in the Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Drug Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Socks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Bracket. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Questions regarding editorial content of the Pepperbox should be directed toward its editors. Opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of Arcata High School.
Adviser Danielle Lehman
Letters to the Editors 10/28/14 Dear Pepperbox Editors, Recently, I was contacted by a few friends and fellow Arcata High School alumni regarding an article that was published in the October edition of The Pepperbox. The article addressed the lack of “football culture” at Arcata High and stated that the solution to this problem is to have the cheerleaders each adopt a football player and subsequently perform tasks for their player because it is “part of what cheerleaders sign up for”. Upon reading it, there were many aspects of this article that I did not agree with, but the most disappointing thing for me to read was the obvious lack of respect for these cheerleaders. Although what was said in the article was wrong and inappropriate, I do not believe that the writer of the article is completely at fault for these statements. I instead look at the football culture and it’s values as the main source of the problem. Because of football’s vast popularity all over the country, these ideas of “you have to be a man to play football” or “only girls feel pain” are drilled into the minds of our children and young adults, creating a misogynistic mindset in many of our young football players and fans that they carry with them throughout their lives. This lack of understanding and respect for women is not only at the high school level, either. As a collegiate football player, I have seen first hand these ideals of men being superior to women in my own life in both the locker room and campus. Even on the highest possible level for a football player, the NFL, the problem still appears often. The incident that happened with Ray Rice, a Pro Bowl running back who is looked up to by millions of young and ambitious football players and fans is a perfect example. The video of Rice physically abusing his then fiance was even shown on national television, allowing these young people to literally watch their role model perform the acts that are subliminally endorsed by this football culture. Although Rice’s actions were terribly nasty, positives can be taken out of the situation as the NFL decided to ban him from participation. Although a very small step in the overwhelming problem that the sport of football is facing, the ban showed the nation that actions like these are intolerable. What is mentioned in the article published in The Pepperbox is nowhere near the magnitude of the Ray Rice situation and in no way am I attempting to compare the two, but both situations share the misogynistic ideals that the football culture is currently endorsing. I would like to encourage the Arcata High football team to attempt to change this culture. Instead of assuming that it is the cheerleader’s duty to do things for the team, I challenge the Arcata High football team to turn the table and instead bring the cheer team cupcakes and candy for the support and effort they put into being there every friday night. There is no question that football is a sport that requires incredible physicality and aggression in order to succeed. However, it is possible and necessary to demonstrate these traits by blocking hard, making big tackles and scoring touchdowns, which leads to success and winning games, while also finding a balance between football and life, leaving the ideals of superiority and aggression on the football field. Things to consider, Andrew DeHart 10/16/14 Dear Editors of the Pepperbox, In is apparent to me and the rest of Arcata High that after the recent publication of a certain article on cheerleaders and team morale of the team football team that the Pepperbox, and in particular the reporter who wrote the article, are receiving some backlash. I personally would like to commend you for publishing the article even though the opinion it expressed is controversial. I think the latest issue shows, more than ever, the Pepperbox to be an exemplary publication committed to freedom of speech and the fair coverage of all viewpoints and opinions, regardless of public opinion. I look forward, as always, to your next issue. Elise Ford
Quotable. “Yak rescued in Redwood Park, will live out days in loving sanctuary.” -A very Humboldt Mad River Union headline from late October
“I’ve been interested in acquiring a human skull for some time.” -English teacher Alex Kantner contemplating a Hamlet Halloween costume idea
“Sooner or later, people will be calling them, ‘Hello, I’d like to order a Kim K. butt!’” -Social Studies teacher Dave Filippini to his 4th period class regarding the recent media excitement over photographs released of Kim Kardashian
“We’re going to conquer the world. And we’re going to change all of the countries’ names to names we can pronounce.” -Social Studies teacher Doug Johnson to his 3rd period U.S. History class
13 | 5 Days until Christmas, days of school until Winter Break
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Varsity league championship fall sports teams: boy’s & girl’s cross country, volleyball, and girl’s soccer (see full fall sports wrap-ups on pages 16 & 17)
128 | 10 Number of goals scored by and against our girl’s varsity soccer team (read more about their “perfect season” on page 14)
11.5 | 105 The height difference (in) and weight difference (lbs) between varsity basketball players Luke Graves (cover) and Tristan Espy (left)
The Pepperbox | Page 6
News
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Bocce ball takes the spotlight Solo O’Neill Reporter
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ports teams, clubs, and classes show their tiger pride with floats decked out in elaborate decorations, screaming high school students, with top forty hits echoing through downtown Arcata. Although this years floats did not disappoint, there was one that stood out among the rest; the Arcata High Bocce Ball float. Bocce ball came to California in 1989 and has gained popularity since. Bocce Ball is traditionally played on natural soil or asphalt courts 90 ft. in length and 8 to 13 ft. wide. Bocce balls can be made of metal or various kinds of plastic. A bocce ball
Community events, like Special Olympics, are one of the highlights of the school year for many life skills students. Special Olympics is hugely supportive of the Arcata High Bocce Ball program.
game typically includes two players, or sometimes two teams of two, three, or four. With the Humboldt State Bocce Ball tournament approaching, the Arcata High team is working hard to prepare for com-
petition. The team is coached by AHS Athletic Director, Troy Ghisetti, and consists of mainly Life Skills students with a couple general education students helping out the team. The team practices their skills during 3rd period P.E.
...the Arcata High team is working hard to prepare for competition.
“Our special education program has a bocce ball and a basketball unit every year. The units culminate with a Special Olympics tournament hosted by Humboldt State,” Ghisetti said. Humboldt State University has been hosting this annual Bocce ball tournament for the last three years with great success. The tournament gives students the opportunity to work as a team and compete with their peers. The Arcata High team competes with Eureka High, Fortuna High, McKinleyville High, and the Glenn Paul Center teams. The Arcata High team has won the tournament in past years and looks to continue its winning tradition. Community events like Special Olympics are one of the highlights of the school year for many life skills students. Special Olympics is hugely supportive of the Arcata High bocce ball program. “The people from Special Olympics donated all our practice equipment, the City of Arcata donated all game equipment,” stated Athletic Director Troy Ghisetti. Because of the support of Special Olympics and Humboldt State University Arcata High life skills, students are able to participate in this friendly competition and learn valuable skills, like teamwork.
Zoe Ziegler/PEPPERBOX
Seniors Coleton Allmon and Jared Olson present their bocce balls.
News
Friday, December 12th, 2014
The Pepperbox | Page 7
Maker: an authentic way to learn Zoe Ziegler
Editor-in-Chief
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xcept for the twenty-orso students who take the class, third period Maker Workshop seems virtually unknown to the Arcata High student body. Mentions of the class are usually answered with blank faces, which is understandable due to its novelty, but also because of its location. Nestled in the Ag room, between the Metal and Auto shops, on the northern side of campus, it’s easy to be oblivious to the all the amazing things happening behind those tall cement walls. This class is founded on the ideals of the Maker Movement, which is a technological offshoot
Maker is more of a workshop than it is a class. of the do-it-yourself (DIY) culture. The Maker Movement Manifesto, a book by Mark Hatch, emphasizes creativity, collaboration w i t h
other makers, and flexibility to any change that may come. A project-driven class, Maker Workshop gives students practical applications to the things they
We made really tight robots that can flip other robots over.
That was definitely the highlight so far.” In addition to robots, students have had the opportunity to work with a 3D printer. “You can actually make real stuff with it,” Robins said. But for now, most of the 3D projects have been introductory, such as a plastic rabbit. Maker is more of a workshop
than it is a class--maker student senior Salix Bair called it “selfdriven”--yet it remains still a very educational experience. “Research shows that ‘authentic experience’ is one of the most powerful ways for people to learn,” Sidell said. “That is what I am trying to create with this class.”
- Canyon Robins learn in school. Jason Sidell, Arcata’s Maker teacher, said, “A maker is someone who can identify a problem or need, design a solution to the problem, and produce that solution for use in the real world. For example, a person who has trouble remembering to water her plants might design an electronic device that detects the moisture in the soil and texts her a message from the plant, ‘Please water me!’” But Maker is not just for the practical. “They work on a series of projects that satisfy a need or solve a problem,” Sidell stated. But some of those projects are for entertainment purposes. “We made really tight robots that can flip other robots over,” Maker student Canyon Robins said, “We fight them and win.
Zoe Ziegler/PEPPERBOX
Seniors Cormac Crowley and Westin McHaney work on their robot.
Zoe Ziegler/PEPPERBOX
Maker students can download designs, like the one for this bunny, from the internet and ‘bring them to life’ using a 3D printer.
Westin McHaney/PEPPERBOX
A magnifying tool shows a close-up of a project using an LED matrix.
The Pepperbox | Page 8
Feature
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Not all teenagers are up to no good Ellen Keil
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Reporter
s the final bell rings at the end of a long and challenging week of school, students everywhere race out of their classrooms to kick off the greatly anticipated weekend. Some upperclassmen flee to the parking lot where they immediately jump into their car or a friends car and speed out of the school zone, while others loiter around in the parking lot or at the front bench talking with friends and waiting for the never ending traffic to cease. But what happens next? Where do we all go after school hours? How do upperclassmen enjoy their weekends? Of course we are all different individuals with various friend groups
and preferred activities. And with over 400 upperclassmen, it would be difficult to find out what we all do. Some have a school sport after school, and some prefer to workout either at the gym or on their own time and place. Others simply go home and relax.
I mainly just hang out with a group of friends and have small get-togethers. Or we will go out and do something.” - Ion Rasmussen
Hannah Finley/PEPPERBOX
Arcata High seniors, Josiah Ennis, Luke Graves, Jay Larson, Lakota Camp, and Ben Albright (left to right) have good, clean fun blowing bubbles.
Like most teenagers, senior Ion Rasmussen, enjoys her friends’ company during the weekend. Other than working an extensive amount of hours as a Bounce-aPalooza employee, she still manages to find time for fun adventures and down time away from school and work. From going to the beach, hiking, watching Netflix, and spending time with friends, I would say its a weekend well-spent. “I mainly just hang out with a group of friends and have small gettogethers. Or we will go out and do something,” Rasmussen explained. “If we get hungry we go to APD (Arcata Pizza and Deli) or Sushi Tao.” Junior Collin Townsend claims that on a Friday after school he will usually go to his friend Nathan Heidrick’s house and “ beat him at FIFA...like really bad.” Then
possibly go out to a party or just hangout with friends at Nathan’s. “If we feel like it we’ll go to APD or Don’s Donuts for a snack later,” he added. On an early Saturday or Sunday, he and his friends like to go surfing at Moonstone or Trinidad. After catching some waves, Collin goes home, beats Nathan again, and eats.
I start off my wekend by beating Collin in FIFA, then we usually just hangout and hotutb or hike. -Nathan Heidrick
Friday, December 12th, 2014
PB Club
The Pepperbox | Page 9
Freshmen likes and dislikes came with being a high school student. For the first time, stuIsabel Luu dents can leave school to get Reporter lunch, instead of staying at school eating packed lunches. s the first few months Scott Ballinger, a freshman Pepof school pass, fresh- perbox member, said, “We’re men have started to not forced to sit in a crowded get some idea about cafeteria anymore. Now we can what high school is all about. leave and basically do whatever After leaving middle school, we want.” students have learned new In most middle schools, stuthings educationally and social- dents do not have much say ly. They have many opinions on in the classes they take. Freshtheir views of high school, both man Gabe Hunt said, “There are negative and positive. more class options so that I can Several freshmen were inter- actually choose what I want to viewed to find out how they feel learn.” about high school, comparing Freshmen also like the social it to middle school. They listed environment in high school. many things that they liked and Students feel like they are not things that they disliked. compared as much as they were Most freshmen agreed that in middle school, and that poputhey liked the freedom that larity is not as important as it
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used to be. “There is no major social pyramid anymore. You just hang out with the people you fit in with,” said Isaiah DuFresne. Going to a bigger school with more people was both a good thing and a bad thing to many freshmen. “I’ve made new friends and there are more people to hang out with, but the school is more crowed so I can’t find people I’m looking for as easily as I could last year,” said Emma Harris. Also, students who came from smaller school dislike how the teachers do not know most of the students very well because having a stronger connection with your teachers sometimes made school easier and more enjoyable. Hardly anyone likes to do extra work after school. “Well,
there’s definitely a lot more homework and the expectations are a lot higher,” said freshman Taj O’Barr. Students agreed they wish there was less homework. At Arcata High, classes start at 8:15AM. At some middle schools, school starts later. “I don’t think I should have to wake up when it’s still dark to get ready for school,” said Clare Rockwood. In general high school can very different than middle school. Students start doing things on their own with less help from their parents, and their teachers no longer remind them to do their work. Emma Harris said, “Everything is now our responsibility. Our teachers and parents don’t make most of the decisions about what we do anymore.”
What’s for lunch, AHS? Marley Tavernier-Fine Reporter
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unch is a big part of school; it’s a time to socialize, to catch up, and to make sure you get something good to eat. But not every high school has the same policies surrounding what freedoms students have for their lunch period. Arcata High students are lucky; we have a lot of freedom with an open campus for lunch, something not all schools offer. There are also many choices that are available for lunches such as
Wildberries, Redwood Yogurt, and many more that are close, affordable, and pretty darn good. What about some of the other high schools in the area? At McKinleyville High there is also an open campus
Arcata high students are lucky; we have a lot of freedom.
for lunch, but one of the only places that students can walk to eat is the 76 gas station in town. Without a car the options are pretty limited “I wish there were places closer to the school that freshmen could walk to,” McKinleyville high freshman Kara Burman said. Even though they cannot get to as many places easily, McKinleyville might just make up for it with having an affordable student store. “There are lots of good choices at the school, stuff that people actually want to eat, and we’re not forced to eat all of the “healthy”
There are also many choices that are available for lunches... food like in middle school”, says Burman. Still, all schools have their pros and cons and no place is perfect, but what we’ve got is good enough for us.
The Pepperbox | Page 10
Feature
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Feature students: the Arcata A’s The Activist: Chris Killian Ryan Ghisetti
The Artist: Kyri Cossolotto Hannah Finley Feature Editor
A&E Editor
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rom the shadows of students a voice spoke up for change. When you think of an activist a boisterous image of protesters with signs and petitions comes to mind. But Chris Killian has revised the old way of thinking. Coming into the spotlight his senior year as a Homecoming nominee, in a short few months he has brought an epidemic to Arcata High: acceptance."It was a disappointment during Homecoming when I found out that the school wouldn't allow two Kings or Queens to win, but I'm very happy petitions have been signed to reverse this." As a predominant member the the Gay Straight Alliance club and identifying as an advocate of the LGBTQIA community, Chris isn't just introducing diversity, he's challenging the gender specific stereotypes at the school.
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hough most people may recognize junior Kyri Cossolotto as an amazing volleyball player, a smooth dancer, a member of leadership, or the girls who rocks windbreakers, it may come as a surprise to many that Cossolotto is a talented artist as well. Cossolotto joined the Arcata Arts Institute this year. Though her favorite art form is visual dynamics, it certainly does not stop there. Aside from visual dynamics, Cossolotto also enjoys knitting, crocheting, and just about any other craft making activity under the sun. While Cossolotto enjoys sporting her own creations, she even makes money by selling her art. For example, she crochets booties for infants and attaches a small Nike swoosh, “giving little kids everywhere mad swag.” In addition to the adorable booties, she also makes scarves, hats, leg warmers, and boot cuffs. Cossolotto’s artistic ability is truly broad. Cossolotto claimed, “My dream is to own a high-end thrift shop when I’m older and sell my own clothing there.” While her creative crafts and art on paper may be impressive, Cossolotto’s style and perfectly applied makeup should be revered as an artform as well! According to Cossolotto, she spends 15 minutes in the car applying her flawless eye shadow and eyeliner. Only to enhance her makeup, she dresses adorably, keeping up with the latest fashion trends and adopting new ones of her own. Cossolotto hopes that Windbreaker Wednesday will soon catch on and the vibrant colors of the ‘80s will be revived. She claims that she flaunts colorful windbreakers simply because she enjoys it and likes to stand out. “I consider myself somewhat of a peacock,” Cossolotto stated about her unique style. The hidden talents of Kyri Cossolotto have now been revealed. If you’re interested in purchasing adorable booties or sporting a windbreaker on wednesday, send a “hello” in Cossolotto’s direction and a resoundingly enthusiastic greeting will be reciprocated.
Friday, December 12th, 2014
The Pepperbox | Page 11
Feature
The Athlete: Iona Mahony-Moyer
The Academic: Evan Green Indigo Davis Photo Editor
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van Green is not just a cute 5’3” freshman, jumping off the walls and sprinting between classes; he’s actually kind of smart.One of Green’s accomplishments includes going to the state science fair in 8th grade. This may seem like a decade ago to some of us, but we have to remember that he is only a freshman. He got a 3rd place medal in the aerodynamics and hydrodynamics category in the State Science Fair. What is aerodynamics and hydrodynamics? Good question. Aerodynamics is the study of the motion of air, particularly when it interacts with a solid object. Hydrodynamics deals with forces acting on or exerted by liquids. As an 8th grader, Green clearly knew more than all of us. Evan was also a national science Broadcom Master nominee. Broadcom Master’s is a premier middle school science and engineering competition. Broadcom only nominates the top 10% of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to enter their competition. “I really like chemistry,” Green said. Evan isn’t just a genius mind, he also has a thriving social life, and some hidden talents. Evan was on the Arcata High School JV soccer team. He doesn’t seem to have a hard time balancing his social life because he’s just that smart. In his free time, aside from soccer and homework, Green also enjoys launching rockets, a hobby possessed by few. “I play soccer and launch rockets...” Green said, sounding incredibly enthusiastic. Evan Green is a mystery to most students on campus, but don’t be intimidated by his mind, because he’s just like you and I...except smarter.
Kaelyn Tuermer-Lee News Editor
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here’s something about the stride in her step and the pure determination on her face, always putting forth her best effort and never settling for less. Sophomore track and cross-country star Iona Mahony-Moyer has always loved to run. Her inspiration to first start running was her brother Evan, who ran cross-country in high school. Now, her brother is in college. Iona chose to follow in his footsteps, and has been running for four years--two seasons of crosscountry and four seasons of track. At cross-country practices, the AHS team runs approximately one and a half hours per day, with many runs on the trails through the forest. Although she loves both sports, Iona favors cross- country over track because of her love for long-distance. When asked what the best part about each sport was, she answered with, “The best part about track was the MOCs [Meet of Champions] at Berkeley, and the best part of cross-country was... well...everything.” The cross-country team is also very close, and finds motivation through supporting each other. “We’re all kind of like a big cross-country team and I love everyone. We support each other a lot. A lot of my motivation comes from wanting to do well for the team.” Goals for next year would include upholding previous team traditions, such as using spirited hair ribbons, and having a closely-knit team. Any traditions or routines before meets? “Eating sunflower butter on rice cakes with bananas. Oh, and also hanging out with teammates,” Mahony-Moyer replied. What a good prerace ritual to get a star runner in the zone and prepared to tear up the course.
The Pepperbox | Page 12
Feature
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Finding hope for homeless youth Sara Davis
Managing Editor &
Zoe Ziegler
Editor-in-Chief
Imagine waking up from a cold and restless night on the unforgiving ground. Rain has left you soaked and you have no other clothes to change into. With no place to shower or get ready for school, your only option is the nearby gas station bathroom. Feeling heavy-hearted, you realize your last full meal was two days ago---a stolen supermarket chicken. As you walk to school in the brisk winter air you hear your peers complain about the various luxuries you lack. Throughout the day it is difficult to step away from the reality of being a homeless youth. After school that night there is no warm meal or warm bed waiting for you. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a tarp, tent, or empty breeze-way, but, like all aspects of homeless life, nothing is reliable. America is often seen as a symbol of abundance and opportunity, a country of second chances and helping hands. Yet for the 2.5 million youth who are considered homeless in the United States (according to America’s Youngest Outcasts), the red and white stripes of the U.S. flag have faded to look like the dull stripes of a prison uniform that traps some youths in the oppressive cycle of homelessness. That number means that about one in every thirty children in the U.S. under the age of 18 that experiences
homelessness. And, California is ranked third worst among the fifty states, with over 500,000 homeless children living within its borders. In Humboldt county, last year there were 1,027 documented homeless youth. As the numbers show, youth homelessness is a real issue that affects people in our own community. Unfortunately, the situation may be even more dire as these numbers are too often underreported. Because of this under-reporting, many students go without help. For example, last year only eight students were identified as homeless in the Northern Humboldt High School District, even though Jack Bareilles, the local homeless education liaison, identified around 75 homeless youth last year in Arcata High alone. Thus much of the underreporting is due to flaws in how the data is collected. According to Roger Golec of the Humboldt County Office of Education however, many numbers may be lower due to lack of self-identification from the students themselves. At least with the older students, many do not want to be identified, or simply do not know what qualifies as homeless. Thankfully, there is a law that clearly outlines the qualifications for homelessness. The McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act identifies a wide range of situations, from living in public places or abandoned buildings to sharing a home with another family due to having lost one’s own, and sleeping in vehicles. Numbers, however, do not capture the experience of
stay in her mother’s tent, she and her boyfriend are left to sleep out in the open, often in the rain. Allen*, formerly homeless with his mother and sister, now lives with his father in a trailer. When they were unable to pay for the rent Allen, “I’ve seen a his mother, and his sister were forced to leave their residence lot of home- of fifteen years. Now, Allen less teens in the With his Allen is able to depend on his father for transportation, last few years food, and shelter. As for getready for school, gas staand I would ting tion bathrooms, friends’ homes not wish that or simply standing outside with small hand-held mirror are upon anyone.” athese students’ only options. Often, Naomi will do household - Naomi chores in exchange for showers. Fortunately, school has been Naomi*, a homeless youth for a safe haven for these students. four years, has been living with her boyfriend after couchsurf- To Helen it is “somewhere to go ing for six months. Previously, during the day.” Naomi and Allen she “was sleeping outside in view school in a different light. bushes, on friend’s floors, and Naomi, after almost becoming in cars,” using her feet and the an alcoholic because “that’s all Arcata and Mad River Transit [she] had to do”, is motivated to System buses as her only sourc- stay in school because she does es of transportation. Another not want to be “stupid and end self-identified homeless stu- up like [her] dad, on drugs and dent, Helen*, after being forced homeless.” Allen, like Naomi, to leave the house of her boy- also does not want to “end up friend’s grandmother, has found like [his] mom and struggle with ‘home’ with her boyfriend in [his] kids.” Peers on campus are a tent used by her mother and relatively understanding of the her mother’s boyfriend as shel- homeless youth situation, but ter. During the colder winter Helen believes “they view it months of the year, Naomi uses as a choice when it’s not .” Alcoffee shops to get warm and to though Allen has friends who use their free wifi. There she is have been homeless or know able to check Facebook, watch someone who is, he thinks YouTube videos, and catch up that “some [of his peers] would on what is trending on the In- think I’m just poor and not care ternet among teenagers. Hel- but I think some would be sad.” en’s life does not change to suit Possibly because the adults of the weather. If she is unable to Arcata High are not aware of homelessness as well as personal stories do. A few students currently attending AHS who self-identify under the McKinney-Vento Act courageously put faces behind the numbers.
Friday, December 12th, 2014 which students are homeless, Helen, Naomi, and Allen felt that the teachers and staff are “only sometimes” supportive. Outside of school, though, these teens are forced to face the reality of their situation. “The hardest thing is finding somewhere to stay and wondering if you’re going to be okay and safe that night,” Helen said, “...getting showers is something I really worry about.” Due to the long chilly months during much of the year in this area, sickness is a major concern for homeless youth. Sometimes, their parents are part of the problem in these students getting medical care. Although the Teen Clinic is open for their use, many medications for winter-time illnesses are only available through parent signature release. Naomi experienced this hands-on last winter when she hoped to receive medication, but was denied due to lack of a parent’s signature. Often, parents of homeless youth are no longer associated with their child or do not feel the need to help their child. To Naomi, the hardest aspect of being a homeless youth is her father’s neglect and “not being able to sit down to a warm meal with your family or being in a warm bed. I couldn’t even enroll myself into school because I was underage and my dad cared more about his drug use. [He] even gave my homeless friend $20 for a pair of shoes, when he knew I needed shoes.” Helen, Allen, and Naomi’s experience with the struggles and setbacks of homelessness have influenced them to aspire to achieve greater and better for themselves. “I feel like this is making me more prepared for unexpected life situ-
Feature ations, but I’m not very happy with my dad neglecting me for drugs,” reflects Naomi, “I’ve seen a lot of homeless teens in the last few years and I would not wish that upon anyone.” These three students should not be blamed for their circumstance. They did not choose to
that AHS organizes, the office is also in possession of backpacks filled with personal supplies. At the beginning of this year, Betty Chin donated ten backpacks to the school, each filled with school supplies, toiletries, a towel, and a pair of socks. There are still five left, which can be
The Pepperbox | Page 13 campus can do to help out our fellow classmates in need. The Oh Snap! Food Pantry at Humboldt State is a great example of how we could provide staple foods for students when the price of their next meal exceeds what their pockets can afford. In addition to the Coats-for-
Photo courtesy of Naomi
An example of where a homeless student and his/her family might live in place of a stable home
be evicted from their housing situations or to have to ask for change from strangers be their only way to get a decent meal. Unfortunately, according to a America’s Youngest Outcasts report, California is the second worst state in the U.S. for homelessness policy and prevention planning, and lacks a state Interagency Council on Homelessness. There is hope, however, in services that can be found on the local level, especially here at Arcata High. Along with the annual Coats-for-the-Cold drive
picked up in the office from Rene Campbell, Associate Principal Jim Monge’s secretary. In addition to these backpacks, the lunch program at AHS provides consistently healthy and interesting food at a low price, especially if you qualify for free or reduced ($0.40) lunch. “Unfortunately, there is a stigma [towards the program],” Campbell said. “ But there shouldn’t be. I am telling you, the salad bar is to die for!” While these options are great, there is still so much that our
the-Cold and the backpack program, National Honors Society hopes to organize a drive for sleeping material and rain gear for homeless students. One of the most important messages from the students interviewed, however, did not call for donations, but proposed a change in attitude. Allen put it simply when he stated that people just need to “appreciate what they got.” *Names have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.
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Feature
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Wake up Humboldt [The real public health crisis] Carson McHaney Art Director
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s a Nation, we tend to fixate on the novel and the sensational. We sometimes trade the alluring for the important, often resulting in unforeseen and adverse consequences. America has become consumed by a whirlwind of incessant media coverage and anxiety over the recent outbreaks of ebola around the world. We at times lose sight of the fact that, in the entire history of ebola, there have been a total of four cases in the US, resulting in only one death. The public has become seemingly oblivious to much older and far more detrimental culprits to the American health. Society is ravaged with morbidity and mortality at the hands of everything from alcoholism and tobacco addiction to cancer and heart disease, even the deceptive seasonal flu. Everyone catches the occasional flu, but according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in the past year, there have been 9,632 hospitalizations related to influenza in the United States. The proportion of flu-related deaths during the 2013-2014 flu season hovered around 6 percent of all deaths, and as of August 2014, more than 105 children died over the past season from flu-related illnesses. Even these staggering statistics illustrating the devastating potential of the “flu” aren’t enough to persuade most of the American public to get their vaccinations, as only 46% of Americans had received a vaccination protecting against influenza in 2014. The truly saddening thing about this particular situation is that many of these deaths could have been prevented. The unfortunate ramifications of the low levels of vaccination has
contributed to widespread illness in California. On June 13th, 2014, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) declared a whooping cough epidemic where a total of 8,749 cases of have been reported, 312 of those cases have been hospitalized, and 3 infants have died. Humboldt County is especially impacted, with 95 cases and the 4th highest rate of whooping cough of all the counties in California, coming behind only Sonoma, Napa, and Marin. “Vaccinations have been one of the most important things in preventing disease starting at the beginning of the 20th century,” said Ron Largosa, an epidemiologist for the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services. “Diseases that were common players and related to causes of death and illness, one hundred years later are virtually nonexistent.” However, increasingly low levels of vaccination stymy efforts to reduce the threats of preventable diseases even further. This trend in vaccinations is extreme in Humboldt County, with increasing amounts of parents deciding not to vaccinate. Following the development of vaccines to prevent harmful diseases, children entering the school system would largely be vaccinated. In fact, there were “vaccination drives” at schools. However, since 2000, the vaccination rate amongst Kindergarteners in Humboldt
county has dramatically declined. At the beginning of this school year only 73.3 percent of kids had received all the vaccines required by the California Department of Public Health. Only Nevada County was worse, with a rate of 72.3 percent. While the vaccination rate statewide has declined by roughly two percent since 2000, Humboldt County’s fell by more than 18 percent. Why the substantial drop? Vaccines, after all, are considered to be one of the important and successful medical achievements in human history. And yet, according to the California Department of Public Health, there has been a dramatic rise in “Personal Belief Exemptions.” That is, when parents choose to not vaccinate their children because vaccines are against their personal beliefs. However, an individual exercising their personal beliefs can affect the health of an entire community. “Herd Immunity” is the idea that when a critical portion of a community is immunized against a contagious disease, most members of the community are protected against that disease because there is little opportunity for an outbreak. This can help protect individuals who are not eligible to receive certain vaccinations; like infants and pregnant women. It is estimated by the CDC that an 85 to 90 percent rate of vacci-
nation is considered the threshold for herd immunity for diseases as measles, smallpox, diphtheria, and rubella. Other diseases, like whooping cough, require an even higher immunization rate to keep the whole community safe. Due to the rates of vaccination below the Herd Immunity threshold, Humboldt County is at an increased risk for possible outbreak of debilitating and fatal diseases. “The students who are not immunized are actually depending on the students who are immunized to keep them safe,” AHS School Nurse Marilyn Thibeau said. There are many causes of declining rates of immunizations. These can include misinformation, a lack of education of the dangers of these preventable diseases, and people feeling that it is simply unnecessary because we have not recently had a major outbreak publicized by the media. AHS School Nurse explains, “We know that when the population hasn’t seen the devastation of these diseases, they’re not as worried about them ever happening.” Immunizations are fundamental to modern public health management and the future of youth. If we don’t see a reversal of the current downward immunization trend, it is inevitable that we will see an increase in destructive yet preventable diseases. If you are not up to date on your required vaccinations, here are two places that you can go to get them:
Humboldt Open Door Teen Clinic: (707) 826-8610 Eureka Community Health & Wellness center: (707) 441-1624 Humboldt Open Door Teen
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Sports
The Pepperbox | Page 15
Girls soccer: perfect score of...zero? Kaelyn Tuermer-Lee News Editor
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ero losses. Zero goals scored against. With a season of 14 games, the Arcata High Girls’ varsity soccer team has come back with a perfect record. Majority of the team played together last season as well, which has greatly helped with team coherence and play. “Last year, many separate club teams came together to play as one,” junior Cait Parker said. “This year, having played together, our teamwork has greatly improved, and it helps to know each other’s skills.” As for the season itself, there has been little change. “The season this year is basically the same as last year, although we have more workouts-so it’s more intense on the condi-
We started off so strong and carried that intensity throughout league. tioning perspective. Even though our league isn’t as competitive, we still work really hard for sections,” sophomore Vanessa Holland said. Throughout league, the girls’ soccer varsity squad has been preparing to achieve their primary goal:
the second round in sections. “Our motivation this season was to get to third round in sections, since we had never gotten there before. Next year, our motivation will basically be the same, winning league with all shutouts and making it to second or third round of sections,” Holland said. As for other inspiration from fellow teammates, freshman Marin Maple credits her fellow defenders, “I want to be like [the defense]--they inspire me, especially the two center defenders. They always have my back.” And that’s exactly how the team works! Teammates, as well as Coach Patrick Stranahan, push each other to obtain the highest possible level of play. Stranahan, excited about the team’s achievements, said, “I think it is an awesome accomplishment for any team in any sport to go undefeated and not give up a single point in league play. We get to say that for the rest of our lives. How cool is that?!” Since the girls’ soccer team successfully made it to sections in the top five teams, they have a bye for the first round. In the last four years, the Arcata High team has not had a bye in sections, so there were some mixed feelings. While some were fine with it, happy to make it to second round, others felt differently. “It’s kind of disappointing since we don’t have a home game, but it’s also nice to get to the second round of sections,” freshman Marin Maple said. According to Maple, who is experiencing her first year on the AHS soccer team, sections will be exciting with
Max Gambin/PEPPERBOX
Sophomore Claire Bareilles, winding up to take a shot on goal a good expected outcome due to the fact that the team did well in pre-season tournaments, in which there was better competition. “I’m excited to play a higher level team-we have a good chance in advancing to third round if we play well,” junior Hannah Pomerantz said. As the season nears its end, sad faces ponder the fact that this will be the last time playing with this particular squad--and for seniors, the last time they will play high school soccer. “It was a great season,” described junior Cait Parker, “We started off so strong and carried that intensity throughout league.” And the best part of the season? “Definitely the Eye of the Tiger tournament in pre-season--it inspired us for the season,” Parker said, “it was memorable making it to the championship in the tour-
nament because it had never been done before. Even though we lost, it was inspiring to get that far.” The team has made vast improvements since the following season and will only continue to thrive, taking play to the next level. “We’ve done really well as a team by pushing ourselves,” sophomore Vanessa Holland said, “we’re all close together and know each other well.” Sophomores Eva Abrey and Ashley Quigley agree. Coherence and team bonding are part of what made the team work so well together and push each other to do their best. As said by Mia Hamm, a former player for the U.S. women's’ national team, “I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion.”
I want to be like [the defense]--they inspire me, especially the two center defenders. They always have my back. - Marin Maple
TIGERS TAKE THE TOP: FALL SPORTS
Cross Country amazed us again this season. The girl’s team won every league meet this season, and the boys only lost one. At sections, the girls placed second and the boys placed third on a muddy and challenging course. A week later, both teams participated at the state meet.
Girls varsity soccer went 14-0 in league, and were never scored on. They had a perfect season, with only two pre-season losses. They made it to the second round of sections. The girls varsity soccer team had only three seniors, so they will probably continue to another winning season next year!
Varsity volleyball had another successful season. They tied for first in league with Del Norte, claiming their 4th consecutive league championship. The volleyball team made it to the second round of sections. The team had five seniors this year, and will struggle to recover from the loss.
Cheerleading had another awesome season with more sensational routines. They will miss their eight seniors next year.
Arcata High’s varsity football team had a tough season, but kept everyone constantly impressed by their love and dedication for the game. Seniors Ayden Mazzotti, Solo O’Neill, and Connor Cox lead the team in touchdowns. They will be hard to replace next year.
Boys varsity soccer went 8-2, losing to Fortuna. The boys also made it to sections, and were seeded 15th. With five seniors leaving, their team will have to re-build after this season. Overall, the boys soccer team was very successful.
The girls tennis team ended the season second in league. Hannah Matthew, number one on the ladder, will be greatly missed next year, as she has led our tennis team since her freshman year.
Girls golf struggled with getting a hole-in-one this season, but did their best with what they had. The girls golf team will miss their four seniors next year, but hopefully the underclassman will step up!
Photos courtesy of Paul Swenson Wrap-ups written by Photo Editor Indigo Davis
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Sports
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Trampolines and swimming pools Assistant Photo Editor
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Indigo Davis
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Photo Editor
on’t you think Arcata High could offer a better variety of schoolsponsored sports? There is a national initiative to get kids off the couch and onto the field, court, or track. It seems that, with a larger range of sports to choose from, more kids would be involved in school sports. Here are just a couple of sports that students should look into. How else are we supposed to be the next Olympians if most Olympic sports aren’t offered as school sports? How are we supposed to be the next Joey “Jaws” Chestnut, if schools don’t offer competitive eating?
Race walking: Race walking can simply be described as gyrating hips and legs that appear to defy the normal motion of the human body. A sport plagued with shorter-than-necessary shorts, visors
Judo: The only key difference between judo and other Olympic sports it that the judges wear socks. In this sport, holding hands isn’t just a sign of friendship or courtly love, it’s a key tactic in forcing your opponent to the ground. The objective is to look as assassinlike as possible in your thick cotton bath robes and maneuver around the mat in an attempt to forcefully flip your opponent onto the ground and hold them there. Clearly, this sport is meant for the bravest of the brave. Flag Football: Flag Football has quietly become one of the fastestgrowing varsity sports for high school girls in Florida. In a state like many others, struggling to close the gender gap in high school athletics, California should consider flag football a varsity sport. Flag football now is considered a varsity girls sport in Alaska and Florida. I mean, who wouldn’t wanna play Powderpuff for a full season? I’m quite positive that Arcata High could field a flag football team of their own if given the chance. Synchronized Swimming: This sport is chock full of slender men and women squeezed into sequined swimming apparel, splish-splashing around in swirls of sparkling water, possibly due to their grace-
Jesse Bareilles & Indigo Davis/PEPPERBOX
Pictured above, seniors Jesse Bareilles and Indigo Davis experiment with synchronized swimming. ful aqua-gymnastics or their excessive amount of makeup. These athletes have the lung capacity of grey whales and the flexibility of cats. With legs at unimaginable angles, and athletes flying through the water at insane speeds, this is not a sport you should try at home. Fencing: Fencing was one of the original sports from the Olympic Games in ancient Greece. Athletes all over the world still fence competitively. Our own Humboldt State University has a Fencing Club full of avid and aggressive fencers. Please try not to wear the all-white uniform after Labor Day. Competitive Eating: Although
gross, this sport is extremely impressive. With Joey Chestnut ingesting 66 hot dogs in 12 minutes, you have to ask yourself, “How many hot dogs could I eat in 12 minutes?” Surprisingly, competitive eating has two major leagues, the International Federation of Competitive Eating (Major League Eating) and the Association of Independent Competitive Eaters. Don’t think this is only a sport for men, because women make up nearly a quarter of the IFOCE’s membership. Anyone can become a competitive eater if they have the willpower and stomach capacity, and if they just believe.
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Trampoline: Surprisingly, trampoline is an Olympic sport. With too-tight tank tops and awkwardly baggy leggings, these male Olympic athletes are at the top of their game. With their coaches furiously rubbing their backs to warm their muscles for the jumping, twirling, and flipping that will soon ensue, the tension that the trampoliners feel prior to their turn to fly through the thick air of the arena is intense. A sport new to the Olympics and a little startling to the Olympic viewers, trampolining, with average heights of 25 feet reached, on a surface no bigger than the one in backyards everywhere, should definitely be on your bucket list.
up the wazoo, and aerodynamic sunglasses, racewalking must be seen to be believed. The emotion that is visible on the athletes’ faces as they cross the finish line, or the sorrow when one of the many of judges who line the race course throws you out when they see a violation of the strict rules of the sport, is intense. With race lengths ranging from 20 km to 50 km (for males only), these athletes are as devoted as any other.
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Jesse Bareilles
(707) 826-0559 P.O. Box 2041, McKinleyville CA, 95519
Friday, December 12th, 2014
The Pepperbox | Page 19
Sports
Searching for the difference Alley Perry Feature Editor
& Neel Rao
Sports Editor
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icture this: it is a brisk Friday evening. Even from down the street, you can hear the roar of the crowd emanating from the arena during a heated basketball game. As you get closer, your excitement builds. This is what you have been looking forward to for months. You’ve been saving money to buy these Finals tickets, and you are about to witness firsthand the game of a lifetime. It’s game three, an elimination game, and these tickets are worth more to you than your own life. At the end of the quarter, the score is 25-17. Your team, the Minnesota Lynx, is on its way to winning the WNBA championship over the Atlanta Dream. Unfortunately, this excitement is not a reality for the majority of WNBA teams, and the same holds true for many other women’s sports. But the question remains, why? Why is the difference between the two genders’ crowds so great? Is it because men’s games are more interesting to watch? Junior Bryce Sprague has his own opinion on this topic. “I know a few years ago when we had that really good girls team a lot of people went to the games, because they were good. I don’t think it’s so much about whether girls or guys are better, but its more about whether the team itself is good in competition.” The team Sprague is referring to is the 2012-2013 girls varsity basketball team, whose record was 21-4, 7-1 in league play. The same year, the boys basketball team went 24-8, 7-2 in league. Although both teams were comparable and played similarly well, the support
for the boys’ teams was perceived to be much higher. “I feel like a lot more people come to guys games to watch a more competitive sport, not really many people go to the girls games,” Junior KC Grandfield said. This disparity in support is seen across the board in different sports. Although both teams were successful, why is it that some fans favor boys’ games over girls’ games? Junior Delaney Rice, a three-year varsity soccer player and two-year basketball player, has taken notice of the difference in the games played. “The pace of guys games is faster; its more interesting to watch.” Could this be the reason that crowds flock to boys games? This idea is reflected in the Arcata High varsity basketball attendance for both genders. In February of last year, approximately 41 people attended a girls varsity basketball game. The next boys varsity game brought in roughly 174 fans. As the season went on, the disparity between crowds only increased; girls crowds got smaller, and boys crowds grew. That’s not to say girls aren’t making their mark on the National level. Recently, 13 year old baseball player Mo’ne Davis made headlines for being the first girl to pitch a shutout game in Little League World Series History, and high school girls are starting to take notice. Junior Michala Pelren appreciates girls representation in media.“ I think with Mo’ne Davis and what’s going on right now it’s really important that girls sports are just as important as guys. There's a lot of girls out there where sports is their life,” Pelren said. “It’s just as important for them to be able to express that, as it is for guys. Just because you’re a guy doesn’t mean you have any more rights than a girl.” So does the difference in popu-
larity of sports come from deep rooted nationwide sexist attitudes or does it come down to the sheer skill and competitiveness of the players regardless of gender? “I think that a lot of people take womens sports less seriously than they do mens sports, at every level from high school up until professional level,” senior and Women Advocacy Club president Claire Robinson said. “I think a lot of it stems from our society's perception that women have less physical strength or capability than men, or that they’re not as entertaining.” Stereotypically, women are often perceived to be the weaker and less physically capable sex, but men’s role as the dominant is often stigmatized as well. This is depicted in domestic violence cases throughout the media with the trial of Hope Solo and the Ray Rice controversy. “I feel like the public thinks it’s horrible if a man hits a woman,
and he should go to jail, but it’s okay if a woman hits a man, he just needs to man up,” Granfield said. Robinson expands on this idea. “This is a whole feminist concept called toxic masculinity which is basically saying that because femininity is shamed by our society, women can’t be too feminine and also men can’t be too feminine, so it puts this pressure on men to be super buff and violent, and that’s unhealthy for boys and girls.” Although gender stigmas are still a prominent issue in society today, athletes of every gender continue to compete to the highest of their capability. In the end, it’s not about who’s playing the game, but how the game is played. As junior Michael MartinKunkle simply explained, “everyone should just have fun with their own sport, because thats why we’re playing them.”
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AIBT
Friday, December 12th, 2014
From the bleachers [AIBT through the eyes of a child] CJ Gray
Opinion Editor
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was an elementary school kid, just learning how to make a simple layup. My shorts were too long, and my hair was a short buzz cut done by my mom. I only dreamt of the skills a high school basketball player possesed. But even with my limited personal skills, I had the opportunity to experience the excellence of Arcata High athletes at AIBT. I did not have the slightest idea of what AIBT stood for. All I knew was that it meant I got to see the Arcata High greats like
Jordan Semple and Timmy Couch play for a whole weekend. I also knew that someday I wanted to play in the tournament, but in that moment I had to be content with watching from the bleachers. As it always had, the tournament started on Thursday. I had to wait anxiously all day. Being at school was just uncomfortable, as all I really wanted to do was let loose and roam around the gigantic basketball gym at the high school. I wanted to get there early, before the Arcata game and all the fans. I wanted to run and climb and jump around the bleachers that would be packed full in only a few hours. I got my chance and my mom took me to the gym right after school. She got me my AIBT
shirt, which was black with a dope orange tiger on the front and I quickly put it on. It was too big, but it had to work since it was the smallest size they had. I sprinted through the foyer and onto the wooden floor of the gym. Even though I’d been there before, I had to stop and just look around in awe. I could still not believe how big the gym seemed. I couldn’t imagine playing in Tiger Territory. Fast forward a couple hours, and the orange and black began to flow in while the 6:00 game was being played. (I believe Mckinleyville was playing, and losing). I went and bought a pack of Skittles and a bag of popcorn from the snack bar and went back in the gym to find a seat before they were all taken. My little
brother and I wanted to get the best seats in the house, which were obviously the ones at the top of the bleachers, right behind the spirited and energetic student section. (You’d think I would take courtside seats, but I knew that those were reserved for the legendary 6th men.) My brother and I sat idly and watched as the big ‘ol high school students filled the bleachers, the front row still empty. The Mack game ended after they had gotten smacked. Then, right on cue, a hip-hop music warm up mix blaired through the loudspeakers. The first white uniform could be seen running onto the court and a smile bigger than my face spread out. The boys were running onto the court with all the power and speed I
Friday, December 12th, 2014 had expected. They were so tall! Something I so greatly wanted to be. They ran and jumped in their warm up lines, practically dropping the ball in the hoop when they laid it in. I couldn’t even touch the net! When they shot jump shots i was just blown away at how easy they made it look. Swish. Swish. Swish. I had images in my head of myself one day being able to play like the big boys. As I was watching the players, the 6th men rolled into the gym. Unlike the players who came out one-by-one in a line, the sixth men came in a mob. They all wore bright orange prison jumpsuits. Some had on face paint and orange hair. Some held in their hands orange towels and foam fingers. And they all had the same goal. They were all there to get everyone more excited to watch the game and cheer for their team. They were positive
AIBT and upbeat which caused me to mimick their enthusiasm and their cheers. My focus suddenly shifted when the loudspeaker again blaired out. They were announcing the teams--away team first. The gym stayed mostly silent, except for the few parents from the other team clapping. Then the Arcata players had their names called out. The gym became the most exciting place in the world. After each player’s name and number was called out, the crowd roared with thunderous cheers and claps. I yelled as loud as I could with my shrieking little kid voice, believing that the players could hear me specifically from all the way up in the bleachers. The players seemed equally excited since they were jumping up and down, bumping chests with each other. I had already eaten all my popcorn and candy, so the only
thing I could do with my hands and all my energy was clench my hands into fists and shake them up and down in excitement. Oh how I wished I could be the one having my name called and have people cheer for me and my team. After the roster had been announced, the game would begin, but not before the team circled up in a huddle at mid court. They laced their arms around eachothers’ shoulders. They swayed back and forth chanting. Slowly at first, then speeding up, until the beat was so fast that it just sounded like a yell. The boys put their fists in the air, and ended with a final “Tigers!”. It was almost scary because I could feel the boom of their voices vibrate in my tiny chest. The teams hustled to their benches, leaving their starting lineups on the floor. The players set up for the jump ball, flexing
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their muscles, already beginning to sweat. My eyes were on the referee, who threw the jump ball into the air to start the game, signaling that Arcata’s weekend at AIBT had officially begun. Looking back on those weekends of watching AIBT from the stands, I am excited for when the ref throws the ball into the air this year. But I also have to give many thanks to those former players for the inspiration they gave me to work hard to get my opportunity to play in the tournament. Because of that, I now have a different perspective. I am now the one looking into the bleachers from the floor. I see young kids in the stands every game full of excitement, and I hope that I will be an inspiration for some young kid out there, who, for now, is just watching from the bleachers.
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AIBT
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Sixth man: back in action
tain Morgan Brown feels that last year was an “embarrassTaylor Camp ment” compared to past years. Reporter In an effort to improve, co-captain Matthew Mayer noted that t’s a dark winter night with they “are testing one's ability the smell of rain in the air. to yell and scream, along with From a distance, you hear a fitness test.” This year they a roar that echoes through want to make history. So basithe campus. It’s the sixth man, a cally, things are about to get real. The sixth man is just the raucous group of students that attend a large portion of Arcata start of a healthy fan base. The crowd is fueled by the sixth man’s intensity. To be an effecThis year’s sixth tive sixth man member it takes Photo courtesy of KIEM Sports man squad is a special type of person, one The 2014-2015 sixth men crowd at this year’s Mckinleyville tip-off tourthat knows the game and will nament. looking to take a not hesitate under any circumstep up from last stances, to do whatever it takes to benefit the team as much as year, using newly possible. Senior shooting guard/ founded tactics. small forward Ben Albright has a simple plan for the sixth man this year: “Get Mo’ Hyphy.” If High’s basketball games. The Matthew Mayer could describe chants, the intensity, the heart, sixth men in one word it would and let’s not forget those amaz- be “testosterone.” Along with all ing outfits they rock every game the ball players, it will fill the makes a serious impact that oth- gym. Many sixth man memers would not understand un- bers stated that they are going til witnessed. This year’s sixth to “get wild” this season, and man squad is looking to take that it will be one to remember. Gillen Martin/PEPPERBOX a step up from last year using Enthusiasm inspires the newly founded tactics. Co-cap- crowd, but the sixth man also Arcata High’s sixth men at last year’s Mckinleyville Tip-Off Tournament impacts the visiting team. Se- president, reminds the Sixth nior shooting guard/small for- Men the true purpose is to help ward Logan Rooney believes the team win games. “This year that when done correctly sixth needs to be more about the basman makes a huge impact by ketball team, not the sixth man getting into the opposing teams getting seen,” Brown added. heads. He also added that they Look forward to seeing these need to “stick with the team sixth men (and women) try new through thick and thin.” Rooney things and get a fresh start. If was asked what he wanted to you are unsure where to place see from the sixth man this yourself on a cold winter night, year, and he replied, “It would consider backing the sixth man be cool to have the loudest fans.” up by following the chants Morgan Brown, also ASB and joining the excitement.
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Friday, December 12th, 2014
AIBT
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The unseen perspective [AIBT’s cheerleaders] Alyssa Day
Business Manager
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ave you ever thrown someone 10 to 15 feet into the air? How about catching someone from that height while they’re doing multiple twists on the way down? That may sound difficult, but those are daily activities for any AHS cheerleader. Of course, that’s just a regular basket toss. Other parts of cheer involve dancing, motions, tumbling, jumps, specialty stunts, group stunts, and pyramids. Now take all of those elements, put them together, and you’ve got a cheer routine. Simple, right? We wish. Each element in a routine has its own counts, timing, and formations, which vary by where an individual is in a routine, and what their place in a stunt is. One of the most challenging things about cheerleading is that we don’t get subs like football or basketball; cheerleading takes everyone knowing their specific part well to make a routine work. “They only get one shot to show what they can do, not a whole game,” coach Collene Cossey said. If even just one person is in the wrong place at the wrong time, that whole portion of a routine could potentially be ruined. “If even just one person is gone, it isn’t possible to do our routine. We have to completely change it,” senior Jordan Patterson said. Cheerleading is commonly said to be one of the most dangerous sports, and the AHS cheer team has had its fair share of injuries over the past few years. Some of these injuries include three confirmed concussions, many different kinds of sprains, broken bones,
a fractured jaw (in two different places), and few broken noses. Though widely controversial in the past few years, many people and cheerleading organizations want cheerleading to be put into the Olympics. Believe it or not, there isn’t really an official definition of what a sport is, only guidelines. As it stands, cheerleading meets all of those guidelines. So that’s the answer to the, “Cheerleading isn’t a sport!” comments every cheerleader so commonly receives. Along with a two-hour practice every day, a lot of individuals on the team take tumbling classes. Tumbling is a special skill that most all of us are working on. An advanced tumbler, Junior Karin Finney said, “tumbling takes a lot of time, strength and focus to learn and get new skills. Almost every tumbler has fallen on their face before... hard! I’ve been tumbling for 6 years and the best part is the feeling of accomplishment of getting a new skill that you’ve been working on for a long time.” Something most people don’t know about cheerleading is that it was originally created and popularized by men. Even though now the sport is dominated by females, male cheerleaders aren’t uncommon. Most competitive cheer teams are co-ed. At AHS, we have one male cheerleader, Jesse McGee. “Cheerleading is a lot harder than it seems! I thought it’d be a lot easier to pick up, but being precise with motions and cheers is a lot of effort. Being the only guy kinda sucks, but it’s really funny watching everyone mess around.” Though cheerleading is challenging, everyone on the team loves cheerleading and is dedicated to it. If we didn’t love it, it wouldn’t be worth the amount of time and effort we put in. A lot of the girls on the team, including myself,
Carson McHaney/PEPPERBOX
The cheerleaders show their tiger spirit during the Homecoming assembly. have been doing cheer since we were five or six. Senior Zoey Buchanon explains, “Cheer to me is my life. Cheer has been a part of me for so long and it’s something I am very proud of. I wake up every day involved in it somehow and go to bed thinking of what I can do to improve myself and my team. This years Arcata high cheer team is so amazing and I take so much pride in being apart of it. We work so hard to be where we are like any other sport and that’s why it’s such a big deal to us. We are a family.” The most important part, is the spirit we have for cheering our boys be it football or basketball. Win or lose, we’ll always stand by them and cheer them on until the end. Our amazing cheer team and all of our success wouldn’t be possible
without our amazing coaches, Collene Cossey, Ashley Cossey, and Chelsea Jones, and two wonderful assistant volunteers and past AHS cheerleaders, Shelby Sobol and Maci Moser. We appreciate all of them greatly for their time, effort, and everything they’ve taught us. They’re not just coaches, but individuals that we can look up to, and for that we’re all very grateful.
They only get one shot to show what they can do, not a whole game. - Coach Collene Cossey
The Pepperbox | Page 24
AIBT
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Franklin Wildcats Franklin High School Information City: Elk Grove Total Enrollment: 2729 Colors: Purple, Black, Silver League: Delta Valley Conference Section: Sac-Joaquin CIF Division: 1 Last year’s record: 15-14 Last year won AIBT: 2012
ROSTER # Name Year Ht. 0 Austin Payne Sr. 6-3 1 Malik French Jr. 5-8 3 Christian Allen Sr. 6-2 5 Reeshahr Crawford Jr. 6-0 10 Bryan Domondon Jr. 5-7 11 Christian Tactacan Sr. 5-7 15 Ashton Quan Sr. 6-0 20 Isiah Ford Sr. 5-6 21 DeAndre Wiltz Sr. 6-0 22 Clayton Davis So. 6-1 23 Ifeanyi Onwuazo Sr. 6-3 25 Phillip Fayne Sr. 6-6
Coach: Jesse Formaker
Piner Prospectors Piner High School Information City: Santa Rosa Total Enrollment: 943 Colors: Maroon, Gold, White League: Sonoma County Section: North Coast CIF Division: 3 Last year’s record: 17-11 Last year won AIBT: 2007
F
P
ROSTER # Name Year Ht 11 Isiah Carter Jr. 5-11 12 Michael Tran Jr. 5-9 Coach: Mike Erickson 14 Joe Mogges Jr. 5-11 15 Keith Adams Jr. 6-0 Asst. Coach: Bill Schalich 20 Daniel LaTourelle Sr. 5-11 21 Levani Dominiko Sr. 5-10 22 Mike Nguyen Sr. 6-0 24 Sam Dominiko Sr. 5-10 25 Jacob Roca Sr. 6-1 30 Yobe Solomon Sr. 6-0 31 Henry AhChing Sr. 6-0 32 Levi Lloyd Sr. 5-10 33 Adam Kuzmicki Sr. 6-5
Friday, December 12th, 2014
The Pepperbox | Page 25
AIBT
Fortuna Huskies Fortuna High School Information City: Fortuna Total Enrollment: 844 Colors: Blue, White League: Humboldt-Del Norte Section: North Coast CIF Division: 4 Last year’s record: 26-4 Last year won AIBT: 2002
ROSTER # Name Year Height 3 Daniel Teasley Sr. 6-1 5 Issac Drake So. 6-0 10 Frankie Calderon Sr. 5-10 11 Noah Sears Sr. 5-10 12 Dylan Kepon Jr. 5-10 13 Lane Sotomayor Jr. 6-3 15 Zach Hugh Sr. 5-11 20 Cody Smith Sr. 6-2 21 Dalton Cleveland Sr. 6-2 22 Jared Hugh Jr. 6-1 23 Robbie Yates Jr. 6-2 24 Kokko Figueirdo Jr. 5-11 32 Gannon Chapman Sr. 6-1
F
Coach: Brian Franklin Assistant Coach: Steve Wipf
Red Bluff Spartans RB
ROSTER # Name Year Ht 3 Will Macdonald Sr. 5-8 Red Bluff School Information 4 Cory Twitchell Sr. 5-10 City: Red Bluff 5 KJ Hinkston Sr. 6-0 Total Enrollment: 1395 10 Emilio Soto Sr. 5-9 Colors: Green, Gold 15 Ryan Henderson Jr. 5-9 League: Eastern-South 21 Owen Swarthout Sr. 6-2 Section: Northern 22 Joseph Bosett Sr. 6-5 CIF Division: 2 23 Lane Pritchard Jr. 5-11 Last year won AIBT: 2nd in 24 Joey Knight Jr. 6-1 2006 33 Sage McNeil Jr. 6-1 44 Wyatt Clement Sr. 6-4
Coach: Stan Twichell Asst. Coach: Andy Redfield, Ethan Darnell Stats: Sam Hendricks
The Pepperbox | Page 26
AIBT
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Arcata Tigers Arcata High School Information City: Arcata Total Enrollment: 832 Mascot: Tigers Colors: Orange, Black League: Humboldt-Del Norte Section: North Coast CIF Division: 4 Last year’s record: 11-15 Last year won AIBT: 2013
ROSTER # Name Year Ht 10 Sam Spinosa Jr. 5-10 11 Luke Graves Sr. 5-6 12 Ben Albright Sr. 6-4 21 Nathan Heidrick Jr. 6-3 22 Jordan Chasecott Jr. 5-11 24 Logan Rooney Sr. 6-4 32 Russ Taylor Sr. 6-4 33 Lakota Camp Sr. 6-0 40 Tab Heinz Jr. 6-3 42 CJ Gray Jr. 6-5 44 Connor Cox Sr. 6-3 55 Tristan Espy Jr. 6-8
A Coach: Ryan Bisio
McKinleyville Panthers
Head Coach: Sonny Trip Athletic Director: Dustin Dutra
M
ROSTER # Name Year 4 Travis Nickols Sr. 5 Keegan Barsuglia Jr. 11 Bernal Rojas Sr. 12 Will Ingersoll Sr. McKinleyville School Information 13 Leroy Tripp Sr. City: McKinleyville 14 Daniel LaBelle Jr. Total Enrollment: 614 15 Ringo Burgess Sr. Colors: Red, Black League: Humboldt-Del Norte 20 Trevor Garrison Jr. 21 Shane Palmero Sr. Section: North Coast 22 Ryann Bauman Jr. CIF Division: 4 23 Garrett Nickols Sr. Last year’s record: 9-16 31 Kyle Spalding Jr. Last year won AIBT: 2nd Place in 2001 32 Tanner Mattingly Jr. 33 Gavin Rowley Sr. 34 Wade Ingersoll Sr.
Friday, December 12th, 2014
The Pepperbox | Page 27
AIBT
St. Bernards Crusaders ROSTER # Name Year Ht. 3 Kaden Law Fr. 5-7 10 Heath Francis Sr. 6-2 Anderson School Information 11 Sean Gardner Sr. 6-5 City: Eureka 12 Colton Stokesberry Sr. 6-2 Total Enrollment: 138 13 Carter Johnson Sr. 6-2 Colors: Green, White 14 Cade McNamara Sr. 6-0 League: Humboldt-Del Norte 15 Logan Clifford Jr. 6-1 Section: North Coast 20 Daniel Kortus So. 6-6 CIF Division: 4 21 Tyus Francis Jr. 6-0 Last year’s record: 12-15 22 Noah Davis So. 6-1 Last year won AIBT: 23 Logan Thrap Jr. 6-5 Consolation in 2000 32 Matt Pechacek Sr. 6-3
Coach: Steve Thrapp Assistant Coaches: Mark Gardner Kevin Law Karl Falk-Carlson
Eureka Loggers Eureka High School Information City: Eureka Total Enrollment: 1151 Colors: Red, Green League: Humboldt-Del Norte Section: North Coast CIF Division: 3 Last year’s record: 12-13 Last year won AIBT: 2006
ROSTER # Name Year Position 5 Nick Bartlett Sr. Guard 10 Ishmael Orona Sr. Guard 11 Bryce Dunaway Sr. Guard 12 Mascio Latimer Sr. Center 14 Michael Dorigoni Sr. Forward 21 Brandon Punch Jr. Forward 22 Jordan Thayer Sr. Forward 23 Marcus Finney Sr. Guard 24 T.Y. Latimer Jr. Guard 31 Matt Meyer Jr. Guard 32 Trey Sundquist Jr. Forward 34 Aaron Thissell Jr. Forward
E
Coach: Ed Houseworth Assistant Coach: Joe Kencke
The Pepperbox | Page 28
AIBT
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Lady tigers make their mark Amanda Andrews Reporter
T
his is one small step for Arcata High School, one giant leap for girls varsity basketball team. AHS’s girls basketball team is having their first WAIBT in the school year of 2014. Coach Dusty Scofield, the girls Varsity basketball coach, is the first coach to form the WAIBT tournament. Not only is it hard work for the girls, but also for the coach having to set it all up and make it to so they have a tournament. "It's a ton of work and the AIBT has a community to help and outside help and right now it's just me with the teams, refs, score keepers, ect.," Dusty said. Not only is it hard to start a tournament, but it is also difficult making it into an everlasting tradition. Another part of starting a tournament is finding enough teams who want to come and play. It’s hard finding teams because “You don't want to travel and play two bad teams and one good team so its important to find good teams willing to travel.” The teams that will be facing the AHS girls Varsity team are: Liberty from Brentwood, Div. 1; Chico, Div. 1; and Foothill, Div. 3 from Redding. Like all the girls on the Varsity team, head coach Dusty hopes that, although this is going to be a small tournament, “we hope to see that teams want to come back and slowly build from
there.” Dusty’s expectations from the girls on his team are “to always play hard and have fun.” Not only is this a milestone for the coach, Dusty Scofield, but also or the girls on the var-
the tournament by practicing whenever she can. Although they see it as a challenge she hopes to see her team win. This is the beginning for these young athletes, but it is also the end of some of their high school careers, seniors Ella Holland One thing we and Anna Nelson. Ella Holland can hope to see has been practicing for her last year of basketball season by not only for this “playing by my self before trytournament but outs.” Knowing her team is playing Div. 1 schools and has never for the whole sea- seen them play, she thinks they son is hard work, will play their hardest to try to win. The key component for her dedication, team- to win is “communication, and work, and victo- just working hard in general like sprinting back and forth.” ries for our very Anna Nelson is excited for the own lady tigers. tournament, but is nervous to play Div.1 schools knowing they are Div.4. She sees her team as sity basketball team. When all a, “young and still learning how of the seniors are graduated, the to play together.” Even though team will search for young tal- they practice hard in practicent. It is freshman Alana Dun- es she still does “shooting and phys first year on a Varsity team some weights.” To her the most and she is excited to work with important things for the team these lady tigers. To prepare are “grit, hard work, and teamfor this tournament she is go- work.” She also sees this time ing to practice her plays “work not only to train for the tournahard with my team and have ment but for the whole season. good team support.” Before and With the tournament being still during basketball season a new and exciting thing all she lifts weights. With tough the girls hope to see their team competition ahead she thinks win. They know what it takes it will be great. To her, win- to be the best they can be. All ning a game involves, “work- in all this is not just a time to ing hard and working together.” learn for the girls, but also for Sophomore Ashley Quigley the coach. Some things we can says she is “excited about it, and hope to see, not only for this it should be fun.” Not only is tournament, but for the whole she excited for the tournament season is hard work, dedicabut sees it as a new experience. tion, teamwork, and victories She sees herself preparing for for our very own lady tigers.
To her, winning a game involves, “working hard and working together.”
Friday, December 12th, 2014
AIBT
The Pepperbox | Page 29
A day in the life: Luke “Lil’ Gravy” Graves from the
COVER Neel Rao
Sports Editor
&
Alley Perry
I
Feature Editor
f a velociraptor, sabor-tooth tiger, and anaconda merged in a freak accident involving a vat of toxic waste and a mad scientist, it wouldn’t be Luke Graves, but it’d be pretty close. Just like his spirit animals, Luke Graves is an unstoppable combination of speed, ferocity, and athleticism. At 5’7 and 135 pounds he speeds up and down the court, a lean, mean, basketball machine. But who is the real Luke Graves, what are his hopes, his dreams, and more importantly what does he think of the newest Kim Kardashian magazine cover? The Pepperbox sat down with senior varsity point-guard Luke “Lil’ Gravy” Graves to meet the man/ana-raptor toothed tiger. Pepperbox: How long have you played basketball? What other sports do you play? What is your favorite sport? Luke Graves: I played basketball since I was a baby. I also play football, snowboard and surf, my favorite sport is probably basketball or snowboarding. PB: What do you like to do in your free time? LG: Hangout with friends, skate, and surf. PB: Favorite basketball memory? LG: The Jaycees tournament in eighth grade. PB: What do you think of the upcoming
season? LG: I’m really excited about it, I think it should be a good one. PB: What do you plan on doing after high school? LG: I plan on going to college and studying architecture. PB: If you could be one rapper for a day, who and why? LG: I’d probably be Juicy J, because he looks like he has a lot of fun. PB: What would your last meal be? LG: Thanksgiving dinner, lots of pie. PB: Celebrity crush? LG: Kate Upton is hands down my number one celebrity crush. PB: What do you think about the Kim Kardashian magazine cover? LG: DAMN PB: Describe your team i n
three words LG: Athletic, thesquad, abunchoffunguys PB: What’s a typical practice like? How does it compare to other sports you’ve played? LG: This year practice has been a lot harder than previous years, there’s a lot more running. We still get to play a lot of 5 on 5 and stuff, so its still fun. Compared to football, it’s a lot more tiring, I feel like I’m in a lot better shape. PB: What’s your favorite spot on the court to shoot from? LG: That three, top of the key PB: If you were stuck on an island, what three things w o u l d you
bring with you? LG: Step Brothers the movie, The Mall of America, and a zoo. PB: What overplayed radio song do you hate the most? LG: “Fancy,” I hate that song PB: Do you have any pre-game rituals/superstitions? LG: Go home. eat a BLT sandwich or two, nap time, shower, eat a banana, show up to the game an hour early and watch the team we’re playing. I get all ready and listen to some pump jams, (strictly Waka Flocka), get on the court and play. PB: What is your idea of a perfect weekend? LG: Play by Play: school gets out and everyone's all hyped up for the big game, I go home, do my pre game rituals. It’s a home game and we destroy Mack. Post game with the squad in the locker room, we do our post win rituals: poppin’ bottles of champagne (non-alcoholic of course), blasting victory music and obviously we invite the cheerleaders in to come celebrate the win with us. We then take a team shower, like every team should, get all dressed up and fancy and get picked up by a limo to eat a dank post game meal at Tempanyaki where I order the steak and lobster cause it’s clout. After dinner we’re all tanked (food tanked) up and ready for the night to begin. We hop in the limo and off into the night we go, where anything and everything can happen. Of course we’re done with all the postgame festivities and cozy tucked into bed by 11 pm sharp so we are all rested up for practice the next day. After practice Saturday the post game festivities continue. And Sunday is homework day to try and get those A’s up boiiii.
The Pepperbox | Page 30
Opinion
Friday, December 12th, 2014
Drug testing student athletes CJ Gray
Opinion Editor
Disclaimer: Arcata does not currently have os is considering installing a student drug testing policy in place.
I
t’s Friday night and your team just won the big game, and you want to go out and celebrate, but what could the consequences be? Will the school drug test you if you decide to take part in risky activities? What can the school do? What should the school be able to? Arcata High has a great tradition of athletics at school. But alcohol and illicit drugs can tempt student athletes. Yet those athletes are held to a higher standard. All student athletes are reminded of the rules when they sign the athletic code of conduct. 1. No drinking 2. No smoking 3. No alternative drugs. If a student is under the in-
fluence it is imperative to test them to keep them and other students out of harms way. Students can potentially harm themselves and others when drunk or intoxicated. Violence and accidents caused by students being under the influence should be kept off the campus. Although being under the influence at school is obviously wrong and dangerous, student athlete drug use in their free time is their own business. The school should not infringe on students’ privacy and the decisions they make off campus. Many may ask if it is even le-
Student athletes should not be specifically targeted for drug testing. gal for Arcata High to test athletes. It is legal because in a Supreme Court case in June 2002,
this would cost over $12,000 for sweep of the school. This Violence and one would only put greater strain accidents caused on the school’s tight budget. ArHigh is not and should not by students be- cata consider this as a way to stop ing under the in- student drug use. Even though athletes should fluence should be follow the rules stated in their kept off the cam- athletic code of conduct, sometimes they slip up, and make pus. mistakes. The school should not be able to drug test students, unless the student seems to be public schools gained greater under the influence of an illicit authority to test students for substance. illegal drugs. Voting 5 to 4 in Arcata high does not curPottawatomie County v. Earls, rently have a drug testing polthe court ruled to allow random icy in place. Drug testing takes drug tests for all middle and place on a case-by-case basis. high school students participatAlthough Arcata High student ing in competitive extracurricuathletes should not currently lar activities. These extracurricbe worried about having their ular activities also include after privacy infringed upon with school clubs. drug testing, they should also Student athletes should not remember that the school could be specifically targeted for drug create a new policy, if the need testing. If student athletes are arises. But in the end, student drug tested, then so should athletes must make their own everyone at the school. This decisions about drinking and would include ASB officers, club drug use. Athletes should also leaders, and even Pepperbox remember, when you're on a editors. team, you represent your team But testing everyone at school and your entire school. Always is unrealistic, since the average take a look at yourself and think drug test costs $15 to $35. For about how you are portraying a school of over 800 students, yourself to the public.
Athletes should also remember, when you’re on a team, you represent your team and your entire school. Always take a look at yourself and think about how you are portraying yourself to the public.
The Pepperbox | Page 31
A&E
Friday, December 12th, 2014
High fashion or highly offensive? Ryan Ghisetti A&E Editor
S
ocks: one size fits most, but activism fits ALL? The teenage years seem to be all about civil disobedience, talking back to your parents, staying out late, and speeding around the parking lot. But one small act has people HUFfing and puffing. Huf clothing: you might not know them by name, but these cheeky, brightly colored socks feature the recognizable iconography of marijuana leaves. When seen walking down the hall, heads of students are turned to the sight the these socks, which have us begging to ask the question: Are they a stance toward the government's intolerance for the substance, or simply a fashion statement? Trends have become a cliché to discuss. Oddly enough bare midriffs and short skirts seem to be
more regulated in the high school than Huf socks. But on the rare occasion when students are asked to change out of them, they become speechless. This could be due to a loss of words or a mouth full of food to satisfy their cravings, but none the less they're disgruntled. The common argument is that someone wearing a shirt with, say, a redwood tree or sunflower wouldn't be asked to change, but marijuana (a natural growing plant, also) is taboo. Students are highly opinionated on
Maya O’Brien
this isler
sue. Take junior SkyTrout, whom can frequently be seen with the horticultural socks in the hallways. “I under-
stand
why[teachers] have an issue [with them], but kids should be able to wear what they want. Also, I'm not saying I'm smoking weed when I wear them. They are just really comfortable, you know,” Trout said. Opposing opinions have come out against Mr. Trout; for instance, take senior Maya O’Brien. This boisterous, anti-weed activist is quite irked by the trend. “When I'm forced to see them [Huf socks] around the school or town I feel like the marijuana culture in Humboldt is forced upon me. If you really smoke weed
you don't need to tell everyone through a pair of socks. I've seen people fall under the effects of this dangerous drug and don't want to see this happen to anyone else.” Are these socks just a trend or a catalyst for the real issue at hand: the legalization of marijuana? In a recent study conducted by Gallup concluded that in 2013 58% of the American population was in favor of the legalization. This number of supporters increased by 10% from 2012's 48%. All students interviewed that frequent wearing Huf socks all agreed with the legalization, but, oddly enough, each one also stated that when wearing the socks it was for the joy of the graphic, appeal of look, and the comfort of the socks. If these socks are so comfortable and take such a strong stance, why don't we all have them? In the air lingers a smell... rebellion or something else...?
VS. Skyler Trout
Words on Weed
“I’ve seen people fall under the effects of this dangerous drug and don’t want to see this happen to anyone else.”
“Im not saying im smoking weed when I wear them [Huf socks]. They are just really comfortable.”
Ryan Ghisetti/PEPPERBOX