The Pepperbox
January BOX BRIEFS
January 24th: SAT January 31st: Junior Prom February 3-4th: CASHEE Testing February 7th: ACT February 11th: Blood Drive February 16-20th: President’s Break March 6th: End of Term 4
March 12-13th: Math Fair March 14th: SAT March 16th: THRIVE Day March 17-18th: CASHEE Testing March 18th: Winter Sports Awards April 6-10th: Spring Break April 18th: ACT
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EDITORIAL STAFF Gillen Martin Editor-In-Chief Zoe Ziegler Editor-In-Chief Sara Davis Managing Editor Terra Clarke News Editor Kaelyn 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 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 Marlena Tavernier
Darik Gaston Isabel Luu Ellen Keil 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 Tinder and Teens. . . . . . . . . . . . 6 National Merit Scholars. . . . . . 7 Local Crime. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Student Journalism . . . . . . . . . .9 Bachelor/Bachelorette. . 10 & 11 Reality of Prom. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Magic or Money. . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Chaperones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 PB Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Race Riots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Magic: The Gathering. . . . . . . . 18 Oscar Predictions. . . . . . . . . . . 19 #Selfies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Adviser Danielle Lehman 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.
www.thepepperbox.com
FROM THE ARCHIVES
BEHIND THE COVER
Originally published: March 8th, 1966 In the Pepperboxes of the 60s, each issue featured a campus couple, highlighting a specific love story every month. In March, 1966, Kathy Canatser and Bob Buck’s two-year affair was shared; including their first date, their most fun dates, the story of how they met, and their first impressions of eachother. With prom and Valentines Day coming up, new campus couples are sure to spring up everywhere--be prepared.
The cover for this issue features senior and eligible bachelor Cormac Crowley using our Tiger version of the dating app Tinder to score a date with fellow senior and eligible bachelorette Madeleine Appelmans. Check out pages 10 & 11 to read more about these fascinating individuals and find out why a date with them would make your junior prom.
EDITORS’ BOX The Pepperbox welcomes you to 2015 and second semester with our short, sweet, and action-packed third issue!! With New Years and finals week under our belt, Junior Prom is the next big thing. Check out our new takes on prom on pages 10 to 14. These articles perfectly highlight the untraditional aspects us Tigers bring to this time-honored high school tradition. But while prom is what’s up here at Arcata High, other prevalent issues have recently erupted in our community and in the world. Also in this issue, Terra Clarke covers the recent local crime boom, Alec Perrone’s tackles recent race riots and the effect they have had on the nation, and Sara Davis investigates the controversies that accompany teens and social networking apps. Issue three provides unique insight into relevant stories, both locally and globally. After seeing this issue’s phenomenal eligible bachelor and bachelorette center spread, we hope you’re getting excited for our upcoming Interview Issue. Congratulations on surviving another finals week, the Pepperbox wishes you a merry prom and an exciting kick-off to 2k15!
-Editors-in-chief Gillen Martin and Zoe Ziegler and Managing Editor Sara Davis
Quotable. 22 | 16 “If Snoop Dogg is directing our vocabulary, we are screw-dizzled.” -Social Studies teacher Dave Filippini to his first period AP Economics class.
“It’s just like an intelligence pagent.” -Senior and National Merit Scholar Caleb Morin shares his opinion on the National Merit Scholarship competition (To read more about Arcata High’s commended scholars, see page 7).
“The Rainageddon Radar Image Looks Like a Wet Dragon Set to Devour Humboldt” -A recent Lost Coast Outpost online article revealed its extreme excitment for the mid-December ‘mega storm’.
“Take off your hood; you’re in my hood now.” -Social Studies teacher Doug Johnson to his 2nd period AP Government class.
Total says and days of school until President’s Break
9
National Merit Scholars in the senior class, 8 scoring within the top 3% on the PSAT and 1 scoring in the top 1% (see page 8 to read more about these smarties)
4
Arcata High seniors who were accepted Early Decision to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
9 | 214 Days and hours until Junior Prom, which is exactly 9 P.M. on January 31st. Be there!
The Pepperbox | Page 6
News
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Does the swipe now define us all? Sara Davis
Managing Editor
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wipe right: like. Swipe left: nope. Tinder, a cross between dating app Hot or Not and smartphone game Fruit Ninja, is becoming the next best way to meet your future partner. Launched in August 2012 by University of Southern California students, Tinder has grown immensely in the past two years. Though originally marketed toward twenty- to thirty- year olds, an increasing number of high school and middle school youth have taken the app by storm. The phone app asks users to swipe through profile pictures to match potential daters based upon geographic location, common interests, and mutual friends. Users can anonymously choose to like or pass a match. If two matched users like each other, Tinder opens a chat for them. Although Tinder was “never intended...to be a dating platform,” as co-founder and chief marketing officer Justin Mateen stated in an interview with The Guardian, its status as “a social discovery platform” has helped many find eligible singles within a one mile radius. In a 2013 study conducted by the Pew Research Center, 66% of Americans had gone on a date with someone they met through a mobile dating app, and 23% met a spouse or long term partner through apps like Tinder. “The way Tinder works is the way people tell us they see the world,” Chief Executive Officer Sean Rad told Blot Magazine. “They walk around, they see girls, and they say in their heads, ‘Yes, no, yes, no.’” One of the many concerns relating to Tinder is its ability to allow teenagers to use the adult-based dating app. As the third largest group, users between the ages of
13 and 17, make up 7% of its users. Defending the app, Mr. Mateen told The Times: “There’s nothing wrong with 13 and 17-year-olds making friends and connecting with new people on Tinder. The future of social networks is connecting you with people you don’t know.” Despite Tinder ensuring a user’s age via their Facebook, many current teen who created a Facebook account before the age of 13 have false birthdates. This enables a 12-year-old girl with a birthdate indicating she is 21 to be in the same Tinder profile pool as a male college student. "Tinder is an app for adults, and it's commonly viewed as one that facilitates casual hookups rather than friendships or long-term partnerships," Samantha Escobar, a writer for lifestyle blog YourTango.com, stated. "The whole purpose of Tinder is to find someone who you can actually meet up with in real-life, you can drill down to a one-mile radius from your location. Imagine that if you were a pedophile, Tinder would be your dream come true." Unfortunately, parents’ worst fears about dating apps were heightened in 2012 when Skout, a social networking site similar to Tinder, was briefly forced to shut down its social network for 13 to 17 year olds after three men masquerading as teenagers were accused of raping children they met on the app. Though the most popular dating and hookup apps and websites -- including OKCupid, Match.com, Grindr, MiuMeet and Blendr -only allow users who are 18 and older, Tinder is not the only app in this category that permits users as young as 13. Skout and Distinc.tt, for instance, both allow users who are 13 and older, while teen dating app MyLOL is geared specifically to younger users; it permits users between the ages of 12 and 20. Said to be the fastest-growing free dat-
ing app in the U.S., Tinder’s varying age range has helped it quickly approach 50 million active users, matching more than 12 million people in the two years the app has been launched, including 50 marriage proposals. According to the company, on average, users log into the app 11 times a day, with women spending as much as 8.5 minutes swiping left and right per session and men with 7.2 minutes. This can add up to 90 minutes each day. For 90 minutes, strangers assess the attractiveness of an individual by their physical appearance. Researchers from UC Berkeley, Washington University in St. Louis, University of Cambridge, and University of Texas in Austin have found that, similar to reality, Tinder users “end up meeting with someone who is as equally ‘good looking ‘as they are”, which is a factor to the dating apps runaway success. Part of the allure of the app is the notion that strangers can accurately predict qualities like extraversion, emotional stability, and self-esteem based on photos. But, these same researchers have found this approach to be limited, as “an individual’s appearances and our attraction toward certain looks doesn’t necessarily inform the viewer about a prospective
date’s personality.” Since the dating app is solely based on the physical attractiveness of a person, nothing else- displays of talent, acts of kindness, or personality-is discernible in the person being assessed. Now, more than ever, the emphasis of one’s looks has become increasingly prevalent. Although said to be an ego boost or self-esteem enhancer for users who receive many likes, Tinder has become another social media outlet to stress the importance of outer appearances. A dating app has decided that attractiveness comes from a right swipe, not from who they are, what they think, or how they act. The essence of a person has been boiled down to two underwhelming things: a right swipe and a left swipe. Ultimately, teens need to realize the dangers and falsities of social networking sites and apps of all kinds so they can protect themselves against online predators, cyberbullying, and other hazards. It’s no surprise that teenagers are using apps targeted toward adults, but, as Rosette Pambakian, a spokeswoman for Tinder told The Huffington Post, people need to know “[what they] are using, who they’re talking to, and how they’re representing themselves.”
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
News
The Pepperbox | Page 7
Commended scholars condemn College Board Gillen Martin Editor-in-Chief
O
ut of all students who take the PSAT nationwide (approximately 3.5 million), only about 34,000 students per year are named National Merit Scholars. Chosen based off of their PSAT scores, these students represent the top three percent on the test, with the top one percent going on to become one of 16,000 semi-finalists competing for 7,600 scholarships. Arcata High’s senior class this year contains an unusual amount of Merit Scholars with seven Commended Students: Sonia Copple, Quinten Lu, Caleb Morin, Elijah Pasko, Claire Robinson, Thomas Tuttle, and Emma Zierer and one Semi-Finalist: Jacob Barth. Although our school recognizes National Merit Scholar status as an accomplishment to be proud of, the scholars themselves are shockingly nonchalant about it: “It just means that Mr. Navarre announces us at an assembly. I kind of forgot about the whole thing until he announced our names,” Zierer stated. Some weren’t even positive what their impressive title entailed: “What does that [being a National Merit Scholar] even mean? I think there might be a scholarship for it, but it sounds like a lot of work,” Pasko commented. The source of the scholars’ indifferent attitudes became evident when they shared their views on the standardized test that won them their titles and the “non-profit” organization that provides it. “The College Board is evil,” Pasko stated. Barth concurs: “Not only is it [The College Board/ PSAT] a complete sham, but their
National Merit Finalist Jacob Barth cuddles up with his kitty. organization is terribly organized. It’s just an easy test, it doesn’t say anything about someone.” Across the board, it seems as if none of the scholars went into the PSAT exam with intentions of placing in the top percent. Not a single one of the scholars studied for the test. “Our secret? Don’t study for the PSAT,” Morin shared. The scholars seemed to take issue with the test for two reasons: disbelief in standardized testing as an educational method and the proven correlation between high scores and race/ income. “I think anyone educated enough to be a Merit Scholar knows that their “higher education” is the product of generations of privilege,” Copple stated, illustrating her views on the bias of standardized testing. Collectively, the scholars’ advice for students was perfectly captured in the Mark Twain quote, “Don’t let your schooling interfere with your education.” Although the scholars may not agree with the philosophy of the
test they did so well on, their titles are still impressive achievements. “Hey guys, we’re commended scholars...There’s definitely a style component that goes along with that title,” Robinson commented semi-sarcastically. For some, their commended score is the product of years of persistence and dedication: “It is cool to be recognized for all the hard work we’ve done in high school,” Zierer shared. But for others, the score was simply the effortless companion of a naturally high IQ: “I’ve done less than the average student in high school,” Pasko admitted. One of these decidedly apathetic scholars especially stood out. Jacob Barth scored within the top one percent of the exam, but who is this soft-spoken genius? Barth can often be spotted around campus toting several different bags and swiftly striding off to his next obligation. Besides taking on a rigorous academic schedule and devoting himself to a multitude of
Photo Courtesy of Jacob Barth’s mother
extracurricular activities (including the Women’s Advocacy Club, Gay Straight Alliance, and National Honor Society on our campus), he keeps himself busy with a fascinating array of hobbies. “Lately, I have been making a lot of drinking vinegars,” Barth shared, explaining the strange drink as vinegar infused with various fruits to create something resembling a healthier version of soda. Although he has no interest in competitive pursuits, Barth plays futsal for fun. And if he wasn’t already well-rounded enough, he has a musical side as well: “I play the viola, but not very well.” With luscious hair, a charming smile, and big brains, this sweet scholar is certainly one of Arcata High’s finest. Even if they don’t care about their College Board-commended scores, the Pepperbox still congratulates these smarties on all of their hard work (or, as in Pasko’s case, their naturally high IQs). We are proud to call you fellow Tigers!
The Pepperbox | Page 8
News
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Crime in Humboldt: Is our safety at risk? Terra Clarke News Editor
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very day schools of twelve -year-old guppies gather on the streets of Arcata to exercise their small glimpse of freedom granted to them by their parents. They wander around the plaza without purpose, carrying their over-filled bowls of frozen yogurt. These young, innocent, prepubescent middle school students walk past old men who are already drunk at 4pm on a regular basis. With recent crime in Humboldt county, it makes one think how safe are we? Earlier this week, a woman was stabbed repeatedly and found on the Arcata plaza. This is just one of many crimes that occur in Humboldt annually. There have been 34 homicides in just the past five years. Eureka has more cases of forcible rape, burglary, and larceny theft per 100,000 people than in Oakland, California. Eureka also had more murder cases, forcible rape, burglary, and larceny theft per 100,000 people than Fresno, California. Despite these shocking numbers, many people believe that Humboldt County is still a safe and friendly community. "I've spent my entire life here, and never once have I felt threatened," junior Caitriona Parker said. "Yes there are many places to avoid, but the busy parts of any town here in Humboldt are very safe!" While Arcata High students still feel safe in Humboldt then why are the crime rates in our beloved county so high? "I believe that because of the high drug use in Humboldt County, the crime rate will follow," junior Zoe Poyen said. "I personally don't feel affected, but I don't think it's really an issue unless you are a part of the drug scene."
Some students believe that the prominent drug culture in Humboldt is to blame for our skyrocketing crime rates. Recently passed Proposition 47 will change the way the police-force handles drug use. According to Ballotpedia, Proposition 47 mandates misdemeanors for "non serious, nonviolent crimes" unless there has been prior conviction of murder, rape, certain sex offences, and certain gun crimes. This means that shoplifting, grand theft, forgery, and fraud with property damage less than $950, as well as personal use of drugs are now misdemeanors. The proposition is meant to lower the cost for jails, but also to approach punishment for these crimes in a more restorative way by requiring drug abusers to get treatment. A community member and Arcata High School parent commented on the proposal; "It's a well-intentioned proposition that doesn't work in our county because of the lack of facilities."
I believe that because of the high drug use in Humboldt County, the crime rate will follow. - Junior Zoe Poyen
The proposition has already started letting people out of our local prison who are not receiving treatment. This means that avid drug users will be let out of prison and return to their habits that threaten themselves and others around them. Some of these felonies, now misdemeanors, are life threatening to our community. Firearm theft is now a misdemeanor allowing people who steal dangerous
weapons, which could threaten the lives of citizens, to be punished by a mere misdemeanor. In addition, usually only people convicted of a felony are required to submit DNA samples that can help connect them to other crimes. Changing former felonies to misdemeanors could reduce the law enforcement's ability to keep track of recurring violators. With Eureka and Arcata having higher violent crime averages than the National average [3.8] by 3.59 and .44 respectively, Humboldt county is at risk for the highest crime rate in years. Now it is up for us to decide, how safe is Humboldt really?
I’ve spent my entire life here and never once have I felt threatened. Yes, there are many places to avoid, but the busy parts of any town here in Humboldt are very safe! - Junior Cait Parker
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Feature
The Pepperbox | Page 9
Student journalism rebound Zoe Ziegler
Editor-in-Chief
A
s the prevalence of social and digital media continues to rise and infiltrate our lives, the print journalism industry finds it increasingly harder to capture an interested audience. Many people, instead of letting themselves sit down for a moment and fall into the depths of the printed page, reach for the flat glowing screen and scroll endlessly through the rubbish of social media and online ‘news’ sites. This trend is reflected not just in the professional productions, but at the high school level as well. In a study by the California Department of Education, student en-
If these people are going to be voting in a couple of years, I want them to be in the practice of being conscious and reading the news. - Maya Makino
rollment in journalism classes up and down the state decreased by almost 4,500 students at the turn of the century, and these numbers are still in decline. Back in the 2009-10 school year, Arcata High’s own Journalism class found itself on the chopping block, but thanks to Pepperbox Advisor Danielle Lehman and a group of remarkable and committed students, the class was converted to a club, and kept above water for a year. Simi-
larly, in 2010, Eureka High newspaper’s 99 years of continuous publication ended when a lack of dedication from both school officials and students let it peter out. Yet of recent, we have seen a comeback of student journalism in Humboldt . That is because there are still people here like Melissa Donnelly, the President of Eureka High’s Journalism Club. “Of all times in American history,” she said, “the newspaper is under siege and needs to be seen by the population as an important voice for freedom and human rights.” The EHS Bark is back up and running, even though it’s published exclusively online because “the cost [of printing] is prohibitive at this point in our resurrection,” Donnelly said. Arcata High also made a striking comeback. “Despite recent technological advances,” Lehman said, “students are still passionate about the printed word and the power of their young voices . It’s inspiring and gives me so much hope for the future.” The Pepperbox has been printing continuously since 1927. Not all current local publications can be characterized as ‘comebacks’, however. The new publication at Northcoast Preparatory Academy, The Heron Herald, is two issues into its first ever volume of print. The school has been home to a literary magazine for the past few years, which satisfied an outlet for artistic and literary expression. Maya Makino, the Editorial Editor for the Herald, stated, “There are a lot of people at NPA that are pretty artsy, and into writing, but there was a larger group this year that was more interested in journalistic writing.” Thus, a newspaper was created. In addition, Sunny Brae Middle School’s newspaper, The PreSSmbs, has been thriving for the past couple years. With staff writers in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades, the paper produc-
es school-centered stories, an advice column, horoscopes, and even classified ads. Six Rivers Charter High School has their own paper as well, The Swashbuckler, and prints both local and global articles. Journalism persists because we as a county, nation, and world value freedom of speech. “Student reporting represents an exercise in the First Amendment,” Donnelly said, “that allows for a dialogue and venue for the student’s voice, and helps blend the campus with the community that provides potential ads and readership. It also provides the students with an opportunity to read student writing and help prevent the management of information coming from the school administration.” School newspapers are also crucial for the organization and distribution of information to their teenage readers. “I think our country has an obsession with free speech,”
Makino said, “but I think it also is really important to make sure everyone is educated, and that they know what’s going on.” And this is not just for the politically dense or globally effecting news--it is also important to report on a local, or school-wide level. “I think its great to have a place where you can keep track of what everyone is up to,” Makino said. “My favorite thing that we started, like just this issue, is a person-on-the-street kind of thing. It’s great to find out what [students] are passionate about. It helps you to get to know people you wouldn’t talk to otherwise.” Regardless of the quantitative impact of a story, the importance of instilling an appreciation for sound information with depth and should not be ignored. “If these people are going to be voting in a couple of years,” Makino said, “I want them to be in the practice of being conscious and reading the news.”
Zoe Ziegler/PEPPERBOX
The impressive first issue for NPA’s budding school newspaper.
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Feature
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Feature
The Pepperbox | Page 11
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Feature
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Prom: expectations vs. reality Indigo Davis Photo Editor
Promposals Expectation: You’re waiting suspensefully for the guy you like to make a romantic gesture and ask you to prom! Anything will go! Flowers, a poster, or even an acoustic song. Your promposal must be the best, and cutest way to be asked. Reality: It is the night before prom, and you don’t have a date. Guess you’re going with your friends again. Outfits Expectation: You and your friends all go to the awesome dress store and wait to say YES to the dress. You find the perfect one! It’s sequined, and the perfect colors for you and your date, and fits like a glove. You don’t need to worry about your date, because he is going to head to the plaza and order his tux in plenty of time. Reality: You live in Humboldt, of course there are few dress stores. You have to order one online. Your dress finally came in the mail! It’s not the right size, of course. Now prom is too close to order another one, so you head to the ONE local store to buy a dress that every single girl will be wearing. Don’t stress about your date, and getting his tux, because no matter what he will not get it until the day before. Getting Ready Expectation: Can’t wait to hang out with your friends and all get ready together! The guys will get dressed nicely and act like they are James Bond. The girls will help each other do their hair and makeup, and make sure that they all look stunning. Reality: While getting ready, you try to put your fake eyelashes on three different times, only to come to the conclusion that it is not going to work. Now you will have
Photo Courtesy of Gabriella Dixon
The expectation of prom is a night similar to Napoleon Dynamite, while the reality is your English teacher struttin’ her stuff on the dance floor. eyelash glue all over your eyes for the rest of the night, and your fake tan has already started rubbing off on your too-tight of a dress. You wonder if your guy date is stressing out as much as you are right now. No. He’s playing video games. Picture Time Expectation: You and your friends look great and are going to have the cutest prom pictures ever! Maybe you will even head to the beach and get some sunset ones in. Reality: Your parents force you to let them come along. When you show up for the pictures, your date has forgotten to get you a corsage, but luckily his mom did. As you start taking pictures you get frustrated because he is not paying attention, but it doesn’t matter anyways because your parents don’t know how to work the camera. After the dance and after party, you will go home and put the photos on your computer only to find out that they are blurry. Dinner Expectation: Boys always love to spoil their prom date and take them to a romantic dinner. This usually means sushi or Teppanyaki. You go there with your entire group, have the time of your life, laugh, and eat the best food ever. Reality: You and your date forgot
to make reservations two weeks before, so Tomo doesn’t have any more openings. Luckily, Teppanyaki can fit you in, but you must get there at 4:30. Dinner goes well, and your date is loving your company, until he gets the bill. Dance Expectation: You walk into the MPR, and there are lights everywhere. The dance floor is packed and you and your date are the cutest ones there! You find your friends, and you all dance your butts off until it ends.
Reality: You get to the dance an hour late, because who likes to get there early? Then you wait in a line for 30 minutes to verify that you go to Arcata High School, but why else would you be at prom? The dance isn’t even in the MPR. You walk in, and all you can see is the occasional Christmas lights, and posters on the wall, and then you remember that this is the place where the sweaty PE kids play. The dance floor is empty. You spend most of the night sitting on the chairs in the back.
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Feature
The Pepperbox | Page 13
Prom: magic or money? Kaelyn Tuermer-Lee News Editor
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ne night, one dance, and one chance to create long-lasting memories. Is this the purpose of prom? To get dressed up with friends for dinner and a classy dance? Or is this merely a way for class officers to raise money by selling prom tickets? Are class officers using their leadership abilities to create a special prom night for students or is prom merely a fundraiser? After all, prom can be one costly night. Senior class president Ryan Ghiset-
It’s definitely not like the other dances. It’s a classy event. - Cait Parker ti commented and explained that not all schools have a junior prom. Arcata High School, for example, hosts a junior prom in order to fund for senior prom and keep the cost of tickets lowered. So is junior prom just a fundraiser—the equivalent of a bake sale or car wash? Or does it have a greater value to those in charge of school events? If you watched the student election candidate videos, you might remember CJ Gray, the current junior class president. His words were, “I’ma make it rain on the junior class,” as he threw a cascading rainfall of dollar bills. Remembered for his comical presentation, CJ depicted himself as one that could give back to the student population and shower them with money…which would
come from where exactly? The answer lies in fundraisers, such as junior prom. Sophomore class president, Max Gambin, said, “It’s a student favorite so it ends up being a great fundraiser; but it is first and foremost for us students.” However, as some envision a truly magical night, other see planning and preparation, worry and stress, and a large price tag to go with it. Tickets aren’t the only thing needed for prom--girls go all out picking the perfect dress and shoes, while guys getting matching tuxedos. Not to mention remembering flowers, corsages, and dinner reservations. So how much to students really pay for prom? Junior Cait Parker said, “I’m in charge of helping to make prom a success this year, since I’m a class officer! So for me it’s stressful, but I spent $24.99 on my dress this year!” Total prices for prom do range; according to abc news, the national average statistics of prom in 2012 was $1078. This number rose to $1139 in 2013 and only continues to grow exponentially. Where will it end? This statistic must peak eventually, for added expenses create a deficit in people’s pockets. However, regardless of the cost, prom at Arcata High School is meant for the students--a rite of passage that continues to be a tradition. “It’s definitely not like the other dances. It’s a classy event,” Cait Parker said. Prom this year is scheduled for Saturday, January 31st, with a theme of “Snowflake Soirée.” Students are encouraged to attend and have a great time! Because prom is not just a fundraiser that raises a large revenue--it is a popular event favored by a majority of the student body that provides life-lasting memories of a truly unique high school experience.
Photo Courtesy of Ivy Ricca
The junior classs officers (from left to right) Hannah Finley, Daisy Nutter, CJ Gray, and Cait Parker “make it rain on the junior class.”
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Feature
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Teachers’ take on prom W Neel Rao
Sports Editor
hat is worse than two people spastically throwing themselves at each other with a vigor normally reserved for wild animals? Hundreds of teenagers spastically throwing themselves at each other with a vigor normally reserved for wild animals. This scene is set at most dances high schoolers attend, and we are all well aware of the things that happen there. But what is the most overlooked and underappreciated aspect of dances? The teacher chaperones who donate their time to making sure our night is great.
When the dances were held in the MPR, the DJ’s would have the music so loud that my ears would hurt. - Greg Hildebrand A lot of students don’t understand exactly why or how teachers get signed up for these duties. It is suspected that the teachers are forced into fighting to the death in a Hunger Games-esque brawl to determine their jobs. Unfortunately only slight evidence of this exists, so we are stuck with the less-interesting explanation. Teachers are required to sign up for duties in the begin-
ning of the year based on how many classes they teach. Most teachers have to do five duties, but there is a hierarchy to their signing up. “As you get to be more of a senior teacher, you get better choices of the duties you take,” explained Kay Wozniack, “So we start taking the soccer games, and don’t really opt for the football games or the dances, mostly because of the times.” Teachers’ opinions on chaperoning are mostly positive, although some teachers do have some complaints to share. Greg Hildebrand’s main complaint is of the music at the dances. “When the dances were held in the MPR, the DJ’s would have the music so loud that my ears would hurt.” In an age where music now sounds like blenders and jack hammers, it is no surprise that the volume is a common complaint from chaperones, along with the timing of the dances. When asked on how they prepare themselves for the dance, Kelly Fernandes and Maureen Kiritsy exclaimed immediately “Coffee! Lots of Coffee!” Doug Johnson’s pre-Prom ritual is a little more than a cup of Joe though. “I have the same approach as I do to a ball game. I gotta listen to some music to get me in the right frame of mind. I like the Who’s Next album, I gotta prepare myself mentally. I check my palm pilot, make sure it’s up to code, and check if there is ink left in my pen.” This sound frame of mind is what enables teachers like Johnson to chaperone to the highest of their abilties.
Some teachers see prom in a different light, for instance, Fernandes is always excited to see the formal attire worn. “It’s really great to see our students dress up and act like ladies and gentlemen. The girls look so beautiful and elegant in their dresses!” Other teachers find their joy in the simple things in life. Hildebrand, a self-proclaimed scrooge, enjoys breaking up public displays of affection as much as one possibly can. “I sit next to them while they are
kissing and don’t say anything, after a while they look over and see a teacher there. It’s a pretty effective method.” Prom is a treasured event that has been around for decades, but as times change, so do traditions. Believe it or not, prom has not always included suggestive dancing, obnoxious music, and groups of single friends. “You had to be asked to prom,” explained Wozniak, “You didn’t get to go with your group of all boys or all girls. I think it’s a good thing that has changed.”
Yearbook Staff/PEPPERBOX
A prime example of the reckless nature that warrants chaperone intervention.
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
PB Club
The Pepperbox | Page 15
Freshmen face first finals Isabel Luu Reporter
T
he nervous freshmen walked into their first class on Wednesday morning. They sat down at their seats and prepared to take their first ever final. As the end of the semester, students must take their finals. In middle school, students were not given a formal final, so the idea is new to them. They have heard stories and been prepared by their teachers, but now they are taking their first final. Biology and anatomy teacher Ms. Condit said, “A final provides a summative assessment. It lets
teachers know: Did my classes really learn? It also lets us know if students deserve the units they get awarded at the end of the semester.” Health and physical education teacher Ms. Campbell added, “The final measures the teacher guidance. It lets me know what I need to improve on.” Some students do not know what to expect. “I’ve heard upperclassmen talk about the finals, but I’m not sure how they are actually going to be,” Marley Tavernier-Fine said. Naomi Solomon said, “I’m not sure what to expect because each test is going to be different. The teachers have told us
what the finals are going to be like, but I’m still nervous.” Most Arcata High freshmen are feeling the pressure of the finals. Many students said they were worried about not doing well on the exams. Ruth Verhaegh said, “The final could really affect our grades. I’m not really looking forward to having to take a huge test that could possibly lower my grade.” On the other hand, some students are hoping that the final will improve their grade. The final is their last chance to get their grades up before the semester ends which puts extra pressure on them. A few freshmen had different perspectives on finals
and were not as concerned. “Going into finals week, I’m feeling stressed, but I’m not super worried. I’m expecting a few hard finals, but if I rely on the knowledge my teachers have taught me, I think I will be fine,” Bridget Walsh said. Although freshmen all feel differently about taking the finals, they are hoping to do a good job, and to make their first final an enjoyable experience. They are also hoping that the semester final will give them a better understanding of finals week so that they can better prepare themselves for the next final. But for this final, Tavernier-Fine said, “I’m just going to study and hope for the best.”
Freshman are heading towards their first prom with a lot of influences on them about what to expect. “Good for them, those people who go overboard, but I think prom is just really glittery, slightly scary, but also really fun,” freshman Janie Mendosa said. Glittery would certainly be a way to describe the way movies portray prom, especially those from the 80’s, it’s safe to say that a few things have changed. Especially with some of the newer fashion trends, they may not be as bad as the classically outlandish 80’s outfits, but there is a good chance of seeing some unconventional ensembles. “Neon fluffy dresses are just ugly” said an anonymous contributor. For some people prom has just become a fun
night to hang out with friends, dance, and not be pressured to follow any preconceived notions about what they're supposed to do. Many freshman are planning to go in a group to prom. Going with a bunch of people can make it easier to feel comfortable in a different kind of setting. Having a date to the prom is no longer the linchpin for enjoying yourself and having a great night. Freshman Sophia Mayo said “It could be a little intimidating, but you just go if you want to have fun, and there’s no pressure if you don't want to [go with a date].” But prom may be more than just its glittering exterior, for freshman there is the aspect of what happens after the prom, which can be a bit of a mystery
for freshmen. For underclassmen, the inability to drive may impact their ability to get into those types of situations where they may not feel entirely comfortable. Freshman have a lot to think of at this time of year, and prom may be the only thing on their minds or the very last, but it varies from person to person. Freshman Kristina McHaney said, “I think of prom as a night that could become anything; anything could happen, wrong or right. I think of magic...and fluffy dresses!” Going to the prom may not be that perfect, magical night, but with the right group of people, or just that special person, freshmen should go, enjoy their first prom, and check off another thing on their high school bucket list.
A fresh(man) prom perspective Marlena Tavernier Reporter
A
s freshmen, high school offers new experiences, new challenges and many surprises that we never expected. But there are those iconic highschool moments that younger students probably have never had before, and one of the biggest ones may be prom. People are bombarded with stereotypes about prom as they grow up, but entering high school may dispel some myths that freshmen have. For example, just how important is that prom date? Is a fancy dress 100% necessary? What exactly goes on after the prom itself is over?
to go, or not to go to prom, that is the question “Either way, go to Los Bagels. It could make for a delightfully cheap prom dinner.�
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
Opinion
The Pepperbox | Page 17
What’s worse: Loss of life or loss of freedom? Alec Perrone
Executive Producer
I
t’s difficult to say what hits you hardest: knowing that riots have been brought upon police killings of citizens, or that the First Amendment, one that took so long to ratify, has been trampled upon, hindering the right to peaceably assemble. “In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort,” quoted Michael Jackson. Michael Brown, Eric Garner, John Crawford, and countless others in the past were victims fallen to police killings that have provoked the country on national (and now local) levels. These accounts have been called unfair and unjust rulings of the highest courts in our country by many citizens, and people are taking action. Both peaceful protests and violent ri-
In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort. - Michael Jackson
ots have broken out across the United States by citizens taking to the streets to show their support for the families of the fallen. Riots have broken out nationwide. This is due to the belief that
these African-Americans were murdered, the policemen involved weren’t charged correctly, and that these such rulings were unjust as a result. During both riots and other protests, police have made a great effort to restrain the violence from causing further harm to communities where protesters gather. Although few of these riots have been seriously violent and destructive, some say that these protests are a way for police to unnecessarily punish those who speak out against the current judicial system. This situation is seen as similar to the events that happened within the first Civil Rights Movement. Although riots have been the Police line up against protesters in Ferguson, Missouri after the focus of many recent happenings Grand Jury decided not to indict Darren Wilson for the shooting regarding these cases, there have of Michael Brown. been very peaceful symbolic protests that have made it to the head- Bragg to participate in a basket- the right of Americans to speak lines. Starting as a statement from ball tournament were banned for freely and peaceably assemble. street protesters, to social media, wearing these shirts in protest of Whether or not you think that and to the NBA, “I Can’t Breathe” police brutality. Despite being crit- recent cases have violated citiis now a well-known symbol icized for their actions, they have zens’ First Amendment rights (or for many people. NBA players reached national attention for fol- any other rights), it is important caught on to the movement with- lowing with the protest and the to consider both sides of this issue in the basketball community raise conflict with their ban. Although and respect those who view things awareness to this issue by wear- being initially banned from the differently. The United States of ing these shirts depicting the last tournament, the ban was even- America is built on compromise, words of Eric Garner. Eric Garner tually reversed and they were and equal rights is an outstanding was choked to death in New York once again allowed to compete. issue that has taken much sacriThe First Amendment protects fice. How much further will it go? by a white police officer after being accused of a minor crime, the whole event being filmed. His last words, as heard from the recording, are “I Can’t Breathe,” and has thus become a symbol for protest against prejudice and injustice by NBA players donning the shirts at recent games. NBA Star LeBron James told ESPN, “It’s more of a shoutout to the family, more than anything, because they’re the ones that should be getting all the energy and effort.” In late December, the shirts movement has been reflected by the students of Mendocino High School. Students travelling to Fort
Ryan Ghisetti A&E Editor
O
than the predictable room, further begging the questions: where is this club meeting, what are they doing, and most importantly what are they hiding from us?
If you calculated every single player, [of Magic: The Gathering] it would be equivalent to the population of Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Montana, Delaware, South Dakota, North Dakota, Alaska, the District of Columbia,
Mrs. Wozniak, the club advisor, seemed to be the perfect keeper of answers. I asked her for advice in finding this secret society during their “gatherings.” She spoke honestly about her lack of knowledge on the organized club and admitted, “I guess I’m their advisor. They’re supposed to have a meeting every week, but they have yet to show up. I know they meet, but where? I’m not sure.” I went on to ask her if she could help me with the identification of a possible club leader. The only knowledge she had was vague: she believes that the president is an ominous child named Jason. No last name, just Jason. Wozniak helped me a step closer to breaking into the underground gaming society, but I still
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
had far further to go. As I tried to sleep that night I was restless. Every day at school my focus wasn’t on my studies, but rather: Who is Jason? For my own sleep and sanity I decided to make a phone call. I utilized my connections and asked an undisclosed Arcata Student Body representative to do me a favor and get me the club paperwork. The information I found within the pages of the club’s official documents shocked me. Their mission statement and constitution, usually about one page for most clubs on our campus, was a full 5 pages long. It was incredibly thorough, covering everything from procedure for the election of officers to official gaming ceremonies. But these complex classified documents also held the greatest piece of information imaginable: Jason's last name.
Rushing to my phone, I typed in Jason Emanuel on Facebook to put a face to the enigma. Now that I had a way of contacting Mr. Emanuel, I suddenly felt skittish. So much of my time and emotion had already gone into the ups and downs of this search. I sent a simple message to him over Facebook Messenger. But I regret to inform you that we didn't get a response. This is where our journey leaves off--for now. We one day hope to bring you the truth about this club, but like all good mysteries sometimes the answer is not the best part, but rather the journey.
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n an early January morning-the 5th to be exact, I gallivanted through the quad, crisp leaves under my feet, a bitter air nipping at my nose, but most importantly a flare of passion coursing through me, a motivation to find out who or what is behind the unapprehended Magic: The Gathering club recently formed at Arcata High School. You may be wondering: What is Magic: The Gathering? I had the same question. But on my search to find the seemingly simple answer, I soon found myself in a complex labyrinth of mysterious events that led me like a rat into a maze of clues and dead ends. But at the end of it, a large piece of cheese--understanding this new club and their supposed purpose. Magic: The Gathering has a large cult following, far exceeding its minute prevalence at Arcata High. If you calculated every single player, it would be equivalent to the population of Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Montana, Delaware, South Dakota, North Dakota, Alaska, the District of Columbia, Vermont, and Wyoming combined. Clocking in at 11 million players. So January 5th, I began my journey. The best way to get questions answered seemed to be attending one of their meetings in room 212. But upon my arrival, I found only an empty classroom. I later discovered that they decided to meet at an undisclosed location rather
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(707) 826-0559 P.O. Box 2041, McKinleyville CA, 95519
Thursday, January 22nd, 2015
A&E
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Pepperbox predicts best flicks Alley Perry Feature Editor
& Caitlyn Patterson Social Media Director
Disclaimer: This article was written before Oscar nominations were announced. It’s that time of year again, folks. The birds are singing, the sun is shining (sort of), and the Oscars are right around the corner. Everyone knows that award shows are the epitome of class and American tradition, causing just as much frenzy and fervor as the Super Bowl, selfies, and Big Macs. After intense and laborious research into the world of motion picture, and thespianism, the Pepperbox has compiled a list of five distinguished films that are favorites to win the Oscar for Best Picture.
Boyhood: A 12 year project, using the same cast, the film grows with its actors. Boyhood leaves you feeling nostalgic, hopeful, and helps you realize the harsh realities of life. Instead of censoring the mistakes and flaws of teenage existence, the film and its actors embrace it. Movie Notes:
Accurate depiction of adolescence, poor haircut choices. Teenagers playing teenagers, what a concept. Life sucks and then you die but what else is new. Quotes: “You know how everyone's always saying seize the moment? I don't know, I'm kind of thinking it's the other way around, you know, like the moment seizes us.” Prediction: 1st pick to win Best Picture Pepperbox Recommendation: Watch this movie, admire the beauty of life, and then immediately have an existential crisis.
The Imitation Game: This movie follows Alan Turing, a tortured genius in WWII England, trying to break an unbreakable Nazi Code, all while managing to maintain the facade of being an emotionless mastermind. Movie Notes: Takes computer geek to a whole new level. This movie will touch even the most cold & unfeeling of souls. Bandersnatch Cucumber sure is a good actor. Quote: “Sometimes it is the people who no one imagines anything of who do the things that no one can imagine.” Prediction: 2nd pick to win Best Picture Pepperbox Recommendation: A great movie for History-buffs
and Beetlejuice Pumkinpatch fans alike.
Birdman: A fast paced story of a washed up hollywood super hero in a downward spiral struggling to stay relevant, all while battling life, the people around him, and his own delusions. Movie Notes: Emma Stone has the biggest eyes to ever exist. Disclaimer: this movie is not in fact about a giant man/bird Quote: “A thing is a thing, not what is said of that thing.” Prediction: 3rd Pick to win Best Picture Pepperbox Recommendation: This movie is great if you enjoy films capturing the human struggle, not so great if you wanted to see a movie about an enormous Man-Bird terrorizing New York City.
Selma: A historical and detailed look into the events that took place in Selma, Alabama, during the Civil Rights Movement, and what was happening behind the scenes in the life of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King. Movie Notes:
striking parallels to Ferguson protests. Bonus points for casting Oprah. Quote: “Who murdered Jimmie Lee Jackson? Every white lawman who abuses the law to terrorize. Every white politician who feeds on prejudice and hatred. Every white preacher who preaches the bible and stays silent before his white congregation.” Prediction: 4th pick to win Best Picture Pepperbox Recommendation: Though high school students are not exactly the target audience, you’ll certainly sound well-read and historically accurate after watching David Oyelowo play MLK on the big screen.
Theory of Everything: A Stephen Hawking origin story, and a look at the relationship with his wife, his scientific studies, and his struggle with ALS. Movie Notes: No ice-buckets were involved in the making of this movie. Quote: “There should be no boundaries to human endeavor. We are all different. However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at. While there's life, there is hope.” Prediction: 5th pick to win Best Picture Pepperbox Recommendation: If the only thing you know about ALS is the ice-bucket challenge, this movie is an extremely educational experience.