Since 1927 www.thepepperbox.com
In the Box
Box Briefs
May
FFA Banquet, May 22 Baseball NCS Playoffs, 7:00 pm, May 23 FLOW- AAI Fashion Show, May 26 Senior Picnic, May 31 Armack Orchestra Dinner, May 31
June
SAT, June 2 Senior Scholarship/Awards Night, June 6 ACT, June 9 Senior Prom, June 9 Finals, June 12-5 Last Day of School, June 15
Editors
Web Team
Kim-Thu Pham, Online Editor Kristyn Payne, Online Director
Nirvana Begovic Taylor Bennion Kasey Cather Annie Ewald Shea Hamilton
Teacher Exellence Awards �����������������������������������3 Green Pledge ���������������������������������������������������������4 SSR to SSS ������������������������������������������������������������5 PASS �����������������������������������������������������������������������5 Julian Gordon �������������������������������������������������������6 Longer School Hours �������������������������������������������7 I Hate SSR �������������������������������������������������������������9 Oil Spill Mutants �������������������������������������������������10 Retro Pepperbox �������������������������������������������������11 From the Archives ������������������������������������������12-13 Choir Trip �������������������������������������������������������������14 New Marquee �����������������������������������������������������15 Tiger Couples �������������������������������������������������������15 Cars ����������������������������������������������������������������������16 Tiger Chariots �����������������������������������������������������16 Lauren McCoy School Record ���������������������������17 Baseball Superstitions ���������������������������������������18 Praise �������������������������������������������������������������������19 Yogurt �������������������������������������������������������������������20 Bassnectar �����������������������������������������������������������21 Vitamin D ��������������������������������������������������������22-23 Will Smith Sightings �������������������������������������������24
Toby Shao, Editor-in-Chief Nadia Al-Yagout, Managing Editor Colin Swenson, Art Director Hannah Luu, Photo Manager Kimber Peterson, Graphics Editor
Reporters
Lily Hebert Will Kauffman Billy Miller Petey Levesque Victoria Moroni Michael Scofield Kaylee Steiner-Olson
Forrest Lewis, News Editor Elaine Cunha, Sports Editor Felicia Watson, Feature Editor Francis Zierer, Opinion Editor Sarah Fraga, A&E Editor
Brian Then Zoe Tinseth Carter Wright
Advisor
Danielle Lehman
The Pepperbox would like to thank Western Web, based in Samoa, for printing atcost. 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! Special thanks to the Humboldt County Historical Society for allowing us to reprint Pepperboxes from their collection.
the PB
tuesday, may 22, 2012
NEWS
page 3
Three AHS teachers win “Excellence in Teaching” awards
Kim-Thu Pham/PEPPERBOX
Principal Dave Navarre stands with Cindy Condit, Doug Johnson, and Jennifer Rosebrook, the three Arcata High teachers honored with Humboldt County Excellence in Teaching Awards. ing” Award was founded in 1986 body’s listening to what you say be- speeches from all three, they made Kim-Thu Pham with the purpose of recognizing cause they all have to pee,” said Mrs. me laugh and they even made me Online Editor teachers for “taking education be- Rosebrook. She thanked her men- cry,” said math teacher Lynn Teasely. Three Arcata High teachers were yond the classroom,” according to tors, students, husband, and Mr. “I loved hearing about all the inhonored at the Humboldt County event coordinator Cathy Dickerson. Johnson for being her inspiration. fluences these teachers have had in Teacher Excellence Awards on May “We are a quilt of all the people The Teacher Excellence Awards their lives and to hear them giv9th at the Adorni Center in Eureka: who make up our lives,” Mrs. Con- represent more than just recognition ing that recognition,” said English science teacher Cindy Condit, his- dit Said. She thanked her professors for teachers. The event was an op- teacher JoAnn Moore. tory teacher Doug Johnson, and at HSU, her colleagues, and her stu- portunity for teachers county-wide Excellence in Teaching Awards history teacher Jennifer Rosebrook. dents for being a part of the “quilt.” to reflect upon their experiences in were also given to Katie Gerving of The teachers were nominated by “Thank you to the students of education and for non-teachers to South Fortuna Elementary, Gloria principal Dave Navarre, who said, 304, 601, and the friendly confines see what motivates educators. Haybib of Dow’s Prairie, Amy Hub“They inspire students and staff, and of 209 who taught me more than I “It’s very uplifting to see not only bard of Sunny Brae Middle School, they inspire me.” have tried to teach them,” said Mr. what we honor about these people, J’Anne Kausen of Norman G. Am “Teachers shape the futures of Johnson, who was recognized for but what they got out of being edu- rosini Elementary, Terry Lynn Olchildren more than any other adult,” being a dedicated historian inside cators,” counselor Kathi Olsen-San- son Perry of North Coast Learning said county superintendent Gary and outside class. born said. Academy, and Mona Walsh Pinochi Eagles. The “Excellence in Teach- “It’s great to go last because no- “I appreciated listening to the of Freshwater School.
“They inspire students and staff, and they inspire me.” --Arcata High Principal, Dave Navarre
page 4
tuesday, may 22, 2012
NEWS
the PB
HSPA promotes green pledge at graduation Shea Hamilton Reporter
It all began in 1987 when a group of HSU students started a tradition of committing themselves to taking responsibility for the impact they would have on the environment after graduation. The Pledge, known as the Pledge of Social and Environmental Responsibility, has since been written into graduation ceremonies at UC Berkeley, MIT, Harvard, and many other college campuses worldwide. This year, AHS juniors Day Robins and Elaine Cunha hope to bring the movement to the high school level with the High School Pledge Alliance
(HSPA). It has been 25 years since The Pledge began in Arcata and it has since become a national tradition. With Arcata High’s Class of 2012, the HSPA will provide graduating seniors with the same opportunity to take the pledge in the same place as the HSU graduates did 25 years ago. “We’re taking The Pledge back to its roots,” Cunha said. The pledge reads as follows: “I pledge to consider the social and environmental consequences of my future actions and associations.” At graduation, the HSPA plans
to have a Pledge table where students will, after receiving their diplomas, have the opportunity to take the pledge by putting a green thumbprint and signature on a poster the HSPA will provide. Robins described the organization as “a group of high school students from Northern California. We’re concerned about our home, our friends, and our future. We began with an idea, constructed a pledge, and have started a movement dedicated to both our peers and our planet.”
The Pledge isn’t just for liberals or “tree-huggers,” it is something that spans political ideologies by asking everyone to consider the impact of humanity on this planet. The Pledge is the beginning of a promise to care of the environment, to consider the impact of humanity, and to take responsibility for our own futures. If the movement can spread, then ours and future generations can help to improve world. Both Robins and Cunha encourage students to “Like” the High School Pledge Alliance on Facebook or check out their website at http:// highschoolpledgealliance.org/
tuesday, may 22, 2012
NEWS
the PB
page 5
Silent Sustained Studying or Reading? Felicia Watson
Feature Editor
“We have to read? Ugh,” is the response you get when you tell the average high school student that they have to read for fifteen minutes a day. Every Tuesday through Friday for fifteen minutes after lunch there has been a school-wide sustained silent reading (SSR) period. However, some of the teachers on campus do not strictly enforce “silent reading,” or reading at all during SSR time. Some teachers allow their students to relax and study
the option to read, study, or relax and take a break after lunch. Arcata has kept its SSR period strictly reading because it is the only time when high school students actually read. According to the “Reading and Writing Habits of Students” section of The Condition of Education 1997, published by the National Center for Education Statistics, “Research has shown that reading ability is positively correlated with the extent to which students read recreationally. Educators are increasingly encouraging their students to read and write on their own.”
“I wish we had a longer lunch or we could eat during SSR. I hate when 5th period teachers don’t let me eat. Sometimes I don’t have time to finish my lunch at lunch!” --AHS Senior Iliana Ruben during this period, while others require silence and actual reading. “I think having SSR really expanded my reading capabilities,” said senior Andrei Khmelnitski. “I’m glad that we got the chance to read in high school.” Arcata High is one of the last local high schools to still offer a SSR period. In recent years, high schools have abandoned this reading time. Schools have switched to an SSS period, sustained silent studying. Proponents of the study period argue that an SSS period is more efficient for students because it gives them
School Nurse Norma Watson holds the view that the reading period is essential. “SSR is important for encouraging reading and transitioning from lunch to the classroom,” Watson said. Senior Illiana Ruben agrees that SSR is a great idea after lunch; however, she thinks that teachers should allow eating. “I wish we had a longer lunch or we could eat during SSR. I hate when 5th period teachers don’t let me eat. Sometimes I don’t have time to finish my lunch at lunch!” Ruben said. In the past, SSR time has been
used for other purposes. One myth is that the time used to be part of lunch; instead of reading for fifteen minutes students would simply have an extended lunch period. Another myth is that the time that SSR takes up was just added into the normal school day, making each class a few extra minutes long. Senior Hannah Luu feels that SSR is a waste of time saying, “Why would I ever want to read. Who does that? We should just get out of school earlier” Luu said. Arcata high has discussed abandoning SSR and transitioning to
SSS. One argument is that it gives students an option, plus some teachers already allow students to study anyways. Ruben supports the change. “I think they should have done this four years ago,” Ruben said. According to Mr. Navarre, “There has been some discussion on this topic in Department Chair Meetings, but no decision on a definitive change.” The transition is controversial with strong arguments on both sides, which makes settling on a decision tough as it affects the entire student body.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
NEWS
page 6
A PASSing dilemma Carter Wright
Reporter
As the human race continues to flourish, technology plays a bigger and bigger role in society. In the present, technology has become intertwined into nearly everything; from how we produce goods and entertain ourselves, to how we check our grades at school. At Arcata High, for example, all students have the ability to go onto the school website and check their grades on the program called PASS. It was not until six years ago that this program was put up and made accessible to students. Before PASS, teachers would record grades into a thick grade book, and so if students wanted to know their grade, then they had to ask the teacher to show it to them. When PASS was first utilized, an agreement was made between the teaching staff at AHS, the administration, and the department chairs to update grades every three weeks. However, due to parents desiring to have grades updated more frequently, teachers have often been expected to update grades more often than had been agreed. “They have a lot on their plate already, it’s unfair to put that pres-
sure on them,” senior Thomas Witzel said. With these increased pressures, key questions arose: Should teachers have to update grades on such a regular basis as demanded? Should PASS be abandoned entirely? “It [PASS] is great, but in some ways it’s a crutch because it takes away from student responsibilities,” Kay Wozniak, math teacher at AHS, said. “Students should have a good idea what their grades are, and should be able to tell their parents what they are based on their effort in the class. PASS should only be a back up.” Some have stated that PASS is obsolete when compared to other programs. Considering how fast technology upgrades in the present day, such a statement is likely. “Our operating system could be simplified,” Dave Navarre, Principal at AHS, said. “Expectations have changed since we first started using PASS.” In response to this the teaching staff, administration, and department chairs recently agreed that grade updates on PASS should be even more routine—every week rather than every three. Along with its drawbacks, PASS also has many benefits. “I use it daily to check my grades. It allows
me to track my grades and see if I have any missing assignments or tests to make up,” junior Anna Nordquist said. “It’s great for freshman and sophomore students since it helps them get the hang of high school classes,” Thomas Witzel added. “It’s an easy way to keep up on grades.” Counselor Deena Faull agrees. “It’s only as good as the people who use it,” Faull said. “I often refer parents to PASS because it can help answer their questions. The majority of the time I look at it, it’s usually up to date, but if teachers don’t update it frequently parents get frustrated.” After six years of use, the questions about PASS still remain. Opinions differ, and only the future can tell what will happen. However, as communication becomes more and more instantaneous with the constant improvements to technology that are being made, one thing is certain: Arcata High’s staff and its operating systems will adapt in response. “We’re catching up to the technology,” Navarre said. “We’re catching up to the expectations.” In the meantime, PASS will still remain a valuable resource for those that choose to utilize its benefits.
the PB
Alternative Classes Will Kauffman
Reporter
Arcata High offers many classes that can fulfill credit requirements without enrolling in traditional courses. African Drums and Rhythms: open to all students, you can take this class to fulfill your fine arts requirement. Mythology: seniors only, you must have successfully completed English 3 or English 3 CP. Fulfills final English requirement for UCs. Journalism: can be used as an elec tive for all students. For seniors it meets the fourth year English graduation requirement. Creative Writing: along with Journalism, this class meets the graduation requirement for English when you are a senior, but is an elective when you are a sophomore or junior. Agricultural Biology: available for all students to fulfill life science requirement. Computer Programming: for sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Fulfills third year math requirement. Auto 1: for sophomores, juniors, and seniors. This class fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement and meets the third year math requirement as long as you have passed Algebra 1.
the PB
tuesday, may 22, 2012
NEWS
page 7
Julian Gordon wins art competition year. Anne Bown-Crawford, creator and director of the program, Online Editor encouraged Gordon to enter the Julian Gordon, Arcata High senior, piece into the competition early this is the winner of the 2012 Congresspring. “It was kind of surreal when sional Art Competition. His oil I won,” Gordon said. portrait on canvas titled, “Erin,” a Gordon has been a part of the portrait of Arcata High’s very own Arcata Arts Institute (AAI) since Erin Hagen, will represent California’s First Congressional District in the U.S. Capitol, where it will be displayed for one year. Julian and a guest will be flown to Washington, D.C. to attend an awards ceremony in June.
Kristyn Payne
“Congratulations to Julian. I am honored to be able feature his artwork in the U.S. Capitol. Every community across our district can be proud of Julian’s achievement.”
sophomore year. There, he has developed new skills and techniques to apply to his art. “Because of my amazing experience with the program, I know I always want art to play a major role in my life,” Gordon said. Gordon did not always know about his bright future in the arts. In fact, he did not seriously consider art until his sophomore year at Arcata High. “[My freshman year] I was into art, but I didn’t really understand yet,” Gordon said.
--Congressman Mike Thompson Each year, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize artistic talent in each congressional district. “Congratulations to Julian,” said Congressman Mike Thompson, when announcing the winner. “I am honored to be able feature his artwork in the U.S. Capitol. Every community across our district can be proud of Julian’s achievement.” The oil portrait was not specifically created for the competition, but for a portrait art show through the Arcata Arts Institute program last
Photos Courtesy of Julian Gordon
Above: Julian Gordon’s award winning painting of Arcata High senior Erin Hagen Right: Julian Gordon’s remarkable self-portrait in a Van Gogh-esque style
His real inspiration came from Lily Dostal, a member of the AAI faculty and a mentor of Gordon’s. Gordon’s friends support him in his art. “He’s an A+ in painting!” said close friend Juniper Rosen Though Julian has proven his excellence in the arts, he seems to have gained a reputation in excellence in overall attitude. On campus there is a highly favorable opinion of Gordon, from friend and acquaintance alike. “He’s seriously one of the nicest guys in the world,” senior Nadia Al-Yagout said. If you would like to see examples of Julian Gordon’s art, a series of portraits are currently donning the walls of Redwood Yogurt. One of which is a self-portrait in a Van Gogh-esque style. Gordon plans on pursuing his art education this fall, where he is enrolled at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a major in studio art.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
OPINION
page 8
the PB
tuesday, may 22, 2012
Why do I hate reading? Brian Then
Reporter
Obama proposes longer school hours in K-12
Francis Zierer
Opinion Editor Each day, we spend about 7 hours and 20 minutes in this fine institution called Arcata High School. Say you sleep 8 hours each day, that’s two thirds of your time gone each day. Subtract another 2 hours for homework and extracurricular activities each day, and you have only 6 hours of your life left to you each day. Does that seem fair? I don’t think so. Granted, I don’t believe that is wholly a bad thing; without education of some sort (this does not necessarily have to be a traditional education), you know nothing, and thus, are worth nothing. But you learn (I should hope) from everything around you, from every blunder, social interaction, and step you take. There really is quite a bit you cannot learn at school, such as social skills. Do you not think that if we got out at lunch, we might have more time to become more well-rounded people? Yeah, we would. I believe that the facts taught us in school are not actually the most crucial part of our institutional education. The most important thing we learn while locked away in the classroom is indeed how to learn. Without this skill, we are nowhere. Do we need to spend 8 hours a day learning a few facts and the ability to learn? No. I dare you: show me that 5 hours isn’t enough. While I adamant in this, Obama has said many times throughout his presidency that shortening summer vacation would be a good thing: American children spend 180 days in school, while Scotland and Thailand both have 200-day school years. Japanese children spend 243 days in school each year. While I do think we could manage fine with shorter school days, I do think this would have to be offset by longer school years. During the summer, children forget much of what they learn during the year. Ultimately, I believe we should have shorter school days, but a longer year.
Toby Shao
Editor-in-chief When President Obama proposed longer school hours, his intent was not to increase the stress among high school students, but rather relieve it. If there was enough funding and structure to make extra time productive, students could see longer vacations and less homework. On a much broader scale, longer school hours allow economically disadvantaged students to receive more help and resources; conversely, longer hours could prevent wealthier students from gaining unfair advantages outside of class. Let’s start with the local example of Arcata High School. For the first three years of high school, students are constantly shuttled between 45-minute classes with short passing periods, short lunches, and short nutrition breaks. This cyclic style is more convenient for scheduling for the needs of a variety of different students, but is this system truly as productive as it could be? It seems to me personally that this system merits an unnecessary sense of business. Even by the time of senior year, when a student can elect to take a 5 period day, is it really that rewarding? The average American high school teenager spends 2 hours on homework on any given weekday. According to Time magazine, this is an increase from the average of 90 minutes in middle school, which is an increase from 30 minutes for the average elementary school student. Even with our very own Humboldt county’s relaxed culture Arcata High, it has been shown that we surprisingly do spend an equal amount of time doing homework as the rest of the nation. Ever since the nineties, kids 5th grade and older became the “kids with saggy backpacks” (from AP english reader 2010-2011). We began to do less and less definite work in school, and began doing more and more work at home. “I’d be fine going to school for more hours if we just started later,” senior Jack Brown said. After all, who is more productive at home than they are at school?
Do YOU think this is a good idea? Send your 150 word statement to ahs.pepperbox@gmail.com. If it is entertaining, we will publish it in our next issue.
page 9
OPINION
the PB
There are people that love to read. They love books. They love SSR (Silent Sustained Reading). They even read in their spare time. I am not one of those people. So when the administration announced that they were potentially changing SSR to SSS (Silent Sustained Reading), you can imagine that I was pretty happy. Every day during 5th period, I am forced to sit in SSR and pretend to read. I cannot express how much I dislike this time. I hate reading because there isn’t any action. There are just words on the page, and the boredom puts me to sleep. I don’t understand how people can picture what’s happening in the book if they haven’t actually seen it. Mrs. Lehman has tried to get me to read. Last year, she tried giving me dozens of books. With each book, I’d begin and like it at first but within the second chapter or so the boredom hit, and I would stop. She tried so hard to get me to like a book. It was obviously just a waste of this crazy woman’s time and yet the craziness has not gone away because she is still trying to get me to like books (she should give up on that). No offense, Mrs. Lehman. I would like to like books. I just can’t.
I have Mrs. Teasley for SSR this year. Mrs. Teasley loves to read so much! At the end of SSR everyday, she doesn’t want to stop reading. The class tells her that it’s time to stop reading, and she looks at the clock and closes her book with a saddened look in her eyes. You can tell that she is disappointed by the look on her face. If you think of a book, Mrs. Teasley has read it. But Mrs. Teasleys are a minority in my world. I can think of hundreds of people right off the top of my head that really don’t like SSR. Trust me, when SSR switches to SSS (Silent Sustained Study) many more of the students in this school will be happier. I know that because I have talked to many different students about SSS. “Hellz Yea! I was sick of SSR!” said freshman Ryan Tibulski. “Are you serious!? I can finally have a place to finish my homework instead of lunch! I have been waiting for something similar to this! I can’t wait!” said sophmore Brian Peterson. Those are just a couple of the things that were said. People who don’t like SSR could study or finish homework. People who like reading could read instead of doing homework or something similar to that
Every day during 5th period, I am forced to sit in SSR and pretend to read. I cannot express how much I dislike this time. I hate reading because there isn’t any action. There are just words on the page, and the boredom puts me to sleep.
so, Mrs. Teasley, you don’t have to freak out because you can still read your books. I, personally, am probably the most excited about getting rid of SSR and replacing it with SSS. I would love to have SSR changed to SSS. That way, I wouldn’t have to rush to finish my homework in class or do it at home. I could do it during SSS and that’s right before the only class I get homework in, so it’d be perfect. I know other people would appreciate being able to finish their not completed homework also. There are many, many people that don’t turn in their homework. Some say that they don’t have enough time in class and others say that they don’t want to do it at home. Well
now that problem is fixed with SSS. You can work just a little bit in class and then you can work during SSS and that’s more than enough time to finish your homework. I bet people’s grades will be elevating very quickly after SSS gets started and people will also start turning in homework much more. That’s a good enough reason right there to change SSR to SSS. That’s all I have to say on the subject. Let’s hope they don’t keep it SSR. Ironically, after writing this article, I actually finished a book called Boot Camp by Todd Strasser. It is a very good book, and I recommend reading it.
Brian Then demonstrating his hate for books.
Zoe Tinseth/PEPPERBOX
tuesday, may 22, 2012
OPINION
page 10
the PB
The Gulf of...Mutants? Shea Hamilton Reporter
Two years ago, 4.9 million barrels of crude oil flooded into the Gulf of Mexico, and the leak never really stopped. The spill resulted in the mass death of creatures living in and around the Gulf, a toxic coastline, and the destroyed livelihoods of many fishermen. This year, the creatures that survived the spill have born a generation of mutated monstrosities. According to Al Jazeera, the genetic defects discovered so far include: “shrimp with tumors on their heads; fish that lack eyes or are missing flaps over their gills; fish with oozing sores; crabs with holes in their shells; crabs that are missing claws and spikes, or are encased in soft shells instead of hard ones.” The mutations are the result of chemical dispersants poured into the Gulf in efforts to remove the oil from the water’s surface. During the 87-day spill, so-called “experts” were called in on decisions of how to cap the spill and how to deal with the crude oil that had entered the Gulf. Clean-up efforts ranged from burning the oil, filtering it offshore, and collecting it for later processing. But largely, the main course of action was to use chemical dispersant, which is debatably worse for the environment than the oil. Where the crude oil stuck mainly to the surface of the Gulf, the dispersant caused the chemically-dissolved oil to reach multiple levels of ocean life beneath the surface. These chemicals meant the deaths of not just fish, but creatures such as whales and dolphins too. During the spill, there was a media storm revolving around the di-
saster, but today the issue is largely removed from the public eye. The news of the mutations was heartbreaking to some, but not to all AHS students. “[Who cares about] the animals,” senior Ruby Landen said, sounding like a stereotypical corporate executive behind closed doors. Others were simply disappointed. “I wish we could have a BP oil spill... but on people. I just really love the taste of mutated humans,” senior Kaylee Savage-Wright said. According to CNN, “Forty percent of the fish harvested in the lower 48 states comes from the Gulf of Mexico.” The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has maintained that this seafood is safe to eat, despite the deformities that have been uncovered. British Petroleum, the company responsible for the 2010 Oil Spill, agrees with the FDA’s statement. Yet not everyone is trusting of the FDA’s stance on the mutated animals. “Another reason not to eat seafood.” Johanna Mauro, AHS teacher said. Others hold an even stronger opinion. “[I hate] the FDA... because they do nothing …” June Rosen, AHS senior said. Rosen expressed her desire to become an environmental activist because of the FDA’s failures. A similar sentiment is held by many Americans who are frustrated with the lax policies of many government agencies’ towards protecting the environment or even the health of the citizenry. The FDA cannot possibly have had time to adequately test these mutated creatures, as they
have only shown up within the past year, in wake of a disaster that was only two years ago. In all likelihood, the mutated food could have ill effects on those who consume it, such as causing birth defects or cancers.
rate employees interested in downplaying disasters and generating positive public relations for their companies. Those who care for the environment need to wrest control from corporate interests such as the
The genetic defects discovered so far include “Shrimp with tumors on their heads; fish that lack eyes or are missing flaps over their gills; fish with oozing sores; crabs with holes in their shells; crabs that are missing claws and spikes, or are encased in soft shells instead of hard ones.” But there is also the potential for superpowers; this could be the year of the Teenage Mutant Ninja shrimp, protecting America’s border’s from illegal immigrants! The world can learn from how the BP oil spill was handled, in the future we can use better preventive measures to avoid disasters, focus on having better rapid response times, and find better “experts” to fix
problems. We do not need cor-
po-
highly influential oil companies, to ensure that something like this does not happen again. An immense body of water will now be a toxic dump for generations to come, the creatures that still live are spawning mutants, and the government claims that all is well (and edible). How far is humanity willing to go in the destruction of the planet, how soon before it’s too late?
Mmmm... does this FDA approved mutant fish from the Gulf of Mexico look appetizing or what? Shea Hamilton/PEPPERBOX
tuesday, may 22, 2011
RETRO
the PB
page 11
The quest for the first Pepperbox Elaine Cunha
Sports Editor
The Pepperbox. Admittedly, it is a strange name for a newspaper. The name’s origin is subject to legends passed down through generations of Pepperboxers. Supposedly, a box of some sort placed in the library collected students’ suggestions and eventually transformed into a newspaper. Until a few weeks ago, even the date of the Pepperbox could only be calculated using simple math: As we are currently publishing Volume 84, the Pepperbox theoretically began in 1929 (assuming a new volume was published every year).
Each year the Pepperbox staff changes. Most of the students that take the course are seniors, so every year the voice of the paper changes. We have a very limited definition of our history, and yet we try to uphold some sense of tradition. For this issue, I set out to find the Holy Grail of the Pepperbox: Volume 1, Issue 1. So I went straight to our librarian, Mrs. Berube, who directed me to the stacks of bound editions filled with Pepperboxes of the past. Yet the oldest issue I could find was from 1959: Volume 33, Issue 1. What struck me immediately was how similar the subject matter of Pepperboxes from 60 and 70 years ago was to what we print today. They documented the breaking of school sports records, budget cuts, and choir trips, all of which are covered in our issues. It was an avenue for “promoting pep through publicity,” a motto that was printed on the inside cover of every issue. The articles actively encouraged school spirit and student attendance of school functions by printing huge headlines on the front page, like “Let’s beat Mack tonight!” and “Support our spirit!” It was published biweekly, but the articles were much shorter, the ads were smaller, and the entire paper was only
four pages long. Despite its length, it still seemed to effectively cover almost every aspect of Arcata High School: each issue recounted the previous week’s activities of almost every club, sports team, class and student group on campus. I spent weeks paging through the old issues but eventually had to face the fact that I was only 51 volumes closer to finding the very first Pepperbox. Weeks ensued of contacting retired AHS librarians, calling former Pepperbox advisors, and paging through ancient yearbooks, but nothing led me anywhere. My trail went dead for weeks. Just when it seemed like Pepperboxes predating the library’s collection were nonexistent, a clerk from the Humboldt Room of the HSU Library directed me to the Humboldt County Historical Society. A quick field trip to their headquarters in Eureka produced unexpected and satisfying results. While they did not have Volume 1, Issue 1, they did possess a few scattered issues from the 1940s and a solid collection from the 50s. Once I hit the 1950s, the box listing the editors contained the key information I was looking for: “Established 1927.” Finally, a definite, reliable date for the origin of the Pepperbox. The substance of these issue was, again, strikingly similar to what we report today, but there were a few stories uniquely different to the time period. The most glaring of these differences was the war. To many students, the war today is something distant happening far away on another continent. It doesn’t affect us. There are no rubber rations stopping interscholastic sports and the entire student body is not vying to
join the Junior Red Cross. Sure, a couple of AHS grads join the army ever year, but we do not publish an entire column documenting where they have been sent, who has been wounded and who is missing or dead. The struggles of Pepperboxers from the 1940s are uniquely different to those of students today, but that exemplifies what the Pepperbox tradition is all about. The Pepperbox represents a distinctive student voice throughout history from one of the most distinctive places on Earth. It provides by far the most accurate documentation of high school life from the 1900s, and its history continues to grow with every issue we publish. And who knows? Maybe 50 years from now a future Pepperboxer will look back and gaffaw at the length of Grace Iverson’s skirt from Volume 84, Issue 1, much like how we gaffaw at the ad for bell bottom pants from the 70s. Maybe they will be surprised that our school did not field a Varsity football team last year, much like when they stopped interscholastic sports in the 40s. Or maybe they will be intrigued with our report of a student’s life with muscular dystrophy, way back before there was a cure. For many, the Pepperbox is just a school newspaper. But it’s more than that. It’s a conversation, spanning decades, filled with the trials and tribulations of thousands of high school students. It perpetually reflects the unique culture of a single school hidden behind the Redwood Curtain on the northern coast of California. Beginning with this issue, the Pepperbox will reprint articles “from the archives,” featuring relevant articles from Pepperboxes of the past.
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tuesday, may 22, 2012
RETRO
Haunted House Frights Back
Originally Published April 14, 1972 Once upon a time, there was a haunted house. Some Arcata High athletes used to take people there and scare the hell out of them. It was during a unique occurrence that the athletes came to meet their fate one gloomy night. The plan was to have somebody stash away in the house by 8 p.m. (or dark) and approximately ten minutes later, two athletes would bring the “victim” to the house. They would crawl in the front window and proceed up the stairs. The person, not knowing what was happening, would open the door upstairs to find another lying inside acting dead. When the guy sees this, he’s in a state of shock because two others jump out and attack him. Needless to say, the guy swallows his heart. After doing this successfully for some time, the athletes were preparing their new victim for the scare. Everything was going smoothly, and the boys were patiently waiting inside the house. The two guys brought their victim and as they stepped into the house, a distant voice was heard. The owner of the house was coming down the road, and it was easy to tell from the tone of his voice he was upset. The guys who had just stepped in the house, scattered throughout the fields which surrounded the house. Not knowing what was occurring, the guys waited patiently upstairs for the victim. As the owner and his wife reached the house, they took down the license plate number of both cars they found. What happened next is the clincher. The owner proceeded to search the house for the kids who were on his property. First he searched the bottom floors, then headed upstairs. He continued up until he came to the door where the guys were waiting. He kicked open the door, and the guys thinking he was the victim attacked him. Whooping and hollering could be heard for miles around. These were both the sounds of the boys trying to frighten a buddy and the owner expressing his desire for the boys to remove their bodies from the premise. So goes the fairy tale of the Arcata athletes and their haunted house expedition.
Full Day of Broadcasting For Arcata High Station
the PB
Memorial to Don WalkenShaw to be Dedicated Tomorrow Originally Published Febraury 23, 1950 Dedication of the Don Walkenshaw memorial flagpole will be held tomorrow, Friday, Feb. 24 at 11:30 o’clock. Walkenshaw, popular athlete and senior student, was the victim of a drowning accident at Big Lagoon on the senior picnic last May 19. The flagpole-memorial is the result of contributions of students and townspeople who wished to commemorate the student.
the PB
tuesday, may 22, 2012
RETRO
New chemistry teacher is merciless but charismatic
Originally Published November 16, 1990 If you thought that the tests in Ervil Pigg’s classes were hard you should try taking one of Earl Peter”s tests! Although Peters is the new chemistry teacher he has taken no mercy on the students here. After a chemistry test some students have commented that “the chemistry tests were so hard,” but have to come back to say, “I really like the class though!” “I think that I fit in pretty well with the students here,” Peters says. Peters says he likes it here at AHS not only because he likes what he is teaching, but because he likes the students here as well. Peters has been teaching for four years full-time and has had the experience of teaching in the desert area and Northern California as well. He taught at a junior high and also at McKinleyville High. “The students in the desert land were much younger and not as academically inclined,” stated Peters. He feels that because of the college being so close that the parents here are better educated and the students are interested more in getting a better education. When asked how he felt about coming to AHS to teach, he commented, “great,” “eager,” and “interested.” He also said he was curious as to what it would be like. Peters says that AHS is “better than what I expected.” “The main difference between AHS and McKinleyville is that the students here are more like city kids where the students at MHS are more like country kids,” says Peters. Although MHS students told Peters that AHS would be different from their school, he is pleased overall with the atmosphere at Arcata High.
Junior Red Cross helps with war effort Originally Published 1942
At last we have an answer to our wish, for a chance to help with the war effort now. We are all asked to join the Junior Red Cross and help with the war relief. We all know the results of the Red Cross during times of need, not only during war, but in peace they always seem to be giving aid. There are things that anyone could make and more than that, almost anything to suit an individual taste. Scrap books and knitted articles are appreciated and also something we can make as well as adults. Why doesn’t each homeroom start a project like making a scrap book of jokes or stories for convalescing service men to enjoy or make newspaper mattresses? There seem to be a few students in each homeroom that don’t study, so why can’t we also help and contribute something to help with our project? With a little cooperation we would soon have a nice contribution and also be backing up our service men.
A floor plan for Arcata High’s new $400,000 gymnasium. -Originally Published April 25, 1951
Originally Published April 2, 1971 KAHS, Arcata High’s radio station, is now a radio station actually broadcasting on the air. As of last week you can pick up KAHS at 88.8 on your FM dial. Their broadcast day starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. They then return to the air at 7 a.m. and sign off at 10 p.m. This is during the week only. Rich Jones broadcasting on-air for KAHS.
The Pepperbox would like to thank the Humboldt County Historical Society for allowing us to reproduce articles from their collection.
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Bob Robertson - A returning starter from last year’s team, is quick for a big man and is an aggressive rebounder. Originally Published 1971
On the leftOriginally Published November 9, 1973 (This “Burger Shoppe” later became known as Star’s Hamburgers.) On the rightOriginally Published December 15, 1972
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tuesday, may 22, 2012
RETRO
the PB
Choral Excursions
A Marquee for Arcata
Originally Published March 17, 1961
Madrigal Choir Goes To S.F. Originally Published May 2, 1969 A trip to San Francisco, a Broadway musical, and lots of singing are in store for the Madrigal Choir on their annual trip this year. The choir planned to leave on Saturday, May 10, but due to a lack of funds, they may have to leave on Sunday, May 11. Meanwhile, Madrigal is trying to earn extra money for a four-day trip. While in San Francisco, they plan to travel to Concord to sing at the College Park High School and the Pine Hollow Intermediate School. There is a large shopping center in Concord for the Madrigal members to shop while they are there. After returning to San Francisco, they will see “George M.,” a Broadway musical on the life of George M. Cohan. They will return on Tuesday and make several stops to sing at high schools along the route home to Arcata. The boys will stay at the Fielding Hotel and the girls will stay in the Golden State during their visit in San Francisco. Arcata’s Advanced band will also be going to San Francisco on May 18 and 19 after a parade in Ukiah.
Photo Courtesy of Laurie Takao
Members of Arcata High’s Madrigal Choir sing in the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Madrigal Choir Goes To Paris Toby Shao
Toby Shao/PEPPERBOX
Impressionist sculpture near Musée de l’Orangerie, Paris
“We got to see things we wouldn’t have been able to afford on our own.” --Madrigal Choir senior Rich Macy
Toby Shao/ PEPPERBOX
the PB
Continuing a time-honored traEditor-in-Chief dition, the Arcata High School Madrigal Choir took a musical expedition to Paris on April 9- April 16 2012. The choir performed in concerts at the Notre Dame cathedral and the Madeleine Church upon the first and second days of their arrival. Still jet-lagged from the 10-hour flight, the members of the choir were shuttled to Notre Dame Cathedral in a strange silence punctuated by the periodic sound of beat-boxing. “Notre Dame Cathedral was my favorite part,” senior Linden Gray-Reneburg said, “It seemed like you could stand outside of the cathedral for hours!” Beyond fulfilling the tourist demands of any foreigner who visits Paris, choir director Carol Jacobson along with trip organizer and parent Laurie Takao worked with Educational Discovery Tours to fill the itinerary with many exclusive musical experiences. In only one week of travelling, the choir travelled to the Paris Opera, attended a master-class in a French musical school, and saw a live performance of Mozart’s requiem. Choir spent very little time in their own hotel rooms. “The entire trip was so intense; so musical!” Jacobson exclaimed. A French authority escorted the choir to the altarium of the cathedral that was restricted to the public. The Madrigal Choir’s 30 minute performance of sacred music. “It was a humbling, and inspiring; it made me feel part of an ancient tradition,” Jacobson said, “I noticed more camaraderie and musical intention in the group.” There were periods of up to three hours when the choir was left to their own accord to explore, shop, or enjoy the world-famous cuisine. “I wish I had more money,” senior Taylor Hawkins said.
Miss Ruth Carroll offered a marquee to Arcata High to be erected when we decided on the exact one we want. she said is at the Homecoming assembly on October 9. The sign could be located anywhere that the students decided it should be. This would probably be in front of the school. A marquee is a lighted sign on which removable letters are placed. It tells of sports, plays, or happenings of interest for the upcoming weekend. Miss Carroll stated that she would donate one when we picked out one that we liked. It would be similar to the one out at McKinleyville High School. A committee has been formed and has written to a company for information about it.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
RETRO
page 15
A new marquee for Arcata Kasey Cather
Reporter
Every day you drive up into the parking lot and are welcomed by the organized chaos of high schoolers navigating their cars through pedestrian students who are trying to dodge the moving vehicles. The new marquee, with brightly colored words in multiple different colors, fills in students with important information on the happenings of Arcata High. It brings rare moments of luminescence amidst the confusion of high school. “Every day I walk through the parking lot in the morning and look up at the new sign to fill myself in on upcoming events,” Jay Larson said about the new marquee, “It’s helpful and very cool.” This new marquee is a helpful tool to everyone on the high school campus. The old marquee that was posted on the wall of the MPR was faulty and had several issues, so it was never fully functional. “This new marquee can do so much more than the old one,” principal’s secretary Monica Puzz said. The new marquee is from the company Stewarts, which built this marquee with many helpful
Zoe Tinseth/ PEPPERBOX
Arcata High’s new marquee displays information that students and faculties may find useful features. The new sign is four feet Some think the new marquee was by six feet in size, which brought up well worth the money spent. “When a few concerns. “I honestly haven’t I get to work I usually glance up really paid attention to the new at the new marquee to see what sign, it’s just too small to notice,” important information and events freshman Josiah Ennis said. are coming up,” substitute teacher Despite the size, the new marquee Mr. Johnson said. is great. It has a totally new program The marquee is a helpful investment to run the marquee, which is that is in the works of becoming updated daily by office aides. It also better. “I enjoy it, though, it looks has various colors and animations good up there,” Ennis said. that can be used across the board.
Hannah Luu/PEPPERBOX
Bill Franklin and Chris Gurnsey: our cam- THE HOTTEST COUPLE ON CAMPUS, ‘Lil Abner THE HOTTEST COUPLE ON CAMPUS, (Revisited) pus couple in one of their few leisure mo- and Daisy Mae, Steve Kirby and Janice Givens (1973) Joseph Mayer and Kat Rocker-Heppe (2012) ments (1968)
tuesday, may 22, 2012
RETRO
page 16
the PB
Olds cars > New cars Tiger Chariots Sarah Fraga
A&E Editor
1965, driving in a car made of steel and chrome, the sun is shining through the wide windows, The Temptations are playing through the dial radio. Life is good. Why? Because it’s 1965 and everything is keen and peachy. The style was better, the towns looked cleaner, the general outward appearance of everyday life in the 60s was wellgroomed and dapper. Even Arcata High School was better. Students probably didn’t complain about lack of space in the parking lot, because the cars that filled those spaces were so cool and groovy that people enjoyed looking at them and didn’t care about “those stupid sophomores who got their license too soon.” The cars weren’t just cool in the 60s though. The unique style of cars and thought put into them didn’t die out until the late 80s when the strength of steel was ditched for wimpy plastic. Old cars are better in the way that they can handle a crash, they have more history put into them, and the fact that they have lasted as long as
Originally Published March 17, 1961
they have is proof that they are durable and safe for anyone to drive. Stating his opinion about the generation difference of cars, Arcata High School Auto and Woodshop teacher Mr. Williams said, “I think that there are two different cultures. Old cars were made of steel - they were made to be put through a lot of punishment. They were made so that the common person, with a certain amount of intelligence, could actually work it. On the other hand the new cars are made from composite materials and plastic, which is more oil
It’s 1965 and everything is keen and peachy. The style was better, the towns looked cleaner, the general outward appearance of everyday life in the 60s was well-groomed and dapper. Even Arcata High School was better.
consumption with a tremendous amount of electronics...kind of like the computer versus the abacus.” Williams said about the classic remakes, “It’s nothing more than commercialism and its GM and Ford taking back more money from the boomers that drove the 69 Camaros, Fords, and Cobras. They’re just playing into the money again. I don’t know, they’re ok. I just don’t like the way they’re doing it.” It is argued that old cars, for example with a V8 and a 289 engine, take up more gas, but they get up to 25 miles to the gallon, which is more practical than a lot of modern cars. In no way am I implying that old cars should be produced again. The Ford car company has tried and they are not true to the original body, and in my opinion are just disrespectful to the class and originality of the old steel automobiles. But factoring in the new cars that are less durable and use up more oil with the plastic they are made of, restoration to old cars seems to be worth the money and time. Even if it’s just to keep that generation’s memory alive.
A 1931 Ford Roaster that belongs to Jolyon Hofsted and Helen Thacker is this issues Tiger Chariot. The chariot is powder blue with red trim and red upholstery. It was just painted and still needs the paint job rubbed out. The roaster houses a 1953 full race engine with a three two-barrel Stromberg 97 carburators. It is gerared with a '39 Ford transmission that is linked to a foureleven rear end. With this, Joly thinks it should run failrly well. The body is channelled four inches to add class, Joly has put a polar bear skin on the floor board. Helen said, "I think it is cute, but I don't like two things about it. It doesn't have a started and it only has on seat, so when Joly and I go anywhere, I have to sit on a pillow on the floor." Joly and Helen''s future plans are to rub the paint job out and run the roadster at the drags.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
SPORTS
the PB
Hurdling past a school record Forrest Lewis
News Editor
Perhaps its destiny, but sophomore Lauren McCoy’s name has been on the Arcata High School track and field record board for three years. “When James Washington first made the record board he meant to put my sister’s name on it for triple jump,” McCoy said. “But I guess he was just really excited that I was about to be a freshman so he accidently put my name on it instead of hers.” At the end of this season, however, McCoy will have her name rightfully placed on the record board among Arcata High’s greatest athletes. On Friday, May 4th, McCoy set the school record for the 300 meter hurdles with a time of 45.98 seconds.
“She’s ranked three but I’m hoping she will be a one. That’s a coach of dreams talking. And she’s gonna do it.” --AHS track and field coach James Washington Running, it seems, is in McCoy’s DNA. At 5’11’’, jumping over hurdles comes naturally to McCoy. “The hurdles are shorter than my legs!” McCoy laughed. McCoy’s oldest sister ran track at HSU and was nominated All American for the 400 meter hurdles. Built to run, McCoy began training early. “I started hurdles in 5th grade,” McCoy stated. “Sunnybrae invited all interested 5th graders to run with their track team.” For the next four years, McCoy ran for Sunnybrae
Sarah Fraga/PEPPERBOX
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Middle School, mostly doing the 100 meter hurdles and occasionally the 200 meter. Freshman year she began her career doing the 300 meter hurdle. With the help of Coach James Washington, she perfected her form and concluded freshman year running a solid 47.43 at the Meet of Champions (MOCs) in Berkeley. McCoy began her sophomore track season right where she left off the previous year. On April 26, 2012 she came 0.04 seconds away from breaking the school record. “I was like, ‘shoot that’s so close!’” recalled McCoy. As it turns out, McCoy was misinformed on what the actual record time was and had just beaten it by a quarter second. “I finished the meet like, ‘shoot I didn’t do it’ but in reality I did,” McCoy said. Unbeknownst to the fact that she already broke the school record, McCoy set out to finally surpass it. When the moment arrived, she did not just break the school record, she shattered it. With a time of 45.98 seconds, sophomore Lauren McCoy cut the all-time record for the 300 meter hurdles by a full second. To put this in perspective, when Usain Boldt gained fame for being the fastest man alive at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he only shaved a mere 0.02 seconds off the world record. But McCoy was not finished. She continued to train based on pure self-motivation and found herself at the North Coast Sections (NCS) meet on Saturday, May 19, 2012 at Santa Rosa High School. In an act of phenomenal skill, McCoy once again beat the school record as well as her own. With a time of 44.63 seconds, McCoy cut another 1.35 seconds off her seemingly unbeatable time. McCoy attributed this breathtaking achievement to two
factors: “It was partially the weather a catfish in the middle of the sumbecause I was able to be so warm mer” Mayer said. Coach James when I ran and also there was a per- Washington is proud of McCoy’s son right in front of me so I actually achievement. “I call her a multihad someone to race against which talented athlete cause she can do is unusual.” anything,” Washington said. “If we Next weekend, McCoy and her need 10 points here she’ll run it and team will represent Arcata High she’ll get it. It’s an honor to have her. Meet of Champions at Berkeley. I take my hat off to Lauren for the There, she aims to continue her things she’s streak and qualify for state. “Right done.” now, I’m ranked 3rd going into that meet which means if I can run my usual speed I am likely to advance,” McCoy said. Coach James Washington believes McCoy will do more than just advance. “When she broke the record the first time there was a headwind,” Washington said. “I was shocked that she could break it in the headwind. This week we’re heading down south and I’m hoping she’ll break her own record cause she’ll have some competition to run against. She’s ranked three but I’m hoping she will be a one. That’s a coach of dreams talking. And she’s gonna do it.” McCoy’s dedication is viewed highly by her track teammates. “In every race Lauren gives 110%...plus her lunch” joked sophomore Jose Lopez, referring to the fact that McCoy has a tendency to push herself so hard Originally published April 21, 1943 that she sometimes throws The girls gym classes have been carrying on contests for physical up parts of fitness and the following records her lunch after were made: races. Senior Jump and reach—20” Marlis Knap Joe Mayer is Distance throw—74’ Lila Peters marveled by Pull ups—27 Doris Walkenshaw 26 yd. dash—3.3 sec. Maline Walsh McCoy’s speed. “She’s so fast she’s faster than
Girls Keep Fit
Photo Courtesy of Darcy Robins
tuesday, may 22, 2012
SPORTS
page 18
the PB
Baseball Superstitions Kasey Cather
Reporter
The smell of freshly cut grass and hotdogs on the grill, the sounds of the crowd cheering and the crack of the bat, a sport full of childhood memories. This is the game of baseball, a true American sport. At Arcata High, baseball is a big part of the sporting events, the boys and the fans are truly dedicated to the sport. “I have been playing this sport since I was five, and I still love it,” Varsity baseball player Will Taylor said. Baseball is widely considered to be the most superstitious game out there, from pre-game warmups to
in-game rituals. “Every time I come up to bat, I spit in my left, then right hand, rub them together and hope for a hit,” Taylor said. The players go a little overboard with their “warm ups.” “At the beginning of every game, I shake Will’s hand - straight handshake, none of that fancy stuff,” Varsity baseball player Cameron Wallace said. “Rolled-up pants and unwashed socks always do me good,” laughed Taylor. Whatever the boys are doing out there, obviously it is working for them. In all sports, someone has to step up to the plate and be the leader, the role-model. “The seniors really took the lead this season, they stepped up to lead the team,” said AHS head baseball coach Troy Ghisetti. Ghisetti spoke of taking on every team in the league as hard as they can, “Every team in the league was a competition.” Ghisetti said. This team works the same way every year, and it always seems to work, “Practice is always the same the day before game day, so the boys know what’s coming from freshmen year to senior year.”
Kasey Cather/PEPPERBOX
Junior Will Taylor practices his superstititious spit-in-hand technique. This is a hold strong team, like every sport you become close to all the other players. “ This team looks strong, everyone is working hard out there and doing what they are supposed to be doing,” Kauffman said. The team at Arcata High is made up of all athletes from all other season. Star players include soccer players, basketball players, and even a few wrestlers. They are all wellrounded athletes and very in shape
coming into the season. “To be a good baseball player, you have to be outta shape,” Taylor joked. “ This is the time of year I just try to get out of shape.” Baseball is a true sport here in the homeland. It puts all those other sports to shame. Just nothing better than watching a good game of ball on a warm sunny day. Will Taylor summed it up in a few lovely words: “I’m not an athlete, I’m a baseball player.”
“Every time I come up to bat, I spit in my left, and then right hand, rub them together and hope for a hit.”
--Superstitious baseball player Will Taylor
tuesday, may 22, 2012
the PB
P R A I S E
Hannah Photo LuuManager
Senior Felicia Watson told the Pepperbox, “It is only 11 a.m. and I have already gotten five compliments from my family.” Watson receives around 20 compliments a day and this is not unusual. However, recent studies have proven praise is not always beneficial in one’s development. Columbia University conducted a study that found 85% of American parents felt the need to tell their kid they were smart. American parents often place a strong emphasis upon building up their child’s selfconfidence and as a result children receive copious amounts of compliments throughout their lives. According to research, praise results in a twofold response: 1) children develop a severe fear of failure and 2) they sometimes do things for more praise rather than simply enjoying an activity. Reed College reported that children who receive too much praise will often chose to drop out of a class rather than receive a mediocre grade. The idea of failure is so frightening that children often refuse to try new activities because of the risk. Another problem for college students is an ability to pick a
Hannah Luu/PEPPERBOX
A sign reading “good job” praises students as they enter Beachcomber Cafe across from Jacoby Creek School.
FEATURE
major or make major life decisions. Extensive compliments will eventually become the main driving force in a child’s activities. Children can become dependent upon compliments and obsessed with how others perceive them. One’s self-image becomes the main concern of praised children. Studies show Asian American children receive far fewer compliments their nonAsian equivalents. One such study sent children into a room to take a two-part test. Right before their break, parents were falsely informed their children were failing the test. At break, parents acted in two reactions. The non-Asian parents avoided all negative comments and remained highly positive. They often avoided the subject of the test and instead discussed “what was for dinner.” In sharp contrast, the Asian parents discussed with their children the importance of the test and how they could do better. At the end, the Asian children’s’ scores raised 33%, more than twice the gain of their non-Asian counterparts. Asian mothers do have a stereotype for being stricter; most recently the “tiger mother.” Their culture has a higher emphasis on doing one’s very best; not trying your very best. And even when the child does the best they can, they do not always get copious amounts of praise. Arcata High’s top three students in the senior class are Asian. Nine out of the 19 students in AP English Literature and Composition are Asian. Wayne Zhong, salutatorian of AHS, explained his family dynamics: “If you are expecting a grand party for your award or accomplishment, you better pack your bags and move to a different home.” It is not uncommon for children to receive much praise for simple showing
page 19 an effort; no matter how minimal an effort is. In the end could this have negative consequences? If your parents are proud of a C on a test, why should you bother working for an A? Parents are not the only people who have integrated praise into their children’s lives. Across the street from Jacoby Creek School at the Beachcomber Café, a huge sign is located directly above the door reading “good job.” In a recent Jacoby Creek newsletter, parents were told to “encourage growth in your child’s demonstration of respect by being liberal with praise.” Praise is slowly infecting everything, everyone, everywhere. But is it having the reverse effect of what is intended? As more and more studies show the correlation between praise and decreased efficiency, the future of compliments is uncertain.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
FEATURE
page 20
The PB
Greek yogurt: Better than regular Annie Ewald
Reporter
Not too long ago, my taste buds were blessed with a taste so heavenly, it was almost unreal. This was the day I first tried Greek yogurt. Why Greek yogurt over regular cow milk yogurt you might ask? Well to start, it is tangier and less sweet, as well as creamier. This combination makes for an explosion in the mouth. According to an article on Greek yogurt, in the past five years, Greek yogurt sales nationwide have gone up, likely because it satisfies consumers’ needs for health, convenience, and taste. This yogurt can substitute for higher-fat dairy products, to help maintain balance in your digestive tract and provide essential protein. Per ounce, Greek yogurt provides and additional gram of protein over traditional non-fat yogurt. Besides a higher protein count, Greek yogurt also has less sugar. This is because it is made by straining the whey off the yogurt repeatedly (to create its thick texture). During this process, much of the sugar is removed with the whey in the yogurt, making it have one-half the sugar of unsweetened, non-fat American-style yogurt.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
A&E
The PB
page 21
Bassnectar bombs Blue Lake with bass
“One of my newest discoveries is to mix in fresh fruit, it really adds to the amazing flavor.” --AHS Junior Hawken Ritter Greek yogurt is a very healthy snack among high school students. It is minimally processed and has not been heat-treated. This provides essential healthy bacteria, including acidophilus and lactobacillus. “I bring a container of ‘Chobani’ Greek yogurt to school almost every day and eat it as a mid day snack” junior Kasey Cather said with a smile on his face. “It is very filling and gives me the energy I need to get through a full day of school. It is more luscious than regular yogurt, it just melts in your mouth,” Besides plain and vanilla, there are also many delicious flavors of Greek yogurt to choose from. Some of these include, Apple Cinnamon, Blood Orange, Black Cherry, Lemon, Blueberry, Honey, Peach, Pomegranate, Strawberry, and Raspberry. I have tried almost all of these flavors and have never been let down. Among these flavors, there are also
different brands. My favorite brand fruit, it really adds to the amazing is Chobani, because they have the flavor,” Ritter said. best flavors. Some other brands inSo, next time you are in the yoclude, “Fage,” “The Greek Gods,” gurt aisle at your local supermarket, “Vasko,” and “Oikos.” These are very think again before buying regular trust worthy brands, as you can see yogurt. You will not be let down by the Greek names of them. when deciding to choose Greek yoWhen interviewing fellow class- gurt. It is creamier, smoother, and mates about their preference of yo- all around better. gurt, I came across an interesting situation. Raya West-Powers, senior at Arcata High school, mentioned that her father and step mother make their own home made yogurt. This was very fascinating to me as I would never have thought to take the time out of my day to create my own yogurt. “They kind of force it on me, but I do like it and it saves money,” said West-Powers. Besides making yogurt, her family also makes homemade granola. Granola is one of the many ingredients that goes amazingly with Greek yogurt. Junior Hawkin Ritter claims to have an eye for Greek yogurt creations. “One Hannah Luu/PEPPERBOX of my newest discov- Greek yogurt has become an essential part of my eries is to mix in fresh daily food staples.
Photo Courtesy of Charlotte Zoller
Petey Levesque Reporter
On Friday, May 11th, classes were either empty, or filled with groggy teenagers who were up most of the night attending the Bassnectar concert in Blue Lake the night before. The office secretaries had a five-page list of absences throughout the day. “I think, personally, they shouldn’t have concerts that high school students can attend on school nights,” Marie Henson explained. Bassnectar was an exhausting experience, but that is only because I had possibly a bit too much fun dancing. Bruised ribs, bruised hips, bruised feet. Bassnectar toured the country this spring, leaving injured dubstep fiends scattered across the nation due to the intensity. He performed at the Blue Lake Casino on Thursday, May 10th. Many Arcata High School students gathered at the show, many managing to squeeze their way into the cramped front row. Pulling up to the casino, we
saw many people we would claim as friends, but didn’t because of their crazy outfits. Most everyone was prepared for the temperature and dressed in somewhat revealing attire. The people we came across were vastly different; for some, Bassnectar is their favorite producer, while others just heard about his show. The one thing everyone had in common was that they were there to have a good time. We entered through the casino and found many friends in line. Of course there were two lines through security so the female security guard could check the ladies, while the man checked the guys. Once we made it through security, the opening to the large white tent was in view, and we entered. It was a high-ceilinged cavern full of eager concertgoers dressed in breathable clothing, with crazily costumed goons scattered throughout. We grooved to the second opener (we arrived too late to catch the first, Mr. Projectile), VibeSquaD, as he built anticipation for the highlight of the
show: Bassnectar. When Bassnectar took the stage, the crowd went crazy. The tent was filled to the back wall, pushing everyone together, creating a mass of soon-to-besweaty bodies. “The show was a lot better this year than last—I really liked the sweat dripping from the ceiling,” senior Juniper Rosen said. The condensation generated by the hot breaths and bodies of the audience was so intense the ceiling itself was sweating. Everyone danced and screamed until the show ended at 11:30, Bassnectar having played for two hours.
Dubstep is a genre of electronic music characterized by a tempo of 138142, with a clap or snare on the third beat of every measure.
“I really loved the show and I was While many people surprised when it call Bassnectar was over.” dubstep, he actual-- AHS sophomore ly spans many othTim Baer er genres as well.
tuesday, may 22, 2012
A&E
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the PB
the PB
tuesday, may 22, 2012
A&E
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Pepperbox Music Review: Reporter Scofield rates Datsik’s new album “Vitamin D” an 8 out of 10 intro that has a sample and then drops into a simple OG3 wobble10 line with trademark alien synths behind it. “Complete Control” is one of those filler tracks to me; well-made and easy to listen to, but not anything special.
Michael Scofield
Music is arguably the most wonderful thing in this world. Whether new or old, music continues to captivate the world’s attention decade after decade. Troy Beetles, also known as Datsik, has been producing music since 2008 and is known as one of the originators of gangster dubstep1. The dark, mechanical sounds invoke the feel of a robotic apocalypse, especially in his earlier works such as Against The Machines EP and Boom EP. Datsik’s most recent and first studio album, Vitamin D, is co-produced with artists Infected Mushroom, Downlink, Messinian and Z-Trip. Vitamin D is an epically brutal turn from Datsik’s usual production techniques. He incorporates a constant background setting with mellow alien-like stabbing sounds2 and symphonic light synths while leaving his main flowing synths and heavy bass lines intact. The songs from Vitamin D were less focused on his OG3 roots and more focused on production quality and keeping up with the EDM4 scene. In all of his songs you can still distinctly hear the old Datsik swag5, but there is a new advanced feel that wasn’t there before... Reporter
1. “Annihilate”
Starts the album off strong. “Annihilate” has an old school feel with heavy, flowing bass. The whole song has a likable but creepy feel to it and sets the tone for the rest of the album. It’s easily one of my favorites off of the album.
2. “Fully Blown” ft. Snak The Ripper This track has a poppy intro but breaks into the type of dubstep that all Datsik fans know and love. Snak’s lyrics make it a bit more listenable, but overall they don’t add much to the song. “Fully Blown” makes for a solid and listenable second track.
3. “Syndrome”
Co-produced by Downlink, is a masterpiece. With a steady orchestral pulse the song builds then breaks repeatedly, eventually transitioning into a chorus of talking bass6 then breaking again. “Syndrome” is a wonderful piece of work, and easily the most flowing song on the album.
5. “Evilution” ft. Johnathan Davis
Co-produced with Infected Mushroom. “Evilution” turned out to be the best produced song on the album. The track doesn’t sound at all like stereotypical Datsik. The incorporation of minor key melodies and Jonathan’s vocals make this track incredibly dark and reminiscent of 4. “Bonafide Hustler” the Nu Metal band Korn. Starts out with a simple intro, “Evilution” definitely holds a main synth with some arpeg- a place in the top tracks of gios7 going in the background, the album. but drops into arguably the best drop on the album. The hard hitting drop flows immediately into a swaying bass and eventually into well placed lyrics that remind you of the good old (OG)3 days of Datsik’s music career. It’s possibly my favorite track.
10. “Punisher”
Co-produced with Downlink. “Punisher” has a simple buildup but a drop to remember. When the song drops it flows right into a talking bass6 line that is followed by a perfectly placed stabby2 synth. The song has Datsik and Downlink written all over it and is a must listen track.
ing synth note that is held out through most of four measures and then goes into a more melodic synth line. The song in general is more melodic than most others on the album and is another track that goes on the must listen list.
12. “Double Trouble”
Co-produced with Z-Trip. Starting with heavy drums, minor simple arpeggios7 and vocals, “Double Trouble” definitely remains true to the classic Datsik formula. The drop incorporates some of Z-Trip’s record scratching sounds, which greatly adds to the song as a whole. The added vocals and scratching make it unique and pleasing to the 11. “Napalm” ears. “Double Trouble” is a great fin Co-produced with Messiniah. ishing track to a great album. “Napalm” starts out with a classic Overall, I would give the album The album cover for Datsik’s “Vitamin D.” Datsik intro: minor progression a rating of 8/10. If you like dubstep instruments over the opening synth, hip-hop drums and even- and want to listen to some good 6. “Need You” music, check out Vitamin D. Starts up with a poppy synth synth. “Don’t Feel Right” is an tually vocal sample to drop. Its
progression and female vocals, and then drops into a twitchy8 sounding progression of sounds with the occasional vocal sample here and there. “Need You” was the least captivating of the songs from the first listen through but it eventually grew on me.
7. “Don’t Feel Right”
awesome track that holds a place unique drop uses one descendin my heart.
8. “Light The Fuse”
Has a strong house drum pattern that makes you want to jump when starting up the track. The buildup starts with uprising sounds under vocals, eventually dropping into a surprisingly dancy progression of wobbles10 and synths. The song breaks into a hardly less calm section of clicky11 synths and another buildup with vocals. “Light The Fuse” is a very strong and likeable track.
Includes a simple arpeggiated synth progression that is distinctly Datsik. Next it drops into a simple crunched up9 wobble10 that eventually concludes in a robotic sounding wave of noise that is truly quite delightful. The middle break of the song is my favorite part because it harmoni- 9. “Complete Control” cally incorporates orchestral Cuts to the chase with a short
For your reference, a list of musical diction: 1. Gangster Dubstep: Slow progressions of swelling bass and minor key synths, based over a hip hop drum beat. 2. Stabbing Sounds “Stabby”: short sounds that are more treble dominant. 3. OG: Original Gangster. Oldschool. 4. EDM: Electronic Dance Music. 5. Swag: Style. 6. Talking Bass: Bass that sounds like someone talking. 7. Arpeggios: Notes in a chord being played in a specific sequence unique to each arpeggio. 8. Twitchy: Unpredictable. Sporadic. 9. Crunched up: Rough sounding. Unfiltered. 10. Bass Wobble “Wobbles”: Heavy bass sounds swelling at a certain note value. 11. Clicky: Sounds that have a treble dominant start, creating a clicking sound.
Smith Sightings Celebrity Will “Fresh Prince” Smith has been seen in the sleepy, coastal town of Arcata, California. What is he doing here? How long will he stay? These people know something... Witnesses: Kaitlan and Kylie Tatro (AHS Juniors) Location: Bear River Casino Date: April 29th, 2012 Event: The Tatro twins were staying at the same hotel as Mr. Smith. While they were exiting the elevator to go about on their adventures Mr. Smith was entering to head in for the night. The girls quickly seized the opportunity to snap a picture of the famous celebrity. They promptly posted it to Facebook where it got over 100 likes rapidly. While about the hotel the girls also saw Jaden Smith, Mr. Smith’s son, from afar. Shown at left: Kylie Tatro with Will Smith Photo Courtesy of Kaitlan Tatro
Witnesses: Co-op Employees Location: Humboldt County Co-ops Date: April 2012 Event: It has been reported that members of the crew of After Earth went to a Co-op in Humboldt and spent over 1000 dollars. This is a good sign for our local economy and that “big city folk” care about all natural, organic, sustainable food. Shown at right: The Arcata Co-op, location of organic shopping spree
Witnesses: Eureka Resident Location: Eureka Boardwalk Date: April 2012 Event: While a Eureka Resident was walking to work she spotted Mr. Smith walking along the Eureka boardwalk. She reports that Mr. Smith was enjoying the Eureka Boardwalk because he was staying near by at the Carson Mansion. Mr. Smith stayed at numerous hotels while in Humboldt. The Carson Mansion is most impressive because it is a private club, so he had to rent the building out to stay there for a few nights. Shown at left: The Carson Mansion, where Will Smith was reported staying. The explanation: The rumors of why Mr. Smith and his son are here have been confirmed. They are in Humboldt county filming an M. Night Shamalan movie. The movie is called After Earth. Not much is known about the film, though the basic plot is a father and son (Will and Jaden Smith) crash land on Earth 1000 years after man abandoned it. The father is badly injured in the crash, so it is up to the son to find help in this new, dangerous, place. The movie has been shot in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Central America, and Humboldt County. All are ideal locations for a overgrown wild world look. Reports say that the cast and crew were very excited to film in the Redwoods, because they are a character, not just a location. This is an M. Night film, so expect it to be full of strange plot twists and surprises. After Earth is set to come out sometime in early July 2013.