April issue 2022

LET’S TALK ABOUT INFLATION

A deeper look into the causes and effects of the rapid inflation that is weighing down on Bearcats and the nation alike PG. 18-22

What’s the problem

WIth the pool?

PRJUSD Board finally moves to build pool after five years of delay

PG. 2

¡Vamos a baIlar!

Students put together first Baile to help diversify the campus and represent the Latino community

PG. 15

beaCh YoU to It

New club at PRHS called Beach Bautification is dedicated to keeping the local beaches clean

PG. 25

POOL PROBLEMS

by Conner Rocha, Photography Director

Measure M: it was the decision of voters during the 2016 election. Involved in the new measure was a plan for financial aid to help build a brand new, on campus pool at PRHS. For decades, swimmers at Paso Robles High School have been forced to travel off campus every single day to the local Municipal Pool. With high traffic, long travel distances, and other delays, it has been difficult for swim athletes to make the trip every day. Alongside that, issues with pool have been plaguing players forever. Between breakdowns which last for days, overlapping canceled practices due to city events, and the lack of ability to host home meets due to the shallow deep nature, swimmers have been struggling to perform their best. Parents, players, coaches, and the community alike made their way to the district office on Mar. 8 to show their support. Athletes, both current and former, had shown up to give their opinions towards the board. Bearcat alumni Zach Tucker, a former water polo and swim athlete, did just that, pointing out to the school board the difficulties of the Municipal Pool to give players a fair chance at college opportunities over that of a full, on campus, all deep water pool.

“What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was inadequately training in a non-regulation pool,” Tucker said during his speech. “When I arrived at Cuesta, my teammates all came from schools that had regulation pools and thus had a total advantage over me with their prior training. I feel like a lack of an all deep regulation size pool has handicapped our aquatic athletes.”

The Municipal Pool is known as a non-regulation pool, meaning it does not meet the standards of USA Water Polo (USAWP). According to USAWP, “A standard (championship) course is 30m x 20m for men and 25m x 20m for women. The depth should be at least 1.8m.” The current pool is only 25m x 15m, and only half the pool lies below 1.8m of depth, with the other half being shallow enough, players can stand on the bottom during gameplay. It is also because of this failure to meet regulations, that Paso is not allowed to host home water polo games for CIF, or host home swim meets due to the shallow nature of the pool posing a risk to swimmers diving in off of the blocks.

“Our pool is shallow-deep which is not regulation,” Collin Moore said. Moore is the head coach of the boys aquatics programs at PRHS. “Most teams won’t travel to our pool unless they have to. Our pool is insufficient for what the league requires, and we have to travel to the other teams pools to go to meets even though we were originally designated as the host team.”

Similar risks can be found in the pool due to lack of recent repairs. During the entire week of Feb. 14, the Municipal

Pool faced a broken pump, a simple fix that the athletes assumed would be fixed by the next day. With the first meet on that Friday, the team had to prepare for it, and without a pool, it would be hard to do so. Alongside that, cracks can be found all throughout the pool, which has led to some injuries during games which provides a huge risk to player safety.

“Our team captain, Cody Domingos, had sliced open his foot on a broken tile during a game against Righetti,” junior Nolan Severson said during his speech at the board meeting. “Jakob [Baier] and I had to put a piece of gum over the tile in an attempt to prevent similar injuries in the future.” Another safety risk involved with an off campus pool is transportation, an issue which has plagued athletes ever since the first use of Municipal Pool. Many players are involved in increase risk of accident while rushing out of the campus parking lot and across town to the pool. Some players may not even have rides to practice some days, as parents could still be working and no other ride option is available for them.

“A lot of it is safety in terms of transportation for students,” Moore said. “Some students still need to drive their own personal vehicles to go across town after school, and that has created some safety issues with students driving more than necessary. They have to get across town in a pretty rushed manner to arrive before their practice starts.”

The new plan, as decided at the board meeting on Mar 8, sets out to build the pool and end up benefiting the athletes and community a lot better than the previous plan, while also saving the district money, which was a large problem from the previous plan. While not the same idea as what was promised with the original Measure M, this route would end up bringing the pool to the athletes a lot sooner, and a lot more in the budget than previous estimates. The new plan involves building a singular 39 meter pool, such as that found at San Luis Obispo or Arroyo Grande, and selling off

all the excess parts that are no longer needed. If approved, the pool could be finished as early as April 2023, and the first full season of water polo can be played in it as early as Fall of 2023.

These are just rough estimates, as of now, though. Currently, the project has yet to be finalized by the board, mostly due to legal issues. As of now, it is unknown whether the 39 meter pool will be able to be approved, or whether the school will be forced to build the original plan as laid out in Measure M. This situation is currently under review by an attorney, and will end up being solved at a later date.

“Municipal is much smaller, older, and insufficient compared to the needs of the program,” Moore said. “It really harms our competition of other teams [with regulation pools] in our league at the moment.”

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE PASO POOL

A groundbreaking ceremony is held at the site of the pool, allowing community members to help be a part of the building of the pool and help raise more money.

The school board halts the plan to build the pool. The bids for construction of the pool had been finalized, and the pool was deemed to be millions of dollars over budget.

A plan was laid out to sell parts of the pool that would be deemed “unecessary,” and shrink the 50 and 25 meter pools down to a single 39 meter pool.

The plan was passed unanimously, and the plan to build the pool receives a second life.

We can only sWim a four lane meet, and because of that, its insufficient for What the league requires. any other teams that We try and add matches against Will never travel to our pool

Collin MooRE

Collin Moore

Issues with current pool force district to take action towards building new pool

BUILD THE POOL! : Bearcat swimmers Jakob Baier (11), Nolan Severson (11), and Ben Himelson (11) advocate for the construction of a new pool. After years of inaction, bearcats are seeing progress towards a brand-new aquatics complex.

SUCCESS IN SKILLS USA

All 77 SkillsUSA competitors from PRHS are moving on to state competition

by Brooklynn Healy, Reporter

Despite the unusual adjustments to accommodate for health regulations due to the pandemic, the Bearcat SkillsUSA competitors were prepared to give their all and face the competition head on. All 77 students representing Paso rose to the challenge and managed to advance to state competition.

It was Junior Gwenyth Lemon’s first year competing in SkillsUSA, and she won gold in Related Technical Math. She prepared for this competition by studying the tests from previous years, and will continue to do so in preparation for state. “To me, going to state means that I have the opportunity to learn, try my best, and invest in the competition more. I’m also really excited to see other skills and competitions besides the one I will be participating in,” Lemon said.

Sophomore Anthony Saracini won gold for Motorcycle Service Technology. He studied for about two weeks in preparation for the competition, reading a book about motorcycles his teacher gave him and studying and memorizing all of the tools and parts he had to identify for the test. “SkillsUSA will prepare you for the world, while being an amazing experience for you,” Saraceni says. He is preparing for state by studying the motorcycle further and is currently rebuilding a motorcycle in autoclass, one of the many CTE pathways offered to Bearcats.

Junior Eden Arnold’s team won gold in CPS Health Services Cluster. They worked endlessly to perfect their project and

SKILLS USA GOLD SAMPLER

Internetworking Wade Willis (10)

Nurse Assisting

Adriana Dominguez (12)

Customer Service Junior Victoriano (11)

Early Childhood Ed Madison Tosti (12)

Carpentry Diego Ortega (12) Job Demo Skylar Collins (9)

Marine Service Jess Conover (12)

First Aid - CPR Jaiden Ralston (12)

dedicated countless hours to preparing for the competition. They continue to prepare for state by revising old notes, slideshows, and scrolling through articles for any additional information that may be needed. Arnold is excited for state and says, “I’m really excited for state, I’ve heard great things about it and am proud of my team for having the opportunity to accomplish the goal of competing at state level competition.”

The healthcare field is very broad, and Paso has many strong teams representing them in SkillsUSA. Junior Savannah Rickard’s team faced fierce competition in the Health Knowledge Bowl, but managed to place 4th in the region and are excited to move on to state. The four person team prepared by reviewing all of their class notes, doing quizlets found online, and quizzing each other. This prepared them for the 40 question written exam and the live section with 20 questions. Rickard says the competition was stressful, but worth it because they advanced to state, “and even though the competition was stressful, I was pretty relaxed throughout the whole thing because I knew my teammates had my back.”

SkillsUSA is a competition for students to showcase their skills in career pathways and real world situations. PRHS offers 11 pathways to prepare students in Career Technical Education. These pathways include healthcare, carpentry, childcare, auto, and computer science classes. The program goal is to “produce the most highly skilled workforce in the world, providing every member the opportunity for success.”

FREE PRHS FOOD NOT LOVED BY MOST STUDENTS

by Chris Cisneros, Reporter

Nearly 50% of over 80 PRHS students state they do not enjoy PRHS food, despite the free prices. A recent survey of 85 students found that 48% think the food is poor; yet 55% students are neutral or positive about food offerings at the school.

“The food is pretty ok, but I definitely think it could be better. But it’s free so you can’t really complain,” sophomore Tate Borla said.

One student wished there were vegetarian options.

“Everything has meat in it and does not allow students that can’t eat meat an option other than fruit or to pick the pepperoni off their pizza.”

California recently became the first state to offer two meals to every student every day free of charge through the 2022-2023 school year. Many students are appreciating the deal.

“They allow for students who don’t have food something to eat and that helps a lot of kids,” another student said.

Pizza and salads were the most popular food choices while the hamburger and the corn dogs were the least liked items.

30 % LIKE FOOD

21 % ARE NEUTRAL ABOUT FOOD

49 % DO NOT LIKE FOOD

Arnold assists athlete with physical therapy exercise.

Arnold and team present their project for competition.

Rickard and Abreu pose pre-contest in scrubs—ready for medical.

Saraceni on a motorcycle project to study for state. after a Regional Gold.

Lemon studies previous tests in preparation for state.

77 students represented PRHS in SkillsUSA. 23 won gold, 20 won silver, 9 won bronze, 25 scored well enough to advance in April.

Many students are not impressed with free cafeteria lunch options

THE INTERWEB WE WEAVE

We have heard it all before.

Teachers, preachers, and parents alike have been sounding the alarm against screen time and social media ever since their teengers received devices- a momentous event that happened for many PRHS students around the ages 10-12 according to a school-wide survey with 87 responses.

Generation Z, defined here as the generation born from the late 1990’s to the early 2010’s, was born into a changing

by Kalani Gaviola, Op/Ed Editor

American Life Project survey reports that, in 2004, 46% of students surveyed owned a cell-phone. Almost four years later, in early 2008, that number grew to 71%.

With this growth came challenges: Technology has been proven to shorten the attention span, damage social and emotional intelligence, impair brain development, among other things. Social media has been linked to Gen Z’s mental health crisis and the often unmoderated nature of the internet makes exposure to inappropriate content at a

Yet our generation is trapped. For many, the internet raised us from childhood and now serves as our closest companion: a study from Common Sense Media displays that 50% of teens “feel addicted” to their phones, and about 70% of teens surveyed at PRHS wish they spent less time on social media and/or

AVERAGE SCREENTIME: 4-6 hours

73% SURVEYED AGREE THAT TECHNOLOGY IS HARMFUL FOR KIDS. DO YOU WISH YOU SPENT LESS TIME ON TECH?

74.7% SURVEYED AGREE PARENTS ARE OVERLY RELIANT ON TECH. WILL YOU LET YOUR KIDS (<13) ON TECH?

But do we plan to pass on this complex -perhaps even toxic- relationship to our children? Have we served as a test run never to be repeated? Or, despite it’s problems, does technology have a mostly helpful big role to play in children’s

The answer, for many, seems to be a series of compromises and

62% of students claim that social media is “sometimes” a time waster, 21.8% think that it is, and 16.1% claim that it isn’t. Yet the majority of students (49%) surveyed say that technology isn’t as harmful as it’s made out to be, and such an argument

Bryson Wakeman who first received technology at four years old, is intimately aware

“In some ways social media has given me a darker sense of the world,” he said. “I feel like (it) sort of drained the (fun of) life in some Wakeman’s screentime is at 7-8 hours per day, not counting

“(Some) people get gratification in hikes and walks, (but) I always contemplate that I could’ve just had fun on my phone,” Wakeman said. “I don’t want that for (my

Despite this proclamation, Wakeman maintains that his experience with technology hasn’t been all bad: “I don’t regret my relationship with technology, I honestly thinks it’s done a lot of good in my life and the life of others,” he said. “I use it for reminders, entertainment, and relaxation. My social life is a whole lot better and communicating with people is a whole lot easier.”

Wakeman ultimately says that he would restrict technology until his children are “around ten” and restrict social media until about 12-13.

But Bearkitten teacher of 21 years Brenda Matthysse notes how fighting technological addiction is more than simply not letting your kids have phones. “Technology is such a huge part of our world and I do not believe students see how highly dependent they are,” she said.

“There are some positives of technology for sure. Students who may feel isolated can find some important connections and validation and support through technology… but on the flip side, if students have open access in terms of time and content, it can be very unhealthy.”

She has noticed a difference in the young children she works with as technology has become more popular: “I have seen that students struggle to focus on simple lessons in school and lack engagement in things they used to,” Matthysse said. “There is this instant gratification element to technology that sometimes real life can’t compete with.”

She thinks that “ongoing conversation” about the “pros and cons of technology” is paramount to maintaining connection.

Ultimately, the problem with technology is not the educational videos, nor the creation of digital art or writing that requires some hefty screentime.

What parents -or anyone- should really fear is the blankness it inspires, as this generation -my generationmindlessly scroll, expressionless and unmoving for hours, feasting on nothing at all yet finding themselves empty when deprived of it.

Harvard University enrolls some of the brightest minds of the new age, and recent statistics show that most students spend under an hour a day on social media sites such as TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, etc. 60% of these same students do community service, and over 60% of these students held two or more leadership positions in high school. They use their phones, yes, but they are not consumed by them. For the next generation, limiting screentime is important.

But what’s more important is to teach kids to have lives outside the internet, and when they do use technology, use it as a tool for creation, communication, and expansion. Because in the end, technology is a thing to use, not to be used by.

A look into the complex relationship between today’s teens and tech- and if this cycle will continue

if students have open access in terms of time and content, it can be very unhealthy BrEnda MaTTHyssE

A MORE ACCEPTING TOMORROW

Bearcats have seen a more inclusive and diverse group set out for change, taking one step further towards a better future

The United States has always been known as a cultural melting pot. It is one of, if not the most, culturally and ethnically diverse nations in the entire world, but for much of its history many have challenged whether or not there’s been a lack of representation for the people actually living within its borders. In a rapidly evolving and exceedingly diverse nation, the hope is that we as students would hear and see more representation of diversity in the world, as well as our own community. It is our responsibility to represent ourselves, our ideas, opinions, cultures, and beliefs.

Many PRHS Bearcats have recognized the importance to acknowledge and commemorate our differences. Students have felt underrepresented and unheard, but because of the nature of our freedom, students have been able to create a space where they can openly celebrate their differences, their culture, and express themselves.

This year was truly a culture shock for PRHS, with the most change-seeking events, protests, and petitions seen on and off the campus, much of which saw great success.

The Coming Out Against Hate event, the Baile, the Culture Expo, the push for Hispanic Authors in the English curriculum, and students

Editors In Chief

Malia Gaviola

Rayvin Wulfing

Ashley Paulsen

Directors

TJ Rothbauer News

Ashley Paulsen Sports

Serentiy Wulfing Social Media

Malia Gaviola In-depth

Rayvin Wulfing In-depth

Editors

Kalani Gaviola Op/Ed

Liliana Voorheis World

Zoey Rainey People

Miguel Muniz Poli-Sci

Kalista Peterson Health

Emily Rogers PopCulture

Reily Lowry Sports

Asusena Uribe Carmesi

Emily Neri Carmesi

Elise Mathers News

petitioning to be able to express themselves on their graduation caps, are all great examples of students making themselves heard. In a world where individuality is encouraged, diversity and expression is a necessity. The Crimson staff has been amazed and inspired by the power of the student voice. Reporting on these events, learning about our community, campus, and the people that line the halls.

Now, more than ever, Bearcats are learning to accept-- not just tolerate-- the differences that make all of us who we are, whatever that may look like. There will always be room for growth but the increase in individualism and expression has been a catalyst for the change in how we perceive our peers.

The power of the individual and the group has been proven unparalleled by the students at PRHS. Students recognize the need for change and actively seek it. If we speak loud enough we will be heard. If we speak loud enough we can bring change. If we speak loud enough we can create a better tomorrow. We are the most diverse nation in the world, a diverse community, a diverse people, and those differences shouldn’t just be recognized, they should be celebrated.

Reporters

Sienna Ramos

Chris Cisneros

Braydon Hoier

Cadence Eastep

Brooklynn Healy

Photography

Connor Rocha Director

Rogelio Molina

Kayla Degnan

Web

Bricen Chitty Director

Michelle Rosas

Design

Maicah Cabello Director

Jocelyn Lopez

Adviser

Jeff Mount Website www.crimsonnewsmagazine.org

Email crimsonnewsmagazine@ gmail.com

Crimson, an open forum for the exchange of student ideas, is an independently funded newsmagazine produced by the journalism class at Paso Robles High School. Crimson reflects the majority opinion of the staff and does not necessarily reflect the views of Paso Robles High School, its faculty, administration, or students. All stories, graphics, typesetting, and layouts are completed by Paso Robles High School students. We are happy to talk with you further about our content, subscriptions in U.S. Mail, and advertising on our pages.

—Crimson Staff

SAT? WHAT’S WITH THE

SAT college requirements and its format are changing, is it still worth it?

When Tegan Henretty, a current junior, sat down to take her SAT test last November, she faced the same exam that many before her had: a bubble-in scantron test featuring four to five sections - reading, writing and language, math with no calculator, math with calculator, and a potential essay. She remained in her testing facility for the three hour and fifteen minute test including the provided breaks.

The SAT won’t follow this formula for much longer, though. In 2024, or 2023 for international students, the test will switch to being completely online. The length will be shortened from three hours to two, with the allowance of a graphing calculator during the math portion, according to College Board, the nonprofit organization that conducts the exam.

The SAT has gradually become less important in the world of college prep and readiness. According to the National Center for Fair & Open Testing, more than 1,800 U.S. colleges currently aren’t requiring a test score from students who enroll in fall of 2022, and at least 1,400 of these schools have extended this policy until at least fall of 2023. Colleges came to this decision due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the ability for certain students to have access to the test, as online learning made it quite difficult to provide the SAT for students. College Board had to come up with solutions to the likelihood that students would cheat if they took the test online and at home. They were also faced with the harsh reality that not everyone can spare the extra expense and pay for the SAT - which may be the element that gets them into their dream school.

This SAT downgrade itself brings up the question: is the SAT really worth the money and time anymore?

The fact of the matter is that the SAT appears elitist in nature. To many studentsa cross the U.S. it acts as a competition between richer students to see who can receive the best score. Most anyone sees that college preparedness cannot be reduced to a single indexed score, yet the SAT test system for decades has caused such a situation in college admission offices.

According to Tara Walker, the PRHS college and career counselor, not all schools offer students the same level of preparation for this exam.

“Before Covid, Paso kids were preparing, but not at

by Cadence Eastep, Reporter

a level in which the Bay Area or LA kids are preparing,” Walker said. “And it’s not uncommon to see a perfect SAT score from a Bay Area kid.”

The format change may encourage people to think that even though increasingly more colleges are becoming test optional, the changes may make the test “easier” and, therefore, still worth it. They might even think that College Board considered the livelihoods of students while formulating their new test. Henretty, a junior, believes that there are pros and cons to the new testing format. Being a student herself, she loves the concept of a shorter test, but she doesn’t absolutely adore the idea of taking it online.

“I kind of like it on paper because it doesn’t stress on my eyes a lot. Sometimes it’s hard for me to read on a computer for a long

duration,” Henretty said. “Staring at a screen for two hours might not be the most admirable prospect for high school students. “. Moreover, the changes that come with the new format don’t truly seem to be in students’ best interests. Considering the decreasing importance in taking the SAT in order to get into a lot of colleges, it seems as though College Board is attempting to remain relevant and engaging to high school students.

Walker seems to have this mindset.

“I think that College Board is grasping at straws to stay afloat. The University of California and the CSU system are the biggest national collegelike groups, and if they’re not requiring it, then they’re [College Board] gonna sink,”

Walker said.

However, the SAT test hasn’t been just for college admission

over the years. It has also provided scholarship opportunities for students. Getting a score of at least 1200 can provide potential low-level college scholarships, with higher scores gradually earning more money with more prestigious scholarships. Plus, California students planning on attending college outside of California might want an SAT score for outof-state schools, but they could also take the ACT.

So, is it as imperative to take the SAT exam as it used to be? That’s for the student to decide. With the increasing number of test optional colleges, it might not seem important to waste your spare change on a test that won’t do anything for you in the long run. However, some students might still want the extra gem on their application for scholarships and certain schools. At the end of the day, it’s all up to personal preference, as things of this nature often are.

I wouldn’t take It unless you’re a really, really, really good test taker, and you’ve been studyIng for It.

Tara Walker

Tara Walker

Tegan Henretty, 11

For It’s WORTH What

AP tests remain a good idea

by Michelle Rosas, Web Assistant

When entering high school, many students start worrying about what classes they should take: AP classes? Honors? Sumer classes? Most students will do whatever they can to get a good GPA or get favorable test scores to better their future. And the fact is that AP tests come with many benefits. There are reasons that they are recommended. Just be ready: they may cost a significant amount of money.

These days, nearly 2.8 million public high school students take AP tests every year. Around 2013, AP tests started to sky rocket, most likely because in the minds of students, colleges have been raising their standards. Close to 85% of selective schools have said that high AP test scores have favorably impacted admission decisions in the past. Getting accepted into someone’s dream college is ideal which is why a majority of students decide to go out of their way to take these exams.

At the same time, there are people who think AP tests are unnecessary and won’t make or break someone’s future. In fact, an article from collegevine states that some selective schools don’t value AP test scores. So this trend leaves many students wondering whether or not to take these tests and courses.

One AP exam costs $96 if taken in U.S. territories. Exam cancellations cost $40 per exam. AP Seminar or AP Research exam cost $144. These are costly, yet, scoring a 4 or 5 could save a student thousands of dollars in college course charges.

In a survey of 11 honors and AP students many answers varied. When asked if they have taken an AP test, 4 out of 11 said yes, while 7 said no. Adding on to their responses, three students said they will be taking AP tests for the first time later this spring. Another three students added that they think these tests are worth it and will look very well on college applications. The other five students agreed around the same idea that these tests aren’t entirely necessary. Some said they didn’t feel the need to take the tests and some also said that they

Cost Of AP Tests

have heard from fellow classmates that they aren’t worth it and can potentially be a waste of time if someone doesn’t pass the test. One student said, “it is useful for placement somewhat, but I believe it can be flawed.”

Rebbeca Morris, AP Spanish language teacher, has had a fair share of students preparing for these tests. She felt AP tests are a great opportunity for students to achieve the next level, but they don’t define someone’s success.

“A particular AP class in a subject matter does not mean you’re going to specialize in that subject matter,” Morris said .

She added that passing AP tests can bring benefits. For example, a student can pay for fewer credits . Yet Morris says that students who pass the AP Spanish exam or the AP Spanish class will receive an award from the school called the Seal of Biliteracy.

Apart from Morris’ opinion on the effect that a student receives on campus, she says she has seen some of her own students juggling their personal life and their academic life. “I watched very motivated students try to take four AP classes plus two honors classes plus two sports. Plus I need to be in the musical or whatever their activities are, or they’re very active in their church or they work with their parents organization or whatever. By October, they’re cross-eyed”, Morris says. Students who prepare for AP exams take hours everyday studying and they try to cram in all of their sports, extra curriculars, and classes that they become extremely overwhelmed and that can have an effect on a students performance on the official exam.

The thought of whether or not AP tests are worth it have crossed the minds of multiple students on the PRHS campus. No matter how many positive or negative things are said about the AP test the choice is up to the students. Instead, the question that should be asked is, are students willing to take on the package that comes with these exams regardless of the outcome?

Despite her office being across the street, Safety Supervisor of PRJUSD Dana Holt seeks to be the positive interaction in student lives across the district.

Holt started off as a campus safety officer in 2017 and moved into the discipline office to become their secretary a year later. For six years she served in this position until she became the safety and attendance officer for the district.

“I wanted the position because I’m pulled to certain students that might be needing a little bit extra support,” Holt said. “And I like this position because I could still be active with the high school, because that’s what I know, and I loved the idea of going around to all the sites. Now I have a much broader group of kiddos that I get to work with.”

With her promotion to the district office, Holt’s jurisdiction increased. Now she is able to interact with students from all levels, from Paso’s six elementary schools, to Lewis and Flamson middle school, Paso Robles High School, to Liberty High School.

Holt’s roles deal with student attendance, managing safety supplies at school sites, and directing district trainings, like February’s district-wide ALICE active shooter training.

“I’m constantly running reports and checking on students who are not attending school. If there are a few kiddos that refuse to go to school, I’ll go and do home visits and visit with the kids and usually I can get them to school with me,” Holt said. She also directs SARBS, the student attendance review board,

which has multiple supports for those students to encourage them to come to school.

Most importantly, Holt focuses on her interactions with students.

“I just want to be a constant in their life so that they know all I’ll be there for them. And if they’re at school and having a bad day, they can just call me over and I’ll chat with them,” Holt said. “I like to be that positive role model for these kiddos and, and just listen to them and understand where they’re coming from.”

To Holt, dependability is in the small moments. When she was at the high school kids knew that they could come in if they were hungry. She would have a granola bar waiting for them to eat. Though she was a figure of comfort and kindness, Holt wants to be known as a figure that pushed her kids towards success..

I lIke to be that posItIve role model for these kIddos and, and just lIsten to them and understand where they’re comIng from.

DANA HOLT

As the bright lights of the Performing Arts Center shine down on the company of The Adams Family, Paso High Theatre Company’s spring musical director Marcy Goodnow has had over 50 productions at PRHS. Yet, 12 years ago such a feat would have seemed like a dream. When Goodnow was first hired in 2010 as both an English and Drama teacher there weren’t Career Technical Education pathways, a PAC with 250 seats, a room full of costumes, or over 100 students throughout her two Arts, Media, and Entertainment pathways. The entire drama program, both acting and technical theatre, was limited to a single period.

The beginning of PRHS’ renowned Drama program began in small steps as Goodnow sought to provide more opportunities for students to gain experience on the stage. Before becoming a teacher, Goodnow tried her hand at theatre in Broadway, New York City. She auditioned there before returning to Sacramento and joining Music Circus. She performed as Marcy in 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Victoria in Victor/ Victoria. For four years she served as a leadership teacher, while she separated the classes into beginning, advanced, and technical theatre.

“[Then] I got the CTE credentials so that I could incorporate all of the things that come with having access to some of those funds because we are a CTE pathway,” Goodnow said. “The kids are getting practical experiences with our equipment that is actually one level down from Broadway.”

Goodnow has sculpted a calendar with seven different shows a year. In 2016 she added the program’s Children’s Show, a play or musical that elementary school students visit to watch. She added the intermediate course; she wrote the

performing arts pathway for district approval and included the Director’s Practicum class in which advanced students direct a one-act play with the Beginning Drama class.

Goodnow has also served at the forefront of the push for LGBTQIA+ visibility and safety on PRHS’ campus as a proud lesbian teacher.

“It has been a journey for me here as a teacher who has always not always been ‘out’. When I came to this school, I was just a little quiet, [but] shortly thereafter, it was just kind of known.” Goodnow said. “My wife came to the shows and I took over our GSA that we then renamed Equality Club.”

Goodnow was the Equality Club – later renamed Equity Club – advisor for seven years. During that time they hosted pride events and fostered an inclusive climate at PRHS.

“Advocate. Be visible. I think that’s a really important thing,” she said.

Goodnow is in several spotlights. She champions change through creating a PFLAG, Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, chapter in Paso Robles which is a parent organization where families can get support for themselves if they have queer children, going to the Lead With Pride Summit, and as a consultant on the PRHS’s LGBTQ+ Advisory

Saftey Supervisor and Attendance Officer, Dana Holt seeks to connect with students throughout the district

Marcy Goodnow creates a flourishing Drama Program from scratch and is a key LGBTQ leader on campus

the kIds are gettIng practIcal experIences wIth our equIpment that Is actually one level down from broadway.

MARCY GOODNOW

by Malia Gaviola,Editor-in-Chief and Kalani Gaviola, Op-Ed Editor

Deborah McPherson fights against misinformation to create an informed and open-minded generation

One teacher: five credentials. Deborah Mcpherson seeks to teach truth and representation in a time of great misinformation.

From teaching at the elementary level, to middle school, and high school as well as teaching different subjects such as English, History, and Yearbook, McPherson is a dynamic teacher, wanting to gain new experiences. Currently, McPherson holds Special Ed, Elementary, Supplemental Journalism, and History credentials. She also had an English credential for years. She is one of the most credentialed teachers in PRJUSD.

“When I get into that field, and I don’t ever want to be misinformed when teaching my students so I go on to seek out the credentials,” McPherson said. “So I have a couple of them just sort of floating out there.”

McPherson started teaching in 2003 as a seventh grade English teacher. In 2007 she started at Lewis Middle School in the Special Education department. After staying there for eight years and becoming department head, she realized that it was time for a change. McPherson switched to sixth grade english and history, and she found an interest in how students were interpreting history after moving to the high school to reach U.S. History.

What she found was less than ideal.

“It was all this misinformation coming out. I felt like I need to be the key to help bring all the information together, even things that we don’t want to talk about,” McPherson said. “I keep reminding my students it keeps happening over and over

again: history is always repeating itself. I want to help kids find a way to get information so they can be informed about what’s happening around them.”

Yet, even as she excels in equipping her students with knowledge and helps them understanding subject matters, McPherson experiences a pressure outside of teaching content.

“There’s a lot of pressure… I may be the only black teacher a student has ever gotten, or have ever taught by and I want them to walk away with a different impression of what I guess a black teacher could be or a black person could be compared to what they’ve seen in media or what they’ve seen,” McPherson said.

She said she feeling that she has to maintain a certain decorum.

Stereotypes of African Americans on the news and within society, follow her throughout her day to day life. There is meaning in every one of her actions as McPherson feels there are eyes watching her every move in and outside of school.

“It’s a pressure that I’m willing to take if it means I’m changing the minds of a student, or for a person that may never get that mindset change,” McPherson said. “I think a lot of students especially in Paso Robles, don’t leave this community. And so they never get to experience, except what they see on television, what another culture may is like. I think it’s important to be able to have that experience… to go out into the world world, and be able to address and talk to someone of a different culture.”

Gaviola works as Deputy Superintendent to make lasting change for students

Jennifer Gaviola has a dedicated career of public education as Deputy Superintendent, a bright woman in the second highest position in our district, inspiring and making a difference in the lives of PRHS students.

Gaviola is a bearcat alumni and ever since her graduation in 1992, her goals have remained the same: “to make a difference in this world (and) in our local community.”

Her career started in the private sector teaching literacy development across the United States at Lindamood Bell Learning. Here, she traveled frequented, teaching adults and children alike to read. She described this job as “some of the most gratifying work I have ever done.”

While working here she also worked as a clinic director, professional presenter/trainer, and public school liaison. Here, she took personal experience with teaching reading to train and implement literacy programs in public schools. She trained hundreds of teachers in this work and spread her influence in school districts all over California, Colorado, and Florida.

Then, she decided to make a shift in her career and become a special education teacher at Madera Unified School District, teaching at first at a K-8 school, then at high school. She held a variety of positions in this district, being a Literacy Coach, Program Specialist, Director of Special Education, Vice-Principal, and Deputy Principal of Curriculum and Instruction.

Working here allowed her to be further acclimated to leadership roles, and she took to it like a fish in water: “This was one of the best decisions of my professional life,” she said.

Seven years ago, though, her heart lead her back to her high school town and she took in a position as Director of Secondary Education and Career Technical Education. Here at Paso Robles, she has been making a difference with the help of her colleagues, leading initiatives for grants of over 2.0 million dollars in CTE grants, creating a strong and successful partnership with Cuesta College, and completely revamping the A-G requirements at Paso Robles High School. She helped to make major strides in dual enrollment as well, and continues to do this as Deputy Superintendent, a position she has held since 2018. In this job, she handles human resources, athletics, college, counseling and career as well as student services. Getting home late and working during the summer- Gaviola has done it all, and describes the love she has for job despite it all.

“I truly love students- they are my why, the future and why I work so very hard for equity,” she said, and proves this to be true everyday.

Jennifer

From day one, I worked alongsIde our great teachers and admInIstratIon makIng a dIFFerence For our students.

JENNIFER GAVIOLA

OMEN’S MARCHW

During women’s month San Luis Obsipo hosts an annual women’s march to rally for equal rights.

by Emily Rogers, Pop-Culture Editor

San Luis Obispo county embarked on their 6th annual Women’s March,Mar. 5, 2022 at Mitchell Park. A Women’s March is put on every year to raise awareness about issues women are dealing with and giving people an outlet to make change. However, the Women’s March doesn’t only involve issues with the gender gap, but discrimination in a mutilitude of forms.

“Nobody’s free until everybody’s free,” Frannie Lou. This is a motto the Women’s March Movement adheres to, as a part of their morals and fight. The movement includes: valuing and aiding immigrants, reforming the justice system to work for everyone, preserving and strengthening democracy, high education for all, equal rights for all (including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+), and more. (according to the SLO county Women’s March website)

Speaker, Yessenia Echevarria can attest to these values as her experience as a Latina has led her to take on opportunities to aid people of color through Mujeres de Acción and Paso’s People Action. Echevarria is the creative director of both organizations, where she tries to maintain the same message, “Amplifying the voices of the marginalized,” (Echevarria).

In her speech she says it’s important to, “Find the things that you’re passionate about and advocate for them. Everyone has a different story and experience in life. I know my identity as a Latina, which is why I advocate so hard for

This year we had one of our own fellow bearcats speak at the rally, sophomore and Equality Club president, Eve Barajas. Barajas earlier this year hosted the “Coming Out Against Hate Forum” and was a part of the committee working with the board to further aid LGBTQIA+ students. Their speech addressed the idea, “that change is definitely possible no matter who you are across to people. Usually people like to assume that because they’re ‘just’ a student or ‘just’ a ‘regular’ person that they can’t have an impact on the world or their environment. People can raise their voices and make it known that intolerance and hate are both

RISE UP!

example), and including discussion on women’s rights and our places in history in our education. There are also the basic necessities, such as proper education about our bodies and keeping our supply of sanitary products filled in the restrooms”

Near the end of her speech Bajaras called up fellow speakers at the “Coming Out Against Hate Forum” Nicole Rogers, Israel Perez, and Emily Neri, and acknowledged their aid in the Equality club’s fight as well.

To help raise the voices of those in need the Women’s March was a sea of yellow and blue flags to demonstrate people’s support for Ukraine. To provide aid to those in the Ukraine a booth selling Ukrainian flags and buttons in support, as well as the food vendor “Baguette About It”, donated proceeds to the cause.

Barajas believes that the school can help aid students by, “... being open about the resources they provide for women in crisis (someone who experienced sexual assault, for

Jocelyn Alvarado, Israel Perez, and Mel Gonzalez attended the march in support women’s rights.

“The fighT for women’s righTs is far from over, and has jusT begun.”

IsrAel Perez, 11

Bottom right: Nicole rogers, Israel Perez, and emily Neri standing with eve Barajas while they give their speech about the coming out against hate forum.

Above (left): eve Barajas giving her speech about standing up to make a change in what you believe in.

Bottom (left) : erica A. stewart, the first African American Mayor of San Luis Obispo County

NURSE KELLY SAURET THE MANY LIVES OF

by Liliana Voorheis, World Editor

The Professional and Academic Life of Nurse Sauret

“Ihave had what I like to call many lives before this one.” PRHS on-campus nurse Kelly Sauret has followed many paths in her life, but each one ultimately led to healthcare.

After attending Atascadero High School as a rival Greyhound, Sauret attended Cuesta College intending to get her nursing degree, but ended up going back and forth between going to school and not going to school. Even in high school, Sauret “worked really hard not to do anything.” She started her prerequisites, but decided that was “too boring” and switched to early childhood education. However, after being offered a job in banking, she left her studies for a substantial salary, without the tedious schooling. Sure enough, banking was not on Sauret’s horizon for very long- she quit in 2010 to pursue a new career.

Sauret noticed family members had various medical issues, and she “saw the good and bad sides of healthcare.” She said, “it just reaffirmed that there is a need for good health care practitioners and I wanted to be that for somebody. I didn’t want all of the negative and the bad nurses out there to outweigh all the good ones. Healthcare has always been in the back of my mind, but it took me a while to get there.” So she committed herself to her degree, earning her nursing degree through Cuesta’s accelerated 12-month program in 2013. Now Sauret lives in Paso Robles with her husband and her five year old labrador Johnny Cash, or Cash for short. She said that nursing “really is a calling, it is something that you are drawn to do. When you’re working in healthcare, you have to really want to be there because you see things and you hear things and you don’t always have the best of days from what you deal with, with your patients.”

Since being hired by PRJUSD as an LVN (licensed vocational nurse), Sauret has worked locally for nine years, one at Lewis Middle School, and going into her eighth year here at Paso Robles High School. After working here for so long, she said, “taking this job was the best decision I ever made for me and my family.” In addition to her full time

job, Sauret is currently finishing up her Bachelors in Health Education and Health Promotion from Arizona State University. She currently has no plans for change after she finishes this degree, but acknowledges “things could change. There’s lots of different areas you can go into (with nursing).”

Sauret’s job varies from day to day. Specific students require daily scheduled medication, while newly sick or injured students need to be evaluated throughout the school day. Sauret is a part of the team that administers annual state mandated health screenings, such as hearing and vision. Her job has been greatly impacted by the pandemic, as she now tracks and monitors all confirmed and potential COVID-19 cases. Along with the athletic trainer, Sauret is responsible for overseeing students with suspected and confirmed concussions.

Sauret believes that “healthcare is one of the most rewarding careers you will find yourself in, but also the most challenging.” Remembering that your peers are in the same predicament as you, and that that group of people will understand what you are embarking on and support you, you will enjoy it. The results of your degree and seeing how much you’ve pushed yourself and progressed will be worth it. Also, if you are unsure of what you want to do after high school, “take your time, explore different avenues until you find what really makes you happy.” While high schoolers are often expected to have it all together when they start attending college, “it’s okay not to know and it’s okay to change your

As she enters her ninth year with PRJUSD, Nurse Kelly Sauret discusses how she acheived this position

WELL TRAVELED A GIRL

Freshman Natalie Dewhurst has traveled to 11 different countries

From hosting 5 foreign exchange students to voyaging all over Europe, freshman Natalie Dewhurst has been painted with countless cultures and experiences not seen by many of her peers. She has traveled to 11 different countries in 5 years: England, Switzerland, Spain, Irland, France, Germany, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, and Wales. This summer she plans to add two more countries to her list: Portugal and Italy.

Traveling has been an important aspect of Dewhurst’s upbringing. Her father Geoff Dewhurst valued not only being exposed to different cultures and people, but he also had a strong appreciation for the history of the countries as well, which Natalie enjoys.

“We believe that the broader the view the more opportunity our kids can see for themselves,” he said. “As her parents, we just want our kids to see the opportunities and we pushed that through travel.”

In 2019, Dewhurst and her family went to Germany and the Netherlands, where they toured a Concentration camp and went to Anne Franks’s house.

“I’m really into WWII. My dad is like a big history guy so on these trips he always tries to make it so that they’re joined in history with them. So you’re learning, and also traveling the world, which is really cool to me,” Dewhurst said.

When Dewhurst was 8 years old her family hosted their first foreign exchange student, Tobias Meader who was from Switzerland. That experience of hosting their first foreign exchange student sparked their interest in traveling, so that summer the Dewhurst’s went to England and Switzerland. She and her family usually spend the whole summer abroad, with England being the most visited since they have family there.

“I love England. I have

FAMIGLIA (Dewhurst House) : Left to right: Jonah Dewhurst, Josh Dewhurst, Natalie Dewhurst and Filo Scavolini (center).

EDWARDO AND I hAvE

hAvE A REALLy GOOD RELATIONShIp, hE’S LIkE my BESTFRIEND. I’vE BEEN REALLy cLOSE WITh hIm SINcE ThE FIRST DAy I mET hIm. NATALIE DEWHURST, 9

by Rayvin Wulfing, Editor In Chief

definitely been there the most so I love it as a place, but the prettiest and coolest would have to be Switzerland,” Dewhurst said.

After hosting Tobias, the following school year (2017-18) the Dewhurst’s hosted Simon Hubner (pronounced See-moan) from Spain. Then Vincent Van Ramen from the Netherlands and Victor Streel from Belgium in 2018-19. And in the 2019-2020 school year they hosted Filo Scavolini from Italy, however, due to Covid restrictions/precautions at the height of the pandemic, Filo was sent home early. It wasn’t until this school year that the Dewhurst’s were able to host again, welcoming Eduardo Galindo Van Zeller from Portugal.

“I’ve had a really good relationship with all of my foreign exchange students. I consider them all like my brother, they’re my family. Even if you’re not blood-related, doesn’t mean you aren’t a family or related in a way,” Dewhurst said.

With 3 older brothers and 5 older foreign exchange brothers, as Dewhurst travels, she has family all around Europe she can visit.

“She has family in most of the countries she has visited. So when she leaves home, she finds a bit of her home waiting for her. She usually doesn’t have much time to feel anxious because she is having such a good time

with her brothers, cousins, and friends,”

Geoff explained.

Though there are some challenges with bringing home a new family member, especially from another country, at some point each foreign exchange student the Dewhurt’s have hosted has broken out of their shells.

“It does take some getting used to because obviously it’s a new person in your house and you don’t know them but when you know them, usually around Thanksgiving time their real personality starts to come out and you really start to get to know them better,” Dewhurst said. Dewhurst would like to continue to travel throughout her life, as she has learned the importance of having a “world view,” as her father says.

“After my senior year, I want to do a summer and go help the poorer countries, and help build and provide for them. You get to see the world, and help people, which is something I am really interested in,” Dewhurst said.

She would like to hopefully attend Oxford University in England after she graduates in 2025 to study culinary or something in the film industry. Traveling to many different countries has exposed Dewhurst to many different styles of cuisine. Despite being a picky eater, some of her favorites are “croquetas,” which are fried bechamel sauce fritters, as well as churros and chocolate you eat in the morning from Spain. And in England, one of her favorite places to eat food is at the pubs.

“They pult malt vinegar on their fries, which is literally like the best thing in the whole world, and a lot of fish and chips.” Dewhurst says the croissants in France are “so good.”

11 COUNTRIES

1. England

2. Switzerland

3. Spain

4. Ireland

5. France

6. Germany

7. Luxembourg

8. The Netherlands

9. Austria

10. Belgium

11. Wales

INSTANT FRIENDS (War Memorial Stadium) : Natalie Dewhurst (left), Edwardo Galindo Van Zeller (right).

Natalie Newhurst, 9

POSITIVITY:

OMAR ACEVEDO

What keeps his smile going?

by Michelle Rosas, Web Assitant

His teachers narrate him as respectful. His classmates describe him as kind.

And his teammates love his bright personality. Junior Omar Acevedo is known for being kind hearted and being one of the kindest people on campus. Whether it’s at school or on the court, Acevedo isn’t afraid to spread positivity wherever he goes.

Acevedo enjoys spending his free time working out and being around any types of sports. He also likes to spend time with his friends and states that he is very close to them. “And if it’s not that, I’m either going on hikes or just going to the beach with some friends.”

When he is not at the gym or with his friends, he likes to take some rest and get some sleep.

He is also an athlete and describes himself as very persistent. Acevedo has been playing basketball for three years now. He started playing his freshman year and has just finished his third season of high school basketball, mid February. This year he was on the varsity team and he is very interested in this sport.

He also enjoys volleyball and is currently playing on the varsity volleyball team.

Acevedo also shares that when Acevedo goes through a tough time, he doesn’t ignore it. He says that he lets it sink in for a while and asks himself, “Can I fix this? Is there something I can do about it?” and if there’s not then he stops holding on to it and lets it go. If there is something he can fix or do then he will. But regardless of how big the issue may be, he will still spread positivity. He admits that times are never 100% positive and even when he feels low, he will go that extra mile to spread kindness.

He comments that he spreads positivity because he knows that everybody is going through their own problems and that it is nice to have someone around who is friendly and is willing to ask how someone’s day is going. He says, “If no one is going to do it, I’m going to step up for that.”

He adds that his parents have been very strict on him because of his past and when he was younger life wasn’t easy at all. However, as he grew up, he put that behind and started becoming more positive.

Acevedo says that he has a role model/inspiration. This inspiration is his grandpa.

He says that his grandpa tried to work really hard to make a good family and support it. His grandpa started working at an early age and ended up working for approximately 63 years. He admires that his grandpa works so hard.

Avecedos English teacher Carie Baldovin says that he is a great student with a lot of determination to reach his goals. Baldovin adds that he is very diligent when he is in his class and he always wants to learn new words and new concepts.

When asked to describe Acevedo, Baldovin said she would describe him as a young man with a lot of integrity. And someone who is very goal oriented. She also adds on to say that he works very well with other students in the class and has positive energy.

“You can tell he was raised with really nice manners,” Baldovin said.

Acevedo feels that people should be more positive towards themselves and towards other people too because you never know what other people are going through. You never know what someone is going through until you walk in their shoes.

Carrie Baldovin

“ yOu cAN TELL THAT HE IS IS WANTING TO DOING HIS VERy, VERy BEST.

Acevedo is about to hit the ball at aconferance match. (03/ 24/22)

Calling it a good game after winning against Orccutt Academy (03/ 24/22)

He is about to hit the ball at a home conference

Celebrating after winning with his teamates

PhotobyMiguelMuniz

PhotosbyKalaniGaviola

GUSTAFSON STEPS UP

After a varied career in teaching, Rachel Gustafson has stepped up as Paso Robles High School’s new Assistant Principal, joining the ranks of Stuart Hamil, Gerald Braxton, and Michael Godsey.

Gustafson’s first day was January 18, 2022 but education has been a part of her journey for nearly all of her life. After graduating from Bakersfield Christian HS in 2005, she went on to attend college at Azusa Pacific University, where she majored in music education and performance.

Her original plan at university was to major in Biology with intentions of going into the health care field, but it didn’t click readily as she expected. Her journey to teaching is a realistic, steady progression towards understanding rather than a single moment of realization. “I decided to try to get involved in something over in the music department as something fun to see if that helps me feel better about my life,” she said. “And I got hooked back into it again.”

With that, she changed majors, and her teaching career was born. “I just thought… (it) might be fun,” she said, “Then, it grew on me to the point that I couldn’t see myself doing anything else by the time I graduated.”

Gustafson earned both a bachelor’s and master’s from Azusa Pacific University.

She wasn’t alone through her academic endeavors, though: Gustafson’s last year of undergrad was permeated by the birth of her now 12-year old son, a bright spot during the slough of college work and “her biggest inspiration.”

“I was now raising a tiny human and I had to do my best for him (and) knowing that I had a purpose aside from just going

by Kalani Gaviola,

to school really inspired me. And it still does,” she said, then laughed. “Keeps me on my toes, though. That’s for sure.”

Her teaching career started with a job at her alma mater high school, Bakersfield Christian, where she taught English and music. She moved to teaching kindergarten through eighth grade music in the Central Valley from 2014-2017. Then, she taught at Coast Unified School District in Cambria, where versatility was key due to the district’s smaller size, with about 500 students compared to Paso’s almost 7000.

“In a small district like that, everyone has to wear lots of hats,” she said, and indeed she did. At CUSD, Gustafson was part of ASB Leadership, the newspaper and yearbook classes, taught English as well as band and choir, in addition to theater as an after school extracurricular.

This variety prepared her for her next job here in Paso Robles as assistant principal, her first administrative job after receiving a second master’s at Cal Poly in Educational Leadership.

On the surface level, Paso was a reasonable choice, with a nice commute and even nicer sunsets, but the final decision came down more than that.

“I interviewed for a couple other jobs, too,” Gustafson said. “And when I walked into the interview here, everyone was extremely welcoming and kind and I instantly felt comfortable. Normally, I get a little nervous with job interviews (but here) that didn’t happen. I kind of took that as a sign, so when they offered me the job, I said, ‘Yes.’”

Currently, Gustafson’s duties include supervising students during breaks, discipline matters, overseeing the 12th grade, coordinating the ELD program, and more.

Editor

“Every day is different, with different challenges to overcome and different tasks to finish,” she said. She describes the best part of her job as those times where she gets to go into a classroom and observe as an outside party while the teachers bring their subjects to life through their passion and dedication. With interest in the educational field dwindling, Gustafson is the kind of fresh face needed in schools, with goals of positively impacting more students and “personal growth” driving her to pursue an admin job.

And though she hasn’t been here for long, it seems that Gustafson is already on her way to accomplishing these objectives: Current co-worker and 12th grade counselor Lindsey Soto describes her as “empathetic, passionate, (and) diligent… one of the most amazing people to work with (and a) great teammate.”

From one of their first one-on-ones, Soto could tell Gustafson was a match for Paso. We were discussing some of our kind-of high flier cases and her responses were so aligned to mine in our passion for student success that I was like, in love,” she said.

Similarly, 12th grade PRHS student Alexa Wagoner notes as far as first impressions go, Gustafson has made the grade.

“She seems really understanding and open-minded when it comes to what the students are talking about and what they’re feeling. (When we met) she actually listened to my voice and I really like that,” Wagoner said.

This note-worthy addition to staff is just beginning her career at PRHS and the future looks bright: Make sure to wish her well and thank Rachel Gustafson for STEPPING UP!

New Assistant Principal Rachel

Gustafson

details her journey to her current position and her experiences at

PRHS

Op/Ed

Graduation from Bakersfield Christian High School, enrollment in Azusa Pacific

Birth of Her Son & First Bachelor’s degree at Azusa in Music Education

Teacher at Lodi Unified School District, then Coast Unified School District

Hired as new PRHS assistant principal, first administrative job

First teaching job at Bakersfield Christian High School (“The Eagles”)

¡VAMOS A BAILAR!

Escanea el codigo QR para el version Español

Students put together PRHS first Baile in order to help diversify the campus and represent the Latino community

by Emily Neri, Carmesi Co-editor

PRHS’ first Baile was put together by ACT and Mecha on Friday, Mar. 18. The dance, which was made to celebrate Hispanic culture and accentuate the diversity at the campus, sold over 230 tickets with more than $1,100 raised to help support both clubs. The idea started on Oct 8, when A.C.T Club first hosted a Hispanic Heritage celebration for students to enjoy Latino music, food, games, and lots of dancing in the quad during lunch. Senior Melissa Gonzalez led the Oct event and after receiving tons of positive feedback, she decided to put together a committee to plan a Baile.

A.C.T club and M.E.C.h.A combined forces to make the Baile a reality. After five months of planning, the event finally took place, having the club’s members dedicate their time on designing posters,tickets, fundraising, hiring food trucks, and creating the perfect Baile playlist.

“It’s important to bring our culture to campus because over 50% of the student body is Latino and we need to show everyone that we are still here and our culture is very much alive,” Gonzalez said

The night of the baile was a magical night for those who attended. The smell of tacos de asada and the fresh churros filled the air as students danced all night long. The live performance from Eminencia Central and the sound of cowboy boots on the dance floor created a powerful atmosphere that brought unity among one another. At one point, everyone on the dance floor assembled into a long conga line.

“It brings comfort to people having their culture spread and appreciated. Our way is in the form of a baile,” senior Lupita Covarruvias said.

Students afterwards explained how this dance reminded them of a

genuine Hispanic fiesta and the feeling of being at this dance was much different to the ones usually held. To make the night better, Tacos Tilin and Paradise Shaved Ice sold delicious burritos, mangonadas, shaved ice, and more for everyone to enjoy.

Many students such as junior Ana Lopez, do not feel included in regular school events because they don’t feel represented.

“A lot of students don’t feel included in school events, including myself so this baile will help students feel more comfortable and seen. I am really excited for the baile because it’s the first one we had at PRHS and it’s going to be a lot of fun,” Lopez said. Students hope that PRHS will continue to have events such as this one in order to express more cultural diversity and acknowledge the large percentage of Latino students.

Members of the committee have expressed the lack of events that represent Hispanic culture which is reflected by the few people of color that attend dances. “When I won homecoming prince and I went to the dance, only one hispanic song was played and it was only played for a minute before it was remixed. We want to have a dance that plays hispanic music. Most of the latino community don’t attend dances because they can’t find representation,” junior Israel Perez said.

“There is beauty in all cultures and people should be able to celebrate it all. Having an open mind and learning more about those around you creates unity,” senior Genesis Gonzalez said. Students are hoping that this baile is the first of many and with each event, it continues to further diversify our campus.

“ tickets sold

It brIngs comfort to people havIng theIr culture spread and apprecIated. our way Is In the form of a baIle Lupita Covarruvias, 12

230 made $1,150

FACING

ADVERSITY

ELD students share how they overcome language barriers and feeling anonymous in school

by, Zoey Rainey, People Editor

Sitting in the back of a classroom, hoping not to be called on, waiting for the bell to ring; is the reality for many students at PRHS, but especially for most of the 220 students in the ELD program. Entering high school can feel like a foreign world itself, and for some students, they are entering a foreign country as well.

What is ELD?

The English Language Development program (ELD) is for students entering the US from Spanish speaking countries to learn English in school.

The ELD program is composed of two levels:

Newcomers, who are in their first year of being in the US and learning English

Level two where students are in their second year. Students do not leave the program until they test out of it through the ElPac test. Currently about 220 students in ELD range from 9th-12th grade.

to speak slower and allow them to use new technologies such as translators,” ELD teacher Florentino Aleman said, who utilizes Chromebooks in his classes daily.

HANNAH BA-

Adjusting to a new country can be shocking to students as PRHS’ new Bilingual counselor Cesar Barajas said. “One of the biggest struggles is adjusting. I see that they struggle to adjust to the new school system and culture. A lot of these students have their parents in Mexico or other Latin American countries. So a lot of mental health and social-emotional needs come up because they’re missing their home, their friends, their families.” Barajas said.

Inquiring about the ELD student experience at PRHS worked best in Spanish. Females were more willing to share than boys. No one wanted to be photographed.

As junior Alexandra Molina, from El Salvador, enters her fourth month at PRHS, she described her adjustment, ”The school is very different from what I was used to in my country. There it is more technology, and we don’t write much.” The lack of comfort has negatively affected Molina’s views of herself and led to difficulty with speaking up in school. “Instead of making fun of it, I want students to help and talk with us so we can practice and improve,” Molina said.

The biggest struggle that has been brought up by students in the ELD program is communication as sophomore Sandra Garcia Aparicio, from Mexico, said. “The biggest difficulty at school is being able to communicate with others. Many times for those of us who only speak one language, we are not given the help needed to understand. In my classes, where the teacher doesn’t know any Spanish, I feel a little uncomfortable because I want to say something but I don’t know how to say it. It is very difficult to make friends because most people who speak Spanish do not want to talk to you. And there are some students who only speak English who look at us with eyes of disapproval,” Garcia said.

ELD students’ biggest struggles are in English classes. The average grade is a D+ in terms of the ELD population. “Unfortunately, students’ grades are affected because of language barriers, they’re not able to understand the material or communicate their ideas. So it does affect them and that’s one of the reasons they have this class so I can help them improve their grades because they need extra support, especially in English,” Aleman said.

Anonymous: ELD students feel they’re facing their stuggles alone as the school makes them feel the need to be anonymous

Freshman Maritza Hernandez, from México, expressed a similar yet different perspective of school life. “My daily life is normal at school, although it makes it very difficult because I don’t know English. It is easy for me to make friends because I am a very social girl and I always try to talk to people,” Yet Hernandez still feels judged by peers. “I see how many people judge others just because they don’t know English, and I want to tell them to not judge people by their physique when you don’t know them as a person.”

I AM OFTEN EMBARRASSED TO SPEAK IN ENGLISH BEcAuSE THE PRONuNcIATION IS vERy DIFFIcuLT AND wHEN yOu PRONOuNcE SOMETHING wRONG, OTHERS MAKE FuN OF IT.”

While PRHS promotes zero-tolerance of bullying many of these students face it. Jennifer Romero-Vicente shared, “A lot of students make fun of those that are learning English, and I wish that they would put themselves in our shoes and realize that everyone has a starting point to a new language.”

This lack of empathy has been projected by teachers, as well.

Romero expressed her difficulties with one teacher: “I had a class once where the teacher wouldn’t let me get out my Chromebook for translations, so I would have to wait till I got home to do work –or they would send me to a different classroom to work by myself and that was really hard.”

ALExAnDRA MoLInA

However, PRHS is trying to promote a community of equity by helping those that need it and creating modifications so everyone can succeed.

“For other teachers, there are some modifications for the students to help them. We have

”

EvERy STuDENT NEEDS TO HAvE AN EquAL OPPORTuNITy TO BE ABLE TO LEARN cONTENT AND EDucATION SySTEM. IT SHOuLDN’T MATTER wHAT THEIR LANGuAGE IS.”

AngELA LogAn

A majority of the nearly 100 teachers on campus are not fluent in Spanish and can’t provide the right tools for students – a struggle for many. “My struggle is making sure that I’m able to provide students with the opportunity. And it takes more time to translate things. I’m just worried because I don’t speak Spanish fluently, and so I’m unable to really emphasize the concepts for a particular group of students which is really hard for me. Thankfully, I’ve been able to secure paraeducators who are bilingual and that has really helped,” Economics teacher Angela Logan said.

Only two PRHS paraeducators are equipped to translate from English to Spanish, so students often only have a mere handful of their classes with a translator. Yet they are very passionate about what they do. “I became a paraeducator to provide services for students that I didn’t get as an ELD student. There’s a lot we can learn from ELD students.They’re learning about our culture and we can learn a lot about their culture as well. They need extra support because there isn’t enough right now,” paraeducator Maria Segura said.

To combat the shortage of support Barajas wants to have students tutors and guides for newcomers possibly with Leadership students – “just to provide another layer of support and it would be a great idea because now they’re learning at the same time. “

Senior Alejandra Flores, from the US, shared her input on what it’s like to help these students during classes and grow closer with them. “I’ve noticed that some kids feel defeated [when learning English],. There’s so much information coming to them in a language they barely know. I know some students who really want to learn and try to learn the material while translating, but there are some who are defeated by it and say it’s too hard. So I think it depends on the mindset you have and how far you want to succeed.”

Flores tries to help these students as much as possible because of personal experience. “Both of my parents are immigrants. My Dad went to Cuesta when I was younger to learn English, and I remember growing up, he was always shy to talk in English so I always had to. And then I kind of got to a point where I said, ‘No, you know it, you can do it.’ And now he is fine with it. I see people in the same position.”

She thinks that though not everyone has the tools to communicate with these students there’s always room for kindness. “For others, I would say that even if you can’t speak Spanish, you can always find a way to help: Google Translate, or, you know, showing them a piece of paper or something. Just try to be friendly. They’re going through tough times,” Flores said.

As ELD students continue to face adversity they show resounding strength and perseverance through overcoming language barriers and feeling silenced by their peers. There is hope for a better future where all students have the services necessary for them to succeed regardless of their language.

ENFRENTANDO ADVERSIDAD

por, Zoey Rainey, People Editor

Que es ELD?

CARMESI

El programa de desarrollo del idioma inglés (ELD) es para los estudiantes que ingresan a los EE. UU. desde países de habla hispana para aprender inglés.

El programa ELD se compone de dos niveles:

-Recién llegados, que están en su primer año de estar en los EE. UU. y aprender inglés.

-Nivel dos donde los estudiantes están en su segundo año. Los estudiantes no abandonan el programa hasta que lo superen a través de la prueba ElPac.

Actualmente hay alrededor de 220 estudiantes en el programa ELD que van desde el grado 9 al 12.

que hablar más despacio y permitirles usar nuevas tecnologías como traductores”, dijo el maestro de ELD Florentino Alemán, quien utiliza Chromebooks en sus clases todos los días.

HANNAH BA-

Las mayores luchas de los estudiantes de ELD están en las clases de inglés. La calificación promedio es D+ en términos de la población ELD. “Desafortunadamente, las calificaciones de los estudiantes se ven afectadas debido a las barreras del idioma, no pueden comprender el material o comunicar sus ideas. Entonces sí les afecta y esa es una de las razones por las que tienen esta clase para poder ayudarlos a mejorar sus calificaciones porque necesitan apoyo adicional, especialmente en inglés”, dijo Alemán.

”

Sentado en la parte de atrás de un salón de clases, con la esperanza de que no lo llamen, esperando que suene la campana; es la realidad para muchos estudiantes en PRHS, pero especialmente para la mayoría de los 220 estudiantes en el programa ELD. Ingresar a la escuela secundaria puede sentirse como un mundo extranjero en sí mismo, y para algunos estudiantes, también están ingresando a un país extranjero. Adaptarse a un nuevo país puede ser impactante para los estudiantes, como dijo el nuevo consejero bilingüe de PRHS, César Barajas. “Una de las mayores luchas es adaptarse. Veo que luchan por adaptarse al nuevo sistema escolar y la cultura. Muchos de estos estudiantes tienen a sus padres en México u otros países de América Latina. Así que surgen muchas necesidades socioemocionales y de salud mental porque extrañan su hogar, sus amigos, sus familias”. dijo Barajas.Preguntar sobre la experiencia de los estudiantes de ELD en PRHS funcionó mejor en español. Las mujeres estaban más dispuestas a compartir que los niños. Nadie quería ser fotografiado. Cuando Alexandra Molina, de El Salvador, estudiante de tercer año entra a su cuarto mes en PRHS, describió su ajuste: “La escuela es muy diferente a lo que estaba acostumbrada en mi país. Ahí hay más tecnología, y no escribimos mucho”. La falta de comodidad ha afectado negativamente la opinión de Molina sobre sí misma y le ha causado dificultades para hablar en la escuela. “En lugar de burlarme de ello, quiero que los estudiantes nos ayuden y hablen con nosotros para que podamos practicar y mejorar”.

Muchas veces me da vergüenza hablar en inglés porque la pronunciación es muy difícil y cuando pronuncias algo mal, los demás se burlan de ello.”

La mayor lucha que han planteado los estudiantes en el programa ELD es la comunicación, como dijo la estudiante de segundo año Sandra García Aparicio, de México. “La mayor dificultad en la escuela es poder comunicarse con los demás. Muchas veces a los que solo hablamos un idioma, no se nos da la ayuda necesaria para entender. En mis clases, donde el profesor no sabe nada de español, me siento un poco incómodo porque quiero decir algo pero no sé cómo decirlo. Es muy difícil hacer amigos porque la mayoría de las personas que hablan español no quieren hablar contigo. Y hay algunos estudiantes que solo hablan inglés que nos miran con ojos de desaprobación”, dijo García. La estudiante de primer año Maritza Hernández, de México, expresó una perspectiva similar pero diferente de la vida escolar. “Mi vida diaria es normal en la escuela, aunque se me hace muy difícil porque no sé inglés. Es fácil para mí hacer amigos porque soy una chica muy sociable y siempre trato de hablar con la gente”. Sin embargo, Hernández todavía se siente juzgado por sus compañeros. “Veo cuántas personas juzgan a los demás solo porque no saben inglés, y quiero decirles que no juzguen a las personas por su físico cuando no las conocen como personas”.

Si bien PRHS promueve la tolerancia cero de la intimidación, muchos de estos estudiantes la enfrentan. Jennifer Romero-Vicente, de _____ compartió: “Muchos estudiantes se burlan de los que están aprendiendo inglés, y me gustaría que se pusieran en nuestro lugar y se dieran cuenta de que todos tienen un punto de partida para un nuevo idioma”.

Esta falta de empatía también ha sido proyectada por los docentes. Romero expresó sus dificultades con un maestro: “Una vez tuve una clase en la que el maestro no me dejaba sacar mi Chromebook para traducir, así que tenía que esperar hasta llegar a casa para hacer el trabajo, o me enviaban a un aula diferente para trabajar solo y eso fue muy difícil”.

Sin embargo, PRHS está tratando de promover una comunidad de equidad ayudando a quienes lo necesitan y creando modificaciones para que todos puedan tener éxito.“Para otros maestros, hay algunas modificaciones para que los estudiantes los ayuden. Tenemos

La mayoría de los casi 100 maestros en el campus no hablan español con fluidez y no pueden proporcionar las herramientas adecuadas para los estudiantes, una lucha para muchos. “Mi lucha es asegurarme de poder brindarles a los estudiantes la oportunidad. Y lleva más tiempo traducir las cosas. Solo estoy preocupado porque no hablo español con fluidez, por lo que no puedo enfatizar los conceptos para un grupo particular de estudiantes, lo cual es muy difícil para mí. Afortunadamente, he podido conseguir paraeducadores que son bilingües y eso me ha ayudado mucho”, dijo la profesora de economía Angela Logan.Solo dos paraeducadores de PRHS están equipados para traducir del inglés al español, por lo que los estudiantes a menudo solo tienen un puñado de sus clases con un traductor. Sin embargo, son muy apasionados por lo que hacen. “Me convertí en paraeducador para brindar servicios a los estudiantes que no obtuve como estudiante de ELD. Podemos aprender mucho de los estudiantes de ELD. Están aprendiendo sobre nuestra cultura y nosotros también podemos aprender mucho sobre su cultura. Necesitan apoyo adicional porque no hay suficiente en este momento”, dijo la paraeducadora María Segura.

”

Todos los estudiantes deben tener las mismas oportunidades para poder aprender el contenido y el sistema educativo. No debería importar cuál es su idioma.”

Para combatir la escasez de apoyo, Barajas quiere tener estudiantes tutores y guías para los recién llegados, posiblemente con estudiantes de Liderazgo, “solo para brindar otra capa de apoyo y sería una gran idea porque ahora están aprendiendo al mismo tiempo.

La estudiante de último año Alejandra Flores, de EE. UU., compartió su opinión sobre cómo es ayudar a estos estudiantes durante las clases y acercarse más a ellos. “He notado que algunos niños se sienten derrotados [al aprender inglés]. Les llega tanta información en un idioma que apenas conocen. Conozco a algunos estudiantes que realmente quieren aprender y tratan de aprender el material mientras traducen, pero hay algunos que se sienten derrotados y dicen que es demasiado difícil. Así que creo que depende de la mentalidad que tengas y de hasta dónde quieras tener éxito”.

Flores trata de ayudar a estos estudiantes tanto como sea posible debido a su experiencia personal. “Mis dos padres son inmigrantes. Mi papá fue a Cuesta cuando yo era más joven para aprender inglés, y recuerdo crecer, él siempre fue tímido para hablar en inglés, así que siempre tenía que hacerlo. Y luego llegué a un punto en el que dije: ‘No, lo sabes, puedes hacerlo’. Y ahora él está bien con eso. Veo gente en la misma posición”.

Ella piensa que aunque no todos tienen las herramientas para comunicarse con estos estudiantes, siempre hay lugar para la amabilidad. “Para otros, diría que incluso si no puedes hablar español, siempre puedes encontrar una manera de ayudar: Google Translate, o, ya sabes, mostrándoles una hoja de papel o algo así. Solo trata de ser amigable. Están pasando por momentos difíciles”, dijo Flores.

A medida que los estudiantes de ELD continúan enfrentando la adversidad, muestran

Los estudiantes de ELD comparten sus luchas para superar las barreras del idioma y sintiendo anónimos en la escuela

by Bricen Chitty, Web Director & Ashley Paulsen, Editor-In-Chief

The green note slid its way across the counter… then another… then another. The dollar felt like it weighed more last year, right? Gas prices are the highest they’ve been in our history, inflation is rapidly rising, energy prices are spiking, and there’s no sign of the load lightening any time soon. Between the raging war in the east, the decline of COVID-19, and the lack of access to oil, it’s really no surprise that the economy is taking a hit, but students, administration, and teacher Bearcats are especially feeling the weight on their shoulders as prices swell.

According to a survey taken on Mar. 23 of 126 students, 49.2% of Bearcats reported that the rising prices are affecting their daily life either 4 or 5 on a - 5 scale, and only 10.3% reported the inflation having the least impact with a score of 1.

The financial burden is

weighing heavily on the local businesses in Paso, many of which student’s and their families run. Students are being forced to balance their academic and sport life while also working for their family to keep their restaurants, diners, and catering businesses afloat.

Teachers are also being hit full force by the economic crisis, having to balance their already low salaries with more expenses dedicated to their commute to work, feeding themselves and their families, and maintaining the pricey cost of living here on the central coast.

Nonetheless, Bearcats and millions across the nation are feeling the hardships pulling down on them, due to the escalating prices in every category. With no end in sight to the swell, people must find the balance in their work and daily lives in order to counter the increase of the cost to live.

by Ashley Paulsen, Editor-In-Chief

Sticking in the nozzle and clicking 87, upper class Bearcats and thousands across the nation watch in dread as the pump drains their pockets of their dollars. The tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the peelback of COVID-19 mandates, and a shortage of access to oil have all contributed to the exponentially increasing gas prices throughout the U.S. Here in Paso Robles, some Bearcats, along with the rest of the city, have had to think more about their time at the pump and the price they’re paying to get around town. Senior Sydni Carr spends $200 a week on gas, spending a little less than half of her biweekly paycheck on her commute to school and work from her home in Shandon.

“If didn’t need a truck, maybe would switch to a more fuelefficient car but with moving to a place where it snows for college, a truck would be more reliable,” Carr said, who drives an ‘06 Chevy.

The cheapest place to get regular gas in Paso is Wayside gas station on Creston, posting a price of 5.49 as of April 1st. Compared to other places, like Chevron at $6.39 or Mobil at $6.09, Wayside is well populated during open hours for good reason.

As of Mar. 18, the average gas price in the state of California was $5.80 for regular A week prior to that, it was $5.72, and even a month back it was over a dollar cheaper at $4.728. San Luis Obispo County in itself is by far one the most expensive places to get gas in the nation, at an average of $6.04, the fourth most expensive in the state. SLO is even 50 cents more expensive than the high population of Los Angeles County.

California has the highest gas prices in the US, over a dollar more than the national average of $4.274. The state sees much pricier labels at the pump, due to state taxes, environmental laws and just the location.

Californians pay 86.55 cents per gallon towards taxes, almost 30 cents more than the average of 57.09 cents across the nation. California also has a limited number of oil refineries due to environmental protection laws, and they all have to run at full capacity to keep up with the demand of the population, increasing the prices as oil is distributed. All of these factors contribute to California having the highest gas prices in the nation.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed a bill that would alleviate some of the struggles caused by the spike in gas prices.

Regardless of income, Newsom wants to offer $400 to every person who owns a car, but only allowing a maximum of two cards to be given per household He is also actively trying to halt the state’s gas tax increase that is set for July 1st.

Teachers are also greatly affected by the inflation, especially ones who live far out of Paso Robles and have to take a long route to PRHS.

“I use 90% of my gas towards my commute to school, because I rent on a ranch and never want to leave the beautiful property, unless something super cool is happening.” Kevin Kijewski said. Kijewski is an English teacher for freshman and sophomores at PRHS, and makes a 35 minute commute from his home in Adelaida to the school everyday.

Regardless of why prices are high or if the state is going to halt a further increase, Bearcats and the entire US is suffering from the surge. According to CBS News, gas prices will continue accelerating throughout April and remain stagnant during the summer months, but may not start dipping until late 2022.

A deeper look into the causes and effects of the rapid inflation that is weighing down on Bearcats and the nation alike

When gas prices rise, students begrudgingly pay the price

Kevin Kijewski

In-depthgraphics byMaliaGaviola

THE COST OF LIVING

Paso Robles is in the top 5 % of the most expensive cities in the world to live in

by Rayvin Wulfing, Editor In Chief

Paso Robles… a city nestled in the central coast of California, well known for its rolling hills, agriculture, and unmistakable presence in the wine industry. Though it claims a “small-town” charm, Paso Robles has expanded tremendously within the last century increasing its population, tourists, and the cost of living has undoubtedly followed. Despite the beautiful location of Paso Robles, placing it in a hot spot for not only settling down but also a tourism attraction, the cost of living here is much less attractive to the other 88% of Americans who do not live in the golden state. California is the third-most-expensive state in the U.S. with notoriously high housing and transportation costs. California’s housing index is 196.5, and its transportation index is 132.4, the second and third-highest in the U.S. It’s economy is the largest in the United States, with a $3.0 trillion gross state product (GSP) as of 2020, and if California were a sovereign nation, it would rank as the world’s fifth-largest economy, ahead of the United Kingdom and India. Additionally, with the rise of inflation and increase in overall prices, the cost of living has only increased and certainly does not mediate the price tag. As of March 2022, the average cost of living in Paso Robles was $1,971 a month, which makes

began to become aware of it when I was the San Miguel Superintendent, and we began to have more and more families looking for affordable housing in San Miguel. We had a spike in enrollment both in San Miguel proper and out at the lake with lots of families saying that that was just the only affordable rental that they can find and so I knew that housing was a huge issue.”

In February 2022, Paso Robles home prices were up 41.3% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $770K. On average, homes in Paso Robles sell after 11 days on the market compared to 40 days last year. There were 27 homes sold in February this year, down from 47 last year.

Finding an affordable home is not the only issue that continues to rise in Paso Robles. Homelessness has been increasing aswell. As of 2019, Paso Robles was home to at least 239 homeless residents, 221 of whom were unsheltered, according to San Luis Obispo County’s point-in-time homeless census.

“We also see the number of homeless and that’s another indication of how terribly expensive it is here,” Dubost said.

Obispo, the last official Point-in-Time survey showed an increase of nearly 32% homeless people in 2019, recording an estimated 1,483 people compared to the 1,125 people counted in 2017.

Dubost is a fourth-generation member of his family who has been living in Paso Robles since 1882. He was raised here, attended college in the Bay Area, then lived in San Diego for a while before returning back to paso Robles. Though the cost of living is high and continues to increase, Dubost expresses he enjoys living in this area, and is fortunate to have a deeprooted history within his family property.

“I have always known that my future was in Paso Robles… back in this uniquely special town,” Dubost said. He enjoys the proximity Paso Robles has to many “strategic” locations for his small family businees-- a winery located in the Adelaide region of the Paso Robles AVA. “Both as far as quality of life and owning a winery. We’re so strategically located being virtually a park day drive away from the Bay Area from Silicon Valley from Los Angeles from Orange County, from Bakersfield from Fresno, and to have the proximity to the coast and so many things that you can do here just makes it a really special place. I also think that there is a fundamental goodness in Paso Robles. I know that we have our culture wars and our various squabbles, but I do think that there is fundamental goodness in this community. Having that sense of community I think is

INFLATION BOOMS BUSINESS DIES

by Malia Gaviola, Editor In Chief

When inflation runs rampant, consumers often will focus on the rising prices that affect them. They flip over the plastic yellow tag attached to their favorite product and grimace and grumble about the increase. Yet, buyers rarely look behind the register and ask, “What do local business owners go through during inflation?”

This article is a study of the mutual effort of consumers and producers to stay afloat when inflation threatens to drag them down.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the acceleration in inflation started in March 2021 and lasted until September 2021. In a business.org article, Trevor Wheelwright reported that “92% of small business owners reported supplies or services to run their business has increased.” With the cost of supplies, utilities, wages, and rent increasing, businesses owners have no choice but to raise their own prices to sustain themselves. According to Wheelwright, 82% had to increase their prices due to the effects of inflation.

And this chain reaction has reached also into junior Kaci Wagner’s household. Her family owns Wagner’s Import Service Center, a local business that specializes in automotive repair and service. Located in San Luis Obispo, Ted Wagner opened the shop in 2003 and is now facing the drastic rise in prices.

An article entitled “What is the Small Business Fail Rate” by fundera.com states the hardest part of creating a business isn’t in the first few years, but approaching the decade mark where 70% of small business owners fail. In addition, 20% of small businesses fail in their first year, 30% in their second, and 50% after five.

Despite these odds, Wagner’s business

STUDENT STRUGGLES

by Bricen Chitty, Web Director

has been open for 19 years.

“I wanted to be my own boss and control the amount of hours I worked and when,” Wagner said. “With a lot of hard work [we] have survived.”

Reflecting the 20% increase in costs for supplies and services reported by 71% of small-business owners (business.org), Wagner stated how inflation has raised the cost of all of his supplies.

“There is nothing for this small business which hasn’t risen in pricing,” Wagner said, listing that the price of parts has risen at least 20%-40 and oil prices have gone up almost 3550%. “We’ve have had to raise our labor rate higher this year than the normal. But to all other aspects of the business, the costs are rising: rent, utilities, insurances etc.”

The ramifications of inflation don’t stay at the family business, at the shop in SLO. There is a subtle presence that follows Wagner around her house and to school each day.

“I have seen the effects of inflation in my life. My family is changing strategies to try and lower spending to be able to save in other ways,” Wagner said. “My parents like to keep the talk of finances to a minimum during family time to not take up that time… but my father has been working more hours than he normally would.”

For now, local businesses like Wagner’s Import Service Center are remaining open in this time of increased prices, but are in the same boat as consumers; hoping and waiting for a fall in the inflation rate… for the good of their survival.

The stock market is tanking, gas prices are rising steadily, and inflation is increasing rapidly. It’s clear that the United States economy, and the economy globally, is suffering. While experts and politicians battle these economic troubles, there is often a struggling population that gets overlooked --- students and their families. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 43% of full-time and 81% of part-time college students work. It’s no surprise that the people that are going to be most affected by the rapidly declining economy is you, the reader. A student, or parent, or just a community member.

“Inflation is going to affect a young family way more adversely than, say, somebody who’s retired and has their house paid off” says wealth advisor Austin Cunningham A number of students are starting to see these issues impact their everyday life and spending. They are afraid they might lose their jobs, get their hours cut, and be unable to afford essential items like food and gas.

This looks more direr when analyzing the socioeconomic standings of students and their families. In 2019, there were nearly 12 million students that lived in poverty. That’s 1 in every 7 kids who live below the poverty line, many of whom financially support

families by taking on jobs after school.

One freshman at PRHS who wishes to stay anonymous spoke out about his concerns and what advice he has for other students on campus that might be struggling.

“A positive attitude is extremely important. If you look down on yourself while you are doing your job or working its extremely harmful to you and the way you work”

This anonymous student also advised students that time management is one of the most important aspects of balancing school, work, and extra curriculars.

“Better time management, even if you have a lot of obstacles or things during your day. Good time management is so much better than not managing at all or trying to do everything at once.”

There is so much uncertainty in these times, and people are scared of what a recession could mean for themselves and their families. According to CNBC, 20% of Americans are starting to hoard cash in their home out of fear of an upcoming recession.

However, even though the economy seems like it’s in massive decline, there’s much that students can take advantage of in these times.

“Uncertainty breeds opportunity... There’s so much opportunity for students to work while going to school or students that are just finishing up school. That if you get into a job, and you work your butt off... I guarantee you will be noticed.” says Cunningham.

Cunningham says that, even in financially difficult times, there are steps that everyone, including students, can take to mitigate long-term damage, and even benefit from any economic situation. He explains that it can be very easy for students to give up during difficult economic situations, but if you are able to put your nose to the grindstone and get noticed by putting in the work, you can come out of

Students struggle to figure out their next step as the economy crumbles underneath them

Emily Rogers working the counter at the General Store in downtown Paso Robles on 12th & Park St.

Sydni Carr serving icecream at Negranti Creamery on 12th & Pine St.

Kaci Wagner, 11

Local businesses face rising prices and struggle to stay booming.

WORKERS WANTED NEEDED

Job participation has dropped leaving businesses in need of employees and boosting inflation

by TJ Rothbauer, News Director, and Miguel Muniz, Poli-Sci Editor

Empty aisles, long lines, and closed checkouts spread throughout Paso Robles. National trends from the Bureau of Labor show there are almost two job openings for each unemployed citizen. Similarly, Paso Robles local and big businesses are short employees. Just downtown alone, dozens of businesses have entry level job openings available.

An employee’s desire for higher wages might be driving the shortage, according to Co-Owner and Event Manager of Trumpet Vine Catering Erica Nolan

“I think a lot of people are out there switching jobs… They’re trying to find something that’s going to pay higher and we are trying to be as competitive as we can, [but] people are being more picky than they were before, because they know that they can be because everybody’s hiring,” Nolan said.

Many businesses such as Target are raising their starting wages to $17/hour due to such a low number of people competing in the workforce.

Businesses have also been actively hiring through their own employees.

Trumpet Vine Catering is just one business to attempt this strategy through incentivizing their employees to bring in potential hires offering employees $200 if they find a new hire.

This necessity for labor has led employers to demand more from their employees. Some employers have been asking their employees to work longer hours with less staff than previously

PRESS PlAy

Money Talks WiTh a Financial

In this Bearcast financial advisor Anne Crabbe teaches students healthy spending, saving, and investing stratagies. Crabbe originally came to Paso Robles to help grow a winery with some friends. In her free time she enjoys reading and volunteering with the United Way to teach highschool Bearcats about financial literacy

available.

When interviewed at her place of work, an anonymous downtown employee admitted that she’d been working 8+ hour shifts by herself which she claimed hasn’t always been the case.

“I feel like right now especially with the lack of workers it gives us the opportunity to step out into fields where you need experience… they usually don’t hire people under 16, but they gave me a job even though I was 14 at the time” Mateo De Alba, food runner and polisher, stated.

De Alba’s place of employment (The Hatch) is a restaurant that also caters local events. The restaurant has begun an incentive program where working as

Erica Nolan

Mateo De Alba (10)

PACKING OUT

TO ARROYO SECO

22 seniors spend their three day weekend backpacking over the course of two days

ONE STEP AT A TIME: Students follow Mr. Ewing as they go explore their surroundings.

THROUGH THE STREAM:

GLISTENING

As students trail down they are welcomed by the shimmering creek.

TOP OF THE WORLD WITH A BUDDY: Reily Lowry and Diego Ortega pose as they stand in front of the scenic view.

by Jocelyn Lopez, Design Co-Editor

PhotosbyAngelEspinoza

READY, SET, EXPLORE: Students run to explore the camp site.

WATER YOU WAITING FOR: Dylan Saunders walks into the creek.

PUT YOUR BACK INTO IT: Anderson, Ortega, Moreno end the trip with a long conversation.

YOU TO IT BEACH

New club on campus: Beach Beautification is dedicated to keeping the shores clean

by Asusena Uribe, Carmesi Co-Editor

As memories on the beach give unforgettable experiences, the amount of trash on beaches has increased to 14 million tons every year. Because of this increasing rate, PRHS students have created the Beach beautification club in order to educate others about the impact of littering on beaches and try to combat that by cleaning them up themselves. The club receives about 34 students every Monday from both lunches for meetings and about 35 students at the beach events.

The Beach Beautification club is advised by science department teacher Cora Karamitsos who wants to persevere students to be involved in community service.

“Our goals are to maintain the natural beauty of our local beaches on the central coast. We also want to encourage the student body to value nature and pick up their own trash”

Karamitsos said Kelsey Hammond, a junior, is club president. She first got involved because of her passion for keeping beaches clean, and she hoped that other students had the same interest.

Devin Kinder, a junior, came up with

the idea of creating this club after talking with her friends about pollution.

“We’ve been told for so long how bad beach pollution is and it hasn’t improved, so we decided to try and help make a difference.” Hammond said Kinder then said, “Were all talking about how we have been learning about ocean and beach pollution since we were in elementary school and just decided we wanted to try and do our part to lessen this huge problem that we’ve been learning about.”

Since the starting of the club, they have created one beach event where they went to Morro Bay and cleaned for one hour. Their event started with all students meeting in a designated area and creating groups of a couple of students. They then section off the beach and clean for 30 minutes. After they pick up the trash,it’s easy to enjoy a few more hours on the sand.

“Well we are planning to have a beach clean up once every month to inform others of how bad beach pollution is, and to do our part to lessen this pollution on our local beaches,” Kinder said.

NDERSTANDING KRAINE AND RUSSIA U

The conflict between both Eastern European countries continues to ravage, as questions about peace arise

By Elise Mathers, News Editor and Kayla Degnan, Photographer

An address was made by Russian President Vladmir Putin on Feb. 24, 2022 stating that “Russia cannot feel safe, develop, and exist with the constant threat emanating from the territory of Ukraine.” President Putin presented his plan as a “special military operation” that would make efforts to protect people in the city of Kyiv who he claimed to be experiencing the abuse of genocide for many years. “We will strive for the demilitarization and denazification of Ukraine, as well as bringing to justice those who committed numerous bloody crimes against civilians, including citizens of the Russian Federation,” Putin said. Shortly after Putin’s address, reports began to surface of explosions in eastern Ukrainian city Kharkiv, as well as the capital, Kyiv. Just that afternoon, Russia had entered Ukraine from the north, south, and east. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenesky responded on the night of the invasion in a YouTube video, in an effort to address and enlighten the Russian people on the accusations made against Ukraine. Putin made claims against Zelensky for being a Nazi, however the President has made his Jewish faith very well known.

War Begins: Feb. 24 2022

Russian troops enter Ukraine by land and sea regions. Heavy bombing on captial city of Kyiv targeting military insitutions, as well as occupying Chernobyl nuclear power plant.

March 3:

Russia seizes Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant with threat of nuclear accident bigger than Chernobyl, after the plant caught fire.

Mayors and Ministers

Mar.10-16:

Refugee Crisis: Feb. 26-March 2:

Fleeing to neighboring countries increases with about 857,000 people, rounds of ceasefire are first discussed with 141 of 193 of UN consul support motions. China abstains.

rUssia cannoT feel safe, develop, and exisT wiTh The consTanT ThreaT emanaTing from The TerriTory of Ukraine.

vLADMIR PUTIN

The Ukraine on yoUr news and Ukraine in real life are Two compleTely differenT coUnTries, and The main difference beTween Them is: oUrs is real vOLODYMYR ZELENSKY

Russia kidnaps the mayor of Ukrainian city, Melitopol. Prime Ministers from Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovenian arrive in Kyiv. Putin threatens

The 4 million Ukrainian people uprooted by Russian invasions and advances has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, just over a month after Putin’s first invasion. Refugees have walked, ridden, flown, and bussed to Poland, Romania, Moldova, Hungary, Russia, Slovakia, and Belarus. In the bordering countries, Ukrainians are being allowed to stay in reception centers where they receive medical care, food, and guidance regarding onward travel. The European Union (EU) has declared that those who have fled Ukraine have the right to remain in the EU and any of its 27 members for up to three years. For those with family members in the UK, a visa program allows family members of a Ukrainian refugee to act as their host for at least six months rent-free. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said in a tweet Mar. 30 that another 6.5 million people are displaced in Ukraine, with 13 million stranded and unable to leave.

# Ukranian Refugees by Neighboring Country

Russia: 271,254

Mar.20- Mar. 21: 20 million said to have been oust in Ukraine (including those who have already fled the country). Ukraine rejects Russia’s demands of surrender in Mariupol

Belarus: 5,569

Slovakia: 260,244

Hungary: 330,877

Mar.26-Mar. 29: Russia loses about 60 men from attacks on artillery by Ukrainian military forces. Russia destroys a fuel depot in Ukraine for the military. Negotiations are brought to the table in Istanbul, Turkey.

Mar.22-Mar.25: Russia destroys part of the Chernobyl laboratory. Ukrainian forces are continuing to be under heavy missile fire.

FAMILY FIRST

Sophomore Olya Bondarenko shares her experience of watching her home country mid-war from across the world

Olya Bondarenko, a sophomore at PRHS, lived in Ukraine for the majority of her life. Her father, sister, and closest friends are still in Ukraine; Bondarenko lives with her mother who married a Californian. Her hometown, Dnipro in southeastern Ukraine, remains safe, and citizens continue to assist other parts of the country in need. Bondarenko lived in the US for just over a year when conflict began to arise in her home country.

“War first started in Ukraine in 2014, but this year they’re trying to take all of Ukraine,” she said. Bondarenko learned of Russian advances on Feb. 24, the day of Putin’s address. The current condition of the airports prevents anyone from leaving or entering the country. Bondarenko has kept in touch with her loved ones back home.

“My friends are scared because every day they hear sirens. It’s very loud and our airports have been bombed so people can’t leave. Planes don’t fly to us because they know they can be bombed,” she said. A friend of her sister’s, Valeria, experienced the invasion of Russian soldiers firsthand. “My sister has a friend, she’s pregnant, she lives where it is bad. Russian soldiers came to her house and took all the food.”

Despite the heartbreak of the invasion, Bondarenko recognizes that there are two perspectives of the people in Russia.

“You don’t have to hate all Russians. It’s 50/50: one type is good, and one type wants to take Ukraine.” Bondarenko feels supported by those around her, and shares pride for the Ukrainian people.

Moldova: 374,059

Romania: 563,519

I feel really big support. My teachers support me, the people here support Ukraine. I am really happy about it. I’m really proud of Ukrainians, because they’re fighting and they don’t give up

THE WORLD EATING AROUND

by Zoey Rainey, People Editor

Students share their favorite cultural dishes from around the world

Food is the basis of all human life, it provides sustenance and can be used to show one’s culture. While some might not think about the importance of cultural food on a daily basis a study by PubMed.gov identified that, “cultural food security influenced the ability to practice foodways, which tied Second-generation American students to their cultural identities. The absence of foodways led to anxiety and depression among students, amplifying the feelings of identity degradation. Second generation American students discussed that the ability to practice their foodways improved multiple well-being components and led to feelings of happiness, decreased stress, warmth, better digestion, and a sense of belonging, comfort, and safety.” Food contributes to an individual’s physical

Rana Takada

(Tokyo, Japan)

Osechi Ryori is the traditional food enjoyed on New Year’s day in Japan. They come in an assortment of colorful dishes packed together in special boxes called jubako, which resemble bento boxes. Every dish of these traditional foods has a special meaning in welcoming the New Year. Similar to bento boxes, Osechi Ryori is usually packed in 2-3 layers of lacquer boxes (ojubako) and there are many dishes in each layer. The multi-tiered boxes symbolize the hope that happiness & wealth come continuously, like the layers of lacquerware.

Justin Zheng

(Bamberg, Germany)

Döner kebabs are a type of Turkish dish similar to the Greek gyro or the Arab shawarma made from Turkish flatbread filled with with seasoned meat shaved from a vertical rotisserie, different kinds of vegetables and sauce. The presence of the döner kebab in Germany has served as an important vehicle for the coun try’s large Turkish population to successfully integrate into European life, and it’s certainly influential on the country’s food culture.

Nathaniel Nut

(Mexico City, Mexico)

Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican breakfast dish consisting of corn tortillas cut into quarters, lightly fried, and sauteed in either a green or red salsa, and topped with cheese, crema (a sweet, thin cream sauce), and onion. Pulled chicken may also be added during the cooking process, and casserole versions of the dish are popular. Beans, eggs, beef, and avocado are among the foods often served with chilaquiles. It is typically eaten for breakfast or brunch, much like the Tex-Mex dish Migas, which is made with scrambled eggs and tortilla. strips.

and mental well-being and expresses one’s cultural identity through preparation, sharing, and consumption (what PubMed calls foodways).

The US has become a melting pot for different cultures and foods, including here at PRHS. Our campus has many different exchange students and students that have grown up here but have different cultural foods and ways of life. Many cultures use food to celebrate Holidays, family, and life. “We only eat Osechi once a year on New Year’s Eve so it’s special to us and it’s also delicious,” Senior Rana Takada said. During times of division it’s important to celebrate each other and our individual cultures in our own community. In celebration of this fellow students share what they’re eating Around The World.

Willa Wroldsen

(Baerum, Norway)

Smalahove is a traditional Norwegian rec ipe of sheeps head, usually eaten on the Sunday before Christmas. There are different sides that can be served with Smalahove but most common is mashed potatoes and rutabaga, or akvavit. Cooking and eating a sheep’s head originates in the peasantry in Norway who would tend to eat whatever food was available. However, in modern times, smalahove is considered a deli cacy. Furthermore, it has received a welcome revival due to tourists visiting Norway wishing to try the dish as a thrill.

Menatallah Elsayed

(Egypt, Africa)

Koshri is another one of those genius solutions to using up pantry staples. It is a cousin to the Middle Eastern Mujadara. In a nutshell, it is a comforting bowl of simple pantry staples: spiced lentils and rice, combined with chickpeas and small pas ta. All smothered in a tomato sauce that’s been spiked with vinegar and topped with savory, crispy thin fried onion rings.

Doro wat is an incredibly fragrant, spicy, fla vorful, rich slow-cooked Ethiopian chicken stew mostly eaten for special occasions and family gatherings.Traditionally Doro Wat is served with an Ethiopian flatbread called injera. It’s kind of a spongy pancake made with teff flour (a grain indigenous to the area), and the batter is left to ferment for up to 4 days before its used. The injera is used in place of an eating utensil and is used to scoop up the chicken stew.

Mia Bikle (Ethiopia, Africa)

CAMPUS CUSTOM RIDES

PRHS students add their own colors to driving through their cars

by Maicah Cabello, Design Director

Bearcats are turning driving into something they can call their own. They fill their free time with car care and mods. The hard work rewards them. And their cars are roundly their own.

Buying the car is only the first step in a longer process that consists of fixing, upgrading, and customizing.

“I knew what things I wanted to get for it but I didn’t really want to spend more than what I had to. I was willing to work on it but there wasn’t much that needed fixing,” sophomore Kade Mitchell said when talking about his 2001 Chevy Silverado he began working on around Sep of 2021. Mitchell has removed running boards, changed the water pump, fixed the AC, and put on a new muffler. Considering his process as temporarily “done,” he knows more problems will tie him up soon. After all, it’s 20 years old. And beloved. Similarly, senior Jordy Rodriguez thinks about “what needs to be fixed or what can be improved, and what would take the most time” when taking the next steps in upgrading his 1994 Honda Accord. Since he first started working on his car in August of 2020, he has since swapped his transmission from an automatic to a manual, installed bucket racing seats, and removed the muffler. His process is “far from” being finished, the next step being the paint job. These drivers are transforming their modes of transportation into reflections of their work and personality. They don’t always have a firm end destination. However, the satisfaction and life knowledge that they get along the way

continuously pay off.

“It was a great learning experience just learning the car inside and out,” senior Tony Garcia said. His freshman year, Garcia took on the project of fixing up his grandparents’ 1986 Suzuki Samurai. The “Frankenstein car,” as Garcia called it, first arrived brand new in 1986 and then worked its way to his father’s garage. Since then he has finished the “running parts” by piecing from another Samurai he purchased. He upgraded to a bigger engine, adding lower gears for off-roading, adding bumpers, installing mini cooper seats, and putting in speakers – all his own work, the Samurai transports Garcia to school everyday. However, next on the list are customizations that reflect Garcia’s personality: purple leather, Garcia’s favorite color, and a carpeted dashboard are set to be installed to complement the already present purple accents.

For about a year, another senior Taylor Ehlers has been essentially rebuilding his 1975 Ford F-350 Dually fully equipped with a 390 FE big block motor with a four speed manual.

“I would say that knowing I worked for this truck and built it is a motivator. I see it as the reward for all of my hard work,” Ehlers said. In the immediate future he plans on rebuilding the transmission to make it drive better and safer, but in the long term, he hopes to make a custom flatbed and paint it.

Tony Garcia, 12

It was a great learnIng experIence just learnIng the car InsIde and out

Tony Garcia, 12

THE “FRANKENSTEIN” CAR : In order to run, Garcia’s car was assembled with other working parts from another Samurai he purchased.

Fantastic Fries TASTEBUDDIES:

Fantastic Fries

by Kalista Peterson & Sienna Ramos

What do you do on a random FRY-day night with your friends when you’re hungry and can’t decide what to eat? The answer to this age old question is—always and will always be— FRIES. Pull up a chair and come along with the taste buddies as we take the recommendations of fellow Bearcats for their favorite dishes to find out which is one truly the greatest.

After lots of time sitting feeling fat, we stopped eating for a week in preparation for the amazing, one of a kind, signature fry dishes from four different iconic Paso restaurants. That was a joke. But now you're intrigued. Stick around to hear about our adventure trying the best fries of the town.

STREET SIDE

Our first destination in downtown Paso was Street Side. We were inspired to check them out when sophomore Sebi Radojevic insisted on their product and we felt it had to go on the roster. The waiter approached us with a friendly smile and welcoming introduction. We ordered the $13 dollar “Street Fries” and they arrived piled up high, looking anything but ordinary. Topped with bacon, pepperchinis, melted cheese and rosemary, its colorful and unique appearance struck us as soon as the plate hit the table. We were delightfully surprised at the odd combos. The sweet and salty flavors complemented each other perfectly and kept us excited to continue eating! The fries were soft yet crisp and ideal for sharing. If you are in the mood for adventure, drive over to the corner of 12th and Park to try out this special dish.

TASTE

Our next stop was Taste Craft Eatery. As we walked in we noticed the fun music, modern look, and comfy vibe. A friendly hostess seated us instantly and we promptly got to ordering the sweet potato fries that were on our minds. “They are very popular and a customer favorite,” stated senior Frankie Anaya, who has been working there for over a year. The fries arrived looking toasted and vibrant. They were slightly sweet, but when paired with the spicy sauce it was the perfect balance.

These bright orange fries were soft on the inside with a flaky crust on the exterior for an ideal texture. These TASTE fries really TASTEd amazing and were easy to share. We were impressed by friendly and fast service, making these sweet potato fries a bucket list item.

ZIGGY’S Just down the street from Street Side is another great restaurant, Ziggys. This place opened up just a few months ago being the first hot vegan takeout place in Paso Robles. Surrounded by pink tile, lots of natural plants, and unique artwork on the walls, this storefront brings something different to downtown. Classmate Zoey Rainey highly recommended the “Ratchet Fries” from Ziggy’s. The worker was charming and efficient and soon enough, a box of steaming hot fries were at our table. As we opened the carry out container, our mouths began to water seeing the guacamole, vegan hamburger meat, and melted cheese on a bed of seasoned fries. They were a little salty, heavy and hard to eat, so make sure to come hungry, but overall were a great side, perfect for sharing with your favorite vegetarian.

ROOTS ON RAILROAD

For our grand finale, we went with a fan favorite: Roots on Railroad at The Backyard on Thirteenth. Owned by former Bearcat Alumni Russel Baker and frequented by lots of school administrators, over 10 student employees run the place. It’s a laid back hangout spot a great space for all ages to socialize and enjoy the outdoor venue. Roots offers many fry dishes, but we went with the 8.0. Fries recommended by Mathew McThomas. Our server later arrived at the sunlit picnic table with a colorful bowl of fries, topped decadently with shredded chicken, jalapenos, sour cream, bell pepper, pickled onions, and melted cheese. It was a rainbow to eat with many different textures and flavors harmonizing in your mouth. We even got an inside look into the cooking process, “We fry them, salt them, add dried parsley, and then put toppings- there's really not much to it; it's just one of those simple things,” said senior server Jonah Rankin —also known as JRank. These fries looked great and they tasted great. We definitely recommend that you give these fries a try!

Come along with the Tastebuddies, two juniors trying out and rating the best high school hotspopts to let you know where to find your next favorite dish.

IT’S NERF OR NOTHIN’

Upperclass Bearcats put together a game of “Assassins”, going around town and attempting to eliminate each other with Nerf Guns

by Ashley Paulsen, Editor-In-Chief & Sports Director

Hushing of giggles and holding breath, Bearcats inch around the corner to see a fellow Assassin walking out of the gym-- waiting for the perfect moment to strike, they pull the trigger and a nerf bullet goes flying… one less person left in the game. A group of senior Bearcats have put together a game called “Assassins,” featuring over 100 upperclassmen dodging and “killing” each other with nerf guns after school hours. The paranoia and caution filling the participants lives flips their daily routines upside down, making them pay attention to their every move

$1000 TO THE WINNER

108 players

$10 BUY-IN

Students that were interested pitched in $10 to the group of seniors running it, including Cade Varian, Bastiaan Jaureguy, Coleton Sullivan, and Taylor Ehlers

on top, they get a nice, big price,” senior Jaureguy said. He currently has three “kills,” and has had to avoid the multiple attempts made on him so far, escaping each one.

“I just want to go to work peacefully. I have a big old Nerf gun on me all the time anywhere I go. I go into restaurants, stores, work with my Nerf gun. It doesn’t matter where I am, I have it on me,” Jaureguy said.

Once the game comes to an end, the last survivor will take home a hefty prize, upwards of at least $1000. The first week, each player put in $10 to enter the game. The second week, if you were “killed” and wanted to keep playing, another $10 was put into the pot. The following week, it was a $20 buy-back fee. The players aren’t just going around playing with nerf guns for fun-- they’re looking to make an easy grand. 10% of the profit will go to the player with the most kills, and another 10% to the creators for any loot drops that they have throughout the game.

I just want to go to work peacefully. I have a bIg old nerf gun on me all the tIme anywhere I go. I go Into restaurants, stores, work wIth my nerf gun. It doesn’t matter where I am, I have It on me. BASTIAAN JAUREGUY, 12

The game started on March 14 and is still in session. The rules are simple: You can only use a nerf gun, you must get any “kills” on video, no attempts at school, work, a place of worship, or in someone’s house without their parents permission, and most importantly: don’t get shot.

“In essence, it’s a big old Nerf war with high schoolers, so nothing too serious. It’s just a bunch of seniors and juniors that are running around town with Nerf guns. That’s basically all it is. And once the final person comes out

A loot drop is typically once a week after school, and senior Clayton Melendy, who is not playing but rather enforcing the rules, managing the instagram account, holding the money, and more, will hide a stash of a new nerf gun, “revive” card, and other helpful items for players to find.

As of April 4th, there are still 71 players still in the game, 47 down from the original 108 there were. On April 11th, any players without a kill will be eliminated-- what could be another 36 out if they can’t take someone down within the next week.

RULES

Must show video proof of a “kill”

ON THE HUNT (lDowntown Paso Robles) : Bearcats spotted stalking downtown in search of other Assassins to catch off-guard, walking out of work or out to lunch. Dominic Umphenour, Bastiaan Jaureguy, Kylee Iane, Daniel Landeros, Taylor Ehlers, Randy Dye, and Hunter Breese were spotted by Morgan Henry on the prowl.

Game stops 8:30-3:30 on school days

School, work, homes, and public buildings are off-limits (besides Walmart)

Any rules broken will result in a disqualification and no refund

SPRING SPORTS SUCCEED

Hollywood branches out and expands

acting

by Reily Lowry, Sports Editor

and directing

opportunities

for POC in future projects

Dominating on the diamond, the Varsity Softball Team is undefeated in Mountain League with five wins. The Bearcats are on a six game winning streak and are currently 11-4 overall. With new Head Coach, Jannane Ruck, the softball team is determined to win CIF and make Bearcat history.

“Our team’s goal is to win CIF and League. We started off brand new with a new

coach this year and not really knowing what to expect, but our team has been improving every day at practice,” said senior star pitcher Jaiden Ralston, who signed to Iowa State. “Our biggest accomplishment as a team is being undefeated in league and my favorite thing about this year is being able to create new memories and accomplish new goals before I start my college career.”

CATCH, SHUFFLE, THROW (lPRHS) : Sophomore Ellie Chavez fields a ground ball and makes a throw to the first baseman for an out.

“our team’s goal is to Win cif and league. We started off Brand neW With a neW coach this year and not really knoWing What to expect, But our team has Been improving every day at practice.”

JaIdEn raLSTon, 12

7-0 LEAGUE

“We Will definitely have a majority of the Bearcat team going to cif to compete this year and a feW going to state, Which is exciting.”

Jordan WEYrICH, 12

Racing to finish their 2022 season strong, the Men and Women’s Track charged ahead of much of their competition as they prepared in Febraru and March for their CIF Championships come May.

At the Central Coast Spring Classic– including Arroyo Grande, Nipomo, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, and other SLO County teams – junior Lucy Pritchard placed 1st in the 100m Dash with a time of 12.89 seconds and placed 1st in Long Jump where she won 16-8.25. Sophomore Jack Tobin for the varsity men’s team placed first in the Pole Vault event winning 11-6 and sophomore

Peyton Bedrosian placed 1stas well for the women’s team, launching 11-0.

“Our track team is doing pretty good this season so far. We’ve had a good number of meets and all of them we have been placing whether it’s sprints, pole vaulting, jumps, shotput, or distance,” senior track runner Jordan Weyrich said. “We will definitely have a majority of the Bearcat team going to CIF to compete this year and a few going to state, which is exciting.”

ON YOUR MARK, GET SET, GO! (PRHS) : Sophomore Hayden McKanna hustles to beat his opponent during the Atascadero-Paso dual meet

SOFTBALL TRACK

The Men’s Volleyball Team has set themselves up for triumph this season so far with a league record of 5-4. Defeating Templeton in a close match and winning 3-2 in the fifth set, beating Santa Maria 3-1, and sweeping Nipomo and Atascadero 3-0, the team has high hopes for CIF and the remainder of their league season.

“I feel like our team is pretty solid, we have a couple things we get hung up on but overall we do well in our sets,” senior team captain and setter for the men’s team, TJ Rothbauer said. “I think we’re going to tie for first place with Nipomo in league. I think we have a big chance at winning our first CIF game. It’ll be a tough road ahead, but our team is improving a lot, and we want to win.”

VOLLEYBALL 5-4 LEAGUE

HOLD YOUR BREATH (ArroyoGrandeHighSchool)

With only three seniors on the team, the pressure is high on the underclassmen to step up and compete. Senior Troy Ross who averages 15-17 kills and around eight blocks a game stated, “Our passing as a team is getting better, our front row is developing, and we have a reliable center. We work with what we have–considering we have such a young team–but we try our best and put the work in.”

“i think We’re going to tie for first place With nipomo in league. i think We have a Big chance at Winning our first cif game, it’ll Be a tough road ahead But our team is improving a lot and We Want to Win.”

TJ roTHbauEr, 12

: Senior Captain Jackson Parr throws his arms out of the water to get more length during his 100m butterfly race

With a swing and a miss, the 2022 Varsity Baseball Team has gone 7-5 so far this season, beating teams such as Templeton, Santa Maria (10-0), Cabrillo (9-2), and Dos Palos (10-3).

Kyle Bonham, senior left fielder, hopes that with a varsity lineup of 16 seniors and four juniors, “our team will make a deep CIF run and win League.”

In Paso’s most nail-biting three game series of the year, the team triumphed over Templeton winning 4-3, where they batted in all four runs in the last inning. They then doubled up with another win 4-2 in their second game, and lost 16-8 for their last game on March 18, 2022.

Senior pitchers Carson Turnquist and Tanner O’Farrell suffered game-changing injuries during

GET OUTTA HERE (Barnhart Field) : Junior Zane Canaday fields a ground ball and makes a throw to the first baseman for an out.

BASEBALL 2-5 LEAGUE

The Men and Women’s Swim and Dive team plunged into a successful season defeating teams such as Atascadero, Morro Bay, and Santa Ynez. Currently there are two female divers on the Women’s team, junior Ashlynn Bean and sophomore Chloe Railsback. Due to the lack of male divers, the Men’s Swim Team have to make up the points they lose at league meets.

“With the strict seven to eight practices a week that our team has to show up to, I feel our team is doing well and we’re seeing a lot of improvement,” said Team Captain, Jackson Parr.

The Women’s Team, on the other hand, are

expecting to have many CIF qualifiers and place well in their league meets. Team Captain and school record holder for the Women’s 100m Butterfly, Holly Disimone spoke proudly of the team saying their “biggest accomplishment so far is making it into the season with as good of a mindset we all have. It was difficult for any of us to know what the season was going to look like after covid, and I’d say the team is handling it amazingly.”

STROKE GAME STRONG(ArroyoGrande HighSchool) : Senior Captain Jackson Parr throws his arms out of the water to get more length during his 100m butterfly race

the earlier parts of the season that enabled them to compete in some of the big games.

“My injury impacted the team in a good way, to be honest. Not that I’m not playing, but obviously one of the good things about me being on the mound is that it always feels like we have a good chance at winning or staying in the game as long as possible,” Turnquist, who committed to the University of Oklahoma.

“Without that, my team has found ways to scrap some W’s without having to use some of the big pieces of our team. Moving forward, I feel like as we start bringing our pieces together, things will click, and we’ll be an even more dangerous team to face later on in the season.”

my team has found ways to scrap some w’s without having to use some of the big pieces of our team. moving forward, i feel like as we start bringing our pieces together, things will click and we’ll be an even more dangerous team to face later on in the season.”

Carson TurnquisT, 12

SWIM & DIVE BOYS 2-3 GIRLS 0-4

The Men’s Varsity Tennis Team backhands their competition so far this season by going 10-11 overall in Mountain League. The tennis team, who currently sit in fourth place behind Mission Prep, Arroyo Grande, and SLO, strive to win and hold their place in order to compete in CIF. In League finals, all players can compete individually or in a doubles team against the different schools in the Mountain League Tournament. One of the three seniors on the team, David Cardiel battles individually in the singles tournament with hopes of placing 5th in league and making it as far as he can into the tournament.

“We’ve seen a lot of improvement from the beginning of the season to now. Whenever I play matches I can pick up the weaknesses of my opponents easier. When I go into a tennis match I’m thinking, ‘Alright, it’s time for some fun’ and depending on the team I’m more aware and focused and I try to be consistent and make the opponent work hard,” said senior Angel Pallais

The Men’s Golf Team drives their competition into the pond as they currently hold a 7-4 record in league where they defeated their long league rivals, St. Joseph High School. Practicing at the Paso Robles Golf Club, the team dedicates themselves to making CIF as a team rather individually.

“Our team has come a long way from where we’ve started. Everyone is finding their groove and it’s really awesome to see people grow in the sport,” said Team Captain, Kobe Miller “What makes things different about this year is we really didn’t have much of a fun year because the season was cut short due to COVID last year. Being able to travel this year without masks and being a senior has brought me a lot of responsibility and changed the way I view the game as a leader.”

his ball after his drive, hoping to make it to the green.

HEAD IN THE GAME (Paso Robles Golf Club) : Senior Kobe Miller diligently watches

SERVING OUT L’S (PRHS) : Senior Christian Torres reaches with his racket to smack the tennis ball past his opponent

BALLIN’ AT THE BEACH

Beach volleyball starts its first season as a CIF sport

by Ashley Paulsen, Editor-in-Chief

Squinting away from the glare of the sun and sand between their toes, the two Bearcats take a breath and ready up for the next serve coming their way. This spring, Paso Robles High School added a new sport: Beach Volleyball. Multiple meetings, sign ups, searching for coaches, and more helped bring this heavily anticipated sport to the central coast. “Not only was it just volleyball and the sport I love to play but the fact it’s on the beach which is my favorite getaway, makes my love for this sport significantly bigger! I also think it’s absolutely amazing to be a part of the first ever beach volleyball club at PRHS because it looks like we’ll be making history!” senior Destiny Valenzuela said. Valenzuela played for the Bearcats varsity volleyball team in the fall as libero, and now is a part of the club as one of the three varsity pairs, grouping with Jacey Loewen

HANNAH BANANA

people on the court instead of six in indoor volleyball. How you position yourself on the court is different. You have factors like wind, cold weather, and hot weather that you have to deal with. Knowing that, the rules are different as far as setting with your hands. You don’t have a lot of leeway. If there’s any spinning on the ball or lift, they’ll call it on you. The strategies are different: who serves, where to serve, where to go. It’s really almost a different sport. Some of the skill sets transfer over, but just how you play is completely different.”

Not oNly was it just volleyball aNd the sport i love to play but the fact its oN the beach which is my favorite getaway, makes my love for this sport sigNificaNtly bigger!

“In my opinion, the hardest part of beach volleyball is being able to move quickly on the sand. It is nothing like playing on a flat surface as the sand is constantly weighing you down. It definitely takes a lot of work to keep your composure and adrenaline at a steady speed while continuously moving around. The plus side of it all is we’ll definitely be in shape by the end of the season!” Valenzuela said.

DESTINY VALENzuELA, 12

BEACHVOLLEYBALL STATS 2022 PRHS

Hammond runs the club alone as of right now, teaching three to four varsity pairs and four to five junior varsity pairs how to play the new sport. Previously, he played beach volleyball in college at Cal Poly for a total of eight years.

“I decided to coach because I liked playing beach volleyball. The best part is just being out here with the players and teaching them a different skill set and the rules of the game and just watching them play,” Hammond said.

CIF has not released the official rules to the game yet, but beach volleyball varies a lot from the typical indoor volleyball, according to PRHS’ coach Ken Hammond “The major difference is there’s only two

Currently, the team practices at the Liberty High School field, and are waiting for the sand courts at Sherwood Park on Creston to be redone to get some further experience testing out the sand. They will be playing seven games this season, against other schools within the Central Coast Athletic Association, all taking place at the Pismo Beach Volleyball Courts.

COACHKENHAMMOND

On THe FIeLD NEW COACH

PRHS welcomes new softball coach Jannane Ruck

by Serenity Wulfing, Social Media Director

At the beginning of the school year, it was unknown who the softball coach would be for our Lady Bearcats. The season approached quickly and Tori Loney, the athletic director, was searching to find a qualified coach to fill the position. That’s when the Bearcats’ saving grace, Jannane Ruck rounded home plate and headed her way to coaching. She is a first-year coach for the Bearcats and she brings a compassionate, competitive, focused, and serious personality to the team.

Ruck has been a coach for eight years, since 2014, and in that time has coached club teams, she has coached at four-year colleges and has been a high school coach.

JANNANE RUCK

Ruck grew up in the countryside of Clovis California. She had limited access to cable TV and the internet and spent countless hours of her childhood playing sports outside with her next-door neighbors.

“Softball to me at a young age is equivalent to the fulfillment that kids get now with technology,” Ruck said.

This is where it all began; her appreciation for being outside and running around with her neighbors brought her to realize that softball was her calling. Ruck started her softball career at seven years old and from there she developed an arm and became a pitcher. But in high school, Ruck struggled to excel in her studies while focusing on sports.

“Out of high school, I was the number one recruit in the country. I had all kinds of division one offers and I blew it. I didn’t go to finals, my senior year, I didn’t graduate on time, I was given the opportunity locally to go on a full ride to Oklahoma City University. And so I went there” Ruck said.

At OCU, Ruck majored in Social Work and Psychology and won two National Championships. In 1996, she and her team won the NAIA World Series and played against the USA Olympic team on ESPN the following day. But, it wasn’t easy for Ruck as she began to fall into a depression and didn’t want to hear the word softball. She went back to Cuesta to rekindle her life and joined their team. Soon enough she was given a chance to return to OCU with a new scholarship and she was able to connect

with her coach and teammates for a second time. Her head coach from OCU, Phil McSpadden described her a a “power player and testament of resilience.”

“I’ve been blessed to have had the opportunity to be coached by four great coaches and have played with great teammates and I’ve won a valley championship and two national championships. But it’s not the championships, in my opinion, that makes a good coach. It’s the failures that a player experiences,” Ruck said.

Now, she is a Psychology instructor, and “It allows [her] to be passionate and understand athletes as individuals. Even though it’s a team sport [she] is able to understand that each athlete has different goals, different stories, and backgrounds”. Ruck is social and takes her time to get to know each individual player on the team. She is aware that every player has their own playing style, and she is able to tell each player individual suggestions so that it helps their overall performance.

“This is really nice because everyone does things differently. She does a really good job at coaching us based on our strengths and weaknesses to each player,” Andie Dizon said.

Dizon is a senior this year and is a commit to West Virginia who believes with every practice and every game the new dynamic will sink in and the players will be more relaxed, resulting in more success.

“I felt driven to reach out to the players who are reachable and have the opportunity to teach them all of the tools that come from playing the game. Because it’s not just about winning on the field; it’s about winning in life. Being part of that journey is what drives me to coach. My coaching motto is ‘Coaches don’t win games; they lose games. ‘” Ruck said.

Before Covid, Ruck was coaching at West Hills College Coalinga, but due to the shutdown, they were unable to put together a team for the first time ever in their program. When all of this had taken effect she was at a loss of a coaching job, and that’s when she received messages from outsiders who were informing her of a new position available at PRHS to be a softball coach. She took this as a sign from God that since she lost her job, she lived in Paso, and she had coached some of the girls since they were 11 and 12, it would be a perfect position to fill.

a good coach will provide the players with the tools to succeed and support them. it’s on the coach to be able to put that talent together so that they can go out and win and when games are a loss, it’s not on the girls, it’s on the coach. so, lead by example

Jannane Ruck

Andie Dizon, 12

Ruck coaching her players as the bases load and a hitter steps to bat

Ruck and her coach Phil McSpadden from Ocu.

In 1996, Ruck and her team won the naIa World Series

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING: PITCHING

GRIP

Ball in his fingers, index finger and middle finger on the top of the seams, in position to throw a curveball.

The Varsity Pitcher’s Guide

TONY GARCIA

by Ashley Paulsen & Braydon Hoier

Taking a deep breath and looking over his shoulder to the player leading off on first, senior Tony Garcia winds up and throws a curveball to the batter.

“STRIKE!” The Umpire yells. Another player down. Garcia has been a key player in the Bearcat Varsity teams 5 wins so far this season, with 14 strikeouts.

“I’ve been a pitcher since I first started playing baseball and I have always had a knack for it even if I didn’t throw the hardest,: Garcia said. He has been playing for thirteen years, putting in countless hours of practice on the mound, hitting, and learning the ins and outs of the game

This season Garcia has pitched 27.1 innings-- leading the team in innings pitched. He has a win loss record of 2-2, with a 2.54 Earned Run Average. (ERA)., meaning there is an average of only 2.54 runs earned against a pitcher every nine innings pitched.

“Having Tony as a pitcher gives us a good chance at getting outs and getting our infield ground balls which he is extremely good at,” senior catcher Connor Neall said, “Tony was my first ever friend, and I played on my first baseball team with him. I have caught Tony on and off for about 10 years.” Neall starts as the Varsity catcher, making it necessary for him to have good chemistry with his pitchers. Neall and Garcia have been friends since preschool, and have played baseball together their whole lives. The two play major roles on the Bearcat’s defense, with their every move determining each play and each out.

After high school, Garcia intends to get his real estate license, and hopes to do real estate investment and selling. As for the future of the season, Garcia says his ”expectations are still high. We have struggled thus far, but I’m confident we will end the season strong.”

ARM SLOT

Arm at an 85 degree angle, rear delts contracted to his spine. About a foot away from release point.

LEG EXPLOSION

Back leg exploding off the rubber. Hamstring and quad work together to create enough force to throw the ball.