March 2018 Issue

Crimson Volume 80 l Issue 4 l 03.23.18 l 801 Niblick Rd. Paso Robles, CA l Paso Robles High School

DACA students speak out

Seven PRHS recipients share stories at Feb. 28 forum

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blind date march: pizza

Join Angel and Julian as they make a pie

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DANCE SHOW DAZZLES

Twenty six dances bear tribute to 93446

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WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AMERICAN WE ASKED 200 BEARCATS WHAT They believe brings us together

| News

SPECIAL FORUM | FEBRUARY 28, 2018

DACA STUDENTS

SPEAK OUT

Seven PRHS recipients share stories at evening forum by Mason Seden-Hansen, Managing Editor

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even seniors who are affected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program spoke at a forum on Feb. 28, telling their stories to nearly 150 people in attendance. As undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. between the ages of 11 months and six years, Itzel Lopez, Olga Lopez, Beatrice Lopez, Victor Jimenez, Dainzu Carillo, Diana Gonzalez, and Alejandra Nuñez delivered an honest perspective to the topic that has occupied Congress, protests, and headlines in recent months.

“If I weren’t standing here telling my story, would you know that I was ‘illegal’? Would you know that I am a Dreamer? That I was brought as an 11-month-old baby? That I am fighting not to break down in tears because I don’t know what is going to happen with my status? Or would you smile at me as we passed each other on the sidewalk just like you would anybody else?”

Itzel Lopez asked to a crowd moved to tears.

The forum was attended by Steve Martin, mayor of Paso Robles, Greg Haas, district representative for Congressman Salud Carbajal, Joel Peterson, and Matthew McClish, school board members. Francisco Ramirez of the Hispanic Business Association and Bill Ostrander, Candidate for State Assembly, and many parents, teachers, and community members also sat in the audience.

The forum within days a Mar. 5 termination of protection by the Trump administration.

DACA arose originally from the 2012 order by President Obama that protected immigrants who had arrived in the U.S. as children.

Despite President Trump’s intentions, three federal judges in California, New York, and Maryland have ruled the program could not be eliminated. However, the fate of 800,000 DREAMers, including over 150 Bearcats, remains uncertain. No new Dreamers are currently being processed, although Dreamers who are already in the system can, for now, continue to get extensions, meaning they can apply to college and work.

The speakers at the forum each told stories from their lives growing up in the U.S. for almost

all of their lives, believing in the American Dream.

Jimenez recalled a hot summer day in 2011 when his father took him to work remodeling a Paso residence.

“The owner had a two story house, with nice cars, a pool, a big backyard, and a dog as a pet. What was I doing? My dad and I were painting the tile floor of his backyard. I didn’t like it one bit. I was jealous. My family lived in a two bedroom apartment. My dad knew what I was feeling and asked me, ‘What do you prefer? To be working outside with the sun on your back? Or to be working in your office with air conditioning, relaxed, and without having a boss looking over your shoulder all the time and telling you what to do?’ That was when I realized what people meant by the Land of the Dreams...where anything is possible with hard work and dedication,” Jimenez said.

The DREAMers spoke about the difficulty of not having rights of a citizen and being considered a foreigners in the country they considered home.

“I tried to take some classes at Cuesta over summer... They told me I couldn’t because I don’t have a social security number. My dad also told me it would be hard to get a job, get scholarships, and go to college. It hit me hard, and I realized how limited I am,” Carillo said.

A Cuesta representative clarified that Cuesta now has a policy that does not exclude local students without legal status.

DREAMers have grappled with the fact that their parents hadn’t brought them across the border young enough to be citizens.

“At first when I found out I was undocumented and so limited, I was frustrated with my mom...I asked her, ‘Why couldn’t you pass the border earlier when you were still pregnant, so at least I’d be born here?’ She told me she really wanted to but was too scared of what might have happened to her and to me. As time passed by, I understood,” Carillo said.

The dangers of being undocumented made life more challenging for DREAMer students.

Their loved ones often did not receive such

02 NEWS | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

protection.

“There was always the worry of what would happen if my parents and I were to get taken

by ICE. Once I received DACA status, I stopped being as afraid. But the worry of my parents being taken never left...The fear got worse last August, when ICE officers took my boyfriend’s dad while they were visiting family in San Diego,” Itzel Lopez said.

The DREAMers talked about the strength they had found, and that they stayed pursued their dreams even with uncertain futures.

“I will not stand in the shadows any longer. I am here to give a voice to those who are afraid like my parents,” Itzel Lopez said.

“Living in a state of fear is really not an option for us DACA students. We know that we have to put ourselves out there in order succeed.

We know that things are not handed to us, but we deserve the right to an opportunity for an education. When Crimson asked me to tell my story in a video, I said yes because I believe that staying silent is not doing us any better,” Gonzalez said.

This panel has gone far in their education.

Gonzalez, like many of her fellow speakers, is an AP student and has been accepted at Cal State campuses.

DACA is available to those who arrived in the U.S. before 2007 at the age of 16 or younger, are currently attending high school or are high school graduates, have continuously resided in the U.S. since 2007 and have not made felony or significant misdemeanor offenses.

The forum was organized by the PRHS Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlán (M.E.Ch.A.), the PRHS Progressive Club, and Crimson Newsmagazine. Its organization was spearheaded by Government and Modern World History Teacher Geof Land, and was MC’d by Crimson’s Editor-in-Chief, Progressive Club secretary, and senior Valeria Cisneros. “[Helping organize this forum] is one of my proudest moments. History is being made...you guys are the future of this country,” Land said just before the forum.

DACA TIMELINE

President Barack Obama signs the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) executive order.

June 12, 2012

Attorney General Sessions announces the Trump administration is terminating the DACA program, allowing no applications or renewals.

Current DACA recipients would be protected until their status expired after two years--or until Mar. 5, 2018.

SEPT 5, 2017

A federal judge rules that the Trump could not repeal DACA in the manner he did, causing the Dept. of Homeland Security to begin accepting DACA renewal applications.

Jan 19, 2018

After Senate Majority Leader McConnell allows for three days of immigration debate, four DACA protection bills that also increase border security funding (some including a border wall) all fail to pass the senate.

FEB 15, 2018

The U.S. Supreme Court does not take up the DACA suit and sends it back to the lower federal court.

Dept. of Homeland Security announced that DACA recipients are not a priority for removal in deportation actions.

FEB 28, 2018 Mar. 7, 2018

MARCH 14 EVENTS PUSH FREE SPEECH

News|

Students rally to support victims; also make their voices heard

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by Emily Olsen, Circulation Manager

s the nutrition bell rang on Mar. 14 2018, students flooded out of their second period and into the quad-not to be the first in line for a snack--but to rally. The so-called walkout, a cooperative effort between PRHS officials and various clubs, was planned in response to the Parkland school shooting, which took the lives of 17 on Feb. 14. School coordinators had provided a speaker and an assembly focused on kindness and positivity.

The 17 minute break--17 minutes for the 17 victims of Parkland--featured presentations by the Progressive Club, the Equality Club, and the Leadership class talking about anti bullying, gun reform, and a table of solidarity for lives lost due to school shootings. Students had signs and posters displaying the victims and mapped out all the school shootings of 2017 and 2018. Nearly twenty students registered to vote at one table.

“Today was about getting people to feel like their voices are heard, to get involved in government, and that they can contribute to the big decisions being made,” said Senior Kat Dickinson, who helped lead the organization of the rally.

In response to this event, President of the Conservative club, Junior Justin Smith, led a rally in support of the Second Amendment.

“Dear fellow Conservative Bearcats… today we showed our support for our second amendment rights and I couldn’t be prouder of the club for coming together to stand for something we all believe in…”

Conservative Club wrote on instagram.

The counter protesters bore flags reading “Trump; Make America Great Again” and “Don’t Tread on Me.” Along with flags, the group paraded with signs across campus into the parking lot where the rally fizzled out.

SEVENTEEN MINUTES: (above) Senior Trevor Pollock

Photos by Emily Olsen and Loretta Burke

holds up a sign during the Mar. 14 rally. The awning area became a free speech arena, some posters and tables loyal to the Parkland protest, some sharing view on gun control.

Student rallies seemed to involve good intentions. But as the day continued on, some disruptions ensued; calling for more action from administration.

Political tensions seemed to flare up periodically, but the response from admin consisted of a call to parents/guardians informing them of the day’s happenings.

By the end of the day, students were swapping Snapchat videos of several of the altercations, though these seemed unrelated to politics.

“This was supposed to be in memory of the seventeen people who passed away, and [the liberals] turned it into gun control” said Junior Kylie Rivers.

The memories of those seventeen will live on, and students will continue to have divisions, but despite all the complicated matters, PRHS stands proud of what they believe in.

CONSERVATIVE (below) : Justin Smith leads conservative students in a pro-second amendment rally. The march was led through campus, attracting supporters and opposing shouts.

BEARCATS WIN BIG AT SKILLSUSA Awards ceremony hands out 75 Regional medals

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by Gabriella Clayton, Copy Editor old, silver, and bronze medals lay on the table reflecting the spotlight Feb. 28, 2018 as students waited for their names to be announced. Their performances on February 5 at Region 2 SkillsUSA competition made them the 75 out of 135 Bearcat competitors that earned them the handshake and medal that awaited them.

Out of 900 competitors and 36 various competitions, PRHS celebrated an outstanding result with 35 golds, 18 silvers, and 22 bronze medals.

Through the SkillsUSA program, students are able to experience real world scenarios and opportunities and test their competitive abilities of all different categories.

The organization provides a sense of support and job opportunities,.

Senior Lily Seebart who received gold for First Aid/CPR and Job Demonstration Open stated that “[she] had never been a part of something where [she] felt so at home.”

Junior Zoey Daniels who took home the gold in Mobile Electronics Installation expressed the importance of SkillsUSA as she realized all the opportunities the program had to offer.

“This is useful to youth who don’t learn very well in traditional classroom settings. The organization has programs that prepare you to enter the work field right away which I think is useful because college isn’t meant for everyone.”

State competition occurs April 22-26 in Ontario, CA. Competitors will prepare by studying, performing, and containing a positive attitude.

36 COMPETITIONS 135 COMPETITORS 35 GOLD MEDALS

35 STATE QUALIFIERS

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | NEWS 03

|News

GOING INTERNATIONAL

Venice

by Jessica Jagger, Sports Co-Editor

Florence

Fin

ish

Cantrell plans spring break trip to Italy with 11 students

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leven of AP Literature teacher Aaron Cantrell’s seniors will travel with him to Italy this Spring Break, leaving on Mar. 24 and arriving home this Easter.

This trip has been in the works for six months, and students have since been fundraising to lessen the cost of the trip.

Each student paid about $3,400 after selling tamales, raffle tickets, and beef for V6 ranch.

The purpose behind the trip is to expose students to foreign cultures.”When you encounter other cultures, you’re never the same,” Cantrell said.

The group will begin in Southern Italy, and travel from Sicily to Northern Italy,

eventually reaching Milan. In just over one week, they will have worked their way up the entire length of the country.

“I think the impact will be that they will see the world is bigger and more interesting and beautiful than they had suspected,” Cantrell stated.

Among the seniors joining him is his son, Joe Cantrell, who didn’t know of the trip until October of 2017, leaving only five or six months to fundraise and plan it, but decided the opportunity was too good to pass up.

“I think it’s really cool; how many people can say they went to Italy for ten days?” Cantrell said.

In these ten days, students will be immersed in Italian culture in the form of

11 STUDENTS

1 TEACHER

museums, food, and day to day life.

“I am most excited to see the beautiful sights of Italy and eat the food. Italy has some of the best food in the world and [it] is a huge part of their culture,” said senior Gabriela Schuster, who has been learning Italian in preparation for the trip.

Schuster added, “I am infatuated with traveling. Each place has its own culture, language, and uniqueness.

Traveling opens up people’s eyes to the real world that is outside our small town. It gives new perspective of the world and what it has to offer.”

$3,400

Assisi Start

9 DAYS

Rome

AARON CANTRELL

SCHOOL BOARD SETS GOALS FOR 2018 Goals cover school safety, community access, fiscal responsibility

by Mason Seden-Hansen, Managing Editor

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he PRJUSD Board of Trustees set its sights on improving communication with the public, ensuring school safety and security, and fiscal management at a Feb. 27 meeting designated for setting goals for the first half of 2018.

The Board’s first goal covered community communications: “by June 30, 2019, we [The PRJUSD Board of Trustees] will identify the communication tools that are most widely accepted and increase our communication to all stakeholders, as measured by quarterly reports.” The board discussed how current avenues such as a newsletter had not been working.

“Newspapers are no longer at the readership they used to have...we need to get new ways to connect with the community,” board trustee Tim Gearhart said.

The Board’s second goal covered school safety: “PRJUSD School Board Trustees will continue to ensure school safety (physical and psychological) is a priority in funding, professional development and review of quarterly reports.” In

04 NEWS | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

the wake of the mass shooting at Majory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the Board wanted to reiterate the importance of school safety, through security measures, mental health services for students, and other means. “There definitely needs to be an extreme high focus on this...we’ve received hundreds of emails about what we’re doing to ensure safety…[school safety is] the big picture, we need to look at the small” of specific strategies, PRJUSD superintendent Chris Williams said.

The Board’s third and final goal covered finance: “by June 30, 2019, PRJUSD School Board Trustees will analyze and review a report quarterly that identifies current fiscal status, challenges and local/state funding opportunities and statewide fiscal trends.” “We need to make sure there is sufficient reserve funding in case of a recession or in case of decreased revenue from federal or state sources,” board trustee Field Gibson said.

GOAL-SETTING (above) : PRJUSD Board members

list the strengths and weaknesses of the board. After around three hours of discussion, the board set three goals for 2018.

Editorial|

We stand with With the attack on DACA recipients’ hopes and rights, we must stand by them

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hat does it mean to be an American? Is it about your origin, the patch of land you were born on? We believe it is where we put roots that is what makes us American, not where we were transplanted from. Our nation is failing these young people, who have Immigrants to America have a belief in American values, faith in our nation’s free and democratic ideals, and they pursue success through innovation and community contribution: they believe in the American Dream just as much as anyone who was born here!

The 800,000 recipients of the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program, including at least 150 Bearcats, are young people who have been raised in the United States and were brought illegally as children. The program and its protections were created in 2012, but Trump announced in September of last year that March 5, 2018 would be the last day for the DACA program. Since then, his order has been successfully challenged in court, and the future of DACA recipients is in question. There’s no question, however, that the right thing is to protect these members of our community and welcome them into the fold of the American DREAM. Many of these students have had their entire formal education in the US. From kindergarten to graduation, these students were at Paso Schools.

Many DACA students have no memory of their country of origin.

All of them are rooted in the US: their communities, iives and

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newsmagazine

Editor in Chief

Valeria Cisneros Carmesi

Managing Editor Kathryn Varian Photo Essay Mason Seden-Hansen News

Photography Director Camden Tucker

dreams are American.

“My family decided to come here in order to provide a better future for me and my sisters...Mexico is my motherland, but I consider the United States my home,” said PRHS senior Beatriz Lopez, who is one of seven DACA recipients spoke at a Feb. 28 community forum on DACA, said.

Many of our bearcat DACA recipients are top students at PRHS. They are enrolled in AP classes and have been accepted to Universities around the nation. Now, after years of Paso Schools education, DACA bearcats are ready to contribute to the community. How can we deprive members of our Paso Robles community the chance to give back to their home?

Dreamers are not here to kill or rob or even hurt people at all.

We just want to help the community. We just want a chance to give back to our community,” senior and DACA recipient Olga Lopez said.

Beacrat DREAMers have struggled hard to succeed in the country they call home. They have faced difficulty crossing a language and cultural barrier, and the insecurity of not knowing if they and their family would be safe. Yet Bearcat DREAMers have succeeded despite that.

“I am proud of being a DACA student, even if it means working harder for what I strive for. And what I’m striving for is an opportunity for an education. The fact that I have to push harder for an education in the only country I know and the one I call home is very sad and demeaning...We are all in search of the pursuit of happiness and right now, I am not giving up on mine,”

Circulation Manager Emily Olsen

Illustrators Casey Dumong Trevor Jaureguy

Business

Hayley Lacy Manager George Dominguez

PR Director

Catalina Magnuson

Reporters Gabriella Clayton Ally Connolly Madi Coons Calynn Long Campbell Long McKensi Keller Madison Funke

Art Director Emma Corippo

senior Diana Gonzalez, who is a DACA student, enrolled in AP classes, and a college admit, said.

DACA bearcats exemplify the American Dream. They have overcome adversity through hard work and dedication to succeed. To turn our backs on our fellow members of the community, to allow them to be torn away from their home, would be an incredible failure of the American ideal. As it is written on the statue of liberty: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free...send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”

“To the other Dreamers at PRHS, don’t be afraid. Don’t ever stop your efforts. Never give up. Your dreams will come true. I’m speaking out today because I want to show that I’m not afraid of anything. I know that everything is possible. I will be successful, “ Olga Lopez said.

The future of DACA must be addressed, and we call upon Speaker Ryan, Leader McConnell and President Trump to protect these members of our community. But we also call on our community to recognize, defend and cherish these members who often have not been recognized. We went to Kindergarten, learned our ABC’s and multiplication with our fellow students who are DREAMers. They are our friends, our teammates and our colleagues. We will not abandon them, we stand together. Because that’s the American way, and that’s what Bearcats do.

—Crimson Staff

Student journalism at PASO ROBLES HS Editors

Elise Scheiffele Opinion Sarah Jagger Sports Jessica Jagger Sports Loretta Burke People Ysabel Wulfing People Brighton Garrett Pop Culture Tyler Dunn Review Kaya McCasland Health Karina Neumann Health Phoebe Corgiat Environment Eric Contreras Carmesi Emily Mowery Web Director

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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 ­—Crimson Staff on our pages.

Adviser

Jeff Mount

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | EDITORIAL 05

|Opinion

Arm Teachers for the Safety of the Kids Stand up for arming teachers with concealed weapons

I Illustrations by Emma Corippo

The Wild Wild West, coming to a local school near you

Giving guns to teachers is not the solution

by Emma Corippo, Art Director

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fter the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, over 1,600 mass shootings have rocked America, killing more than 1,800 people and wounding more than 6,400, according to Vox. The U.S.A. owns 48 percent of the world’s civilian guns. We have 31 percent of the world’s mass shootings. But we make up only 5 percent of the world’s population, according to CNN. The US in turn has one of the highest death rates by firearms in the developed world, according to World Health Organization data.

Yet, the solution so far has been more guns.

It’s ludicrous that we are talking about putting more guns into the hands of teachers.

President Donald Trump — who recently said that he’s willing to pay teachers “a little bit of a bonus” if necessary to arm and train them.

His explanation is sad and ill conceived.

“These people are cowards. They’re not going to walk into a school if 20 percent of the teachers have guns -- it may be 10 percent or may be 40 percent. And what I’d recommend doing is the people that do carry, we give them a bonus. We give them a little bit of a bonus,” Trump said.

“They’ll frankly feel more comfortable having

the gun anyway. But you give them a little bit of a bonus.”

Dysfunctional policy is taking hold. Since the Florida shooting, teachers in states like Kentucky, Michigan, and Georgia have brought or been permitted to carry guns in schools.

Colorado law already allows school districts to certify teachers as safety officers so they can carry a concealed weapon on campus, according to the Denver Post.

We are increasing firearms in places were they can be mishandled.

“You don’t want to have a gun that’s available to a student or another worker who may have mental health issues,” said Maureen S. Rush, vice president for public safety and superintendent of the Police Department at the University of Pennsylvania.

Most law enforcement experts agree that teachers should not carry guns. Civilians may be able to hit a bull’s-eye at the shooting range, but it’s a completely different to hit a moving target without injuring others.

And the mindset to kill someone, possibly a child, goes against the nature of the nurturing role teachers have in our lives.

06 OPINION | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

n light of the recent horrific mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, which took place on Feb. 14, 2018 and killed 17 staff members and students of the school, this bloody mass murders brings up the question of gun control laws and a very intriguing question: should teachers be equipped with guns?

For many people, we think yes.

Teachers armed with concealed weapons have a higher chance of ending school shootings faster than not having a gun.

Instead of standing in the face of danger with nothing to defend themselves with, they will have something to fight with, and could end an active situation faster.

The Commander-in-Chief is behind it. “I want certain highly adept people, people who understand weaponry, and guns to have a permit to carry concealed firearms in schools,” said President Trump during his second White House meeting to discuss how to respond to an active shooter on campus.

“If the coach had a firearm in his locker when he ran at this guy, the coach was very brave... but if he had a firearm he wouldn’t have had to run...he would have shot and that would have been the end of it.”

The “coach” President Trump refers to was assistant football coach Aaron Fies who died shielding students from the shooter at Douglas High School.

PRHS students support the idea, too.

by Kaya McCasland , Health Co-Editor “I believe that teachers should have guns and that it should be their choice,” said sophomore Ethan Breese. “They don’t have to be forced to carry one, but if they get their CCW and have extensive training they should be allowed that choice.”

As the gun discussion grows heated in the wake of this horrific shooting, counter arguments are being made.

“There is just not enough evidence to support the idea that a teacher would be able to neutralize a threat,” said Amy Klinger, the director of programs at the Educator’s School Safety Network.

But despite these arguments, people are still begging the question if this is enough to protect our future generation.

With the thought of arming teachers with concealed weapons up in the air, experts are turning to the ideas of increasing police presence, hiring more security guards, and installing metal detectors, door buzzers, security cameras and barricades in schools.

Proactive ideas such as investing in mental health counseling and peer mediation, practicing active shooter drills, and manning doors and hallways with teachers - not security guards -whom students know and trust.

But the solution with the most power and speed in neutralizing a threat? A gun in the hand of a teacher.

Opinion|

no SUgar Coating Moving forward

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by Elise Scheiffele, Op/Ed Editor y mother is the teacher of second and third graders.

She’s been teaching elementary school students for nearly 10 years.

A few days following the Parkland, FL shooting, my mom and I were sitting in her car in the parking lot discussing what had happened. We read stories of teachers being brave for their students, and I started to cry. I cried when I realized that my mother’s job description does not say to step in front of a bullet to save a child’s life, but it is implied and silently required if something were to happen.

Every day, my father, who is a guard at a men’s colony, risks his life and is respected for it. The reality of how dangerous his job can be is always in the back of my mind. However, he is trained to react to danger and threats. It’s in the job.

Teachers are not respected by society, fighting constant complaints from angry parents, a huge spectrum of students to be in charge of, and work days that require hours of planning. Although they are reprimanded and sneered at by the public, they are expected to give their lives to protect their 30 some students if danger threatens that.

Being a teacher can be a very scary job. It is even scarier when our country is crippled by fear and refuses to take action against the elementary procedures

it takes to actually obtain a w e a p o n , specifically the notorious AR-15.

In states like Pennsylvania and Virginia, it takes less than 10 minutes, including a background check, to purchase an AR-15.

“Two days after the worst mass shooting in American history, and my local gun shop in Virginia showed no hesitation in selling me an AR-15. In fact, they really wanted me to buy it. And I was only there for five minutes,” wrote Cody Davis, a 20 year old writing for a college based news site called The Tab. However, living in the progressive state that California is, I know that it is not (legally) possible to obtain an assault rifle, easing my mind to think that the odds are not against my favor and the chances of something like the Parkland shooting happening here are very slim.

Parkland was not the first school shooting and I doubt it will be the last, despite the #NeverAgain efforts that have been made. But what’s important is to keep moving forward. Whether we’re running, walking or crawling, we will make it to the ribbon at the end of the race and break through it. It’s a long road ahead of us, but I believe it’s worth a fighting chance.

NEW TRENDS

Social media shows its nepotism, choosing new algorithms which prioritize celebrities

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by Gabriella Clayton, Copy Editor

hroughout the last couple months, you may have noticed that the selfie you posted days ago has received a significant amount of fewer likes. No, it’s not because of your awkward angle or slight blemish. . .

Trendy social media sites such as Instagram, Snapchat, Youtube, and Facebook are intentionally putting more popular social media users at the top of viewers’ feeds.

So if you’re like most social media users and you’re not receiving 500+ likes/comments on that amazing selfie you posted, you can kiss a significant amount of your likes goodbye.

This is not Instagrams way of telling you you are ugly or what you had for dinner last night did not look delicious; social media is simply designing their site to what they think will be pleasing content for you.

Social media is constantly fighting for our attention.

Studies show that in 2017, 81 percent of the U.S. was currently active on social media. With so many different competitors, the media is adding all different factors into their sites in hopes that we will strive to be the best of the best when it comes to our selfie game. These sites encourage you to engage more in order to receive more feedback. For example, Instagram will track how much

MORE INTERACTION

+

you interact with your followers, post to your story, and receive/send DMs which will lead to your rank on others’ feed.

In a nutshell: more interaction plus the countless hours on one specific site will result in more likes If you were with the older social media generation, you would know the benefit of post notifications. Post notifications is a beautiful tool for not so social butterflies to allow others to be notified whenever they post another rocking selfie. But with social media’s new algorithm, there is no need for the desperate notification in hopes of more likes/comments.

Thanks to American actress Ashley Tisdale and British pop star Ellie Goulding, their forlorn request regarding all of their followers to turn on post notifications gave sites such as Instagram the inspiration to start this unchronological aberration.

Sure, this update is great if you’re Kylie Jenner or Beyonce. But unfortunately, we are not. As bearcat Carra Ford once said in an outgoing email to Snapchat, “I do not need to be seeing Karla from the zumba class I took in 2013 before the people I talk to daily.’

MORE TIME

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MORE LIKES

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | OPINION 07

IS WHERE HOME

|People

PRHS dancers create tribute to their hometown with 26 breathtaking dances

THE HEART IS

93446 (Above) : Perspective, Choreographed by Oscar Gutierrez 11, was a contemporary take with dramatic lighting.

(Top Picture) : Advanced Dance members dance to Perspective in the March Dance show 93446.

YOUNG LOVE (Top) : Cassidy LeClair 12, Xochtle San-

doval 9, and Mikaela Farrer 9 dance to Queen choreographed by Cassidy LeClair.

(Bottom) : With Miles Mcmahan at the front the 3rd period intermediate class dances to a playful song choreographed by Jennifer Bedrosian.

08 PEOPLE | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

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by Loretta Burke & Ysabel Wulfing, People Editors s the streams and rivers of passion ran through the veins of inspired performers, the oceans of a crowd sat watching with sparks in their eyes and fountains of joy in their hearts.

“93446… Home is where the heart is” reads the first sentence of the pamphlet. With 24 dances put on by the Advanced dance class and two dances put on by the intermediate classes, the annual dance show ran for three nights, Mar. 8,9 and 10.

The dances ranged from slow and emotional dances such as “I found” choreographed by Priscilla Barry and sung by artist Amber Run to fun and perky like “The Playground” choreographed

by Jennifer Bedrosian and danced by the third period intermediate class.

This year’s esteemed dance show marked Show Director Jennifer Bedrosian’s 10th year as the Director of Dance at PRHS. As tribute to her decade long efforts and support, onlookers cheered with every remarkable twist and turn she performed in her solo. The audience were particularly amazed by her aerial move an acrobatic move in which the performer does a cartwheel mid air without touching the floor with their hands.

PRHS Alumni and former Jaz n’ Company dancer Amy Wescom had the opportunity to kick off the show as this year’s guest choreographer with her dance titled Home Again, performed by Jazz n’ Company. She trained at Pat Jackson’s American Dance and eventually became the Jazz & Performing Group director at Class Act Dance & Performing Arts Studio.

LEAVE THE LIGHT ON(Top) : . Ella Wayner 9, Sarah Farrer 11, and Cassidy LeClair 12 dance to Hard to Leave, Impossible to leave choreographed by Payton Beasley 10.

(Bottom) : Rosie Luera 10, Aurora Lomanto 11, Makayla Wylie 12, and Mikaela Farrer, 9 dance to Leave the Light On choreographed

by Jennifer Bedrosian.

Photos by Camden Tucker & Madi Coons, Graphics by Ysabel Wulfing and Loretta Burke

People|

Devin Hartley, 11 Age:16

H

artley has been dancing since she was 10 years old. She hopes to go to a 4 year university located in a bigger city so that she can continue dancing while finishing school. “My peers in the advanced dance class are my biggest inspiration in dance because they are all so talented and humble and are also so kind and easy to work with,” she said.

Kaela Nancolas, 12 Age:18

N

ancolas has been dancing all styles of dance for eight years. She is the president of Jazz n’ Company alongside vice president Cassidy LeClair, secretary Cara Jones and treasurer Devin Hartley.

In the future she aspires to be on a dance team in college and then continue teaching dance classes to younger children. She says that what inspires her to dance is the ability to express herself and create something that makes other people feel certain emotions. “This art form allows myself and others an outlet to whatever circumstances they are experiencing in life at the time being,” she said.

Maya Cortez, 11 Age:17 C

ortez has danced for about a total of five years with a two year break before her freshman year.

She was inspired to dance again after watching the Advanced Dance show as an eighth grader. “There were so many amazing and beautiful dancers it made me want to join that unique part of PRHS,” she said.

As much as she loves dance, she aspires to be an underwater photographer and help marine biologists and conservationists raise awareness on saving earth’s oceans.

Priscilla Barry, 10 Age:15

Sarah Farrer, 12 Age:17

F

arrer has been dancing for a stunning 14 years. In her future she hopes to have her nursing degree and work at a hospital as a potential post op nurse.

She stuck with dance at a young age because of her sisters’ support but what really kept her going was the idea of performing on stage. “That is definitely my most favorite part about dance because it actually feels like freedom and it’s scary but fulfilling and the connections you make with people are so genuine and wholesome,” she said.

B

Makayla Wylie, 12 Age:17

W

ylie has been dancing since the middle of her eighth grade year. She started at Main Street Dance and danced there until her sophomore year. As a freshman, she was asked to join the Jazz n’ Company where she learned all styles of dance from ballet to hip hop.

“Hip hop is definitely my favorite because it’s just so much fun,” she said. In her future she wishes to dance as long as she is able to and hopes to open up a homeless shelter. She is inspired by how dance is constantly changing and feels that in dance, anything is acceptable.

“Today we have standards and certain ways society wants you to act, but [with] dance you can truly be who you are and it creates something beautiful,” she said.

arry began dancing four years ago after watching performances and wishing to perform for others, too. She hopes to continue dancing for as long as she can walk and share her passion with others through teaching. “[Dance] allows me to release all the feelings that are built up inside and express them in an incredible way,” she said.

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | PEOPLE 09

Spicing up the American Experience |People

Spanish foreign exchange student Claudia Espana whisks up a traditional meal

C

by Catalina Magnuson, Social Media Manager oming from the capital of Spain, Claudia Espana had to make adjustments as she transitioned into a smaller lifestyle in Paso Robles.

“I live in a big city so one of the differences is in Spain we live in apartments, not houses like you do here,” Espana said.

Along with the big-city small-city change, Espana also had to leave her family behind. “I love my family, I live with my mom, my dad, and my brother,”said Espana whose brother, Carlos, is eighteen and is onto his senior year of high school in Spain. Her mom works in a nursery school and her dad works with Enterprise Car Rental.

Espana, a foreign exchange student from Madrid, Spain, came to the United States seven months ago on an adventure. As much as she enjoys the new experience, there is always something nice about the things from home.

“I miss the bread. There isn’t any good [bread] here,” Espana said.

In Europe most of the bread and wheat products are made from a

softer wheat than American bread, resulting in a denser and less gluten filled bread, according to drlaurendeville.com, Espana’s favorite Spanish meal is paella, a seafood and rice dish. “Yes [I’ve tried American paella]. It was good, but it was not paella. It looks like paella, but it doesn’t taste like paella. It just tastes like rice with different spices and sauce, but it still tastes good,” Espana said. “I love American food! But it’s not very healthy. American food has lots of grease, like hamburgers and hot dogs” Tortilla espanola is a Spanish omelet, with main ingredients of eggs and potatoes. “[This dish] is special because its a typical Spanish dish and because my mom and grandma taught me how to make it. My favorite thing about this meal is that it is really easy to make.”

STEPS: Ingredients Olive-oil 5 potatoes Salt 6-9 eggs Pepper

1

Cut the peeled Potatoes into thin rounds, In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil to a slight shimmer

2 3

Crack eggs in mixing bowl and beat, put eggs into pan with potatoes. Let the first side cook

4

Place plate on top of the pan and side the omelette off so it flips onto the uncooked side

PROUD OF HER CREATION (above):

Exchange student Claudia Espana looks at her homemade tortilla, a traditional Spanish omelet. Espana is a foreign exchange student who comes from Madrid.

5

Madrid Spain 10 PEOPLE | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

Cook potatoes until they are cooked all the way through, making sure they aren’t crispy, keep on low heat

Graphics by Loretta Burke

When the mixture has browned on the bottom of both sides then it’s done.

Garnish with salt and peppers for taste.

Photos by Catalina Manguson

MARIJUANA IN THE TEEN BRAIN WHEN DO THEY START USING? 53% 2% 45%

12-17 <12 >17

NEGATIVE

EFFECTS INCLUDE: Difficulty thinking and problem solving.

Problems with memory and learning.

Impaired coordination.

Difficulty maintaining attention.

MARIJUANA ACCOUNTS FOR:

17% of admissions to treatment facilities in the U.S.

by Kathryn Varian, Managing Editor

The teen brain is actively developing and therefore marijuana use during this period may cause brain damage.

38% of high school students have used marijuana in their life People who use marijuana prior to the age of 12 are twice as likely to experience a serious mental illness compared to those who first use marijuana at age 18 or older.

19% of teen drivers report they have driven under the influence of marijuana.

Design by Kathryn Varian

MARIJUANA IN THE TEEN BRAIN

|Health

WHEN DO THEY START USING? 53% 2% 45%

12-17 >12 <17

NEGATIVE

EFFECTS INCLUDE: Difficulty thinking and problem solving.

Problems with memory and learning.

Impaired coordination.

Difficulty maintaining attention.

MARIJUANA ACCOUNTS FOR:

17% of admissions to treatment facilities in the U.S.

12 HEALTH | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

by Kathryn Varian, Managing Editor

The teen brain is actively developing and therefore marijuana use during this period may cause brain damage.

38% of high school students have used marijuana in their life People who use marijuana prior to the age of 12 are twice as likely to experience a serious mental illness compared to those who first use marijuana at age 18 or older.

19% of teen drivers report they have driven under the influence of marijuana.

Design by Kathryn Varian

Carmesi|

La voz de los soñadores los conferenciantes

Siete PRHS Daca destinatarios dicen a la comunidad sus historias en el foro

S

iete Seniors que son afectados por la Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia (DACA) hablaron en un foro en el 28 de febrero, contando sus historias a casi 150 personas Grado: 12 presentes. Cómo inmigrantes indocumentados que Edad: 17 vinieron al EE.UU. a una edad muy joven, Itzel Lopez, Soy como cualquier otro estudiante Olga Lopez, Beatrice Lopez, Victor Jimenez, aquí que trabaja duro para sus Dainzu Carillo, Diana Gonzalez, y Alejandra Nuñez calificaciones, excepto por el hecho entregaron una perspectiva honesta al tema que ha de que he luchado más duro junto ocupado al Congreso, protestas, y titulares en meses c o n otros soñadores para tener una educación recientes. superior. Hemos luchado duro para poder trabajar y utilizar esos “Si no estuviera parada aquí contando mi historia con grados para contribuir a esta sociedad americana. Todo lo que otros estudiantes, ¿Sabrian ustedes que yo fuera ‘ilegal’? queremos es lo que todo el mundo tiene derecho a la educación ¿Sabrian ustedes que yo fui traída cómo un bebé de 11 y a la igualdad de trato. No somos sólo un nombre. Somos meses? ¿Sabrian ustedes que yo estoy tratando de no personas, cuyas vidas están siendo lanzadas en el Congreso. romper en lágrimas porque no sé qué va a pasar con mi estado? ¿O me sonreirás al cruzarnos en la acera como lo harías con cualquiera?” Itzel Lopez pregunto a una multitud conmovido hasta las lágrimas .

El foro fue atendido por Steve Martin, alcalde de Paso Robles, Greg Grado: 12 Haas, representante distrital del Edad: 18 congresista Salud Carbajal, Joel A los otros soñadores en Peterson, y Matthew McClish, PRHS, no tengas miedo. Nunca miembros de la junta escolar. detengas tus esfuerzos. Nunca te Francisco Ramírez, Presidente des por vencido. Tus sueños se harán de la Asociación de Negocios realidad. Estoy hablando hoy porque Hispanos y Bill Ostrander, candidato a la Asamblea Estatal, quiero demostrar que no tengo miedo de nada. Sé que y muchos otros padres, maestros todo es posible. Tendré éxito. y miembros de la comunidad también se sentaron en la audiencia.

El foro se llevó a cabo mientras recipientes del estado de DACA Grado: 12 enfrentaron una cancelación de la protección Edad: 17 del presidente Donald Trump el 5 de marzo, lo que llevó meses de conversaciones de inmigración en el Congreso Ser un inmigrante que finalmente no produjo ninguna legislación. DACA surgió indocumentado es originalmente a través de una orden ejecutiva firmada por difícil, no lo negaremos. el ex presidente Barack Obama en el 2012 qué protegía a los Constantemente nos recuerda inmigrantes que habían llegado a los Estados Unidos cuando q u e no podemos viajar fuera del país, eran niños. o incluso el estado, por temor a que podamos ser A pesar de las intenciones del presidente Trump, diferentes deportados. No tenemos los mismos privilegios que jueces federales han dictaminado que el programa podría y no los ciudadanos estadounidenses. Es por eso que podría ser eliminado, y la Corte Suprema no se ha pronunciado un Acto de Sueño limpio debe ser alcanzado en el sobre el tema, los recipientes actuales de DACA aún estarán Congreso para apoyar a las personas que están protegidos por ahora. Sin embargo, el destino de 800.000 luchando para promover su educación y ayudar a DREAMers, incluyendo más de 150 Bearcats, sigue siendo sus familias. incierto. No se están procesando nuevos Dreamers, aunque los Dreamers que ya están en el sistema pueden, por ahora, seguir obteniendo extensiones, lo que significa que pueden aplicar para

Itzel lopez jaimes

OLGA LOPEZ

Victor jimenez

LA HISTORIA SE CONTINÚA EN CRIMSONNEWSMAGAZINE.ORG

por Mason Seden-Hansen, Editor de administración la universidad y el trabajo.

Los oradores en el foro contaron historias de sus vidas creciendo en los Estados Unidos durante casi toda sus vidas, creyendo en el Sueño Americano.

Jiménez recordó un caluroso día de verano en 2011 cuando su padre lo llevó a trabajar remodelando una residencia en Paso.

“El dueño tenía una casa de dos pisos, con autos bonitos, una piscina, un patio grande y un perro como mascota. ¿Qué estaba haciendo yo? Mi papá y yo estábamos pintando el piso de baldosas de su patio trasero. No me gustó ni un poco. Yo estaba celoso porque él tenía todas las cosas buenas, mientras que mi familia vivía en un departamento de dos habitaciones. Mi padre sabía lo que yo estaba sintiendo, él rápidamente me preguntó, “Què prefieres? ¿Estar trabajando afuera con el sol en tu espalda? ¿Ó, en una oficina con aire acondicionado, relajado y sin tener un jefe diciéndote qué hacer?” Fue entonces cuando me di cuenta de lo que gente quería decir con ‘La Tierra de los Sueños’ ... donde todo es posible con trabajo duro y dedicación,” dijo Jiménez.

Los DREAMers hablaron sobre la dificultad de no tener todos los derechos de un ciudadano y ser considerado extranjero en el país que consideraban su hogar.

“En la escuela secundaria intenté tomar algunas clases en Cuesta durante el verano...me dijeron que no podía porque no tenía un número de Seguro Social. Mi padre también me dijo que sería difícil conseguir un trabajo, obtener becas e ir a la universidad [por mi estatus]. Me afectó mucho, y me di cuenta de lo limitado que estoy,” dijo Carillo.

Un representante de Cuesta dijo que Cuesta ahora no excluye a los estudiantes locales sin estatus legal.

Los DREAMers han luchado con el hecho de que sus padres no los habían traído al otro lado de la frontera lo suficientemente jóvenes como para ser ciudadanos.

“Al principio, cuando descubrí que no tenía documentos y era muy limitado, me sentí frustrado con mi madre ... La pregunté: ‘¿Por qué no pudiste cruzar la frontera antes cuando todavía estabas embarazada, así que por lo menos naciera aquí? Me dijo que realmente quería, pero estaba demasiado asustada de lo que podría haber sucedido a ella y a mí. A medida que pasaba el tiempo, entendí las razones por las que ella hizo esto,” dijo Carillo.

Los peligros de ser indocumentado hicieron la vida más difícil para los estudiantes DREAMer--cuando ellos recibieron una protección tenue, sus seres queridos a menudo no lo hicieron.

“Siempre había la preocupación de que pasaría si mis padres y yo fuéramos tomado por ICE. Cuando recibí el estado DACA, dejé de tener tanto miedo. ...

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | CARMESI 13

|Carmesi

DAINzu carillo Grado: 12 Edad: 17

Si Daca está autorizado a expirar, no tendré protecciones. Mi habilidad para ir a la Universidad está amenazada. Mi capacidad para permanecer en mi ciudad natal está amenazada. Mi habilidad para perseguir mi sueño americano está amenazada. Esta es mi casa, y mi lugar de nacimiento es un país extranjero para mí. Si me envían de vuelta sería como empezar de nuevo.

DACA TIMELINE 2012 June 12 2017

Sept. 5

DIAna Gonzalez Grado: 12 Edad: 18

Vivir en un estado de miedo no es realmente una opción para nosotros Daca. Sabemos que tenemos que ponernos ahí fuera para tener éxito. Sabemos que las cosas no nos son entregadas, pero merecemos el derecho a una oportunidad de educación. Estoy orgullosa de ser une estudiante de Daca, incluso si esto significa trabajar más duro para lo que me esfuerzo. Y para lo que estoy luchando es una oportunidad para una educación.

2018 2018

ALEJANDRA nunez 2018

Jan. 14

Grado: 12 Edad: 17 Antes de que yo era esencialmente vivía en las sombras porque yo sentía que si le decía a la persona equivocada sobre mi estatus legal que podría significar que sería enviado de vuelta a mi patria un lugar que no estoy familiarizado con. Ahora estoy decidiendo abrazar ser un destinatario daca. No voy a callar más, en cambio voy a seguir usando mi voz para hacer posible el cambio.

FEB. 15

Después de McConnell permite dos días de debate sobre la inmigración en Daca protecciones, cuatro proyectos de ley que protegen a los destinatarios Daca aumentar la financiación de la seguridad fronteriza a varios grados (algunos incluyendo una pared fronteriza) todos no logran despejar el umbral de 60 votos. McConnell desde entonces no ha permitido ningún voto sobre las facturas de protección del soñador.

14 CARMESI | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

FEB. 28

2018 Mar. 6 2018

The Dept. of Homeland Security begins accepting DACA application renewals.

Jan. 19

Mi decisión de salir y hablar sobre mi historia fue inspirada por mis compañeros soñadores, así como mi esperanza de que los estudiantes, maestros y miembros de la comunidad entiendan mejor las vidas de los soñadores. Cada uno tiene nuestra propia historia única y nuestros propios planes para el futuro. Igual que todos los demás. Este país es donde vemos nuestro futuro. Queremos contribuir al sueño americano.

beatriz Lopez

Las sesiones del fiscal general anuncian que la administración de Trump está terminando el programa DACA, permitiendo ninguna aplicación o renovación. Los destinatarios actuales de Daca serían protegidos hasta que su estado expirara después de dos años--o hasta el 5 de marzo de 2018.

El cierre del gobierno ocurre después de que varios demócratas del Senado no aprueben un proyecto de ley presupuestario, ya que no incluye protecciones para los destinatarios de Daca.

Grado: 12 Edad: 18

2018

El Presidente Barack Obama firma la orden ejecutiva de la acción diferida para las llegadas de la niñez (DACA).

MAR. 7

La Corte Suprema de Estados Unidos, con autoridad para anular las resoluciones de la corte federal sobre Daca, no toma el asunto y lo envía de vuelta a la corte federal.

Un juez federal en Maryland gobierna por tercera vez que la administración de Trump tiene la autoridad legal para acabar con daca.

El Departamento de seguridad nacional anunció que los destinatarios de Daca no son una prioridad para la eliminación de las acciones de deportación.

American Perspectives|

Unity in Diversity As tensions rise in America, Bearcats attempt to unite the campus

by Calynn Long, Reporter and Brighton Garrett, Pop Culture Editor

I

From the survey: Where do you fall on the

political spectrum?

Far left

Do you think America really is the

Far right

Yes

"Land of the Free"?

No

See page 19 for more on the survey.

Design by Kathryn Varian

Maybe

n a divided American society the young generation is making their voices heard. They are not muted when it comes to controversial topics. They provide their voice whether it be asked for or not. This may divide America more into stronger polarized opinions. Yet, listening to what the generation and opposite sides say may have a stronger effect in uniting than dividing.

Even in the blur of opinions there is one underlying belief: we are all American. Being an American is not about what political side you are, economic status you have, sexual orientation you follow, religion you practice.

Instead it is having the option to follow your own life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness without governmental restrictions.

The current 21st century civilization has uncovered issues that have never been voiced before. This will rewrite the social structure of America in history books forever. It is changing society and in the mist of ideas and opinions people do not know how to cope.

Controversial topics have fractured us over race, femisinsm, LGBTQ rights, gun laws, immigration, and economics. Our president plays a huge factor in this. His new approach to things is either very liked or disliked and there is no middle ground.

Americans need to get past who our president is and focus on being one country.

We may seem broken but we are one of the most desirable countries in the world. America is so fortunate in its freedoms, utilities, and resources and it is taken for granted. Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advancement and place in the world has been forgotten as we focus on the negative issues in our country. We forget how great America really is. Even if it needs work, it is our country that we, the young generation, live in and are shaping.

The American dream is something that is always tossed around and yet no one really ever defines it. We asked Bearcats their opinion on it, but they were only given five minutes to answer a question most of us can not answer in a lifetime. The American dream was built as our founding fathers declared this land for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It still holds

true even in our diversified culture. Being an American means having the privilege to live the life you want without restrictions. It is to help the neighbor in need, be grateful for what you have, say what you want to say, and be proud to be an American. Everyone has a dream and that unites us.

Yes, there are issues we need to solve and reach a common ground on but they are not what defines us. We need to celebrate the accomplishments we have made: focus on the positive in our country and slight the negative.

There has to be compromise, tolerance, and respect or else we will just tear eachother apart losing all the good we have. In the political spectrum the sides are so polarized and adamant on their opinion that they forget to listen to suggestions and new viewpoints.

We do this in schools too. We deny listening when it is something we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to hear rather than being mature and respecting opinions. This mirrors politics because when one side speaks the other turns their head and is not willing to compromise. No one idea or solution is wrong, just different. It is an opinion and just because it is not shared does not mean the opinion is invalid. In America, everyone has the freedom to think what they want and we remove this freedom when we bash people for their beliefs.

What it means to be an American can be defined in a multitude of ways for every Bearcat on campus. As you will see, in this upcoming section, we interviewed seven Bearcats trying to uncover part of what it means to be an American to the diverse group of people we have on campus. Asking questions like, what it means to be an American to them, how our country is divided, and how we can unite our country shows us the split in opinions. Looking through the responses there was a common theme, we as a campus need to have basic respect for our fellow peers to truly understand our cultures.

PRHS, we as a campus need to unite in the mists of our diversity.

03.23.18 Crimson Newsmagazine | AMERICAN PERSPECTIVES 15

|American Perspectives

American Perspectives|

Gridlocked America Tensions in America have grown due to politics causing division in our country

16 AMERICAN PERSPECTIVES | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

M

by Calynn Long, Reporter and Brighton Garrett, Pop Culture Editor

arking over a year since President, Donald J. Trump’s, election, Americans are still deeply divided by mistrust and misunderstanding. One American is rejoicing, while another grieves in disbelief. It seems like ever since January 20, 2017 walls for borders, active shootings, immigration crackdowns, and financial upheaval have been prominent issues. America is constantly protesting or battling on Twitter and other forums on whose views are more acceptable. A Washington Post-University of Maryland survey that was conducted nine months into the new administration of Trump found that seven out of ten Americans believe the country has not been this divided since the Vietnam War.

“One year after Donald Trump’s election victory, it’s not unusual to hear people wonder out loud if the United States is really one country anymore,” said Livia Gershon from History, in 2017.

With Trump’s triumph in the presidential election being the breaking point for American parties, unification has been disastrous.

America is not just divided on who their president is and whether or not they like him, but issues concerning human rights, gun tolerance, government positioning, immigration policies, and gender and sexuality equality.

With high school students being the upcoming generation of voters their opinion is valued. Bearcat discussions in and out of the classroom reflect the level of intolerance and partisanship found across America. Differing Bearcat opinions show the divisions in their political and personal beliefs.

“I feel like the US is divided politically. There’s so many political issues that are going on, and so many people are heated and going at each other. Different religions and beliefs are going head to head and there’s so much conflict. Even at our school it’s hard because we have to censor everything we say and who it affects,” junior Paige Autry said.

Partisanship in America stems from three major parties that seem to make up politics in America: 36 percent of Americans identify as conservative, 25 percent liberal, and 34 percent identify with neither. With these polarized sides deciding conclusions America is being divided more and more on issues rather than compromising and uniting as a country.

Even in the height of disasters such as school shootings and hurricanes, Americans are debating on politics and laws to fix issues rather than uniting as a country on solving the issues rooted in American events.

“I think that we could unify our nation more if we focused on the things that unite us: those things being common grounds for all the issues whether they be guns or just about loving the country. Really respect is something key and if we don’t have mutual respect than our country is going to keep spiraling downward,” freshman Declan Higgins said.

In the height of disagreements, Russia continues to whip up disagreement with

SPEAKING OUT(above) : Students were surveyed and given the chance to give their opinion about their country. Many sharing the opinion of a divided nation.

social media bots that troll and debate focusing on the 2016 presidential election and now stirring up controversial topics like the Parkland, Florida shooting and immigration issues. The bot’s purpose is to get an uproar in Americans emotions in comments and articles on all different social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“You are witnessing the single greatest witch hunt in American political history - led by some very bad and conflicted people,” said Trump averaging 2,461 tweets a year.

Americans are trying to find a common ground in politics and opinions, but battling sides make it difficult.

“Just going out everyday and just trying to be the best that you can be, and not letting anything hold you back or deferring you from doing what you want to do,” Autry said when discussing what patriotism means in her life.

People nowadays have been desensitized to others’ feelings or beliefs on matters that are very important to them.

“Just listening to each other [would unify us more]. You don’t have to agree or change your opinion, but as long as you listen and you can say ‘ok you presented a good argument but I’m still going to stick with mine’. Just be civil and listen to people,” senior Goretti Calvo said.

Due to polarized views bearcats continue to question their freedoms in and out of the classroom.

“My freedoms get limited when people question our right to protest the media’s legitimacy. There are few things that would end our country’s freedoms faster than limiting their abilities to make their opinions heard,” sophomore Ian Grace said.

This problem is more than just politics it is the way people follow blindly and bash every other beliefs without knowing the facts.

“I wonder if the biased media realizes what they are doing long term, by reporting fake news and not reporting the truth? Do they even care? This affects their kids and grandkids down the road, by not being honest with themselves or Americans.

Pathetic,” anonymous twitter user rants.

Content can be relayed among users with no significant filtering, fact-checking, or editorial judgment. An individual user with no track record or reputation can in some cases reach as many readers as Fox News, CNN, or the New York Times.

“I feel that a way our country could unify together is getting past the fact that our president is different and kind of focusing on all the good things he’s doing. A lot of the people tend to focus on just the bad and they’re forgetting that he isn’t here to hurt us.

He is here to help us get better,” freshman Jillian Root said.

No matter what you believe on this gridlocked system that is called America, it is important to be mindful that there is more than one way of thinking and then maybe our country can start to be understanding. Until basic human respect is restored a divided nation will continue to linger.

My freedom / identity gets limited when other people are ignorant to diversity, when other people are, reluctant to unity in diversity, and when they are afraid of being put face to face with diversity. Freedom of expression easily targets you when you’re speaking out against the norms.

— Janice Palacios,10

“

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AMERICAN

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | AMERICAN PERSPECTIVES 17

|American Perspectives

What does it mean to be an American?

Goretti Calvo “To understand that America isn’t like the be all end all of countries. Just love your country as it is, but work towards improving it. Being an American isn’t just one single thing, and there are many different types of Americans.

Just keep an open mind as to what being an American actually is.”

Paige Autry

“Being American means that we’re an amazing country where we have these rights that allow us to be what we want to be and pursue what we want to pursue, and not that everything is necessarily handed to us, but that we have to work for it.”

Declan Higgins

“I feel like being an American really is about how America represents freedom and liberty in the world and we all know that America is not a perfect place but no place in the world is, and I think it’s as good as we can get it now and if we keep striving to improve then we’ll do better as a country.”

Ian Grace

“To be an American for me means to be an active participant in our democracy and vote for your opinion. The least American thing is to withdraw hope and care for the system we live in.”

Gavin Hughes

“For me, being an American carries a great deal of responsibility [to] vote and participate...for the sake of our nation and its people...this responsibility comes not only because our nation wields a tremendous degree of international influence and...sets trends for the entire world, but also because we in this country pride ourselves in the philosophy of representative government by the people.”

18 AMERICAN PERSPECTIVES | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

Itzel Lopez Jaimes

“It means putting an effort in to being involved in your country and being surrounded by all those people who helped raise you like teachers and those who are around you.”

American Perspectives|

AMERICA DEFINED We asked 200 Bearcats what unites students during decisive times

by Emily Olsen, Circulation Manager

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AMERICAN

SOURCE: Survey of PRHS Tutorials selected randomly, Mar. 1, 2018

How are you patriotic?

What American freedoms matter to you?

FREEDOM OF SPEECH 96.3% FREEDOM OF RELIGION 90.4% FREEDOM OF PRESS 75.1% THE RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS 61.2% FREEDOM TO PURCHASE WHAT WE WANT 81.3%

25%

Participate in patriotic events.

15%

Participate in American sports.

What is

20%

America?

Watch American sports

I defend American freedoms.

10%

Maybe Yes

Over patriotic

Speak, post, wear American images or ideas.

is divided?

Love

Freedom

16%

Do you think America

Home

No

14%

Keep words and opinions about America postive.

How do you see the American Dream?

Why do you think America is divided?

“Being free to live how I choose.”

“People are very opinionated.”

“Freedom of speech.”

“I think America is becoming more and more divided through politic parties, gun-law opinions and sexual orientation opinions.”

“There are thousands of opportunities for people here (jobs, rights, hobbies).”

“Because of everyone’s different views.”

“Individual liberties and opportunity.”

“We are divided because we all can’t get along and attack each other on everything.”

“It has more opportunities than the country my family used to live in.”

“Being able to receive education, to work in your desired field.”

“Many people working to working towards their goals.”

“People having the ability to fufill their dream in the usa after obtaining proper citizenship.”

What do you like How do you believe the media most about living has influenced politics in America? in the recent months?

“Media seems to lean to the liberal side effecting peoples beliefs.”

“I think media has blown up so many issues that people don’t know what to believe.”

“I has both positively and negatively influenced politics because we can fact check and be aware of our government, but people may use it to attack people for their political stance..”

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | AMERICAN PERSPECTIVES 19

|Ads

20 ADS | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

Blind Date|

spring blind date: our couple build pizza and milkshakes — giggling while exploring culinary creativity

by Phoebe Corgiat, Environment Editor Mckensi Keller, Reporter

Julian RATEs

THE DATE

10 / 10 Angel RATEs

THE DATE 8 / 10

F

illing the kitchen with pleasant scents and a bit of heat, sophomore Angel Dalool and senior Julian Madrigal worked together Feb. 28, 2018 to create the ideal pizza in a kitchen oriented blind date for this month’s installment. A blind date is tough enough. Assembling a culinary creation upped the challenge.

The cold winter night brought in Dalool to a Paso Robles home and kitchen dressed in a classy layered outfit. She patiently awaited the arrival of her blind date, becoming nervous and excited to finally get the date underway. A knock came on the door. Julian Madrigal, a familiar face was excited to see that he knew his date for the night.

They embraced in a hug as the two laughed about the date and were thrilled that the most nerve wrecking part was over.

Before they started cooking, we interviewed each about their expectations and hopes for the date.

Madrigal admitted, “I’m looking for a sweet girl with a good personality.”

On the other side of the door, Dalool shared she was looking for a guy that, “says nice things and is not super awkward.”

The daters sent in their favorite foods to help us plan. We noted they both liked pepperoni. They both liked ice cream. They shared a love for something sweet such as milkshakes. We could tell they would be a match and had the fixings ready in the kitchen when they arrived.

Looking down nervously at first, Dalool began to raise her eyes and smile as conversation was made.

The two began to grate cheese, roll dough and get out ingredients. Laughing, they explored their culinary creativity in good

humor, teasing each other about a lack of cooking skills. Giggling and constructive banter continued for the next several minutes.

Little did they know that their Italian cuisine was headed for destruction.

Unfortunately, both of them innocently forgot to place the dough on the pizza screen, the utmost necessity in successful pizza making.

Their mistake doomed the pizza. It ripped and crumbled— scattering cheese—as they tried to transfer it from prep area to the pizza screen.

The date was not over.

The daters decided to insert the damaged meal into the oven, hoping for a better outcome. Twelve minutes later, as they pulled it out, it looked insufficiently more appetizing than before. But the two appreciated the mess and took a bite. They decided it would be best to just order a pizza and have a more enjoyable dinner.

Dalool and Madrigal had officially broken the pizza. And the ice.

Every bit of their cooking looked just like dates and how relationships can go--messy and surprising. Yet many other ingredients were blending together nicely that night.

They were enjoying their time together and were easily carrying on conversation, especially the fond memory of cleaning up a hot mess.

Waiting for the pizza to arrive, the two of them got to know each other a little more. They talked about his wrestling career and her hobbies--hanging out with her friends and having a good time-- the two chatted up a storm. The new pizza arrived and they chewed their much better tasting dinner.

The disastrous dinner ended up being the talk of the night. They both told stories of their own cooking fails.

The easiest part of the night was still to come: milkshakes. Dalool and Madrigal couldn’t decide vanilla or chocolate ice cream, so they chose both. She giggled as he struggled to scoop the frozen hard vanilla out of the carton. She teased him by waving her empty chocolate carton in his face to prove she was stronger.

Eventually, ice cream was scooped, milk was poured, and chocolate chips were added. A simple click would blend the ingredients into their favorite dessert. But it did not go smoothly.

Madrigal forgot to seal the lid and milk went everywhere, on their clothes, face, and even in their hair.

The jokes were spewing and laughter was uncontrollable as the two worked together to blend. They poured milkshakes and sat together, chatting among themselves and continuing to tease.

The night had come to an end. Dalool and Madrigal said their goodbyes, embracing in a hug.

In our post date questions, both daters said that they would maybe go on another date depending on what the event was like.

Dalool was pleased with her time and would be excited to go on another date if it was to her liking. Madrigal had a blast and said that he would like to do it again.

“I didn’t expect him to be so open, he wasn’t shy at all and he was very fun to be around. It took the pressure off things, “ Dalool said after the stress to impress had been lifted from her shoulders.

The two got closer that night and created many new memories.

They connected on a different level that might escalate to something more serious.

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | 21 BLIND DATE

|Pop Culture

20 20 Challenge

Three Bearcats are given $20 and 20 minutes and are set loose in Goodwill

by Brighton Garrett, Pop Culture Editor

2

1

THE “HAWAIIAN DAD LOOK”(above) : Senior Sierra Marshall posses in a palm tree patterned button up and flamboyant pants. A visor finishes the classic “Dad” look.

Time Spent

14:31.9

G

3

nd

st

Money Spent

$15.77

Votes

25

PINING OVER THIS SHIRT (above) : A cuffed dark denim pair of jeans contrasts an open button up stylized with pineapples. Burns centered her outfit around the shirt.

Total

Time Spent

35

iven twenty dollars and twenty minutes, three contestants begin the challenge of picking out an outfit at Goodwill. Sierra Marshall (12), David Trobisch (10), and Finley Burns (11) gather on a Saturday morning to try to piece together their best outfit of reused clothes found in Goodwill for under twenty dollars in the given twenty minute time slot. The final outfits they picked out are scored by the contestants starting with 40 points and decreasing by one point for every dollar and minute used.

Contestants are also earned points by their outfits number of voted on Crimson’s Instagram Page (@crimsonnewsmag).

In the younger generations Thrift Stores have gained popularity as a unique, inexpensive way to find new styles and special pieces.

“In 2012, the number of thrift stores was up 12 percent from the previous two years. Data shows that in a given year, approximately 16 to 18 percent of Americans will shop at a thrift store,” Andy McDonald from the Huffington post said.

In the fluorescent lights, busy ailes, and clutter of customers, contestants were handed their twenty dollar bill

rd

22:30.6

Money Spent

$19.27

Votes

22

Total

20

and the time had begun. The rush started as each one tried to find clothes in their size while fighting the natural business of Goodwill.

“I almost always start in the jeans,” junior, Finley Burns said flipping through the rack of blue denim jeans.

The nerves were setting in. Contestants began to struggle not being able to find clothing items they liked and fit.

Burns and Trobisch agreed jeans were the hardest to find.

After the contestants found their outfits they tried them on hoping their first items fit right and paired well together.

Marshall was able to find her perfect outfit in the first try.

She described her look as the “Hawaiian dad look” after she found her centerpiece: the surfer printed button up.

Trobisch started with his yellow jacket and worked around it. He went with a simple shirt and classic blue jeans.

However after trying on his outfit he realized the shirt was too snug and pants to baggy. With the clock nearing his time he decided to put on his belt and just go with his outfit.

Burns grabbed many items including two jeans, two button ups, and three tops before entering the dressing

22 POP CULTURE | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

PRIMARY POSE (above) : Sophomore David Trobisch rocks a primary yellow windbreaker over a simple tee and cuffed jeans.

Photos by Hayley Lacy

Time Spent

20:26.6

Money Spent

$19.47

Votes

11

Total

11

room. She tried on a combination of outfits and was unable to decide between two printed button up tops. She glanced at the time and knew she needed to make a quick decision and chose the pineapple printed top. Her jeans also didn’t fit perfect but she just kept them to save time.

Once the contestants were in their outfits they rushed to the counter, waited in line, and payed for their outfits. Once they reached the counter time stopped and they anxiously awaited the final price of their outfits. All contestants received good news for their price, but only Marshall was able to finish her outfit in less than 20 minutes.

Now it was out of the contestants hands and up to Bearcats to decide the final winner. Crimson posted a picture of the final outfits on their Instagram and the community commented for their favorite. Marshall finished with 25 votes ending with final score of 35 points. This put Marshall in first.

In second, Burns received 20 votes finaling her score to 20 points. Third place was Trobisch with 11 votes and 11 points total.

Pop Culture|

Recycling Vintage Trends Teens are finding outfit inspiration in their grandparents closets

by Esther Cabello, Copy Editor

E

very era brings with it a wave of new fashion, and while store like Urban Outfitters or Hollister can take a toll on most teens are gawking over trends like camo pants anyone’s bank account, but twenty dollars and some and halter tops, a rising number of youth are turning determination can leave you with a perfect outfit from just back the clock and reviving “dead looks”. Teens with a taste about any thrift store. for the eclectic are leaving the big brand clothing stores “I’m able to buy four pieces of clothing, instead behind and raiding the messy isles of Goodwill instead. of just one” said avid thrifter Cassidy LeClaire who draws

More people are resurrecting old trends like inspiration from 50’s style fashion. butterfly clips and low rise jeans, or rummaging through Whether it’s the disorderly racks of clothes, their grandparents association with being drawers to find a new top. “unclean”—which is just “Thrift shopping To those recycling fashion, flat out wrong—, or the fear someone saying “OMG of being mocked, there is lets me find vintage her outfit makes her look something intimidating treasure and stand out like a grandma” is now a about a thrift store, but compliment. according to LeClaire in my own quirky way.”

This revival isn’t if you “always look at Cassidy Leclair, 12 just limited to clothes [the clothes] with a nice either; high schoolers have perspective and if you look even taken hold of older hard enough, you’ll surely forms of photography like film and polaroid. Teens interest in find something.” vintage photography has lead some companies like Kodak Whether it be a vintage red leather belt or a 60’s and Fuji Film to be saved. biker jacket there is bound to be something in any thrift “We’re seeing film growth of 5% year-on-year globally,” says store that anyone can fall in love with.

Giles Branthwaite, the sales and marketing director at With all of the pros of recycling fashion aside it Harman. boils down to simply being a creative way of self expression.

“Our professional film sales have been increasing “If I buy clothes from local stores, I’d look like over the last two or three years,” confirms Dennis Olbrich, everyone else” said LeClaire. “Thrift shopping let’s me find president of Kodak Alaris’ photo chemicals and film division. vintage treasure and stand out in my own quirky way.”

These outfit choices aren’t just a stylish addition, but a cost effective one too. Buying even one item from a

—

Uplifting vibes

Welcome spring with a happy playlist

I

n a new monthly addition, Crimson’s staff compiled a Spotify playlist of happy uplifting songs to brighten the mood for spring. Scan the QR code to the right for a mixed genre playlist and separated genre playlist as well. More can be found on Crimson’s Spotify account (crimsonewsmag).

SCAN PLAYLIST BELOW FOR MIXED PLAYLIST!

Feeling a specific genre? Listen below: Alternative

Hip-Hop/Rap

Pop

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | POP CULTURE 23

|Environment

LEND A HAND

Power to Patagonia- the Patagonia Action Works program is in place to create an outlet for everyone to make a real difference in this environmental crisis.

A

by Karina Neumann, Health Co-Editor

t this point, the environmental crisis we have created for ourselves needs to be acted upon from a perspective purely based on facts, not politics or any hidden agendas. The Earth is deteriorating; rain forests are being cut down at rates of 100 acres a minute.

The coral in our oceans are bleaching which is caused by the increase of ocean temperature “An underwater heatwave has caused coral bleaching on 93% of the reefs that make up the Great Barrier Reef. Up to 50% of corals in the worst-affected regions may die as a result of this bleaching,” said David Attenborough, a veteran broadcaster and naturalist. The facts are supported by scientists who have collected data from different studies to prove them. “ I teach environmental science. It’s crunch time for Planet Earth, it really is, it doesn’t feel that way because even though it’s happening in a blink of an eye, a blink of an eye for Earth is 150 years and that’s like two lifetimes for people on Earth Geologically it’s a blink of an eye. I think our well being, even potentially our existence depends on understanding environmental issues and then dealing with them.” said Mark Dimaggio, GEO teacher at PRHS. “According to the best current estimate, deforestation is responsible for about 10 percent of all global warming emissions” said the UCS, or the Union of Concerned Scientists..We can all recycle and shorten our showers, but plastic water bottles are still going into garbage cans everyday and littering our oceans. The Patagonia Action Works program is designed to answer the question, “What can I actually do to make a real difference?” It is a monumental task, but with this program, local opportunities to help our environment are presented. Under-represented issues

Mark Dimaggio, Science Teacher

1%

of sales go to environmental groups

24 ENVIRONMENT | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

like the Arctic Refuge, an act to stop the law that permits oil-drilling, petition,have been brought forward with donation links that can be clicked or petitions that can be signed.

When going on the site, the first step is to immediately enter your city and state then pick which issues you want to act on. As soon as you hit the explore button with your mouse, tons of local opportunities pop up. All you have to do is choose which one you would like to view and support. A unique part about this program is that there are multiple outlets to help by donating, volunteering at an event, and signing petitions for everything under the sun. The option is given to help your local community or anywhere in the world. Excuses can’t be made any longer, especially with this innovative program that allows you the experience to contribute in the community you live in. The Patagonia Action Works program connects communities to the environmental action groups that are active in their own county There are multiple different campaigns represented around the nation that you can act upon as well such as: the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Northern Minnesota that is threatened with a proposed sulfide ore mining operation that would be devastating to the area, or the Coosa River Basin Initiative in Georgia that empowers citizens to protect the most biologically unique river in North America. Patagonia only gives the attention to serious organizations that are dedicated to making a long- term difference. Clearly advertised on their website “We give grants to organizations that identify the root causes of problems and approach issues with a commitment to long-term change. Because we believe that the most direct path to real change is through grassroots momentum, our funding focuses on organizations that create a strong base of citizen support”.The only way to tackle this issue is to start now.

Patagonia has created an outlet for endless amounts of opportunity for you to make a difference with absolutely no excuses. Can’t make it to a local event? Donate or sign a petition to help make a real difference. There are multiple different outlets to choose from, and Patagonia has gone to the trouble of making sure the initiative is dedicated to long term change and dedication. Act now.

Given $89 Been in business for million in 30 years grants

498

solar panels at headquarters

Review|

WELCOME TO WAKANDA PERFECT PLACE FOR A SLICE

Blaze pizza creating a welcoming atmosphere to kick back and enjoy some quality food.

by Loretta Burke, People Co-Editor and Kaya McCasland, Health Co-Editor

B

y walking into Blaze Pizza on Theatre Dr, you are stepping into every food lover’s paradise. The industrial building is filled with the scent of pizza, dough and sauce, and filled by friendly faces and a great atmosphere. Waiting in line does not take very long and before you know it you are ordering your pizza.

As we stepped up to the counter to order our pizzas, we asked the staff working there what the top two signature pizzas were that were ordered the most. Our question was answered, the BBQ Chicken (grilled chicken, mozzarella, red onion, banana peppers, Gorgonzola, BBQ sauce drizzle) and the Meat Eater (pepperoni, crumbled meatballs, red onion, mozzarella, red sauce), which we gladly ordered. Besides their 9 signatures pizzas, Blaze offers a ‘Build Your Own’ option that is the highlight of their name. This includes a variety of meats, veggies, cheeses, and sauces. They also offer salads and desserts with the option of gluten free crust and high rise crust.

While waiting for our pizzas to be cooked, we were delighted to see how fast and efficient the pizzas were made. As you walk past the salad and pizza topping display you can see your pizza being artistically made and put into their open ovens.

Five minutes was all that it took for both pizzas to cook thoroughly.

The thin crust pizza was delicious in the fact that it was thin, but did not lose its flavor of the dough. When you took a bite of it, you could feel the crunch that contrasted with the tomato sauce and slightly browned toppings.

The meat eater was our favorite, with the

different flavors of meat topped off with a sprinkling of oregano and salt, the pizza came together flawlessly. Even so, the BBQ was a close second. With the tasteful combination of chicken, banana peppers, and the bold but right choice of blue cheese, the artful swirl of BBQ sauce on top made for a fantastic lunch for two.

The service was something to brag about, as one of the workers came over multiple times to check to make sure we were thoroughly satisfied with our food.

We were also very impressed by the message of blaze pizza. “[our] Keepin’ It Real is a food philosophy we embrace fully, and with every pizza we serve, we advance our commitment to clean food and simple ingredients” As said on blazepizza.com. We also loved how the materials like boxes, forks, knives and cups were made from recyclable and compostable materials in order to reduce harmful waste and help the planet.

Established on Nov. 16, 2017 in Paso Robles, the successful chain pizzeria business which started in Pasadena, California in 2011 by Elise and Rick Wetzel. The restaurant quickly grew into a nationwide chain phenomenon with 252 restaurants across the country and it’s still growing.

After going to blaze for the first time, we would highly suggest going there again. From the friendly servers and the “keeping it real” sign on the wall, the atmosphere was perfect for a good couple of slices and enjoying time with your loved one. Would definitely go again.

Black Panther pounces on audience

B

by Trevor Jaureguy, Graphic Designer

lack Panther steps into the theater making 228 million dollars internationally while making 520 million dollars worldwide in the opening weekend proving that it is a very good movie. Following the events of Captain America: Civil War, T’Challa, the Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) heads home to become the new King of Wakanda, a fictional country in Africa, that is concealed by a shield that blocks the outside world from seeing it. While he faces two antagonists, one being Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis) a professional thief who strives to obtain vibranium, the strongest metal in the world, in order to make a mass profit, and the other, Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan) a tyrant-like figure who comes to Wakanda to take the throne after his father’s death. Black Panther and his team have to go and take back the throne from Killmonger before he sends all their highly advanced weapons to the army, so they can use it to kill and conquer countries.

Marvel’s most recent film is marvelous. Every part of the movie catches your attention and leaves you wanting more. The CGI was good in certain parts. One of the bad fight scenes in the movie looked like a scene from a video game and movie can do better than that. The actors once again have amazed us. Marvel again has found an actor who can portray a role perfectly, and that is Chadwick Boseman. Boseman has the strength to portray a superhero

role amazingly along with playing a good African male. Jordan also did a very good job as Erik Killmonger being the antagonist. The actions he did really surprised us and showed you how a villain should be.

Men may have done a very good job in the movie, but we can’t forget the strong women roles we had either.

Shuri, (Letitia Wright) T’Challa’s sister played a brilliant girl that was very good using vibranium to create strong weapons and tech that makes the city of Wakanda look like a high tech San Francisco. Okoye (Danai Gurira) is the greatest warrior and the king’s guard.

She never stops fighting even when it may seem like there is no hope. Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) is the T’challa’s ex who is a covert agent. These three girls are good feminists models of strong liberated women by showing that just because they are girls doesn’t mean they’re any different than boys.

Without them Boseman would have some trouble fighting for his home, Wakanda.

One of my favorite parts of the movie was the soundtrack, which Kendrick Lamar did a extraordinary job at creating. The sound and flow of the music gives the movie a little extra touch that really makes it rank higher.

It makes the movie even more intense with his music in the background during the fight scenes and the end credits while you wait for end credit scenes. I give Black Panther a 9/10. It is a amazing movie despite a little bad CGI. I would recommend it to anyone.

SITTING PRETTY (pictured below) : The signature Meat Lover’s Pizza is freshly made in under 10 minutes at Blaze Pizza. Blaze is known for random sales like $3.14 pizzas on “pie day.”

Photo by Loretta Burke

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | REVIEW 25

|Review

WHAT’S BREWING IN PASO

Crimson Newsmagazine’s Tastebuds took to the streets in search of the best coffee in Paso Robles. They sampled from four local and chain cafés around town.

by Sarah Jagger, Sports Co Editor

SPEARHEAD 3.8 S

pearhead can be recalled as a popular coffee shop in Paso, a locally owned business in which many people enjoy lounging around in as they converse, relax, and enjoy their coffee.

Upon a quick search on Instagram, photos of latte art, friends and family hanging out, and the artistic decor floods the results.

However, while the atmosphere of the business is pleasing, the coffee itself did not pan up to our expectations. From such a popular place, one would expect that the coffee is what brings in the business, but in this case, the atmosphere and service seemed to be what really pulled the place together. The drinks were overpriced and not worth their value, as we found out almost twenty dollars later.

Walking in, we expected the best; the building was aesthetically decorated, customers filled the shop, and the smell of coffee wafted in the air. Looking at the menu, the prices were already above

the previous locations we had been to (Starbucks and Kreuzberg). Almost twenty dollars later, we had our four drinks and excitedly took our first sips. Immediately, something seemed off. The quality of the coffee seemed far from what had been expected. It was watery, bitter, and unappealing. After questioning my drink order, wondering if maybe I had chosen the wrong representation of what the menu had to offer, I ordered a vanilla latte with almond milk. Piping hot and topped with a flower of foam, I popped a lid on and took a sip, expecting my initial reactions to be proven wrong. To my dismay, the second coffee was even less appetizing than the first, and I could hardly force myself to take more than three sips before abandoning hope. After this experience, the atmosphere of Spearhead still managed to appeal to me; I will consider returning, but I’ll be ordering water.

26 REVIEW | Crimson Newsmagazine 03.23.18

Photos by Camden Tucker

KREUZBERG

4.6 K

reuzberg is a local coffee company founded by two Cal Poly graduates in 2010. Opening in Paso Robles only about two years ago, the cafe has become an instant town staple. PRHS students can be found hanging out, studying, and enjoying live entertainment on the daily. Walking by, Kreuzberg’s popularity is obvious, as the chairs are filled with people conversing, studying, or simply enjoying their coffee. A menu outside displays the food options, but inside, the coffee menu hangs behind the bar. We ordered four lattes; one chai tea, one mocha, one caramel, and one hazelnut.

Each of us had the same immediate comment: delicious. The drinks were not too sweet in that catering-to-peoplewho-actually-hate-coffee way, but sweet enough to balance out any bitterness of the coffee. Each drink came garnished with a classic latte foam flower, with the

exception of the chai tea latte, which came topped with cinnamon sprinkled on top. Despite living in Paso for the entirety of Kreuzberg being in business, I’ve never had a coffee from there, but after this visit, I’m sure to be a regular. Coffees range from $2.25 to $5.00, excluding the price of add ons. Especially for such high quality coffee, this price range is very affordable.

It should be noted, though, that the sizes of the coffees are slightly smaller than you would find at other coffee shops around town. Another top note of ours was the service; we were greeted very pleasantly, and each barista had a smile on her face.

The friendly service contributed to the cozy atmosphere of the room. The sun shone bright through the wall of windows, allowing customers at the bar in front a view of downtown. We sat here as we sipped down our coffees, barely able to put them down before emptying the cups.

Review|

CLOUD 9

3.8 C

loud 9 Coffee is a drive through coffee shop at the intersection of Union road and Golden Hill road. Despite their small building, their menu offered far more options than any other location we had been to. They offer dozens of specialty drinks, from minty “grasshoppers” to rich mochas. We ordered four different specialty drinks: an iced grasshopper, and iced cinnamon twist, a black and white mocha, and a Mexican mocha. Our reviews were mixed. After four sips into the black and white mocha, which Cloud 9 nicknamed, “the zebra”, I was hooked.

The coffee taste wasn’t very strong, but the drink itself was great. Two sips later, I started to feel sick. Without enough coffee balancing it out, the mocha was sickly sweet. I finished my drink, but doing so left me feeling uneasy for hours. There’s no doubt I’d go back, as the service was great . With the Grasshopper, however, the drink lacked flavor and tasted more like milk than anything. The only good in this drink was being able to drink something green.

ON CLOUD NINE: (pictured above)Cloud Nine serves a variety of coffee drinks. They offer dozens of specialty drinks, from minty “grasshoppers” to rich mochas.

Photo by Jessica Jagger

A CASE OF SURVIVAL Natalie Portman and director Alex Garland team up to create a visionary film about the survival of the fittest

L

by Tyler Dunn, Review Editor

oosely adapted from Jeff VanderMeer’s novel of the same name, Alex Garland’s Annihilation tells the story of Lena (Natalie Portman), a biologist who finds herself signing up for a risky expedition that sets to find the cause of why an American coast has been overtaken by a mysterious alien-like substance. The substance, known as “The Shimmer”, has somehow been able to cause strange mutations within the plants and animals living within the region. Being able to cause a slow deterioration to the human brain, the unworldly entity has an immense amount of power to it. While Lena and her team of both doctors and scientists go onto investigate the hauntingly beautiful area in which the substance is inhabited, they begin to encounter troubling evidence and information about what The Shimmer really is.

First and foremost, the visuals in this film are breathtaking. Each scene inside The Shimmer is absolutely gorgeous to look at. The way the director, Alex Garland portrays how the entity consumes each area in which he captures the full effect of the mutation is incredible. Despite only being Alex Garland’s second feature film, Annihilation sets up the writer/director for greatness. He is able to show throughout the whole film that he had a vision from the start. Much like legendary director Stanley Kubrick, known for 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, The Shining, and many more.

Garland is able to show his cinematic intelligence

from the way the film is presented, leaving the story open to interpretation, which sparks conversation.

To the average moviegoer, Annihilation can be quite confusing. For example, the very beginning puts forth a set amount of details which prove to be pretty important near the climax of the film. The attention to detail is so precise that you need to pay close attention in order to really understand what is going on throughout the movie.

Focusing on Natalie Portman’s character, the film leaves a hole in the development of the ensemble. While including talents such as: Oscar Isaac, Gina Rodriguez, and Tessa Thompson, Annihilation does not give the viewer a sense of empathy because of the lack of characterization.

All in all, Alex Garland’s newest piece of cinema is interesting, confusing, and stunning to view. The visuals, acting by Portman, and Garland’s writing are all the high points of the film, but the need to focus on every single detail can be very exhausting in order to get the whole experience. Despite being extremely loud, Geoff Barrow and Ben Salisbury’s score perfectly fits with each scene. Even though it is coming to Netflix on March 12th, I’d strongly recommend watching the movie inside a theater because the way it is presented is meant to be seen on the silver screen. A truly gorgeous piece of work, Annihilation is a great film for a movie fanatic, but not as much for the average joe.

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | REVIEW 27

|Sports

CIF LEADERS: Captains and important team members helped lead their teams to compete at CIF. To achieve this, Bearcat teams dedicated their seasons to striving for their best.

Winter sports compete at CIF

Three Bearcat sports advance to CIF

by Campbell Long, Reporter

A

n eventful winter sports season wrapped up with many teams necessarily reflect our performance” Kerr said. qualifying for the prestigious CIF level, including the girls soccer Also having a phenomenal season, a majority of the Bearcat wrestling team’s school record breaking season by being the first girls team team made it to CIF masters. They have been dominating these past couple to ever make it to CIF. The boys soccer team placed second in league and of years and never leaving Paso fans unsatisfied, ending their season with also continued to the first round of CIF where they ended their season. many wins and sending 12 out of 14 boys that were on varsity to CIF. This The wrestling team continues to shock the school with 12 varsity boys is including athletes such as Freshmen Austin Brenneman and Levi continuing to CIF and many after that heading onto the masters meet.

Lynch, Sophomores Dylan Maduena, Porter Tanner and Blake Haupt.

The CIF season started off with the girls soccer team holding a 15-7-3 Junior Kyle Miller and Seniors Daede Murphy, Michael Dominguez, record, which placed them third overall in Justin Clays, Julian Madrigal, Hunter league and granted them a position in CIF Deverick, Ernie Trejo. All of these prelims. This year was the first season in athletes placed within 1st and 4th place Bearcat history that a girl’s soccer team in PAC 7 league tournament, allowing It was an amazing has made it to CIF. They qualified as they them to proceed to CIF. experience for me. I played Windward private school and “It was an amazing experience for me, won 3-0, but in the first round, they lost to it was my first CIF and I got to spend it got to spend it with my Ventura 2-0. with my second family” said sophomore second family. blake “At the Ventura game we were all really Blake Haupt, who didn’t make it past focused and I think tensions were higher prelims. haupt, 10 because we all really wanted to win and After this CIF match four bearcat move on, but Ventura was really good and athletes qualified for the Master’s meet: they worked really hard” said junior Torri Dylan Maduena, Tanner Porter, Micheal Pugh.

Dominguez, Julian Madrigal and Hunter Deverick.

Boys soccer started their CIF season not long after the girls did. They “My teammates were a big factor in pushing me to succeed for always ended their season with a 15-6-6 record and qualified to play in CIF, as they going hard and pushing me in practice and Coach John and the Monteiro’s placed 2nd in the league. for believing in me and helping me become the best wrestler I can be” “Going into CIF, I don’t really know if many of us understood the gravity of senior Julian Madrigal said. what the outcome would mean,” said junior Aiden Kerr, who believes that The tough competition of the southern section left athletes such as knowing that it might be their last game was big motivator when it came Madrigal going 3-3, which was one match away from qualifying for state, time to play.

Maduena went 1-2 and Porter, Dominguez and Deverick went 0-2, making Not long after they qualified, they lost to Newbury Park High School with for a successful season. a 5-0 end score, ending their season.

“My coaches always tell us to “never be satisfied”, and that pushes us to “It definitely hurt to end our season that way, no doubt. But if you were go beyond what we think we can do,” said Maduena. sitting in the stands that night, you would know that the score didn’t

28 SPORTS| Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

Julian Magdrigal, 12

—

Photos by Camden Tucker

Alexis Serna, 12

Victor Rodriguez, 12

Pitching in Dedication dedication C

Sports|

Softball proves strong despite changes

by Sarah Jagger, Sports CoEditor

harging the field in mid November, three months before preseason began, the girls varsity softball conditioned for their spring season with JV coaches Scott and Lisa Tibbetts.

This early dedication paid off last season, as the team earned second place in league and 10-4 record. ”I know if we prepare well and work hard as a team we can win league,” said junior Brooke Milder, who played shortstop last year. “We have the talent and drive; we just need to apply it to game situation.”

Milder, a key player on varsity since a freshman, bats .352 and leads with on base percentage of .431. Playing in all 25 of the team’s games last year, she earned 20 of the 154 runs last year, making her tied with senior Rebecca Twyman for most runs in the 2017 spring season.

Last season, the team tied Arroyo Grande for second place in PAC 8.

The team lost important players — catcher Livia Rambo and first baseman Lindsay Sonniksen — and changed coaches. Coach Berkley Baker was replaced early this season by Coach Billy Tidwell, PRHS Varsity Softball Coach from 2004-2007, due to conflicts between the coach and certain players. They have faced four head coaches within four consecutive seasons, but have proved that new leadership will not be a new challenge.

“We have a whole new set of coaches who are all about the girls; we all genuinely enjoy coming to practice, and we enjoy having new players,” said senior Crystal Linn, outfield.

The team’s attitude is reflected in their diligent practices.

Softballs fly out of the pitching machine at 50 miles an hour. The bat meets each ball with a “zing!” sending sounds of dings and whirs of the machine and bat through the campus. Players take turns at bat, perfecting

form, aim, and power. They warm up by stretching, throwing, and running, and infield and outfield drills follow, then hitting, then base running. The team practices in this fashion in hopes to translate all this training into game results.

“We have the talent to accomplish greater things, and we all want to take our team to the next level this season,” said Milder, who believes coaching and roster changes won’t affect the team’s play or games.

Winning their first game of the season against Morro Bay 6-0, the girls already mirrored the success of their previous season, during which they beat Morro Bay 10-1. Since, they’ve won two other games against Santa Maria and Nipomo and lost one to Templeton. On March 29, the Bearcats face off against AGHS, to whom they tied league last season.

“Our challenges this season will be to not ‘level out’ mid season,” said Linn. “We need to keep rising and stay focused.”

With one month under his belt, Tidwell now leads the girls after a ten year break. “They seem willing to work for what they want as a team and not just wish for it.”

“I love everything about the game of softball,” said Milder, shortstop and second baseman. “The offense, defense, the competitive aspect of the game, being with girls who want to win and achieve their goals just as much as [I] do. There’s nothing better than being out on the field and letting the stress of the world slip away for a few hours.”

Photos by Camden Tucker

THROWING STRIKES (top) : Senior Alyssa Valle throws a pitch for the Bearcats.

IN THE MITT (middle) : Senior Jasmine Smiley catches a pitch during the

STARING DOWN THE BALL (left) : As the ball flies toward Sophomore Karli

SWINGING IT (right) : Shortstop and second baseman Brooke Milder swings

Valle has 12 total strike outs and has pitched in 14.1 innings this season.

Wisenhunt, she follows it with her eyes. Wisenhunt practices strong form for a solid hit.

Bearcats’ first game against Morro Bay. PRHS won the game 6-0.

her bat as the pitch flies by. Milder had two hits this game.

03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | SPORTS 29

|Sports

Leaping for Goals

Goalkeeper Victor Rodriguez prepares to play Cal Poly Soccer

by Madison Funke, Reporter

S

tanding guard with a spring like no other, senior Victor Rodriguez defends his goal.

Soccer has been the core of the 5’ 10” senior’s life since he can remember and after high school, his career will continue. Cal Poly Soccer wanted Rodriguez’s premier skills and listed his name on their recruited and accepted roster, a moment he his years of school and club play as one of the best keepers in the state and nation had been building up to.

He is the first Bearcat to make the Cal Poly D1 team in decades--perhaps ever.

Rodriguez has therefore been the talk of scouting reports, premier level club coaches, and college scouts for months. “[Rodriguez] has strong/deep kicks moving his team in forward progress. He has very good communication skills.

He is loud and commanding when directing defenders and midfielders,” states the Evolution prospect report.

His 282 saves in his high school varsity career makes him an impressive goalkeeper.

Rodriguez had two coaches while playing for Santa Barbara Soccer Club for six years.- Rudy Ybarra and Matt Winecki - with special influence on Rodriguez. Ybarra taught him his knowledge of the game. At one time, Ybarra coached semiprofessional teams and rightfully passed his wisdom to Rodriguez for the next level, college. Winecki “inspired and pushed” Rodriguez to unleash his true potential, he gave him confidence, according to Rodriguez.

Passion for soccer runs through his family’s veins: Rodriguez began playing soccer when he was a four year old boy while being surrounded by aunts and uncles who were soccer fanatics themselves. Rodriguez was also inspired by his older brother, who played Cal Poly Club soccer. Rodriguez began playing for the premier Santa Barbara Soccer Club as early as seventh grade. He was a striker as a five year old soccer player

30 SPORTS | Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

and his legacy of goalkeeping began in Santa Barbara.

As he continued to play, he didn’t know he was soon going to be a key player on varsity for all four years well respected by teammates for his role in their 15-6-6 overall 9-4-1 league record.

“Victor plays with an aggressive yet tactical manner. He always sees what is going to happen before it happens and as a goalkeeper, that’s very important…he sees the mistakes that his team does, and he pushes his teammates to fix the mistake.

He knows how the game should be played, and he makes sure that the whole team is on the same page,” said senior Carlos Padilla, who is Rodriguez’s teammate and admires his work ethic.

“I am determined to work harder each and everyday to insure I achieve my goal.”

—Victor Rodriguez, 12 Rodriguez’s hard work has included regular practice of weekday mornings, plus hour and half and after school means two more hours of drill workouts on top of a twice a week strength training.

For years he drove weekly to Santa Barbara for training.

But when it comes to academics, Cal Poly has always been a prospect college.

“I had always been really interested in Cal Poly, for both the soccer program and academics.”

His major is mechanical engineering.

“I have always wanted to be an engineer, and I want to be an original equipment engineer in the automotive industry.”

During Rodriguez’s junior year, Cal Poly soccer coaches showed interest in him while he was playing at a Las Vegas International Showcase for his club team.

As a senior, his season continued and the coaches came to watch his skills in more club games. “At this point they were very interested.”

During the high school season, the scouts went to watch him play against SLO High School.

“This was probably one of my best games this year, and which I also believe tipped them over the fence for an offer.”

Proceeding the SLO game, head coach Steve Sampson contacted and “told me that he and the coaching staff would like to speak with me.” The college coaches watching his in game skills, “are impressed with his command, attitude and willing to apply what they’re teaching,” said Chris Kirk, a scout who observed Rodriguez.

On Jan. 24, 2018 Rodriguez went to Cal Poly’s campus, unknowing of what was going to happen. Coach Sampson took his father and Rodriguez into his office, “finally told me that they had been very interested in me and that in these past months they had been impressed by the way I had been playing, and at that moment finally offered me a spot on the roster to college soccer with them.”

Rodriguez will be working close with Ignacio Hernandez, Cal Poly’s Goalkeeping and assistant coach. In a scout’s report, Coach Hernandez states “Victor is working on anticipated play and slowing down the game and has surpassed the competition he practices with.”

With characteristic intensity, Rodriguez indicated he knows the journey is not over.

“I am determined to work harder each and everyday to insure I achieve my goal.”

Photos by Madison Funke

Sports|

VICTOR RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ VICTOR

VARSITY 2930 GOALKEEPER MINUTES

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Graphics by Ysabel Wulfing

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03.23.18 | Crimson Newsmagazine | SPORTS 31

|Sports

Technically Speaking: Double cartwheel with Oscar Gutierrez and Cassidy LeClair

Grip

Momentum

The dancers must carry their weight through each movement to maintain momentum and keep a smooth performance

Both dancers must hold on to each other to avoid tipping over. LeClair’s tight grip alleviates a portion of the weight Gutierrez must carry through

Form

To make sure neither dancer gets injured, Gutierrez must bend his knees to counteract LeClair’s momentum, as she keeps her movement as pristine as possible to avoid offsetting their balance

Timing

to accomplish this move, both dancers must be in sync with each other, but also remain in time with the music.

ABOUT THE DANCERS

Junior Oscar Gutierrez has been a part of the PRHS dance class and Jazz N’ Company for all three of his years at PRHS. In total, he has been dancing for five years. He has trained in Ballroom, African, Ballet, Contemporary and ten other styles of dance. In this year’s dance show, Gutierrez has two pieces. He choreographed a Tap number to Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl,” and a Contemporary piece coined “The Light Dance”.

The show, titled “93446” and centered around the idea of home and all the love and comfort PRHS dancers find in it, featured Gutierrez in nine dances throughout the two hour show.

“I dance because it’s a form of self artistic expression that doesn’t involve any reason to it. It’s my piece, it’s my body, it’s my love” said Gutierrez, “It’s a weird phenomena that resonates deep within you, once you understand it, you’ll see art and movement differently. It’s a form.”

32 SPORTS| Crimson Newsmagazine | 03.23.18

Senior Cassidy LeClair began dancing eight years ago and has since studied Ballet, Jazz, Hip-hip, Contemporary, and Lyrical dance styles. LeClair coreographed two numbers in the dance show and danced in both of them, as well as six other numbers.

“I dance because it lets me express how I feel without words,” said LeClair, who is able to express her love for home in the show.

LeClair is in Advanced Dance as well as Advanced Drama and Advanced Choir. She has appeared in multiple dance shows, plays, musicals, and concerts throughout her high school career.

This show marked her last, and LeClair was able to commemorate it in a dance with the other seniors in Advanced Dance.