Granite Bay Gazette, September 2015 by Karl Grubaugh

Summer Highlights G8-9

Students vacation to different parts of the world

Drug Issues on Campus

Tribe Leadership

Students share their experiecnes with narcotics

Student cheer group’s new leaders

The Granite Bay Gazette GRANITE BAY HIGH SCHOOL w 1 GRIZZLY WAY w GRANITE BAY, CA w 95746 w VOLUME 19 w ISSUE 1 w FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2015

COMMENTARY

When suspicious...

savitri asokan sasokan.gazette@gmail.com

Senior year doesn’t have to be memorable

s the school year begins, I’m increasingly astonished by how final everything feels. Although I might be prematurely attributing importance to commonplace things – merely giving in to conventional tropes and running the risk of being overly sentimental – I can’t help but feel that this year’s events and actions are more meaningful, poised to make a deeper impression on my life than all the rest. There’s nothing inherently significant about these next few months, but for the inevitable expiration date of graduation. As a freshman, I had the privilege of having one of the most genuinely life-changing conversations I’ve ever had, with a former Gazette editor-in-chief. At the end of my first year of high school, I was thoroughly consumed with anxiety and in the throes of an existential freak out, unable to comprehend my position at the border of childhood and looming maturity – which, I was beginning to sense, grew more precarious each day. He told me then that the pursuit of happiness, so deeply enshrined in the collective American consciousness, was more of a pop culture concept than anything else. The only things that would reach past the thick veil of complacent apathy was authentic engagement in sensory experience and human interaction. These sentiments are obviously not novel – I’d heard them many times before, in books and films and all the “pop culture” things he denounced. But at that moment, nothing had instantaneously, indelibly, struck me as more true. But that was three years ago, and a lot has changed since then. While I’d like to think I’ve been living a complete and fulfilled life of the kind my friend espoused, I have to wonder if I’ve actually done so. I’ve always been detached – more detached, I suspect, than is typical for most people my age. I tend to hold emotions at an arm’s length, and take pride in the rationality that distance and objectivity lend me. I suppose it’s only natural to want to know what I may have missed in that distance. In the mornings, on my way to school, I often find myself absorbed with the vibrant and endlessly changing panorama of life around me. Something about the warm glow of the sun, lighting the fronts of cars and the tips of green leaves, fills me with an indescribable sense of comfort and safety, reminding me of early mornings when I was in elementary school. Although I’m thousands of moments removed from that time, I don’t doubt that my conception of what I was going to be back then is far different from how I am now. But despite these differences, despite the difficulty of finding a balance between the magnitude and the unbearable lightness of experience – I’d like to think that to be, simply and totally, a patient and unassuming observer of this universe is enough. *** Savitri Asokan, a senior, is a Gazette co-editor-in-chief.

...becomes serious When it comes to fellow peers, some find it easier than others to recoginze and report those who act in strange ways.

The psychology behind reporting – why we don’t and when we should BY HANNAH HOLZER

hholzer.gazette@gmail.com

A former Granite Bay High School student was arrested on Aug. 14 on multiple counts, including possession of an illegal weapon, making criminal threats, distribution of obscene materials to minors and a third party report of intent to sexually assault minors. The 18-year-old male has since been let go; however, the district attorney has filed for further investigation. GBHS Integrated Mathematics 2 and Advanced Placement Statistics teacher Bruce Honberger coached the student, a varsity volleyball player, during his sophomore year and said he struggled to form relationships. “He’s kind of a troubled kid,” Honberger said. “There definitely were situations where he had trouble getting along with me, his peers and certainly his teachers.” Fox 40 reported that the student had re-

cently been admitted to a mental hospital following his arrest after expressing thoughts about self-harm. Previously, classmates had also commented on their concerns regarding the student’s abnormal actions on Facebook and Twitter. For many students, distinguishing between adolescent eccentricities and serious threats can be difficult. “Strange behavior, erratic behavior and unusual behavior ... are all symptoms of mental illness, or drug abuse or use,” said Advanced Placement Psychology and Peer Counseling teacher Natalie Elkin, who is also a licensed marriage and family therapist. “That kind of bleeds into the realm of mental health professionals, so it certainly isn’t an expectation (that) teachers know what’s going on and can identify it as psychotic or drug-induced. Certainly … a teacher would notice (the behavior), find it suspicious and then make sure that they’ve

contacted someone – an assistant principal, someone in the administration, the nurse or … a counselor.” All teachers in California are mandated reporters and required to follow a certain protocol to report sexual or physical abuse, elder abuse or harm to self or others. Teachers must go through a training process, and face misdemeanor charges if they have knowledge of any of the listed crimes or abuses and fail to report. However, students often either do not feel comfortable reporting another student’s behavior – even when seemingly suspicious or dangerous – or do not know who to talk to. “Unfortunately, I think we have a lot of staff that wouldn’t necessarily take (some) things as seriously as others,” junior Julia Huss said. “But we do have trusted teachers. No matter who it is, if it’s a teacher you trust, you should talk to them.” Similarly, senior Mason Gregory said he

Planned Parenthood debate The controversial center’s effect on campus BY CAROLINE PALMER cpalmer.gazette@gmail.com

Since Roe v. Wade in 1973, abortion has been a controversial subject in the United States. But even before abortion was legalized, Planned Parenthood was around. Over the summer, the Center for Medical Progress – a group against abortion – released videos of members of Planned Parenthood discussing fetal tissue research, which uses tissues from fetuses for biomedical research Some opponents of Planned Parenthood report that members of the organization have been selling fetal organs, which is illegal. Supporters argue that the videos were edited and the sale of fetal organs were legally reimbursed. This argument sparked heated discussion, as demonstrated

*3 participants identified as transsexual and are not represented in the poll. Gazette illustration /CAROLINE PALMER

in the Republican debate hosted by Fox News, where all 10 candidates talked of defunding Planned Parenthood. Founded in 1913, the organization primarily focuses on the reproductive health of women. Planned Parenthood reports that three percent of the procedures they perform are abortions. However, according to the Susan B. Anthony List, a prolife political group for women, about a quarter of the abortions performed in the U.S. are done by the organization. Granite Bay High School senior Max Buzzard said he doesn’t personally support abortion; however, that doesn’t affect how he views Planned Parenthood. “I think it’s truly acceptable,” Buzzard said. “If kids need help, they need help from an organization that knows what is going on. There is nothing wrong with that, and (I don’t think) it should be defunded.” Senior Madeline Clark is also pro-life, but said she wishes to See PARENTHOOD, page A6

also feels that some teachers might not care about students as much as others do. Gregory said he only feels comfortable talking to a handful of teachers, including Advanced Placement US History and International Baccalaureate History of the Americas teacher Brandon Dell’Orto, who is “someone I know I could always go to.” Huss’s and Gregory’s hesitation to talk to certain staff members they do not know or feel uncomfortable talking to might not be a bad thing, according to both assistant principal Sybil Healy and Greg Hopping, the GBHS School Resource Officer and Placer County Deputy Sheriff. “We all feel comfortable in our groups and with certain individuals,” Hopping said. “Our staff as a whole … all has different personalities, so students connect up with certain individuals and certain personality types. That’s who we’re going to feel comfortable going to. (But) it’s on that student

Elizabeth Henderson Henderson teaches biology and physiology and looks to find joy in teaching.

See REPORTING, page A8 Jessup McGregor McGregor is the newest assistant principal on campus. This his first year at Granite Bay.

New staff on campus

Additions to Granite Bay teaching crew BY SAVITRI ASOKAN

sasokan.gazette@gmail.com

This year, the Grizzly family welcomed more bear cubs into the den. Twelve new staff members joined the Granite Bay High School staff, including two Spanish teachers, a choir teacher, two long-term substitutes, a counselor, an intervention counselor, a receptionist, a learning support specialist, a maintenance worker and an assistant principal. Elizabeth Henderson The newest addition to the science coterie, Elizabeth Henderson teaches International Baccalaureate Biology

inside the Gazette news Ripple Effect program preview

Construction for Eureka development

The student government program will attempt to better school culture

Projects to widen Eureka road and build apartment complex begin

Special to the Gazette /GRANITE BAY MEDIA

voices

HL and physiology. Henderson began her career working at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, doing protein mapping based on magnetic resonance. Afterwards, she studied at UC Davis, working in a variety of different labs in the Center for Comparative Medicine and investigating immune response to monoclonal antibodies. While she enjoyed her work, research “didn’t give the immediate gratification you would get by teaching,” Henderson said. After graduation, she trained to become a nutritionist, looking into gluten intolerance and immune responses. Her first taste of teaching came by accident. See STAFF, page A7

People devote excess time to sports It’s necessary to regulate your time between sports and school

A10

News

Granite Bay Gazette

Friday w September 18, 2015

NAMES IN THE

Ripple Effect continues its yearly week of kindness

surina khurana skhurana.gazette@gmail.com

Junior receives national honors for mountain biking video

This year’s new theme is ‘Walk a Mile in Someone Else’s Shoes’

unior Ben Gould won a national competition in the spring for a video on our mountain biking team. Way to go Ben! *** The Advanced Placement Spanish teacher Jennifer Hill had a baby boy the day after school started. Daniel Hill was born on Aug. 11 at 11:30 p.m. weighing 7 pounds and 14 ounces. *** Midterms are Oct. 8-9. You can also say they are three weeks away or 14 school days away. Whichever you prefer. *** Many GBHS artists received awards at the Crocker Art Museum show at the end of the school year. Jacqui Ray placed first at the show and Hannah Davis placed second! Sarah Garcia, and Khylie Boyer were both recognized for honorable mention. Huge congrats to all of you! *** Advanced Placement Language teacher Bonnie Robbins and her husband Brad had their baby girl, Bailey on Aug. 23. They seem to be taking the alliteration thing pretty seriously. *** English teacher Kay Bacharach was honored as the first Grizzly Pride Teacher of the week at the first home football game. The football program plans to recognize a different GBHS teacher at each home game. *** The National Honor Society is welcoming applications. Pick one up in Room 821 and turn it in by Sept. 22. *** Jillyan McKinney and her husband, welcomed Joseph Sylvia James McKinney on Sept. 12. He is 7 pounds and fourteen ounces. *** Ripple Effect week is Sept.. 28 - Oct. 2. *** Football plays De La Salle, one of the top ranked teams in the nation, on Oct. 2, at home. Be there or be square. *** The first SAT of the fall is coming up on Oct. 3. Good luck to everyone taking it. *** There are only nine weeks until Thanksgiving break! Hopefully it won’t still be 100 degrees then. *** There is no school on Wed, Oct. 14. I repeat, there is no school.

Gazette photo / ALI LEMOS

 Ripple Effect is a week-long program, put on by student government, to curb bullying on campus. This year the theme will stay constant, instead of day-to-day change. BY JACQUELINE ROMERO jromero.gazette@gmail.com

Ripple Effect, a week-long campaign to reduce the amount of bullying on campus, will have it’s fifth year. Coming to Granite Bay High School Sept. 28-Oct. 2, senior and ASB president, Aubrey Holt said it has been a dream come true for her to have the opportunity to plan such an important event. “I believe the past Ripple Effects have been very influential,” Holt said. “I wanted this position because I loved seeing the change that occurred on campus once Ripple Effect was over.” In past years, each day of the week has had a theme that addresses a certain aspect related to decreasing the amount of bullying. This year, the committee is changing things up in hopes at making a more lasting impact. “We have decided this year not to choose themes for the day and just have the overall theme come into play everyday.” junior and assistant commissioner, Taylor Stiern, said, “We felt that the themes weren’t having as much of an effect on people because it was (seen more as a) week of empathy so we decided to switch it up for the first time this year.” While the concept of the theme of the day will change, many of the most impactful aspects of the week will stay the same. year’s Ripple Effect will continue to have daily videos shown in second period classes as well as in-class activities,” Holt said.

For senior Camilla Griggs, the videos of students have Even though Ripple Effect might impact some students been the most influential part of the week. more than others, Stiern said it is a essential event at “I think hearing the stories of the students is the most GBHS. impactful aspect,” Griggs said. “The stories told are often “I think Ripple Effect is important because it opens up relatable or motivate people to be kind to people who want to focus on how others to everyone because of the unknown feel.” Stiern, said. “I think it really fits in struggles that people face.” with our theme for the year because it will Stiern said she thinks past Ripple Efallow people to see that not everyone lives fect weeks have not been as effective an easy life and that everyone struggles in as they could have been, and student their own way.” government is trying to change that. The GBHS theme for the 2015-16 school “When we were reviewing past year is “Walk a Mile in Someone Else’s Ripple Effects we noticed that none of Shoes” and Holt and Stiern agreed that one them were continued throughout the of the main goals for this year’s Ripple Efyear.” Stiern said, “ We are planning on fect is to promote it throughout the week. continuing Ripple Effect throughout “We want students to understand that we –senior Camilla Griggs, the year by having follow-up videos never know what some students are going student government and doing activities.” through outside of school,” Holt said. “If you member While many students choose not to walked a mile in someone else’s shoes, they take the week seriously, Griggs said would have challenges and trials you may the students who really embrace the have never known about.” meaning of each day get a lot out of it. Another way that Holt is working to pro“I think Ripple Effect week is impormote the school theme is through an Instatant because it reminds students that everyone (struggles) gram account called @peopleofgbhs. and that kindness and sensitivity go a long way.” Griggs “My No. 1 goal this year is to continue the momentum said, “I think of our theme and Ripple Effect for the rest of the year.” many of the past Ripple Effect weeks have been effective Holt said, “Everyday students are given the opportunity if students allow themselves to be vulnerable and take in to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes just by following the meaning of the week.” this account.”

I think hearing the stories of students is the most impactful aspect.

Waning class sizes result in classes lost IB Math Studies, Physics and Chemistry have all been discarded BY KAYOMI KAYOSHI

kkayoshi.gazette@gmail.com

They say change is hard – just ask students in the International Baccalaureate program. This year, the IB program is experiencing lots of changes, including the dropping of IB classes in Math Studies, Physics SL and Chemistry HL at Granite Bay High School because of the extremely small class sizes. Many IB students find these changes to be unfair, and that has resulted in some animosity toward the program. IB coordinator Duane Blomquist said one of the goals of Roseville Joint Union High School District superintendent Ron Severson was to fix the master schedule, which had too many classes that had only a small number of students. The outcome of that decision, however, is what has frustrated IB students, as well as Blomquist. No one GBHS is happy about the courses being cut from the program. Because courses that were axed in the IB program were science and math classes,

students were forced “I miss the feel of to take alternative a sophisticated classes or drop out class and the the IB discussions I had of program altogether. in English. Scott - Jesse Damos, student Becker, who who dropped IB teaches IB Mathematics SL, now has to teach all IB students advanced math – because that’s the only IB math option left. Jesse Damos, a GBHS senior, dropped out of the IB program. “I miss the feel of a sophisticated class and the discussions I had in English, but I probably wouldn’t have dropped out of IB if they hadn’t dropped Math Studies,” Damos said. Senior Lison Lemoine was one of the

students who intended to take IB Math Studies, which was designed for students who didn’t want to take the harder math topics that are taught in IB Math. Although Lemoine said she can cope with her current situation, she also said dropping IB Math Studies was one of the worst decisions the IB Program has ever made. The International Baccalaureate program’s aim is to make students understand things going on in the world and to be more open-minded. Some students criticize the course cuts because they reduce the opportunity for IB students to more broadly explore the world and their place in it. “IB is for people who want to be … wellrounded in everything,” said junior Afrah Tahir. While some IB classes were cut, one new course was added this fall. IB World Religions is being taught for the first time this semester at GBHS; CP English 9 and IB English teacher David Tastor is teaching the course. “(GBHS) is trying to be a more culturally

sensitive school and also (trying) to give

kids the opportunity to take higher-level courses,” Tastor said. Tastor said he hopes that by having an IB class that isn’t exclusive to IB, students will be able to influence other students in a positive way. Many students in IB, despite the hardships, said there is a bright side to being in the program. “I enjoy the IB family we have,” senior Stephen Chang said. “We’re all ready to lend a hand whenever somebody needs help.” Senior Shivani Bobbala said she is also very enthusiastic about how entertaining and qualified all of the teachers are. “Mrs. (Suchi) Krishnaraj is … half the IB class’ moral support,” Bobbala said, “and Becker is probably the smartest person I know.”

Students report that finance course is a good investment

Surina Khurina, a junior, is a Gazette news editor

The program is a graduation requirement

CORRECTIONS Accuracy is perhaps the most important fundamental of good journalism. It's the policy of the Gazette to correct all factual errors that are brought to our attention. Email us at: gbgazette@yahoo.com.

Identification Statement GRANITE BAY GAZETTE PUBLISHED EIGHT TIMES PER ACADEMIC YEAR c/o Granite Bay High School 1 Grizzly Way Granite Bay, CA 95746 Subscriptions: $25 per year/ $15 per half year

Lison Lemoine A senior in the IB program, Lison is disappointed that Math Studies was dropped.

BY TROY PAWLAK tpawlak.gazette@gmail.com

Gazette photo / MADELINE WILLIAMS

 The online class aims to prepare students for their future financial endeavors. The class is 15 lessons.

Why bother to take so much time earning a degree and getting a good job with no idea what to do with the money? Granite Bay High School and the Roseville Joint Union High School District aim to remove this question from the future of the 2016 senior class by requiring the completion of an online

finance course through Blackboard in order to graduate. “(The course should) expose every student to some basic ideas about how to manage (their) financial future,” assistant principal Mike Fischer said. Fischer said the course, which has been well received by alumni and parents, provides great insight into the financial world for students. The course contains 15 lessons broken into four units with a final exam at the end. “I think that there are some students who have had no exposure See MONEY, page A7

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AP European History class size jumps

The AP Euro classrooms have never been so packed with students. There a few more than 300 sophomores taking the course.

Enrollment rate higher than before BY MCKENNA ARAM

maram.gazette@gmail.com

At Granite Bay High, the numbers don’t lie. For the 2015-2016 year, the number of students enrolled in the Advanced Placement European History course at Granite Bay High School has skyrocketed to include more than half of the sophomore class. “(The increase in enrollment) coincides nationwide with the explosion of AP,” said Mike Valentine, who teaches AP European History. “It has become that tool to get (you) to the college of your choice. Now you have to take tons of AP classes, and people figured out how to play the game.” In 2004, there were only 49 students enrolled in AP European History compared to the 300 of 500 students in the sophomore class enrolled now. Yet there has not been any kind of drastic increase in the school’s population — the total student population has remained fairly constant at around 2,100 students. “I wanted to take this course so I can intellectually challenge myself,” sophomore Mason Lopez said. “I feel like I will learn a lot, (even if) my grades (will) not (be) the best.” Fifty-eight percent of the Class of 2018 is enrolled in AP Euro this year. That is the equivalent of nearly a full class load more students in the course than last year. While the rate

Gazette photo / ISABELLA TKACHUK

of enrollment in AP European History is increasing, the number of teachers remains the same. Mike Valentine and Katie Angelone are the only teachers. The concept of students tacking as many AP courses onto their transcript as possible is becoming popular nationwide. “It’s not just at Granite Bay, but across the country,” Valentine said. “But we’re more than that – we’ve even outpaced that rate, and that’s just something about Granite Bay.” In comparison to last year, there has been a six percent increase in the number of students involved in the AP program nationwide. To give a representation in numbers, that’s almost 800,000 more students. For Northern California alone, there has been about a 19 percent increase in the number of students taking AP exams. At Granite Bay High, from 2012 to 2015, there has been an increase of around 500 students more partaking in the program, which is nearly an entire class more of students. Another reason for the increasing number of students taking the course is to balance out a lack of

skills in other areas. “I think people wanted to try out Euro, and a lot of people are good at English comparatively with their math skills – and it’s a good way to gauge your potential in the AP program in high school,” sophomore Tanner Brasse said. Sophomore Will Anderson said the writing part of the course appeals to many. “I think I will excel because it’s really writing based, and I feel that I’m a pretty strong writer,” Anderson said. “My main objective (in taking the course is) to try to get an idea of what an AP class would be like.” Although taking more AP classes is appealing to college admission offices, average students might not excel the way they believe they will. Valentine said it’s not completely clear whether it’s better to do worse in a higher-level class, or excel in the average college preparatory course. “The con is, Is everybody actually ready to do this (level of work) that’s in the class?” Valentine said. “Not all the time.”

Anonymous Twitter accounts on the rise Positive and negative energy spread on campus BY MADELINE WILLIAMS mwilliams.gazette@gmail.com

Many Granite Bay High School students will often turn to social media outlets, like Twitter, to express their thoughts. Because publishing their thoughts might be threatening to their reputation, some attempt to remain anonymous. Lately some Twitter accounts have tweeted negative things at specific individuals while keeping their identity protected. At the same time other anonymous accounts are doing just the opposite — recognizing people for making the school what it is. GBHS Principal Jennifer Leighton said she is bothered by the negativity that is anonymously displayed on Twitter by some students. “They can just say what they want without repercussions,” Leighton said. Having been mentioned by anonymous Twitter accounts before, Leighton is empathetic towards those who are victims of it. “I try not to (look for those tweets) because it upsets me quite a bit,” Leighton said. “If there were something I could do about it, I would (do it).” Last year, Leighton was criticized by several students who caught onto the “impeach Leighton” hashtag. When she became aware, she tried to not pay much attention to it and avoided giving power to the matter. Leighton said she is bothered by how students will easily latch onto something that is so negative. “I think it creates a bit of a mob mentality where people start piling on,” Leighton said. When it comes to the positive anonymous Twitter accounts, Leighton has the contrary opinion. There are some GBHS students who prefer to spread kindness namelessly. “I feel really proud of those kids for feeling that passionately about wanting to start a positive movement,” Leighton said. The owner of the You’re Worth It (@gbhotline) account on Twitter anonymously opened up in an interview. The GBHS junior hopes to provide support for people who need it and for these people to be able to open up to the account in return. “I really struggled through anorexia and depression and other mental illnesses,” the anonymous junior said. “But

I always had a support group… I wanted to be able to be that for those people.” According to the student, the account is anonymous so that this person’s personal history with mental illnesses is not revealed and so that people can feel more comfortable opening up. The student “abhors” the negative accounts that people create and believes that people misuse their right to free speech. “I like accounts like the GBHS Love (@GBHS_approval) account that sort of counterbalance the negativity,” the anonymous junior said. With high hopes for the future of the account, the student is passionate about the goals and intentions of it. GBHS drama teacher Kyle Holmes, said that the positive anonymous accounts tend to be a reaction or a response to the negative ones. Holmes, another victim of Internet anonymity encourages his students to report any hostility that contributes to the “negative energy” at GBHS. According to Holmes, students would rather complain about school, teachers and the administration anonymously than confront an issue directly. He said there is a better way to go about these conflicts. “The right way to handle it (is by)… following a real chain of command and not anonymously hiding being your phone and expecting change to happen, because it won’t,” Holmes said. While Holmes said that he appreciates the thought behind creating positive accounts, he is concerned about the risks that come with anonymous students helping other students. “They’re not trained psychologist(s) or psychiatrist(s),” Holmes said. Holmes also said that another possible risk is that students might privately share information with these anonymous accounts that ends up needing further attention from parents and teachers. “You have to know when it’s time to get adults involved,” Holmes said. Although students have tried to create more positivity with some Twitter accounts, Holmes said he’s still baffled by the concept and reasoning behind the negative ones. “It’s unfortunate,” Homes said, “that we live in a society where we think it’s acceptable to hide behind anonymity.”

Community reacts to the construction on Eureka Road Deforestation of the local area causes confusion amongst local residents and students BY SABINA MAHAVNI

smahavni.gazette@gmail.com

The construction on the northeast corner between Eureka Road and Sierra College Boulevard has a clear goal but has confused bypassers. Contractors hope to dig up positive reviews from current Granite Bay dwellers rather than end up in a muddy mess of complaints and disapproval. Patterson Properties is the developer for the two projects taking place, and Western Engineering Construction is the contracting company. There are two projects taking place at the intersection. The first project is to widen Eureka Road and is expected to be completed by December, 2015. The second project is to build multiple duplex apartments as well as multi-family apartments which will be completed sometime from 2016 to 2017. Western Engineering Construction Company is planning to widen Eureka Road. As Eureka Road approaches Sierra College Boulevard, the two lanes merge to become one. The project will keep the second lane from merging with the first, hopefully helping the traffic flow. Nicole Chappell, the project manager for the Eureka Road construction, represents Western Engineering. “This project will (also) provide safe pedestrian access from the northeast corner of Eureka all the way to where it connects by the Greyhawk community,” Chappell said. Previously, people walked on the slim dirt path next to the busy road. The project will supposedly

make pedestrian access easier and safer. There haven’t been legal environmental issues caused by the development. Patterson Properties paid ahead of time to make the renovations desired and has permission to clear the lot of trees and greenery. “The developer paid mitigation fees to ... cut down the trees,” Chappell said. This project has been in process for 10 years. It took the developer a while to acquire the permit to make all the changes. Many have noticed that it seems like the project is more than just roadwidening. The developer is paying for this other project to be completed from 2016 to 2017. “The county has ordered the road to be widened first, due to traffic constraints,” Chappell said. After the road is widened, multiple duplex apartments and multi-family apartments will be built. “The purpose (of the project) is to alGazette photo /ALI LEMOS low some lower-income family housConstruction at the intersection of Eureka Rd. and Sierra College Blvd. will continue into 2016. ing in Granite Bay,” Chappell said. Chappell hopes this will attract a velopment as beneficial, while others remain unsure funding the projects. wider demographic of people to Gran“I had no idea what was going on,” said Doug about it. ite Bay’s schools and facilities. “I (think) this construction (is beneficial),” said Feldman, a long-time Hillsborough resident. “I just Freshman Mikayla Hinds said the project will freshman Mika Sakata, a Hillsborough resident. “In heard my neighbor talking about apartments, but have many benefits. “I think it will give (an) opportunity for people fact, my cousins are thinking about moving here, so I’ve heard very little information.” Though many in the community are uninformed to live closer to the high school so they don’t have this is a good idea.” The developers have acknowledged that little in- about the ongoing projects at the intersection of Euto leave their houses at 6 in the morning (to get to formation on either project has been released to the reka Road and Sierra College Blvd., residents are school),” Hinds said. Hillsborough, the neighborhood adjacent to the public. Most information has been passed around beginning to get a better idea of what truly happens construction, has some residents perceiving the de- by word of mouth mainly because the county is not behind the wire fence every day.

NEWS BRIEFS Myron Stephens has a solo art exhibit in Davis Myron Stephens, an Art 3, Art 4 and IB Visual Arts teacher, has an independent exhibit at the John Natsoulas Gallery in Davis this month. The show will be from Sept. 2 to Oct. 3, and there was a reception from 7-9 p.m. on Sept. 12. “I have been painting since college, but not well,” Stephens said. “My first painting class ever was (in college and) was a fail. After that, I thought I was just going to be able to learn enough to teach.” While teaching, Stephens’ caliber of artwork increased. He began to have coffee shop shows, mainly in Chico, where he was a student teacher. He enjoys the messages that you can get across through art. When Stephens has a show, the paintings are typically exhibited in series. Series have around 12 to 14 paintings and convey a certain message or theme. “One series is kind of a like a book or novel,” Stephens said. “Sometimes it takes three novels to tell a story. (But) with paintings, a picture is only a thousand words so you figure it takes more paintings than a book (to tell a story).” At this art show, Stephens’ series pertains to feelings of sentiment. “It’s sort (of) about nostalgia,” Stephens said. “(It’s Gazette Photo/CAROLINE PALMER about) looking back on the past, fond memories. It’s more or less about just enjoying life, so there is a GBHS art teacher Myron Stephens has an more of a positive twist to it.” independent art showcase this month at the -Compiled by Caroline Palmer John Natsoulas Gallery.

ASB UPDATE ASB discusses its plans for the year The Gazette talked to senior Aubrey Holt, ASB president, about the soon-to-occur events happening at Granite Bay High

Q A &

Gazette: What is your role as ASB President?

20th year with new and fun events.

Holt: My main role is to work on and improve our day-to-day culture. I am currently working on Ripple Effect and focusing on our theme “Walk a Mile in Someone Else’s Shoes.” I also serve as a board representative for our school and lead the class in our daily meetings.

Gazette: What do students have to look forward to this school year?

Gazette: How will the 20th anniversary of our school make this year different from previous years? Holt: We are planning to incorporate our 20th anniversary into several events. There is a special committee in our class focused on celebrating our

Holt: There are a lot of things to look forward to. We are planning several small and Gazette photo /Natalie Erickson different ways to celebrate our ASB president Aubrey Holt is 20th year. We are excited to excited for GBHS’s 20th year. continue doing (small) things that (celebrate our 20th andefinitely something to look niversary). forward to. It will be a week filled with floats, spirit days, Gazette: What do you royalty, the bonfire, the dance anticipate will be the best and much more. event? –Compiled by Savanna Holt: Several fun events are Thompson coming up. Homecoming is

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Not so fash i onably late

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Tardy slips, one of these three slips which deal with tardiness will be given to students in cases of excused or unexcused tardiness and a new photo ID scanning system will also accompany the slips.

New tardy policy provokes consternation for GBHS students BY PARKER MATHESON

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ith the start of the new school year, a new automated, online tardy system has taken effect. In addition to the tardy sweeps, students will be penalized for a certain number of unexcused tardies. For every nine-week quarter of the school year, students will receive detention for every third tardy and a one day, off-campus suspension for the ninth. The system will reset every quarter. Contrary to popular belief, Granite Bay High School isn’t the first school to have the system. Other high schools in the district, such as Oakmont, Antelope, and Woodcreek, have also adopted the system.

According to administration, the system was chosen as a result of first period tardies. However, tardies in the other periods will still be counted toward a student’s total number of tardies. Among students and teachers, the system hasn’t generated generally positive reactions. Additionally, assistant principal Healy noted that one of the primary pushbacks against administrative rules from those outside the administration has been focused on the school dress code. Despite the criticisms, Healy acknowledged more student compliance to the issue of tardiness and said the new system “has reduced tardies a great deal.” Moreover, the new tardy system is still under review. Healy added that tardy sweeps and the current system are need-

based – if the school experiences high level of compliance, the possibility of a system removal is possible. Senior Nelson Rodgers said he personally believes the system is too harsh. Although Rodgers said he still thinks about the consequences, he has the same attendance record as he has had in previous years. As one of GBHS’ longest serving teachers, Advanced Placement United States History and International Baccalaureate History of the Americas teacher Brandon Dell’Orto said he has seen similar systems come and go. “It seems silly to pull a kid (in) on his way to class,” Dell’Orto said. Additionally, Dell’Orto added he doesn’t see the need for it as teachers have always had their own way of dealing with probAPUSH book, textbook used for GBHS teacher Brandon Dell’Orto’s Advanced Placement United States History class.

Gazette photo /NATASHA CHANDA

APUSH course unblocked, and curriculum undergoes changes

Junior-level Advanced Placement class receives alterations BY OLIVIA HEPPELL

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Recent criticisms of the curriculum used for the Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) class has created a double-edged sword for the College Board. This is the second year in a row the exam curriculum has seen significant changes. While the 2014-15 curriculum was accused by some parties of being too liberal and undermining the successes of the United States, reverting back to a more patriotic version for the 2015-16 year has led to the complaint that the College Board succumbed to the pressures of the Republican Party – one prominent party that voiced their dissatisfaction with the material. “It wasn’t like they bowed to a bunch of criticism, but they distinctly … worded (the controversial topics) so that they seemed like less of an agenda-driving thing,” said Brandon Dell’Orto, Granite Bay High School’s APUSH teacher. Furthermore, many students on the GBHS campus have trouble accepting the fact that the College Board moved away from a less patriotic point of view. In a statement released by the College Board, the new curriculum will include the “(United States’s) role in the victories of WWI and WWII, particularly the contributions and sacrifices of American servicemen and women in those wars,” as well as increased focus on the founding fathers, founding documents as well as national identity and unity. Some GBHS students view these changes and additions to the curriculum from the College Board as a submission to the complaints and critiques of the Republican National Committee, which echo the ideals that were added to the APUSH curriculum. “I think it’s really naive (to revert to a more conservative exam),” said senior Jolie Huang, who took the APUSH class her junior year. “Because if you have students growing up and listening to (solely) American Exceptionalism and all of the positive things that we allegedly did, then you’re going to have a generation of ignorant people who have no idea what America did wrong and what mistakes they went through, (or even) how they could possibly learn from (that history) and not commit them again.” Ryan Joy, a fellow senior and previous APUSH student, said he does not agree with the concern that the 2014-15 curriculum was too liberal. “It’s not exactly a romantic view of the founding fathers and U.S. history,” Joy said. “But it certainly didn’t make me feel negatively (about the United States). I thought our curriculum was more well-rounded… (than that of) years past.” On the other hand, it can be seen as a positive good, Dell’Orto said. He added that he views the change as the College Board simply tightening up and condensing last year’s curriculum. “I think in the long run it’s a good change,” Dell’Orto said, also noting the improvements the College Board made to eliminate any vagueness on the Document Based Question portion of the

APUSH exam. For the shortening of the APUSH curriculum this year, Dell’Orto said he is thankful. Because the APUSH and Advanced Placement English Language classes were unblocked this year for GBHS students, Dell’Orto said this year will be even more difficult to cover all the material needed. In previous years, AP Language and APUSH classes have been blocked together, meaning students would take both courses together throughout the school year – instead of having one class per semester. On a blocked schedule, students would have two days of English class per week with an English teacher, and for the other three (always including wednesdays) they would go to history class with Dell’Orto. “Last year (with the blocking schedule) I would probably get three-fifths of the wednesdays,” Dell’Orto said. “Which adds up to a significant chunk of time over the year.” APUSH students are now tackling reading assignments every night, which current students say they find exhausting and previous students say would be awful. “I’d definitely say it’s a lot of work,” said junior Ann-Marie Seidel, who is currently taking the class. “For U.S., it’s tons of reading and instead of having two nights to do it – like it would have been last year with it blocked – it’s a chapter a night.” Seidel is currently in both APUSH and AP Lang classes this semester, in addition to playing a sport at GBHS. “(It) would be pretty detrimental to be pounded by AP U.S. for one semester.” Joy said. “I could barely handle every other night.” While both teachers and students are struggling with the unblocking of the classes and the stress of covering the huge amount of curriculum for both courses in one semester, the decision to unblock was out of Dell’Orto’s control. Every year, the English department is given a certain number of teachers and classes based on student population, and this past year they decided they could no longer afford to dedicate two teachers to essentially one class, said Dell’Orto. Although the new changes affecting APUSH students this year will shift the way the class is taught, students and teacher will carry on as always. Students who take and complete the APUSH class in the fall will still only be able to take the exam in the spring – risking losing knowledge of the curriculum over the course of a semester without the class. Students who take the class in the spring might be more prepared to take the springtime exam, but have ultimately less class time because the exam cuts into the semester – preventing the utilization of an entire semester to prepare. “I understand the decision,” Dell’Orto said. “I still don’t think academically it’s the right thing to do. I think… we’ve got to find a way to make it a year-long (course). It’s too much reading (and) those kids are now reading every night, (but) there’s really not a whole lot we can do, because there’s so much info we have to cover.”

lems such as tardication of senior conduct. ness. He also added When a student is put his disapproval of on senior conduct, they the suspension sysmight not be able to atIt seems silly to pull tem, as it seems a kid (in) on his way to tend graduation. counterproductive. Similar to other stuclass. Despite his apdents, senior Gianna prehensiveness, Lagorio has become Dell’Orto said he quite heated over the ad-Brandon Dell’Orto, doesn’t know any dition of such policies in AP United States systems like this her last year at Granite History and IB that have come and Bay High School. History of the failed. By any means, this adAmericas teacher Students need to aptation does not appear be at school on time, to have added any favor however, many take from students to a newer the risk of being administration that has experienced widespread criticism for past late, despite the risks of punishment. In the case of seniors, students are at an enforcements.. “I just think things are getting exceseven higher risk for more severe punishsive,” Lagorio said. ment as six tardies will result in the appli-

Common Core classes finally return to GBHS

Integrated Math 2 and 3 features an emphasis on using new technology BY CONNOR HINSON

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Last year, Granite Bay High School began to roll out something big. If all goes to plan, it could significantly change math education. They call it Integrated Math. The school got a taste of it last year with the introduction of Integrated Math 1 (IM1). Now, with Integrated Math 2 (IM2) as an option and Integrated Math 3 (IM3) being implemented in the spring semester, some students can’t help but wonder what’s different about Integrated math at Granite Bay High, and why should they care? Previously, students went through the traditional math system – a system that was put in place principally to align with the district standards. With the introduction of Common Core, however, came a new set of standards, and, by extension, a change in the way math is taught. “I think the Integrated pathway has a couple of huge benefits,” said John Sherman, who teaches Integrated Math 1 and 2. “One is you get to see material repeated.” And it’s that repetition of material that truly separates the old system from the new. Concepts introduced in IM1 will be used throughout IM1, IM2 and IM3. Because concepts are taken from all types of math, those students who might excel in one area but struggle in another are no longer held down. “There is not that enormous roadblock,” Sherman said. It’s no longer “if you can’t get through it, too bad,” Sherman said. “You’re done.” As a whole, the integrated system seems to be a much more optimal experience for

students. Sherman also emphasized the motive behind the decision to switch to Common Core standards. “(Integrated) aligns well with what we as professionals think is important for students to be able to critically think, reason and communicate,” Sherman said. Integrated Math 2 and Algebra 2 teacher Shayne Stedman spoke highly of how the students are encouraged to work together. “(The goal) is not just to solve problems on their own, but to use peers around them and to really collaborate in a group,” Stedman said. He referred to this collaboration as a new “Google philosophy.” It’s the idea that working together is more beneficial to students than working through problems alone. The Google portion of the collaboration comes with the integration of Google’s services and technology, leading to a change in how students learn and interact with each other. Now, if a student is having trouble with a concept at home, that student can go onto the Integrated Math Google community and post a question, which can be answered by any of the 270 students also in the community. “Some students are using their phones to record tutoring lessons,” Stedman said, “and posting them to the Google community.” The students are taking advantage of the tools they are given, more than they ever have, and it’s barely the second year of Integrated courses. “Now it’s not just my class, it’s everyone’s Integrated math,” Stedman said. “We are all working together toward the same goal.”

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Friday, September 18, 2015

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PARENTHOOD: Health service largely underused by students Continued from page A1

see the organization shut down or at least defunded. “There are ways around (going to Planned Parenthood),” Clark said. “You can get money almost any way you want. People need to work hard, because they can do absolutely anything if they do. (Planned Parenthood) is a little more accessible (for lower income people) – but that doesn’t mean if Planned Parenthood wasn’t there, it would be completely impossible (to access health care).” To Clark, the organization holds little consequence in daily life. Still, Kaiser Permanente gynecologist Sunny Khurana said that it has a significant national impact. If defunded, changes would be evident. “(Some of ) our own patients go to Planned Parenthood between jobs,” Khurana said. “Without Planned Parenthood, they would have to figure out how to pay for a doctor’s visit, get whatever testing they needed and then get the contraception. “People don’t think that is as critical … and then sometimes a large fraction will get pregnant, or a (sexually transmitted disease) … but then they won’t get themselves checked because that’s again going to be several hundred dollars out of pocket.” For people without health care, finding adequate care would be more expensive in the absence of Planned Parenthood. “If you go to a place that takes insurance but you have none,” Khurana said, “you don’t pay the insurance rate – you pay your own out-of-pocket rate, which is ridiculously higher.” Most patients that go into Planned Parenthood are there for contraception, STD testing or some type of family planning, according to Khurana. “In terms of low-income people, those services are probably critical,” Khurana said. “Without it, you are going to get pregnant and wind up with more abortions and terminations – which, I think, nobody wants, including Planned Parenthood.” When 10 percent of the GBHS population was polled, numbers were significantly lower than the

national averages reported by Planned Parenthood, which stated that 20 percent of women and men in the United States have used Planned Parenthood for a service at some point in their life. Assistant principal Sybil Healy attributed the wide disparity to the demographics of the Granite Bay community. “Wealth does determine what you do, in terms of behavior,” Healy said. “We have a very large megachurch, Bayside; to have a mega-church, you have to have a large part of the population that attends that church. Roseville/Placer County area is a mixture, but mainly conservative. And you’ll find that your teaching staff, parents, student body and the rest of the community are pretty similar.” Compared to other parts of California, Placer County is a political outlier. “Our school district of five high schools, a continuation school and adult ed, etc. has about 10,000 student bodies,” Healy said. “If you go to Elk Grove Unified (School District) it has 85,000 students because it’s K-12, so it’s much larger and you have a more diverse student body... So they have a wider variety of culture, behaviors and socioeconomic levels.” There are several reasons people in other communities use Planned Parenthood more often than Granite Bay residents. “(There are) more people out of work and people with parents who are in prison or jail,” Healy said. “People have been laid off and don’t generate a lot of wealth as they do over here; again, that would … impact your health care. Most (of our students) go to physicians on a regular basis, so they probably wouldn’t need to utilize Planned Parenthood.” While some people feel very strongly about whether abortion is morally right or wrong, others feel that is not a clearly defined issue. “Society is not perfect, and to pretend that you can make a rule that will apply to everyone and just say ‘no’ – I think that’s just crazy,” Khurana said. “The reason that people are anti-abortion is (abortions) ac-

tually are destroying tissue that could conceivably produce life. But in some cases, it can actually kill the woman, too. Or the woman could get killed; certainly – in other countries and this country – (women could be) ostracized for having a child out of wedlock.” To make an abortion a black and white issue would be simplifying it, Khurana said. Planned Parenthood has been attracted controversy and stigma in Granite Bay. “It’s very, very easy to draw a line in the sand and say that we shouldn’t have (abortions),” Khurana said. “But no physician goes into medicine thinking, ‘yeah, this is what I want to do.’ It’s one of those things in society that exists because we have inadequate contraception.” Attitudes in Placer County are seemingly limited. “Even though we have the International Baccalaureate program at our school, we are not an international high school,” Healy said. “We are very provisional and narrow in our thought processes because we assume that everyone thinks like us, and they do not. If we took this group of kids to the Bay Area, to another high performing school, they would be absolutely shocked because … it’s more global. “We don’t have that culture here. We don’t have awareness and structure, which is hard – and that’s why people will not talk about Planned Parenthood.”

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STAFF: New teachers share background, goals for the year Continued from page A1

“I covered for a friend of mine on sabbatical,” Henderson said. “I did substitute teaching for a year, and I was hooked.” Henderson, who has been teaching for seven years, started with middle school science classes, including a magnet program which closely collaborated with Sacramento State (Rio Linda developing that program). Following a short sojourn in Monterey, she returned to the (Granite Bay area?) to teach at Inderkum High School in Natomas, which had recently developed an IB program. But shortly thereafter, Henderson received a call from GBHS administrators asking her if she was interested in a job. “It was time for a change, so I took the opportunity,” Henderson said, citing GBHS’s strong academic reputation and IB program as reasons for joining. Henderson was an IB Diploma candidate herself in high school, a distinction unique to her among the GBHS IB teachers. She said that her background has helped make it “very easy” to bring information to the classroom. “My IB teachers were so influential and inspiring,” Henderson said. “They made learning meaningful and truly changed the way I see the world. I got the best education possible, no doubt.” So far, her impressions of the school have been positive; she said she particularly enjoys “student engagement and the caring things leadership does to make students and staff feel so appreciated.” As she settles into her role in the IB program, Henderson hopes to facilitate an IB Biology class trip to

Costa Rica to research and aid in the protection of endangered leatherback sea turtles and foster collaboration with international schools. “I hope I can … inspire my students to not just study for a test, but to do real research, and think critically,” Henderson said. “I want them to study to follow their passions, save lives, save the planet and solve problems with the science education and tools they get here.” Jessup McGregor Filling in the position vacated by David Vujovich last year, Jessup McGregor is the youngest of the four assistant principals. He came to GBHS from Leroy Greene Academy in Natomas, where he served as the director of academic affairs, and assisted in setting up the academic foundations for the school. Previously, he worked at Sacramento Charter High School as a Spanish teacher for five years, as an assistant principal for two years, and as an interim principal for a short duration. Transitioning between schools has been a source of some consternation to McGregor, who said that his previous school had only around 400 students and was “really small.” “I’ve not worked at a school that had this many kids,” McGregor said, noting that the sheer size of the student body obstructs him from forming lasting connections with students. “ I might meet a student and then not see them for a week, so it’s hard to keep track of everybody you’re meeting around campus.” Although assistant principals are primarily known for their disciplinarian duties, McGregor considers himself “a teacher at heart” and his “worst fear is that (he’ll) only get to interact with kids when things aren’t going well.” “I don’t like this part of the job,” McGregor said. “You’ll see me working in classrooms because I’d rather be there and see how our kids are doing. It’s hard when I feel like I can’t connect with individuals … I’d much rather spend time with you guys.” Due to his past experience, the learning curve has been manageable. While “a lot of the job is the same,” McGregor intends to focus on optimizing his performance and “just being patient while I learn.”

Patience and reflection are two of the crucial attributes in his approach to fulfilling his role. He said he is still developing his plans for the year, and that he hopes to slow down to understand what the GBHS Staff hired for 2015-2016 population is like and what their needs are. wMelanie Anvari, intervention counselor “I am all for giving people what they wAngelika Dyadchenko, choir need to be successful,” McGregor said. wNathan Hedstrom, science (long-term substitute “Sometimes that feels good, sometimes it for Heidi McKeen) doesn’t; but I made a commitment that I will never make a decision that’s bad for wElizabeth Henderson, science kids.” wJanay Hood, receptionist Already, McGregor has identified some wChris McGuire, maintenance key aspects of the school which he bewJessup McGregor, assistant principal lieves may benefit from improvement. wHolly Minor, learning support specialist These include the relationship between wTasman Nicolodi, counselor administrators and students, student wAmy Pritchard, English (long-term substitute for health and strengthening connections beBonnie Robbins) tween different student groups on campus. wGerardo Solano, Spanish He has begun working with intervention wMichael Trout, Spanish counselor Melanie Anvari to develop support systems for struggling students. “Starting with our staff, I want to see us being really intentional about everything,” Pritchard said she was attracted to the profession out McGregor said. “(I want) to have a culture with a high of her love of reading and writing. level of acceptance and community, where people “I’ve always been a creative writer,” Pritchard said. love to be here and with one another.” “I like literary analysis. It just made sense.” McGregor is eager to begin making an impact. Pritchard began teaching in Sacramento, at Grant “20 years have gotten us where we are,” McGregor High School and Natomas High School. After five said. “I think we owe it to everyone who’s gotten here years, she stopped teaching in order to be able to to make it even better.” spend time with her three children, all of whom were under 5 years old at the time. Subsequently, she took Amy Pritchard up a position at Roseville High School, where she Amy Pritchard teaches English 10 and 12, as a long- “got a little taste of the district,” before moving on term substitute for English teacher Bonnie Robbins, to El Dorado Hills to teach eighth grade. This is her who has temporarily left the school for maternity ninth year teaching. leave. She has a bachelor’s degree in English from For the upcoming year, Pritchard plans on “fitting UC Davis. in” and “figuring out how to get to know my students “When I was finishing up my degree, I took a class more.” that allowed me to volunteer in high school class“The staff and students are both very welcoming,” rooms,” Pritchard said. “I was working with a class- Pritchard said. “My students are good kids and most room with a push-in situation, tutoring a small group want to learn, which is huge. The sense of community of English learners. The more I was in the class, the is different from what I’ve been used to with other more I realized I wanted to go into teaching.” high schools.”

FAST FACTS

MONEY: Financial class introduced to mixed response, mostly positive Continued from page A2

sure to what it is going to cost to (live alone),” college and career center advisor Cindi Underwood said. “It really just depends on the home life and financial exposure they have had.” Senior Ambreen Siddiqui, who has not yet begun the course, is skeptical of how useful the course will be, despite having very little exposure to finance in the past. “I’m in econ right now and that’s the closest(to financial education) I will get,” Siddiqui said.

Despite limited learning so far in her life on the topic of finance, Siddiqui said she thinks economics class will prepare her well enough for the world. “If I know how the economy works, then I will be able to function (fine) in my daily life,” Siddiqui said. Underwood said different parenting styles and levels of involvement with students determined how valuable the course is to each individual. Underwood said she suspects 60 to 70 percent of GBHS students have been sufficiently exposed to finance issues, but the

rest of the student body are in need of the program. According to administration, the course should take about five to 10 hours to complete. Some students felt like the course was not promoted well enough, but Fischer said otherwise. “We announced it to both seniors and juniors at the class meetings on the first day of school, and it was pointed out… at the senior class meeting in the theater,” Fischer said. Despite this, Fischer acknowledges that

SMART IS THE NEW

some students will not know about the course and encourages seniors to spread the word. Siddiqui said she does not know exactly what is on the course, but from what she has seen the time estimate seems reasonable. While the percent of students with financial intelligence is better than in the past, Underwood said students need to be prepared for living alone on a college campus. Underwood said one of the biggest obstacles college freshmen will deal with

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are credit card companies. The deals and bonuses companies use to lure in unsuspecting teenagers can lead to debt if the student is not well educated. Underwood’s own daughter had a similar experience with credit cards, and now Underwood sees why it is so important for people to be educated. Siddiqui said she thinks the sections on investment will be the ones which will be the most useful to her. “The district is trying to make seniors 137740 more prepared,” Underwood said. “It is just being proactive.”

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REPORTING: Recent arrest prompts discussion regarding alerting authorities Continued from page A1 find a teacher or staff member that they are comfortable with, that they do relate to and speak to, (so as not to) use that as an excuse for not reporting. Find somebody you can confide in so (you) don’t use that as a crutch.” According to Healy, all of the assistant principals and counselors are available to talk to, as well as the GBHS school nurse, the new school intervention counselor and Hopping. Hopping also said he suggests a good idea would be for a student to talk to their parents, because he thinks parents usually delve deeper into an issue. Despite having someone to talk to, students – and people in general – do not always report behaviors or situations because of psychological behaviors deemed common among human beings. “If there’s something going on that’s odd … (we ask) ‘What do I do about it?’ or ‘What’s the right thing to do?’” Elkin said. “In a situation that is possibly a crisis but is ambiguous, and (has) an authority figure – (which) could be a friend, or whoever is the most dominant in the social group – we are more likely to conform … We would like to think if there’s a potential crisis we would trust our own judgment, (but) no, it’s the opposite. We do not trust our own judgment;

we look to everybody else to figure out (how to re- Brock said. “We also strive to help youth recognize spond). But they’re doing the same thing, so no one the difference between tattling on a classmate who has does anything.” broken some minor rule, and doing what is necessary Stephen E. Brock is a nationally certified school to keep others physically safe.” psychologist, a licensed educational psychologist Another important idea to acknowledge is the fact and a California State University, Sacramento expert that crimes of all kinds can happen anywhere. Factors on school-based intervention, such as a community being closer or school crisis response, school more isolated from each other, richpsychology, crisis theory and iner or poorer, more or less educated tervention and post-intervention do not prohibit a certain crime from “Once the act ... or occurring. functional behavior assessment. He said the fear of standing out event has occured, Huss said she believes people have from a crowd or being labeled a misconception that crimes of this we can’t take it back.” anature “snitch” often prevents students don’t happen in Granite Bay, from speaking out. which she thinks will be proved However, students – for their – Greg Hopping, Granite Bay false after the this case. This recent classmates’ well-beings as well arrest will make people take a step High School Resource Officer back and realize that assumption is as their own – should know and Placer County Deputy wrong, Huss said. which situations require speaking out. Additionally, Hopping said he is Sheriff “We strive to establish a norm responsible for investigating schoolwherein, under certain circumrelated situations and digging deepstances – whenever there is er into situations – which might inconcern regarding the physical volve visits to students’ homes, and safety of others), for example – it is admirable when conducting threat assessments. According to Hopping, (students) overcome the ‘conspiracy of silence’ and if a student sees something suspicious on social media, tell an adult about the concerning behavior of a peer,” they should report it immediately and document the

evidence. All potentially dangerous situations should be taken seriously. “Once the act … or event has occurred, we can’t take it back,” Hopping said. “‘Should’ve, could’ve’ doesn’t work. We need that information so we can prevent a situation. But just because we investigate doesn’t mean that individual is going to be charged with a crime. It could be as simple as just counseling, so it’s not always the end of the world for a student if some of these strange activities are reported. Sometimes it’s a blessing for them, because they (could be) reaching out for help.” Above all, the most important emphasis is on encouraging students to report if they believe it is necessary, or they believe they, another student or their peers are in danger. Furthermore, if a student’s behavior seems off, unusually strange or abnormally erratic, a report might also be necessary. “Even if you’re unsure, if you hear something that is concerning, know that not everyone is joking around and some people could genuinely mean what they’re saying even if it comes off as a joke,” Huss said. “So if you hear something that makes you uncomfortable, or makes others uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to report it. Even if it ends up to being a joke, just knowing that you did something to help someone else is a good thing.”

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GAZETTE Shark Week promotes violent stereotype The Granite Bay

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Editors-in-Chief: Savitri Asokan Hannah Holzer Troy Pawlak News Editors: Surina Khurana Caroline Palmer Voices Editors: Amanda Nist Anjali Shrivastava Lifestyle Editors: Carissa Lewis Garbhita Shah Hannah Xu Green Screen Editors: Olivia Heppell Blake Panter Amanda Prather Epsa Sharma Sports Editors: Maggie Bell Jordan Holt Cole Kahmann Matthew Ontiveros Jacqueline Romero Online Editors: Natasha Chanda Clair Kasel Illustrators: Troy Pawlak Kassidy Henson Photo Editor: Madeline Williams Staff Writers/ Photographers: Paige Erickson Sonia Garcha Kassidy Henson Connor Hinson Kayomi Kayoshi Jill Kurpershoek Ali Lemos Sabina Mahavni Parker Matheson Frances Strnad Meagan Tallman Jenny Tarbell Savanna Thompson Isabella Tkachuk Adviser: Karl Grubaugh The Gazette is published eight times per academic year by students in the advanced journalism class at Granite Bay High School. Content is determined by the staff and does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Granite Bay High School’s faculty, administration, adviser or student body. Students are protected in their exercise of press freedom by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States and California Education Code 48907. Signed editorials and columns reflect the views of the writer. Letters to the editor and guest commentaries are encouraged and must be signed, although anonymity can be granted on a caseby-case basis. The editorial board reviews letters to the editor, advertising and guest commentaries and reserves the right to edit and refuse material. Reasons can include length, clarity, libel, obscenity, material disruption of the educational process at Granite Bay High School or violation of copyright laws.

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Discovery Channel ignores cause of conservation for sake of ratings

or one week out of the sumI don’t remember seeing a COMMENTARY mer, sharks raid TV screens Shark Week show on the all across the nation. hundred million sharks After 27 years of captivating hunted by man for their audiences with these largely feared valuable fins every animals, Discovery Channel seems year, or on the other to have misplaced the point of hundred million killed “Shark Week.” for recreational fishing. The episodes are intriguing, but The Shark Week epiare they for ratings or for education? sode titles negate the After last year’s “ Megalodon” show’s original cause. myth was exaggerated beyond Titling the my wildest imagination, I started episodes having doubts about the channel’s with chilljholt.gazette@gmail.com ing words intentions with the program. that inflict It has gone from informational fear upon viewers to fictitious, baiting viewers with skin-tingling stories supports the stereotype about attacks and ignoring the educational aspect. By that sharks are doing this, they’re harming the species’ well-being in mindless psychopaths out the long run. for blood. The 2015 commercials were all for shark protection, So why do Shark Week some even encouraging viewers to donate money to producers go along with conservation groups. Great! Spreading the awareness these names when sharks will help save them from extinction. are in need of help away But when the show took back the screen, “Return of from the threat of the Great White Serial Killer” appeared in a shaky, extinction? paranormal font with a background picturing the razor In the long run, it sharp teeth of a Great White. all comes down to If you ask me, this introduction doesn’t exactly plead money, just like “Save me!” most issues in the Who wants to donate money to a “serial killer” or a real world do. More “Monster Mako”? danger equates to better Not me. This is where Discovery made a wrong turn. The titles ratings, and better ratings means more money. of their episodes contradict the preservation efforts and We love watching sharks on the screen prove Shark Week is nothing more than a money maker. because they are mysterious and enthralling I am one of the 40 million people who tuned in beings. for Shark Week 2015. I am scared of sharks and am The creatures are alarmingly powerful, fast compelled by sharks, just as so many others during this and vicious when it comes to survival and seven-day event. watching it on TV allows us to get a glimpse of what The program succeeded in creating the highest-rated happens below the ocean’s surface. Shark Week in its history, and maybe that’s become the I find the lives of sharks fascinating not because of the only goal for the producers. feeding frenzies or the shark-attack stories played over Some sharks are on the endangered species list. But and over, but because they are brilliant fish who domihow is that possible when they’re one of the most fearsome creatures in the ocean? nate the ocean with their determination to thrive. The answer is simple – us. Yet as humans, we suffocate the chance for their speWe got them on the list, so it’s our responsibility to get cies to heal. So where do we start? What’s next for these animals? them off.

jordan holt

Gazette illustration /TROY PAWLAK

Continue Shark Week. But make it more of a learning experience rather than a cinematic thriller. We already have Jaws, The Reef and Sharknado to entertain those who are looking for blood and horror. *** Jordan Holt, a senior, is a Gazette Sports editor.

Political correctness hinders progress

PC Police throw a tantrum because of minor, insignificant annoyances

n an attempt to curb sexual assault on its campus, Columbia University has initiated a new required course aptly called “Sexual Respect.” Sounds like a step forward, right? Well, apparently not everybody thinks so. There are some who are constantly searching for something to complain about, even in admirable efforts such as this one. The university’s latest campaign has received criticism because of the supposedly controversial slogan “Consent is BAE (before anything else)”. I don’t see anything wrong with a memorable tag line aimed at its teenage audience. The only thing I’d be mad about is the mutilation of the English language by use of the atrocious word “bae.” According to one of the activists who are protesting against Columbia, the inventive phrase “appropriates African-American

COMMENTARY

anjali shrivastava ashrivastava.gazette@gmail.com

Vernacular English.” I am completely baffled by these people’s reasoning. There is no basis in claiming the term “bae” a case of cultural appropriation. The word is relatively new, and I’ve seen it used by everyone. I don’t know where it came from, and I didn’t think its ubiquity was controversial up until now. If its origins are truly an indispensable part of black identity, then there is a whole ocean of

more problematic uses of the It would ideally be about one word to attack than this one. thing – to avoid using language Perhaps the university’s exwhich causes oppression, not offense. I understand certain ecution was poor, but it doesn’t words do evoke unfavorable deserve this kind of outrage. The purpose of this campaign reactions and have a history of marginalization attached to was for the students to underthem, and stand consent is a we should be necessary aspect mindful of to any kind of Political correct- that. relationship. That However, should be applaudness, originally a now instead of ed, not denounced. noble principle, actually I doubt the prohas become an discussing testers disagreed with the message endless crusade the merits of a statement, Columbia was in search of any people argue trying to spread. over the words But by tearing contrived being used. down this wellhostility. I’m not intentioned cause, saying you because they were shouldn’t be slightly offended offended – by it, they’re taking away from the impact of the you have every right to be. I’m saying you shouldn’t let your original movement. indignation take away from the Political correctness, origisignificance of what’s being nally a noble principle, has said. become an endless crusade in The “PC Police” completely search of any contrived hostildisregard the point of political ity.

correctness. It seems to me their incessant finger-wagging has turned into a pseudocensorship. We live in a world where the beloved nursery rhyme “Baa Baa Black Sheep” is now referred to as “Baa Baa Rainbow Sheep.” Because the color black is apparently derogatory now. In theory, political correctness would lead to progress. Yet, it’s important to consider the effect of it. Instead of dealing with controversial issues with a respectful, tone, they avoid it altogether. “Bae” is now a dead word. You can’t say it or you will be labeled a racist. The intent was to broaden minds, but the result was the shutdown of important topics. How can society advance if we must terminate conversations dealing with race or gender lest we offend someone? *** Anjali Shrivastava, a junior is a Gazette Voices editor.

Planned Parenthood an essential resource

or nearly 100 years, Planned Parenthood has been providing adults and teens with quality, affordable health care. It provides a multitude of services such as birth control and emergency contraception, sexually-transmitted disease testing, general men and women’s health and arguably the most taboo, abortion. In a recent controversy, an antiabortion group leaked a video revealing that Planned Parenthood’s abortion clinics have been donating the fetal tissue acquired from abortions for medical research. This caused pro-life and anti-abortion groups to protest Planned Parenthood in an attempt to shut it down. This is a perilous and ludicrous idea. Planned Parenthood is a necessary resource for people, teenagers especially, who cannot afford proper or safe health care. If it were to be closed, some teen-

EDITORIAL The voice of the Granite Bay Gazette

agers would have no other resource for personal health care. It’s not surprising that an anti-abortion group happened to leak a video in attempt to make Planned Parenthood look unethical. Because they don’t agree with all the organization does, they want to get rid of it, completely ignoring the fact it helps men, women and teenagers with a variety of other things besides abortion. In the event it were to be shut down, where would teenagers be able to get birth control affordably and without judgment? Where would they get safe

contraception and STD testing? Pro-life groups disregard the fact Planned Parenthood isn’t solely an organization which performs abortions. They ignorantly focus all their attention on one belief and actively try to bash and eliminate a non-profit organization which helps people who cannot afford any other health care services. Thankfully, the Granite Bay community doesn’t need to utilize Planned Parenthood as much as other cities, but some students at Granite Bay High School do use it and it is still important in surrounding areas. When the issue doesn’t pertain to us, we tend to give it less importance or forget about it altogether. As people in the Granite Bay community, we have the privilege of being able to ignore its importance. Additionally, teenagers use Planned

Parenthood as a safe place for confidentiality, meaning their parents do not have to be involved. Parents may disapprove of birth control or contraceptives, and teenagers have the opportunity to safely obtain it while simultaneously keeping their privacy with the organization. There are so many more benefits that conservative protesters are ignoring in their blind rage against Planned Parenthood. Just because anti-abortion groups don’t agree with all Planned Parenthood offers, doesn’t mean it should be taken away. If it were to be shut down, a great deal of people would be disadvantaged. People in lower income areas use Planned Parenthood as a necessity, and teenagers in general use it as a safe, private alternative.

Friday, September 18, 2015

The Granite Bay Gazette

Voices A10

Student athletes need extracurriculars HEARD GBHS athletes shouldn’t solely devote time to sports on the

COMMENTARY

BAY

What is your favorite part of Granite Bay High School? “It’s more freeing than junior high, and I feel more independent.”

freshman

Grace Salazar “Everyone is really welcoming and kind.”

sophomore

Carly Wallace “My amazing friends and the opportunities that we have.”

junior

Nate Moudakis “I love how there is something for everyone. We all have so many opportunities to find our niche.”

maram.gazette@gmail.com

redominantly at Granite Bay High School, the partaking in sports seems to be a major stressor upon the lives of students. It seems nearly everyone at Granite Bay High School feels obligated to be involved in at least one sport on campus; however, sports aren’t everything. Students focus too intensely on athletics when they could ration their energy into other things such as grades, clubs and volunteer work. Instead of being extremely invested in one area of extracurriculars, students should put forth effort to be versatile in a variety of them. If student-athletes spend too much time focusing solely on their sport, what will they have to rely on for college acceptances if they can’t play sports in college? If students only concentrate on What will their sports and nothelse, there can fallback be if ing be many harmful they exert all consequences. their energy Grades can be higher and students can into their sport ultimately benefit and they can’t from harder courses taken in high go pro? school. In order to explore and try out new programs, students could invest time into activities such as Student Government, Key Club or media. Furthermore, playing college sports that don’t lead anywhere eliminates time from planning a career beyond college. What will their fallback be if they exert all their energy into their sport and they can’t go pro? Time doesn’t last forever. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) concluded that playing college football required 43.3 hours per week; college baseball, 42.1 hours; men’s basketball, 39.2 hours; and women’s basketball, 37.6 hours per week. You could gain back nearly six hours a day by not playing a college sport. A study done by ScholarshipStats showed only slightly more than 7 percent of all high school athletes went on to play a varsity sport in college. That’s only a one in 14 probability. Students shouldn’t rely on just one activity to admit them into college, especially when the probability of success for sports is so low. Many parents also push their children to participate in sports in hopes of obtaining a college scholarship. Out of the multitude, only six sports in high school are actually eligible for a full-ride scholarship. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) published a study showing that only 2

Gazette illustration/TROY PAWLAK

percent of high school seniors actually obtain a sports scholarship to an NCAA institution, and usually sports scholarships are less than $11,000, which would only pay for about half of one year of college. Moreover, aspirations of getting a full-ride sports scholarship are quite unlikely. This emphasizes my point that it’s extremely important to learn the art of balance among activities. I mean, risking the chance of getting no college acceptances versus barely five months of college paid is a great bet to make – right? Parents, your hopes aren’t as logical as you think. Only 3.3 percent of male high school basketball players play in college. The percentage of high school to professional successors for male basketball falls onto an average of 0.03 percent. It seems that even with these small chances, athletes get caught up in the hopes of being recognized for their athleticism. Even if few athletes are commended, it will probably only last temporarily, whether in high school or college.

Don’t get me wrong – sports and sportsmanship are very important aspects in life. They teach extremely helpful and valuable life lessons such as teamwork, determination, dedication and discipline. I, myself, have been active in sports since I was 5 years old. However, when people take it too far and become obsessed with the idea of being successful is when it becomes problematic and time consuming. As long as time is balanced correctly, sports are indeed helpful toward present and future endeavors. Athleticism might take some athletes far, but the majority of high school students won’t play their sport in college. We should learn to balance our time more efficiently. It’s easy to get caught up in dreams of glory. In the long run, effort spread throughout several activities will be more beneficial for people’s future careers. *** McKenna Aram, a sophomore, is a Gazette staff writer.

Devote your life to something meaningful People shouldn’t give up their passions for a comfortable lifestyle

senior

Sabrina McCord Gazette photos/AMANDA PRATHER

“It has a positive vibe and I love coming to work.”

mckenna aram

staff

Jill Cova Compiled by Amanda Prather

walk out of my home and into the busy streets of my hometown where I’m met with a plethora of middle-aged men and women sluggishly making their way to and from work. I see them in and out of cubicles, accompanied by stationary chairs and mounds of white paper with a permanent frown and an obvious thirst for some kind of excitement. I find nothing appealing about that kind of life. I go to work and hear co-workers remark that if they were my age, they would go back and do things differently. I walked into my job one day and saw a co-worker holding a couple of her fashion designs. Because I’m interested in fashion, I jumped at the opportunity to ask her about them. She told me she’d always wanted to be a designer but never had the courage to move to New York and pursue her dream. I sat there a little dumbfounded, because she is extremely talented and the only thing that discouraged her was the fear of failure. This is so heartbreaking to me because instead of becoming a successful designer, she settled for a minimum-wage job and is now living paycheck to paycheck. You get one life to be the best at

COMMENTARY

jenny tarbell

jtarbell.gazette@gmail.com

whatever it is you’ve always wanted to be. I often see people stuck in a shell of themselves, settling for a life that is so far from their potential, scared to make a change because of a potential fiasco. The lifespan you’re given is a length that could end at any day, any hour, any minute. Why should you waste time being unhappy with your life when you could be so much more? When all you get is one short life on the earth, you need to make the most of it. One thing I’ve always noticed is how afraid people are to step over their personal boundaries in order to jump into possibility. And I don’t

school gates and into mean hurl yourself adulthood. The only off a cliff because you only live once – I’m Why should you thing holding us back is our own thoughts talking your dream waste so much and fears. The fixed job, your dream location. mindset of confortime being un– both tragic and Anything you could happy with your mity completely false – is imagine is real. life when you what prevents us from As we enter our final forging the lives we year of high school, could be so much dream of. we also enter a very more? For most of us, our bittersweet experience. definition of sucOn one hand, it’s exciting to be the oldest cess is in the dollar on campus, but at the sign and the path our same time there’s a parents have forged hovering pressure to know exactly before us, but there are billions of what we want our futures to look like. ways to be successful without being I’m no fortune teller, but after seetraditional. ing the adults before us, there is one Most people don’t realize you thing I do know – I cannot fathom can get paid and prosper in almost accepting a mediocre life. anything; if you find the right outlet, Like the rest of my peers, I’ve you can even get paid to do what you always been enticed by a fast-paced, love. exciting life. But when do we start? I see college as a clean slate for We graduate high school, and then opportunity – to find that outlet and we go to college; after college, we’re work hard enough so we never have expected to find a steady job to supto settle for something we don’t truly port ourselves. Twenty years later, want. those once-fiery teens now find themI’m both excited and terrified to selves confined to their cubicles. enter that chapter. Don’t let time However, as we leave high school escape you. we get the amazing opportunity to *** design our own futures. We have the Jenny Tarbell, a senior, is a Gazette platform and the opportunity staring staff writer. back at us as we walk out of our high

Read the Gazette. Your newspaper.

Friday, September 18, 2015

The Granite Bay Gazette

Voices A11

Influential era makes its way into popular culture Decade comeback incites nostalgia among children of the ’90s

COMMENTARY

he last of the scrunchie-wearing, Rugratswatching, 1990s descendants are making their way through Granite Bay High, ladies and gentlemen. The ’90s are officially gone. Although I was born in 1998, the ’90s era is no stranger to me – I grew up watching Lizzie McGuire and owned my fair share of Tamagotchis. However, the reality that the ’90s are finally a thing of the past hadn’t quite dawned on me until this year, when I discovered a freshman girl in my class was born in 2001. It’s strange that an entirely new generation has emerged; one which will never know the struggle of trying to play a Game Boy in the dark or burning

COMMENTARY

cookies in an Easy Bake Oven. It’s a popular misconception that the ’90s is a passing fad, but that is not the case. The ’90s is a major influence on today’s society. Teenage girls on social media are often depicted sporting ’90sesque fashion, jkurpershoek.gazette@gmail.com including chokers and denim jackets, as styles from the ’90s are still extremely popular. Arguably one of the best trends in fashion during the ’90s are jelly sandals. Not only did I own a pair or two as a child, there are even jelly sandals available in adult sizes now,

allowing people of all ages to enjoy the song word for word, and am unique style of the ’90s as I did during a proud fan of the classic It’s a popular my childhood. Sabrina the Teenage Witch. misconception that As part of the generation The ’90s era also produced several musical icons such as Britney Spears, grew up with television, the ‘90s is a passing that Hilary Duff and the Spice Girls, who set I can personally testify that fad, but that is not the TV shows from the ’90s the tone for the future success of female artists in the music industry. case.The 90’s is a dominated my early life and As a child, Hilary Duff was my idol. I still impact it today – even major influence on our Homecoming theme this will never forget crying as my two older sisters left for her concert, wishing I was year is related to televitoday’s older than 7 years old so I could be alsion shows from the ’90s, society. lowed to go with them. with the the theme being With technological advancements TV shows from the last 20 such as Music Television (MTV), music years. slowly transformed, placing importance Although the ’90s has on the visual aspect, revolutionizing live performanc- sadly passed, one can only hope that its trends will continue to appear in modern society in honor of the es and creating the innovation of music videos. Finally, the most impactful component of the ’90s – end of a revolutionary decade. *** television. To this day, both Full House and Friends Jill Kurpershoek, a senior, is a Gazette staff writer. air every night and can be found on Netflix. I can still sing the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme

jill kurpershoek

Nature’s beauty is overELMing Students don’t appreciate it enough

ali lemos alemos.gazette@gmail.com

Shrewd employers take advantage of unknowing interns

s a student in high school, the pressure of securing a future only seems to get worse and worse as college nears. One way students gain experience working is through internships, where they can find their passion. Although internships are meant to improve the intern’s skill in a specific field, they are often under the guise of cheap labor, which is unethical in my opinion. While some get compensated for their work, a large percentage work for free, hoping for a job offer after they finish their “training.” This can be a great opportunity, even with the lack of pay. But those who don’t get jobs might not receive notable benefits. Interns slave away doing mindless tasks and earn nothing for it, which is not only disheartening but also illegal. In order for an internship to be legal, the employer has to benefit moderately in comparison to the intern. So basically many of these internships are technically illegal and the intern remains unaware of it. Employers often find ways around these laws or flat-out ignore them, and the unknowing interns don’t report it. The two exceptions to the law are non-profit organizations and any government internship. An unpaid internship at a non-profit organization makes sense – you are volunteering your hours for a good cause. But government internships? How is it fair that the people who make the rules exempt themselves from the very same rules? My brother interned at the State Capitol the summer before he went off to college where he mainly answered phones and performed other busy work. The Capitol wasted his time by making him do low-level tasks. If he had not been working in a government office, it would have not been allowed. But because the government makes the rules, they made exceptions for themselves. These laws are created for the good of the country but how good can they really be if the ones who create them don’t adhere to them? Government programs have roughly 20,000 unpaid interns per year. Allowing such a large number of people to work at no cost to the government seems unjust. The government has unfairly manipulated internships to take advantage of the prospective workers. Internships are meant for you to learn how to do the basics of your trade, but they are turning into busywork that the paid employees don’t want to do. I agree that interns should start from the bottom. However, they also need to learn skills and grow in their field, which is not happening in government internships. What is the goal of these internships if they do not actually help the intern? *** Ali Lemos, a junior, is a Gazette staff writer.

COMMENTARY

ut under the blazing stars, the view uncorrupted by the smog of civilization, with a fresh breeze blowing the smell of pine and leaves, I find a view that is truly unbeatable. The great outdoors – to some a torturous place filled with bugs and tpawlak.gazette@gmail.com blisters – brings me unimaginable joy. Miles from any sort of civilization, faint trails disappear into high grass and rock outcroppings, natural ambiance engulfs you and nothing else matters but the endless encompassing expanse of Mother Nature. Those poor folks who are unaccustomed to it might find the sweat, dirt and grime revolting, but to me it is nothing but a second layer of skin, making me one with that into which I am intruding. For years I have been reveling in the undeniable beauty of the woods and mountains. I often ponder how anyone can live without the wilderness calling to them constantly. In the wild, nothing else matters and I can, for a little while, feel weightless as the constant responsibilities that follow me like a ball and chain in society shift to the back of my mind. For a few hours, I am not a high school senior with classes, extracurriculars and sports to stress about, but simply an adventurer exploring the all-too-quickly disappearing outdoors. Not too long ago my brother, uncle and I embarked on a weekend trip to Bear Valley, an amazing location less than 40 minutes from Tahoe, to get a fix of the wild. This, my last-ditch effort to escape the inevitable

troy pawlak

Gazette photo /TROY PAWLAK

Scenic view of Mokelumne Wilderness taken at Bear Valley, California after a long and adventurous hike. onset of school once again, consisted of taking a dangerous off-road trail in a sketchy Jeep to put as much distance between us and other people as possible, dropping down into the gorgeous Mokelumne Wilderness for a hike and then spending some time kayaking around a mountain lake. Despite thinking long and hard, I have failed to find any way I would rather spend my time. For those who wonder why I adore the outdoors so much, I have a simple question for you: what is wrong with you? So what if you get hot and tired? You can just go home and take a shower afterwards. Why choose to sit inside and when you can go out and feel a fresh breeze on your face? You don’t have to be like me and commit to the point of driving for several hours to find a new, impressive hike. Just put some distance between yourself and the nearest road and follow a path for a while. Once you escape the cacophony of cars and people,

you will stumble upon the majestic gift of natural silence. Sure, you can lounge in an empty house and be met with no noise, but when taking a hike, you discover natural silence. The only noise is that of branches rustling silently, leaves blowing in the wind and animals treading carefully around you. That is the sound of peace, the sound that opens the mind, the sound that, when you close your eyes, lulls you into the tranquility of nature. This is how the world was created – no cars, no buildings – just calm. Society is a magnificent advancement for humans, but try to escape it for a bit. Take a chance with the outdoors, it’s not going to kill you. Who knows – maybe you’ll develop a new passion. .***

Troy Pawlak, a senior, is a Gazette co-editor-inchief.

’

Walk to the beat of your own drum. Read the Gazette.

Second look

A12 News

Friday, September 18,

w The Granite Bay Gazette

The Grizzlies Are Back

Gazette photo /MADELINE WILLIAMS

Gazette photo /ALI LEMOS

 The Tribe, above, shows its spirit at the first football game of the year against Jesuit. Tribe leader Charlie Tooley, top left, offers a green-tinged spirited cheer against Jesuit. Seniors Aubrey Holt and Brook Gonzalez, top right, show their enthusiasm for the 20th year of Granite Bay High’s existence. Holt, right, is this year’s ASB president. SB officers top right, ASB president Aubrey Holt , ASB President and Brooke Gonzales, Holt and other members of ASB, above, serve otter pops to students on Founder’s Day in August. Tennis players Genna Kozlowski, Lauren Helfer and Melissa Kurani, left to right, stay cool in the shade during an August home match, right top. Drumline members, immediate right, start off Founders’ Day in August with a marching performance through campus. Founders’ Day marked the 20th opening of a school year at Granite Bay High.

Gazette photos by MADELINE WILLIAMS

Lifestyle

Granite Bay Gazette

Friday w

COMMENTARY

B Section

September 18, 2015

carissa lewis clewis.gazette@gmail.com

Deception is not a valuable skill “Do not lie.” We have all heard this command since our early childhood. It is one of the first things we learn. We hear it from parents, teachers, mentors, family friends, and even from people who are not actively involved in our lives, like motivational speakers. Yet these words have been repeated so many times that for a countless amount of people they have become nothing more than meaningless instruction. There are occasions, however, when lying comes as a skill. If you are conversing with a stranger and during that conversation he or she asks for some sort of personal information, you either lie or change the topic of discussion. Despite the fact that they have been raised hearing the phrases “do not lie” and “lying is wrong,” people are still very much aware that manipulation can be a talent. The problem is that oftentimes people don’t understand why it is a talent. Last year, during a 20 minute run in sophomore P.E., I overheard two boys behind me laughing and jesting back and forth. Now because I wanted a distraction from the run and was naturally curious, I, of course, listened in on their conversation. One of the students was informing his friend about how he had tricked his parents the night before. His friend didn’t make much of a response, only an uncomfortable snicker, but the first boy took this as motivation to continue. He then went on to tell his friend that he manipulated his parents all the time. He was so self-involved that he did not even notice how little his friend cared about his “achievement.” People seem to think that being able to manipulate someone makes them quick-witted and clever. They enjoy feeling as though they have a superior intellect simply because they managed to achieve a response they had been aiming for. The problem with constant manipulation is that the manipulators become so confident in their “abilities” that they begin to lie and twist words simply to see their success. They overlook all emotions other than their own. Manipulative skill comes from being able to recognize emotions other than one’s own. This allows the manipulator to use artful language in order to sway the person they are conversing with one way or another. So when someone lacks the ability to discern emotions, they lack the ability to successfully manipulate. Successful manipulation also includes being able to discern the proper times for usage, like when someone is in that situation where you need to avoid giving away personal information. If deceiving attempts are constantly made every time someone wants thier way, people will begin to see right through these attempts. Manipulation is one area where practice does not make perfect.

***

Carissa Lewis, a junior, is a Lifestyle editor

Number of molly users getting high Drug issues remain prevalent on GBHS Campus Gazette photo /CARISSA LEWIS

BY AMANDA NIST

anist.gazette@gmail.com

coke at senior ball basically just because I was drunk and high and someone offered it to me, but it didn’t really do anything.” Although the senior girl admits to not doing any drugs regularly besides marijuana, she said that doing party drugs like molly was something her and her friends did occasionally over the summer at raves. “The first time I used (molly) was at my first rave and it was because my older friends got me into it,” the senior girl said. “And before I tried it I really wanted to try it. I heard it was so fun and makes you love everything and you’re the happiest.” The senior girl said when she first tried molly, she was the happiest and it was the best time she’s had on it. “The rest have still been super fun and I always feel happy and lovey,” the senior girl said. Mehta said that she knows people who have also tried these drugs who did it to experiment and have a good time. “I think that people like the rush of trying new things,” Mehta said. “I guess they like to be experimental and doing drugs can provide that to them.” Mehta also said she thinks certain drugs let people feel better to escape their problems and stress which is always relatively high as a teenager. Senior Zachary Gorsen said although it changes from person to person, everyone has their own reasons to try these drugs. He said it could be boredom, it could be ex-

ith summer comes less responsibility, and this past summer, some students at Granite Bay High School have started experimenting with party drugs. Some of these drugs include MDMA, - also known as ecstasy or molly, - and cocaine. MDMA is classified as a psychoactive drug, while cocaine is a stimulant.

The rising use of these party drugs have sparked concerns from both students and staff at Granite Bay High School. Senior Tanvi Mehta said although she’s never done drugs, she has heard of both molly and cocaine. “I know that cocaine is this white powder that’s usually snorted and that molly is like a little tablet thing that I’ve heard people use at raves,” Mehta said. A senior girl who wishes to remain anonymous said she has tried both molly and cocaine, along with various other drugs such as ecstasy, LSD and salvia. “I’ve done molly at raves, a music festival, a party and at houses with friends for fun,” the senior girl said. “I tried

perimentation or it could be social pressures. Gorsen also said he would never try any of these drugs because he considers it self harm and he feels it is unhealthy physically for his body. “Certain members of my family would not be okay with it,” Gorsen said. “ I want to keep that relationship good.” Gorsen said if a close friend started doing one or both of these drugs he would want to stop them. “I want my friends to be healthy,” Gorsen said. “I would rather my friends be in some kind of penitentiary and clean than outside a penitentiary and doing drugs.” The anonymous senior girl said she thinks it’s okay for upperclassmen to experiment with molly and cocaine if they’re responsible and know what they’re getting into. Mehta said she does not condone drug use in high school, but she understands that some people want to experiment. “I think it’s better to do that now rather than later when the implications could be greater,” Mehta said. Gorsen said that as a person, he wants all people to be healthy, but he also wants people to be able to make their own choices. “(People need) to make the choice between their own personal health and their freedom,” Gorsen said. “I think they should also take into account how them doing it or not doing it affects the people who care about them, because I think that if I had a friend who started doing drugs I would be a bad friend to them if I didn’t stop them.”

GBHS celebrates two decades since it opened in ‘96 Staff and students participate in festivities on campus BY CLAIR KASEL

ckasel.gazette@gmail.com

Twenty years ago a small, local high school opened and no one was able to imagine that it would be where it is today. Honoring its second decade, Granite Bay High School has a year full of celebrations upon it. For most of the student body, however, the day that is being talked about happened at least two years before they were born. Having no idea what high school, let alone preschool they would attend, they are now the ones commemorating the creation. Part of what makes GBHS special is that every year there are new developments making it grow more and more. When Ron Severson, the first principal of GBHS, learned that he was chosen for the job out of the loads of applicants, he was honored. “It had always been a dream of mine to have the opportunity to do that as a principal,” Severson said. With that in mind, he had the task of working with a team to build the best school they could from the ground up. He wanted to establish high standards for the academics, arts and athletics, ensuring it had the potential to become the best it could. “The goals for the school were developed over a year as I worked with parents and students, visited other new schools across the state, and began constructing the first staff,” Severson said. They aspired to have a school atmosphere where everyone, from staff to students, felt like they belonged in one way or another. Teachers and staff are what help the school grow. Mrs.

Linda Dickson has been working at GBHS since day one along with her husband, Chet Dickson, and they are part of the elite group of veteran teachers who have been loyal to the school for twenty years. “More students (than ever before) are participants rather than spectators in sports and all activities,” Dickson said. “Student involvement has helped this school, without it, we wouldn’t be anywhere. The players bring the school to state championships, all students help to get the academic awards and with all the clubs, everyone can do their part to support their school, and help the future only get brighter.” According to Dickson, if the school continues to work on tolerance and have a nurturing community, then the possibilities are endless. Picturing the future of a school any more than a few weeks when getting started is extremely hard, but Severson’s dream campus is slowly coming to a reality. Gazette photo /ISABELLA TKACHUCK “I believe the vision for what the school has become Student engages in volleyball game in the quad durevolved as we generated success (and) built upon it,” Seving Founder’s Day celebrations at lunch erson said. After working diligently, it is time to take this year and pening, ensuring that no one forgets what year it is. Also, rejoice over the success, not to say that there isn’t work to for every dance, the twentieth ticket sold for all four classes be done to improve the school, but part of celebrating the will be given for free. past is celebrating the future that the school has to fix the Homecoming will be full of events that will commemoglitches that are inevitable. Helping the Grizzlies party in rate the last twenty years. With the theme of “Grizzly high fashion this year is Mrs. Tamara Givens, the activities Channel- season 20”, leaving loads of room for creativity director at GBHS for seventeen years, and her committee on floats and to involve as many alumni and retirees as leaders Jack Lugo and Quincey MacMillan. possible. They are the ones who planned the special founder's day, With the world changing, it is important to remember and who have been working on executing it for the rest of the year. Their goal is to remind people why it is so great to roots and where you started, so you know where you can go. be a grizzly. “The world is evolving at warp speed, so Granite Bay “It's fun to be here during the 20th Anniversary year,” will need to continue to grow with it,” said Severson, “ I Givens said. “We want students and staff to be glad they're think the four [goals] … are still cornerstones of great high here for it and to be proud of all we have accomplished in schools. They are in place here and will help the school to the past twenty years.” On the twentieth of each month there will something hap- be robust and relevant long into the future.”

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New SAT Collegeboard makes changes to standardized testing

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Changes in testing are to take place 2016

Board Games

BY HANNAH XU

Chutes and Ladders Connect Four Chinese Checkers

Checkers

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Apples to Apples

Operation

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pring – a season known for blossoming flowers, allergies and spring cleaning. However, come 2016, spring will bring one more new beginning: the brand new SAT. The SAT will be getting a new look, a new set of questions and a new scoring system. The SAT that students have known and “loved” for the last ten years will soon be old news. College Board didn’t tread lightly when changing the SAT. While the old SAT math sections focus mainly on a student’s ability to solve equations and work out math problems, the new SAT has an emphasized focus on being able to bring real-life concepts into the sections. Additionally, logarithms, trigonometry, use of radians and nonlinear systems will be tested on. And while these concepts aren’t necessarily beyond the Algebra II level, they do require more advanced mathematical practice than that needed for the old SAT. There will also be a no-calculator section in the new SAT. For some, this is worrisome. However, there are students that find the transition to a no-calculator portion preferable. “I feel that not using a calculator should be fine,” said junior Michaela Warady. “I think this means that there will simply be easier numbers to work with.” Along with changing the math sections, revisions have been made to the writing portion of the test. Instead of sentence structure correction and sentence improvement, the new SAT will be asking about word correction, sentence structure and fixing passages based on syntax, context clues, style and tone. One major change in the writing is the essay will be optional instead of required. Rather than a 25 minute essay that asks students to support an argument, students will now get the choice to write a 50 minute essay. This essay includes reading a passage and explaining how the author builds an argument to persuade readers. The objective for students will be to use evidence in the passage to support their explanation. The new essay, more complex than that of the old SAT, mirrors an essay that could be found in a higherlevel English class. This might prove difficult for some students that haven’t taken certain classes. “We have to teach rhetorical analysis in two hours, which should really be difficult,” said teacher of International Baccalaureate English HL, AC Literacy, Advanced Placement Literature and Composition and the SAT English workshop David Tastor.“It’d really help kids if they’re taking the AP Language course.” Changes were also made to the reading section. Old SAT reading entailed testing on complex vocabulary words and reading passages, sometimes two paired together, and answering questions based on the passages. The new SAT now incorporates infographics, tables and charts to accompany the passages. Analyzing the passages will be more pertinent than ever, and gone are the complex, lengthy SAT vocabulary words. In their place will be more words used in everyday language.

- Compiled by Garbhita Shah

Along with the new SAT, the new PSAT will be making its way into students’ lives soon enough. Come fall, 2015, the changes that the SAT is undergoing will be incorporated into the PSAT as well. However, some students that will be taking the PSAT October 28 are ready. “I think I will be fine,” said sophomore Karthi Chakaravarty. “I’ve been practicing and what is out for the new (PSAT) is a tool to study off of.” Regardless of whether or not students are ready for new SAT or not, the 2016 changes are right on their way. “Testing is testing,” Becker said. “It has its purpose. It’s supposed to demonstrate who can think critically.”

Countless emails and letters try to grab students’ attention fstrnad.gazette@gmail.com

Chess

This change in vocabulary words is approved by many students, as the complicated words the old SAT would often use were deemed as useless. “What is the point of knowing random words that nobody uses?” Warady said. “(Tests like these) are supposed to help us function in the real world, and knowing complex words doesn’t do that.” While the change in standardized testing might have posed a problem for the instructors of the SAT workshops, Scott Becker, teacher of IB Math SL, AP Calculus, and the SAT math workshop, isn’t worried. “Our workshops are content focused,” Becker said, “so now that the content is changing, we (simply) change our content.”

Colleges are the new big corporations BY FRANCES STRNAD

Monopoly

Gazette photo /CARISSA LEWIS

Old SAT workbooks, guides and practice tests will no longer be effective come 2016, however PSAT workbooks are now updated.

College application season is coming up and now more than ever the impending higher-education decision is hitting seniors. Colleges have been bombarding Granite Bay High School students with informational packets, bumper stickers, emails and fancy postcards as a way to market their schools to prospective college students. The question is: are these marketing materials doing anything for college admissions? Students have certainly seen a surge in the amount of college marketing mail in their inboxes. “I get at least two emails a day from colleges,” senior Gauree Shah said. “I have around 1,500 emails, and many letters and such, but I

haven’t kept those.” According to higher education specialist Noel-Levitz’s Recruiting Practices Report, the amount of college emails sent to prospective college students has been steadily rising since 2006. Statistics from the Recruiting Practices Report indicate that, in just one semester, four-year private colleges send 15 emails to a single recipient, four-year public colleges send 12 and two-year public colleges send two. When these statistics are multiplied by the number of recipients these emails are sent out to, the cost of marketing can easily rise into the millions of dollars. In fact, last year alone, public colleges spent approximately 10 percent of their net revenue on marketing. This means that schools each spent an estimated $970,000 sending fliers

and emails to students across the country. According to the Recruiting Practices Report, colleges will spend anywhere from $500 to $3,000 on marketing to just one student. However, for many students, college mail goes straight to the trash, and emails are left unopened in the “spam” box. “I don’t find (the emails) useful, and they usually end up in my junk mail,” senior Rawan Khalili said. Despite the enormous sums of money spent on sending out marketing materials, they have little effect on students’ college decisions. “The ones that do appeal to me are just reminding me to apply, which I already am in the process of doing,” Khalili said. On top of being repetitive, these emails can often be irrelevant to the student.

“They don’t usually make me want to apply, unless it’s a college actually in California,” senior Ambreen Siddiqui said. For many students, college emails provide them with little more than what could be found on the school’s website – if they were really interested. “They include basic information about the school, like where they are and their goals,” said senior Demorie Galarza. Despite colleges’ best intentions, many students find college marketing to be a waste of time and ineffective. “I’m not fond of receiving all the emails because they aren’t very helpful and they just fill up my (inbox),” Shah said. “I think (the emails) would be more useful for someone who isn’t sure what they want to do and where they want to go.”

GBHS says hello to classmates from foreign countries New students offer new outlooks and shed light on culture BY SABINA MAHAVNI

smahavni.gazette@gmail.com

Three new Granite Bay High School students are experiencing all different kinds of “new” this year – including learning about a new country by living in it. This year, Granite Bay High School is providing education for transfer students from all different backgrounds. GBHS junior Dan McCourt transferred in July from Sullivan Upper School in Northern Ireland. “My father got a new job here as a pastor at Bayside (Church),” McCourt said. He prefers this school to his old school because, for one

thing, he thinks GBHS has less healthy food than at Sullivan Upper, which he sees as a benefit. Also, his old school required the students to wear a uniform. “Back home, we would have been wearing blazers, shirts and ties,” McCourt said. “Here, it’s your own clothes. It’s quite nice.” He finds the entire atmosphere here different. “It’s quite relaxed, not very uptight,” McCourt said. “Back home, everything was a lot stricter, a lot more formal. It’s ... a friendly atmosphere.” However one challenging adjustment for McCourt is the curriculum.

“Normal classes here are slightly behind some stuff in Britain,” McCourt said. “But then your (Advanced Placement) classes are a higher standard. It’s work, but it’s a very good standard of curriculum.” So far, other students have been friendly and helpful when showing him to his classes. GBHS offers a variety of activities for students, but because McCourt has only been here for two months, he hasn’t gotten enough time to really engage in any activities. “I haven’t really started anything,” he said. “I went to a school dance, and that was an interesting experience, although it was quite sweaty and warm.” In addition to McCourt, GBHS has the privilege of hosting another foreign transfer student,

Egill Oktosson from Iceland. His parents wanted to see California and get away from the cold country of Iceland. He hopes to stay for at least a year. Coming in as a junior, Oktosson has already secured a possible roster spot on the varsity basketball team. “The guys on the basketball team took me in,” Oktosson said. “All the guys are awesome.” He has been adjusting well despite the evident language barrier and difference in academic curriculum. He said the school days are longer at GBHS than in his old school, Gardasskoli. “I prefer Gardasskoli because all my friends are there,” Oktosson said. Vincent Cheung, from Shanghai, China, just moved to Ameri-

“In China, the teacher comes ca six weeks ago and has already to our class,” Cheung said. “We been taking on AP and honorsmeet the same classmates all level classes. And as if movday.” ing to a different country and Similar to McCourt settling in isn’t and Oktosson, Cheung hard enough, welcome and acCheung moved I am an Ameri- feels cepted here at GBHS. here alone and can citizen. I “It was the first day is living apart I (came) here, and just from his family, was born in San in two classes, I (had) which is back Francisco. It’s made several friends in Shanghai. “I am an natural for me that (made) me feel Cheung American citito come back welcome,” said. zen,” Cheung – Vincent Cheung, Despite only besaid. “I was GBHS senior ing here for a month, born in San Cheung has already Francisco. It’s participated in countless natural for me school activities such to come back.” as the first football game and the The 6,000 mile distance between GBHS and Qibao Interna- Decades Dance. “How about that Tribe?” tional School is also reflective of Cheung said. “I love the Tribe.” differences in the curriculum.

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Lifestyle B3

O say can you see the election’s early light Presidential campaign starts more than a year in advance BY CARISSA LEWIS clewis.gazette@gmail.com

As the year 2015 nears an end, the 2016 presidential elections ‘cruz’ along, and voters are left wondering which candidate will end up ‘trump’ing the rest. In former years, campaigning started around Labor Day. But this year, campaigning was much closer to the top of the 2015 calendar. “It’s getting earlier and earlier each election cycle,” said advanced placement government teacher Jarrod Westberg. So far, the media has been covering many issues related to candidate Donald Trump. Headlines include topics such as immigration, healthcare and trans-pacific trade, all of which Trump has commented on. “A lot of republican candidates have been so turned off by Trump because he’s just gobbling up the headlines," said Mike Valentine, who teaches Advanced Placement European History. “No one’s hearing them.” The United States is currently in the primary stage of its election process. This stage will not end until June of 2016, when the National Conventions elect a representative for each major political party.

Once the primaries are over, a new race will take form. “In primary season, most of the hard-core voters are the ones with the ... more political right (or) political left views,” Valentine said. “But general elections call you to appeal to everybody.” Whether it be their own or from donations, candidates depend on finance to support their campaigning. According to Westberg, the candidates without much money are the ones who typically go out first, whereas the reverse may be true for those who are provided with a significant source of support. “The way our political system is if you have money, you’re going to be out there,” Westberg said. “You’re going to be in the public eye.” The candidates with the highest net worths include Donald Trump, with an approximate net worth of $4.5 billion, Carly Fiorina, with $60 million, Hillary Clinton, with $21.5 million, and Jeb Bush, with $20 million. These candidates are making the news profoundly and have sparked the interest of even those who will not be eligible to vote in the upcoming election. Junior Parker Wilkin has been following closely on the election. “Most voters don’t have nearly as

much knowledge and information as they should,” Wilkin said. “In my experience, the vast majority of voters get their news from one biased source giving them a limited point of view.” This view, he says, comes from either right-wing parents or from leftwing comedy sources, such as the Daily Show. Out of the student body, only select juniors and seniors will be able to vote. Westberg said with each year his students tend to become more and more interested in what’s going on in politics. “They’re constantly asking questions,” Westberg said, “especially as we go through the year and they get more comfortable and they start learning more about our system.” Valentine, who reads the news daily to his students, has not yet talked to them about the presidential candidates. Both he and Westberg said it was too early to know who to vote for. “People go off the commercials,” Valentine said. “In 30 seconds, they’re going to change your mind”. That being said, as 2016 approaches, voting will become a more prominent concern and remaining educated on issues will be a deciding factor of the outcome.

Help wanted at local businesses Students are given advice from employees and managers BY PAIGE ERICKSON

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As the school year begins and homework increases, many Granite Bay High School students are looking for jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of employed youth rose by 2.1 million between April and July 2015. Businesses with newly available positions for hire include Pizza Hut, Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Togo’s/ Baskin Robbins. These businesses provide young people with opportunities to earn money and gain experience. “You learn a lot about how to handle food properly and how to be hospitable to customers,” said the Roseville Pizza Hut manager Mike K, who asked for his last name to remain anonymous. “It’s very important for high school students to have a job because they learn responsibility and accountability for their actions.” Other local businesses, including Party City, Target, Lifetime Fitness and Learning Express, are offering cashier opportunities. One place that requires extensive employee involvement is Party City. “It’s not a job you can slack off in,” said Roseville Party City supervisor Chris Cutts. “You need to be on your toes 24/7 because there is always a lot going on.” The process of applying for a job requires multiple

sit-down interviews between the manager and the applicant. “You have a series of interviews, but it’s not a bad process,” Cutts said. “The managers are all really friendly and overall (they) want to see how you engage as a person and see how well you would do with what is expected of you.” While applying for a job, there are certain standards for leaving a good first impression. Alexis Hazelett, a junior at GBHS, was recently hired at Learning Express. “Just dress nice, have a resume with you and use proper language,” Hazelett said. “Talk to the person as if they’re your grandma.” Once the application process is complete, getting hired for a job can still be a long process. “It definitely takes practice to get hired,” Cutts said. “Going to the interviews and doing what is expected of you needs to be professional, so it takes a lot of practice.” GBHS senior Jill Jacobs is working at Lifetime Fitness in Roseville. As a Kid’s Academy team member, she has learned different techniques important for her job. “I’ve developed skills such as mediating a conflict between some of the younger kids and even getting multiple babies to stop crying at once,” she said. “You’ll be amazed when you see how much you’re capable of.” Many students choose not to work during high school. Between school and outside activities, some simply cannot make the commitment.

The un-

Gazette photo /CARISSA LEWIS

Presidential candidates appeal to voters early on in the competition

If you really knew me,

you would know...

Dante Tafoya

If you really knew me you would know that I hate cheese. (Sophomore)

Megan Le

If you really knew me you would know that I suck at riding a bike. (Junior)

Claire Raney

If you really knew me you would know that I’m obsessed with dogs. (Senior)

See JOBS, page B5

CollegeBoard SAT

Official SAT practice guide

This Issue’s Expert:

Sleep well: Get a lot of sleep because the SAT is a long and rigorous test. You need to have your full energy to do your best.

Alleviate stress: Utilize all of your break times because, like I said, it is a really long test. Being able to walk around and relax for a minute will help you focus on the rest of the test.

Ambreen Siddiqui is a senior at Granite Bay High School.

Think positively: Just do your best. Remember that it’s not a test that defines you or who you are. Don’t stress (about it) too much. - Compiled by Frances Strnad

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Former GBHS student runs for CA State Assembly reality, a lot of decisions made in the state legislation directly affect us.” An example of an issue that high school and college students and their families are currently faced with is the high cost of receiving a college education. Kiley addressed the recent raise of tuition prices for the Universities of California. “California has the greatest public university system in the world, and we need to keep it that way,” Kiley said. “We need a better oversight on the UCs so that they continue to provide the gold-standard education

Students in community intern for campaign, bringing more insight BY GARBHITA SHAH

gshah.gazette@gmail.com

As the year 2016 brings with it the much anticipated election season, campaigns all across the country are setting the stage for the future. Emerging from the Granite Bay community is the recently launched campaign of Deputy State Attorney General Kevin Kiley. A Granite Bay High School graduate, Kiley seeks to reach out to the community he grew up in by running for California State Assembly to represent the sixth district. “I consider myself to be a product of this community and its values,” Kiley said. “To have the opportunity to represent the community that I grew up in is a tremendous one at this stage of my career.” After graduating from GBHS in 2003, Kiley went on to pursue a degree in Social Studies at Harvard University. From there, he participated in the Teach for America Program where he worked as a tenth grade teacher for an under-privileged high school in South Central Los Angeles. Formerly involved with the Speech and Debate Program at GBHS, during his tenure as a teacher Kiley worked to implement such a program for his students. “It was a fantastic opportunity because it was an activity that I did when I was in high school with Mrs. Prichard,” Kiley said. “I wanted to give the students I taught the same

opportunity.” Shortly after that, he graduated from Yale University with a degree in law. He now works as a Deputy I want the campaign Attorney General for the state of to be a vehicle for California. civic engagement and Having experienced life in an upper-middle class community like a training ground for Granite Bay as well as South Cenfuture leaders tral Los Angeles, he decided to run – Kevin Kiley, Current for State Assembly with a vision California State directed to the future. He stated that Assembly Candidate he wants to fix problems that stand as burdens for current high school and GBHS Graduate students entering the workforce in the future. “I want the state to remain the place that it was when I grew up gards to the campaign and planwhere opportunities were available ning and organizing future social to all people,” Kiley said. outreach events. That being said, the campaign ofThe motive of the campaign is to fers internship opportunities for high get as many students involved as school students in the community, possible and therefore does not reencouraging young individuals to quire more than an hour of contribuget politically involved. tion every week. As student interns, GBHS Seniors The campaign strives to engage Arthi and Shivani Bobbala are all students that seek more exposure examples of what it’s like to be an in a political or general vocational active member of the campaign. setting. Those interested in serving “Working on this campaign really the campaign can still enroll online gives the experience of not only at www.kileyforassembly.com. working in a political environment “Not only is it a great resumebut also a professional setting,” booster for college application, but it Arthi said. “It can be applicable to is also a collaborative effort,” Arthi any job in the future because of the said. “The potential connections responsibilities of taking directions (one) can make through the process and having to execute them.” is invaluable.” Some of the tasks assigned to the Another issue that the campaign interns include researching current indirectly serves to address is the issues relevant to the community, typical mentality that teenagers simupdating social media sites in re-

How To: Step 1: Make sure you meet the follow-

ing qualifications: “one must be 35 years of age, a resident ‘within the United States’ for 14 years, and a ‘natural born Citizen.’”

ply do not care about politics. Shivani stated that teenagers do not have opportunities to voice themselves at a political level. Therefore, she urges students to take advantage and get involved with this internship. “I think that the mindset that teenagers are ignorant is really just a stereotype,” Shivani said. “It is really easy to be misguided by the fact that kids our age don’t need to have a say in political decisions. In

that they already do, but we’re not making tuition unnecessarily high for students.” The campaign’s mission thus far stands to be directed towards the future of the state and its upcoming youth. “This is going to be a competitive race. The advantage that we have is that we are going to have a message that’s going to inspire younger people to get more involved,” Kiley said. “I want the campaign to be a vehicle for civic engagement and a training ground for future leaders.”

Special to the Gazette /MEREDITH BROWN

Deputy State Attorney General Kevin Kiley poses with current student interns after launching his campaign for California State Assembly. The former GBHS student is running to represent the sixth district in California.

Campaign for PresIDENTdent

Step 2: Start designing

your campaign and create your campaign slogan!

Step 3: Make a twitter. Use the

twitter. Tweet everything.

Step 4: Let your younger followers

know just how hip you are by posting videos using their lingo. Ex: “just chillin.’” -Compiled by Frances Strnad

New school year brings new faces Students transfer to GBHS BY EPSA SHARMA esharma.gazette@gmail.com

With a new school year, comes new staff, new administration, new policies and also new students. Aside from the obvious surplus of new freshman, Granite Bay High School regularly welcomes transfer students from different cities, states and even schools near the Granite Bay area. A common tendency in the past few years at GBHS, involve an increase in transfer students from private schools in the greater Sacramento area. Reasons from transferring range from changes in academic pursuits to wanting a different school culture. Ethan Quinn, senior at GBHS transferred from Jesuit High School during his junior year in hopes of gaining an experience suited to his personal needs. “I transferred to Granite Bay to get a better academic experience, because Jesuit did not have the best academics suited for me,” Quinn said. “My friends that were here influenced my decision as well as the academics and athletics, just the whole school atmosphere seemed to be a better fit for me.” Wanting to transfer is one thing, but actually following through with the process is a whole different realm of steps. The case of transferring takes time and effort from the student, but also a tremendous amount of work is put in by the parents and counselors Yearning for more academic opportunities,senior Jordan Vujovich, during his sophomore year transferred from Jesuit to GBHS. “ My main influence was my dad at the time. He explained to me the benefits of GBHS,” Vujovich said. “It wasn't hard at all

transferring my credits over because we offer the same classes at gb and the counselors are phenomenal.” Transferring to a new school not only entails different classes,but also different teachers. “The academics here at great, but the teachers are excellent because they really care about you on a personal level,” Quinn said. Asides from academics, there are many appealing assets of GBHS that attract a variety of students. Senior Mitch Montbriand along with Vujovich and Quinn, also transferred from Jesuit to GBHS in hopes of pursuing an ambiance suited to his needs. “The school spirit is way better and everyone comes to all the basketball games and football games which is awesome,” Montbriand said. With school spirit being a huge part of GBHS culture, many students are drawn to the large turn out we have at many sporting events. “The biggest difference in GB was definitely the football games being on Friday, because at Jesuit they were on Saturday,” Vujovich said. “Having games on Friday make the whole atmosphere better because more people go to the game.” Transferring schools, especially high schools can be a strenuous situation for anyone, but GBHS strives to provide a welcoming environment. “ I wasn’t very nervous because I knew some people, but everyone I met last year was very welcoming and nice,” Quinn said. GBHS strives to provide the best environment for students to succeed in every aspect. “I feel at home here because I have a great relationship with the teachers I've had in the past and, everyone welcomes you with open arms and treats you like a day one friend,”Vujovich said. “Here there is something for everyone to do, and the private schools pride themselves on their camaraderie but at GBHS we have the same if not better.”

Last year, GBHS said goodbye to many Departed staff and teacher retirees share their stories BY FRANCES STRNAD fstrnad.gazette@gmail.com

Last May was filled with goodbyes at GBHS. Those departing included not only members of the Class of 2015, but also 10 staff members. Among those who retired are Jim Cunningham, Chemistry teacher, Julia Leeds, Spanish teacher, Steve Fischer, English and photography teacher, and Maribeth Alsop, special education teacher. Other staff members that are no longer at GBHS include Carey Bussey, Christina Cross, Jamie Handling, Ernie Cooper, Anarbol Hurtado and David Vujovich. Jamie Handling, former Granite Bay High School English teacher, is now an English teacher at Roseville High School. “I’m currently teaching ERWC (Expository Reading and Writing Course) 12 and CP English 11,” Handling said. ERWC is a class designed to help prepare high school students for college level English courses.

In addition to teaching, Handling is the Class of 2019 co-advisor. “I am really excited to immerse myself into the school culture. I also hope to make an impact on the kids’ lives by helping them throughout their education,” Handling said. Handling had many positive experiences at GBHS that she will never forget. The most memorable for her was teacher appreciation. “I absolutely loved teacher appreciation week. It was so evident that the student body/student government really appreciated the staff. It’s always nice to have a little reminder of what we can do for the school community,” Handling said. Transferring to a different school has brought many changes, but Handling describes her experience as a positive one. “The staff is phenomenal at RHS. I really love the collaboration and team building that goes on. Every day I feel encouraged and inspired by my peers,” Handling said. In addition to the staff that departed from GBHS in May, Helen Guzenski and Terri Keeney will be departing in the coming month.

Student

Spotlight Student finds interest in volleyball

Gazette photo /CLAIR KASEL

Nikki Tafoya

Gazette: How long have you played volleyball? Tafoya: Six years. Gazette: Where do you play? Tafoya: I have played for Granite Bay High School,

Olympus junior high and also many different club teams, but the most recent I played for is synergy force.

Gazette: What is your position? Tafoya: I recently switched from middle blocker to opposite hitter.

Gazette: What is your favorite part of playing? Tafoya: The bond between players is the best part of volleyball teams.

all

-Compiled by Clair Kasel

Friday, September 18,

Lifestyle

The Granite Bay Gazette

Early grads take Senior Ditch Day to the next level

Seniors leaving in spring share their stories BY ISABELLA TKACHUK itkachuk.gazette@gmail.com

Those who can finish high school in four years are the ones who often receive the most cheers as they walk across the stage with their diplomas in hand. There are some exceptions to this social standard: the ones who can graduate in three and a half years. Graduating early from high school can be considered nontraditional to many. To some, though, it is the path they need to take to begin their future, whatever that might be. “I am graduating early because I am going to play soccer at the University of California, Berkeley,” said senior Maggie Bell, who will enroll at Berkeley in January. Even though Bell has been committed to Berkeley since her sophomore year, her decision to graduate early wasn’t confirmed until last spring. “I started looking at graduating early as a possibility (during the) fall of my junior year and then made my decision during the spring,” Bell said. “(Graduating early) wasn’t my plan in the beginning, but in the end it just made sense for me as a player and person.” It can seem intimidating and out of reach to end high school quite a while before the typical date, but Bell was ecstatic. “I am honestly so excited to start college and to start to work towards my future,” Bell said. “It is a little scary knowing that I only have (a few) more months left at Granite Bay, but I couldn’t be more excited.” Bell said she is looking forward to moving into campus housing at Berkeley with her expected roommate who is also going to be an early graduate – Rocklin High senior volleyball player Maddie Haynes. Even though people have warned her about missing out on the last half of her senior year and not being able to experience the things her friends will experience, Bell said she isn’t worried about that. “I know it’s going to be tough to leave my friends,” Bell said, “but I think it

will be an easier transition knowing that I’ll be able to room with (Haynes).” Even though Bell said she was overwhelmed with excitement, her mother was skeptical at first. “We tried to talk her out of it for six months but there’s no talking her out of it,” Anne Bell, Bell’s mother, said. “Once she decided she really wanted to (graduate early) and gave good reasons, we supported her decision.”

(Graduating early) wasn’t my plan in the beginning, but in the end it just made sense for me. – Maggie Bell, GBHS senior

Zac Webster has a slightly different reasoning behind his decision to graduate early. Also a senior at GBHS, Zac plans to enlist in the army. “I have enough credits (to graduate early), and I found out I could (graduate) last semester,” Webster said. He, too, is going to be sad to leave his friends, but he is also very excited. “I am more excited than scared for the future,” Webster said, “(because) I get to do what I have always wanted to do.” Webster will then get to leave for basic combat training, or BCT, six months before he would if he decided to finish high school all the way through. Webster and Bell both had a lot of support through the early graduation decision-making process. And both clearly have worked hard to make their college athletics and military dreams a reality. “It wasn’t (a hard decision),” Webster said, “because my family supported me.”

Students find ways to explore their interests BY PAIGE ERICKSON

The Granite Bay High School events Club Rush provides students with the opportunity to get involved in on-campus clubs. This event was held on September 3 and 4 during lunch. Around campus, tables were set up with a wide variety of clubs. Students were able to walk around and find what clubs interested them and which ones they could considered joining. Some clubs that have returned this year are Pink Ladies, Peer Helping, Water Project and Key Club. The Pink Ladies Club has been around for approximately ten years and is one that many participate in.. “This club strives to bring awareness to breast cancer and (to spread awareness),” said junior Jessica Chugh, one of the Pink Ladies’ treasurers. The Pink Ladies Club participates in many school activities to help the community understand breast cancer issues. “We want members of the club to have a memorable year participating in events and raising awareness,” Chugh said. Another club popular on campus is The Peer Helping Club, which is unique in that it is also a class. This class helps to make the GBHS campus more welcoming and accepting of others. Peer Helping is most popular for it’s onand off-campus projects. One on-campus project that Peer Helping class members are involved in is the Lunch Buddies program. This club leads the event to try and bring awareness of issues many students around campus may be dealing with. “I am part of the Lunch Buddies pro-

Club

College Olin College

Club Name: Film Club Presidents: Schuyler Yager

FOUNDED: 1997

What is the purpose of your club?

The club is for those who are passionate about film can come and collaborate with others and become more involved in the field.

Students: 21,850 Mascot: Phoenix

How can students get involved?

Students can get involved just by walking in the door! Anyone can join at any time and experience is not needed.

Location: Needham, Massachusetts Tuition: $45,000 per year

When does the club meet? Every Thursday after school at 3 in the media room (506).

Institutional Aid: $24,529 Campus size: 70 acres

How does the club affect students? The club will grant students the opportunity to see what areas in film fit them best whether it be acting, filming or editing.

School colors: Blue and Silver Application deadline: Jan. 1 Percentage accepted: 16 percent - Compiled by Hannah Xu

- Compiled by Parker Matheson

Facts

Student

1. Banging your head against a wall burns 150 calories an hour.

Selena De La Torre

2. In the UK, it is illegal to eat mince pies on Christmas Day.

gram and our team is responsible for making connections and reaching out to other students on campus,” said junior Peer Helping class member, Skylar Mayhew. “We want to give students an outlet where they can come talk to our Lunch Buddies team.” The Peer Helping class is also involved in off-campus projects. Such projects often include students volunteering in schools for two days per week. Schools include Ridgeview, Cavitt and Olympus. While off campus, GBHS students are assigned a classroom to help. Grading papers and helping kids with class projects are only a few of the responsibilities GBHS students will have to be involved in. A club that is nationally recognized which Granite Bay has the privilege to offer is Key Club. Key Club is a service organization that is involved in many events around the community. “We present great opportunities to help out in the community while having fun,” said junior and Key Club president, Marissa Wong. As club president, Wong has responsibilities to get her club involved in different activities. “I work with other officers to create events for our members,” Wong said. “I plan meetings and communicate with other organizations.” The Key Club travels to schools and places such as Eskaton, a senior center, to volunteer. “Not only do we have community service events, but there are also opportunities to meet new people from other schools in our area and around the world,” Wong said. “This year, we hope to increase our membership and look for new ways to serve the community.”

Is there anything you wish could come back into fashion? I want the 80s style to come back completely.

4. When hippos are upset, their sweat turns red. 5. A flock of crows is known as a murder.

- Compiled by Matt Ontiveros

What is one thing that makes you smile instantly? One thing that makes me smile instantly is seeing an abundance of good food laid out before me. What is the best gift you have been given? The best gift I have been given is my Cannon camera. I have a strong passion for photography and it wouldn’t be if it weren’t for my camera.

3. Pteronophobia is the fear of being tickled by feathers.

Club Rush opens up opportunities perickson.gazette@gmail.com

Random ...

What song would you say best describes you? A Little Party Never Killed Nobody by Fergie best describes me because I love to dance and whenever this song comes on, I feel like busting a move. Gazette photo /PAIGE ERICKSON

- Compiled by Paige Erickson

Leaders use their skills on campus New summit encourages students to take charge BY MEGAN TALLMAN

mtallman.gazette@gmail.com

Granite Bay High School has always been a place known for excellence. Whether it’s in athletics or in the classroom, Grizzlies always go above and beyond what is expected. However many GBHS students and faculty are seeing a need for more leaders on campus – people who can encourage involvement, integrity and make the campus a more united community. Hoping to teach more students the importance of leadership, activities director Tamara Givens organized a day long conference called the Leadership Summit. The focus of this program was to teach student leaders that being an effective leader extends to more than just the tasks expected of them. It works to redefine leadership and shows them the importance of their position and how they can use it to improve campus activities and student life. “I wanted the Summit to draw from all organizations,” Givens said, “and not just Student Government – students need to understand that leadership

happens beyond (the Student Government room).” Although Student Government students are mainly known as leaders on campus, Givens recognizes that there are student leaders all over campus. “Students are leading in every co-curricular, (activity), and athletic venue and I want them to understand the responsibility that goes along with the position,” Givens said. Givens said her overall goals for the event were for leaders from every Varsity sport, every activity, and many co-curricular organizations to come together and have meaningful conversations about the kind of culture they want at GBHS. The students who attended also felt the Summit was extremely beneficial. Senior Sydney Ladrech was a student who attended the Summit. Ladrech said one of the main focuses of the Leadership Summit was talking about the issues at Granite Bay. “Being such an academically driven school, everyone here feels pressure to get good grades and get into good schools,” Ladrech said. “There’s lots of judgement

JOBS: GBHS students find balance between work and school Continued from page B3 “Sometimes it’s harder for kids to be able to keep the grade average they need plus have work on top of it,” said a Roseville Togo’s/Baskin Robbins manager who asked to remain anonymous. “If you have the time I would say you should get a job because it will help with responsibility as you get older.” Some students, however, must develop time management skills before considering employment. Carly McPhail, a GBHS junior, is working as a lifeguard in Roseville. “It is important for high school students to know their limits,” McPhail said. “If you have the time for a job: get one. If you’re too busy: don’t sweat it; you’ll have your whole life to work.”

based on that.” However, Ladrech said she doesn’t feel the pressures stop simply at grades. “(There’s also) pressure to exceed all around, to simply have it all together,” Ladrech said. During the Summit, all of the leaders discussed ways to solve some of these problems on campus, and how each leader can solve the problem differently within their own groups. The Leadership Summit wanted to encourage students to take a more proactive approach in their role, and to really reach out to their peers. Another teacher on campus who is encouraging student leadership is Natalie Elkin, the Advanced Placement Psychology teacher at Granite Bay High School who created a new class this year called Peer Counseling. The class was made to train student leaders in a variety of areas including listening skills, counseling skills, confidentiality, conflict mediation, and other group problem solving techniques. While leadership skills are needed for many activities, not all students need to follow the

typical “leader” personality. When looking at the campus, Elkin doesn’t feel there’s a particular area that needs to be focused on, but it’s more about teaching students to lead in different ways. “I don’t see a glaring need for leaders anywhere on campus. I think that we have leaders all over that exhibit a wide variety of leadership qualities,” Elkin said. Elkin said not all students lead in the same ways. “Some are quiet, behind-thescenes leaders, while others are motivational and energetic,” Elkin said. “When we have a broad definition of leader, then we help students find the leadership qualities within themselves.” Elkin said once the students are appropriately trained in Peer Counseling, they will use their training to support the GBHS student body by leading Wellness Workshops, support groups, peer counseling, conflict mediation meetings and much more. Such activities are in pursuit of being able to connect students while exhibitng the leadership skills that are learned. All of this is being done with a goal to support the mental well-being of all students at Granite Bay High School.

The Gazette.

Friday, September 18, 2015 w The Granite Bay Gazette

B6 Lifestyle

Social media opens up the possibility for rejection. Colleges and businesses look to online accounts for additional information about their applicants.

Gazette illustration/TROY PAWLAK

Social media pokes at future ambitions Colleges and employers scan users’ online comments and posts

BY SONIA GARCHA

sgarcha.gazette@gmail.com

s students become older and transition further into adulthood, they begin to receive more responsibilities and learn what they entail. Many seniors and juniors have begun to learn the perks and drawbacks of having a job. The ‘Social Media Century’ is now in full swing. What students put on their resumes will be no match for what gets put online. Many employers are now demanding that employees separate their personal and professional lives. Teens are having to be a lot more careful of what they post online because it could seriously affect the way they are looked at in a professional stance. Matt Zasso, a senior at Granite Bay High School, currently works at Johnson Ranch and said that although he doesn’t post anything provocative, “if (his) social media was being viewed by (his) employer or anyone in management, then (he) would be much more cautious of what (he) posted.” As students prepare themselves for college and the career that lies ahead, a barrier forms between work and play. “I would take [applying to colleges] really seriously just because people can easily look (at) what you have online,” said Elizabeth Sciascia, a GBHS senior. “What you post online can tell a lot about who you are.” Colleges and businesses overlooking applications often scan the applicant’s social media posts to learn more about the potential employee or student. “What people post online is open for everyone to see,” Sciascia said. “So if you’re a rude person, you (might) post things that reflect that and (employers/ colleges) will be able to see.” Many teachers on campus are also interactive on social media. Just as it can be used to stay connected with family and friends, it can also be used to stay connected with students. “Sometimes it is nice to know what is going on in a kid’s life outside of school,” said Kay Bacharach, who teaches College Preparatory English 9 and 11. “But many times I don’t like to know those things.” Although teachers may enjoy keeping in touch with their students, there is a fine line between their status as a teacher and their status as a friend. “When you’re (social media) friends

What people post online is open for everyone to see. So if you’re a rude person, you (might) post things that reflect that and (employers/ colleges) will be able to see. – Elizabeth Sciascia, GBHS senior

with students, in my opinion, I think it’s important to have a line there,” said Kyle Holmes, who teaches Intermediate and Beginning Drama and Sports Journalism. “Not because I have anything to hide, but because I need to have that personal barrier.” Social media can be used for more than just keeping up with one another. It can reflect an individual’s personality, outside of the office. Holmes described an incident within his first year of teaching here at GBHS. He said a fake Facebook profile was made under his name with many of his students being friended to the account. After a serious talk with all of his classes, the account was deleted. “I had no control over what (they said) or what image (they) were presenting that reflected on me,” Holmes said. In addition to friending students online, teachers often interact with their coworkers via social media. “When I’m friends with colleagues, I like to see a different side of them besides their work lives,” Bacharach said. “Social media doesn’t really affect my job.” Although it may be okay to interact with coworkers outside of the office, it only takes one post, one tweet, or one picture to put your job in jeopardy. “I think there needs to be (a) line there that says ‘This is my work and this is my personal life,’” Holmes said. “And that goes beyond just teaching.”

Gazette photo/CARISSA LEWIS

Applicants have to be careful with their words when applying to either colleges or jobs.

Gazette photo/CARISSA LEWIS

Online reputation is often put above ambitions for employment. Businesses take a look at both aplications and online media.

Sports

Granite Bay Gazette

C1 Section

Friday w September 18, 2015

COMMENTARY

cole kahmann ckahmann.gazette@gmail.com

Taking hard classes and playing a sport can be a difficult balance

ports and school are not easy to juggle, especially if you set yourself high academic goals. My freshman year I tried out for the basketball team at GBHS and made it. I was excited and ready to start the season. As the season began I enjoyed the team and did fine on my school work. But as a freshmen I had an easy schedule where I could handle the sports and school together. As my basketball schedule transformed from workouts and practices to the preseason, where things picked up for league, school and sports got a lot harder to balance. We started having practice games in Stockton and other far away places that required us to leave our classes early so we could make it to the games in time. It seemed like basketball started to take over everything else. Despite maintaining my goal of straight A’s, I began to feel like I was giving school whatever time was left after basketball practices, weight training, As my games basketball and travel time. I schedule knew transformed the varsity level would from workouts require even more and practices weight to preseason, training and also where things an athletic picked up for PE class, leaving less league, school time for high-level and sports got classes. I a lot harder to wanted to compete balance. in basketball on a high level and also compete with the kids at the top of my class academically. But even if I was efficient with my time I still would not be able to study as much as I wanted to in order to reach the understanding of the material that I sought. Eventually I made the decision to not try out for the basketball team my sophomore year. Personally I felt that focusing on academics was a wiser move for me, so I went down that path and continued to take difficult courses that made me a better student. I realized that I wanted to compete academically more than I did athletically. It’s common sense that the more you work out, practice and play in games and tournaments the better the athlete you will be. The same principles apply to academics. While I miss playing on the team with all my friends, I now realize that being able to take more diverse and difficult classes challenges me and helps me learn more about myself. There are only so many things we can put our time and energy into and our priorities help determine who we become. ** Cole Kahmann a junior, is a Gazette sports editor.

Fan of the month

Grizz Quiz

For the record

The Tribe greets the varisty football team before the first home game of the season against Jesuit High School

Gazette photo /MADELINE WILLIAMS

New Tribe Leaders

GBHS introduces new chiefs to lead student section at games

BY MAGGIE BELL

mbell.gazette@gmail.com

orn in 2009, the Tribe has evolved over the last six years to become a centerpiece of Granite Bay High School’s athletic identity. As the 2015 school year begins, three new leaders begin the process of cultivating the Tribe into the best cheering section possible. However, in order for the concept to come to life, the leadership of the fan section must be both dedicated and enthusiastic. “I look for kids who are outgoing, who have character and are kind of supported by the student body,” Athletic Director Tim Healy said. “Kids who are looked at as being genuine,” Seniors Joey Scotti, Jack Willing, and Charlie Tooley are the new GBHS leaders

for the 2015-16 school year. These select seniors inherited the student section after the previous Tribe leader, Brett Munkdale, approached them at the end of last school year. According to both Healy and the new chiefs of the Tribe, the selection process was quite informal and mostly left to the decision of the students. Although possessing final say over whom is picked for the position, the Ath-

GBHS athlete suffered from a mystery illness Scotty Henrichs forced to spend some time in the hospital BY JENNY TARBELL

jtarbell.gazette@gmail.com

One year ago, threesport athlete Scotty Henrichs could have never predicted the nightmare that was to come. In December last year, Henrichs came home from a basketball tournament with flu-like symptoms, progressively feeling worse and losing energy. After several weeks, the symptoms were worsening. “He would come home from baseball practice and just sleep,” said his mother, Laura Stannard. “We couldn’t move him off the couch and he wouldn’t get up until the next morning.”

Scotty Henrichs returns to the field in time to play in the first game of the season against Jesuit High School

letic Director claims to have limited involvement in the selection. Healy said he prefers the process to stay as organic as possible and reflect the students wants, rather than adult’s and administration’s who are supervising on campus. With a new found authority over the Tribe, the leaders also obtain the responsibility to make the student section just that– a section for all students to feel welcomed into. With such a variety of personalities within the student body to cater to, it is essential that the leaders don’t become overly narcissistic or complacent in their roles. However, all three Tribe leaders were adamant about serving a greater cause than themselves. “We want to make a difference within the community,” senior Tribe leader Joey Scotti said. Fellow senior Tribe leader Charlie Tooley agreed with Scotti’s perspective and is most concerned with contributing to a cause that he has enjoyed over his high school career for the benefit of others.

“I wanted to be a Tribe leader because I felt it would be great way to give back to our school and put in the work for what being a Tribe leader consists of and it’s really fun,” Tooley said. Willing concurred with the other Tribe leaders but also acknowledged the athletes as a reason to lead with hopes give them positive environments to play in. “We wanted to increase the atmosphere of our students and our student section,” senior Tribe leader Jack Willing said. As a fan section, besides student enjoyment, the purpose of the Tribe is to cheer on GBHS athletes and help to provide a home field advantage. All varsity athletes at GBHS, the 2015 Tribe leaders understand the cruciality of having a support system to rally a team during a game. Scotti, captain of the boys’ varsity soccer team said for him personally, it makes a tremendous impact to have classmates out supporting him during his games. “When you have 30 or 40 fans (typical of a GBHS soccer game), even up to See TRIBE, page C3

GBHS welcomes Jeffrey Evans

With a new football coach comes a new culture to the program BY COLE KAHMANN

ckahmann.gazette@gmail.com Special to the Gazette /SCOTTY HENRICHS

tial testing, it turned out After several visits to the Henrichs was cancer free, doctor, the only but medical personnel still diagnosis they could held him for about a week muster was pneumonia before they were sure. and sinus infections. Yet, “I was in the cancer after lots of antibiotics and ward and I was there for attempted treatment, noth- four or five days because ing would work. Instead, they thought I had cancer,” Henrichs continued to feel Henrichs said. “That was worse. terrible because I was with It wasn’t until the end of all the little kids, that was April after a the worst part.” chest X-ray that they got So after multiple tests an answer. and procedures, and still “The doctor called me unsure what Henrichs while I was teaching and had contracted, doctors said I need to go home, get decided it might be an Scotty, and we were going infectious disease. He was to be admitted to the sixth- then moved to a quarantine floor cancer ward of Sutter room and tested more until Memorial they came to a consensus Hospital, as he has lymthat it was not infectious. phoma” said Stannard. Fortnately, See HENRICHS , page C4 after substan-

As one of the largest teams with the largest fanbase, football is the most influential sport on campus and in the Granite Bay community. The new head of the program, Jeffrey Evans, is seeking to use the influence the football program currently has to create a positive impact on the school and its supporters. “We’ve long believed that football and sports are some things that can help create the culture at the school, especially [with football] being the first thing that happens right when school starts” Evans said. “A good football season can get a good vibe around the school, and we just want our guys to be leaders of the community.”

Soccer Field Players express concern over the condition of the field due to the drought

De La Salle GBHS football team prepares to play one of the top teams in the country

As a focal point of the community and of the school, the varsity football team is in a position to bring both together over the course of the season. “We don’t want to change the culture and the things that have been done, we want to re-establish the fact that we are all members of the Granite Bay community,” Evans said. “We want to try to give everybody in the town something to be proud of and we want to get the students back out to the games in droves.” Evans feels that community and school involvement starts with a strong season opener and by making players into school and community leaders. By establishing ‘Junior Grizzly Player of the

Week’ as a sort of community outreach program, younger football players, from elementary school to middle school, will be chosen by their teammates, and will have the opportunity to be recognized during halftime at the varsity football games. Along with community outreach, Evans said they are trying to spread an allwelcoming culture among the administration and teachers at the school. “Each week our players will come up with a staff member that has been really important or influential to them and we will (introduce) them (during halftime),” Evans said. At the first home game of the season, Principal Jennifer Leighton introduced the See FOOTBALL, page C4

Fall Sports Preview GBHS fall sports teams prepare for their upcoming seasons

Friday, September 18, 2015 w The Granite Bay Gazette

Sports C2

GBHS football ready to ‘stand tall’ against De La Salle High School Grizzlies preparing to take on foe, one of the best high school football programs in the nation this October Sean Vajanaphanich Sean Vajanaphanich, a senior at Granite Bay High School, is a co-captain of the varisty football team this season.

BY MATT ONTIVEROS

montiveros.gazette@gmail.com

Granite Bay football will be facing a new challenge this year - playing one of the top ranked teams in the nation. On October 2 De La Salle will be traveling to Granite Bay for GBHS’s fifth game of the season. With over 400 wins, 6 state championships, and 20 undefeated seasons in the school’s history, the Spartans have a pedigree of success. De La Salle was ranked number one in the country at the beginning of August. A loss against a Texas team on August 29th dropped the team in ranking. GBHS started off the season with a strong win against the Jesuit Marauders. The Grizzlies dominated with a 21-0 lead until Jesuit scored seven points with a few minutes left in the game. This season is the first year of GBHS head coach Jeff Evans, who has replaced retired coach Ernie Cooper. “It is such an honor to be leading this program,” Evans said. “The name Granite Bay carries with it a level of prestige and respect throughout the entire state due to all of the wonderful programs and the success the school has had across the board, not just football.” “Even though we lost Coach Cooper to retirement and a lot of key senior players last year I think we’ll have a successful team this year.” GBHS senior Sean Va-

janaphanich said. The football program is also introducing several other new assistant coaches that aren’t teachers or staff at GBHS. “A lot of guys are stepping up and we’ve all bought into the coaching staff,” Vajanaphanich said. “I think we’ll surprise a lot of people this year.” “This year we are a very tight and connected group and we trust one another.” GBHS senior Ryan MacIntosh said. Both Vajanaphanich and MacIntosh are captains on the football team. The sport of football naturally brings with it risk of injury throughout the long season. “The majority of our players do not play offense and defense,” Evans said. “(Playing) one side of the ball has been advantageous to us over the years because our guys are less worn down at the end of the season.” However GBHS football received a setback on September 4th when starting

quarterback Brad Fina broke his collarbone against Cosumnes Oaks. Getting the support of Granite Bay fans will ultimately be essential for success against De La Salle. “Let’s get all of the Granite Bay community together as one and see if we (can) just prove some people wrong,” Evans said. Vajanaphanich sees the presence of the community as part of the team’s defensive strategy. “When the Tribe’s out there it’s harder for the opposing offense to execute their plays because of the noise,” Vajanaphanich said. “The Tribe definitely motivates us to play harder because there’s no better feeling than making a play and Let’s get all of the having the tribe go off right after.” Granite Bay com“A big audience gets munity together me and the rest of the as one and see team pumped up,” MacIntosh said. “Hearif we (can) just ing everyone cheer is prove some people an amazing feeling the makes me play even wrong. harder.” The time GBHS – Jeff Evans, varsity head football players have been putting in is paycoach ing off. “We have great kids

Gazette illustration /TROY PAWLAK

that are working very hard to give you all a product to be proud of,” Evans said. “As a whole, we are greater than the sum of our parts.” GBHS has a history of not succumbing to higher ranked teams as well. In 2012, the Grizzlies pulled out a 21-20 win over heavily favored Long Beach Poly to win the Division 1 State Championship. However, De La Salle will not be the only challenging game this year.

GBHS football will be matching up against Vacaville, Oak Ridge, and Folsom, among other challenging football teams. “Right now I’m just taking things one week at a time,” Vajanaphanich said. “Our mindset as a team is to go 1-0 every single week and take every game seriously no matter who the opponent is.” GBHS has won both games it has played so far, and will have a bye the week of September 11th. The Grizzlies’ next game will be against Vacaville on September 18th. “I am confident that if we continue to work hard and stay as (a) unit for the entire season, we can achieve our goals,” MacIntosh said. “It is truly an honor to play Grizzly

Senior soccer player strives for greatness Jordan Holt invited to the Nike National Training Camp in OR BY SURINA KHURANA

skhurana.gazette@gmail.com

Growing up, many young athletes have dreams of playing their sport on the biggest stage. Contrary to most, senior Jordan Holt is working to make that dream a reality. “I told my dad when I was in fourth grade that I wanted to be on the U.S. [Women’s] National [Soccer] Team,” Holt said. “Suddenly it became a real goal of mine and I’m doing everything I can right now to make it possible.” Holt spent part of her summer at the Nike National Soccer Training Camp, an extremely exclusive camp held at the Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. The select few that are invited to the camp are all Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) players. ECNL is a premier league that Holt is part of through her club, San Juan Soccer Club. Throughout the nation, only about seventy ECNL clubs exist.

Only a hundred players were chosen to attend the national camp, making it extremely difficult to earn a spot. “You can get invited to the camp through ECNL showcases and through the ECNL Player Development Program,” Holt said. The Player Development Program is another filter the national camps use to pick out the top players. Michelle Mulrooney has been Holt’s teammate for four years at San Juan Soccer Club. “Only a select few players from each region in the nation are selected to attend this camp,” Mulrooney said. “The players are trained by some of the best coaches in the nation and U.S. National Team scouts are present. It’s an opportunity to showcase your talent and a chance to be recruited onto the U.S. National Team.” Tony Perez, Holt’s coach at San Juan Soccer Club believes Holt deserved this recognition. “There are many, many outstanding soccer players that have never been invited,” Perez said. “But

(Holt) was (invited). It’s because of her commitment to learn and her commitment to get better every day.” Mulrooney believes the training camp was a great experience for Holt. “It is beneficial because it gives the player an opportunity to compete against the best players in the nation,” Mulrooney said. “You only become better when you play against the best.” Perez said that the camp truly pushes players to the next level of the game. “There’s not a moment that you can let your guard down,” Perez said. “It helps the young ladies understand that this is the next level. It’s faster, it’s quicker, it’s tougher.” While playing at such a high level, the girls received valuable coaching and feedback from the coaches there. “There were some really highly respected coaches there who have a lot of connections to the national program,” Holt said. “It was awesome to be able to get their perspective on the game and play under their different coaching styles.” Holt played on Granite Bay High School’s varsity soccer team her

Fan of the Month Dedicated student shows support for GBHS athletics teams BY MEAGAN TALLMAN

mtallman.gazette@gmail.com

The Tribe has become a signature staple at Granite Bay High School sporting events, drawing tons of students to come out and support their teams. Senior Sean Boyle has enjoyed the benefits of the tribe both on the field and off. He first joined the tribe during football season of his freshman year, and since then it has been apart of many of his favorite high school memories. “I love getting out there just turning up with my friends at the game and going crazy,” said Boyle. He tries to attend all football games, both home and away so that he can support all of his friends and his school. Though he always enjoyed participating in the Tribe, Boyle realized during his sophomore year how fun the tribe really was. “It was a basketball game against Rocklin that was really intense and both student sections were packed,” Boyle said. “During halftime they played Original Don and the entire Tribe stormed the court.” As a member of the varsity basketball team, Boyle knows that the support from fans is extremely beneficial to a team. “When fans come out to support it motivates me to play harder and win the game.” Not only does Boyle enjoy the football

and basketball games, but he makes it a priority to try to and attend as many soccer, volleyball, and baseball games as he can. “My favorite part (about being a fan) is getting all dressed up in Tribe gear, getting into the games and cheering on my friends,” Boyle said. Boyle said he likes to show school spirit by wearing his Tribe gear every Friday. He is thankful for the memories he has created in the GBHS student section and looks forward to making his senior year the best yet. Senior Sean Boyle at the pregame Tribe tailgate before the Jesuit vs. Granite Bay football game on August 28

Gazette photo/MEAGAN TALLMAN

freshman and sophomore years, ran varsity track her junior year and will be graduating in December this year. “Jordan’s strength is that...She’s always willing to learn,” Perez said. “Great players always know that there’s something else to learn.” Holt committed to play soccer for the University of Kentucky in the spring of her sophomore year and will start training there in January, 2016. Holt’s teammates and coaches view her as a role model for other soccer players. “Playing with Jordan has made me a better player,” Mulrooney said. “Her love for the game and work ethic is what has made her so successful.” It is evident that much of the soccer community surrounding Holt view her in the highest regard. “She’s tough but she’s such a composed young lady that you want other players to look up to her,” Perez said. “We, the coaches, are the lucky ones to be able to coach her.” Holt at the Nike World Headquarters during the camp in Beaverton, Oregon on July 30

Special to the Gazette/ALEA HYATT

Your names. Your faces. The Gazette.

Friday, September 18, 2015

Grizz Quiz Compiled by Sabina Mahavni

If you could time travel what year would you go to?

What is your biggest fear?

Describe your personality in one word

What is your favorite show to binge watch

What actor/actress would play you in a movie about your life

w The Granite Bay Gazette

Sports C3

Carlie Mallo Basketball

Melissa Cook Volleyball

1920s

2500

Esperanza Honza Water Polo

Isaiah Lewis Football

2024

400 B.C.

Bella Matthews Water Polo

1787 (The year the Constitution was signed)

Fear of being unknown

Failure

Boring

Bubbly

My dream not

Spiders

coming true

Spiders, Failing life, Randomly peeing

Imperishable

Nice

“Grey’s Anatomy”

“Orange is the New Black”

“Vampire Diaries”

“Orange is the New Black”

Emma Watson

Hayden Panettiere

Either Selena Gomez or Nina Dobrev

Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson

Awesome

“Game of Thrones” and “Smallville”

Nina Dobrev

Freshman steps up in girls’ volleyball BY ISABELLA TKACHUK

itkachuk.gazette@gmail.com

Grace Ehnen Ehnen looks to have a positive mindset and help encourage her team this season.

Most people dream of being the best, while others go out and make it happen. Grace Ehnen, one of only two freshmen on the Granite Bay High School junior varsity volleyball team, seems to know what she and her team have to do to not only be successful but also the best. Ehnen began playing volleyball in fourth grade. After constantly playing at recess, she started to develop a passion for it. “I (used to) play basketball and soccer (…) but all of my friends were starting to play (volleyball), so I decided to try it,” Ehnen said. Currently Ehnen plays as a setter, but she will also be hitting opposites. “There are three setters on the team and only one opposite,” said Ehnen.

She can play and excel in both areas. This being her first year playing high school volleyball, Ehnen was nervous about being one of the only freshman on the team, coming in as an inexperienced player at the JV level. It turned out that she really had nothing to worry about. “[The sophomores] were very nice and welcoming,” said Ehnen. “I think that if everyone tries their hardest, we will be able to do pretty well.” Ehnen is confident and prepared for the rest of the season. She knows her responsibilities and how hard she has to work. “Being setter on the court, you always have to give hundred percent (...) and be a leader on the team.” Ehnen said.

Her goals for the team are to stay positive and always be encouraging, especially when they are losing. Ehnen has chosen to play high school volleyball even though she plays for a club team, Synergy Force. “I just thought that (because) I like volleyball, it’s (...) another opportunity to get more touches on the ball and up my game,” Ehnen said. Ehnen wishes to continue her volleyball career throughout high school and into college. She knows that this season isn’t going to be easy, but that isn’t holding her back. The love she has for volleyball shows how much she’s willing to do to continue her successful career. “I just have a passion for the game,” Ehnen said.

TRIBE: New chiefs look to make the tribe more inclusive and unique Continued from C1

of a GBHS soccer game), or even up to football when you have 400-500 people screaming your name, that makes a huge difference,” Scotti said. “It motivates you and gives you a bigger adrenaline rush, so it just gets you playing a lot better.” The Tribe encourages people to attend many of GBHS athletic events including volleyball and soccer so they support a range of athletes and not exclusively the football team. Besides attending an array of sports, a main goal of the leaders this year is to also create diversity within. “We want to get every class involved,” Willing said. “It’s fun being part of something

more than just yourself.” In past years low attendance from underclassmen has been an issue that was due, in part, to intimidation from the older students. This year’s leaders said they are hoping to change this stigma by implementing new ideas into the Tribe. During the home-opener football game against Jesuit, which marked the first big event for the Tribe, the leaders tried to execute some of these strategies by bringing out multiple groups of underclassmen to the front of the fan section and let them cheer for a quarter. The Tribe leaders said they are hoping to continue this welcoming atmosphere and culture of involvement by making every game an ‘event’ to attend.

“We want to make more themed games where people dress up,” Willing said. Recent seasons have averaged one to two themed games total so if this year’s Tribe leaders successfully incorporate these themed games into their regiment, it will be the first one that any of the current student body have attended. The overarching purpose of all this effort being put into the cheering section is to provide a place for GBHS students to have a good time. “Personally, as a senior, some of the best memories I’ve had have been within the Tribe,” Scotti said. “I think that a lot of kids could be missing out if they don’t go, and I think it’s a really great opportunity to make some memories.”

Read to the beat. The Gazette.

Gazette photo /MADELINE WILLIAMS

New tribe leader Jack Willing pumps up the crowd for the Grizzies’ first home game of the season against the Jesuit Marauders

Sports C4

Friday, September 18, 2015

w The Granite Bay Gazette

New track installed for upcoming seasons GBHS puts in a new surface for athletics BY SAVANNA THOMPSON sthompson.gazette@gmail.com

Although the school track fostered many athletes to success this past season, it demanded some attention of its own. Preparation for a new track began over a year ago as the decision to renovate had to be approved by various departments at the district level. Once the school district approved the project, it went to the school board, and committees appropriated the amount the track should cost before the job went out for bid. Any job over $15,000 has to go out for bid to various companies across the country. The job ultimately cost $164,910 but was considered deferred maintenance – after a certain period of time, facilities have to be replaced to secure safety. The track was last resurfaced 12 years ago. At the district level, the facilities department coordinates which company will do the project, when it will be done and how. “The track was an inconvenience to replace, I wouldn’t call it a problem,” assistant principal Pat McNulty said, who oversaw much of the process.

“Because it was done during the summer time, it had the least amount of impact on school time.” Junior track athlete Phoebe Zeiss said the deterioration of the track was evident in its appearance and effect on athletes. Parts of the track were covered in graffiti and the hard surface led to ailments and aches. Before it was replaced, the track was especially torn up by the inside lanes and in the high jump area. “The tears (on the surface) made the takeoff awkward,” senior Maya Murphy-Cook said, who will be competing in her 13th season of track this year. Although Murphy-Cook prefers racing on a thin fast track, she said that the softer surface is ideal for practices. “The softer, thicker surface (...) will cause fewer shin splints,” Murphy-Cook said. Her teammate, Zeiss, also said the new track will prevent common track injuries like shin splints or runner’s knee. “(It will) make track races and workouts more enjoyable,” Zeiss said. “It may make the track a little bit slower while it retains its elasticity,” McNulty said, who regarded this as a small issue. With the thicker surface comes slower race times, but this complication will affect athletes from GBHS and other schools alike. Not only will the new track benefit athletes but also

students and the community as well. The new surface provides extra cushion on the joints for people while they exercise. “It looks marvelous so that’s going to get more interest, making the track something everyone will enjoy,” McNulty said, who also predicts the track will reduce injuries caused from running too close to the edges. Pat Esposito has witnessed numerous students injure themselves during PE classes over the years as a GBHS teacher. “You had to run inside the white lines (on the old track) because otherwise you risked a sprained ankle,” Esposito said. “After years of pounding, the track wears down and doesn’t give as much, but now this one is cushiony”. Running on a hard surfaces is a primary cause of overuse injuries in track athletes. In addition to a new track, the football “G” of twelve years was replaced by the football parents’ boosters club. Valued at approximately 10,000 dollars, the new “G” will remedy the uneven surface in the center of the field and will be more visually appealing to spectators. “I think the new “G” shows how much support we get from the school,” senior football captain Sean Vajanaphanich said. “It motivates us to justify their support.”

Soccer field maintenance concerns players Conditions cause safety issues for athletes BY JORDAN HOLT

jholt.gazette@gmail.com

As the Granite Bay High School boys’ soccer season kicks off, one can’t help but notice how green the grass is in this drought. Another observation one might make is how drastically improved the field was from the 2015 girls’ soccer season. Members of the GBHS girls’ varsity soccer team were not very pleased with the condition of the field when the spring came around last year. Junior Gemma Rizzuto said she was disappointed in the quality of the grass last spring when she played on the varsity soccer team but has high hopes that the field will be maintained through the spring this year. “There were random patches of grass. I’m so jealous of the field right now because there aren’t holes everywhere,” Rizzuto said. “We just want the fields to be kept in good condition for both seasons, not just the boys’.” Despite the poor maintenance of the field during the spring, GBHS is making efforts to avoid another such season. New Assistant Principal Jessup McGregor is working to keep the soccer facility in shape to ensure the field doesn’t die again and get too rough to play on. “I want our kids to have the opportunity to play quality sports,” McGregor said. “We have lots of really strange water restrictions coming through the system right now, and were just recently permitted to water the soccer field more than we’ve been able to in the past.” Unfortunately, the lack of rain in the winter didn’t help the field to be maintained naturally. The amount of water it was given through the sprinklers wasn’t enough to save it for the season. Girls’ varsity soccer Coach Mark Broers is now in the process of ensuring the field

stays in decent condition for his season in the spring. “I am in close contact with the District Office as they work to keep it alive and in good condition during the drought,” Broers said. “When the rain didn’t come, the grass didn’t fill in like it normally would and we were left with a dry patchy pitch unsuitable for high level play.” Broers said he was concerned not only about the quality of soccer being brought down by the grass but also for the safety of his players. Unfortunately for the players, the District Office wasn’t able to predict the severity of the drought. The amount of water the district was able to use reduced to thirty-six percent during the girls’ 2015 season. Now the field is returning to it’s normal status and being watered five days a week. As her final season approaches, GBHS senior Emma Darragh said she is looking forward to playing on a better surface than what last year had to offer. “We were basically playing on dirt (last year),” said Darragh. “The turf would have been better to play on (last year) because the ball would’ve moved a lot faster and we would’ve had a bigger advantage over the patchiness.” One of the most disappointing aspects for the players about the uneven surface was that the girls team at GBHS was never privileged with the “home field advantage.” Rizzuto said she remembers other schools coming to GBHS and criticizing the beat up surface. “(Other teams) would show up to our school and just say ‘So much for home field advantage’ just because our field was so bad,” Rizzuto said. The field only got more difficult to play on as the girls’ got deeper into the 2015 season. When the time came around for playoffs, the field’s condition was worsening. Although the field was a burden, the girls’ varsity team persevered through league

Henrichs was then sent home and yet again, he progressively got worse until he was readmitted. This time, he had to undergo major surgery. “They had to go in through his back, tear apart the muscles in his back, rip open his rib cage and retrieve two 1- inch pieces of his lung,” Stannard said. “Most lungs are pink – his were mustard in color.” After seven total operations and two major surgeries, doctors finally had an idea of what plagued Henrichs. “The exact (diagnosis) is still unclear as his rheumatologist thinks he has Lupus and his pulmonologist thinks he has IGG-4,” Stannard said. “They have both agreed to disagree,” Lupus and IGG-4 are lung disease auto-immune disorders, meaning Henrichs’ immune system mistakes its own tissue as foreign and tries to fight it off, which can lead to damaged organs or even organ failure. Henrichs’ struggle affected the entire community as it was very apparent he was fighting for his life. “He looked awful and felt worse,” said Granite Bay High School varsity football coach Jeff Evans. “It was tough to see him in that condition because we are used to seeing him as such a vibrant and elite athlete, one of the few three-sport athletes we have at Granite Bay.” Henrichs’ appearance reflected his battle. “We left the hospital the day before school got out and he was 152 pounds,” Stannard said. “He looked like a skeleton. He had lost 40 pounds in this five-month nightmare.” Many of Henrichs’ classmates, teammates, coaches and, of course, members of his family were all praying for his health. “I truly believe Scotty was able to get better because he knew how many people were pulling for him,” Stannard said. “Words can not express how grateful and appreciative we all are for our friends and family.” His family kept the community updated through emails that were forwarded to a wide number of supporters. “Scotty’s family and his own attitude made a lot of us

FOOTBALL: Team looks to embrace community Continued from page C1

Gazette photo /ISABELLA TKACHUK

GBHS soccer players Alex Rocha and Joey Scotti high-five during a recent league game at home against Rio Americano in which the team tied 1-1.

play and came out on top, also reaching the quarterfinals of playoffs before losing to Franklin. This run at the section title somewhat mirrors another situation on the soccer field, but on a much larger scale. Over the summer, the U.S. women’s national soccer team rose to the best of the best by winning the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Vancouver, Canada. The tournament was an obvious success for the U.S. women, but fields conditions were a major controversy leading into the matches. For some reason, the women had to play on artificial turf rather than the natural, well-maintained grass both genders typically receive for such an event. In the world of soccer, this was seen as an utter sign of disrespect towards female athletes. “I think players may boycott in the future if FIFA attempts to host another World Cup on artificial surface,” Broers said. “It shouldn’t happen again.” GBHS female soccer players were feeling the same sense of inequality. After playing on a rough surface all last spring, the girls

were confused to see the field recovering as the school prepped for boys’ season. “(The District Office) limited our watering days when the grass was already dead,” Darragh said. The combination of bad timing and unfortunate circumstances left the girls’ teams short handed last year, but this season will be the last that the school has to maintain the field year round. With the season changes in high school soccer, the field will only need to be a priority in the winter. For the 2016-2017 school year, girls and boys will be in the same season so the San Joaquin section gets on the same schedule as most of the state high school seasons. As the GBHS Administration works alongside the District Office, the girls’ soccer teams can only hope the green grass follows through for the final spring season. Reports of an El Niño winter are promising more rain than in the last few years as California as a whole can begin recovering from the drought. “It’s Granite Bay,” McGregor said. “We want to be the best and have the best facilities, the best culture and the best class.”

HENRICHS: ‘Scotty is the strongest young man that I know’

Continued from page C1

Gazette photo /COLE KAHMANN

New track causes athletes to be excited for the use of the safer and better looking surface

around him that were struggling to deal (with his illness), a lot more able to do so,” Evans said. Henrichs’ struggles were especially difficult for his family. “I got through it because of, and with, my husband,” Stannard said. “He was just as scared watching his (stepson) go through this, but he was our rock.” Evans said Henrichs himself showed extreme courage throughout the whole process, “When somebody possesses that sort of heart and courage, you cannot replace that,” Evans said. “Scotty is everything we want our football players to be.” The community showed incredible support to their family, sending cards, baked goods and otherwise helping the family move forward in a difficult time. Fortunately, Henrichs has been able to battle this disease and has recovered enough to play sports – he’s on the football team this fall – and be an active participant in his senior year of high school. “Scotty is the strongest young man that I know,” Evans said. Henrichs’ outlook on life is one that can only be understood by someone who went through a life-threatening experience. “I’ve definitely changed,” Henrichs said. “Before, when you go to practice and it’s 115 degrees, everyone hates that and nobody wants to be there. But after (being sick), you appreciate going, it doesn’t matter if it’s 130 degrees or you have to be there for five hours, you just look forward to being there every day and being with your friends. It doesn’t matter if you win or lose.” His struggle has affected his friends and classmates as well. “His experience has helped me deal with my seasonending injury, because even though I’m missing my senior year, I’m blessed to not have had to endure the adverse circumstance he was thrown into,” said senior football player Reed Homen, who tore his meniscus in August. “It puts everything into perspective.” Evans and others are thrilled that Henrichs is back in the Grizzly fold.

“We are ecstatic that he is healthy enough to be an active member of Granite Bay High School,” Evans said. “We are completely stunned and thankful that he is healthy enough to play sports.” Henrichs is a starting receiver and the starting kicker for the football team and is trying to prove himself every day. He is a leader of the team and, according to Evans and others, he represents the heart and value of what it means to be a member of the Grizzly football program, and a GBHS student. Henrichs has returned nearly to full health, but will have to monitor this disorder, possibly for the rest of his life. Still, the fact that he’s back on the field at all – and looking forward to playing basketball this winter and baseball in the spring – has been wonderful news to his family, friends, teammates and the entire community. “It is because of his age, attitude and perseverance that he has been able to recover so well and quickly,” Stannard said.

Special to the Gazette /SCOTTY HENRICHS

Senior wide receiver Scotty Henrichs makes a catch and breaks a tackle during a scrimmage

teacher of the week, Kay Bacharach, and recognized the positive impact she has had on her students. Evans also set up a family area in the back corner of the end zone, by ‘The Tribe’ student section, to encourage the staff and their families to come out to the games and support the students in the football program. “Win or lose it is a great experience to be out there [with] the community,” Evans said. “We are reaching out and letting everybody know that football doesn’t think we are bigger than [everything] else, we are part of a bigger culture here and we want to do our part.” By holding players to a higher standard, Evans hopes to create good, solid decision-makers while avoiding ineligibility or behavioral issues, such as cutting class or getting into trouble at school or anywhere off the field. Junior Isaiah Lewis recognizes the fact that players are role models and leaders on campus. “Every move, good or bad, is heard and the team knows it so everyone is making sure to make the right decisions,” Lewis said. Junior Steve Trythall also stressed the importance of being a role model on the GBHS campus. “It is important we act with integrity and show respect to those around us,” said Trythall. “Coach Evans always reminds us and sets a great example [for us] through his everyday actions.” After all of the work players put in as student-athletes throughout the week, they are rewarded by the game-day atmosphere. “Our guys feed off of the energy of the crowd and of the community at the school, and game days at school are fun, they’re exciting and there’s just a big build up,” Evans said. “It’s a special feeling preparing for a game – you have to wait all week, you have to practice really hard and then you only get a couple of hours on one night to go prove what you have.” More importantly, Evans wants players to value the experience and cherish the climax of the work they have put into their sport throughout the years. “[Football] creates great memories, and we want our guys to look back and say that they did everything they could to be a part of a greater community,” Evans said. “We as coaches believe that because we’ve felt that and we’ve lived that, so we’re trying to pass that on.”

Friday, September 18, 2015 w The Granite Bay Gazette

Sports C5

Green Machine straps up for another season

GBHS fall sports look to succeed this year BY PARKER MATHESON and SAVANNA THOMPSON sthompson.gazette@gmail.com

Varsity football at Granite Bay High finds itself in a position somewhat unfamiliar to past years, as the Grizzlies start the season under new coaching and player leadership. “(Coach Jeff Evans) kinda gave us the ropes on how we wanted to do things this year,” senior defensive lineman Jared Baer said. Senior Kyle Galbaugh said that even workout routines and schedules were changed on the football team’s annual summer Santa Cruz trip. In addition to leadership changes, the Grizzlies are also facing what is arguably the most difficult list of opponents in school history. Their upcoming opponents include two defending state champions – Folsom next Friday night and De La Salle on Oct. 2 – and plenty of other schools with their own share of Sac-Joaquin Section titles. “(Our opponents) may have created a sense of urgency to focus on the now,” offensive line coach Ryan Beidler said. “Expectations are always high when students and coaches put in this much effort.” Baer said that he thinks the schools in the area don’t respect the Grizzlies. Despite this adversity, senior captain Ryan MacIntosh said he has a positive outlook on the season because the team continues the tradition of focusing on technique and chemistry over talent. In addition to the new leadership, the team has had to rely on the play of quarterbacks Kyle Kraft and Steve Trythall, as they lost starting quarterback Brad Fina to injury in its victory over Cosumnes Oaks. With a broken collarbone, Fina will more than likely miss the remainder of the season. “We have people that can step up and fill roles,” Galbaugh said. “Losing one person isn’t going to be our downfall.” As usual, MacIntosh said the team will focus on its annual goal of winning a league and even a section title. “The new coaches are preparing us very well, (and) we are a closer unit,” MacIntosh said. “We are on the same page and have the same mindset.”

Girls’ Tennis Rather than focusing on winning, the girls’ tennis team emphasizes the importance of team camaraderie and seeks to build stronger relationships between players. Senior Abby Rowe said she looks forward to an enjoyable season as the team is already getting along well. Many players worked hard over the summer to improve, and in combination with new players, the team will be a competitive powerhouse. “Del Oro will be the toughest game mentally because they are our biggest rivals,” said Rowe, who added that Oak Ridge also will be stiff competitors this season. The Grizzlies were 7-5 last year in Sierra Foothill League matches and didn’t advance to the postseason – something they hope to remedy this season. Girls’ Volleyball The Grizzlies begin their season by setting individual and collective goals and strategizing about how to compete in their toughest matches. These goals are written on a poster serving as constant motivation for the team to win every home match and to win league for the fourth year in a row. Senior Melissa Cook, outside hitter and middle blocker, said she looks forward to playing her last season of volleyball surrounded by an enthusiastic group of girls. “So far our team chemistry is extremely strong and solid, which will really benefit us,” Cook said. The team is continuing to work hard every day at practice in preparation for its match against Rocklin next Thursday and for its biggest events, Dig Pink and Senior Night. Cross Country Striding toward a successful season, the cross country team wants to incorporate new runners with some of the more experienced athletes to form a cohesive unit. “We gained a lot of really talented freshmen,” said senior captain Nicole Zenzola, who anticipates the team will be strong as result of this combination. Although the section championship races have reputations of being extremely intense and strenuous, the

team’s goal is to qualify for the state meet. “As long as everyone keeps training hard, that goal is something we can reach,” Zenzola said. Boys’ Soccer Ending last season undefeated in league and ranked third in California, the boys’ soccer team is once again on the road to success. Senior midfielder Zac Anderson said the team has a great competitive mentality about the season, and that the seniors hope to continue the legacy left by last year’s team. In addition to having a new roster, the team acquired a new coach, Paul O’Brien, after the retirement of former coach and GBHS teacher Steve Fisher. O’Brien appears to be a perfect fit for the team as he gets along well with the players. “He is one of the best coaches in the area, and he will lead us to victory,” Anderson said. The team wants to win league, win sections and beat Jesuit if given the opportunity to play them. Girls’ Water Polo With high expectations for the season, seniors Megan Plank and Nina Jones said they seek to rise above their competition this year and lead their team to victory. The team hopes to achieve its goals of winning league and competing in the section semifinals by defeating Del Oro and Saint Francis, key opponents last year.. “We’ll look toward the rest of our seniors, juniors and sophomores to help us win,” junior Madeline Pautsch said. Girls’ Golf Young talent seems to be the overwhelming key to success for girls’ golf this year. On a team with only two returning athletes, the certainty of victory seems more in question then ever before. According to senior Chisay Arai, however, with new young talent on the Grizzly roster comes lots of playing experience. “Our goal is to make it to state or at least past masters,” Arai said. “This has never been achieved by a Gazette photo/ MADELINE WILLIAMS girls’ golf team in school history.” Sean Vajanaphanich celebrates an inStrong teams with a large number of returning golfcrease in the lead against Jesuit ers, such as Oak Ridge, seem to be the largest obstacle in the team’s route to victory.

GBHS receives new team leadership

Jeff Evans Evans is replacing retired coach Ernie Cooper this year.

Coaching staff aims to continue the success of GBHS sports teams As we are enter the fall, the Granite Bay community prepares to cheer on the high school sports. This year there will be a few new faces leading our teams. New Granite Bay High School head football coach Jeff Evans is no stranger to the GBHS football sidelines. He has served as the assistant offensive coordinator for nine years. “It’s a lot more behind the scenes work,” Evans said. “I have more responsibility when it comes to the varsity team, as well as with the junior varsity and freshman teams.” With GBHS football always receiving high regards, Evans is putting value in making sure he and the team fit into the

mold of the program set up by former head coach Ernie Cooper. Cooper, who was the head varsity football coach at GBHS since 1996 when the school opened, leaves behind an incredible record of one hundred-and-sixty-four wins, forty-seven losses and one tie. “We need to make sure our guys play Granite Bay football the right way,” Evans said. “Wins will take care of themselves, but we need to make sure our guys are acting the right way, both on and off the field.” Junior Isaiah Lewis is in agreement with his coach. “We are focusing on our mental game,” said Lewis. “Not only do we need to play smart, but as a team it’s important for us to have a good dynamic that will result in good football.” For Cameron Lawson, the team dy-

namic hasn’t drastically changed from last year. Lawson said there haven’t been any significant changes to the program, but the team is more energetic and making more effort plays. Evans said his favorite part of the job is getting to work with the players. “It’s a time where you can still make a difference in someone’s life.” Evans said. Evans is looking to lead the varsity team in a positive direction as football players, students and as young men. Another new leader for grizzly athletics is boys’ varsity head soccer Coach Paul O’Brien. O’Brien came to GBHS with a long list of credentials including coaching positions with the San Jose Earthquakes and sixteen years with Placer United, a local competitive soccer club.

Volleyball players go national GBHS seniors take their skills to the next level by competing over the summer BY ALI LEMOS Alemos.gazette@gmail.com

Many athletes have an off season over the summer but for seniors Brigid Bell and Emily DeMure the competition only escalated. Only after strenuous tryouts were these two girls able to spend a couple week of their summers playing on high level volleyball teams. Bell played for the NorCal High Performance Beach Volleyball Team and DeMure on the USA Women’s Junior A1 National Training Team. It was Bell’s fifth year playing beach but third time on the NorCal team. She plays both indoor and beach volleyball, but prefers being outside. “I missed (...) being outdoors and being under the sun,” Bell said. “I also like the aspect (of beach) that you coach yourself.” Going back and forth between indoor and outdoor is hard for her. “In indoor when you have twelve on a team (...) you don’t get to play a lot,” Bell said. “I love the part of beach where you get to play all the time.” Over the summer Bell competed in the USA High Performance Championship, with her partner Emma Doud. “We took fifth in bronze,” Bell said. “We competed against the national team.” Bell worked hard to get in this program and has been able to watch it grow.

“I’ve gotten to be a part of it since it started,” Bell said. She said she loves that she gets to watch as people and the field evolve into something even better every year. “It really encourages people to go out and challenges themselves,” Bell said. Enthusiastic about the experience she gained on this high performance team Bell hopes to play for it again next year. “Brigid has not only improved on her skills” Doud said, “But she has also improved mentally about the game.” DeMure felt the same way about her USA team. “It was such a good experience,” DeMure said. Even if it was fast paced, she was still impressed with the program, and not at all deterred from her experience. “(I had) two days of training, three days of practice with my team, and a five day tournament,” DeMure said. With such a quick ‘season’ DeMure was able to learn what she typically would in two weeks, in one day. Playing on the USA Junior National Team has it’s perks, including meeting and playing teams from around the world. “I got to play Canada, Australia and the Dominican Republic,” DeMure said. The experience of meeting and interacting with new cultures is

I got to play Canada, Australia, and the Dominican Republic – Emily DeMure, GBHS Volleyball state champion

rare and this program gave DeMure that opportunity. As such a dedicated and focused player DeMures previous club coach believed she earned her place on the USA Junior National Team. “She’s always open to learning and being a student of the game,” said Rick McNabb, who had the opportunity to coach DeMure during volleyball club season in the spring. McNabb said he is really proud of all that she has done and her dedication to the sport. DeMure has played volleyball since she was six years old but hasn’t always loved the sport. It was only when she was 12 years old that she really began to love it. Both girls play on the Granite Bay Girls Varsity Team and are key aspects in the success of the team. They are both state champions from when Granite Bay won in 2013.

Having played for the local club, many of the GBHS players are familiar with O’Brien’s coaching methods and style, making it a smoother transition from previous Coach Steve Fischer. “I want to keep the tradition of Coach Fischer,” O’Brien said. “He was a legend for GBHS soccer.” As a coach with high level of expertise, O’Brien knew what he was looking for in a high school soccer program. “GBHS is one of the only schools in the area that is nationally recognized,” O’Brien said. Alex Gavia, a senior on the varsity squad, has previously played for O’Brien in the club environment. “(O’Brien) really looks out for the best interest of the team,” Gavia said. Gavia also said he agrees with what O’Brien thinks should be the team’s

main focus on the field. “We are doing a lot more technical work, and really focusing on playing good soccer,” Gavia said. Joey Scotti, the senior team captain, has also worked with O’Brien for many years and was excited to hear he was chosen to take over the program. “(O’Brien) really motivates our team to work harder and to be better,” Scotti said. “He’s done a great job of pushing all the players to a higher level.” Gavia, Scotti, and O’Brien all agreed they want to aim for a league title this season, but specifically want to focus on playing good soccer.

Brigid Bell finds success in volleyball

The sport has helped her find an identity on and off the court BY KASSIDY HENSON khenson.gazette@gmail.com

Starting out her final season of varsity volleyball, Granite Bay High School senior Brigid Bell is clearly committed to the sport she loves. With countless seasons of athletics under her belt, it took her 7 years before she finally discovered her passion. “I tried lacrosse, soccer, and basically everything else under the sun,” Bell said. “But volleyball really appealed to me.” Inspired by beach and indoor teams at the Beijing Olympics, she found her true passion and never looked back. With countless hours spent at practice, Bell also finds time for homework, friends, and putting in extra time at the gym. “At a certain point you have to put in the outside work and effort,” Bell said. As the season continues, the GBHS varsity team spends more time working to develop chemistry among the girls. Bell appreciates the balance of work and play. “We share a lot of laughs both on and off the court,” Bell said. “It’s a less competitive atmosphere compared to club season.” Bell has established many personal goals for the team in her final season including not losing any home games, further establishing team chemistry, and going as far as possible into the postseason. Along with her goal of leading the varsity volleyball team to success, Bell also focuses on her future as a student-athlete. She is very excited about her chances of playing college volleyball. “I’m hoping to play in New York,” Bell said. “Even if that doesn’t work out I’ll either walk

Brigid Bell Volleyball taught Bell how to deal with pressure and competition.

onto a beach team or play club.” With life constantly revolving around setting and spiking, the senior credits volleyball for changing her as a person. She said that she remembers her mentor telling her to create an alter ego when she steps onto the court. “I was pretty shy and quiet growing up but eventually that loud, extroverted alter ego became who I was.” Bell said. Volleyball also taught her how to deal with pressure and competition. Bell’s club team is run on a statistics based system, she said. The best stats determine the starting players, pressuring everyone to perform at their best. Bell said she will continue to find success this season as a co-captain of the varsity team and as a prospective college-athlete chasing her personal dreams.

The Gazette. Good journalism any way you read it. The Gazette. Good journalism any way you read it.

BY MEAGAN TALLMAN mtallman.gazette@gmail.com

Friday, September 18, 2015

w The Granite Bay Gazette

SECOND LOOK

For the Record -As of September 18, 2015

Cross Country: 09/02: @ Del Oro Invite 09/12: @ Lowell Invite 09/16: SFL #1 GBHS @ Willow Hills 09/26: Stanford Invite 09/30: SFL #2 GBHS @ Nevada Union 10/10: Clovis Invite Boys Soccer 08/28: vs Rio Americano 09/01: GBHS @ El Camino 09/03: GBHS @ Whitney 09/09: vs Davis 09/11: GBHS @ Rocklin 09/16: GBHS @ Del Oro 09/18: vs Folsom 09/25: GBHS @ Oakridge 09/30: GBHS @ Nevada Union 10/02: vs Woodcreek 10/07: vs Rocklin 10/09: vs Del Oro 10/14: GBHS @ Folsom 10/16 @ Roseville

Gazette photo /MADELINE WILLIAMS

Gazette photo /ALI LEMOS

Boys Water Polo 09/15: GBHS @ Oakridge 09/22: vs Nevada Union 09/30: vs Woodcreek 10/06: GBHS @ Del Oro 10/13: vs Rocklin Girls Volleyball 09/02: GBHS @ Lincoln of Stockton 09/04: vs Whitney 09/08: GBHS @ Vista Del Lago 09/10: vs St Francis 09/12: GBHS @ Oakridge tournament 09/15: vs Christian Brothers 09/17: GBHS @ Nevada Union 09/22: vs Woodcreek 09/24:GBHS @ Rocklin 09/29: GBHS @ Del Oro 10/01: vs Folsom 10/08: GBHS @ Oakridge 10/10: GBHS @ Oakridge 10/13: vs Nevada Union 10/15: GBHS @ Woodcreek

Gazette photo /MADELINE WILLIAMS

Football 08/28: vs Jesuit (21-7 GBHS) 09/04: @ Consumnes Oaks 09/18: @ Vacaville 09/25: vs Folsom 10/02: vs De La Salle 10/09: vs Oak Ridge 10/16: @ Nevada Union Girls Tennis 09/08: vs Woodcreek 09/10: @ Rocklin 09/15: @ Del Oro 09/24: vs Oakridge 09/29: @ Nevada Union 10/01: @ Woodcreek 10/06: vs Rocklin 10/08: vs Del Oro 10/13: @ Folsom

Gazette photo / MADELINE WILLIAMS

Girls Golf 09/01: @ Del Oro 09/03: vs Folsom 09/10: @ Oak Ridge 09/15: @ Nevada Union 09/17: vs Woodcreek 09/22: @ Rocklin 09/24: vs Del Oro 09/29: @ Folsom 10/06: vs Oak Ridge 10/08: vs Nevada Union 10/13: @ Woodcreek 10/15: vs Rocklin

Gazette photo /ISABELLA TKACHUK

wSenior Claire Raney (top left) prepares for a volley during her doubles match. Varsity football team (top right) huddles before taking the field for a game. Tribe leader Joey Scotti gets pumped up for the varsity football game with senior Ryan MacIntosh. The Tribe celebrates as the Grizzlies pull into the lead. Varsity football players huddle before a play. Junior Kenny LeBeau (bottom left) gets into a tackle with his opponent. Varsity water polo player Nathan Ellinthorpe makes an outlet pass during practice before a game. (bottom right)

Girls Water Polo 09/15: @ Oak Ridge 09/22: vs Nevada Union 09/30: vs Woodcreek 10/06: @ Del Oro 10/13: vs Rocklin

Gazette photo /ISABELLA TKACHUK

Gazette photo /MADELINE WILLIAMS

GS The Gazetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arts and entertainment guide.

September 2015

GREEN SCREEN Summer Flashback to places traveled by GBHS students

PAGES Special to theGazette photo /JENNA LADRECH

12&13

Page 2

September 2015

sneak peek.

Gazette photo/AMANDA PRATHER

Specail to the GazetteMAVERICK KUHN

wSee pages 10&11 for an inside look at summer adventures.

wSee page 17 for the latest Fall Fashion trends.

wSee page 19 to see some of GBHS students’ blogs.

The Ideology of real music doesn’t exist

Music taste should not affect social status

ime and time again –whether I’m at work or school, I consistently hear imperious comments regarding differing tastes in music. The pompous comments seem to derive from those individuals who put themselves on a higher pedestal because they believe their music taste is above all. Recently at work, I was singing along to Taylor Swift’s “Clean,” and in my opinion, that song is one of those perfect late night car ride songs. But my co-worker thought otherwise, and had the audacity to interrupt me during my jam session to show me a playlist he compiled of “real music. ”I was willing to listen, but immediately regretted it because he went on about how his artists were better and more authentic than the artists on my playlist. Oh yes, co-worker, please tell me more about how your music taste is superior to mine because you listen to “real music.” I’ve learned people will say that some music isn't "real music" simply because it does not suit their tastes when in reality, if it's music, it's music. The way music is produced or what it sounds like shouldn’t determine how “good” or “real” it is, because those two factors are based on personal preference, and most people are bound to have dif-

COMMENTARY

epsa sharma esharma.gazette@gmail.com

fering views. The only thing that should dictate the quality of music is it’s ability to elicit reactions from listeners on an emotional level In simple terms, I believe that real music is anything an artist puts passion into, in any genre. But honestly speaking, what truly is real music? I mean, do you want me to play old renaissance music with bagpipes in the background, will that soothe your vying hipster soul? Why go out of your way and pedantically criticize others of their style of music. If

Page 3/4 Music reviews

Guide to Green Screen

Page 5 Hover board Trend Page 6/7 Food reviews Page 8 Farmers Markets

someone wants to jam out to Taylor Swift, One Direction or even country music, don't sit there and rant about how god awful their choice in music is. Why would anyone want to waste their time arguing about an issue that doesn't involve them, or affect them in any way, shape or form. You are entitled to your opinion, so if you don't like country or any other style of music, that’s fine. But why go out of your way to broadcast your dismissive opinions. What good does it do criticizing things that don't affect you. Why does it bother you that certain people like music that attains the reputation of "mainstream." If people like that type of music, let them be. It baffles me that people who don't usually listen to "mainstream/pop" think they can put themselves on a higher pedestal than others. The type of music you listen to should just showcase who you are as a person, in no means should it heighten your “status.” In reality, the opportunity cost of critiquing someone's music taste is probably really high. So obviously you have better things to do than sitting on your butt condemning someone's personal preference of music. Try not being such a negative nancy and allocate your time wisely.

Page 9 Freshman vs. Senior Page 12 Craft fairs Page 13

Social Media Trends/Theme Days

Gazette photo AMANDA PRATHER

Page 10/11 Summer Highlights Page 14/15 Movie Reviews Page 16 GBHS’S Top Tweets Page 17 Fall Fashion and Birkenstock Trend

Upcoming GBHS Events for September & October September 28-October 2 Ripple Effect week

October 1 GBHS Blood Drive October 19-23 Spirit week Page 18 Concerts Page 19 Wordpress Page 20 Raves

September 2015

Page 3

seg, seg and away

Hoverboards take GB for a wild ride A new wave of technology inspires GBHS students BY KASSIDY HENSON

khenson.gazette@gmail.com

he human race has always been fascinated with innovative forms of transportation. It can be seen in futuristic TV shows and movies. Whether it’s the Jetson’s flying car, or the DeLorean time machine from Back to the Future, we clearly have a schema of future transportation. Though a scooter is no time machine or personal jetpack, recent remodels of classic designs are setting the tone for future personalized motor transportation. This remodel of technology has taken the Internet by storm, inevitably drawing Granite Bay residents into new trends. Freshman Jaden Dunmore can be seen riding his Koowheel to and from school everyday, as well as carrying around the 15 pound vehicle throughout the day. “My dad said he found the coolest thing online,” Dunmore said. He then discovered the next day that it was a personal motorized scooter, making his daily walk to school much easier. These self-balancing smart boards are paving the way for innovative transportation. Traveling at a maximum speed of about 10 miles per hour, they are far more efficient than walking. On a full charge they last for about 10 to12 hours. They can roam off-road, but cannot travel over a ledge above a half inch. “My dad bought one for my brother and GBHS freshI. He said if we liked the boards, then we man Jaden could pay them off,” Dunmore said. Dunmore rides Having only spent $800, Dunmore said his hover board across campus. he was surprised that it didn’t cost more. Different brands of these boards can be found all over the internet, ranging in price from $600 to $1,199 depending on the model. With so many companies producing the same product, the question must be asked – who made the original? All forms of the board trace back to Chic Robotics, a technology company based out of China. Their first model of Gazette photo/MADDY WILLIAMS

the scooter, the Smart S1, was debuted in August of 2014. IO Hawk was one of the first companies in the United States to copy the Chic Robotics design. They described it as a revolutionary product in hopes of convincing customers of their innovation and originality. “We ran into some pretty remarkable minds and collaborated to bring technology and innovation to a whole other level,” president of IO Hawk John Soibatian said. Whoever the creator, these boards are becoming one of the most purchased items on the internet. Many companies have this product on backorder due to popular demand. Dunmore allowed a few Gazette staff members to test out his Koowheel upon being interviewed. Nobody could quite get the hang of it, but once they relaxed, it became easier. “It only took me about 20 minutes (to learn),” Dunmore said. Now he can travel at its maximum speed, continuing to push the limits and test the board. The Granite Bay freshman said that he would recommend any style of the board to someone who has to walk long distances. Inconveniences for him regarding the board only include having to carry it around during school. While we can envision businessmen with bluetooths and briefcases hurriedly rolling to business meetings, how convenient is this scooter for everyday people? It is suited for smooth roads and sidewalks, but if there’s rain in the forecast you might as well walk. Any version of the board is battery powered and cannot efficiently function in extreme weather conditions. Similarly to other products that gain popularity in this fashion, the use of these scooters is most likely a trend which will dissolve in time. However do not disregard these devices, as they are just a prototype for the technologies still to come.

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September 2015

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The Weeknd Beauty Behind the Madness

BY KASSIDY HENSON

khenson.gazette@gmail.com

ith the momentum of his past three singles dominating the Billboard Top 100, The Weeknd’s Beauty Behind the Madness was destined for success. The theme of the album revolves around sex, drugs, fame and parties. His song “Can’t Feel My Face” reached #1 on the Billboard Top 100, making it his third Top 10 hit, and first #1 in the United States. Many songs feature slow tempos, steady beats and ambient echos, exhibiting an overall tone of nostalgia and desire. The Canadian born artist developed from a childhood spent listening to Ethiopian music. It is clear that Abel Tesfaye has been influenced by various genres. With infusions of alternative rock, funk, soul, steady trap and R&B, Tesfaye is often thought to resemble the smooth sound of Michael

Jackson, especially on this album which focuses heavily on vocals and lyrics. Nearly every song on Beauty Behind the Madness is labeled explicit, due to Tesfaye’s artistic regard for expression rather than selective censorship. This album focuses on the reality of transitioning from adolescence to adulthood and the unreliability of anyone other than oneself, also highlighting the theme of sexuality; a prevalent tone amongst all genres. Songs like “Can’t Feel My Face,” “Losers,” “The Hills” and “In the Night” are more fast paced, which definitely gives them the ‘dancing with friends’ kind of vibe. “Dark Times” and “Prisoner” feature popular artists Ed Sheeran and Lana Del Rey, broadening the Weeknd’s audience. This was already broadened due to Tesfaye’s work with Ariana Grande this past year, as well as his work on the 50 Shades of Grey

soundtrack. Tesfaye and his producers also worked to make the album as accessible as possible for listeners. Making it available on iTunes, Spotify, SoundCloud, Google Play, and YouTube. One of my favorite songs off of Beauty Behind the Madness” is “In the Night”. The song tells the story of a girl who hides her pain behind a night life of extreme partying. It heavily resembles Michael Jackson, both lyrically and musically. I feel that the album would be best suited for listening to at night or while driving, due to the methodical beats and ominous ambient tones of some of the songs. The listener gets to travel through the emotions of a young adult in a matter of 14 songs, all performed and recorded with audible passion and emotion.

Hopeless Records

 Beauty Behind the Madness was released on Aug 28, 2015.

B+ Skip to:

“The Hills”

Jordin Here Right Now HunterSparks HayesRight Storyline BY SABINA MAHAVNI

Epic Records

Right here Right now came out Aug. 18, 2015.

B+

Skip to : “Work from Home”

smahavni.gazette@gmail.

he album Right Here, Right Now by Jordin Sparks was released on Aug 28 2015. This album includes 14 pop songs. This is Sparks’s third studio album, and it features some very modern music figures such as B.o.B, 2 Chainz and Shaggy. Compared to her previous music, Right Here, Right Now resembles the popular music style of today. However, Sparks doesn’t utilize her vocal range as much, trying to tend to the demand nowadays for a “pop” voice. Because she was season six American Idol winner, I assumed she was going to mimic the vocal range she showcased in her previous album Battlefield. At the age of 16, her American Idol audition blew me away. I knew she would be the one to win. Her powerful voice won her

the competition, making her a huge pop star. She released her second album Battlefield in 2009. I have probably listened to the song Battlefield every day that year. It has a good beat and highlights Sparks’s winning voice. One song on this album, “Double Tap”, featuring 2 Chainz, is just too mainstream for my taste. I like to hear vocal range combined with real instruments and I know Jordan can sing beautifully accompanied by a piano. Plus, any song that includes slang words like “gangsta” in its vocabulary does not appeal to me. Despite its mainstream qualities, the song, Right Here, Right Now is catchy, and the music video is simple and elegant, showing her in a flowy dress in a barren desert. “Work From Home” is a nice, light ballad. Although the lyrics are about as deep as a puddle, the tune has a good rhythm. Still, I would prefer actual musical instruments to

synthesized beats. Overall, I was pretty disappointed when I first heard Right Here Right Now. When I imagine a Jordin Sparks album, I just think about how she dominated the American Idol competition with her stunning personality and crushing vocal range. But I was sad when this album made me realize that she has gone to the dark side of “pop” music. This was the same issue with a young Taylor Swift. Swift’s first few albums were mainly country pop and then switched to pure pop. I’m not too fond with Jordan Sparks mimicing the same tactis as Taylow Swift, but I understand change is needed in the music industry. Every artist has to change it up to appeal to the masses, but I wish her talent could shine through in this album rather than be shaded by meaningless rap and autotune.

Mick Jenkins Waves BY PARKER MATHESON

pmatheson.gazette@gmail.com

ayson “Mick” Jenkins isn’t quite the household name in the rap industry, yet. However, if he continues on his current path and repeatedly produces music such as this EP, he’ll be able to attract listeners from all walks of life. Previously fairly unknown by many rap/hiphop fans, Jenkins first gained attention from his mixtape Water[s] and specifically one of its singles “Martyrs.” Praised by many prominent artists for its advanced lyricism, the mixtape was based around metaphorical comparisons to water. Mick Jenkins continued on this path with this nine track extended play. He even mocks those who criticizes his interest in it in the outro of its first song. “Alchemy” with an apparent quiet period followed by the line “You hear that? haha, that’s how much he cares.” He also continues to acknowledge his lack

of fame in the same track. He continues with the focus on the actual meanings of his lyrics. The second track “Slumber” helps introduce the fear of failing in today’s society, and the need to wake up and have new experiences. Jenkins emphasizes the notion of self-worth in a world where outsiders often seek the presence of failure in order to obtain success. Jenkins continues to discuss real life problems. In the track “40 Below” he contemplates the sudden change in relationship for the worst with no apparent reason. Jenkins keeps his listeners interested by constant changes in tempo. From song to song, instrumentals and his rapping range from slow and relaxing to an upbeat electronic flow that will get most people’s hearts pumping. He employs something somewhat unknown to today’s music. Mick Jenkins often blends one song into the next via instrumentals, keeping listeners from being able to differentiate songs while listening

to the album in order. However, while entertaining, the EP often relies more on choruses at time to carry the musical enjoyment. At times his verses can often seem repetitive as they sometimes cover the same issues as previous songs. It is possible that is the reason this work was limited to a nine-song EP instead of a full album. He even suggests that quality in his music is his goal in the song “P’s and Q’s.” Jenkins seeks to finish his work with a bang in its final tracks. With allusions to the hulk and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Jenkins predicts an ascension to fame. With a another comparison to a monsoon he suggests that his lyricism could overwhelm anyone. If Mick Jenkins continues on this path greater recognition is almost guaranteed, as Wave[s] has already appeared on the hot new music page several times.

Interscope Records.

 Wave[s] was released on Aug. 13, 2015.

A-

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September 2015

tune in.

Dillon Francis This Mixtape is Fire BY SONIA GARCHA

sgarcha.gazette@gmail.com

or all of you out there who are fond of making mixtapes, you may have some competition coming after you. The (somewhat) highly anticipated album, This Mixtape Is Fire, was released on Aug. 14, by none other than Dillon Francis. The Los Angeles native gushed to Billboard about his new album explaining that, “it’s a crazy party EP, so when people put it on, it’s going to be their Friday night mix or something. Now, I may not be the biggest electro fan (waits for laughter), but I certainly feel qualified as a teenager to know a good beat when I hear one. The album starts off with “Bruk Bruk (I Need Your Lovin).” I first felt awkward

because, well, this isn’t some Taylor Swift sing-along jam. It’s electro. It’s all about the sound. These are definitely the type of songs I’d prefer to listen to while at the gym instead of trying to work on chemistry homework. I can definitely see “What’s Your Name” becoming a hit as EDM music is becoming much more well-known. Calvin Harris’ feature in this song is likely to draw his fans in as well. “Get Low”, not featured in this album, is Francis’ most successful track to date. The songs featured on this album have a much more urban vibe and are the types of songs that would be popular at raves and music festivals. There wasn’t much hype revolved around this album, yet, that hasn’t stopped Francis’ from getting four stars on iTunes.

The other songs on the album didn’t stand out too much to me. I felt that some of the songs can possibly sound similar to one another. You know it’s a good EDM song when it sounds different from anything else you’ve ever heard. This album features a lot of collaborations with other well-known artists such as, Calvin Harris, Skrillex and Chromeo. Each one of these artists definitely set a different tone for the songs. The album cover makes me laugh entirely too much. It’s literally just a picture of Dillon Francis with another picture of fire on top. I guess this mixtape really is fire. Obviously if you’re more into the the Electronic, Dance genre, you’ll understand these songs much more, but for someone who doesn’t generally listen to this kind of music, I did enjoy it more than I expected.

Beach HunterHouse HayesDepression Storyline Cherry BY CONNOR HINSON

I Sub Pop Records

Depression Cherry came out Aug. 28, 2015.

BSkip to : “PPP ”

chinson.gazette@gmail.com

don’t use or condone the use of psychotropic drugs. I do, however, suggest listening to Beach House’s record Depression Cherry as a safe and healthy alternative. Beach House isn’t new to game. In fact, the Baltimore based indie rock duo has been putting out records for nearly 10 years. Yet it is here, on their fifth commercial release, that I can finally say i’m on board with their music. Sort of. The album’s opening track “Levitation” sets a tone which fills the entirety of the album’s 44 minutes. And that’s not a bad thing. Present here are beautiful, drawn-out vocals, complemented by simple drum loops, basic guitar melodies, and enough synthesizer to fill a John Carpenter film. This culminates into an overwhelmingly

relaxing experience. And an experience is a good way to describe what it’s like to hear Beach House. Their true goals complete immersion in sound, choosing to utilize vocals as another layer of sound rather than a means to communicate a message. Although their message is made clear still on tracks like “Space Song” and “PPP” and that message says relax, take things slow. If you are looking for a deeper meaning, though, you might end up disappointed Listening to one track off the album at random, a fairly concrete idea of the whole can be gained. It could be argued that the album’s repetitive nature holds a purpose, but it comes off as lazy. Individually, I could recommend nearly every song off this album. Yet, when placed one after another, I find myself skipping past the second halves of songs which refuse to develop or progress

Columbia Records

 This Mixtape is Fire was released on Aug. 14, 2015

Skip to: “I Need Your Lovin ”

sonically despite a six minute runtime. Compared to their last few records, Cherry Depression is a much more mature experience. It’s here that Beach House has really found their sound. Their first album (however popular it was) had a very low production quality, and the layered sound often came off sounding muddy. Their production has improved immensely since then, leading to a much more professional sounding album. In spite of all that, Cherry Depression is anything but. Its deceptively calm tones will have you smiling without realization. While those who are easily bored should avoid this album, it’s a nice breather after being blasted by the 120 beats per minute . House music which always finds its way onto the radio. It’s not the best Indie Rock album to come out this year, but it’s certainly not the worst.

Halsey Badlands BY EPSA SHARMA

esharma.gazette@gmail.com

shely Fragpane, or better known as Halsey has had one of the biggest breakthroughs of all time. She is taking 2015 by storm with the release of her new album Badlands. With a prevalent social media fan base, Halsey had already made a name for herself prior to the release of her album. She invested a lot of time getting her name out in the music industry by opening up for bands like, Imagine Dragons and 5 Seconds of Summer. Halsey’s music style is very different than the overplayed “mainstream music” you hear on the radio. This album dives into the totality of Halsey’s life and reflects her passions as well as her struggles. Badlands represents Halsey’s metaphoric

world of destructive relationships that surround her lifestyle of transitioning to adulthood. Each song has a story, and each song lures you in with its captivating lyrics and upbeat tempo. Prior to the album release, Halsey released two songs “Hold Me Down” and “New Americano. Both songs sustain a strong chorus accompanied with catchy lyrics, layered with electronic drums, making it impossible to get out of your head. I personally think the best song on the album is “Drive.” I thought the overall production was so brilliantly done, it used a unique tactic by bringing in sounds you would usually hear on a car ride. It has everything from wind-shield wipers to the annoying beeping noise when we change lanes. But I don’t recommend listening to it while driving because you’ll constantly look over

your shoulders and think a car is following you. Listen to it, if you’re in the mood for a car ride but it’s either too late or you’re too lazy. A personal favorite of mine, “Roman Holiday,” steers away from the melancholic vibe of the album. “Roman Holiday” has this upbeat, fun, edgy sound - but I fear that it will soon turn into an overplayed radio song. The chorus of roman holiday is a mixture of Taylor Swift and Avril Lavigne and the background instruments leave a feeling of nostalgia. “Drive” and “Roman Holiday” are the most compatible songs on the album. Each song has a carefree, go with the flow ambiance, which relates to the lifestyle of a teen. It was nice to change up the music in my car from Taylor Swift’s 1989, to the fresh sound from Halsey’s Badlands. This album is a must have and the perfect album to listen to on a long drive.

Astralwerks Records.

 Badlands was released on Aug. 28, 2015.

A-

Skip to: “Roman Holiday ”

Page 6

treat yo self.

Get the inside scoop...

The Gazette staff is screaming for ice cream all around Granite Bay and Sacramento.

Sparkles BY BLAKE PANTER

bpanter.gazette@gmail.com

Sparkles Ice Cream surely failed to sparkle my world. Using its so called innovative ice cream technology, Sparkles prides itself on making ice cream from liquid nitrogen – basically the only thing the business has going for it. Located in Quarry Ponds, Sparkles offers a nice location for having a dessert after dinner in the center, but with lackluster quality, will likely disappoint. I was certainly expecting something grand: delicious ice cream with a fancy display. Unfortunately, I got the show but I didn’t get ice cream I felt even worth eating. Nothing more than a theatrical scam, the ice cream basically tasted like a cheap, giant glob of frozen Dippin’ Dots. Many of the ice cream flavors are made with an overwhelming amount of artificial flavoring, and the ice cream tastes accordingly. The ice cream shop is the first to bring ice cream using liquid nitrogen to Granite Bay. The ice cream is made from the ingredients of basic ice cream, with artificial flavoring to get each flavor. They use -327 degree liquid nitrogen to freeze the ingredients and make the actual ice cream. With hundreds of flavors to choose from and after the worker’s suggestion, I decided to get the salted caramel flavor. There were several different toppings,

September 2015

The Parlor including brownies and chocolate syrup to choose from, but I elected not to. If you do go here, I suggest to get a topping of some kind, as it will likely add some much needed flavor to your experience. The portion sizes were hefty; a small would suffice for most people. It was also very expensive – $6 for a regular size. It was not all bad though, as the customer service was great and informative on the process of how they used nitrogen to actually make the ice cream. Near the cash register, there was a small tribute to a dead squirrel named Sparkles, likely what the place is named after. Although having a unique and pretty show, Sparkles Ice Cream disappointed me greatly. My advice: save your money and go to The Parlor instead.

Sparkles uses liquid nitrogen to freeze their ice cream.

BY SAVANNA THOMPSON sthompson.gazette@gmail.com

Like most people, I scream for ice cream. When I heard The Parlor was bringing their innovative ice cream puff idea and homemade flavors to Roseville, I couldn’t contain my excitement. Tucked away in the Eureka Ridge Shopping Center, this ice creamery attracts a crowd at all hours of the day. The Parlor satisfies my late night ice cream cravings unlike most ice cream places that close at 10 p.m. As a sign in the back of the store reads, “You can’t buy happiness but you can buy ice cream puffs and that’s kinda the same thing.” By putting a twist on classic ice cream flavors, the Parlor flaunts its individuality and creative identity. Their ice cream flavors range from the simple vanilla to a coffee ice cream with Nutella swirls, both equally as satisfying to my sweet tooth. Mint chocolate chip is my all time favorite, but I could not stay away from the cake batter. While the flavor seems simple, the visual appeal is not. The bright pink color quickly captured my attention and the cake chunks in the ice cream reminded me of my childhood. In addition, customers can choose a variety of toppings. Now, I’m sure you are thinking gummy worms and Oreos.

Yes, those are options but The Parlor is known more for their unique additions like fruity pebbles, coconut and potato chips. Although the ice cream was cold, the workers were not. Each employee smiled from the time I walked in, through my requests to try nearly every flavor, to the moment I left. Their friendly staff in combination with family style seating create its friendly, open environment. The Parlor offers plenty of seating but many people chose to take their ice cream outside. The prices for the single scoop and double scoop cups were reasonable especially with the huge serving size. The single scoop is equivalent to a double scoop at places like Baskin Robbins, and the double scoop left me with enough to take home. While the location is great, another popular restaurant in the shopping center would greatly enhance its business. The Parlor offers ice cream puffs, which are deep fried donuts with frozen ice cream inside.

Gazette photo /AMANDA PRATHER

Special to the Gazette /CHISAY ARAI

Pinkberry BY PAIGE ERICKSON

perickson.gazette@gmail.com

Whether ordering the creamy chocolate hazelnut or the sweet strawberry vanilla, Pinkberry Frozen Yogurt offers the perfect flavors to satisfy a sweet tooth. Located on 1151 Galleria Blvd. in Roseville, Pinkberry is a popular yogurt shop known for its mouth watering taste. Whenever I need a froyo fix, Pinkberry is always my go-to place. The menu presents a wide variety of options such as sweet and tart flavors, fruit smoothies and milkshakes. Many toppings are also available, which include brownie bites, mini gems and popping bobas. From the assortment of flavors to the unlimited amount of toppings, Pinkberry never lets me down. Of all the choices Pinkberry offers, my

personal favorite is their most popular yogurt, original. The tart taste of the original flavor, topped with the juiciest pomegranates and plumpest blueberries, makes this combination taste perfectly. When ordering you first have to choose a size, which include kids, small, medium or large. Cones are also available for customers who want to add a little crunch to every bite. Personally, the small is the perfect size because the amount of yogurt it holds not only fills up the cup completely but also towers upwards, while the yogurt continues to calmly drip down the sides. The next step is to pick out a flavor that will delight any yogurt cravings you may have. Then comes the last step, which is personally the most exciting. It’s time to fill your yogurt with as many toppings as you desire.

Displayed before you is an abundance of delicious chocolates, berries, and gummies, all of which are so different and complement certain flavors perfectly. Pinkberry not only attracts people because of it’s tempting tastes, but also for its central location and helpful staff. Pinkberry is located in the middle of the Galleria Mall, giving it an open and inviting feel. The yogurt stand is surrounded by mint green booths, which offer a great deal of seating availability and make it perfect for customers to sit and enjoy their frozen yogurt. The employees at Pinkberry always provide excellent customer service by working efficiently and catering to every single one of the customers. While working, the staff never seem to lose their smiles, creating a friendly environment that people are drawn to.

Gazette photo /PAIGE ERICKSON

Pinkberry is a frozen yogurt shop serving several high quality flavors and toppings.

September 2015

Page 7

treat yo self.

Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor BY ISABELLA TKACHUK itkachuk.gazette@gmail.com

Nowadays, there are so many different types of ice cream parlors, offering all different types of sizes and types. Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor, located in Sacramento has it all. When I first walked into Farrell’s, I was overwhelmed by all of the decor. It was very patriotic, and the environment was friendly and welcoming. The first Farrell’s was opened in Portland, Oregon in 1963, so I already knew that it would give off the old school ice cream parlor vibe. Farrell’s has a large menu of various ice cream dishes, from big to small. I was a bit overwhelmed with the amount of choices that were in front of me, but I eventually went with the Triple Chocolate Brownie Sundae. Other ice cream creations include the Hot Fudge Volcano, made with 30 scoops of vanilla ice cream, at a cost of $59.99 serving up to 10 people. Farrell’s most famous, and largest, sundae, Farrell’s

Zoo, takes two servers to carry. It can serve up to 15 people, and costs nearly 80 dollars. Considering the amount of energy that is needed to take on working at Farrell’s, the waiters and waitresses were extra friendly to their customers. When my sundae was brought to me, our waitress and other employees sang a specific song that went with my sundae. Not only is Farrell’s known for their exceptional, rich ice cream, but they also have a large savory menu as well. I only came for the ice cream, but I did browse through their food menu. I found many American classics such as the Philly Cheesesteak, slider burgers and BBQ bacon cheeseburger. I also discovered the Gastronomicaldelicatessenepicurean’s Delight, “which is as hard to pronounce as it is to digest,” one of the waitresses said. I noticed that they do host a lot of childrens’ birthday parties, and try to make it fun and lively, which they succeed at.

Snooks BY CAROLINE PALMER cpalmer.gazette@gmail.com

Ice cream isn’t my favorite food, but if I was held at gunpoint and forced to name my five favorite foods, it would probably achieve a strong number four on my list. I sense that there are essentially two types of ice cream lovers: ones who associate mint-chocolate chip with toothpaste, and ones who love it. I am a big pro-mint chocolate chipper. With the goal to locate quality mint chocolate chip, I ventured over to Old Folsom accompanied by my friend Natalie. It was still August, and the day was particularly hot and the sun seemed to blaze onto the pavement – an excellent day for ice cream. Parking was on the street, but fairly close. Old Folsom was booming with people. Upon arriving at Snooks, I was overjoyed to enter the air-conditioning. Seating is limited; there are two tables with four chairs and one table with two chairs. Although on the smaller side, Snooks makes up for its size with the ambiance. The scene reminded me of a old candy shop, making me nostalgic for when I was younger. While Snooks sells ice cream, it is better known for its sale of candy, such as peanut brittle, boxed chocolates and truffles. However, the main attractions didn’t faze me. I was focusing on the quest for the mint chocolate chip.

Overall, Farrell’s did not disappoint. I was very much satisfied with my dessert and would definitely come back again. Farrell’s is a good environment to throw parties, go out with family or friends, or by yourself if you’re up for it.

Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor has a patriotic feel, as well as serving iconic ice cream dishes. Gazette photo /ISABELLA TKACHUK

Miabella My friend purchased their oldfashioned chocolate ice cream and I of course opted for my mint chocolate chip, which to no surprise was delicious. The old-fashioned chocolate had a much thicker texture than my ice cream. It required slight elbow grease to get the food to move onto the spoon and Natalie waited a few minutes for the ice cream to melt and become softer. Yet when my friend gave me a bite of her ice cream, I concluded that it was certainly worth the effort and wait. I can confidently say that this is the most superior chocolate ice cream in this area. Before this trip, I was consumed with mint chocolate chip. I used to favor mint chip more than chocolate. But one bite of this chocolate heaven and I was hooked. Next time I go to Snooks I will leave the mint chocolate chip behind and go for the original chocolate. Snooks offers both ice cream candy for people to enjoy in Old Folsom.

Gazette photo /CAROLINE PALMER

BY ALI LEMOS

alemos.gazette@gmail.com

As I open the door, a delicious fragrance assaults me. It’s not too sweet and maybe a little bit spicy. I’m immediately intrigued by this cute little gelato shop, Miabella. I had passed by this place countless times as I walked through Fountains at Roseville, but never stopped by. But now that I have been to Miabella I will definitely be going again. It is located very close to the fountain, which makes it great to grab some gelato and then walk around, or sit by the fountain. The only problem is parking can be hard to find close to the store. While Miabella was small it had a very classy atmosphere, which made it into a cozy gelato shop. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, both of which are great for people watching. Every flavor is freshly made each day and they all looked fantastic. It was a hard decision to pick out only one flavor to try; there were so many appealing options. They gave me two free samples of cappuccino and mint chip but with all the flavors, I thought, why not try something new? My options ranged from anywhere from raspberry sorbetto to pumpkin pie gelato. In the end I ordered the hazelnut gelato and it was quite refreshing – just the right amount of hazelnut without being too rich.

It came in this green cup whose shaped reminded me a bit of a flower. As soon as I tasted the gelato I questioned why I had never been in before; I was definitely missing out. Not only do they have classic and their own creations of gelato, but also cookies and cakes made in house. These freshly made cakes were what I smelled when I first entered the shop and it was an incredible first impression. The worker was the owner, a small Italian lady who was very friendly, and told me that she had just made a gelato cake. When I talked to her she told me that she missed the kids who came in over the summer, but couldn’t come as much since they’re in school. The family owned and operated store first began as an idea to embrace their Italian heritage. This dream is doing quite well, and Miabella has opened another location at the market square in Sacramento. This shop impressed me in all aspects, but especially with the great gelato and sorbetto. The gelato I had was amazing and I loved the friendly environment in the shop. Miabella Gelato is a gelato shop that offers an authentic taste of Italian dessert. Gazette photo /ALI LEMOS

eat fresh.

E AT local from your locals

Page 8

September 2015

Gazette illustration/TROY PAWLAK

BY AMANDA PRATHER

aprather.gazette@gmail.com

Gazette photo / MADDY WILLIAMS

GBHS students explore wonders of ... f a r m e r s m a r k e t s

Midtown Farmers Market in Sacramento guides you through the process of shopping with signs that lead to certain foods or produce.

he simple joy of picking out your favorite fresh fruits and discovering new items, has erupted among the Granite Bay community. So many new trends have emerged in the past year and summer, farmers markets being one of them. With events in the Fountains in Roseville, Quarry Ponds in Granite Bay, and many more around the Granite Bay and Roseville area, their popularity has grown immensely. The final Quarry Ponds Sunday farmers market is on Sept. 29. Although, the Quarry Ponds farmers market season is coming to an end, there are many others in close proximity like Denios and Sprouts. Students spend their Sunday mornings, Tuesday afternoons, and even other days browsing the aisles of tents and vendors for the coolest, newest finds. Students have found fruits, vegetables, clothing, and lots of other random items. Treasa Hayes, 2015 GBHS graduate, enjoys the atmosphere and environment of farmers markets. “I’ve definitely seen some rad clothes and plants, especially succulents,” Hayes said. Hayes said that farmers markets usually have good deals on tapestries as well. Hayes’ favorite part of farmers markets is being in the atmosphere around all of the cool finds and new foods. Many students have said that al-

though the prices may be higher than supermarkets, the quality is well worth the time and money. “You can make delicious recipes with foods you get from farmers market, so it’s awesome to be using healthy local ingredients.” Hayes said. Avni Suri GBHS senior, also finds an interest in the cool finds of farmers markets. “I feel like you have more of a variety so you can find some new veggies or fruits that aren’t (typical in your diet),” Suri said. As for the quality of the products, Suri said that the produce is significantly better than that of supermarkets. Some might be concerned that all of the fresh produce may be pricy, but actually it’s the contrary. “The pricing is not bad at all ... and you get more satisfaction and bang for your buck due to all the flavor.” Suri said. Suri’s favorite event is the Quarry Ponds farmers market on Sundays because it’s local, and convenient. Kelsey Ashworth GBHS senior, also enjoys attending local farmers markets for the cool finds. “I’ve seen some cool candles, wood carvings, jewelry and homemade (items),” Ashbury said. Ashbury also agrees that the pricing can be expensive, but it’s well worth it for the quality. Ashbury has attended some markets is Sacramento, and some in Downtown Roseville. “It’s worth it to take time out of your Tuesdays or Sundays,” Suri said. “To visit a farmers market.”

September 2015

Page 9

current.

Mixtape - Summer Memories

Artist of the Month Sarah Garcia 1. When did you become interested in art? I’ve always been interested in art from the moment I started going to school. I used to sketch all over my homework and notes when I was younger so I could pass the time in class.

BY KAYOMI KAYOSHI

kkayoshi.gazette@gmail.com

1. Let’s Dance to Joy Division – The Wombats This British indie band has created this extremely cheeky and ironic song. Written about the lead singer’s experience involving a song by Joy Division, this song has an edgy sound to it that will definitely get your day started with a bang. 2. Junk of the Heart – The Kooks The Kooks are a British rock band that became popular in the United States when their hit song Naive hit the radio stations. This is definitely a feelgood song that will transport you back to summer when you listen to it. 3. Alright – Supergrass This song is from Supergrass’s debut album I Should Coco. Whether you’ve heard this song in commercials or films, this song not only has a carefree, summery vibe, but it also epitomizes youth culture. 4. The Balance – Royal Tongues This fast-paced song about enjoying life is the song that put the Royal Tongues onto the music scene. This song embodies the reckless and risky memories that are made during the summer leaving a sense of nostalgia.

Follow @lamuegg for an outdoorsy touch to your feed.

Follow Friday

Instagram

Compiled by Meagan Tallman

2. What does your work represent? To me, my work represents myself – it’s expressing myself through brush strokes, color and imagery. When you create art, you’re allowing people to see in your own little universe, where you capture your emotions through imagery. 3. Do you hope to continue your artistic career after high school? I’m going to continue to paint and create throughout my college years and beyond. My goal is to get a degree in teaching with an emphasis in art. 4. In your opinion, what is the most interesting thing about art in general? What’s really great about art is perception. It’s neat that 100 different people can view the same painting, but interpret it in 100 different ways. I also love that art can stir up so many emotions in people, which I believe is an artist’s ultimate goal – to get people talking about their work and for others to feel emotional connections to the piece. Compiled by Jenny Tarbell

2 FRESHMAN 016 201 vs . 9

VS. SENIOR What’s your favorite type of music? Brayden: “Alternative.” Sabrina: “I like pop and alternative.”

Sabrina McCord, GBHS senior

Brayden Schauer, GBHS freshman

If you could live anywhere where would it be? Brayden: “Somewhere on the East Coast.” Sabrina: “I would live in Kailua, Hawaii.” Gazette photo /EPSA SHARMA

Gazette photo /MADDY WILLIAMS

Compiled by Maddy Williams

Pages 10 and 11

Summer Highlights wave after wave.

September 2015`

GBHS students explored a variety of worldwide places.

Special to the Gazette photo /CIARA THOMPSON

BY MCKENNA ARAM

T Special to the Gazette photo /CHLOE LEBLANC

maram.gazette@gmail.com

his summer, a plethora of Granite Bay High School students undertook various, intriguing excursions ranging from visits to Japan to international sports camps. Alina Poczobutt GBHS junior, dedicated over a month of her summer to volunteering on a Spanish immersion trip in Atenas, Costa Rica. “I want to be fluent in Spanish because I know it will help me in my future,” Poczobutt said. During the week, Poczbutt and many other students in her group stayed with their own host family and on the weekends they ventured through parts of Costa Rica. “Being able to interact with the people of Costa Rica was also really cool,” Poczobutt said. The students on the trip went to a local school every day for approximately four hours and practiced their Spanish by interacting with the local children. Poczobutt started her day around 6:30a.m., had breakfast with her host family and proceeded to the school at about 8:00a.m. She returned to her host family at 12:15p.m, and walked home to eat lunch since the school was only two minutes away. There would be a cultural/volunteering activity planned after school, and when that was finished the students would return to their host families for dinner. “There were a lot of cool things about the trip, but I re-

ally liked being able to see the different cultures and how they lived.” Poczobutt said. On a program organized by GBHS, sophomore Melia Stout and her Japanese class ventured to Japan for 10 days of their summer. Japanese teacher, Naoko Iwasaki organized the trip with a tour guide that navigated them through Japan. “We went to some malls so I got to shop; that was fun.” Stout said. They visited Tokyo, Osaka, Kamakura, Kyoto and various temples within those cities. Sophomore, RJ Dumke took an international summer trip to England with his family, visiting extravagant places such as London and Greece. “We thought it would be fun for us to go visit cool places like that because it’s an adventurous place, you can do a lot of fun things and try new stuff.” Dumke said. Dumke and his family visited widely acknowledged establishments such as, The Buckingham Palace and The Acropolis as well as taking on various activities such as dune buggy riding, hiking, snorkeling in the Mediterranean sea and surfing. “Some of my favorite moments were watching the sun go down every night, just how beautiful that was, and hanging out on the beach,” Dumke said. The abundance of activities left the Dumke family with something to do everyday; a new day in Greece meant a new adventure. “The nights are a lot longer and it’s more energetic at

night there than it is here.” Dumke said. Tommy Spradley, freshman, departed from Louisiana with his family to explore Jamaica, Cozumel and the Caymen Islands for a week during their summer. “We took a jeep and saw ancient ruins on the Caymen Islands, and visited a beach in Jamaica.” Spradley said. The Carnival Cruise stopped at each island for one or two days, providing time for excursions and fun. Sophomore, Connor Vivaldi was invited by the San Antonio United Soccer Club to participate in an annual soccer trip to Europe for two weeks this summer. “I went to a soccer camp back in December, and got invited by one of the camp directors to go on the trip.” Vivaldi said. Not wanting to miss out on an exclusive excursion, Vivaldi accepted the offer. He first flew to San Antonio, Texas to train with the team he would be playing with over in Europe. He then traveled over to Amsterdam, followed by Copenhagen where the Texas team played with a professional team. “My lifelong dream is to go to Europe and play soccer, so this summer it came true.” Vivaldi said. The team would train first thing in the morning and later that day partake in another training session. Four days after Copenhagen, Vivaldi and his team proceeded into Sweden to compete in the Gothia Cup. “Just playing with them, new kids, and learning how they play was pretty cool, you know, getting outside the Granite Bay bubble.” Vivaldi said.

Special to the Gazette photo /MAVERICK KUHN

Special to the Gazette photo /JENNA LADRECH

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September 2015

craft fairs.

Get Crafty

Gazette photo /CARISSA LEWIS

Granite Bay High School students hunt for creative clothes and art at craft fairs

BY ANJALI SHRIVASTAVA

ashrivastava.gazette@gmail.com

Craft fairs offer a plethora of options for buyers and sellers

Students at Granite Bay High School have been getting craftier with how they spend their time. Going to craft fairs has become an increasingly popular pastime for students, providing a fun way to find interesting and unique products. Junior Kaley Dover has been going to craft fairs her entire life since her mom took her from a young age. According to Dover, one can get almost anything at the fairs. She has seen everything from clothing to soaps, silverware and even vintage, steampunk gumball machines. One of the reasons so many enjoy going to craft fairs is because of this variety. “(They are) very diverse in products because the vendors all have different ideas,” junior Sophia Reinero said. Not only are there many options, but those options are very unique in comparison to what can be bought at the Galleria mall. “Here half the people wear shirts from Hot Topic, half the people wear shirts from Macy’s or Nordstrom’s,” Dover said. “It’s all really similar. (I love) seeing people not being afraid to be different and just doing their own thing (at fairs).” The objects that can be bought at craft fairs are usually handmade, so fairs are a good place to get one-of-akind items. Another reason people like to go to craft fairs is the other people they meet there. “Being able to meet everyone and see what drives people and their creative passions (is really enjoyable),” said Reinero, who has sold at craft fairs to raise money for a summer trip with the now inactive organiza-

tion People to People. Because she likes to craft, Reinero likes to go to fairs to see what others have made and different takes on art. And she is not the only one. “Being inspired by the art is one of my favorite things,” senior Colette Curran said. “You come in there and you get all these cool ideas (that you could try to create).” Inspiration is an instrumental aspect of craft fairs’ prosperity. It motivates consumers to go, but also vendors to create. Lisa Inez is a crafter who sells handmade goods including fiber art character dolls and hats and artisan jewelry. According to her, inspiration is hard to pinpoint, but can be found anywhere if one looks hard enough. “I love to implement found, collected, gathered and/or reclaimed bits and pieces in my work,” Inez said. “Sometimes, vintage buttons are given new life. Sometimes, a little feather will be captured and framed … I find inspiration everywhere.” Inez has been seriously selling at markets and fairs for the past three years, and with that experience she was able to cultivate her own personal style when it came to making “three dimensional whimsies.” Though now she sells at fairs all over the Bay Area, it was not always like that. “It can be tempting to jump into big fairs right away, but this is one pursuit in which there are no shortcuts,” Inez said. “It takes time to develop a style and vision. It also takes time to figure out the best way for a person to set up their show space.” Whether one plans to buy or sell, craft fairs can be a place to meet new people and serve as a creative outlet. “It’s more of a community (than a store),” Dover said.

September 2015

Page 13

Trendsetters.

#dontjudgechallenge New social media trends elicit reactions from GBHS students BY SONIA GARCHA

sgarcha.gazette@gmail.com

The latest video trend, the #dontjudgechallenge, has been making its way around social media outlets, such as Instagram and Twitter. The whole purpose of this challenge is to encourage teens to not harass others based on their physical appearance. Yet a majority of these videos show teens drawing on fake cystic acne and unibrows with markers in order to depict how they’re not exactly perfect and then covering the camera, only to reappear with a full face of makeup and perfectly done hair. This trend first began when Youtube beauty guru/fashion blogger, Em Ford posted a video titled “YOU LOOK DISGUSTING.” She sat in front of the camera with a bare face, revealing her severe cystic acne along with the comments that many viewers make about her “imperfect” face. She goes on to apply her makeup, covering all of her acne and feeling slightly more confident, only to be hurt once again by how people call her “fake” for the amount of makeup she applies. People responded about how they

felt the same away about the issue with #youlookdisgusting. This eventually transitioned into the #dontjudgechallenge. What was meant to be a selfless PSA about staying true to your own skin turned into a viral mockery of people who suffer from acne, facial hair and even those who wear glasses. Granite Bay High School senior Alee Yap first saw the video on Facebook and continued to see more on twitter. “I was confused and then I felt insulted. You’re a teenager and you’re going to have pimples and it’s not really my fault that I have bad eyesight,” Yap said. She said she felt that even though the people who post these videos may have had good intentions, it’s almost an insult because some of these imperfection are something that not everyone can control. Yap is not the only one who feels the same way. Many teens have taken their thoughts to Twitter and Instagram and expressing how these videos make them feel “disrespected” and “more aware of their insecurities.” At first glance, it seems like a harm-

less video that has some comedic element to it, but then one starts to realize that teens actually think they’re sending some sort of message by showcasing their immaculate makeup skills and drool-worthy abs. “I feel like these videos are directed towards making pretty people look and feel better while making the people who actually have those ‘imperfections’ feel worse about themselves,” GBHS senior Skylar Beasley said. As we enter a world where feminism is much more prominent than before, this is almost taking a step back as these teens judge those imperfections that many try hard to ignore. “I understand why people do it and think that they are either funny or making themselves look good, but they’re really just pointing out other people’s flaws or insecurities,” junior Emily Franklin said. Franklin and Beasley agree that what was supposed to be a fun, harmless joke turned into a cruel one that was more ironic than anything else. “They are bringing others down so they can feel better about themselves and that’s not OK,” Franklin said.

Gazette illustrations/OLIVIA HEPPELL

Blades of glory GBHS seniors find new ways to express their individuality BY BLAKE PANTER

bpanter.gazette@gmail.com

Seniors Elizabeth Sciascia and Sara Fassler are easily spotted on Wednesdays, blading through the Granite Bay High School campus with their skates on – a daunting endeavor for some. “It’s senior year and we thought that roller skating would be a fun thing to do, just to make life more interesting,” Sciascia said. Sciascia and Fassler call their activity “Way Back Roller Skating Wednesday.” Inspired by her youth group, Sciascia also takes part in “Fancy Friday.” They plan to soon start participating in the seasonal “Terrible Tuesday,” where they wear ugly sweaters during the fall and winter months, since roller skating in the rain is dangerous. “Lacing them up takes quite a while so usually Sara will come over to my house and we’ll put them on,” Sciascia said. “I have to wake up 15 minutes earlier to lace up.” Sciascia has received mixed reactions while wearing her skates. “Either (people are) super judgmental and I get these weird looks or it’s the coolest thing ever,” Sciascia said. “We

get a lot of people telling us they see ten of us around but really there are only like two of us, so that’s always funny.” Among staff members, skating around campus has sparked some controversy. Sciascia and Fassler have experienced a couple of faculty members hesitant about the skates, questioning their safety. They have promptly taken a short hiatus from the skates, until the controversy simmers down. Sciascia wants as many more people to participate as possible, especially for “Fancy Friday,” since it is so easy to do. Similar to “Fancy Friday,” seniors Nick Martinez and Travis Turner opt to dress up in fancy clothes on Wednesdays. “I’m the kind of guy that likes to dress nice,” Martinez said. “I like to dress nice every day but I like to go hard one day a week and just go for it. It wasn’t really something that I aimed to do. I think I just started doing it and it stuck.” Both Martinez and Turner started dressing up their freshman year, and has now become a tradition.

“You have extra time on Wednesdays and looking fancy is awesome,” Turner said. “I don’t really coordinate dressing fancy on Wednesdays with anyone but everyone who wants to dress up should whenever they want to. I used to get everyone asking me why I dress fancy but now people are used to it and they don’t really ask about it.” According to Martinez, he has to wake up earlier than usual on days that he dresses up, but has mastered the art. Depending on the outfit, it rarely takes longer than half an hour to get ready. For Martinez, dressing up on Wednesday is more than wanting to simply look nice. He uses it as an outlet for a way to express his individuality, and suggests other people do the same. “When I saw (Fassler and Sciascia) were (wearing skates on Wednesday), I thought it was the coolest thing,” Martinez said. “It’s their thing. That’s what they do. So if even if it’s not wearing roller skates or even if it’s not dressing up in a tie every week, I would say that if it is something you like to do, then just do it.” Gazette illustrations/OLIVIA HEPPELL

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September 2015

film.

LEGENDARY & UNIVERSAL

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

BLUMHOUSE & FOCUS FEATURES

Rated: R

Rated: PG-13

Rated: R

By: Olivia Heppell oheppell.gazette@gmail.com

By: Connor Hinson chinson.gazette@gmail.com

By: Kayomi Kayoshi kkayoshi.gazette@gmail.com

sinister 2: C

inister 2, directed by Ciaran Foy, is the highly anticipated sequel to Sinister. Unfortunately, it couldn’t live up to the legacy of its predecessor. The plot revolves around the original story of Bughuul (the Boogeyman), and how he preys off of the souls of children. In the movie, Courtney Collins, played by Shannyn Sossamon, is the mother of twin boys Dylan and Zach. She moves them into an house that has been left untouched because of a gruesome murder that had occurred there. The sequel is painfully similar to the original and is basically identical to the beginning and ending. While the first movie, Sinister, was creative and original, Sinister 2 was very lackluster in comparison. Having been raised on A Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th and Child’s Play, nothing in this movie scared me. The scares in the movie were extremely predictable. The only aspect of the movie that may be seen as frightening is the excessive, and obvious, jump scares. The movie itself was not scary, but it did use gore to make the viewers squirm in their seats. The plot is also very unrealistic and cliche. Mrs. Collins is fighting for custody over her twin boys against her abusive husband. She moves to an isolated, rural location where a family was murdered. The main character from the last film, played by James Ransone, also plays a supporting role in this film. He is an ex-deputy, and he plans on destroying all houses associated with The Boogeyman, one of which is the house Mrs. Collins moved into. Once the two met it was blatantly obvious that they would have some type of romantic relationship in the film, which is exactly what transpired between the two. Besides being cliche and predictable, the horror movie also had an element of humor in it, which is unfitting of a horror movie. While I do believe that it’s good for movies to have depth and not be monotonous, I found Sinister 2’s humor was forced and awkward. The story is centered about the story of Bughuul, but he was rarely shown in the movie. Instead of Bughuul being the frightening entity that I thought he would be, he had the souls of the children carry out his dirty work for him. The children themselves weren’t scary at all, but the videos of how they died was, honestly, the only part that indicated that it was a horror movie. Overall, this movie was very bland and unoriginal, and I wouldn’t recommend seeing it.

the man from uncle: B

he Man from U.N.C.L.E. is the reboot no one wanted of a television series no one under the age of 50 has heard of, whose title reads like a foreigner defining the word “cousin” with broken English. Don’t be discouraged, though, because U.N.C.L.E. is actually a pretty enjoyable – and funny – action flick. The film centers around two spies: Solo, an American (Henry Cavill), and Illya, a Russian (Armie Hammer), forced to work together by their governments to find and deactivate a nuclear device in Italy, all while protecting a Russian mechanic turned government linch pin, Gaby (Alicia Vikander). The story is purposefully trite. Its characters are intentionally archetypal. This allows director Guy Ritchie to cleverly subvert the Cold War spy thriller genre, while simultaneously paying homage to it. This film has the same clever, quippy writing as Sherlock Holmes and its sequel, his previous two films. This is enhanced by Cavill’s wonderful performance as the American spy. He overacts his role, but in a good way. It’s in his exaggeration that many of the film’s comedic moments are had. Sadly, Cavill’s is the only outstanding performance in the film. Both Hammer and Vikander give decent performances, Vikander’s being slightly better; yet their mediocre Russian accents proved to be very distracting and I found myself more often laughing at them, not with them. The frantic editing is heightened by the film’s incredible score. This is where the film stands out. Daniel Pemberton’s score eclipses the rest of the film, being both modern and fitting for the time period during which the film takes place. Ritchie also uses the music for comedic purposes. In one scene, he juxtaposes a beautiful Italian song with an intense boat chase. This idea, although not entirely original, lowers the stakes enough that the film still feels like a comedy, not taking itself too seriously. Ritchie’s style has progressed and changed throughout his body of work, but this feels like the most Guy Ritchie film to date. Every scene is flashier than the last. There is a particularly exceptional scene near the end in which a shifting split screen view is utilized to show multiple perspectives of the action, similar to the masterful intro to John Frankenheimer’s 1966 film, Grand Prix. The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is a fast paced and stylish action-comedy. Although it does not hit all its marks, it excels at those it does. This is easily Ritchie’s best film and the best action-comedy to come out all year.

straight outta compton: A

iving up to the hype surrounding it, Straight Outta Compton was not a disappointment. The raving reviews I had heard before seeing the movie seemed extreme, but it exceeded my expectations. The movie, starring O’Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins and Jason Mitchell, follows the famous rappers Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and Eazy-E from adolescence and the start of N.W.A., a rap group, until the death of E-Eazy after the break up of the group. Well-known as a pioneer of rap music, N.W.A. consisted of several rappers that came out the slums of Los Angeles. The plot of Straight Outta Compton was refreshing. Being able to watch N.W.A.’s rise to fame and what it took for them to reach the top was an interesting concept that you cannot usually see in the theaters. While movies featuring musicians and their rise to fame are common, director F. Gary Gray strayed from the normal form used, such as in Justin Bieber’s and Katy Perry’s movies. Although this is partially due to the fact that N.W.A. is no longer together, the avoidance of a stereotypical style added to the appeal of the movie and contributed to its uniqueness. Straight Outta Compton offers a harsh and realistic view of what living in neighborhoods with gangs is like. The movie offers valuable insight to how teens such as Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and E-Eazy felt growing up. While it was at times hard to watch scenes of police brutality, it only increased the film’s relevance. With cases continually popping up after Ferguson, one can see how little things have changed. One negative aspect of the film was the slow pace it adopted toward the end. The movie is longer than the typical movie out in theaters. While much of the movie captured my attention successfully, I couldn’t help but wonder when it was going to end during the last half an hour to hour. Despite the film dragging on, Gray was able to end the movie on a high note, noting the successes of Dr. Dre and Ice Cube. Straight Outta Compton, however, conveniently omitted the less desirable histories of the group, detracting from the overall trustworthiness of N.W.A.’s history as told by Gray. Overall, the film was a must-see. All of its positive aspects outweighed the negative by far. Nothing beats (by Dre) Straight Outta Compton.

September 2015

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film.

TEMPLE HILL PRODUCTIONS

NEW LINE CINEMA

RADIUS

Rated: R

By: Hannah Holzer hholzer.gazette@gmail.com

By: Sonia Garcha sgarcha.gazette@gmail.com

By: Amanda Nist anist.gazette@gmail.com

goodnight mommy: A-

Rated: PG-13

the vacation: C

onathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley both make their directorial debuts in the highly anticipated yet highly disappointing film Vacation. This film shows you what obstacles Rusty and his family, the Griswolds, have to go through in a road trip across the country in order to get to the infamous Wally World. I had high hopes for this movie from the looks of the previews but I soon realized that this was a highly predictable storyline with a lot of forced humor. Ed Helms’ role in The Hangover had given me some reassurance that this would be a fairly decent movie, yet I found that the entire element of humor was placed on his shoulders while the rest of cast remained to be seemingly awkward throughout this movie. Christina Applegate played an interesting character and helped the seemingly low comedic level of the other characters with her role as Helms’ wife, Debbie Griswold. Vacation, a continuation of the National Lampoon’s Vacation series, may disappoint many diehard fans of the cult classic as this film may not live up to the previous movies. The original series had a much lighter sense of humor which made the movie much funnier since the jokes were way less obvious and not so in your face. Vacation isn’t the kind of movie that’s so unfunny that it’s funny. It’s so unfunny that it’s actually scary and maybe even painful. I cringed at many jokes and felt embarrassed for the actors that were spewing these awful lines. You laughed at the jokes because they were funny, not because you felt like you were required to laugh since it was a comedy. This movie may have been rated R, but the humor was obviously created from someone who has only seen PG-13 movies. Although the infamous Wally World is brought into context as a main priority as the Griswold’s, the jokes lack originality and try way too hard to be “hip and cool.” The Griswolds didn’t seem to make a high impact when it comes to high profile comedy. The plot was far too busy and didn’t live up to other comedic classics. This is definitely not the type of movie I recommend seeing with mom and dad (unless they can handle inappropriate jokes) but it might be something to check out if you enjoy comedies that are on steroids. I was thoroughly disappointed as I expected a decently comedic performance and instead found that I was on the verge of leaving the theater and sneaking into Shawn the Sheep.

paper towns: B

he works of writer John Green have been over quoted, overrated and dare I say over hyped. Green’s works are neither ordinary nor exceptional, and Paper Towns – the bookturned-movie – failed to be anything more than good. Paper Towns is the story of a Florida-based, school-oriented senior, Quentin, who gets, and then doesn’t get, his miracle – the ultra-chic and admirably rebellious Margo Roth Spiegelman. Nat Wolff, who played a small role in John Green’s first book-turned-movie, The Fault In Our Stars, portrays Quentin as he struggles with the weight of his lifelong crush on uber popular Margo, played by fashion model Cara Delevingne. Nat Wolff is known to me, and most of my peers, as the key member of our childhood rock band – The Naked Brothers Band. Watching him blossom from a goofy but talented Nickelodeon child star to quirky teenage heartthrob has been very heartwarming, and he definitely did not disappoint in any way in Paper Towns. When I read the book Paper Towns almost three years ago I loved it. Quentin and Margo go on a rebellious, and illegal, revenge adventure, forget their social boundaries of high school and talk about their futures. But in the morning, Margo is gone, and Quentin follows her bread crumb trail of clues to a small “paper town” in New York. A paper town is a copyright trap used by map makers in which fictional towns are created in order to catch plagiarizers – fake paper towns copied and passed off as real are obviously stolen. The idea behind a paper town is so fascinating to me, and the fact that John Green would adapt it as part of his plot line, and later use it as part of the main message of the book, is brilliant. But honestly, the movie probably lost a bit of its fascination because I had read the book, and because I could anticipate the somewhat surprising plot line and ending. However, the movie itself wasn’t bad, and in fact both the indie-centered soundtrack and teenage actors were superb. The ending of the movie and book differ in very small but meaningful ways. However, both endings are very weak – what the reader wants, and what the main character wants, doesn’t happen – which, combined with the overly sugar-coated and slightly sappy ending, is a bit frustrating. Paper Towns’ multifaceted characters, intriguing plot and clever comedy were successful to a degree. The movie fell a little flat as a drama, mystery and love story, but it had strong elements as a comedy and coming-of-age film.

he best horror movies are the ones with the unconventional scares – the ones that don’t need undead moms, creepy dolls or little girls to scare you. The best ones are the ones that scare you because of the score and utter suspense and not because of the typical jump scares or other horror cliches. Films like that are the reason that I love movies. Goodnight Mommy, directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, does exactly this. The film’s two main characters, twin brothers Lukas and Elias, believe that after returning home from a facial reconstruction surgery, their mother is not actually their mother. From the very start of the film, a subtle yet notable feeling of anxiety sets in as it shows the twins playing tag in an overly tall corn field. It then shows them challenging one another in more dangerous situations, such as who can hold their breath the longest. The best and creepiest thing about this movie is that as an audience, it’s hard to tell whether or not Lukas and Elias are crazy, deranged kids, or if their mother truly has been replaced by something evil. The already slightly erratic and violent behavior Lukas and Elias display add significantly to the eeriness of the movie when their mother comes home, face completely wrapped in gauze besides her eyes and mouth. But the gauze isn’t the twins’ only reason to suspect their mother isn’t their mother. She doesn’t let them leave their property or lock their door and seems to greatly favor Lukas over Elias. She also doesn’t remember facts about herself, has slightly psychotic tantrums and owns a picture where she sits next to someone who looks a little too much like her. Overall, the mom’s pretty sketchy – I don’t blame the twins for wanting to tie her up and torture her until she admits she’s not their mother. Goodnight Mommy gets pretty graphic and intense, so if you don’t have a strong stomach for beetles and magnifying glasses give you the creeps, I suggest closing your eyes in certain parts. Otherwise, it’s all good fun and games – that is, if you’re a sinister little boy or mother. Regardless, if you aren’t an extreme movie watcher or just don’t analyze frames and scenes hard enough, you won’t guess the plot twist at the end. You also might be left extraordinarily confused and probably pissed off. In spite of everything, I really enjoyed this movie. It scared me with uncertainty and anxiety, which is truly the best type of movie.

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current.

September 2015

Top Tweets

Spirited tweets by Granite Bay High School students BY JILL KURPERSHOEK

jkupershoek.gazette@gmail.com

Gazette illustration/AMANDA PRATHER

Twitter

Who’s Hiring BY NATASHA CHANDA

nchanda.gazette@gmail.com

tribe rolled

Jordon Holt @jojo_holt

1 Retweet 32 Favorites

#GrowingUpInSac you know you’re almost home when you see this

JCPenney

1125 Galleria Blvd, Roseville, CA 95678 (916)-772-8800 JCPenney requires employees with the ability to assist customers efficiently, greet customers, stock and organize merchandise, and ring up purchases. Must be at least 16 years of age.

Chick-Fil-A

4040 Douglas Blvd, Granite Bay,CA 95746 (916)-773-0737 Chick-Fil-A is looking for a cheerful, passionate and hard-working employee with strong leadership skills. Must be at least 16 years of age.

Pizza Hut

1200 Cirby Way St H, Roseville, CA 95661 (916) 773-3200 Pizza Hut looks for respectful and positive attitudes in their employees. A one-on-one interview will be required and applicants must be at least 16 years of age.

Recipe of the Month: Ingredients: 1. 1 cup cooked steel cut oats 2. 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 3. 2 bananas, ripe 4. ½ teaspoon baking powder 5. 1 teaspoon baking soda 6. 2 cups all-purpose flour 7. 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 8. ½ cup non dairy milk 9. 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 10. ½ cup chopped dark chocolate

Directions:

Genna Kozlowski @GennaKozlowski

696 Retweets

960 Favorites

lets just cancel school today and tailgate all day

Ethan Quinn @themanchild124

1 Retweet

20 Favorites

you really don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone :/(I’ve been driving without an aux cord for 3 days now)

Sydney Ladrech

@syd_ladrech

1 Retweet

42 Favorites

Banana & Chocolate Steel Cut Oat Muffins BY SURINA KHURANA

skhurana.gazette@gmail.com

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a muffin tin and set aside. 2. In a large bowl with a hand mixer, blend together the cooked steel cut oats, brown sugar and bananas until smooth and creamy. On low, blend in the baking powder, baking soda, flour, apple cider vinegar, milk and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate until combined. 3. Distribute batter evenly between the muffin wells, filling each almost to the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tops of the muffins are golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. Gazette photo/ SURINA KHURANA

September 2015

Page 17

invest in stocks.

Passion for Fashion Fall into style with Granite Bay High School students BY NATASHA CHANDA nchanda.gazette@gmail.

Gazette photo AMANDA PRATHER

Genna Kozlowki, junior, rocks a classic fall look.

all brings a little bit of “cozy” into almost everybody’s style. Like every other year, the fuzzy sweaters, henleys, and knee high boots start to make appearances throughout the campus. This fall, the staple sweaters, scarves, boots and tonal pants will surely be seen, but with a little extra flare. “For the fall, I like that you can wear multiple layers and add texture,” junior Keaton Dougherty said. “You can add more color.” Instead of the usual plaid flannels and scarves, boho prints have been making a comeback. The floral, multi-color mandala style prints have been seen on flared pants, kimonos and are even used on tapestries in bedrooms. “I like all of the different prints,” junior Marlee Absalon said. “I think that you can match them with a lot of different things ... it’s (much less) boring.” The boho-chic, relaxed style is quickly becoming a major part of fashion around campus, most likely due to the recent trends of music festivals and the clothes seen there.

“You can dress them up or just keep it casual,” Absalon said. Another clothing item making its welldeserved comeback is the T-shirt dress. The evolving trend has been seen on many girls around campus. The straight cut allows a relaxed and loose vibe, tying into the boho aspect. “They’re the most comfortable type of outfit to wear if you are in a hurry and they still look cute,” GBHS freshman Pooja Jadhav said. Guy’s fashion, on the other hand, has become less and less relaxed. As many may have noticed, Sperrys, buttoned shirts, and pressed khakis have been seen on numerous boys around campus. Some might say that they are going for a more “preppy” look. “The whole ‘preppy’ thing has definitely taken over ... It’s either a ‘swaggie’ outfit or a preppy outfit,” Dougherty said. Both sexes, on and off campus, have also been seen sporting buns – yes buns. Girls commonly put their hair into a bun to keep it out of their faces, but progressively, a hybrid has been formed between the half-up half-down hairdo and the classic bun to create the half bun. The half bun is simply a portion of about half of the hair tied up into a bun opposed to the entire head of hair. Some seem to like this trend, but many feel that it is a

style which only suits certain people. “I feel like it depends on the structure of the face.” Jadhav said. “I mean, if you’re comfortable with it and you like it, go with it.” Not only are girls sporting buns, but boys have started to as well. They call it the “manbun”. Aside from the manbun, boys have also been seen sporting the classic comb over. The comb over does its part in adding to the neat and smart, or preppy, look. In terms of shoes though rain has not been copious in California, girls still take advantage of the style opportunities when the rain does decide to make an appearance. Hunter rain boots are a popular item among many of the girls, aside from the usual converse and Ugg boots. For guys, sperrys have made a presence in recent months and the trend has circulated around, not only this campus, but among many other high school campuses as well. The trend doesn’t necessarily just pertain to boys, as it has also been seen on girls. All of these things are parts of, but definitely do not conclude, what fall fashion Gazette photo /AMANDA 2015 is all about. PRATHER More trends will undeniably be seen and Whitney quickly adopted by high schoolers all over, Knorp, junior, as most trends are, so be prepared. wears another common fall look for students.

Birks are back in stock

Students revive styles like Birkenstocks on GBHS campus BY JILL KURPERSHOEK

jkupershoek.gazette@gmail.com

riginating in Germany, these Jesus-style sandals are making a comeback. For 235 years, Birkenstocks shoes have been manufacturing orthopedic sandals for men, women and children. With over 300 styles and colors, Birkenstock now sells to customers all over the world. Although Birkenstocks, also referred to as ‘birks,’ were first designed to be a comfortable and functional shoe, the fashion world has accepted the trend, causing others to follow suit. Birkenstocks have become extremely popular in recent years and can be found on many Granite Bay High School students. “I like how comfortable birks are and how I can wear them with practically anything,” senior, Jenna Qunell said. According to bloomberg.com, sales of Birkenstocks in the U.S. have risen 30 percent in the past year and are expected to double by the end of 2015. “I think the style of (Birkenstocks) are coming back,” senior, Jacob Calton said. “The

fact that they are really comfortable draws people’s attention.” The shoes are designed to mold to the wearer’s feet and have been recommended by physicians, according to birkenstockusa.com. The molding ensures proper weight distribution throughout the foot and the arches support the foot’s natural shape. Birkenstocks sell for an average of $120, although the high price isn’t a deal breaker for students at GBHS. “They’re made of cork and leather which Birkenstocks, the jesus like are both pretty expensive sandle, has appeared on feet materials,” Calton said, “Plus all over campus. they’re shipped from Germany Gazette photo /AMANDA PRATHER which costs a lot of money.” The shoes can cost anywhere from $60-160 in new condition, price for how long they last,” but can be found on websites Qunell said. “I literally wear like craigslist.com, being resold them everyday.” for less Part of the high cost is the “I obviously wish they were guarantee of durability. Not cheaper, but it’s worth the only are Birkenstocks said to

last for years, but the company offers shoe repairs, so the initial investment pays for long lasting footwear. There are currently over ten authorized stores in the Roseville/ Granite Bay area who offer Birkenstocks shoe repairs. As well as repairs, Birkenstocks will also punch extra holes into the straps for skinnier footed customers. Another part of the Birkenstocks brand is the promotion of ‘green’ practices. “We’re not a newcomer or just jumping on the “green” bandwagon because (it’s) popular,” the company states on its website. “Our 230 year heritage as shoemakers reflect an environmental sensibility that continues to evolve and shape who we are as a (...) company.” Their website requests oldshoe donations to recycle their expensive materials and report low waste production while making each shoe. Packaging also is made from 90 percent recycled materials. Although it still is quite

strange how Birkenstocks have come back as a mainstream fad, as the thick sandals are generally associated with the antithesis of fashion– and the Birkenstocks company itself hardly does any marketing. However, it does help that the shoes are unisex so the target market isn’t limited to anyone in particular. As there are tons of different styles and colors, the most frequently seen birks are the Arizona style sandals, which are the classic, two-strap shoe, also known as the Jesus-style sandals. This is shoe most GBHS students seem to own and enjoy. According to Qunell, the comfort aspect of the shoes are one factor to credit the recent popularity to, and that the range of styles allows them to appeal to so many different people. “I worked with a girl at summer camp and she had whales on hers, and I thought that was pretty cool,” Calton said regarding the wide range of styles. Although no one can say how long these shoes will remain in fashion, the current fashion stance states that Birks are in Stock.

Page 18

look back at it.

September 2015

A ticket to a better summer night Many summer nights of GBHS student were spent enjoying their favorite artists at local concerts

KAYOMI KAYOSHI kkayoshi.gazette@gmail.com From Tupac holograms at Coachella to screen projections of vocalists in Japan, concerts are a universal joy that goes hand in hand with music. By living in Northern California, students at Granite Bay High School have used this to their advantage and have been to numerous concerts throughout their lives. Over the summer many artists performed around the area, and GBHS students didn’t miss out on seeing some of their favorite artists. Tatum Rice, a GBHS senior, is very experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to concerts seeing as she’s been to 20 of them. When asked about her favorite part about going to concerts, she said that she loves the electric feeling and the energy of everything, especially how the band and fans all come together to share one night together and feed off of each other’s energy. Many avid concert goers on campus are looking forward to the Triple Ho Show in December at the SAP Center in San Jose. This concert is going to have big artists such as One Direction, 5 Seconds of Summer, Fifth Harmony, Austin Mahone and Nathan Sykes. Students at GBHS are going to this highly anticipated concert, including Tatum Rice. This will be her third time seeing One Direction and she’s also looking forward to seeing 5 Seconds of Summer. Every concert is unique in itself, and the best thing about them are the memories that are made from them. Senior Chalyse Thompson is an avid concert fan herself. “My favorite concert was seeing The Maine on their tour because it was one of their opener’s last time performing on stage together

SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE/ JENNA MCCARTHY

before they broke up, and I got to witness it,”Thompson said. Thompson also appreciates how intimate the seting is at concerts when the venue is smaller and the band is less well known. “I’ve met The Century a few times and they remember me when we see each other, and it’s really cool to be able to catch up with them,” Thompson said. “When I went to see This Century, the lead singer caught me making a ridiculous face at him and he stopped his speech to make a face back at me while everyone else was confused.” Many concert addicts will attest to the fact that seeing your favorite artist live is an extremely moving experience. Mercedes Halverson and Taylor Kreun, both seniors at GBHS, attended the Nicki Minaj concert in August and they mutually agreed that seeing Nicki Minaj was like an out of body experience since they both idolize her. “After the concert, when I had gotten home, I was listening to Nicki Minaj’s music and I started crying because I couldn’t believe that I had actually seen her in real life,” Kreun said. Senior Tanvi Mehta’s favorite thing about concerts is the people she meets there. She met many great people at every concert she has been to and said that it’s great because you know that you have some commonalities with the people there. Mehta also expressed how excited she is to see The Weeknd this December. “The Weeknd has really edgy music, and I can only imagine what it would be like seeing him live,” Mehta said. “I know that I would enjoy his performance. The people I’m going with are also really fun and energetic, so it’s a guaranteed good time.” Attending concerts allows students to explore their interest and to venture out into the music.

SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE/ TREASA HAYES

September 2015

Page 19

pressed for words.

Students site–see on new forms of social media Wordpress allows students to unleash creativity

BY JENNY TARBELL

jtarbell.gazette@gmail.com

ocial media has opened a realm of self expression for students and adults. Blogging in particular opens opportunity to give insight to a writer’s offline world. Much like the arts, blogging and Wordpress are an outlet for the narration of a person’s everyday life. It can be used as a way to work out personal feelings in hopes to relate to readers, or just to take advantage of the ability to experience life twice, once in the moment and again in retrospect. Emma Darragh, a GBHS senior, is an avid user of Wordpress to express who she is. “(I use Wordpress) to turn my emotions into words,” Darragh said. As she writes she has the ability to work out her feelings or express the thoughts that can’t seem to escape her mind. The purpose of social media is to share your world, more commonly through apps like Twitter or Instagram, but blogging takes that a step further. The speaker of a blog presents an in–depth platform of their life that is made available to virtually anyone with Internet access. “I can tell you my life story and you won’t even know who I am,”GBHS senior Alee Yap said. In some ways, the ability to write to a plethora of strangers is much more safe than speaking to peers about more serious issues.

“I hope people read what I have to say and understand me a little bit better,” Darragh said. Having the platform to broadcast personal stories gives others knowledge that someone else may be going through similar situations, and bloggers can therefore give tips and advice to their readers. “I started to think about the content I was publishing and its impact on readers. The simplest thing I really aim to do is at least brighten someone’s day a little,” 2015 GBHS graduate Treasa Hayes said. Word press on the internet can be both expressive and therapeutic to both the writer and the reader. “I’ll just open a blank page and start writing. I honestly think that’s the best way to channel your thoughts because you’re not going off of preconceived ideas or relying on anyone else’s perspectives but your own in the moment,” said Hayes. Beyond self-expression, the blogging world has taken the internet by storm. According to webpronews.com, about 18 million blogs were created in 2014 alone. From fashion, to travel, to lifestyle, there exists a blog for almost any audience or interest. What makes bloggers so successful is the personal connection with readers. Unlike television or magazines, there is only one person operating and communicating. This gives the audience a much more interactive experience, almost like you’ve been friends with the writer for years. This personal approach is what drives readers to subscribe and follow up;blogs bring like-minded

people together to connect on a common idea. While bloggers write about struggles in their own life, they make a profound difference in the thought process of their viewers when they come upon the realization that they are not the only one going through it. As bloggers help and connect with their subscribers, they duly make money from page views and subscriptions. According to onlineincometeacher.com, top blogs can make anywhere from 10 to 30 thousand dollars daily. When a reader can trust a blogger's advice and opinion, companies get a great marketing opportunity for a writer to suggest purchasing their product. Some blogs will interweave product suggestions within their writing and others will place ads around the page that may attract their viewers. Bloggers even promote other bloggers, creating and huge web of connection in the blogging community. What starts as simply expressing interest and personal details has the ability to turn into a large business platform. “Social media is super powerful in our society (and) many spend countless hours on their phone,” said Darragh,” so I think if people do something effective and spread good words around then it can really impact how people view their lives.”

Gazette Photo/AMANDA PRATHER

Gazette photo/AMANDA PRATHER

Page 20

that’s so ravin’

September 2015

Crave the rave GBHS students immerse themselves in rave culture

BY JILL KURPERSHOEK

jkurpershoek.gazette@gmail.com

Electronic dance music, also known as EDM, first emerged onto the mainstream music scene in 2008, beginning with a DJ going by the name Skrillex. This new genre of music introduced an entirely different way to experience live performances that included extravagant costumes, massive light shows and a dangerous drug culture. “What I like most about raves is all the friendly, loving people,” Granite Bay High School senior Natalie Colosimo said. “Everyone’s so nice and caring.” Raves have recently surged in popularity, with events occurring all over the United States, and tickets selling for as high as $200. One rave in particular, Electric Daisy Carnival, attracts as many as 400,000 guests during the three day event, grossing $40 million according to forbes. com. “EDM music has (gone) from being not popular at all, to almost everyone listening to it,” junior Hannah Carver said. “I have been going to raves big and small for a couple years now ... I believe that people are taking a part in making (them) more popular because it’s now being discovered by many people.” One major aspect of the rave scene is the costumes. “People wear ‘kandi,’ fuzzy boots and glitter and sometimes not a lot of clothing,” Colosimo said. A popular rave tradition associated with attire is “kandi” trading. “Kandi” are colorful beaded bracelets made from plastic beads. Rave attendees wear these and trade them with others while reciting the acronym “P.L.U.R.” which stands for peace, love, unity and respect. “There are all different kinds of outfits that people wear to raves,” Carver said. “For the most part, people will dress in

a way that can express different things about oneself.” Aside from the colorful costumes and racy attire, raves do not have an entirely spotless reputation. Many events have suffered multiple fatalities due to drug and alcohol overdose. Ecstasy, or MDMA, is one of the most commonly consumed drugs at raves, and also the cause of the majority of rave fatalities. According to billboard.com, many of today’s festival deaths came after attendees showed symptoms associated with taking molly, the purest form of ecstasy. MDMA is a stimulant drug that enhances energy and sensory perception. Users commonly use this drug during raves because they are able to dance to music with intense bass and bright light shows for long periods of time. At a recent rave in Pomona, California called Hard Summer, two teen girls died from apparent drug overdose. According to laweekly.com, the suspected drugs of abuse included methamphetamine and ecstasy. Unfortunately, those fatalities had not been the first for the annual Hard Summer event. “Personally, I go to raves for the music and to see artists that I desire to see just like any concert,” Carver said. “But I do believe that there are people that go to raves for drugs.” Regardless of whether or not people are attending raves for drugs, Colosimo agrees that raves are generally known for drug use and imply a drug culture. Although fatalities are common and heavily reported on, the actual amount of fatalities from taking MDMA, in reality, is small. Molly, MDMA’s counterpart is producing the dangerous possibility of overdose and dehydration. While raves may display a fun and party-like environment, attendees recognize that it is important to be aware of the dangers the environment can propose.

Ravers vibe out at Bass Camp in Tahoe.

Gazette photo /JILL KURPERSHOEK