March 2015

The muir.pusd.us

Thursday, March 12, 2015

1905 N. Lincoln Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103

Underground market emerges

Gates Millennium Scholarship selects three Muir finalists

by ALEXIS YOUNG

Since the Student Store stopped selling snacks and drinks for the student body during nutrition and lunch due to new health restrictions, students have taken the situation into their own hands.

An entire underground economy has emerged with students distributing and selling a variety of chips, candy and drinks to each other. There are multiple students on campus who bring snacks to school and sell on a daily basis.

Student one, a vendor that was granted anonymity, said, “I sell chips, chocolate, sour punch straws, beverages, rice Krispy treats, nachos, etc.

(Almost anything their hearts desire).”

“I sell hot cheetos and four other varieties of hot chips.

They’re a dollar each and sometimes I sell candy and drinks” said Student two.

Student vendors navigate the campus selling as a means of making money, but this hasn’t come without some uproar from administration.

“I have been caught selling on multiple occasions.The principal/vice principal confiscates the merchandise. A parent or guardian must come and get the merchandise.” said Student one. (continued on page 5)

by JENNIFER SALVADOR

Photo courtesy of Gloria Rodriguez John Pointer holding his award with his family at the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region XV Contest in San Gabriel Valley.

Pointer reps PUSD, wins speech contest

by MARIANA GARCIA

After a series of speech competitions, John Pointer, junior in the Business Academy, won and represented John Muir High School in the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region XV Contest.

He competed with high school students from the San Gabriel Valley and was one of six winners who was awarded $1,000 in the annual contest.

Pointer heard about the contest from math teacher Luthria Sumita.

The first competition between Muir students was held

on campus on Feb. 9th. The first round was to determine which students will be representing Muir in the contest. The price was $100 for the student chosen to represent Muir at the district competition.

Assistant Principal Gloria Rodriguez along with English teacher and Journalist Advisor Jose Ortega helped the participants prepare for the contest.

Rodriguez said that teachers were asked for recommendations of students that can pull together a speech and represent Muir well. Rodriguez believes Muir has represented the district well because last year

Lydia Jimenez, Class of ‘14, won the contest. Rodriguez’s advice is that students should apply when they hear of these type of events and that teachers should have students do more oratory presentations in class.

The participants from Muir were Kimberly Mejia, Rudy Amaya, Cecilia Valle, seniors in the Engineering Environmental Science Academy (EESA), Logan Patton a senior in the Arts Entertainment Media Academy, and Pointer.

Mejia incorporated Winston Churchill’s life experience in her speech. (continued on page 4 )

by JENNIFER SALVADOR

society, world, or generation) are facing and proposing an approach to address this problem.”

Manuel Rustin, history teacher in the Arts Entertainment & Media academy said, “I feel good about it. It’ll help students be better prepared for college level work.”

According to Rustin, they made this project a requirement for college because too many students make it to college, but aren’t ready for college level work; therefore they struggle, stop attending classes, and drop out.

The project was assigned to seniors before Winter Break so they could begin thinking about it. The deadline to choose topics was on January 8 and 9.

Over the course of these past few months, the project was broken down into four parts: the annotated bibliography, draft of “The Problem,” the draft of “The

Three Muir seniors were selected as finalists for the prestigious Gates Millenium Scholarship earlier this week.

The three finalists are Kimberly Mejia, Logan Patton, and Cecilia Valle.

The application was due Jan. 15 and students were notified this week about finalists.

The application required eight personal essays and a nominator and a recommender form.

Valeria Sosa, class of 2011, was the last student from Muir to win the scholarship.

There was only one finalist last year, Abigail Jacob.

According to their website, the Gates Millenium Scholarship is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and it provides recipients with an opportunity to complete an undergraduate college education in any area of interest for free.

“It’s a really competitive scholarship, so when I found out I was a finalist, I was really surprised,” said Patton.

Pattons’ nominator and recommender were English teacher Jose Ortega and work supervisor Deandra McClenney.

Valle said she was “shocked” when she found out she was named a finalist. (continued on page 3 )

Seniors, have you finished your research project?

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Salvador A flyer posted inside a classroom reminding seniors to complete their history projects if they are “Planning to Graduate.”

Tomorrow, all Muir seniors need to submit their research project in order to fulfill a requirement in their Social Studies class.

This is the first year that Muir has mandated that every senior complete a research paper and oral presentation in their Government or Economics class. If students do not complete the paper, they will not pass the Government or Economics class, which they will need in order to graduate.

Alondra Gutierrez, a senior in the Business academy said, “It wasn’t as hard as I expected because they prepared us last year with a research topic similar to this one.”

As stated in the document that was distributed to seniors, “The goal of this research project is to explore a problem that we (as a community, nation,

Analysis,” and the final project due tomorrow.

After each student submits their research paper, each will have to present their projects in a formal, oral presentation on their research and findings.

Rustin strongly feels that the seniors’ grades will not be negatively affected. “I don’t think it’ll affect it at all, I think seniors are gonna step up to the task, get it done and graduate,” said Rustin.

Philip Hoge, a history teacher in the Business academy said, “I think that our graduation rates would go up. We’ll have more kids graduate because they’ll understand as students that our expectations are them for actually to learn important material. By this, we understand our responsibility to students, that it’s our responsibility to make sure that students learn.” (continued on page 5)

I N D E X OPINION 3

NEWS 4-5

ENTERTAINMENT 8-9

SPORTS 10-11

Christian Grey is NOT Prince Charming 3

Dog sniffs out contraband

“TU’ing” with A$AP Ferg and the A$AP Mob 7

Softball preseason off to a roccky start

5

11

Page 2 | Thursday, March 12, 2015

The Blazer News

muir.pusd.us

Columns

A Look Into Logan’s Logic: A column

by LOGAN PATTON

Throughout my high school career math has been a subject that is extremely trying. I’ve always understood its necessity, but rarely have I ever been able to grasp the concepts completely. While this may not be reflected in my grades, it is reflected in the little knowledge I retain from my math classes. Math has remained one of my most challenging subjects, though I have been able to challenge myself by continuing to take courses.

The irony is that in elementary school, I used to love math. In fact, I used to dream of becoming an astronomer because of my love for both math and science. The shift of interest occurred in the fourth grade, after I was having trouble figuring out a math problem. I asked my male teacher, the first one I ever had, for help with the problem. Upon asking for help he simply replied that because I was a girl it was okay that I didn’t understand.

He added that it was “normal” for girls like me not to understand math. Originally I didn’t think much of the statement and I only assumed that what he said was true.

Ever since then I found math intimidating and more difficult for me to understand, leading to my frustration and eventual disdain for the subject.

Years later, I realized that the statement was not a reflection on my math skills, but instead my teacher’s inability to help me understand the subject. Yet I still internalized that idea, dismissed the dream of pursuing a career in astronomy and my mathematical problems persisted.

However, once I realized that my teacher’s

Valle’s View: A column

comment was not true and just sexist, my by CECILIA VALLE attitude towards math began to change.

This past weekend, a few mem I found that my mentality about bers of The Blazer decided to participate math changed from “this is too hard, I in Southern California Journalism Educacan’t do it” to “this is a bit difficult, but tors Association Regional Write off at I can still do it.” This was a difficult California State University Northridge. realization to come to after years of self- The write off was separated into doubt. Now, I make it a point to surround News, Features, Sports, and Opinions. myself with positive individuals, who only The members of our staff that attended motivate my success. Due to the fact that were my Co-Editor-In-Chief Logan PatI struggled with math for so many years, ton, Jennifer Salvador, Diego Obregon, I still have trouble liking the subject itself Cynthia Sandoval, and Mariela Martinez. though I have been able to improve my

This is the first time that understanding of it. This has not deterred members of The Blazer attend an event me in overcoming the idea that I am bad at like this. We are determined to make it math and unable to do it. a yearly event for our staff, because the

My AP Calculus class serves as experience was worth it. Two of our writa prominent example. I have been able to ers, Diego and Logan are advancing to succeed in the class because of my hard the second round. work and determination, and the over It was interesting to meet stuall transition my mind has undergone in dents from high schools that are heavy regards to math courses. I continue to push on their journalism curriculum. One high myself to ensure my success in class, stay- school was a school solely dedicated to ing positive about my capabilities. To gain journalism. extra support in college, I shall ensure that I will admit, despite all the hard I seek the necessary help and programs that will continue to support me as I pursue other math classes by utilizing the tutors on campus or even office hours with either the professor or T.A.. I know my college by THE BLAZER STAFF

The Blazer Staff wanted to commath courses will help me gain a better understanding of my particular struggles ment on the decision to pursue the story with math and will teach me new strategies regarding illegal student sales on campus.

It was an editorial decision to that will help me overcome and persevere. grant the students that were interviewed for this story anonymity. All anonymous sources were confirmed to be reliable; we would not have granted them anonymity if otherwise, or used what they had to say in the story.

EDITORIAL: Our rights as journalists

MISSION STATEMENT

The Blazer is produced by the Journalism Class at John Muir High School. It is a com-

pletely student-run newspaper, and all content is revised by student editors. Our goal is to release a high quality, informative, and factual newspaper that accurately depicts the John Muir community. We, the Journalism staff, understand and will apply our rights under the California Education Code 48907. This newspaper does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the John Muir High School administration, faculty, or the PUSD. For any questions or concerns, letters to the editors are always welcomed. They can be sent to The Blazer’s email at jmhsblazer@ gmail.com where editors reserve the right to edit any submissions for clarity and content. The Journalism staff can be reached during 7th period in room D458. We strive to leave no story untouched.

work and time that I put into my articles for The Blazer, it was a lot of pressure knowing that we were competing against students that take a lot more time preparing for competitions like this.

The best part of this experience was meeting journalists from other high schools, and seeing what their journalism programs are all about. We got a chance to look at other high school newspapers and get ideas from them.

This was an experience that I hope that many future Mustang’s will have. And soon, hopefully, Muir journalists will win the Sweepstakes trophy in this annual competition.

Although we all despised Diego for dragging us into this, I admit the trip was worth it.

I congratulate and wish the best of luck to Diego and Logan for their next competition in Long Beach over Spring Break.

All students here at Muir are well aware of the students who decide to sell on campus, and we, The Blazer Staff, decided it was a story worth pursuing.

As journalists, we are all aware that under the California Education code, students cannot be disciplined for exercising their rights under the First Amendment.

This protects the students that were willing to be interviewed and The Blazer Staff and the writers that pursued the story.

Editors Editor-In-Chief: Cecilia Valle Co-Editor-In-Chief: Logan Patton Copy Editor: Jennifer Salvador News and Features Editor: Diego Obregon Opinion Editor: Mariela Martinez Entertainment Editor: Alexis Young Writers, Contributors, Photographers Joshua Alcaraz Kylee Sharp Mariana Garcia Cheyenne Goddard Constance Kaye Michaela Jordan Raven BridgesJackson Marisol Garcia

Drae Upshaw Destiny Arriaza Jair Gonazalez Rebecca Gutierrez Domonique Ballew Cynthia Sandoval Virginia DeJesus Juan Guillen

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The Blazer News

Thursday, March 12, 2015 | Page 3

Opinion & News

Christian Grey is not Prince Charming

by MARIELA MARTINEZ

I’m sure that many of you have recently watched or heard about the new Rated R flick “50 Shades of Grey,” starring business CEO Christian Grey and college senior Anastasia Steele. They develop an on-again off-again relationship. Ana moves into his luxury penthouse, gets taken on exciting dates, and receives expensive gifts.

The catch? Anastasia must sign a contract granting Grey permission to be her “dominant”. A little BDSM never hurt anyone, right?

Right, but only when it is between fully consenting adults.

There is a fine line between BDSM and abuse, and 50 Shades crosses it.

50 Shades was originally a fanfiction about the books and movie series Twilight. It gained immense popularity, not just from Twilight fans, but from readers all around the world.

Must have been an amazing book. Romance and sadomasochism, what else could you ask for in a relationship? Oh, I don’t know.

Some understanding and respect, maybe?

BDSM (Bondage & Discipline, Domination & Submission, and Sadism & Masochism) means

receiving sexual arousal either by inflicting pain on others or having someone inflict pain on you. It includes communication, agreement, scene/play, aftercare, and debriefing.

Both partners discuss their limits, safety measures, what went right during the scene/play, what went wrong, and provide support for each other after, as they may be physically, emotionally, or mentally drained.

It is all about expressing their interests with partners while still being in a healthy relationship.

Abuse is a toxic cycle. It includes guilt, excuses, the “honeymoon” period, planning, and setup.

A physical or verbal form of violence is committed, the abuser becomes worried of the consequences, and then shifts the blame to avoid taking responsibility of their actions.

Then there is the “honeymoon”. The abuser becomes the perfect partner, bringing gifts and doing all the things the victim has ever wanted them to do. This is the way to ensure that the victim stays in the relationship.

After, the abuser starts feeling a loss of control and begins planning ways to regain it. Then

they wait for a time when their actions can be justified.

Christian seems to have an unhealthy obsession for beating tiny little brunettes that look like his crack head mom. This is his excuse for being a heartless dominant; his traumatic childhood experiences.

He controls every aspect of Ana’s life. What she eats, what she drinks, what contraceptive she uses, how much exercise she does, who she visits, where she lives, and even what car she drives. Ana cannot even visit her own mother without Christian questioning who, what, when, where, why and how. He reluctantly lets her go, just to end up following her across the country to her house, from Seattle to Georgia.

Before that, he mysteriously shows up at the hardware store where she works, sends her a first edition copy of a book, and tracks her down at a bar, where he “heroically” saves her from her drunk friend Jose trying to kiss her.

The next day he tells her “If you were mine, you wouldn’t be able to sit down for a week after the stunt you pulled yesterday.” Um, I’m sorry, but was that a threat?

The only reason that makes this is okay is because he is

an extremely handsome billionaire.

If you take away Grey’s money and put him in a trailer home, suddenly it becomes an episode of “Criminal Minds” about a creepy abusive stalker.

There are many impressionable girls who have read the books and are saw the movie thinking that this is the way romance is supposed to be, when it’s not like that at all. It was an extremely unhealthy relationship which makes codependency in relationships seem okay. There was no room for the female protagonist to have any personal boundaries of her own.

She was controlled in every sense by Grey, and the part when she *spoiler alert* leaves his apartment after he whips her six times is not realistic. Real victims of abuse cannot walk away that easily.

With the incorrect portrayal of the BDSM community having to deal with being compared to 50 Shades, it can take many explanations to get everyone to understand the difference between BDSM and abuse. My piece only touches the surface.

(Gate’s story continued from front page)

“I thought I wouldn’t get it because my recommender submitted his form a little late.

But I’m thankful that I made it through,” said Valle.

Ortega and counselor Dr. Nancy Gonzalez were Valle’s recommender and nominator, respectively.

“I’m incredibly proud of them,” Ortega said. “They are truly the pinnacle of the best and the brightest at John Muir High School.”

Mejia said, “Being a Gates Millennium Finalist, I feel as if I have accomplished my goal in high school. I have worked hard throughout high school because I wanted to have options after high school.

Currently, I just feel like I have worked hard enough in high school that I can do whatever I want after high school.”

Mejia’s nominator and recommender were Gonzalez and engineering teacher Eugene Mahmoud, respectively.

The finalists will submit their final paperwork and wait for notification whether they received the award or not in April.

Honor roll students attend special dinner

by REBECCA GUTIERREZ

Photo Courtesy of Logan Patton Honor roll students freshman Danielle Obregon and junior Diego Obregon.

Principal Timothy Sippel held a dinner in the library for honor roll students who achieved a 3.0-4.0 GPA.

The dinner, which 175 parents and students attended, was held on March 4 to congratulate those students and to motivate them to keep up the good work.

The students were presented with an award, some in their Academy assembly, and some during Advisory. A letter was sent to their parents in the mail, which invited them to the dinner on March 4 at 6pm..

The day of the dinner the students were given food and time to socialize with fellow students who also attended the event.

Later that night the the principal and counselors presented the students with a letter

from the principal saying “Hard work and perseverance pays off [...] we look forward to supporting you in reaching your greater achievements and preparing you for college and life after high school.”

Arline Garcia, a 10th grade student attended this event and received the Principal’s Award for having a first semester GPA of a 3.8. She said she enjoyed that day and it was nice to see so many people attending the event. However, the only bad thing was the space.

“I don’t think they were prepared for so many people to attend the dinner and you could see some people sitting off to the side because there weren’t enough seats for the students and their parents,” Garcia said.

“Other than that flaw, it was good.”

Roxanna Gallegos, a

10th grader who also attended this event receiving the Principals award for having a 4.0 gpa for the first semester, agreed with Garcia.

“The event was good, the food was good, the only bad thing was that it seemed unorganized,” Gallegos said. She also said that when it came time for her to pick up the letter they did not call her up to receive it.

Alejandra Diaz, the College and Career counselor, said, ”I was very pleased with the turnout of students ​and parents that showed up. It was a packed house! I think that we are changing the culture at Muir and want students and their families to be a part of all the great things that are happening at John Muir. The celebration exceeded my expectations. I am very proud of the Mustang family and community.”

Closed campus policy: Does it even exist?

by DIEGO OBREGON

With restaurants like McDonald’s and Perry’s just a five-minute walk away, it’s easy for students to skip class to have breakfast or leave school to grab lunch. However, it’s not supposed to happen; as it is clearly indicated in the student planner that Muir is designated as a closed campus.

Brian James, Assistant Principal, said, “We don’t know what can happen between the time they step out of our doors … Many things can happen even though their intentions were simply to get something and come back.”

A student who was granted anonymity for this article, said, “I don’t think it’s a big deal if students leave campus for alternative food sources or any other reason at lunch as long as they come back.” This student has left

campus at lunch multiple times yet still came back for class.

Most students who leave campus at lunch come back to class, just a little late. If students leave at lunch anyway, should a closed campus policy even exist?

To a student, the worst thing that can happen is a missing test time because they came back late… right?

If a student is off campus during school hours, and is stopped by a police officer, they can be cited and marked for truancy. The only way a student would get out of that situation is if they have a minimum day, which lets them leave at lunch, or if they had a lunch stamp on their ID meaning that they are permitted to leave at lunch.

Although both options are available at other high schools, they are primarily for seniors. Muir

only has a minimum day options for seniors, because they either have work or don’t need a full day of classes.

James said, “The safety of our students is paramount. As soon as we allow students that are still under our purview to leave campus without our supervision, we’re creating liability on the school and on the school district.”

Muir’s implements a closed campus policy primarily for student safety. According to James, a car accident involving Pasadena High School students who left campus when they weren’t supposed played a huge factor in the district’s decision to have closed campuses.

When a student is walking campus to get lunch, but is rushing to make it back to class on time, the trip they make can become risky. Small things like not

paying attention to a car turning right in front of you or crossing the street when the light is red can turn a trip to McDonald’s into a trip to the hospital.

If something bad happens to a student while they were off campus during school hours, it makes the school look bad, because it’s their responsibility to ensure the safety of students during school hours.

James said, “The [closed campus] policy is enforced, it’s just we’re short manpower to enforce it. We are working on some other modifications to some of our perimeter areas to better secure the campus to make sure it’s closed.”

Such modifications include making sure all the gates are locked and a system that will keep the front doors closed.

At the end of the day, it seems like the closed campus

rule is just there because it’s the school district’s policy. All rules are eventually broken, so no matter how tight security gets, they can’t keep tabs on about a thousand kids at the same time.

While having a completely open campus would not work for a number of reasons - students would take advantage of it, and people who aren’t supposed to be on campus would visit - there are still ways a compromise could be reached.

Having lunch stamps on students’ IDs permitting them to leave to get lunch is an option that should be considered. However, they should only go to students who have earned them through good grades and conduct. Another option could be having a designated day ‘open campus’ day, such as Friday.

Page 4 | Thursday, March 12, 2015

The Blazer News

muir.pusd.us

News

AEM Sophmores visit Louis Vuitton and Armory Center for the Arts

by KYLEE SHARP

Sophomores from the Arts, Entertainment, and Media (AEM) academy went on a field trip to visit and gain knowledge of fashion and film practices in Hollywood, the heart of filmmaking, on Thursday, Feb. 19th.

The field trip was originally planned for the students to visit the Louis Vuitton exhibition “Series 2”, staged in Hollywood, but the trip was modified when it was realized that they had extra time.

“The original objective of the field trip was for students to be exposed to something we don’t traditionally teach here, the whole fashion side of Hollywood,” said film teacher, Andrew Silk.

Students were invited

by Louis Vuitton to attend, and the Armory Center for the Arts, an AEM partner, handled the correspondence between Louis Vuitton and the AEM teachers, Brian Covey and Andrew Silk. Charter buses were provided for the trip courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

Silk said, “If you think about it as a lesson, that lesson would be teaching how a brand stays relevant over 150 years and reinvents itself.”

Photo courtesy of Andrew Silk Blake Buchanan of Filmtools at Moviola giving a tour to students Kelda Rivera, Brenda Vasquez, Virginia DeJesus, Reyna Aravjo, and Gabriella Cervantes.

“It is rare for a fashion company to stay relevant for so long,” said student Maria Rool about the Louis Vuitton exhibit.

In addition to the exhibit, select students on the trip got to visit Moviola Digital Arts Institute, a film editing establishment, and SonicPool, a post production house. While students

Muir student receives Armory Center for the Arts scholarship

by DIEGO OBREGON

The Pasadena-based Armory Center for the Arts awarded scholarships to six PUSD students whose art is on display at the 10th annual No Boundaries exhibit.

Drae Upshaw, a junior, was the only Muir student to receive one.

Upshaw received a scholarship for studio classes at the Armory.

Along with her scholarship from the Armory, Upshaw was also selected by the Pasadena Rotary Club to apply for a $1,000 art contest held by Rotary Clubs International.

Upshaw said, “I didn’t expect any of this to happen, and I’m just really, really happy that it did.”

Students from the Studio Art, Ceramics, Digital Photography, and Advanced Placement Studio Art classes have their art on display at The Shops On Lake.

22 students were selected by Cynthia Lake, art teacher, and Lucy Manalo, photography teacher, to have their artwork displayed at the exhibit from February 27th until March 13th. Submitting artwork or photography was a part of students’ grades for Manalo’s Digital Photography class and Lake’s AP Studio Art class.

In Lake’s AP Studio Art class, the artwork submitted by students will also be a part of

“

their portfolio for the AP Studio Art Exam. In Manalo’s Digital Photography class, students took a photograph they shot, edited it, and submitted it for their grade and the exhibit.

Lake said, “Kids’ art needs to be out there. You’ve got to show the public what’s happening because it gives the school district a better face when we show that there’s quality things happening here.”

Along with students’ art on display, PUSD faculty, staff, and staff’s friends’ art will also be on display. The night before No Boundaries’ opening night, an auction was held selling the faculty, staff, and friend’s Cynthia Lake, art. Muir’s Art Teacher Artist-in-residence Terence Anderson’s vase sold at the auction. 50% of the auction proceeds are going towards PUSD’s art program.

Alex Schultz, Studio Art teacher at Pasadena High School and one of the initiators of the No Boundaries exhibit, said, “I hope people will be interested in the student work they see and will develop an awareness of some of the great things being done in the visual arts at the PUSD schools. I hope they will celebrate the arts in our district and will help advocate for the arts.”

Kids’ art needs to be out there. You’ve got to show the public what’s happening.”

toured the exhibit, Silk persuaded Moviola to allow seven students to get a peak of their tools and facilities.

The group of girls that took this tour run a YouTube channel named The outcasters. This group, which consists of Maria Rool, Reyna Araulo, Kelda Riverio, Destiny Arriaza,

Brenda Vasquez, and Gabriela Cervantes, documented their journey on this trip to put together a video for their channel.

“[Filming the trip] was fun and interesting, like an adventure,” Student Kelda Riverio said. “I learned that a movie isn’t easy to produce.”

“Students [at Moviola]

got to see all the different types of post production jobs that there are and have a feel for the environment that Hollywood has,” said Silk.

As they visited these companies, students were exposed to recording studios, film editing tools, and even the business side in film production.

Students were also informed of internship opportunities and different ways to gain training and knowledge in post production practices.

Since students were invited to go based on their interest in fashion, and it was mostly the girls that were interested, primarily girls attended the trip.

Covey said, “It actually would have been totally appropriate for the guys to go as well.”

“We turned it from the Louis Vuitton thing, which was quick, to the larger educational thing,” commented Silk.

Students left the Louis Vuitton exhibition with two retro-looking stickers, a “Series 2” poster and returned home with more awareness of the editing and business sides of fashion and production.

Speech inspires educators

Photo courtesy of Mark Anderson John Pointer reciting his speech at the California School Administrators Region XV Contest in San Gabriel

because I delivered my speech Winston Churchill’s as a guide (Oratory Contest story continfor principles they discussed in with clarity and a smile,” ued from front page) Pointer said.

She used how he was a their speech,” said Sippel.

He said that the judges The last competition war leader and how he brought was the regional competition, Britain together in order to fight were given a rubric to rank the giving a speech that has to students’ performance. in World War II.

be no longer than 3 minutes,

“I started out by just Pointer won a scholarship researching about him and of $1,000. The contest was then I connected it to school.

I feel great and acheld at the American Legion The way I did that was I in Old Town Pasadena on compared education and war. complished. The price was March 4th. The judges were The topic of my speech was education is war and we have persevering and writing the John and Patricia McCabe, to fight to earn and to win our speech, sacrificing my time.” and Alex Barber.

John Pointer, “I feel great and aceducation,” Mejia said.

Muir HS Junior complished. The price was

The judges for the persevering and writing the Muir level were Principal speech, sacrificing my time,” The second competiTimothy Sippel, Counselors Dr. Pointer said.

Ben Aroyan, Dr. Nancy Gonza- tion was February 12th at the PUSD’s board room where

From winning the lez, and Mr. Micah Williamscompetitions, Pointer was Pointer competed against Brodi. students from the other PUSD awarded a total of $1,100.

“All students were high schools. given a topic and this year’s

“I felt very accomtopic was keep calm and lead plished when I won the speech on. Students talked about leadcontest. I believe I was chosen ership and used the example of

“

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The Blazer News

Thursday, March 12, 2015 | Page 5

News

BSU, Band commemorate Black Historty Month

by KYLEE SHARP

The Muir community was involved in Black History Month events during the month of February to recognize and celebrate the role and achievements of African-Americans in the U.S.

On Saturday, Feb. 21st, the City of Pasadena held the 33rd Annual Black History Parade and Festival at Jackie Robinson Park.

Multiple Muir clubs, such as the JROTC, JMHS marching band, Black Student Union (BSU), Mentoring and Partnership for Youth Development (MPYD), and the drum section, participated in the parade.

A float for the parade was designed by the Black Student Union (BSU) president and senior, Keeya Cotlage. Roland Bynum advised the club as they worked with Phoenix Decorating Company to create the float.

The float featured an “M” with pictures of prominent AfricanAmerican figures in U.S. history.

Parade officials from the City of Pasadena approached assistant principal Brian James to determine if Muir would have any participation in the parade this year. Muir had five entries,

which was more than any other school.

“There [were] a lot entities involved; It was a Muir community involvement,” said Bynum, BSU advisor.

In addition to the participation in the parade, a Black History Month assembly was held on Thursday, Feb. 26th. The assembly was run by the BSU students.

Drum corps kicked off the assembly with the step team and dance. Choir performed the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” written by James Weldon Johnson and the U.S. National Anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner”.

There was a special performance by Rhythms of Village. They told a folktale through music which ended with a message, “to never take your eyes off the prize”.

Students gave a brief history of a few well known historical icons such as Harriet Tubman and Abraham Lincoln.

Seniors Connie Martinez and Shaka Terry performed their own spoken word poems.

The Muir Jazz Band, that performed, featured our

All aboard the Mustang Express

by JUAN GUILLEN

The Mustang Express is the first cafe here on Muir’s campus.

Due to the fact that the Mustang Express was never announced the first day it was open, almost all of the students on campus had no idea it even existed. But to get the word out, the students that work in the cafe with teacher advisors have created an Instagram and Twitter account to get more students more aware of the of the cafe.

The cafe will have two different menus available to accommodate the health restrictions on what they can and can’t sell during school hours. The items sold during lunch consist of: pretzels, water, fruit roll ups, and goldfish

(History Project story continued from front page)

Since this is the first time that a research project is required in seniors Social Studies, there may be some misunderstandings between parents and staff.

“I think they’ll [students’ parents] appreciate the fact that we have what they expect their children to learn, some very useable skills when they’re at John Muir High School,” said Hoge.

Francisco Merlos, senior in the Engineering academy said, “The purpose

crackers, while the afterschool menu will sell far more things; they sell Gatorade, Arizonas, Slim Jims, Cup of Noodles, Gummy Worms, and other assortments of snacks.

There are many students from the Business Academy that work for the cafe.

“Students that work don’t get paid. They do get internship hours or community service hours if they need them,” said senior Joshua Alcaraz, one of the students that works at the cafe.

When asked what will happen with the profits Alcaraz said, “At the end of the year the plan is to make the profits of the Mustang Express to put up for senior scholarships for Business Academy students.” of the research paper is to prepare seniors for college assignments. Doing a research paper in high school will help me be better prepared for college because I can receive constructive criticism by a high school teacher firsthand rather than going in blindly to a college professor.”

Photo courtesy of Logan Patton Students holding their fists up high symbolizing that “Black Lives Matter.”

very own students Oscar Benn, Domonique Ballew, Jair Gonzalez, and Godwin Vasquez. Along with teachers Dwight Garcia and Phillip Topping, they performed “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” by Cannonball Adderley, and “Ain’t Misbehavin’” by Fats Waller with junior Yesenia Nunez on (Underground Kings story continued from front page)

It’s quicker to make, you always have business, and the amount you make is based on how much and what you sell.

Other than students buying from them, both vendors agree that there have been teachers and staff members that have bought snacks from them. Though administration condemns it, many students and teacher’s don’t see a problem with student’s selling.

“I love it! School food here isn’t good and if you don’t get free food, you don’t really have anything else to eat. So I think it’s good there are ways for students to get food during the day.” said, senior, Melissa Gonzalez.

Although the canteen and cafeteria offer some snacks, many students feel like they’re too expensive and resort to student sellers.

“The students sell more stuff, like candy and different chips plus it’s cheaper. If I want chips or something I know where they’re at, I don’t have to make the

lead vocals.

Freshman Taicyanna Butler performed “Strange Fruit”

by Billie Holiday, a song about racism.

Towards the end of the assembly, a Black History Month themed skit with trivia was put on by the Associated Student

Photo courtesy of Cecilia Valle A student’s backpack halfway filled with chips ready to sell.

trip to the canteen,” said Gonzalez.

Some may say these students take away many of the customers that the canteen would get and with the canteen aside there would be some competition between them.

There are a number of student

Dog sniffs out contraband

by JAIR GONZALEZ

Random drug searches with drug sniffing dogs have been going on since December.

The last drug search that happened at Muir was Friday, Feb. 20th. Out of the four classrooms inspected, only one student was identified. The dogs also inspected lockers and restrooms.

These random searches involve a dog inspecting Muir students to catch those that bring drugs, alcohol, and other illegal substances to campus.

The process starts by randomly choosing a classroom to inspect. The students are not told and are asked to step out of the class along with the teacher,

Body (ASB).

Just as the Drum Corps had opened the assembly, they also closed the assembly and led students out to lunch.

leaving their personal belongings inside the classroom. The dog is walked around the room to inspect bags and backpacks, then the students are let back inside. If a student is found possessing any sort of contraband in their belongings, then that student receives a consequence.

On occasion, the dog may smell residue that has been captured on a student’s bag or clothes.

“Generally, when that happens we notify the student and say, ‘Hey your bag was identified by the dog. Please wash it, or change the bag.’ In almost all occasions the person has identified that they had been near or around the drug,” said Assistant Principal

sellers but the main vendors agree that there isn’t much economic competition. “There’s no competition because there’s such a large number of consumers, we all [end up] selling out” said Student one.

Brian James.

According to James, a total of 15-20 students have been found possessing contraband or with residue and have been either removed from Muir or have received other disciplinary measures including referrals to IMPACT, a local drug and alcohol treatment center.

“There’s a zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol on the John Muir campus,” said Roland Bynum, an English teacher.

According to James, a student’s locker may also be searched at any time. This is because lockers are property of the school, giving authority for inspection.

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The Blazer News

Comics

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Comics

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Features & Entertainment

Class of 2016’s budget in the danger zone

by DIEGO OBREGON

If you’ve enjoyed a Krispy Kreme donut after school this year, it was sold by Kari Salinas’ 3rd period Marketing & Occupations class. The 3rd period academy class for Business and Entrepreneurship (BE) juniors, have been actively fundraising to put money in the Class of 2016’s account. Salinas said that she hopes that the juniors will be selling donuts after school weekly on Fridays.

BE has been the only academy fundraising for its soon-to-be seniors. Even though

EESA and AEM have money for their academy, they aren’t fundraising for their students’ classes.

Rebeca Guizar, BE junior said, “I think it’s very unfair for us [the 3rd period juniors] in the BE Academy to be the only ones actively fundraising for next year, because we’re not going to be the only ones participating in next year’s senior activities, we aren’t the only juniors that are going to make up the Class of 2016.”

If the Class of 2016 hopes to have as many trips and activities as the Class of 2015,

Mustang Spotlight

j

Photo courtesy of Andrew Silk A photo of Andrew Silk from his company’s website.

by MARIELA MARTINEZ

Andrew Silk, film teacher in the Arts Entertainment & Media Academy, studied photojournalism and sociology at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Since then, he has traveled to over 25 different countries, creating videos and snapping photos for an international non-profit organization.

Having experience in the teaching field already, he says that it’s nice to teach only one thing and do it well.

“I share with the students my travels and videos and they go ‘Whoa. You did that?’ They know I mean business,” said Silk.

He was a film teacher at Blair High School, another high school in the Pasadena Unified School District, and then a professor at California Baptist University in Riverside teaching a variety of visual journalism courses.

“It’s exciting to work as a team. The staff here are really supportive and we get the chance to collaborate with others who are experts in different parts of the film industry, like Mr. Lou Bond with screenwriting,” said Silk.

Silk has also bought his share of Mustang spirit gear, which is a first at any school he’s been at.

“You don’t buy stuff unless you’re going to stick around,” he said.

He is also the founder and CEO of Tell Visual Stories, a full service video production company specializing in corporate, training, event and non-profit videos.

According to the website, “Silk founded Tell Visual Stories out of a deep belief that every person, company or organization has a story to tell.”

He has been a staff photographer for Birmingham Post Herald and Kokomo Tribune in Indiana, a freelance published photographer in countless other newspapers, featured on the cover of Newsweek, and has had a two page spread in National Geographic.

“I like to pass on my experiences to students and show them that there’s more to life than they’ve ever seen before,” said Silk.

With his first school year at Muir coming to an end, Silk says that what he has learned from students is amazing.

“Looking back, the students’ willingness to share their lives and teach me what they are up against has helped me understand where they’re coming from. It has been extremely humbling,” he said.

the BE juniors can’t be the only ones fundraising.

Karina Hernandez, Class of 2015 President said, “Last year, as juniors, we took advantage of all fundraising opportunities, which paid off in the end. We ended up with around $2,500.”

Currently, the Class of 2016 only has $1,184, while the Class of 2015 has $9,912.

Although the juniors are working apart from Associated Student Body (ASB), the money raised still goes into the ASB’s class of 2016 account.

Fundraising is part of the juniors’ grade, and considered a classroom project.

Each time there is a fundraiser, a different student takes the leadership role in that fundraiser.

Fundraising plans are also completely student made.

Although there are no set plans as to what the money will be used for, there are hopes to collaborate with ASB to set some plans for next year.

Guizar said, “I personally think it’s just important to fundraise money even if we haven’t chosen something in

particular it should go towards, because it is nice to have more than enough money so we could enjoy our senior year with a variety of senior activities.”

There’s always the slight chance that Class of 2016 will receive rollover funds from Class of 2015 after their senior year is over. Hernandez said, “The leftover money [from a class] can either be stored away and used for a class reunion, used to buy a gift for the school, or even donated to the next graduating class.”

so much to get the DUFF off of her reputation and she eventually does, but it wasn’t easy.

After confronting her friends that only befriended her so she could be their “DUFF”, she cut all ties with them and ignored them whenever she saw them. Since she did not have anyone to help her make a new reputation, she went to her only hope, Wesley, the schools jock and quarterback. He loved to mess with Bianca every chance he got, so when she asked him for help he decided to throw in something for his benefit. He wanted her help to pass science in order to get a scholarship. Eventually, while Bianca was trying to impress her crush, caught feelings for Wesley and he the same for her.

This movie was well thought of and kept me hooked the entire time. It may be cliche at

times, but shows real problems we all suffer in school. The actors did an amazing job portraying their roles and matched the characters personalities well.

My favorite character of the movie has to be Bianca and once you see the movie you’ll understand why. I don’t know if its her sarcastic attitude, or her will to keep trying.

She has the courage to go against the schools most popular girl and soon finds out that everyone is a DUFF.

I highly recommend that everyone should watch this movie because of the story behind it. I give this movie a rating of 5 stars because of the amazing acting, storyline, and for having Robbie Amell as the leading male actor. Not everyone can be good looking on the outside, but everyone is good looking on the inside, even the meanest of people.

The DUFF Movie Review

by DESTINY ARRIAZA

The DUFF is a new teenage movie that follows a content high school student, Bianca, whose world is turned upside down. She learns that her student body knows her as ‘The DUFF’, meaning Designated Ugly Fat Friend, to all of her prettier and more popular friends. In order to change her reputation she gets the help from a slick, but charming jock named Wesley. However, the only person standing in her way of doing so is the schools bad girl, Madison, who hates Bianca with a passion.

The DUFF is directed by Ali Sandel and was released on February 20, 2015. My first impression of the movie was a positive one. The movie itself stands for an amazing concept which is that no matter who you are there will never be anyone better than you. Bianca struggles

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Thursday, March 12, 2015 | Page 9

Entertainment

“TU’ing” with A$AP Ferg and the A$AP Mob

A$AP Ferg is a rapper hailing out of New York and is part of the music group named A$AP Mob. Also part of A$AP Mob is Grammy Nominated A$AP Rocky, who made a special guest appearance at the concert. Ferg is a predominantly Trap oriented rapper in which the lyrics of the songs consist drug references and various forms of sexual behavior.

The concert was at The Observatory OC about 45 minutes from Pasadena, an hour and a half with traffic. It is a smaller venue with no seating arrangement and is a first come first serve style in the stand area to see the artist.

Before Ferg was to get on stage three other music performances took place. From the attitude of the crowd all three of them were pretty bad but the last group to go on stage were decent enough and helped get us ready for the main act.

As for the other audi-

ence members, lets just say some of them were quiet rowdy with three fights getting started in the first 30 minutes of me getting there and having other altercations going on through the night.

But the best part of the night was the mosh pitting going on in the middle if the viewing area. The mosh pitting was actually encouraged this by telling everyone to open the middle up so people could mosh.

As for the performance, Ferg put on one of the best performances that I have seen.

He was very energetic and said it was one of the best shows he played in a while. The set list included some of Fergs well know songs like Shabba, Hood Pope, Work and Dump Dump. At one point he popped a champagne bottle and sprayed it all over the audience.

During his performance a fight broke out and one of his friends was on the microphone to tell the audience members to stop fighting. Ferg said, “Let them

fight. I don’t give a *explicit*, if you want to fight. Fight!”

He also brought out his fellow A$AP Mob member A$AP Rocky to do a couple of his songs Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2 and Wild For The Night.

It also involved Ferg and Rocky stage diving into the crowd.

At the end of the show he said that the show was for A$AP Yams who was Head of the A$AP Mob as one of the creators and had passed away from a rumored drug overdose on the 18th of January but the case of his death is still unknown. He told the crowd to quiet down and told everyone to put their hands in a praying position and said “This is for you Yams”.

His performance was great. The atmosphere throughout the show was amazing and it was a party for the whole performance. The worst part was the drive home and going to bed at 3 AM and still coming to school the next day.

three opening acts, Derek King, with the incredible Anjali following, and then their last opening act, Golden took the stage. Then it was time for the main act to go on and as soon as Jakeey P, brother of Myles and their DJ, took the stage the crowd erupted with screams.

These opening acts each performed differently, King being a rapper, Anjali being a pop singer, and Golden also being a pop singer. My favorite of the three was Derek King, just because in my opinion his performance was the most hyped and entertained me more. My least has to be Golden not for his voice because he has a nice voice, but the songs he performed didn’t interest me.

Kalin and Myles started

off their set with one of their new songs called, At the Dedication Tour, and sure enough, it got the crowd dancing and ready for the night too come. Not only did the boys perform songs from their new EP, but they even threw in some of their first songs they made, making many of the fans really happy, including myself.

They put on an amazing show and Kalin even jumped into the crowd to dance with everyone. Many people did not have VIP but, in my opinion, general admission was enough because it felt as if you were VIP too.

Sadly, the show had to come to an end but, Kalin and Myles ended it with a bang. They sang one of their first singles that they ever released, Chase

Dreams, and from what I could tell they enjoyed the LA show and they even told us at the end.

In my opinion the show overall was amazing and such a fun place to be that day.

Their performances were on point and showed how much hard work they have put into their careers. They interacted so well with the crowd, singing to many of their fans and even asking the crowd to dance along with them.

Overall Kalin and Myles came to impress and interact with their fans and most importantly just have fun. If I ever have the chance too I will attend another one of their shows and I have high expectations for the next one.

by JOSHUA ALCARAZ

Photo courtesy of Joshua Alcaraz Rapper A$AP Ferg performing at The Observatory in Orange County

Kalin and Miles rock in LA: A concert review

by DESTINY ARRIAZA

Kalin and Myles are an American hip- hop and pop duo from the San Francisco Bay Area, most known for their hit single Love Robbery . The duo consists of Kalin White and Myles Parrish, both born and raised in the Bay Area. Kalin White, 20 years old, and Myles Parrish, 21 years old, never thought that they would both be living their dreams together as a group and traveling everywhere from Los Angeles to London.

They’ve released many Extended Plays and are currently working on their first album.

Not only are these boys taking over the world with their music, but they are actually on tour right now. Their first show took

place in San Diego, California on Feb. 17th and the tour ends in Vancouver, British Columbia on April 21st. The Dedication Tour is promoting their new EP that was released in December, “Dedication” and the third show on their tour was here in Los Angeles.

I actually had the opportunity to attend their LA show and meet them multiple occasions. The show took place on Feb. 20th at Club Nokia with nearly 3000 people attending, having been the biggest show they’ve played in LA. Fans began showing up at almost midnight just to be the first in line and to be against the rails at the concert.

The concert began at 7:30 starting off with one of

Baseball Sudoku How to play?

Fill the columns, rows, and boxes with the remaining baseball positions (1B, 2B, 3B, P, C, SS, LF, RF & CF). All 9 positions must be used in each box, row, and column. They cannot be repeated. Use the given positions as clues to figure out the empty boxes.

Only one correct solution!

Puzzle Created by Cecilia Valle

Page 10 | Thursday, March 12, 2015

The Blazer News

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Sports

Mustangs lose first three games to start preseason

by JOSHUA ALCARAZ

The boys’ varsity baseball team started their preseason with a record of 0-3.

The team lost against Marshall Fundamental High School and two losses against Sweet Water High in San Diego.

Head Coach Robert Galvan, and graduate of Sweet Water High, said he wanted to show a different kind of baseball that’s played down there to the team. “I want to bring that philosophy to Muir and showing the boys, I think it helps in the transition.” said Galvan. “A key component in making a transition is pitching tempo,” Galvan said, “ Less than 8 seconds between pitches, they [Sweet Water HS] do that well.”

The team visited San Diego for a double header last Saturday Mar. 7th. Their first game ended with a 7-3 loss and the second ended with a 14-0 loss. Players sophomore Jason

Aceves, freshman Valiente Vera and (need this) made the only runs.

Junior Bryan Barrios was the starting pitcher and pitched the whole game.

“I feel like I did terrific” said Barrios, “And we all did better, we Junior Pitcher Bryan Barrios pitching in the 7-3 loss against Sweet Water High. still need to

“We played as a work on some things though.” team,” said Galvan, “ Every The last game of the body picked each other up but doubleheader ended in a score fundamentally we can use the of 14-0. The pitchers were off week to improve on our Vera, Aceves and Junior Isaiah physical mistakes. I’m satisfied Irby.

Boys’ basketball gets knocked out of the second round

by LOGAN PATTON

After making it past the first round of playoffs, the boys’ varsity basketball team was knocked out of the second round by Notre Dame High School.

The loss to Notre Dame High School was a result of a lack of defense and lack of a team effort especially after the second half of the game.

“The second half we didn’t play any defense and when it came to offense the ball was stuck, there wasn’t a lot of ball movement and we didn’t close in on threes,” said

point guard Simaine Stewart.

“Nobody was really passing the ball to each other, it was after the third quarter, everyone just went on their own and didn’t contribute to what the team needed,” said Desmond Harris.

In their away game against Excelsior Charter High School, the Mustangs were able to blow out the Eagles 75-49.

“We really played unselfishly, we moved the ball around, on defense we helped each other, we took charges and we just played

as a team,” said Stewart.

In the second half, the Mustangs already had a 40-25 lead.

“It was a very emotional game. I felt that we came out with the right energy. They were a little aggressive but we handled our business,” said shooting guard Jeremy Hayes.

Now the team will continue to work on strategies in order to advance next year.

“Next year we’re gonna work hard in the offseason, start running, lifting weights, get our shots up [and] get faster [and] get a ring,” said small forward Javonte James.

progress even more to be as good as we could be.”

The biggest goal for the team this year, according to Galvan, is to compete as a team. “I want the team to become fundamentally sound and to emphasize pitching and defense.” said Galvan.

Barrios said his goal is to lose in a different way then then they always lose. “We just need to keep grinding, need better pitching and better defense.”

Vera’s biggest goal for the season is to make sure they play as a team “Giving PHS a good challenge is another one of my goals,” Photo courtesy of Joshua Alcaraz said Vera.

The next preseason in the progression.” game is against Lynwood

Vera said he thinks he High School at Lynwood High did good in the games. “I had School Tuesday March 16th. no errors in either game. We Leading to the season opener played more like a team Saturagainst Arcadia on March 31st. day then before and we could

JMHS Food Drive

College Access Plan’s Footsteps to College Club is hosting a canned food drive this spring. All food collected will go toward assisting the PUSD Families in Transition Program, which provides services for homeless students and families.

Want to help this worthy cause? Simply donate canned food during the week of April 6th-April 17th. Bring canned goods to the CAP office (A151) during lunch period to make your contribution or place cans in designated donation boxes located throughout campus.

Not only will you support a great cause, but you can also earn community service hours for your donation.

For every 3 canned food items you donate, you will receive 1 service hour that can be used toward your community service requirement!

Interested in taking a more active role in community service? Then consider joining CAP’s Footsteps to College Club!

Footsteps to College prepares students to succeed in college through college research, field trips, community service, and leadership training.

Not only will you gain valuable college preparedness, but your involvement looks excellent on college applications! Footsteps to College is open to all grade levels and meets weekly in the ROP room. Stop by to sign up today!

Football team’s annual banquet awards take place in the school library

by LOGAN PATTON

This year at the annual football banquet, defensive end Mike Fulton received the Best Defensive Player Award.

This was Fulton’s first time receiving the award. It was voted on by his fellow teammates.

“I felt very honored.

It’s an honor to be voted by your peers as the best defensive player [and] I feel humbled by it,” said Fulton.

On the Junior Varsity (JV) side, defensive end Ricardo Vega also received the Best De

Photo courtesy of Logan Patton Defensive Player of the Year Mike Fulton receives his award from Athletic Director Milica Protic and Head Coach Antyone Sims.

fensive Player Award.

“[I] felt honored because this was my first year playing football, and to get Best Defensive Player is good,” said Vega.

The banquet also experienced some changes from previous years’ banquets with both it’s attendance and location taking place in the library as opposed to the Brookside Restaurant at the Rose Bowl.

The banquet was also missing attendance from star players Taeon Mason and Brian Reyes.

“I didn’t attend the

banquet because my hand reopened and I had to go back to the doctors so they put me back on medicine,” said Mason who officially signed with San Jose State.

The banquet was held on Tuesday, put on in a joint effort between Athletic Director Milica Protic and Varsity Head Coach Antyone Sims.

“[The banquet] went wonderful. I think it went great.

The food was good, [there was] great company, [and] I couldn’t ask for anything more,” said Protic.

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Thursday, March 12, 2015 | Page 11

Sports

Boys’ Varsity Soccer 5-Year Playoff Drought Ends

by JOSHUA ALCARAZ

Soccer ended their season in a wild card playoff loss against Chino Hills High School with a final score of 7-1. This was the first time boys soccer made playoffs in 5 years.

“We knew it was going to because we were so young but we never imagined we’d lose as bad as we did.” said Mario Hernandez, head coach for the boys’ varsity soccer team. “We ran into a very experienced scene that took us out of our game plan. We could not adjust.”

Center midfielder, captin, and four year veteran Fray Rodriguez said, “Even though we lost the first round of CIF, I think we did good this season because we were able to make it to CIF after five years without making it.”

The team ended the season with an overall record of 7-10-2 and a league record of 6-6-2.

“I’m just glad the kids got a taste of what playoffs are all about. Our seniors worked

real hard for it. It will give us something to shoot for next year.” said Hernandez.

Their first league game was against Crescenta Valley at home with an ending score was a 1-1 draw with a goal from Junior Uriel Gonzalez. The following game was against Burbank High School where the Mustangs came out with a win of a score of 3-0.

Junior Satchel Robinson scored two goals and Senior Jose Diaz scored one goal.

Following game against Hoover High School ended with a Mustang win with a score of 4-0 with sophomore Santana Nunez, Junior Satchel Robinson, Senior Jose Diaz, and Sophomore Hector Hernandez each scoring a goal.

After a 2 game winning streak, the team fell into a 5 game losing streak. They lost to Glendale, Burroughs, Arcadia, Pasadena High, and Crescenta Valley.

Snapping the 5 game losing streak was a victory over Burbank High School of a score

Photo courtesy of Joshua Alcaraz Midfielder Uriel Gonzalez attepting to pass the ball to forward Satchel Robinson of 4-2 with goals from Nunez, Arcadia in which the Mustangs Robinson, and Diaz. Followwon of a score of 4-2. Robinson ing this comeback from their scored a Hat Trick (3 goals in a losing streak, the team won both match), Senior Fray Rodriguez games against Hoover and and with one goal and 2 assists comGlendale. Each game resulted in ing from Nunez. scores of 1-0 in both matches.

The final game of the

The second match regular season was against cross between Burroughs and the town rival PHS which resulted Mustangs ended in a 1-1 draw. in a 2-1 loss in the favor of the The final home game was against Pasadena Bulldogs.

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Boys’ and Girls’ Track look forward to a successful season

Boys’ and girls’ track had their first invite at Azusa Pacific earlier this week and their first track meet of the season is today at Arcadia High School against Crescenta Valley and Arcadia High School.

Three students, one from the boys’ team and two from girls’ team, visited Azusa Pacific for an invitational. The students were Lauryn Miller, Jasmine Harris, and Derek Busby.

Micah Brodi, co-head coach for the track team, has high expectations for this year’s team. “The boys’ team could possibly win CIF Title. They are that talented.” said Brodi.

In comparison to previous years, there are more freshman and sophomores that are on the team than juniors and seniors. There are currently about 30 students participating

in track.

Two time division league champion in the 100 meter hurdles and 300 meter hurdles, Keeya Cotlage, has been a part of track since freshman year. This will be Cotlages’ first year as a jumper.

“I’m expecting to win CIF in my division and also run my best personal record by the end of the season,” said Cotlage.

Returner Khylan Drake has also been a part of track for four years. “My goal this season is to get invited to invitationals and maybe even win a medal,” said Drake.

Invitationals are track meets that take place on Saturday’s and are not a part of league.

Drake committed earlier this year to Dixie State University for football. “Unfortunately Dixie State does not offer track, so I won’t be pursuing

Softball preseason off to a rocky start Although

Kimberly Grande,

The girls’ softball a third base returning player team began preparing for its said, “In order for the team to upcoming season with tournaget stronger I feel like we need ments, winning one against to have more communication Discovery Prep High School during the game. Overall we back in January. However, should be willing to give it our their recent preseason games all.” have not been as successful.

Joselyne Hernandez,

The team’s first a second base returning player preseason game was planned on Varsity, said that she thinks against Colony High School the team needs to work on on February 28th, but it was communication with each cancelled.They lost 19-0 in other and with their coach. a preseason game against La

Hernandez also said Reina High School on March that one of the reasons she 3rd. Then they lost 24-0 in anthought the team had a hard other preseason game against time winning games last Vivseason is ian Webb because School the team is on March in Pacific 6th. league,

playing Melville against Horn, schools VarMelville Horn,that have a sity coach Varsity Softball Coachhigh state said, rank.

“Last

The girls’ next game season we had a new team is a preseason game against with little experience and a Workman High School on few return players, so it was March 23rd. difficult for the girls with no experience… Now this season, the majority of my players have returned and we have gained more players with experience. Our team this year will be stronger than the years before and more competitive”.

The girls have been practicing daily during seventh period and after school.

by DIEGO OBREGON

contact us at jmhsblazer@ gmail.com

by CECILIA VALLE

“I think we exceeded our expectations. Not a lot of experience came back this year.

I think our year to make noise in league will be next year. We will have a strong core coming back, only losing five seniors. I think we have some pieces to make a nice run if everyone is healthy.” said Hernandez.

track in college,” said Drake.

“We have a lot of good freshman. “Our sophresh and JV teams are going to be good this year,” said Brodi.

Many of the members in track are practicing for field events after school and during 7th period.

“I expect David Smith to possibly win CIF, he has that much bounce in his legs,” said Brodi. “He’s going to turn a lot of heads this year.”

Smith, a current senior, has currently been practicing as a jumper for the field events. He will be participating in the long jump, high jump, the 200 m run and both relays.

“We [the team] should do pretty good this year. We have more numbers than the last few years,” said Smith.

“Track is a real mental sport. Anybody can run, but not everyone can run properly,” said Brodi.

“

Our team this year will be stronger that the years before and more competitive.”

Page 12 | Thursday, March 12, 2015

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