OHS The Buzz 12.14.16 Issue v10 n3 December

VOL. 10 NO. 3

December 14 , 2016

3400 W. GONZALES ROAD, OXNARD, CA. 93036

“DREAMERS” at Oxnard High School

Undocumented students share their college application process and the resources given to them

regard to student’s race, religion, like Lee. citizenship or other protected

Another considerable factor characteristics according to undoc- to why students opt to not attend

There is a misconception umented.ucdavis.edu/. college is financial need. “The most that admission to a four-year uni OHS senior *Wayne Lee is a frustrating thing is believing that versity is nearly impossible without top scholar, but decided not to apthere is no help out there because citizenship. However, the “DREAM ply to a university. Lee will attend we are undocumented and the Act (Development, Relief, and Edu- Oxnard College and then transfer cost of going to college,” said OHS cation for Alien Minors) legislature to a university close to home. This senior *Karla Gonzales. allows for undocumented students decision was based on the fear that According to uscis.gov, the to continue their education beyond “going to college will make it easier DACA (Deferred Action for Childhigh school with no repercussions due to their residential status,” according to whitehouse. gov.

The uncertainty of their immigration status discourages them from attending a university. OHS senior *Verani Allano said, “If I was not in AVID I would just have gone to Ventura College and not even look at univerOxnard High School students unite for equal opportunities to attend a University. sities.” For those who Photo Credit: Luz Martinez are not in any type of support program, this is their to get deported” later on. hood Arrivals) program financially reality.

In accordance with the helps undocumented students with

All University of Californondiscrimination policy, once a scholarships and is offered through nia (UC) campuses welcome and student is enrolled, the Family Edu- the DREAM Act. support students without regard to cational and Privacy Act (FERPA)

There is also the AB 130 bill their immigration status and will will protect the student’s records at that allows undocumented students be considered for admission on educational institutions, including to apply for and receive non-state the same basis as any U.S. citizen elementary and secondary schools, funded scholarships for public or other applicants. UC will admit colleges, and universities. This pol- colleges and universities. To apply students following their nondisicy brings reassurance to students for a Cal Grant you must submit a crimination policy and with no

By: Luz Martinez Copy Editor

California Dream Act Application

by March 2.

On the contrary, some of the “Dreamers” might not think that this financial help is sufficient.

“For the [scholarships] I can apply start in January through DACA, but there are only three and there is a lot of people that are waiting for those applications. It’s competitive, there are not enough scholarships,” said Allano.

Nevertheless, the needed resources to succeed in the process of college applications can be found in campus. “We are surrounded by everything we need it’s on that student to go see what others did so they can do it,” said OHS senior Eduardo Cardenas.

“It is all up to you if you have the mindset that you want to succeed you are going to ask for help. Help does not come to you, you have to ask for it,” said Allano.

We have a lot of people like miss baylor avid staff counselors we are surrounded by everything we need it’s on that student to go see what they did so they can do **Names have been changed to keep interviewee anonymous.

What Matters?

Shedding light on disputes between the Black Lives and All Lives Matter movements Chicano, and other minorities by By: Kimberly Santos allowing their voices to be heard. & Verania Valdez As MEChA Club President, Ramos Reporter points out that educating one an The Black Lives Matother is the most important source ter(BLM) movement has derived in order to rise above barriers: “It’s from the “people protesting police a student organization that is based violence against African Ameraround higher education, learning icans” according to the article about our culture and understand In hopes to repair the School junior Michelle Ramos said, “Black Lives Matter: a movement ing our history.” MEChA has given damage done to the Black com“The point is to find the sound to that defies definition” published by Ramos the chance to express her munity, the BLM movement has our voice and that can be expressed reuters.com. Small BLM organizabeliefs through this social organizabeen working to spark a peaceful through many outlets.” tions have taken their fight to the tion. revolution in this generation. In

There are organizations CONTINUE READING AT streets to protest the injustice that regards to BLM, Oxnard High that empower African American, ohsthebuzz.com colored people face.

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Wednesday, December 14, 2016 The Buzz

By: Andrea Servin Reporter

All aboard the Scholar-ship

There is plenty of help offered for those who plan on attending college.

College and Career Center located at Oxnard High School .

Photo Credit: Andrea Servin

By: Jaylene Gutierrez Reporter

Once acceptance letters arrive for seniors planning to attend a 4-year university, they must make the decision of which college would be best for them. There are many things to keep in mind when comparing schools, especially when it comes down to deciding between two.

According to Oxnard High School counselor Stephanie Juarez, college tuition is a major component in this situation. She said, “Putting that burden on yourself forever with student loans or your parents is a big factor.”

California Lutheran

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As college application season comes to an end, many seniors come to realize that college is not cheap.

Many worry they will live the rest of their life paying off student loans and others simply give up the illusion of college for the sake of their family’s financial status.

To their advantage, Oxnard High School has a very helpful source called the College and Career Center, where scholarships are waiting to be filled out and submitted.

Local schol-

arships are offered throughout the city of Oxnard, for those who set out to find them.

These scholarships are easier to attain since many are unaware of what the city has in store for them. They are offered by small local businesses and usually compensate the few who apply even if they don’t fully meet the expectations required.

Oxnard High School graduate, Melody Rodriguez, received an athletic local scholarship, even though she did not play any sports.

Due to her compelling

story, she even managed to get her amount doubled.

Nationwide scholarships are more competitive due to the fact that one is competing with the best in the nation. OHS Senior, Bryan Navarro, believes students are more compelled to apply to local scholarships since “they have better chances versus national [since] it’s more competitive.”

Students should be aware of the fact there are so many opportunities waiting for them in their city, they just have to set out and

look for them.

Though nationwide scholarships are still an option, one should consider a different alternatives in finding financial help.

Nothing in life will ever be easy or simply handed to them, one must make the effort and not let this free money go to waste.

Students should take the time to visit the College and Career Center, or do personal research and apply to all the scholarships possible. Do not let personal financial status limit your dreams to attend college.

More to Consider

Students and staff discuss factors to consider when committing to a university.

alumnus and also California State University, Channel Island’s Coordinator of New Student Orientation Ariana Robles agreed with Juarez when she said “Now that I work at a university myself, I believe a huge tiebreaker should be the financial aid package.

What school is giving you more money?”

For some, money plays a big part in what school they will attend in the upcoming year. Robles also added that it is important to see which school has negotiable and nonegotiable loans to ensure that one receives as

By Pablo Paredes Reporter

Student struggling on his college application.

Photo Credit: Pablo Paredes

much financial aid as possible.

It is essential for one to know what they like and what it is specifically that they are looking for. “As a student, it is very important to feel connected to the university and find a home away from home,” said Robles. Along with this, she said taking tours of schools allows the student to “feel out” a campus by simply walking around to experience it for the first time.

Another major thing to keep in consideration is the location of the university.

For OHS senior Chris Pascua, whose dream school is the University of California, Los Angeles, location plays a big part in choosing schools. For Pascua, UCLA’s diversity and the fact that Los Angeles is “the center of everything” is a plays a big part in his decision.

Deciding on which college or university is ‘better’ may be personal preference, but these important factors should not be disregarded as they will play an important role throughout one’s college experience.

California Lutheran University Photo Credit: Jaylene Gutierrez

An Extra Boost

AVID and non-AVID students explain their struggles in their college application

The awaited year has finally come for high school seniors, but there is one more thing students have to overcome: college applications.

Oxnard High School Advanced Via Individual Determination (AVID) senior Karli Sabater said, “Everything would’ve been a mess, I would’ve been a mess.” The help from AVID teachers made the application process less stressful.

AVID seniors are getting as much help as they can on their college application, but are still finding the process very difficult. OHS

senior Maricela Torez said, “I wonder how they are going through the process of applying because it’s hard enough with help.”

Some non-AVID seniors struggle on their college application since they have trouble finding help. When they do get help, it is only on a small section of the application, the rest is all on their own.

In regards to how much help is given when applying, Nancy Juarez said, “Mostly on my own, but I do get help from one of my LAPS [Law and Public Service Academy] teachers Mrs. Ohlrich.

She has been the one helping me when I have questions.”

Non-AVID seniors in their application have been struggling

on personal statements, which schools to apply, which majors to choose, certain areas to add information, and, the biggest problem of them all, procrastination.

Matthew McGraw said, “I just get lazy, knowing where to apply, what schools are for me, where to go to apply, and choosing my major.”

AVID and non-AVID seniors would recommend students to join AVID since it would greatly benefit them and, by the start of their senior year, they would be glad they took it. Sabater said, “AVID really helps with getting you prepared for college and helps you with college applications.

Tutorials and binder checks are annoying, but other than that, AVID is very helpful.”

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

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The Buzz

Art at the Hive

Despite lack of funding, the art department continues to make their mark on the school

Art departments are facing conflicts due to the lack of funds available to them. Without the money to support art classes, students will not be able to make astonishing pieces of artistry with their imagination.

“Funding has always been a problem,” said OHS art teacher Mr. Darren Cartagena. He revealed that he did not have a budget Photo Credit: Mark Salupen is about $1,200 and we have nevfor the 2015-2016 school year, which led him to buy his own er had that big of a budget,” said Mrs. Tanner, “I have to get all the materials, “[but] we use what we supplies for one year for all of my got.” classes or just one camera.”

“He’s told us a couple of

OHS art students have times that he buys his own matecontributed ideas to aid the siturials,” said OHS freshman Yamira Martinez, “We should treat the The classes are amazing. I supplies with respect.” think that the kids get a great

Additionally, Mrs.Tanner, education.” an art and photography teacher at -Mrs. Tanner OHS has tried her best to make do ation within the art department. with their current budget and buy For example, Ronaldo De La O, as many materials possible for her an OHS senior said that “[the art classes. classes] should make bigger murals

However, she would love with meaning, then sell it in aucto have professional cameras, and tions for the public to see and sell a new computer lab. “One camera By: Maria Almaraz Reporter

Hector Betanzos is a senior at Oxnard High School and he recently got the news that he had gotten accepted into Princeton University. He got a full ride to Princeton thanks to the Questbridge scholarship. “The way the Questbridge scholarship works is students can apply to the Questbridge organization. What they are looking for are low income students who have excellent academic achievements,” said Betanzos.

“I know if I wasn’t considered a low income student these schools wouldn’t even consider me for their scholarship,” said Betanzos. Being low income was a factor that had an impact on Betanzos’ outcome. “I don’t see it as a curse, I see it as a blessing and I’ve turned that into something wonderful with this scholarship.”

Although Betanzos comes from a less fortunate upbringing, he likes to remain optimistic and

Faculty Advisor Mr. David Page

to fundraise for the art department.”

However, fundraising proved to be a conflict for the art department. Mrs. Tanner revealed that in a past fundraising event, there were limitations as to what they could use the money for.

“We couldn’t spend it on class materials, and that was what we were fundraising for. Since then, we haven’t done anymore fundraisers.”

Despite it all, Mrs. Tanner said that “the classes are amazing. I think that the kids get a great education.”

All of the art teachers at the Hive are alert and trying their best to keep the art department at place in order to give the opportunity for artistic people to excel in the arts in the years to come.

Art piece made by OHS students at the hive.

Photo Credit: Leila Luis

Photo Credit: Mark Salupen

Prince on a Quest

OHS student wins a full ride to Princeton University

said that his financial situation has its perks. Since Betanzos is low income the cost for taking an AP exam is only five dollars.

He said, “As of now, I have taken ten AP classes: sophomore year, I took [one]; my junior year, I took four; and this year I’m taking five.”

Betanzos noted that from all of the AP classes and tests that he has taken, he earned passing scores in all of them and plans to continue this streak of success with the incoming AP tests later this year.

“At Princeton I’m planning on majoring in political science; with a political science degree, I want to be able to be a judge. Ultimately, it would be a dream to be Chief Justice of the United States,” said Betanzos regarding his future goals during and after his enrollment at Princeton.

Anyone can get to whatever goal they want as long as they work hard. Betanzos said, “It

Editors

Business Manager Sarah Anaya

is definitely possible to be in the ers, he said, “I don’t have much same spot that I am right now. I family around and I always looked always knew it was a possibility towards friends for that support. and so I worked day in and day My teachers as well, they’ve been out to try to get my grades up. In helping me with anything I need the end, it’s really worth it because and I owe a tremendous debt.” it’s better to put in the work right now than later when it gets much more difficult.”

Another piece of advice that Betanzos gave was to “definitely look into colleges and have something in mind because it gets difficult when applying to colleges when you don’t know which college to apply for.”

Betanzos faced many trials along his journey and would not have been able to overcome them without help Hector Betanzos working diligently in his AP Calculus class. from his friends and teachers. To his support- Photo Credit: Mark Henry Salupen

The Buzz Staff

Layout Editors Editors-In-Chief Online Editor Rhiannon Enriquez Mark Salupen Lisandro Elizondo Ileana Gonzalez Jamie Tadiaman Entertainment Editor Managing Editor Quality Control Editor Adriana Mandujano Leslie Espinosa Jazmine Toledo Copy Editor Luz Martinez

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Sports Editor Cienna Saucedo

To all of the readers that have given their support, we humbly appreciate your viewership and hope that you enjoy our future issues to come.

The Buzz staff is a dedicated team working to our upmost ability to provide the best for our audience.

The Buzz

Reporters Maria Almaraz Adrian Clark Ilse Cruz Jaylene Gutierrez Yasel Hurtado Leonela Joaquin Andrew Kelly Ashley Ledbetter Leila Luis Yamile Mondragon Pablo Paredes

April Perez Celeste Ramirez Ilse Ramirez Kathy Raygoza Kim Santos Andrea Servin Anjanette Tadiaman Cindy Tran Verania Valdez Malia Vallender Jesus Zapien

December 14, 4 Wednesday, The Buzz

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2016

Fact or Fear?

In February of this year, President Obama gave a speech to the Islamic Society of Baltimore, where he said he believes that the Islam religion teaches a “tradition of peace, charity and justice.” However, the religion has been given a bad light due to the terrorist attacks in recent years.

Because of these attacks, there has been a rise in Islamophobia, which is the “prejudice towards or discrimination against Muslims due to their religion, or perceived religious, national, or ethnic identity associated with Islam,” according to bridge.georgetown.edu.

The increase in Islamophobia has caused misconceptions of the religion. The source of these misconceptions come from the media’s exaggerations and propaganda, which implicitly influence people’s opinions and justification of what is right.

An individual who has firsthand experience of how the media

The common misconceptions of Islam shed a negative light on its people

Entrance of the Islamic Center located in downtown Oxnard.

Photo Credit: Mark Henry Salupen

often skews people’s perception is Oxnard High School senior Sama Kalaj, who is of Iranian descent herself. Kalaj is knowledgeable about certain aspects of the issue, given her ethnic roots. She said, “Iran is an Islamic government, so I do know a fair amount about the religion, but that is not the reason why I know it.”

Kalaj’s understanding of Islam is a product of her prior-knowledge and education through various religious classes.

She said, “We learn about each religion and I got the chance to get to know what the Muslims believe and what the Islamic religion stands for.”

“Due to history, there has been stiffness or tension between America and countries like Iran, Iraq, or Pakistan. The bombing that happened during 9/11 has been the turning point to how Americans view the Islamic religion,” said Kalaj concerning the uprise in ethnic

and religious misconceptions.

Overall, Kalaj believes that racial and religious discrimination pose a conflict with the very laws that have built this nation. She said, “Americans have the right to express whatever they feel and that includes religion, opinions, political opinions, and so forth. If people are suppressing others because of their religion, they are going against our first amendment rights.”

Biased media-coverage and terror attacks throughout the years both contribute to the negative connotations of Islamic culture.

Kalaj said, “It is unfortunate because the act of what a few Muslims did stood for the religion. That has influenced the reputation of Muslims in America.”

Because of these stereotypes associated with Islam, people have misconceptions about the people who practice the religion and the religion itself. Oxnard High School junior Christian Salameh said, “I

By: Mark Salupen & Jamie Tadiaman Editors in Chief think some common misconceptions are of exactly how the religion is practiced. For example the hijab, what I think some people don’t realize is that when women wear it, people feel that they are being constrained ,but when they actually do wear it, they feel liberated.”

Salameh also said, “Another misconception is that whenever they say ‘Allahu akbar’ I don’t think most people actually know what that means. Its an Arabic term that means “God is great” or “God is Almighty” so it’s not something confined to Muslim. Any Abrahamic religion, which is Christianity, Judaism, Islam, all those religions pretty much believe in that.”

Although the ongoing terror attacks within the last decade may wrongly place a bad image on the Muslim people, it is important to remember that those actions do not reflect the religion as a whole.

As Salameh stated, “The errors of the few affect the many.”

Give it a Shot

Acceptance of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer community over the years in June, a gay nightclub in By: Leslie Espinosa Quality Control Manager Miami, Florida was attacked by a man who could not

“[My father] believes deal with accepting his identhat men were made for tity. The lives of many were women and women were lost through this attack, made for men,” said Oxnard

However, the event High School student Janice was just a small drawback in Rodriguez*. Even though the many accomplishments it is 2016 and the Lesbian, the LGBTQ community Gay, Bisexual, Trans and has received. According to Queer (LGBTQ) community Milestones in the American is generally more accepted, Gay Rights Movement, in there are still individuals out 1977, Harvey Milk, a gay there who are not okay with man, won a seat in the San their relationships due to Francisco Board of Supervidifferent factors. sors and helped lesbian and

Religion is one of gay individuals from losing the reasons people are afraid their jobs. to come out as part of the

OHS senior Hannah LGBTQ community. The Quiroz is supportive of the Center for American ProgLGBTQ community. Quiroz ress found that there are besaid that being gay does tween 320,000 and 400,000 not make anyone less of a homeless youth due to their person. She continued, “I families’ rejection of their don’t believe that one’s sexcoming out. uality defines who one is as

Even though it’s a person, and it’s not fair to 2016, crimes against the discriminate against someLGBTQ community still one based on the concept of happen. Just six months ago,

The rainbow flag of the LGBTQ community waves freely in the air.

his or her sexuality.”

Unlike Quiroz, Rodriguez has had to keep her gay friends in the closet hidden away from her father.

Some of her closest friends are gay, but she knows if her religious father found out he would not be okay with it.

Despite the fact that her father is not okay with the LGBTQ community, she continues to support them.

Rodriguez stated his opinion has never affected her.

The LGBTQ community continues to gain more support each

year.

Milestones in the American Gay Rights Movement reported that in 2004, Massachusetts became the first state to legalize gay marriage. The same source stated that in 2010, gay and lesbian military members could openly serve in the United States military.

The community’s biggest milestone came last year when the U.S. legalized gay marriage across the country on June 25, 2015. *Names have been changed to keep interviewee anonymous.

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Photo Credit: April Perez

365 Degrees of Earth’s Sadness

Why global warming is real and the effects it has on Earth and its living organisms By: April Perez Reporter

It’s very important to think about our environment not just within our local community, but around the world. Global warming is “the unusually rapid increase in Earth’s average surface temperature,” according to earthobservatory.nasa.gov. Temperature has increased the most within the 2000-2010 decade, and is known to have the highest global warming temperatures around the world recorded to date.

In comparison, climate change focuses on the specific weather development over time in a location, with effects happening during a short period of time and usually to a specific community, according to climate.nasa.gov.

Today, our sea levels have increased at a rapid speed over the last century, due to the melting of ice glaciers, mountain glaciers, and more. Most of Earth’s ice is located at both the North and the South pole, so every summer the ice melts with increasing speed. This causes the sea level to rise, which only makes the water warmer. Therefore, the ocean’s high temperature is “transferred from the ocean to the air” leading to global warming according to climatehotmap.org.

It is believed that by the end

of the century, sea level will have risen between seven inches and 23 inches. The world’s oceans will get warmer and filled with saline, ultimately affecting every living organism on Earth.

Representative of the Oxnard High School G-Tech Academy William Gerardo, has been “...taught values of conservation, sustainability, and green alternatives to combat unhealthy methods of living everyday life.” Gerardo used to be oblivious about global warming and climate change, but today he makes sure to safely dispose of waste, recycle, and uses his resources in a limited fashion.

It is very important for humans to come together to make our only home, Earth, an amazing home for everyone.

However, there are people who do not accept that global warming is real. OHS Chemistry teacher Mrs. Robles said she “can’t understand people who choose to look at scientific evidence and say ‘I don’t believe you’.”

Their reasoning behind their skepticism is that “not all areas of the world are getting warmer, in fact some are getting colder.

However, the important fact is that each end of the spectrum is getting

more extreme in local settings. Also, it is called “global” for a reason- many people claim that their city is not any hotter, but that is local weather, not a global pattern. The earth has a natural cycle of heating and cooling and we’ve been on the heating part of the cycle since the last ice age, so some warming is to be expected” said Mrs. Robles.

Ventura County’s Agricultural Commissioner Maribel Lemus said people do not believe in global warming because of “ how it will affect [the government] economically” and their “money making” strategies.

Humans are a big part of what happens around the world,

and according to OHS senior Ledia Camarena, humans are “...one of the leading causes for global warming since our demand for consumerism has increased over the years.”

However, Camarena thinks it’s also important to take note of the other contributing factors.

According to homeguides. sfgate.com, there are many ways for humans to stop global warming.

Some include reducing fossil fuel usage in greenhouses, planting trees and plants, conserving and reducing water, limiting vehicle use, and buying from local farm markets. With contribution from everyone, global warming can be stopped.

Photo Credit: April Perez

To Stand, or Not To Stand

People have reasons behind standing or sitting during the Pledge of Allegiance

By: Anjanette Tadiaman Reporter

Everyday during 2nd period, Oxnard High School students are expected to stand, face the flag, place their right hand over heart, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Although it is not mandatory, most people were taught that it is seen as a sign of patriotism to our country.

Because Americans enjoy the benefits of this nation, there’s a certain fundamental patriotism that they are expected to have. “I stand up for the pledge. It’s my duty as a citizen to respect our country and to appreciate it,” said OHS sophomore Bryan Strasser, who is in ROTC.

Some view that standing for the pledge respects the soldiers who died for our country.

“Veterans may not know [if you sit during the pledge], but I still think it’s disrespectful,” said sophomore Max Johnson.

This might have been the case years ago, but now people have found different values in standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Junior

Lisa Crismon said, “The flag is really old and the Constitution was written for people in a time that is not today.” Crismon also said that the pledge isn’t that serious and the troops are not really affected by it.

Repeating a phrase everyday should not prove one’s loyalty to their country. “There’s a lot of problems with our country, and there’s nothing wrong with acknowledging them and choosing not to be patriotic,” said senior Natalie Barriga.

OHS junior Emily Maldonado, OHS students standing for the pledge. who personally sits down for the pledge, Photo Credit: Anjanette Tadiaman a white person were to commit the same crime believes that it is not disrespectful. “If as a black person, they would not have to fear respect can’t be given to people of color, why for their life.” should it be given to a flag?” she said.

The words of the pledge are something

Maldonado’s opinions on this subject that people pay no mind to when saying it. They regard the current problems involved in our country today. “The pledge says ‘one nation un- don’t actually understand and accept the meander God, indivisible…’ If we were really indivis- ing of those words. Maldonado concluded by ible, then we wouldn’t have a superior race. And saying, “I will stand for the pledge when we all ‘with liberty and justice for all,’ is also untrue. If finally have equal rights.”

December 14, 2016 6 Wednesday, The Buzz

Christmas from a Different Perspective Foster homes do what they can to keep the holiday spirit

By: Celeste Ramirez Reporter

“Many children and teenagers beg for expensive material things for Christmas, but my Christmas wish was for my parents to do what they were supposed to be doing so we can get out of that place,” said Alex Bibiano, a former foster teen.

Bibiano was staying at Casa Pacifica, a foster home in Camarillo, along with his 10 year-old sister, Estrella for about 6 months.

When asked about what he felt his obligation was, his response was, “Just to take care of my little sister.” Estrella meant the world to him and since he was not allowed to spend much time with her he would become very upset and rebellious.

By: Isle Cruz Reporter

There are advantages and disadvantages of fake and real Christmas trees

Fake tree give he aroma of plastic Photo Credit: Ilse Cruz

By: Yasel Hurtado Reporter

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Cristina Miranda, a youth policy advocate at Casa Pacifica, said, “For most youth who are placed in foster care, the holidays can be a very challenging time.”

Many of the children in foster care cannot see their families, unless approved by their social worker.

These children begin to lose motivation, and think the worst about holidays since being ‘Home for the Holidays’ is nowhere near what they are allowed to do.

Fortunately at Casa Pacifica, Christmas is celebrated and gifts are brought for everyone. “We are very blessed to see and feel the love their community has for them,” Miranda said. “Each year (about a week before Christmas) Amgen, the local biotech company comes to the agency and trans-

forms the gym into the most beautiful holiday setting for the annual children’s Christmas party.”

Pentair, a company based out of Moorpark that sells pool, spa and aquatic equipment purchases 1 large gift for each child living in the facility every year.

The staff tries their best to accommodate the children, and do what they can to make Christmas a happy day for everyone. “On the actual Foster children enjoy their donated Christmas gifts.

Christmas day, all children Photo Credit: Fotolia who are living here receive a Christmas movies,” said a staff couple items that they need (such member at Casa Pacifica. as shoes, or clothes) and a couple

Although these kids do items that they want (a gift card of not have the opportunity to spend some sort). Our staff prepare a detime with their families, the foster licious dinner and they spend the care system still manages to do the day just hanging out and watching best for each and every child.

Can’t Trust the Fake

George Harrell, Program Coordinator for Caregivers said, “A home isn’t a home without a tree at Christmas time. It makes it feel homey and brings back memories of childhood.”

In 2015, 77 percent of Americans surveyed planned to decorate with a Christmas tree.

Out of 99 million homes, 81 percent used artificial trees and 19 percent used real trees according to thetimesnews.com.

On the other hand, having an artificial tree has the disadvantage that “no matter what they do, an artificial tree will never look like, feel like, or smell like a real Christmas tree,”

said Oxnard High School junior Elizabeth Borges.

Artificial Christmas trees are beneficial because “you can use it again for the following years.” said OHS junior Samantha Alvarado.

A disadvantage of a natural Christmas tree is that they “rarely ever go on sale—unless it’s really last minute or it’s a tree on its last legs. With artificial trees, when you find the tree that you want, buy it right then. Chances are that if you like it, so will everyone else. The best trees do not go on sale; the best trees are sold out before Thanksgiving,” commented by christmastreeforme.com.

But they are still some people who would prefer to buy a natural Christmas tree because artificial trees are over priced. “Artificial trees cost an average of about $100, and have an average lifespan of 10 years. Real Christmas trees cost an average of $49 in the 2012 season.” stated by diffen. com.

OHS senior Jack Adams said “Christmas trees traditions could be classic and symbolic. If Real trees smell like nature. you just have always had a Photo Credit: Ilse Cruz tree it’ll mean alot to you to have one during Christmas, if you’re a sentimen“A home isn’t a home tal person who associates without a tree at Christmas christmas with a tree.” time.”

- George Harrell, Program Coordinator for Caregivers

Home for the Holidays

Everyone knows that the holiday season is all about rejoicing in the companionship of family. While people always think of their loved ones during this time, they forget that not everyone has the privilege to be with family, including pets.

The holidays are a prime time to adopt from a shelter and give an animal a stable and loving home. There are also many benefits to adopting from a shelter as opposed to buying from a breeder.

Oxnard High School senior Jacqueline Aldrete said that she believes adopting is better

because “you are getting a companion while also saving a dog’s life.”

The Camarillo Animal Shelter has been struggling with overcrowding recently because of it’s no-kill policy. They don’t euthanize any animals, therefore every dog that shows up has to be put into a kennel with, at times, two or three other dogs.

Aldrete explained that she noticed this overcrowding when she “got [her] dog because he was in with three other dogs.”

This just goes to show how much more beneficial adopting can be. Buying from a breeder is

During the Christmas holidays, there are advantages in adopting a dog one of the main things that caus-

es dog overpopulation. Patricia Huezo, volunteer at the Camarillo Animal Shelter, said “once you adopt a dog it is already neutered or spayed, so it helps control the dog population.”

Moreover, adopting a dog can be a very positive experience and completely change their life.

Many dogs at the shelter have a background of abuse and mistreatment. Taking them home can offer a new life.

OHS senior Sirena Romero said that adopting a dog is a “great experience that everyone should get the chance to do.”

This is Eli, a two-year old rescue who has been with his new family for about 6 months.

Photo Credit: Yasel Hurtado

YELLOWJACKETS

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

A Sight to See

By Yamile Mondragon Reporter

The Buzz

7

With Christmas right around the corner, Oxnard celebrates with community events

Photo Credit: Yamile Mondragon

Santa Claus is coming to town, but before he makes his late night visits to all of those chimneys in Oxnard, the City of Oxnard has many events to help count down the Advent Calendar before his visit.

Lights will be glowing

in Downtown Oxnard on F and G Streets between 5th and Palm Streets. Not only will there be a beautiful display of Christmas lights, there is also a holiday-decorated pagoda near Plaza Park worth checking out.

When neighbors band together to make Christmas special, as they have done for years at Christmas Tree Lane in the Henry T. Oxnard Downtown Historic District, visitors can catch the fun December 13-26 along F and G Streets, between 5th and Palm.

About 140 homeowners, according to the Ventura County Star, spend hours preparing their holiday displays.

The weekend of Friday, Dec.2- Sunday, Dec.4, our com-

munity leaders had to roll up their sleeves for the sake of helping their fellow citizens at the Ventura County 5th annual FOOD Share’s holiday event. Our community will work together to build can trees with each tree holding over 700 cans to fight hunger. “It was such a great experience being part of this and being able to cooperate with everyone and working together as a team,” said Oxnard High School junior Diana Salgado.

The Collection at RiverPark and Cumulus Media, had displayed more than 200,000 canned goods lining Park View Court at The Collection as a record 300 can -trees, along with the spectacular centerpiece this year there was two 14-foot can tree engineered

Photo Credit: Mrs. Botello

and assembled by students of ACE Charter High School with 10,000 canned goods each.

Although in Oxnard, California it does not snow, make sure you take a sweater to keep yourself warm and remember Santa Claus is watching if you are naughty or nice, so be nice.

The History of Christmas

By Leonela Joaquin Reporter

Oxnard High School’s students discuss how Christmas began.

Photo Credit: Leonela Joaquin

Christmas in the United States was not always seen as a holiday. On June 26, 1870 December 25 was declared to be a federal holiday. According to historytoday.com, Christmas was introduced into the U. S. to promote the idea of having

a meal together. It helped the U.S overcome confusion during that era and to help people feel united at least once a year for a short period of time.

The Nativity, or the birth of Jesus, was when God sent his only son, Jesus, to be born in this

world. The son of God was born to purposely pay the price of all the things that mankind has done wrong, however his birth was also suppose to bring joy to the world.

However, nowadays Christmas can he saddening and frustrating for some people due to the lack of money for family presents or the lack of family to celebrate it with, according to www.cbn.com.

“To some people it could be a cultural Christmas, and it could be a religious Christmas to others,” said OHS junior Briana Rivera.

According to pewforum.org, 51 percent of people in the United States celebrate Christmas because they perceive it as more of a religious holiday, while 32 percent see it as a cultural holiday and nine percent see it as both cultural and religious.

A handful of people may

associate Christmas as the time we give and get gifts, but it “is not all about the gifts, it is a holiday to celebrate with family and have a good time to basically get together give each other a gift if possible and spend quality time together,” said OHS junior Ramona Ramirez.

Furthermore, some people celebrate Christmas based on traditions and different beliefs.

“It’s mostly about the family bond because it lets us be connected to each other,” said college student Alejandrina Ramirez.

Christmas is not about the presents, but about being with the people one cares about. As OHS junior Jennifer Rico said “When I think of Christmas I think of joyful memories with family and the holiday spirit.”

Holiday Traditions

By Cindy Tran Reporter

Students share their holiday festivities.

Photo Credit: Cindy Tran

The seasons have changed and winter has officially taken over. Bells of jolly deck the halls and lights of red and green brighten up houses meaning it’s time for Christmas.

Christmas time is more than exchanging gifts, but where traditions can be implemented. All traditions celebrated have special meaning. Oxnard high school junior, Jenelle Vera said that before Christmas “friends come sleepover [to] have secret Santa” and “decorate the tree.”

Although it may sound simple, this tradition brings Vera and her friends closer together.

“My family usually gets together on Christmas Eve and we wait until midnight to exchange our secret Santa gifts,” said OHS junior Yesenia Ceja.

On the other hand, spending the holidays far from home still brings holiday joy. “[My family] usually goes to Disneyland during

Christmas,” a tradition that her mother has been keeping up since she was a child. “[She] sees the holidays as almost an excuse to bring family together,” said OHS junior Kate Vega.

However, it is disappointing “that it only Caption: Kate and her family enjoy their tradition of Christmas at Disneyhappens once a year,” land. said OHS junior Hector Photo Credit: Kate Vega OHS Junior Andrea Padilla said, Ordaz. As long as we cherish our “spending time with those who memories the Christmas spirit will really care about you” is what is never truly end. important during the holidays.

The most important part

The bringing together of of the holidays “is being able to loved ones creates irreplaceable be surrounded by loved ones and memories. Generations of Christenjoy each other’s company,” said mas celebrations are cherished Ceja. when families get together.

Off to a Great Start

By Jamie Tadiaman Editor-in- Chief

The girl’s wrestling team kicks off their season with a successful tournament.

The Oxnard High School Girl’s Wrestling team had their first tournament at the Magnolia Invitational, placing 7th out of 30 schools.

The Girl’s Wrestling team is comprised of seniors Alyssa Rocha, Serena Sanchez,Tai Soldo, and Nel Tristan; juniors Sierra Olea and Cami Pedro; and freshman Diana Davalos. The team traveled to Magnolia High School in Anaheim on December 2nd and 3rd, 2016 to face off 30 other schools in a wrestling tournament.

The seven girls have been training hard since last year to prepare for this upcoming season.

Serena Sanchez said, “It was a lot

easier than past matches because of all the training and the weight lifting we’ve been doing this season.

It’s really helped us improve our endurance and we were way more conditioned than most of the girls we wrestled.”

In order to prepare for the meet, varsity wrestler Alyssa Rocha said, “Usually, the night before I’ll think about all the wrestling moves that I know. I think about who will be there, and then try to mentally prepare myself. I tell myself ‘Every match counts.’”

The girls didn’t plan on leaving the tournament empty-handed. Overall, the team placed seventh at the tournament.

Sanchez, Rocha, Soldo, Tristan, and Olea managed to place in their respective weight class, with Sanchez and Rocha earning first place in theirs.

Rocha said, “Compared to last year, I’ve improved a lot; I think the entire team has actually. They did Photo Credit: Serena Sanchez becoming CIF champion last year, really well, and I Rocha wants to defend her title and was really proud of them.”

The team is looking to have place in the CIF Finals, so that she can qualify for State. She said, “It’s a successful season and hopefulmy last year and I really want to ly make it to State Finals. After make it count.”

Varsity Sports Calender Boys Basketball

Girls Soccer

Wrestling

Boys Soccer

• La Puente HS V Trny D2 (Girls) • San Marcos • Pacifica King Triton Clash V Trny D2 • Buena Holiday V Trny D1 Saturday, December 17, 2016 Thursday, December 15, 2016 Thursday, December 15, 2016 Friday, December 16, 2016 • Corona HS V Trny D1 (Girls) • Santa Clara • Pacifica King Triton Clash V Trny D3 • Buena Holiday V Trny D2 Thursday, December 29, 2016 Friday, December 16, 2016 Saturday, December 17, 2016 Friday, December 16, 2016 • Valencia (Placentia) V Trny D1 (Boys) • Muir HS • Pacifica King Triton Clash V Trny D4 Thursday, December 29, 2016 Thursday, December 22, 2016 Saturday, December 17, 2016 • Buena Holiday V Trny D3 • Corona HS V Trny D2 (Girls) • Westlake Monday, December 19, 2016 • Buena V Trny D1 Friday, December 30, 2016 Tuesday, December 20, 2016 • Sunny Hills V NOCC Trny D1 Wednesday, Decemeber 28, 2016 • Valencia (Placentia) V Trny D2 (Boys) Tuesday, December 27, 2016 Friday, December 30, 2016

By Cienna Saucedo Sports Editor The Oxnard High School’s girls soccer team made their home debut of the season on November 29, 2016.

The Yellow Jackets competed against the Santa Paula Cardinals for their second preseason game. OHS came out victorious, defeating the Cardinals 3-0.

The first point the Jackets earned was volleyed into the goal by Angela Franco, who received the cross from Jackie Aldrete. Both Franco and Aldrete are returning players, who have been on the varsity team since their freshman year. This mature team of 14 seniors knows how to play to each others strengths.

Return of the Jackets

The Oxnard High School girls soccer team wins their first home game.

By the second half, the score was 2-0, with the second goal put into the net

by Aldrete. Santa Paula had an offside goal in the first half trying to compete with Oxnard.

The third and final goal, ending the game with a score of 3-0, was courtesy of sophomore Jessica Photo Credit: Provided by OHS Girl’s Soccer Tamayo assisted by junior Aris Beltran.

(CIF) Southern Section, the Yellow

After last years exciting win at Jackets are optimistic, yet focused on California Interscholastic Federation

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the season ahead of them. “ We just have to take it one game at a time,” said senior Sirena Romero.

Sophore Citlali Zambrano started the second non-league game and her first home varsity game, she said, “I thought we started strong; we’re passing well.” Zambrano also said “I’m excited for league and CIF”.

Last year, Coach Andrew Aguailar made it a point to have the girl’s warm-up jerseys state, “Relentless. Together.” in hopes of inspiring the girls. This year the team shirts are left blank. Jackie Aldrete believes this to be metaphorical, “ We have nothing to say because everything we say will speak for itself on the field.”

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