December 17, 2014
OXNARD HIGH SCHOOL, 3400 W. GONZALES ROAD, OXNARD, CA. 93036
“It Was a Life Changing Experience”
Volume 8 Issue 2
Oxnard High School students volunteer at the Rescue Mission to help feed the homeless By Zaira Miranda
“While the people were outside waiting in line, there was so much going on inside…some people were decorating paper bags with ‘God Loves You’ and filling them in with candy for the little ones, and the people at the kitchen were cutting the pies and keeping everything warm and ready,” said Oxnard High School junior volunteer, Dominique Delgadillo. On Nov 27, 2014, a group of varying Oxnard High School students, which included Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan (MECHA) Club and Green Technology (Gtech) Academy members, aided the Ventura County Rescue Mission in serving meals to the homeless. According to their website, the Rescue Mission has held a Thanksgiving Dinner for the homeless every year, for the past seven years. The event starting at noon attracted family
members and individuals to gather around the Rescue Mission located in Oxnard. As people were waiting in line, the Rescue Mission accommodated activities for children by setting up face painting booths and hosting games for them to play. OHS students decided to start that morning with being a part of every single one of those children’s lives by playing games with them and painting their faces. Senior Gabriela Avila said, “It’s pretty nice I mean, you see their faces all happy, all cheered up, all excited because they are going to have something painted on their face, it’s...nice to see their smile on their face.” “Spending the day with the kids and seeing them smile while they played made me glad to be there,” said senior Andrea Partida. By noon, the gates of the Rescue Mission had
Photo by Zaira Miranda Oxnard Fire FIghters serving Thanksgivng dinner at the Rescue Mission. opened and started to seat everybody. While some OHS student volunteers were still painting faces and interacting with the kids, others prepared their
Photo by Zaira Miranda
Gabriela Avila doing face painting before the Rescue Mission’s Thankgivng dinner.
plates to be served. After lining up to be served, they received service by on duty servicemen and veterans. The overall feeling of the Rescue Mission was radiating throughout the community with happiness. “I felt excited and warm-hearted seeing all the people thanking me and telling me they loved the meal, one guy told me ‘I have not eaten a thanksgiving meal in years, this is my first meal that I’ve had in a week,’” said junior Haley Spicer. Partida said she felt, “spending the day there not only made me appreciate things more, but also [made me] thankful [for having] a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and not worrying about when my next meal is.” “I love seeing the smiles on the people’s faces after I gave them clean water and fresh warm food that they were not able to provide for themselves,” said Spicer. The people who were volunteering that day had not only a chance to change
someone’s life, but also an opportunity to experience something that could change their own. “This event definitely made me appreciate what I have. Seeing so many individuals in need and dependent on community service programs made me feel very fortunate for what I have,” said junior Lydia Chiorino. “There’re many people out on the streets, and I am just so grateful for the Rescue Mission for providing the hundreds of families that came with not only food during the holidays but providing them with a long lasting memory that will bring joy to their hearts,” said Delgadillo. After his volunteer experience, Delgadillo said, “The Rescue Mission does so much for this community, [and] the high schools are just not always aware... but I am really glad I was informed about this community service opportunity, it was a life changing experience.”
Halfway There Oxnard High School seniors share their feelings after submitting By Melissa Cuevas and Zaira Miranda
Applying to a university can be a life changing decision. Students might find themselves overwhelmed with the process of applying while some might find the process rather simple. Nonetheless, every experience is unique and important in its way. Oxnard High School senior Shady O’campo said, “My application process was stressful, because I had to think about what major and what schools to apply to.” Similarly, senior Antonio Gaxiola said the application process “was difficult, but luckily the Thanksgiving break gave me a solid seven days to really proofread and finalize my applications. It came at the right time.” However, for other students
the process was very simple. Senior Krista Hamilton said, “Applying for college was rather a quick and easy process for me. I applied with the help of my older sister, which made things easier.” Although the process may have been time consuming for some, students found motivation to finish their applications. “I think just a better life for myself was my motivation,” said senior Vanessa Ruiz. Students will now have to wait until March for the University of California system responses. While for the California State Universities, each campus operates independently. Therefore, students will have different acceptance dates. Regardless if they are applying to a UC or a CSU all stu-
dents will have to wait to receive their acceptance letter. With most applications already submitted, students are experiencing mixed emotions and fears. Ruiz said, “I’m really nervous but excited. My biggest fear is rejection.”
“The issue with grades for students nowadays is that grades are a little more important than when I was in school, in the sense that to get into colleges [they need] to have this
impeccable grade point average. If you don’t have these certain set of grades, then they won’t even look at your application. That makes it more difficult and puts more pressure on students. That’s not to say that learning is not important… but grades are now more important than they have ever been,” said OHS Advanced Placement Psychology Photo by Jason Toledo and World HisStudent demonstrates what can tory teacher happen when grades become Mr. Matthew more important. Creech.
Photojournalism Editor Mayra Sanchez Photo by Zaira Miranda Vanessa Ruiz applying to CSUs.
Creech said that a B grade in another class has not the same meaning as a B in his class. “So you’re not going to be able to ever balance that out…different teachers, different styles, different classes, [and] different levels of difficulty in those classes.” OHS junior Cristina Flores thinks that grades have become more important “because colleges have put emphasis on the grades and for someone to have a future you have to have to go to college, so students will try to get the best grades...to have a chance in life.”
Back in My Day...
I
t is not a secret that technology is a prevalent force in society today. Within the last couple decades, technology has boomed and become a part of almost every single aspect of daily lives. Though this explosion of technology has proven to be helpful, it has also created a technologically advanced generation and a more traditional generation. “I understand that there’s been a time lapse,“ said Oxnard High School sophomore Brian Sanchez, “where technology just suddenly came in, so some people just can’t adapt to that technology, and then some...people do, but it’s [their choice if ] they want to adapt or not.” Teacher librarian Ms. Jennifer
Brickey said, ”One of the problems is, I think, that if you were never really...adept or have a certain familiarity with technology, then it’s difficult to transfer skills.” “Where I see adults having a lot of difficulty is with not being ever engaged in technology...As more devices come out you’re supposed to be building knowledge regarding those technologies, [but then] they get lost... because there isn’t that kind of base knowledge to build upon,” Ms. Brickey said. Because of this lack of basic skills there is a considerable knowledge gap, which causes multiple problems. Referring to his dad, junior Roberto Velasquez said, “I find it funny how he figured out how to do online bank-
Managing Editor Yadira Vico
Layout Editors Patty Casimiro Chase Perez
Today’s world may seem to have a higher appreciation for high grades instead of learning the academic material. Some students think learning is still important, but the demand for high grades may affect the learning of students. OHS junior Mateo Juarez said, “Learning is important, but most students care more about the grade than learning because students try to get the best grade by any means necessary… They might cheat or copy somebody else for the right answer.” Class variation may also affect the learning process of students. Mr.
The development of technology from generation to generation By Jamie Tadiaman
Editors-In-Chief Stephanie Chavez Juan Quero
Copy Editor Tammera Magaña Alizé Saldana
Grades are More Important
Oxnard High School students discuss grades and learning By Jason Toledo
The Buzz Staff
ing...but he doesn’t know how to turn off the computer.” Also, there is a difference in lifestyles. Some teenagers use technology for personal use and entertainment. Junior Lizzie Pacquing said that she mostly uses it as a source of “social media [for] keeping up with...students at OHS and sports...If I miss a game I can always just look on Twitter and find out what the score was and who won and stuff. I also use technology for entertainment to watch Youtube videos.” On the other hand, other people from different generations choose to step back from technology. Ms. Kristina Roberts, an OHS English teacher, said, “I find myself using technology mostly at work and I purposely detach
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Website Editor Denis O’Leary Entertainment Editor Christina Escudero Sports Editor Esteban Leon Business Manager Daniela Peña Reporters Berenise Alfaro Luis Arevalo Aime Cano Brandon Cardilino Melissa Cuevas Victor Galicia Edith Gallardo Stephany Garcia Vitaliy Kostylov Zaira Miranda Yesenia Monje Stephanie Quero Mark Ramos Imani Roberts Nicholas Robles Tatyana Sharpe Andrew Smith Jamie Tadiaman Janine Tadiaman Jason Toledo Teresa Valerio Faculty Advisor Mr. David Page from it when I go home.” “It seems that the more people are attached to technology, the more they rely on it,” said Ms. Roberts, “They lose the ability to communicate clearly,... face to face [and] in writings.” Though some people may or may not be happy about it, technology is only going to advance. Whether they choose to adapt to it or not will be their decision. Pacquing said, “I mean sure, trying to keep up with the times is good, but... it’s kinda cool to hear stories of what happened back then like ‘Woah, you never thought that would happen.’”
Favorite Seasons
What season do OHS students like best? By Kim Valerio
Spring, Summer, Fall, and Win- get free time and the break off. nior Laura Arciga. Summer is the weather brings a cool crisp feel ter all have different events that You also get to have a great time.” time to lay back, have fun and re- and the environment changes. make people enjoy each season. It gives an excuse to go to the lax. Many shades of orange and red Whether it is baseball season beach or even stay in. “Beach days In third place was autumn appear on trees as the leaves and Easter, volleyball season and happen more often,” said OHS ju- or fall, with 9% of the votes. The change, and football games beFourth of July, football season gin. Fall also brings two holiand Halloween or basketball days (not counting Black Friseason and Christmas, everyday)--Halloween, where you one has their preference. get to be someone or someIn a December Buzz poll, thing else, and Thanksgiving, a 50% of those polled selected day dedicated to being grateWinter as the most popular ful. season. “I like Winter the most Estephany Sampablo, OHS because of the chilling winds. I junior, said, “I like fall because literally like the cold more than me as a girl I have a cuter the heat,” said Oxnard High clothes for the cold days. It’s School junior Sebastian Lue. It better than summer too beis also a great excuse to stay in cause then you don’t burn up and drink hot drinks, or watch in the sun.” Christmas movies while wearSpring came in last with 6% ing ugly Christmas sweaters. of the votes. Flowers bloomAlso, OHS junior Haley Luis ing, baseball season, and just said, “My favorite season is winnice weather all around makes ter because of the rain and the spring a relaxing season. “I like cold.” She is also a big fan of spring because the flowers winter “because [she] gets to start blooming, and the weathcelebrate Christmas with [her] er is not hot or cold,” said junior family.” Saira Cisneros. The second most popular Junior Keith Young said, was summer with 31% of the “The reason I like Spring is bevotes. With the summer heat, cause the rabbits come out students receive a break from of hibernation, the grass and their academic coursework. flowers look better, [and] beGraph by Kim Valerio OHS junior Cynthia Nava “loves cause the colors are vibrant.” Oxnard High School favorite seasons poll results. the hot weather because you
Not-So-New You
Oxnard High School students talk about their New Year’s resolutions By Mark Ramos and Victor Galicia
“A New Year’s resolution is something that makes a person better than what they were last year,” said Oxnard High School senior Brandon Dale. As the end of 2014 approaches, Oxnard High School students
reflect on their past New Year’s resolutions, as well as give some insight towards next year’s goals and what it will take to complete them. With intentions for self-improvement and growth as a per-
son, these annual resolutions are being made by students. “I’ve made several...one of them being do better in school...one of them being try to stay active,” said junior Stephen Kish. However, even with the longterm goals in mind, there are those who find it difficult to complete a resolution. “I have made a New Year’s resolution...to start the year off eating healthy...it didn’t work out… because, you know... hamburgers...candy,” said freshman Vanessa Ihrke. “I know a few people who make resolutions to lose weight or get healthier...most don’t [go through with it]... they usually do it for a couple days and just quit it,” said junior Edward Vargas. With 2015 approaching, junior varsity cross country runner Michael Satumba has already begun setting goals for himself. “I want to be in Varsity for track season and, just for my own personal gain, I want to be a little bit bigger...stronger in every catPhoto by Victor Galicia egory in life…[and] in school, Oxnard High students reflect on their New Years resolutions. taking AP classes...for my per-
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sonal health, lifting more weight... and my family, talk to them more. My desire to be somebody is my motivation.” There are those who believe resolutions are only for a certain kind of people. “I’ve never come around to making a New Year’s resolution because I’ve never felt myself dedicated to actually completing the resolution,” said junior Diego Zuniga. “I think the people that complete their resolutions are very dedicated people that are good at striving to complete their goals.” Although it may seem difficult to complete a New Year’s resolution, it is important to keep in mind that the goal was made by you based on what you lacked the previous year in order to motivate yourself to not give up. As Satumba said, “To fulfill a New Year’s resolution you need to work hard first...the hardest part is being consistent but you gotta just keep going even though things go hard...you gotta keep going...consistency is key.” The biggest challenge is not setting the resolution, but going through with it because “many people don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
‘Tis This Season to Eat All Things
Taste the Season
The holidays heat up with popular seasonal drinks
Oxnard High School students share their favorite holiday foods By Tammera Magana
By Yesenia Monje and Mayra Sanchez
macaroni and cheese, but also her homemade pumpkin pie as well. “She makes the crust and filling from scratch” he said. Similar to Watts, senior Alyssa Rodriguez also enjoys pumpkin pie. “My favorite holiday food is pumpkin pie. It’s delicious,” said Rodriguez who only makes the pie on Thanksgiving. “I also like ham, i think it’s better than turkey,” said Rodriguez However, Photo by Alize Saldana senior Ingrid With the holidays approaching, many prepare to Bolio has a difenjoy their favorite long awaited holiday foods. ferent holiday dish that she With the holidays right around the corner, many people not only enjoys. “I have an obsession with prepare for family gatherings and mashed potatoes,” said Bolio. “[It events, but also the long-awaited is] a tradition to have them during food that comes along with the the holidays because everybody holidays, from homemade mac n’ knows it’s my favorite...I also like cheese all the way to stuffing and my friends homemade cranberry sauce. It is the best.” pumpkin pie. “[I enjoy] Thanksgiving be“My mom’s macaroni and cause I can eat anything I want cheese is perfect,” said Oxnard High School junior Donavan and as much as I want,” said juWatts, who only eats the baked nior Devin Lohse. “Stuffing tastes dish on Thanksgiving day. “She really good. It’s got the spices, it’s bakes it in the oven, and it gets re- a traditional Thanksgiving food. ally gooey and nice,” said Watts. He I eat it every year...We all get tonot only enjoys eating his mom’s gether as a family and make it.”
Around this time of the year, the holidays mean a great deal to people who celebrate them. Everyone may have certain ways and traditions of acknowledging Winter festivities. To some people, namely those who look forward to Graph by Mayra Sanchez Christmas, getting their hands on their OHS students decide on the most popular holifavorite Christmas day drink. or holiday drinks is one of the best part of the season. fun [she] had in past winters and For those who are familiar while it makes [her] feel nostalgic with those famous red cups from it also makes [her] happy.” As for sophomore Jonathan Starbucks and their limited-time Viveros, he said, “My favorite drink only hot and cold beverages, it is no wonder why people are lining would be hot chocolate because up to get a taste of what the holi- it’s very warm and nice to drink days mean to them. Oxnard High during the winter time.” Jonathan School senior Esther Vasquez is Viveros also said, “I think it’s nice no stranger when it comes to to drink when it’s cold outside.” Another OHS student who Starbucks’ well-known Christmas also likes hot chocolate is junior drinks. She said the Peppermint Mocha is one of her favorite drinks Luis Melendez. “When it’s realbecause “it reminds [her] of all the ly cold, it just heats you up,” said Melendez. He also would like people to try hot chocolate because “it tastes really good...And its chocolate, who doesn’t like chocolate?” Many things have changed over the years when it comes to Christmas drinks. But most people such as Viveros and Melendez like to stick with the old traditional Photo by Alize Saldana ways and drink hot Starbucks has everyone seeing red this season. chocolate.
From The Heart
Oxnard High School students share their thoughts on homemade gifts By Victor Galicia and Luis Arevalo
family and friends. However, despite the wide assortment of gifts available, many prefer to give homemade gifts. Homemade gifts can range from handcrafted toys and trinkets to letters of appreciation. “I’ve made little homemade letters that I give [to my friends] and pretty much describe my appreciation for our friendship,” said junior Fatima Gonzalez. “I glued popsicle sticks togethPhoto by Luis Arevalo er and made my mom a picture Handcrafted gifts can range from frame for a picture of the entire small toys to decorations. family,” added junior Mariela Ala“When it’s homemade, there’s torre. effort...and it’s something you reHandmade presents are not ally appreciate,” said Oxnard High only gifted, but also received. “My School junior Delilah Cervantes. little cousin makes me a homeWith the holidays approach- made gift every year. He’s in kining, many have begun to plan dergarten, and he always makes what gifts they will give to their me a little drawing,” said Cervant-
es. grandma said, “Just the fact that I Although store bought gifts are made it...made it special.” easier to give, they lack the time With Christmas just around the and love that goes into making corner, it is not too late to make a gifts. Alatorre said, “Homemade friend or loved one a gift. After all, gifts are more special because gifts should come from the heart, more thought goes into them.” not the wallet. Junior Cristina Flores says that she gives homemade gifts because she wants to show her appreciation for her friends and family. “I want them to have something that shows that I care for them, but at the same time comes from the heart,” said Flores. “I want them to know that I appreciate them as a friend and that I’m here for them,” said Gonzalez about the letters she makes for friends. CerPhoto by Luis Arevalo vantes, who made a painted Homemade gifts are a great idea for Christmas ornament for her the holidays.
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The Spirit State of Mind Christmas is perceived differently among Oxnard High School’s staff and students By Stephany Garcia and Stephanie Quero
“The pleasure of ‘giving’ does not have to be accomplished by gifts because the simple gestures one can give pleases many and that’s what Christmas Spirit is,” said Ashley Fabillaran, a senior at Oxnard High School. Christmas spirit is perceived differently among people on the campus, but some interpret it as the season of hospitality. According to Trisha Ferreira, the OHS Textbook Media Technician, Christmas is a time, “when charity is most present in our hearts and it is a time to go visit somebody who doesn’t have anyone.” “It is always better to give, than to receive. You get more joy out of doing things, like when I contribute to rescue missions or [when I am] just trying to be a secret Santa for people,” said Ms. Catherine Breshears, OHS Computer Laboratory Coordinator. In Ms. Ferreira opinion, Christmas spirit “is thinking about those who are less fortunate than we are, whether Photo by Stephanie Quero that be someone who doesn’t have Christmas spirit is shown throughout Oxnard as well as the marketing in stores. food or even elderly people. She said, “I think about students who I know
What Does Christmas Mean?
that don’t have much...Your heart goes out to them, and you wonder how they’re going to be.” Others might think that with the media’s influence, the holidays have become more about satisfiying consumeristic needs than enjoying the annual traditions. “Christmas has become a lot more commercialized -- the displays are probably up in stores already, and everything is being bombarded with gift-giving and the stress of giving presents,” said Visual Arts teacher Mr. Darren Cartagena. Some think that the meaning of the holidays has become too self-centered. Unfortunately in today’s society, “everyone thinks about me, me, me, what do I want? What can you give me?...that kind of a thing,” said Ms. Ferreira. “We don’t think about other people, and that’s kind of sad,” she said. Mr. Cartagena said Christmas spirit ideals have been influenced by society but “hopefully you have some humanity and hopefully you realize that it’s not about the material but it’s about what’s in one’s heart and how they look at their fellow man even when you don’t know them. Hopefully they can all remember that we’re all in this together.”
OHS faculty talk about what Christmas means to them By Imani Roberts and Kim Valerio
C
hristmas is usually the time of year when family and friends get together, bond and express themselves in a positive way to share the simple satisfaction of happiness. Families usually share their traditions that have been passed on to them from past generations. Many families share the tradition of socializing with their friends and going Christmas Caroling. While others do things they only save for the holiday, “Fudge, I only make it once a year. That’s [the] honest truth,” said Oxnard High School Biology and Chemistry teacher, Ms. Joann McQuaid. During the Christmas season, family usually comes around, whether if it is only a few or a mass of family members gathering together for the holidays. Ms. McQuaid said, “I don’t have a really big family, I have a really small family. It’s just my mom, my daughter, myself...my dad...my sister and brother-in-law.” Having a strong and close relationship with friends can enhance
It’s the Gift that Counts
the “family” experience around the holidays, “I have some friends who are more like family than friends, but I also love being with my family,” said OHS English teacher, Ms. Kathleen Curran. When Christmas time comes around, the decorations of most places changes to become related to the season. There are specific things that symbolize Christmas ranging from reindeers, lights and food. Although some might be mad at each other, they do put their differences aside around the Christmas holiday. They extend their arms and shake hands to have a good time. When people are with the ones they love, they tend to feel happy. Also they feel safe with them, and feel at peace. Being surrounded by family makes everything special around the holidays. Christmas has a lot of meanings -- spending time with family, friends, or spending money on gifts. Everyone has at least a guess of what it means.
OHS students share their thoughts about buying gifts this season By Melissa Cuevas and Vitality Kostylov
According to American Research Group, Inc.,“ The average planned spending for shoppers who have already started their holiday shopping is $666. [While], the average for those who have not started their shopping is $1,051,” for this year’s holiday season. Resulting in the average amount of spending on gifts this season total nears from almost $700 to $1000, some Oxnard High School Students will not be spending near the estimated amount on gifts this year. Senior Brian Mora said, “I honestly, probably only [spend] about 50 bucks because I’ll only buy presents for anyone younger than me… [since] I don’t have a job or anything.” Oxnard High School junior Angel Aguirre said he spent about “$200 on average.” He also said, “Certain people get more expensive gifts, like people who matter to me more…because they’re worth more.” Nonetheless, Aguirre also said that “some people can’t spend much, [so] knowing that people
While money can buy an infinite amount thought about me, that’s great.” of things sometimes the money is not what For some OHS students, the gesture of the gift itself means more than the actual is important. As the Grinch once said, “Maybe price of the gift. OHS senior Amber Holmes Christmas doesn’t come from a store, maybe Christmas means a little bit more.” said, “It doesn’t matter, about the money, because Christmas is not about spending money. It’s about spending [time] with friends and family and the love given towards each other.” Similarly, Aguirre said that the value of the gift is not as important as a gesture, he said, “I think that if you would give someone a very thoughtful gift that counts…[or even] maybe if you would make a gift yourself that will be better than buying it.” The holidays might be a good time for some to show their appreciation towards family and friends. “Your family does so much for you Photo by Melissa Cuevas throughout the year that it’s nice to give them Shoppers waiting in a line to enter Victoria’s Secret at the something back,” said sophomore David Zec- Pacific View Mall. ua. Page 5
Bringing Families Together
Troops Gone for the Holidays
Students share their holiday family traditions
Students discuss their relatives in the military beuing gone for th
By Edith Gallardo
By Jamie Tadiaman
Many people look forward to the end of the year. Along with a much needed winter vacation, they look forward to spending the holidays with family and friends. But some people might not have that luxury, though. “My brother Ronnie [is] a Marine,” said Oxnard High School senior Miriam Herrejon, “He officially left for Japan [around] last October, so he wasn’t here last year and he won’t be here[for Christmas] this year either.” Herrejon said, “It’s pretty tough on the family. We’re a small family, so its really obvious that he’s not there. I know his first Christmas was hard because he was kind of lonely, so it makes me happy that it will be easier on him, but I’m still pretty bummed that it’s gonna be hard on my mom and just that our little family is incomplete.” Most military families face this same predicament. Sophomore Shawn Weatherwax said, “My dad used to be in the Navy Seabees and retired after twenty years. So basically most of my life I’ve been in a military family.”
Photo by Edith Gallardo Some foods that are usually eaten on the holidays consist of turkey and ham.
“I think traditions are important, because it brings a family together. If you don’t have a tradition, then you really don’t have any type of memories with your family. So the more traditions that you have, the more memories,” said Oxnard High School junior Angelita Sandoval, concerning holiday traditions. Sandoval celebrates Christmas by spending the day with her family, and eating Mexican foods such as tamales and pozole. Along with spending family time, and eating Mexican food, Sandoval and her family wait on Christmas Eve until the clock strikes twelve o’clock “so [they can] all say Merry Christmas and open [their] gifts.” Traditions may not always consist of being at home. Rather than spending quality time with family members, others may enjoy some activities outside of the ordinary. Junior Linda Navarro stated that on Thanksgiving night, the teenagers in her family as well as herself go out to “the outlets for Black Friday.” Her family also participates in a gift exchange on Christmas between the adults. “[Traditions] bring families together and helps them bond,” said Navarro. Although some students spend the holidays with their families, there are others who invite guest into their homes. OHS junior Sarah Wenninger has been welcoming United States Marines into her home for over 4 years now. Wenninger provides hospitality for United States Marines who do not have the opportunity to visit their families for the holidays. “We invite over marines stationed at the local base, to have Thanksgiving dinner with us because they have been stationed most of the time out of their home state and away from their families on the holidays,” said Wenninger. Her favorite part about hosting marines at her home on Thanksgiving is “hearing peoples stories and seeing what kind of [characteristics] they have.” Along with inviting guest into their homes, others continue the tradition of giving back to the community on the holidays. “We donate a present to the poor every Christmas,” said junior Austin Tarazon. Although households have distinct traditions, some students would agree that they are a good way to bond with ones family and share memories. Junior Ashley McElvy stated that traditions are “a great thing to carry out through your life so you can share them with your childern.”
Richter’s Dad being pinned.
Photo by Megan Richter
Weatherwax, whose dad has been gone for the holidays before because he was deployed in places like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait, said, “He’s in the military, that’s what you gotta do...It just sketches me out because he’s going out to Afghanistan. I just kinda hope that he comes back safe.” Junior Megan Richter has a similar situation. Her dad has worked for the Navy for more than twenty years and is often gone for long periods of time. Her and her family move frequently to keep up with her father’s job. Richter said, “[It used to bother me] when I was younger, now it’s sort of my life, so I’m used to it.” For junior Sarah McGraw, this is all new to her. She said, “My older brother, his name is John. He just recently went to boot camp for the Marines.” “With him being gone for the holidays, it makes me sad knowing it’s the first year that we aren’t going to be a complete family,” said McGraw, “It’s a big deal because it just shows that we’re all growing up.” Even though military families may face separation, they said that they are proud of their relatives. Herrejon said, “I’m proud [of my brother] under his circumstances of leaving. [Before he left], he wasn’t doing anything. Now that he’s in the military, he just has all this motivation and realistic plans, and he has money for these things. He’s responsible, he learned the value of everything, not just a dollar, but also his family since he’s so far away, so I’m really proud that he grew up within the Marine Corp.”
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Editorial: Define Me Students and reporters talk about the difficulties of going agaianst how they were raised. By Christina Escudero and Alize Saldaña
Growing up, you are almost trained to think a certain way and have the same beliefs as your guardians; however, choices are made when you begin to experience life as an individual and produce your own beliefs that do not necessarily follow along with what you were taught. You are taught mannerisms throughout your childhood: how to be polite, how to tie your shoes, and not to talk to strangers. More serious topics such as what religion to follow, or what sexual orientation you choose to favor is often avoided times by parents or guardians. As one begins to grow up, they experience life in different ways than what they are used to. Noticing that you are starting to make choices that are different from the morals you were originally taught may be difficult to deal with at times. “As a lot of people in school may know, I am indeed a homosexual. My parents do not agree with [homosexuality], and I am pretty sure they are onto me, but don’t want to accept it,” said senior Chang Smith. Having parents that do not accept your sexual appeal can at times lead to making some decisions that your parents usually would not agree with, but you decide to accompany the decisions and consequences that come with it, all to satisfy your own happiness.
Smith said, “I am in short flags as well, and almost every day,” said Senior William Garcia. my parents don’t know about that either be“I think it was in eighth grade, I wanted to cause it’s [categorized as] a girls sports. Not come out to my mom about being gay, but I until about eight years ago did there start to was too scared because [I was] worried about be guys in it. I try my best to keep that to my[my mom not] understanding and accepting self, even though I wish they could go to my [me],” continued Garcia. competitions.” For some kids, their parents are a lot more Some teenagers may feel like they need understanding than others. “I just told her to hide their activities that they participate in that I’m gay, and she said ‘I already know’...she so they can “enjoy [their] high school experi- told me she loves me no matter what I am,” ence,” but also believe that it is okay to hide said Garcia. these activities as long as they “are not doing anything bad,” stated Smith. On the other hand, some teenagers tend to be more comfortable talking to their parents- their parents might even be welcoming to the thought of their children making their choices as an individual. “My dad, he lives in the Philippines. I don’t really have a Photo by Alize Saldaña way to talk to him othAssuming is not an adequate replacement for understanding. er than the phone… but I talk to my mom
Is Chivalry Dead? Oxnard High school students share their views on common courtesy towards women By Edith Gallardo and Tatyana Sharpe
“The things I expect a guy to something in return. “Personal- play a role into the expectations do is to be courteous, open the ly...I feel obligated to do someof a gentleman. “I’m not worried door, and pull out a chair for me,” thing back...I feel bad for them about anybody else besides me said Oxnard High School fresh- if they have to do everything for and my relationship,” said junior man Angel Cardenas. Having me,” said Benson. Devonte Stepter. common courtesy in a relationThe level on how much a male In Stepter’s opinion, it is a ship has become an expecta- cares for a person may or may not problem that some females do tion for some students, however there are others who say it is not a requirement. Despite the male’s courtesy, some females may have the mindset of independence. “The whole door thing, yes. The whole pulling out a chair no...I have arms, I can pull out a chair for myself,” said junior Berlin Juarez. Some females have different expectations of what a guy should do for them. “Every guy should be a gentleman, not saying you have to be the perfect guy out there...at least treat the girl nice...It’ll be nice once in a while if [males] opened the door, or treat a girl out to dinner. Most girls are like yes I want a gentleman, and that’s what a girls dream guy is,” said junior Olivia Benson. “He’s definitely got to’ sweet talk me, flowers when I’m least expecting it...Someone who shows their feelings,” said Juarez. Photo by Tatyana Sharpe Although some females en- Gentlemen-like gestures can be as little as opening a door for a female. joy chivalrous acts from males, others feel they need to give Page 7
not expect males to show gentlemen-like actions. “That’s a huge problem in my book,” he said. “I think some guys think that girls are a certain way, which loses the respect...I treat guys well... Us girls deserve respect,” said Cardenas. When questioned if Stepter knew of anyone who lacked gentlemen-like features, he said, “No comment...the way I was raised was like Oh if you’re cold, here’s my jacket...[or]...If it’s a female that you’re with, always open the door. It just shows that you have home training.” Some students would agree that the way one is raised affects how well a man treats a woman. “I was raised with my mom... I think that helped me talk to girls better and understand them,” said junior James Szatkowski. The idea that females do not have as high standards for males nowadays may also affect how males treat females Szatkowski added, “If [females] just expect little things then that’s all they’ll expect the rest of their lives.” Although there is controversy whether males should be practicing chivalry or not junior Donavon Watts said, “I’d say a girl should never touch the checkbook, the door or a chair.”
Double the Speed The Leon twins run towards a college fu ture By Patty Casimiro
Seniors Esteban and Jesus Leon both run Track and Cross Country at Oxnard High School. “[The coach] was able to grab my attention easily and offered me [and my brother] scholarship money to run there,” said Esteban, now, they will continue these sports at California State University East Bay. “I contacted the school and other schools to show that I’m interested in running and attending their colleges,” said Jesus. Esteban is considering majoring in Psychology but is still unsure of pursuing a career in that field. Jesus wants to major in Kinesiology because he wants to have a profession in the health field. Their grandmother passed away last June, “as we continue to work hard we will never forget how much she meant to us,” said Jesus. “I believe she is going to help us along the way as she watches over us,” said Esteban. “I’ll always
pursue your dreams. It’s never potential, but they chose to conremember her getting up from sitting on the couch and saw easy, as long as you work hard tinue their running career and education at CSU East Bay. her face light up in joy whenev- anything is possible,” said Esteer I came home with a medal,” ban. Various schools saw their said Esteban. Both said that their grandmother was their motivation and their greatest supporter. “It’s all the hard work you put into the sport, things happen, you’re not always going to like the training, but pushing through it will definitely benefit you,” said Jesus. “I was [the] 3200 meter champion and 1st place automatically gets to go [to CIF],” said Jesus. “I came in second for our Pacific View League Finals in the 3200 meter race, two seconds behind my twin,” said Esteban. Like always, they constantly compete against each other. Before they competed in CIF for Track, they had previously competed in CIF for Cross Country. Photo by Amber Toliver “The advice I want to give Esteban and Jesus leading the pack at the Pacific View League Meet 2 in Camarillo, CA. other athletes is that there are opportunities. You can get to
Future Matador Senior Sabrina Garcia receives full ride to CSUN By Esteban Leon
At the age of eight, Oxnard High School senior Sabrina Garcia knew she wanted to play softball in college, she said “That’s what made committing so exciting.” Garcia has committed to California State University Northridge (CSUN) on a full athletic scholarship for Softball. With other colleges who were interested in her, CSUN offered her the best scholarship offer. She decided to attend this school for the next Fall semester because the school fitted her and added that they have a great coaching staff. Being the first in her family to go straight to a four-year university and to play a sport, she is proud of what has been offered to her. Garcia said, “I feel like I had a lot of people who helped me through this.” Garcia has been on the OHS Varsity Softball team since she was a freshman. “It was cool because I got to look up to a lot of seniors.” She added that she learned a lot from the older girls
who were on her team. Due to playing softball for so long Garcia has not been able to commit herself to another sport. With it being her final high school sports season, she is considering changing that. “Like I said softball’s been in my life since I was five years old year round, so I never really had the chance to fully commit to playing another sport. It would be a new challenge and interesting to see what else I could be good at,” she said. Instead of playing softball for OHS this spring, Garcia is thinking about joining the Track and Field team. She said, “It can help me stay in shape and hopefully I’ll get faster which both help for softball.” Throughout the years of being Varsity, she has learned to become a leader for her teammates. Garcia said, “Being on Varsity since freshman year, you take on the leadership role and you just help the other girls feel like to want something more than just playing Softball in high school.” Page 8