December 6, 2017
VOL. MMXVII, NO. 8
RAM’S EAR R I O V I S TA H I G H S C H O O L
Rio Vista Rams take home a hard fought win against Ripon Christian at Lincoln High for the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section title. by Noah Arroyo, Staff Writer
photos: Cole Merville
On October 27th, the Rams traveled to San Juan High School. They looked to improve their record to 6-3. Ryan Hurley had 98 rushing yards and that game came to an end for Ryan due to an injury to his arm. Hunter Apple had 85 yards receiving. Hunter ended up having the most tackles of the game with 11 tackles with Shawn Davis following behind him with seven tackles. The Rio Vista Rams ended the regular season against the Golden Sierra Grizzlies. The Rams were triumphant, winning by a score of 55-33. Ryan Hurley had a very impressive 191 rushing yards along with Dakota Mills’ 85 rushing yards. This puts the Rams recrd at 7-3 at the end of the regular season. The Rams find themselves second in their division with a 4-1 record during league play. The Rams had made it to the Sac-Joaquin Section Playoffs.. The Rio Vista Rams had made it into playoffs and got a first round bye which sent them straight to the second round. The second round of playoffs was against Woodland Christian. Dakota Mills had a
very astonishing 182 yards rushing and then Hunter Apple had a very stunning 13 tackles. The Rams had beat Woodland Christian 39-3. The Rams had gone off to Lincoln High to play against Ripon Christian for the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section finals. On the third play of the game, Noah Arroyo had an interception in which he took all the way back for a Rio Vista touchdown. Ryan Hurley had rushed for 2 touchdowns and Dakota Mills rushed for 3 touchdowns. Hunter Apple also had an outstanding 12 tackles. Rio Vista took home the first section title in 7 years and everybody in the stands were losing their minds, families were cheering, and the players were going crazy. The players said they were blessed to be able to play with an amazing team. The Rams football team is going to be playing the Galileo Lions at home for the Northern Region Championship game, and then the following week if the Rams win they will travel down south to the San Diego area to play for the State Championship.
More Photos on Page 8
Wrestling Team Dominates Their First Tournament
photo: Courtesy of the wrestling team
photo: Stephen Oglesby
Rams Crush Ripon Christian to Win Section Title
Liam Smith and his father Mr. Smith celebrate after placing first in the Inderkum High School wrestling tournament. by Emma Bellante, Staff Writer
This Thanksgiving break while everyone was filling their bellies with Thanksgiving turkey and ham, the Rio Vista wrestling team was preparing for their first tournament by working hard and practicing their moves. On Saturday, November 25, the Rio Vista Rams wres-
tling team went to their very first official tournament at Inderkum High School in Sacramento. The team met at Rio Vista High School at 4:30 a.m. and drove all the way to Inderkum. Each wrestler had at least two matches, and they played more (Continued on Page 4)
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RAM’S EAR
December 6, 2017
Calendar of School Events
CURRENT EVENTS
What does Rio Vista Need? DECEMBER____________________ by Aiden D. Mayhood, Editor-In-Chief
Year after year, I sit and wonder why family, friends, and I have to go out of town to watch a new movie, go to the doctor’s office, get a variety of groceries and products in bulk conveniently, and find entertainment. Yet, many living in downtown Rio Vista have not heard or seen of such improvements. I don’t know whether the city of Rio Vista is not being vocal about wanting to make such improvements or simply ignoring or putting the issue to the side. But, change should come some time, and that change can come while preserving Rio Vista’s smalltown culture. While talking to adults within the community who have lived in Rio Vista for many years, they discussed how the population has changed from about 3,000 to more than 8,000 in a matter of 20 years. How has Rio Vista adapted to the population change? The answer shouldn’t surprise you: next to none. Although small, local businesses are great, buying in bulk can be very inconvenient and expensive, and goods you need can be nonexistent. The growing population, especially with plans to redevelop the Gibbs Ranch housing tract, needs this business infrastructure to incentivize homebuyers. Simply building homes to build city revenue
and increase population will destroy the long-lasting small-town culture Rio Vista has so far maintained. Highway 12, the main traffic artery situated between I-80 and I-5, receives so much traffic, and development along Highway 12 has not changed much. Small businesses in downtown Rio Vista that sell great products and food aren’t visible from the highway, and there are no advertisements along Highway 12 that create recognition for these businesses that help keep the small-town feel. A growing population would only make Highway 12 a more dangerous path to travel, and alternate routes or improvements to the parts of the highway that go through Rio Vista have not been created. I hope citizens of Rio Vista get three things out of this: we need to incentivize new businesses, Highway 12 needs improvements to sustain a growing population for the future and create recognition for current businesses in downtown Rio Vista, and the small-town culture of Rio Vista must be maintained at all costs. Starting a conversation now will prepare us for the ever-changing future and prosperity of our unique and beautiful community.
December 1 - Rammie of the Month Lunch December 1-2 - Boys Basketball Forresthill Tournament December 5 - Fall Sports Awards December 6 - Girls Soccer @ Vintage (away) 4:00 p.m. (JV) 5:30 p.m. (V) December 7 - Girls Soccer vs. Delta (home) 5:00 p.m. (V) December 7 - Boys Soccer vs. Delta (home) 7:00 p.m. (V) December 7-9 - JV Boys Basketball Woodland Tournament December 7-9 - Varsity Girls Basketball St. Helena Tournament December 8-9 - Varsity Boys Basketball Orestimba Tournament December 12 - Girls Soccer @ Fairfield (away) 4:00 p.m. (JV) 5:30 p.m. (V) December 12 - Girls Basketball @ Delta (away) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) December 12 - NAMI Movie Night 6:00 p.m December 12 - Boys Basketball @ Delta (away) 8:00 p.m. (V) December 14 - Minimun Day December 14 - Girls Basketball @ Millennium (away) 6:30 p.m. (V) December 15 - Girls Basketball vs. Winters (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) December 15 - Boys Basketball vs. Winters (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) December 15 - Block A Ends, Minimun Day December 15 - January 7 - Winter Break, No School December 18 - Girls Basketball vs. St. Helena @ Napa College (away) 7:00 p.m. (V) December 19 - Boys Basketball vs. Woodland Christian (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) December 19 - Girls Basketball vs. Woodland Christian (home) 6:00 p.m. (V) December 21 - Winter Solstice December 21 - Girls Basketball @ Armijo (away) 6:00 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) December 25 - Christmas Day December 29 - Boys Basketball vs. Calaveras (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 6:30 p.m. (V)
photo: Greg Mitchell
JANUARY______________________
A good view of downtown Rio Vista from the camera lense of Greg Mitchell who also volunteers to manage Radio Rio in his free time.
RAM’S EAR R I O V I S TA H I G H S C H O O L
Publlished by Rio Vista High School, Digital Publications Class 410 South Fourth Street | Rio Vista, CA 94571 (707) 374-6336 ext. 1224 email: rvhsramsear@gmail.com
Editor-in-Chief Aiden D. Mayhood Associate Editor Henry Rossi Features Editor Madison Myer Graphic Designer Gavin Corley Advisor Julie Griffin
Staff Hunter Apple, Noah Arroyo, Emily Bellante, Alexis De Santiago, Leslie Diaz, Marlys Eckard-Henderson, Isabel Flores, Trinity Gonzales, Jose Gutierrez Jr., Rachel Halderman, Cecilia Hernandez, Taylor Holyfield, Ryann Kelly, Cole Merville, Jennifer Ortiz, Jason Spearman Robert Zamarripa.
January 3 - Girls Basketball vs. Encina (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 3 - Boys Basketball vs. Encina (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 4 - Wrestling @ Vacaville Christian (away) 6:00 p.m. January 5 - Girls Basketball @ Highlands (away) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 5 - Boys Basketball @ Highlands (away) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 5 - Girls Soccer @ Highlands (away) 1:30 p.m. (JV) 3:30 p.m. (V) January 5 - Boys Soccer @ Highlands (away) 5:30 p.m. (V) January 9 - Girls Soccer @ Encina (away) TBA January 9 - Block B Begins January 9 - Boys Basketball @ Galt (away) 6:00 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 9 - Wrestling @ Highlands (away) 6:00 p.m. January 10 - Girls Basketball vs. Esparto (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 10 - Boys Basketball vs. Esparto (home) 4:00 p.m. (JV) 7:00 p.m. (V) January 11 - Girls Soccer vs. Bradshaw Christian (home) 3:30 p.m. (V) January 11 - Boys Basketball vs. Bradshaw Christian (home) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 11 - Wrestling vs. Bradshaw Christian (home) 6:00 p.m. January 12 - Girls Basketball vs. San Juan (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 12 - Boys Basketball vs. San Juan (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 5:30 p.m. (V) January 15 - Girls Soccer @ Vacaville Christian (away) 3:30 p.m. (V) January 15 - Boys Soccer @ Vacaville Christian (away) 5:30 p.m. (V)
December 6, 2017
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RAM’S EAR
January 16 - Girls Soccer vs. Golden Sierra (home) 3:30 p.m. (V) January 16 - Boys Soccer vs. Golden Sierra (home) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 17 - Girls Basketball @ Vacaville Christian (away) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 17 - Boys Basketball @ Vacaville Christian (away) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 18 - Girls Soccer vs. San Juan (home) 1:30 p.m. (JV) 3:30 p.m. (V) January 18 - Boys Soccer vs. San Juan (home) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 18 - Wrestling @ Encina (away) 6:00 p.m. January 19 - Girls Basketball vs. Bradshaw Christian (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 19 - Boys Basketball vs. Bradshaw Christian (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 23 - Girls Soccer @ Delta (away) 5:00 p.m. (V) January 23 - Boys Soccer @ Delta (away) 7:00 p.m. (V) January 23 - Wrestling vs. Golden Sierra (home) 6:00 p.m. January 24 - Girls Basketball vs. Golden Sierra (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 24 - Boys Basketball vs. Golden Sierra (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 25 - Girls Soccer vs. Highlands (home) 2:00 p.m. (JV) 4:00 p.m. (V) January 25 - Boys Soccer vs. Highlands (home) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 25 - Wrestling vs. San Juan (home) 6:00 p.m. January 26 - Girls Basketball @ Encina (away) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 26 - Boys Basketball @ Encina (away) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 7:30 p.m. (V) January 30 - Girls Soccer @ Encina (home) 3:30 p.m. (V) January 30 - Boys Soccer vs. Encina (home) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 31 - Girls Basketball vs. Highlands (home) 3:00 p.m. (JV) 6:00 p.m. (V) January 31 - Boys Basketball vs. Highlands (home) 4:30 p.m. (JV) 5:30 p.m. (V)
Soroptimist Senior of the Month by Madison Myer, Features Editor
Trinity Gonzales was picked as the Soroptimist Senior of the Month for the Science Department. Each month a senior is picked by a different teacher each month. The November Senior of the Month was picked by Ms. Gilliland. Ms.Gilliland said that she picked Trinity because she works really hard and maintains good grades in all classes. She
commended Trinity on being able to get good grades while being new at the school and trying to figure out social situations as well. Trinity expressed, “ Being awarded this made me feel honored. It really surprised me because I just got here and I didn’t think the teachers noticed me that much.”
Principal’s Message by Victoria Turk, Principal
I urge all students and parents to maintain an open line of communication with their teachers. Teachers are available via e-mail, or phone parent conference. You may also access your student’s grades of AERIES.net. Please call the office if you need your password. The English Department has trained tutors and is implementing a student-centered writing center. Schedules and availability will be announced in the near future. Students may sign up for a time slot to get assistance in any writing project. Please encourage your student to take advantage of this service. Completion of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form allows students to apply for federal, state, and institutional aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and work-study loads. The form is available online on January 1 and needs to be completed by March 1. The registration process for the 2018-19 school year will begin when students return from winter break. We are planning to issue schedules in the early Spring and will be making appointments0 with students and parents to correct any scheduling problems. Credit recovery classes for the 2018-19 school year will be very limited. We highly encourage students to register for summer school to make up any classes. Winter break begins on Friday, December 15 at 1:10 p.m. School resumes on Monday, January 8, 2018. Winter sports are here! Check out our website at http://rvhs-rdusd-ca.schoolloop. com for basketball, soccer, and wrestling schedules. Happy holidays!
Hwy 12 Diner and Senior Class Host Successful “Ramlicious” Night by Hunter Apple, Staff Writer
After the Rams’ victory over Golden Sierra on November 3, the students and people of Rio Vista all came together as a community to celebrate at the Hwy 12 Diner. All the money made was donated to the Class of 2018. The Class of 2018 is very thankful to all who helped organize the Ramburger event and to the owners of the diner for letting them have the fundraiser there and donating the profits. “Ramburger went very well! We made over $1,000 for our Senior Class,” said senior Emma Wright, a waitress at the diner. When asked about her experience with the Ramburger night, Emma said, “Working the event was actually pretty fun. Everyone was happy and very supportive. A lot of people were coming up to me, giving me high fives, and telling me this was a great idea!” The class appreciates all the help Emma gave and the delicious food you served! Another senior that was there was Blaine Dart. Blaine was asked about the Ramburger idea. He responded with, “I thought it was a great idea. There was a lot of people there after the game, so that was very enjoyable.”
Ramburger really turned out to be an event that was one for the books. Hopefully, this can be a tradition for the upcoming classes. They can make some money as well as providing a good time for the other students and people of Rio Vista. It brought the community together to support the football boys at the game and the Class of 2018. The Class of 2018 thanks everyone who helped!
Blaine Dart looking for his burger at the Hwy. 12 Diner.
December Birthdays
Trinity Gonzales awarded Soroptimist Senior of the Month.
Math Department’s Problem of the Month
Three people rent a room at $30. They pay $10 each and go up to the room. The owner realized he charged too much and it was only supposed to be $25. He sends the bell hop up with the $5. Each of the people keeps $1 and they give the bellhop $2 as they can’t share it. So now each person has paid $9 for the room (total $27) and the bellhop has $2... where is the other $1??? Congratulations to Chris Nunes for correctly answering last month’s Math Problem!
December 1st Hannah Riedmiller December 3rd Noah Rosa-Mendoza December 4th Mrs. Reis Monica Castillo Ortega Rosa Lomeli December 5th Judah Hynan Jaxson Miller December 6th Shawn Davis December 10th Jared Gore Ricky Ratola December 11th Deanelly Martinez December 12th Cassie Langlois Guadalupe Lopez December 13th Eric Avalos Ethan Medders December 15th Jaylynn Lacy
December 17th Jose Chavez Yalicza Fernandez Munguia December 19th Colton Merville December 20th Mercedes Roberts Tyler White December 21st Melina Majors December 22nd Noah Arroyo Ilikea Brown December 25th Jason Spearman December 27th Haley Hollingsworth December 28th Kady Feliz Alondra Villalpando December 31st Randy Arriola Gabriella Rutledge
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RAM’S EAR
What Students Can’t Live Without
Wrestling Team Dominates their First Tournament (from Page 1)
matches if they won. The very first tournament of the season went very well for the team with most wrestlers winning at least one match. Liam Smith, the star captain of the team, was the only wrestler to compete at varsity level. Liam was wrestling the best of the best in his weight class. He wrestled three opponents and won all of his matches. In each of his three matches, Liam won by pinning his opponent in the second round. This was Liam’s first time placing first in a regular season match. Liam said, “I won through my confidence; it is the most determining factor in a wrestling match.” The wrestling team is off to a great start and is definitely on pace to do great things this year. If you’re interested in
December 6, 2017
joining the wrestling team, it’s not too late to talk to Mr. Smith. Ryann Kelly, one of the only two girls on the team, said, “The wrestling team doesn’t just wrestle and work out. We are all great friends who have a lot of fun. It is a great team to be on! If you’re even a little bit interested in wrestling, give it a try. You won’t regret it!” When Liam was asked what he would say to people considering wrestling, he commented, “We don’t wear singlets anymore!” He then continued, “It’s the only sport where size doesn’t matter; everyone can be successful.” To see some of the matches from this year and past years, go to the Rio Vista Wrestling Facebook page.
by Jason Spearman, Staff Writer
Cheer Competition Team Wins “Best Jump Sequence” in Sac
Most students hold many items near to their hearts, but many RVHS students said that they couldn’t live without three items. Tyler White, freshman, stated that the three items he couldn’t live without were ramen noodles, sports, and his phone. He said without these things it would be very difficult for him to live a regular life. Rio Vista High school junior Jaylynn Lacy can’t live without her earrings, some
of her best friends who are very important to her, and her mascara, which is her most important cosmetics. All of these items are essential for her and would make her day worse if she didn’t have them. Lastly, junior Payton Avila said the three things she couldn’t live without are her family, a shower to keep herself clean, and chicken with fries. She said without these she would have a terrible day.
Google Classroom for the Senior Class and their parents/guardians for information, resources, and any deadlines. Class code: (dui5z6q)
Follow @rvhs on Instagram! For updates, resources, deadlines, community service opportunities, scholarship opportunities, and much more.
RAM’S EAR
OPINION POLL by Rachel Halderman, Staff Writer
What’s your favorite pick-up line? Kaylee Salomon Gr. 12- (flops on ground “I’ve fallen for you.” Edgar Rodriguez Gr. 10- “If you’re here, then who’s running heaven?” Art Weller Gr. 9- “Did you fart? Because you blew me away!”
Caption by Trinity Gonzales, Staff Writer
On Saturday, November 11, the Rio Vista cheer team went to the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium for their first competition ever. When asked why they decided to go to competition this year, Zoe White explained, “I think my coaches wanted to try it out at a high school level and believed we were up for the challenge.” Preparation for this competition included many long practices where the
girls were pushed to their highest potential. On the day of the competition, the girls met up three hours before to complete everyone’s hair and makeup. The cheer team ended up winning the “Supreme Jump”. This is an award given to the team with the best jump sequence out of all the divisions. Zoe expressed, “It was overall a lot of fun, and I’m really glad we decided to compete!”
Jaylynn Lacy Gr. 11 “You can call me Nemo because I’m not afraid to touch the butt.” Robert Zamarripa Gr. 11- “Did you look both ways before you crossed my mind?” Jennifer Oropeza Gr. 12- “Is there an airport nearby or is that just my heart taking off?”
Mrs. Montgomery’s
RECIPE
of the
MONTH
Painted Christmas Cookies
1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. salt Egg Yolk Paint
DIRECTIONS: Cream butter and shortening; gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat well. Combine flour and salt; stir into creamed mixture. Divide enough dough in half; cover and chill at least 1 hour. Roll one portion of dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly flured cookie sheet. Cut with assorted cutters; remove excess dough. Paint assorted designs on cookies with Egg Yolk Paint; using a small paintbrush. Bake at 3750 degrees for 9 to 10 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool. Repeat procedure with remaining dough. Yied: 2/12 dozen. Egg Yolk Paint: 1 egg yolk, 1/4 tsp. water, and assorted colors of paste food coloring. Combine egg yolk and water; mix well. Divide mixture into serveral custard cups; tint as desired with paste food coloring. Cover until ready to use. If paint thickens, add a few drops of water and mix. Yield: 1/3 tablespoons.
Destanie Rendon- “I need my inhaler, you took my breath away.” Daniel Rasmussen Gr. 11- “I’m not a photographer, but I can picture you and me together.”
Ana J. Fernandez Gr. 12 “On a scale of 1-10, you’re a 9, and I’m the 1 you need.”
photos: Madi Myers
INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 1/2 cup shortening 1 cup sifted powdered sugar 1 egg
Madison Henry Gr. 12 “Hey I just met you and this is crazy, but here’s my number so call me maybe!”
Jessica Mingay Gr. 9- “You must be a keyboard because you’re just my type.” Ben Sisneros Gr. 9- “If you were a fruit you’d be a fine-apple.” Devon Paminto Gr. 11- “If you were a booger, I’d pick you first.”
Ben Whiting Gr. 11 “My friends call me Ben, but you can call me tonight.”
December 6, 2017
Artist
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RAM’S EAR
Teacher of the Month: Mr. Porter
of the Month
photo: Marlys Henderson
by Ryann Kelly, Staff Writer
Mr. Porter, a teacher at RVHS, who teaches U.S. History, Government, and Psycology photo: Ryann Kelly
by Marlys Henderson, Staff Writer
Meagan Delancy This month’s artist is the dorky, lovable, ball of energy, Meagan Delancy. The art piece that was chosen was a project where they draw skulls and added their own little element to the piece. She added her rubber ducky, Harold II.
So You Want to Be a Journalist?
by Aiden D. Mayhood, Editor-In-Chief
Life after high school is a windy path that can be hard to navigate. All the hard work put into education, sports, and other activities by students over the nation and at Rio Vista High School isn’t for nothing. Success can come from a small town and high school, and Emilie Eaton, award-winning journalist at the San Antonio Express-News and RVHS graduate of the Class of 2010, can attest to that. Emilie Eaton grew up in Rio Vista, California the daughter of Susan Whitesell and the late Al Eaton, former radio teacher at RVHS. Enrolling in many AP classes, taking journalism, yearbook, radio, and drama, being in ASB, and playing softball kept Emilie busy. Rio Vista High School and its staff enabled her to join clubs and sports that may have been more competitive at a larger school, namely softball. With such a small school, the teachers at RVHS were able to personally aid Emilie on an individual basis. The retired Mr. MacGregor, Mrs. Gomes, English and AVID teacher, and Emilie’s parents helped cultivate her passion for writing and the journalistic field. “I don’t remember making a conscious decision to become a journalist,” Emilie recalled. “I suppose it was a field I fell into naturally.” After high school, Emilie was accepted to Arizona State University and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communications. She took classes in writing, reporting, investigative journalism, multimedia production, and graphic design. Out of school, Emilie volunteered for the school newspaper and The Arizona Republic. After college, Emilie was employed under the Cincinnati Enquirer, where for two years she reported on breaking news, business news, and social issues. Now working for the San Antonio Express-News, Emilie covers crime stories, public safety issues, and criminal justice. Some of her work has been published by USA Today, NBC News, The Center for Public Integrity, The Arizona Republic, and The Sacramento Bee. Work varies daily for her. Most of the time, Emilie is
working on long-term projects, but breaking news often occurs where she drops everything and focuses her attention to the news of the day. Emilie has worked on projects that have received an EPPY from Editor & Publisher Magazine, was a finalist in the Hearst National Championship, has received multiple collegiate rewards in feature-writing and breaking news, received an Online Journalism award from the Online News Association, and was a two-time finalist in the regional Society of Professional Journalist’s Mark of Excellence Awards. “While those achievements were humbling, I’m more proud of personal accomplishments and ways in which I’ve improved,” Emilie mentioned. If anyone is interested in entering the journalistic field, Emilie suggests to do something that many others in every career field does: practice. “It doesn’t matter if it’s not at a bonafide newspaper, magazine, TV station or radio station -just practice,” she vocalized. “Volunteer at your school newspaper, the River-News Herald, or The Beacon.” Even if you’re not interested in partaking in journalism, heed this advice as it may help you in your future career.
The Teacher of the Month is the beloved Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter has been working at RVHS for one and a half years now. He is from Castro Valley and attended Castro Valley High School. He then went to Point Loma Nazarene University
and majored in social science. Mr. Porter said that he enjoys working here at Rio Vista High School and that his favorite class to teach is government. Mr Porter wishes he taught only government, but he also loves history too much.
RAM’S EAR
Tickets on Sale for Annual Fundraising Dinner Dance
OPINION POLL by Rachel Halderman, Staff Writer
What’s the first thing you do when you get home from school?
Amaya Frisbie Gr. 11 “Procrastinate.” Michael Mason Gr. 12 “Go poop.” Cole Barber “Open the door.” Hannah Burgess Gr. 12 “EAT. (It’s essential) Trevor Gomes Gr. 9 “Eat Funyuns.” Montana Olson Gr. 11 “Shower, so I can wash away the shame and cry.” Guadalupe Lopez Gr. 10 “Wash my hands.” Melina Majors Gr. 12 “Check the fridge.” Meagan DeLancey Gr. 11 “Cry.”
by Henry Rossi, Associate Editor
The Rio Vista High School Booster Club will be holding its Annual Dinner Dance on Saturday, January 27, 2018 from 5:30 to 11:00 p.m. at the Rio Vista Portuguese Hall. The price is $75.00 a person, and the proceeds will be used to support not only Rio Vista High School athletics but also all academics and arts. The night kicks off with registration and cocktails at 5:30 p.m. There will be live music, a blind wine grab, and a silent auction. Dinner will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. It includes a dinner of New York strip, Portuguese beans, green salad, bread, and a delicious dessert prepared by the RVHS Culinary Arts class. Dinner will be followed by dancing at 9:00 p.m. until the event ends at 11:00 p.m. Mark your calendar and come support Rio Vista High School students!
Volunteer Opportunity The RioVision Volunteer Team can always use student help at their events or for one of their projects. You can text (707) 386-9265, OR just show up for a scheduled event with their form and a willingness to help. Design by Savannah Arias
Teacher Advice of the Month
Emilie poses for her Class of 2010 senior photo.
“When choosing your schedule for next year think about what you want for your end goal. Whether you want to go to college or not, high school is preparing you for that goal; high school itself is not the end goal.” - Mr. Miller
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December 6, 2017
RAM’S EAR
photo: Emma Bellante
RVHS Offers New RAM’S EAR Get Fit and Healthy With Mrs. Gomes Tabletop Club OPINION POLL by Emma Bellante, Staff Writer
by Rachel Halderman, Staff Writer
A brand new club has been brought to Rio Vista High thanks to Ms.Gilliland and Javier Lopez. The Tabletop Club meets on Wednesdays at lunch in Ms. Gilliland’s room to play games. Ms. Gilliland had been thinking about starting a Tabletop Club for a long time. She attends her own Tabletop Club with her personal friends and thought it would be fun for the students, so when Javier Lopez mentioned wanting to start a club, she jumped on the idea. The club now has around 20 members. To join the Tabletop Club, you must be in good academic standing and have a good sense of humor.
Now that you’re almost halfway through the school year, what’s something you’re looking forward to?
photos: Isabel Flores
Preston Ebert Gr. 9- “The basketball season.” Jeannie Perez Gr. 12- “Drama!” Jennifer Ortiz Gr. 11- “Summer vacation.” Antonio Silva Gr. 11- “Graduation.” Cindy Torres Gr. 11- “Prom.” Gabriella Rutledge Gr. 10- “Getting a break from this school (mainly some staff).” Symphony Weller Gr. 11- “Breaks from these terrible people I’m forced to surround myself around.” Patti Severs Gr. 12- “To not coming back here at all.” Mikey Arellano Gr. 11- “More toilet paper in the bathrooms.”
Table Top Club’s various collection of games.
Overcoming the Inevitable:
Senioritis
by Rachel Halderman, Staff Writer
That awful time of year is here. It’s unavoidable, and it could be fatal. Have you heard of the term senioritis? If not, it’s when a student begins to lack the motivation to complete anything whatsoever. Some symptoms are noticeable early on and others aren’t. Some students are dealing with a lower GPA, they begin to lose focus early on, and some might even try to get away with a nap in class. Of course, not every senior goes through it, but some do. Maybe this applies to you, and maybe it doesn’t. But if you’re in that unlucky category, here are some tips to overcome it. Senior year is important. It may not seem like it, or it may seem like the year that you get to give up on. But, before you decide to do that, think about what you’ve gone through already. The last three years of high school would have been for nothing if you just quit now. All those times you had to wake up at 6 am or staying up late to study for a test would be a waste. That stuff does play a vital role in your future. Colleges focus on the last term of your junior year and the first term of your senior year. If your grades aren’t so hot or you haven’t kept up with your attendance, it could lower your chances for college admissions. Another thing to think about is that your parents have put in a lot of time and money to make sure you get that diploma. You don’t want to disappoint them now. Also, remember who is paying for your college tuition. There are scholarships that you can apply for to help lower the cost, but that money is coming out of their pockets. The best way to higher your chances on getting scholarships is to keep your grades up and have a good looking application. You’ll not only be helping yourself out, but you’ll also be helping your parents. (Plus, they might spend the saved money on an awesome graduation present.)
The biggest thing that students seem to face is that they start to forget all their tasks that they need to keep up with. You need to keep up with your assignments. Don’t be that one person who is struggling to get their missing assignments in just so you can graduate. It’s better to get it done as soon as you can instead of trying to finish it last minute. You’re almost done with high school. There’s only a few more months left and you’ll never have to come back. You have worked way too hard to just give up now. Look forward to graduation and making memories in these last few months. You don’t want to look back on your senior year and have no exciting stories to tell. The main thing to remember is to finish out strong with no regrets. It’s cliche, but you need to do the hard work now so all that’s left is the easy stuff. Make sure you get enough rest the night before. Staying up all night to study can be helpful, but you’ll be drained the next day. Also, don’t lay in bed for five hours in the dark playing on your phone. The light from your phones hurts your eyes and strains them. This can lead to headaches, red eyes, and feeling exhausted. Figure out what time is good for you to turn that phone off and lay down in bed. You’ll be thankful the next day when you’re not falling asleep in class and missing important information about the exam. Finally, now that you have these tips to your advantage, start using them! Keep a planner that you can write down that test you need to study for. Turn your phone off an hour before you go to bed so you can get a good night’s rest. Do what you need to do in order to go out with a bang in your senior year. Of course, no one can make you do these things. You have to want to use them on your own. But keep them in mind in case you need them.
Chico State graduate, RVHS alumnus, and teacher Mrs. Gomes. by Isabel Flores, Staff Writer
Noelle Gomes is the beloved P.E. and AVID 9 teacher. Did you know that before the block schedule she taught P.E. and Health? In the Health class, she taught students about general health, mental health, food and nutrition, and family life. In 2010, Mrs. Gomes took a short leave to be a stay at home mom. Shortly after Mrs. Gomes took her leave, the district got rid of Health. They said they wanted Delta and Rio Vista to be on the same level for the kids who come to Rio Vista High from Delta. Mrs. Gomes came back to teach P.E. and AVID 9. She believes AVID is a very beneficial program to have and is happy with her schedule. She loves teaching P.E. in the mornings. “I love teaching P.E.,” Mrs. Gomes said. “It’s so much fun.” Before Mrs. Gomes became a teacher at Rio Vista High, she was a student. Mrs. Gomes graduated in 1987 along with another beloved teacher Ms. Stark. Mrs. Gomes attended college at Chico State. She majored in Dietetics and Food Administration. After graduating, she took her first internship at a nursing home. Mrs.
Gomes enjoyed taking care of the people there and talking about diets and daily life. However, she found out very quickly why she would never work in a hospital. Connecting with these people she cared for and having them pass away was too much to bear. Because of this, she started to work at Jenny Craig. She then went back to school to get her teaching credential and started working for RVHS in 2001. Mrs. Gomes also taught On Your Own for a few years with Mrs. Montgomery. At this time she gave up her P.E. classes to teach this course. In On Your Own they taught seniors the basic skills of life, like how to properly apply for a job or properly write your resume. Like AVID, they took field trips to colleges. Unfortunately, the school board also took this course away, and Mrs. Gomes would love to teach it again. If the school board brought Health or On Your Own back, she would want to unload her AVID teachings for them. She feels these classes are very beneficial to students and very much wants to bring them back.
Ram’s Ear Website Coming Soon!
We will be digitizing all editions we have dating back to the early 1950’s!
December 6, 2017
RAM’S EAR
The Queens of the Wrestling Mat
Page 7
RAM Football Stats
Updated: December 5th
photos: Henry Rossi
TEAM TOTALS
YARDS
Passing Yards
1394
Rushing
3026
Tackles
657
Total Touchdowns
67
TACKLES Ryann Kelly and Emily Bellante face off during the school’s wrestling rally. by Ryann Kelly, Staff Writer
Rio Vista High School has a wonderful wrestling team open to both boys and girls, but this is about the two brave girls that joined, Emily (Emma) Bellante and Ryann Kelly.
Class of the Year
Standings
3
Freshmen Dress Up: 57 Rally: 457
4
Sophomores Dress Up: 59 Rally: 454
Total: 514 Total: 513
1 2
Juniors Dress Up: 95 Rally: 859
Total: 954
Seniors Dress Up: 82 Rally: 722
Total: 804
Being their first year on the team is difficult because they push their limits everyday. The main struggle of being a girl on the team is dealing with long hair. “At this point, I might as well cut it off before
it gets pulled out,” Ryann said. They aren’t afraid of what challenges they may face and are ready for anything. That’s what makes them the “queens” of the wrestling mat.
Ten Affordable Holiday Gift Ideas by Cecilia Hernandez, Staff Writer
The end of 2017 brings the holidays and the worry of what gifts to get your friends. The amount of things you can get someone makes it difficult to think
about what your friends might want. Here are some ideas from RVHS students that might help you remember the gifts you’re forgetting about.
Presented by Ms. Gilliland and the GSA Club
TOTAL
SOLO
Hunter Apple
82
56
Ryan Hurley
61
40
Shawn Davis
59
40
RUSHING
PLAYER
YARDS
CARRIES
Ryan Hurley
1320
152
Dakota Mills
946
81
Ethan Medders 278
41
RECEIVING PLAYER
YARDS
REC.
• Video Games
Dakota Mills
599
39
Ryan Hurley
238
14
• Movies
Hunter Apple
167
13
• Portable Chargers • Slides
RAM’S EAR
• Fuzzy Socks
OPINION POLL
• Headphones
Name That Scientist!
PLAYER
by Rachel Halderman, Staff Writer
• Gift Cards
What’s your biggest fear?
• Journals
Emma Wright Gr. 12- “Drowning.”
• Books/Comics
Yessenia Santiago Gr. 12- “To trust.”
• Band/TV Show Merchandise
Page Baldwin Gr. 12- “If all my family and friends die and I am alone.” Andrew Younger Gr. 10- “Getting pooped on by people.”
Yearbook Week Prize Winners
This medical doctor was an army veteran that served as a medical corpsman during World War II. He eventually went on to become the first head of the New York City Health Services Administration. He helped to found the National Gay Task Force (NGTF), which later successfully overturned the American Psychiatric Association’s classification of homosexuality as a mental disorder. First student to bring Ms. Gilliland the correct written answer will win a prize!
The Netherlands Yearbook staff celebrated yearbook week the first week of October. Each day had a different “theme” and people who were involved with the “Theme of the Day” received a raffle ticket. It was a lot of fun and memories were made. Here’s the even better part: If someone received a raffle ticket, then they were automatically put into a drawing to win different prizes! Some of the prizes were a free yearbook, money off a yearbook, Vice tickets, and even RVHS merchandise. 23 lucky people were pulled and won some prizes. The following who won were: Noah Arroyo- Free Yearbook Destiny Reynolds- Free Yearbook Noelani Coffee- Cover Elizabeth Webber- Cover Caitlyn Bowers- Cover Cameron Birdsong- Cover Ricky Ratola- Cover Annalisa Avalos- Cover Jacob Awender- Cover Gabrial Vasconcellos- $20 off YB Mercedes Roberts- $20 off YB
Aiden Mayhood- $20 off YB Emily Bellante- $20 off YB Wyatt Hagan- $20 off YB Liam Smith- $20 off YB Sydney Saldona- Vice Tickets Sophie Hurtado- Vice Tickets Gustavo Valares- Sweatshirt Hunter Apple- Full Senior Page Mikayla- Half Senior Page Madison Davis- Starbucks Gift Card Janet Tejeda- Subway Gift Card
Congratulations to all of the winners!
Jared Goar Gr. 9- “People.” Jason Spearman Gr. 10- “Gonorrhea, HIV, AIDs, Chlamydia, Crabs.” Taurus Byers Gr. 9- “The endless void of nothingness.” Liam Smith Gr. 12- “I’m making all the wrong decisions.” Mitzy Vera Zazueta Gr. 11- “Dropping my phone in the drain.” Griffin Bendowski Gr. 10- “The Kool- Aid Man.” Destyni Villa Gr. 11- “You.” Jeff Contreras Gr. 9- “Mrs. Vielhauer.” Haley Hollingsworth Gr. 9- “Drowning in a car while fish laugh at me for not being able to breathe underwater.” Suheng Chiv Gr. 11- “Fake b*!#@ es.”
Page 8
Athletes of the Month
Varsity Boys Basketball Win Wildfire Classic Forresthill Tournament
by Colton Merville, Staff Writer
The 2017-18 basketball season is expected to be exciting. A good portion of last season’s championship JV team has been moved up to varsity so it is predicted by many that the varsity team will do well this year. Darin Rasmussen, a member of last year’s JV team, mentioned that what he saw as the key factor for JV winning championships last year was the fact that the team got along well and were all close friends. He said that there was a strong structure around the team
and that they were well disciplined by the coach. Although the team roster has been modified a bit by moving up to varsity he thinks the result will be the same this year. Rio Vista’s first game was on November 28 against rival Delta where they won 55-13. The team also attented the Wildfire Classic Forresthill tournament on December 1 and 2. They won every game and took home first place in the tournament. Make sure to come and support the team this year.
A New Season of Girls Basketball
by Taylor Holyfield, Staff Writer
:
to play a sport that I love,” said Josie Preston. This season the girls team is gonna learn the boys basketball offense to become better. The team goal is to beat Delta this year. “This year I think Bradshaw, and the Calaveras is going to be a tough team,” spoke Anna Ramirez Ms. Ramirez said, “My goal this season is to make my left handed lay up, and be a finisher not afraid to shoot the ball.” Josie Preston said, “That’s my goal is to become a better basketball player and do the best of my abilities.” We have high hopes this 2017-2018 girls Basketball season. Go Lady Rams!
Football Picks Standings on 12/6/17
(Based On Weekly Team Wins)
Name
Mr. Russell Carson Spradling Abel Torres Mr. Smith Jaden Lira Cody Fuller Martin Magana Tuck Forbes Mrs. Griffin Jose Hernandez
Total 116 115 111 110 107 106 106 102 102 102
Dakota Mills #6
Dakota is a senior on the varsity football team. “Dakota had a great month of November, putting up over 500 yards of offense and 8 TD’s in 3 games. Dakota worked extremely hard in the off-season, working out every day from the day our 2016 playoffs ended all the way until May. I am very excited and happy for Dakota to see his off-season work pay off. He definitely is not done yet; he has two more huge games coming up!” exclaimed Coach Chris Medders.
Liam Smith
“Liam is a returning senior and has been the captain of our team for the past three years. He begins the practices every day and puts in extra time teaching kids, fundraising, making shirts and working out. Liam is the defending league champion,” expressed Coach Smith.
RVHS Boys Soccer is Back
photos: Noah Arroyo
A new season of girls basketball is coming around the corner. Girls Varsity Basketball has their first game on Tuesday November 28th against Delta at home. Last year ‘s 2016-2017 season the girls went 10-13. “We did okay, I felt that we could have done better,” said Anna Ramirez” “Something I’m looking forward to with basketball season coming up is getting a new pair of basketball shoes also, something I love about playing basketball is that I get to be physical.” said Ms. Ramirez. “Something I look forward to with basketball season coming up is just getting
photo: Madison Myer
photo: Madison Myer
by Madison Myer, Features Editor
Boys’ varsity basketball at Forresthill Tournament after taking first place.
photos: Cole Merville
December 6, 2017
RAM’S EAR
Alex Tejeda, Antonio Silva, and Diego Ortiz running down the field during the first soccer game of their 2017-2018 soccer season. by Robert Zamarripa, Staff Writer
The boys varsity soccer team’s season kicks off on November 30 with a home game against a tough opponent, Buckingham Charter. The team seems to be extra excited to start the season considering there were no teams for the JV or varsity boys last year. When asked how the team will do this season, Alex Tejeda commented, “We may not be the best this year, but the future looks bright for the soccer team. We’re getting better and that’s what matters.” When asked about the season ex-
pectations from the young team, assistant coach Rendon quickly responded, “We expect great games, for everyone to have fun, and, most importantly, that we bring the Rams home a win!” The varsity boys team is coming off a 3-8-1 league performance back in 2015. While this isn’t all that impressive of a season, there’s signs of improvement from previous seasons. We’re all excited to have the boys soccer team back and can’t wait to watch them play. Don’t forget to support the team any chance you can!