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Idle library’s books are packed up and given away jada johnson More than four years have gone by without the school having a librarian. Lack of proper staffing has lead to hundreds of books going unread. Unenjoyed. Some books have been replaced by dust, while others await to be put in a storage room. However, rather than being tucked away behind paper, the books have been passed out and are in the process of being packed up. Mini libraries have been established in some English classes in an attempt to salvage what’s left of some of the novels in the library. “Students need access to literature,” said English teacher Alice Henderson. She was one of the few teachers who followed up on the invitation to grab books before they were put into boxes and stored in a room. “It’s silly to have those books in boxes,” she said. “It’s better to have them in classrooms so that the students can check them out and actually use them.” Henderson said students were “enthusiastic” about the opportunity to have books to take home and read. Even students who aren’t in her class came to check books out from her mini-library. It is the teacher’s responsibility to keep track of the checking in and out of their own mini-library books. The books that weren’t selected are going to be packed, according to Principal Andre Phillips. “They are labeled,” he said, “so any time the teachers want to grab more or exchange, they are free to do so.” English Department Chair Ty Pafford sees the value in having a fully functional library. “I love books and they’re so valuable,” he said.
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On the other hand, Pafford understands that the library can only be up and running “in a perfect world.” Phillips has a new idea to create that “perfect world.” However, it won’t be the traditional checking out of books as in a traditional library. The books that remain will be of a select few, ones needed for student research papers and reference. Phillips wants to take advantage of as much of the library space as he can. With the possibility of new couches, opening during school hours, becoming a testing and meeting center, the library is looking to be more than just a room with empty bookshelves. It will be functional, but it won’t be a fully functional library. Junior Autumn Saldana feels the room will merely be a “hangout center” if the new renovations take place. “It’ll just be somewhere students can chill and socialize,” she said. The students would be watched by Campus Security Monitors at all times and the books would never leave the library. Students would only be allowed to use them while they are inside, according to Phillips. Bibliophile Monica Kunz is often scolded for reading in class when she should be paying attention. “If I could, I’d sit in class with my books and read all day,” the sophomore said. She said that Phillips is doing the best he can considering the circumstances. “It’s a good thing students can now check out books through their teachers,” Kunz said. “I just wish we could have our library.” “If students want to read outside of the realm of what’s assigned,” Phillips said, “they can check out books through their teachers.”
I just wish we could have our library.” Monica Kunz sophomore
photos by
CST week schedule
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4.19.13 Vol. 56 No. 7
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 1621 Brookside Rd. Stockton, CA 95207
Sign ups for college fair
Reanna Rodriguez
(Top) When the Homework Center opened the shelves were covered with paper, which has now been ripped off to pack books. (Bottom) Boxes cover a portion of what used to be the library.
Prom tickets
Prom is May 4 and tickets The University of the Pacific are on sale now. The couple is hosting a college fair on price is $85 and the single May 8. Those who are inter- price is $50. Tickets can be ested should see their coun- purchased at the student store across from the cafselor. eteria.
Talent show
Stagg’s second annual talent show has been postponed until May 10. Tickets are $4 at the door or $2 presale. More than 25 acts will perform in the theater.
Mental health creates stigma annamarie cunningham
If somebody broke his arm and had to wear a cast, he more than likely wouldn’t be judged. Or if someone’s hair fell out because she had to go through chemotherapy, she might be regarded as a strong individual, as a survivor. But for some reason, people don’t always have the same reaction to mental illness. Despite the the validity of mental illness as a real illness, there is a gag order of stigma placed over the mouths of those who suffer. It is rare that someone says aloud, “I have bipolar disorder, and I’m having a really hard time coping with everything,” the silence created by the fact that, unlike a broken arm, society often times decides that mental illness is something of a character flaw. Implications are flung about, harmful words that are all too common: attention-seeking, unstable, crazy. There is a stigma surrounding mental health, despite the fact that about 20 percent of children and adolescents have been diagnosed with at least one mental disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. One senior, Amy*, can attest to this. “Most people just pity you,” she said. “There are very few people who are accepting and understanding.”
Inside
ISSUE
We take an indepth look at the effects of depression, domestic abuse, and suicide on teens. — pages 4-5
See MENTAL HEALTH on page 8
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4.19.13
Packed-up books deprive learners
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ince the first day of school, teachers have stressed the importance of reading books. Posters are plastered all over classroom walls trying to encourage us to enhance our vocabulary and read at least an hour a day. So a school library should be a must for all high schools, right? The reality is that it’s been almost four years since Stagg has had a functioning library. And about two weeks ago, the process of boxing up the books and packing them away into storage began. This unfortunate reality makes us recognize that we really don’t have a library anymore. We know that because of budget cuts, we lack a librarian and there isn’t a way to check out books. However, it makes home and school work more challenging if we aren’t provided with books to read. Some students have limited access to literature and as the price of books go up, students have trouble affording them. If the school were to have a library, students would have easy access to books and there would be more opportunities to read.
Nowadays, people get their information online, especially for research papers. Although the Internet provides a fast and convenient way to look information up, it’s not the same as a book. Some topics are more appropriately learned through books and other reference materials. Books can pump ideas into people’s
art by Alyssa
Rojas
heads. More often or not, those ideas can be applied to the modern world to try to improve the way people live. Just take world leaders, for example. They didn’t get to the positions they are in today from staring at monitors. They read to expand their knowledge. It is important for us to read to ensure we have strong leaders in the future as we
have them now. According to The U.S. Department of Education, 38 percent of high school students are deficient in the basic reading. That’s why it’s crucial for high school to supply their students with reading materials. By having books, we are given the option to read or not read. The absence of a library removes that opportunity. It’s not likely that the library is returning anytime soon, but there is still hope. The library is still alive in other forms on campus. Andre Phillips, the principal, has allowed English teachers to take fiction books and use them in their classrooms. He has also kept resource books in the library so students can look something up if they need to. It may not be much, but the school is doing the best they can to utilize the books as much as possible and not let them go to waste. We recognize that the school district is on a tight budget, but educational opportunities should come first. A library is a necessary part of our education.
Traveling out of one’s comfort zone
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A week in Paris changes perspective
ou would expect it to be like a postcard, in France also served to broaden my horizons from wouldn’t you? Scenic views of the Eiffel the cultural standpoint. Paris has many of the Tower and Notre Dame all the while a cool businesses that one would see in this country (McParis breeze hits you as the sun sets over the city. Donalds, Subway, Starbucks, etc.), and yet there That’s what a lot of people think of when I is not an abundance of what we call fast food. tell them of my recent trip overseas to France. Instead we have an abundance of restaurants and However, what people don’t realize is that going to cafes that are frequented more than American fast another country is more than stereotyped images. food institutions. Markets are also fairly popular, This was my first time ever leaving the United with fresh fish and meat being sold to passersby. States, so there was a natural feeling of not know As a matter of fact, the American influence on ing what to expect. the country is fairly low. Small businesses make up But when the plane touched down at the airmost of the Paris sidewalks. Here these businesses port, there was hardly a feeling that I was even in seem to strive more, while stateside they are going another country. under day by day. When we first entered the city, the first sight These experiences I had served to give me new damon heine was graffiti on buildings and a setting that was appreciations to culture overall. But perhaps the more industrial than metropolitan. That night at most important thing that I learned from this opthe Louvre museum, though, was a different story. portunity to travel is to take time to go outside of One of the first things to understand about the your comfort zone and experience new things. It cities of Europe, especially one as old as Paris, is seems as if many people choose comfort over risk. that nearly everything is to a bigger scale. The city They choose to stick with something they know itself is massive. Most of the buildings have the rather than something they’ve never encountered same distinct Paris style. At the Louvre and a day before. This mindset is acceptable to a point, but later the Palace of Versailles, I was amazed at how there come times when stepping outside of what even something as mundane as a ceiling could be we’re comfortable with is necessary. made into an enormous work of art. I’ll admit to being guilty of this mindset in the We all know the popular landmarks, but it’s past. I would stick to what I was most comfortable a whole different experience when you see them with and would be reluctant to expose myself to in person and in some cases ascend to the top of new things. I was one of the least experienced in them. Not many people, especially the younger my group in terms of fluently speaking the langenerations, see monuments and landmarks in guage, so naturally, I thought I would have a hard America and describe them as artwork. Here, you time. But even though I was at a disadvantage, I could make the case that appreciation for history didn’t let it hinder me taking in all the sights and and culture runs strong. sounds of this new environment. As much as seeing these monuments can be life By taking a big step and leaving the country, the altering in its own right, there is more to a country continent for that matter, I was able to find new than just tourist sites. Paris is as busy as any major perspectives and have experiences worth telling city. And this hustle and bustle attitude can translate to some travel- others. ers as rudeness. When we went to Loches, a small town in the center If anyone gets an opportunity like this and be exposed to a new of France, the atmosphere completely changed. culture and lifestyle, by all means go for it. The personality of the villagers are much more down to earth Because at first I was skeptical at whether something like this than the inhabitants of the big city. The vibe became more tradition- could change a person. But I’m glad this one time that I was proved al and quaint, and while Paris was exciting, going to smaller towns wrong.
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But perhaps the most important thing that I learned from this opportunity to travel is to take time to go outside of your comfort zone and experience new things.”
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 1621 Brookside Rd. Stockton, CA 95207 (209) 933-7445 ext. 8487 The Stagg Line newspaper is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association and the California Newspaper Publishers Association. Awards and recognitions include the following: XX 19 consecutive NSPA All-American rankings XX NSPA Hall of Fame, 2005 XX NSPA First-Place Best of Show five times XX NSPA Newspaper Pacemaker seven times XX JEA Impact Award, 2002 Stagg Line student journalists have won many awards and scholarships over the years, including California Journalist of the Year, National Story of the Year, and National Photo of the Year.
Annamarie Cunningham Editor-in-Chief
Don Bott Adviser
The Stagg Line newspaper is published monthly and distributed free of charge to students and faculty. Our newspaper is a long-standing open forum for free student expression. Student editors and reporters make content and style decisions with the adviser offering guidance. Editorials reflect the view of the entire editorial board and therefore are unsigned. Opinion columns reflect the view of the writer. Readers are welcomed to write letters to the editor. We will make every effort to print any letter as long as it is not libelous. Letters longer than 250 words may be edited. Unsigned letters will be printed only in unusual circumstances, and only when we know who the writer is. Letters may be brought to the newspaper room, A-8, or emailed to dbott@stockton.k12.ca.us
photo courtesy of
Damon Heine
Senior Damon Heine is joined by juniors Teresa Mayorga Solis, Ryan McLaughlin, Paul Spaulding, and Autumn Saldana in front of Mont St. Michel during spring break in France.
Reanna Rodriguez
Dellanira Alcauter
News Editor
Nuvia Cervantes
Jessica Mangili Opinion Editor
Michealla Foules
Gabriella Miller
Victorious Gemma
Features Editor
Marcella Hawkins
Adrianna Owens Entertainment Editor
Allison Ho
Brian Walker
Jada Johnson
Sports Editor
Miranda Maurino
Fe Valencia Graphics Editor
Blanca Mendoza
Annamarie Rodriguez
Alexus Plascencia
Photo Editor
Alyssa Rojas
Chao Xiong
Rebecca Romero
Web Editor
Damon Heine Blog/Social Media Editor
Veronica Vargo Devin Wickstrom
4.19.13
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n underage girl in Steubenville was raped last year by two teenagers, Ma’lik Richmond and Trent Mays. In March, Richmond was sentenced to one year in juvenile detention for rape while Mays was sentenced to two years for rape and the release of pornographic pictures of the victim. This case has brought about national attention to the issue of rape and rape culture. Rape culture is the idea that rape, violence, and sexual assault are endemic in today’s society, and that such things are perpetuated by popular culture. The following is a discussion of four aspects of rape culture.
Victim
Sympathy
Since the Steubenville case went nationwide, the girl who was accosted has received death threats. People are literally threatening to kill her because she was the victim of rape. The lawyers defending the perpetrators blame her for their actions that night in August. In this case, and many others, people blame the victim by making excuses for the person who committed the crime. People have said things like “she shouldn’t have worn such revealing clothing,” or “she should have known not to drink that much,” and far too often people will flat-out say, “It’s her fault.” But does wearing revealing clothing really equate to permission for rape? In our society there exists a strange paradox: we tell people to “love your body” and to have selfesteem, but then we claim, when they do love themselves enough to show off their bodies, that they have no self-respect. We do this because we believe the only reason a girl wears short shorts annamarie is to impress someone of the opposite sex. It couldn’t possibly be because they like themselves. In fact, we claim it is because the opposite is true: you must hate yourself; otherwise, why would you want attention? Except what fuels these assumptions is that society has determined a woman is not of value unless she is pretty enough that a man desires her, thus all a woman’s choices revolve around getting a man’s attention. The thing is, if a girl chooses to wear revealing clothing or drink, that’s her decision. It’s not a suggestion or a comeon; it’s a personal choice and one that shouldn’t be taken advantage of. Bottom-line: nobody asks to be raped. No one buys a skirt thinking: wow, I hope this gets me sexually assaulted. Nobody goes out looking for a good time and expects to be physically and emotionally abused. Much like it seems “no means no” is an easy concept to understand, “it’s never the victim’s fault” should be an easy one to grasp too.
You’d think that when a crime is committed, the victim is the one who should feel sympathy. Maybe you’d think “Hey, this person is suffering and their life could be changed forever because of an unfortunate event.” But the thing about rape is that many victims don’t receive the justice or the help or the sympathy they deserve. According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, only about 3 percent of rapists ever go to jail, that’s after factoring in the approximately 54 percent of unreported rapes. In the case in Steubenville, so much of the news coverage was about how the boys had such promising lives, and how their promising lives were ruined. The most famous slanted coverage came from reporter Poppy Harlow at CNN, when she said “these two young men who had such promising futures – star football players, very good students – literally watched as they believed their life fell apart.” She has since received cunningham much criticism, from people and reporters across the country. The news of Steubenville was spun in a way, not only at CNN, that made it seem as if the victim had screwed Richmond and Mays over by being raped by them. She didn’t. Those boys deserved way more of a sentence than they got for the crimes they committed. Each received the minimum sentence that they could. What really bothers me, though, is that even after they had raped a girl, spread incriminating pictures on the Internet, and made fun of the incident afterwards, people still had the audacity to pity them and their forsaken futures. I don’t pity them. I can’t find it in myself to pity people who made a conscious decision to assault another person, in this case, or in any case. Pity should be saved for real victims. It should be saved for the people who suffer at the hands of others, and for the people who will forever be scarred by the bad decisions of the people around them.
Rape in
ffOne out of every six women in America will be a victim of sexual assault
photo illustration by Alyssa
Rojas
Consent
Anything that isn’t explicitly “yes” is no. There’s no hidden meaning, no ulterior motives, no exceptions. And it’s alarming how many people don’t understand something as easy as that. It’s something that should just be inherent, like the fact that the sky is blue or that grass is green. If someone says “no” to sex, their statement should be taken at face value. Each person has their own set of boundaries, their own limits. And nobody has the right to infringe upon those boundaries. No one. If somebody is mentally compromised, like being under the influence of drugs, that’s considered dubious consent, which could be considered rape, depending on the situation. The “Don’t Be That Guy” campaign looks to end rape via dubious consent and rape in general, with marketing aimed at men ages 18 to 25. They have posters emblazoned with slogans like “Just because she’s not saying no doesn’t mean she’s saying yes.” The bottom line is that no means no, and it’s time to treat it that way.
Sexual Culture
Super hot girl in bikini plus a burger equals what? Just your average Carl’s Jr. commercial. Why do we need sex to sell a burger? I don’t know. But it doesn’t end with fast food. The mainstream media is chock-full of oversexualization. This insane predominance of sex isn’t necessarily the problem. It’s in the implications of these representations where trouble arises. These “sexy” depictions dominate our culture and warp our values in such a ways that the only way a woman can make herself “valuable” is by being desired by men. This kind of mentality is disgustingly present in message boards, and social media across the Internet, where people anonymously claim those considered “unattractive ... should be grateful that anyone even wanted to rape them.” As nauseating as it is, we see that the problem is that constantly sexualizing women sends a message to men that they are entitled to sex. Women are painted as a goal to be conquered but they really aren’t, and shouldn’t be treated as such.
ff46 percent of rapes ffTwo out of every get reported to police three rapes are committed by someone known to the victim
ff12 percent of rapes lead to an arrest
America African-Americans: Step up to the plate T here once was a time when it was common for an African American to be thought of as unintelligent. In 17th century America, African Americans weren’t seen as the intellectuals they are today. They weren’t people but rather uncivilized, unsophisticated, idiotic beasts. Then one man changed that perception. Frederick Douglass changed how the world saw black people. He defied all stereotypes and proved that we are brian human. He proved that we are capable of being studious and just as intelligent as our peers. It’s nearly 250 years later and I feel we need more people like Frederick Douglass. I sit alone in my Advanced Placement English class but not alone as in there’s nobody near me. The class is full
of students eager to challenge themselves with the advanced course. There is just nobody else in the class that looks like me, African American. This made me wonder what separated me from everybody else. There are 50 African-American students in the junior class. Of that only two are enrolled in this college level course. “I think it’s a lack of personal motivation,” said Audrey WeirGraham, African American social studies department chair. walker Between her two honors classes only one student is African American and two others are mixed. “There are bright children out there, they just don’t push themselves.” The reason I take harder classes is because I like the challenge.
Did you know...
Since my freshman year I have always taken honors and Advanced Placement classes if available because know I can do it. My mother also plays a part in supporting me in my academics and extracurricular activities. I have yet to fail a class or drop beneath a 3.0 grade point average because I know that through hard work and good grades I am going to college. This brings me back to my question: Why are there are so few African Americans in harder courses? “I feel it is because they don’t want to try,” said junior Tyron Blair. Blair has recently taken a more active role in his education and is taking honors courses this year. “There are such a rare few that will take honors classes and have high grades that people will simply get intimidated and not try.” The fear of failing is a main reason one might feel inclined to play it safe in a regular course. Confidence is the most important thing one can have in school. A grade is earned, not given. If one believes they can achieve a high grade and truly work towards it, then they will earn an A. “What’s
source: rainn.org
stopping you?” Blair asks. The answer is nobody but yourself. If someone chooses to doubt themselves and give up in the class then their grade will reflect it. So if grades can’t be the issue I think it is a lack of motivation. Weir-Graham says it is students’ lack of having a role model that stops them. “One student can change the outlook of a student’s life by simply asking, ‘Have you thought about college?’” It was a teacher I had met in eighth grade that recommended I take the classes I do. Without her I probably would be taking less challenging courses. By having someone who believes in you and wants you to push yourself can make all the difference. That is why Blair joined PLUS, to make a more positive impact on his peers. “I don’t want to grow up and earn money and see the same people I see now on the corner asking for it.” Frederick Douglass proved that African Americans are smart. It is up to our generation to free ourselves from academic mediocrity.
in a typical Stagg classroom in students is African-American, but in an Advanced Placement English class only in is African-American? graphic by Adrianna
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Program provides safe environment for youth
Everybody has mental health. For some it’s a diagnosis, while for others it’s how we react to and handle daily situations. So often people with mental illnesses are wrongly blamed for society’s issues. We all should understand that understanding your mental state does not mean that you have a problem. So often people with mental illnesses are wrongly blamed for society’s issues but violence and mental health do not go hand in hand. Accepting help doesn’t mean that you’re weak but rather an indication that you are resilient. Reaching out is not a sign of defeat but rather a sign of strength. There are people every day who seek help and receive it. County services and agencies offer such help, more than most people realize. Our staff took a day during spring break to tour facilities and talk to both experts and those receiving assistance.They are the proof that…
You arenot
devin wickstrom A 2-year-old boy runs around one corner of a long, narrow room with his toy ATV. The room has a clean, fresh scent with everything somebody would need: a kitchen section with a fridge, a stove, a microwave, a table. It also has a few luxuries; couches, television, computer, toys. The busy room makes for an exciting obstacle course for the child. Not only is he there but also others with ages ranging from 15 to 21, all relaxing, talking, and laughing with each other. Welcome to the Transitional Living Program, a place where anyone under 21 can come for help, shelter, food, and comfort when no one else can provide it for them. Also known as Family and Youth Services of San Joaquin County, TLP is a safe, friendly environment for anyone who needs help getting back on their feet. It consists of three buildings total: one has an office, where people can register for the program, and then two houses available for the applicants. Brittany, 17, has been going here since March 18 when some friendly nurses brought her here after her stepfather kicked her out. While here, she met her current boyfriend. “He is an outlet for me,” she said. “We plan to move to Galt together with my grandma in April.” They are now there, thanks to TLP. The two didn’t stay in the program long, because of Brittany’s grandmother, but it did provide the help they needed until they found a place to go. She went from a homeless, lost teen to one with a home and a goal: to become a nurse. Haley, teen mother of the son who was playing with his ATV, can now care for him without having to worry about giving him enough food to
graphics by
Fe Valencia
How to handle SUICIDE In today’s society suicide is a large problem that affects everyone, especially teenagers; here are some tips to help someone you may know who has had thoughts or has attempted suicide. DO ff Be yourself. Let them know that you care and that they’re not alone. ff Listen to them. They will be ventilating anger, which shows that they want help. ff Be sympathetic. Do not judge because it could make them feel they’re to blame. ff Say the word: suicide. If they say things like “I can’t go on,” ask them if they have ever thought of committing suicide. DON’T ff Argue with them. This could make the person feel that you are not trying to help them. ff Avoid “You have so much to live for.” The person most likely wants to live but they want the pain to end. ff Act shocked, lecture on the value of life, or scold them because suicide is wrong. ff Offer ways to fix their problems, or give advice. Get professional help immediately. ff Blame yourself.You cannot fix depression. KEY POINTS ff Get professional help fast. ff Make sure they follow up on treatment. ff Be with them each step of the way so they know they’re not alone. ff Be proactive. ff Encourage healthy lifestyle changes such as being in nature and exercising. ff Remove potential means of suicide. Make sure there are no blades, guns, or unneeded medicine that may cause thoughts of suicide in their home. source: Helpguide.org information compiled by
Devin Wickstrom
eat or clothing him; they are being provided with the necessities so she can look after her child. “As much as I don’t want to deal with the current situation,” Haley said, “I’ll do it for my son. Because of this, I’m back in school and everything pretty much changed for the better.” Clearly this haven provides a number of needed essentials but the real help is the hope given. According to the youth who take advantage of it, they are inspired. Inspired to be somebody, to lift themselves up and go out into the world with confidence and to become their own independant self. When someone comes to the center, they are allowed to stay up to 21 months and during that time the staff provides them with meals, counseling, laundry, and also a basic goal setting to help them get on their feet. “We have a philosophy as far as how we treat youth,” Jennifer Jones, head of the Youth Services Department, said. “We aren’t here to judge, we let them make mistakes, we let them come back, and our main goal is to help them understand their full potential.” Jones said that the biggest struggle they have there is trying to get the youth to graduate high school, it’s much easier after that. “They usually feel inspired after they graduate and they want to go out into the world.” Haley can now care for her son, Samuel, with the help from people who care for them. She can introduce him into the world without having to stress about not having enough food to feed him or enough clothes to dress him. Though everyone must support themselves at some point, she, and every young person, can get help to accomplish that, thanks to the Transitional Living Program. “They kind of grow up here,” Jones said. “We kind of become their family.”
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Our staff talked to experts to gain a better understanding of mental health and the effect it has on all of us. Here’s what a few of them had to say.
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Our minds are such an important thing — keep them healthy.” Carolyn Walters Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
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Suffering from mental illness does not mean crazy.” Fay Viera Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Transitional LIVING Program
photos by Adrianna
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(Clockwise from top) The TLP house gives Haley and her son Sam a way to get back on their feet and better their future. After having a baby in high school, the program helped Gladys attend college and gave her a place to stay. Joseph recently moved out of the TLP house into an apartment and is supporting himself while he goes to Delta College.
The Transitional Living Program is federally funded by the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act and its purpose is to offer help to those between the ages of 16-21 who are homeless so they can make a successful transaction to a self-sufficient lifestyle. Services that are offered that’ll help in their independency: ff providing education opportunities (General Educational Development preparation, post-secondary training, and vocational education) ff physical and mental health care (physicals, counseling, and emergency treatments) ff job attainment services (career counseling and job placement) ff building basic life skills (consumer education, budgeting, housekeeping, food preparation) ff safe stable living conditions are also offered to youths (host family homes, group homes, maternity group homes, supervised apartments owned or rented by the program) source: Family and Youth
Seeking help shows strength alexus plascencia It is difficult for many to have the courage to stand up and ask for help. Feelings of judgment, weakness, or even doubt are just some of the few fears that can get in the way. Realizing that getting help from a professional can actually make a change is the first step. Accepting that there is a problem is next. Then it’s actually being able to speak up. “Unfortunately there is still a stigma for seeking help,” Fay Vierra, a licensed marriage and family therapist, said. “It’s important to be empathetic.” No matter the situation, minor or major, if help is needed, professionals suggest to get help. Things can always be kept confidential, but only to an extent. “Getting help doesn’t make someone weak. It shows resilience,” Vierra said. People shouldn’t be afraid to have open arms to all the available resources that are provided because they’re all there to provide a sense of comfort. “It’s important to accept that our mind and heart are one,” Carolyn Walters, a licensed marriage and family therapist, said. “It’s important to keep them healthy.” Getting treatment for any needs helps to maintain a healthy being. But people who are hurting are often stubborn; they insist that they can handle their struggles themselves.
“We are a safety net in the community,” Lynn Tarrant, the deputy director, San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services, said. Professionals at the Behavioral Health Services are there to save those who are in great need by providing intervention, counseling, and even a place to stay. One of the services offered is the Transitional Living Program; a shelter that provides all the basic necessities. “We’re here to help them understand their potential,” Jennifer Jones, a youth services program manager, said. TLP offers educational support and builds relationships to those in need. It gives people a place where they feel welcomed. “We let them make mistakes,
we let them come back,” Jones said. “It’s about empowering them.” TLP isn’t the only place where help can be found. It’s up to the people in need to go out, and discover the many other resources. But if nothing is done about the situation, nothing will get better. It will just continue to worsen over the time span of just standing by. And if help is never sought, who knows what would happen? Violent related acts, drug abuse, and even suicide, perhaps. Then, when those who are in a great need of help become a harm to themselves, and even others, that’s when issues should be taken very seriously. “Don’t agree to keep suicidal
thoughts a secret,” Vierra said. “Get adult help; don’t worry about losing a friend.” Those who began to feel suicidal don’t necessarily want to die, she added. They just want the pain to stop. “Suicide can always be prevented,” she said. It’s highly recommended, by professionals, to always contact help when someone seems as a threat. It’s never a good idea to keep it a secret, or solve the issue on one’s own. “It’s not your job to fix it; it’s your job to tell an adult,” Vierra said. Seeking the help that is needed shows how strong one can be. It’s not a cry, or plea, for help. It’s having courage and a strong mentality.
Services Bureau
information compiled by
Domestic VIOLENCE Domestic violence, dating violence, and domestic abuse are all known as spousal abuse. It’s often overlooked because people are in denial and easily blame the situations on themselves. One who is in such a relationship would feel controlled and often very scared and helpless. Their partner does anything they can just to maintain that power through one or more of the following types of abuse Physical Punching, slapping, any type of strike to the body Verbal/Emotional Yelling, constant put downs, bullying, threats Attempts of keeping you away from family and friends Sexual Rape, unwanted touching Refusing to use contraception
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We’re here to help them understand their potential” Jennifer Jones Youth Services Program Manager photo by Adrianna
Signs of domestic abuse: ff Your partner has a bad, unpredictable temper ff You feel scared and that you can never satisfy your partner ff Treats you like property ff Acts excessively jealous ff Controls and questions everything you do
Chao Xiong
Contact INFORMATION If you or a friend have a problem with substance abuse, are in an abusive relationship, are without a home, have behavioral issues, or have thought about suicide, the programs listed below offer help: National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE(7233) Women’s Center: 209-941-2611 San Joaquin County Substance Abuse Services Treatment: 209-468-9600 Prevention: 209-468-2005 San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services Crisis/Stabilization Unit Services: 209-468-8686
information compiled by
Marcella Hawkins
Signs of DEPRESSION Depression, it’s more than being sad. It’s a lasting condition that affects your everyday life. Signs of depression include: ff lingering sadness that one can’t simply brush off ff loss of interest ff change in weight ff insomnia or hypersomnia ff feeling restless or hopeless ff thoughts of suicide Causes of depression may include: ff abuse ff substance abuse ff rape ff a death of someone close Depression is a curable state of being. There are ways of going back to one’s normal self. The first step is talking about it.
Owens
Jennifer Jones is a Youth Services Program Manager and oversees the young adults in the TLP.
“
He has the disease; he is not the disease.” Scott Howard Psychiatrist
source: Helpguide.org information compiled by
Michealla Foules
source: WebMD.com
information compiled by
Brian Walker
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4.19.13
‘Independent hustling’
Duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis make gold with hit song without being chained to record label
Gabriella Miller & Adrianna Owens all images from artists’ official sites graphics by
gabriella miller
An artist is more than just an individual or group. An artist is the sound, image, but most importantly, the fans. Without the voices singing along and the hundreds of dollars spent on albums, merch, and concert tickets there would be no artist. And when one must rely solely on these fans to be successful they better make sure they give their all. One duo understands how far they’ve come because of their fans, and their hard work has paid off in the form of a No. 1 single and an album that recently went gold. Based in Seattle, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis have blown up in the past few months. There’s no way that you haven’t heard Macklemore smoothly rap about his 99 cent fur jacket from the “Thrift Shop” over the catchy beat Lewis created. However you feel about the song, it’s hard to deny the talent these two possess. “Thrift Shop” is the lead single of their album “The Heist” which was released in October. It’s easy to hear that this album is not the typical hip-hop/rap album. All tracks were written by Macklemore and produced by Lewis. This means that every word, beat, and mix comes straight from the people that matter the most. Most importantly, they aren’t signed to any
Other artists to look for Recently Macklemore and Ryan Lewis headlined Paid Dues, an independent hip hop festival that showcases talented rappers. Here are some other artists who have performed and one of their songs to check out.
Mac Miller
“Knock Knock”
Paint brushes, pencils, paper. What do these objects mean? For senior Weicong Zhu, all of these objects mean happiness and peace. These objects create a feeling for him, a feeling he gets nowhere else. He has been drawing since he was in second grade. He explains that his father is the one who has encouraged him to draw and continues to help him to improve. Over the years he has found a lot of joy in his art, which has become his oasis and favorite hobby. “My art expresses me, and how I feel in many ways,” Zhu said. It has become a devotion for him to show emotion and feeling in his art. He specializes in drawing landscapes and people. Zhu says that when he first began to draw he wasn’t very
photo by
Dellanira Alcauter
Senior Weicong Zhu paints a nature piece for his art class. Some of his work is on display in the Haggin Museum.
photo by
Gabriella Miller
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis perform “Gold” during their concert in Stockton on March 28. we have done and rewarded us with amazing performances. They even hold an annual pizza party in Seattle to thank their local fans. It’s crazy to think that all the success and fame the two have now happened without a huge record label, but it just goes to show that a fancy deal has no hold over great music.
Nipsey Hussle
Kendrick Lamar
“Call From The Bank”
“Average Joe”
Juicy J “One Of Those Nights”
Art on display fulfills dream blanca mendoza
record label; there is no interference from anyone. The entire album was created through Macklemore and Lewis, and that shows through the quality of the songs. Macklemore raps about a wide variety of subjects from marriage equality in “Same Love” to his drug and alcohol abuse in “Starting Over.” He even addresses the outrageous amount of money spent on shoes and how we are controlled by companies in “Wing$.” In all of these songs it is evident that he means to get a message across; his words aren’t written just to follow a rhyme or an idea handed down to him. The words come from inside and his passion is so real that you can touch it. The beats that accompany each song are so crucial and Macklemore’s words wouldn’t be as effective without them. Lewis has an ability to combine violins, trumpets, drums, and other synthesized beats together in a way that is truly unique. Every song has it’s own addictive quality to it and Lewis is the mastermind behind it all. In the new single, “Can’t Hold Us,” Macklemore and Lewis address their fans’ hard work. He repeats that “labels out here/ now they can’t tell me nothin’” and stresses that he wants his fans to spread the music “across the country.” The words were truly upheld as “The Heist” has sold over 500,000 copies due to fans getting his name out there. After seeing the two perform live there’s no denying how grateful they are. During the concert Macklemore repeatedly thanked the crowd for all
good, but over time he has gotten better with various stability techniques. These techniques help him maintain a stable hand and allow him to focus better. “Zhu is a good artist,” art teacher Jessica Raygoza said. “He is creative and puts in a lot of effort. He often goes back and fixes his art before he is completed with it.” That is why his art was chosen to be displayed in the Haggin Museum for the 82nd Annual McKee Student Art Exhibit. This has not been the first art competition he has been in, but it is very significant to him because it is the first time his art is in a museum. “I chose him because of the quality of his work. It is well done and shows effort,” Raygoza said. “I was a bit excited and surprised because my art was actually in a museum,” Zhu said. “I am very proud of myself, but I have no time to visit the museum so it is a pity.” However, he is not letting this discourage him. He is now more inspired to draw and paint. He feels that many people can view his art and that he is sharing a piece of himself with them. In addition, he is now experiencing the feeling of wanting to become an artist. This feeling hadn’t occurred until after his achievement, making him want to do more with it. Zhu feels it is important for him to keep drawing and stay confident in the work he does. Having his art displayed in a museum helps him gain this confidence.
M I C S O ! C Tired of the everyday Superman, Batman, masked avenger type of comic book? Here are some reads that the average superhero fan may not have on their reading list, but are still worth your time.
“Before Watchmen” ff Good: Builds on character development from the original Watchmen story. Ties up loose ends in a satisfying way. ff Bad: Some storylines lack originality. Pacing could be better. ff Rating: 3 out of 5
“Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time” ff Good: Celebrates the show’s 50th anniversary with a month by month spotlight on a different Doctor. Exposes new fans to classic Doctors. ff Bad: Stories from older Doctors move slower than modern ones. ff Rating: 4 out of 5
“Creepy” ff Good: Successfully revived the series with fresh stories. Gives hope for the horror anthology comic to survive. ff Bad: Heavy Lovecraft influence, which may not suit all readers. ff Rating: 4 out of 5
graphic by
Damon Heine & Adrianna Owens
Sports
4.19.13
the
Team remains undefeated in T-Cal
annamarie rodriguez He stood outside with his suit and tie. He gave advice to the throwers yet they didn’t seem to want to take his suggestions. So he grabbed the shot and threw it farther than any of the throwers and after, he made just a tiny adjustment to his tie. This was something none of the athletes was prepared for. Having Olympian Andre Phillips as school principal gives the track team an advantage. But this advantage doesn’t ease the nervousness or the standards that the athletes hold for themselves based on successes of previous years. This is especially true for senior Andre Lindsey. “I expect the outcome of this track season to be the same as in years past because we have to keep the season going.” There’s some pressure on the track team this year to maintain its winning streak of 23-0 in league and two consecutive TCAL championships. But this may be a little harder than last year to achieve. “We
Senior Andre Lindsey works on his hurdle technique at a practice.
‘It’s like he never left’ miranda maurino Members of the golf team describe assistant coach Sean Ferguson as enthusiastic and instructive. After graduating last year and playing on the golf team for all four years, Ferguson made the decision to come back and coach the golf players here. Ferguson currently attends University of Pacific and sometimes finds it difficult to balance both golf and school. “It’s a lot to do. It’s stressful at times, but it’s worth it to be able to come out and help them do the best they can do.” The golf team recognizes all of Ferguson’s hard work and it definitely doesn’t go to waste.“I learn new skills from him like how to hold the club correctly,” senior Peter Ou said. The golfers think that it was a great opportunity for Ferguson to come back and they have learned a variety of skills from him this year. Senior Ramiro Ramirez said, “It’s a great opportunity for him to come back and it’s easier on us. He taught me
about posture since I’m taller. It’s helped me a lot.”That help seems to be making a difference. With a record of 5-3, the golf team has been doing well with Ferguson’s coaching. The team has always seen Ferguson as a friend, but now they have also learned to respect him as a coach.“It’s cool because he’s one of my friends but when we’re on the golf course he’s a coach. I respect him more as a coach,” Ou said. Elliott Miller, senior, appreciates Ferguson coming back to coach and feels like he’s been there since the beginning. “It’s nice because he’s been there since ninth grade. It’s like he never left. He helps me stay focused and improve my game.” Head golf coach Dannie Offield said that having Ferguson around helps out a lot. He appreciates how Ferguson is able to give feedback to the players. “He feels comfortable giving directions and feedback. The team’s successful and winning matches. Golf ’s the hardest sport out there.”
Grrrl
photo by Annamarie
Rodriguez
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Even though we all have our own individual events we still come together as a team to compete and win.” Deante Chambliss senior
lost a few key team members that made a big difference on the team so it makes it a little harder,” senior Deante Chambliss said. “They basically made winning easier and now we have to step it up and make it easier for the other players.” Track and field is made up of various events. Despite the differences they work hard to produce a positive outcome. “Even though we all have our own individual events we still
come together as a team to compete and win,” Chambliss said. This is not only shown within the team but even those not on the team notice this bond. “You can tell by how close a bond is between Kevin and Andre, and they do separate events,” said senior Vanessa Garcia. Others also notice the close relationship between the teammates. “Doesn’t matter what event they come from they all seem to come together and help each other out,” sophomore Ceryna Cervantes said. In order to prepare for a meet the team all warms up together and motivates each other to do well. When it’s time for the individual events to start everyone separates and it’s up to the individual players to motivate themselves. “I visualize myself winning the race,” Lindsey said. Having a successful track season isn’t the only reward that the players take away from the sport. “Track to me builds character because you have to focus mentally,” Lindsey said.
photos by
Dellanira Alcauter
Junior Melvin Flax goes through the motions of throwing a discus at a meet at McNair. He would go on to place first in the event.
P O W E R
Though they aren’t your average sports jocks and studs, these female athletes hold the same ambitions and passions as any other athlete. Their inspirations, motivations, coaches, and families are what drives these young athletic females to push forward and excel.
Sophomore Mia Macias is captain of the JV softball team for her second year. As captain and starting pitcher, she has the responsibility of leading her team. “That feeling when you win an intense game” is her favorite thing about softball. Macias pitched a few varsity games her freshman year. She also plays basketball and volleyball.
Shot-put, discus, and long jump. Freshman Jasmine Pharms participates in these events. She has a personal best of 34 ft. 6 inches in shot-put. Her discus record is 85 ft. 10 in. Pharms was also the starting center for the JV girl’s basketball team and was recognized as most valuable player. She also enjoys playing volleyball.
Sophomore Selena Magallanes has been playing soccer since she was 5 years old. “When I was younger I wanted to be better than my older sister.” Magallanes plays all positions on the field. She played on the varsity team as a freshman for a couple of games. To stay in shape for soccer Magallanes also participates in cross country.
“Racket up.” It’s her first year on the badminton team, but she will never forget this fundamental tip from her coaches and varsity players. Nina Xiong, a sophomore, plays JV doubles with her partner. Her motivation to keep playing is the fact that the seniors photo by
Miranda Maurino
Assistant golf coach and Stagg alumnus Sean Ferguson instructs senior David Stewart on how to improve his swing.
on varsity will be leaving and she can take one of their spots. Tennis is another sport that she loves playing. graphic by Victorious
Gemma and Michealla Foules
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News Detention is helping,
tagg ine
4.19.13
according to administration adrianna owens
photo by
Dellanira Alcauter
Whether given homework or given nothing, students in detention are expected to sit quiety and serve their time.
Across campus, teachers, administration and students alike share frustrations about the detention policy. Last year and a part of this year, Saturday school was a punishment for those who didn’t serve their detentions, but there is no longer enough money. Saturday school means hiring a teacher and a campus security monitor, which isn’t possible. However, Assistant Principal Gamal Salama said the current detention policy is helping to enforce campus rules, no matter how detrimental to education it may seem, according to its critics. In fact, since the beginning of the year, he said, there have been
MENTAL HEALTH Story continued from page 1
She’s been diagnosed and is currently being treated for manic depression and a generalized anxiety disorder. While she says those close to her are accepting and caring, so many others aren’t. It’s not only her peers that dismiss her feelings; it’s the adults in her life as well. But she recognizes that “it’s just easier being friends with somebody who has a mental illness rather than somebody who has no clue.” This seems to be the unfortunate consensus. People who aren’t personally affected by mental illness often times can’t empathize. Many people who are mentally ill fear getting help because they fear rejection. Rose, another senior, suggests that this stigma is perpetuated by a lack of education. “It makes me angry that mental health goes unnoticed, and quite frankly seems to be ignored in the schools.” This senior is not the only one who has come to that conclusion. Since the shooting in Newtown, Conn., mental health has been a hot topic among the country’s politicians. There is not a massive movement to increase mental health education in schools, but there is at least a push to train teachers and provide funds so partnerships can be made with mental health clinics. But small steps are the key to a better and more informed future. A lot of change begins with personal reevaluation. Rose realizes that she spent many of her early years in a persistent depression that she now wonders if she could have alleviated had she had the proper help. Amy had similar reflections on the alternate route her mental illness could have taken if she had the resources and if there wasn’t such a stigma on mental suffering. The thing is, mental health isn’t just mental illness. According to Lynn Tarrant, deputy director of San Joaquin County Mental Health Services, “mental health is a state of being.” It’s something to be paid attention to and taken care of, she said. Anyone can develop a mental illness, just as anyone can break their arm. “We all have mental health,” Tarrant said. Which is why educating the people is so important. It’s time to change the way society views mental illness. “People have grown to shy away from dealing with mental illness,” Amy said. “It’s not something that can be changed in a year. It’s going to take generations.”
*Names of students in this story have been changed
fewer dress code violations and tardies. In the past month, 174 students have been tardy and 106 have been cited for not bringing their IDs to school, which, compared to the beginning of the year, is much less. “I wish we had Saturday school, but we don’t have the funds,” he said. “The numbers of detentions are going down. The only problem is students who don’t serve their detention get inschool suspension.” Because of the lack of funding, students are getting pulled out of their classes, which puts stress on teachers as well as students. Julie Backster, math teacher, said that students who are struggling in algebra get pulled out the most. They often fall behind and cannot keep up with the lessons,
especially if they miss a two-hour block period. “It would be nice if I knew ahead of time and especially if it’s a more crucial learning time,” she said. “I would prefer they serve (detention) in classes where they aren’t struggling.” Senior Edgar Perez, upon receiving ISS, knew that he couldn’t miss calculus, so he asked Assistant Principal Youlin Aissa if he could attend class, and make it up another day. And upon serving it the next day, he was again pulled out of class to make up the detention when he had already done so. “They said I didn’t serve it so they took me out again and I was forced to serve it twice,” he said. Salvador Pasillas, a junior, refers to the school system as
“weak” after he was forced to serve two days after he was pulled out by Kendra Bruno, a substitute teacher for his Advanced Placement English course. Following this, he put a sign on the door of M1 saying that detention was cancelled until Jan. 32. He refers to this as an “action against the system.” Rather than a prank, he said it is a form of resistance. “How are we going to change the system if we don’t start now?” he said. “I cannot change the world if I don’t start with the struggles I am facing now.” Though students and teachers are uneasy about these policies, Salama says that there is only one other way to change them without adding in Saturday school. “Our advice—don’t break the rules.”
Evolution of Women
March honored women’s progress in society. From a time in history when women were suppressed by men to now, a time where women are getting closer to equality, it’s clear that women are rising up. We decided to ask how people feel about their progress. “Despite advances we’ve made, we’re still dumbing “If (women) stop progressing ourselves down because it’s because of them, because of what society tells us is men can’t stop them.” acceptable.” Tara Hayes, teacher Emily Cornelison, senior
“We shouldn’t underestimate women because they’re rising higher than men.” Elijah Reyes, junior
1830s
Women could live and work as long is it didn’t require a license or degree. They lost all rights after marriage.
1860s
1920s
1950s
2000s
Women began to fight for Women were limited in Women outnumber men Women were seen as their rights in the women’s mostly homemakers, though professional jobs and they on college campuses and suffrage movement, though were given 60% of the they’re now allowed to they started to expand they were still seen as less salary that men received. serve in combat. their role in society. than men. graphic by
Reanna Rodriguez, Alyssa Rojas, Nuvia Cervantes and Dellanira Alcauter
Alumni offer aid
jessica mangili
photo by
Dellanira Alcauter
The Alumni Association, along with students, make up the pep band during football season. This is just one way in which the alumni participates on campus.
At a time when budgets are shrinking, the Alumni Association in the past year has donated over $1,500 for the benefit of students. Along with donating money, the association is also looking to collect appliances for the home economics class and instruments for the music classes. For Stewart Jacoby, history teacher and secretary of the association, it is a way to connect students, faculty, and alumni. “There is a growing, developing, and strengthening community of people who care about Stagg faculty and students,” he said. The association in its first year secured funds to help cover part of the cost of Advanced Placement tests, brought back the pep band, and formed a tailgate party before the first football game. In this school year the association has spent money for many
purposes. The group spent $135 to allow students to have lunch with visiting speaker Sephira Shuttlesworth. They also gave $475 to purchase an amplifier for the theater to replace the broken one. Another $500 was donated to both an Advanced Placement Biology field trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the yearbook class to attend a convention in San Francisco. “I think it’s really great that the alumni cares about AP students enough to expand their knowledge,” senior Carol Amaya said. “I’m used to not being able to do a lot of things apart from the curriculum because of budget cuts.” The association’s goal is not only to give money to the school, but also to inspire students. “I feel that ever since we played at the crab and shrimp feed, the alumni and people in the community have seen our potential and want us to do well,” junior
Ryan McLaughlin said. The money that has been distributed comes from alumni donations and events like the steak and shrimp dinner on April 27, an event co-sponsored by the Athletic Boosters. Most of the time it’s just reaching out to the group for the right reasons. “Last year approaching the AP exams, we appealed to the alumni for funds and received $1500 in a week,” Jacoby said. Although the association is still in the beginning stages, it is looking to make a large impact on the school community. Along with making a commitment to have next year’s homecoming parade on the Miracle Mile and a tailgate party a the first home football game the group hopes to give out more than $5,000 next year. Also, ideas such as getting tutors, volunteers for the first day of school, and a new seating area in the glade are being discussed.