Stagg Line
the
04.15.16 Vol. 59 No. 7
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School
1621 Brookside Rd. Stockton, CA 95207
Home of the Delta Kings
COLORFUL FUTURE FOR CITY?
Downtown Stockton to experience construction, cultural renaissance
PHOTOS BY ANGEL GONZALEZ (TOP) AND JOANN SAGARAL (Left) The Polyester Wags play during the “March Man-ness” that was held March 12. (Right) Young people throw dye powder packs at each other during the Stockton is Magnificent event that was held April 2.
JoAnnSagaral
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ome Stocktonians cannot point to their city and confidently express their pride. High school seniors graduate and leave without a look back on the city that nurtured them. To see the potential that this city has takes a group of visionaries willing to look past dilapidation and infamy. David Garcia, Director of Community Development at Ten Space Dev, is part of the driving force of the Open Window Project. The project consists of 12 acres of downtown Stockton that will be renovated. The venture has taken several years of meticulous planning and is finally going to commence at the end of this year. Construction on new buildings and restored buildings has already begun. Commercial and retail spaces adding up to about 400,000 square feet will make their way into the heart of downtown. More than 1,000 affordable residential lofts will also be incorporated. Waitlists have already begun to fill for these new lofts. “Mixed-use space” is how Ten Space Dev envisions the downtown area. An individual will be able to work, dine and live all within a walking distance. Garcia emphasizes that the entire project is “very grassroots.” Local engineers as well as entrepreneurs are being centralized as the area is being rediscovered. Tommy Mogan, owner and chef of Cast Iron
Trading Co., has long admired the stories of Stockton’s downtown in its heyday. He and business partner Eric Lee plan on opening a restaurant and the Channel Brewing Co. in the historical Belding building next month. Tim Egkan, late Chief Brand Officer of Ten Space Dev, led the pair through barren buildings, enthusing about the opportunities that the empty lots held.
Mogan described Egkan’s zeal as the “spark” for the duo. “We were ready to make something from nothing.” Mogan and Lee hope that their entrepreneurial venture will cause a ripple effect in the community. “Art hops, fundraisers, political support systems,” Mogan lists off the possibilities of the restaurant. “The options are really endless.” Grandiose visions have humble beginnings. Cast Iron Trading Co. was a simple pop-up restaurant that hosted events across the valley. It then became a part of the Stockmarket, a monthly bazaar showcasing local creators of homemade goods and various services. Amy Sieffert and Anne Wilcox, of Goodstock Productions, are the organizers. They too have decided to take a gamble on the city. They have encouraged artists from the valley and the Bay Area to take a similar risk with vending at the Stockmarket. Modest yet lively, both women point out how humble their marketing is. “We will go around town putting up posters ourselves. Then, of course, there’s social media. That’s where we reach out most to people, get the word around.” Goodstock Productions will hold their next Stockmarket on April 23. Along with this event, the duo will organize special gatherings, such as
Next year’s schedule causes mixed feelings
MESA wins locally, looks forward to regionals at Davis RosaGarcia
For MESA students used to winning on a regular basis, this time was difficult because of short notice notifications and last minute changes. This year the rules changed for the prosthetic arm competition, making it more challenging for MESA students. Rather than using the initial design of the pulley system, it was required for the arm to be robotic. This new rule makes the project more advanced for many now that coding is needed. Stagg’s team still captured first at the competition that took place at the University of the Pacific on Saturday, April 2. It was Thursday night when news was delivered about the new rule for their robotic prosthetic arm, despite MESA students being prepared for their Saturday competition. The MESA board decided that the other free hand would be used for other tasks instead of pressing buttons for the prosthetic arm to function. This, therefore, discouraged teams and caused many to make last-minute changes. To keep from being disqualified, the groups had to think of a new solution. On Friday they had to redesign, rewire and plan without much time. Sophomore Kevin Phan and his group members sophomore Roberto Torres, sophomore De’Lilah Vega, and junior Samuel Cornelison qualified for first place in the local competition. The team had little to no practice with the prosthetic robot arm that had to be alternated through the process of rewiring. The added feature was a foot pedal that allowed Phan to operate the prosthetic arm without the use of his other hand. On the day of the competition his group had to test it out and was successful. “So if our board, essay, and speech is good then we move on and go to regionals,” Phan said.
Bottom Line
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Test week schedule
With the juniors about to begin SBAC testing, the schedule will be changed for the next two weeks. Monday and Wednesday will both be 1-3-5 block days, Tuesday and Thursday will be 2-4-6 block days, and Friday will have periods 1-6.
Prom bids
Prom bids are now $95 for couples and $75 for singles. They are sold at the library during lunch only. The last day to buy them will be Wednesday, April 20.
“Galentine’s Day” and “March Man-ness.” Each event carries the same goal of unifying the community through a genial atmosphere and mellow entertainment. Aside from the incoming reconstruction, certain downtown areas will also be getting a fresh coat of paint. Murals dubbed “Postcards from Stockton” have been commissioned by the Downtown Stockton Alliance to engage tourists to document their visit. The paintings will showcase local diversity as well as the city’s history. Those who have put their faith in the city are paving the way for the next generation. High school seniors will be less inclined to desert their roots. Garcia explains how imperative it is that students leave and gain other perspectives. “People don’t realize how good we have it. Beautiful waterfront, decent weather, we have so many positive assets.” All of the individuals mentioned in this article agree that a city does not thrive solely on retail. In order to sustain the growth of a safer and booming downtown, the youth have to believe in it as well. “Stockton is like having a sibling,” Garcia said. “They do stupid things, but in the end you still love them.”
PHOTO BY ARACELI VALENCIA
Sophomores Kevin Phan and Roberto Torres modify their prosthetic arm after the first trial of competition. In the end, they placed first overall and will move on to the regional round on April 30.
Other groups had also made alterations, but the short notice hindered them from achieving their best. The 23 prosthetic arm groups that were initially to take part gradually trickled down to 17. Toward sthe end, after several teams were disqualified, six teams remained to compete locally for MESA Day. Many attempted the prosthetic robot arm, but very few stayed because of the difficulty of coding and the long process of building a design that functions under the many qualifications to compete. “It’s a hard competition. If they practice enough they have a good chance of winning,” MESA advisor Andrew Walter said. Phan and his group will be practicing for the next couple of weeks in preparation for regionals on April 30 at UC Davis with that in mind.
Blood drive
May 9 is the blood drive, which will be located in the small gym. Students will need to sign a consent form. The forms are located in M-1, K-1 and counseling office.
Senior to-do list
Blue signs have been posted around campus to show which seniors are cleared for graduation tickets. See Sandra Johnson to clear book bill. On May 12 caps and gowns will be available for pick-up during lunch at K-1.
SaraAbdeltawab It’s an everyday thing — six classes, five times a week, nine months a year, and 180 days of getting an education. But how much time is really needed to learn what X equals? For the next school year and beyond, a new schedule will be in place. After narrowing down a variety of schedule options, teachers had to choose between a 1-6 schedule with 27 minimum days over the course of the school year, or a modified block similar to the current schedule What won the vote was the 1-6 schedule with 27 minimum days, many of which will be used for teacher collaboration days. “More than two-thirds of the teachers thought the 1-6 schedule would be enough,” Andre Phillips said. With that being the case, it seems as if the teachers who voted for a different schedule aren’t very happy. With math having to start doing split test days, P.E changing their schedule to work around the mile run, and science needing to find different ways to do their labs, one would question why the 1-6 schedule was chosen.
“We get a new schedule almost every year,” Rosslyn Halekakis said. “This is going to be more of a challenge, but it could be done.” Having to add an extra five minutes to each class, students would be released around 2:14. What frightens students the most is the idea of having homework every day. “We gave the teachers the option to talk to their students and survey them,” Phillips said. “But they didn’t.” You will get a different answer depending on which student you ask. Not every student is going to care about the lack of time for labs or the inconvenient testing schedules. For sophomore Blaine Beckwith, school is much more than just hanging with friends. “I don’t like the idea of 1-6 schedule, because it’s going to be hard to learn more in such little time,” Beckwith said. Beckwith went on to say that he would prefer the block schedule with a minimum day rather than the 1-6. “Teachers are just going to have to keep their instruction tight and not treat 59 minutes as 117 minutes,” Phillips said.
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2 Editorial
the
Stagg Line
Opinion
04.15.16
Changing Stockton takes all of us S tockton is considered one of the top 10 most dangerous cities in all of the United States, and our crime rate supports it. The majority of inhabitants are consequently considered to be thugs and low-lives that are no strangers to theft, and people will often succumb to these judgements. For those that live here, and have family here, it seems to be that their fate is generally accepted. They will not defend their city if it is villainized. This passive mindset only enables the continuance of a bad reputation. To truly have an effect, to make a real change in Stockton’s reputation, action must be taken from within. There are various programs whose prime motivation is to revitalize stockton, such as Ten Space Development mentioned on the front page story. Programs of this same nature have been around for years, but their overall result takes time. Meticulous planning and systematic organization is required for a positive and lasting outcome. Though the intentions of this program are good, the effect it has on us depends on how we receive it.
PHOTO BY JOANN SAGARAL
Downtown Stockton has gone through a dramatic revitalization. Local artists have teamed up with clean up groups to paint beautiful murals over graffiti. With every mural, Stocktonians are able to take pride in their city once again. In the future, new buildings will start to pop up like the new court house and several eateries.
They can’t change the way a whole community is viewed without contribution from the actual community. They can’t be held responsible for changing the reputation of a whole city. They must become we. We are responsible for how we treat Stockton. Spending time downtown, going to the ice rinks, bowling alleys, and movie theaters. Rather than seeking out places far from here we should work on bettering our local options. Working on Stockton, especially the downtown area, requires a group effort. Improving the reputation of the area makes it desirable to outsiders to start businesses, for which we have an abundance of space. Being proud of your roots shouldn’t be so difficult to fathom. We, even as young as we are, make a difference. The Teen Leadership Council within the Podesto Teen Impact Center has now been sworn into City Council, so young people have more of a say now than ever. We do have an impact. Using our influence by supporting local businesses can only improve the community’s image. Make Stockton a place to be prideful of, be the difference you want to see.
STAY OFF THE FIELD Losing block schedule NFL confirms continuous concussion can lead to disease hinders
performance
I
remember the “boring plays” from my freshman football season. An incomplete pass or a three-yard run stopped short. But for my teammate it was a different story. From the sideline, all I saw was my friend lying motionless on the turf as the trainer rushed toward him. He got up, but there was clearly something wrong. After being diagnosed with a concussion, he was done for the day. He wouldn’t accept it. He fought and he fought, repeatedly saying, “I’m fine, I’m fine, put me back in.” But something so simple as a concussion can be deadly. Since its conception, football has been associated with concussions and similar head injuries. In recent years, private researchers have speculated that continuous head trauma has been the cause of some players developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy, when certain proteins eats away at the brain. CTE has larger effects on particular parts of the brain than others. After years of pressure from various news networks and publications and researchers across the country, the National Football League has confirmed the connection between CTE and constant head impacts. On March 15, NFL senior vice president for Health and Safety Jeff Miller stated that constant helmet-to-helmet hits may, in the future, cause players to develop CTE. It’s crazy to think that after all these years that this disease has been around, the NFL only recently has come out with a statement. But the responsibility doesn’t only fall just on the NFL. Players need to realize that their lives are much more important than missing a game or two. This relates to high school athletes especially. Students need to know that whenever they feel any symptoms of a head injury, staying out of the game is the surest way to prevent something worse down the line. Now some former NFL players have committed to donating their brains so researchers can begin to find a cure for the disease. Abby Wambach, Team USA forward, has said she will also be
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LouisFuentez
“Players need to realize that their mental well-being and their lives are much more important than missing a game or two.” donating her brain due to the forgotten fact that soccer players suffer concussions as well. Kids that are playing football and soccer, practicing martial arts and playing other contact sports need to be aware of these possible consequences. Head injuries can be silent killers. Blowing off a “simple” headache after a major impact can be a big mistake. Taking a break, getting checked out and waiting to be cleared to play again is key to maintaining your mental well-being for the future.
Staff & Policies the
Stagg Line
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 1621 Brookside Rd. Stockton, CA 95207 The Stagg Line is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association, whose awards include the following: ff All-American: 21 years ff Hall of Fame ff First Place, Best of Show: five times ff National Newspaper Pacemaker: seven times Stagg Line journalists over the years have won many awards and scholarships, including California Journalist of the Year, National Story of the Year and National Photo of the Year.
JeffersonLeiva
The Stagg Line newspaper is published monthly and distributed free to students and staff members. Our website staggonline.net is updated regularly with online exclusives. The Stagg Line is a long-standing open forum for free student expression. That means, student editors and reporters make content and style decisions with the adviser offering guidance. The staff editorial, which appears at the top of this page, reflects the opinion of the entire staff and therefore is not signed. A personal column is signed and reflects the writer’s point of view. Readers are welcome to submit letters for publication regarding any story published or any school issue. We will make every effort to publish any letter that is not libelous, obscene or inflammatory. Letters longer than 250 words may be edited for length. Letters may be given to any staff member, delivered to A8 or emailed to dbott@stocktonusd.net.
e are accustomed to the hustle and bus- a certain amount of time. A block schedule can’t tle of students scurrying to their classes guarantee students will be engaged throughout the on 1-6 period days. We are in constant entire period, but a 59 minute class will undoubtmotion. Moving from class to class, trying to edly have students who can’t keep up to the pace retain knowledge from six different subjects in one of the teacher. day. I’ve been that student, sitting in class with a This kinetic frenzy was eased by a decision teacher trying to teach two lessons at once because teachers made four or more years ago, when they according to the district, we were behind on the decided to integrate block days into our schedule. material. As a student, I am relieved when Wednesday I feel insulted when students ask for a better and Thursday arrive because I know for once I will in-depth explanation of a subject and some teachnot only be ers reply with, productive but “Well, I’m I will have a sorry, you’re higher chance just going to The new schedule teachers voted for will include: of underhave to keep ff All school days will be periods 1-6 standing the up. Find a tumaterial. My tor to explain ff 27 minimum days throughout the year teachers tend it or go to the to go in depth ff 19 collaboration days for teachers Homework and the added Center.” SOURCE: PRINCIPAL ANDRE PHILLIPS amount of In all fairtime provides ness, it isn’t for a more flexible and overall comfortable class. entirely their fault that they run out of time. In fact, the Science Department usually saves I recently talked to a former teacher about their best treats for these days. We get to explore this situation and we agreed that a block schedule ideas and apply our knowledge by performing labs provides the difference between quantitative work for two hours. and quality work. In my foreign language class, I actually under- According to a North Carolina Public Schools stand what I’m saying instead of reciting what I study, the block schedule format allows for higher hear. student retention in foreign languages. It also A block day is a great use of time. allows for more in depth work in social studies, But others do not agree with this. English and math classes. Quality labs in science Every year, teachers review whether to approve classes, quality products in drama, video producthe block schedule for the upcoming school year. tion, yearbook, ASB and more. This year, the 1-6 schedule option won by a twoIt makes me wonder why a teacher, who seems to thirds majority. have the best intentions for their students, would One major argument against the current rather trade the opportunity of higher retention format is that students become less engaged after for a hastily driven class.
2016-17 BELL SCHEDULE
REPORTERS SaraAbdeltawab GamelaBrice LouisFuentez RosaGarcia StephanieJimenez MatthewKimani JeffersonLeiva StephanieMatsumoto JuliaRosete JoAnnSagaral ArrianaSmith LuciTomas
EDITORS CelineLopez, editor-in-chief AraceliValencia, news editor MatteoDanforth, opinion editor PhillicityUriarte-Jones, features editor EstefanyNunez, entertainment editor SathinaFlores, sports editor MarleenePheav, web editor My’KaylaMoore, photo editor AngelGonzalez, graphics editor DonBott, adviser Follow us on Facebook (Stagg Line) as well as Twitter and Instagram (@staggonline). Current and older issue PDFs are available at issuu.com/staggline
Opinion
04.15.16
E M O J I E Q U A L I T Y
Messages
Rosa Garcia
Details
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he use of emojis to show expression and emotion over text has become a ridiculously fun and almost universal practice, almost being a texting norm. But have you ever stopped to look at the emojis used to represent professions? Almost all of the professions are shown as male, which raises the question; why aren’t women getting equal emoji time? Recently, YouTube streamed an ad from the company Always who were asking young girls whether emojis truly represent them. The girls responded by explaining how important it was to have emojis that represent women fairly despite how insignificant that may seem to others. The ad’s purpose of empowering girls through emojis was also aided by the use of the hashtag likeagirl in hopes of bringing confidence to the younger generation of girls. Always is trying to promote girl power generally because many young girls tend to have insecurities and question their own potential. After the ad was released, I was one of many viewers who realized how blind we can be about gender stereotypes. It’s worth pointing out that dismissing this topic says a lot about the social issues women today have to deal with. Aside from the demeaning overgeneralizations, women are bombarded with labels of all sorts. The absence of girls in the profession emojis is another example of gender inequality. Always’ campaign has simply brought attention to this issue that challenges the conventional male dominance. Human emojis should represent the realistic concepts of diversity, including gender equality among all professions. Because emojis are widely implemented in communication through texting and social media, it then becomes even more important to bring change so that young girls don’t continue to set limits on themselves. Something seen as insignificant subconsciously has a detrimental effect. From a girl’s perspective, it’s degrading to know that women are still not given equal recognition for their contribution in the work force. We are all equally capable and qualified for any occupation. Women deserve more than emojis that just show facial expressions or expectations of being girly. The issue of emojis is just a small battle in the push for equal opportunity.
Send
GRAPHIC BY ANGEL GONZALEZ AND ROSA GARCIA
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3
Stagg Line
Planned Parenthoood is necessary
P
ro choice is not pro abortion. Let’s make that clear. As most debates on social issues go, some people, namely conservatives, continue to force the precepts of their religion on the rest of society while crying about religious freedom and the oppression of their beliefs by others. Pro choice activists, however deviant to some we may seem, maintain that our advocacy is for freedom of opportunity. With this debate comes the blind, ignorant, and passionate denouncement of Planned Parenthood. Carly Fiorina is noCelineLopez torious for her fire-fueled speech at the Republican debate back in October. “Watch a fully formed fetus on the table,” Fiorina said, “its heart beating, its legs kicking while someone says we have to keep it alive to harvest its brain.” She cites leaked videos Centers estimated that of “exposing” Planned Parenthood of such horrible actions, a claim total services offered: later disproved when the videos ff 45 percent were for were found to be fabricated. STI/STD testing/ Her public display is the perfect example of the ignorance cirtreatment culating this debate. While her intentions may be good-hearted- ff 31 percent were for contraception ly based on religious views, they still are rooted in the denial of ff 7 percent were for basic human rights. cancer screening/ All of the efforts to defund prevention vital programs such as Planned Parenthood and the Affordable ff only 3 percent of Care Act show complete apathy services offered by by the Republicans to the people they serve. Not only do these Planned Parenthood programs provide affordable, were abortion related accessible and quality health SOURCE: PLANNED services to those in poverty or not previously covered by health PARENTHOOD 2014-15 insurance, they show a commitANNUAL REPORT ment to public service in which our representatives do not. Despite what Republicans will tell you, Planned Parenthood receives little to no funding for actual abortion procedures. Title X, a federal family planning program, does not allow any of their funding to Planned Parenthood to be allocated for abortions. Medicaid, a health care program for low-income Americans, contributes 75 percent of Planned Parenthood’s federal funds. However, Medicaid only allows funding to be used for abortions in special cases of rape, incest, or to protect the woman’s life. So, defunding Planned Parenthood in reality will not defund abortion services, which make up merely 3 percent of the center’s services. Defunding Planned Parenthood will defund STD tests, screenings for both breast and prostate cancer, access to contraceptives and family planning and counseling services that are all meant to protect health, educate people, and possibly prevent unwanted pregnancies. Although the name is pro-choice, the simple fact is that many don’t have the privilege of choices. Planned Parenthood provides all genders the access to affordable health care otherwise unattainable to them. And while politicians can use Planned Parenthood as a scapegoat for their own personal agendas, people with no other option use it to live.
MEDICAL SERVICES
Stop obsessing over the ‘summer body’
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ith summer fast approaching, it’s almost Lane Bryant privileges to televise their lingerie impossible to scroll through Instagram commercial, claiming it was “indecent.” The comor watch a television program without mercial shows larger-set models doing everyday seeing an ad promoting weight loss or dietary sup- activities such as kickboxing while showing off the plements. These ads are usually lingerie. In reality, the ad was no accompanied by corny slogans more indecent than any other like Take this pill and you’ll have underwear ad. a summer body in no time. Victoria’s Secret, on the other I realize that ultimately, a hand, is allowed an entire fashbusiness’s main goal is to make ion show to showcase the debut money by persuading consumers of their new lingerie.The only to buy their product. Howevthing that a viewer could coner, the extent the business will sider “indecent” with the denied go to conjures a message that ad is the scene which focuses on is not only detrimental to the a mother while breastfeeding. buyer’s health but toxic to their Aside from that, the only differself-confidence. ence between the commercials These ads tend to air more are the size of the models. during warmer seasons, after Some media, however, have a long holiday season of feasts taken a step in the right diand sugary sweets. While there rection by embracing curvier is nothing wrong with a person women. Sports Illustrated’s ArrianaSmith working out and eating healthy latest swimsuit edition features to be more fit, if a person is plus-size model Ashley Graham, comfortable in their skin, they shouldn’t feel the who has become known as an advocate for body need to conform to society’s harsh expectations. acceptance. Recently, television networks have denied
ART BY JULIA ROSETE
While it may seem like I am advocating obesity, I am not. I acknowledge that being overweight can lead to various health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Just like the old saying “don’t judge a book by its cover,” a person’s size does not define their health. A visibly bigger person could be healthier than a physically smaller person. Then the question becomes how does someone define healthy? Is healthy someone leaning over a toilet, forcing their lunch back up in fear of gaining a few pounds?
It’s time to face the fact that society’s “norms” have driven people to the extremes in order to lose weight. It is easy for a person to feel inferior around this time of year when the pants become shorts and longsleeves become tank tops. That’s okay, but it’s also okay to be confident. There is nothing wrong with putting on that swimsuit this summer even if you don’t have the flattest stomach. What’s not okay is someone feeling like they cannot wear what they want because society has a different perception.
4
Features
04.15.16
the
What’s on your plate?
PHOTOILLUSTRATION BY STEPHANIE MATSUMOTO
Economic, cultural factors help to determine good health CelineLopez Culturally, socially, financially we are different. The divisions are endless, and so are the factors contributing to healthy — as well as unhealthy — lifestyles. Consider, to begin with, diabetes. This seventh-leading cause of death among Americans kills more people in San Joaquin County than in any other county in California. According to a 2005 California Health Interview survey, 70 percent of adults are overweight or obese and therefore are more likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes. An estimated one out of three children born in the 2000s will suffer from this disease. It all begins with awareness. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines health literacy as “the degree to which individuals have the capaci-
ty to obtain, process and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions.” Due to limited access to knowledge, nearly nine out of 10 adults lack the skills needed to successfully manage their health and prevent illness. EXTREME POVERTY A study by the University of California, Davis, finds that minimum-wage employees are more likely to be obese than those earning higher wages. “Our study clarifies a link that has been assumed but difficult to prove,” said Paul Leigh, senior author of the study and professor in the UC Davis Center for Healthcare Policy and Research. “The correlation ... was very strong.” While California has the eighth-largest economy in the world, it also has the nation’s highest poverty rate. According to the Census Bureau, almost one-fourth of California’s population of 38 million lives below
the poverty line. A 2014 American Community Survey found that 15 percent of people in San Joaquin County were unemployed, compared to less than 10 percent of the national population. In addition, about one out of eight people in the county receive Food Stamp/SNAP benefits, with almost one out of five people living below the poverty level. Living in poverty makes it more difficult for working class parents to support and feed a family according to nutritional and dietary requirements. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends that a family of four spend an average of $198 on food per week on a “low-cost plan.” Even with this suggested allowance, families can still struggle to meet nutritional needs because of other factors like easy access to grocery stores. Most families in these situations rely on school meals to fill their children’s stomachs when dinner is
EMPTY BASKET? local grocery stores
full service grocery store* cultural market discount store Stagg’s attendance boundary * a full service grocery store is regularly stocked with fresh fruit and produce.
To see the interactive graphic, visit staggonline.net
GRAPHIC BY MARLEENE PHEAV
tendency to eat fewer vegetables than whites, the entirety of this cultural diet is not unhealthy. Hispanics and Latinos have a lower fat intake, according to Diet Health, Inc., eating less unhealthy fat and sugar such as candy than other ethnic groups and generally having higher intakes of fiber.
CULTURE Making up nearly 40 percent of the San Joaquin County, Hispanics and Latinos also have one of the highest rates of diagnosed diabetes at 12.8 percent. According to 2014 California School Ratings, Hispanics and Latinos are also the predominant ethnic group at Stagg, at 54 percent, while whites, blacks, and Asians follow at 15, 14, and 9 percent, respectively. Some of the primary components of their diet include grains, beans, and red meats. However, while some aspects of this diet are not the most nutritional, such as their
ACCESS Discount food stores in recent times seem to be taking over Stockton as full service grocery stores are shutting down. As the graphic below suggests, 12 full-service grocery stores are within boundaries of Stagg’s attendance area along with seven discount stores. Some areas in Stockton have less easily-reachable grocery stores that provide options such as organic, cultural and vegan foods. With the growing vegetarian and vegan population, reaching 16 million Americans in 2014, the low supply of foods free of
animal byproducts hinders non-meat eaters from receiving the nutrition needed to live a healthy lifestyle. Stockton residents subject to this geography are then forced to rely on discount stores, which do not provide so big a selection and usually have less fresh produce. In addition, working parents who do not have the luxury of time or money to travel long distances to find a quality supermarket may even resort to buying fast food for dinner. In 2013, the San Joaquin County Community Health Assessment Collaborative identified a few of the top needs of the county: lack of health education, limited cultural competence in health fields, limited access to nutritious foods, and food security. This study demonstrates that these deficiencies are linked to obesity and diabetes. Despite food insecurity, people still get by. With advancing technology and political reforms, society is looking forward to filled plates and full stomachs.
How healthy is my cultural food?
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Different aspects of ethnic foods provide many of the nutrients that the human body requires. These are just some examples of how cultural foods can be healthy and tasty. FISH is a staple food in East Asia. It provides many nutrients, includng Omega 3, protein, and vitamin D. In East Asian cuisine, fish is steamed, which preserves all the nutrients that can be absorbed by the body. CORN is widely used in Latino food such as tortillas. It is also eaten whole. It is rich in carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and vitamin A. Eating it roasted whole or in tortillas minimizes the loss of these nutrients. FUFU is a favorite in West African culture. It is made from cassava flour being filled with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. As a type of bread it can be consumed fairly regularly. It is eaten in soups or alongside other vegetables. GRAPHIC BY ANGEL GONZALEZ
Poor not always attracted to fast food Ethnic meals meet MatthewKimani
It is common to see a full-service grocery store close down only to be replaced by discount food stores here in Stockton. Raley’s on West Hammer Lane recently closed and was replaced by Food Source. A few years ago, Centro-Mart on Alpine Avenue was replaced by Dollar General. There are seven discount grocery stores within or very near Stagg attendance boundaries, compared to 12 full service stores located mainly along the perimeter. Five cultural markets, consisting mainly of Asian and Mexican meats and spices, are also located within Stagg’s attendance area. LEGEND
not an option. According to 2014 data by California School Ratings, 63 percent of Stagg students are eligible for free or reduced lunch. Since the majority of students qualify, Stagg is the one of the only high schools in Stockton Unified School District to have a free meals school-wide.
Stagg Line
It is easy to believe that the poor are more likely to eat fast food. Stockton is, after all, simultaneously among the poorest and fattest cities in the nation. But are they really? And if they are, then why? “I really think people with low economic status are more of a victim of the food industry,” Guidance Chair Chan Sam said. He argued that the poor eat more fast food, because fast food companies fill their neighborhoods
and the area around their workplaces with fast food franchises. “If you look at people with lower economic status, they work hard, but they work longer hours,” Sam said. “They don’t have an hour and a half to cook healthy food. It’s not that poor people disregard nutrition. It’s just that the lack of time forces them to eat fast food.” Interestingly enough, not all interviewees agreed with Sam. “You’re poor in my eyes if you can’t meet the basic neces-
sities of life,” senior Mohannad Nasser said. “If you’re really poor, you wouldn’t be spending $15 on fast food.” Though Nasser’s definition poverty is unusual, most interviewees agreed with him on one thing — fast food is expensive. “I don’t think poor people eat more fast food than wealthy or middle-class people, because to me, fast food is expensive,” Healthy Start Coordinator Judy Rauzi said. “You can go to the store and get a meal for 10 bucks and feed
six people.” And they really don’t eat fast food more than the wealthy.. According to a 2013 Gallup poll on fast food consumption, 50 percent or more of Americans who make at least $30,000 per year eat fast food at least once a week, whereas 39 percent of Americans who earn less than $20,000 per year eat fast food with the same frequency. Two out of five is, nevertheless, a significant percentage of those in poverty. So why do they eat fast food? Some point to psy-
chosocial factors. “When I go to my poor friends’ homes, they don’t have food,” sophomore Shania Larkin said. “You see, poor people, especially in the ‘hood, don’t want to explore. They feel like it’s the end for them. They feel like they need to do everything the quick way.” Billy Horace, the coordinator of SB 65, a program dedicated to improving student retention and achievement, opts for a more mundane explanation. “Times have changed, times
are faster,” Horace said. “Fast food is so convenient. That’s like waking up with your clothes on — you’ve just got to walk out the door. If it’s convenient, we’re probably going to do it the way we shouldn’t do it.” In short, the wealthy, the poor, and the comfortable all eat more fast food than they should. Those with more money just take it further than the rest. “Everybody is playing the game,” Horace said. “It’s just, what level are you playing the game?”
Millennials embrace meatless lifestyle SathinaFlores
Documentaries that show the abuse performed on animals can be powerful and lead certain people to a significant crossroads. Class of 2013 graduate Sarah McLaughlin has faced several crossroads since leaving Stagg, causing her to become vegan after having been a vegetarian for two years. “I realized it was hypocritical of me to proclaim that I loved animals,” she said, “while still paying for products that come from a system where animals are harmed and exploited for food.” Veganism is important to McLaughlin. “It allows me to live my values of compassion and sustainability and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made.” McLaughlin, now a senior at UC Santa Cruz, didn’t want to “contribute to a cruel and unsustainable system” anymore, so she decided to replace animal products with vegan foods. She watched videos that showed what goes on in slaughterhouses. “It’s horrifying,” she said. She couldn’t pay for that anymore, so she became vegan. Senior Gabrielle Beutel has been vegan for two
“It was a complete 180 change. I stopped being moody all the time and I just got happier knowing that I wasn’t harming any animals.”
Gabby Beutel senior
months. “It was actually really fun becoming a vegan since I love cooking,” Beutel said. “So when I switched over, it allowed me to explore even more recipes.” Beutel is vegan in part because she’s lactose intolerant. After cutting out dairy, she dedicated her life to being vegan. Unlike McLaughlin and Beutel, who stumbled upon veganism, junior Jordyn Garcia grew up in a household that has always eaten organic and
healthy food. Garcia has been vegetarian for three years and said that it’s “not just a lifestyle, but for a cause as well.” She has watched PETA videos that made her “sick to (her) stomach. Even though 99 percent of the world does eat meat, I’m glad I’m not a part of that.” Garcia’s favorite food was white meat, and going out to eat was not easy, because she was surrounded by meat. The first weeks were the hardest
she said, “because I still remember how good it tasted but once a month or two passed, I completely forgot what it tasted like.” Now she says it’s super easy to avoid it. “It’s weird I really forgot what all types of meat tastes like.” McLaughlin said it wasn’t difficult being vegetarian because “it’s pretty easy to find vegetarian food at most restaurants.” She said that the hardest part of being vegan in college is “the social aspect. It’s hard when friends and family are super critical of your choices and often tease or make fun of you.” Now she has found that most of her friends and family have stopped teasing her and started asking questions because they see that she is healthy and happy she made the change. As for Beutel, her parents are busy so she “tends to do a lot of the cooking in the house.” Even when they do cook she “just made (herself ) another dish that was vegan.” She said “I prefer packing my own lunch,” because the cafeteria does not have many vegan options. Beutel said that when she started, “it was a complete 180 change. I stopped being moody all the time and I just got happier knowing that I wasn’t harming any animals.”
nutritional needs LuciTomas For some, fast food is not an option. It’s more about cooking in their home kitchen. “I personally don’t like fast food,” senior Teresa Joao said. She and her family first came to Oakland eight years ago from Angola. “We basically cook home food.” In her household she and her family cook various dishes. As she described the African tradition she said, “Women cook and men go to work.” Her mother taught her how to be clean and that cooking is an important part of life in order to be ready for marriage. Joao said that the main dish in Angola is fufu, similar to tortillas. “(To make it) you boil water until hot, add cassava flour, and then corn starch. You can eat this side dish with almost anything, like sauce or chicken.” Joao also mentioned that fish drying is a popular traditional method in Angola. They get the fish and put it in the sun for two or three months until dried. After washing, the fish is ready to be eaten. This fish meal contains a lot of protein that is essential to their diet. Her family goes to an African specialty store in Oakland to buy ingredients. Junior Aaron Vang is of mixed descent but is influenced more by his Hmong side. His mother and grandmother cook all the meals, which include fried fish, and chicken with vegetables. Vang said his grandmother grows all the vegetables in their backyard instead of buying them at the store. It is like a routine for them and saves them money. His favorite dish is curry noodles. “My grandmother cooks it on occasion when family comes over and I’m all hyped up,” Vang said. Once, while barbecuing, he ate so much rice that his friends thought he was obsessed with the food. “I like to eat rice with every meal because it makes the meat taste better,” he said. Senior Graciela Cerrato also comes from a home cooking culture. Cerrato and her family came here three years ago from Honduras. Cerrato said that Honduran food is very similar to Mexican food except that “Honduran food is not as spicy.”
PHOTO BY PHILLICITY URIARTE-JONES
The food that senior Teresa Joao eats as a part of her culture does not differ much from what is eaten locally. Rice, beans, and chicken are a common meal for her family.
A traditional dish that Cerrato’s mother makes at home is baleadas, a thick flour tortilla. “You can put eggs, beans, cheese, or sour cream in it,” Cerrato said. “It’s a good source of protein.” The healthiest food she described are sandwiches and salads. For the sandwiches, they prepare their own meat then they add onions with pepper. Honduran salads are composed primarily of chicken and tomatoes. “When my mom cooks, I feel like I’m at home because (it) has that Honduran flavor,” Cerrato said. “When I cook, I try to replicate that flavor.”
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STAGG YOUTUBERS Students take on making videos as creative hobby SathinaFlores
YouTubers believe in the power of “Do it yourself!” They create their own channels building subscribers over time. And with tons of subscribers, YouTuber Jordan Quattlebaum, a senior, has a passion for entertaining his audience. He has 2,107 subscribers. When Quattlebaum uploaded his first YouTube video, three years ago, he received 86 views but didn’t do it to get noticed but to make people laugh. “It gives me a great feeling
inside,” he said, “when I can make people happy.” Back in 2011 he saw YouTubers Shane Dawson and Smosh making sketches and realized “that (he) wanted to make videos” with his friends. Although he noticed his friends lost interest and from that point on he said, “I made my new channel Jortaded.” Having his own YouTube channel Quattlebaum described it as “running your own TV show you upload weekly and people will watch and com-
ment and make you feel like a mini celebrity.” His channel is filled with comedy sketches, short films, omega videos — which are web cam chats that he enjoys going on just to mess with people. Every video idea he ever created comes from his surroundings. He said that these ideas “will pop up” out of nowhere. They “all (come) from my crazy head,” he said. Quattlebaum’s video production class helps in ways that allow him to do sketches with
PHOTO BY MY’KAYLA MOORE
Senior Jordan Quattlebaum has 2,107 subscribers on his YouTube channel “Jortaded.” The types of videos he posts are comedy, vlogs, short films and omega videos.
more of a variety of scenery for instance the nurse’s office. Not only that but he has a lot more actors. He likes that “there’s a variety in every episode and the audience can be like “Hey there’s a new guy.” In his video “Grade Fade” he was able to film in the A-wing and got to play a crazy teacher. He said, “There will be a sequel to Grade Fade,” his most popular sketch that has 191 views. As he gets older he hopes to be a director making movies, be a comedian, or being out in front of the camera — being able to act. “Having this YouTube channel has become such a part of my life,” he said. “If I don’t do it I actually get depressed and bored. So for a fact it makes me know that this is my purpose and this is what makes me happy.” Others use YouTube as a platform to gain popularity virtually. Senior Joseph Guzman and his friends are in the video production class and “most of the video projects done are assignments” for the class but they share it because “(they) like the idea of becoming famous,” he said. “The videos we make are based off the skills and techniques we learn in Video Production,” Guzman said. But behind every video they simply add a relatable story to the techniques to make a powerful effect. Their video “Ground Zero” is a dramatic film about a virus in school. Guzman said they “plan on making more videos — videos that are not homework based” but are waiting till they get the proper equipment and a bigger crew.
04.15.16
‘People vs. OJ’ entertains younger viewers My’KaylaMoore
Many don’t know all the details of the most infamous murder case of the 20th century — the O.J. Simpson murder story. Teens especially may be in the dark, as this happened before they were born. This case was the only thing people could talk about before, and now it has been brought up again. Fox Network launched a television mini-series entitled “The People V.S. O.J. Simpson,” which debuted on Feb. 2. The show talks about the case and sheds some light on O.J. from his point of view. One can see how he was feeling and what he was thinking of while these events occured. Cuba Gooding Jr., who plays O.J. himself, does a great job of showing the viewers O.J.’s true feelings and emotions with his acting. An example of this is in the first episode where, while being chased on the freeway by the police, O.J. was in the backseat with a gun to his head debating whether or not to commit suicide with tears running down his face, thus showing a more soft side of the person people see as a nothing more than a murderer. They may have wanted to put more emphasis on the fact that O.J. was the antagonist, but in the end he was still set free, because of the glove that he alledgely killed them with, which didn’t fit his hand. A good thing about the show is that you can see things people might not have wanted to talk about at the time of the case. There’s been speculations that some minor details portrayed in the show didn’t happen in real life, like O.J. hiding in Khloe Kardashian’s room, trying to figure out how he was going to escape the situation, whereas people said it was actually in Kim’s room. But that’s exactly what they are — minor details. It hardly matters if something happened in the room next door, or if it happened at 2 o’clock and not 2:10. Some say that these tiny details are crucial, because it could make a difference in what happened. While that may be true, the case already happened so it’s not like the show is going to rewrite history. Whether these speculations are true or not, this series is still a good way for people who are interested in the case to see it in a way that is entertaining, but educational at the same time.
Animation becomes real GamelaBrice
This year Walt Disney’s animated pictures have taken a backseat to some of the company’s new projects involving the live action recreation of movies like “Tarzan,” “Jungle Book,” “Snow White,” “Mulan,” and “Dumbo”. So, why the sudden hype of live action movies? It seems that the success of other recently released live action movies such as “Alice in the Wonderland,” “Oz the Great and Powerful,” and “Maleficent” has driven Disney to believe that observers are catching on to the new trend. The profit that has been gained is what is being put towards these proceeds. Fortunately for those who enjoy Disney movies this is a whole new experience, and for those who have watched the previous version of them, this is not only a “blast in the past” but an opportunity to relive moments with their favorite childhood characters. “I think them making it seem so real could be a good or bad thing depending on the person,” said sophomore Helen Alcauter. “For us it may seem cool, but for younger children it may take away the fantasy of it all.” For some observers the “family movie” category that Disney has developed over time is becoming no more. “‘Tarzan,’ for example, has already set a standard with its previous version that cannot be followed,” said senior Alex Abdallah. “I believe it’s becoming more
about the money (being gained from the movie) rather than what the younger audience wants, and that takes away the ‘Disney family’ aspect of it.” However, “Tarzan” is being recreated as a reminiscent. Creators are giving observers a lifelike experience in hopes of showing a different perspective. This is not to strip them of their childhood memories, but allow them to reconnect with new characters and possibly a few plot twists. But, the plot is not the only thing that changes; different graphics, special effects, and animatronics are incorporated as well. Although there are multiple additions to the film observers may not be aware of the tremendous amount of labor and time it takes to complete them. Technology plays a huge part in the making of live action movies as well as the marketing process. But something that few people may find undesirable is the fact that the rate of tickets sold may not be as high due to the expensive cost of 3D movie tickets. However, some say the difference in experience is worth it. “This could be a good or bad thing,” Alcauter said. “Seeing it as a cartoon first and now with real people could take away the fantasy of it all.” However, this all contributes to the illusion that is being portrayed in these movies. Yes, real people are being cast, but that is what brings the fantasy to life, this allowing observers to further their imagination; rather than be enclosed to just a cartoon.
This mini-series sheds light on the personal feelings and thoughts of O.J. It gives young viewers an inside look on the most infamous crime story of the twentieth century.
Empresso’s local charm lures customers in MatteoDanforth
PHOTO BY MATTEO DANFORTH
Empresso also features artwork produced by Stocktonians. A month before the Star Wars premiere, the walls of the coffee shop were riddled with renditions of iconic characters from the movies.
Our generation is dominated by international food and drink chains. For caffeinated beverages, the industry is ruled by Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Seattle’s Best Coffee, but most notably Starbucks. One does not drive into a town without passing a Starbucks or two. In Stockton alone, there are 17 Starbucks coffee shops. Although Starbucks is a popular chain, local venues boast a certain charm that can’t be found in a widespread business. If a Stocktonian were to talk a walk down the famous Miracle Mile, before they hit Stockton Adult School, they would be in
front Empresso Coffee House. Empresso is a hidden gem, buried under the hard shell of Starbucks that shrouds it. In many ways, Empresso is superior to Starbucks and other coffee chains. When I picture the average Starbucks, before I even think about the drinks, I see a cramped space with ridiculously high prices for a small or a tall or whatever it’s called. Then there’s Empresso. Even before you walk in, several tables are outside to sit down at and you can see people with their dogs, sitting down, enjoying a coffee. Once you walk in the double doors, you’ll notice the open atmosphere. Multiple tables and
chairs are scattered around and a long center table with a large coffee mug centerpiece are all in this spacious venue. Now take a look at the menu. What’s the first thing you’ll notice? The inexpensive prices. For $5, you could get yourself a large of just about anything (I’d personally go for the grasshopper). The many choices include assorted frappuccinos, specialty coffees, smoothies, juices and teas. Empresso even makes pastries and sandwiches that are prepared in house. Empresso falls in a special category of local businesses, though. The coffee house is a
popular rendezvous for adults and teens alike. You could meet up for a study group, bring in your laptop and browse the web, or just hang out with friends. The welcoming atmosphere of Empresso destroys the assumption that Stockton is unpredictable and unsafe. Other than being a Stockton hotspot, Empresso is also a sort of a community forum. A large peg board right next to the entrance is dedicated to local events and even services that are being offered by locals. The stupendous service, unique flavors, and community atmosphere makes Empresso Coffee House the ideal meet up spot to have a coffee and share some laughs.
04.15.16
Luera makes best of four years in golf
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Track girls on the move
JuliaRosete Green grass stretches across the ground, seemingly endless, and though there may be several people there, there is no sound to be heard. Senior Diego Luera uses this opportunity to focus and make sure each swing is perfect; to win and record a lower score than your opponent. When Luera joined the golf team his freshman year these were some of the things he had to develop in order to play the sport. Going out with his dad to the golf course every other weekend, Luera never really picked up on the sport. When his dad suggested he sign up for golf his freshman year Luera decided to take his advice. The rules of the game were confusing for him in the beginning. Reflecting on his first match he recalls the mistakes he made. From his swing to learning how the scoring worked, “At first, (he) was like ‘get as many swings as you can, like a whole bunch,” Luera said. “I thought the higher the score the better.” From that moment on, those mistakes motivated him to become the best he could be. Since his freshman year, the senior has improved his score from shooting in the 60s to shooting in the 40s. Now one of the starting six players, he remembers winning his first tournament and the excitement he felt. There were so many other people playing that day, Luera was sure he wouldn’t come even close to winning. But actually winning the tournament out of all the others there shocked him. “But then once I realized it, I was like ‘How did that even happen?’” he said. While being a part of a team, he developed friendships with several people on the team, parsenior Alexander Apcar. senior ticularly The two have each other for support and playful competition, constantly trying to help each other improve. “Ever since freshman year, I’ve seen him get better and better,” Apcar said. “I always look up to him, try to get better, and try to compete with him. We just help each other improve to get better.” With many beginners on the team this year, Luera and Apcar have worked together to assist the newer players. “We try to help them get all the fundamentals down like grip, posture, ball alignment, and stuff like that,” Apcar said. The team tried again to go undefeated, but after last week’s loss, they are doing their best to win the rest of their matches. “It’s one team that we lose to, but next time, we could probably beat them and go 14-1,” Luera said. “We still have a good chance here.” Whenever people find out Luera is a golfer, there are always mixed reactions. “They’re like ‘That’s sorry. Why do you play golf?’” he said. Others are surprised to even hear that he plays the sport. “Some of them are like ‘you play golf?’ Like they never thought I would try it,” Luera said. “Some are like ‘that’s boring.’ But some are like shocked to hear it.” To him, though, none of those things matter. Throughout high school, he has encouraged people to join the golf team. “I try to get people to join, some of my friends, but they don’t do it.” When out on the course, Luera loses the pressure of school, home, and practically everything else. “You can just relax out there and have fun.”
“But then once I realized it, I was like ‘How did that even happen?’”
Diego Luera
PHOTO BY ANGEL GONZALEZ
At Elkhorn, senior Diego Luera practices on the putting green. He was perfecting his swing before the match starts against Bear Creek.
PHOTOS BY ARACELI VALENCIA AND PHOTO ILUSTRATION BY CELINE LOPEZ
Girls dedicated to a season of victories StephanieJimenez This last track season has brought the girls a lot of issues that involve lack of participation and size number. The girls in track and field are trying to outrun their reputation. As of last year, the girls track team was composed out of six members. That led the team to be unable to participate in several events. Of course, such news upset the team, and because of that it created weak connections among each other. In other words, “we didn’t have a team,” junior Nicole Richards said. Another conflict that they’ve had to face was that not many girls weren’t as passionate as others. “If we all want to do good we all have to be on the same pagebut that didn’t happen last year,” she said. Runners felt that they were not pushing each other. “Nobody wasn’t trying, so there was no competition, which
“If we want to do good ... we all have to be on the same page but that didn’t really happen last year.”
Nicole Richards junior
meant we weren’t a good team. If there’s no competition, there’s no good runners.” Lastly, runners felt that in order to become a fine team every girl had to find a potential that was lacking. “We all have to participate equally.” Senior Celeste Masuda admits how the majority of girls skipped practice or simply didn’t attend. “There was no commitment.” However, now varsity captain Masuda says it has changed. “I’ve noticed that this year’s
girls are fully dedicated; we’re stepping it up.” Both runners agree that the complaints and goofing off has ceased this year. “I don’t want to run this, I don’t want to run that” is what Richards used to hear during her practices all the time, but that has stopped. Richards strongly believes that this year most of the runners want to “get it done, get over with and defeat the other team.” Once preseason commenced track girls were awakened and realized the potential they have. After six years, girls track
team once again triumphed at a pre season meet in Manteca and won overall the meet title. Freshman Cyvanna Bowen said she was extremely shocked when track and field coach William Carter announced the girls won the overall meet title. “For being my first year I was proud of myself.” “I was happy for my girls and that showed all of us want to get better this year,” Bowen said. “That day we all pushed ourselves until we reached our limit.” Although girls track seem to anticipate an improved season, they still have an absence of runners. “We are working our butts off for the other girls that don’t show up,” she said. “It is hurtful for us, but the girls that come to practice are fully dedicated so that makes us a stronger team this year,” Bowen said. The few runners that are entirely devoted to track hope to have a strong handoff into next season.
Covering new grounds
Atkission twins take close bond to softball field EstefanyNunez Usually twins have boundaries when it comes to doing things together. You can only tolerate so much when you already share a birthday. They prefer to stick together, even on softball field. From learning how to ride bikes together to studying together, Elyse and Alysa have done as much as they could together for as long as they could remember. They never have to stress over being alone. That’s a comfort they’ve admitted to having. “It’s fun because I always have someone to throw to,” Alysa said. “It’s like if everybody else has someone to throw to, I always have my sister.” Their older brother, Joseph Atkission has attended some of their home games before and he observes that they’re really calm on the softball field. Being a year older than his twin sisters doesn’t necessarily mean mentoring them. Joseph preferred to stay out of their way and let them learn themselves. “They do have a bond,” the sophomore brother said. “If they mess up, they tell each other what they are doing wrong.” This connection they’ve cre-
PHOTO BY ARACELI VALENCIA
JV softball was playing Edison with the Atkission sisters, Alysa on the bench and Elyse on third. The team took a loss in that game.
ated allows them to grow and improve. This benefits them as sisters and teammates. The freshmen both admitted to having learned a lot from the sport. Batting, for one, is something they both agreed they’ve improved. “I learn more, the coaches are actually coaching,” Alysa said. “Yeah, in middle school they just cheer everyone on to participate,” Elyse said. Whether one is out on the
field or in the dugout, they genuinely are there to support one another and to have fun. While neither admitted to being better than the other, the sisters said they definitely are happy to have one another for help. Even a few words with each other can make one feel more confident in their skills and attitude. As twins, they do differ. Personality wise, Alysa is very calm
and supportive of her sister while Elyse is very energetic and competitive. Elyse always tries to have some light-hearted sibling competition but knowing her sister well, Alysa doesn’t have any of it. Elyse is on third base while Alysa tends to be placed more in the outfield. “I try to get some competition between us but she’s really laid back,” Elyse said. “I think it’s because she knows I’ll beat her.”
News 04.15.16 Healthy Start’s services not known by all
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CelineLopez
As of March 1, over-the-counter birth control is available in California without age restriction. The law, which was signed in 2013 by Gov. Jerry Brown and is just now going into effect, opens access to hormonal contraceptives for women without requiring a prescription from a doctor or consent from parents. What students may not know is that Healthy Start has been providing similar services for years. “By law, we can give (students) birth control,” Rauzi said, “but since we are on a school campus we ask parents for consent.” At the beginning of the school year, students receive registration packets including a form asking parents whether they want their children to receive services from Healthy Start. Parents have the option to define which services they don’t want, such as family planning services. Using this practice, Rauzi said Healthy Start has not received any complaints from parents. Healthy Start provides most types of birth control. IUD is usually recommended for girls who are considered “at risk” and have already been pregnant before. Those who seek birth control pills are usually given a three-month supply in case they do not have the means to access it elsewhere. “We try to be full-circle,” she said, explaining that the program offers STD testing for sexually-active students who ask for contraceptives. “For a long time we’ve had a really high rate of chlamydia on our campus,” Rauzi said, adding that the same goes for gonorrhea. Students used to be able to get HIV testing through public health, she said, but this service is no longer available despite the demand Rauzi has seen for it in recent years. Rauzi also said that there’s demand from all genders. “I have as many boys coming in for condoms as I have girls getting birth control.” Rauzi has noticed this increase in sexual responsibility, perhaps caused by more awareness. The Be Proud, Be Responsible seminar held weekly from October through March, is a state-funded program aiming to educate teens on
PHOTO BY CELINE LOPEZ Marriage & family therapist David Grayson describes that students, whether they experience issues with teachers, family or peers, can seek therapy at any time through this program.
sex, healthy relationships and decision-making, according to Katrina Garcia, the facilitator of the program. The all-day class was established due to rising rates of HIV and chlamydia in the 15 to 19 age group in San Joaquin County. The seminar was voluntary and students of all grades could attend. “It’s everything you want to know about sex,” Rauzi said. “It showed all the different ways that diseases can be transmitted,” senior Luis Valenzuela said. He added that once the seminar ended he had learned more about sex and the fact that Healthy Start provides family planning services. Freshman Angel Vasquez said that the seminar was a more comprehensive health class than those she experienced in middle school. Rauzi added that the students were asked to demonstrate the application of
ON A ROLL
Habit spreads to halls, classrooms, bathrooms
Junior Javier Nunez was one of many diagnosed with ring worm during wrestling season. In order to prevent the spread, he was not allowed to wrestle for more than a month until cleared by a doctor. PHOTO COURTESY OF JAVIER NUNEZ
Wrestlers worry as disease spreads PhillicityUriarte-Jones “You’re out, indefinitely.” These words were heard by many wrestlers this season, and they had no control over it. A fairly recent medley of skin infections took out just under half the team for the majority of the season. It also branched into other schools across the Sac-Joaquin Section. The Staph infection blindsided many players and seemed inevitable to others. One player in particular suffered immensely. Junior Christian-John Salmasan’s infection covered his neck, arms, and upper chest. Despite not being part of the first wave of those infected, which was predominantly the heavyweights, his infection still shocked him. “I knew what it was, but I didn’t know it could get that bad,” Salmasan said. The whole experience was traumatic for him. “I couldn’t do anything but take my medications and hope for best while I was in so much pain.” The most memorable aspect of his infection was the burning pain. As he has eczema, the infection left his skin severely dry and peeling. “It felt like an open wound covering my body, I had to have it covered up.” The infection varied from player to player, and not all were
a condom on a banana. “It was actually really helpful,” Vasquez said. “I learned a lot of things that I thought I already knew.” She is surprised that a service such as Healthy Start exists on campus. “Some people just can’t go to their parents and ask,” she said. “It’s a safe place to go and get what they need.” Healthy Start also provides counseling services and therapy. Through the state Minor Consent Law, students can receive these services without parental consent. “The law is really on the student’s side,” Rauzi said. A therapist is on campus every day of the week, two are usually present on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and all four marriage family therapists and the supervisor are there on Fridays. David Grayson, a marriage family therapist who has worked at Healthy Start for three years, said that most of the students they see are depressed,
have anger management issues and fight a lot, or have family problems at home. He also said that they see a rise in students with anxiety during finals week. “It’s okay to cry, to show emotion,” Grayson said. Students receive counseling for six to eight weeks, but Grayson said it’s not uncommon to see long-term problems where students revisit therapists year after year. The therapists cannot prescribe medications but they can refer the students to a doctor with parental consent. Grayson calls the therapy program “a good place to express, decompress.” Next year, the supervisor and the therapy program will no longer be supported by funding. “Healthy Start does not have a budget,” Rauzi said. In the second year without a budget, she said, the program needs $6000 to fund the supervising MFT. One source of this funding used to come from Medi-Cal Administrative Activities, but the grant was lost. “I’m actively looking for funding,” she said. MFT supervisor Nora Williams says the therapy program is vital since most students don’t have access to therapy anywhere else, and guidance counselors are too busy to deal with these problems. “The great thing about Stagg is that it has the Healthy Start program,” Williams said. The loss of the therapy program, she said, would lead to an increase in fights, suicide, and other issues that, with the help of this program, are not as stigmatized. “I think adolescence is such a difficult time, and it’s really critical to have therapeutic and clinical resources for kids.” According to Healthy Start’s records, there were 4830 visits to the center in 2015. Of those visits, counseling accounts for 326, medicine for 601, and sex education for 16, among other services. Junior Alex Qualls, who is a conflict mediator, sees what goes on behind closed doors, reinforcing the overall feeling that Healthy Start is needed. “It’s underappreciated for sure,” he said. “It’s a very valuable resource on campus that students should be taking advantage of.”
as severe as what Salmasan experienced. Senior Alejandro Figueroa was the luckiest of the unlucky. His infection was minor in comparison to those of his peers. It was only a small patch of infection around the upper portion of his face, which he compared to a mosquito bite that you scratch raw and that begins to scab over. He was cleared to wrestle again within two weeks. Despite his relatively good fortune, his early clearance left him with no partner to spar with. “It wouldn’t be fair for a 220 to be wrestling with a 170, there’s an obvious advantage there,” Figueroa said. “I was left shadow-wrestling for a good week or two.” Sac-Joaquin section commissioner Mike Garrison said he had no knowledge of an outbreak in the area at all. “That sort of thing is dealt with internally, within each school.” That did not comfort Figueroa, as there are measures in place to prevent this sort of thing. It seems to him that something slipped through the cracks. “We’re checked for this sort of thing,” Figueroa said. “They examine basically all exposed skin, which is a lot when you’re in your singlet.” “It may have been no one’s fault, but it feels like it could have been prevented.”
StephanieMatsumoto It’s the thrill. Weekly allowances are being bet for the chance of striking it big by rolling dice. Losing comes easy, making the sweet taste of victory all the sweeter. It can seem innocent and even easy to do behind the backs of neglectful adults. However, starting this small hobby, which is played when there’s nothing better to do, can lead those who try it up a broken path. Rings of students who play together are forming all around campus. They play whenever, during breaks, lunch, even in class and allow anyone to join the group as long as they have money. According to one student gambler, the game can be won by rolling a 6, but rolling a 7 or 11 would cause someone to lose automatically. Students can bet anywhere from $1, to $5, or even $20. If they lose all the money they have at the moment, they’re out. But many come back later, ready to try their luck again. “We just
keep playing, thinking we can get our money back if we do.” Money isn’t the only way people can play. One girl talkedabout her experience with gambling. She would see it in class when the teacher wassn’t paying attention or when there was a substitute. Fellow classmates and even friends would do it, not caring about any warnings. “They always want to do it, even if they get in trouble,” the student said. “They don’t even care anymore.” It didn’t really capture her interest until friends asked her to join, just to try it out. The game was fun to her and while the student doesn’t bet money, she plays with her friends when class becomes slow. Another student could only watch as his group of friends deteriorated after getting into the game of gambling. They were no longer able to talk and hang out during lunch, and would instead gamble away dollar after dollar. He watched them get sucked into the game. “People get addicted,” he
PHOTO BY STEPHANIE MATSUMOTO Students gamble outside during breaks and lunches, in bathrooms and even in classrooms. They do it for the fun and the money.
said. “Even if they lose almost all their money, they’ll keep playing till they’re broke.” The student also talked about a darker side to the popular game around campus. He talked about what he has seen while watching others play, the punishment of cheating or leaving on a high roll. If they were caught with trick dice or leaving when they’ve won most or all the money, the student could get beaten. No matter the risks they take, the money they lose, or the trouble they could get in, the addicting feeling students get when they roll the dice keeps bringing
them back. “I don’t really care for whatever consequences,” said one student. “I’m still going to gamble for the fun of it.” After the change in the state’s Education Code, students with dice get detention the first time and after that get suspended. Principal Andre Phillips said that the school must provide students with programs to help stop, but it’s up to the student to decide to go. “(The school) goes through phases,” he said. “Now it’s dice. Then later it will be something else.”
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