2021-2022 Issue 6

the

LANCER

Volume LVI, Issue 5 » March 27, 2022 » Thousand Oaks High School » 2323 N. Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 » www.tohsthelancer.org » thelancer.tohs@gmail.com » Circulation 1,900

BOBA CRAZE The Lancer reviews boba shops around Thousand Oaks. pg. 19

A PASSION FOR WRITING

CHANGE ON THE COURT

STUDENTS STAY INFORMED

Lucas Langford talks about his passion for writing sci-fi novels.

After 25 years of coaching, TOHS boys basketball coach, Endres, is released.

Students comment on the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

pg. 18

pg. 22

pg. 26

PHOTO » KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER

02

NEWS

Hits and Misses

STAFF EDITORIAL

PARKING PROBLEMS

What’s Up and Down with The Lancer Hit: Instagram is brining back its chronological order feed.

Miss: The University of California colleges have released their decisions and the acceptances rates are significantly lower than ever before.

Hit: Russel Wilson and Alex Singleton have signed contracts with the Denver Broncos.

GRAPHIC » KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER GRAPHIC » KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER

Should the high school be more lenient on student parking since the addition of the COVID-19 testing site?

EDITORIAL BOARD

20

yes

6

no

Parking in the student lot has never been easy with the tight spots and rush of students who are inexperienced drivers. But since the addition of the COVID testing site, parking spots have been even more limited and stress levels have been high. Despite the walk, students have resorted to parking in lots adjacent to the school. They’ve also been parking in neighborhoods, the staff lot in front of the school, and even taking up areas that aren’t actually designated spaces.

On top of the COVID testing site there are even less spots as more and more people get their driver’s licenses. At the beginning of the year there are much fewer drivers since most of the sophomores are too young to drive but as the year goes on much more people start driving themselves to school, making the parking lot even more packed.

The school’s response to such actions has been to fine those that violate parking rules. Every time a student violates the parking rules, they receive an orange sticker and their license plate is recorded.

Upon receiving a second orange sticker, a Saturday school is issued.

Students are getting parking violations for several reasons. Some of them are furious while others have more understanding.

“I believe since it is the rules that the violation I got was justified but it was just a warning,” Junior Gage Dunn said.

Students also get in trouble for not having a parking pass. In order to park in the student lots students are required to buy a parking pass and have it on their cars.

“I honestly feel like we should be able to park

without it. I don’t believe that paying for parking at a public school is necessary,” Dunn said.

Students have been complaining about the inconsistency of the punishment as they do not check parking or give out tickets every single day. It seems to be that they will check randomly once every two weeks or something.

The students that are having the most problems are those that start at second period. There aren’t enough spaces to accommodate them by the time they arrive, forcing them to park off campus or in spots they are not supposed to like handicap spots.

“I don’t like the stricter punishment for violations because I have had to park in a neighborhood a mile away from school for a day because I took my mom’s car for the one day they were checking for passes” Junior Logen Seeger said.

Saturday schools go on students’ permanent record so the punishment is more than just ruining a weekend. Assistant principal, Christina Harrision is the one who give out these violations.

The school could either somehow create more parking or lighten up on the punishments to help curb these complaints. No one is pushing for the COVID testing site to move or go away but it is what seems to have increased this issue as it took away several student parking spots. However, it is a difficult issue that does not have one simple solution that is guaranteed to work.

With this recent rise in parking violations and more crowded student parking lots, it will be interesting to see if the school will step in to help with this problem or if it will grow into further chaos.

THE LANCER STAFF 2021-2022 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kendall Fleming NEWS Jimena Carbajal Madeline Convy Nathan Yang Ella Wauchope OPINION Boden Adema Jake Crandall Griffin Lester Finley Swanson

ENTERTAINMENT Riley Keeler Rocco Olivo Momo Sonada

IN-FOCUS Miles Cleary Nazo Niazi Molly Norton Abigail Tripp-Bullough

FEATURES Brooklyn Bonilla Karla Garcia Sara Guy Bella Moreno SPORTS Alex Aguilar Becca Glaubke Chase Patterson Hayden Mckinney WEBSITE EDITORS Dylan Cockerill

BUSINESS MANAGERS Remington Beaudoin Grace Williams PHOTOGRAPHERS Dylan Cockerill Tyler Lappin ADVISER Tasha Beaudoin

Miss: Foo fighter drummer Taylor Hawkins just died at the age of 50.

Hit: Elon Musk and Grimes secretly welcomed a second child named Exa Dark Sidræl Musk.

Miss: Apple removed the chargers and earphones from iphone boxes and has made $6.5 billion as a result.

Hit: Boys Varsity Volleyball is currently 1st in league.

The Lancer is the official school publication of Thousand Oaks High School, created and produced by students in Advanced Journalism. This publication as well as additional stories can be found online at tohsthelancer. org. The Lancer reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed inappropriate for high school publication.

Guest editorials and “Letters to the Editor” are welcome, but must be signed and are subject to editing for length, libel, obscenity and grammar. They can be sent to thelancer.tohs@gmail.com.

The Lancer is a member of the Journalism Education Association (JEA), National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA), Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) and NSPA All-American Hall of Fame.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: www.tohsthelancer.org

OFF-CAMPUS PASS

In Russia, it is tradition to give an odd number of flowers for a happy occasion, and an even number to send condolences Roses are the most popular flowers in the U.S. Broccoli is a flower

03

To keep cut flowers fresh for longer, add a bit of sugar or citrus soda to the water in the vase

Several centuries ago in Holland, tulips were more valuable than gold The biggest flower in the world is also the smelliest aka the corpse flower

Animals need the oxygen that plants put out, and plants need the carbon dioxide that animals put out

SPRING BLOOM Flowers are beautiful things, and they make a perfect gift for someone you care about The beautifully prepared flower bouquets and arrangements help express affection, gratitude, admiration and appreciation towards your loved ones on major occasions There is an entire language built around flowers: it is called floriography Researchers state that there are more than 270,000 types of flowers that have been archived and areexisting in the 21st century

For ancient Egyptians, the lotus is a symbol of resurrection and eternal life: it was considered a sacred flower and used in ancient Egyptians’ burial rituals The smallest flower in the world is the Wolffia globosa or Watermeal

The state flower for California is Poppy’s

Flowers first appeared 140 million years ago

https://www.avasflowers.net/facts-about-flowers-for-kidshttps://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/fun-facts-about-flowers https://kidadl.com/articles/mind-blowing-facts-about-flowers-from-around-the-worldhttps://www.bookmyflowers.com/blog/know-the-history-of-giving-flowers-their-mind-blowing-facts/https://www.floweraura.com/blog/the-history-of-flowers

PHOTO » ELLA WAUCHOPE » THE LANCER

04

NEWS

Be the Change The Thousand Oaks Youth Commission has been planning their Youth Leadership Summit for months and it is finally here. Attendees will get to improve their leadership skills and share their voice with community leaders on Mar. 30.

Grace Williams

Staff Writer

On Wednesday, Mar. 30 the City of Thousand Oaks Youth Commission is hosting its Youth Leadership Summit. It is open to students in grades 7-12 who go to school in Thousand Oaks or live in Thousand Oaks.. In order to attend students had to submit an application by Feb. 28 and were notified of their application results on Mar. 16.

“I decided to apply to be able to give my opinion and ideas to a group of like-minded students.” Junior Carter Supple said. “ As I am a part of many different groups on campus, including ASB, SDAC, The Center, etc. I feel I have a lot to offer as far as contributing to the discussion.”

The Youth Leadership Summit also gives attendees an opportunity to speak with prominent leaders in the community. For example, the Thousand Oaks Mayor, City Council, Conejo Recreation and Park District board members will be there to talk with the youth.

“The Theme of the Youth Leadership Summit is “Be the Change”, both youth and community leaders will share concerns and ideas with the goal of keeping the Thousand Oaks community youth-friendly.” City of Thousand Oaks Community Services Analyst Sarah Mailes said.

The event is 4 hours long and will be held in the Kavli Founders Room located in the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. A dinner of pizza and salad will be served there as well. Upon completion, all youth will receive a certificate of completion and community service hours for their time.

The summit is not affiliated with the Conejo Valley Unified School District.

“I am looking forward to meeting everyone at the summit and hopefully being able to bring something back that I can share with the ASB class, or something to work on, to further my leadership ability,” Supple said.

The Leadership Summit has been taking months of planning and hard work to prepare for. There is a sub-committee of the Youth Commission members who were in charge of planning the event including finding the community leaders and keynote speaker that will attend.

“In this final week leading up to the event, we are creating table assignments based on the topics youth want to discuss, packing swag bags, finalizing the food and supply orders, and getting ready for a fantastic event,” Mailes said.

Youth Commission is a youth advisory council that works to advise city leaders on youth-related issues.

“The Youth Commission does many things. We plan events like the Youth Leadership Summit, we give youth input on certain issues or to organizations like Athens and the city of Thousand Oaks.”

Freshman Youth Commission member Ben Glaubke said.

Thirteen commissioners between the ages of 13-18 serve 2-year rotating terms. All members must reside in the city of Thousand Oaks. The Youth Commission meets every month from September through May as needed.

“My favorite part about being on the Youth Commission is that you get to represent the youth of the city and help advise the city on what they could do to reach out and help the youth in Thousand

“The Youth Commission does many things. We plan events like the Youth Leadership Summit, we give youth input on certain issues or to organizations like Athens and the city of Thousand Oaks.”

—freshman Ben Glaubke

PHOTO» THE CITY OF THOUSAND OAKS » INSTAGRAM

Oaks,” Glaubke said.

Thousand Oaks is currently seeking new people to serve on the Youth Commission. Currently, there are 8 scheduled vacancies open.

The next two-year term is from August 2022 to May 2024. Applications opened on Mar. 7 and close on April 6.

If one is interested in the Youth Commission they can apply on their website or sit in on one of their meetings. People can attend either on zoom or in person at the City Hall Boardroom where the meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month at 6 pm.

STUDENT VOICES—(Above) A panel of Youth Commission members meet and share their opinions with representatives from Athens Services at City Hall.

GRAPHIC» KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER

NEWS

POSING—(Bottom) Thousand Oaks Choir members pose for a photo in front of the city of San Luis Obispo’s performing arts center after the festival.

COASTAL CHORALS The Thousand Oaks Choir attended the Central Coast Choral Festival on Friday, March 18, 2022, at California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo where they were adjudicated and explored the surrounding area.

JIMENA CARBAJAL NATHAN YANG

Staff Writers

The Thousand Oaks High School Choir participated in the Central Coast Choral Festival last weekend on Friday, March 18, 2022, at California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo.

“The atmosphere at the festival was very supportive, each choir watched the others and one of the heads of the festival encouraged everyone in the audience to applaud each time a choir was entering or exiting the stage,” said Choir President Sydney Uliasz.

The students had begun learning the festival music in August with a break from October to December for their winter concert then returned to the festival music from January to March.

“We put in numerous hours of work both in class and during extra rehearsals to ensure we would be prepared,” said Choir Historian Jack Levi.

Since the festival was spread out over two days, around 30-40 choirs from 20-30 schools participated in the choral festival with three choirs from Thousand Oaks High School; Treble Choir, Concert Choir, and Vocal Ensemble.

“Newbury Park’s concert choir was also there so it was fun seeing and talking to familiar faces,” said Junior Erika Datu.

At the festival, choirs were professionally adjudicated according to a set of musical criteria which included tone, balance, blend, intonation, diction, accuracy, musicality, and presentation. Grades were given out in letters similar to the school system with “A” as the highest. All three choirs from the Thousand Oaks High School received an “A”.

“We have been practicing our festival set since the beginning of the school year, and it’s probably the set that we are the most proud of. We worked so hard to get it to the level it is at,” said Choir Vice President Hailey Savage.

“Festivals aren’t competitions, they’re meant to be an opportunity for judges to hear us so we can receive feedback and improve ourselves. Choir is a community.” said Datu.

In addition to the festival, the choir also ate dinner at a local restaurant, stayed overnight, headed to downtown San Luis Obispo to an escape room in addition to shopping/lunch. After, they drove back to the Channel Islands for a celebratory dinner cruise.

The choir then returned to school at 9:30 pm on Saturday evening.

“Things like eating, doing escape rooms, and even axe throwing made us all closer as choir members,” said Choir Project Manager Jacob Coners.

“The most enjoyable part for me was connecting as a choir and talking to people I normally wouldn’t hang out with outside of class. It was a fantastic bonding experience, especially given that we haven’t had a normal choir year in two years. Altogether, it was an incredible trip that I will never forget.” said Levi.

“I think our choir really came together on the last night, we had a really good time on the boat. We sang, danced, and felt like it was the first time we were able to let loose as a group,” said Uliasz.

The choir wasn’t able to attend the trip last year due to pandemic restrictions, so this year was an opportunity for members to finally experience choir for all it could offer.

ESCAPED—(Top) Choir members successfully escape from a movie themed escape room shown by the awards marking accomplishments.

ALL PHOTOS » JACK LEVI » WITH PERMISSION

CHEERS—(Top) Choir students eat at Woodstock Pizza, a staple restaurant for California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo students.

05

06

OPINION

... That’s Debatable Should the US become more involved in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict?

YES

At a time of unprecidented crisis in Europe, America is left with the choice of resisting imperialist Russia, or standing down to them.

The US should do more to support Ukraine.

FINLEY SWANSON

The US is involved enough.

JAKE CRANDALL

Staff Writer

“Right now when we need you right now. Remember Pearl Harbor, [the] terrible morning of Dec. 7, 1941. When your sky was black from the planes attacking you,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, “Just remember ... Sept. the 11th… when innocent people were attacked…our country experiences the same, every day, right now.”

On Feb. 24 of this year, Russian leader Vladimir Putin invaded neighboring country Ukraine in an attempt to make it part of Russia.

Zelensky pleaded with the United States to send more aid to Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion. Since the start of the conflict, the US has issued sanctions that limit Russia’s ability to make war weapons but isn’t as involved as other countries.

34% of students believe the US should be more involved- and they aren’t alone.

A number of countries and groups including the European Union, United Kingdom, France, and Canada have sent military aid to Ukraine. War is never ideal, no one wants that aid to have to be used, but to pretend it isn’t needed would be inaccurate.

As Zelensky said after a US offer for evacuation: “I don’t need a ride, I need ammo.” According to the United Nations, over 700 civilians alone- many children- have been killed, millions have already fleed the country, and citizens live in fear of bombs and missile strikes.

Another fear for greater US involvement is Russian retaliation, with Putin in control of over 6,000 nuclear warheads.

Some sources believe Putin’s comments about nuclear weapons are solely to drive fear, though others believe he may have the potential to truly use them. Some, however, believe Putin won’t stop at Ukraine, and it may be worth questioning what message it sends to him if the US allows these crimes.

This war doesn’t just affect us on an ethical and global level, but even impacts our daily lives. Because of the larger global oil market reacting to oil and gas bans against Russia, US prices have been rising. “[The war matters in the US] because gas is going up,” said Nick John William Barry, “I drive a car that chugs lots of gas and the Russian war is making it more expensive for me and my minimum wage job at a sad sandwich shop.”

Whether from the personal impact or global, ethical implications, the truth is that we all have some reason to want more US involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. No one wants this to drag out for years, taking thousands more lives, and the way we do that is by getting more involved and stopping things early.

GRAPHICS » KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER SOURCE » THE GUARDIAN SOURCE » CNN SOURCE » THE WHITE HOUSE SOURCE » THE WASHINGTON POST SOURCE » U.S DEPARTMENT OF STATE SOURCE » UKRAINE GOV

NO

Ukraine was founded August 24th, 1991 Ukraine’s presidnet is the only other Jewish president in the world, besides Israel

2 Billion has been sent in aid from the U.S to Ukraine since 2021

Russia has been accused of a multitude of war crimes

The Russian Rubble is at an all time low

Ukraine is not a part of NATO

The so far suspected civilian death count is suspected to be above 2,500 for Ukraine

Russia has had a long history of imperialism and annexation

Putin was first put in power May 7th, 2000

The vote by the United Nations for Russia to cease the invasion was 141-5

Staff Writer

The ongoing Ukrainian war will, like every conflict in the last centennial, will last for a long time, costing everything this sovereign nation can give. Out of the multitude of students I questioned, all came in favor of the Ukrainian government, so why some may ask, has one of the United States, not sent their full might to help Ukrainians prevail.

The potential cons of getting involved in the affairs of a nation with the world’s largest nuclear arsenal are just too large. This small act of sending troops to protect Ukraine will most certainly spin into Russia declaring America as an enemy, producing a war of untold size.

This war could turn into a repeat of America’s history, history teacher Kerry Lyne, claimed “[It could] be just like Vietnam” elaborating further by saying we could potentially get ourselves in with no way out. Or, in more modern times, “[our] situation in Afghanistan for 20 years.” Both of these conflicts, although popular at the start, grew to be some of the most polarized decisions in American history.

Putin has shown to be an unstable ruler, using universally condemned tactics and war crimes violating every known law established in the Geneva Convention, who knows how many American troops would suffer if a larger war was started. And then, of course, there is always the threat of this war, escalating into a world war America’s response is a prudent one when thinking about the worldwide political ecoscape as a whole, “we are giving huge amounts of help… we are working in a multilateral fashion.” Lyne claimed. In fact, just recently, America has approved a package of $13.6 billion in aid to this nation.

Along with that, why would we need to help further when we have allies in all of the international community through NATO sending assistance to Ukrainians.

And most tragically, even after all was said and done, if America did send further military aid to the Ukrainians through the use of our soldiers, would we have really won in the end? The country would be left ravaged through the use of modern weaponry which we are already seeing be deployed in key territorial cities.

It is simply, and completely, unfortunately, impossible for America to get further involved in this conflict given the possible consequences that follow.

See page 26 for more information

OPINION

Mainstream vs Money

Student Nominations Song/artist/album

The Recording Academy has recently come under fire for the Grammys from celebrities and people are wondering why.

BODEN ADEMA GRIFFIN LESTER

Staff Writers

The Grammys have had many problems for a while now and those problems the way they place their artists in genres they should not be in.The Grammys have a very long and storied history of putting artists in the wrong genre categories,they do this constantly with artists who they think are not popular enough for a Album Of The Year nomination because they believe they do not have mainstream appeal. One of those artists is Tyler The Creator who did not even get a Album Of The Year nomination but ended up winning Best Rap Album for his album Igor, which is not even a Rap Album. Tyler himself contested certain genre placements and he even went as far as saying “I don’t like that urban word; it’s just a politically correct way to say the n-word to me.” The Grammys always vote for the album with more mainstream appeal instead of the better album because they want to appeal to the masses instead of having a fair nomination system. An example of this is when Justin Bieber’s 2016 album “Purpose” got nominated for album of the year instead of albums like “The Life Of Pablo” by Kanye West, “Malibu” by Anderson Paak,and “We Got It from Here... Thank You 4 Your Service” by A Tribe Called Quest and they unfortunately thought all of these were not mainstream enough or not good enough for a Album Of The Year nomination.

The thing is, The Grammys will occasionally nominate a weird or strange album to renew interest in the awards, but then they will revert back to the mainstream opinion the next year so there is no consistency. One of the ways this could be fixed if the Grammys were to improve their voting system in the coming award shows.

The Grammys voting process entirely comprises of a voting committee comprised of currently 1,345 former or current artists, producers, or musicians who are classified as professional

by The Grammys and none of the public. This committee design is surprisingly recent and

voting committees comprised of 15-30 members dedicated to a specific genre or award type. This voting system was heavily criticized by musicians because of how mysterious each one of these groups was.

Therefore, this means that if a popular musician is friends with many of the voting committee members they have a large advantage over a person who maybe makes more consistent and more groundbreaking music but isn’t friends with any one of the voting members. This makes the voting process biased from the very concept and will always favor a more popular artist with more connections.

“They should get more of the people’s opinion and just basic people to listen to music a lot,” said junior Gabby Lopez. Many very popular artists have criticized the Grammys because of this voting process whether it is the former or current voting process. The Weeknd criticizing the Grammys in 2019 heavily influenced the Grammys to change their voting process to the voting process used today.. Many other artists have criticized the Grammys voting process through various social media platforms and boycotted the Grammys some of these artists besides the Weeknd include Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Frank Ocean, Nicki Minaj, Justin Bieber, Drake, Milk Men, and many more.

“It is pretty unreliable,” said Junior Isabella Shattuck.

The Grammys has long been criticized for voting too many pop musicians for every category and doesn’t look into underground and independent musicians for more awards which shows that the Grammys wants to keep choosing pop albums so their viewers are more familiar with the nominations and doesn’t lose viewer retention instead of choosing more innovative and interesting music for awards.

Ultimately the Grammys chooses to vote in mainstream artists again and again which is a result of their voting system that favors artists who have connections with voting committee members and the Grammy’s selfishness to keep viewer retention up.

Up next...

SOPHIE - Is it cold in the water? (from Hailey Savage) Adele (from Samantha Kealey) Lana Del Rey - Living Legend (from Andrea Balcan) Lizzy McAlpine (from Ingrid Slattum) Sik Sik Sicks - Life Sucks (from Olivia Paige) Sweet /I thought you wanted to dance (from Ryan Shafiei) Yung Gravy (from Dallyn Bohn) Will Wood and the Tapeworms (from Sam Bassett) Weezer (from Erin Kaufman) Bon Iver (from Sophia Cristea) Weird Al (from Editor-in-Chief Kendall Fleming)

Percentage of Song of the Year Awards considered pop by the Grammys

Any other genre 17%

only in 2019 was the voting committee changed. Before 2019 the voting process was divided into smaller “secret” SOURCES » bbc.com lofficielusa.com cnn.com dailybruin.com washingtonpost.com GRAPHIC » KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER

07

Pop 83%

08

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ENTERTAINMENT

THE

BATMAN ROCCO OLIVO

Staff Writer

09

WITH THE NEW RELEASE OF THE BATMAN MOVIE, DO STUDENTS THINK THAT ROBERT PATTINSON IS THE BATMAN?

$57 85% 91% 72% 8.4 $6 MILLION MADE ON

On Mar. 4, 2022 The Batman, directed by Matt Reeves, was released only to cinemas. In the past three weeks, The Batman has earned over $600 million world wide and has reached over $300 million in two weeks.

It has been awarded the 24th best second weekend title ever behind Marvel’s “Captain Marvel.” But the question is, does it live up to all the hype it is getting? Well, Lancer Newspaper asked 22 students their opinions.

The movie seems to be one that people are rushing to the theaters to see as 86.4 percent of students Lancer Newspaper asked have already seen Batman in theaters. And the majority of the responses combined 13.6 percent want to see it when it comes out on HBO Max. We also asked people who they believed the best live action Batman villain is. Most people said either the new Riddler portrayed by Paul Dano or the Joker played by Australian actor Heath Ledger. Teenage fans of the Batman movies seem to like the scarier and darker villains more than the traditional comic book based ones.

“I think it is hard to top The Dark Knight and Heath Ledger’s Joker performance but this one to me was better than the others and came close to Dark Knight. It’s my favorite Batman movie at the moment though, that’s for sure,” Junior Bailey Glass said.

Students were also asked to name their favorite superhero movie is of all time. Nine of those responses were The Batman.

We also asked students who didn’t see the movie how they thought the new batman actor would compare to the others. The kids that have seen the movie say that the new actor Robert Pattinson, did way better than Christian Bale.

This new Batman film isn’t just a Batman film for superhero fans, it’s a movie that anybody could find enjoyment in.

“I went in not knowing what to expect but being excited to see an alternate take on Batman, especially with Robert Pattinson.

Overall I really enjoyed it and even saw it in theaters twice,” Glass said.

OPENING DAY

ON ROTTEN TOMATOES OF GOOGLE USERS

LIKED THIS MOVIE

BY METACRITIC

The actor, Robert Pattinson, who plays the hero, has previ ously been in the Twilight saga and Harry Potter. Some people were worried he was not a strong enough presence to play this type of role or thought the other actors did a better job.

“I thought the movie was really good. There was always something going on so even though it was three hours it did not seem that long. However, I do not like Robert Pattinson,” Junior Paige Witham said.

But this opinion against the actor seems to be the minority belief as in the survey 72.7% of respondents said they thought the movie did live up to the hype. While only 9.1% said they would favor the previous interpretations. The other 18.2% said it did not matter to them.

“Overall the movie was great, the plot was awesome! I was actually very surprised at how well Robert Pattinson did as Batman. He played the character very well.” Freshman Maddy Geisler said.

With everyone talking about how great the movie is, it would not be a stretch to say that most people do in fact think it is living up to all the hype it is getting.

/10

FROM IMDb BILLION IN BATMAN

FRANCHISE BOX OFFICE

GRAPHIC » REMINGTON BEAUDOIN » THE LANCER

10

ENTERTAINMENT

Boba Battle RILEY KEELER

Staff Writer

“I would definitely go again. It was so good.”

With the growth of boba online, there have been multiple shops arising in Thousand Oaks, but which boba place should you visit first?

—freshman SIENNA DESAI

“The service and snacks, like the fries, were really good.”

—Sophomore AANDERA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ

RILEY KEELER

Staff Writer

Azuki tea opened September 26th 2021, as a new boba shop in Thousand Oaks, California. Boba as become increaslying popular due to making an appearance on the app, TikTok, in 2020 when big creators started posting about how much they like them. Azuki Tea is very popular among students, especially on school days because it is right next to Westlake Highschool. Not only do kids go for the boba, but also to study and to hang out with friends after school. Being that it is next to Westlake Highschool it’s very student run. The majority of the baristas are students themselves.

“The service and snack, like the fries, were really good”. Sophmore, Aandera Pineda-Dominguez said.

Their classic boba drinks are House Milk Tea, Jasmine Green Tea, Golden Oolong Tea, Dirty Milk Tea, Red Bean Milk Tea, Taro Lover Milk Tea, and Rose Milk Tea. They are also known for their food speacialties.

But Azuki tea is not the only spot you need to check out. Pho&Tea located in the Thousand Oaks Mall, has a various number of items on their menu to choose from. Not only do they have drinks, but they also have lots of food to choose from as well. They have numerous vietnamese food options that give PHOTO » KENDALL FLEMING » THE LANCER

you the ultimate experience along with your choice of boba. Different to other shops, they also offer different types of boba ranging from your typical boba, all the way to mango popping boba. They’re the perfect way to spice up your drink without making too many alterations. Their most popular food item is Rare Pho Filet Mignon, which is made of rare filet mignon noodles, beef broth, onion and pepper. Part of its appeal is that it also glutten free!

“It would definitely good again. It was so good” Freshman, Sienna Desai said.

Along with Azuki Tea, and Matcha Boba this is a very popular student shop because it is in a mall and they are always very busy with customers.

Another popular boba shop in Thousand Oaks located in The Janss Marketplace is Matcha Boba.

Prior to the growth of boba shops, this was the original go-to location for students. They have a multitude of fun flavors including Bubble Tea, Boba Smoothies, and Milk Tea, with different boba flavors for each of them.

And let’s not forget about the iconic pop of the strawing going into the slid. Matcha Boba has that covered for you. Even if students are not a fan of boba, they can always take the drink without. These places are perfect to quench your thirst for boba.

ENTERTAINMENT

PHO TO »

MO M O

SO

N

O

A D

» E TH N LA

et

R CE

k r Ma

he

The Farmers’ market is no longer just for food: they are also selling hubs for clothing, beauty products, jewelery, and crystals.

To T MOMO SONODA

Bustling streets, the shining sun and multi-coloured displays shaded by large tents. Farmers’ markets are an overlooked staple piece in our communities, mutually benefiting businesses and consumers. The first farmers’ markets can be traced back over 5000 years ago to Egypt. Since then, they have provided income for numerous business owners as well as access to small businesses in a climate where large corporations dominate the local economy.

Nevertheless, farmers’ markets are an ageing business.

“Not a lot of kids [come to the market]. Mostly older people,” Los Padres Orchid Company owner Joe Oosterveer said.

“I don’t think the average teen is interested in shopping for food,” freshman Sienna Desai said.

However, farmers’ markets are not just an oasis of fresh produce – they carry other products like clothing, skincare and accessories. Open on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m, at the Westlake Village Farmers’ Market, aisles of vibrant produce and flowers are lined up next to crystal shops and

Staff Writer artisans, and the market features clothing stores such as Lori Finds as well as jewellery businesses like Sage+Stone. Farmers’ markets have evolved from their humble beginnings as produce markets; now providing a space that attracts many customers, young and old.

“Most of the time, there is stuff that I enjoy trying or looking at, so I enjoy going – especially with friends,” freshman McKenna Rochon said.

As the world recovers from the pandemic, it is imperative to continue to support small businesses. Nearly 80% of small businesses continue to report negative effects from the pandemic and 63% report significantly decreased revenue compared to pre-pandemic with minority-owned businesses being more likely to report negative effects than white-owned businesses.

Farmers’ markets provide accessibility to small and local businesses that may be hard to find and support otherwise.

“I wish more kids would come,” Hossinger said. “Over the years, you see some, but not enough.”

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12

IN-FOCUS

Let’s Let’s Garden Garden

SOURCE» Earth Friendly Tips SOURCE» AgriLife SOURCE» MSU SOURCE» Garden Design SOURCE» Healthline SOURCE» Green Matter

As spring has already begun and lots of gardeners are now getting ready for the season of pruning and harvesting. The Lancer takes a look at some Thousand Oaks students, staff, and other local plant enthusiasts.

MOLLY NORTON

PHOTO » CASSIDY KAJITA » WITH PERMISSION

A STUDENT PERSPECTIVE—(Above) Cassidy Kajita’s garden is on bloom and filled with beautiful flowers and succulents. Succulents are drought tolerant, and lovely additions to one’s garden.

Infocus Editor

Whether it is to benefit the environment or our well-being, starting a garden is a typical Spring activity that is of interest to both students and teachers alike.

Many students at Thousand Oaks High School participate in gardening, whether that be on campus or their own backyards, and about 70 percent of TOHS students who haven’t already started a garden, have expressed interested in doing so.

“I’ve been interested in gardening since I was a kid,” sophomore Cassidy Kajita said, “I think my grandparents first got me into it when I’d go over to visit.”

It is often difficult to know where to begin as far as planting the first thing in a garden, but most native Californian plants are drought resistant, which means they are low cost and require little work. There are native plant nurseries in the Ventura County area, as well as being able to check local stores such as Lowe’s or Armstrong.

For some, the process of working in a garden and being involved is a labor-intensive process.

“It’s good for the soul. You get out in nature. And you can kind of lose yourself in the plants and in the dirt.

And watch something grow and develop,” Thousand Oaks High School teacher Susan Ramage said.

The increase in gardens in the world can also be attributed to, like many spikes in outdoor activities, the COVID-19 Pandemic.

According to Scotts MiracleGro’s website, a survey they conducted found that during the pandemic about 55 percent of people were working on a garden or caring for their lawns.

70 % OF STUDENTS SHOW INTEREST IN STARTING A GARDEN

“Trimming back tomatoes when they get too bushy from underneath. That helps produce tomatoes.”

- Mrs. Ramage

“Like anything, you just have to keep trying until it works... tweak some things but other than that, persist.”

- Sophomore Cassidy Kajita

“Plant something that you love because you may get a lot of it.”

- Mrs. Ravitch

“Not over-fertilizing, preferable not using synthetic fertilizers either because it leeches the nutrients out of your soil.”

- Junior Angela Maiorca

GET IN THE GARDEN—(Above) The student garden at Thousand Oaks High School, located next to the C building, is a great example of how students can get involved with gardening.

PHOTO » FINLEY SWANSON » THE LANCER

IN-FOCUS

Starting a garden can be difficult without the right tools and knowledge.

Gardeners from around the Thousand Oaks community give The Lancer some helpful advice for starting gardens.

lth a e H tal

Men

Plants take in the carbon dioxide humans breathe out. If there are most plants in the world, there will be less carbon dioxide which is harmful to people if inhaled at high levels.

an ning is e d r a G ible incred y and anxiet liever. re stress ans that e That m and ad s, the he h ache c a m o st pical the ty y that ilit irritab with comes deis stress d. The crease D that n vitami with s come lso ning a garde with comes n. ni seroto

ABIGAIL TRIPP-BULLOUGH MOLLY NORTON

Environmental

Staff Writer Infocus Editor

The daunting task of starting a garden can be made easy by starting with some simple plants to grow. While California native plants are best for the ecosystem as they are sustainable, require little water, and provide space for pollinators, growing fruits and vegetables is an undemanding way to take that first gardening step.

Snacking peppers are a simple crop to plant that is not incredibly labor-intensive as they are resistant to pests and only require a decent amount of sunlight. If patience is the main inhibitor to actually starting a garden, radishes are an excellent option as they produce the root vegetable relatively quickly, typically a few weeks, and can be used in an abundant amount of dishes- including the leaves.

Also, if getting seeds to plant is an issue, the Grant R. Brimhall library now has free seed packets available in the gardening section of the library.

After figuring out what to plant and where to get the seeds, the next critical part of gardening is research.

Understanding what plants are best for the situation at hand is a surefire way to have a plentiful and successful gardening experience. Of course, unexpected happenings are not unheard of and trial and error is the only way to truly get a feel for the space being worked with.

“Sometimes because of animals, probably rabbits or birds that go in my garden,” Thousand Oaks High School teacher Mrs. Ravitch said, “they end up eating stuff and they made them spread because they eat stuff and then poop, so I just last year, especially, I had my whole yard covered with wild tomatoes,” The type of soil in the ground, water being used, daily climate, insects, and wildlife around the plants are best understood after first attempting a garden, then the possible “issue” can be dealt with.

“Be ready for anything. It might not work out at first and that’s fine,” Kajita said, “like anything, you just have to keep trying until it works.”

Starting to plant a garden from nothing can be intimidating. However, starting small and with easy to grow plants could really be beneficial to getting over the anxieties that come from starting something brand new without having knowledge beforehand.

“With the right opportunity, the right tools, and lots of encouragement,” Conejo Valley Gardening Club president Sherry Molinari said, “They [teens] may come to love gardening!”

Even if starting a garden isn’t feasible, getting out into nature and planting is an option at local community gardens. In Thousand Oaks there is one community garden on 1300 E. Avenida de Las Flores, which rents plots for 50 dollars.

That amount of money might also cause an obstacle, but Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is always looking for volunteers.

Phys

ical H

Grow and ing fruit s v in a egetabl gard es e brin gs h n e mea althy l to th options e kitch person al e quic n k with ly and l expe ess nse.

Plus , hom with e food grown s, th e is w ay le re ss o a ch f a ther nce tha t e wi ll be harm f u l chem the icals on plan ts.

ealth

Tips From Sherry Molinari “Starting a large area of planting can be overwhelming for the beginning gardener.

Perhaps a 4 x 4 raised bed garden or garden in pots.”

“Aphids and other small things can be washed off with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.”

“Check what area around your home or other planting area where you want your garden to be.”

“Almost all vegetables can be grown in pots. Make sure pots are clean and have good drainage on the bottom.”

13

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16

FEATURES

SARA GUY

Staff Writer

We can all remember childhood memories of getting a backpack for the first day of school. They not only serve the practical purpose of carrying our supplies, but they also give some students another opportunity to express their style. Backpacks have colors, patterns, and even their own materials to help students efficiently carry their things and to set their own personal vibe. Recently, a trend where high school students use little kid backpacks has been spreading through campus and social media.

Some students have found ways to get around the use of a very heavy and large backpack. For the seniors, they have the most experience with holding their supplies and getting to each class properly prepared.

“I thought it would be cool to end senior year with a fun cute backpack since I never carried anything in my normal backpack,” Senior Amanda Gonzalez said.

Backpacks have become something useful but also an afterthought. Students that strategize their

NC LA HE UY »T AG SA R PH OT OS »

Social media has produced a brand new trend where the modern day students utilize backpacks that were originally designed to attract young kids. Disney-themed backpacks have, once again, become the ideal way of self expression for school bags. These backpacks have found a way to be as practical as they are personal.

ER

Kid’s Section Revisited

schedules find alternatives for the classic backpack.

Seniors have decided to ignore the classic plain backpacks and return to their roots. Our current classmates have turned to backpacks designed for kids.

“I think it’s a super fun way for older kids, especially seniors, to let loose and keep in touch with their young and innocent side as we are growing and entering more intense chapters of our life,” Senior Lily Kramer said.

This out-of-the-ordinary decision has come to the attention of students all over campus. This trend of striving to change this ideal school accessory can be seen anywhere. Students are daily spotted with backpacks that would traditionally be purchased for elementary school or even preschool kids. “[I probably see] a person [with a kid backpack] a day,” Junior Katelyn McKeirnan said.

Elsa, Paw Patrol, and even baby animal-themed backpacks display the fun and easygoingness of our student body. These backpacks represent our own roots and the roots of the backpack itself. Gerry Cunningham invented the first zippered backpack

ELSA AND ANNA—(Top) Lily Kramer proudly shows off her Elsa and Anna backpack. She ends senior year of with an innocent piece of childhood to make her entrance to adulthood light-hearted.

DUCKY (Bottom) Amanda Gonzalez shows DUCKY— her little animal-themed kid backpack. The perfect way to make a classic piece of school supplies have an extra purpose. A purpose for originality and quirk.

in 1938, led by Dick Kelty’s aluminum framed backpack in 1952. Backpacks found a personalized purpose when “Back to School” became an important advertisement tool to sell school supplies.

Backpacks became a form of identity expression for students. Today, as times move forward so does the backpack industry. As school supplies become more and more technology based, backpack material and design is adapting and evolving into new directions for the future. The sixties also introduced the term “backpacker”. This new term referred to a traveler with minimal and practical luggage choice. These travelers promote the idea of individualism and the pursuit of independent goals.

The students at this school will remember how their childhood backpacks reentered their adolescence forever. Thousand Oaks alumni will look back at these memories and share them with the people that didn’t get to experience the kid backpack trend.

Our childhood innocence making a comeback. This trend helps display the long history of how these bags went from practical to personal.

FEATURES

WHAT AN HONOR Euphonium player Junior Chase Thomas won the honor of being in the 2022 Pasadena Rose Parade with the Bands of America “I’ve been playing for 5 years and I decided to start playing [the euphonium] simply because I thought it sounded pretty and the euphonium specialist at Redwood [Middle School] was really nice to me,” Thomas said.

Thomas plays three instruments. He’s played the Euphonium for 5 years, the trombone for 4 years, and the trumpet for 2 years.

“I plan to study music education in college,” Thomas said. “then go even further and get my teaching credential.”

This year, eight band students auditioned and were accepted in Honor Band for Ventura County, California All-State, and Bands of America.

ELLA WAUCHOPE

Staff Writer

Owen Farkas TUBA

Chase Thomas EUPHONIUM

KIRIN PHI BASSOON

Bassoon player, Freshman Kirin Phim, was selected to play with the 2022 Ventura County Honor Band.

“I chose to play bassoon because my middle school needed more Bassoon players and I decided to give it a try,” Phim said. “I also really like the way it sounds.

I’ve been playing since 6th grade.”

Phim enjoys his instrument not only for it’s sound but for the technique required to play.

“The bassoon is a very intricate instrument. There’s lots of different keys, maybe more thumb keys than any other concert instrument. It was invented before the clarinet and has been used in most orchestras, even having featured concertos written for it by Mozart,” Kirin states.

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Tuba player, Junior Owen Farkas, won two honor awards for the 2022 Ventura County Honor Band and 2022 California All-State Honor Band. To get into the State Band, he recorded an audition, and once accepted, performed a live audition to determine chair placement.

The conference, held in Fresno, lasted over a 3-day weekend, where musicians rehearse eighthour days for the two days before their performance on the last day of the event.

“As the story goes with most tuba players, I didn’t choose to play it,” Farkas said. “Originally I played clarinet in my elementary school band and I was actually a whole new level of awful at it.”

Today, Farkas has improved beyond those elementary days and become an accomplished musician, but he has also found his passion.

“In band [I] get to meet a lot of great people and go to fun events,” Farkas said. “But as someone interested in music and theory, I think the rehearsal process is sometimes the most interesting part.”

PHOTO » ELLA WAUCHOPE » THE LANCER

18

FEATURES

Write with the Flow

Skilled reader and writer Senior Lucas Langford shares his love for writing and how he translates his fasination for fantasy and science fiction into his own work-in-progress novel.

PICTURE PERFECTSenior Lucas Langford spends time each day crafting his science fiction novel that he currently refers to as “Colony”

ISABELLA MORENO

Features Editor

The art of reading and writing is something broad but still very sophisticated, incorporated in many parts of students’ lives. Some love to read but scowl at the thought of writing a paper and for others, it’s the complete opposite. Senior Lucas Langford just so happens to love both and has taken his impressive reading and writing skills to the next level.

“I have always been an avid reader, but I first started writing in seventh grade, when I was twelve,” Langford said. “My earliest memory of writing was typing my stories during lunch on an electronic typewriter.”

Langford’s love for reading and writing translated to his engagment in the classroom.

“Better than his academic writing is his intuitive understanding of literature,” Mrs. Beaudoin, his Junior year English CP teacher said. “He’s really good at bringing up points that other students wouldn’t think of.”

Even before the academic demand in high school, Langford began writing long essays and started his most cherished piece of writing that he is still working on; a “chilling take on the future,” featuring aspects of science fiction, fantasy, and revealing “the worst parts of civilization” in a futuristic, dystopian setting.

Many readers find books about alternate worlds and conflicts both intriguing and comforting, allowing for an escape from real life. For example, The Percy Jackson Series, written by Rick Riordan, who is one of Langford’s most favorable inspirations for his book and writing in general.

“He writes with the reader’s enjoyment in mind and always leaves you wanting more,” Ian Langford, Lucas

Langford’s dad, said.

Lucas Langford’s family has helped him through thick and thin with the process of writing his book.

He was brought up in an environment where reading was a common hobby and encouraged throughout his childhood, but his skill for writing fictional pieces is something unique to only him.

Even the most frequent and devoted writers experience writers’ block or frustrations that can ultimately lead to an unfinished project.

“It’s always a struggle to start typing and sometimes you doubt yourself. Try to push through those struggles,” Lucas Langford said.

“Whenever I’m sitting or walking or just doing something that gives you time to think, I try to think about the book, or situations they might be in, or anyof thing else I can think about the story.”

Lucas Langford’s work diplays emotion and an incredible attention to detail as his skills and ideas developed over the past couple years.

Personal growth and experiences reflected into his project truly make it a relevant piece of writing that, will make a positive influence to its readers.

GRAPHIC » TYLER LAPPIN » THE LANCER PHOTO » SANDRA LANGFORD » WITH PERMISSION

FEATURES

Lex Ross

Ian Korb

Jesselle Yeomans

What fictional character would you choose to have as a roommate?

Nick Miller because he is and forever will be a roommate.

19

Would you rather laugh like a baby when hearing a joke or meow when feeling intimidated?

Meow, I already do that.

If you were a billboard slogan, what would it be?

It’s finger licking good.

EVERY LANCER HAS A STORY Every Lancer Has a Story is a reoccurring feature in the Lancer about students who are selected on campus at different times and places. Each student is asked a different question about their unique life experiences.

Owen Miranda

If you could live in any era, which would you choose?

I would live in the nineties.

Watch all the new best movies like Karate kid.

Sophia Vicente

If you could say one thing to Owen Wilson what would it be?

I would probably tell him how gorgeous he is and how was it to work in a West Anderson movie.

Staff Writer

Amelie Hengst

BROOKELYN BONILLA

What was the most random thing you have cried about?

I cried when I broke my closet door last night.

20

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FEATURES

Samantha Lee FEATURED ARTIST OF THE MONTH Senior Samantha Lee was nominated as the featured artist of the month by her orchestra teacher Mr. Roberts. She’s been apart of orchestra since elementary school after taking inspiration from her brother who was apart of the Thousand Oaks High School band. Prior to playing the violin, Lee had experience with playing the piano.

ON A TRIP—(Below) The Thousand Oaks High School Orchestra poses for a group photo while at Disneyland in 2019.

LANCER LEGENDS KENDALL FLEMING

Editor in Chief

Senior and co-captain of the Thousand Oaks High School boys basketball team, Patrick Saari was awarded athlete of the month of Feburary. Saari is the leading scorer on the team with an average of 15 points per game. Helping to lead his team to the quarter finals, he played in the guard position on the court. Off the court, Saari thrives acedemically, holding a 4.0 gpa.

ON THE COURT COURT— (Left) Senior and coteam captain, Patrick Saari, dribbles the ball down while scanning the floor for a pass against Augora High School.

FEATURED ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Patrick Saari

PHOTO » TOHSORCHESTRA » INSTAGRAM PHOTO » TOHS_HOOPS » INSTAGRAM PHOTOS » TYLER LAPPIN & DYLAN COCKERIL » THE LANCER

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22

SPORTS

END OF AN ERA

After 25 seasons,Coach Endres has been released and players are furious.

Coaching Record Year

W/L Record

1997-98

8-17

1998-99

Year

W/L Record

2009-10

22-6

13-13

2010-11

25-5

1999-00

18-10

2011-12

21-10

2000-01

23-6

2012-13

25-8

2001-02

27-5

2013-14

21-9

2002-03

14-14

2014-15

26-4

2003-04

22-7

2015-16

17-13

2004-05

18-10

2016-17

16-11

2005-06

27-6

2017-18

9-17

2006-07

25-4

2018-19

18-10

2007-08

20-8

2019-20

13-15

2008-09

30-3

2020-21

9-8

GRACE WILLIAMS

Business Manager

Recently, the long-time Boys Varsity Basketball head coach, Richard Endres, was released. The team had just come off of an impressive season with a 19-7 record, advancing to the quarterfinals of the CIF-SS Division 2A playoffs.

The decision appeared to be somewhat of a shock to both Endres himself and the entire Thousand Oaks High School Community.

“I was very surprised and definitely a little unhappy about the decision.” Senior Charlie Spencer said.

Spencer was not the only one who was not expecting Endres’ release.

“I was definitely surprised to see Endres get released, I think that can be said for everybody and my reaction was simply that I was shocked,” Junior Jacob Kjarval said.

Despite the surprise to the basketball program and student body, administration said the decision was not as sudden as it may feel to the rest of the school community.

They could not give much information in regard to the details of the decision due to the confidential nature.

“It was a decision that we knew would be difficult for some to understand, but I can share that it was

PHOTO » RICO CALARA»WITH PERMISSION

Final Record

2021-22

19-7

not made in haste or without serious contemplation,” Assistant Principal of Athletics Brian Banducci said.

Even though administration could not state the exact reasons or details behind the firing there have been speculations of the potential cause.

According to Endres’ interview with the Ventura County Star, in his meeting with Principal Eric Bergmann he cited “communication issues” as the reason. Endres also added that the meeting only took “five minutes.”

“I was surprised. Especially after hearing the reason he got fired and how Dr. Bergmann handled the situation. I didn’t think it was justified at all” Senior Cade Huggins said. “There’s nothing that occurred that justifies the decision.”

While to many it may seem like a shock and an unjust decision that is not the case for everyone. There have reportedly been some complaints about Endres and his coaching.

“In my opinion I have seen unfair player selection on Endres’ teams all 4 years. He would find his favorite players and rarely give anyone else a chance to prove themselves on the court.” Senior Nathan Rosa said.

Despite the problems some people have expressed, those issues do not seem to be reflected in his coaching achievements. Endres had 486 wins during his coaching

career which is extremely close to reaching the impressive 500 victories mark. He had been coaching at TOHS for 25 seasons including leading the team to 5 Marmonte League championship titles, three CIF-Southern Section finals, and winning Division 2AA CIF Southern Section in 2009.

He has been L.A. Times Coach of the Year, Valley Sports Foundation “Battle of the Valley All Star Coach”, Ventura County Coach of the Year three times and Division 2 AA CIF Coach of the Year.

In addition to coaching basketball he also teaches Physical Education at TOHS. “Thousand Oaks High School is grateful to Mr. Endres for his contributions to the Thousand Oaks High School Boys Basketball program,” Dr. Eric Bergmann said.

This sudden release leaves many questions for the basketball program. After such a successful season, mixing in a new coach may create some challenges for the team.

“We have a lot of good players, and the next season was projected to be one of the best in recent years after coming off a great season this year.”

Huggins said. “However, if a coach from outside of the program comes in I don’t think the program will be as successful.”

SPORTS

23

Race To The Finish With the season beginning, star athletes reflect on Highschool career as they prepare to dominate the track.

HAYDEN MCKINNEY

Sports Editor

In his last year of high school track, Senior Turner Hayes is looking to make the most of it.

“I have been running track since I was seven and grew a love for running fast on the track”.

And this love hasn’t slowed down since, saying “It has been one of the best decisions I made in high school” Accomplishments mean a lot in track, as they define your success within the sport, and winning races is a part of Hayes’ job after all.

“I would say my favorite accomplishment was winning the four-by-eight hundred relay at the Simi valley invite last year,” Hayes said, “it was crazy because we ended up winning the race even though one of our teammates fell during it.”

Thus far, Hayes has made his mark on the team, with his sixteen hundred meter jumping nearly fifteen seconds from last year to this one.

“I hope to bring this year’s track team to another CIF championship,” said Hayes. Being the team captain, it’s expected for him to not only bring energy but to be dominant day in and day out.

Sprinting isn’t the only event that features some of the team’s most talented athletes. Junior Jeremy Frank, being a hurdler, is one of the team’s most recognizable athletes with years of experience.

“I got involved in the local track and field youth program in fourth grade,” Frank said, “and I

eventually committed to it more as I was finding myself competitive.”

One of the many factors going into Frank’s success is putting in extra work when the official track season is not ongoing.

“Although I don’t do cross country, I do train with the track team year-round,” Frank said, “and it has been a great opportunity to work on my speed and strength in the offseason.”

Just like Hayes, Frank has many accomplishments to his name, most notably making it to high level competitions as an underclassman.

“I’ve had a lot of fun and great moments in the past couple of years doing track, but I’d say the highlight would be the CIF Division two Finals from last year,” Frank said, “I was really fortunate to go there as a sophomore and the team winning was an absolutely great moment.”

Frank hasn’t gotten to where he is all by himself with the coaching staff and the community as a whole being very helpful.

“I would say that all it takes to succeed is to just show up,” Frank said, “we really do have an incredible coaching staff and community, and I believe that if you simply just put in the work at practice then you will see a huge improvement in your speed and agility.

With the track season just beginning, the sky is the limit for Hayes and Frank, and they are looking to dominate in their individual events this ongoing season, with hopes of making it to CIF and winning it all.

Closing In—(Left) Senior Turner Hayes sets eyes on finish line in relay at track meet against Calabassas.

Hurdling to victory—(Bottom)

All PHOTOS » EISHI KAJITA » WITH PERMISSION

Junior Jeremy Frank jumps over hurdle during track meet against Calabassas High School.

24

SPORTS

SERVING UP A STORM— Devansh

SETTING THE POINT STRAIGHT—

Kaushik takes a moment to prepare to serve.

Devansh Kaushik Strikes a tennis ball back during practice.

NEW

COAC H, N

ALL P

HOTO S»T

YLER

LAPP

EW S

IN » T

The Boys Varsity Tennis team just started their season, with the addition of the team’s new coach, David Dewing, setting a plan for the team’s improvement.

ALEX AGUILAR

Staff Writer

For the past year, Thousand Oaks High School Boys Varsity Tennis team has had to manage without a coach present. Last season their previous coach retired, but now at the beginning of this semester, all of the tennis teams have gotten a new coach, David Dewing. The new season for the tennis team started on Tuesday, Mar. 1 and so far the team has lost all of their games so far. This season as the new coach, Coach Dewing plans to focus on getting better rather than trying to get to the league tournament this year.

In addition, Dewing is also trying to get the team comfortable in their play style, whether it be them playing doubles or singles on the court.

“I am enjoying the program. I am trying to rebuild a winning culture where the teams feel good about their tennis game.” Coach Dewing Said.

So far with a rough season, Dewing has cracked down on the team’s practice, trying to get the team to push themselves really hard with their hitting. It also has gotten the team to get really ingrained with their drills and exercises that would get them ready for practice. Additionally Coach Dewing has started getting the team to hit with all their strength, and has emphasized this with visualizing power levels like hitting it with 30% of their power, or 70% of their power or even 100% of their power.

“He wants everybody to get to their fullest potential. I think that’s really important, in his teaching style.” Senior Yvon Kim Said With Dewing focusing on getting the team better, he has implemented styles that the team has welcomed, such as Dewing’s constant use of scenarios, primarily get the team to prepare for a situation they might not be familiar with, or to get used to and master the most common situation possible, Dewing has also tried to get new habits ingrained in the kids like hitting the ball with more strength, or playing more defensively.

“He creates a lot of scenarios, if you run into “this type of tennis shot” he gives out specific instructions, that drill against every possible outcome,” Yvon Kim Said Although Dewing has only been the coach since the beginning of the semester, the team has managed without him being present, but the presence of the new coach is welcoming, in part due to his dedication to the team, albeit having another job he manages outside of being the coach of the Tennis teams. Their season has been going rough, but with the new coach the team is now confident in their ability to improve this year, along with having set goals for the season.

The Team’s next game is another game at home, the game will be on 29th of March.

“I am trying to rebuild a winning culture where the teams feel good about their tennis.”

—Coach DAVID DEWING

HE LA

NCER

ET

Last Season’s Score Overall Record

1 - 11

Conference Record 0 - 7

“he wants us to not specifically improve our game, but be so careful about how we hit it, and how we improve.”

—Senior JASON GILLIS

Current Score Overall Record

0-7

Conference Record

0-4

S P O R T S 25 IN MOTION—Senior Jordan Arce pitches to the the Calabasas opponent.

ALL PHOTOS » DYLAN COCKERILL » THE LANCER

Sof tba ll Swings Into Play

The Thousand Oaks Varsity Softball team becomes closer, learning how to build relationships and trust while staying competitive for playing time BECCA GLAUBKE

Staff Writer

As girls Varsity Softball swings into play, the girls build their relationship as well as their skills. Not only do the girls compete for playtime, but they also have to be friends and supporters to their fellow teammates while competing and working as hard as possible.

When asked how the team’s overall relationship is, sophomore Tori Masters replies, “The team’s overall relationship is not the best but, I think as we play more games together then we will connect more with each other.” Sophomore Tori Masters said. Their relationship can also affect the team’s performance.“It does affect the team’s performance because we don’t always trust each other to make plays, but once we get used to each other then that will change.”

Freshman Yasmin Topinko disagrees about the team’s overall relationship, she thinks that everyone’s relationship is like a family. “Something we are doing well is being a family, we all love each other’s company and being around our team is always a blast.” She suggests that they always have fun, even during some hard times. “ We’re always laughing and trying to make the best out of it.” Topinko said.

Senior Jordan Arce agrees with Topinko’s statements. “This year, our team feels a lot closer than years past and everyone gets along well.”

Arce said in agreement.

When reflecting on the team’s season so far, the girls do bring attention to the competitiveness and tension between them. “The environment is much different. I started playing when I was 5 and now I am surrounded by more girls that have the desire to go D1 instead of just playing to have fun.” Masters says. She feels like the environment is more competitive. “There are more girls that have experienced champion-

ships, and pressure in important games.” Masters adds. Aside from all the competitiveness, the girls still have fun on and off the field, “Our team dinners are always fun because you get to see everyone’s personalities out of softball.” Arce says. When asked who has made a difference to you on the field, the girls’ answers vary, ranging from close friends, to coaches and to everyone on the team. “One of my best friends on the team is Yassy. She always helps my confidence and I know that no matter how I play she will have my back.” Masters said. “She is great for my mental state on the field.” Masters said. In addition to Master’s close friend, she also has a few more supporters worth mentioning, “ Kylie and Devin also really help my attitude on and off the field.” Masters said. “They help me stay calm even if errors are happening behind me on the mound.” Masters said. Arce’s answer is a little different when asked the same question, “I wouldn’t say one person only because our whole team pushes each other.” Arce said.

Rounding back to the competitiveness of the team Arce adds an honest answer, “ We know that we’re all competing for a spot, but we still support and want the best for each other.”

Topinko’s answer is also different, “Someone on my team that challenges me to do my best is Coach Glen.” Topinko says, “ He knows I work hard and push myself but the moment I don’t perform as well is when my place can be subbed in for someone else.” Topinko said.

According to the girls, they still have a lot to learn and work on but they always know they can have each other’s back even when times are tough and stressful. Not only do they love to have fun together but they love each other’s company on the field. Overall, they are thriving as a team and family.

A GOOD ARM— Junior Devin Davis catches for the team after making a play.

EYES ON THE BALL—Senior Parker Munhall attempts to catch a hit in the outfield.

FOCUS— Senior Amanda Chung and Crystal Keeler are focused in the infield.

BACKPAGE

WAR OF WORDS

26

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues, students discuss the situation and United States involvement. officials, that is typically enacted during times of war, disorder, or rebellion.

Staff Editors Since Russia invaded the country, the United Chances are you’ve heard about the conflict between Nations has recorded over 752 civilian casualties Russia and Ukraine, with stories about it covering the across Ukraine- many being children- and thousands news and World War III memes across social media. more soldiers. The UN’s refugee agency reports a But what is actually happening in Ukraine? cumulative 3 million refugees fleeing Ukraine as well.

On Feb. 24 of this year, Russian President Vladimir Although the country has astonishingly held its ground quite well, for many it feels like a waiting game until Putin invaded neighboring country Ukraine in an the much larger, powerful Russia prevails. attempt to make it part of Russia. He claimed these “[I think] Russia [will eventually win], because they actions were to “demilitarise and de-Nazify Ukraine”, they did “not intend to impose anything on anyone by are Russia and huge. Ukraine is small and can barely force”, and Russia and Ukraine are “one people”. hold its own against a missile strike. They have more of Shortly after the start of the invasion, “loud bangs” an advantage because they have more technology and could be heard in Ukraine’s capital of Kyiv, and what more supplies,” said students Lucas Orellana. followed was a mass amount of Russian Military tanks At the start of March, a United States White House and troops entering Ukrainian borders. Ukraine Presipress release stated that the US “will take actions to dent Volodymyr Zelensky enacted martial law as soon hold Belarus accountable for enabling Putin’s invasion as the invasion began. of Ukraine, weaken the Russian defense sector and The parameters of martial law differ from country its military power for years to come, target Russia’s most important sources of wealth, and ban Russian to country, but it is essentially having military control as opposed to civilian control, such as police or public airlines from U.S. airspace”. Alongside over 30 other MOLLY NORTON FINLEY SWANSON

Do you feel well informed about the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

48% Yes

52% No

Do you think the US should be more involved?

countries, the US announced sanctions and export restrictions targeting Russia, which severely limit their materials for weapon development as well as technical maintenance and innovation.

As of Mar. 23, 2022, world leaders apart of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) met to discuss the necessary actions to be taken if Russia decides to use biological or chemical weapons on the people of Ukraine, and the US Government has now formally declared that members of Russian forces have committed war crimes, such as deliberately targeting apartment buildings, schools, and hospitals.

A number of countries have supplied military aid to Ukraine, but others, such as the US, have refrained from becoming more involved. A big part of this is the over 6,000 nuclear warheads Russia is believed to hold.

Some people believe the US should become more involved against Russia and send a message to Putin that this will not be tolerated, while others think US involvement would do more harm than good. Students are similarly split, and with the war so new it’s hard to know what the right step is.

Are you considering joining the military?

10% Yes

34% 66% No

Yes 90% No