The Paw Print October 2015

letter from the editors

Homecoming, religion, good food, fashion, Ryan Painter. So much to see in the first magazine print of the Paw Print.

For West Ranch TV, this has been Josie Lionetti reporting.

Minjae Kang Editor-in-Chief

Aaron Lee Editor-in-Chief

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opinions

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features

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sports

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The air was brisk and seniors were wrapped up in blankets with cups of coffee on camping chairs. Sitting all over the turf field, the scene was full of laughter and contentment, despite the early hour. Students lined up on the track where ASB provided breakfast items such as bagels and string cheese.

On Friday, the class of 2016 woke up extra early to meet at the field for the first of many senior activities.The purpose of Senior Sunrise seemed a bit self-explanatory (to watch the sunrise.) However, seniors came for all different reasons and had different experiences with their graduating class.

Some almost couldn’t handle sacrificing precious sleep for the sunrise.

“The sunrise made me feel tired because it was so early,” said Joshua Johnson.

Others didn’t even want to go initially.

“I went cause my friends forced me and I had to finish my project with another friend.

I was also pretty sad cause the sun was covered by the clouds,” said Ethan Orlanes.

And then there were seniors just looking for the free food.

“One of the main reasons I went was for the free bagels. Holy cow, they were amazing,” said Claire Lee. Truthfully, most seniors came to the sunrise half-asleep, yet somewhat excited for what would happen. Although everyone had different feelings at the sunrise, they all celebrated the purpose of the event: watching the sunrise and spending time with the entire class of 2016.

“I am definitely looking forward to graduating,” said Johnson.

“After this event, I definitely feel like senior year is going to be good,” said Orlanes.

Many feel like this sunrise was a great way to bond in the beginning of senior year.

“I feel both excited to start senior year and sentimental because [senior sunrise] made me realize that high school really does pass by quickly,” said Lee. “I also came to start off my senior year on the right foot by being surrounded by so many supportive and loving people. It’s comforting and encouraging to just be around each other and watch the sunrise.”

This moment of celebration came not as soon as the sun made an appearance, but when the whole class of 2016 gathered together to take a giant group picture. All the seniors were laughing and living in the moment – while being surrounded by the whole class of 2016.

“It made me feel really great knowing that all of the seniors were up together super early to witness a beautiful sunrise and start our senior year on the right track,” said ASB member Allison Furmidge. “I’m definitely looking forward to all the senior events we have such as Homecoming and Prom. I want to make the most of my senior year and really just soak it all in with some of my favorite people.”

A light haze covered the sky, making the anticipated sunrise not as beautiful as everyone had hoped for. Overall the event, however, was a success because the morning wasn’t defined by how beautiful or not beautiful the sunset was, but it was the presence of the whole senior class that made the event worth celebrating.

News | The Pawprint | www.wrpawprint.com

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Club Rush Day draws large crowds Unlikely Heroes officers Andrew Chang, Brian Kim, Jessica Yoon, Ginnie Bang, and Amanda Sohn entice students with colorful posterboards and pamphlets

Open Mic members Dilon Tecson and Angel Siao attempt to serenade Wildcats into joining their club and jamming with them

By Erica Gillespie Photos By Erica Gillespie West Ranch clubs filled the upper quad at lunch on Sept. 10, each club at a designated table decorated with creative posters. Club Rush Day is held every year to tell students about clubs that could be a good fit for them and allow them to sign up. It is an opportunity for people to become more involved in school, and it allows individual clubs to recruit members.

The club members were incredibly passionate, as many stood on the tables and waved colorful signs.

Other clubs displayed candy and bracelets to attract the many students crowded in front of the ASB office.

“Club Rush Day benefits my club by publicizing it to people who may be interested,” said SCORE (SoCal Orphans Receive Encouragement) president, Shreyas Hariharan. “I think this year’s outcome was awesome. Many students signed up and I was surprised to see the huge number of clubs that West Ranch offers.”

West Ranch really does offer a plethora of choices for everyone, whether you are interested in helping dogs in shelters, building robots, or increasing your skills in business.

“Beside looking great on college applications, being involved in a club gives students opportunities and skills,” said junior Taylor Aitken.

“They’re amazing ways for people to become leaders.”

DFYIT officers display an informative poster and various wristbands related to drug awareness

Club Compassion memebers Cristina Sanchez emphatically shows off her club’s social media information

College Night

By Morgan Smith Photo By Morgan Smith

A steady flow of parents and students were met with a warm welcome and a smile from Suzanne Van Amberg, the head counselor on campus, as they attended College Night in the theatre on Sept. 16, 2015, an event put on by the Guidance and Counseling Department in order to educate students and parent on the college admissions process. It began to decline into a slow trickle as the presentation began. Councilor Christine Reynoso opened by introducing herself and the agenda for the night to her audience.

After assuring the seniors and their parents of their long, busy, but promising road ahead, Reynoso got the conversation going with discussing the “college starter pack,” helpful information that the counselors recommend students have at the ready when applying such as an unofficial transcript, testing scores, extracurricular activities, and the plastic that makes it all possible, a credit card.

It was stressed that it is crucial to not only research colleges, but their specific applications requirements as well. Applications do have a fee‒ remember the plastic‒ and it’s a shame to find out one was incomplete after submissions.

The conversation then transitioned to various kinds of applications available to students from the UC and CSU systems to the Common App and other applications . Reynoso broke down the process and pointed out the different nuances for each.

On her webpage, she even has a series of instructional videos and webinars that

assist with applying. Naviance is also an excellent tool for admissions. It not only helps and keeps track of your college search, but also helps students with looking beyond past UCs and CSUs. The presentation touched on different topics such as letters of recommendation, scholarships, and the thing near to our hearts (and pockets), financial aid.

“I realized that I have a lot more to do to apply to college,” said senior Isaac Howse. “I just need to get up on the books.”

College night was a beneficial for the parents as it was for the students. If they weren’t fixated on Reynoso or the PowerPoint, parents were energetically scribbling away notes and pearls of wisdom on their agendas. Reynoso told anecdotes of her own experiences with her students and children to relate with the parents‒ as a previous English teacher, she even had to resist the urge to rewrite her daughter’s essays for them.

After a quick Q&A, parents and their students left with a little more peace of mind about the college admissions process.

“There’s colleges available to anyone who wants to go to college,” said Van Amberg. “Really take a good look at the fit, what college fits best for that student, not the name brands.”

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By Erica Lee Photos By Riley Villiers-Furze

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Lights. Camera. Action.

From the moment students walked into the gym for the Homecoming rally, they were transported to the Oscars. The gym was dark, lights were flashing around, and loud music pumped up the students filling the room with energy.

As usual cheer team, dance team, hip hop, and drumline rallied the students with their outstanding performances. But what really excited the crowd was a special rap performance by Rory Mita, who made a remix of Straight Outta West Ranch.

Mita walked with attitude much like rappers. Once he began rapping, the crowd went wild. Students stood up out of their seats, pulled out their phones to record it, and started cheering and hollering. While the students were enthusiastically clapping and cupping their hand to their mouths to shout, Mita was intensely rapping. Throughout the rap, students could see the sweat drip off his face and that he was moving side to side with his waving hands in the air to keep the crowd drawn in.

“It went amazing. Couldn’t have gone better. I didn’t find out what rap I was doing until an hour before the performance, but it was just a lot of going over it. Shout out to cheer, dance, and hip hop team, but I kind of liked my performance the best,” said junior Rory Mita.

But before Mita’s rap,the Homecoming Court made its grand entrance on the red carpet like it was straight out of an award show. Each pair had to come up with their grand introduction. There were twirls, the wave, and the most important move, the whip.

“I think it went super well. All the performances were A plus. the spirit was there. Everyone was on point. I was really proud of it even though I couldn’t be backstage like I normally am, but it was so fun,” said Megan Waldau, senior Homecoming nominee.

The rally was successful and helped students get excited for the Homecoming game later in the day.

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By Riley Villiers-Furze Photos By Gisela Factora

Roll Sound. Roll Camera. Action.

On Sept. 19, West Ranch ASB hosted its very first formal homecoming at the Hyatt Regency in Valencia. The theme was “Lights, Camera, Action,” and with almost 500 students in attendance, this was the largest, and arguably the best, homecoming in West Ranch history.

“We had a huge turnout ... For the last couple of years, homecoming sales have been dipping mainly because it’s right after the game, it’s not formal, and it’s at West Ranch. We [ASB] thought let’s just get rid of winter formal and have a formal homecoming,” said ASB Executive Board Ambassador Carson Bartholomew.

Upon arriving at the Hyatt, it wasn’t hard to figure out which room held the dance. All students had to do was follow the thumping beats of the music. Students dressed in in high heels and ties, hurried to get their picture taken before entering the dance. Once inside, the room was electric. A DJ played everything from popular songs to older favorites giving everyone something to dance and sing to. Even Mr. Crawford was swaying to the songs. Lights flashed to the tune of the music making students feel as though they weren’t just listening to music -- they were inside it.

Food and drinks were offered outside the room for students to eat. Dancing works up a serious appetite, and there was a lot of dancing. The room had a huge dance floor allowing students to show off their awesome whip -- the favorite dance of the night.

Junior Matthew Go “lost count” of how many times he whipped. “Every time the beat dropped, I whipped. People were hitting the whip everywhere.”

After Corey Burrill was crowned homecoming king, he shared a slow dance with the queen, Natalie Ferrera, that eventually everyone joined in on. Couples swayed back and forth as “Thinking Out Loud,” played through the speakers.

It was a memorable night for everyone who attended, especially special for the seniors.

“All groups of seniors collided and it was just a really good crowd. [I’ll remember] the people. The memories. It was a really good time,” said senior Kelly Ceniza.

With high heels in hands and ties loosened, everyone left the dance tired, but happy. All in all, the night was better than anyone could have expected. It was like a scene out of a movie, and the best we can do is hope for a sequel.

By Kiana Quick Photo By Morgan Smith

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t’s 8 a.m. and the cold air of first period still lingers over campus. I sit in the golf cart next to campus supervisor Yuleth Cambaliza and watch students get out of their cars and make the long trek onto campus. Other students are being dropped off by their parents. Traffic is moving pretty well and there are no students wandering around the parking lot. Seems like any normal morning, right?

“Things in the parking lot used to be really bad.

Students would block the road and stop traffic,” said Cambaliza, who has been at West Ranch since it’s opening. Cambaliza talked to me about how hard it was for her and the four other campus supervisors to completely cover the parking lot. She even showed me where she was once hit with the back of a pickup truck.

“I was directing traffic when a dad tried to drop his kid off right here,” Cambaliza said pointing to the “no drop off” sign, “I told him he couldn’t drop off here and then he backed up right into me. We aren’t allowed to direct traffic anymore.”

Students were continuously blocking the roads and even ordering pizza for their “off-campus” tailgate parties. And not just last year, but years before that.

“It’s actually been something on my mind and on the mind of administration and campus supervisors for awhile- before I even got here,” said principal Mark Crawford.

Students in the parking lot proved to be a huge safety hazard, so administration finally took action.

The parking lot rule currently being enforced restricts students from going back out into the parking lot after they are already on school campus.

“It was becoming a safety and liability issue. The amount of students out there started to increase and increase. We just don’t have the manpower to safely monitor what happens out there in the parking lot,” said Crawford.

The rule greatly affects juniors and seniors who would grab things from their car after their first period class.

“The new rule makes sense, but I just have to remember to bring all my stuff with me to first period now,” said senior Samantha Mann.

Of course there is some leeway for students who actually forget something out in the parking lot.

“If a student forgets something out there, no problem. Just let the person know that you need to grab your book or folder or whatever it is,” said Crawford.

Here I am again sitting in the golf cart. No students. No traffic jams. Let’s keep it that way Cats.

The Gay Agenda June 26 was momentous.

The White House was rainbow-colored. There were parades with rainbow flags waving in the wind.

Ben and Jerry’s released an ice cream flavor called “I Dough, I Dough,” in response to the gay rights victory. #LoveisLove and #LoveWins trended on all social media platforms. This day was the Olympics of gay pride.

It was the day that the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in all 50 states. After a hardfought battle, the gay rights movement finally walked away with a right they should have been given a long time ago. Nevertheless, this ruling meant marriage equality; anyone could marry anyone regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Or at least that’s what it should have meant.

The problem with laws is that they don’t end the discussion; they stir the debate. After the ruling, discrimination didn’t diminish. Dissenters used their religion to act on their disgust. The country became stuck at a crossroad of faith and fundamental human rights. Kim Davis is one of many who stood on the side of her faith.

As Rowan County’s clerk, she refused to issue marriage licenses to gay couples because of her religion. Davis’ faith gives her the right her to get divorced three times, but denies the marriage of same-sex couples. The irony in that is not missed.

Davis was found guilty and spent five days in jail before returning to her job defiant as ever. She came to a compromise with the court allowing her to give out marriage licenses to same sex couples without her name on the document. Of course there was apprehension as to whether this was even legal.

According to a report by CNN, Davis stated that “[U.S. District Judge David Bunning] indicated that he was willing to accept altered marriage licenses even though he was not certain of their validity.”

The fact is a bigot, who uses religion to act hateful, was allowed to keep her job after defying the federal government. Even better, she was given amendments to her job that fulfilled her wishes. Davis only got a slap on the hand for denying a fundamental human right because her religion told her to do so. More often than not people use the constitution to justify their discrimination by calling upon freedom of religion and speech.

Except, the Supreme Court has already declared limitations to both of those. In 1974 it was deemed illegal to make false statements that could lead to civil endangerment -- like yelling bomb in an airport because you think it’s funny. Then in 1968, it was declared illegal to racially discriminate because of religion.

Same-sex marriage is now a reality. It is no longer a possibility or an idea. It has happened, so if someone is against the ruling and has a job, like a clerk, where they have to encounter it everyday, deal with it or get a new job. By tolerating hate, the judicial system is

By Riley Villiers Furze negating the whole purpose passing the law: to give human beings the rights they deserve.

Marriage inequality isn’t where the discrimination stops though.

Imagine a couple who didn’t have Kim Davis as clerk, and actually received a marriage license. They go on their honeymoon, have a great time, and return to find that they have been evicted from their house because of their sexual orientation. In over half the states, this is a very real possibility. Thirty-one states don’t have any laws that protect LGBT people from being fired, evicted, or refused service. In fact, Arkansas passed the Intrastate Commerce Improvement Act; this ordinance prevents any city or county from extending civil rights protections to gay people. The act was only passed because the Arkansas government believed that denying civil rights would attract more businesses to the state.

Fear generates hate and there has always been the assumption that there is a mysterious, dangerous gay agenda. Gay people don’t have a secret scheme to take over the world, and destroy all that is good.

Their agenda, the real gay agenda, is to be treated equally. They want marriage equality; they want discrimination to end.

There is so much to be fixed: so much to be done.

Unfortunately, there’s not much our generation can do to help. We aren’t the ones with jobs denying service based on sexual orientation. We aren’t the politicians creating discriminatory laws. We aren’t part of the judicial system that makes exceptions for religious bigots.

According to YouGov, a market research company, 69 percent of people in the United States thought it was illegal to be fired because you are gay -- and that’s because it should be. The majority of people believe that a person should not be denied rights because of sexual orientation, and that’s incredible.

However, there have always been homophobes, and the legalization of same-sex marriage has given them a megaphone to voice their hate. They seem larger and louder than everyone else, because they are not part of the majority. They are different from most people, so they garner more attention.

I think that’s what we have to hold onto. It’s important to know that the advocates for LGBT rights have the majority. Without that, it’s easy to see just the hate in the world: the denial of fundamental

human rights.

The optimist in me believes that our generation will be the one sees the everything change for the better. We will witness a new age of toleration. We will create that new age of toleration. Realistically, I remind myself that it’s been 51 years since the Civil Rights Movement and racism is more prominent than ever.

I don’t want to have to wait 51 plus years for toleration.

I want love to win.

Opinions | The Pawprint | www.wrpawprint.com

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Is There

By Gisela Factora & Jong Hak Won

Here’s one of the most surprising facts about me: I’m Catholic.

I know, I know. You would never expect the vehement feminist/LGBT and racial justice activist/ anti-capitalist to be in church every Sunday, and not just be in church, but be singing along to the hymns as well. Yet Catholic I am, and Catholic I have been since I was dunked into that tub of holy water when I was but a newborn babe (or as it’s more colloquially known, “baptism”).

Strange, isn’t it? You’d expect someone like me to be outcrying the church’s misogyny, to be fervently protesting the church’s anti-gay doctrine, to be waving a copy of The Communist Manifesto and screeching, “RELIGION IS THE OPIATE OF THE MASSES!” You would expect me to not only be not Catholic but anti-Catholic.

But that’s more Jong Hak’s thing, as you will likely see from his article. Especially the Marx quote.

Admittedly, my relationship with religion is rocky (duh). I do not believe that the Church is perfect; in fact, I know it’s far from perfect.

Up until 10th grade, I had been attending the Catholic equivalent of Sunday school since I was six. I am much more knowledgeable about Christianity than the average human being, and I am well aware, and critical, of its issues, both in doctrine and in action.

But nothing earthly is perfect. Even the orbits of the planets and the shape of the earth itself, while seemingly perfectly circular/spherical, are imperfect. A circle has an eccentricity (roundness) of 0. Earth’s orbit has an eccentricity of 0.0167.

From a distance, images of Earth appear as though the surface is smooth like a marble, but we know that that is untrue; the earth is covered in mountains and caverns and underneath the water that covers 70 percent of the surface, even more rough edges. This is, in fact, one of the core tenets of Catholic doctrine. All earthly things are imperfect. You, me, even the Pope, even Mother Theresa.

Yet despite that imperfection, it is generally agreed upon that the Earth is a beautiful place, mountains and caverns and rough edges and all. This too is a core tenet of Christianity: to love others no matter how imperfect they are.

It is not just religion that has been unkind to me-- science has too. Since the introduction of Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, people -- prominent scientists among them -- have used it to “prove” the supposed biological superiority of the Northeastern European male, and, in extreme cases, to justify eugenics. James Watson, prominent geneticist and one of the discoverers of the structure of DNA, wrote in 2007 that, “There is no firm reason to anticipate that the intellectual capacities of peoples geographically separated in their evolution should prove to have evolved identically. Our wanting to reserve equal powers of reason as some universal heritage of humanity will not be enough to make it so.” In other words, he believes that non-white people are biologically not as intelligent as white people. Homosexuality was classified as a mental illness in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) until 1973, and being transgender is still classified as a mental illness in the DSM today. There’s so

but the big takeaway is that science and religion both have equal potential for hatefulness.

Scientific bigotry can be even more harmful than religious bigotry. Everyone knows that the Westboro Baptist Church is insane. They are more of an object of mockery, most often by snarky late-night talk show hosts, than a serious threat.

But you won’t find any talk show hosts parodying science, even if it is biased. If one dares to criticize science, one is immediately dismissed as silly, presumptuous, illogical, even though science, just like religion, is a social construct. Being socially constructed doesn’t mean that something is fake or wrong, but it does mean that it is human, and therefore fallible.

I am not an irrational person. I am not one to believe in superstition, and I absolutely hate astrology and the like. (Seriously, the position of the planets at the time of your birth has absolutely nothing to do with your personality.) In fact, I’m almost too logical, too analytical; my MeyersBriggs personality type is INTP -- “The Thinker” or “The Logician.” It is because of this, not despite this, that I find it downright ludicrous to completely outlaw the possibility of a god.

Atheists often criticize theists for being “narcissistic,” since Earth is a tiny speck in a seemingly insignificant corner of the universe.

They say it’s ridiculous to think that Earth was created specifically for life as we know it. But, to use a cliche, God works in mysterious ways. It’s presumptuous to assume to know what God is, how God works, what God thinks is right and not right. This goes for the religious fundamentalists that atheists love to use as strawmen examples, as well as atheists themselves. Who says that the Big Bang theory and the Creationist theory are mutually exclusive?

We are, indeed, a tiny speck in a seemingly insignificant corner of the universe, who arrogantly believed for millennia that we were the center of everything until relatively recently. Now, of course, we know that the universe is not geocentric, and if you really think about that, it’s terrifying. Perhaps organized religion really is just another attempt to make sense of all this, to give purpose to our seemingly purposeless existences.

But aren’t scientists just trying to do the same thing: bring order to chaos? There’s a million different theories on a million different factors of the cosmos, from the quantum to the infinitely expanding, and so many of these theories contradict each other. We don’t know for certain what’s inside black holes; Stephen Hawking recently hypothesized that black holes could be gateways to other universes. We don’t even know for certain if black holes exist; their very existence contradicts the basic laws of quantum mechanics, to which Hawking has proposed a solution, but a solution that has yet to be observed. There’s a probable theory that our universe is merely a lower-dimensional brane residing inside of a higher-dimensional “bulk” that we cannot yet perceive, and that there are potential beings in this bulk that transcend our understandings of space and time. It is hypothesized that the majority of the universe is composed of something called dark matter; yet despite the fact that it supposedly makes up the majority of the universe, it has yet to be detected.

When you consider the fact that these are all theories endorsed by the brightest minds of our time, is the idea of a higher power really that far-fetched?

a God?

Photos by Gisela Factora. Background image provided by ESA/Hubble.

Suppose there is a china teapot.

This teapot is in orbit around the sun in between Earth and Mars. This teapot is too small to be detected by even our most powerful telescopes. However, I believe that this teapot is there. Since no one can disprove my assertion, this teapot must exist. It is the burden of my skeptics to provide evidence that contradicts my belief.

If you think this is utter nonsense, then you are having the correct reaction. English philosopher Bertrand Russell gave this example in a 1952 issue of Illustrated magazine to illustrate the concept of burden of proof when defending an assertion such as the existence of God. If someone claims the existence of an entity such as God, then they have the burden to prove it. And just as I must provide a proper justification for the existence of this teapot, so must the religious when asserting that there is a God. If I have no evidence for the existence of the teapot, then everyone is perfectly justified in disregarding my claim. As Christopher Hitchens once put it, “what can be asserted without evidence can also be dismissed without evidence.”

When writing this article, the most common attack I faced went along these lines: “You can’t know for absolute certainty that God doesn’t exist.” I don’t disagree with this. To me, absolute intellectual certainty is impossible to achieve. However in the absence of positive proof for God’s existence, I can, logically, assert that there is no God on the basis of lack of proof. God isn’t necessary for this universe to exist.

Having grown up in a particularly religious area of California where there’s a church on every block, I’ve been surrounded by religion for as long as I can remember. Out of my friends, I was the only person who didn’t go to church every Sunday or have a copy of the Bible in the house. Frequently, I was invited to a church to be “saved” and every time I went, I walked out more skeptical of God than I was before. Whether it was my Protestant friends or my Catholic grandmother trying to convert me, I always left the church with the same nagging question: does God exist?

Take the example of the discovery of gravity. When Newton originally conceived the theory of gravity, his theory made accurate predictions except in special circumstances. For example, it made inaccurate predictions concerning the orbit of Mercury around the Sun. Then, Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity corrected Newtonian mechanics and the problem of Mercury’s orbit. Science is a continually changing enterprise that constantly strives to expand our knowledge.

Prior to the development of modern science, humans had no method to explain phenomenon they didn’t understand. We had no way to explain why the sun rose every morning or why plagues happened or why the universe existed. In lieu of a scientific explanation, we substituted supernatural explanations. Apollo drew his sun chariot across the sky everyday. Plagues were punishments from the heavens for immoral human behavior. We now know better.

Admittedly, there is a lot left we don’t understand and that scientists have yet to explain. Questions concerning the nature of dark matter and quantum physics, just to name a few, continue to puzzle us. However, a lack of explanation does not justify the substitution of a supernatural explanation.

Before I conclude, I’d like to go back to the argument addressed to me saying that I can’t know for sure that there isn’t a god. I agree. However in the absence of evidence, I can dismiss the existence of one.

I freely acknowledge that there could be a creator or some higher being. If there is one, however, that being is not one of the organized religions of this world.

The capricious and superficial gods of modern day religions are too simple to have created something so complex. We have discovered the universal forces that guide all the phenomena within our universe, so how should we accept a god that thinks pi is a round number. We have independently unlocked the mysteries of the universe, so why should we listen to a God who thinks the cure to leprosy is bird blood? It should go without saying that the universe is unbelievably complex.

Why does the being who created the majesty of the universe care so much about what we do to a baby boy’s genitals?

Some people (especially Gisela) will think that my position is too extreme.

Thus far, my answer has been: there may be a God but I will not accept the However to me, religion is the last vestige of our barbaric past. It’s a superfluous existence of one until given proper proof for it. institution in a world that has discovered the best mechanism to acquire new knowledge. Through the lense of rational and scientific thinking, one can fully Science doesn’t preclude the existence of a god. It merely makes him (or her) appreciate the mystery and majesty of the universe around us. superfluous. Science has the potential to explain all the phenomenon in the entire universe. It’s just that it likely never will. As Stephen Hawking put it, “God may exist, but science can explain the universe without the need for a creator.”

Science isn’t perfect but it’s the best method we have to derive new knowledge.

For as long as humans have existed, we’ve sought answers to questions we had about the universe. Why does the Sun rise every morning? How did the universe come to exist? What gave us consciousness? Prior to the development of modern science, superstition and faith were the only ways to answer these questions.

Science has yet to answer every question we have (and it likely never will).

Frequently, it yields results that are wrong. It is definitely not infallible. But that is precisely why it is the best method we have for discovering new knowledge.

Science is a self-correcting institution. If a scientific theory doesn’t make accurate predictions about the universe, then it is abandoned or revised. Our current scientific knowledge is merely the accumulation of revisions over the centuries.

“Science doesn’t preclude the existence of a god. It merely makes him (or her) superfluous.”

Mascara by

: Grandiose or Gross?

By Sydney Chang In January, beauty blogger Katherine Ward changed the world of makeup through her tutorial on how to make mascara out of Oreos.

That’s right. MASCARA out of OREOS. This idea may sound crazy, but Ward has pulled off this crazy tutorial. Her video has been the center of attention for quite some time with some people saying “cool” and others saying “yuck.”

In her video, Ward shows her step-by-step process which includes the crushing of Oreo cookies and adding water to crushed substance.

Her video seems credible and persuasive, especially when she shows the “Before” and “After” pictures. Viewers can see a visible and sharp difference in her eyelashes when the two pictures are put together side by side.

First of all, let me point out that people have become very dependent on technology. Google solves most of our problems, Facebook lets us communicate with people who may be on the other side of the world, and YouTube is a powerful source for sharing videos and spreading information.

Ward encourages viewers to try this and tweet or hashtag #xxmakeupiscoolxx. But by the looks of people’s reactions, this makeup is definitely not cool.

Nowadays, people can find almost everything on the Internet.

Don’t know how to curl hair? Google it. Need to figure out how to make homemade taquitos? Message an experienced friend through Facebook. Don’t know how to download a computer software? Watch a video out of the hundreds of videos found in the YouTube search bar.

People have been taking advantage of the Internet and the Internet has shown to be convenient for users. But the overall level of originality has decreased over the years.

As mentioned before, if someone searches up how to download a computer software on YouTube, hundreds, maybe thousands, of results will appear. Chances are the majority of videos will say similar tips and methods to help those who are watching. If the videos are similar, it would not matter much to viewers whichever video they watch. But that is not normal of humans.

Humans’ natural instincts are to get attention. YouTubers want – no, need attention, which is why Katherine Ward developed an abnormal and “fresh” way to create homemade mascara.

Her idea is interesting. It stimulates people’s curiosity and makes it hard for people to wrap their heads around, making them click on her video. Those who click on her video decide to do so because they think “How can this person pull through?” or “What does she mean?” It is a cycle and an ultimate trap of the human mind.

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Mascara out of Oreos could be deemed as creative, however the lack of rationality has tainted the originality aspect of the experiment.

This procedure could be harmful to both financial conditions and the human body.

Mascara from any drugstores average about 7 dollars. Whereas the entire process of making mascara out of Oreos costs more. This process includes one package of Oreos ($3-4), rubbing alcohol ($1), one package of cotton swabs ($5), and eye primer ($3-5). Would you rather spend 7 dollars or spend at most 15 dollars and deal with mixing and stirring?

According to multiple YouTube comments, the physical results have not been great either. User Sofia Barongi shared with the entire world that her eye is “red,swollen, and has pus coming out of it.” She has emphasized that she sanitized and even bought a new mascara wand.

Some people have speculated that making mascara out of Oreos is simply not worth it.

“I don’t think this process is a great idea considering your eyes can be harmed and your money wasted,” said Jiyoon Jung, a senior and makeup whiz at West Ranch High School.

Creativity is a highly complex idea that may be beneficial and eyeopening. But it should not be abused or forced. Ultimately, great desire for creativity may inflict harm on others.

Dishonor on you.

Dishonor on your cow.

An Open Letter to “Janice” the cashier

By Mina Jang

Dearest Female Cashier, I’m going to call you Janice.

Janice, we must have had gotten on an unpleasant beginning from the moment we faced each other at the check-out line.

Thus envision a verbal slap in the face when you walk over with those piercing dull pupils and say to me in a monotonous, Liam Neeson tone one of the most derogatory things I had ever heard of in my entire life.

Oh Janice, you should, at the least, sound utterly pleased with yourself for kicking a young girl out of a line whereas she witnessed one of the most confusing moments of all her years.Perhaps if you weren’t so keen on glaring at her and realizing there were four people waiting patiently, you may have possibly noticed that the girl was only holding a single item.

All I wanted to do was buy one object. It was a jar of pickles, Janice.

Stereotypes are short-cuts: they are the basis of our opinions when it comes to the mind, judging another based on visible characteristics: gender, race, age, etc. The point where it goes too far is when a person begins believing and agreeing in this inaccurate ideas about certain groups while in reality, they are all rumors spread from others. Movies, television shows, and similar entertainment productions indirectly stereotype ethnicities, such as commonly making Asians nerds or uncool in many films (the character Rajiv, in “Big Bang Theory” and the violinist in “Spider-Man 2”).

In all, the main issue is not how these biases and prejudice affect beings like myself; my question is, why have these stereotypes pathed a way for men and women to be judgemental in verbal and physical actions near strangers whom they have never even met? And more importantly, why have stereotypes not ended?

Hypothetically speaking, you must believe that I truly despise you when moreover, I’m really just sick and tired of this entire situation. Janice, you do not earn any prize from insulting me, an individual of an entire race because you are not the only employee who has mocked Asians before.

A Chick-fil-A cashier in a Southern California region put in racist labels instead of the Asian customers’ actual names on the top of the receipts. The belief of stereotypical standards for Asians creates a nonideal assumption that we all have the same personalities with defined characteristics and it is ridiculous. It is as if we have no reason for the actions we make: Grades must be A’s seeing that we are Asians, despite the actual reality in which many of us only set ourselves of higher expectations because we desire to succeed.

Who I am as a Korean should not determine both the advantages and consequences I come past in life; it is selfish beings like yourself who savor moments when you can finally abuse another and have at least a pathetic excuse. The faults I choose to make are entirely my own, not the character you’ve originated within your judgemental sense.

“Who I am as a Korean should not determine both the advantages and consequences I come past in life.

To sum it all up, all Asians are not identical because if they were, I’m certain Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Il would be twins. The only types of dogs that I eat are the dogs that are warm -- I believe they’re called hot dogs. We are neither anyone’s translator nor calculator. And lastly, I can see just fine.

Labels like “Ching Chong” do not define me; they’re insults, not nicknames.

When did a race turn into a joke? Because you may be laughing but I sure don’t see myself doing the same. I see myself cringing at the indecency of how one believes that they’re superior to another from looks alone. I’m Asian. Deal with it.

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Bu ff

Bricks is another great dining monument here. Yes, I know how hard it is to score higher than an In-N-Out burger on the burger bar, but I am telling you, Bricks is not a weak competitor. In no way am I trying to taint the legacy behind the In-N-Out burger, but quite frankly, sometimes I want something a little bit more, dare I say, gourmet. I really do appreciate when there is more to a burger than just a great pair of buns. Stacked with a hardy amount of meat, cheese, onion rings, lettuce, and tomato, I find that their Bacon Bleu Burger is one of my favorites. The best part about their menu is that it satisfies any appetite. If you are feeling a little fishy, try their fish tacos, or maybe even their spicy tuna salad. Heck, just order that chicken Waffle Sandwich! Of course, the strung lights on the side patios, complemented by the red brick exterior, really makes this location even more unique.

o al

First on my list, is one of my favorite eateries of all-time: The Newhall Refinery. This place is so good that I was about to type the word favorite, in all caps. If you have been here before, and weren’t all that impressed, you are doing it wrong. May I ask what you ordered? Okay, that’s your problem. You didn’t order the Refiners Fries. From the moment I laid eyes on these, I knew I would never stop wanting them.

Fries, the perfect shade of golden-brown, not too thin, but not too thick, mornay sauce- just a fancy way of saying the most decadent and delicious white-cheese sauce on planet Earth- perfectly poured under a pile of savory brisket, can’t even begin to describe how heavenly this dish is to the tastebuds. If you too share a passion for eating good fries, cheese, and meat, then I challenge you to take on a whole bowl of one of these bad boys. On the contrary, if all those godly foods I just listed aren’t your “thing,” then I can reassure you that there are many other dishes you can order. From fish and chips to burgers to roasted cauliflower, I am sure you can find pleasure in this rustic, yet modern restaurant.

So

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es Fri

Story & Photos by Jacqueline Hofmann

l Ca

ger Bur

Bricks

Rustic Burger

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Newhall Refinery

A P l a t e f u l o f S a n t a C l a r i t a

cken Sandwic h Chi Lastly, there is Rustic Burger. I had to give you three options that stayed true to the all-american diet: hamburgers and french fries. Rustic burger is actually the sister of Rustic Eatery, located on Wayne Mills Place. However, Rustic Burger was much more impressive to me in regards to taste and venue. Instead of being obligated to stick to one specific type of burger, you have the power to choose your protein, bun, and toppings. The menu, therefore, isn’t too overwhelming but still caters to your needs. The perfectly tanned brioche buns with the tender, and obviously top quality, chuck and brisket, makes every bite just as savory as the last. Luckily, you vegans can enjoy all these calories by picking their tofu. I haven’t dared to try some myself but I am assuming that it can’t taste too bad if paired with some arugula and caramelized onions. This is another place that really allows you to experience what it feels like to literally eat a whole cow. The cool lighting, silver-tiled ceiling, and giant chalk menu adds a bit of flare to this hidden treasure.

: The Cheating Epidemic at West Ranch High School Cheating happens practically every day at West Ranch. Students at the lunch tables poring over each other’s answers, talking about what was on the Human Anatomy quiz during AP Lit, or telling a friend whether there’s a spot quiz in Mr. Burn’s class next period.

There’s the obligatory stern warning at the beginning of the year when you get your syllabus: “Don’t talk to the other periods about what was on the test, that’s a form of cheating” usually accompanied with the district academic dishonesty policy.

But still, people do it, and don’t get caught.

At one point in during the 2014-2015 school year, however, a group of sophomores taking an AP European History exam cheated and got caught.

It was the beginning of the second semester, when students still haven’t quite bounced back from winter break. Mr. Holland, the AP Euro. teacher, announced the first “non-partner” exam of the semester.

The test was taken by students in various degrees of sleepdeprivation. However, while most of the students were taking the exam diligently, a group of students had taken pictures of the exam which had been taken from the teacher’s desk outside of the school day.

Several students, unwilling to watch their AP Euro classmates be taken for fools, came forward and informed the teacher, Adam Holland, of the incident.

Outrage sparked. The exam grade was determined to be void for all of the students, and a written retake was scheduled for all of the periods of Euro.

And then, the backlash started. However, it wasn’t at the group of seven people who cheated -- it was directed toward the people who came forward. “[One person] blamed me for pretty much everything that happened, including his grade taking a hit. He called me a snitch and a bunch of other names and basically went into a rant on Twitter,”

the girl who came forward said, “I’m not on any social media anymore because of what [the person] did. A little bit later, [another girl] came up to me and told me to stop bullying [the cheaters] and that if I didn’t stop she and her friends would go to the principal and tell him I was bullying them. She even went so far as to compare me to a Nazi. I haven’t even talked to [the cheaters] since it happened.

Other people in the same class [as the cheaters] have been giving them [a hard time] because I think they’re mad because they had to retake the test.”

The girl’s friends, however, stand with her decision to come forward.

“I don’t understand why people are so mad. If she hadn’t come forward, Mr. Holland still would’ve found out eventually and then the whole entire class would’ve been punished instead of just the actual people. I’m just glad instead of all of us getting a zero on the exam we only had to take a retake. What makes me mad though is that retake is the reason why I have a ‘B’ in the class right now. All of my other tests grades are fine, but I had little time to study for the retake. Why should I be punished for something somebody else does? How come my grade relies on whether or not the person next to me has integrity?”

So, some of this may sound like just “teenage drama.” But this opens up an even bigger discussion -- why is cheating such a big problem at West Ranch? In a school that isn’t in a slum, doesn’t have to deal with underfunding, and doesn’t have “gangs,” shouldn’t cracking down on academic dishonesty be the biggest problem?

The cheaters in AP Euro. were still able to stay in the class. Their punishment was minimal at best, and many fellow students and teachers are unsatisfied with the district policy and the lack of enforcement and support.

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The district’s policy for cheating is for the teacher to fill out a referral form and handle it on-site. The document asks for the student’s name, and then has the teacher “instruct students in research and study skills appropriate to each subject, so that all students may feel confident that if they prepare, they can succeed without cheating. Students shall be encouraged to see tests as a means for finding out what they have learned.

They shall be reminded that students who cheat on tests are cheating themselves” (ref. “BP 5131.9 Academic Honesty Wm. S. Hart Union High School District).

When asked if he thought this would work, Holland stated, “I don’t.

For the most part, students who are serial cheaters have a systemic flaw.

Of the seven people, some were genuinely sorry and apologetic while the majority were, and are, unapologetic and will cheat again. There’s a character flaw with a lot of students, and, dare I say, a lot of parents as well. Right now, my policy is a zero on the assignment, which is appropriate for first-time offenders. However, for those who continue to cheat, it should be questioned whether the student deserves to be in the “higher” electives. It’s a privilege to be able to take AP and Honors classes, and for kids who only take those classes for grades they need to ask themselves, what is the purpose of education? Grades, or actual learning, I think the students have lost sight of this. Education is about just that, education.”

In opposition to Holland’s opinion was another friend of one of the people who came forward in AP Euro, who said, “If teachers actually cared about ‘actually learning’-- how come we have to take all of these quizzes and tests that make up 20 percent or more of our grade?”

It seems last year overall has been the worst year for cheating at West Ranch. AP Euro actually had a group of cheaters during the first semester of that school year as well, however at that time only one period was forced to retake a test. Freshmen taking AP Biology faced a similar situation when a group of students cheated on an exam.

In previous years, some teachers have even been faced with break-ins where students have taken exams or answer keys.

But those are the cases when the teachers and school noticed.

“I’ve seen many people cheat, especially in AP classes. And when they do cheat, it seems like teachers don’t take initiative -- I really think they should take a stronger stance,” said junior Young Kim, who was forced to retake AP Euro exams twice last year due to people cheating.

Science teacher, Shawn Zeringue, takes many measures to ensure integrity when her students take exams. Students take exams with “privacy screens” to prevent snooping and phones are strictly forbidden at all times in the class. In addition, some students move to lab tables so that there is at least one seat between each student during a quiz or exam.

Zeringue said, “[In regards to consequences,] they can vary depending on how many times they have actually done it -- admitting it and being honest should reduce the consequences. It should depend on how many times, if there is remorse, and if there is honesty. There has to be some kind of consequence, but it depends on their actions.”

In stark contrast, students are actually the ones pushing for harsher treatment of all cheaters.

“I think by the consequence the district gave out, they’re making it seem like cheating isn’t so bad,” Kim said, “In my opinion, cheaters should be dropped from the AP class and have it permanently go on their transcript.”

Junior Matthew Ludovico echoes this opinion. “I think cheaters should be dropped from AP, Honors, sports teams, NHS -- basically, they shouldn’t be given the opportunity to have a good future with the rest of

the people who actually worked for it.”

“Cheating does go on the record,” said Principal Mark Crawford, “When those students go to get letters of recommendation from counselors, that counselor will see on their record that they cheated, and will be obligated to address that in their letter..”

Ninety percent of the time, in addition to it going on his or her record, the student will be also given a zero on the assignment he or she cheated

on.

Vice Principal Audrey Asplund, however, believes giving a zero on an exam can do more harm than good. “Some teachers have a zero policy for cheating, which can really hurt a student’s grade.” If a student was to get a zero, the student may become even more desperate and begin to cheat even more.

But even through all the ways the school faculty tries to discourage cheating, some students believe cheating is necessary when it comes to homework and assignments.

“Cheating is bad, but necessary,” said a West Ranch alumus (Class of 2015) who wishes to remain anonymous, “Even though cheating is really bad, cheating [on homework] has made my life much easier in high school. The benefits to my mental health have been way greater than the cost. However, cheating on a test is not okay because those are tests of knowledge. Cheating on say, Euro notes, aren’t that bad. In my experience, notes and homework have been just to propel a class discussion. In my opinion, cheating on notes and getting sleep and being able to participate fully is way better than pulling an all-nighter just to get some notes done.”

In some cases, it’s just asking your friend if you can copy their homework because you just fell behind a little. In other cases, it takes the form of borderline interrogating your friend for all of the test questions and answers before you go to take the test.

Junior Chandler Sutton, however, opposes all forms of cheating.

“Cheating on homework is just cheating yourself. The purpose of homework is to be able to continue learning even after the class period is over.”

One thing they all can agree on -- cheating on tests and exams is not okay.

“Cheating on a test, however, is cheating the other people around you,” Sutton continued.

In addition, Crawford believes cheating is not only cheating those around you, but yourself as well. “Morally, I don’t think it’s right, cheating is like lying -- it’s presenting yourself as something you’re not.

The whole purpose of education and our goal is student growth. When we’re trying to measure that growth, cheating is not a true representation of that growth. Cheating or using an improper method makes it so that there is no proper way to gauge where a student is. Therefore, we don’t even know how to help a student because we don’t know there’s a problem. We just want to know where the students are at.”

If it’s such a bad thing, then why are kids still resorting to cheating?

“Cheating is such a big problem at West Ranch because of three main reasons: parental pressure, grades, and a lack of work ethic,” said Holland.

Zeringue also agreed, “There is so much pressure on you [students] to do well.”

In short, parents put pressure on kids to do well, kids fall behind, kids cheat, the school tries to crack down on it, and then parents get mad at the school. It’s a vicious cycle.

Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for the Hart District, Mike Kulhman said, “Academic dishonesty is an issue that speaks to integrity, character, and honor. As a result, an accusation of dishonesty can often bring a question from parents. Knowing that this is a sensitive issue, we always try to be as clear as possible about what constitutes academic integrity -- and what the consequences for dishonesty will be.”

This isn’t the first time cheating has broken out in West Ranch--nor will it be the last. “[On a scale of 1-10]...The cheating problem at West Ranch would be...

Can I do 12? It’s a huge problem. The cell phone [also] plays a huge role,”

Holland said.

The district also agrees that the increasing amount of cheating is mainly due to the advancement of technology.

“I should note,” said Kulhman, “that we are all aware of the surveys that report incidences of academic dishonesty are on the rise -- especially in a world where information is available at our fingertips at the push of a button. This is regrettable and necessitates that we continue focusing on celebrating and reinforcing academic integrity.”

Hopefully, cheating will become less of a problem at West Ranch.

However, students see it as a necessity, while the district and teachers feel as if they must tread softly in fear of parents.In short, with the way cheating is addressed by the students, parents, and the school, it probably will not become less of a problem anytime soon.

New Teachers 1

By Jacqueline Hofmann and Erica Gillespie Photos by Jacqueline Hofmann and Erica Gillespie

3

Jed Blaugrund “I was a teacher at Canyon for two years, but before that I was an assistant to a film director, I was a studio executive, I produced movies for World Wrestling Entertainment, and then I decided to leave that, go back to school and become an English teacher, which is really what I was meant to do in the first place.”

2

Janine

“I loved high school, which is why I come back to high school everyday. My best memory would probably be graduating with the sixth highest GPA in my class. I was also part of the varsity softball team, and we played against Jenny Finch, who’s an Olympic pitcher. We lost, but that’s okay because she’s really good.”

4

Kate Potlevich

Terrazas

“I love how the teachers all work together; it is a very collaborative environment. I also have a lot of really great students, who are very passionate. And I love, love, love the block schedule because it makes it a lot easier to get the depth for each lesson.”

Jennifer Harris

“I just love the kids, I just love working with the kids.

The timing I couldn’t tell you when, I don’t think I realized how much I loved it. But I, again, just love working with the kids and the conversations we get into and being able to change lives. I can’t tell you how it feels to have a kid come up to you out in the world as a grown up and give you this huge hug and tell you how much you have changed their lives. It makes it all worth it.”

5

Ryan Lindgreen

“I used to work in journalism, in the me-

dia. I worked for the Channel Four News for NBC LA for a few years. Then I did some sports media jobs, until I got to a point where I thought teaching would fit me better and that is why I decided to get my teaching credential.”

Peter Wong “This is my nineteenth year teaching, but some of the best memories have been helping students in need get through school, especially when they come back and let us know what’s going on in their lives.”

6

Candice Williams

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“My proudest accomplishment is just that I’ve made it thirteen years in the classroom. On average, most teachers only make it five years in the classroom so I’m glad that I’ve almost doubled that. I think I could retire doing what I do, and it’s a huge accomplishment to find what you love and do it as a career.”

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Tom Gavin

“I grew up here in Canyon Country. At one point, you could drive from Canyon Country to Newhall without seeing a single stop light. I like to tinker in my garden; I like to tinker on the computer. I have my own pepper garden at home and we make a very nice pepper jelly.”

Kathy Barr

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“It is exciting to be back here but in another perspective. I had a lot of my colleagues now as teachers. Within the history department, I have had Worby and Von Busch. I’ve had O’Shea, Burhill, and Preach and more.”

Nicole Kim

8 7

“It’s so rewarding seeing my former students here at the West Ranch Campus. They are growing to be mature young men and women. There are about 800 students who I’ve taught in the past [at Rancho Pico] or am teaching currently this year at West Ranch. I really enjoy the relationship I have with my students as well as being a role model for them.”

Lisa Allensworth

“My younger sister had special needs when she was born, so I used to work with her when I was in college because my mom passed away early on, when I was about 17. So I just worked with her and it was just like ‘This is what I am meant to do. I’m going to teach.’”

12 Kanika Mapp “In general, teaching students. I love when I get emails from parents saying, “Oh, my child has never done so well in this.” Like I said, I was here before, and it was nice when parents said, “I’m so glad your back!” Being able to touch other people’s lives is my proudest accomplishment.”

Hailey Brockway

W

By Megan Chang Photos provided by Josh Mccaghren

hen I met up with Hailey Brockway for her interview, I found her sitting comfortably talking with her friends. She lounged casually with a fashionable gray T-shirt dress, flawless carmel complexion, and voluminous curls that formed perfect little spirals down her back. Any person that meets Hailey for the first time will immediately notice her silent confidence and

friendly smile.

Hailey is not your average sophomore. She kickboxes in her free time, and while most of us are already overwhelmed by the expectations of being a student, Hailey faces the challenges and excitement of being a professional model.

She first got interested in the profession after being approached by a scout while walking in Santa Monica. At first, she wasn’t entirely sure if modeling was something she would be interested in doing.

“When I was first scouted, my mom was more excited than I was because she always wanted me to be a model,” said Hailey. “I just kind of went with the flow to make her happy, but it worked out for me.”

Of course, Hailey’s mom was ecstatic when she found out that her daughter was given this once-in-a-lifetime chance.

“I was very excited that she got this amazing opportunity that millions of girls dream of,” said Adriana Brockway, Hailey’s mom. “I always knew in my heart that she has the potential and a lot to offer the modeling industry with her unique look.”

Luckily, this extra push from her mom allowed Hailey to land her first modeling job and ultimately begin her career.

“My first modeling job was, oh my gosh,” said Hailey as she tried to recollect the experience. “It was Kohl’s for the Juniors section. I think that was also my favorite modeling job only because I got to model with other girls. There was also a bunch of food,” said Hailey. “I love modeling because I get to make a lot of cool friends.”

After that first photo shoot two years ago, Hailey’s life would change drastically.

From that point, Hailey has been featured in various magazines, stores, and websites, including Fantastics Magazine, Popsugar.com, Makemechic.com, and Kohl’s.

Hailey’s poise and confidence can be seen as clearly in pictures as in person.

Her works display the full scope of her talents as they range from youthful and lighthearted to serious and professional. In Fantastics Magazine, Hailey models tribal swimwear while staring fiercely into the camera. Hailey was also featured on

the Kohl’s website promoting their new S.o. R.a.d. Collection by Awesomeness TV. But as great as Hailey looks in the photos, to her, viewing the final pictures can be a both a blessing and a curse.

“Seeing the outcome of the pictures is my favorite part about being a model.

But at the same time, I don’t like to see what I’ve done because I think of how I could’ve done it better. I’m really harsh on myself,” said Hailey.

Being a model isn’t always glamorous. Hailey has been told over the years to watch what she eats and to only eat healthy, but she confides that, like most teenage girls, she doesn’t always follow this guideline, especially when it comes to French fries, her favorite food. Modeling is also a job in itself, and it can interfere with Hailey’s other responsibilities as a student.

“When I have a test but I also have a really important audition, I have to go to the audition. This means that I have to make up a lot of stuff,” said Hailey.

Most of Hailey’s auditions take place in Los Angeles or Santa Monica, the place where Hailey was first scouted. Not only does modeling take away time from school, but also any free time that could be spent with family and friends.

“We are extremely busy with casting and photo shoots which takes away from family time,” said Hailey’s mom. “However, seeing her behind the camera makes it all worthwhile for us.”

Hailey has also had her share of embarrassing modeling moments.

“Sometimes they’ll start taking pictures of me and I don’t know that they’ve started because sometimes they’re just fixing the lighting and stuff. They ask me ‘Is that your pose?’ And I’ll just be staring into space,” shared Hailey.

Fortunately, through it all, Hailey’s many good friends at West Ranch have supported her through the ups and downs of her modeling experience.

“Hailey is honestly one of the best friends I’ve ever had. She is always there to talk to me when I need her and she’s always so lively and full of positive energy,” said Tessa DuBay-Jurado, one of Hailey’s close friends. “I am always ecstatic when she tells us that she got a new job, especially where she tells us about a shoot she’s doing for a brand we all know and love.”

We can expect to see a lot more of Hailey in the next couple of years as she develops as a model. Her passion for the profession along the her growing experience will allow her to become even more successful. The next time you pick up a magazine, be on the lookout for Hailey.

DIVERSITY AT WEST RANCH

Story & Photos by Jacqueline Hofmann, Lauren Lee, Alina Truong, & Hannah Kim

“

In Switzerland, I really appreciated the whole international thing. I went to an international school so I met people from every country. I think it is cool to bring that international thought to America because it isn’t the most diverse place here compared to Switzerland. I mean I knew people from Africa, Asia, everywhere.”

“

My junior high director in band told me, “One, plus one, plus one, equals one,” which basically stands for one section plus another plus another one just equals one whole band. I find that to be really important.”

“

“

I am Hindu. I’ve never eaten meat so I don’t aspire to eat it. There’s other religions, like there’s Pakistani, and different types of southern and northern. Like my friend Kenny is northern and I’m southern, so he doesn’t speak some languages I speak. I speak Hindi and Tamil but Kenny only speaks Hindi.”

My mom, she didn’t grow up in America; she came from Jamaica. She was poor so she didn’t really know where her food was going to come from. She had two sisters, and one brother I think, and her dad was abusive, so she had to worry about her dad coming back drunk and getting food on the table. When my sister and I ever complain about some things, she will bring it up and it makes us appreciate what we have.”

“

“

I got bullied in middle school for my face. It happened all the time. I’d just ignore them or say “thanks,” because I don’t care. But I have big lips so a lot of people would make fun of them. I got called Kylie Jenner a lot too.”

I feel like there is a stereotype with Asian people being so into studying, that they can’t do anything that is physically altering, but I felt that I shouldn’t follow the stereotype. Even though my mom was kind of against it, I decided to dye my hair purple. Originally it was going to be something else but my hair was too dark.”

Coffee, Clover, & Connections

Story and Photos by Rachel Lee The busy stir of employees bringing platters of sandwiches and salted caramel squares to the decorated table outside replaced the normal 6 p.m. lull of Starbucks.

30 minutes left.

Jazz music filled the quiet air with a welcoming sound, instantly transforming the patio seating.

15 minutes left.

The murmur of people talking added to the increasingly lively atmosphere.

2 minutes left.

“

It almost brings me to tears because I had no idea that it was going to be this successful.”

The murmurs elevated to loud laughter, while multiple conversations collided together. The patio seating bursted with livelihood as a large crowd formed, eagerly waiting to taste coffee.

“Welcome to Coffee, Clover, Connections,” announced store manager Vanessa Bucklin.

The crowd hushed their voices as soon as the coffee tasting officially began. On Sept. 3, Westridge Starbucks hosted its first coffee tasting, featuring Vietnamese flavors using the Clover coffee machine. Westridge Starbucks is the only store in Santa Clarita with the Clover machine, which uses vacuum technology to bring out a richer flavor to the coffee. Westridge Starbucks decided to use the coffee tasting as a way to spotlight their new Clover machine.

In true spirit of a coffee tasting, Bucklin walked the crowd through the detailed process of tasting coffee.

“First we are going to cup the coffee so we have the flavors going straight to your nose and you are going to smell it,” said Bucklin.

Sniff. The soothing smell of coffee mixed with sweet yam prompted satisfied smiles from the tasters.

“After that you are going to slurp. You are going to make that really obnoxious noise because you want it to splash all over your tongue. It’s the best way to get that flavor and we’re outdoors so we get all the fresh air in there too. It’s going to splash on your tongue and that’s when you are going to tell if it’s got a light or medium body. Does it disappear right away or does it linger?”

Slurp. Everyone slurped their Vietnam Da Lat reserve coffees in unison. Slurping the coffee brought out the brightness of the coffee and enhanced the unique acidity

20 www.wrpawprint.com | The Pawprint | A&E

of the brew. The coffee had a medium body; the flavor lingered on the tongue for a few seconds, but faded away, leaving only a faint bitterness on the back of the tongue.

To compliment the acidity of the coffee, open-face Vietnamese chicken sandwiches were served.

“We decided to go with a banh mi sandwich, it’s sort of a take off from one. We are hoping that the acidity that’s coming from the lime juice and there’s some pickles will pair with the acidity of the coffee. There’s a creamy Sriracha mayonnaise that we hope is going to complement the coffee,” said Starbucks employee Kim Winklhofer.

To complete the tasting, tasters ate salted caramel squares that complimented the acidity of the brew with the caramel’s sweetness.

“We are having a great time,” said local resident Todd Brooks. “No question about it. The clover machine creates a deeper, richer coffee.”

Live jazz music, coffee, food, and the mingling combined to make the night successful.

“I am humbled and overwhelmed by the support and the community involvement and the partners from the other stores coming,” said Bucklin.

From the rooms of a training conference, the coffee tasting became more than just an idea.

“Mike and I went through the coffee master training together, and one of the

things you have to do as a coffee master is propose ways you are going to spread the interest of coffee to everybody,” said Winklhofer. “I talked about having a flyer, and he talked about having a big gigantic coffee tasting, so it kind of just came together from that. My manager was like ‘Hey, you know, remember those projects you said you were going to do, let’s do it!’”

The night was enjoyable despite the broken outdoor lights that left the crowd sipping their coffees in the dark. The loud conversations dropped to a quiet murmur as people said their goodbyes and thanked the employees for the event. The patio returned to its usual hush.

“Fall” for these T.V. Shows

Scream Queens

By Minju Kang Photos Provided By TV Adiccion, Goodmenproject & Buzzfeed “Scream Queens” is an upcoming horror comedy show that centralizes its plot around the mysterious murders occurring at a sorority. With its well-known cast consisting of Emma Roberts, Lea Michele, Ariana Grande, Keke Palmer, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Nick Jonas, the show already has an awaiting fanbase. Also, the producers of the two hit T.V. shows, “American Horror Story” and “Glee,” are taking charge, so it will be exciting to see how the intertwining of humor and horror will play out. This horror comedy series is set to premiere on Sept.

22 on Fox.

Grandfathered This comedy tells the story of Jimmy Martino, a successful restaurant-owner and bachelor, and how his family-lacking life instantly turns upside down when he finds out he has a grown son with a granddaughter. John Stamos, greatly known for playing Uncle Jesse in “Full House,” takes on the role of Martino, and Josh Peck, known from the kid-favorite show, “Drake and Josh,” plays Martino’s son named Gerald. It will be interesting to see the heartwarming chemistry between the two actors’ characters as they depict an abnormal family adjusting to their new lives. “Grandfathered” will air on Sept. 29 on Fox.

The Grinder We loved him in “The Outsiders,” we loved him in “Parks and Recreation,” and we will probably love him as the main character in the upcoming sitcom, “The Grinder.” Rob Lowe’s character is an celebrity on-screen lawyer that decides to return to his family and work in his family’s law firm. The show’s comedic aspects will show as Lowe’s character will work in an actual courtroom despite having any legit education, degree, or practice.

“The Grinder” will debut its first episode on Sept. 29 on Fox.

A&E | The Pawprint | www.wrpawprint.com

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Fashion Senior It’s the last year of high school, and all the seniors could care less about their appearance and outfit choice. College applications are literally draining the life out of the students, so there is no room to worry about what shirt matches with those shorts.

However, second semester is full of trendy outfits. The girls dress as cute and fashionable as possible, realizing they must end the year in style. They like any type of dress, layered jewelry, and any clothing that is comfy yet cute. The beauty of this is that everyone looks different. They really let their true colors show along with their personality. The guys pull out the button down shirts and the cool shades, and strut into school. Their confidence is very high, as they realize they are gonna move away to college in just a few months.

Daniella looks adorable and bohemian with her floral dress and leather jewelry.

Sophomore These “experienced returners” has their look down to a science.

All the girls look like they got back from Coachella or a beach day, very organic and bohemian looking. The girls wear everything Brandy Melville, I mean everything. The skirts, shirts, dresses, rompers, jackets and jewelry were all from this clothing store. Sometimes they were brave and bought a few pieces from PacSun, but that was rare. The guys are also very into the Diamond Supply shirts paired with khaki shorts, oh and don’t forget the Active Brand socks. If “starter packs” were a thing back then, these articles of clothing would be a part of the “sophomore boy starter pack.”

Jessica’s outfit is super edgy with the black and whites striped shirt and cut-off black shorts, but she keeps it sporty and fun with some sporty sneakers.

Evolution

By Samantha Hartung Photos by Samantha Hartung

Junior The upperclassmen really got into the latest trends towards the end of the year.

All the ladies branch away from the uber hipster look, and drift toward a very natural and throwback look. The knee-high boots were a staple in the girl world, along with leggings and the hippie patterned yoga pants. The guys who worked out all summer just claim that they “got big” and wear muscle tanks the first half of the year, but later get into wearing button up shirts. By the end of the year, junior boys transform into trendy young men, not little boys still wearing Diamond Supply shirts with the same pair of socks since eighth grade.

The tan pants are a staple in every guy’s wardrobe, but Blake rocks them with his hipster shades and distressed shirt.

Freshman Ah, the first year of high school. All the little freshmen try so hard to look good and make a good first impression.

Combat boots are a staple in every girl’s wardrobe. Along with these boots, girls wear the skater skirts and crop tops, usually purchased from Brandy Melville. The whole point is to look like you came straight of of the Brandy Melville website, as bohemian and hipster as possible. The guys are at an interesting stage in freshman year: half of the pubescent boys wear Nike sports attire and try to look like they are going to work out. The other half wants the crank the “swag factor” to the top, so they are already into the Diamond Supply shirts and hats, paired with some Active Brand socks.

Maddie’s black skirt and halter top look clean yet chic paired with a lacy bralette and espadrille heels for a girly touch.

A&E | The Pawprint | www.wrpawprint.com

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SMILES AND SPOTLIGHTS

By Aerin Choi Photos Provided By Savannah Burrows

Many people have always aspired to become a celebrity. For most of us, this is a far-off dream, and possibly a distant hope, but for West Ranch freshman Savannah Burrows, this has been an astounding reality.

Ever since she was little, she’s been forging her career pathway through music, with the strong combination of writing and performing her own songs.

Savannah writes her own music with the help of her dad, and performs her songs onstage with her band, whom she met when she was younger. She is musically talented, playing instruments ranging from guitar, piano, ukulele, and drums. ¨I like guitar most because it’s a part of me, but I’ve been playing piano forever,” says Burrows. She performs with her band, but occasionally sings solo, with just an instrument and her voice.

She started loving music when she was eight years old.

“When she wrote her first song I thought, whoah, there is something different about this girl,” said Savannah’s mother, Bobbi Burrows. “She was writing her own music... that really made me realize it.”

Her parents have supported Savannah throughout her calling, furthering her career while keeping her down to earth and humble. With an extraordinary amount of fame for her age, she’s managed to maintain her kind heart and avoid the superficial route that’s so easy to succumb to. Her mom is the performance guru, teaching her how to keep the crowd entertained and how to catch attention on stage, while the songwriting is up to Savannah and her dad. They’re a working team that produces the songs she eventually performs.

The music business is hard to keep up with, whether you’re fourteen or forty. It always changes suddenly, but you never know when. For someone trying to be a normal teenager while making herself famous, Savannah has a massive challenge every day. “It’s definitely stressful sometimes when you’re focusing on school and

you have to find that balance,” Savannah admitted. Between upcoming concerts, loads of schoolwork, and maintaining a social life, Savannah’s schedule is packed to the last minute. She added, “I’ll be focusing on school, and my parents will be like, hey, we have a concert next week, and I have a test next week.”

Savannah will go to school, and, three days a week, immediately drive close to an hour for a music lesson to even further improve her talents.

On top of that, she’ll occasionally have a piano or guitar lesson as well. She will even set aside a short period of time to solely work on her music.

Between this, she also has to make time for her heavy academic schedule.

However, Savannah isn’t letting challenges stop her from pursuing her dream career. It’s obvious she’s found this balance, because she continues to seek a musical occupation, and maintains a straight A record at school. She’s at a healthy harmony between schoolwork and her music and continues to set aside time in the day to improve her skills.

Savannah also has supporters including her mom, dad, friends, and band helping her along the way.

“She’s just surrounded by a lot of really great people,” says her mom.

It’s not just the prospect of fame and fortune that drives the young artist either. She says she’s inspired by her fans. ¨What really motivates me is, when I sing a song, I see the audience’s reaction and how they can relate to my music,¨ Savannah said.

It’s evident that she cares about others, from her love for her fans to her positive attitude about the future. ¨There was never a time I wanted to quit music,¨ she answered immediately.

Savannah, even in the more difficult moments, is able to keep a smile on her face and take charge of what she needs to do to progress.

Both Savannah and her parents see a bright future in store for her. ¨That’s definitely my goal, to become successful in it,” Savannah stated. Her mom agreed, “She has the potential of going as far as she wants to. It’s a lot of hard work, and whatever makes her happy I think that’s what she’ll get.¨

It’s definitely stressful sometimes when you’re focusing on school and you have to find that balance.

24 www.wrpawprint.com | The Pawprint | Sports

WILDCATS GO DOWN FIGHTING PHOTOS BY BRYCE FENENBOCK

By Jagmeet Arora Photo Provided By Bob Binnie

Running Never Stops

Headed by Coach Steve Welker, the Wildcats’ Cross Country team’s expectations are soaring high this season. Last season, the Boys’ Varsity team fell short of advancing to the state finals, but hopes this year will be the one for them. The girls’ team placed very well last season as well, but hope to place even better this year. With the goal of advancing to the section finals, the team is confident that their hard work will finally pay off. Go Cats!

Boys’Varsity “If we stick to our training and work together, we can do huge things.”

– Tucker Welker, 12

“I want to make Saugus to feel the Bern.”

– Ryan Painter, 12

“The team is looking strong this year. We’re going to take it to State and so much more.”

– Jack Arnold, 11

Girls’Varsity “We’ve been training all summer, and it’ll pay off with greatness.”

– Sophia Hoelzel, 9

“I have high expectations for us because we are all extremely dedicated.”

– Taylor Hernandez, 12

“Out of all four years I’ve been on this team, this is the year we’ll make a difference.”

– Stephany Estrada, 12

THREE KEYS TO VICTORY: GIRLS’ TENNIS

3

By Andy Song

1

IT IS A TEAM SPORT

As soon as the season finished last year, the Girls’ tennis team had already began preparing for the next season with numerous amounts of practice throughout the offseason. With these long hours together, the team has been able to build a lot of chemistry and have created strong relationships that will allow the team to perform at the highest level. The coaches have placed emphasis on team chemistry and bonding combined with high-level doubles strategies to allow the team to maximize their performance together.

2

NOTHING IS OUT OF REACH

THE PERFECT SERVE Too hot to handle, too fast to catch...Aiming for an ace

AN ACE WITH NO MISTAKES One of the most important parts of tennis matches are the serves, with it being especially crucial in deciding the outcome of many games.

The girls’ team has been working hard to achieve

the perfect serve that will give them a good advantage over opponents right away and help them to earn every point. This perfect serve can be created with a fast serve and accurate placement either very wide to

the the left or right or straight at the opponent. The team has continually practiced in these areas of proper velocity and placement to consistently obtain the perfect serve.

Golden VAlues: Girls’ Golf

1

REIGNING CHAMPS For the past couple of years, the girl’s golf team has been the uncontested champions of the foothill league. With the influx of new and returning players, the team has improved its lineup and added another

Just like a feather can take any turn while swaying in the wind, the golf ball can do just the same.

Subtle wind breezes can push the ball centimeters away from the hole, causing frustration and disappointment. A mistimed

dimension missing before.

Confidence and ambition soaring, the team no longer has its eyes set on winning league, but placing top three in CIF to advance onto the next round.

stroke, a mere shift in the angle of the swing, or even a momentary break in concentration can decide whether or not a golfer finishes above par, at par, or below par and, possibly, whether or not the entire team advances.

THE LITTLE THINGS MATTER

2 SWINGS

PERFECT

3

By Jagmeet Arora

The tennis team was able to perform well above expectations with a third place finish behind Hart and Valencia last year, and now look to achieve even more this season. Head Coach Dina McBride believes the team, this year, have a very good shot at beating out Valencia for the number one spot. The team has increased depth and experience from the previous season, giving the team confidence that they can reach even higher.

Attaining the perfect stroke is as crucial as breathing when it comes to golf. Many members of the team have spent countless hours in the offseason just practicing and fine-tuning their swing. Whether it be a long drive or a simple putt, one or two swings can separate the placement in competitive tournaments and make the difference between advancing to the next round or not.

Girls’ Volleyball is Going to KILL this Season

By Sarah Ziskind Photos Provided By Smugmug

West Ranch’s girls’ volleyball prepared for their upcoming season with a great start. In an intense game against Immaculate Heart the Wildcats came out with a huge victory. Although this was a preseason game, the score of 25 to 9 gives us a nice preview of what is yet to come.

“The team looked pretty near perfect,” said coach Brandon Pank. “If they continue to work hard as a team we should be very successful.”

Starting his second year as head coach, Pank now shares a deeper bond with his team that gives him an advantage he did not have last season.

“Everyone is speaking the same language so we can be more efficient than we ever were last year,” said Pank. “The biggest difference is that we are continuing on with our knowledge instead of just beginning.”

As a more focused and bonded group, the team concentrates on the work put in and not the wins that come out.

“Success doesn’t just come from winning.”

- Brandon Pank By setting hard work as their main goal, the team will have no pressure to surpass last years record of 3-7 in league. With mostly returning players it won’t be hard to improve from last season.

“We’ve been practicing since summer trying to get as good as we can before season.” said senior Janessa Chase.

Squeezing practice into every open hour and giving 110 percent whenever on the court is what is going to lead them to victory and hopefully a win against rivals: Valencia.

Good luck to the girl’s volleyball team and may this season be a successful one. Don’t forget to show your support!