The Vista View: Volume VI, Issue V

VOLUME VI, ISSUE 5

APRIL 3, 2009

V I S TA M U R R I E TA H I G H S C H O O L | 2 8 2 5 1 C L I N T O N K E I T H R D . M U R R I E TA , C A 9 2 5 6 3 | ( 9 5 1 ) 8 9 4 - 5 7 5 0

Baseball memorial pays tribute to Cody Legg SABRINA JONKHOFF Staff Writer

Sabrina Jonkhoff

HONORABLE REMEMBRANCE- The dedication to Cody Legg, late son of varsity baseball coach Dave Legg, raises appreciation for the loyalty of all service men and women.

Preceding the season opener varsity baseball game was a memorial service in dedication to Cody Legg, the late son of varsity baseball coach and physical education teacher, Dave Legg. On June 4, 2008, Cody and two other soldiers were killed in Iraq when their unit was a�acked.

VMHS and the baseball program have made a real effort to pay tribute to Cody and keep his memory alive. All of the uniforms now feature a number “4” on the front, (as it was Cody’s number), and the dugout also features a giant “4” painted on the roof. Also, a special plaque will be permanently displayed at the school in memoriam of Cody. In the shape of a baseball diamond, the plaque features three prominent images of Cody wearing the uniforms that came to define him: baseball and the Army.

Not only does the plaque honor Cody, but also the two other soldiers who were killed in action, as well as all other service men and women who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of their country with

unwavering loyalty. Legg and his family hope that people (namely students at VMHS) will become more aware and appreciative of what these soldiers are doing every day so that Americans can enjoy their freedoms.

“The dedication ceremony was a short tribute to three fallen American heroes. My idea is for people that are here at Vista now and those who follow to see the memorial and take a minute and think and hopefully thank not only these men, but all the veterans who served this country and gave the ultimate sacrifice so we can do whatever we choose,” Legg said.

To spread awareness of armed service and make people appreciate all that they take for granted is the pinnacle of Legg’s message and the idea behind the memorial as a whole.

“Whatever I do will never be enough to express my love to him,” Legg said.

However, Legg’s pride and love of his son are evident, and u�erly irreplacable. His son is a true hero and died in the most honorable way: defending the country he so treasured and honored.

Students prove musical worth at festival Renaissance theme unique and effective ALYSSA CURRY Staff Writer

Recently, a ba�le of the bands took place at VMHS. It was not a ba�le of rock bands, but a ba�le of orchestral ensembles from many different schools. A total of 28 bands from 15 different schools, including VMHS, competed in this band festival. Four out of these 28 were representing VMHS. The event was spaced apart two days, March 19th and 20th, and took place in VMHS’s Performing Arts Center.

The festival was not held for leisurely reasons. To the participants, it was a lot like state testing. Four judges rated each band based on their performance and sight reading ability.

The first station was the warm-up station. This is where the band was able to practice a li�le before going on stage.

The second station was the stage performance.

Generally, each band played three practiced pieces, one being from a list of stan-

Talent hurtles

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dard pieces. Judges at this station looked for good tone quality, good pitch, rhythm, style, and overall musicianship.

The third station was sight reading. At this station, each band was required to play a piece that they had never seen before. This was to ensure that they were taught how to read music.

“Music is a language,” Donald Wade, one of the VMHS band directors, said. “Sight reading demonstrates the band’s ability to fluently

speak the language.”

The bands were scored according to five ratings: Poor, Fair, Good, Excellent, and Superior.

All four VMHS bands received a Superior rating.

“Because the judges are other band directors, you want to get a good rating,” Wade said.

“There’s a great sense of pride in it.”

Michael Quintana, 12, and Tyler Seavey, 11, felt very differently before performing in front of the judges.

“I was confident,” Quintana said. “I thought we were prepared pre�y well.” (continued on Page 2)

Culture fair

The annual success of the multicultural fair continues with yet another Margarita Lynn stunning display.

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NIKKI SALVADOR Staff Writer

Renaissance is a club on campus that rewards students each semester for their accomplishments throughout the year. The theme this year was “the future is now”. The entire gym was dark with neon lighting and screens. They took the students though a day at school in the future. There was a dance team, choir, PE and class; each something unexpected, something entertaining.

“The renaissance rally was really fun, the team was exciting and I especially liked the dance team and choir,” said Brandi Evans, 12.

The Renaissance team tried to make this rally different. It was much more technical this year with all the lighting and screens, to develop the futuristic atmosphere. They collected all their different ideas and worked hard to put together the rally. It originated from the idea of Star Wars, to space, and

(continued on Page 2)

“Watchmen”

The latest in superhero blockbusters hits theaters with extreme power, grossing $55 million in its witchboy.net first weekend.

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2

NEWS

ARIL 3, 2009

Operation C.L.A.S.S. succeeds NATASHA GAINER Staff Writer

United Students has been working collectively on a project called Operation C.L.A.S.S. with Terence Gainer, 12, which is geared to helping service men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Besides relying on just their students, they integrated the entire VMHS community into their efforts.

The club requested that each classroom to put together two “Health and Comfort Packages,” one for men and one for women, which included items such as bars of soap, brushes, combs, and magazines. Classes were encouraged to put a short le�er in the boxes so that the service men and women know that their communities have not forgo�en the hard work and love they expend in fighting for our country.

“I can remember,” Will Gainer, teacher of history and ethnic studies, recalled, “back in 1991, when I was a Captain in the Marine

Corp. serving in Saudi Arabia during the Golf War, the feeling I had when I received my care package. It was from one of my sister’s colleagues from Chicago. When I got home from Saudi, and back to Chicago, my hometown, I went to visit my sister at work, and she introduced me to the person who gave me the package. It felt so good knowing that someone out here really cared.”

Operation C.L.A.S.S. had its kickoff on February 6 and ended March 23, and the packages were mailed off soon a�er that. Gainer and U.S. headed this project, and they hoped to get other clubs and organizations on campus involved.

In all, there were a total of 243 boxes collected. These boxes included various items such as candy, gum, magazines, toiletry

items, and small games.

Terence Gainer and the members of U.S. would like to thank all of the students and teachers who participated in making this Operation a success.

This was an opportunity for all of us to live our mo�o of C.L.A.S.S. and to have a chance to change a life.

By your actions, it more than exemplified what we do here as Broncos on this campus.

Festival makes good impression for future (continued from Page 1)

“I was nervous,” Seavey said. “I knew what to expect, but I was still nervous.”

A�er their respective performances, their views differed slightly.

“I thought that was the best I ever performed!” Seavey said.

“You always wonder if the judges are talking negatively or positively, but you have to focus on your own performance,” Quintana said. “And I think we accomplished what was set.”

Wade agreed completely. He was especially impressed with the freshmen band, who received a unanimous superior rating.

“The freshmen were incredibly impressive,” Mr. Wade said. “I’m proud because this shows me that the future of the band is strong.”

The superior ratings earned by all four bands were great accomplishments. The music program hopes to use this past festival as a step to further improvement.

Rally encourages best from students (continued from Page 1)

Natasha Gainer

DRIVE TO DONATE-VMHS student Terence Gainer, 12, examines the stores of supplies gathered for service men and women from Operation C.L.A.S.S.

eventually to the final product: the future is now.

What was different about this rally was the additional teacher recognition.

“For every student recognized there was a teacher recognized too” said Erin Moran, Renaissance Coordinator.

To receive a Renaissance award, councilors, and administration came together to select students who exemplify CLASS. It is not just about grades; excellence in behavior or a�endance is also considered.

The purpose of this program is to inspire students to do be�er and strive for their best.

NHS welcomes new members to prestigious club by one, by Jessica Domingo, 12, Community Service Coordinator. It was explained to the candidate-inductees that the torch they carry with them now, “although small, should ‘bear forward the searching light of truth, to lead others in the light of ambition,’” Archie Aitcheson said.

Following the grouprecitation of the Honor Society pledge, the new members were informed that their membership is life-long.

However, that membership, as stipulated by the pledge,

upholds the highest standards and expectations of excellence in life, leadership, service, character and achievement from its members.

NHS is quite big on the east coast while few schools in southern California even participate in the program. It’s surprising that this is such a rare group in our area. “It is therefore a privilege,” Daniel, initiator of the program at VMHS, said, “that you students here tonight should be inducted into this prestigious society.”

Daniel took the opportunity to introduce a new project for the school: a permanent banner on the south wall of the multipurpose room displaying all current and past members of NHS that is due to appear by next year. Also, all NHS members will receive on their diploma a seal of their lasting membership in the society.

Following the ceremony, Aitcheson’s neighbor, Gillian Larson, exSurvivor contestant (Gabon, Africa), spoke to the small

crowd of family members and close friends about her experience on the show and of the determination and Seventeen students personal philosophy which from VMHS were inducted got her there. It was: Dream into the National Honor Society it, Believe it, Prepare for it, Do (NHS) on Monday, March 23rd, it. Similarly, near the podium, based on a previous evaluation was displayed a placard that of their character, leadership, read, “Wish it, Dream it, Do service to the community and it.” scholastic achievements. The Tying the elements of induction ceremony is an agesuccess together with ambition old tradition that was recently and personal achievement, her introduced at VMHS just two speech incorporated the main years ago by Darren Daniel, symbol of the Survivor show who sought to consolidate with NHS’s own emblem: the the school’s torch. reputation of “You are excellence by carrying the including one torch inside you of the most and it is burning. esteemed You will carry honor societies it forever and in the nation as no one can put part of VMHS’s it out,” Larson vigorous said.

Larson, extracurricular who hails from résumé.

Johannesburg, T h e South Africa, ceremony concluded the centers on the night’s ceremony. motif of the The words were lighted torch, both inspiring the “Candle and true to the of Knowledge National Honor and Truth,” Society’s honest which was lit for each Courtesy of Danielle Smith principles and student, one HONORABLE OCCASION- A new generation of bright students is brought into the National Honor Society on the night of induction. ideals.

RICHARD ALDERSLY Staff Writer

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NEWS

APRIL 3, 2009

Dance-a-thon raises money for drama program CHELSEA DAVIDSON Staff Writer

The VMHS Drama department held their first annual Dance-a-thon on Saturday, March 7. Dance partners dressed in 1930’s and 1940’s clothing, while they competed for their very own Dance-a-thon trophy and the title of the first annual dance-a-thon winners.

This wasn’t just any dance contest, but was very literally a dance marathon.

“The contest was originally scheduled to start and 9AM and go on until 10PM,” Adrienne Tooley, 12, Drama Club President, said. “But a winner was able to emerge only five hours into the contest.”

The entire inspiration came from an episode of the television series, Gilmore Girls, in which the mother daughter duo enters a 24 hour dance contest in their town.

“While Mysha and I were watching the Gilmore Girls episode, we knew our marathon wouldn’t be that long,” Tooley said. “But we thought the idea was really a wonderful one, and decided to try to create our own.

Although only three teams officially competed in the dance-a-thon, there were still a good number of spectators who showed interest in the contest.

“I didn’t actually compete in the dance-a-thon,” Amanda Hull, 12, said. “But it was a lot of fun to dance in adorable costumes and listen to fun swing music with my friends. The dance-a-thon was a unique and fun way to spend the day.”

And of course, the winners of the contest had a great deal of fun themselves, even a�er five hours of dancing.

“The purpose of the dancea-thon was to have fun dancing while raising money for the drama department,” Shelby McConnaughey, 11, the contest winner, said.

“I definitely plan on competing next year, and others should too.”

It was not necessary to be a great dancer to enter the contest.

Courtesy of Amanda Hullt The only rules of the event were that WINNING PAIR- Shelby McConnaughey and Joseph Ortega show off their dance skills. one must always be in contact with

Renaissance program rallies to save shirts RICHARD ALDERSLEY Staff Writer

Due to the national and state budget crises, nearly all clubs, classrooms and organizations on campus have had their budget cut or revoked, including Renaissance, which had not been granted a cash allowance for any of their activities for this year. Without money, Renaissance utilized other means of fundraising to continue their distribution of Tshirts in the name of academic recognition, for students who signed up to be apart of the club and had a GPA of 2.0 or higher last semester.

Over 800 students and staff members were eligible for Renaissance recognition and awards at the latest spring rally themed “The Future is Now”. That is a record number for VMHS, but still, the club lacks the purchasing p o w e r necessary to grant all the awards. “ I don’t foresee us ge�ing our budget back with the economy the way it is. In fact, it’ll probably get worse,” said Erin Moran, Renaissance Director. Renaissance had their entire budget cut last fall.

It costs about $5000 each semester for Renaissance to activate and follow through with their agenda.

That is, buying the

T-shirts and rally supplies and any other necessary items that contribute to their end—recognition of academic excellence.

To solve the problem this semester, the Renaissance team has held a number of fundraisers to match the deficit of purchasing the shirts. They were able to strike a deal with their printer, KC Graphics, who agreed to print the shirts for one dollar less each, saving them $1000.

They also held a change drive, which yielded $300, a “snack shack” that brought in another $100, and the

club is currently waiting on donation le�ers the members sent to friends and family for support to arrive. The club also will hold a collaborative Renaissance garage sale that is currently to be announced.

S o m e teachers and students contributed to the club outside the bounds of d e f i n e d charity by buying their own T-shirt.

“The T-shirts have been a tradition for six years now,” Moran said.

“They’re a great incentive for students who in turn perform be�er and look forward to receiving their own visible, tangible recognition for their work.”

Renaissance will continue to raise money the rest of this year in a constant effort to provide the students the recognition they deserve.

They are launching “Save the Renaissance T-shirt Campaign” in order to collect enough money to make their rallies and recognitions possible in the future. “ W i t h o u t money,” Moran said, “there is a distinct possibility there could be no shirts next year.”

“Without money, there is a distinct possibility there could be no shirts next year” -Erin Moran

their partner no ma�er what during the competition, and neither dancer could stop moving.

And of course competitors were highly encouraged to dress in the time period clothing.

“We also had a trophy for best costume,” Tooley said. “Which [McConnaughey] and her partner were lucky enough to win as well.”

Both McConnaughey and her partner, Joseph Ortega, 9, hope that this tradition will continue on into next year. And if the coming year allows it, they will proudly defend their title of the very first dance-a-thon winners.

“It was an incredible event,” Tooley said. “And as long as there are people willing to keep it going, I feel like the dance-a-thon has the potential to bring more and more people together each year.”

“I definitely plan on competing next year, and others should too” -Shelby McConnaughey

Blood drive support increases once more difference in lives of three people!”

Sara Molenda, 11 said.

There was a change of scenery in where this years’ drive was held. In previous years the blood drive had been held in the MPR, but it was changed this year to the small gym.

The drive is put on by the Student Senate every year and certain students are put in charge.

LeiAcuna, Kendall Courtesy of Kendall Anderson A n d e r s o n , SAVING LIVES- Lauren Tackett donates Bri�ney Hale, all blood with help from Allie Hudson. juniors, and Briana MANDY LOMNICKY Valenzuela, 10, Staff Writer were in charge of making sure everything went as planned.

Five hundred and “All in all it was really forty: the estimated number of successful. It was the biggest people whose lives were saved blood drive the school has ever from the March 20, 2009 blood had and I was excited that I got drive. to play such a big role in it,” The goal for this year’s Kendall Anderson, 11 said. blood drive was to obtain 145 The blood drive is a pints of blood. The final result good way for students that surpassed this goal. 180 pints are seventeen and older to get of blood were actually donated involved in their community. to the San Diego Blood Bank. It is also a fun way for the It was the most successful Student Senate to help the blood drive in Vista Murrieta’s community. history.

“My favorite part is For every pint of blood always being a hand holder. that is donated three lives are You get to meet new people saved. This experience proved and save lives at the same to be self rewarding for many time,” Anderson said. people.

Our school saved a large “At first I was nervous number of lives this year. We to give blood for the first can only hope that next year time but a�erwards I was so will run just as good if not excited to know that I made a be�er.

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NEWS

APRIL 3, 2009

Spring dance concert performances gain fans DOMINIQUE MISHER Staff Writer

Recently the dance class here on campus showed off what they have been working on this year for their Spring Dance Concert. On Thurs.

March 26 the dancers took the stage and put on an unforge�able show.

“The dance concert was crazy.

There were many great performances.

I liked the music choices, I liked the dances, and I liked the way they all act as if they were professional dancers,” Ian Soto,11, said.

The dance show was the highlight of many students’ night.

They preformed all kinds of dancing from, ballet, jazz, modern and also hip hop.

Many students had good feedback on the awesome piece titled “Love Story.”

Each performance inspired the imagination with a plotline that the audience enjoyed.

TV shows. They had there own story to tell. I also liked the 6 period piece.

It was different, something I have never seen before,” John Casey, 11, said.

Audience members agreed that this show would not soon be forgo�en.

“I think the dance concert was a night to remember, I am a really big fan of modern and ballet dancing and it provided a great mixture of dance. And the piece love story was an different but unique performance to watch. And I like the fact that you could tell that the dancer really tried there very best and I like there energy,” Ashley Johnson, 12, said.

The energy the dancers put forth in this performance charged Courtesy of Dominique Henderson audience members with a reason to SMOOTH MOVES-Students on the dance team practice after the dance concert come back.

“It was a great show and I will “I think the dance concert was tight! were awesome. I like the fact that be coming back next year for sure,” I really liked the hip-hop pieces; they many of the pieces were like watching said Soto.

Luncheon Drama showcases talent at festival to provide food and fashion CHELSEA DAVIDSON Staff Writer

DOMINIQUE MISHER Staff Writer

The friends fashion luncheon is a presentation that will be held in the MPR during first and second lunch on April 2.

“It is a mini-fashion show,” Cynthia Chavero, 11, a member of the fashion class, said.

It is a show that will be hosted by fashion club and the fashion club’s director, Kay Mueller. It’s also supported by Baja Grill, a sponsor, and 16 Underground’s clothing owner, Brandy.

The friends fashion luncheon will be presenting VMHS students modeling clothes from 16 Underground, located at 26305 Jefferson Avenue , Suite C. 16 Underground sells clothes, shoes, and accessories for only sixteen dollars or less.

The following people are students from VMHS that will model the clothes for the friends fashion luncheon: Sierra Wildey, Ashley Wilikinson, Janelle Ba�s, Tiffany Green, Elizabeth Hoyt, Sarah Roley, Shelbie Pierce, Dylan Reid, Ambrosia Smith, Nicole�e Garcia, and Bree Estrada.

The friends fashion luncheon will be for the benefit of a bigger fashion show on May 19 at VMHS in the PAC. In order to be a part of the friends fashion luncheon, guests must purchase a ticket for only five dollars at the bookkeeper’s office. It will include foods and deserts from Baja Grill, reserved seating, and fashion bags made by fashion club students.

“This fundraising event will be lots of fun. The fashion club, class, and Ms. Mueller would really appreciate it if you come to help out our upcoming spring fashion show,” Chavero said.

The Fullerton Theater Festival is an annual acting and design competition where thousands of students from high schools all over southern California get together at Fullerton College and showcase their work in acting or technical theater. This year on March 13 and 14, a handful of students from VMHS were lucky enough to not only a�end the festival, but also showcase their own theater talents at the college.

“I performed in a ten minute comedic play, which my group and I did fairly well in,” Amanda Hull, 12, said. “We didn’t end up winning, but we still received high scores from the judges.”

The festival doesn’t just provide a way to show your personal talents, but it’s also a great opportunity to learn from other performers, and gain constructive criticism from your audience.

“We’re all used to performing on

stage,” Adrienne Tooley, 12, said. “But the judges and the organization of the competition allows us to learn how to perform under different circumstances.

Everybody seems to have a lot of fun, and the feedback is helpful too.”

The festival isn’t entirely about theater performances. The festival is filled with much more than monologues and musical pieces. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the festival and something everyone can participate in.

“Ironically, one of the most fun parts of the festival for me had nothing to do with theater,” Hull said. “There was a live band playing, and my friends and I went to the very front of the crowd and rocked out to the music!”

But of course, the feeling of performing in front of people who understand the commitment and dedication theater takes is a wonderful opportunity the festival provides.

Being able to join together with such a large group of people with the same love for the stage is exciting in itself.

“Performing at Fullerton was

a thrill,” Tara Honda, 11, said. “We could feel the energy moving through the room during our performance and a�er we finished we felt so proud of ourselves because we knew we had pulled if off well and had had fun with it at the same time.”

Although VMHS didn’t come back with a trophy or medal, the students definitely gained a unique experience.

“You know when you go on a roller coaster and you scream and laugh and have an amazing time?” Hull said.

“And then right a�er you feel breathless and happy and excited and tired, but you want to do it all over again? That’s what Fullerton is like. I love it there.”

Since 1981 the Fullerton Theater Festival has graced the Fullerton College campus with its passionate a�itude toward the arts, and since then the festival has been a�ended by over 20,000 students and 150 schools. VMHS will be one of those schools again next year and will allow yet another group of students to created memories they’ll never forget

SAT testing questions answered ALYSSA HERNANDEZ Staff Writer It is that time of the year again…

SAT testing. And ever year students ask the same questions concerning the SAT. Some of these questions include: “what is the SAT?” “Is it important?”

“And what does it do for my future?”

The SAT stands for Scholastic Aptitude Test of Scholastic Assessment Test. It is a three hour comprehensive exam with three parts: critical reading, math, and writing. There will also be analogies, and sentence completions.

The questions are in multiple choice form and include some free response.

The SAT can be taken at the specific dates specified throughout the year.

And even though it is not mandatory it is recommended to take the SAT junior year as many times as you like and again senior year to keep improving your score. There are no limits on how many times you take it and your

highest score will be the one that is sent to colleges and looked at. The SAT is one of the most important tests you will ever take.

Many students ask why the SAT is so important.

Even though colleges do look at your high school transcripts, the SAT scores that you get help college admission boards predict how well you do in college.

Although there are some colleges that do not look at the SAT scores, the majority of them see it as a major part for a student admission.

Being prepared for the SAT is key because if you are used to cramming before a test, this is not a good one to do it on. Studying is key.

Some ways to prepare for the test would be to take time out of your day and study the booklet that students are given. Taking the PSAT is also a good way to help because it gives you an idea of what the SAT will be like. Also do not be afraid to go and talk to your counselors, they love to help and can answer any questions you may have concerning the SAT. S o m e good sites to help you prepare for the test would be Sylvan SAT study at www.sylvinlearning.com, or improve your SAT score at www.testprepivy. com.

VIEWPOINT

APRIL 3, 2009

5

Head to Head:

Is School Spirit declining?

Enthusiasm at VMHS is going strong.

ANDREW OLSON

Have we already plateaued?

ALYSSA CURRY

Sports Editor

Staff Writer

When VMHS opened in 2003, with Butch Owens as principal, the aim was to create a school that had high standards for its students ethically, academically, and athletically, in that order. The achievement of that goal can’t be disputed, as Vista Murrieta has won two consecutive CIF “Champion of Character” awards and already has a gym crowded with CIF and Southwestern League championship banners almost evenly split between “Academic Champions” and “Champions.” Vista Murrieta was intended to be a “way of life” rather than simply a school. What some people have been complaining about is their perceived “decline” in school spirit.

The class of 2009 is the final class to remember the first senior class that graduated in 2006 with a legacy of school spirit and established a base from which our school could build. I envision the class of ’09 when they were freshmen, caught up in the enthusiasm and hope from the talk of CLASS, legacies and leading the way for those to follow. Now it seems as though they look around and don’t see anyone leading the way because they’re the leaders. And maybe those closest to them don’t care.

When people say school spirit is declining, it’s the same type of cold-hearted cynicism you hear from your parents and teachers, when they give you that speech about the faults of today’s generation, the downfall of society, and the destruction of morality with an “it’s all going down the tubes” mentality.

What they don’t remember, however, is their parents and teachers telling them the exact same thing. For some reason, the veterans always want to tell the inexperienced about the “golden days,” when everything was be�er than it is now.

The reason for the shi� in views through high school and through life is caused by maturity, but not in such a positive sense as you might think. There is something good about the way children view the world, and the same idea applies to high school. Freshmen see their high school experience in a more positive way than seniors might, because those about to graduate have experienced some of the hard parts. They’ve met more people that don’t care and have no school spirit as they’ve progressed from year to year, so inevitably, seniors look back on their freshman year and remember more school spirit.

The truth is that school spirit is still here. Anytime more than 450 kids sign up for track, and they all cheer for each other more than themselves, you have school spirit. When the football team has its worst season in the last four years and still receives an unparalleled amount of support and recognition from the BBC, you have school spirit.

Remember Shea? I know you do, even if you didn’t know him. Why? Because there’s something special about Vista Murrieta and being a Bronco.

“Bronco Forever” has no small meaning.

Hey, if you read this far into an article in the school newspaper, that’s saying something, isn’t it? Most kids at other schools don’t even know they have a school newspaper.

The point is that school spirit has never been quantifiable, and can’t be measured in any concrete way against that of the past. When you consider school spirit, half of what you see is what you want to see, meaning that those jaded because their experience hasn’t turned out exactly the way they expected are biased toward thinking the past was be�er.

Seniors are the leaders, and they have the best opportunity to make a difference. Their a�itude toward our school will catch on, no ma�er what it is. In the past other classes have been inspired by the enthusiasm of upperclassmen.

I Am The Messenger KRYSTLE BARTHOLOMEW Editor-in-Chief Imagine the following scenario: locked in a classroom on campus, you hear screams and the sound of an animal snarling from outside. Some kind of riot seems to be taking place outside at first lunch. Then a human form slams against the locked door, bloodied and monstrous, growling and struggling to rip the door open. As other figures smash through the window, panic fills you. It’s not a riot, it’s a zombie invasion, and it looks like your time on Earth as a real human is limited to your next hundred heartbeats.

From its humble beginnings to its swi� rise in the world of high schools, VMHS has earned an exceptional reputation in academics, athletics, as well as for staff and student body. But like all great things there comes a peak, where the exponential growth is fla�ened or even begins to decline. Have we, in our six short years, already reached a plateau?

Like most organizations, the BBC started with a small number of supporters. They had tailgate parties in the MVHS parking lot while the VMHS football stadium was still being built. And although it was almost certain that they would not come out victorious, the BBC was behind their teams all the way to the end. During my freshman and sophomore year, the BBC was unstoppable, along with athletic teams. Through thick and thin (which rarely occurred), they were there cheering on the Broncos. During spirit days, much of the school participated. During rallies, we all competed at our highest to see who could yell the Bronco spell-out the loudest. Last year, the Broncos seemed to lose some of their school spirit. Although still very spirited, the Broncos did not appear quite as enthusiastic about the great school which they attended, compared to last year. This year, however, school spirit seems to have le� with the last of the original call of VMHS. During athletic events, many students seem to forget the mo�o CLASS when we are no longer on top.

Some students seem to think that they are too cool for school spirit and school sponsored events.

So why the sudden change? Maybe there was a sense of pride being one of the first in a newly established school, before the school was great. This is something that none of the current student body is able to connect with. Or maybe it is the fact that it is always easier to have pride for a school whose sports teams are expected to win games, league titles and even a CIF championship than a school with a less respectable record.

The students of VMHS have been lucky.

So much of what VMHS has accomplished is unprecedented for such a young school and even schools in general. But the school did not become what it is today because of the name; it was the people. It was the students and staff who constantly worked to make this school a place worth a�ending, a school that alumni could look back on and be proud of the part they’d taken in making this a place of education and achievement.

Don’t get me wrong, compared to other schools, VMHS is still classified as one of the most spirited schools. However, President Obama was correct in saying, “Greatness is never a given. It must be earned.” Will we continue to earn our greatness, or become complacent with mediocrity?

This is probably an unreasonable example, because no ma�er how much I would love to fight and die in a zombie invasion, we know it won’t ever happen. But, imagine if you were suddenly struck with a fatal disease, hit by a bus, shot during a bank robbery. What will you think of in your last moments?

Will you defy death, deny its imminent presence?

Will you accept the inevitably of the situation? Will you try to find a way to stay alive?

What about the things you’ve done? Will you feel regret? Will you see your life as meaningless, or meaningful?

People claim, sometimes, that you will see a slideshow before you die, a sort of PowerPoint presentation in your head of your entire life - as if you could shake up all your memories and just view them at will. They could be scrambled, or chronological. Who really knows? In any event, if that is what happens, what will you see?

In this life, the merit of your character isn’t measured by things you’ve said, but by things you’ve done. Our actions leave an impact on this world; words, though briefly powerful, do turn to dust a�er a time. Eventually, this newspaper will disintegrate if not carefully preserved. Books fall to fires and water damage. Words go to dust. The remnants of our actions, however, are preserved in memory, and in the creations we leave behind: our legacies.

What about a�erward, a�er you’re dead?

How will others remember you? What will they say about you when you’re gone? How have you affected people during your life? Have you been a positive or a negative influence?

On a smaller scale, what about during high school? The seniors are graduating very soon and reflecting on what they’re done during their four years. For me, and probably for a few of my fellow students, we have one or two regrets; there are moments we look back on in shame or disgust, wondering what motivated us to marr our lives in such a fashion.

For me and the other seniors, our actions here are already done, this chapter of our lives closed.

Except for the few close friends they keep as they move forward, everyone else will have this memory of them forever, exactly as they are right now.

Before you move on, before you die, before another chapter of your life ends, reflect on it.

Contemplate it. Undoubtedly, you’ve done a few good things, even if they were by accident.

It’s incentive to think about your actions, if only for reasons of shame, or maybe conscience.

This day may be all you’ve got to make your last impression on the world. Botched goodbyes and mediocre farewells are a horrible thing; even worse is leaving behind a legacy that no one would miss.

6

SPORTS

APRIL 3, 2009

Track leading in Southwestern League DAVID LOVE Sports Editor

The track program is off to another good start, and is looking forward with confidence towards a fourth consecutive league championship.

Coming off of a dominant performance in a victory over Chaparal High School, the track program is excelling on all fields.

“The Chaparral meet went very well,” said head coach Coley Candaele. “We won Varsity boys 121 to 15 and Varsity girls 106 to 30. The boys did exactly what we thought, however, the girls exceeded our expectations with great performances from each event group.”

The girl’s team is doing very well, providing strong performances individually and as a team. Lynn Patu, 11, is making great strides towards beating her school records in the shot put and discus, matching her previous

record in the shot put at 38.5 feet, and at 141 feet, is only three feet away from matching her current record with the season still young. The team is very tight on a personal level, pushing athletes to achieve their best.

“We are all close, we’re a family in our own groups, but we all come together as a program and get along well,” Patu said.

On the boy’s side, Nick Ross is excelling in the high jump, reaching a mark of 7’2 and 3/4”, to head a team that is proving ready to capture yet another league championship.

The season is a long one, and although things have gone well so far,

coach Candaele understands this and constantly motivates his athletes to maintain focus towards the important meets ahead.

“The middle of the season is always the hardest part of the season,” Candaele said.

“The kids are a li�le tired and are nursing li�le injuries, however the big meets at the end of the season are coming very quick.”

Success is nothing new for the track program; it is their task now to maintain focus and win the Southwestern League title for a fourth consecutive season.

“The Chaparral meet went very well, and the middle of the season is always the hardest part.”

-Coley Candaele

Broncopix.com

STRIDE- Erika Reddish, 9, comes down the home stretch to finish a 1600m race against Chaparral.

Baseball aims to recover a�er rough start TYLER OWEN Staff Writer

The varsity baseball team has started off this season 7-4, with a 6th place finish in the Loara tournament, and a 2-2 start Southwestern league play.

In the Loara tournament, Vista Murrieta opened up with an upset 31 win over Edison High School. The Broncos also defeated Woodbridge and El Dorado, but suffered heart braking loss in the bo�om of the seventh inning to Aliso Niguel. The Broncos tournament run was ended by losing to Lake Forest El Toro to take home 6th place.

“We need to come and practice with a purpose each day,” said head varsity coach David Legg.

The Broncos then went on to open up league play with a loss 7-0 to Temescal Canyon, but bounced back and defeat Chaparral 5-2, with senior

had a huge win, 4-2 against Temecula Valley, with two runs ba�ed in by senior Brodie Callahan and five strong innings pitched by senior Tyler Simmons.

“For the most part we have pitched pre�y well, our defensive play has been good and for most game we have go�en be�er with each at bat,” said Legg.

Senior Ty Afenir is leading the team with a .391 ba�ing average, Photo by Tyler Owen while Austin Cusack CONTACT- Senior Brodie Callahan connects against leads the team with nine the Great Oak Wolfpack earlier this season. runs scored and six runs ba�ed in. coach Legg has outfielder Austin Cusack leading the also liked the effort and progress of way with two runs scored along with freshman Clayton Antista has made at two runs ba�ed in. The Broncos then the plate.

“The best part about our team is that we go out every game and play for the team,” Simmons said. “We cheer for each other and play with a lot of heart.”

Simmons has gone 4-2, with two complete games, including a shut out. He has also added thirteen strikeouts with a 2.89 earned run average.

Junior Nathan Svenonius has also converted three saves so far this season.

Vista Murrieta will continue their Southwestern league games this spring, and compete in the Darryl Kyle tournament over spring break. The Broncos continue, though, to work hard for each other and their goals each and every day.

“Win league, win CIF, and play with heart and for each other,” Simmons said.

That is what each player works for each day, and what Coach Legg is trying to get out of each player.

Swim looks to stay undefeated in league competition MANDY SPEED Staff Writer

With an undefeated start thus far, the Bronco Swim team has high hopes for competing in the CIF Championships.

The Broncos have had many successes so far.

At the Chaparral meet on March 26, the boys won 102 to 68 and the girls won 90 to 80. On March 21, the Broncos went to the Elsinore Invitational where the boys got third place and the girl came in second place overall. They also scored 93 to 76 for the boys and 104 to 66 for the girls, against Temescal Canyon for the first league meet on March 19. Going up against Elsinore on March 12, the boys won 116 to 55 and the girls won 110 to 60.

“I think the team this year is awesome,” Shannon Haas, 12, said.

The team has shown their abilities to win in many ways, providing a deep and balanced a�ack in every meet to date.

“We have a lot of athletes who

are all dedicated and enthusiastic, even at five in the morning,” Coach Keith Good said.

The proof of how well the team is doing shows through the many records that have been broken this season.

“It is an awesome feeling when you break a record or beat your personal record, and you are benefiting your team,” Ma� Gilbert, 12, said.

Athletes who have excelled this season include Steven Wilcox, 12, who broke the 100 Free-Style record by a second, and Ryan La�emer, 12, who dropped nine seconds on his 50Free. Ma� Gilbert broke his own 100 backstroke record at the Elsinore Invite along several others who beat their personal record.

The Chaparral meet was exceptionally exciting when Patrick Home broke the 100 Fly record. Home presently held this record before Bobby Brodney broke it last year but now Home has reacquired his record.

“The coolest part about Patrick reclaiming the record was that

Bobby Brodney was there to see it,” Coach Keith Good said.

Having a large team is advantageous in multiple aspects.

First of all, there are more opportunities for breaking records and improving skills.

There is also a lot of depth within a large team. The more experienced swimmers can give advice to beginners and Broncopix.com encourage them.

The bonds made DIVE- Broncos begin their races at the Temescal dual meet. between teamConsidering the progression mates are strengthened and extended to other teammates as well. There are of the team, no losses, and records befive captains, Steven Wilcox, Ma� Gil- ing broken constantly, the Broncos can bert, Shannon Haas, Alex Sweeney, look forward to finishing the season strong. and Delanie Medina.

Carroll excels as a student-athlete MANDY SPEED Staff Writer

It may not be easy to manage varsity sports, school, and a job, but Brandi Carroll, 11, has proven that it adds to the quality of her life.

“It may be tough but you have to prioritize and possibly make sacrifices. You must stay on top of everything and manage your time to do multiple things,” Carroll said.

Carroll started on the Varsity Girls Water Polo Team and was second team all-league. She also was the February water polo athlete of the month and held a 4.0 GPA last semester while even working at a restaurant on the weekends.

Working at RJ’s Sizzling Steer on Fridays through Tuesdays, taking 4 to 6 hour shi�s, Carroll gives up a lot of her time for her job. She has to stay up late and wake up early to get everything done.

Because she is always on the go, she has to give up free time and family events to maintain all of the activities that take priority in her life.

“My dad was very supportive, he came to every game and many practices and was always a positive influence for me,” Carroll explained.

Although her dad was there to encourage her, she still had to struggle at the beginning of her swim career.

Being on the Varsity Swim Team as a freshman was difficult but because she was a self-motivated person, she pushed through it and developed her talent as a swimmer.

Being on a club team, she also puts a lot of time and effort into water polo.

High school is all about achieving goals and broadening talent and Carroll demonstrates these characteristics.

“Success is not found in our destination, but rather found in our daily agendas,” Carroll said.

7

SPORTS

APRIL 3, 2009

So�ball looks to recapture title DAVID LOVE Sports Editor

The Vista Murrieta so�ball team has been improving steadily year a�er year, and coming off a season in which they won a Southwestern League championship, the girls have their eyes set on a CIF title.

The team has already taken strides to defending their league title with a 3-0 record so far in league play, in which the girls have played exceptionally well.

Varsity head coach Daniel Torres is excited about the prospects of this season. With a team made up of experienced athletes, he looks forward with confidence at the prospects of repeating as league champions.

One of these experienced athletes is right fielder/pitcher Hannah Faria, 12. A fourth year varsity player, she has seen the team get progressively be�er from just being competitive her freshman and sophomore year, to winning a league title her junior year, and now becoming a deep team with aspirations of a CIF title.

“This has been the best year Courtesy of Mark Fitzpatrick since I’ve started playing,” Faria DETERMINATION- Shortstop Chelsea Johnson, 12, prepares to throw to first base in a said. “We all get along like sisters, game against Temescal Canyon earlier this season. and in comparison to past years we have more talent.” lective confidence this team has. and with all the talent and experience Outfielder Alyssa Resz, 11, in The girls so�ball team is off to this team possesses, a CIF title is within her second year on varsity, is very opti- a very successful and promising start, reach. mistic that the team can have a successful season.

“We’re excited for this season, because last year we won league and we hope we can do it again,” Resz said.

“I think we are be�er than we were last year though, and I think we will go far in CIF.” ComCheer: Terra Schimek ing off a year Boys Basketball: Ian Mozeleski in which the girls team Girls Basketball: Wynneth Requieron went 14-1 Boys Soccer: Rene Martinez and reached the CIF Girls Soccer: Holly Gamester quarterfinals, this is Girls Water Polo: Brandi Carroll a testament Wrestling: Brett Nicholas to the col-

FEBRUARY STUDENT ATHLETES-OF-THE-MONTH

“...last year we won league and we hope we can do it again” - Alyssa Resz, 11

Tennis team sets sights on fourth straight SWL title TYLER OWEN Staff Writer

The varsity boy’s tennis team has started off the season 5-2, with big wins over Riverside King, Linfield, Christian, Palm Springs, and 2-0 start in league.

“The boys have been doing great this year,” Coach Ross Haefer said, “They have played their preseason matches very well.”

Vista Murrieta started off their season by defeating Riverside King 126, with senior Ken Dang sweeping his singles matches. The Broncos then took down the Wildcats of Paloma Valley 15-3. Senior Ma� Schreiber and Junior Kevin Smyth had singles sweeps for the Broncos, while the doubles team of seniors John Harding and Wesley Wong also swept their sets in the win.

Vista Murrieta also defeated Linfield Christian 10-8.

“Our team has that potential

to beat any one if everything comes together and we play the way we are capable of,” Dang said.

The Broncos utilized that potential by traveling to go Palm Springs, where they won their match 15-3, with Schreiber and Smyth once again sweeping their singles matches. The Broncos also started their Southwestern league play with a win against Temescal Canyon with a score of 14-4.

Vista Murrieta then defeated Chaparral 11-7, as Ken Dang, Kevin Smyth, and Ma� Schreiber all swept in singles action for the Broncos.

“Everything this year is going well,” Dang said, “We are working hard each day to get be�er.”

The Broncos now turn their attention to the rest of their Southwestern league schedule, including the much anticipated matches against Great Oak. Vista Murrieta looks to continue to put hard work and a lot of effort into capturing their fourth straight Southwestern league title.

Photo by Tyler Owen

FOCUS- Senior Ken Dang anticipates a ball from his opponent during a match against Chaparral earlier this season. VMHS won 11 - 7.

8

Duo creates suitable new album MICHAEL DAVALOS Staff Writer

The Presets, a dance punk duo from Sydney, Australia started making noise in 2003 with their first EP Blow Up, followed by their exceptional LP Beams released in 2005. The follow up to Beams, Apocalypso lacks singer Kim Moyes signature nasally, monotone yelling with more melodic singing, but still retains the duo’s clever and sometimes sharp/harsh electronic sound.

The distressing opener “Kicking And Screaming” is unfortunately the only song to have Moyes’monotone yelling that made Beams so awesome.

The song starts with a heavy crashing beat and a synth loop then explodes into pure pandemonium a�er Moyes’ starts singing. The heavy synth stabs are faded into the back as the eerie chorus “Never can believe how much fun we’re having” is repeated countless times. There is a huge tonal change in the song when it fades in and out of the chorus.

The second track, “My People,” fails to continue the excitement that the intro established.

There is an annoying chant that is flickr.com repeated a�er each bar. It only sounds excellent when it’s glitched ever so o�en in the song. Most of the tracks feature some sort of vocal effects, and some are excessive or hit or miss.

“A New Sky” is an eccentric track, beginning with almost cathedral like chanting, with a heavy beat over it. This is definitely one of the key tracks presented in Apocalypso, especially with the catchy percussive break in the middle of the track.

“This Boy’s In Love” is a more piano tinged, lighthearted affair, compared to most of The Presets’ catalogue. It’s a huge departure from their sound, but interesting to see a group try new sounds and ideas.

The song “Yippyo-ay” takes the album into an even weirder territory. The group uses catchy nonsensical lyrics and the sound of the song itself is more in lieu of eighties throwback. “Talk Like That” is definitely one of the more interesting and be�er songs on the album; it begins with epic, Phantom Of The Opera organs, clinging bells, then transitions to a heavier electronic snarl. The chorus is comprised of Moyes’ voice sampled and repeated over and over. The only song that seems to fall short is “Eucalyptus” the song seems like it was put together hastily and goes nowhere fast, just filler before one of the most intriguing songs on the album, “If I Know You.” The song begins with just Moyes’ singing in a nasally false�o, until a minute in, all the instrumentation comes in one fatal sweep. The song’s tone is a long shot from anything else The Presets cra�ed, which makes it even more of a gem. The song shows more emotional depth from the group.

The last few songs that wrap the album up are more appealing as well. “Together” simply builds up and breaks down for a noisy five minutes with discordant glitched vocals; the instrumental “Aeons” a more subtle song that transitions into the final adieu “Anywhere.” The final track begins quietly with echoed vocals and builds up eventually and even includes a steady danceable beat. Apocalypso directs the band into a whole new sound which aptly suits them.

WEEKEND

APRIL 3, 2009

Film excites both audiences and fans DAVID LOVE Sports Editor

Warner Brother’s latest film Watchmen provides audiences with enough action and exciting plot twists to keep viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the film.

The film takes place in the 1980’s, and provides a fictional alternative to the U.S. involvement in Vietnam and later the Soviet Union.

The film revolves predominantly around a group of super heroes known as The Watchmen.

When one of the members, known as The Comedian, is murdered, the group grows suspicious.

Rorschack, an emotionally scarred character that always seeks justice no ma�er the circumstances, heads the investigation with the aid of fellow retired superheroes The Silk Spectre and Nite Owl. The film also follows the internal and external struggles of John Osterman, who was a nuclear physicist before enduring an accident in a lab, which transformed him into a blue-skinned being with super powers. Tagged as Dr. Manha�an by the government and media, he is the only super hero with actual powers in the movie, and is utilized by the government to win the conflict in Vietnam.

Manha�an endures many harsh events revolving around his personal life, including many romantic failures, and the accusation that

his condition is giving people he interacts with cancer. These accusations drive Manha�an to leave the planet and pursue a life on Mars, for there he can sever ties from mankind and live on his own.

Throughout the movie, one learns more about the development of Rorschack, the life of Ozymandias (another retired member of the Watchmen, tagged as the smartest man alive) and the romance between Dr. Manha�an’s ex-girlfriend the Silk Spectre and Nite Owl. The idea behind the movie lies in movies.yahoo.com the comic book series known as Watchmen, created by Alan Moore and produced by DC comics, with the original characters all present in the movie.

Though the movie is based heavily off of the comic book series, this movie provides concepts that can be enjoyed by all audiences, no ma�er one’s knowledge on the series. Although I would recommend studying up a li�le bit on the Watchmen in order to gain valuable background information, this movie is one that truly is worth seeing.

Watchmen is a film with constant action and creative plot twists that can be enjoyed by many different audiences.

Milk captivates array of audiences ELIZABETH STODDARD Staff Writer

“My name is Harvey Milk, and I’m here to recruit you!”

It was with this iconic line that Harvey Milk opened many of his speeches to both straight and homosexual citizens. Milk was the first openly gay man to be elected to a California public office, nominated as a San Francisco city supervisor in 1977. The movie Milk, directed by Gus Van Sant, artfully depicts Milk’s private and public life, his time as a political official, and his early death at the hands of a political rival. Van Sant’s work in independent films such as Last Days and Elephant has earned the director critical acclaim and a reputation for artistic zeal.

Sean Penn who the Academy Award for Best Actor for his tactful depiction of Milk, and several other actors worked to create, in the film, a poignant interpretation of a man fueled both by personal desire and a larger desire for advancement.

The movie begins in New York City, where Milk meets his first love, Sco� Smith. Smith is played

by James Franco, who displays a striking level of emotion and grace throughout the film. The couple moves to San Francisco’s Castro neighborhood in the early seventies. Smith’s relationship with Milk is rocky, especially when Milk becomes increasingly involved with his political passions. Smith eventually leaves Milk, and is later replaced by a startlingly unbalanced man, Jack Lira, played by Diego Luna.

Milk’s rise to political office is displayed in scenes of juxtaposing failure and success. Milk failed in his first three a�empts at public office, but was successful in his 1977 run for San Francisco city office.

Milk was very active in the realm of homosexual rights. In 1978, Milk fought tirelessly against a 1978 proposition, known as Prop 6, meant to ban homosexuals from teaching in California schools.

His ba�le with conservatives John Briggs, who created the proposition, and Anita Bryant, who backed it, is detailed in the movie. Milk also headed several major protests and speeches in the San Francisco area, determined to bring homosexuals equal rights.

Milk’s relationship with fellow supervisor Dan White is also portrayed in the film.

White, a political conservative, o�en clashed with Milk in his ideology. It is believed that White’s conflict with Milk lead, in part, to his decision to resign from office in 1978.

Shortly a�er delivering his le�er of resignation to thenmovies.yahoo.com mayor George Moscone, White made several desperate pleas to rescind his resignation, all of which were denied. In a final act of desperation, White returned to the city hall building and shot both Milk and Moscone.

Milk is a truly stunning film, though perhaps a bit one-sided. Its portrayal of Milk vividly depicts his martyrdom and casts him as an inciting figure in the gay-rights movement. Penn plays the colorful activist with surprising tact, even perfecting Milk’s hand gestures and sporadic movements. Through this film, it appears that Milk, through Penn, does indeed recruit us.

APRIL 3, 2009

WEEKEND

9

Synth pop group maintains unique sound MICHAEL DAVALOS Staff Writer

Röyksopp is a Norwegian electronic pop duo formed in 2001 with their landmark debut album Melody A.M. The album received much

a�ention with a more accessible pop sound, with hits like “Poor Leno,” “Remind Me,” (both with Erlend Øye) and the clubbier “Eple.” The duo released their sophomore album The Understanding which focused more on collaborations with vocalists, and ambient sounds. Their third release Junior which uses both principles of pop hooks and vocal collaborations, featuring the likes of: Lykke Li, Karin Dreijer Andersson (of The Knife), Robyn, and Anneli Drecker who sang on previous albums.

Junior is part of a two part release Junior/Senior; Senior focusing more on ambient sounds.

Junior begins with “Happy Up Here,” an extremely cheery intro containing old school hiphop beats, and a synthesizer hook that closely resembles their first hit “Eple.” The more synth driven “Girl And The Robot” featuring singer Robyn is decent, but seems somewhat overdramatic for the likes of Röyksopp. The lyrics are somewhat whiny, but the song is worth hearing the break at the two minute signature as the song steadily crawls back up. The first slow song in the album, “Vision One,” contains a repetitive squelchy synth sound, and an even more repetitive drum beat with absolutely zero variation. flickr.com “This Must Be It,” featuring

Karin Dreijer of The Knife picks the pace back up, with Dreijer’s powerful vocals, and spacey effects in the background. The song is worth listening to, even just to hear Dreijer’s interesting voice and her drastic changes in tone and pitch.

“Röyksopp Forever” is one of the two instrumental tracks on Junior; it begins with violins opening and so� percussion, and progressively m o r e instruments are added, until the song blows up into a spaced out moog track that is extremely reminiscent of Air’s Moon Safari. The song is definitely one of the best on the album.

“I Miss It So Much” featuring Swedish singer Lykke Li is the greatest song on Junior beyond a doubt. The pop instrumentation and vocals are so cohesive and work together so well, creating a more naïve and endearing sound compared to the more sleek electronic tracks that appear at the beginning of the album.

Junior’s more playful laidback tone is more of a throwback to Röyksopp’s first album. With this disc, they still prove that they can make enjoyable music, even if it sounds like their older material. Not many bands can own up to that.

Junior’s more playful laidback tone is more of a throwback to Röyksopp’s first album

Palahniuk creates controversial novel that excites fans LAUREN SMALLEY Staff Writer

Sticks and Stones can break your bones, but watch out for those words (Lullaby) If you open the book, twist your face in disgust, but buy it anyway; it’s likely to be a Chuck Palahniuk novel.

Palahniuk, whose book count is now over ten, first started to gain a�ention when his novel Fight Club was published in 1996; a novel that is now considered to be an underground classic. Not only have Fight Club, and more recently, Choke been adapted into films, but movie rights for Invisible Monsters and Diary have already been sold. As his success thrives, so does his fan base; his loyal legions refer to themselves as ‘the cult’, which is also the official slogan of Palahniuk’s website.

A Palahniuk fan is rarely a fan of just one book.

A Palahniuk fan is a Palahniuk connoisseur, o�en reading every one of his works…then reading them again. So any true fan of the brilliant cult leader, who is said to inherit Kurt Vonnegut’s place in American writing, will be saving the date May 5th when Palahniuk’s newest novel, Pygmy hits the shelves.

Pygmy just might be Palahniuk’s most controversial novel to date. He has glorified violence, the�, fraud, adult-film stars, and bubblegum pink hair. In Pygmy, however he is said to write from the perspective of two American loathing terrorists. It’s impossible to predict what direction Pygmy will take, but if his preceding novels are any clue; it will hurl the reader into a brick wall, and then proceed to poke at the guts and paint with the blood-shed.

There’s good reason for Palahniuk’s cult following: his minimalistic writing style makes for an easy read and is highlighted with the writer’s trademark black humor. He avoids esoteric language, not in order to dumb down the reading level, but to

portray the characters in a colloquial manner. In every novel he has a series of what he calls “choruses”, o�enclever one-liners that reoccur frequently throughout the story. He’s not the kind of writer who will fill up pages describing every last excruciating detail of the drapes; in fact, he has said in interviews that he uses verbs in lieu of too many adjectives believing that it is his job to mobilize the plot line, whereas the imagery is le� to the reader. Last but not least there are the shock endings.

No ma�er how many Palahniuk books one reads, the twisted plot twists are never predictable.

Many of Palahniuk’s books revolve around a few common themes: destruction as creation, the incarceration of beauty, following fear instead of bliss, the importance of building your own future, beauty in things deemed

ugly; though there are subtle nuances, most of his novels revolve around these ideas. Though his novels are o�en criticized for being nihilistic, Palahniuk believes his stories to be deeply romantic, with characters who simply desire to build their own moral code. He tends to emphasize the importance of human relationships, “Maybe this is why so many serial killers work in pairs. It’s nice not to feel alone in a world full of victims or enemies. […] It just seems natural. You and me against the world…”

(Lullaby).

O�en do Palahniuk’s novels highlight these supporting characters (who are less then ideal by social stigmas) as spiritual heroes who enlighten the narrator. collider.com story’s Then the big resolution, the tying of the million frayed, loose ends of the novel revolves around the recognition and importance of such a relationship among the corruption and inanity of the world he depicts.

10

WEEKEND

Say Hi album fails to impress LAURA CHA Staff Writer

Although their new album is named “Oohs & Aahs” as if enunciating a sound of admiration, however, the album should be named “Oohs & Uh . . .” since the songs don’t really match up to the promising album name. They slightly fall flat in producing a great concotion. Now known as Say Hi, an abbreviated version of their previous moniker, Say Hi to Your Mom, they have made a considerable progress taking into account, their last record. Say Hi are a Sea�le-based indie-pop band formed by Eric Elbogen in Brooklyn 2002, recording almost all instrumentals and vocals at home on his Mac. O p e n i n g up with a generally cheerful song under the title, “Elouise”, the song has a long and faintly boring instrumental introducition.

The subtle chorus and verses are also almost (much emphasis on almost) sing-along provoking, however not really up to the point where you actually start singing along.

Continuing the upbeat mood, “Hallie and Henry is one of the fastest paced songs on the record

with a beginning that sounds like the beginning of a young teen’s eighties romance at the prom.

Surprising with an array of horns for an intro and a catchy drum beat, Elbogen strays from his usually more “safe” sound. The track has a captivating beat that enthuses foot-tapping and head bobbing.

The first slow track on the album, “November Was White, December Was Grey” is most definitely the best track on the record. With it’s nostalgic lyrics laced with a ray of hope, the vocals have a sort of echo to them that creates a beautiful, simple, and ever so haunting effect.

The next few tracks are basically a complete snorefest from “Dramatic Irony”, “One Two . . . One” which start off with atrocious synths that sound somewhat like a cheap and extremely bad horror movie. “Audrey” is a short, thank goodness, song that sounds just about like every other song just oozing with cheesiness.

Picking the quality back up with, “The Stars Just Blink for Us,” Oohs & Aahs finishes off with Sallie’s Heart is Stone with is one of the be�er songs on the flickr.com record that changes the pace.

As it strikes the middle of the song, there are evocative verses and tone.

Oohs and Aahs is a quiet, lo-fi record constructed with mediocre songs that have a tendency to sound the same. However, is you are in the mood to just gaze at your shoes and keep your head down while enjoying some moody tunes. Oohs and Aahs fits the bill.

Classic novel lives up to name ALEXA SILVA Staff Writer

In the recent months, the movie The Reader has been abuzz in the media; most likely because of its star actress Kate Winslet. So what be�er time than now to review the movie’s inspiration, the novel The Reader by Bernhard Schlink.

The novel was first published in German in 1995 then translated into English by Carol Brown Janeway in 1997. It was quick to grab a�ention, reaching the top of the New York best seller list, as well as being selected by Oprah Winfrey as one of her book club selections in 1999.

Schlink’s novel is one of a kind. There are an abundance of books pertaining to the Holocaust, personal experiences of survivors, SS members, and those who saw it vicariously through the filter of others. However, Schlink takes a new approach to this timeless inspiration.

At first, his story does not center on the Holocaust. In fact, it begins in the quiet town of Heidelberg, West Germany through the eyes of a young man of fi�een named Michael Berg, whom is living in the era just a�er World War II. He has just contracted hepatitis, yet is unaware of it at the time, and while walking home collapses. A woman, Frau Schimtz, about thirty years old rescues him off the streets and takes him home. When he goes to thank her, he begins to feel a�racted to this obviously older woman and the two embark together in a scandalous affair. Yet, one day Hanna, as he began to call her, suddenly vanishes only to reappear in his life seven years later at a trail for Nazi war criminals. Michael is a young and emotionally cold law student now, though he recognizes Hanna immediately. He can only wonder how his one time lover went from independent woman to being on trial for Nazi war crimes.

Through the trial, Schlink weaves in stories

of the Holocaust and the theme of never forge�ing what happened in that time. The reflective a�itude he uses through the young Berg is definitely insightful and gives one the sense of maturity of the character,who cannot seem to grasp the horrors of the Holocaust in any abstract way.

Though the novel is interesting and unique it does not, in my view, keep its enthralling story throughout the novel. The beginning is seemingly wonderful. It has the mysterious Hanna, whom one will question her actions until the end of the novel, as well as the sensuous relationship between Berg and the much older woman. These are all things which make the novel great and intriguing.

However, once Hanna leaves and the trial begins the story slows down, either for the seriousness of the topic, the Holocaust, or the seriousness of the trial. That can be understood, but the story never picks up quite as well as it was in the beginning. Although, the end, with its shocking plot twist, does once again capture interest of the reader. This is not to say the novel altogether was not well wri�en, because it was a very good read, just to say that the beginning should be appreciated because, like all good things, it does not last.

Schlink’s writing style also brings up some arguments in the area of reader satisfaction.

When he writes it resembles a series of thoughts, like when one passage can be just a collection of questions. This is exemplified in the trial section when sentence a�er another of questions Berg has about the trial or Hanna’s current motives. The author could have done

APRIL 3, 2009

Film dubbed the worst movie ever MATT CASTRO Staff Writer

There’s a difference between a movie that’s “so bad, it’s good,” and a movie that’s “so bad, it’s just bad.” Robo C.H.I.C. (1990) was just bad, REALLY bad. This movie is one of the most horrible pieces of junk that disgraces everything that the word “cinema” represents.

The film begins with a doctor named Vol Solon creating a life-like robot that looks like Kathy movies.yahoo.com Shower (google her), and gives her the creative name Robo C.H.I.C. The rest of the movie follows the overdone cliché of a robot that was made to fight crime and bring “balance” to the world. So when an isolated pest control specialist named Harry Truman Hodgekins (a very intimidating name) places nuclear bombs in key places of the world, naturally it’s up to Robo C.H.I.C. to save the day.

What really grinds my gears about this film is the obvious a�empt to parody Robocop, the 1987 blockbuster science-fiction classic. I really enjoy parodies, and when I watched Robocop as a child, I immediately fell in love with it as well, so when I heard about Robo C.H.I.C. I thought that my wildest dreams had come true. But a�er taking the VHS tape and pushing it in to my VCR, all I can say is that Robo C.H.I.C. took the “Robo” name and pooped on one of my favorite movie franchise titles. The acting was horrible, the plot had a large enough hole to drive a U-Haul truck filled with a hoard of robotic zombies through it, and the main character was played by two entirely different people!

The idea of having two different people play the same character is completely ridiculous.

For reasons unbeknownst to me, the crew decided that through the entire 102 minutes of the movie, the audience would see the same blonde, curly puffy wig, but a different face at random times.

The reason: unknown; the confusion: mounting.

With more than numerous bad lines, and stupid fighting scenes, Robo C.H.I.C. is one of the worst films I have ever laid my eyes on. If you ever see this trash lying around in Wal Mart’s $5 movies section, do the entire world a favor, and bury the film deep into the confines of the clearance bin, never to see the light of day again, or worse, a DVD player. so much more with those passages, like answering questions instead of asking them. These may have been added to contribute to the sense of confusion Berg accumulates; however, to the reader it can be an annoying addition.

Along with the endless questions, which go unanswered, the novel is separated into three parts. This is not to say that all books, which are in parts such as chapter books, are unsatisfactory, but when Schlink moves from one part to another it seems he loses the intensity the prior part contained, especially exhibited in the transition form part one to part two. This only takes away from the novel and its wonderfully new and refreshing view of the Holocaust. flickr.com With that being said, The Reader is a decent book. It’s not the best one to be picked up but it should be on any avid reader’s to-do list. It’s available at Barnes & Noble on paper back for $7.99.

APRIL 3, 2009

WEEKEND

11

Classic cartoon arrives on the silver screen MATT CASTRO Staff Writer

The actors have been chosen, the scenes have been shot, and the date has been set. April 8, 2009 will be the premiere of the live action full-length motion picture, Dragonball: Evolution.

When Lord Piccolo (James Masters) decides to seek revenge on the Earth by using the power of mystical orbs called dragonballs, a teenager named Goku (Justin Chatwin) goes on a journey to stop the evil villain from fulfilling the task.

Along with the help of Master Roshi (Chow Yun-Fat) Bulma (Emmy Rossum) and Yamcha (Joon Park) Goku finds who he really is, and why he’s the only one who can save humanity from destruction.

Director James Wong, who also directed Final Destination 1, 3, and Jet Li’s The One, will be adapting the King Piccolo Saga with his own adjustments.

One really large change in the film is that the short, bald headed monk, Krillin, will not be appearing in the movie. This is a very large difference since the death of Krillin by the hands of Piccolo was the reason why Goku wants revenge on the creature. In the film, Krillin’s murder will be replaced by Grandpa Gohan’s murder by the alien. It has been confirmed that if the film does well in the box office, Krillin will be in the sequels.

T h e conversations that fans are having with the film are about the characters’ hair, the actors, and the Kamehameha.

There have been more than hundreds of rumors saying that the hair will be

A�er taking the time to watch the trailer, understanding what can be done physically, and what can’t, the movie seems like it has some kind of potential.

in CGI, which is not true. There will be no part of the characters that will be in Computer Generated Imagery.

Surprisingly, the key actors of the film, Chatwin, and Masters, are huge fans of the manga, and anime, and said that they will try their hardest to portray their characters like their heroes on the show. It’s a part that’s very hard to pull off, but the actors look like they will do their job.

The famous Kamehameha blast is what will be bringing in all the fans to watch this movie. For all you non-nerds who don’t know what the Kamehameha is, the a�ack is the most widely used finishing move in the entire Dragonball series. It requires the user to cup two hands together, while focusing ki to a specific point between the palms, and by thrusting their arms forward, propels a stream of energy towards their target. The blast was created by Master Roshi, who passed it down to Goku, who perfected the technique, and which became his signature a�ack.

The Kamehameha is a staple of the manga and anime, so it’s very important that the movie portrays it correctly.

As the penultimate power in the entire series, the energy blast has to be absolutely perfect. I am very anxious to see how Wong will be portraying this move, and am also excited to see the a�ack for the first time in a live-action adaptation.

The movie doesn’t look like it will be a masterpiece that will win multiple Oscars, but it does look like something that will please diehard fans. A�er taking the time to watch the trailer, understanding what can be done flickr.com physically, and what can’t, the movie seems like it has some kind of potential. From what it looks like, the adaptation seems as though it could be accepted as a decent film to portray the series.

Hopefully it won’t stink like the live-action adaptation of Super Mario Bros.

Unlikely adult novel deserves critical acclaim ALEXA SILVA Staff Writer

Today there is an array, if not an overload, of vampire fantasy books aimed at young adults. This new trend can most likely be a�ributed to the great success of the Twilight series. For those looking to get a certain “bite” out of a new book, David Sosnowski’s second novel Vamped will pleasantly surprise any reader.

The novel is set in a world similar to our own, except for a few minor alterations. Martin Kowalski, a vampire made during the Second World War, has become tired of living in the shadows. He contemplates thoughts of suicide to end his unending life. Yet, instead of completing his idea he comes up with a new one.

Everyone knows the saying “If you can’t beat them, join them”. Well Martin twists that to “If you can’t beat them, trick them into joining you” ideal. He bites one person, that person goes to another person, and thus a domino effect is initiated. In a few short years, vampires vastly outnumber humans.

However, even in this new world Martin remains the same vampire he was before, lonely and unsatisfied. That is until he finds a rarity, a small six year old human girl named Isuzu Trooper Cassidy. From then on, with his decision to raise the girl instead of eating her, Martin’s unlife becomes much more complicated than what he bargained for.

Although this novel is aimed at a more

Sosnowski beautifully weaves witty humor and heartfelt sincerity into this particular work.

adult audience, a reader of a younger age can definitely relate to the characters and their situations. Especially relatable is the young Isuzu, whom is seemly carefree, yet lost in a world no longer made for her kind. This can parallel to how teens, too, sometimes feel lost in the world.

S o s n o w s k i beautifully weaves wi�y humor and heartfelt sincerity into this particular work. At any given moment one can be laughing at the absurdity of a situation or be so�ened by the warmth of a touching moment. To watch the emotionally, as well as physically, dead Martin come back to life can also inspire a reader to believe they, too, can change. This 384 page novel is a must buy for anyone looking for laughs and a lesson or two about life.

flickr.com

LIFE

APRIL 3, 2009

13

Multicultural fair fast becoming annual success Mrs. Krogh’s booth. Pizza Hut also had pizzas and pastas open for purchase.

Many performances were also Vista Murrieta held another present at the festival. Girls displayed a successful annual Multi-Cultural fair wonderful dance for the audience and on March 17 and 18. The fair, located a splendid Irish tap dance was done for at the VMHS parking lot, had students the crowd. During the end of the twoengaged with the many activities that day fair, an olive eating contest was held were provided. From El Pollo Loco for the audience’s amusement. Music to Pizza Hut, a bountiful amount of was played throughout the fair and food was served. The booths at the when Spanish teacher Mr. Kneeland fair ranged from Spanish-speaking was speaking on the microphone countries such as Spain and it kept the visitors a�entive.

All throughout the fair the Costa Rica to booths from A.S.L. booths created by the teachers (American Sign Language); were decorated very nicely. questions and challenges could Puerto Rico provided well done be done at each station and posters, while Spain had nice kept students and staff active in student made pieces in respect for producing another fun-filled fair.

Students had the Day of the Dead. The A.S.L. booth opportunity to participate had decorations for the different in the various activities and commands, and aquatics provided games at the fair. Activities materials and a picture key for such as golfing to puzzles were students to partake in their activity. given by the different booths.

“We just wanted to create A raffle was also provided by a good environment for the the Language Department and students and have it relate to winners had an opportunity the particular culture, while to win gi� cards for anything making it fun at the same time,” from i-Tunes to Jamba Juice.

Sco� Kneeland, teacher, said.

“I just entered my name The Multi-Cultural fair a�er I completed my card and succeeded yet again.

The when they were picking the numerous restaurant caters, the winners my name was called. performers and visitors, and It was just a fun experience.” especially all the hard work put Veronica Gonzales, 11, said. in by the teachers and students However, the entire allowed for another successful fair wasn’t all fun and games. festival. Students who missed out Courtesy of Margarita Lynn will sadly have to wait until next Students were constantly at SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS-Students scan the posters at the Spanish station for answers to work trying to finish their their questions, in order to attain a stamp for participating in that particular location. year’s fair.

BRYAN GARGANERA Staff Writer

cultural card. They rushed from station to station completing tasks or did speaking challenges to get stamps.

Some booths provided easy questions, while others were more complex.

“Me and my group wanted to get around each station‘s questions quick, so we just tried to complete the card as fast as possible. Once we did finish, we got the rest of the class to chat and eat,” said Ma� Flouroy, 12.

The Multi-Cultural fair is

also notable for producing some delicious dishes and gives students a chance to try the assortment of foods from other cultures.

“The food was awesome, El Pollo Loco had an amazing deal for their burritos, $1 dollar each!

Each station was selling appetizing food,” Chandler Sinclair, 11, said.

Other foods sold included churros and muffins provided by Mrs. Lynn to the multi-flavored popsicles at

Broncos discuss their Favorite event pictures instantly future possibiliites COURTNEY GREENHALGE Staff Writer

NATASHA GAINGER Staff Writer

With graduation, quickly approaching, many seniors are making plans for their futures. Whether pursuing a career or continuing their education, students around campus are se�ing their goals for a successful life.

Randy Russell, 12, has dreams of going to Pennsylvania S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y.

“I was in the graphic design course here, and I really like drawing and making new designs. When I a�end an art institute, I want to major in Advertisement.

Jacob Guevara, 12, has dreams of going to school in San Francisco.

“In San Francisco, there is a culinary school that I want to a�end. A�er culinary school, I want to go into the military and become a Navy Seal.”

Chris Berger, 12, has had a certain dream for as long as he can remember, but due to some unfortunate circumstances, he will not be able to live out his dream.

“Ever since I was seven, I knew I wanted to become a Navy Seal. But because I have asthma, I will never be accepted into the military. Its upse�ing and it took me five years to get over this fact.”

Good luck to all of the senior Broncos in their upcoming lives. Continue to do your best and go for what’s important to you in life, and remember, to always do things with C.L.A.S.S.!

“Right now, I’m just working on doing my best...”

-Randy Russell, 12

“Right now, I’m just working on doing my best to get different scholarship to go there. I’ve already applied for FASFA, but now I’m waiting for them to send le�ers back.

I want to major in Business.”

Riley Jacobs, 12, wants to go to the University of Utah.

“I want to go to this university and study business because I have always had the passion to advertise things to people and sell things, and I thought this would be the perfect way to start.”

Shaun Lebby, 12, has always wanted to a�end an art institute.

Broncopix.com is a website owned and operated

by Kevin Helton Photography.

It raises money for campus, and provides a fast and easy way for students, parents and staff to order prints or download photographs from sports games, tournaments, and other school activities.

“I created the website for the purpose of raising money for the athletic department at Vista Murrieta High School. BroncoPix is operated under my personal photography business, Kevin Helton Photography. So far, we have raised over $300 for the school,” said Kevin Helton, part of the Technical Crew on campus, who started the website.

The best pictures from all different kinds of sporting events and activities are available on the site and up to 50 percent of each purchase

goes straight to the school.

“Mr. Cape and I had our own personal websites where we sold images of sporting events.

Athletic Director Mr. (Ray) Moore approached us with the idea of hiring a company to sell our photos online. I told Mr. Moore that we could do this on our own and raise more money for the school,” said Helton.

The website’s most common purchases are 4x6 and 8x10, but all the sports sell about the same number of prints.

“It is up to the photographer to decide where the money goes. Mr. (Bob) Cape is donating his money to the Track and Field program.

The money that comes in from my photos goes to the Athletic department,” stated Helton.

Thousands of pictures of everything from last year’s graduation to last month’s basketball game are all available for purchase on the

site.

“We get about 1,800 visits to the website per month. Visitors viewed over 70,000 images this last month.

We update very o�en so check the website frequently,” said Helton.

To order pictures, customers select any pictures they want, and add them to their cart. Once an order is placed, the print takes only about three business days to arrive.

“There are currently three photographers contributing to BroncoPix: Mr. Cape, Mr. (Keith) Good, and myself. We would love to get students involved in taking pictures for the website. We take pride in the fact that the website contains high quality images. If any student has experience in photography or would like to learn about action photography, they can come to any photographer for information on how they can participate” said Helton.

broncopix.com

SEE IT, DOWNLOAD IT- Students, parents, and Bronco fans find this webpage to be indispensable.

14

LIFE

APRII 3, 2009

Students delight in first annual CSF carnival TRAVIS TAN

The long awaited “green” has come and now it has gone.

T h e first annual “Fun and Fundraising Carnival” put on by VMHS’s own CSF, California Scholarship Federation, went off with a hit along with its “green” Saint Patrick’s Day theme.

“It was a wonderful Courtesy of Danielle Smith good event that READY, AIM, THROW- David Carillo braces himself for impact many people

Staff Writer

were pleased with,” Archie Aitcheson, head of the CSF program, said. “CSF planning commi�ee worked hard to put this event on and it all turned out great.”

Various clubs from around campus participated in the carnival. The Culinary Club’s cake walk, NHS’s fish booth, Class of 2012’s face-painting, and many other activities were all a part of the event.

“The fact that people in the clubs helped each other out and were all connecting together was a fun site to see,” Virginia Pham, 11, said.

At the carnival the teacher band “Sorry for the Inonvenients” played and entertained the crowd throughout the a�ernoon. Even though it was hot outside, it was a great way for all sort of clubs around campus to raise money

and get their club name out there.

At the end of the night the carnivals own organizers, CSF, came out with a huge profit of over $400 from their piethrowing booth, where staff members like David Carillo and Curtis Page had pies thrown at their face.

Doug Dunn, 11, was a part of the planning commi�ee planning this event for many months. He was happy with the overall turnout and participation.

“I was pleasantly surprised by how well the whole event went, many people came out to support and we raised tons of money,” Dunn said.

CSF hopes to makes this a tradition in the future. Next year’s carnival is supposed to be bigger and be�er so make sure not to miss this fun event when it comes around next school year.

Charron gives time and effort as activities secretary BRANDI EVANS Staff Writer

Maria Charron is a dedicated mother, wife, and the well known Activities Secretary at VMHS. How much she does for our campus is indescribable and immeasurable.

“My mother is so dedicated and has a lot of pride in this school.” Nicole Cheslar, Charron’s daughter, said.

Charron has worked at VMHS since it opened and has helped build this campus from the bo�om up. She wanted to come here to be involved in something

more exciting, something new.

“Me and Mrs. Charron have worked together now for 13 years, first at MVHS and then here at VMHS. She is a great secretary and always go’s above and beyond.”

Mike Pa�ison, the Activities Director, said.

Charron was the first activities secretary at MVHS, and because of this she built up the reputation many follow today. Some of her jobs include managing the student store,

“My mother is so dedicated and has a lot of pride in this school.”

-Nicole Cheslar

and helping the students in ASB and Senate as well as Pa�ison with what ever they need. But the neat thing is she does not just do the minimal, she goes above and beyond.

She is always at school dances, games, and school events such as the Senior Coffee Night. She a�ends because she cares so much and has so much pride in the school. Her care and compassion for students is apparent in her a�endance at student-planned events.

Charron has many fascinating characteristics besides being a wonderful activities secretary.

“My mother is 100% Italian and makes the best lasagna ever!” Cheslar said.

Mandy Lomnicky

BEHIND THE SCENES- Charron exceeds expectations in her duties.

ROTC offers opportunity for students Editors-in-Chief Christine Pulley Krystle Bartholomew

STAFF

Weekend Editor Brianna Benne� Sports Editors

Staff Writers

Andrew Olson David Love Richard Aldersley Ma�hew Castro Laura Cha Alyssa Curry Michael Davalos Chelsea Davidson Briana DeLaTorre Brandi Evans Sabrina Jonkhoff Madelyn Kozich Amanda Lomnicky David Love Dominique Misher Tyler Owen

MADELYN KOZICH Staff Writer

Robert Paprocki Nikki Salvador Alexa Silva Lauren Smalley Amanda Speed Elizabeth Stoddard Travis Tan

Guest Graphic Designer Mitch Cox Advisor

Ellen Filar

The views expressed in the Vista View are not necessarily those of the entire staff, adviser, or the administration of Vista Murrieta High School.

Feedback on any aspect of the Vista View is welcome via le�ers to the editor. We will make a reasonable effort to publish all thoughtful le�ers we receive. Please send your feedback to thevistaview@gmail.com.

Please note that we reserve the right to edit le�ers for length and clarity if chosen for publication in The Vista View. Advisor Ellen Filar can be reached at: (951) 894-5750 x6601.

An Air force Reserved Officer Training Corps program is now open here at Vista Murrieta.

Colonel Gene Matera and Master Sergeant Michael Shoemaker are the advisors of R.O.T.C. “It all started second semester of the school year with the class only beginning with eight students.

We called them the original eight. A�er a couple class periods more and more students turned up and more and more came till there was an army of seventy kids. We were amazed and excited,” says Colonel Matera It’s all work and li�le play for these young, brave, citizen soldiers.

“Master Sergeant Shoemaker and I take two classes to teach these young students. We teach them discipline, character, and leadership. We like to get them interacted with one another and have them work together,” said Colonel Matera.

This program takes place in class (WW6 and S213) on Monday through Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday the course occurs outside in the basketball courts, where the students take charge in drill, marching and regular P.E. R.O.T.C. can also be considered as an elective period and a regular P.E. class from freshman year to senior year.

Some students take value from this course due to the scholarships available for college.

15

LIFE

APRIL 3, 2009

Pinnacle of C.L.A.S.S. achieved in Fitzpatrick SABRINA JONKHOFF Staff Writer

Mark Fitzpatrick is the epitome of a C.L.A.S.S-y Bronco. Always involved with something on campus, this math teacher has impacted the lives of hundreds of students during his twenty-seven years of teaching.

It took Fitzpatrick a few years to find his passion for teaching. He a�ended Chapman University to obtain both his Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s (in Developmental Psychology). A�er working as a contract engineer for a phone company for several years, Fitzpatrick was let go, as the company decided they were no longer going to use outside contractors for jobs. Two months away from ge�ing married, Fitzpatrick was facing a dilemma.

“I was talking to my brother-in-law one day and he said there was an English

teaching position even got a special available at the certificate in computer school he taught at. competence from So I interviewed,” the University of California at San Fitzpatrick said.

Diego. He is an Two days incredibly intelligent a�er the interview, person with a Fitzpatrick got the natural ability to job. His first class make mind-boggling had disciplinary math problems more problems, (so much so that the understandable preceding teachers When not had given up and teaching Advanced quit). Despite being Algebra II or Premore skilled at Calculus in his math than English, classroom, Fitzpatrick Fitzpatrick was up can o�en be found for the challenge photographing and knew that Bronco sporting his degree in events. Photography Developmental is a rather recent Psychology would hobby for Fitzpatrick. be useful. Since that He relishes in day, Fitzpatrick has capturing the epic Sabrina Jonkoff moments that are so enjoyed teaching mathematics at the C.L.A.S.S.-Y BRONCO- Fitzpatrick overcame chalmany, at VMHS. lenges to his career to find his passion: teaching. high school level.

“It’s easy L a t e r to photograph the Diego State University to get on, Fitzpatrick went to San his teaching credentials, and outdoor a�ernoon sports like

Consignment Closet raises money for prom COURTNEY GREENHALGE Staff Writer

This year the class of 2010 is pu�ing on Prom, and along with Prom they are hosting a Prom Fashion Show and a Consignment Closet. The Consignment Closet is an easy way to buy prom dresses that have o�en only been worn once or twice for very low prices.

“The money will be going to the Class of 2010 to be used for prom

“The idea of a ‘Consignment Closet’ has been used by various non-profit organizations for years.

We are just adapting the idea to be of service to our students.”

-Judi DeWeese

and the fashion show. We are hoping to make enough to help us lower the price of the prom tickets from last year’s cost,” said Judi DeWeese, who teaches Yearbook and Senior Seminar.

The Prom Consignment Closet is a new project here at Vista, and this year it is being organized by Courtney Boman and Lauren Kernan-Moreno from the Class of 2010.

“The idea of a ‘Consignment Closet’ has been used by various nonp r o f i t organizations for years. We are just adapting the idea to be of service to our students.

For some of our seniors, they have nine to ten beautiful dresses hanging in their closet that were worn for literally only a few hours each. Why not put them up for sale so that the person selling them makes some money, the Class of 2010 can use the profit to lower the price of the prom tickets, and the person buying the dress has a new lowcost dress to wear to the prom? Everybody wins!” said DeWeese.

Students can choose to donate all the profits from their dresses sale to the Class of 2010 or choose to consign them and pick the lowest price they flickr.com would sell the dress for.

“The Class of 2010 at Vista is accepting “gently worn” prom dresses for our Consignment Closet. The dresses can be dropped off here anytime (directly to E117, or to the office and ask for them to be taken to E117). They will be on view at the prom Fashion Show March 31, and will be available until the prom in room E117,” said DeWeese.

So far dresses are selling for anywhere between 15 dollars and 60 dollars and each sale donates anywhere from five dollars to the dress’s full price to the Class of 2010.

“The BIG first night is the night of the Prom Fashion Show in the MPR, March 31st. The racks of dresses will be there for ‘shopping’ a�er the show!

A�er that, the dresses will be available in E117 anytime. Come check them out!” said DeWeese.

track and so�ball, but night sports and games are more difficult,” Fitzpatrick said.

Regardless of the time, students definitely appreciate his presence.

Aside from photography, Fitzpatrick also enjoys reading and watching movies. He’s a NETFLIX junkie and watches a movie every Saturday night with authentic, self-made popcorn.

Despite these other various interests, math remains Fitzpatrick’s true passion. He is an inspiration to students and keeps the classroom both entertaining and educational.

“Mr. Fitz inspires me to not only do well in the classroom, but in the world as well!” Jordan Marchante, 11, said.

A definite asset to the VMHS campus, Fitzpatrick is a wealth of knowledge ready to share with future generations of students who pass through these gates.

Many careers lead to teaching DOMINQUE MISHER Staff Writer

Vista Murrieta High School is filled with extraordinary teachers with very different backgrounds.

Luke Walsh, an English teacher, has been teaching for fi�een years. He started off as a soccer teacher for his daughter’s team, but shortly a�er he learned that English was his passion, and decided to teach that instead.

“By teaching writing to students, I feel like I am preparing them to have a be�er success in life, and they will be able to go far,” Walsh said.

Before he originally started teaching, Walsh was a musician, photographer, and owned his own business. He didn’t complete college, so a�er he explores all these careers, he decided to go back to school where he graduated from Cal State Northridge.

Walsh tries to encourage all of his students by telling them that they can succeed.

“I love fresh ideas from my students,” Walsh said. “Every job there is involves some sort of writing. I would like to prepare my students for that.”

If faced with a disagreement between two students the advice he gives to them is simple. “You may be right and I may be wrong.

Therefore everyone wins.”

Walsh has demonstrated the love and care he has for his students through the passion he has for teaching English. In every was Walsh represents C.L.A.S.S.: he shows character by trying to be there for his students through academics, and through advice giving for life outside of school; leadership through teaching a positive a�itude when he teaches and the service he give to his students and scholarship by trying to mentor all his students to go to college and work hard to get there.

Boost your natural endorphines Here are some possible boost suggestions:

MADELYN KOZICH Staff Writer

What are Endorphins? According to Medicinenet.com, Endorphins are among the brain chemicals known as neurotransmi�ers, which function to transmit electrical signals within the nervous system, or in other words, when you do an activity your brain gives off chemicals (endorphins) that make you happy.

Winter is over and it’s time for spring! It’s time to leave your lethargic ways behind and boost you endorphins to get ready for summer. There are many ways to boost them; you just have to find what suits you. If some of these ‘boosties’ are not for you then at least try to get out in the sun and move around.

response. Chewing a hot pepper can release endorphins on the tongue to reduce pain”.

Chocolate however, is a more sweet type of food that is made up of cocoa beans which trigger an endorphin release.

1.

Find an activity that get’s your blood pumping. Whether it is a work out, walking your dog, or even a shopping trip at the grocery store, anything helps. Any activity will most likely boost your endorphins.

5.

Listen to music. It is a scientific fact that when you listen to music or study certain arts, your endorphins get to work, according to Dr. Fuhrman of yourtotalhealth.com.

2

. Tanning in the sun. Relaxing with an iPod and a blanket on the beach.

3.

Watch a comedic act that is really hilarious to you, preferably funny enough to the point of tears. This is a great exercise for your endorphins.

4.

Eat a chili pepper or grind on some Chocolate. According to yourtotalhealth.com, “the rush you get a�er holding a pepper on your tongue is likely due to your body’s protective

Watch a scary movie. There is nothing b e t t e r then to be scared out of your wits when you’re in the mood.

All of these possible endorphin ‘boosties’ are teenapproved and ready to be taken advantage of. This spring, get out of the house and do something different and exciting.

Relax, have fun, and be safe.

Eat right with healthier food choices BRIANA DELATORRE Staff Writer

According to Health magazine, one out of four Americans eat fast food.

America has o�en been called the “fast food nation,” and there is no denying that idea when we consider the popular fast food chains in this country, such as McDonald’s, In-N-Out, Jack ‘N’ the Box, and Wendy’s.

In today’s economy, it is common for people to select fast food restaurants if eating out because it is the easiest and cheapest way to consume a meal. As Americans begin to eat out more and more, the low prices become the basis that is mainly causing consumers to continue buying. Americans think that purchasing larger portions of high calorie foods makes sense because of the low costs and amount of food they receive. But fast food restaurants are a major cause of A m e r i c a ’s increasing obesity rate in children, which can lead to many dangerous h e a l t h problems.

By being an informed consumer, one can m a k e healthier choices at

fast food restaurants and avoid those over-sized portions of fa�y foods.

In order to make healthier choices while eating out, it is good to plan ahead and use common sense to make a meal healthier. For example, instead of ordering a burger and fries, order a salad with a small yogurt. It is also important to watch portion sizes and eat mindfully.

Figuring out healthy food choices at common fast food restaurants can still be difficult. Knowing about other places to eat that are healthier is a clever way to avoid foods with high fat content. Health food restaurants are very much in the minority, while the popular fast food chains are much more prominent in America. To many consumers who have discovered health food restaurants, however, they are fast becoming preferable. Jamba Juice and Baja Fresh are some of the few healthy food choices that are replacing the McDonald’s Big Mac and backing away from the super-sized food portions.

Other restaurants in Murrieta a n d Temecula, which

6.

satisfy taste standards and encourage a healthier diet, are Subway, Sprouts Natural Market, Pizza Fusion, Cosi, and Thai Orchid Restaurant. Subway and Cosi offer a variety of healthy, fresh sandwiches, as well as Sprouts Natural Market, which also offers other foods such as salads and low-fat meals. Pizza Fushion is a restaurant in Temecula that is known for their organic pizza, offering it in vegan or other traditional styles.

Restaurants that specialize in health foods are the best places to go when trying to avoid fast food meals that are fa�ening. These fast food meals are leading causes of some health problems, so saving money by choosing a health food restaurant is the best option for a quick, nutritious meal. All in all, the responsibility for choosing a healthier diet is not only on the restaurant, but also upon the consumer, who stands as the primary conductor when it comes to their personal choices. All that is needed is a small sum of common sense when it comes to eating healthier, hearty meals at a fast food restaurant.

seniors it’s time for senior wills

What’s a senior will?

Your senior will is 200 words that you can do whatever you want with: shout out to friends, recount memories, thank teachers, write a poem, etc.

It’s your symbolic “last words” as a Vista Murrieta Bronco.

Your Senior Will will be published in the Senior Edition of the Vista View that will come out the week of June 4.

You may also submit photos for potential publication in the newspaper.

How much does it cost? $5.00 (cash only) for no more than 200 words.

Submit to:

Mrs. Ellen Filar in room EE21 no later than May 29.

dkinamges.com

Deadline is May 29