The Vista View - Volume VI, Issue IV

VOLUME VI, ISSUE 4

MARCH 6, 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

Chambers secures place in hearts School inSABRINA JONKHOFF Staff Writer

Courtesy of Mark Fitzpatrick

GRACIOUS ACCEPTANCE- Gary Chambers shakes hands with principal Darren Daniel at a staff meeting last month.

As a security guard here at VMHS, Gary Chambers’ presence is well known. Recently, he traded in his walking shoes for a Segway. Chambers was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer.

The Segway is helping him move around campus more easily so he can continue to protect the students and staff of VMHS. Initially, Chambers borrowed a Segway from a member of the school’s “Green Team”. When the Segway needed to be returned, Chambers was determined to figure something out so that he could continue coming to work. With a li�le bit of research, he was able to find a “gently-used” Segway on Craigslist.com.

“He was able to purchase one out of his own pocket so he could be with you guys. That token alone- because he wanted to sacrifice something of his own- is huge,” principal Darren Daniel said.

VMHS students and staff were desperate to find a way to help Chambers and support him during this difficult time. During the February 17 staff meeting, a check for $4100 was presented to Chambers and his family to subsidize the money spent on the Segway and also put money towards medical bills.

“So many people wanted to help out,” dean of discipline

(Continued on Page 2)

Dodgeball fast becomes an annual success NIKKI SALVADOR Staff Writer

A ba�le of epic proportions took place in the VMHS gymnasium on Wednesday, February 25. It was none other than the second annual dodgeball tournament. On this night, thirty-two teams consisting of five to six players each ba�led for various gi� cards, t-shirts, and, of course, bragging rights.

The competition was held to help raise money for this year’s upcoming prom.

Virginia Pham, 11, came up

with the idea of having a dodgeball tournament last year a�er watching an old leadership conference and was in charge of this year’s event.

“It took a lot of effort to put this all together,” Pham said.

“It required a lot of teamwork and a lot of hours, but it was fun.”

The competition is equally as fun for the teams as it is for the behind-the-scenes characters that help to put it all together. For them, the competition is a good way to have fun, while winning

(Continued on Page 2)

Courtesy of Kevin Salvador

DOMINATION-The Ligers defeat Whiteout in the semifinal round of the annual tournament.

stalls air conditioning in gym RICHARD ALDERSLEY Staff Writer

The campus is receiving a long-awaited breath of fresh air as air conditioning is currently being installed in both the main and the practice gymnasiums. Chuck Jones, Director of Facilities Planning, MVUSD expects it to be fully functional within the next few weeks.

“We’re just excited to have it for obvious reasons,” Ray Moore, Athletic Director, said. “Now we will have ventilation for 2000 plus people in the main gym alone.”

Student support for the two new units of air conditioning is strong and exuberant as well.

Student Luke McIntosh, 12, said that the air conditioning is “definitely a needed investment” and that it will “surely make using the gym that much be�er . . . and easier.”

Athlete support for air conditioning is and has been strong for as long as the gym has not had it.

“The air conditioning is going to change how we use the gym, especially for those of us not leaving, for many

(Continued on Page 2)

VMHS advances toward distinguished school award ROBERT PAPROCKI Life Editor

VMHS is now one step closer to being recognized as a “California Distinguished School”, thanks to an impressive showing of CLASS made by Broncos last Tuesday.

A panel of officials from the California School Recognition Program visited the VMHS campus with the intent of determining whether the high school

How To Succeed

Audiences delight in this year’s musical comedy follows the story of an ordinary man who moves his way up the company la�er.

is worthy of receiving the award, and according to VMHS principal Darren Daniel, the Broncos appear to have impressed the visitors.

“We’re so proud of the CLASS that you guys showed. Keep up the good work,” Daniel said on the BNN announcements the day a�er the visit.

Before the panel arrived on campus, Daniel selected four students to lead members on tours of the campus. The tours, which lasted throughout the entirety of third period, featured snapshots of nearly

Track & Field

VMHS’s track team is looking to win its fourth straight league title as over 400 Broncos compete on the country’s second largest track team.

every aspect of academic Bronco life. Panel members were given the opportunity to watch a wide variety of VMHS classes in action, from core academic subjects, such as basic English and mathematics courses, to more advanced and artistic classes, such as Vista’s prized Wind Ensemble.

“They were so incredibly amazed at all we have here,” said Eryk Waligora, 12, who guided one of the tours. “When you think about how lucky we are to have everything that we do, compared to

(Continued on Page 3)

Phi Beta Bronco

Steven Wilcox is named Mr. Bronco in the annual sold out contest.

Twenty-eight senior boys competed to win the coveted title.

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Security guard finds strength (Continued from Page 1)

Steve Rausa said.

This outpouring of support proves, furthermore, how Broncos continuously step up to the challenge and give when there is a need. Darren Daniel described the support as “Bronco-esque”. In instances like this, it is no wonder why Chambers finds coming to work to be such a joy.

“He loves his job. There are some mornings he gets up and he’s in pain, but he still comes. He loves this place and he never comes home and complains about it,” Gary’s wife, Mrs. Chambers said.

Ask anyone, and they will say that Chambers has an exuberant personality. He’s always talking to somebody and always has a smile on his face. Family members and close friends of Chambers o�en refer to him as “the Mayor”always sociable, always happy, always a source of energy.

Despite the devastating news of his cancer, Chambers and his family remain positive. It is his resounding positive a�itude that serves as an inspiration to all at VMHS. “The news was a blow, but we’re very positive about it. Everything happens for a reason,” Mrs. Chambers said.

With such a supportive wife and family, it is no wonder that Chambers is able to maintain such a positive disposition.

NEWS Wilcox captures Mr. Bronco title MARCH 6, 2009

The fi�h annual Mr. Bronco contest ended with the coronation of Phi Beta Bronco 2009. This year 28 seniors competed in this male beauty pageant in hopes of gaining the desired title, but at the end of the night it was Steven Wilcox who was able to call himself Mr. Bronco.

“When they said that I was a finalist, I was shocked,” Wilcox said. “But when I found out I had won, it turned into one of those moments where your jaw drops on the ground and you have to pick it back up.”

Wilcox, the captain of the water polo and swim team, and an active member of ASB was inspired to compete in Mr. Bronco when he was an underclassman. A�er watching Mr. Bronco and seeing how much fun it was, he knew he had to participate when he became a senior.

“I didn’t want to look back ten years from now and regret not being a part of Mr. Bronco.” Wilcox said. “And now I know that this night will be a night I remember for the rest of my life.”

Again this year Mr. Bronco was completely sold out, but the students and faculty lucky enough to purchase a ticket in time were entertained through the night, beginning with the opening act with the entire ensemble of Mr. Bronco contestants.

“This year’s theme was Phi Beta Bronco,” Morgan Tusa, 10, a member of senate and organizer of Mr. Bronco 2009, said. “It was a fraternity themed show based around the movie Stomp the Yard, which is where the inspiration for the stomping sequence in the opening act came from.”

If the ensemble’s dancing wasn’t enough entertainment for the audience, each contestant also got the chance to show their individual talent during the formal wear portion of the

show, and the talent and swimwear competition. Accompanied by his sur�oard, Wilcox looked right at home during that portion of the swimwear portion of the contest.

“Not only am I captain of the water polo team and swim team at VMHS, but I surf too,” Wilcox said. “A�er I graduate, I plan on going to college at either Chapman University or Cal State University of Long Beach, major in business and hopefully make enough money to live on the beach.”

Wilcox even stated in the Mr. Bronco program that if he could have one wish, it would be to have a beach in his backyard.

And even though that wish hasn’t come true just yet, his dream of becoming Mr. Bronco is finally a reality. And now that he’s Mr. Bronco, he’s going to Disneyland…for free!

“The winner of Mr. Bronco receives a free Disneyland grad night ticket, as well as a school grad night ticket and a free ticket to prom,” Tusa said. “They also are rewarded with a Mr. Bronco ring as a symbol of their victory in the Mr. Bronco contest.”

And even if you don’t win, Mr. Bronco is a fun school event everyone can enjoy.

“The purpose of Mr. Bronco is to unite all kinds of people at VMHS together,” Michael Coates, 11, another member of senate and organizer of Mr. Bronco, said. “The contest brings everyone together. Jocks, members of the drama club, dancers; they all come for one reason. And everyone else in the audience is just as diverse.”

It’s true that Mr. Bronco is a beloved tradition on campus, and will not be dying out anytime soon. It’s a great way to entertain students and faculty alike.

“If you feel like ending your time at VMHS with a great senior year, you should compete in Mr. Bronco,” Wilcox said.

“It’s lots of fun, even if you don’t win and it’s cool to see everyone having a good time together.”

(Continued from Page 1) prizes and gaining respect from their fellow students.

“I think it’s a great way to demonstrate friendship and cooperation,” Chandler Sinclair, 11, of the ‘Channel 4 News Team’ said.

“I wanted to be crazy,” Holli Erickson,

one of few all-girls teams in the event. Tiana Barnes, 11, another player on The Commiterz agreed with her teammate.

“Yeah, I had a lot of fun, and I definitely want to do it again,” Barnes said.

The next dodgeball tournament is scheduled for May 2009. The winning

CHELSEA DAVIDSON Staff Writer

Dodgeball tournament raises funds 11, said. “And I thought that this would be fun.”

Erickson was a member of ‘The Commiterz,’

“I think it’s a great way to demonstrate friendship and cooperation.”

-Chandler Sinclair

team of this upcoming competition will receive prizes as well as a chance to go up against the winning team of this past competition, The Ligers.

“Next time, we’re gonna take the blindfold off and untie the hand behind our back and really start to play,” Sinclair said.

Guard progresses forward New gym feature benefits athletes NIKKI SALVADOR Staff Writer

The varsity color guard had a big day on Saturday, January 31. Their first competition of the season was held that night at Roosevelt High School in Norco. Their show was a success, pu�ing them in third place out of a total of six other varsity teams from different schools.

“For our first show, I think it went really well,” Alexis Benner, 11, one of three captains, said.

To Emily Do�a, a freshman on the varsity squad, the show held even more importance. To her, it was not only their first performance of the season, but it was also her first time performing with the varsity team.

“I was really nervous,” Do�a said, “but I tried my hardest, and I had a lot of fun.”

Every show the team and coaches choreograph for the season has a central theme.

“This show is about people

trying to find themselves,” in success for the varsity Benner said. “It’s about where color guard. The regional competition was divided into home really is.”

The song that plays two days with preliminaries throughout the performance being held on Saturday, is “When It Don’t Come Easy” February 7, and finals on Sunday, February 8. Going

by Pa�y Griffin.

Many successes, like the against 19 other teams in the one on the 31, have helped to preliminary round, the varsity boost the team up in divisions. color guard was able to secure They are now competing in a place in the finals. They then the Scholastic A Division, one placed seventh out of ten other division above what they were teams in the final round. With competing in only two years ago.

The color guard team’s successes can be contributed to their many practices and hard work.

Practices are usually held twice a week, with an extra practice added in on Fridays when a competition is scheduled for that Saturday. These extra preparations have really seemed to pay off for the team.

Their second Chelsea Davidson show of the season SPINNING SUCCESS-Winter Guard also resulted performs at their first competition.

(Continued from Page 1) many years to come,” John Kolb, 12, said.

The project began last August but was delayed.

Due to the limited number of hours the workers were able to install the equipment given that school was in session, a majority of the work had to be done before school, over breaks, and on holidays. “ We wanted to get as much done without interrupting schooling or sports,” Jones said.

Practices, games and in-school hours are responsible for postponing the project beyond the expected final installation date.

“The air conditioning was supposed to go in last

summer,” Moore said. “But due to state and federal regulations a delay was required.”

The deferment was a ma�er of safety concern, Moore said.

T h e project was made possible

by Measure E, a $120 million bond measure that voters in the district approved in 2006. As a part of the package, MVUSD is also installing two units at MVHS, now 18 years a�er opening.

The cost of the project (labor and cost of units included) is estimated at $512,361.

“So far it’s going fine,” Jones said. “Once it is working and we have a cold gym on a very hot day will we be very pleased. The project is an A plus.”

“The air-conditioning is going to change how we use the gym.”

-John Kolb

NEWS

Midwinter Dance experiments with new ideas CHRISTINE PULLEY

Editor-in-Chief

“The food was really sweet and there was a lot of variety,” Braff said.

The catered food meant that parents didn’t have to volunteer to serve food. It also created a be�er atmosphere.

“People I talked to said it made [the dance] more formal,” Millare said.

Despite the plunging economy, a�endance at the dance didn’t seem to be an issue. Melissa Barne�, 12, commissioner of dances, a�ributed this to keeping the prices the same cost as they were last year.

“We thought it was successful because it was the most well-a�ended winter formal we’ve ever had,” Barne� said.

ASB’s preparation for the dance took about two months. Because many of the winter formal supplies were ordered at the same time as homecoming supplies, setup didn’t take as long as it had in the past. ASB had to meet with Pegleg Entertainment, who provided the DJ and stage, and organize the court.

Students agree with ASB in that the dance was a major success, from its high a�endance to the mouth-watering treats.

Students and staff alike enjoyed the benefits of ASB’s hard work at what has been classified as the most successful winter formal dance in the school’s history. Held on January 13 in the gym, the “Queen of Hearts” Midwinter Dance portrayed an Alice In Wonderland theme.

Upon entering the gym, it was clear that some big changes had been made to this winter formal that set it apart from previous dances. The setup of the main gym was altered to include a stage placed in the middle of the dance floor instead of in front of it.

“It made it seem like the gym wasn’t that full,” Marina Braff, 12, said.

Because of the new stage position, there was no backdrop and couches were set up all the way around the gym instead of just one side. This setup, however, was not as successful as ASB intended it to be and won’t be repeated.

“I don’t think there was enough people to make it full effect,” Sam Millare,11, commissioner of dances, said.

Millare noted that given a larger group of people, the center stage would have been more effective and would have achieved the desired result.

The food was catered at the dance, another change from dances in the past.

VMHS was fortunate to have On The Go cater the assortment of foods, including cake, ice cream, chips, salsa, fruit, Courtesy of Nicole Cheslar soda, and bo�led HERE WE GO, BRONCOS Prior to winter formal, VMHS students cheer water. on their basketball team.

Hard effort could pay off for VMHS (continued from page 1)

schools… we do have a lot that we take for granted.”

A�er the studentlead tours, panel members were invited to conduct interviews with around twenty prominent members of Vista’s student body. Each of these students is a hard-working and well-respected leader in one of several active groups on campus, such as the BNN’s Amanda Davis, or Golden Alliance drum major Michael Quintana, both 12. Students were interviewed as a group with the members of the panel, and were allowed to openly speak their mind regarding their personal experiences on campus.

“Everyone shows class on this campus, wherever they go, and that was something we tried to communicate,” Davis said.

Staff and students have felt that the members of the panel that explored the atmosphere of VMHS were impressed with the respect and polite, professional

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MARCH 6, 2009

warmth with which they were received. Panel members did not hesitate to express their delight with the diversity VMHS has displayed in its brief history, noting the wide variety of subjects available to students.

“It’s sad how some people take what we have for granted,” said Davis. “If we would open our eyes, we would see what we’re truly blessed with.”

In addition to the student interaction, commi�ee members also spent a significant amount of time with Vista’s administration. Topranking school officials spent several hours familiarizing the panel with a wide variety of aspects of Vista’s framework, such as an insight to the school’s course selection process, as well as interviews with classified staff. The commi�ee also received a copy of the eleven page application Vista’s admin team filed last December, which outlined two “significant practices” in Vista’s learning environment. One

of those practices is a concept every Bronco is familiar with: a culture of C.L.A.S.S. The application itself has now been received by the California School Recognition Program, which is a division of the state’s Department of Labor. Before the school can be officially recognized by the state, the visiting commi�ee members must make a recommendation to the state Superintendant of Schools, Jack O’Connell.

“The application took us about three weeks to fill out, starting around the beginning of December,” explained VMHS deputy principal Mick Wager. “Of course, we had no doubt that the commi�ee would experience the positive culture we have on campus.”

School officials wanted to emphasize that the commi�ee’s visit does not automatically imply that VMHS has officially received any kind of award. Rather, Broncos must wait until O’Connell hands down his decision in mid-April.

Student remembers inauguration LAURA CHA

Staff Writer

One of the most memorable days in history occurred on January 20, 2009 and our very own Paige Strachan, sophomore, had the honor of witnessing it.

While Strachan was in the sixth grade, she a�ended a leadership conference called PYIC, the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference.

Because of her a�endance at the conference, she was invited once again to witness the inauguration of Barack Obama.

“I don’t really think I had definite emotions, just excitement,” said Strachan on her feelings upon her arrival in Washington DC. The night before the important day, Strachan felt, “really excited.”

When the time came for her to finally become a witness in a significant time in our history, she claims she was just simply, “joyous and excited and hoping I wouldn’t get squashed.”

The area was extremely crowded and Strachan was constantly being pushed against all the people around her in the freezing weather.

“It was like a cramwich,” Strachan noted.

Another intense sight for Strachan to witness was the tight security all around the perimeter of the inauguration site.

“Everywhere you looked you saw police officers or we walked from the crowd waiting at the national mall to the national baseball park and every corner, there was an armed car with a bunch of military standing around it,” Strachan said.

Besides security, she says that she has never seen such a great amount of cheerful people in high spirits everywhere chanting, “Obama!”

“Everywhere you looked there were happy people. There wasn’t an upset person around.”

Although Strachan was standing towards the back, around the Washington Monument, she was able to watch the entire event on the giant screen conveniently set for the faraway spectators.

Although the crowd was too far to see all the performances and the President himself with the naked eye, Strachan said that, “Everyone was still happy and everyone had a smile on their face like they all wanted to be there.”

When asked about the feelings running through her mind as she stood there observing and just soaking up the atmosphere she said, “Overall, there was just so much excitement, just witnessing history.”

A�erwards, everyone was celebrating and the environment had a euphoric vibe from experiencing a lifealtering event.

However, upon her first arrival, Strachan, along with 15,000 other kids, mingled around with the 7,000 high school students accompanied by her childhood friend, Ashlee Amatulli of Temecula Valley High School. A couple days before the actual inauguration Strachan a�ended the prelude of listening to influential guest speakers. Among the speakers was Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer-Prize winner noted for her writings on previous presidents.

Another distinguished speaker was Lisa Ling, a special correspondent for National Geographic Channel who has also appeared on the Oprah television show several times.

Strachan had a chance to do some sight-seeing around the city while she was there.

“It was beautiful and green everywhere. The historical sites were absolutely fascinating and old,” she commented on the a�ractions.

Strachan also says that the atmosphere of the city of Washington, DC was, “Very excited and the anticipation of [it was too] before it [the inauguration] started.”

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VIEWPOINT

MARCH 6, 2009

Reaping the benefits of high school employment

Images of perfection ruin teens

KRYSTLE BARTHOLOMEW

Staff Writer

Editor-in-Chief

It seems a common trend for most high school students to, at some point, search for a job. At any point in considering employment, students should be aware of the advantages and drawbacks of working during high school, as well as the amount of work they can expect to do while still reaping the full benefits of the experience.

Expenses are still on the rise. For most students, it’s still hardly feasible to finance gas at even two dollars per gallon – a price that, as few as four years ago, we griped about, but seems trivial compared to the price highs last summer and fall.

The cost of car insurance for a high school student isn’t cheap, either, even as an added secondary driver of a car for which a parent is the primary driver. There are the trivial things that high school students “need,” too: trips to the mall; movies with their friends; and financing school dances and events all pile up until eventually, most parents won’t pay for all of it, or any of it.

The time for desperate measures comes. A student seeks employment. A minimum wage job is usually the only option. Fast food chains, grocery stores, movie theaters, office supply stores, and shopping centers all receive the majority of their applications from high school students.

According to the Bureau of Labor’s Statistics, in October 2006 26.8% of 16-24 year-olds a�ending high school were employed. This means that approximately one out of four high school students (between the ages of 16 and 24) are employed, perhaps slightly less in the current economy. On a second note, more dated data, available from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, was conducted in 1997. This survey suggested that only 22.6% of freshmen worked during the school year, but a full 74.5% of seniors were employed during that time. The majority of these students worked, on average, between 11 and 30 hours per week.

Positive aspects: holding a job at this critical stage of life can increase one’s sense of self-confidence and responsibility, as well as an ability to appreciate the value of money. As a part of the work force, one develops valuable skills in customer service, punctuality, and the kind of straightforward labor that our grandparents usually advocate. Maturity is a part of joining the work force, as well; in order to keep customers in line or se�le an argument peacefully, there is li�le room for pe�y mudslinging and name-calling. The transition from a full-time education to full-time employment is easier a�er a student has held employment during high school.

The down side: a study done by Gerald Oe�inger in 1999 revealed some not-so-surprising results; the more a student works, the more their grades fall. The breaking point seems to be about 20 hours per week; less than that amount of time can potentially increase a student’s grade point average, but more than that significantly decreases the GPA. Over 20 hours also seems to affect a student’s mental and physical well-being. These students are more likely to have cynical a�itudes towards work and are also more likely to tend toward increased drug and alcohol use, according to research done by Julian Barling, Kimberly-Ann Rogers, and E. Kevin Kelloway. It was also revealed by these researchers that students’ social lives suffer from overwork and the combined pressure of a job and studying, and that their family contact decreases.

Too much of a good thing can swi�ly become something detrimental, but keeping working hours under twenty per week might manage to both finance a student’s car and keep their grades stable. The key to student employment, as with almost anything, seems to be moderation.

ALEXANDRA CARIGNAN What is beautiful?

“When the word “beautiful” crosses someone’s mind, the overall idea would be a pre�y woman, with perfect everything: perfect hair, perfect clothes, perfect teeth, and perfect body, which usually means to be skinny,” said Jacob Smith, 16, who a�ends Paloma Valley High School.

Many pre-teens and teenagers watch the media and see the stunning faces and bodies of many wellknown artists, actors and super-stars.

According to statistics founded by Denish Witmer, “the average person in the U.S. sees approximately 3,000 ads in magazines, billboards, and television everyday,” he wrote in an article.

Media is targeting the word “thinness” as beautiful, a disgraceful and harmful idea. “ A n d everyday, more and more teenagers are feeling the pressure to be skinny,” Witmer wrote.

As wri�en by Witmer, “the average height and weight for a model is 5’10” and 110 pounds, while the average woman is 5’4” and 145 pounds.

Editors-in-Chief Christine Pulley Krystle Bartholomew

This generates an incredible health risk for teenagers in the U.S. There are many stories about actors and artists who feel the to pressure be “perfect”, due to the fact that they are role models.

F o r example, take Nicole Richie and her fight to be thin. An interview with Richie in the Vanity Fair magazine talked about her unhealthy body weight.

Stories like Nicole Richie’s influence teens to think that being bulimic or anorexic is okay.

“The media and entertainment o�en focus on appearance and body shape. Peer pressure may fuel this desire to be thin, particularly on young girls,” the Mayo Clinic Staff wrote.

A nutritionist B r e n d a Vidrio, 25, graduate of Chico State U n i v e r s i t y, stated, “Lose weight the healthy way if you’d like to. Remember that anorexia and bulimia are not a good way to be ‘perfect’, she said, “but a way to be unhealthy.”

STAFF

Weekend Editor Brianna Benne� Sports Editors

Life Editor Staff Writers

Andrew Olson David Love

Robert Paprocki Richard Aldersley Ma�hew Castro Laura Cha Alyssa Curry Michael Davalos Chelsea Davidson Briana DeLaTorre Brandi Evans Sabrina Jonkhoff Madelyn Kozich

Advisor

Amanda Lomnicky David Love Dominique Misher Tyler Owen Nikki Salvador Alexa Silva Lauren Smalley Amanda Speed Elizabeth Stoddard Travis Tan 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 letters for length and clarity. Advisor Ellen Filar can be reached at: (951) 894-5750 x6601.

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SPORTS

MARCH 6, 2009

Baseball swings for CIF Championship TYLER OWEN Staff Writer

Coming off another successful season, the Vista Murrieta baseball team looks towards this season with a league champhionship under their belt and hopes for a deep CIF run Last year the baseball team went 23-6, winning their second league title in the last three seasons. Although the Broncos ended up losing in the quarterfinals of CIF to Cypress, they captured a CIF Championship in 2007, and had a runner-up performance in 2006. This has helped the Broncos establish themselves as one of the more dominant teams in Southern California, and now they look to continue building their reputation.

“Our goals will always be the same: win league and be CIF champions. We practice and play to be the best; and hopefully we will obtain those goals,” head coach David Legg said.

The Broncos last season were led by current Long Beach State shortstop Derrick Legg and MLB dra� pick of the New York Mets, Brian Venezuela.

Those holes will have to be filled by seniors including pitcher Tyler Simmons,

western League games, the team will also compete in the Darryl Kile tournament in April, and a two game series with Hemet High School.

“My favorite part of baseball is the team unity we have and how we work hard in practice and still have fun,” returning varsity player Tyler Forster,12, said.

The Broncos have been practicing and training for months to prepare for this season. Whether it is in the “The players weight room before school from the last in the early morning or out three years in the field until 6 o’clock at have set the night, the team is out trying bar very high to get be�er more as a team with the sucthan individually. cess they “The goal for every have had,” sport in our athletic program Legg said. (even from our first year) “We just was to give a ‘championship have to work effort’ every practice and and buy into game,” athletic directhe philosoMaxpreps.com tor Ray Moore said. phies that CAUGHT- Despite losing seniors including Casey Vanderpool (21), the Broncos This season the Bronhave created look ahead to this season with excitement to repeat as league champions. cos look to finish atop the that success Southwestern league for the in the past. third consecutive year along with anWe are ge�ing there each day li�le by against Edison High School today. other run at a CIF Championship. li�le but time is ge�ing short.”

Aside from the normal fi�een South-

shortstop Ty Afenir, and centerfielder Austin Cusack. Simmons went 7-2 as a sophomore, but ba�led injuries last year, going 2-1. Afenir ba�ed .333 with 16 runs and 13 RBI’s, and Cusack ba�ed .231 in just 26 atbats.

The beginning of the season is drawing near, as the Broncos play their first game in the Loara tournament

VMHS track teams off and running once again DAVID LOVE Sports Editor

The VMHS track program is coming off a successful season and is already working to bring home another league championship.

Both the boys and girls had successful first meets, with victories of 114-24 and 118-20, respectively.

The program, consisting of 410 athletes, comes into this season with high hopes for success for both boys and girls.

“On the boy’s side, we return two CIF champions with DJ Lloyd (Long Jump) and Nick Ross (High Jump) so our jumps should be very good,” Head Coach Coley Candaele said. “Like always our boys distance team will be very competitive with CIF placer Tyler Owen and top 5 returning miler in the state, Noe Ramirez.”

Sprinter Shawn Meas, 11, is

going to give it 110%,” Meas said.

Meas, in his first year on varsity, hopes to run an 11.3 second 100 meter this season along with making CIF. The girl’s team represents an equally strong team with many returning athletes ready to compete.

“We return Lynn Patu in the Discus where she was a fourth last year at CIF finals and Broncopix.com a girls 4x100 team that SETTING THE BAR- Nick Ross leads a Bronco team in ran the 6th fastest time pursuit of a fourth straight league championship. in the state last year of very optimistic concerning this season Dynese Adams, Kierra on both a personal level and for the Auguster, Asha Greene, and Jazmine program as a whole.

Weatherspoon,” Candaele said.

“I’m very excited about this Lynn Patu, 11, has excelled in year’s season, I know it will be hard to both shot put and discus in her three repeat our success last year, but we’re years in the program. She currently

holds the school record in both with distances of thirty-seven feet in shot put and 134 feet in discus, but she is not stopping there. Her goals for this year are to go to state, and increase her school records to 50 and 150 feet for shot put and discus respectively.

Last season, the program had a very strong season, but they are not le�ing that get them overconfident by working equally hard this year.

“Last year was a great year for the Bronco Track and Field Team,” Caendale said. “Both boys and girls were league champions last year and the boys went on to a 2nd place finish at CIF finals. However, that was last year and if we spend any time looking at what we have done in the past then we will be in trouble for the future.”

The track team buys into this idea completely, and with the hard work put in by everyone there is no reason why they can’t exceed their past successes.

Boys Tennis looks to net another league championship TYLER OWEN Staff Writer

Last season, the Vista Murrieta varsity boy’s tennis team went 14-3, including a 9-1 league record which allowed them to capture their third straight Southwestern league championship. In the second round of CIF though, their season came to an end.

“Coach Homan, Coach Stein and Coach Haefer do a great job and our tennis athletes go out daily and compete at a very high level,” athletic director Ray Moore said. “They care about each other and the team first.

These young men and their coaches have worked hard to develop a suc-

cessful program and we are proud of their accomplishments.”

The tennis team has been out working hard each and every day since the second semester has started. On the courts improving their serves and back hands, or conditioning by running hills and bleachers, the Broncos are focused in on making it four straight league championships.

“I enjoy helping give out instructions to see the boys improve,” said assistant coach Brad Stein. “Then a�er a win, seeing the success on their faces, knowing they worked hard for it.”

The Broncos are led this season by four year varsity tennis player, Ma�

Schreiber, 12. He is accompanied by fellow senior Ken Dang, junior Kevin Smythe, and senior Ma� Kerr.

“The competitiveness we each carry contributes in large part to our success,” said Schreiber. “We help each other stay focused, but we each enjoy the sport a lot.”

The Broncos will go up against two tough teams early this year, Palm Desert and Palm Springs, to create tough competition and get the team prepared for their usual ten games against the Southwestern league.

“The Southwestern league gets tougher every year,” Stein commented. “More solid players are coming through it, and each program is

strong.”

The team the Broncos are looking forward to the most is Great Oak, the team that tied them for the Southwestern League championship last season. The matches have always been extermely close between the two schools, and both sides always play their best tennis.

“Great Oak is a worthy opponent, they push us hard throughout the whole match,” Stein said.

The Broncos will without a doubt look to step it up in winning a fourth straight Southwestern league championship this year, a goal that every player on the team feels is definetely possible.

6

Signing Day: February 4, 2009

Photo by Tyler Owen

From left to right: James Bergren signs to Idaho State, Bradley Randle signs to University of Nevada in Las Vegas, Jordan Kennedy-Smith signs to Humboldt State, California, DJ Lloyd signs to UCLA, and Nick Ross is still undecided but announces his choice will be between UCLA and the University of Oregon. Bergren, Randle, and Kennedy-Smith will play football in college, and Lloyd and Ross will participate in Track and Field. Noe Ramirez, not pictured, will run Cross Country and Track at the University of Arizona.

Boy’s Basketball to rebound from tough losses ANDREW OLSON Sports Editor

VMHS boys Basketball finished 17 – 12 a�er two hard-fought, heartbreaking losses to end the season.

Despite falling to cross-town rival Murrieta Valley in the closing seconds, the Broncos made the CIF playoffs, only to lose another tight game to Pasadena High School.

Murrieta Valley came to Vista Murrieta on Feb. 12 for the final regular season game with a 23 – 1record, having already clinched the SWL title with a league record of 8 – 1. The Nighthawks defeated the Broncos 65 – 46 the first time around in league play.

SPORTS

MARCH 6, 2009

But on senior night, in front of a raucous home crowd, the Broncos rose to the challenge. VMHS stayed in the game early and took a double digit lead late in the third quarter, when they went on a 28 – 17 run. The dominating quarter was capped by senior Nick Ross’ dunk and several 3-pointers

by Ian Mozeleski, 11, who was six for seven behind the arc on the night.

“It was a really hard-fought game, and everybody played well,” Mozeleski said. “They were really highly ranked, and they had beaten us before, so to be that close at the end of the game was a good feeling. But it would have been a lot nicer if we had won.”

In a captivating fourth quarter selves a chance to win. We just couldn’t during which both sides of the gym get it done in the end,” Ruth said. were hanging on every shot, the lead With this season finished, VMHS boy’s went back and forth until the Night- basketball looks ahead to next season. hawks hit a 3-pointer to break the tie As the 2008-2009 team had only four at 69, leaving the Broncos only three seniors, it is logical that the future will seconds to come back. They put the be bright. ball in the hands of Ross, who sprinted “Nick and Josh were both first down the court and was able to take team all-league; Nick had an incredible one more shot before time expired. The year, and Josh holds the 3-point shootshot didn’t fall, and the Broncos lost 72 ing school record,” Ruth said. “Any– 69, despite the efforts of Ross (22 pts.) time you lose guys that caliber, you Mozeleski (21) and sophomore center expect to have a hard time replacing Derrick Brown (18). them. But we return Kevin [Bouldin, “The game could have gone 11], who was a team captain, and Ian, either way,” head coach Kurt Ruth said. “We played well and got hot, and it’s hard to lose [the way we did]. But it was good because we finally figured out what we needed to do.”

A�er the loss, the Broncos looked ahead to the first round of CIF, where they would face 6th seed Pasadena high school on the road.

“Coming in to the game, we knew they were a good team,” Mozeleski said. “They had a good big guy, and they were pre�y solid athletically all around.

And they had a good Broncopix.com home crowd, which all FASTBREAK- Ian Mozeleski, 11, dribbles around a Murrieta Valley defender. makes for a tough road game.”

However, the Broncos held who was second-team all-league. Plus, their own, taking an early lead and Derrick is only a sophomore, and he trailing by five at half. By the fourth really emerged at the end of this year. quarter, they were losing only by six. The future looks bright.”

The final score was 63 – 72. Ross and Concerning goals for the upJosh Barre�, 12, each played with pride coming season, there is no hesitation in their final high school game, scoring from Mozeleski.

19 and 22 points, respectively.

“Win league. Then we’ll see “We played hard and gave our- how far we can get in the playoffs.”

Boy’s Soccer finishes fourth, a step in the right direction MANDY SPEED Staff Writer

With five wins and five losses in the Southwestern league, the boy’s soccer team ended the season one win away from making the CIF playoffs.

In their last game against Murrieta Valley, the boys could not pull out the win that would have carried them into CIF. In the previous game, though they handed Great Oak their sole loss during league play the first time through the league schedule, the Broncos played a hard fought game but fell short to the Wolfpack, losing 2 to 0. The two losses at the end of the season eliminated hopes of making it to CIF. This season was a step in the right direction because their fourthplace finish was the best they have had in school history.

“We were able to hang with the league and cause upsets, but not being able to finish killed us,” Tad Caraway, 11, said.

This year’s team played with a high level of skill, as Hanson said, but the players need to work hard to reach the top next year.

“The players should reflect the desire for a league title and accept nothing less,” Caraway said.

Some aspects that affected the game were passing, control, and team-

Broncopix.com

THEFT- Tyler Holt, 10, wrests the ball away from a Nighthawk as Adam Leavitt, 11, looks on.

work.

“We were good when we played as a team, but sometimes we focused too much on individuality,” Tyler Simmons, 12, said.

The defense was the strongest part of the team so Coach Hanson designed a formation according to this.

“My single forward formation is a defensive strategy designed for quick counter-a�acks,” explained

Hanson. “It uses five midfielders, but one bounces between forward and defense so a dedicated midfield was necessary.”

One of the midfielders, Simmons, is looking to play at Cal Baptist or Cal State Fullerton.

Although the team will be losing ten seniors, the returning players and Coach Hanson are expecting a good season next year.

“I have high expectations for next season,” Hanson said. “I think we could be just as good, if not be�er than this year’s team.”

Carraway, a three year starter at keeper and a team captain, will return next season, along with numerous other returning players.

Student Athletes-of-the-Month DECEMBER AWARD RECIPIENTS Cheer: Kyana Hutchinson Boys Basketball: Josh Barrett Girls Basketball: Julia Marshall Boys Soccer: Anthony Bennett Girls Soccer: Brooke Hunsaker Girls Water Polo: Shannon Haas Wrestling: Matt Gonzalez Wrestling: Jordan Allec

JANUARY AWARD RECIPIENTS Cheer: Alexandria Howard Boys Basketball: Nick Ross Girls Basketball: Brittany Cook Boys Soccer: Gabe Quesada-Swearingen Girls Soccer: Samantha Stiles Girls Water Polo: Shelby Ashbrook Wrestling: Jorge Ramirez Wrestling: Alex Barkley

SPORTS 7 Swim looking to win first league title MARCH 6, 2009

TYLER OWEN Staff Writer

Last season the Broncos boys’ and girls’ swim team both finished at 3-4. Both teams also finished 3-2 and took 3rd place, in the Southwestern League.

“The best part about coaching is being there to help the athletes in the different ways they need,” head coach Keith Good said.

The Broncos put many hours, both day and night, into their training. Whether it’s as early as 5:30 in the morning, or going as late as 8:00 at night, the Broncos are found swimming countless laps in the school pool.

Some mornings you might also catch the swimmers doing yoga, at 6:00 a.m.

“The coaching staff is very inspirational and they know how to make swimming fun,” returning varsity swimmer Steven Wilcox, 12, said.

Along with coaching the basics of swimming, coach Good tries to teach each athlete commitment and to give a championship effort, in the pool and in the class room.

Last season, both the boy’s and girl’s varsity teams won the CIF AcaBroncopix.com demic Award for Riverside SWIMMERS READY- Bronco swimmers line up before a race.

County. One of the many team goals is to repeat this bert and Steven Wilcox. Success is not a stranger to the returning Broncos. accomplishment.

“Our most memorable moThe boy’s team is led this year by returning varsity seniors Ma� Gil- ment is definitely winning the 400 free-

style relay at League Finals last year, which set the school record and got us to CIF,” Wilcox said.

The girl’s team is led by returning varsity, and Arizona State bound, Shannon Hass, 12, Diana Gonzalez, 12, Emmie Be�s, 10, and Delanie Medina,12.

“Swim is a lot of fun because you get to meet new people and create a bond with the whole team,” Medina said.

The swimming schedule includes the Elsinore Invitational, Night Hawk Invite, Iron Man Relay, and the Southwestern League schedule.

“Our biggest goal this season is to win league for the first time.” Medina said.

So as the Broncos dive into this season, both the boy’s and girl’s team are looking to capture their first ever Southwestern League title, and make a splash in CIF.

Girls’ Basketball earns another CIF playoff spot MANDY SPEED AND ALYSSA CURRY Staff Writers

The Vista Murrieta girls’ basketball team ended the season with a 54-40 loss to Los Osos of Rancho Cucamonga, with a league record of 3-6 and an overall record of 13-15.

The Broncos started the season off strong, but as the season progressed they tapered off, becoming discouraged by their losses. Co-team captain Julianne Sousa, 11, pointed out that the season was full of highs and lows, and the team seemed to lack consistency. It was hard for the team to stay motivated through the season as their record declined.

One of the challenges that the girls basketball program faced this year was that the fact that the team was very young. There were only three seniors and four juniors; the other 30 players in the three levels were underclassmen.

They lacked experience, with only six

active returning players, as they lost Jenna Cabello, 12, for a majority of the season due to injuries. With a young team, it made it harder to handle and rise above the challenges which they faced this year.

“We played one of the hardest schedules in our region this year,” said Head Coach Andy Rucker, “…we had a lot of obstacles and we just didn’t over come them.”

Although this season has le� much to be desired, the team ended the season with higher aspirations for next year. With eleven returning varsity players and prospects from a JV team with an overall record of 26-0, the future looks bright.

“We hope to contend for [the league championship] next year” Sousa said.

Next year they will have an older team with more experience. This past season however, is something Dynese Adams, 11, co-team captain, hopes that the team will be able learn from.

about said.

“It’s not winning”

always Adams

Both captains talked about the importance of giving it all, leaving everything on the court, something they didn’t do consistently though out this past season.

Rucker hopes that next year the girls will play more as a team and for the school, instead of as individual.

“We have an opportunity to do well next year” said Rucker optimistically.

Despite the difficulties on the court; off the court, both Adams and Sousa described the team as more cohesive than past years.

They developed stronger bonds as friends and became closer to their teammates. The team looks Broncopix.com forward to next year as they DRIVE TO THE HOOP- Destinn Romain dribbles continue to progress. around a defender.

Wrestling leaves everything on the mat DAVID LOVE Sports Editor

The VMHS wrestling team wrapped up another solid season with a fourth place finish in league and a number of successful individual seasons.

The team dropped slightly after last season’s second place league finish, and although a fourth place finish is fine by most standards, the wrestlers ultimately fell short of Coach Jeremy Jarre�’s expectations as well as their own for the team this season.

“We fell a li�le short of expectations,” Jarre� said. “I was hoping for 3-4 CIF placers and a second place finish in league, instead we had 1 CIF placer and took 4th in league.”

Wrestler Jorge Ramirez, 11, shares the feeling of disappointment.

“It’s disappointing, we should have done a lot be�er,” Ramirez said.

“We should’ve go�en at On an individual note, seleast second and we all renior Bre� Nicholas wrapped alize this.” up a great season with a fourth Despite this seaplace finish in CIF before being son not meeting Jarre�’s eliminated at the Master’s Meet, expectations, the wrestlers which is the state qualifying are prepared to work hard. tournament. Nicholas wrestled In the wrestling class the well, and was defeated by the wrestlers are working hard number six and eight wrestlers to prepare themselves for in the state. the difficulties they will Although this season wasn’t face next season by tough up to the expectations, coach conditioning and training.

Jarre� and the team share a muThe varsity team tual feeling that next year will showed flashes of greatbe much different. ness this year, especially “It [next year] should be one of at the Riverside County our best ever. It will be Jarre�’s Championships. first team he put together,” said Broncopix.com Ramirez.

The Broncos were represented by Ma� Gon- BALANCE-VMHS wrestler Brandon Navidad, 11, steadies Despite a slightly disappointhimself during a match last season. zalez (12) in fourth along ing season by the Broncos, there with Alex Barkley (12), as are still reasons to look back to well with Ryan Bauer (11) and Jordan four placers marked the most success- this season as a success, and many to Allec, 12, finishing in sixth place. The ful meet of the year. look forward to next season.

8

WEEKEND

Slumdog a phenomenal success TRAVIS TAN Staff Writer

Alien Trespass (April 3, 2009) Look, up in the air! Is it a bird? Is it a plane?

No, it’s an alien spaceship crash landing on to earth containing a humanhungry one-eyed monster named Ghota, and a peaceful metallic alien named Urp! A�er the crash, Urp realizes that Ghota has escaped and movies.yahoo.com began reeking havoc on innocent civilians. In order to stop the menace from consuming the entire human race, Urp teams up with Tammy, a waitress at the local diner, and the two begin hunting down the murderous monster before it devours the world!

Starring: Eric McCormack, Jenni Baird, and Robert Patrick Rated: NR Genre: Science Fiction

Bart Got a Room (April 17, 2009) Danny has a huge problem – he doesn’t have a date to prom. He has the limo, the tuxedo, and even the hotel room, but he still lacks a significant other to share the night with movies.yahoo.com him. Of course going with his cousin is out of the question, because that’s just embarrassing, so now Danny has to go on a quest to search for a date to his penultimate extravaganza before his day is ruined! A�er all, what event is more extravagant than your high school Prom? Maybe Grad Night could come close, but it still doesn’t have as much pizzazz as an Evening under the Eastern Sun! Starring: William Macy, Cheryl Hines, and Steven Kaplan Rated: PG-13 Genre: Comedy -Compiled by Ma� Castro

MARCH 6, 2009

The latest box-office hit Slumdog Millionaire, winner of four Golden Globes and nominated for ten academy awards, is a movie about an underdog from the slums of India who goes on the Indian version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire but behind every question there’s a story to be told. The movie itself was an underdog, releasing in only a select number of theaters and not being expected to gain the popularity it has.

The movie’s main character Malik Jamal makes it to the half a million dollar question but a�er the days filming stops he is taken into police custody and interrogated because they do not believe a kid from one of the poorest neighborhoods in India could have been this smart. This is where the whole movie begins.

As every question is replayed to him he explains how he knew every one of them. His whole life had been leading up to this show. He knew the correct answer to every question because there had been a time in his past where he experienced the answer.

The dirty slums of Mumbai and the grand sights of the Taj Mahal are all enticing and captivating

se�ings of the movie which all show different views of the millions of people living in India. The raw scenes of poverty at its worst truly show a place that could not have been displayed as well in any other film.

The movie has a unique story to it; one of sadness, romance, and hope all wrapped into one. It follows Jamal and his older brother throughout their whole life from when they were five years old to twenty which provides parts full of events that are easy to follow. The way everything eventually comes to fit together is like finding a piece of a puzzle every time and the movie also lacks dull scenes and keeps the viewer into the movie the whole time, which many films today lack doing.

Before seeing the movie I definitely movies.yahoo.com questioned why this small film with no big actors in it was winning all these awards. A�er seeing it I was proved wrong. It no doubt deserved all of those awards and is truly a one of a kind type of film.

Slumdog Millionaire is a breath taking story that is sure to have anyone leaving the theater with a smile on their face and a sense of inspiration.

Versatility of Deadmau5 evident in music MICHAEL DAVALOS Staff Writer

Canadian born Joel Zimmerman, be�er known as Deadmau5, has been making music well over the past few years.

His unique style and versatility in producing have made him one of the most talked about electronic acts in the past few years.

He constantly tours promoting his sound at infamous clubs across Europe, and festivals around the world. His obscure sound and excellent live sets utilizing so�ware and midi controllers and mixers have gained him much popularity and fandom in the electronic/tech house genre. His debut release entitled Random Album Title was released in November 2008, and is a mixed compilation of some of his best/favorite tracks to date.

Random Album Title begins with “Sometimes Things Get, Whatever” a very bass driven slower song with a steady build up and monotonous computerized vocals repeating “Sometimes thing

complicated”. Towards the second half of the song the vocals are glitched and processed and the song is mixed with “Complications”. The consistency and fluidity in the album is excellent.

The first few songs are more house and techno influenced, but towards the second half of the album Deadmau5’s more subtle trance tinged songs start to make an appearance. But the beginning of the album is deeper and sluggish.

“Complications” uses a heart monitor over heavy bass driven percussion.

The build-ups and break-downs in the album are delivered like a one-two punch.

The simplicity and fluidity in the album as it were a mix CD, only utilizing Z i m m e r m a n ’s o r i g i n a l compositions are excellent compared some other flickr.com to electronic CD’s as of late. A�er “Complications” The tone shi� of the album gets more progressive and trance influenced.

“Slip” has a hypnotic melody and is heavily bass influenced. Although a majority of the tracks are built around heavy repetition. The memorable hooks and bass lines that Zimmerman uses keep listeners guessing throughout the albums duration.

WEEKEND

9

MARCH 6, 2009

New album reveals shi� of sound Treeless Mountain MICHAEL DAVALOS Staff Writer

Animal Collective is a Baltimore, Maryland based experimental/ noise rock group. The line-up includes four grade school friends that started making music in their college years.

Their success has been fairly underground, until the September 10, 2007 release of the album Strawberry Jam. The album garnered much critical acclaim and admiration amongst the Indie blogosphere.

Animal Collective’s 8th full length LP Merriweather Post Pavilion was released on January 20th, 2009. The album was eagerly anticipated and received even more approval from fans and critics alike.

The album is named a�er the Columbia, Maryland venue of the same name.

Merriweather Post Pavllion has a definite sound shi� from the more forward-thinking album Strawberry Jam, to a more subtle pop influenced sound with an excessive amount of electronic instrumentation and sampling principal.

The main melodies are composed by

keyboards and synths, and there is an exaggerated lack of guitars, compared to Strawberry Jam. Not to mention the album is much tamer compared to its predecessor. There is more structure in the songs and a lack of the animosity in the album, although it’s all for the be�er, the songs have a more consistent fluidity and are more listenable. Especially the extremely catchy “My Girls”, the song begins with sweeping synthesizers with a repeated scale and the members chanting out of synchronization.

Although the songs are catchy and more accessible, there are definitely some shortcomings. They are somewhat reminiscent of each other, they all have one flickr.com common build up, and the vocalizations on each track use the same trick, the singers all chanting together.

The lack of all the arbitrary shouting and screaming, and odd time signatures were all replaced for tweaked synthesizers and a lack of their old chaotic sound.

All complaints aside the album is remarkable and will definitely continue to receive all the well deserved reviews and praise.

Young adult novel poignant and truthful ALEXA SILVA Staff Writer

When one is in search of some good literature, a few books come to mind. One of the best among these few is A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly.

As 2008 faded into 2009, many people made New Year’s resolutions.

Most resolutions center on improving one’s self in one way or another. One of the best ways to broaden ones view is to read a good book.

And while this may not be on ones resolution list, there’s nothing wrong with picking up a good book such as A Northern Light.

This young adult novel focuses on the true events of the Big Moose Lake murder case of 1906. While most would think that the book would focus on the murder case itself, as such other novels like Theodore Dreiser’s An American Tragedy does, Donnelly’s novel centralizes on a young girl who is inadvertently affected by the murder.

The girl is sixteenyear-old Ma�ie Gokey who is at a crossroads in her life. With the passing of her mother, Ma�ie received many new responsibilities, such as taking care of her many siblings and helping her father out around their farm. While Ma�ie knows she has a responsibility to her family she also knows she does not wish to spend her life working at their upstate New York farm. That is why she applied for a scholarship to Barnard College in New York City to continue building her skills as a writer.

While Ma�ie struggles with her decision, she takes a summer job at Big Moose Lake lodge. During this time Ma�ie meets Grace Brown, an energetic youth staying at the lodge. A few days a�er handing Ma�ie some le�ers and instructing her to burn them,

Grace is found dead in the lake. A�er Graces’s, death Ma�ie has yet to fulfill the task that Grace gave to her and reads the le�ers instead of burning them. Thus she pieces Grace’s former life and murder together, all the while finding a few answers for her own life.

While Ma�ie has probably more trouble than today’s average teen, one can still relate to her despite this. The confusion and sense of confinement which surrounds Ma�ie can easily relate to anyone who has a less-than-perfect life.

Another component that makes this novel even more alluring is the mystery in which the plot is unveiled in.

The very beginning of the book shows the first discovery of the murder then unwinds to the events leading up to it. This forces one to jump from conclusion to conclusion, trying desperately to unravel the mystery before it is told.

The emotions presented by Donnelly are truly captivating, though, without her literary talent they would be nothing. flickr.com Usually when authors try to put fictional characters into historical events the product is an unbelievable and laughable travesty. Usually the main character will run into a grand historical figure and learn a valuable life lesson from them, or some other sort of nonsense.

However, A Northern Light avoids all these issues, which would corrupt the novels readability, by mixing believable characters with clever situations.

This four-hundred page novel would be an exciting read for anyone, even to those who don’t normally read for recreation, and can be acquired on paper back at the local Barnes & Noble for $8.95. It’s well worth the time.

(April 22, 2009) Across the seas in Seoul, Korea, a mother drops off her two daughters at their relatives’ house while she searches for their estranged father.

“Manning-up,” the two girls must care for each other to protect one another in order to cope with their new unfamiliar, and movies.yahoo.com o�en dangerous surroundings. Without any warning, their mother shi�s the two young children from relative to relative as they continue on their profound urban odyssey.

Starring: Hee-yeon Kim, Mi-hyang Kim Rated: NR Genre: Drama

Julia (April 24, 2009) Julia is an alcoholic party animal. She spends every night drinking, and wakes up every morning in unfamiliar places.

She’s lost her job, and her only friend Mitch forces her to a�end Alcoholic A n o n y m o u s meetings. A few days a�er a�ending, Julia passes out on movies.yahoo.com a sidewalk, and wakes up in her neighbor Elena’s house. Elena unravels her story of her brother Tommy who live with his grandfather, and her history of psychosis. The grandfather turns out to be extremely rich, and the two begin coming up with diabolical plans.

Starring: Michael Collins, Camille Na�a Rated: R Genre: Drama, Thriller

$9.99

(TBA) Have you ever wondered “What is the meaning of life?” or “Why do we exist?” The answer to this vexing question is now within your reach, and could be yours for a mere $9.99!

That was the ad that a�racted 28year old Dave Peck, and started him on a journey movies.yahoo.com to find his way in the world. In his quest Dave crosses paths with unusual neighbors, including an old man and his guardian angel, a magician that’s largely in debt, a woman who loves men “extra smooth,” a sad man who parties with hardcore two-inch tall students, and a young boy who decides to let his piggy bank free. Together, the stories unravel the meaning of hope.

Starring: Geoffrey Rush, Anthony LaPaglia, and Joel Edgerton Rated: R Genre: Animation

10

MARCH 6, 2009

WEEKEND

Trendy fashion at A�itude of Lily Allen prevails reasonable prices LAURA CHA Staff Writer

BRIANA DELATORRE Staff Writer

These days, it’s hard to open a wallet while shopping without feeling guilty. Because fashion is constantly changing and new trends seem to be falling le� and right, it becomes a priority to teenagers to be a step ahead with the latest looks.

Though the new fashion trends may be what every person wants, it’s not always what one can afford. In today’s economy, teenagers are learning new words and phrases from parents they have never heard before, or cared about. Words such as “budget” and “only $20.00” are daring kids to a panic.

What seems like a personal gi� from fashion icons themselves, hailed before Murrieta girls and women, is a new, trendy place called 16 Underground.

In relation to its name, 16 Underground items are all $16.00 or less. Jeans, dresses, jackets, shirts, and accessories, which also includes shoes, jewelry, and handbags, all are in the affordable range of $16.00. Designer brands featured in the store are what one would find in Macy’s or Nordstorms, such as the popular brand Celebrity Pink.

One could mistake 16 Underground for the more popular stores, such as Forever 21 and H&M, because of familiarity in clothing and sale prices. Though Forever 21 is a trendy yet affordable store to shop at, 16 Underground offers shoppers a definite bargain. With guaranteed high quality clothing, 16 Underground has something for every girl and for every style.

From their official opening in November of 2008, 16 Underground is already making heads turn for their chic-but-cheap clothing that will certainly keep girls best dressed and guilt-free. It is, for now at least, the only store to emerge in the United States, but with already high reviews from shoppers, it won’t be any surprise to see this store popping up in many more cities. Located on Jefferson Avenue and Elm Street in the industrial retail center in Murrieta, 16 Underground is a must-go for all young girls and women.

Give Lily Allen the words “sophomore slump” and she’d spit on it and kick it, and while it flew out the window to a catastrophic crash, Allen would turn around and blow you a kiss while smiling sweetly. Ever since Lily Allen’s 2007 debut, Alright, Still, which has sold more than 2.5 million copies worldwide, the 23-yearold Londoner has swept up a storm. Allen has created a completely new genre in which the music industry has created many Lily-clones with blogs all trying to recreate the unmistakable tone of the snarky, quick-mouth and fast-wit Allen. However, all the wannabes will have nothing because Allen’s long-awaited second album, It’s Not Me, It’s You, has arrived with the same and famous a�itude of Lily Allen, just take a look at the album name.

This time, the album is produced by Greg Kurstin of The Bird and The Bee who has also produced Britney and Kylie, and has also put his own watermark on the tracks.

Grown up slightly from the ska-pop-esque of the first album, Kurstin and Allen have fabricated an eclectic mix of synth-pop and dance. They’ve done this all without sacrificing much of the catchiness of Allen’s nonchalant way of delivering a gut punching line.

This time, the tracks deal with more preponderant aspects of life more and less. However, it’s not quite proven yet that Allen can take on some of the challenges she has set herself up for. From religion, family strife, and drug abuse to having the perfect man who is unsatisfactory in bed, Allen slightly fails at the bigger topics. The first single of It’s Not Me is “The Fear” has been described as “part admission,

part brag, part apocalyptic vision.” Allen confesses her inner-self and talks about the superficiality that comes with fame, although Allen guiltlessly loves it at the same time herself. Songs like, “Everyone’s At It” and “F*** You” are quintessential Lily, however don’t fully deliver and come off as an unsatisfactory continuation of Alright, Still sans the quirky lyrics.

“Not Fair” is a country twinged tune about an underwhelming boyfriend who would be just perfect aside from that part of the deal.

Continuing the album are tracks where Allen takes on a more sincere persona dealing with her family troubles from her youth hidden behind a mad mix of electro-jazz sounding melodies.

Furthermore, Kurstin’s hand really shines on the love songs that are “I Could Say” and “Who’d Have Known.” Lily Allen shows the side that everyone loves in the two charming tracks that are simplistically flickr.com lovely with an airy tone along with “Chinese.” The three tracks have nostalgic piano refrains and joins it with a more techno keyboard harmony and lyrics that are an ode to a new love with all the uncertainty, irrationality, and excitement that goes along with it.

In the New York Times, Lily claims, “I don’t have anything that I’m really passionate about.

Maybe I just haven’t found what it is yet. But it’s not music, which is a shame, because it would be good if it was.” And yes, it would be nice if it was, but for now, we can all savor Lily Allen with her crazy personality and her lovable vulnerability and wisdom beyond her years. Although the new album isn’t perfection, it is still a great piece of work, making it more than ever not to love Lily, because it’s not them, it’s Lily.

Striped Pajamas examines the fences of the world SABRINA JONKHOFF Staff Writer

It all started with a fence.

This particular fence was put up in Poland, but that wasn’t what ma�ered. What did ma�er was which side of the fence you were on. Bruno, main character in John Boyne’s prophetic novel, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, didn’t know that there was any side to be on.

Having grown up in Berlin, nine-year-old Bruno grew accustomed to living a rather cushioned life. He had a maid and butler, loving grandparents, a thoughtful mother, a father with an “important” military position, and of course, his Hopeless Case of a sister, Gretel.

One day, Bruno discovers that he will have to abandon his comfortable life because of his father’s job working under the Fury calls him to Poland.

Bruno’s adventure begins at his new house in Poland. He first notices the fence from a window on the second level of his house.

All that Bruno can see is that there are people behind the fence laboring away and wearing blue-striped pajamas. At first, Bruno thinks li�le of the fence.

Wri�en by John Boyne, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas takes a strikingly sincere look at the Holocaust.

Writing a novel about such a contentious subject-

ma�er is not an easy task, but Boyne successfully conveys the emotions and indifferences of all of the characters, that come from all different walks of life. It is refreshing to read something so simple, raw, and poignant.

The main reason that Boyne’s story is incredibly moving is because he examines the Holocaust from a child’s perspective. Bruno is such a naïve young boy and has gone his entire life without truly understanding. He knows that his father’s job is important, that many of his father’s fellow-officers are mean, and that the fence instigates spinechilling feelings in him, however Bruno never questions his father’s work or character, or the actual purpose of the fence. Bruno’s innocence propels the story as he is continuously flickr.com trying to understand why things happen.

The character of Bruno is spectacularly juxtaposed by Shmuel. Shmuel is on the other side of the fence. Bruno and Shmuel are both nine, share the same birthday, enjoy the same playtime rituals, and even bear a striking resemblance to each other, aside from Shmuel’s devastatingly skinny physique.

Far more experienced in life than Bruno, Shmuel

treads lightly while a�empting to explain to Bruno the situation he is in. Despite his life experience and accelerated maturity, Shmuel also has difficulty trying to understand what is happening to his world. A�er all, he is just a nine year old boy. The boys’ friendship is precious and the way they develop their symbiotic relationship makes readers yearn for the elders in their society to do the same and put differences aside and appreciate people for their true character.

The two boys meet at the fence day a�er day and simply talk. Bruno cannot comprehend what is actually occurring on the other side of the fence, and he does not realize that an entire group of people are being persecuted for their beliefs. Bruno’s reactions to the extreme differences between his life and Shmuel’s life add to Boyne’s message, which is not just about the Holocaust, but about people’s complacency and the issues that being complacent cause.

Boyne never comes out and specifically says that Bruno is living on the other side of a concentration camp. It is never explicitly wri�en that the camp is Auschwitz or that the Fury is Hitler or that Shmuel faces extreme turmoil when he leaves Bruno at the fence.

All of this information is implied in Boyne’s writing.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas masterfully unites history with personality. The two young boys give the story great energy and the message truly emanates from their tales and circumstances.

Books like this are a rarity and it is important that readers learn from the truths in this fable.

Boyne ends his novel in a shocking, yet all too real, manner. His words are a major wakeup-call and people need to heed his declarations.

“Fences like this exist all over the world,” Boyne writes. “We hope you never have to encounter

LIFE

12

MARCH 6, 2009

‘How to Succeed’ a smash as VMHS spring musical CHELSEA DAVIDSON Staff Writer

The VMHS theater was filled with catchy music numbers and wi�y banter during opening night of the Drama Club’s production of “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying”. The audience was endlessly entertained by the cheesy but clever gags the colorful characters made, and absorbed themselves in the numerous romantic relationships that brewed on the stage in front of them.

The play opens with J. Pierrepont Finch, played by Ma� Malecki, 10, beginning his journey to make his way to the top of the business world with as li�le effort as possible.

Once he finds World Wide Wickets, the best business to help him climb the corporate ladder, he also begins showing interest in one particular woman secretary working with him.

This woman secretary, Rosemary Pilkington, played by Adrienne Tooley, 12, takes to Finch in a romantic way as well, but their relationship is faced with numerous comical obstacles before they finally end up having a kiss the audience won’t soon forget.

Loads of large ensemble numbers and endless piles of jokes compliment the satirical message of big business and office life in this musical. Not only did this concept intrigue the scores of students, faculty, friends and family in the audience, but the actors themselves felt excitement in performing this show.

“I’d actually seen a stage production of this show when I was in seventh grade,” Tooley said. “It seemed like it would be a lot of fun to be a part of, plus I love Rosemary.

She’s probably one of my favorite

Chelsea Davidson

HOW TO SUCCEED- Cast members (left to right) Adrienne Tooley, 12, Brenna Cleary, 11, Matt Malecki, 10, and Tyler Trerise, 12, perform the opening night of VMHS’s spring musical.

characters I’ve ever go�en to play.”

And for some cast members, the play was a chance to be a part of a VMHS play for the first time.

“I joined band because I like to be on stage,” Stephen Lawerence, 10, a part of the chorus, said. “But I wanted try something totally

different this semester, and being a part of “How to Succeed” has showed me that doing something new can be easy and enjoyable.”

Along with the cast, the crew members were also able to benefit from the production of the musical.

“Being a part of “How to Succeed” has given me a different perspective of the production process,” Camille Weck, 11, assistant director, said. “I think every performer should try crew, at least once, to have a greater appreciation for the behind-the-stage aspects of theater.”

The cast and crew brightened the stage with their catchy musical numbers and upbeat monologue, but the true interest was in the audience’s reaction. The show was quite funny and even the li�le details didn’t go unnoticed by the interested eyes of students and teachers during preview week. And a�er only one weekend of performances, quite a bit of positive feedback was the talk among the VMHS student body.

The drama department’s progress doesn’t stop here either.

A�er working on the play since the beginning of November, two weekends of performing, and a great deal of bonding between cast members, it’s time to move on to the next project.

Tomorrow, March 7, the Drama club will be hosting their first ever dance marathon. The twelve hour event will be held in the MPR, and Mr. Finch will release more information to the student body at a later date. To finish the year off, at the end of April and beginning of May, the advanced drama class will be pu�ing on their comedic production of “Out of the Frying Pan” and later, the senior class production of “Bang Band You’re Dead.”

Cultural clubs offer flavor, variety for active students BRYAN GARGANERA Staff Writer There are a manifold of ways at Vista Murrieta High School that provide students with opportunities to get in depth with the number of diverse backgrounds that encompass the VMHS campus. These range from conversing with other students about Hispanic culture and Spanish innovations in Latino Union to the French Club where students come together and discuss French customs and tradition. There are boundless opportunities for students to partake in, and with the huge array of available selections it makes it very easy for VMHS students to pave their path to the culture of their liking.

Club Cervantes and Latino Union, two of the fastest growing cultural clubs that VMHS offers to students are great ways to meet with other Broncos and are excellent in helping students expand their knowledge of the Spanish culture. Not only do students meet and discuss cultural

traditions and customs, but they also get to experience a deeper side of Hispanic backgrounds. In the discussion students are involved in they’ll be exposed to various Spanish foods and the many great dishes Latino Union and Club Cervantes members can create.

“Latino Union allows us to help our fellow peers learn more about the Hispanic culture, and is a great way to get accustomed to a new heritage by allowing them to try the assortment of different foods that different cultures make and eat on a daily basis.”

Sergio Guzman, 11, said.

In addition, students in these Latin based clubs can also expect to discuss the controversial problems and obstacles that these countries are facing and as a group compare and contrast American traditions to the Spanish traditions.

Latin music and media influence will

There are many ways to get involved on campus through clubs...

also be a topic covered in these student friendly unions.

A n o t h e r selection of clubs that may spark interest to students are the French Club and the Black Student Union.

“Here at French Club we bring young adults together and connect ideas, and help them affiliate with the different customs and let them have their perspective on the culture,” Lindsay Kay, 12, said.

French Club helps members learn and improve on speaking the language and invites students by discussing and learning the interesting roots of their ancestry. For the people interested in branching out their French roots, as well as any avid French speaker or French enthusiast, this club would be fi�ing.

Last month was Black History Month and the B.S.U., also known as Black Student Union has played an instrumental role for that occasion. Members of the B.S.U. help other students learn about the

The amount of cultural difference is incredible, and students can experience this through different groups on campus...

history and origins of their ancestors.

Frequent discussion is huge, and it is an efficient way to enrich students who are interested in learning in the African culture. Special events such as luncheons and assisting in preparing for assemblies within the union are done in this organization.

The immense variety of clubs and activities VMHS students can do here is definitely a positive thing and gives those who admire other cultures a chance to be exposed to new nationalities and build and develop relationships with different students and staff on campus. When united as one, members can discover a passion within these wonderful cultures and are ideal in helping expand student’s horizons. For VMHS students who want to learn more and diversify, they can visit Vista Murrieta’s activities clerk Maria Charron, whose office is located right next to the student store.

LIFE

MARCH 6, 2009

13

Randle lives, breathes football as a senior MADELYN KOZICH Staff Writer

“Number 5, running the ball in for a touch down! From the 60 yard line to the 50, the 40, the 30, the 20, the 10… TOUCHDOWN!” said the announcer.

Bradley Randle, 12, made a touchdown winning the third Bronco Varsity football game of 2008.

A well-known senior athlete, Bradley Randle first started playing Pop-Warner at the age of 10, and from then on, he fell in love with football.

“A�er Pop-Warner, I came into high school, and I kind of fell into football. My friends persuaded me to try out and that’s when I met “The Raussa”, Coach Raussa. A�er that, my life started,” said Randle.

Randle’s freshman year is where the story continues. He started as a running back and has maintained that position.

“This was the year I was introduced to updowns. I will never forget that day,” said Randle.

During this time, Randle began to define himself through football.

“A�er playing football for a couple of years, it became a part of me. I was a different person on the field than on campus. The ‘B-train’ is what they called me on the field and my reputation is my name,” said Randle.

During his freshman year, Randle was emotionally moved by the success his team experienced on the field.

“I’m not ashamed to say it, I’m not at all ashamed to say that when we were undefeated our first year, we succeeded and went to CIF playoffs.

During our second round we lost to Temecula Valley High and that was the first time I cried. A�er all the hard work my teammates and I contributed, we lost to Temecula Valley,” Randle recalled.

It was certainly a blow for Randle and his teammates but, like his team, he didn’t let the pain show. He kept going.

“Sophomore year was my first year on the Varsity football team. It was my ‘drama’ year. I made my first touchdown in our third game and since the adrenaline was pumping through and through me, I did not notice that during the process, my le� arm

had been broken. I had to sit out on the bench for the rest of the year making a total of 6 games,” said Randle.

Besides Randle’s hunger for football, he was also involved in track and baseball. In track, Randle ran the 100 meter sprint in 11.1 seconds, and was part of the 4X1 team that holds the record time for 42.5 seconds.

From memories of broken arms, and the agony of up-downs, Randle continued into his junior year.

“Junior year was the year I was on track, football and baseball again and I had no more injuries from my arm. This was the year I knew I had to make a name for myself, so I started ge�ing down to business, said Randle.

Randle realized this was the year his efforts on the field would be noticed by everyone, including colleges.

“I knew scouts were looking at me, I knew my under classmen were looking up to me and I new my parents were looking at me,” said Randle.

Randle’s junior year he rushed for a total of 980 yards, had 120 carries, and scored 20 touchdowns.

Sabrina Jonkhoff Senior year is here for STUDY HARD- Bradley Randle, 12, takes a break from football to concentrate on his studies Next year he will study and play at LVSU. Randle, and he’s ready for it.

“I am so ready for senior “I have applied to many colleges and I picked year. I have been ready for a while because this is the year my own footsteps will make me who I am Las Vegas State University because they found me. I tomorrow. I know my underclassmen will look up didn’t have to seek them out,” said Randle.

Randle will be starting as a college to me and I’m ecstatic to be a part of their lives as a freshman. leader,” said Randle.

Randle leaves Vista with these motivating Randle has applied to many colleges such as: UCLA, SDSU, Fresno State, Cal Poly and Long Beach words to the people following his footsteps: “Play like you’re a senior”. state.

Interact members volunteer at Rotary Club dance SABRINA JONKHOFF Staff Writer

As the decorations were finalized and guests began to filter in, one could tell that it would be no ordinary evening.

The atmosphere was inspiringly cheerful and the guests were nothing less than exuberant: the Murrieta Rotary Club was hosting a Valentine’s Dance for special needs adults. It was the seventh annual dance and every year it seems to become more and more extraordinary.

Over 170 guests turned out for the event, 80 of which were special needs adults.

Also among guests were caregivers, Rotarians, and the youth volunteers of the VMHS and MVHS Interact Clubs, as well as the Youthactors from Shivela Middle School.

Guests didn’t begin to arrive until 6 o’clock but volunteers were on hand hours before se�ing up, decorating, and preparing food. When

guests walked through the doors, they were greeted, pinned with a corsage, and accompanied over to the picture line. Photos were taken of every guest in front of a large heart composed of many balloons.

Larry Po�er, president of the Murrieta Rotary Club and the evening’s resident deejay, provided excitement and energy for the burgeoning crowd.

A favorite is the YMCA, but guests also danced along with some classic “Thriller” action, as well as many other upbeat hits. Some of guests were confined to wheelchairs Sabrina Jonkhoff and other assisted means of DANCE ALL NIGHT- Natalie Wolfsberger, 12, enjoys a night of dancing with special needs transportation, but that did students at the Rotary Club’s Valentine’s Dance. not stop anyone from ge�ing on the dance floor. Interactors pumped As the evening came to an end, adults. up the energy and got everyone the guests were given gi� bags filled The sentiment from all the involved in the party. with Valentine’s Day themed goodies. Interact Club volunteers was basically “It’s such a fun event,” said The city of Murrieta provided fliers the same: they all had an amazing VMHS Interact Club advisor and math for the guests advertising several other time interacting with the special needs teacher Guia Blaske. events geared towards special needs guests and cannot wait for next year!

The atmosphere was nothing less than cheerful, and the guests were ecstatic...

14

MARCH 6, 2009

LIFE

Ask the DMV: French students take trip to art museum Experts Answer Common Teen Driver Questions

Are you a teen with questions about how to get your provisional driver permit or California driver license? Do you have questions about general driving related requirements like registration or insurance? The California Department of Motor Vehicles has answers.

For more information, visit the DMV Web site for teens at www.DMV.ca.gov/teenweb.

Q: I have a classic car that I plan to spend the next few years rebuilding and it is not currently running. Since I won’t be driving it any time soon, do I still need to register it? If so, what is the procedure?

A: No, you do not have to register your vehicle, but you are required to file for a Planned Non-Operational status to be placed on your vehicle. Nonoperational means that the vehicle will not be driven, towed, stored, or parked on public roads or highways for the entire registration year. Your renewal notice has a section designated for you to check that indicates you want the non-operational status marked on your vehicle’s record. The Planned Non-Operation (PNO) fee must be sent to DMV with the bo�om portion of the renewal notice on which you have checked the Planned Non-Operation box. If you are eligible to renew your registration online, you can file for your PNO and pay using the same information at www.dmv.ca.gov. Click Vehicle Registration Renewal and follow the quick and easy steps, and remember to check the Planned NonOperational box! Log on today!

Q: I have recently received several emails related to new driving laws, specifically the text messaging act and the date in which it will be enforced.

Is there an actual Web site where I can verify all of these rumors?

A: DMV’s online resource, www. dmv.ca.gov, has a page devoted to the newest laws in 2009, including the enforcement date of the new text messaging law. The new text messaging law prohibits writing, sending or reading text-based communication on an electronic communication device while driving, effective January 1, 2009.

For a list of other current or upcoming laws and enforcement dates, visit www.dmv.ca.gov and click the DMV Info tab, then click New Laws. The governor recently signed into law SB 33, effective July 1, 2008, which also makes it unlawful for a minor under 18 years of age to use any mobile service device such as cell phones – hands free or not, and other wireless devices while driving.

The DMV is a department under the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency. The DMV licenses drivers, maintains driving records, registers and tracks official ownership of vehicles and vessels, investigates auto and identityrelated fraud, and licenses car dealers, driving schools, and traffic violator schools.

For more information about the DMV, visit ~By Mike Marando, Communications Director California Department of Motor Vehicles

CHRISTINE PULLEY Editor-in-Chief Students in the French IV class were introduced to classic art on a trip to the San Diego Museum of Art. The trip was an opportunity for students to visually experience the French impressionism they had been studying in class.

“They liked ge�ing out and actually seeing the stuff we studied,” Karianne Vaez, French teacher, said.

Shortly a�er arriving at the museum, the class took a tour of different artists and styles of art. Once the tour concluded, students were allowed to walk around and look at what they liked.

“We got to see a lot of fantastic French artwork. However, we didn’t just see French artwork, we also viewed the gallery of African American Womens Art and we also saw an original Andy Warhol self portrait,” Alicia Gonzalez, 12, said.

John Harding, 12, also visited the museum and noted the relationship between the French art and other artistic collections.

“The lady related everything back to French impressionism,” Harding said.

The entrance fee to the museum

was covered for students if they took a tour. Because there are only 15 students in the French IV class, they carpooled down to San Diego to avoid expensive bus costs.

Drivers included Harding, Vaez, and a proud parent, Mr. Gonzalez.

“Carpooling was really fun.

We played games and entertained ourselves,” Ashley Sco�, 12, said.

This was Vaez’s first field trip with VMHS. She hopes to make the trip again next year and bring the French III class if the budget expands enough to allow it.

“Everything Courtesy of Regan Bradley worked out smoothly,” ENRAPTURED- French students consider French art at Vaez said.

“The the San Diego mueseum of art with thoughtful minds. weather was great. to offer.

Overall, I thought it was a great day.”

“It was really fun and it was Students also enjoyed the trip nice to learn away from school,” and the educational experience it had Gonzalez said.

Hoppe finds alturism and kindness in students altruism.” She finds this invariably: in her students, in her work as a teacher, Staff Writer in her passions, and in her family. Her Barbara Jean Hoppe, Co- inspirations ignite her life and her Department Chair of the English work, consolidating passion into love.

Hoppe teaches freshman department, followed her bliss. Now English, Bible in Literature, and AP in her eleventh year of teaching, Mrs. English & Literature.

She took on the Hoppe is decidedly inspired by the role of co-department chair unwillingly, “human potential for kindness and encouraged by friends and staff members.

She happens to find Bible in Literature especially fascinating, as she has felt that she has always w a n t e d to read it in a more in-depth manner.

“My students,” she says, “are great.

And I love what I do.”

H e r “ceaseless attempts at wit and humor”, as she puts it, amuse her students and the fact that she has humility it Robert Paprocki about only makes DEEP IN DISCUSSION- English teacher Barbara Jean Hoppe discusses the finer points of the book of Ecclesiates with her sixth period her that Bible in Literature class. This is the second year Hoppe has taught much more the class.

RICHARD ALDERSLEY

“We should live every day like it was our last.”

-Barbara Jean Hoppe

appealing to staff and students alike.

She radiates with certain hist rionics that can be described as goodhumored and wellintentioned.

Ta n g e n t s are a wellk n o w n trademark of hers. She accepts this, too, with humility, as do her students.

As a child, she wanted to be a veterinarian, or a writer, or a political scientist—like many children she couldn’t decide. It was only until later in her life that she rediscovered her “bliss”: reading. It was this memory that reignited her impetus for living a meaningful life, one that brings her the happiness she feels that everyone deserves.

“Why waste time?” she says.

“We should live every day like it was our last.”

Hoppe began her teaching career in San Diego, then moved to the Murrieta area during an economic crisis—a move she says, “that was for the be�er.” Since, she has worked at Warm Springs Middle School and Vista Murrieta High School.

Hoppe likes it here. She’s always looking for something new and beautiful in the landscape, encouraging her students to stop on the landing of the stairs every day to breathe in the scenery. She loves to teach. And those of us who have the fortune of coming into contact with her will surely be the be�er, and happier, for it.

LIFE

15

MARCH 6, 2009

Child Development classes host day care PAWS club inBRANDI EVANS Staff Writer

their games, and made animal masks so they could look like animals. All of this work was done by the VMHS students.

Each period a student was selected to be in charge of the day’s happenings. In forth period Rebecca

about how she learned animal noises and how she had fun with the other students and children that were there.

VMHS students that are in the child development classes all want to learn more about children. This helped them understand how children

A�er the weeks of planning the preschool day, VMHS students put on a daycare for the children of the community, held in the multipurpose room. Each child development class hosted one of these child care days.

The event was divided up into different segments. The stations included Welcome/ Introductions, Art, Games, Snack/Story, Learning, and Goodbyes. Each Vista student accompanied one of the invited guests around through all the different stations.

The students not only were chaperones but they planned the event as well. They were divided up into different commi�ees to plan the different sections of the day’s activities. The child development teacher, Mrs. Kay Mueller supervised the students but didn’t Brandi Evans plan one part of it.

“My students’ GAME TIME- Nana Gilette, 11, and her pre-school partner play a board game during VMHS’s preparation was child development pre-school day. Students played games and talked with thier partners. outstanding, everyone came through Mangin, 12, was selected. Before the interact with each other and how they with flying colors,” Mueller said. event she checked on all the commi�ees learn. The preschool days proved to be The class from fourth period to make sure they were on task, and on a success in teaching the students as picked “Safari” as their theme. There the day of the event she introduced the well as the children of the community. were students dressed up like animals, day’s happenings to the children.

“My students learned that a jungle safari for the students to “This is our Safari day. Let the being a preschool teacher can be explore, and a wonderful story that the fun begin!” Mangin said. exhausting and it is not as easy as it students authored and performed. The The children that were invited looks. You have to plan ahead, and children from the community were by the students in the class had an keep the children busy,” Mueller said. able to learn about animal sounds in amazing time. One child, Averi talked “They truly learned a lot today.”

Student creatively expresses self through music LAURA CHA

Recorded in two to three months in mostly Weigand’s house, the album features six well crafted songs. Weigand The Dovetail Formula is a musical was strongly influenced by Bob Dylan act formed singularly of sixteen year old and Tom Waits, and the films American VMHS sophomore, Luke Weigand. Named Hardcore and Taxi Driver throughout after a carpenter’s trick known for its tensile the production. Interestingly mixed, The strength, the dovetail is a technique used Dovetail Formula’s first release is filled to join two pieces of wood. Such a name with guitar driven melodies and a southern for the band is perfect. Weigand saw the folk sound with a slightly bluesy undertone. name of dovetail appropriate for his project Composed of “Reading Right to Left,” a song recorded in his bathroom that includes hidden quirks such as the whimsical sound of a dripping faucet, the soft laughter of his mom and sister, and running cars.

“Helium Feet”, a personal favorite of Weigand is a song that has an upbeat and cheery sound. The title track is based on the way Weigand perceived the events that occured in his life over the past six months and is set in chronological order. The EP is lyrically excellent and musically unique, considering the fact that it is the work a sixteen year old. The Dovetail Formula should definitely be first on everyone’s list of bands to listen to.

Check out tracks from the The Trainwreck That Killed All My Demons along with other standout songs as well on The Dovetail Laura Cha Formula’s myspace page at www.

DOVETAIL- VMHS sophomore Luke Weigand fuses music and poetry in The Dovetail myspace.com/dovetaill.

Formula, an act composed completely by the student himself.

Staff Writer

because of its definition of the conjoinment of two things, and in his case, the two items are the fusion of music and poetry.

Weigand’s start in the creation of his own music was from many influences and eventually helped steer him in the right direction of self-producing his originals.

The pithily named The Trainwreck That Killed All My Demons represents how even in the most delusive situations, there is always a positive outcome.

spires student care for needy animals CHELSEA DAVIDSON Staff Writer

There’s only one group on the VMHS campus that has the sole purpose of catering to the pets of our valley. The Progressive Animal Welfare Society, or PAWS, was started three years ago at VMHS, and since then the club has continued to educate students about the treatment of animals and the need for resources and volunteers at local animal shelters.

“PAWS is all about helping animals in our community,” Justin Gonzales, 11, the PAWS club president, said. “We want to inform the student body at VMHS about what they can do to help our local animals in need.”

This is Gonzales’ first year as President and not only does he plan to continue to help animals, but he also has a plan for the members of the club.

“Last year I realized that there wasn’t too much activity between the members of PAWS,” Gonzales sad.

“My goal this year is to unite the members in order for us to achieve the goal of helping animals.”

Not only is PAWS ge�ing its own members more involved, but school-wide participation is being encouraged.

“We want our club to grow so that we can impact more people, and therefore animals,” Patricia Brown, English teacher and club advisor, said.

“I would like to shake the complacency out of people who don’t care enough to do something good, and we can get that message out through our efforts to create awareness.”

There are always ways for nonclub members to help as well. Whether it’s fostering or adopting an abandoned animal, or volunteering at an animal shelter on the weekend, all students are encouraged to get involved.

“I think students join the club because of genuine love of animals,” Char Gempeler, another club advisor and English teacher, said. “But I believe that members stay because they want to make a difference in an animal’s life.”

Aside from spreading the word across campus, PAWS is planning a number of activities to promote awareness about the club itself.

“We are planning our second club field trip this year, which nonmembers are invited to a�end,” Gempeler said. “There will also be a section set aside in the school yearbook for pictures of students and their pets.”

In addition, the club is participating in the California Scholarship Foundation’s carnival on March 18 by selling club t-shirts embellished with various animal related quotes.

PAWS meetings are on Thursdays at break in room EE16, and there students can become a part of the club’s movement to help be�er animals’ lives.

16

MARCH 6, 2009

Yellow ribbon week spreads awareness at VMHS BRANDI EVANS Staff Writer It might be surprising that, statistically, one of your four friends have a�empted suicide, and one out of twelve people a�empt suicide. These scary statistics were shared with the VMHS students during the week of February 23 – 27.

“I think [suicide] is selfish because you’re choosing not to deal with your problems and you put them on others,” Patrick Lewis, 10, said.

Margare�e Sia and Joey Lister, 12, went to a class during Yellow Ribbon Week at a recent Leadership Conference.

This class impacted them greatly, so much that they decided to bring what they learned to our campus.

“Both of us personally know people that have gone through situations in which contemplation of suicide has

occurred and we even know people that have tried it. We just really wanted people to be aware of these dangers and to help influence those thinking about suicide to hold on and know that there are people that care,” Sia said.

Throughout the week there was yellow posted around campus, informative announcements on BNN, a Brandi Evans yellow shirt SPREADING THE WORD- Imari Imson poses with a yellow ribbon week poster day, signing of from the events to spread suicide awareness with the hopes of preventing tragedies. a pledge to love banner, and music playing at suicide and to remind them to people’s only way out is to kill lunch. All of these activities help one other. themselves,” Nina Gille�e, 11, were to inform students about “It is really sad that said.

Statistics show that 5,000 die from suicide each year. Through the yellow ribbon week the VMHS ASB wanted to inform students and staff of the statistics and the reality of suicide. It is an unfortunate truth that this is a very real issue, but spreading suicide awareness could help to prevent a lot of tragedies.

“We had a lot of participation with wearing yellow and a lot of people signed the banner. I feel like it did make a difference as far as ge�ing people aware of suicide and the effects of it,” Sia said. “I know that in my classes alone a lot of people were shocked at the statistics of how many people think about suicide and how many have actually commi�ed it or tried it and it touched them a lot. Hopefully people will be more cautious about their actions towards others and we can help lower the statistics.”

Avoid seniori- Annual chili cook off continues tis during senior year

At first lunch Eric Oberle, math teacher, won best chili recipe, and Eric Fagen, history teacher, was runner up.

This year Interact Club’s annual The second lunch winner was Cindi Chili Cook Off raised 750 dollars to Davenport, guidance technician, and go towards charity. The fundraiser the runners up were Jack Mayberry and Shar on May b er ry, sold out of a library media pre-set total technichian. of 150 tickets “The winning priced at five Chili Chefs get a gi� dollars each. certificate to Chili’s “This restaurant and were fund-raising acknowledged event supports along with the the World runners-up during Project Fund, the next general which provides staff meeting and resources for the next day’s BNN safe water and announcement. The sanitation in winner’s will also communities get an official Chili around the Champ certificate of world,” stated the year,” said Blaske.

Guia Blaske, Interact plans math teacher to further expand the and Interact Chili Cook Off next Club’s advisor. year; they raised 250 Sabrina Jonkhoff dollars more this Students and COMPETE- David Olson prepares his year than they did staff who recipe for the Chili Cook Off. last year and had bought tickets ten staff participants tried ten different chili recipes cooked by Vista at each lunch enter their recipes.

“In the future, the Interact staff members, along with cornbread and drinks. A�er trying all ten recipes they club will be expanding this event to a voted for their favorite, and the winners bigger competition among staff and became this year’s Chili Champs. teachers, whereby a Chili Champ “This event has raised around trophy will be awarded to the reigning 500 dollars in the past years but this year Chili Chef Supreme,” stated Blaske.

Next year will be the fi�h was an outstanding turn out! It sold out all tickets for both lunches, with a annual Chili Cook Off held by Interact limited sale of 75 tickets per lunch at here on campus, and many staff five dollars per person. The gross sales members will be returning to try and came up to 750 dollars,” stated Blaske. earn the title of Chili Champ.

COURTNEY GREENHALGE Staff Writer

MADELYN KOZICH Staff Writer

Senioritis: a disease that is bound to be inevitable creates a huge impact on high school seniors across the nation. According to Wikipedia, “The symptoms are as follows: procrastination, apathy regarding school work, a feeling of privilege and a tendency toward truancy, malingering illness in order to avoid presence at school, and cognitive impairments.” If some of these symptoms occur, steer clear, for you can be another victim, of Senioritis itself.

“Many high school students find themselves in a type of “lame duck” situation: their plans are made and a new chapter in their life is about to begin, so finishing the current chapter (the current term separating them from graduation) becomes just a formality or “holding pa�ern”” also according to Wikipedia.

Here are some steps to possibly avoid senioritis:

1.

Come to school. I know it’s tough to roll out of that comfy bed and warm pajamas, but this is your senior year. This is the year for you to shine and grow up.

2.

Don’t procrastinate.

Do not hold off of your homework

assignments or those scholarship applications, or even your college applications. Get it done because it’s happening now… you are growing up and this is it! Responsibility is key to coming-of-age.

3.

Do your homework so you can graduate! Do your work! Yes, it’s the end of senior year and your a�itude might be totally apathetic for anything that arises but if you don’t have any goals, or no motives, and even if you just can’t finish for yourself; then do the work to graduate! Think about what you are going to do the first day you wake up knowing that by law, you are now an adult and school is a future option.

4.

Don’t think about the senior tasks. Take one task at a time.

As we are taught to multitask, we must not get overwhelmed because these experiences will help in the future.

Teachers are not out to get you. They are trying to get you ready for what is out there. These four walls, these “safe walls” will no longer be your home.

They will no longer be your safety net.

So start your independence now as an adult for the first time.

I hope these suggestions will be considered and perhaps be followed through. Enjoy your senior year, but don’t fall behind.