MAY 3, 2013
VOLUME X, ISSUE V
VISTA MURRIETA HIGH SCHOOL
28251 CLINTON KEITH RD., MURRIETA, CA 92563
(951)894-5750
Nomination Convention 2013 is a “Chronicle in Time” BAYLEI HARBOUR Advanced Staff Writer Every year, a select number of students are chosen to participate in the Nominating Convention, more commonly referred to on campus as Nom Con. Each delegate is assigned a table, and each table is assigned a theme. This year’s overall theme was time periods; one table was the psychedelic 60’s while another was Ancient Greece. People dressed up accordingly to their time period, which made the whole thing much more exciting. Overall Nom Con was a huge success. There was a very positive reaction to it and if you weren’t nominated to go this year, do Photos by Cara Lawless w h a t e v e r y o u can to go next year as it is a lot of fun. As soon as the bell rang at 7:30, all delegates piled into the gym and witnessed Nom Con for the first time. There were tables set up surrounding
the perimeter of the gym, each campaigning a different group of people for different positions in the office. Some tables gave out candy; others gave out food-like Del Taco burritos or dinosaur chicken nuggets. Damon Dubots, 10, says, “At first I wasn’t excited about it [Nom Con] but once I got there it was a lot of fun.” Everyone floated around the gym, heard what the candidates had to say the convention began. Each person running for class president, vice president, and secretary/ treasurer went on the podium continued: page 2.
Photos by Cara Lawless
Mr. Daniel goes on to help more schools
EMILY ANNE ESPINOSA Life Editor
Darren Daniel, the Principle of Vista By introducing more activities to the middle school Murrieta High School, has recently accepted a level, a transformation will occur in the middle through new role in the Murrieta Unified School District. the creation of a platform of opportunity for students “There is a focus right now from the District to be involved in. level, through our board of education, who really want “I have vivid to see a transformation occur at the middle school,” accounts shared Daniel. of what After the my middle selection of a new school was— Super Intendment and we were in the school just students. district, a new focus I didn’t has been shifted on identify with the high school and anybody, I wasn’t considered an academic middle school level or a jock, I wasn’t part of any clubs, I didn’t through the creation have any of those opportunities. It wasn’t of a new district until I was in high school, when I was just position: The immersed. Executive Director of Secondary in a variety of different education. Through opportunities to be able to develop who this new position, I am as an individual,” shared Daniel. the focus between By providing more after school the transitions activities to the middle school, such as from elementary to seasonal sports, a creation of a more middle schools will positive and healthy environment will be be improved by established. Involvement will encourage direct involvement students to go to school more, to think more in the middle carefully about their choices, and steer school through the them away from bad influences that middle implementation school students are now being confronted Photos by Regina Soliz with, such as drug activity, violence, and of more extraSADDLE-UP- Mr. Daniel with a alcohol consumption. Additionally, it curricular and Bronco at a football game this year athletic activities. will also promote academics through the
required grades needed to be involved in sports and other extra-curricular activities. Providing more activities for students to be involved in grant them the opportunity to develop as individuals at a younger level, with the growth of leadership a b i l i t y , exploration o f interests, and the inspiration to perform better at the academic level. “Being the Principal of Vista Murrieta High School is not a job, it’s a life choice,” stated Daniel. Serving as the Assistant Principal for three years and the Principal for seven, the ten years Daniel has spent at Vista Murrieta High School have made a huge impact on Daniel’s life. Spending weekends at Vista events, interacting with students, and engaging in conferences and meetings in order to improve the school have characterized Daniel’s lifestyle for the past 10 years. Being the principal of Vista Murrieta has been a huge responsibility for Daniel, but not a responsibility without its benefits. “I don’t think I would ever do this job at another school” shared Daniel. “It’s an awesome responsibility; it’s something I’ve truly loved. I don’t think anybody can do this job appropriately, and I hope I’ve served this community well, but I don’t think anyone can do this job and call it a “job”, it has to be a lifestyle change.”
“I don’t think I would ever do this job at another school” -Principal Daniel
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Fashion
What’s in style and what is not, here at Vista Murrieta HS Pg: 7
Tv? Tele? Telly?
Find out what is going to be on televsion and if it’s worth watching or not Pg: 15
Mr. Bronco
Missed out on Mr. Bronco? Get what happened and who won. Pg: 3
MAY 3, 2013
NEWS
02 Newsline
A quick look at events happening on campus.
AP Testing Those advanced tests are coming up very fast. Remember to study, sleep, and eat well before the test. You’ll do fine, your teachers have been preparing you since August. Relax. Neon Trees There’s a limited number of tickets avaliable. Go to showclix.com to buy tickets Prom 2013 Tomorrow is Prom, at the Marconi Auto Museum. Stay safe and have fun, enjoy yourselves responsibly and remember that everyone is watching all the time. CST TESTING Vista Murrieta High School needs you to do well on the CST. Word around campus is that they don’t matter, this is completely false and the better you do, the better your school looks. THE FINAL STRETCH We’ve passed the 12 week grading period. We’re getting closer to the end. Stay strong Broncos. Compiled by Farid Ganime
More of Nom Com continued from page 1: and gave their speeches to the delegates. Once the speeches were finished, each table cast their vote and sent the results to the front. Once every vote was tallied, the top three winners were announced and placed onto the ballot. After we heard everyone’s speeches running for class positions, the ASB speeches were up. Anyone who had one year of experience in ASB could be nominated off the floor to be on the ballot with those who were already there. When asked about what went through her head when Maggie Wakelin, 11, was nominated off the floor, she responded with, “I was really really surprised and scared when I was nominated- but also really flattered that someone thought I’d be good for the position. But mostly scared!” To go up in front of everyone with no plans of what to say takes a lot of courage, so bravo to everyone who was able to do that. Nominating Convention 2013 was a time for the students nominated to come together and decide the overall fate of our 2013-2014 school year. A lot of work went into it, and it showed tremendously. ASB continues to impress and represent our school in a positive way, and if you were unable to attend this year, make it a priority to go next year.
Photo by Brittany Camacho
Spring Sport Rally was outta the park
ATHLETICS - The baseball team is readying their signature chant, while the entire VMHS gym applauds and cheers.
ALEX WALKER Staff Writer
Mr. Murtown, a marvelous painting of Einstein, something incredible to watch.
Once again ASB hosted a wonderful sports rally. They started out with a great performance by Daarstad’s Angels performing the opening act “It’s Raining Men”. As well our wonderful JROTC color guard and Jethro Iresare leading us in our National Anthem. Introducing our swim, baseball, girl’s softball, Track and Field, boys and girls tennis and Golf team, Sarah Benson created an atmosphere of spirit, camaraderie, and support. We had our sports players from each grade level compete in a challenge matching staff faces with their quotes from BNN. For both rallies the seniors gracefully succeeded. Also ASB had Vista’s very own Ohana perform a wonderful cultural dance. The winner of Mr. Bronco show, Cody Pham showed his fellow Broncos the talent that not only won him Mr. Bronco, but also
Mr. Bronco’s participants performed their group dance and wowed the crowd. Our very comical staff Mrs. Hipp and our dean of discipline Coach Rausa as and additional staff and students, demonstrating how and how not to dress for prom, as well the appropriate and inappropriate way to dance, the performance was not only informational but also very comical. They also informed potential prom goers of deadlines for payments and requirements for attending prom. Finishing off our Spring Sports rally with a wonderful performance from cheer, ending the rally with Vista Murrieta’s traditional Alma Mater and leaving great comments from our students. “This was probably one of the best rallies we’ve had,” says Diana Hernandez and De’ana Richardson says, “Definitely better than last year’s.” With many improvements and lots of school spirit ASB has pulled off yet another excellent rally.
Spring Choir Concert hit all the right notes The Advance Chorale Men’s Ensemble’s voices carried many Latin masterpieces auch A “Angues Dei” by Vicotr C. Johnson, “The Turtle The choir’s annual is a successfully handled Dove,” arranged by Ken Berg and also consisted of concert by all the choirs and choir teacher, Jennifer a solo from Wynzhiel Sanchez, “The River Sleeps Page. This year’s Spring Choir concert went Beneath the Sky”, by Mary Lynn Lightfoot, and remarkably well; there were many performances, “Keep Your Lamps!”, by Victor Johnson. Concert one including the Warm Springs Middle School choir sang many classical songs, as well as the Choir and Chamber Choir combined. Page who short two song performance from the WSMS choir. was accompanied by Chamber Choir and WSMS Wendi Turk, choir Choir collaborated to sing pianist, who played for “Wings,” by Carl Strommen. every choir except the Chmaber Choir carried out a WSMS Choir, who was many beautiful masterpieces accompanied by their such as “Lux Aurumque,” pianist, Barbara Ankele. by Eric Whitacare, “sun, The choir’s spring moon, stars, rain,” by David concert met its audience L. Brunner,” Armoir De with plenty of with an Mi Alma,” by Z. Randall abundant amount of Stroope, and last was, “Steal pieces from classical Away”, arranged by Joseph to soulful gospel. The Jennings, as well a standing voices carrying these ovation from Kei Pham’s solo. masterpieces came from Page gave a big thank you to the Advance Chorale Photo by Ellen Filar her students since she has Women’s Ensemble, as TEARS- Mrs. Paige gets emotional form been absent for two months. well as a solo for the the beautiful music from VMHS chroirs. “They’ve done an amazing gospel song “In Dat Great job without me,” said Page, Getting Up Mornin,” trying to hold in her tears, by Jester Hairston from Arebyl Iniguez, Taryn “When I’m gone, they would text me saying that they’re Malecki, Alex Dunaway, and Lani Whitehead. The doing great and it just makes me happy knowing that Women’s Ensemble sang many songs such as “Good they’re still working hard even without me there.” Chee”, arranged by Audrey Snyder, “Hotaru Koi,” Page announces the next performances, arranged by Ro Ogura, and “My Song,” by David which are the Night of Vocal Jazz on April 26 and the Chills. Page said that each concert has its own feel Broadway Shows on May 18 that may have a special to it, and each season covers a different genre. guest. Page thanked the audience for attending. MARY ANNE ESCARO News Editor
NEWS
MAY 3, 2013
03
Mr. Bronco has Broncos showing all the right moves CIANNA SANFORD Staff Writer This year’s Mr. Bronco was met with high expectations and no disappointments. This year, the theme was James Bond; the contestants’ opening number featured them in formal attire and dancing to spy music, and the Dance Team dazzled in sparkling black uniforms. First, the MC’s: Carolane Gariepy, Austin Harcarik and Ava Lammers were introduced, as well as the teacher judges for this year: Ms. Lane, Mrs. Chestler, Mr. Quinn, Mr. Tahti, and of course VMHS’ very own principle, Mr. Daniel. After, the contestants w e r e brought out and introduced, along with their hobbies and activities a r o u n d campus. The contestants were: Ramil Brady, Jan Gamban, B r e t Goodrich, K e v i n Guzman, Don Inouye, J e t h r o Iresare, DJ Photos by Cianna Sanford L o ngnecker, SHOWING WHAT HE HAS Andy Mora, Bret Goodrich flexing for show. S p e n c e r Neslon, Marshall Ott, Robert Polecheck, Ryan Parcell, Cody Pham, Kei Pham, Justin Phoumin, Kolby Riley, Christian Saldana, Dario Saenz, Austin Sinclair, Kamal Smith, Matthew Smith, Nicholas Sun, Nate Vanta,
Samuel Waisman, and Jeremy Zorotovich. Jazz band warmed the crowd up before the talent portion. Their performance was as riveting and skilled as ever, their hard work evident in the flawless performance. And then it was time for the main event: the talent portion. There was much singing, dancing, piano-playing, and even a little martial arts, which were performed by Robert Polecheck. Kolby Riley, Austin Sinclair and Jeremy Zorotovich humored and entertained the audience greatly with their date-show skit while both Christian Saldana and Kevin Guzman stunned with their renditions of “The Scientist” by Coldplay and Photos by Cianna Sanford “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen respectively. MR. MURRTOWN - Cody Pham takes not only Mr. Speaking of stunning renditions, Bronco but he also went on to win the very first Mr. Matt Smith’s performance of “Drops Murrtown which included all the schools in Murrieta. of Jupiter” by Train was both genuine, beautiful, and emotionally touching, their own unique poses for the eager audience, who leaving the audience wanting more. Kei Pham’s cheered them on without stop. As the boys finished heart-wrenching original song, performed with off their appearances and the judges decided amongst ease and grace, awed the audience even further. themselves who would win, Peyton Lyon performed Cody Pham’s talent was particularly “Skyfall” by Adele with stunning grace and talent. interesting; he entered the stage dragging a blank After her special performance, the crowd canvas behind him. Pham took five minutes to waited anxiously for the winners to be announced. paint a stunningly accurate portrait of Coach It was narrowed down to five contestants: Cody Olson, who he thanked for always being there Pham, Sam Waisman, Dario Saenz, Nick Sun, and for him as he made his way through high school. Nate Vanta. They were all asked to answer one Sam Waisman’s quirky piano routine question, the topics ranging from their greatest was both original and humorous. He played a achievements to their favorite qualities in themselves. theme song for many unfortunate situations in The contestants then performed their opening life, such as being late for school and sneaking in number again and the moment everyone had been past curfew. He encouraged the crowd to never waiting for came at last. The People’s Choice Winner give up on their dreams, no matter the obstacles. was announced to be Matt Smith, and Zack Chacko, As the contestants prepared for the last year’s Mr. Bronco, came on stage to deliver the swim suit portion of the evening, VMHS crown to Cody Pham, who was announced as 2013 Dance Club performed their own James Mr. Bronco, the runner-up position awarded to Sam Bond themed routine to Adele’s “Skyfall”. Waisman. The audience greeted this news with a roar The swimsuit competition was a hit; the of approval. It was a great way to end a fun, spirited boys all came out in swimming trunks and struck night.
Renissance Rally a magical wonder to show off grades FARID GANIME News Editor On March 19th Renaissance had their annual school wide rally to celebrate and recognize those students that are succeeding in high school. This year’s spring rally was set to the Disney Movie theme, from Disney songs and dances, to posters and costumes Renaissance delighted the crowd with nostalgia from childhood memories. Students from freshman year to senior year that had a 3.0 or higher had their names written on large sheets of
Photo by Baylei Harbour
paper and posted on the walls to show the students that do not have a 3.0 that many do have good grades and with a little extra effort maybe students with lower grades can raise their grades, and next semester they too can have their names posted. “I have been helping with the decorations for months. Along with that, I put the music play list together, and helped with little things such as holding posters and helping with the games for the actual rally” member of Renaissance Delayni Johnson, 11 said. The rally captured the reason so many of us love Disneyland, the magic. At the beginning the parade with the most improved students and students with other special achievements walked hand-in-hand with teachers and students dressed up as the characters from the Disney movies. Kristine Lapierre, English teacher, as Cinderella, Even Daarstad as Peter Pan and Corey Quinn as Prince Charming, all added to the playfulness the Disney theme provided. A dance by Dance Club and the basketball team with the song “Getcha Head in The Game” from the movie “High School Musical” was choreographed to many of the same dance moves seen in the movie but the highlight has to be when the song I Do it For the Ratchets by Tyga and the crowd roared with laughter and yelling from excitement. The drumline also had a performance that pleased the crowd with the loud music and exciting formations. Videos were shown of students that had received awards and gave helpful words of encouragement to all watching. ”The purpose of the Renaissance rallies is to recognize students and staff who have gone above and beyond or really
Photo by Farid Ganime stepped up their work recently,” said Johnson. By recognizing students Renaissance improves the moral of all the students that study long into the nights to get the higher grades that are required to enter former education. It allows for a sense of accomplishment to be set on those who do try hard in school and sets a reasonable goal for those who want to better themselves.
Photo by Farid Ganime
MAY 3, 2013
04
SPORTS
Sinclair: leader on the court and off “The most important thing you need is everyone on your side and the team trusting you. I’ve learned how to carry the team,” said Sinclair. Austin Sinclair, 12, is passionate about tennis. Sinclair makes it his job to stay strong for his Sinclair has been playing tennis sense his freshmen team when things get hard, just to show the other year. Sinclair older brother has influenced him to be the players that it isn’t over yet. Being a captain or a leadbest he can and encouraged him to go far with tennis. er comes with a lot of responsibility and pressure. “I’ve definitely learned a lot because my Sinclair’s brother showed his him how to handle the older brother was a part of the team his senior year, pressure and the stress of being on top. Sinclair gained when I was a freshmen. I look up to him as a role trust and respect from his team mates which provide model, like any other a good atmosphere for the younger brother, and team. As a leader, he also has over the years I learned to show the lower classmen what it’s like to be a how to carry themselves and leader,” said Sinclair. be leaders in their own lives. Sinclair gives his “I contribute by being brother credit for who there for support and lethe is today. Sinclair’s ting them know no matolder brother showed ter your skill level you can him how to be a leader always play at the best of and take being a leader your ability,” said Sinclair. serious. Sinclair is now Sinclair is very concerned following his brother’s about everyone who plays example, and using it to tennis, on his team to be able his benefit as team capto get the most from tennis tain. Sinclair isn’t just a like he did. Sinclair makes captain that sits in his sure to contribute more than leadership position with the regular person on a team. Courtesy of Visual Sports Network “What people don’t actuno work to show for it. He provides the team GAME, SET, MATCH- Austin Sinclair has been ally see is that we’re a team with words of encour- a great asset to Vista’s tennis team. we bond together. It’s cool to agement and honesty. be a sort of family. We are a Sinclair is determined to be a good leader and to fol- unit because we played with each other for so many low what his brother started. Sinclair is sincere about years. It’s cool to be with people I’ve grown up with playing tennis and being the team captain. playing the same sport,” said Sinclair.
Hudkins dives into action
ZEPORAH BUTLER Staff Writer
Vista’s baseball team scores big against Murrieta Valley Night Hawks
were yelling out to players and encouraging them to focus and stay in the game. Coaches told athletics to stay in the game and don’t get cocky because the game wasn’t over. But the players were encouraging April 24, 2013 the Vista Murrieta base each other to bat well and to run to plates. ball team tramples Murrieta Valley in the bronco “I was hyped up when we would get stadium. The final score of the game was eight to walks which means that when the pitch throw three with the broncos winning with a victory. balls and they don’t count as strikes because Each player on the team played there hardest it’s the pitch’s fault. So we get to walk to first to crush the Night Hawks. Tyler Russell, pitcher, base,” said Hunter Tidwell, 10, third base. throw every ball to strike against the opposing team. Murrieta Valley had to replace the first pitcher While Russell because he was striking kept throwing players out, the ‘balls’ and outfielders caught b r o n c o s balls flying their continued to way. The Night get ‘walks’ Hawks wasn’t to the bases. expecting the MV coaches fight our fellow showed their broncos put out. frustration “We weren’t on their faces ready for the as players challenge, countless because if we mess up. were we wouldn’t Broncos were came out so beat on the field up,” said the while MV captain of the players yelled Night Hawks. and tried to Each step to distract our victory wasn’t players. At easy; everyone the end of the had to focus on game broncos the main goal was proud which was to and showed beat the Night C.L.A.S.S. Hawks. MV Courtesy of Studio 94 by shaking steadily tried to h a n d s HEY BATTER BATTER SWINGVista’s Broncos took a sweeping vicsteal bases which with their tory in their game against MV’s Night Hawks. made players opponents on the bases a n d continuously alert the pitch of oncoming runners. holding their heads up high. This game was very intense that even the crowd “The score was eight to three and the team was on edge. Parents that went to watch the game did well as a whole,” said Daarstad. AUBREE VANDERHOEVEN Staff Writer
Courtesy of Emilio Russi
LEAPING TO VICTORY- Hudkins dives her way into hearts and recordbooks the world over. AUBREE VANDERHOEVEN Staff Writer
Madison Hudkins, 12, is a coming-of-age diver with something to prove to the world; that diving is not a sport to be taken lightly. Hudkins has been a competitive diver since a young age, she is now competing at a national level for Vista Murrieta’s Dive Team. “Diving has taught me discipline, the value of hard work and dedication, and it has taught me that you can never let fear stop you from achieving even your craziest goals and dreams,” stated Hudkins. Hudkins has been a national qualifier from 2007 to 2013, in 2008 she was a National finalist. Entering high school, Hudkins only got better, she placed fourth at CIF finals her freshmen year, second her sophomore year, and third her junior year. She is on track this year to win her first CIF championship. “It's terrifying trying a new dive off of a 10 meter platform (33ft or three stories) but you can't let that fear stop you from excelling in this sport,” said Hudkins. Hudkins spends many hours in the water and conditions outside of the pool as well; she spends three hours a day, five times a week preparing for competitions. Hudkins has proven that she does not mess around when it comes to taking competitive events seriously; she is even more focused while competing, whether it’s in a small league meet or a national competition. “I always write down the dives that I’ll be competing on a flash card and write down each correction I have for each dive,” said Hudkins. “After the dive, I come back, rip up the flash card, and throw it away. I do this because whether it was a good or bad dive, it's finished there is nothing I can do about it so I move on and think about the next one. Diving is a sport where it's 10% talent and 90% mental game. Perfecting your mental game is the hardest part about diving.” Diving was not Hudkins only talent; she was a competitive, and very talented, gymnast 10 years prior to when she started diving. However, a serious injury stopped her gymnastic career early. “I was forced to quit gymnastics due to injuries, so diving kind of popped out of nowhere,” stated Hudkins. “I instantly fell in love with the sport the second I stepped on the board because I knew that I would be able to maintain my gymnastics skills with less impact on my body. I strongly believe that God tested my body in gymnastics to lead me to this path and this sport.” Many times diving is underrated because of the little popularity it has to the average public. Diving, however, is far more demanding than people realize. “A lot of people try and tell me that my sport is easy or that it isn't as important as other sports,” said Hudkins. “I personally think that they are just misinformed about the level of intensity this sport requires, I am really trying to show people that it’s a difficult sport. To the people who are misinformed, just walk up to 10 meter platform and take a look down; now imagine having to flip and twist off this platform and hit the water at 35 mph and try not to make a splash. It's much more complicated than people think.” Hudkins will continue her diving for the remainder of her senior year and will be attending her dream school, Texas A&M, on a diving scholarship. She then hopes to start training for the 2016 Olympics trials and even compete in the 2016 Olympics.
SPORTS
MAY 3, 2013
05
Russi dives into Boys Golf scores a victory against pools of success Temecula Valley’s Golden Bears and opportunity AUBREE VANDERHOEVEN Staff Writer
Courtesy of Emilio Russi
NEW HEIGHTS- Russi has gained new opportunities through his dedication and drive to dive. AUBREE VANDERHOEVEN Staff Writer
Entering high school, Ryan Russi, 11, never knew he would have so much success on Vista Murrieta’s dive team. Russi not only is the captain of the Dive Team, but also on the road to being a top competitor for the CIF title. However, Russi never considered diving until his freshmen year. “It’s actually funny, because I was completely against the idea of diving before I started. I was very closed minded to the sport until I found out I could get a varsity letter because of it. That was probably the turning point of my decision,” stated Russi. Last year, Russi took second place at the national competition, after only his second year diving. He also placed First in League, and placed top four at last year’s CIF meet. However, his dedication and talent not only shine in the pool, but in the classroom as well. Russi proves that keeping high grades while also succeeding in a sport is very possible. “I admit it can be really tough at times, especially with the pressures of junior year. It’s all about time management. I usually do my homework on the way to practice and I spend a good portion of my weekends studying,” said Russi. Diving has had many positive affects on his life. He is on track to get a scholarship for his outstanding diving, and hopes to make it into the 2016 Olympic trials. He credits his dedication and time spent practicing on the success he has had in diving. “ M o n d a y through Friday, for three hours a day. is my practice schedule. Practices are just like any other sport; you work out regardless of rain or shine, hot or cold. This sport is very important to me, and the dedication and effort I have put into this sport has truly defined me as a person.” Russi continues to succeed as he enters his third year of diving top in the state. He will be competing in both the one and three meter dive at the West National Competition, hoping to prove his diving skills are even stronger than the year before.
“This sport is very important to me, and the dedication and effort I have put into this sport has truly defined me as a person.” - Russi
The Vista Murrieta Boys Golf Team kicked off their 2013 season with their first league match against the formidable Temecula Valley Golden Bears at TV’s home course, The Legends Golf Course. “It was a really good day for us,” said Cuccia. “It was our first league match of the season, we shot 195 and it looks like everyone played really solid golf. It’s a really, really great start for us this season.” The two top varsity players, Frank Cuccia, 12, and Kaden Page, 9, were the top scores of the match, scoring 37 strokes, or 1 over par, to help pull off a victory Photo by Studio 94 over the Golden Bears with a final score of 195-208. Players such as Hunter Dubois, 9, and Taylor SHOT SHAPER- Max Lyons, 12, stares down his Warren, 10, acquired 40 strokes each and overcame drive, setting himself up for a near birdie opportunity. Temecula Valley’s remaining top varsity players. Teammates Max Lyons, 12, and Steven Oakes, 10, their teammates. At the end of every match, the top six were close behind and also placed top in the match. scores from each team are added together to decide Cuccia was able to maintain a level-par score until the outright winner. The match against Temecula Valley proved that the boys knew the last hole, what teamwork was all about: they refusing to give beat the Golden Bears by 13 strokes up on himself and won their first league game of or his team. the 2013 season. “It is very After succeeding at beating difficult to play Temecula Valley, the boys next as a team because match was against previous league golf is such champions Great Oak; the boys came an individual out strong and worked together as a sport,” said team throughout the whole match, Cuccia. “We with Cuccia shooting 36 and Oakes are trained as coming in close behind shooting a individuals, and 42. Even though they missed the forced to come win by only 12 strokes, they showed together during Great Oak and other teams that they every match, but Photo by Studio 94 are sure to be fierce competitors this we all try to do our WEST COAST SWING- Frank Cuccia, 12, best to help the uncoils his body into a forceful tee-off on the first season. Win or lose, the Boys Varsity Golf team display the importance team succeed.” hole at Stonehouse. of teamwork and perseverance in Teamwork is every match they play, hoping to follow up on their very important in high school golf; players need to successes in league to become this year’s league focus on doing well at each hole for themselves and champions.
Ta’amilo pitches more than just softballs
“I love softball because it’s a fast paced game that has you thinking on your toes at all times.” Ta’amilo
scholarships from schools that are division Selina Ta’amilo, 11, is our high school one schools. The team pitcher of the girls softball team with a softball promoting division one scholarship to UCLA. Ta’amilo is is in her junior year ready for the next steps. C.L.A.S.S., which “I love softball because it’s a fast paced game shows in their that has you thinking on your toes at all times. I’ve relationship with been playing since I was ten. My goal to achieve one another and in softball is to win the first CIF championship in on the field as softball for VMHS before I graduate,” said Ta’amilo. well. Each person Ta’amilo has plans to help her team make on the team has bronco history for the girls softball team. Ta’amilo an effect on the is very determined to improve the softball team team as a whole. before she move on to graduation the following year. Ta’amilo is a She hopes that winning CIF will put softball on the prime example bronco board of school records. With team work the of how everyone have an effect on each other. “I’ve gained lifelong friendships with my girls softball team will go far in this year’s season. “My team has great chemistry. We are amazing teammates and knowledge from the coaches here at VMHS,” said Ta’amilo. the funniest, craziest, and Ta’amilo biggest inspiration probably the most athletic is her dad. Ta’amilo is grateful girls you will ever meet. for her father involvement to We have six girls on the push her to be the nest she team with Division one can. Ta’amilo’s father has scholarships. I feel we been the core of her hard can bring home that CIF work. Ta’amilo looks up to championship and do it for her dad to be there for her our school,” said Ta’amilo. when she is in need of advice. Ta’amilo is enjoying “My biggest inspiration her team this year and is my dad. My dad always making memories with pushes me to do my best and teammates and friends. The Photo by Michael Arellano team gets along just fine. Girls HOT STUFF- Ta’amilo has established great tells me to always work for what I want,” said Ta’amilo. on the team are gathering chemistry with her softball teammates. ZEPORAH BUTLER Staff Writer
MAY 3, 2013
LIFE
06
Speech and Debate opens doors Nicholas pushes and new opportunities for Abbott for success in
Photo by Lailani Lowery
GRIN TO WIN- Abbott is all smiles until you engage him into a debate.
EMILY ANNE ESPINOSA Life Editor
Tommy Abbott, 12, has reached new heights through Vista Murrieta’s Speech and Debate team. “Joining the Speech and Debate team, especially after becoming a captain this year, has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in high school. Speech and Debate has opened so many doors for my future,” shared Abbott. For two years, Abbott has been a part of Vista Murrieta’s Speech and Debate team, and became the captain of the team for the 2012-2013 school year. After joining Speech and Debate during his junior year of high school, Abbott has improved his own means of communication through improving his public speaking skills, expanding his vocabulary, and learning how to persuade his audience by utilizing rhetoric. “This year, we’ve brought home countless trophies, many wins, and kids who’ve never debated before, never really spoken in front of others before, have grown to love it. They love public speaking. I’m glad that I was able to really see this club grow and
next year, it will actually become a class instead of just an after school extra-curricular activity,” stated Abbott. As a graduating senior, Abbott has had the opportunity to have his last debate of his high school career at a State Qualifier’s Competition. Together with his partner, Ryan Shah, 10, they were able to reach the semi-final round and come close to qualifying for state, but came short one ballot. Being able to partake in the semi-final round at a state qualifying competition with Shah had been a once in a lifetime experience, leaving Abbott with the reassurance that in the following years, Vista Murrieta’s Speech and Debate team has the potential to accomplish much more in the future. “My partner Ryan Shaw, he’s a sophomore and he speaks very fast, but he articulates pretty well. He’s contributed to my motive of really wanting to help this team out. Although he’s a sophomore, he’s the future,” shared Abbott. By taking part in Speech and Debate, Abbott has discovered a passion in public speaking. After high school, Abbott plans on furthering and advancing his communication and public speaking skills. Additionally, Abbott plans on becoming involved in politics, where he would be utilizing those skills in political debates and speeches. “Being in debate has allowed me to speak eloquently and articulate what’s on my mind in a very comprehensive way, and that’s big in communication. I’m not sure what I want to be yet, but I do know one thing for sure is that I want to be the President of the United States one day,” stated Abbott.
“Speech and Debate has opened so many doors for my future” -Abbott
Evans commits herself to UCSB and a running lifestyle for years to come
Courtesy of Studio 94
COMMITED- Evans sees running as a lifelong sport.
EMILY ANNE ESPINOSA
Life Editor Brooke Evans, 12, has recently decided to commit to University of California Santa Barbara through running. “Everything thing I do is based on running; getting better, making myself stronger, doing whatever I can do to make myself a better runner,” stated Evans. Evans has been involved with Track and Cross Country throughout her entire high school career, being a part of the Varsity teams for both sports since her freshmen year. Additionally, Evans has also been a part of Girls Varsity soccer for her sophomore and junior year. Through that commitment and dedi-
cation to running sports, Evans has obtained scholarships at UCSB for both Track and Cross Country. “I’m going to keep running and stay healthy. One thing I want to do is run a marathon,” said Evans. During her freshmen year, Evans had gone to State Championships for the first time with Girls Cross Country team and placed in the top five scores for Vista Murrieta as freshman. That year was also the year that the Girls Cross Country had gone to State for the first time. Since then, Evans and the Girls Cross Country team have gone to State for every year. Last fall, Evans finished off her last year with Cross Country at State and came out as the top runner for her team. “I was the number one girl who crossed the finish line from Vista Murrieta … it was pretty cool,” shared Evans. A lot of Evans success was a direct result of the guidance and support she received from her coach, Coach Candaele, and her father. Both have inspired her to run and have contributed to a lot of Evan’s success when it comes to running, pushing her to improve and achieve more as a runner. Because of their influence, Evans has committed to a lifestyle based around running and continuing Cross Country and Track in college, demonstrating that capabilities by obtaining scholarships at UCSB. “I’ll run for college, probably I’ll do 5 years in college, and compete all those years. I think that I’ll just keep running because running is a lifelong sport; you can run up until you’re very old,” shared Evans.
students’ futures
Photo by Lailani Lowery
THE BACKBONE- Nicholas sees himself as a support system that holds students up for success.
ADRIELE CONRAD
Staff Writer As the head of Vista’s Science Department as well as one of the founding staff members of the school, Greg Nicholas has always made it a goal to improve students’ chances for success, both in class and in life. Over the past couple years, he has sought to achieve this goal by spearheading Vista’s foray into the so-called “flipped” classroom strategy and technological education, as well as improving student’s critical thinking skills inside and outside of the classroom environment. “It’s a convenient system, for teachers and for students,” stated Nicholas. Nicholas has not only encouraged the “flipped” classroom system for other teachers, he has also completely integrated it into his own curriculum. Students study and review lessons through video lectures, while labs and work are completed in class. For a teacher of both Anatomy and AP Biology classes, this practice had paid off. “I always want my students to study, but having all the material online makes it more accessible. I can see who’s reading the notes and learning my lessons and when, as well as comment on their work and help them improve,” said Nicholas. Another way Nicholas seeks to foster success is by offering help to students before and during the school day. He challenges those in his advanced classes to develop independent study methods, as well as taking an active role in class and teaching students how to think critically and seek answers for themselves. “Having students answer their own questions prepares them for the future. In college, they’re going to have to come in on their own time and ask the right questions of their professors, and simply giving them the facts and dropping it isn’t going to make them ready,” shared Nicholas. This strategy, typical of a former scientist and biology major, has helped his students past and present better adapt to and overcome obstacles as they prepare for life after high school. “I call it my five-step-plan for success: go to college, graduate, meet the person of your dreams, get married and have kids,” said Nicholas. Adjusting his classroom environment, both in real life and digitally, has allowed Nicholas to improve study habits of his students and increase their likelihood of success in future. By utilizing the “flipped” classroom strategy and available online tools, he seeks to develop their critical thinking as well as support their education to the best of his ability, as well as helping other teachers to do the same.
Nicholas has always made it a goal to improve students’ chances for success, both in class and in life.
MAY 3, 2013
LIFE
07
Stay in style by following these new fashion tips ALEX WALKER Staff Writer
Attitude is one of the most important components for a show- stopping outfit. Be confident in what you are wearing and remember to smile. Smiling is your best asset and is a positive and friendly gesture. Follow these steps and you will improve your fashion sense. Work it girl, you go Glenn Coco. What makes a great fashion sense? Girls are constantly asking this question. Being fashionable means different things everyone, because everyone’s body shape and style is so unique. However, there are some basic tips to ensure an awesome and current wardrobe. First you always want to make sure that your clothes fit you comfortably, and are an appropriate length. People can tell if you are not comfortable in what you are wearing. To prevent accidently flashing people and exposing a little too much skin you should make sure that your shirt is not too sheer, and skirts are at a respectable length. You should always check the mirror to see what you look like at all angles. Having a second opinion would not hurt either. You should ask friends who are honest and have the similar tastes in clothing. Friends will make sure that you look both decent and trendy. Secondly age, this is a very important factor, you wouldn’t want to see your grandma in miniskirts and a sheer top, and you would not recommend that toddlers where 6- inch heels. You should always wear age appropriate clothing. There are ways to look ma-
STRUT YOUR STUFF- These ladies rock new fashion trends and look good while doing it. ture and ways to look young, but you should find a balance. Thirdly, check the weather. This is be a relatively simple change ward that people often forget. If it is hot and sunny wear light weight clothing, and possibly open toed flats or sandals. Classic black, patented leather or even a slight embellishment for foot wear would work. Protective hats and sunscreen is also advised. If the weather seems to be chilly but will get hot later, dressing in layers is appropriate. For example, a light tank top with a nice print, a cardigan, and a jean jacket would make a great outfit. You want to be warm, and it is easy to remove layers. If it’s cold a beanie, a scarf, a pea coat, leggings, and boots would definitely keep you warm. If it is windy, you do not want any Marilyn Monroe moments where your skirt flies up and shows everything. Just be prepared. Also, accessories are a way for you to further express your style. You can wear bold earrings, an Egyptian statement necklace, or even gaudy rings. Having a collection of accessories can make a nice
Photos by Alex Walker
accent to every outfit. They are also helpful for tailoring outfits. If a blouse or dress is just a bit too big, or you want to give it more structure, waist belts will solve the problem. They can be wide, thin, leather, or a bold color. Belts give your outfit a pop and an hour-glass figure. Lastly, hair, make up and attitude are the finishing pieces. There are so many hairstyles; you can curl, crimp, braid, or even put your hair in a high sock-bun; whatever works for the outfit. You should also choose your make up wisely. If your outfit is a bit more casual, you can use a light or nude lip color, thin eye liner, and mascara. However if you are looking for a more formal evening look, use darker hues for eye shadow, lip stick, and maybe even a thick wing in eyeliner. Attitude is one of the most important components for a show- stopping outfit. Be confident in what you are wearing and remember to smile. Smiling is your best asset and is a positive and friendly gesture. Follow these steps and you will improve your fashion sense. Work it girl, you go Glenn Coco.
Two Broncos attend Rotary Youth Leadership Awards EMILY ANNE ESPINOSA Life Editor
“RYLA has personally changed me in so many ways.” - Manalo
Recently, two juniors from Interact Club, Kaela Manalo and Carl Hernandez, were selected by the Rotary Club of Murrieta to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. “Through its hands-on activities and interactions, RYLA helps build self-confidence and self-esteem. It was an intense three days, two night event in Crestline, CA and also, the best three days of my life,” shared Manalo. RYLA, the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, is a Rotary sponsored program that aims to strengthen the youth’s leadership ability and demonstrates how each person can make a difference. Its purpose is to provide service to the community and global citizenship, to provide humanitarian service, and to help build goodwill and peace in the world by targeting the next generation of leaders. “The impact RYLA has made on me was to Courtesy of Kaela Manalo NEW FACES- Juniors from all over Dictrict 5330 gath- never judge people by their race, skin color, family situation, or the way they dress. In addition, the ered to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.
world is not as perfect or as great as we thought it would be. We have problems of our own and the world itself. The only thing we can do is to take action,” stated Hernandez. At RYLA, the selected candidates participate in icebreakers and several activities that taught each participant valuable lessons, in addition to motivational speakers that the candidates were able to listen to over the weekend. These activities taught the importance of team work, communication, leadership, and service, with additional activities revolving around diversity and culture. “RYLA has personally changed me in so many ways. I obviously got a lot of self-confidence in what I do and became a better public speaker. In a sense, it teaches you to not care about what others think of you. I came into it skeptical because only one other person from my school was attending out of 400 people that I did not know. But you come out as a family of 400.” shared Manalo. A group of proximately 400 high school students attended the program, each participant carefully selected through an application and interview and process that took place all over Southern California. Each applicant had to currently be a high school junior and be a part of a youth branch of Rotary’s District 5330. “I suggest every person join Interact club and apply for RYLA. It will change you in so many ways,” stated Manalo.
MAY 3, 2013
LIFE
08
Good caters to students’ dreams Arellano demon-
Photo by Lailani Lowery
POSITIVE ROLE MODEL- Good pushes students to be involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities.
MARY ANNE ESCARO Staff Writer
Keith Good, photography teacher, swim coach and professional photographer, captures the lives of his students every day. Good loves to help guide his students into who they want to be in the future. Good is also the adviser for many clubs, such as the Lifeguard Club, Diving Club, Photography Club and Anime Club. “I came into teaching late,” said Good, “I worked in construction and also in photography by owning my own business. But I’ve always really liked teaching kids. To me, it was more important than anything else, and I found out I really enjoy it as a passion.” When Good was enrolled in high school, he was told that he needed to attend college. But his elders never explained why, and he didn’t know why either. By the time he attended college, he still did not understand why. He believed that he had to go to college, but never had a reason. He was never excited about attending, so he ended up bailing out since he never took it seriously. “I’ve always been passionate about photography and really liked it,” said Good, “So I opened up my own business, but I also worked at my con-
struction for eight years to help me earn more money. During that time I learned one very important thing: I hate construction.” Shortly after, he decided to go back to school, mainly because he realized that he loved teaching more than anything. He finished all the education that he needed to become a teacher in three years. At that point of his life, he said he had “all A’s” and school had become a lot easier for him because he knew what he wanted to do in life. Good began teaching when he was thirty-six at Escondido High School. He has been the photography teacher at Vista for six years now, and plans on staying for as long as he can. “When I went back to college for my photography certificate, I was always being asked what I liked about photography,” said Good, “I found that I liked teaching it more than photography itself.” Good believes teaching somebody how to do something is often its own reward, and takes pleasure in ‘building artists’. He loves to see his students get excited about what they are doing, and he also believes that it’s not about teaching a certain subject, but rather teaching them how to be more interested in learning. Good also enjoys being the swim coach. “I started swimming when I was six years old,” said Good, “I did club swim for twelve years all throughout high school. I also did one year of college swim but didn’t like it. But I have been the swim coach for seven years.” Although good came into teaching late, he tries his best to do his job right and to the fullest every day that he’s here on campus. He hopes to stay at Vista for as long as he can.
“I’ve always really liked teaching kids. To me, it was more important than anything else, and I found out I really enjoy it,” - Good
Lane moves up from middle schools
Photo by Lailani Lowery
ANGEL OF EDUCATION- Lane chooses family and children over pursuing a career in law.
KRISTINA MAWBEY Staff Writer
Rebecca Lane, a 9th grade English teacher, isn’t just a new teacher at school, but a teacher who wants to make a difference at Vista Murrieta High School and also in her students’ lives. Transferring from Warm Springs Middle School to Vista is a big change, but she’s ready to make the most of it. “When I was in High School I wanted to be a lawyer,” said Lane, “But when I became a teacher everyone told me I am too smart to be a teacher and that I should be a lawyer.” Even though she doesn’t come from a long line of teachers, Lane has been wanting to be a teacher ever since she was a little girl. She became a teacher
instead of a lawyer because she loves kids, and feels like she can make an impact on their lives. Lane has said that she tries to be on the same level as her students by adding humor, and treating her student all equally. “My number one rule in class is Respect. You have to respect yourself and others,” said Lane. In her classroom, there are many pictures of her family which shows how important they are to her. Lane is also a mother of two cute little boys. “When I go home, I go home to my babies. I am a mom,” stated Lane. One of the downfalls of teaching in a High School is that she has to work harder, by making lesson plans everyday. To her, family comes first. When she goes home, she spends time with family instead of writing lesson plans. In her free time she like to go to the lake with her family, and if there is more free time, they like to travel. The way she has adjusted to a high school teacher lifestyle, shows how she’s willing to work hard while still managing to make time for her family.
She became a teacher instead of a lawyer because she loves kids, and feels like she can make an impact on their lives.
strates leadership as Editor-in-Chief
Photo by Ellen Filar
HARD AT WORK- Arellano spends several hours layouting pages for our school’s yearbook.
BAYLEI HARBOUR Staff Writer
We all know what excitement comes with the end of the year- the school yearbook. Whether you purchase one yourself or borrow one of your friends, you see it and look back at all the memories of the school year that’s coming to a close. But do you ever think about who’s behind the yearbook, and who every year makes it happen, with little to no mistakes. That would be our Vista Murrieta yearbook staff, ran by Mrs. Filar, who is also our school newspaper teacher, and our editors in chief, Brianna Cooper and Michael Arellano. Arellano has been in the yearbook class for a year total, though he’s been in and out of it throughout his four years of high school. When asked what a typical day in the life of a yearbook editor he responded, “Horrible! Just kidding, a little. But really it is a lot of responsibility and leadership. Basically its lot’s of checking work and helping others work on pages and layout for the book.” Being an editor and chief of something is like co-hosting a TV show; you do just as much, if not more work than the editor. Lots of hours go into perfecting the yearbook to make the whole school satisfied. Arellano says, “There are many hours spent during and after school working on the yearbook. You have to put full dedication towards yearbook and move your schedule around to work during the day.” To be able to take that much time out of your day, both during the week and on the weekend for something shows just how much the staff cares about pleasing us. Like everything you participate in, there are always pros and cons to it. The pros and cons of yearbook, according to Arellano are, “the pros are that you’re able to help and know what the book will end up looking like. The cons are that is comes with a lot of responsibility and sometimes stress because of deadlines.” If people thought that taking yearbook would be an easy way to getting out of taking an elective they wouldn’t have to do anything for, they were wrong. It is still, however, an enjoyable class. Arellano likes being the editor in chief because he is able to make certain decisions about the book and get the inside scoop of things before others. The school yearbook is a book that will be read by almost the whole campus. There’s a lot of planning and hard work that goes into making the yearbook such a success, including our very own Arellano. Arellano hopes that the school will be please by the work that him, and the rest of the yearbook staff has done and their style for the 10 year anniversary edition of our yearbook. If you haven’t already, make sure you order a copy, it’ll be a purchase that will last a lifetime.
“You have to put full dedication t o wa r d s y e a r book,” - Arellano
VIEWPOINT
MAY 3, 2013
09
When should teens start dating? From a teen’s perspective LAUREN HORTON Staff Writer She giggled and said “thank you” when he offered her the animal cracker, knowing he was the best boyfriend ever. They were going to get married and have three kids, and a dog and a cat and even a hamster. They were going to live happily ever after! Until next week, when he spilled her milk. Then it was all over. Dating isn’t really much different from when we were Kindergarteners, if you think about it. We still share food, we make plans for the future, we make promises about “happily ever after,” but then something happens. Someone messes up, spills the milk. We break up, it’s all over. We move on. Ten years from now most high school relationships will seem as menial to us as sharing animal crackers with that cute kid we liked in Kindergarten. Relationships are a tricky balance between one’s own needs and the needs of their significant other. Prudish though it may be, I believe that teens should not be seriously dating until they have reached the age of sixteen or over. Being a teenager is already difficult enough with raging hormones, changing bodies, and the pressure of transitioning from juvenility
to adulthood. Relationships are a responsibility which the majority of young teens are simply not ready for. Teenagers want so badly to be independent, to experiment with new things, to do what we have never done before. But lacking the experience to judge life situations accurately, “Adolescents often have difficulty identifying physical and s e x u a l abuse as such and deciding how to respond to it. They may even falsely perceive controlling and jealous behavior as love,” write Call a h a n , Tolman, sodahead.com and Saunders at the University of Michigan. I remember my own first relationship when I was fourteen years old: my boyfriend prohibited me from wearing certain makeup and clothes, from hanging out with other people outside the relationship, and going anywhere without telling him where I was. Even when he pressured me to do things I didn’t want to and ignored my allusions to childhood trauma concerning sex, I stayed. Sounds silly now, but this is a common story, and there are other, more violent ones where there was never a “happily” ever after.
Even if the relationship does not devolve into violence, uneducated and immature teens run the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STI’s), becoming teen parents, and neglecting other aspects of their lives in favor of spending time with their partners. Of the 47.4% of teens having had sexual intercourse, 39.8% neglected to use a condom and 76.7% were not on any type of birth control, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lack of contraception leads to deadly infections and contributes to the over 400,000 teen births recorded in 2009. Disease ruins and ends lives, teen pregnancy halts any dreams that mother (and possibly father) ever hoped to accomplish. Younger teens often lack the prudence and maturity to consider these consequences, and suffer from them as such. Furthermore, “Researchers at the RAND Corporation have found that teens are more likely to have sex when there is less after-school supervision,” in the afternoon instead of schoolwork and after school activities. Although relationships can be a healthy, rewarding aspect of a person’s life, they are a responsibility too heavy to handle for kids still learning how to think critically and make prudent decisions. At sixteen, we are stable enough to experiment with dating, to learn what we want and what we don’t want in a significant other. We can recognize the signs of abuse, we can remember to utilize contraception (although sex is illegal until the age of seventeen in California), and we can balance our lives with our relationships. Seventeen now, I am in a healthy relationship that doesn’t include the jealous and controlling behavior often displayed in the relationships of younger teens. We can be our own selves, and take care of each other. Older now, they sit at the same table with the same snack. But if he spilled the milk, it wouldn’t matter. It wouldn’t be over. They are living “happily ever after.”
What’s up with tech? New technology culd have lasting effects KELSEY GAGE Staff Writer These days, teenagers have everything they could ever imagine to keep them preoccupied and free of boredom. Things such as amusement parks, mall shopping, and hiking trails are available almost anywhere, and yet this generation’s teens choose to use something entirely different to keep themselves busy. That very thing is called ‘Technology”. H i g h l y advanced computerized programs such as Facebook and YouTube are stuffed with information that make us keep our eyes glued to the computer screen. But as we’re scrolling through our news feed or looking up videos of people falling hilariously off of trampolines, we’re becoming oblivious to the thought that, perhaps, technology is growing too advanced and high-tech. If all of us would just take a day to close the computer and go outside to experience life’s wonders, I can almost guarantee that most of us wouldn’t want to go back to the internet to check our news feed and see if our crush posted a status. We
would be inviting our friends, family, and crushes to go and ride a roller coaster with us. We would be learning new things, from something as minor as making an apple pie to taking our very first chance at zip lining. We could do things the old fashioned way, like sending a letter to a loved one that lives in another state instead of sending them a quick email with smiley emoticons when we can find the time. Though the internet is rather amazing, people tend to have the ability to pose as someone else online. S t a tistics show t h a t 88% of parents know t h a t their teens atrinternational.com typically use the internet to communicate with people they don’t know in the offline world, and 40% of parents worry about their teen’s social network safety when online, even at home. Easing off on daily use of the computer can reduce the risk of potentially being tricked by someone you think you know, and it would surely put our parent’s minds at rest a little bit more. And it’s even gotten to the point where we teenagers know what we’re doing on-
line is wrong, and yet we do our best to hide our behavior from our guardians simply because we’re afraid of getting caught. Tests and polls show that 67% of teenagers say they know how to hide what they do online from their parents, and 43% of teens say they would change their online behavior if they knew that their parents were watching them. The internet is exciting; it pulls us in with its information and its wonders. It urges us to check up on our Facebook walls at least once a day to make sure that all is well in our community. But it can also deceive you, because some people online aren’t who they claim to be. So yes, the internet can be enthralling and addictive, but always make sure to take a step back and become positive that what you’re doing online is safe and appropriate.
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MAY 3, 2013
VIEWPOINT
10
Test taking: secrets revealed KELSEY GAGE Staff Writer
Applying for college: problems of graduating high school students AMANDA LAYTON Staff Writer
Cartoon by Adriele Conrad High school kids these days don’t take their upcoming tests very seriously, with our excuses of “I promise I’ll study later!” and, “It’s just a test! Besides, I have a good grade in that class. I’ll be fine!” Has it ever occurred to us that passing a test could mean the difference between letter grades? Perhaps we have always seen them as pesky little assignments that we figure we’ll make up with class work. Well, test taking is more important than we may think, and according to a ton of surveys and polls taken by teenagers like us about our studying habits, most of the results aren’t as good as they’re supposed to be. There are certain skills that are needed in order to pass our class test of the day. Studying is the biggest one, because what’s a better way to understand the material than to read it over once before we have to take a test on all of that the next day, with only our memory to help us? Scientists say that it’s always better to start studying in school than anywhere else, where we have access to the perfect amount of material that will help us pass that difficult test the next day. Tactics such as notetaking will help us thoroughly when it comes to our study habits. Keys to this strategy are to write down facts that a teacher mentions or writes on the board during class. Keeping organized with our notes is a good thing to consider; for example, always keep the notes easy to read and review. How are we supposed to study when we can’t even read the material? One of the most important strategies to use when studying is to not procrastinate. It’s tempting to put off studying until the last minute. But the best way to overcome the urge to procrastinate is to always stay organized. Highlight things, always keep a tab on what’s most important and write down the dates of the next test so that they’re hard to ignore. If we merely feel overwhelmed by the fact that we either don’t have time to study, or extracurricular activities are keeping us from our grades, then ask a trusted teacher to help prioritize and organize. It’s never a bad thing to ask for help every once in a while. One final strategy, which is most effective, would be to start a study group. Sometimes it’s always easier to go over things with a person that happens to be taking the same test as us. For some students, they get easily distracted, which could turn a study date into a complete disaster. One way to ensure quiet and focus is to study with the group at a library, whether it be the schools or the local library. Either one works. When finished studying for a while, take a break and sit back in a chair. Feel that? Feel confident? Feel like you can approach anything that pesky test the next day has to throw at us? There is no guarantee that we’ll get one hundred percent on it, because not everybody is perfect. But there is a bigger chance of us getting a higher grade on that quiz if we’ve studied than if we hadn’t even glanced at our school material.
The college admissions process nowadays is complex and demanding when compared to twenty years ago. Before, the application process was simple. My father has said that when he got into college, he did not fill out an application at all; he merely sent his ACT scores to two schools and received responses from them. Because there were fewer people attending college and fewer schools established, the requirements were limited and simple. Now, the admission process is extremely complex. There are several deadlines including the application itself, financial aid, housing, transcripts, etc. that students have to worry about meeting. Furthermore, there is a lot of information that goes into the application, making it time consuming and competitive. When applying for universities, I was stressed about the fact that thousands of other applications would be viewed right next to mine, and so I wanted my application to really stand out by my accomplishments. The fact that so many people apply for college now makes the whole process that much more competitive. On a personal level, I began looking at colleges in middle school. My parents and I realized that everything a student does starting from eighth grade and ending their senior year applied to what their applications would look like and affect their entry into college. Thus, I became involved and worked my hardest so that I would have a high chance of getting into the university of my dreams and pursue the career I desire. One reason I believe this process is so competitive is the fact that colleges take into consideration all your years of high school. Students then have the mentality
that every little mistake they make takes away from their chances; or on the flip side, every little accomplishment adds to their chances. Nonetheless, the process changes it into competition that begins not just when applying but years before it even begins. I believe that college applications are too competitive because of the level of stress it places on students and the somewhat ridiculous nature of the process as a whole. Because there are so many people applying, those viewing the applications see the same student time and time again with the same awards, the same sports, the same grades, etc. So, how does each student know what they have been doing for years is going to be good enough? When Stanford University came to Vista last year, they had a conference with a group of students including myself, and said that much of the application is based upon the essay section where they get to know each student on a personal level. Therefore, the question of whether or not one’s work is good enough is answered. However, there is still that chance that fifty other people are going to have the same experiences as you might, or close to it. Thus, students are very concerned with the thought that their application is too familiar to the others, even though they might be outstanding students and so this competition becomes extremely stressful. College admissions are greatly competitive and because of this, it causes much unwanted stress for students throughout their high school years. Getting into college should not have to be this complex though I do understand the reason for it. There are too golocalworcester.com many people applying these days that in order for universities to make a good decision on who is admitted, they must make the application specific and detailed. Admissions include so many processes, deadlines and expectations that makes the process difficult, time consuming and highly competitive.
When should independence begin? LAUREN HORTON Staff Writer Growing up sucks; It inevitably means heartbreak, responsibility and bickering with our parents as we try to establish our individuality. To parents, relinquishing control and allowing us to fly from the nest is perhaps the hardest thing they will ever do, because they are grown up and have already experienced the hardships and sorrows that we are guaranteed to face. They know the heartbreak, bear the responsibility, have done their share of bickering. They want the best for us and all we want is to break free of that parental embrace. But independence is not a black and white thing which can be granted or withheld as easily as an object. It is a privilege gained as we grow and mature to adulthood. Remember when bedtime was extended for the first time? The first sleepover? Going to the mall for the first time without parents there? The first date? A driver’s license? Now counting down the days until eighteen rolls around? Of course some parents are more controlling, some are less, but these are milestones which signify our growing independence, privileges we earn from our parents with age and growing maturity. “Independence for a teen partly means establishing identity and becoming in all ways a separate individual. It may help parents to consider that this is actually an important part of the "work" of being a teenager,” state the writers of Teenhelp.com. Despite a craving to be free to cultivate this identity and individualize, teenagers still need their parents to teach them
responsibility before they can earn more independence. Just as a two year old does not know to keep away from the hot stove, most teenagers do not know the workings of the real world and how to enter it. We have to be taught these things as we grow up. Personally, I cannot wait to be eighteen. I cannot wait for the day where my parents can’t control what I eat, where I go over the summer, who I hang out with, what medications I’m “supposed” to take, or what I do with my free time. I crave independence and sometimes I take it by force, which is a rebellious trait found most distasteful by adults. Katie McCorkle, Ph.D., writes, “If parents have made all the decisions previously (and thus fostered dependence), teens are more likely to assert their independence in ways which don’t please the parents.” Although parents want only the best for their child, sometimes that protective nature is what creates the struggle for independence. However, I was not ready to decide these things a few years ago. I was not ready to take full responsibility for myself at the age I began to try. No matter how cumbersome it seems, earning independence must be a timeline. It is not a present that given on Christmas nor is it only one pit stop on the journey of life. By granting their children independence in age appropriate increments such as staying up later when they turn ten or giving them a car when they turn sixteen, parents can guide their children successfully to adulthood. They help to soften the heartbreak, strengthen a sense of responsibility, and grant skills needed to stand up for oneself in real life. We can fly the nest only when we have fully learned the extent of our wings.
VIEWPOINT
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Are vending machines doing more harm than good? quick snack from the vending machines? And if you’re busy at break and lunch, it’s easy to grab something from the vending machines on your way to class, so Having vending machines on campus has you don’t starve through the next hour and a half. Another argument for vending machines is both positive and negative influences. Among the price compatibility. Vending machines are easy and positives quick, with a wide variety of choices. Times are the are tough, and as teenagers, not many of us convehave a lot of pocket money to spare. So the niences of ability to get something to satisfy our hunger speed and for just a dollar is both rare and gratifying. low pric There are a couple of arguments es. The for getting rid of vending machines altovending gether, however. One of which is the upmachines keep, which is why some machines are offer a often turned off. Or the food gets stuck quick, afon its way down. Security and aids do not fordable allow us to bang on the cages surroundsolution ing the vending machines, techto hunnically, but what else can the stuger. Howdents do when their food is stuck ever, the so tantalizingly close to the bin? negatives The snacks themselves include must also be brought into quesmaintetion. These days, health has benance and come a huge issue among Amerihealth cans as we step back and evaluate issues. our lifestyles. The food offered Vending mamonstermarketplace.com by the lines and stands around campus have healthier, more fillchines ofing choices that include salads, ten break down, are turned off, or the food gets stuck on the way turkey subs, and chicken sandwiches. The down, leaving the students to either abandon their only food offered by the vending machines snack or bang on the cage surrounding the machine circle is one of two categories: salt and suguntil it falls. The food they do manage to get out of the ar. Pop-tarts, Gatorade, Sour Worms, Hot vending machines is hardly healthy; chips, pop-tarts, Cheetos, and these are only a small portion and sugary foods are all the vending machines have to of the unhealthy foods offered. Junk food offer. Water may be the healthiest item they provide. is okay every once in a while, but vending The most convincing argument for vending machines are so convenient, kids use them machines is convenience. Why wait in line for five all the time. A study directed by the Cenminutes when you can take five seconds to grab a ter for Science in the Public Interest shows CIANNA SANDFORD Staff Writer
that 43% of slots in vending machines are reserved for candy, 25% is for chips and only 2% is for granola bars and low-fat cookies and baked goods. Instead of giving kids solely unhealthy options, I believe it would be profitable for vending machines to have more slots open to low-fat and sugar goods. I remain neutral on the vending machine question. I find that their convenience and affordability tips the weight in their favor quite a bit. Sometimes I’m not hungry enough for a sandwich or a salad, and I just need a bag of chips. Or maybe I was busy at break but don’t find the idea of sitting through the next hour and a half, hungry, all that appealing; vending machines offer a good solution to both situations. However, I don’t appreciate spending a dollar on food and drink I might not even get. Healthier choice would also make a difference in my opinion regarding vending machines.
consumerfreedom.com
Allegiance: Showing respect through a pledge ALEX WALKER Staff Writer “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” These are the words that we hear and have heard every day since elementary school. Lately t h e r e have been issues regarding students and the pledge. It has come to my attention that that few people take the time to stand and recite the pledge, when given the opportunity in class. Which leads to the question: should students have to recite the pledge of allegiance? When I was in elementary school students we took turns leading the class in the flag salute, and were very proud to have had memorized it. By the time I was in middle school it was a common routine that I was used to hearing on the intercom while reciting it with my class members. Now in my senior year some students just don’t care anymore and reciting the pledge of allegiance has become an inconvenience. Why it is that some do not respect or recite the
pledge? Perhaps we have forgotten the reason for reciting the pledge in the first place. Saying the pledge is a symbol of showing respect for our history, for those risking their lives for our safety and the respect for our nation. While this may not be enough reason to recite the pledge there is always the understanding that no one is forced to recite the pledge, it is just a s k e d that we stand and show our respect for others. There has always been a standing debate a b o u t k e e p ing the pledge of freep.com allegiance incorporated in the everyday curriculum of public schools, and that argument has two sides. Based on a pole from debate.org, 65% of Americans feel that the Pledge of Allegiance should not be recited because it interferes with our natural rights and beliefs [religion]; however, saying the pledge is not an act of worship, but a simple sign of admiration. The other 35 % feel that it does not hurt to take 30 seconds out of a day to show respect to our country and those who serve it. Another reason is in regard to 9/11, In respect of those who have passed. By reciting the pledge we
patrickmurfin.blogspot.com are standing together as one nation to remember the ones we love and care for. When reciting the pledge, we should know what we are truly standing for. “I pledge allegiance” (I promise to be true)“to the flag” (to the symbol of our country)“of the United States of America” (each state that has joined to make our country)“and to the Republic” (a republic is a country where the people choose others to make laws for them -- the government is “of, by and for” the people)“for which it stands,” (the flag means the country)“one nation” (a single country)“under God,” (the people believe in a supreme being)“indivisible,” (the country cannot be split into parts)“with Liberty and Justice” (with freedom and fairness)“for all.”
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Nevermore’s fi- The Mill a local hidden Gem nale is simply breathtaking AMANDA LAYTON Staff Writer
KELSEY GAGE Staff Writer
booksnreview.com You’ve been through the journey; stayed with the winged mutants through their heart-pounding adventures and crying when they did. You’ve snuck through the deep basements with spider webs that hide years of history, and you’ve felt your heart go out when the characters needed it most. And now, it’s all over. In this final installment of The Maximum Ride series by James Patterson, Max and her flock will face dangers that they never saw coming. Questions will be answered, and the readers will be left completely breathless with excitement, fear, and suspense. Around every corner, there is a new threat that Patterson has saved until the very end, just to let his widely known book series go out with a bang. Throughout the series, Max and the rest of her flock, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gazzy, and Angel, have narrowly escaped a variety of scenarios in which they only have minutes, even seconds, to live. They’ve avoided Erasers, beaten the scientists that have experimented on them in the first place; they’ve faced heartbreaking betrayal as well. They’ve had to harden their hearts so that nothing can virtually phase their tough exterior. But in this series finale, the only thing that can hurt them more than the evil scientists and cyborg freaks that are constantly after them is their love for one another. In the beginning of this nail-biting novel, Max and the flock have now spent a decent amount of time away from their beloved Fang, who abandoned them in the sixth installment in the series, Fang. Max is heartbroken over him, but their new member of the flock, Dylan, has sure been keeping her feelings directed toward someone else entirely. The dangers that they all face in this book are stronger, smarter, and deadlier than the previous threats that they’ve had to face. This time, not only are they facing a group of evil doers led by a crazy scientist who craves Fang’s DNA, but they have to face the fact that one of their own has betrayed the flock, and nobody knows who in the world it is. They also face a humongous group of Erasers, of whom Max and the flock thought were extinct; sentenced to death. But the one danger that is more deadly than all of the other threats combined has finally arrived, and Max was told to be ready for it. The end of the world has come. This finale will leave readers breathless and heartbroken, with the questions that are answered in a way that nobody imagined. Does Iggy ever get his eyesight back? Who will Max choose; Fang or Dylan? Does the flock really save the world? Every question that has been piling up since the very first installment of the series will come out in a flood of answers that are guaranteed to overwhelm the reader with a wave of emotions. Fears will be conquered, feelings will be faced, and one of the flock will be sentenced to death. Nevermore will surely send readers into rounds of hysterics, sobs, and laughter.
Centered in the heart of Old Town Murrieta, on Washington Ave, the Mill restaurant stirs up some of the most appetizing dishes I’ve ever tasted. Their specialty is Italian and it’s no surprise when your senses are enveloped by the perfection that is The Mills glorious array of rustic Italian flavors. The atmosphere was very warm and welcoming, almost the scene of a deli with its counters set up right when you walk in the door. The restaurant had its quirks that reciprocated the theme of the Italian countryside. My party was seated quickly, which was shocking because they had quite a long line going when we arrived. However, the more people there are at a restaurant the better you can tell how good the food is. Our waitress was extremely courteous and inviting, as were the many others catering that day. There was not a long wait for the food to arrive and when it came, the plates were hot and the smell was beautifully overwhelming with scents of fresh spices. We ordered the Tomato Basil Angel Hair and the Queen Margarita pizza. The pasta dish was absolutely mouthwatering. The best part was the delicate sun dried tomatoes that woke my taste buds to an amazingly rich tomato flavor. The pesto added a gentle touch to the dish and really enhanced the entrée altogether. The only problem I had with the dish was the amount of olive oil and white wine sauce
The Host falls BAYLEI HARBOUR I'm a strong believer in reading the book before you see the movie, so when I found out that Stephanie Meyer’s 2008 novel, The Host, was becoming a film, I was even more eager to read the story. When I sat down in the theater seat, I had high expectations for the film due to the fact that I was such a huge fan of the novel. There was never a slow part in the plot; it was a page turner that constantly made you want to read more. My expectations, however, were not fulfilled, but overall it was still a good film The film was about Earth far into the future. Alien-like species known as “Souls” invaded Earth, deeming human race, and exterminating them from their own planet. While their bodies are still present on Earth, their essence is not. They did this by implanting Souls into the host human's body, erasing the human race entirely. The movie follows the main character, Wanderer, often referred to as Wanda, a Soul who was placed into the body of the once rebellious human Melanie Stryder. Wanda begins to notice some unusual things about her host body, as she is able to see Melanie's memories and hear her thoughts. As Melanie grows stronger, the two are able to communicate, and they set out on an adventure together to find Melanie's family, discover new beginnings, and learn impor-
on the plate; my pasta was over-oiled and the sauce took away from some of the flavors that the other components of the dish had. Regardless, it was still a beautiful pasta dish that I would indulge in again. The second entrée was the Queen Margarita pizza. This pizza included freshly made mozzarella cheese, basil, tomatoes and once again, their signature drizzles of pesto. The thing about this pizza that topped my list was its amazing, once in a life time crust. When I go out for pizza, I am extremely picky when it comes to crust; it has to be crunchy, yet soft themillmurrieta.com in the middle, but neither doughy nor dry. And the pizza itself cannot be oily. This wonderful string quartet of a pizza hit all the check points on my list perfectly. Once I bit into it, the crunch, chew and flavor was all there. However, it didn’t stop there; no, the dish had the most delicious tomatoes I’ve ever tasted. They were sweet, but still held together that savory and salty bit to it that transformed each mouthful into heaven as you were chewing. It was simply decadent. The fresh basil and hint of pesto gave me the sensation that I was eating on the seaside of Tuscany overlooking the luscious gardens and deep blues of the sea; it was a sensational meal. The Mill, one of Old Town Murrieta’s hidden gems, is a restaurant you wouldn’t want to miss. Serving up marvelous authentic Italian dishes, they will win your heart each time and have you coming back, hungry for more.
tant lessons about themselves, and about each other. A popular comment you would often hear from an avid reader is that the book is better than the movie. In some cases it's true, and in other cases the movie can be equally as good, or even better than the written story. I read The Host twice, once about a year ago, and a second time just before I saw the movie. While the director of the movie, Andrew Niccoli, did a good job at turning the 600 page novel into a two hour film, he did a poor job at deciding what was important to go in the film, and what was not. A lot of important background information was taken out, and was instead replaced with emphasis on the romantic aspect. While the love triangle between three of the characters is important, it's not as important as other information that was in the book, but not the movie. wikipedia.com If you are a fan of romance films, then The Host is the perfect movie for you to see. The film overall was decent, Niccoli did a good job at portraying each character with his casting. When there was action in the film, it was exciting and had you on the edge of your seat with fast beat music and outstanding special effects. Sadly, I wish I would have never seen the film and instead kept the images of how I predicted things to happen when I read the book. I continue to stick to my theory that the book is better than the movie, but I still highly encourage you to both see the film and read the novel.
MAY 3, 2013
13 WEEKEND Mad Men reaches a turning point
FARID GANIME News Editor The show Mad Men now in its 6th season, is at a turning point in its career where most shows drop the ball and become predictable. The two hour season premiere on April 7th was proof that the 60’s themed drama is not like any other show, that writer and producer Matt Weiner will certainly lead the show’s amazing acting, costumes, and writing into a memorable season that will allow our favorite characters to develop even further enhancing the connection we have with them. Season 5 ended in way that closed many of the plot lines that the audience had enjoyed over the years. The new office was successful, everyone found the one they loved or ended relations that where “rocky” would be an understatement. Don the main character had settled in with his new wife, and his ex was happily married to the city official. Even his kids that clashed with their elders in season before seemed to be finally pleased. Peggy Olsen the -fierce ex-secretary had out grown her position as Don’s protégé. Peter Cambell the cut-throat accounts man,
had replaced the dominate Roger Sterling as leader of accounts. Joan Holloway had her kid and seemed to fine even though she had the sour ending to her short marriage. Even old Bert Cooper was shooting the breeze giving out useless advice. Season 6 has the challenge of making more drama, theweek.com it now has to take these characters that have grown up so much to new levels of scandal, distrust, and smoke filled scotch sessions. This season, the story is entering 1967 a year that had many of the greatest changes in American history. The show has always followed the historical events that it passes, from the JFK assignation in 1963, to the racial tensions of 1967. This first episode had housewife Betty goes back to her beginnings in New York in East Village, and Don visiting tropical Hawaii as it becomes a popular tourist destination in the 60’s. It will be interesting to see how the writers will have the characters react to changing times. As Don said “We need to stop poking fun at the San Francisco hippie”. It will be a story in its self to see how the race riots and the counter clash will take part in the show. Weiner has stated that “We will get to know Don in this season” Don, the center of the show has started a new affair with a woman in his building, but his New Year’s resolution was ironically that he wants to end it. Don has had a long past with
Oz, a vibrant adventure
attention grabbing and an integral part of the film. The script was wellwritten with witty quips and great Follow the yellow brick road irony, though it did leave something to the great Emerald City where you’ll to be desired in regards to character development. The find the Wizard of story progressed Oz. But how did too slowly in some the wizard find places and too the Emerald City? quickly at other’s, Disney’s new film making leaps the “Oz the Great and pushed characters Powerful” answers to make decisions this and much that didn’t quite more as the sortmake sense for of prequel to “The them at the time. Wizard of Oz.” However, the film Directed by Sam did pick up as the Raimi, the film is movie progressed, family friendly gil-mansergh.blogs.petaluma360.com c u l m i n a t i n g and perfectly enjoyable for audiences of any age. in a clever finale that kept Reminiscent of its classic audiences glued to the screen. James Franco, while a great counterpart, the film is shot in both black and white and color. The Land actor in other films, was perhaps not of Oz appears in vibrant Technicolor the best choice for the character of with strange creatures and, of course, Oz, as his acting felt a bit unnatural magic. Oz works as a magician and a particularly when he was interacting conman with an eye for any woman with CGI characters. Mila Kunis, that crosses his path, not quite however, was stunning as Theodora the “Wonderful” wizard yet, in a who is later coaxed into becoming travelling circus where he is whisked the Wicked Witch of the West. She away from dull, gray Kansas in a plays naïve and vengeful with hot-air balloon caught in a twister. equal zeal and is one of the more I will admit I had higher developed characters in the film. Oz may leave something to expectations for the film once the name Sam Raimi was attached to the be desired, but scrounges up enough project, as Raimi also directed the laughs, enough exotic imaginings, original Spider-Man trilogy, but despite and a few clever tricks that make it its shortcomings I still found the film worth the while. A family-friendly and pretty good. The vibrant colors and overall good movie, Oz is sure to be a creatively imagined world of Oz was favorite. KERRIE-ANN BEKE Weekend Editor
woman that aren’t “his”. It seems that Don is now settling with his life, becoming steady instead of a rocky rollercoaster that his life in the earlier seasons. It is hard to imagine that Don is bored like Roger explained to his shrink, but it seems as Don is finally happy. Elizabeth Moss, who plays Peggy, also has turned a new leaf at her new ad agency. She is strong and resembles Don, instances such as commanding meeting with her colleague Ted, or when she argues with a pastor over the phone about getting hold of her colleague and at the end of the intense phone calls ends with “and with you father”. I feel like she tries too hard to be Don, but it seems to be working out for her a she is steaming far ahead of most woman in her field in that time. All the other characters seemed to be exactly where we left off in season 5, except for the crazy beards and the hippiesque fashion of Harry Crane. The only exception is Roger Sterling, who seems to be having a crisis of “not feeling anything” even when his mother dies, and the incredible scene where Roger is saying the eulogy and Don vomits from the alcohol, leading to the end of the funeral, and the most awkward small talk between Roger and his estranged daughter. Even though he says he doesn’t feel anything when his mother dies, everything come crashing down when his shoeshine dies and all the feelings he’s bottled inside crash open. Season 6 is sure to be just as great as the seasons before it, and the story of Don Draper and the agency is sure to unfold as artfully as we expect. With its 4 Emmys for Best Drama, I hope that the show won’t rely on past glory but instead makes vivmag.com brand new ends, and introduce new themes. Season 6 is the point from which we remember Mad Men in the future. Will it leave a historic legacy to remember forever, or will it fizzle out and end our love with the show? Tune in to AMC, Sundays at 10pm to watch.
Dream Dinners a unique dine KRISTINA MAWBEY Staff Writer Dream Dinners isn’t a restaurant or a fast food place; it is like your own kitchen where you can make anything. At Dream Dinners, you can make up to 36 meals. It has a lot of meals to choose from and every month, it’s a different menu. When I went there, I got 6 different meals that fed 3 people. Since it was our first time going there, they give you a deal; you can get 18 meals for roughly $75. You can get 6 different meals that feeds 3 people or 3 different meals that feeds 6 people, but on your next visit, you have to get 36 meals for about $200, it all depends on what you get. For example, if you get a meal with fish or steak, it would cost more than if you were to get a meal with chicken. This place has a very welcoming presence about it. Inside, it looks like a living room with warm colors, chairs, and cabinets. They have refrigerators with glass doors and something I liked about that is that they would write something like ‘Welcome Kristina,’ on the door. The only way you can get in is by setting up an appointment. To do so, you would have to go online at dreamdinners.com, sign up, then pick
out which meals you’d like, and print out your list to bring with you when you go to Dream Dinners. When you get there, you show the person who works there your list, then they’ll give you little cards with number of servings on it and directions for what to do when you are ready to cook the meal. There are about 8 different stations with different meal instructions. All you do is go tot a station where it has your meal names and start putting all of the ingredients together. They provide you with the food that goes with your meals and the little baggies you put your ingredients in, which makes it easy and quick. Once you have made all of your meals, you can make your next appointment date there or online, and when you get home, all you have to do is defreeze the food and fallow the instruction on a little card you got with your food. I had a lot of fun putting all of the meals together and the people there were all incredibly friendly and very helpful. My mom and I made 6 meals, and we only have one left; that’s how good they are. If you make your meals at Dream Dinners, you’ll have less cleaning to do at home and more time to enjoy your delicious meals.
This place has a very welcoming presence about it.
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Clockwork Princess: a tale of two angels
wwww.shadowhunters.wikia.com CARA LAWLESS Editor-in-Chief Finishing a series is always an emotional time for readers. While all the character’s stories
and plotlines are wrapped up for better or worse, it’s hard not to feel the finality of it all. You run the full gamut of emotions; from happiness at the ending, to anger that it’s not the ending you might have wanted, to sadness that there’s not going to be anymore books forthcoming. Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare is no exception. I have long been a fan of books, but few have taken me in as strongly and as quickly as the Infernal Devices series. Starting with the book Clockwork Angel, the books work as a companion series to the Mortal Instruments series, the first of which is soon to become a movie, “City of Bones.” Both series explore the mythical race of Shadowhunters, parthuman, part-angel demon hunters who protect the world from evil demons, vampires, werewolves, fairies, and warlocks. However, the Infernal Devices differs from it’s predecessor in that it takes place in the late 19th century London, instead of modern-day New York. It follows the lives of Tessa Gray, a young woman who is not quite human, and Shadowhunters William Herondale and James Carstairs, each of whom have their own curses and inner struggles. Additionally, there is a dastardly plot surrounding the origins of Tessa’s infernal power to change into other people, leading Will, Jem, and the other Shadowhunters of the London Institute to investigate the mysterious Magister and his Pandemonium Club. The final book in the series was certainly an exciting read. The second book left off on quite a few cliffhangers; Will’s ‘curse’ turned out to be a lie, but before he could finally express his feelings for Tessa, Jem had already proposed, and Tessa accepted. Meanwhile, Charlotte and Henry have discovered that they’re going to be parents, Gideon Lightwood
is living at the Institute to get away from his father, Nate’s dead, Jessamine’s in jail, and the Magister is still on the loose. In “Clockwork Princess,” we see Tessa preparing for her wedding, while still struggling with her feelings for Will. Meanwhile, Cecily begins her Shadowhunter, much to Will’s annoyance, and begins to grow closer to Gabriel Lightwood, who is questioning his relationship with his father just as Gideon had. However, Jem’s illness is worsening, sending Tessa and Will on a wild goose chase for a possible cure. The book ends with a surprising twist, and the epilogue has something for every fan. Being an avid fan of the series, it’s hard for me to find fault with the series, except that it ended too soon. I understand and am satisfied with where it ended, yet I still have the feeling that there is more to be told about these characters. I’m happy to report that the author felt much the same way, and is planning to include more on the second generation of Shadowhunters, meaning any children of Will, Tessa, Jem, Cecily, Sophie, and the like, in her companion series, the Bane Chronicles, which follows the immortal life of the warlock Magnus Bane, who stars in both the Mortal Instruments and the Infernal Devices. I would happily recommend the series to any reader, with just a few warnings; have Google Translate handy, as Cecily and Will tend to break into Welsh often, and Jem enjoys speaking Mandarin at times, be ready for tears at every corner, and don’t look at the family tree on the inside cover of the hard copies, as it spoils who ends up with whom, and just how the Herondales, Lightwoods, and Fairchilds in the Mortal Instruments are related the the characters of the Infernal Devices.
G.I. Joe: Retaliation an action-packed must-see KRISTINA MAWBEY Staff Writer G.I Joe: Retaliation is a movie full of non-stop action, humor, and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat and a rush of excitement pumping through your veins throughout the whole movie. This movie features Channing Tatum as Captain Duke Hauser and Dwayne Johnson as Roadblock. This movie is about how G.I’s are getting threats from within the government that could possibly wipe out their very existence. It starts off with Captain Duke Hauser (Tatum), Roadblock (Johnson), Flint (D.J Cotrona), Lady Jaye (Adrianne Palicki), and a few others on a mission which they’ve successfully accomplished. A few days later it shows Duke and Roadblock playing a first-person shooter video game, at which Duke is not very good at. I thought it was pretty funny how Duke is so good when it comes to combat out on the field, and yet he is completely clueless about how to shoot in a video game. The first 30 minutes of the movie starts off somewhat slow, but all of that changes when there is an unexpected attack on the base, and the only survivors are Roadblock, Flint, and Jaye. They couldn’t quite figure out how this could have happened when no one knew where their base was located at other than the President of United States and other military officials. There is only one person who has the authority to blow up a U.S Military base, and that is the President. Now, the only thing that the three G.I’s couldn’t figure out is why the President would want to wipe out the whole G.I Joe force. There is a character named Zartan (Arnold Vosloo) who is impersonating the President of The United States, who is also working with Cobra Commander (Luke Bracey). Meanwhile, Storm Shadow (Byung-hun Lee) and an ex-Joe Firefly (Ray Stevenson) try to rescue Cobra Commander from an underground high security prison in Germany. During the escape, Storm Shadow gets his back burned and is sent up to the mountains to heal. Once the Blind Master (Robert Fitzgerald Diggs) the leader of the Arashikage
Clan, learns that Storm Shadow is alive, he sends Storm Shadow’s cousin, Jinx (Elodie Yung) and Snake Eyes (Ray Park) to capture him and bring him back to the Blind Master to answer for the death of his uncle. Roadblock, Flint, and Jaye set up a base of operations in a worn down gym. Once Zartan announces that Cobra Commander will replace all of the G.I’s and be the United States’ protective unit, Lady Jaye notices that the President is acting differently. He’s using different dialect and his body language is also different than it was two months ago. Lady Jaye gets a piece of the President’s and the DNA confirms that the President is Zartan. Once they’ve learned that Zartan is impersonating the President, Roadblock goes to General Joseph Colton (Bruce Willis) for help. Gen. Colton agrees to help the three Joes and provides them with very complex looking weapons. Meanwhile Snake Eyes and Jinx capture Storm Shadow after a long battle with ninjas and bring him back to the Blind Master where Storm Shadow explains that Zartan framed him and has joined forces with Cobra Commander to avenge Storm Shadow’s uncle. After everything between the Blind Master and Storm Shadow is resolved, Storm Shadow, Snake Eyes, and Jinx join Gen. Colton and the three G.I’s to try and stop Cobra Commander. Zartan makes more trouble when he gathers the world leaders, like the President of Russia, England, China, and other countries to talk, ten unexpectedly blackmails them into disabling their nuclear weapons so that the only country left with nuclear weapons is the United States, which that is when Zartan launches a nuclear weapon upon
spinoff.comicbookresources.com England, where it practically destroys the whole country to show his power. After that little stunt, all of the world leaders calle the President an idiot and are absolutely furious. During that time, Storm Shadow betrays Cobra Commander and sets off to kill Zartan, Firefly, and Cobra Commander with Snake Eyes, Jinx, and the rest of the team; which they successfully accomplish, Cobra Commander escapes. After all of the battles, Storm Shadow disappears, the real President is rescued, who then recognizes Roadblock, Flint, Jaye, Jinx, and Snake Eyes as heroes. Now, that is a powerful movie. I loved all of the fighting and humorous scenes, and I also loved the makeup they did on a handsome guy like Luke Bracey who played Cobra Commander. You get to see his face only once in the movie and the rest of the time, he wears a mask, but the makeup artists did an amazing job at making his face look kind of creepy and gross. I absolutely loved G.I Joe: Retaliation. It was exactly what I thought it would be: fun, entertaining, exciting, and full handsome guys. For guys and girls who love action-packed movies that are full of suspense, this is a must-see movie for you.
WEEKEND
Entertainment Now: Vista Edition
MAY 3, 2012
15 KERRIE-ANN BEKE AND CARA LAWLESS Weekend Editor and Editor-in-Chief
Season Finales
Upcoming Movies
Once Upon A Time
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Iron Man 3
Star Trek
In the third installment of the popular Marvel series, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) faces off with the Mandarin, who is trying to take over the world. However, Tony also must face the ultimate question: “Does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?” It premieres May 3rd.
Starring Chris Pine as Captian Kirk, and Benedict Cumberbatch as John Harrison, the sequel to the revamped Star Trek follows the crew of the USS Enterprise, as they come across a seemingly unstoppable force which has attacked Starfleet and left Earth in chaos. It premieres May 17th.
Season: 2 Channel: ABC Air Date: May 12th In the season finale, And Straight on ‘Til Morning, will focus on Greg and Tamara and what excatly they’re doing in Stroybrooke. We will also learn more about Hook and Baelfire, with the writers promising “Magic always has a price.”
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New Girl Season: 2 Channel: FOX Air Date: May 14th Cece’s wedding is closing for these roommates, bringing emotions close to the surface, especially for Schmidt, as he watches the girl of his dreams marry someone else. Also, Nick and Jess are set to finally face each other and their feelings.
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The Great Gatsby
The Big Wedding
An adaptation of the novel of the same name, the Great Gatsby follows the story of Nick Carroway (Tobey Maguire) and his friend Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio), as Gatsby attempts to woo back his former flame, Daisy Buchanan (Carey Mulligan) from her current husband, Tom (Joel Edgerton). It premieres May 10th.
In a classic romantic comedy, Don and Ellie Griffin (Robert De Niro and Diane Keaton) hide their recent divorce during their adopted son Alejandro’s (Ben Barnes) wedding. Throughout the course of the movie, events snowball in typical rom-com fashion, to the amusement of all. Also starring Katherine Heigl and Topher Grace, the movie premiered April 26th.
The Vampire Diaries Season: 4 Channel: CW Air Date: May 16th In the finale, the race for the cure will end in what is sure to be a huge showdown, just as graduation approaches. Elena chooses a Salvatore (for real this time), and Silas’s true plan will be revealed. Caroline will get an interesting gift.
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Supernatural
At Any Price
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Following the story of Henry Whipple (Dennis Quaid) and his tumultuous relationship with his son Dean (Zac Efron). With their family farm in jeopardy, the family must face new challenges and unexpected crises. It premiered April 24th.
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Jurassic Park 3D
In a revival of the classic series, Universal has re-released the well-loved film, Jurassic Park, now in 3D. The adventure film revolves around a fictional island theme park, where dinosaurs have been cloned and viewed as attractions for the park. As the security breaks down, a small group must fight for their lives. It was released April 5th.
Season: 8 Channel: CW Air Date: May 8th T h e W i n chesters face their biggest challenge yet, as they stand ready to close the gates of Hell, but may not be able to handle the necessary sacrafices needed to close them. Meanwhile, Cas and Metatron try to defeat Naomi.
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New Releases Inferno by Dan Brown May 14th
Golden by Lady Antebellum May 7th
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman June 8th
Editing Staff Editors-in-Chief Caralina Lawless and Frank Cuccia News Editor Farid Ganime Viewpoint Editor Alejandra Fuentes Sports Editor Frank Cuccia Life Editor Emily Anne Espinosa Weekend Editor Kerrie-Ann Beke Advance Staff Writer Baylei Harbour
Writing Staff Advisor Ellen Filar The views expressed in the Vista View are not necessarily those of the entire staff, advisor, or the administration of Vista Murrieta High School. Feedback on any aspect of the Vista View is welcome via letters to the editor. We will make a reasonable effort to publish all thoughtful letters 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.
Staff Writers Zeporah Butler Adriele Conrad Mary Anne Escaro Kelsey Gage Tasjohnlenee Hawthorne Lauren Horton Amanda Layton Lailani Lowery Kristina Mawbey Cianna Sanford Aubree Vanderhoeven Alexandria Walker