Issue of November 8, 2002:
Volume 86, Number Three
Click on a story title to see the story text
News
ASB plans to rock your world
Band scores big in cometitions
Yellowjackets hit with "Puppy Love"Opinions
ASB card a good buy
Both sides now: Should we be blamed for what we are taught? NO
Both sides now: Should we be blamed for what we are taught? YES
Is it a right, or a priviledge?
Is Dubya bad for America?
Read this: (Column by Lisa Namnath)
Teachers' point of view often differs from students'Features
The Abbotts: All in the family
Paganism often misunderstood
What do you know about Ardath?
Our continued fascination with horror films
Horror films though the years
I killed my mom because I saw it in the movies
The mystery of the Auditorium Apparition
To scream or not to scream
Favoritie scary movies: pollDiversions
"Ax of Murder" play review
Horoscopes
The Two Towers: book reviewSports
Cross Country
Football eyes playoffs
Girls Golf
ASB plans to rock your school
by Nicole MIller
November 8, 2002
A.S.B: they plan almost every school activity from assemblies, carnivals and our homecoming dances. As we all know there are many changes to Colton High School, A.S.B has been trying to adapt to them. They have been trying to adjust to our new larger class size by trying to make this year as fun as any past years here. One change would be powder puff it is usually held on homecoming week but is now changed to MORP week. I know by now you're wondering what MORP week is, well it's PROM spelled backwards. It will be held in March and everything will be done backwards from schedules to clothing: all backwards. This novel change will hopefully make spirit week just a little "erom nuf".
"Homecoming was a big success for A.S.B" comments Chris Burner, the A.S.B advisor. Homecoming week included music, the carnival and class competitions and each was successful. The Winter Formal will be held in the Ken Hubbs gym, because there was a minimal turn out at our last homecoming.
When asked how long it took to plan all of the events for this year, Sara Itani replied, "all of the officers worked really hard over the summer to plan for the entire year." Everybody has a certain job in ASB to make sure events are a success and enjoyable for the students. ASB President and Vice President coordinate everything and make sure everything gets done. The Student activities director plans alot from class competitions to assemblies. ICC president and vice president mostly plan carnivals and help interact with clubs on campus.
Although many decisions seem unfair and don't make much sense they are thoroughly thought out and made that way for a reason. Such as the decision to not have the Battle of the Bands, they couldn't use the gym because of basketball.All these decisions are carefully made so there will not be chaos when the time comes. Every event takes a lot of planning, A.S.B. never gets a day off.
Let's hear it for the band
by Sara Robbin
November 8, 2002
The Colton High School Marching Band starts off the year with winning two sweepstakes and a 1st place in Barstow and taking a 3rd place in Las Vegas.
With Fontana and Montclair as their contenders in Barstow, Colton managed to receive the highest score for the band performance, which was 85.9 out of 100. The drum line scored the highest in percussion with 80.5, and color guards placed 1st with a score of 76. As Michael Manzo and Casey Earnest as the drum majors, each played two songs. Each year the school that performs the best gets "The People's Choice Award," and this year Colton brought it home. Because of the competition at Barstow, the band was invited to an invitational in Las Vegas.
The practices took place at Valley High and the competition was held outside on a football field.
With a total of 30 schools at the invitational from around the U.S., Colton won three awards; Band class A, music sweepstakes, and Excellent ratings. Although each of these competitions took a lot of hard work to achieve, Colton came up strong. This shows that our band has skill and determination.
During the summer the band would go to camp for two weeks, and practice six hours a day, six days a week. In the spring, they would do concerts, festivals, and record CDs, one of which comes out on December 1st. It will be available to students at the band office. For more information you can call (909) 580-5005 ext.2355.
The most heart comes from the practices from 7th period until 4 o'clock. And now that the whole band is experienced, next year will be a productive year.
Students in "Puppy Love"
by Paul Heredia
November 8, 2002
With the holidays just around the corner the students of Colton High are in "Puppy Love." Colton High students are giving instead of receiving as they volunteer in the "Puppy Love" fundraiser sponsored by Peer Assistance to deliver a holiday hug to a child in need at the Loma Linda Children's Hospital (LLCH).
The caring students are showing their love by taking donations of $15 to send the adorable Peanut the Floppy Puppy to sick children at LLC Hospital. Donators will receive a coupon booklet good at numerous fast food restaurants, a coupon for a carwash, and a coupon for a full-service print shop. Each child in the hospital in December will receive a puppy. Donating junior Adriana Hernandez says,"It's a great fundraiser and I'm glad to help out any way I can."
As the holidays are fast approaching the children unfortunately must be separated from their parents and family members, as they spend the holidays in the hospital. Sophomore and Peer Assistance member Claudia Tobing says, "We hope the puppies will be there to comfort the children during the holidays." The children of Loma Linda Children's Hospital will be comforted by Peanut the Floppy Puppy in the time of need as they spend the joyous holidays alone in the hospital.
In the previous years the "Puppy Love" fundraiser has been a huge success and has gotten great feedback from the children at LLC Hospital. In 1999 and 2000, students and businesses worked as a team to donate over 700 hundred stuffed bears and lions to the hospital. This year P.E. teacher Angela Reynolds, a helper with the "Puppy Love" says, "We will be delivering puppies and hope to exceed our previous years' delivery."
Making a generous donation to such a fundraiser can make a big difference to a child during the holidays especially if that child is alone in the hospital. To make a donation and a difference in a child's life for the "Puppy Love" fundraiser, go by room 217 and talk to Carol Miller, Peer Assistance Advisor. The fundraiser will be going on until December 4, so if you want to be in puppy love send a hug to a child in need.
ASB card: best value going
by Sandy Brown
November 8, 2002
Did anyone notice that ASB cards were $20 this year rather than the usual previous $15? Some students have realized that the price went up, and the questions that first came to mind were why, and what is the money going towards? On the other hand there are some students that did not notice and did not care to notice.
To the students that think ASB is just trying to make a little cash to benefit them- selves, you are wrong. ASB has an average of about 600 to 700 students buying ASB cards every year. When raising the prices, they are only trying to provide more for all students here at Colton. When you buy and ASB card, not only does the extra $5 you are paying go towards more fun activities for you, but you also have the benefit of getting into football, basketball, and wrestling games for free. You also get reduced prices for many other things, such as school plays, dances, yearbooks, and many other school wide things. If there was a more productive outcome on the amount of students the buy ASB cards, then the prices might go back down and we will still also have the exciting activities, in fact we will probably even have more! ASB cards only benefit the students. Just because ASB is collecting the money, does not mean that they keep it. They use it to just make school a more exciting place for students.
Some students also think that dance ticket prices went up. They did not. They are the same as they have always been. In fact, this year prom ticket prices are even going down. Two years ago prom tickets were $85, last year they were $75 and this year they are going to be $65. Of course that is with an ASB card, but they are still going down. So once again, for all students that think ASB is just trying to make extra money for themselves, you are wrong. ASB is here to help and by buying an ASB card you are only helping yourself to have a better time in school.
Should people be blamed for what they are taught? No.
by Ashley Ellison
November 8, 2002
Of course not. What a person is taught may influence their future decisions, in a bad or good way, but people should not be blamed for what they are taught. There are so many things out there in this world which people look to learn from and to guide them: television, documentaries, teachers, family, books, movies, peers, the Internet; people interpret each of these things in their own way.
A child is like a sponge, it absorbs emotional and physical information that will have a great effect on its actions for the rest of its life. No matter what the child is taught later on in life, it will never be as powerful as what they are taught when they are young, because what a person is taught at a young age becomes part of their subconscious mind.
If someone is raised in a terribly broken home, surrounded by drugs, it is not their fault that they will end up raising their children the same way.
It is the only way that people knew how to live. If you really had to point your finger at someone it would have to be the person who raises the child.
Every household has their on rules of what is right and wrong. Just because in your house your parents let you cuss, do not care about your manners, or let you put your feet on the coffee table, does not give you the right to go into someone else's house and do the same thing.
How we are raised is how we will be for the rest of our lives. The only thing someone can really do is do is to try to raise their children better then how their parents raised them.
BSN- Should people be blamed for what they are taught? Yes...
By Marisa Cortez
November 8, 2002
Do you ever disagree with your parents? Did they ever tell you something that you were totally opposed to? Of course, we all have. We're old enough now to realize that our parents aren't always right. We are fully capable of making up our own minds about things, and making decisions without someone dictating things to us. Sure when you're little you believe everything adults say is the truth. Now however we are not that naive. There comes a point in everyone's life when they begin to analyze the things they were taught and what they always assumed to be true. Some of it you may agree with, and some of it you will not. It is up to you whether or not you choose to accept it. For the most part things like this are not forced on you. For example you might come from a family who strongly enforces college and always taught you that it is a necessity in life, but that does not mean in any way whatsoever that you would agree with their same outlook. Just because something is taught to you doesn't mean you have to choose to be accepting of it. It's all up to you, regardless of what you learned to be the right thing.
I understand that people come from different kinds of families and their living situation may not always be the best. Nevertheless, they still have the choice whether or not they want to end up the same. It does in no way mean that they will in turn live their lives that way. And it is their own fault if they do. They can choose to raise their children better and make sure they do everything they can to not end up that way. It is ignorant to think that you are not responsible for your own actions. You cannot assign blame on anyone about the decisions you make in life. They are yours and yours alone.
Is it a right, or a privilege?
by Victor Valdez
November 8, 2002
In America today, too often teenagers confuse the difference between rights and privileges. According to the website, Dictionary.com, "rights" are defined as "conforming with or conformable to justice, law or morality." It also states "privilege" as being, "a special advantage, immunity, permission, right, or benefit granted to or enjoyed by an individual, class, or caste."
At home this gets confused more often then a lot of us think. When your mom doesn't let you take the car to go out with your friends, you may think that it's your right, but that's your privilege. But at home the constitution does not apply with you and your parents. There is no freedom of speech. You can't tell your mom whatever you want. If your mom grounds you, you don't have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. So basically at home you have no rights, just privileges.
At school it happens more than at home. You don't have the freedom to tell that teacher that you don't like what you feel about him; you can get suspended for that. You can't just walk out of class. Neither can the teachers, (even though some of them do.) You don't even have the right to use the restroom when you feel like it. When you come to school everything is set for you; there is someone telling you what to do, when to do it, and how you did it wrong. At school you have one right: the right to learn or not to learn.
When you are in a public place you have more rights than privileges. You have the right to buy whatever you want. You have the right to use the restroom when you want. The certain things we can't do we all know about; we avoid them to stay out of trouble. You have the right to say whatever you want as long as it isn't something of a threatening nature.
In life today there are many things that you may think are rights, and maybe they should be, but are only privileges. You should think about what you think you have the right to do and see how many of them are privileges. Try not to get them confused because someday one of those privileges will get you in trouble.
Is President Bush bad for America?
by Nick Taylor
November 8, 2002
After the September 11 attacks on New York City, Dubya has had a tremendous approval rating. Yet, he continues to do things that should anger Americans. During this time of war it seems that Americans are just allowing Bush to do as he pleases, becoming very non-critical of our government.
Bush has taken many of our freedoms saying that it is more necessary in this "new post-9/11 world" but that's a bunch of junk. Dubya has limited our freedoms implementing many new acts that are meant solely to strip us of the freedoms we all believe we still possess. Acts like the USA PATRIOT ACT, which was set into affect just six weeks after the 9/11 attacks. This act allows the many government agencies such as the INS to detain immigrants suspected of terrorism for lengthy and some time indefinite periods of time. The INS may also detain aliens for 48 hours without charge in the event of an emergency. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has admitted to detaining more than 1,100 immigrants of whom have been charged with committing a terrorist act and only a handful of whom being held as material witnesses to the 9/11 hijackers. Activists who are critical of our government or who maintain ties with international movements, in addition to immigrants, are likely to suffer the full effects of these attacks on liberties.
Bush has made our Middle Eastern situation much worse. In 1997, the Iranians elected Mohammad Khatami, who was interested in restoring ties with America. They reelected him in 2001. In doing so, the people of Iran rejected the fundamentalism of the totalitarian religious leaders and took baby steps toward democracy. But Dubya announced a refusal to deal with the Khatami government, taking a step back (7/23/2002; Washington Post).
I know what you all are saying: you believe that Dubya has been very effective in stopping the Taliban and other terrorist groups, but at what price was this accomplished? It has been estimated that we have now killed more civilians in Afghanistan than were killed at the World Trade Center.
Bush is overly quick to jump for the gun. I am sure that you have heard about the war that Bush is pushing for in Iraq. Iraq is a very poor country that is already under sanctions, which are preventing some necessary goods like food to be imported into the country; due to this, the country is under severe famine. I admit Saddam has been very hostile to the U.S. but we aren't a very popular country. Dubya has said the Iraq is about to create nuclear weapons, but how can we trust this? In 1991 and 1998 the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iraq was just six months away from creating nuclear weapons but when asked the IAEA said the report didn't exist. In fact the IAEA said, "There are no indications that there remains in Iraq any physical capability for the production of weapon-usable nuclear material of any practical significance" (9-27-2002 Washington Times). This basically means that Iraq is not capable of making nuclear weapons of any kind, meaning that Dubya is lying when he says that Iraq is close to nuclear weapon production.
What I am trying to accomplish my writing this article is maybe changing a few minds to become a little more critical of our government and its great leaders. Don't just believe everything you are told, don't believe this article if you wish.
Just become more critical and review the facts before you just follow someone.
Fight the Power!
Read This! (Column)
by Lisa Namnath
November 8, 2002
I spent several weeks trying to figure out just what to write about. This morning I figured out it doesn't matter. These are just supposed to be my thoughts. What I think. Writing what you think is not as easy as it sounds, especially when you know that the entire school, including the staff and probably a few parents are going to read it. It is so much easier to write things completely unrelated to yourself, like what I wrote last time, or the list my co-editor Priscilla made in the last issue.
Well, I'm going to go the hard route. My dad is gone. Not in the sense he's out there somewhere, but in the sense he's buried with six feet of dirt sitting on top of him. Oh, and I've seen a death certificate, so it's not like he's 007 and likes to disappear. Don't feel bad for me. Don't think that I don't care because I make jokes. Don't ask me if I'm okay. If you do, I'll just say I am. Truthfully I will never be.
I know I have spent hours crying over this void, wondering just what my life would be if he was alive. Then I feel guilty for feeling sorry for myself. Isn't that one of the stupidest ideas you've ever heard of? Feeling sorry for yourself, how is that possible? If you are hurt or sad there's a reason. Maybe I'm just bitter towards myself, for saying that I feel sorry for myself. Maybe.
So many people's parents have died. I refuse to say that I know what it is they feel or what they're going through. My dad died before I was born, I can only imagine the pain people feel at that kind of loss. What I do know however, is that forever after you feel incomplete. It's not even that you don't know what you're missing, the sad thing is that you do know. You know exactly what it is and that you will never be able to replace it.
I know is that these people who lose parents, no matter how much they say they are okay, even if it has been years, will never really be okay. But that's life, right? Trials and hardship. What determines who we are is the recovery we make, how we handle what we are given, how we help others go through what we have already experienced.
Okay so I've written all I want to. Oh, yeah in case you haven't noticed, I'm self-centered, so everything you read in this column will be related to me. Just so you know.
Teachers P.O.V. differs from students'
by Sara Robbin
November 8, 2002
Teachers seem to think that high school is a lot like real life. Is this true? Well, each person has their own opinion, but it depends on the way you see things. The way I see it is that you should generalize things and broaden the subject. Others see it as being specific always helps the situation.
Although high school prepares you for college, it doesn't prepare you for the work place (unless, of course, you work in a factory.) See, in a factory you have the management, floor workers, the people, and the product. As for high school, you have your administrators, your staff, the students, and the "product," which would be considered your education. "If you are lucky, you will pick up useful things for college," said Physics teacher Lawrence Pearce, "and if you aren't, then you won't know what to do your freshman year." Most teachers would have a difference of opinion, but then again this is reality. If you out your mind to it, you can see that there are many similarities, but there are many more differences.
All in the Family
by Claudia Gonzalez
November 8, 2002
Have you noticed a strange resemblance between your teachers? Well, at Colton High we have the Abbott Family. Can we say that the Abbott family is taking over Colton High? "Definitely not; in fact, Colton High is taking over the Abbott family," said Math teacher Gary Abbott. "Colton High has been part of the Abbott family for almost 30 years," commented English teacher Mitzi Abbott. There may be a question that many students might have but never seemed to ask: why did Michael Abbott, (the son of Mitzi and Gary Abbott) choose to teach English instead of Math? Michael chose mom's discipline over dad's because he has always worked with English better than Math and we could say that he clicks a lot better with English. Michael replied, "I chose English because I have always liked to read and write."
Mitzi Abbott doesn't think that her son Michael Abbott preferred her career over husband Gary's career. "I was happy that our son wanted to teach English. However, I think that people tend to select a career because of personal preferences, not because of parental influence. And, as my husband also taught English, it was really not a preference anyway." As Mrs. Abbott said, "It wasn't a preference thing."
How is it like to ride to work in the same car with two other people you see all-day and everyday at home? "Riding together gives us time to coordinate our daily schedule-who has a meeting, parent conference, tutoring, etc. can all be worked out. Mr. Abbott (father) and Mrs. Abbott were transferred to Colton High from other school Districts the same year. There are many things that the Abbott family like doing, they like to work as a family at work even though they really are a family back at home. What can we say, there's nothing better than having a family to support and help each other out.
Pagan: Nothing like you think
by Lisa Namnath
November 8, 2002
When the word Pagan is said, you can see the minds of those around you swirling with images of witchcraft and demonic worship. Paganism is in fact neither of these things. Paganism, in a nutshell, is having a reverence for nature and a preference for alternative spiritualities.
While Pagans will readily tell you this, most people have yet to ask and so they have no idea what Paganism really is. This occurs in part because Pagans are not allowed to preach their beliefs to others, they feel that if a person is meant to be Pagan they will discover it for themselves.
One of the most discussed pieces of the Pagan culture is the belief that their male deity, when personified is in the form of an antlered man. This has lead many people to think that Pagans worship the devil, which is not completely true. "We believe that there has to be a balance, a dark and a light, a good and an evil, these things are all part of nature," senior Joey Bell commented on the common misconception. He went on to tell of the rituals that all Pagans perform, defining a ritual as any moving experience that brings you closer to nature. Not all rituals are related to witchcraft, "It is commonly thought that witchcraft is the basis for Paganism, it is the other way around." While witchcraft is not practiced by all Pagans, there has never been an incidence that can be readily cited, where a Pagan objected to the use of Magick.
Paganism has been around for centuries, we have seen examples of this in the Indian folklore, and with Greek and Roman myths, which are now being considered Pagan. Pagan holidays are still used today to signify the beginning of each of the seasons, and are called the solstices and equinoxes, though the Pagans have much more regal names for these days. Even Halloween stems from a Pagan holiday, it is called Samhain and it is celebrated on October 31, this is the celebration of death and renewal (Pagans believe in reincarnation).
If you are interested in learning more about the Pagan beliefs or customs, The Wicca Guide for the Solitary Practitioner, by Scott Cunningham is very helpful in explaining many of the basics. But, one of the most fundamental ideas is that everyone's beliefs are different and stem from different sources, so only you on your own can really discover what it is you believe.
What do you know about Artha?
by Gabriel Jorrin
November 8, 2002
Is there really a so-called correct religion? This is a question many seem to ask, but never find the answer. Sometimes everyone needs a scapegoat for the everyday stresses of life. How do we do this? Through a remedy we like to call religion. From Christianity to Hinduism, masses of people of all races use their spare time they have to embrace their sanctified life.
Religion plays a major role in shaping the lives of people. For many Christianity is their answer to lead a pure life. From the teachings of the bible, people learn the Ten Commandments, which include honoring your parents or respecting your neighbors. Christianity teaches people to love one another and respect each other despite any differences people can have.
Catholicism shares many similarities with Christianity. Like Christianity, Catholicism goes by the principals of following the Ten Commandments, going to prayer every Sunday, and reading and interpreting teachings from the Bible. However, it is also somewhat more organized and conservative. Catholicism follows a stricter approach to keep everyone and everything organized. For example, as the Catholic priest gives his sermons, the atmosphere in the main hall is somewhat cold an eerily quiet. Although a Catholic church has the feel of lifelessness, it does have a soothing and tranquil atmosphere, which keeps Catholic's in the right place. Besides religions widely followed in Europe, India, home of one-fifth of the world's population, follows Hinduism.
Hinduism is very different from major religions in other parts of the world. It follows principals that are far from the Ten Commandments. Hindu's live through their lives with four goals. Artha or success teaches people to work hard to achieve success in terms of life and power by serving your community and staying active. Oddly enough, enjoying pleasure or Kama is completely religious whether the pleasure is music, dance or even sexual. Living in virtue or dharma is basically living an ethical and morally correct life. Hindus tend follow this principal in order to cherish the first to principal. However, the final principal, Moksha (release), completely contradicts the first three principals in order to escape from life and become isolated. This helps cleanse a person's soul if they have sinned. As a matter of fact, this is the complete opposite of what Christians live for in life. In India, the cow is a sacred animal. It is so sacred that not only do Hindus cherish a cow, but also strangely cherish its bodily fluids. They do this by rubbing the cow's urine on their face.
As long as organized religions continue, people will always have something to live for. No matter how strange or different a religion is, in its own way, it can help a person live. Religions have always offered people escape from misery and as a result, will continue to do so.
Buried deep where paranoia and fantasy reigns supreme...
by Latoya Brookins
November 8, 2002
People are drawn to the supernatural like moths to a flame. It is an escape from the pleasantries of every day life. The rapidly growing trend speaks volumes about the human race. By challenging the basic rules of life we are able to finally answer some of life's age-old questions. These mythical and monstrous beings pull on the heartstrings of the psychological mind. The notion that something sinister is lurking behind every corner provides an instant adrenaline rush. Every thrilling yet danger packed scenario gets your heartbeat racing and your blood pumping.
Vampires reflect on mankind's never ending quest for immortality. Eternal beauty mixed with unlimited knowledge creates an irresistible attraction that no human can resist. These undead creatures are able to pull you into their hypnotic world with a finely strung web of false perceptions. Their innocent appearance leaves you utterly unaware of their diabolical schemes and vampiric urges. And yet when you reach enlightenment about their true character you are still hopelessly transfixed by them.
Witches are powerful enchantresses with a swirling matrix of unyielding magick. With a twinkle in the eye and a luminescent shimmer to their hair they can cast you under their spell. The powers bestowed on witches are in many ways symbolic of our own deepest desires. Who if tempted would turn down the opportunity to be able to levitate, see the future, or move objects with your mind? Witches portray the image of perfection. They have abilities we can never possess.
Buried deep in the subconscious where paranoia and fantasy reins supreme lies the belief in aliens. Since the dawn of time people have looked to the sky for answers. To take a glimpse into unknown dimensions and unlock the cosmic mysteries of the universe is a wondrous idea. Many believe that to discover extraterrestrials is to discover ourselves. Until the day these so called ''higher life forms" decide to grace us with their presence all we can do is anxiously await their arrival. Or have they already arrived?
Can anyone truly fathom why paranormal occurrences and oddities stimulate such fascination? Perhaps people are rebelling against the familiar because it no longer holds the excitement they crave. Maybe our belief in myths and fairytales is our last effort at reclaiming that bittersweet innocense that we all once had. Whatever the reason, it will have forever made a significant impact on the pop culture genre.
Horror films: Pat and Present
By Ryan Rivera
November 8, 2002Just like humans have evolve, so have horror movies. The key element that is needed is time. With a little time, anything is possible. Time also brings along many possibilities and opens many new doors that were once seen as impossible.
Many people including ourselves have seen the countless changes from horror movie to the next. It seems as though the bar is being raised with every new horror film that is made. As time and people change, so do movies. Many people often wonder, "Why do we love horror movies so much?" I think the answer is that the movies seem very realistic. To that time of course. "I think if I were to watch an old horror movie, it wouldn't even seem scary to me because it would seem very fake," explained senior Tarin Benavente.
People change from day to day and so does movie production. For instance, Frankenstein was filmed back in 1931 and dealt with a life and death mystery. Frankenstein came to life by an obsessed scientist trying to create the perfect man, but instead creates a monster. A simple plot such as that viewed as the most influential horror movie ever made. That is why movies are made to appeal to people at a certain time.
The next major blockbuster hit to arrive on the scene would be a movie still well known today. Many saw it as the scariest movie of all time and many still do. The Exorcist debuted in 1973. Due to the nature of the movie, people who saw the movie received a little taste of reality. The horror film had no slayings and also had very little blood. The one thing that made it even scarier was all the religious parallels and its strong sense of reality. The classic movie was later followed by two other sequels in 1977 and 1990.
1978 was the year Michael Myers was born. The movie Halloween had a bone-chilling plot. Though there was no blood, the movie was still a huge success. The movie was seen as genuinely frightening and to this day, Halloween movies are still being made. The look of Michael Myers even received a make over as the years went by. The latest installment of the Halloween series to hit box offices was Halloween Resurrection.
In 1984, Nightmare on Elm Street unleashed Freddy Kreuger. There was a little bit of everything in this horror film. There was a love story, killings, tragedy, a hero, a villain, and a happy ending. Nightmare on Elm Street pretty much changed the face of horror movies forever.
In today's era, we've had the whole Scream trilogy. So we too have had our fair share of horror as well as others. The only difference is that today's movies are very detailed, graphic, and very realistic. The movies of today are very sophisticated. That just comes to show how horror has changed. As people keep changing, so does horror.
I killed my mom because the vampire did
By Nick Taylor
November 8, 2002
Do horror movies make people more violent? Many people think so, mainly the people who do not watch horror movies. Horror movies are given a bad reputation, people would rather blame their problems with their child becoming more hostile towards them, on the horror movie they went to see at the movies last week, then actually taking responsibility for their bad parenting.
The majority of horror movies do have violence but let's be honest; how believable is it when an alien who shows himself as a clown tries to terrorize and kill a group of kids and later adults, as in the movie IT? Not very believable and I seriously doubt that any person would be driven to go hurt someone else because he just saw a movie where a clown was trying to kill people, unless that person was extremely easy to influence. I realize that there are people like this, people that would be influenced to go and hurt someone because a clown was doing it in a movie they saw. But in truth I would estimate there to be maybe 1 in 100 people who would actually be so easily influenced. I am sure there has been some crimes related to horror movies but you can't end horror movies just because a few people didn't have enough sense not to do something they knew they shouldn't be doing.
Horror movies have been around for as long as I can remember, I can not think of one time I wanted to hurt someone simply because the vampire in the movie I just watched hurt someone. Horror movies are strictly for entertainment and they do show violence and gore but they do this only because they know that is what the public wants to see, if people didn't want to see this it wouldn't be at the movies. The only reason horror movies are made is because they sell, if they didn't sell no one would bother making them. If you have a problem with horror movies, the solution is simple, don't watch them.
In the end I guess I would say that horror movies could make people violent but so can news and action movies. To pass judgment on horror movies without passing judgment on The Ninja Turtles would be unfair. Horror movies are purely for entertainment and if you feel them to be too violent or gory I have one simple thing you can do: don't watch them.
The mystery of the Auditorium apparition
by Mitchell Rector
November 8, 2002
Colton High. A reasonably quiet school some would say. No unusual or unexplained activity. That's what they said about Hill House.
Throughout the years, taunting rumors of a ghost prowling around in the school auditorium has spawned several theories and accusations. Some say that the ghost is a former theater student that reeks his revenge on the drama students. Some say that a former student that was killed near the campus is somehow getting even. Others say that it's nothing but the Colton High students' imagination running wild. The way one student tells it, the ghost is not a student, but a teacher.
Alicia Ethier, a senior at Colton, says, "About eighty years ago our school had an orchestra pit. A teacher from another school came to a band performance and while she was directing her band she fell into the orchestra pit. People say that if you go into the auditorium at the stroke of midnight you can see her leading the band. They also say that she is trying to finish her performance and is walking silently trying to find her missing band."
The possibilities are endless for a story as juicy as this one. But why would a ghost be haunting our auditorium? That's the question that has plagued the minds of the students at Colton for years. It is good to keep in mind, however, that some people tend to make up stories like these and the story could be nothing at all. Melissa Garza says, "I always used to hear people talking about the ghost (in the auditorium), but I don't think it is true. I think that it is just the seniors trying to scare the freshman."
The legend exists here at Colton, but it is up to you to decide what the real story is.
To scream or not to scream: Parents react to violence in films
By Julia Arenas
November 8, 2002Horror movies are not only for teens' entertainment, but for adults and parents too. Parents, as we know, tend to disapprove of such types of movies because of the violence with in them. But there are certain adults who like suspense and scary movies themselves, but do not let their kids watch horror movies. Although, not having any kids herself, biology teacher Gloria Ramirez believes that only a mature audience should view horror movies. Being mature and adult herself, she does enjoy thrillers.
Now, some people tend to think that these types of movies are the reason teens today are so violent. Ramirez, believing it all about the upbringing and responsibility of the child, disagrees with this thinking by stating, "People have to begin taking responsibility for their own actions." Also agreeing with Ramirez about child upbringing, P.E teacher, Angela Reynolds, thinks proper parenting would help a lot of societal problems. Even though she likes suspense movies, she does not allow her kids to watch them; and also thinks that they (horror movies) should not be considered entertainment. She also believes that the things you love tend to become a part of you. According to Reynolds, she says, " Your mind is a sponge; all that you see stays with you."
Now of course, teens, always the rebellious, think that horror movies are the best. Just ask major horror fan sophomore Katie Spencer who says,
"Horror movies kick butt!" She believes that its all about the violence and blood. The weapons are what make the movies, and also when there are weapons, there's usually blood and violence. And that's what we think of when we think of weapons, but not Spencer, she doesn't even think twice about it. Although still a major fan of horror movies, sophomore Claire Frost takes a quieter way of explaining why she thinks movies are just fun; a no big deal. She says that even though there's "violence", it's not real. Frost comments, "Violence in the movies have nothing to do with reality."
And so now here we have people commenting on the violence but also want to see horror movies. Ask yourself this: what would a horror movie be without violence?
What is Your Favorite Scary Movie?
By Ryan Rivera
November 8, 2002
Every one loves a good scary movie, especially during this special time of the year! From the masked murders in Scream, Halloween's villain that just wouldn't die, Jason's infamous hockey mask, to the head spinning possessed little girl in the Exorcist, most people enjoy a good scare every now and then. Here at Colton High, when students were asked, "What's your favorite scary movie?"students voted Scream as number one. The rest of the results are printed below.
Scream - 56%
Exorcist - 32%
Halloween - 7%
Friday The 13th - 3%
Nightmare On Elm Street - 2%
"Ax of Murder" chills, thrills Whitmer crowd
by Narmin Shahin
November 8, 2002
The play "Ax of murder" was great! It was a comedy, mystery and a lot of fun to watch. For those who noticed it was very much like the game of Clue: people dying and the whole cast trying to figure out who the killer is. This great mystery was mixed with a lot of humor making it the comedy that it was to all its viewers. Even though it was in the cafeteria the whole cast learned to adapt to where they were put and make it a great play despite the location.
The main cast consisted of Lori Rodriguez as Bonnie Bagwell, Mickey Capetillo as Lucile Beddoes, Brianna Dahlsied as Taylor Merridew, Josh Lomelias as Sergeant Mike, Carlos Perez as Brady Parks , Moorisha Taylor as Phaedra Parks and Quintan Rogers as Colin Chambers. This whole cast went through a lot of work to make the show successful. "There were a few mistakes, but the actors were the only ones that could tell," said Troupers president and a lead in the play Brianna Dahlsied.
Stacy Jay, acting teacher and advisor to Troupers club, directed the play.
"I think they did very well and it's a success despite the location." Jay gave this play three stars and for all who saw it I am sure you agree.
Horoscopes
by Adriana Hernandez
November 8, 2002
For centuries people have been using horoscopes as a way to have a small glimpse of what their future holds. Astrology is a Greek word that means "science of the stars" both horoscopes and astrology first started with the ancient Greek, only they used astrology as a way to know when to harvest their crops. But as time went by people slowly started to believe the position of the sun and planets had an effect on their life and future. For awhile Astrology and horoscopes were forgotten partially when Galileo the first astronomer to use the telescope disapproved of most early science, including astronomy. During the Egyptian years, it again became popular. During the Middle Ages, the rise of Christianity began and Christians embraced the theory of astrology leading to the development of modern astrology.
The zodiac is divided into 12 parts or 12 signs that correspond to 12 constellations they are then divide into two groups, masculine (Aries, Gemini, Leo Libra, Sagittarius, and Aquarius) and Feminine (Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces). Each sign is held by a period of time usually a month and you figure out what your sign is based on your date of birth.Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
You're in a dynamite month. Your imagination rules and your wild ideas attract friends and admirers. The psychic energy of the Scorpio new moon on the 4th will help you understand why an important friendship is going through a rocky time- and give you the special sensitivity to help both of you work through the problem.
Sagittarius (Nov.22-Dec. 21)
You can always be counted on for a good time, but by the end of this month -you're particularly unstoppable and fabulous. Around the 4th a romantic prospector casual flirtation gets a little more serious. Keep it light and fun for now, because after the 22nd you'll be on a new love quest.
Aquarius (Jan.20-Feb.18)
Although you are a deep thinker, you can be very scattered when it comes to getting yourself organized. So make a plan, and tackle the hard stuff first. That way, when the those cosmic social vibes kick in on the 22nd you'll be ready to rock.
Capricorn (Dec.22-Jan.19)
A planetary pileup in your sensitivity zone gets you in the mood for walks with a special someone, long talks with girlfriends, and spending time with your family on thanksgiving.
Pisces (Feb.19-Mar.20)
November is going to be an amazing month. Get serious about your schoolwork now because after the 22nd you become super social and you don't want to be stuck playing homework catch -up
Aries (Mar.21-Apr.19)
Pushy mars revs up your competitive nature. By the 9th you may find that a friendly rivalry has turned into a major conflict. Chill out or you could lose a friend - and put out a new flame.
Taurus (Apr.20-May 20)
Between the 3rd and 7th don't trust gossip. Mislesading info. could cause serious damage to a friendship or romance. The super sensitive vibes around the lunar eclipse on the 19th will let you know where you stand in a special relationship.
Gemini (May21-Jun 20)
You need a slew of hobbies and interests to keep your rapid- fire mind occupied. starting the week of the 4th, you should focus your amazing energy on finishing your school work, outstanding projects and chores at home.
Cancer (Jun.21-Jul.22)
Whether they're just a memory or for real, an old love will be haunting your dreams of crossing your path. Either way it's time to let go because someone new is waiting in the wings-and you don't want the past to hold you back.
Leo (Jul.23-Aug.22)
The sun is trekking through the part of your chart that makes you obsessive, and mixed signals could jeopardize a friendship. Be sure you listen to both sides before making any decisions.
Virgo (Aug.23-Sep.22)
Misunderstandings around the 8th may lead to a family feud-don't be so set on having your way. Take advantage of your creative talents during the week of the 9th and add pizzazz to a boring assignment, your teachers will be impressed.
Libra (Sep.23-Oct.22)
Red-hot Mars lingers for another month in your sign, giving you brainpower, energy, and style. Say yes to an extra credit assignment and maybe even check out a part-time job. The Libra girl is looking for someone who loves her for who she is-and after the 21st Cupid may grant you your wish.
"The Two Towers"... too much for readers?
by Heather Weppler
November 8, 2002
Being the second part of The Lord of the Rings, this installment continues by letting the reader view each character, after the fellowship was broken. It keeps a detailed account of the protagonist, Frodo Baggins, the bearer of the ring, who proceeds on his journey by traveling through the hills of Emyn Muil and the Dead Marshes. He is accompanied by his best friend Sam, who tames Gollum who helps them, for unknown reasons along their journey. When he finally reaches Mordor he encounters a giant obstacle loses the ring and gets captured. I am looking forward to the movie which will be out December 18, and from what I hear it looks like it's going to be awesome.
This book was good; I enjoyed Tolkien's imagery and characterization, but it did not draw me in as the first did, I was not as eager to read the final novel in the trilogy as I was the second. Definantly not better than the first one. If you do read it I recommend that you read the first book before hand it makes everything easier to understand. The books are an awesome accopmlishment for the writer but nothing short of what we know he is capable of. Check out other books by J.R.R. Tolken, you'll probably be pleased with those as well.
All cross country girls qualify for CIF
by Narmin Shahin
November 8, 2002
Cross Country season is over and despite new changes and hard starts they made it through. They started with a new coach this year , John Lunt. The Varsity had 14 runners, split evenly between girls and boys.JV fielded a squad of 17 girls and 9 boys. Both teams' combined only had 7 returning players. Most people on this year's team were made up of freshman or newcomer sophomores. During their three league meets all the girls qualified for CIF; they also beat San Gorgonio, Pacific, San Bernardino and Arroyo Valley. Their hardest team to play is Yucaipa, which sadly they did not beat in their competitions. The girl's captains are Lilian Aguilar and Kalina Gomez.
The boys only won against Arroyo Valley out of the three league competitions. One boy, Mario Alvarezm qualified for CIF. The boys team captains are Mario Alvarez and Kyle Schoors.
The team had done very well considering they had to adjust to a new coach and a lot of new players with few returning. "We tried hard hopefully we will hopefully do better next year," said girls Varsity captain Liliana Aguilar.
Football eyes playoffs; faces San Berdoo tonight
by Paul Heredia
November 8, 2002
Colton High Football soars strongly into tonight's game against the San Bernardino Cardinals. As the Yellowjackets regular season moves towards its end tonight and with a big game against San Gorgonio the following week, the Jackets have visions of victory heading into the playoffs.
The Yellowjackets season shows the hard work and sacrifice that the coaches and players put in to get were they're at now. In the final non-league game against Redlands East Valley, the Yellowjackets came from behind and settled for a 33-33 tie.
After the REV game the Yellowjackets went on a 3 game win streak. It started with a 36-15 victory over Cajon, which was an away game, but the players stayed strong and played hard to start off the win streak. The the following week it was a 45-15 blowout over Yucaipa, that was played in the rain at home, but didn't affect the Yellowjackets as they soured right over Yuciapa. Then a 53-30 win last Friday over first year Arroyo Valley to welcome the rookies into the league. With two games to go the Yellowjackets have a record of 4-0 in the San Andreas League and an overall record of 6-1-1. With the Yellowjackets and San G. both 4-0, they are tied for first, as they battle for the San Andres League Championship.
As the Yellowjackets season comes to a close with the playoffs just around the corner, they still have two big deciding games to wrap up their spectacular season. Tonight's run for the title game starts at 7:30 p.m.
Senior Quarterback Robby Pope has high hopes for tonight's game and the league championship as he says, "We're really looking forward to tonight's game. Even though San Bernardino is a good team, as long as we play 48 minutes of football we'll be able to beat them. Tonight's game is crucial. A win will put us in a tie for tops in the league, which means next week's game against San Gorgonio will be for the title."
Girls Golf team: a season of promise
by Nicole Miller
November 8, 2002
The Girls Golf team, with a record of 8-2 in league, has been off to a great start. The only two loses that the team had were against Yucaipa, which is their hardest team to play. Thomas Minez is the new varsity coach. The team lost two varsity girls from last year but have three returning and six new players plus the new coach, which helped them in their great season. "After losing our coach and two varsity seniors from last year, we are coming back strong," replied Melissa Nicks. The team was sad due to the loss of their coach, but didn't lose their reputation as one of the best teams in league.
The three captains are seniors Melissa Nicks, Jennifer Gonzales, and Jessica Darinton. The team is guaranteed a spot in the league finals which were held on the 5th and 6th of November at12 o'clock in the San Bernardino Golf club. The team was confident going in to finals.