Issue of March 29, 2002
Volume 85, No. 4
Click on the links in the table of contents to view the story
News
WASC visit impresses
Stoplight petition makes gains
AVID goes road trippin'
Testing, testing, testing
School's website up and runningOpinions
Affirmative Action-same-o, same-o
As I see it (Column)
Bring back the cell phones!
Valley and Rancho intersection a deathtrap
Public Displays of Affection-how much is too much?
Both sides now-Blame CHS for our failures? Yes
Both sides now-Blame CHS for our failures? No
To be or not to be...popular
Let's keep student's personal information private!Features
The truth behind beauty pageants
Spring Break survey
Stupid and Unusual Laws
Life's most embarrassing moments revealed
San Bernardino Sun newspaper honors Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets enlist in the military for various reasons
The High Cost of Belonging to Clubs, Sports, and organizations
Colton Special Ed teacher adopts five kids at once!
Birth Control Methods vary by style, price
How'd you learn about the birds and the bees?
Sex ed in school an iffy thing
Sexual double standard still in effect
The Wild Thing...do we or don't we?Diversions
Believers club keeping the faith
Emo music making a hit
Horoscopes...for entertainment purposes only
Restrooms...when they gonna be clean?
Brandy CD review
X-ecutioners CD review
Time Machine Movie review
Resident Evil Movie review
Warning: senioritis coming soonSports
Baseball
Softball
Badminton
Swimming
Tennis
Erik Demone feature
"WOW!" WASC team impressed by school's progress
by Lisa Namnath
March 20, 2002: Principal Jerry Almandarez finds himself sitting amidst newspaper articles, and receiving never ending phone calls congratulating him of Colton High School's success with theWestern Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Even though the results won't be back for weeks, Almandarez is confident, "We have a goal of becoming a California distinguished school." This honor cannot be bestowed until a accreditation of greater than two years is obtained, and a tedious application process is completed, but Almandarez knows the students and staff are up to it. "After the next few years we spend improving we'll try, and I hope succeed.".
In March 2000, WASC granted Colton High School an accreditation of two years, the minimum WASC gives; now because of that review the maximum Colton High School can receive is three years. On March 19 those two years ended. The last visit WASC made, seven observers came and stayed four days. Last Tuesday, two observers, Michelle Lawrence, a superintendent from Berkeley, and Albert Castillo, principal of a high school in La Puente, visited for one day to decide the fate of a student population of almost 3,000. While about 200 staff members held their breath, they collectively let it out with relief as Lawrence commented, "You're well on your way to making wonderful progress, you should feel really good about what you've done."
Although most students still believe that WASC accreditation can cause schools to "close", the reality of this association's power is no less detrimental to Colton High. WASC, along with six other similar agencies nationwide, determines if your education is what the administration and teachers of your school say it is. If it isn't, accreditation is denied and your diploma is just another piece of paper, and can be denied acknowledgement by colleges and other schools. For seniors and future graduates, this would mean the last four years of their education is worthless.
There are still points that Colton needs to improve on and one of the major ones is desegregating information into groups to help determine how to best educate the students attending Colton High. Almandarez stated that while many enhancements have been made, "Our greatest improvement is that, our school is now more academically focused around curriculum and standards." Plans have been made to continue the betterment of the school, and all that must be done now is to implement them.
AVID Road trip
Raylene Carrillo
March 29, 2002Junior Chuck Saenz, along with 37 other AVID students, left on a trip to visit California colleges on February 26. The 38 students were chaperoned by two avid teachers, Mr. Kitchen and Mrs. Potterton, and a student's mother. They took a Charter Bus to their first stop at UC Santa Barbara.
When they got there they had a scavenger hunt and got a tour from one to the students at UC Santa Barbara. After exploring UC Santa Barbara they left to Cal Poly was they took a self-tour of the campus.
Their last stop of the day was the Quality Inn in Santa Cruz.
The second day of their trip they had a tour of Santa Cruz by one of the students that go to Santa Cruz. Santa Clara was the second stop of the day. There they had a tour of the campus. Then it was off to explore San Jose State University. By six pm they were in San Francisco. They ate dinner at the Fisherman's Wharf, and then stayed at the Vagabond Inn.
The third day of their trip they went to UC Berkeley, were they had a tour of the campus. Next stop was UC Davis where they explored the campus on their own with a self-tour. Then they went to University of Pacific. This was Chuck's favorite university because it was a smaller university. They give more individual attention. California State University at Stanislaus was was they ate dinner. That night they stayed at the Best Western.
Next morning, the last day of their trip, they had a tour of California State University at Stanislaus. Fresno State was the last University they toured. After it was over it was home they went.
"Making a trip to visit universities is very important," says Chuck. Every university has its own style. It would be best to visit the universities you want to go to, to see if that university is best for you.
From every university they brought back with them brochures. They visited all of the universities bookstores. At some universities they ate lunch on campus. This trip required every student to have a 2.0 or higher in every class. Each student gave $40 for the trip expenses and was recommended to bring $70 for anything extra they wanted to buy on the trip.
Cheerleaders Make it back to Nationals
Adriane Munoz
March 29, 2002
Wow! Nationals is a big event for our Colton High Cheerleaders. When it comes to Nationals, our cheerleaders have to go from cheer to cheer and practice to practice. After a long while we've made it back to the Cheerleaders National for a fact! It must have been hard to make it to Nationals because you have to go to regionals and get a score of 85 and higher. Nationals was held on Sunday, March 17, 2002 in Anaheim. Although we didn't make it to place, the mascots placed third. Last year the mascots placed fourth.
From all the time of practice and the stress of nervousness, I'm sure that the cheerleaders had a great time. "Yes! We went to Disneyland and California Adventure," says Junior Candyce Ramirez. I know I've would've had a blast myself. From all the effort that you put in cheerleading it must be hard and fun. "I like cheerleading a lot," adds Candyce Ramirez. I can imange the fun they have. Sometime winning isn't everything, it's how much effort you put into it. I would just Like to say congradulations on th hard work they did.
Colton's Website
Renee Negrete
March 29, 2002Did you know that since October of last year our school had a website? This task was given to John Lawrence by Principal Jerry Almendarez to put together a website for the communication between parent, students and administrators. On this website you will receive information pertaining to small things such as the school's bell schedule as well as dates for SATs, SAT 9, and financial aid deadlines. You will also receive teacher's website that are available, counseling, and guidance if needed.
Over time you would think that you would see the same old boring things day after day; however, on this website you we see constant changes from the daily bulletin to students attendance and grades. Although something things will never change, our school's Alma Mater, and our commitment to high standards.
If interested the following is the school's actual website, come log on at http://www.colton.k12.ca.us/CHS. If you have any comments or concerns please feel free to e-mail Mr. Lawrence, his address is one of the many that is found on our website.
Petition for stoplight advances
By Denise Alcantar
March 29, 2002The tragic car accident death of Yellowjacket Whitney Rogers on November 15 has not died down, nor will it ever. Many people want to make a difference. Sharon Halter-Day, a counselor at Colton High was not going to stand by and watch. It was Halter-Day's idea to start a petition to install a stop light at the corner where Rogers was struck by a car. She wanted to make "something positive out of a tragedy."
She talked the idea over with Sheri Rogers (Whitney's mother) who agreed. A student from band was supposed to get it started, but Halter-Day noticed nothing was being done. She decided to propose the idea to the National Honor Society, and it was taken on as a project. Halter-Day said the goal of the petition, didn't really have a particular number, they just wanted "as many as possible." You have probably heard on the announcements that the final number is 804 signatures. Halter-day went to see the Traffic Committee who she was referred to by the City Council. It was unanimously approved that a signal traffic light be put at this intersection. "The 804 signatures was incredibly powerful," states Halter-Day. "To be successful you have to take risks and try, if you fall down, you brush it off and try again." She was one of the few who attended along with Whitney's family and friends, and also Senior Harmony McMillan, who volunteered to deliver the main speech. The next step is the City Engineer's office; Halter-Day wants students to call in and "bug" this office to encourage it along. She also wants as many people as possible to go to the City Council meeting. For those who refused to sign the petition, Halter-Day wonders why but states that everyone has a right to his or her own opinions. One of my favorite mottos is "If you try you have a chance, if you don't try you have no chance." "It's a life motto," Halter-Day says. "When people come together you can do anything, this is a great thing that will benefit the whole community. Everyone's a winner."
Testing avalanche buries students
by Megan Holden
March 29, 2002
Beginning on March 5th, Colton High students have been swamped with tests. Kicking off the season of multiple-choice questions was the High School Exit Exam. Classes were rearranged simply to get the testing finished, making the rest of the student body sit in three days of what seemed to be forever long periods. Now 9th, 10th and 11th graders are preparing to take the STAR 9 or as most people call it, the SAT 9 which runs from April 29th through May 17th and three days later is the start of the Golden State exam, running from May 20th to May 31st. It doesn't though, there's more, AP testing is going on from May 6th to May 17th, which is also the same time the SAT 9's make-up testing is being held, while the AP test make up exams run to May 26th. If that still isn't enough testing already, college bound juniors have the SAT's to worry about.
That's a lot of upcoming tests, but let's not forget about the testing that's already been taken during the fall, there was the COPS for sophomores, ASVAB for juniors, and the PSAT for both sophomores and juniors, none of which were required, but were taken anyway. "Where is the time to attend class to learn the stuff on these tests they're making us take?" asks Junior Melissa Jimenez. Jimenez feels that with all the testing we are being forced to take, students are being deprived of learning relevant material that actually might come in useful on a few of these tests.
Affirmative action
By Napa Utrapiromsuk
March 29, 2002
Affirmative action: most students have no idea what that is and could not care less. But for those who plan on going to college, affirmative action could mean your future. What is it exactly?
Affirmative action (or AA) is when a college tries to balance out their race ratio by accepting a certain amount of students from each race to better diversify its campus. The idea behind it is great, giving minorities a push to succeed in the future. So, this is how it would work: say Kid X has a GPA of 3.8, and Kid Y (a minority) has a GPA of 3.5. Kid X is captain of the football team, President of the Math club and Science club. Kid Y is also president of the math club and science club, and on the varsity baseball team. Which of these should be accepted into this affirmative action college? Which on of these students is more qualified? Kid X you might say, but because this school is an AA school, Kid Y would be the one packing his bags…wait a minute…affirmative action was supposed to help the disadvantage, but is it punishing the better qualified? In 1995, the Universities of California passed a ban on affirmative action. Since then, the Universities have noticed a huge decline in minority enrollment. Because of that many members of minority organizations have felt that the ban against affirmative action was the wrong decision. They have beeb struving to bring AA back to make the campuses more "minority friendly."
Well, my idea of getting into college was never based upon my race. Personally I would rather get into a college because what I did, not because of my color. I think that people who want to make the college campuses more diverse should work harder to get their grades up so they can get in with what they have done.
As I See It (Column)
Amy Carrillo
March 29, 2002
So, this is the annual "sex issue" of the Pepperbough. This is the issue that people actually read, and I tend to see fewer papers in the trash, and more in the hands of Colton High students. But why is it that teenagers are so attracted to sex? I remember a few years back the Pepperbough ran a story about a couple that got caught having sex in the bathroom and that was all that everyone talked about. All day students asked about the story, trying to get more details about who was caught and when it happened. But that's beside the point. Back fifty years ago sex was considered to be taboo and it was extremely uncommon to find a girl that had lost her virginity before marriage. Women who did engage in premarital sex were considered to be tainted and dirty. But, now, virginity is not as sacred and important to most people. It seems that people, or should I say teens, are engaging in sex at younger and younger ages. Imagine when we grow up and have kids…I know, that's a scary thought for some of us, but think about how young our kids will be when they start having sex.
Finding a virgin after high school graduation is rare so you can only imagine how it will be in twenty years.
The media has changed our perspective of sex so much over the course of the century that it doesn't have the same meaning anymore. Television shows like 'Dawson's Creek', 'Married with Children' and 'Unhappily Ever After' have caused a stir with the amount of sexual innuendos, that sex has become commercialized. Sex has gone from an act between two people to show affection to something that is done just for the pure physical and instant gratification. Magazines like 'Cosmopolitan' are known for their amount of sexual content and when their annual sex issue hits the newsstands, it brings in its highest revenue of the year.
So, is it the media or the fact that it sex is considered to be taboo that attracts teens to sex? I guess you could go with the age old theory and say that is the raging hormones that attract teens to sex. It is new and different, and perhaps you could say that it is somewhat forbidden. But whatever it is, it is, I don't think that the trend will die down anytime soon.
Cell Phones on Campus
Staff Editorial
March 29, 2002
Cell phones have been around for a long time, and have been used by people everywhere, including schools. Cell phones are not allowed on school campuses. It's a law that's enforced at schools everywhere. According to Assistant Principal Diana Carreon, If a student is caught on school campus with a cell phone their cell phone will be confiscated, their parents will be contacted to come pick it up, and even then the student still gets suspended for three to five days.
Teachers are supposed to be teaching us the rules and teaching us to follow them. But most of the teachers here at Colton High carry a cell phone at all times, and they are always visible to students. So if they can carry them for emergencies or whatever their reasons are, then why can't students? Students have their emergencies and reasons to carry a cell phone too. What about those times when practice runs late and no one knows that they have to come pick you up? Or you stay after school for extra curricular activities and you missed the late bus and you don't have fifty-cents to use the payphone that does not work half the time and you only have one chance to call someone or it will take your money? What's the student supposed to do? Sit there and hope they can find a ride home?
The state lawmakers are considering allowing cell phones on campus. The Pepper Bough supports this effort.
We believe that if anything cell phones should be on every student at all times if possible in case of emergency. It's true that they shouldn't be used during classes or just anytime throughout the day when a student just feels that they can't go a whole school day without talking to their boyfriend or girlfriend, without going crazy. But students do have the right to have protection. For example when Columbine was going through their terrible time a student used their cell phone to call and get the word out about the tragedies occurring at their school. What if that student wasn't breaking school rules and didn't have a cell phone? How long would it have taken for word to get out about what was happening?
This all started in the 80s when pagers were used for drug deals, so pagers, cell phones, and other electronic devices were banned from children attending school. Things have changed; it's 20 years later and they are just barely deciding that maybe it's time to consider allowing students to have cell phones and pagers. It's true that there are students that will take advantage of being able to have a cell phone at school, and use it for unnecessary reasons, but there will be punishments for those students. As for the students using their cell phones for necessary reasons at necessary times, it may help out in a lot of ways.
Blame CHS for our failures? No!
By Priscilla Montgomery
March 29, 2002
Colton High should NOT be blamed for our outcome! It shouldn't be anyone's fault on how we do in the real world except for our own. At this point, especially in high school, we should be old enough to claim responsibility for our own actions. We talk about being old enough to drive, vote, drink, smoke and yet no one thinks about being old enough to be responsible for our own actions. Many students here spend most their time in class writing notes, talking or putting on their make up, and even Einstein couldn't learn in that type of environment. And then they have the nerve to complain that they had a bad teacher. Of course you aren't going to be prepared for college or real life because you didn't take the initiative to learn from the very beginning.
I know there are some bad teachers on campus but I find it hard to believe that you managed to get every single one during your high school career. And even if you do get a "bad teacher" you could always try, heaven forbid, learning on your own.
You know that fat book you get at the begining of each school year, the one that sits under your bed for the rest of the year? Its called a textbook, and if you use it every night you could learn something on your own!
Teachers shouldn't have to beg, coax or force anyone to learn. Each student should come to class wanting to learn. You've probably heard this before, but you are so much luckier than all the other kids in the whole world because not only do you get an education, but a free one at that. Take advantage of the resoures while you can instead of just messing around.
The way I see it, Colton High has been trying. But there is a limit to what they can do. They could pick us up each morning from our house so we can' t ditch, then tie us to our chairs so the only place we can look is forward and beat us when we don't pay attention, but schools got rid of that years ago. As someone once said, "The only way to predict the future is to create it."
Should Colton be blamed for our outcome? Yessireebob!
By Sara Abusiraj
March 29, 2002
Should CHS be blames for our outcome? My answer is yes. I think Colton should be blamed because they are responsible for our education. Even if we refuse to learn, the teachers and other staff members should get the point that we are not trying our hardest and contact someone who can fix that problem. Although it is on our behalf to take what is given and run with it, even if you just don't care about anything now, I bet you will regret it in the future. What you doing now depends on how you will be presented later. There are many consequences to not wanting to learn, but not enough. CHS is not only responsible, but too lenient on what we are doing all day. Very many students get away with a lot of things these days and that is because teachers think that their actions are not going to effect us, but in fact they really are. The reality is that they don't care and some of the teachers don't even like their job; as long as they get paid everything is okay. Who cares what happens, right? WRONG!!! Many things depend on what is happening in your life right now, but Colton is not putting in the time and effort to actually take care of the many problems that we are having at school. And by that I don't mean boy/girl problems, I mean our class work and homework. Let's try different scenarios; say we happen to be successful in life, you would say you got help while you still had the chance. Now let's say your future didn't turn out as planned, you would blame Colton because they didn't do everything they could have and now everything is ruined for you because no one wanted to confront you and ask if you had a problem. But even if you had a problem and was asked about it, then denied it, that means the teachers should try a little harder about putting it out in the open so you can get over it easier. My opinion is that the teachers are not doing everything in their power to help us and being kind of lazy. If there is one thing I learned, it would be a quote that I was once told by a good friend, "There ain't nothin' but space and opportunity."
Ranch and Valley a deathtrap
By Paul Lopez
March 29, 2002
Every day before and after school there is a rush of vehicles crowding the streets of Valley and Rancho. You would swear that it was New York City rather than the little old city of Colton. Everyone is in a hurry and at times forget that there are students or faculty trying to make their way to and from school. It is a death wish for anyone to attempt crossing the streets at any time. Every time someone crosses the street they should prepare themselves for the unexpected.
Early last month there was a petition put out for a stop sign to be put on the corner of Fourth and Valley in remembrance of the late Whitney Rogers, who died when a motorist struck her while she was crossing Valley. This stop sign is to help regulate traffic and make it safer for pedestrians to cross with care at all hours of the day. I of course am for it, but only a block away there are pedestrians walking side-by-side with death while there're crossing Rancho to get to the Donut Star or wanting to buy a burrito from Del Taco.
Everyday I also notice that there are students and staff from Colton High who jaywalk across Valley and Rancho. They probably will keep doing this till they are given a citation or don't notice that 18-wheeler until it's too late. Then there are those parent drivers that illegally park anywhere along the side or middle of the street just to drop off their child. This is what causes the bad traffic that causes many parents to get upset and makes other drivers impatient. But why should those parents be upset, they are the ones taking up the time of other people that have somewhere important to go to? These people are what make crossing Valley and Rancho a dangerous task.
But there is also another question here: where are Colton's finest? Everyday after school you can see them looking for some sucker to give a ticket to. But they aren't around during the traffic hours of the morning watching for these jaywalkers and illegally parked parents. I guess that when they realize how much money they could be making that's when they'll show up with their ticket books prepared. They should be cleaning up what causes drivers from starting a chain reaction with a major accident on such a crowded road.
I believe to make Valley a safer street to cross there should be petitions put out for stop signs to be put on Rancho on the corner on "G" or "F". For most people trying to get to an event at the football stadium or Ken Hubb's Gym, they have to fight the traffic at night and it is really hard for a driver to notice someone crossing the street. Sure there are lamps lighting the cross section, but still the lamps don't slow cars down and they don't help pedestrians safely cross the street.
Not only is this a threat caused by bad drivers, but the blame is also set on those who make actions that can effect their lives or the lives of innocent bystanders. Colton High is committed to high standards, but simple things aren't being committed to.
Public Displays of affection--how much is too much?
By April Lewis
March 29, 2002
Kissing, hugging, and holding hands are all things that many couples around the world do to each other to show each other how much they care and love one another. Since affection is an action of love is there such a thing as showing too much affection? Or how do you know where you draw the line between what public affections are okay and what affections should stay behind closed doors? If you look around your surroundings at Colton High you will see many teenage couples in love and showing it for the whole world to see but is there such a thing as showing too much public affection?
I personally do not believe that there is such a thing as showing too much public affection. Granted you can't be exposing yourself illegally in front of the whole world but I do not believe that there is such a thing as too much kissing, hugging, or holding hands in public. I know that there are people out there who say, "Get a room" or "Give her space to breathe" but I personally think that what that couple chooses to do in public is their own business, and if you don't like it then don't look at it. So what if you see a couple of teenagers making out in front of the 400 wings big deal there is nothing illegal about kissing or hugging your boyfriend.
The amount of public affection a couple shows also depends on how that couple is as far as showing affection goes. Some couples just look like friends and show no affection, others are just shy and don't touch each other at all, some couples hate showing affection in public and are not comfortable with the idea at all, and then you have the ones that just don't care at all they will practically have sex right in front of you. But no matter which one of these types of couples you are it doesn't matter because whether you like public affection or not that is your choice and no one else's.
So is there such a thing as to much public affection? In my eyes, no: because every couple in this world has a different way of showing each other how much they love each other. Some couples just choose to let everyone in the world know it.
Students personal information should be kept private
by Jennifer Orozco
March 29, 2002
You always hear on the news about people's personal information being sold on the Internet or even on the streets. The problem here at Colton High is not as bad. We don't sell your information. We would never do that. We give it away.
That's right. You might be shocked to know that your class schedule, your home address and yes, even your telephone number, is sitting in a big book in the counselor's office for anyone to see.
This book is not only in order by class, but it is also in alphabetical order. This makes it easier for someone to have access to any student's information here at Colton.
This is going on in a place where we are supposed to be safe. In a matter of minutes anyone could have your phone number and even your address in their hands. Of course, it's not a problem when the guy you've been crushing on tracks you down. But what if it's the guy who freaks you out, or the girl/guy who can't stand you? She/he can easily get your phone number and call to harass you to the point where you have to change your number.
This little concern can turn into a big problem. It's bad enough we come to school to deal with drama and now just to supposedly make it easier to find people, this big book of info is lying open for all to see. Sure it's an inconvenience to look up names all day but it's a small price to pay for our safety. I'm really surprised that no one has realized that this could turn into a big problem. Instead of making more rules and more restrictions the administrators here should deal with the smaller problems first. The counselors should have asked for permission to put our names in this book or at least told us they were going to do this. I'm sure if all students here at Colton knew that anyone at any time could get ahold of their personal information they would be worried. But it would be even worse if parents knew what was going on, they might do something so that this wasn't happening in the first place. The school should be more careful with the information that they give anyone access to.
To Be or not to be popular
By Narmin Shahin
March 29, 2002
Oh, to be popular. To always wear hundred dollar jeans, not because you want to but because you must. To maintain a G.P.A between 2.0 and 2.5 so you can still be in football or cheerleading, but not seem too smart.
So what exactly is popularity? In the dictionary it is known as being accepted by the general public. Is that what we teens define popularity as?
Of course not. We see it as who's wearing the latest trends and is going out with the cutest guy; who is hanging out with the "right crowd" and going to all the raging parties. Why is that popularity? Does it make you liked or get you any more friends or give you the ability to talk to anyone? This is all just a classification that we put on ourselves. To have these qualities doesn't make anyone better than anyone else or more popular.
To me, popularity doesn't exist, we just create this among ourselves when in actuality we are all equally liked. Teens all form a clique or a group that they hang out with. A group of friends you can relate to the most. This becomes your crowd; among these people you are popular and you are liked by them. Some cliques are outgoing and funny; some are quiet and reserved, but no matter what, you fit in among those people. I am not trying to say that you should stay in your group and not make any different type of friends. But you will always feel the most comfortable among those people because in a way they each have a piece of you.
We teenagers try too hard to fit into the perfect image we see on TV and in magazines because we keep telling ourselves that that's the way we should look. The people in those places live in a "perfect" world and we live in reality; these images are just false hopes and dreams inspired in us. We all just need to see that the way we are is our perfect image and that's the way it has to be. We set these standards for "popularity" because we want something to reach for or a way to improve ourselves. Most think by doing this it makes your life better.
Although it might seem like some people have more friends than others they might not have them for the right reasons. Some people aren't liked but feared and those are two completely different things. If you are liked you will be remembered for the right reasons- for being nice or intelligent and not feeling like you have to change yourself for anything. You will be remembered for being you. When you are liked for the wrong reasons like drinking, doing drugs or just having a "bad rep" you aren't liked for the right reasons but because you are feared and people are afraid to tell you otherwise. No matter how you define it popularity is what it is to you. Popularity isn't just what others think of you- it's what you think of yourself.
Beauty Pageants
Marisa. Cortez
March 29, 2002Demeaning, degrading, superficial. These are some words that most people associate with pageants. For many years pageants have been looked at as one big contest based solely on looks alone. In actuality that's not how it works at all. How do I know? Because I was fortunate enough to participate and ultimately win the Miss Grand Terrace Pageant last year.
Girls are judged on their self-confidence, poise, ability to speak to others, and most importantly, their moral values. The judges are in no way looking for the most beautiful girl, but rather the girl they believe can be a role model and a leader.
It is unclear to many about just how a pageant works. And just to clear things up they are not called beauty pageants. Girls work hard to win their titles and win scholarship money. So what really is being judged then if not looks? The first and most important thing is the interview. This is where you're given the opportunity to speak one on one with the judges and let them know who you are and what you're all about. It is your first chance to make an impression on them.
Later that night is the actual pageant itself. It begins with an opening number which is just for the girls to have fun and release all their nerves before the competition. They then go into the shorts outfit competition. This is a substitution for the frequently heard of bathing suit competition. Some pageants feel that this is a better way to let the girls show off their confidence.
The next part is the evening gown competition where the ladies will be judged on poise and how you present yourself in your gown. From there the top six are selected. The six finalists will be asked an onstage question and be scored on their response. There's a lot of waiting spent backstage after this part, but eventually the judges will be ready with their decision. Everyone is brought back onstage and they announce the second runner up, the first runner up, and finally, the winner from each age division. They're each crowned and given the responsibilities and duties of the crown for an entire year.
These are things like ribbon cuttings for the opening of new businesses, city council functions, parades, etc. There are also a lot of charities you work with. For example I've helped with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a blood drive with the Red Cross, as well as raising money for White Cane Day in Grand Terrace, and much more. I can't say enough how much winning this title has helped me.
There are many pageant systems, so I cannot speak for all of them. However I can speak for Empire Pageants and say that they are the only system that gives numerous ladies the opportunity to travel and represent our country in International pageants worldwide. This is an opportunity of a lifetime.
So as you can see contrary to what most believe, the objective of pageants is not to exploit young ladies, but rather to improve their self-confidence and communication skills. Ladies are given the opportunity to build friendships with girls of all age divisions from different backgrounds that all have something in common. This experience will affect them for their entire lives.
Birth control methods vary by method, degree of effectiveness
by Renee Negrete
March 29, 2002Have you ever wondered which birth control might be best for you? If you're like most women, you've picked a method based on what friends and doctors suggest. And most likely you stuck with it out of habit, even if it means putting up with annoying side effects. However, if sticking to a method of birth control that doesn't suit your lifestyle, relationship status, and specific health concerns then it could lead to unwanted pregnancy or STD. Here are several methods that are offered today.
Method #1: Condoms- A sheath made out of latex, lambskin, or polyurethane that covers his penis and collects semen.
Pros: Latex and polyurethane condoms are the contraceptive that protect against most STDs, including HIV.Method #2: Depo-Provera "the shot"- An injection that inhibits ovulation.
Cons: There is little protection against herpes and HPV (genital warts); can break if not put on or removed correctly; you need a new one every time you do the deed. Many men and woman also complain that condoms dull sensation and can be messy.
Effectiveness Rate: 86%
Price: $1 a condomPros: This is effective for three months at a time. Plus, it may prevent ovarian cancer and pelvic inflammatory disease.Method #3: Diaphragm- A dome-shaped latex cup that has a flexible rim and covers your cervix to block sperm.
Cons: You must go to the gynecologist every three months, and it offers no protection against STDs. Fertility may not return for 9 to 18 months after ending the shots.
Effectiveness Rate: 99.7%
Price: $40 every three monthsPros: You must insert your diaphragm up to six hours before sex and reapply spermicide each time you have intercourse.Method #4: IUD- A T-shaped plastic device which your gyno inserts into your uterus to prevent egg implantation.
Cons: It must stay in place for six hours after sex and it offers little protection against most STDs, including HIV, they also increase your risk of getting a urinary infection.
Effectiveness Rate: 80%
Price: $35 a diaphragm, reusablePros: It prevents pregnancy for up to one year. Fertility is immediate with removal.Method #5: Lunelle- Another monthly injection to inhibit ovulation and prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.
Cons: No STD protection, menstrual cramps and your flow may increase.
Effectiveness Rate: 98 to 99%
Price: $400Pros: It is effective immediately and helps regulate your menstrual cycle.Method #6: Norplant- Is six tiny rods inserted under the skin of your upper arm, by your doctor, that releases a steady stream of progestin which suppresses ovulation or prevents fertilization.
Cons: No protection against STDs, you must get a shot every 33 days and may cause nausea, and weight gain.
Effectiveness Rate: More than 99%
Price: $30 a shotPros: Prevents pregnancy for up to five years and it starts working within a few days of insertion.Method #7: "The Pill"-A daily pill containing estrogen and/or progestin to prevent ovulation.
Cons: No STD protection and more than 80% of women experience unpredictable periods.
Effectiveness Rate: More than 99% effective
Price: $400 for the rods plus $200 for insertionPros: Makes your periods predictable and less painful. You can halt your menstruation temporarily.Method #8: Spermicides- Foams, creams, and jellies that you insert deep into your vagina before sex to kill sperm.
Cons: No protection against STDs. It may cause weight gain.
Effectiveness Rate: 95%
Price: $20-$30 a monthPros: It is available "over the counter." (No doctor visit necessary)Method #9: Abstinence. Just say "No, thank you."
Cons: It offers up to 25% protection against STDs and must be reapplied each time you have sex.
Effectiveness Rate: 74%
Price: $12Pros: No doctor visit, no pills, no shots, nothing to buy, put in, on, or wear; self esteem given a boost
Cons: Dealing with intense pressure from your partner to do it "because I love you so much"
Effectiveness Rate: 100%
Price: Free.
Colton High Students Going to serve their country
by Wendy Quinonez
March 29, 2002
September 11, 2001 will always be a memorable day for the whole world. It changed many lives, and probably served as a good reason for most men and women joining the military after it happened. Believe it or not though, some joined before it all happened. You would think they did it because of the chance to hold a gun, but in reality that's the one thing they want to prevent .War! After the the attack of the twin towers and the pentagon, supposedly more of the young populations were so angry and astonished they wanted to join even more. But not all joined because of that reason one of the main reasons why most join is because of money, money for college or a place where you can find yourself and learn some discipline in your life.
If you didn't know, you know now that students at Colton High School have joined or are joining the military. Most seniors are already in the military and still attending school under the "delayed entry" program. As soon as graduation is over they are off to discover a whole new life full of challenges and decisions.
Senior Melissa Hernandez will soon be leaving in August to the Army. " I have joined the army because I thought to myself I can learn to make money, get money for school and get as far away from Coltn all at the same time," she said.
J. R. O.T.C is a program at Colton High School to prepare young people who have joined or are joining the military. J.R.O.T.C (also known as Naval Recruiting Officer Training Corps) keeps you disciplined and helps you experience what will come ahead if you ever join the military. Martha Navarro, a J.R.O.T.C recruiter, soon plans to join the Navy. Martha explains her reasons: "It gives you a head start in life, you get to travel and learn new things, and also I get to find myself."
Even though it seems like these students already look like they're in the military. J.R.O.T.C doesn't take you to the military; the choice is up to you. It only helps you understand what you'll be getting yourself into if you ever decide to join. Senior Catherine Thompson enlisted in the Marines to persue her dream of becoming an astronaut. Ironically enough she enlisted on the very day of September 11. Thompson plans to stay for at least twenty years in the Marines. Thompson stated, "Take life one step at a time and be careful not to look over the small things because you might miss out on the important things."
Marine Lt. Colonel Mahoney is one of the supervisors of J.R.O.T.C. Mahoney described his task of being a supervisor. They do a lot of marching and drilling along with extracurricular activities. Not only do they win awards from different competitions but they also have time to have fun and relax. Mahoney retired after twenty-one years in service as being a Marine. A tactical air controller, Mahoney knows what he doing by teaching these students the skills to be in the Military, "Taking the course would develop you and give you the required leadership and discipline that would shape your future."
These ambitious Colton High students know what they want in life and J.R.O.T.C and other helpful programs will get them to their dreams and beyond. Colton High wishes them luck and a safe return back.
Sexual "Double Standard" still in effect
By Ashley Ellison
March 29, 2002What is a "Double Standard"? The Webster dictionary states that a double standard is a set of principles that applies differently and usually more rigorously to one group of people or circumstances than to another; especially; a code of morals that applies more severe standards of sexual behavior to women than to men. An example of double standards is if a guy were to sleep with two girls in one night, he is considered a "Player", a "Pimp", or a "Mack Daddy." On the other hand, of a girl were to sleep with two guys, she would be considered a "Slut", a "Whore", a "Hoe", a "Slut Bag" or "Easy."
Double standards have been around for centuries, but why do they exist? They put people, mainly girl, through so much pain and most of the time it is not even for a good reason. Are double standards really necessary? Girls and guys should have the same morals set for each other. This noun was created to destroy people lives, especially girls and their self-esteem. Double standards seem to allow guys to brag about who they had sex with to every one they come in contact with, when it is hard for girls to even admit what happened to their friends, you know, the people you can trust.
Double standards will never come to an end through out the world. They have been around for way to long, and are way to powerful to destroy now. The United States was successful for giving women equal rights and hopefully one-day women may even have equal morals. Until that day comes we need to deal with all the criticism and hope there will be an end to this harsh noun.
How'd YOU learn about the facts of life?
By Kerry Ortloff
March 29, 2002
One way or another, every student here at Colton High School has learned the basic facts about life. Most of us just sort of figured it out on our own. Probably by putting together little bits of information and over heard conversations. Or maybe Mom or Dad filled us in on the facts. But for a few individuals, learning the first thing about sex was, funny, memorable, or strange, to say the least.
"One day while I was watching my favorite show, 'The Simpsons', they had an episode about Lisa thinking she was becoming stupid. There was this segment that Troy McClure hosted about Joe Rabbit. Basically in a nutshell, the segment was about sex. So that's when I first found out about it." -Erik Demone, junior
"I was playing in my backyard when I was about eight, and I saw my dogs playing piggyback. I asked my Mom what they were doing and she explained it all to me."-Daniel Morales, junior
"I was at my cousin's house playing with Barbies, and all of the sudden my cousin took off their clothes and showed me how sex happens!!!"-Deanne Delfin, junior
"I asked my mom about babies and sex, so she turned on HBO, and said, 'Here watch this."- Adam Botello, senior.
"I still don't know"-Narmin Shahin, junior
"So what happened was, I just stumbled across my older brother's pornos. They have everything you really need to know."-Daniel Pedrosa, junior.
These are only a few of the ridiculous stories that people have. So next time you want a good conversation starter, asked the person next to you how they found out about sex. You probably won't be disappointed.
Jan and Ben Kundert Adopt
By Andrew Quiroz
March 29, 2002
When Special Education teacher Ben Kundert and his wife Jan got married they never dreamed of adopting five young siblings. Well, the opportunity came and now they have recently adopted seven-year-old Kylen, six-year-old Kira, three-year-old Kalah, two-year-old Kalvin, and and nine week old Kameron.
The Kundert's are involved with their church and they both like helping people. "Without the love that god has put into my heart, I would not have done it," stated Kundert about his new family. All of the siblings are of Swedish Heritage. The Kundert's adopted these youngsters through the help of a program called P.R.I.D.E. (which stands for Parent Resources for Information, Development, and Education).
They have received a lot of help and support from friends at their local church as well as teachers, students, and all of the other administrators at Colton High School. "I definitely recommend adoption for those who would like to, because yes you do lose a lot of time, but it is all worth it in the end because of the kids," says Kundert happily.
The children, from the High Desert, were originally taken out of their home due to unhealthy living conditions. "I would like to say thanks to all of the faculty at Colton High School. I see it as a blessing, and we (Jan and I) have gotten the most joy out of it." Kundert also stated that "the more you give to others, the more you will be blessed in return."
You can go by and visit Ben Kundert at Colton High School in Room 102. If you do not know where that is, it is near the band, art, choir, and Pepper Bough Newspaper Classroom.
Most Embarrassing Moments
By Veronica Sanchez
March 29, 2002
Everyone remembers his or her most embarrassing moment(s), where your face turns so red and you just want to kill yourself. People's most embarrassing moments vary from you falling on your face in front of a lot of people followed by a burst of laughter, to where someone at school pulls down your pants in gym class. Here at Colton High students like to share their moments with friends about what happened to them so that they can get a good laugh about it. When your most embarrassing moment occurs, is when you're around a lot of people that you know, and you know that you will not hear the end of it from your friends. They will keep on talking and talking about it and they will never let you forget it. Here are some stories that I got from students here on campus:
"My most embarrassing moment was this year at a football game. The cheerleaders were throwing out those little footballs. My friends and I were all screaming for one, but they seemed to be going to everyone around us. While I was standing on the bleacher and the ball was coming straight at me. I thought I could catch it, but then I suddenly slipped. It was so funny, but what made it so embarrassing was that I fell in front of a guy that I use to like. But it's ok because I got the ball and now I can look back and laugh." Josephine Guisa (Senior)
"My most embarrassing moment is when my grandma took me shopping for underwear at Mervyns. Grandmas are the most loved peoples in the whole world, but this day I didn't' show much love. When I had walked in I noticed a hot chick, that I met eyes with as we walked by each other. Of course I put my " I think I'm the best" look on my face. She walked around the whole store before I saw her again. She went down the isle, and I was prepared to talk to her when my grandma shouted out " Mijo you want Hanes?" My mouth fell opened. She looked at me then looked at my grandma who was holding a pair of "thun-dudun's" (underwear butt huggers that you come out of the dressing rooms like Superman saying than-dudun), right behind me, she giggled and said bye!" Mark Lemus (Freshman)
"My most embarrassing moment was when I was at a Nickelback concert, and they just had finish a song. They were throwing pictures out to the crowd and I was yelling, screaming and waving my hand to catch one. Well instead of using my hands to catch it I used my face. Those little things hurt, but I still have it." Audrie Wiscowiche (Senior)
"In sixth grade during our play day I was in a race with a few other girls and right after we took off I fell flat on my face in front of our whole school. It was so embarrassing. Some of my friends still talk about it." Sarah Leon (Senior)
"My most embarrassing moment is when I was in seventh grade P.E. class. I had decided to free ball that day while I was in P.E. I was playing basketball as I usually do, and right when I was going to shoot a three pointer, one of my friends came behind me and completely pulled down my P.E. shorts. I was left completely hanging free for everyone to see. That whole year I was known as Mr. Free ball." Joshua Cole (Freshman)
"It was about sophomore year, and I was riding the bus after school. While I was getting off, I slipped and fell on my butt. I felt so embarrassed." Michelle Aspiazu (Senior)
"About a month and a half ago, me and a couple of friends were partying. We were all having fun, and laughing. But I had too much to drink, and as we were sitting down talking, I tried to get up and but I fell down and all my friends started laughing at me. Then they walked me inside, and again, I fell as I tired to make it to the bathroom. I hit my face on the sink, and the next day I woke up with a bump on my face. Till this day, they still bring it up, and laugh about it." Claudia Alba (Senior)
"In tenth grade me and few of my friends were at lunch and we were just standing around like we always do. When we were talking I had seen something white fly bye. I looked down on the floor on my shoes and didn't see anything, but when I looked on sweater, there it was a big pile of poop. I covered it with my arm so no one will see. I looked for a tissue to wipe it off, but I couldn't find one. So I wiped it off with my hand, and then I told one of my friends to come with me to the restroom, so I can wash my hands and clean my sweater. Even though no one saw it was still pretty embarrassing." Irene Silva (Senior)
Rules for teaching about sex in Colton: don't
By Narmin Shahin
March 29, 2002
We have all been studying sex education since about fifth grade in elementary school. Do you ever wonder why all of a sudden in high school we stopped? This is the stage in our lives where we need the most to know about the dangers of sex and the outcomes of it all. According to Assistant Principal Pam Pike "As far as I know the school believes it's the homes responsibility to teach this subject". Although it is the problem of the home if something happens to these students, we do share in the responsibility by allowing an infant center in our school. Students even have classes where they feed and change these babies. Our school teaches the responsibility of caring for a baby, but not the responsibility as not to have one.
There have been numerous attempts by teachers and clubs to have classes available and assemblies dedicated to this subject. The district has shot them all down because they don't want to get involved in the problem. Ignoring the problem does not make it go away; obviously not having those classes available is only increasing our teenage pregnancies. School's all across southern California have already come across this problem and have made a list of policies that allow students to get sexual education at school. Our school policies aren't even available; no one knows what they are or who knows about them. We are supposed to be learning this in our science classes, but so far there has been no evidence of that. It is a frequently conversed subject among teens and for our school to ignore that it exists only makes more teens less aware of the hazards and more wanting to give it a try.
Some solutions include addressing the problem by at least making it available to students who want to know. Or even recognizing that there is a problem and it isn't' just going to go away. Students are supposed to be sent to the nurse if they have any questions, but the nurse is limited to what she can do or say. Studies have shown that the rates of teen pregnancies decrease with protection. Of course, if it is available.
Spring Break Survey
By Ryan Rivera
March 29, 2002
For some, spring break is a time full of partying and hanging out with friends. For others, it's going to a party everyday and going to the beach to meet new people. Spring break can be fun to many either way they decide to spend it. There are various options for things you can do. You can also prefer to stay home and catch up on sleep and TV shows. Spring break is known for beach goers and partiers and I bet this year, it will live up to its long, long tradition.
Senior Raquel Radford- "I will probably go to the river and have fun with a few friends."
Juniors Brenda Ureno, Tiahna Porter, and Loan Nguyen- "We plan on going to Magic Mountain and ditching Brenda. Initially it was supposed to be me and loan, but Brenda overheard so we asked her for her car."
Freshman Travis Boyd- "I'm going to chill with my girlfriend and go to the beach with her and her friends."
Sophomore Nicole Hebert- "I'm going to go to the beach with my best friend Natalie and go surfing."
Stupid and Unusual Laws
By Victor Valdez
March 29, 2002
There are many school rules that we may think are stupid. In this country there even stupider laws that are in effect in some states. I searched for dumb laws in each state. I picked the ones I think are dumb or don't make sense to have or ones that many people won't have problems with. There where plenty more then the ones I picked. Please note that while many of these laws are archaic and rarely if ever enforced, they are all still on the law books. So beware!
In Alabama putting salt on a railroad track is punishable by death. In Alaska, moose may not be viewed from a plane. In Arizona, it is unlawful to refuse a glass of water to a person. In Arkansas, a man can legally beat his wife (but not more than once a month.) In California, women may not drive in a housecoat. In Colorado, car dealers are not allowed to sell cars on Sundays. In Connecticut, you may be stopped for biking over 65 miles per hour.
In Delaware, it is illegal to fly over water unless you have enough food and water. In Florida, it is illegal to skateboard without a license. In Georgia, signs are required to be in English. In Hawaii, all residents may be fined if they do not own a boat. In Idaho, you may not fish on a camel's back. In Illinois, the English language is not to be spoken. In Indiana, baths may not be taken from October through March. And watch out all you lovers: because in Iowa, kisses may not be more than five minutes long.
In Kansas, if two trains meet on the same track, one may not proceed until the other has passed. (Say what?) In Kentucky, lizards may not be used in church services. In Louisiana, it is illegal to gargle in public. In Maine, you may not step out of a plane in flight. (Smart thinking, huh?) In Maryland, thistles may not grow in your yard. In Massachusetts, Quakers and witches are banned.
In Michigan, a woman may not cut her hair without her husband's permission. In Minnesota, it is illegal to sleep naked. In Mississippi, cattle rustling is punishable by hanging. In Missouri, single men between 21 and 50 must pay a tax of one dollar. In Montana, it is a felony for a wife to open her husbands' mail. In Nebraska, if a child burps during church his parents may be arrested. In Nevada, it is illegal to drive a camel on the highway. In New Hampshire, you may not run machinery on Sundays.
In New Jersey, it is against the law to frown at a cop. In New Mexico, state officials ordered 400 words to be cut from Romeo and Juliet because they were thought to be sexually explicit. In New York, it is illegal to throw a ball at someone's head for fun. It North Carolina, it is against the law to sing off key. In North Dakota, it is illegal to sleep with your shoes on. In Ohio it is illegal to get a fish drunk. (Say, Mr. Catfish, how about another beer?)
It Oklahoma, it is illegal to hunt whales. (When was the last time you saw a whale in Oklahoma? I guess they were all hunted into extinction!) In Oregon, it is illegal for you to pump your own gas. In Pennsylvania, you may not sing in the bathtub. (How could anyone tell?) In Rhode Island, it is illegal to challenge someone or accept his or her duel. In South Carolina, it is an offense to get a tattoo. Metal bands, stay out of that state. South Dakota, it is illegal to fall asleep in a cheese factory. In Tennessee, driving is not to be done while sleeping.
In Texas, it is illegal to shot a buffalo from a second story of a hotel building. (Is the first floor okay?) In Utah, it is illegal not to drink milk. In Vermont, it is illegal to deny the existence of God. In Virginia, it is illegal to spit on the sidewalk. In Washington, all lollipops are banned. In West Virginia, whistling under water is prohibited. In Wisconsin, it is illegal to kiss on a train.
Those are all laws for each state. None were made up. All these laws no matter how dumb they sound are true. For more dumb laws, go on the Internet and search for them. You would be surprised at how many stupid laws really exist.
Sun Honors Students
By Andrew Quiroz
March 29, 2002
Six Colton High School Yellow Jackets received Honorable Mention from the San Bernardino County Sun and some sports at Colton High School. Jennifer Goodward, Mark Vingua, Kelly Teeter, Stephanie Flynn, Lucy Sanchez, and Ryan Ward were honored by the Sun as its "scholar of the week." Christina Zamora also received Honorable Mention from the Water Polo Team at Colton High School. Counselor Sharon Halter-Day who nominated the students, also knows them as "very well-rounded SUPER students."
This program was also specified to honor students for their community involvement, academic success, and volunteer work. Each school is asked to nominate one student that will represent that school. Arrowhead Credit Union also sponsors this program.
Senior Jennifer Goodward has a 4.229 Grade Point Average. Most of her classmates refer to her as "Jenna." Jenna actively participates in the California Scholarship Federation and the National Honor Society where she is a current member.
Senior Mark Vingua has a 3.978 GPA. He is very active as the quarterback for the football team.
Senior Kelly Teeter has a 4.026 GPA. She is very involved with Academic Decathlon. She is the President of it and she recently recited a speech for the Colton Kiwanis Club in which she was presented a $50.00 check.
Senior Stephanie Flynn she has a 4.016 GPA. She participates in Academic Decathlon. She also keeps herself busy, as she is very active in soccer and volleyball.
Senior Lucy Sanchez has a 4.012 GPA. She is a member of Key Club where she serves as Co-Historian. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation. Lucy also plays track and field for Colton High School.
Senior Christina Zamora also received Honorable Mention from the Yellow Jacket Water Polo Team and she has a 3.80GPA. Zamora is also in Renaissance and has previously been selected to be in the Fall Homecoming Court. Christina also plans to go to a Junior College, preferably San Bernardino Valley College, where she will study to be a nurse as she goes to pursue her career in the medical field.
The High Cost of Belonging
By Kenisha Jones
March 29, 2002
Here at Colton high school money seems to be no object. If you want to be in a sport, a club, or an activity, you must deal with the cost. Cheerleaders, football players and club members all tend to agree. Rebecca "Raylene" Carrillo of the water polo team gave the sport a second thought before joining the team. "When I saw my practice uniform I thought it was too much," says Carrillo. However she has decided she will keep the sport all through high school.
Ruben Salazar of the football team did not think twice about joining the team. "I thought I would have to pay at least one hundred dollars," says Salazar. To his surprise the uniform ,which is also called a spirit pack, was only fifty dollars.
Some sports cost even less to join. Katie Weening of the wrestling team was more than comfortable with paying the price of only fourteen dollars for her uniform, even though she did plan to spend more. "I get great use out of my uniform, I could wear it to bed," says Weening.
However, other sports cost a whole lot more to join. Cheerleading, for example, costs up to $1,275 plus an extra $200 for other expenses. "It's worth it because once you've shown dedication you get to go to competitions" says Erica Fuerte of the cheerleading squad.
First year ASB leader Chris Burner seems to be alright with the cost of all ASB events since he could have fundraisers and donations to pay for any expenses. "The money is not supplied by the school so we get the money by doing fundraisers," says Burner. It is obvious why he cannot just give up the money out of his own pocket, paying for cards for each student, which costs twenty dollars each, shirts and jackets, which costs up to one hundred ten dollars, and conferences that costs thirty five dollars per student.
So, it seems the old cliche still holds true: if you wanna play, you gotta pay. The education may still be free, but the extras still cost money. That part of high school life probably won't ever change.
The Wild Thing: Should We or Shouldn't We?
By Ryan Rivera
March 29, 2002
Many of you Yellowjackets may be fooled into having sex by feelings that they think is love. But is it really? What is true love? Many may feel as though they have to have sex in order to keep their boyfriend/girlfriend by their side. Many couples can be seen holding hands or even kissing during passing periods or when ever they have the chance to see each other. Basically, every place you look, you can see two people that like one another and think they're in love. But little do they know, that what they feel about their partner may in fact be a feeling that is totally different.
Now a days, you see many young teenagers carrying babies around campus. If you personally don't know a teen who has a baby, you probably know one of their friends. A couple may think it's fun to have sex or that it's no big deal, but what they are really doing is setting themselves up for a long road ahead of them. Using a contraceptive while having sex may prevent any diseases or pregnancies, but you have got to stop and ask yourself "is what I'm doing right?"
Peer pressure may also be the reason so many students are having sex at such an early age. Some may feel that if you're not having sex by the time you graduate, than you're not cool or that you may get picked on by others that have already have had sex. When girls see their friends' babies, there's always two lines that I hear repeated over and over, "Oh I want a baby. They're so cute!" Those girls' boyfriends will almost never refuse the offer to have sex. A CHS student who is to remain nameless stated, "I think it's ok for two people to have sex if they both know that they are in love and have together for a long time. If two people have only been together for only a week, than it's not ok."
Love is a very strong emotion and one that shouldn't be tampered with. From my own personal experiences, I can say that two people can't possibly say that they love each other if they have been together for less than six months. Some people may argue and say that it's love at first sight, but is that just an excuse to have sex?
A relationship is something that develops over time. As days pass, you have the opportunity to get to know your boyfriend/girlfriend a little better. Junior Jennifer Medrano explained, "I think two people should be able to have sex if they're definitely in love and they both know it. But be careful because you might not be ready for what comes out of it." A person may feel that they love their significant other, but really they are feelings of happiness. It takes months and even years for some to know almost everything about the other person. Yeah, the issue of sex will come up very often and more so as the relationship progresses. But once again: what is true love and should it wait? That is a question that each and every person will have to answer on their own. If you decide to have sex, ask yourself two little questions, "is this what I really want?" and "am I really in love?" Maybe true love should wait because then it would make that one night even more special knowing that you waited. You control your future by the decisions you make while you are in high school. It's your choice if you decide to have sex, but remember the consequences!
Believers club keeping the faith
By Kerry Ortloff
March 29, 2002
There are many different and interesting clubs here at Colton High School. Proud to be among them is the Believers Club. The believers club, as the name suggests, is about believing in God. It is a nondenominational Christian group. The club meets every Tuesday after school in room 203, with their advisor Mr. Wheatley. There, they plan important events or activities for the up coming months. The biggest activity they organize is the "See you at the pole" gathering every September. "See you at the pole", consist of many Colton High students meeting at the flagpole in front of the school for a group prayer. The believers club is also hoping to arrange for an assembly sometime in the future.
The Believers Club also meets at lunch every Thursday to discuss Christianity. Every week a different member teaches the rest a lesson from the bible. President Jerry Ayala states, "We relate current teen issues and problems to teachings from the bible." They also have a group prayer, where they pray for lots of different people and especially Colton High School.
If you are interested in joining the believers club, it is recommended that you speak with either Mr. Wheatley or Jerry Ayala.
So if you enjoy learning new things, and want to meet new people, and make new friends, think about joining the Believers Club with all its exciting possibilities.
Brandy CD Review
Leticia Zamora
March 29, 2002
Brandy's latest album, Full Moon, was not only well worth the three-year wait, but is also getting the attention it deserves.
Now 23, Brandy is much more mature, and after a three-year pause has never sounded better. From her platinum albums, hit singles, awards, television, and movies; Brandy keeps proving time and time again that she too can keep up with the fast changing times.
Full Moon is definitely a twist from the norm for Brandy. Rather than singing with the mechanical beats, she sings against them. This album, as opposed to her last one Never Say Never, is much more high tech and was a tremendously bigger budget.
From tunes that bounce and hop like a malfunctioning robot to the shimmering ballads, Full Moon sounds like nothing else on radio. Ironically, that is where it's strength lies.
Brandy fans, if you're expecting more of the same from her, prepare to be disappointed. Wherever it is that the diva is drawing her inspiration from, she has never sounded better.
Emo? What the heck is Emo?
By Heather Weppler
March 29, 2002A new type of sound is sweeping Colton High! What's this new sound you ask? It's called Emo. Yeah that's right Emo, pronounced E-mo. Emo is a soft rock with more feeling than distortion. Emo has a laid back sound that a lot of people seem to be clinging to; the music has a smooth yet powerful vibration for the soul. Junior Nick Taylor says "I like Emo because of just the emotion behind it, Emo can put you in the greatest state of mind."
There may have been a time when you've gotten a flyer for some random show (concert) of some band that you've never heard of. Well you know some of those "small bands" are pretty good, and some of them happen to be Emo. Emo comes from the word emotional. The music was named this because of the intense emotion in all of the music.
Some Emo bands include: Noise Ratchet, Dashboard Confessional and The Juliana Theory. All of these bands have more than what it takes to be considered Emo; They defiantly know how to rock out. They take music and put their heart and soul into it. They bring you more than music they bring you feeling. Everything that they put into the music comes right back out and into the who ever may be listening to it.
So you may be wondering how Emo music originated. Well it all started when the whole DC hardcore scene started to fade, Musicians didn't know where to turn for a new kind of sound that would draw in the crowds. In 1984, a band named Rites Of Spring, which was a punk type band, threw some low-key vocals into the mix and threaded they're songs with emotion, which happened to be a real crowd pleaser. Thus began Emo. The style of Emo music covers a lot of bases. It can range anywhere Saves The Day to Further Seems Forever to The Get Up Kids.
Resident Evil Movie Review
By Melissa McElroy
March 29, 2002
Based on a popular video game, Resident Evil, is a newly released suspense thriller. The film's characters Alice (Milla Jovinch) and Rain (Michelle Rodriguez) as the leaders of a commando team who must break into "the hive," a vast underground genetics laboratory operated by the powerful Umbrella corporation. There, a deadly virus has been unleashed, killing the lab's personnel and resurrecting them as evil undead. The team that went down there only has three hours to shut down the lab's super computer and close the facilty before the virus overruns the earth.
When the team got down there they found Alice, she had a memory loss. Then they found one other person he had a memory loss as well. Well while they were all in there the whole time they where getting attacked by zombies, practically the whole team had died form the zombies. About three of the team members were going through a locked hall to go to where the queen was monitored, as they where going through there they where getting hit by laser beems, it got crazy; they where fighting not to get hit by them, they where trying to duck under and jump over, but finally the laser beems just went everywhere in there . They all died in pieces. Then later in the movie another person died, when he betrated his team, by locking them in a room where they couldn't get out, they would just die in there. He did it because he had what would cure the virus, he planned it, he knew where it was the whole time. When he went to go get it he got attacked by a huge animal that was all bloody that you can see its bones. So that guy didn't get the cure to the virus. Resident Evil was full of action and the special effects were incredible. The movie kept you on the edge of your seat. And the zombies sure looked creepy, like blood and bones. If you like your films grusome, you'll love Resident Evil.
It's rated R so parental discretion is advised. You wouldn't want to see zombies unless you're at least 17, right?
Restrooms…Are they ever clean??
By Sandy brown and Jenny Orozco
March 29, 2002
Imagine walking into a bathroom and seeing dirty floors, tagged up walls and stalls, no paper towels, soap and especially no toilet paper and no toilet seat covers. Well that's the scene here in the girls restrooms at Colton. Almost every time you even walk into the restroom you'll notice there is no soap or paper towels, but whats worse is to realize theres no toilet paper or seat covers, thats not what a girl wants to seewhen she needs to go to the restroom. The boys restrooms aren't any better I don't think anybody wants to use a restroom that smells like urine. We only have a seven minute break between each class yet that still does not give us enough time to collect what we need from each restroom just to use one.
The lack of sanitary supplies at our school has been out of control and it hasn't just been the lask couple of weeks it's been going on for a long time now . There's been teacher shortages and even book shortages, but toilet paper shortage are ridiculous. The bathroom its self is dirty enough. But to not have toilet paper, seat covers, paper towels, or soap this just makes the problem worse . Sometimes you'll get lucky and there will be one of the five sanitary supplies. Other times the bathroom will not even be open .
It seems like problems at this school only get solved when many complaints are made or when it gets out of control and thats not the way it should be Staff members should do something before the problem is even large enough to complain . The school should also focus more on keeping it clean by having a routine bathroom cleaning and supply refill at least three times a week or as much as possible.We doubt that anyones bathroom at home looks like the ones here at school .Students should have a lot more respect for school property and what doesn't belong to them ,Because they aren't the only ones who use the restroom.
Time Machine Movie Review
by Napa Utrapiromsuk
March 29, 2002
Based on the science fiction novel 'The Time Machine' by H.G. Wells, Alexander Hartdegen (Guy Pearce) a teacher at Columbia University in the late 1800's invents a time machine to answer one question (what the question is you have to go see the movie.) The main character, Hartdegen, travels through time going 800,000 years into the future. In his adventures he learns the evolution of man, and meets Mara (Samantha Mumba) a native to the New York in the 800,000's.
Without giving away much of the movie, Mara and Hartdegen grow to care for each other. Everything about this time seems to be perfect, almost too perfect. Hardengen, tires to find out what the abnormally huge creatures are and save a society of people. Most of the things that happen are so UNBELIEVEABLY PREDICTABLE, from the beginning to end that is why it is almost impossible to reviewing this movie without it giving away.
The story is weak and missing originality. 'The Time Machine' has some good jumpy moments, but you leave the theater thinking "Man, if I could go back in time, I wouldn't have paid $5.00 for this stupid movie…ok well, maybe like $0.50." The end is a little confusing, but maybe it was just me. I didn't understand why the huge animals die (sorry I gave it away, but like you didn't know that) and what Hartdengen did when he went back in time in the 700,000's that would later help the people in the future.
Pearce already proving his acting abilites in movies like 'Memento' and 'L.A. Confidential, ' The Time Machine' was not ones of his best performances. Mamba's appearance was very surprisingly good. However, I was constantly expecting her to break out in a singing/dancing scene of "Baby common' over (tonight)." Overall this movie was not worth it, wait till the video comes out!
Warning: Toxic disease spreading
By Kristi Trinidad
March 29, 2002
A teacher once said that every senior gets "senioritis" after spring break. Ah yes, senioritis. Something all seniors talk about and all teachers dread. The majority of students thought the same thing.
"Senioritis is when you get so sick of school and you don't want to come anymore. I think that I'm getting it because I can't wait to graduate and not come to school." -Josephine Guisa
"I think Senioritis is when you don't care about coming to school or doing your work anymore because you are too excited about graduating." -Cristina Garcia
Not everyone is infected with the senioritis bug, which helps out the teaches with their paycheck. Irene Silva stated, "I don't think that I will get senioritis because I'll be too worried that I'll mess up in my classes and I need those classes to graduate and we only have the two and a half months left. All I need is to mess up and not graduate with my class."
Some seniors will try to fight the bug as long and as hard as they possibly can, but some seniors, if they have not already, will be infected. Spring break is right around the corner. I guess we will have to see if the rumor is true, but we wont find out till we all get back.
Have a great spring break seniors! See ya when we get back, well… not really.
X-ecutioners CD Review
Jennifer Montgomery
March 29, 2002
These turntablists formerly know as the X-men, officially became known as the executioners when they made another step up from battle-DJ's to recording artists.
Beginning in 1989, the X-ecutioners signed a deal with Asphodel Records that resulted in 1997's X-pressions. These four New York natives spearheaded the turntablists movement , by taking the classic hip-hop techniques of mixing and cutting into a whole new realm of musical improvisation.
Individually, and as a crew, the four have contributed beats and scratches for some of the most notable hip-hop artists of the generation, including Common, Organized Konfusion, The Jungle Brothers, and the Beatnuts, in addition to numerous appearances on compilations. Now with their switch to Loud Records they finished their second full-length release, Built From Scratch. This new album features numerous guest included Linkin Park, Xzibit, Pharaoh Monch, Everlast, Hnspetah Deck, Mad Skillz, beat boxer Kenny Muhammad, the late Big Pun, Kool G Rap, and even the Tom Tom Club's Tina Weymouth on the classic "Genius of Love."
Yet the best career move turbtablists collective X-ecutioners ever made was hokking up with Linkin Park rapper Mike Shinoda and turntablists Mr. Hahn for "It's going down", the first single from their album. These cut features a fist pumping beat, a buzzsaw guitar sample, Shinoda's boost of energy level collaboration and of course, a dizzying array of scratching from all four of the X-ecutioners. But don't just take my word for it, but your own CD of X-ecutioners, Built From Scratch, today and enjoy the listening experience of the turntablists.
Horoscopes
Brought to you by Madame Cleo (AKA Ashley Jay)
March 29, 2002
Aries 3/21-4/19
Things are looking hopeful. You're ready for something new and exciting. Look towards your family for advice and stay clear of an acquaintances eager opinion. Lucky numbers are: 5-18-23Taurus 4/20-5/20
This last week had its little bumps but your ready to recover. School will give you confidence. Watch out for Virgo, a bad mood is on its way: Lucky numbers are: 8-10-40
Gemini 5/21-6/21
It's your lucky week! Whether it's money, love, or happiness, look out because it's coming your way! Keep your ears open for a hidden message from a friend. Your lucky numbers are: 12-21-19
Cancer 6/22-7/22
A secret lover is in your midsts. This mystery person is not who you expect it to be. Your family seems to be against you, but don't fret, they see what you can't. Your lucky numbers are: 43-55-68
Leo 7/23-8/22
An interesting topic will arise concerning two of your close friends. Stay neutral and all will be well. Your lucky numbers are: 14-52-56
Virgo 8/23-922
You're keeping to yourself this week. Try to venture out. This will lead you a great discovery. You will struggle with something unclear. Your lucky numbers are: 78-11-9Libra 9/23-10/22
Keep up the good work. Your busy drive has helped you prove yourself to someone. A close family member is feeling down. Cheer them up with something thoughtful and you will be rewarded by something unexpected. Your lucky numbers are: 3-89-70Scorpio 10/23-11/21
Stay out of the social scene for a while. Especially at night. Now is the time to get to know some not so close friends. Try to be happy even if you're not showing your true colors. Your lucky numbers are: 1-32-45Sagittarius 11/22-12/23
Something in nature will inspire you to do something charitable. Keep your relationships simple by taking some time for yourself. Your lucky numbers are: 58-73-7Capricorn 12/24-1/19
Advice that's may seem like a good idea at the time will make you miserable in the end. Not much can be said about how to help. Save your self by following with your own instinct. Your lucky numbers are: 9-66-24Aquarius 1/20-2/18
Take comfort in knowing that you're not the only one. Be yourself, or be what you've always wanted to be. Now is a time for pretending or staying true to yourself. Your lucky numbers are: 99-8-19Pisces 2/19-3/20
Stay away form Gemini for a while. Any kind of gossip will lend you in the doghouse. Adjust your mood to the weather. Be defensive if your abilities are challenged. Your lucky numbers are: 3-7-77
Varsity Baseball
by Ashley Ellison
March 29, 2002
We have seen the good, the bad and the ugly of baseball through out the history at Colton High School. Last year the record for Varsity Baseball, while being coached by Chad Bishop, were 11 wins and 7 losses, which granted them a position in the CIF playoffs, but then they lost in the first round game against A.B. Miller.
Hopes for this season remain only good. Varsity Baseball has a new head coach, Peter Ornalas, who expects to do better than first round playoffs and go all the way this year, to win league. "If we keep everybody eligible we could beat Yucaipa and clinch league title," said Coach Ornalas.
The team has a challenging season ahead of them, with games against Yucaipa, Cajon, Pacific, Bloomington, San Bernardino, and the Coachella Valley Tournament, but they can pull it off and win. On the field, the Yellow Jackets are led by captains Steve Martinez, Marcus DeVoe and returning players, seniors Aaron Grant, Richard Rossano and Michael Andrade.
Although varsity baseball started off bad, with losses in a double header against Redlands East Valley and Arlington on Saturday, February 23, Coach Ornalas had good comments about how his team played, "We were short two pitchers, so a couple of pitchers went too long on the pitchers mound, but other than that, they played good and hit the ball well."
Then on March 11, they had their third lost to the defending CIF Champions, South Hills, 7-2. On March 12, some sun broke through the dark rain clouds, and the Yellow Jackets beat Sierra Vista, in an away game, 7-2. The season started on March 14, with a home game against San Gorgonio, which ended in victory, 10-3. On Tuesday, March 19, they will be playing their second league game against San Bernardino, with hopes of victory. Results were not available at press time.
Stay tuned to the next edition of the Pepperbough for continuing coverage
Colton Badminton Making A Racket
By Ashley Jay
March 29, 2002
Badminton is off to a smashing start. As always, the team is showing up and cleaning out.
Coach Guidi says " I don't foresee any loses."
This year is the first year the team has had so many freshmen, says Guidi. Eighteen freshmen have tried out and made the cut. This gives the team a confident look into the future. Not only do these new players have a great opportunity to improve, but also most are already beating other teams top J.V. players. Freshmen, Janie Lintern, Arturo Wibawa, Amanda Carlstrom, and Rebecca Walters, are mentioned to be headed towards the top.
Colton High Seniors, Kristarae Flynn, Tim Fitch, Allan Conrad, and Junior Bayu Setawan are awesome returning players who are dedicated to perfecting their game.
A confident Kristarae Flynn says, "We are hoping for more cometition in League."
This year a new coach graces the team with some fresh experience. Coach Jacob Masherbash- is drilling the team harder than ever. This is the first year I have ever seen the team condition so much. Coach, Ed Matanga is also back to give his expertise. The team is pretty sure that they have the chance to lead league for the next four to five years. This team is pretty sure of itself and should be with a thirty-seven game league win streak and a possible third undefeated reputation.
Softball
By Jennifer Montgomery
March 29, 2002
Over the past few years our Colton High School Varsity softball team has came out strong, winning league several years in a row. Despite the loss of graduating stars, such as Desiree Serrano and Candice Carter, the team is still strong and still has a lot of confidence for this year.
Coaches Joe Montes, Kenny Villalobos, Abel Navarro, Rob King and Ron Roque are bringing their softball team out strong again this year. With a total of seven games played, they won five and lost two. "We played surprisingly well considering we lost Serrano," says Montes. The new pitchers this year are Rozz Rios and Heather Jacobson who are ready to take the Yellowjackets on another winning streak. "I'm very pleased with Rio's and Jacobson's performance so far, and I am very confident that our team can take it all the way this year," says Montes.
Four-year varsity softball player Shannon Garcia is also confident in her team as well. "I believe we will come out strong and be undefeated this year. Rozz is a very strong pitcher and I know we will do well with her."
For the weeks ahead the softball team has many more games to play and win. Check out their schedule to you can come watch them play and root them on as they make their way through to being number one.
Swim Team
By Raylene Carrillo
March 29, 2002Colton High's swim team has not done so well in the beginning of this season. So far they are winless. They have had four meets in this season and one being with champion swimmers San Bernardino High School. Hopefully they will have better luck with the next eight meets they have left for this season.
Most of the varsity swimmers have been swimming through out their years at Colton High and have been swimming since they were very young. Junior Melissa Nicks is one of the girl's varsity swimmers. Melissa is on the swim team because in her opinion it's very fun yet very challenging. " We might not be the best in the league, but we definitely have the best personalities," Melissa proudly says.
Senior Monica Hernandez another varsity swimmer has been swimming for three years. She is on the swim team because she likes the competitiveness of the sport. Monica also likes being challenged by other schools because no matter how good you are you can always be better. Monica likes having Coach Vickers as a coach because he "forces the team to do their best." Both Monica and Melissa are the team's best swimmers.
Junior Jeff Slaczka has been on the swim team and on boy's varsity for three years. He joined the swim team to shape up for water polo and has been swimming ever since. One of the things he likes about swimming more than water polo is that it is not so much a contact sport; it is more individual.
Chad Cunningham is another varsity swimmer and has also been on the swim team for three years. He started the swim team his freshman year, to get in shape for water polo. Chad likes being on the swim team because it is a very competitive sport. He likes challenging the other schools. Chad and Jeff are the top two swimmers on the swim team.
Tennis Anyone?
By Marisa Cortez
March 29, 2002Boys tennis has began and they're sure to have a great year. Coach Terry Urban believes they will come in fifth or sixth place in league, which is a great accomplishment. The team is lead by their two captains, Tim McGinnes and Jake Magnant. They have three returning players and twenty new. Because of the amount of new players the coach feels they had some basic fundamental skills to work on. "They're improving tremendously," he commented. The team is having a lot of fun this season and hope for it to continue. They seem to all love the game and want to resume trying their hardest and hoping for the best. They feel that this is the most important thing.
Thus far the boys are 1-8, winning against Arroyo Valley. Their next match is Monday, April 8 against San G.
Coach Urban thinks this will be their most challenging team to face. However he doesn't seem to be worried about it much. He appears to be very confident in his team's abilities. Junior Narmin Shahin says, "Be sure to go see the team play and support your school."
Erik DeMone has Happy Feet
By Raylene Carrillo
March 29, 2002
This year Junior Erik DeMone returns to his second year of track as a varsity runner. He has joined track because it keeps him in shape. He likes to run, it has been a hobby of his for some time.
Last year Erik's events in track were the 100 and 200-meter race. This year he is running the 100, 200 and 400 meter run. Erik is one of the ten sprinters on the team. This season the track team is going to be competing against ten schools .
Erik practices everyday after school until 3:30 or 4:00. He practices at the school's track. For practice Erik's coach Mr. Weeks, has him run up and down the stadium stairs. Then Erik practices his running events. Some days Mr. Weeks has him lift weights to strengthen his legs. Track is a very physically demanding sport. But it keeps Erik in shape. "Join track because we need people desperately! Its not too late," says Erik.
When Erik isn't running he scuba dives and rides his bike. Some other hobbies of his is reading, hanging out with friends and playing the guitar. On the weekends he works with his uncle at a construction job. He collects ninja turtle action figures. His idle is Homer Simpson, "he is cool, I want to be just like him," says Erik. That's why his favorite TV show is the Simpson's. When Erik was 13 years old he ran a two-mile marathon. Since then he has been running.