Issue of May 21st, 2004
Volume 87 No. 12
Click on a story link to view that story
News
John Kerry visits campus
Boys State
School construction plods along
Opinions
Changing faces of America
Do we need a dress code? NO
Do we need a dress code? YES
Letter to the Editor: Hookah Bar story irresponsible
Editor's response to Letter to the Editor
Our Principal RAWKS
Parking at Hubbs Gym
Women can jump, too
Features
Anyone for an eyelash perm?
Coming to America (column)
Horoscopes by Madamme Sandie
Internet woes
The Purple Tea Room
Summer shines down again
Summer heats up with new concert tours
National Honor Society news
Bodybuilding Club lights up campus
Sports
Badminton
Baseball
Boys Tennis/Golf
Softball
Swimming
Track
Boy's State: Going on up to the Capital and Beyond
by Sarah Hofman
May 21, 2004" Boy's State was founded to encourage and develop a deeper interest in and study the problems of government beyond what the boys get in high schools today." Is the history found in the packets that are handed out to the boys of Boy's State. Boy's State is a program sponsored and created by the American Legion. It is a grueling process of interviews and paper work. But to the finalist of Colton High School, Juniors Paul Heredia and Mark Saldana it is a worth wild process. " I thought it would be a good experience to learn more about our government, and experience the political life."
Experiencing the political life is just what Heredia and Saldana will be doing. They are going to go up to the state capital in July along with other California high school juniors. While there they will get to meet state legislators. " I'm excited to get world experience and meet politicians," said Saldana. They will then take what they learned and govern their own city and be judged and which ever city does the best will then have the chance to go to nationals in Washington D.C. But it is not a walk in the park.
When asked what the hardest part is going to be Heredia said keeping the right mind set for an entire week and how much he can handle the politics. Although it will be a lot of hard tasks and learning, the boys of Boy's State take away a lot of knowledge of politics that could help them to one day be in office.
Drilling and hammering--when will it stop? School construction plods along
by Lauren Young
May 21, 2004
As you have probably seen lately they are doing a lot of construction around school campus. The student parking lot which a lot of the student drivers are upset about is undergoing the most construction. "It is making school improvement, it shows growth," states Assistant Principal Lynne Sheffield. "And even though people are a little frustrated about it right now everybody wants to see something new." The parking lot construction is for new portable classrooms, because next year we will be getting a whole lot more of students. The other project is the over on the football field. This school is very old and we really enjoy going out and watching the football team so it would be nice to see a new field for our guys to play on. Even though they have been working on the field since before 1st semester was over they are making progress. And it was guaranteed to the school that the field will be done before this year's graduation. The construction is not trying to create problems, it is trying to reduce them, and as far as where the student drivers park now this might become a permanent thing; they have to wait and see.
Presidential Candidate John Kerry visits campus
News media, secret service swarm over campus; protestors fill streets in front of
Schoolby Elysa Arroyo and Michelle Choiselat
May 21, 2004Coltonians everywhere were both shocked, yet highly appreciative, when Senator John Kerry, the presidential candidate for the Democratic Party, decided to give a speech regarding his plans for education and economics The senator came in response to a request letter written by the AP Principles of Democracy classes on the campus. Despite the anti-Kerry sentiment on the corner of Rancho and Valley, and even amongst some teachers at Colton High School, his visit will be remembered throughout Colton history.
Senator Kerry granted a lucky group of approximately 49 AP History and Economics students the chance to ask him some questions. Despite the stereotypical apathy teenagers have towards politics, the senator was not dealing with that type of student. Those lucky few took advantage of their chance to ask the candidate some probing questions and were more than willing to hear his answers. Upon finding out just who would be asking the questions, Kerry joked, "Oh, I'm in trouble."
He answered a few questions about different subjects, such as what he would do about the salaries of regular people, about the medals that his fellow veterans want to take from him, and his opinion on sexism in the constitution. Junior Mark Saldana would be the first to ask his question, which regarded raising pay for federal workers. Rather than just answer the question simply, the senator elaborated on his programs to fund education and to make it a lot easier on parents' wallets. He proposed his ""College Opportunity Tax Credit" program, which provides a credit for each and every year of college on the first $4,000 paid in tuition - the typical tuition and fees at a university. This tax credit is refundable for those who cannot afford the high prices of college tuition. He also proposed to stop rising college tuitions with his "State Tax Relief and Education Fund."
Junior Krissy Hazelrigg, wearing an anti-Bush propaganda shirt, took a different approach on asking Kerry a question. She took a civil rights point of view. She asked, "Some cite gender equality in the 19th amendment, however the very formation of America seemed to reject women. Do you believe that we've reached full equality in the state?'" It was in this question that the students were able to see his personal beliefs, rather than solely his plans. He reiterated on the various marches he had been involved in for woman's equality, and felt that the Bush Administration is, in fact, moving backwards in the fight for woman's equality. "There are things we still have to fight for," he stated.
To liven things up, and make sure that there was a good deal of publicity, Kerry brought along Sean Astin. Sean Astin played Samwise Gamgee in the Lord of The Rings trilogy as well as Rudy in the film "Rudy." Mistakenly, Astin was introduced as Frodo before the speech began.
Due to some tardiness on the senator's part, the scheduled 40-minute conference was reduced to 20 minutes and both he and the students were rushed to the Whitmer Auditorium to listen to his speech on education and economics. Very few people were allowed inside and a select few students and teachers were allowed on stage. The speech began with comments on the war in Iraq and the photos of Iraqi prisoners being tortured.
"The pain and the shame we feel looking at these images is the understanding that this is not who we are; that this is not what we stand for, and that we are seeing things that contradict everything that the brave men and women of the armed forces of the United States of America are fighting to defend," he said. He also promised that he would not be the last to know of what is going on in his command and "demands accountability for those who serve and will take responsibility for their actions."
The educational and economical aspects of the speech included his plan for rising teacher pay as well as reducing the costs of college tuition. Kerry let everyone in the auditorium know that education and 'young people' are his priority, because those things are the things that the future depends on. He felt that the "No Child Left Behind" policy instated during the Bush Administration, was extremely under funded and neglected. He proposed to pay off student loans for those planning to become a teacher so that they can afford to become teachers. He also proposed to raise salaries of teachers, rebuild crumbling schools and reduce class sizes, all of which are things that are desperately needed by many of the schools in Southern California, at the very least. He believes that teaching careers should be taken more seriously. "I believe that we need to offer teachers more pay, more training, more career choices and more options for education, and we must ask for more in return," said Kerry, "I believe it is time, long since time, that we honor that profession not in words, but in deeds."
Changing faces of America
by Julia Arenas
May 21, 2004Technology has once again taken out breaths away. There is a new surgery for people. For their feet. And it has nothing to do with health reasons. This surgery is for people who want to wear designer shoes, and have the perfect foot. This is ridiculous! We can have a surgery for people with imperfect feet, and yet people are dying from all kinds of diseases. Is it that we don't have enough to do that we need to find a way for every one to have some kind of plastic surgery? The majority of the people that are having this done are women. Why do women feel that they need to change everything about themselves, appearance wise? The way you were made is the person you are. Physically, mentally, and spiritually. Everything was made, or done for a reason. If you feel inadequate about yourself, then you need to work through them, instead getting a new body. That is not the way to go. You may think this is the best thing for you to look younger, and sexier, and voluptuous, but you will pay later. Ironically, you will age faster than what you would if you hadn't done anything in the first place. Plastic surgery is like putting fake nails on. You have to update every so often to keep it looking new. Who wants to keep going under the knife? Or is it like drugs? Once you've done it, you can't stop? I can't understand why anyone would think so badly of themselves that they would risk their lives on the operating table. There are so many things that could go wrong, and not to mention bacteria. Though the risk is little more than slight, I would not go under for something as frivolous as changing face, or feet.
What I can understand is if you have a giant mole, or a scar, or really, really ugly feet. If a little imperfection is ruining your life, to the point that you feel insecure, and have isolated yourself because you dread what people might say or do, then I can understand how they feel. Insecurities are a horrible thing to deal with, and can feel like you aren't a real person because there is someone prettier or taller, or skinnier. But that is who you are, that is what makes you different from that girl or guy over there.
But what people don't realize is, most insecurities can be dealt with, and worked through. Its not a quick fix, and takes time to deal with your own security. But instead of jumping on that table and changing your whole life, think about why that imperfection was made. It may not be significant to you, but why would you be who you are if you weren't meant to be like that? Obviously you are who you are because someone thinks you're important enough to stand on this earth.
Con- Should we even HAVE a dress code?
Heck, no!
James Walker, Senior
May 21, 2004Dress code? Plainly stated, dress codes really suck. I was recently at a school with a strict dress code: solid color polo t-shirts, pants only, and tennis shoes only. Can you imagine that? Everyone looked alike; there was no individuality! Without the brands or freedom of choice in the matter it was hard to tell what kind of person everyone was and thus people ended up in a good many fights. It was just ridiculous for a small Texas town to put so many restrictions on what people could wear. Of course, the cause for it wasn't objectable. The reason for the dress code was to eliminate cliques, gangs, and stop discrimation by class. But it wasn't needed in a place as small and peaceful as Dickinson, Texas, nor did it work. And there is not really a reason for it here either. They have banned professional logos and a great many things like that because of possible gang affiliation or content, not to mention crazed advocates of one or the other, but have they thought about restricting colors? Colors are a major symbol of association of a great many things. People wear an assortment of colors in many combos to show support for stuff that they like, and these tip people off better than actual logos (Which can just show minor support). But are they going to ban certain colors? Of course not, and in the time that they aren't banning more significant things people are losing the right to be who they want to be and support what they want to support. It's an outrage and it's slightly discriminatory! So do I support the dress code? No, and nor do I support anything that obstructs people from being themselves. Besides, if you don't want people to do and/or wear things you don't like you should just try to brainwash them at an earlier age instead.
Pro- Should we even HAVE a dress code?
Sure we should!
Samantha Coulter, Senior
May 21, 2004You're walking through the school and all of sudden a teacher, assistant principal, or any other administrator yells "Dress Code." Yes, I know it sucks having to walk all the way to boon docks to get a piece paper that your parents have to sign for dress code. But, you shouldn't have dressed that way and you wouldn't have gotten a violation. I feel that dress code is good thing because we can't have girls walking around half naked because it will cause a distraction to these teenage boys with raging hormones. The teenage boys won't be able to learn because they will be too busy staring at these half naked girls. Dress code is also good thing because this is Colton and we do have gangs and we banned sports jerseys because of that. That way it will stop some rivalry between the gangs. It also good because sometimes boy wear their pants too low so it's hard for them to run to class when they need too. I know some people express themselves in what they wear, but you can still express by not being half naked and wearing your pants below the knee. Girls can still be cute by covering up; they don't need to flaunt everything they've got. Yes, I know it is getting hot and you want to wear a halter top and tube top, but you can wear a cute little tank top and still keep cool. Guys: you can pull up your pants just a little bit. Dress code is a good thing in so many ways; it helps young boys concentrate on their studies so they're not staring at half naked girls; it helps control gang activity, and when boys run to class they won't trip and fall because their pants are too low. So do I support the dresscode policy? Yes I do, it keep things in order, and if we let kids wear what they wanted then there would just be chaos.
Letter to the Editor: Hookah Bar story was irresponsible
by Vanessa Hill, sophomore
May 21, 2004
Dear Editor:
I'm writing in regards to the article by Sara Robbin titled 'Put'n in my time at the Hookah Bar' (May 7th). While I understand the point behind her story was just to inform us and give us some insight as to what she does, I couldn't help but feel offended when I read the article. I felt as if she was advertising the Hookah Bar, which really is no place for a high school student to be.
Personally, I have never been to the Hookah Bar, but I know many people who have. We all know that people, usually high school teens, go there to smoke and hang out with their friends, but a big majority of these people aren't even 18 years old. The last time I checked the legal age to buy and smoke cigarettes or tobacco is 18 years old. And I'm guessing the Hookah Bar does not card everyone because they are getting business and that's all they want. Aside from all of that, I felt that the writer was advertising this place to all the kids on campus. I'm sure that wasn't her intention, but myself and a lot of others felt that she was bragging about working there, or just being there period.
The picture with the article was also indecent. It made the people in it look really young and happy, while at the same time, making them look high. (I'm not sure but I don't think they really allow camels and monkeys in the Hookah.)But these kids were portrayed as if they were having the time of their lives. How pathetic is that, people cant have fun unless they are engaging in something that is bad for them.
I know that it is up to the person to go there or not, and that an article might not persuade someone to smoke, but it is still wrong to advertise a place like the Hookah Bar in a high school newspaper. We all know that people go there with the intention to smoke tobacco, and yet almost all the people at CHS are under 18 years of age and not even old enough to smoke, so why even put it in our paper? It is either promoting an illegal and addicting habit, or rubbing kids noses in the fact that they can't go there.
We all know how bad smoking is, and I'm sure the school administration would not approve of the promotion of something that could bring harm to the students. Like I said, that was probably not her intention, that is what many of my friends and I got out of the article. I'm trying to say that since most of the student body is not old enough to go there, there really was no need to publish an article on the place no matter what the intent was. And since this place is only meant for people to go and engage in an activity that is not only addicting, but will cause major problems for people in 10 to 20 years from now, it was wrong. It was wrong for you as the editor to allow a topic like this into our paper. I don't really understand why you wouldn't see a problem with this article. I am only asking that you not publish something like this again in our paper. And I'm sure that the people in the district office would not have approved this article being published. Thank you for hearing my opinion on the article.Vanessa Hill, 10th grade
Editor's Response to Letter to the editor
As both the Editor of the paper in which the "Hookah Bar" story appeared, and as the author of the story, I feel that it is important that I respond to the letter printed above. The Pepper Bough thanks sophomore Vanessa Hill for her comments and observations.
It should be noted that there is a big difference between the reporting of something and the "promoting" or "advertising" of it. In the past, the paper has written stories about the Infant Center. Does this mean we are "promoting" or "glorifying" teen sex? We've covered a variety of topics, many of them controversial: drug use on campus, date rape, birth control, the list goes on. While these topics may be deemed unpleasant to some readers, we feel that they are fair game for both reporting and comment by a high school newspaper. We feel our job is to cover things of interest to our readers. If I had wanted to advertise the Hookah Bar, I would have stated the actual name of the place and where it is located, but I didn't.
The story of my workplace was part of a larger series on where students work. We also covered fast food places and the mall. I am sorry that you do not approve of my workplace, but the simple fact is that frequenting this establishment and smoking tobacco is legal for those over 18, and we have probably hundreds of students over 18 on this campus. The fact that you may disapprove of it doesn't mean that we as journalists should be banned from reporting on it.
As for the cartoon, the one with camels and monkeys, well...it's a cartoon, get it? It was meant to illustrate the story in a whimsical fashion. Obviously it was not meant to be a depiction of real life.
After receiving your letter, we wrote to an attorney at the Student Press Law Center in Washington, D.C. and sent a copy of the article, noting your concerns. He responded: "Simply reporting that a student may engage in an activity that is unlawful for minors in no way advocates or encourages other students to engage in the same activity. Reporting on the actions of others - be they lawful or unlawful - is, frankly, what the the press does day in and day out. That's their job. The article in no way suggests (and certainly does not provide specific encouragement) that any other underage student should visit the hookah bar and attempt to obtain tobacco products. The fact is the hookah bar exists and a student works there. The readers may not like the message. They should not, however, shoot the messenger. Indeed, any attempt to restrict the Pepper Bough or punish its student editors for publishing an accurate, lawful story such as this would clearly violate Sec. 48907 of California's Education Code as well as the First Amendment."- Sara Robbin, Editor-in-Chief
Our principal ROCKS!
by Sara Robbin
May 21, 2004Mrs. Pam Pike is not only a great principal, but she is also a great person. She is very supportive of all the organizations on campus and when they are in need of her help, she never fails to back them up.
Mrs. Pike is just a really cool person to be around if you give her a chance. For example, there are many people who always get in trouble and end up in her office; those people know how nice and understanding she could be.
Like our former principal, Mr. Jerry Almendarez, Colton High would like to send out a special thanks to Mrs. Pike for everything she done to make our last days of school as fun and smooth as possible.
We are fortunate to have a principal like Mrs. Pike. We urge the school board to make her appointment permanent. She cares about all of us at Colton High. What more could you ask for?
The class of 2004 would also like to say thank you for everything that she has done and continues to do for us. We are very appreciative and hope that everything goes well for her in the following years to come. Once again, congratulations on your accomplishments as Colton High's exceedingly respected principal, and keep up the excellent work.
Students having to park at Hubbs Gym
By Sandra Brown
May 21, 2004Making students park across the street in the new "student parking lot" was not the best move for administrators from a student's perspective. Moving the students to the Hubbs Gym parking lot makes a lot farther of a walk for students. Not only does it make students walk farther it also makes their drive longer. It's time consuming trying to get through all of the students whose parents drop them off in front of the bus-loading zone. It is illegal for cars to drive through a cross walk with anyone in it, so of course people have to wait until it's completely clear, which doesn't happen. So, just to get to the parking lot takes longer and then to park, get out, then walk around the back of the gym and over the bridge to our classes adds extra time to our morning. Therefore, in order to get to class on time we students have to make an adjustment to our morning schedule. We have to allow a little, well, maybe ten extra minutes to our time we use in the morning to get to school. That is kind of hard to adjust to so far late into the school year. Now that it has been a little while since we've been parking in the new "student parking lot," I think students have adjusted enough. At first it was pretty hard to adjust to, but I think students are beginning to get used to it.
Women can jump too!
by Lauren Young
May 21, 2004Since I don't know when there has been something called a "double standard." And this is that men are better than women and they are stronger, and wiser. But as we are starting to see now a days this is no longer true. At first there was only men sports, every sport that was invented was only for men because they assumed that females could not play sports. But we have proven them wrong. Women have come out of nowhere and played sports at their very best. Some women (even though the men will never admit it) are better than the men. And even though they do play very well and have proven that they can play just as well as men they are still not treated fairly. Men get all the praise, and all the sports shows like on ESPN mostly talk about the men and how they are doing, they only sometimes mention women and that is only because they have to. If it weren't for women men wouldn't even be here. So maybe people should start treating women the same way that they treat men. And this doesn't only happen in professional sports, it also goes on in high school; boys sports get way more attention then girl's. If there were a football game and a volleyball game on the same day at the same time more people would show up at the football game. Now I am not saying that there is anything wrong with men's sports, I just think that people shouldn't put men's sports on a higher rank than women's sports because women are just as good as men if not better.
Anyone for a Eyelash Perm?
by Julia Arenas
May 21, 2004Women are always trying to achieve the sexy, full black eyelashes that celebrities always seem to have. Now there is a way: perm and tint your eyelashes! It's the new way to accomplish longer eyelashes, and it also widens your eyes. Though this procedure is not overly long, it does take patience for the client and the professional. You can also pick the type of curl you prefer, and it might take a few tries to get the right curl that you like. A small curler gives the dramatic curl, the medium curler gives a natural curl, and the large curler gives a softer look. If you are planning on doing this for an evening out, make sure to do it a couple of days beforehand; the curls are going to be tight, and will take a few days for eyelashes to relax.
With this procedure there are four steps to endure: Your face must be cleaned of any makeup. You close your eyes and they then place pre-glued curlers as close to the lash line as you can possibly get with out touching the lid of the eye. With a toothpick they gently roll the lashes separately lash by lash evenly on the rod. Four different applications are applied with a Q-tip. In between those applications, depending on how thick your lashes are, (medium to thin- 10 minutes, thick- 15 minutes), the timer is set. They also put eye drops just before you open your eyes to soothe them. And there you have it: sky high eyelashes that will last up to three months. Overall, it takes about 40 to 60 minutes. Although you can get tinting after, it is recommended to wait 72 hours to do so, which can cost another $35. The price for curling starts at $40 and can go up, depending upon where you go. For the next 24 hours, you have to get your lashes used to the curl, so every 15-20 minutes push them up with your fingers. And of course, stay away from the mascara for 24 hours.
But like everything else, this also has it disadvantages. In some cases, the lashes can become dry and brittle, and break off. This is the only complaint that has been brought forward; other women have said this is a great way to get perfect lashes. Another small disadvantage is the smell, thought it is a contrast to other perming solutions, it can still smell bad. Also, this should not be done if you can't keep your eyes closed and still for the duration of the procedure. Other than those possible setbacks, you are good to go for the next couple of weeks!
Coming to America
by Justine Boenke, German Exchange student
May 21, 2004Oh lord, please help me it is almost over! Now it is time already to sit in the airplane on the way to the rainy and cold old Germany. So you can imagine that this is my last article for the Pepper Bough and for you. But in this last article I want to tell you what my experiences were here in my senior year here in Colton High and in the U.S.
After I arrived here in August last year I had only hoped that the time would pass as soon as possible so I could see my Mom and of course my best friend again. Now I sit here and I can't imagine where the time has gone. I have the feeling I just arrived here and now everything should already be over. Do I have time to spend with my friends and still time to finish my driver's license and go to Canada?
I still remember my first school day well. I had thousands of students asking me questions. I didn't understood much and I just said no or yes to certain things which were possible not like I had that. To these people who met me on the first day I would like to excuse myself for that.
Now after nearly 9 months I laugh at it. Although I must leave soon it will not be easy. But I must, I believe my best friend would become very sour if I remain simply here. Believe me, it so not is so simple.
After I changed my Host family and moved into my new family more things got well in how I lived. It came up also with my American personal record mountain. I'm much better now than when I got here. The best is not that my English became perfect even if I don't know each individual vocabulary but also Spanish now also came to it. What I to say now comes out nearly the same words as German.
I saw many different places here in California. My Host sister took me to a lot of them. Disneyland, Universal Studios, the most of the time to theater or making a movie and game night at her boyfriends' house.
But what will I do after graduation? After graduation I want to go to Florida (Miami Beach) to visit a friend; New York to see Broadway, Washington to see the White House, and so on and so on.
Yes, the time is almost over, and I really want to go back to Germany, but also I want to stay here with my friends, but earnestly not with your fatty American food.
I want to thank the people that made my year here in California perfect.
My thanks goes to: My Host family: My Dad Daniel, My Mom Rosa, My brother and sisters Elizabeth, (Noel her boyfriend which took me out almost every weekend), Jovany, Rosie, Brain, Destrie who is now 2 years old (she made every time a smile on my face,) Anthony, who will be now almost 1 year old; My Friends, Jessica Federico, Sara, Christopher, Jason Fric, Shane and his brother Kury, Amber, Jessica, My real Mom, Brother. My German Friends specially my Best friend. Mr. Rainey, Mrs. Oacha Smith, Misty (My AC), My Organization TASTE, Mrs. Romeriz which is a perfect and nice Biology teacher, Mr Goldkorn, Mrs. Senzaki, Mr. Gerard, Mrs. Reynolds, Mr. Kelly and a lot more people. Thank you very much for making this year a perfect year.
Auf Wiedersehen!
Horoscopes by Madamme Sandie
by Sandra Brown
May 21, 2004Aries (March21 - April 19)
Reduced pressure and responsibility are a huge relief. Do something for yourself, just to see where your bigger ideas will lead.
Taurus (April 20- May 20)
You feel unusually sensitive - luckily, the attention you attract will be the good kind.
Gemini (May 21- June 21)
Someone else's opinion will convince you. This new perspective is radical.
Cancer (June 22- July 22)
Being different isn't always easy, but maybe you've had enough of the same-old same-old. Those expecting you to be nice might be in for a surprise.
Leo (July 23- Aug. 22)
What you're feeling is called separation anxiety. Freedom is scary, but rewarding.
Virgo (Aug. 23- Sept. 22)
Maybe you need a new system. Organization will be key in the next stage.
Libra (Sept. 23- Oct, 22)
Take a risk for that special someone. There's nothing to fear.
Scorpio (Oct. 23- Nov. 21)
Confusion follows wherever you go. Whether it's annoying or funny is completely up to you.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22- Dec.21)
Strike up a conversation with a stranger. You had no idea they'd be so interesting.
Capricorn (Dec. 22- Jan.19)
Someone's trying to pull a fast one on you. Time to wise up to their schemes.
Aquarius (Jan.20- Feb. 18)
Live your life as it should be lived. Once you commit to making a change, you'll see amazing, positive effects as the week plays out.
Pisces (Feb. 19- March 20)
You can only help so many people at once. Take on any more and you'll burn out.
Eighty-sixed once too often? Computer firewalls limit smut (and other stuff as well)
by Kyle McKnight
May 21, 2004"Access denied by 8e6 R" blah, blah, blah.
We've all seen this screen when trying to surf the net. This message equals no fun, NO FUN! By no fun I mean that this filter blocks "offensive" sites. But is not limited too the following: Alcohol, Anarchy, Chat, Criminal Skills, Cults, Drugs, Gambling, Games, Hate Groups, Obscene & Tasteless, Public Proxies, Personals, Pornography, R Rated, Banners, etc…. etc…. the list goes on forever I mean come on. Why do they really need to limit us?
For instance why can't I go online and find out how to start my own religion? So I can become rich like some sort of balloon filled with marbles.
The firewall filter the school district has placed on all school computers could serve as a good thing for those of you out there attempting to access stuff like porno…not like there are many of you out there, but hey some of you are sick little monkeys. However, and we all know this, there are certain ways to get past the filter. For instance you could just look for pictures on Google, or visit a site, which doesn't report itself as an adult site but still contains explicit content for your sick little mind. If you really want to see some explicit stuff (that's censored) then make your own site and load it with all the little devices of doom that can't wait until you get home.
What's that big purple old house across the street? Why, it's the Purple Tea Room!
by Samantha Coulter
May 21, 2004Have you ever wonder what that bright pink and purple house is across the street is? I did until I walked across the street and found out what it was. It is a tea room, antique shop, and clothing store all in one. One half of the house has little tables set up so you can have tea and the other side has antiques and a rack of dresses and clothes.
The tea room is not very expensive at all it cost $1.75 for a cup of tea. Cookies and crackers are a $1.00. The tea room also sales sodas for a $1.00. Also there are little finger sandwiches that are three for a $1.00. The owner of the Purple tea room is very nice; she sits outside with her husband and welcomes people on the street to come in and see her Purple Tea Room. Because of the location of the Purple Tea Room it doesn't get much business because most people just speed right by it. I think that's why it is painted bright purple and pink so you won't miss it. So everyone should go visit the Purple Tea Room.
Summer shines down again
by Sean Durdle
May 21, 2004
Once again, summer is coming upon us. Now that the year is almost over, we finally get our three month break (actually two and a half months), to do whatever we please, unless you're a senior, going to summer school or have a job. Most of all, no more having to wake up early or have an early curfew. Summer spells swimsuits, sunburns and kickbacks to me. Now that there is going to be so much time to waste, what will there be to do? Sitting at home and watching T.V. is fun, only if you like being bored. How does going out and trying something new sound? Summer is all about reinvention and having fun while just taking it easy.
Some things will always be associated with summer. The idea of summer here in Southern California is hot weather and good air conditioning. The summer movies are always a good choice when there is nothing to do. Most of the time there are good summer movies, and hopefully this summer will be no different. There is always the option of going to the beach to chill with friends. This is a good choice when you and your buddies are really bored and just feel like going and having a kickback in the sun. If going to the beach isn't an option, the next best thing is to throw a pool party. For the most part, they're the same, just a little less sandy. Just don't forget to put on that sunscreen, especially on those overcast days.
You can already tell that this summer is going to be a scorcher, so start getting ready early. Go out and get those cool summer clothes that aren't going to be too hot to wear outside. To beat the heat a good idea is to stay out of being in direct sunlight for long periods of time. You could even get one of those mister bottles to keep cool (if that's your type of thing) or a small fan. Those things don't really keep you cold though, just a brief amount of being cool. I prefer going to the friend's house that has the best air conditioning. Just remember, during summer, water is your best friend, and try to drink as much of it as possible.
Try doing new things this summer for a change, like starting a new hobby or making some new friends. Go out and do something just to do it. Why, you ask? Because it's better than just sitting around and doing nothing. Try looking up concerts and shows for the music you like and go see them. Look for new hangouts that are an easy and cool getaway. One great thing about summer is the freedom and carefree feeling about everything. No more schoolwork or stresses from school related activities, and a great lack of authority. I recommend staying out late and sleeping in, the American dream. Hey, you've got all summer to do nothing, make the most of it. If you happen to be going to summer school, this just means you have less time to get busy doing nothing. Don't get me wrong though, if you have something else to do, get it done. The best way to go about doing things is to work first and party later, at least that's the way that I see things.
If you have the opportunity to get a job, go out and get one. There is a good side to it, and yes, it is the money. For losing part of a summer, I don't think it looks too bad. This is also good if you're one of those lazy summer people, like me. Summer is also a perfect time for change. Any type of change can be achieved over the summer. Nothing feels better than coming back to school feeling refreshed and improved. Don't waste this summer, use the time you have to do something. Whether it be beneficial or not, try to have the best time possible. Summer only comes around every nine months, so make it worthwhile.
Summer Heats Up, mucho concerts on tap
by Eric Marks
May 21, 2004The summer has begun and so has the fun. Summer is usually about re-runs and swimming. For the people that don't like the re-runs, and don't feel like swimming fall back on music and the concerts for the summer. Concerts have already begun and so have the re-runs.
In June, Orgy plays the House of Blues Anaheim on the 2nd. The Civic Tour will be at the Greek Theater in L.A. the 4th. Those that like Dashboard Confessional and Thrice should check out the Civic Tour. June 5th, A Perfect Circle will be playing at the Universal Amphitheatre. June 16th, P.O.D. will be at the Wiltern CG. The Santa Barbara Bowl, will hold 311 on the 18th and if you miss that, they'll be at the Long Beach Arena the 22nd. June 26th, Blink 182 and No Doubt play at the Hyundai Pavilion.
July, the Vans Warped Tour starts things off the 6th, at Coors Amphitheatre. At the House of Blues, West Hollywood Jet will perform.
Not too many concerts for August. Incubus with the Vines will be at The Forum in Los Angeles.
To end things for the summer Projekt Revolution featuring Linkin Park, Korn, Snoop Dogg, and The Used will be at the Hyundai Pavilion on September 4th. Sorry not too many Rap and hip-hop concerts going on.
Tillema: NHS participation "Ten Times Better"
by Victoria Tuey
May 21, 2004You may be aware by the candy sells and frequent announcements that NHS is doing some drastic things this year. The National Honor Society is a committee of students representing the top and most elite of the sophomore, junior, and senior class. Lucy Tillema, NHS advisor says, "Our percentage of meeting attendance and participation is about ten times what it has been in previous years." In order to acquire and maintain membership in the club, you must maintain a 3.25 GPA, make 80% of all NHS meetings, pay $5 for dues, complete three service projects over the year, and have your application completed and accepted at the beginning of the year. Some things that they have already done: tutoring for the local elementary schools, volunteering for the chamber of commerce, a number of charitable drives such as Ronald McDonald, participation in the National Walk-A-Thon for the American Cancer Society, and hosting of the Music for the Mind concert. Their future plans have not yet been fully established. Tillema tells us that rumor has it that their hopes for a silent auction, Hollywood Under The Stars, will be cancelled due to too many activities on campus and ASB decisions. In any situation, Tillema says that they have already had many donations towards the auction and still plan to have one, only under different circumstances. NHS is currently preparing for their end of the year banquet and to vote in their officers for the 2004-2005 school year. Tillema left us with this quote about next year's expectations; "I see a more powerful society, taking bigger strides in service."
Tired of working the brain? Work out the body
Campus Trainers club promotes fitness and health
by Shauna Pardo
May 21, 2004Lets get pumped up! As odd as it may sound, there is actually a club on campus that is weight training. Advisor in command is William Pereira, assistant teacher. The point and reason for this club, formally known as Campus Trainers, is to promote health, structure, and discipline. Originally there were about 80 students, but as time went on there were only about 25-30 devoted students left.
"This club is excellent for anyone that wants to get in shape or needs motivation," says Junior Ronald Gonzales, president of the club. He believes that as the club goes along more and more people will want to become involved. Another thought is Miguel Martinez, "it is a good way to spend your time, and it's nice to see the new people, and it makes me stronger and faster."
This is the first year that we have ever had a club like this, only thing that we had familiar was Coach Harold Strauss' before and after school weight lifting for athletes. Now this newfound club allows any and all students to participate. Pereira works with you and as a former lightweight athlete; he knows what he's doing. Pereira has competed and won for lightweight western state in Los Angeles. He is very enthusiastic about this club and has even invited one of the major weightlifting champions coming to this school, Jay Cutler. He will be visiting with this club and giving them a personal workout on May 25, and visiting with all staff and all students on May 26.
For those who still want to get involved still may have a chance, but they are keeping strict attendance now. So if you want to become involved you have to be very devoted not slacking. They workout in the Macintosh gym weightlifting room Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 2:30-4:00. For those of you who would like to this but can't attend the rest of the year can still do it next year.
Badminton finishes another undeafeted season, heads into CIF
by Sarah Hofman
May 21, 2004A CIF playoff victory over West Covina by a 10-9 score on Tuesday capped off an amazing undefeated season for the badminton team. The team played in the next round against Azusa on Thursday but results were not available at press time.
It was yet again another successful season for badminton. The team was undeafeted with scores like these: REV 13-6, Poly 16-7, Redlands 17-2, REV 11-8, Poly 18-1, Redlands 16-3, REV 13-6, Poly 17-2, Redlands 16-3. Out of league matches they beat Villa Park 13-6 and 16-3.
Some of the vital players who helped to get the team to their undefeated season were Pandu Budihardja, Anthony Flynn, Stephanie Mielke, John Suh, Amanda Carlstrom, and Arturo Wibawa. When asked about how he feels the team will play in CIF's, John Suh said, "Last year we made it to semi-finals, and hopefully we can get that far this year." He also said that the team seems strong enough, but the other teams they will be competing against are also seem to be getting stronger as well. So now its on to the CIF semi-finals so we should all go and cheer on one of our most successful sports at Colton High.
Baseball takes third in league; loses in first playoff game
Baseball gives seniors a farewell after their last game of the
regular season as the seniors present their parents with a rose.
by Paul Heredia
May 21, 2004Colton Baseball ended their season in a tight race finishing third in the SAL, and loss in a wildcard game for the CIF Playoffs. With a rough season behind them Colton was looking to go strong into the playoffs and show what they were really made of. Colton went into their wildcard game against Esparanza High, looking to go far into playoffs. But with four runs put on the board by Esparanza, Colton struggled to hit the ball ending their season with a 4-0 loss.
As Colton finished off the last half of their season struggling to put things together they stayed strong and took one game at a time, just trying to stay close in the hunt for that third and final position. In their second match against first place Pacific, Colton came out strong hoping to get some revenge from their previous loss from them. They came out getting the bats going early, getting out to a 2-0 lead. But, Pacific came back and took a 4-2 lead going into the top of the seventh. In their last at bat Colton tied the game 4-4 sending the game into extra innings. In the top of the eight Colton put three more runs on the board to win the game 7-4, and give Pacific their first loss of the season. In their next game Colton struggled to hit the ball as they fell to Cajon in a13-1 loss. As Colton still struggled to get things together they lost to Yucaipa 10-0. Still looking to stay in the hunt for third place Colton needed to pull together and finish off their last three games in a winning fashion. Getting by Arroyo Valley in an 8-1 victory, Colton needed to beat San Bernardino to guarantee a third place finish. Getting their bats going and good pitching by senior captain Saul Rios Colton locked up third place with a 6-3 win. Going into their final regular season game Colton was looking to get revenge on San G. But, Colton fell to San G. in a 7-2 loss, finishing off with 7-5 record in league and 12-10 record overall.
In the last game of the regular season coahes, parents, and players said farwell to its seniors as they ran through two lines of their teammates, meeting their parents at the end. Handing them a rose to say a goodbye to their high school baseball career.
Boys Tennis & Golf end on good stroke
by Sarah Hofman
May 21, 2004Tennis and golf season came to an end and it was two very different seasons. When it comes to tennis, it was a very prosperous season. They ended the season 7-10 and the losses came by one match or less. Mark Castillo and Victor Villarreal are the only the second doubles pair to make to CIF in our school history. Jake Magnant holds the school's record for being the first to go to CIF back to back.
When the boys went to SAL finals, Magnant lost the championship with a three-hour match where Mark and Victor won their matches 6-0, 6-2, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5, 6-4, 4-6, 2-6. When asked about how he felt the season went Magnant said, "It went quite well, it was kind of tough at times, but the freshmen really stepped it up a lot. And Victor Villarreal did really good going from playing only doubles to playing singles. Overall it was a good season." So it seems like the boy's tennis season was a success.
Now on to golf: the team ended the season in a deadlock of 6-6. " They played hard, but just fell short in the league matches. There were a lot of unexpected loses to San G and Cajon," said Coach Tom Mainez. Mainez has a lot of good expectations for next season, he plans on having the boys play in junior leagues so that they can get the needed practice so they can come back next year and compete in CVL and finish in the top three. He feels the competition and courses will be better. It looks like boys golf is in for a summer of practice and a season of high expectations.
Softball takes 2nd in league and heads into Playoffs
by Paul Heredia
May 21, 2004With a great finish to their regular season, Colton softball take 2nd place and will play a first round CIF playoff game today.
In a tough regular season Colton was looking to regain that SAL title as the end of the season came to a close. They went up against Cajon hoping to replay what was a blowout in their first meeting. But, Colton struggled to put runs on the board falling to Cajon 7-1. Looking to get back on track Colton meet with Yucaipa, but lost in a close game 6-4. With three games to go in the regular season softball went on a three-game win streak, first with a close win over Arroyo Valley 3-2. Then, came back and shut out San Bernardino 5-0 to get back in the run for a playoff spot. With a 5-3 win over San G., Colton locked up second place and a playoff spot finishing off the regular season 9-3 with a 20-6 overall record. Today, in the first round of the playoffs, Colton goes on the road to play top ranked Don Lugo at 3:15 p.m.
Swimming struggles with losing season
by Shauna Pardo
May 21, 2004As the year comes to and end and the school year cleans up its remains of what's left, sports as well does the same. One sport in particular…swimming. Unfortunately it wasn't exactly the most successful year ever; in fact the guys didn't have a win all year. The guy's varsity record was 0-12, while the girl's record, which wasn't much better, was 1-11. Captain of the varsity team, junior Michael Artega, said, "Next year hopefully we'll do better." He also commented that they really didn't have enough players to win a competition anyways. Both didn't have very many players to start with, guys had only 6 on the varsity squad and girls had 11. "Whether we really good at finals or not didn't matter, we didn't have enough girls to compete with," says senior Laura Langner
Coach Rosa Booth says that, "there is lots of room for improvement for next year's squad." In finals they placed 7th out of 7 schools. The girls are losing 5 seniors this year, including captain Sarah Lake. There were a lot of new comers this year so next year looks promising. One of the new girls, sophomore Krista Reed, says, "Swimming is really fun and something to do with your spare time. I look forward to next year…"
Track finishes season with trek to finals
by Shauna Pardo
May 21, 2004The last competition of track was SAL finals, with the squad taking 4th in league overall. The team's preseason record was 1-1, and their season record was 3-3. Although not all were very enthusiastic about the year's performance, others find accomplishment worth sharing. Seven Colton High varsity guy runners made qualifying times to get invited to the San Jacinto Tournament of 950 runners. Seven Colton High girl runners had qualifying times to make it to the League Finals. Five varsity guy runners and three varsity guy throwers had qualifying times/marks to make it to the San Andres League Finals. One varsity guy, Senior Eduardo Banuelos, placed 3rd in the 800 meter to qualify for Division I C.I.F. playoffs.
"To many people it was just another losing season," senior Robert Precie commented, "but the truth is that the track team had taken a big step towards greatness, to promise better performances in the future. We had a 19 meet losing streak before this year started, so that shows you what a difference this years track members had made."
"We improved a lot since last year, we had more runners," sophomore Lisa Montgomery said. "I think we did okay considering we had no track, next year will be better, especially since we have this years talent returning next year."
This year's 4x4 relay time had a record time of 3:38, Colton Highs best.
"We did really good, compared to previous season," says Junior Marcus Frazier. "We have more talent than last year. New coaches also helped us, new trainer Mr. Smalls, was a big help."