Issue of September 26, 2002
Volume 86, No. 1
Click on the links in the table of contents to view the story
News
New Assistant Principals push for accountability
Is Soda losing its pop?
Not so new policies welcome back students
Pepper Bough sprouts new branch
Student deaths over summer casts pall over vacationOpinions
Sept. 11 memories still linger
Reflections of a 17-year old (Column)
Do we have a safe and secure campus?
Both Sides Now: High school NOT like real life
Both Sides Now: High school IS like real life
Rules: made to be forgotten?Features
All you need to know about CLUBS
Guitar class rocks the campus
How to start your own club at CHS
AP students form a bondDiversions/Reviews
Three hot CDs by three talented women
Inland Invasion concert rocks Blockbuster Pavilion
Horoscopes
Swimfan Movie ReviewSports
Football begins year with attitude
Girls tennis
Volleyball
New Aps push for accountability
by Adriana Hernandez
September 26, 2002
It's a new school year and with it comes two new administrators. Lynne Sheffield and Claudia Harris have replaced Doug Newton and Diana Carreon as the new Assistant Principals at Colton High. Most of you probably already know Harris, she was a biology teacher for ten years here before being promoted. Sheffield was also a teacher of math and science for seven years and a Dean of Discipline for two years for the Los Angeles Unified School District.
If you think it's easy being an Assistant Principal, well, it's not. Both Harris and Sheffield come in every morning at 6:30 a.m. and don't leave until about four or five o'clock in the afternoon and come in weekends. They're busy every minute of the day either disciplining students, talking to parents, or rushing students off to class to try and reduce tardiness this year, one of the big goals they're aiming for this year. I was able to catch Harris in the front office rushing students off to class and she says "with this new position I hope to make kids realize being on time is important and there are rules in every school everyone has to follow." Sheffield also hopes to accomplish this, noting " I also hope by the end of this year students will be more accountable of their actions and the teachers will have more of a strive to teach."
With such a hectic schedule you're probably thinking what would make anyone want this position. According to Harris, " I was simply looking for a change," and laughingly says, "it's everything I expected and more." Sheffield also says, " I just wasn't satisfied in the classroom, in the classroom you only get to touch a couple hundred students lives and as an administrator you get to touch thousands." With an aim to simply better students' lives, Claudia Harris and Lynne Sheffield have taken on this tough, thankless position and hope to make this a better school for everyone and hope everyone has a great year.
Can Soda be losing it's pop?
By Julia Arenas
September 25, 2002As school districts around the state are rethinking whether to ban soda pop sales on campus, students are left wondering where they'll get their caffiene rush. Can you say "On-Campus Starbucks?"
Soda: America's number one favorite drink. Millions of kids at public schools drink soda every day, but is it the cause of obesity? P.E teacher Jodi Parker, doesn't believe so. According to Parker, she believes it's not a matter of soda, but a lack of exercise. Rumors about the possibility of restricted soda have been heard numerous times around campuses. Parker states "I'll believe it when I see it". Not only soda, considered unhealthy, is trying to be banned. It has been said that desserts that have more than 35 percent sugar are considered unhealthy, even if accompanied with the healthiest food. Legislation that would ban soda sales on campuses has been sponsored by State Senator Martha Escutia, who recently commented, "The health of our young people is at risk because of the eating environment at schools."
Assistant Principal Lynne Sheffield agrees with this statement. Sheffield says, "Sugar plays a big part." But she disagrees with the reason. She believes it's all about the attitude. The teens of today have taken a different reaction, though. Freshman Julie Kagerise was indignant to the possibility of restricted soda. According to Kagerise, "They (students) should have self control if they're going to have a bottle of soda."
Taking a different tone, freshman Chris King was a little hesitant about answering. He believes that it is a good idea not to sell soda, but to keep the soda machines. He says that you could always buy water. The law has already been passed; on October 13, Governor Gray Davis signed into law California Senate Bill 9, which will restrict the sale of foods that do not meet the arbitrary standing for fat and sugar content on elementary campuses- the snack bars, vending machines-and even limits the sale of the carbonated drinks at the middle schools. So don't hold you breath just yet. Escutia has also said "(Banning sales at high schools) may be a bill that takes a few years to get passed, but I'm very persistent…I will remove junk foods from schools in the next four years."
Not so new policies welcome back students
By Marisa Cortez
September 25, 2002
I'm sure everyone has heard of TNT by now. You know "tolerate no tardies." But what you probably didn't know is that this policy is not new to Colton. In fact none of the policies are any different this year. They are the same policies we've always had; the only difference is now they are being strongly enforced. This is due largely impart to our new Assistant Principal Lynne Sheffield who along with our other new Assistant Principal, Claudia Harris, is in charge of keeping the tardy policy on track as well as carrying out the dress code policy. Principal Jerry Almendarez feels that "they have a lot of energy, enthusiasm, and strong desire to help kids."
As far as improving our school, the numbers show that the tardy policy is already working. The first day of school there was an exceedingly high amount of freshmen and juniors who were tardy, as well as 38% percent of the senior class. In just these few days it has dramatically decreased. And that was exactly its purpose, to improve attendance rates, and give students the opportunity to improve their grades. However, through experience you will find that the process of it all can be a bit time consuming. You get a pass, fill it out, stand in line, tell them your ID number, wait for them to look your name up, get the passed signed; only then you can go to class. Many students have complained that the TNT processing takes too long and seems to go against the stated aim of keeping students in class learning. The fact is in spite of this problem the district feels that even if students were missing twenty or thirty minutes of class to do this, it is more important to make sure they learn to get to class on time, and because attendance and tardies are such a huge problem, they said they would fully support it. The faculty seems to love this new process. The students on the other hand are a different story completely.
Something else that is slightly different this year is the way detention works. Instead of a teacher giving you a slip and having to go to the senior benches after school to pick up trash, it is now to be served with the teacher who gave it to you on their time. The school is hoping that this method will cut down on people skipping their detentions.
Recently Senate Bill 1253 was passed and signed by the Governor allowing cell phones in schools. However, it's left it up to the individual school districts to make the final decision for their schools. According to a bulletin notice posted on September 17, "The district policy regarding cell phones and pagers has not changed. Cell phones and pagers are not allowed on campus. If you are caught using either one you will be suspended and the phone or pager will be taken away. The phone/pager will only be returned to a parent or guardian." So don't bring that cell phone or pager on campus just yet, it's still illegal.
Pepper Bough sprouts new branch, will publish issues more often
by Claudia Gonzalez
September 26, 2002No more sixteen page newspapers every six weeks! Starting this year,you'll now be reading an eight-page newspaper that'll be coming out every three weeks, with new interesting topics to read. The Pepper Bough has made recent changes that will improve their turnaround time. The newspaper is coming out more often than before. There are two editors-in-chief, seniors Lisa Namnath and Priscilla Montgomery. The two editors are in charge of their own teams. Namnath is the editor of the "Buzz Team" and Montgomery is editor of the "Honey Team". Having two editors doesn't mean that all The Pepper Bough reporters won't be working together, it has brought them together to work harder for the newspaper and it has also made the job easier for the reporters.
The reason behind the new changes was the staff's feeling that by only coming out every six to eight weeks, news was frequently stale and old. This new team approach will hopefully give the staff a better way to inform the school on oupcoming events. As the Buzz Team is working on an issue, the Honey Team is also working on their issue that'll be coming out within the next three weeks after the first issue has been out. By using staggered schedules, the paper will be able to be more timely and cover breaking news better.
Students deaths over summer casts pall over vacation
By Ashley Ellison
Sept. 26, 2002
"When you lose a part of your self, to some one you know, it takes a lot to let go. Every breath that you remember, pictures fade away, but memory is forever,"-Sorry, by New Found Glory.
Over summer we lost two former Yellowjackets, in two terrible tragedies: Eric Thompson, class of 2002 and Patrick Ortega, class of 2000.
Patrick Ortega ( pictured below) and his family were on vacation at Idaho Falls, in Idaho. Tragedy struck on July 28, when he was killed in a cliff diving accident. His memorial service was held a month later, August 28, at Montecito Cemetery. Patrick was one of three of Gene and Pam Ortega's children. "We will always miss Patrick," commented his parents.
According to Principal Jerry Almendarez, "He was a young man who things didn't come to easy to, but he set some goals and through hard work and persistence, he was able to reach those goals."
He was involved in all the school plays while attending Colton High. He scored a lead as one of the brothers in "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," as well as many other staring roles. Patrick was also involved in Troupers club. He helped out behind stage for former acting teacher Joey Mercado. "When a student becomes so involved with drama, as he was, you start to consider them as one of your own children. He would stay after school to help me out with things. He was a great kid," said Mercado.
"The thing I liked about Patrick was that he was a model student," commented Patrick's vocal ensemble director Mike Simpson. "And yet he had this way to play off being cool. He made other guys feel at ease. He was very creative. He could have gone on to write his own songs. I would like to think that he is up in haven, singing with the angels."
The second tragedy struck Wednesday, July 31, when Eric Thompson (pictured at right) and his best friend Andrew Chavez were driving in Grand Terrace and were involved in a car accident. No other cars were involved. Eric passed away later that day at the hospital and Andrew survived with an injury to his foot. "Eric was the coolest guy you could ever know. Any one could get along with him," commented senior Andrew Chavez.
Eric was Jerry and Julie Thompson's only child. He loved God, playing the guitar, his friends and his girlfriend, Annie, more than anything else. Eric's death brought everyone together. That night many people went to Oasis Church in Redlands, where Eric attended, to share all the good times they had with Eric. Senior, Anthony Rodriguez commented, "Eric was closer to God than any one I know. He devoted his time to Christ and his girlfriend. He wanted nothing more than to enjoy life and to spread the word of God. He will be missed."
The memorial service was held on August 7, at Oasis Church. The service was beautiful. Over 600 people attended. Andrew Chavez recited a poem which he wrote about Eric. His friends Anthony Rodriguez, on the drums, Nick Medina, on guitar and Jason Wilcox, on the bass, performed MXPX's " Tomorrow's Another day." His parents, Jerry and Julie Thompson put on a wonderful slide show of Eric growing up, which is on the World Wide Web at OasisRedlands.org. There is also a poem which was recited at the service and a letter from his parents on the web site. Later that week, on a cold Saturday evening, August 10, his parents and Andrew Chavez walked into the water at Bolsa Chica Beach and released his ashes into the water, while many of his family and his friends watched from the sand.
Whether these guys were one of your best friends, or some one you bumped into in the hall way one day at school, we will never forget.Eric Thompson (July 2, 1984- July 31, 2002)
Patrick Ortega (July 29, 1981- July 28, 2002)
Memories of September 11 still effect many
By Ryan Rivera
September 26, 2002Waking up that one morning, had to be by far, the most terrifying day in our lives. Waking up to what seemed to be an ordinary day, and having it turn out to be so unreal in the public eye. Not knowing what to expect, the whole nation watched in shock and fear. Since September 11, 2001, life as we know it has changed.
We all knew that terrorism is real, but I don't think that people actually realized how real it was until the unexpected happened, a year ago. Seeing as though it happened more than once in the same day is a really scary feeling. Yet, it is one that we all will have to eventually learn to deal with. "It made me kind of mad at the people that did that to us and it also made me feel scared," said freshman Brianna Morales. Many lives were changed due to the large amount of people that were lost that day. There are also those people that didn't change the way they live at all. Senior Jerry Ayala stated, "I don't think it changed my life at all. It did give me a reason to put more trust in God though. I wasn't afraid though because in the Bible it says not to fear." For the people who lost loved ones, their lives changed forever. That one person won't ever be back.
To me, everything changed. The day after was probably the worst day yet, because I was starting to question so many things. Even the Pledge of Allegiance didn't have the same meaning. Before the terrorist attacks, I felt like I was saying it only because I had to, but after the attacks, I wanted to. So many say that it's wrong to have patriotism just because something happened, but wouldn't it be wrong to have none at all knowing what had just happened? I know there is one question that will remain unanswered. That is of course, how can a person (people in this instance) go about killing someone and not even care? That is one thing that I have always wondered and with the attacks, it has brought it up more often than before.
Another way September 11 changed everyone's lives has to do with the economy. Because the World Trade Centers were such a big role in our nation, it has made people fear for their lives, jobs, and even their well being.
With the terrorist attacks being caused by airplanes, people have actually stopped flying to different cities around the United States and even the world for that matter.
Being a teenager and having to go through so much at such a young age has got many frightened. I've even heard some say that they were scared for their lives because the government could bring back the draft if things got any worse than it was. We as teens have our own little and big problems to deal with and with the terrorist attacks, it added more.
I would have to say that it wasn't fair to teens because it seemed like as if everyone else had a voice in what to do, but I guess teens weren't given that right.
"It changed my life because it makes you realize how short life is and you never know when it's your time to go," explained senior Amber Jaramillo. Like I said, many lives were changed and many also stayed the same as before. Whether the effects will be seen as good or bad, I will let you be the judge of that.
Reflections of a 17 year old
By Lisa Namnath
September 26, 2002I dream of changing the world. I think that this column could be the start of that. But... well I haven't quite figured out how I'll do that yet, so for now you'll have to settle for some observations and random thoughts, but the effectual stuff is coming. It'll happen, I will change the world, just, not yet.
I have been a witness to something that disturbed me greatly in the last few weeks. The incident being the intimidation of a young man by another individual, who I would call a young man, but I don't think he deserves the distinction.
In plain English, I've been a witness to bullying, not in the stereotypical, "Let me have your lunch money or I will..." (you know how the rest goes), but in a fashion which qualifies it to be called bullying. Specifically, I think it comes down to one idiot deciding he is bored, and insecure in the fact that his hair is the same color as his skin, so he starts pointing out non-existent faults in others, (instead of dying his hair).
Maybe this isn't my problem, but if this person intends to grow up and live in the same society as I do, I consider it my problem. If people like him don't mature, society is in for trouble.
Could it be that he just wants to make friends? Possible; then again, if you're lacking friends consider eating live goldfish. Fish are much more productive in that department, at least then people might think you were daring. If you're a bully they just think that you have low self-esteem. Still, there isn't much I can do to change how people deal with insecurities. That's one of those personal things only you can change.
Well, I seem to have made it back to that word change. It would make sense that to change the world you have to start small. So, if anything I say or do changes you, in the least bit, then tell me, it might just help to keep a pipe-dream alive. Oh, and if you do want to tell me anything, just walk up to me, I don't bite, unless you're a bully. Then you never do know.
Oh, if you think you use intimidation to make friends, please don't try to change by going out and downing live goldfish. Just don't.
Campus security: going to far?
By Nick Taylor
September 26, 2002Security at our school is becoming overwhelming. We students are treated as less than human, being subjected to a life that only inmates in prisons know. Whether it be that chain link cage that surrounds us, or the continuous sweeps for strays after every bell to keep us in line, we are forced into classes much like prisoners into cells. We then have orders given to us and if we do not obey we suffer the penalties given to us at the beginning of the school year. We must obey the bell, becoming slaves to it. We must get adjusted to being video taped, and stared at by our on campus security. All of this in the name of security.
Certainly I know that our school needs some security because unfortunately humans are idiots that have some impulse that drives them to do stupid things like hurt one another or vandalize or other stupid things. What I am trying to get at is that things are going too far. Just because most of us are not legally allowed to drink alcohol or vote doesn't mean we should be treated so badly; we still have rights and although they have not been broken they are being slightly overlooked. Could this push for security be only so our already well off (compared to most Americans) school officials can save their precious positions and look better in the eyes of their peers? Nobody ever thinks about what we students want. Treat us fairly and I think you will be surprised with the outcome.
Our school does so much for security but one thing they do not do enough of is kick students out of Colton High. Why? This would solve so much. It appears to an outside observer that Colton High is more worried about tardies and other minor infractions then major violations like drugs and fighting. I know of a student who left campus, got high, then came back to school; he was caught high and with drugs in his possession. The student was suspended for three days. What I am saying is get rid of the students that make all this necessary, the students who don't even want to be here. You know the type: they sit there, oblivious to anything a teacher may be saying, much like a bump on a log. At the very least they're taking up space for someone who can be learning. At the very worse they take up precious resource time that teachers and administrators could be putting to better use. Get rid of them so the rest of us can have some memory of high school that doesn't put us in a bad mood. Maybe then we wouldn't have to stress so much on tardies and truancies.
Both sides now: Is school like real life? NO!
By Sara Robbin
September 26, 2002
High school is nothing like real life. In real life you don't have a dress code or teachers on your back threatening to fail you if you don't try harder. In school you are treated like a child. You get yelled at, you get told what to do and what not to do when they say.
In life you can say whatever you want when you feel it's right. That is something called freedom of speech. In school teachers or staff sometimes take that right away from you.
For example, when you put down somebody, you will be told to "be quiet" or you will be sent to the office. In life if you say something bad to someone, you won't be sent to jail. If you have something on your mind…handle your business! In school you can't do that. I'm not trying to provoke anyone to do anything, but that's just the way life is. Another thing is that here it is all a popularity contest. It's all about who you hang out with, what kind of clothing you wear, and what kind of shoes you have on. Some anonymous person said, "If you're not doing what's "in" then you're a freaking LOSER!"
This is how people judge you. In life you will meet good people and bad people, that is a given, but only half of them are in the real you and what kind of person you are. Sometimes people will show you less respect because of the way you express yourself, but I say the heck with that. Just be yourself and people are bound to accept you for you. Let's face it, high school is just another place to socialize and be anything except who you really are. Real life has its own way of disciplining you when you do something wrong, it just comes in different forms when you least expect it. In high school you may get laughed at for being who you are, but in real life it's real people who end up as successful people.
Both sides now: Is school like real life? YES
By Heather Weppler
September 26, 2002
I think that in many ways high school can be like real life. You go through many different experiences in high school; granted, there is a lot of drama, but you still get the maturing effect. You learn so much, many people develop their feelings on their different controversial issues, and start taking their place as Americans.
First and foremost, high school is a place of learning. Yes we do choose whether we learn or not but that is the reason we're supposed to go to school. I know that it sounds like a drag but eventually we'll have to grow up and live productive lives. If you don't take school even semi-seriously then you're most likely going to have a hard time providing for yourself and a possible family.
About growing up: high school is all about that. I know that half the time we don't act like we should, but in high school we learn how to deal with unexpected things and awkward situations. There's that whole time of maturing that most of us go through. High school, like life, leads you to places that you might not have seen yourself in. High school teaches you to either: run with it...or to run from it.
We also go through many different emotions during this four-year period. We go through countless relationships; some turn out all right, and others crash and burn, and there are those that crash and burn, then some dog urinates on the ashes. We have to learn not to dwell on the things of the past. We learn to move on to a future that we don't fully have in our view.
High school is full of a lot of stuff, not all of it fun, but who promised fun, anyway? I think that high school is like the real world. We learn to be flexible and do things that we normally wouldn't do. High school may not mean a lot to you now but when you graduate you might just be glad you had it.
Rules: made to be broken?
By Gabriel Jorrin
September 26, 2002Tardiness, dress code, and attendance policies are just some of the many rules enforced all year. However, while the school staff tries to enforce these rules, the summer heat, senior graduation, excitement over summer vacation, major rules, and finals make it more difficult. As a result, some of these rules are ignored on a daily basis from time to time. Is it such a travesty that rules are less enforced by June? Only a small majority of students typically get caught for their petty crimes at school. If this is the case, maybe some rules are better off less enforced. No matter what, minorities of students who manage to get away with their school crimes always break rules. Does this mean that the students' safety is in jeopardy? No. Not all rules are put into place for safety. Some rules simply help students avoid the distractions that interfere with their education.
However, this doesn't mean that every student with an accessory that is considered to be a distraction in school will be caught. Minor rules such as tardiness or dress code don't completely involve the safety of all students. Why should security and staff keep trying to enforce these rules in June? Maybe school staff has more important rules to handle rather than dealing with every little rule that is broken. They also can't waste their time taking in tardy students to Saturday school in June while so much is going on. This may be the reason that school staff doesn't bother to penalize every student even if the student gets caught in the act. They obviously have a heavy workload concerning other issues, especially at the closing of the school year. By the end of the year, getting students to take the finals and preparing seniors for graduation seems to be more of a priority at Colton High as well as every other school in southern California. If school staff wants to consider enforcing the rules more strictly, they should think more about the work they have to do for senior graduation, finals and passing as many students as they possibly can depending on the students' progress. Less enforced rules make it easier for students and staff to get through the end of the year without pressure. It just makes it less stressful for the teachers, security, and vice principals. Rules may be put into place for the students' safety and education, but sometimes it's just not worth the effort.
All you need to know about clubs
By Victor Valdez
September 26, 2002There are many clubs on campus, and there may be one or two just for you. There are many different reasons to join a club. You may want to meet new people or just try something new, maybe even shake up your social scene. Many clubs on campus take field trips to interesting places, and fun activities, which is also a good reason. Here are a few choices:
A.S.B.- A.S.B. is the associated student body. They plan all the school events that go on like the dances, carnivals and the DJs at lunch. A.S.B. is a class. The advisor is Chris Burner.
Pepper Bough-the Pepper Bough is this newspaper you are reading now. The Pepper Bough makes the school newspaper. Pepper Bough is a class. The adviser is Dave Rainey.
Publications- this is the Yearbook, called the "Crimson and Gold." They do exactly what it sounds like: make the yearbook. Publications is a class. The adviser is Pamela Paulsen.
DECA- DECA means Distributive Education Clubs of America. It helps the kids on campus out with what comes after high school such as job interviews and economy. DECA meets every Thursday in room 251. The advisors are Carol Tsushima and Tina Petersen.
Peer Assistance- Peer Assistance helps the students on campus with their problems by speaking with them. Peer assistance is a class. The advisor is Carol Miller.
Key Club- Key Club helps out the community where it is needed. One thing they do is have can drives and give the food to the poor. Key Club meets every Monday in room 552. The advisor is Frank Miller.
Math Club- Math Club is where they help students with math and they go on field trips. Math club meets on Fridays in room 561. The advisor is Ellen Green.
Choir- choir is where you show off your vocal talents. Choir is a class. The advisor for choir is Mike Simpson.
Believers Club- this is where students who want to study the Bible and share their faith with students meet. Believers Club meets Thursdays at first lunch in oom 203 and at second lunch in room 561. The advisors are David Wheatley and Ellen Green.
BSU- BSU stands for Black Students United. Its goals are to unite students of all races and creeds to share ideas and provide cultural and educational activities. BSU meets on Fridays at the senior benches and the advisor is Nadine Torres.
NJROTC- Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps gives students that join a small taste of what it is like to be in the Navy. NJROTC is a class. The teacher is David Mahoney.
FHA-Future Homemakers of America is a club that teaches you how to cook and sew and basically manage a household. FHA meets on Tuesdays in room 30. The advisor is Ellen Gordon.
French Club- French Club is for students that want to know about French and its cultural background. French Club meets Tuesdays in room 608. The advisor is Vita Chimienti.
MECHA-Movimiento Estudiantail Chicano Aztlan club is a club that teaches Chicanos to be proud of where they came from and their culture. Meeting times and advisor were not available at press time.
AVID- Advanced via Independent Determination is a program that helps students prepare for college. AVID is a class. The teacher is Eileen Potterton.
NHS- National Honor Society is for the high achieving; at CHS you need a 3.25 GPA, so you want in keep those grades up. NHS meets the first Thursday of every month. The advisors are Corina Parramo and Lisa Rungo.
Academic Competition- Academic Comp. is a club where students practice debate tactics and go and compete against other schools. Academic Comp. is a class. The teacher is Robert Degroff.
Band-Band is club where you can learn how to play an instrument and if you are good enough go and compete against others. It may sound easy but its hard work. Band is a class. Dr. Luis Gonzalez is the teacher.
Troupers' Club- this is where students can show off their acting skills and sometimes put on a play. The club meets every Thursday after school, the advisor is Stacey Jay.
CHIC- Colton High Infant Center is a club for students who want to earn knowledge on childcare. CHIC meets every fourth Tuesday in room 31.
Guitar class rocks campus
By Julia Arenas
September 26, 2002
That always popular instrument, the guitar, is being seen in many hands at Colton High. The love of the guitar has heightened a great deal, that now an unofficial guitar club has been formed. The founder, vocal music teacher Michael Simpson, has said that the class received a great amount of interest. He expected to see The Guitar Class, which has often been called, "The Guitar Club", to fill up immediately. And immediately it did; over 90 people signed up, but to the eager students' dismay, only 36 of the 90 could actually be enrolled in the class. Seeming a bit overwhelmed at the great amount of people who signed up, he seemed only more saddened that only 36 people were allowed in.
But truly enjoying what he does, Simpson starts to get into the subject at hand. Anyone can see that he loves what he is doing and proud that so many teens decided to sign up for the club. He talks a little about what his students are working on. Just for starters, he mentions tuning techniques, and music note reading. A student in the class, junior Jason Templeton, states,"This class is one of the only classes I can't wait to get to." Students in the class reflect that it is for beginners and intermediate, too; Templeton goes on to say, "It's good for all levels." The class is going really well, and Simpson says that he sees many good things coming toward the class. He also hopes that it will continue for many years in the future.
How to start a club at colton high
By Heather Weppler
September 26, 2002
All around the school you see them, you may even have joined one…no I'm not talking about a gang…it's a club! It's fun being in one, and at one point you might even become a leader in that club…but have you ever wondered how that club started? How do you start a club? Well today you're in luck because I can tell you what to do to start one.
The first major thing you need for starting a club is an idea of what kind of club you want (duh). The next thing you have to do is talk to the ASB advisor, Chris Burner. When you talk to him he'll tell you that you need to find an advisor and create a constitution for your club and submit it to him.
Making and running a club is a major responsibility, and requires a lot of work. If you decide that you want to make a club you should find others who are interested and that will help you set up and run the club. Make sure that it's something that you will still want to do at the end of the year. It will take a lot to keep it going strong.
First things first, so you want to make a constitution, well, when you see Burner he'll give you a paper with guidelines on how to write one. This guideline will require you to state the criteria for how certain things about the club, such as: Purpose, Rules/ Policies, and Amendments. You must also have an advisor (teacher, who is credentialed) and the names of the officers before you turn in your constitution, they must also sign and agree to what is written in constitution. When finished with all of the above, turn a copy into the business office. They will in turn give the paperwork to ASB, will then vote on the club. They will let you know if you club has been approved or kicked to the curb.
When asked what ASB looked for in a club ASB President Carlos "C.J" Perez stated "As long as it's something that would interest students, that they would have enough student support." Sophomore and ASB Treasurer, Moorisha Taylor adds, "They have to have enough information." Having a club that others would want to participate in makes your club all the more likely to be approved.
There are a lot of benefits that you get from being in, or leading, a club. You're involved in school, a club is a major way of showing school support while doing something you like. Every club gets to nominate someone to be a King/Queen. They also get to participate in the parade with their own float. Clubs also get a chance to earn some money by selling an item of their choice at carnivals and doing fundraisers, the item has to be permitted by school rules. A club is a great way to build friendships with people who have the same interests as you, you get to know people you normally wouldn't see in school. A club will help you learn how to be a leader, or how to be a part of a team. You will learn how to organize things and be useful in adult situations when you have to plan.
If you have a good club idea, and you think others would be interested in being a part of it, then go get started. It takes a lot of responsibility and hard work but if it's something you love to do then it will be more than worth it.
Ap students form unofficial club
By Lisa Namnath
September 26, 2002
The students in AP classes are a club. They may not have the title, but they do spend more time in meetings than many of the certified clubs on campus.
"Because they are given so many group assignments it is inevitable that they are a kind of club," reasoned Honors English II teacher Lucy Khairullah. AP students get together for group projects at least twice a month. AP Biology teacher Luis Checo believes that these activities do make the students a club, "actions speak louder than words, working together means more than the title." Checo went on to tell of his own past experiences, "I joined clubs in college because of the activities, not titles." Even when the students don't have projects, you can often find them in impromptu meetings to discuss and be there for one another because the material covered is college level.
"We have assignments that are pretty hard and so we just try to help each other, I don't know if that means we're a club," commented sophomore Icha Stephanie. In an unscientific survey it was found that an average of one-half to three-fourths of the students in AP program have two or more AP classes. There are some classes that seem to be an exception. AP Physics, while taken by about 8 or 10 people who do have other AP classes sees a high enrollment of students who come in never having taken a college level course before. But, even if you're just joining the AP Program, it is more likely than not you'll be quickly accepted into the club. The students are all there for one another, "It's a cult," Laura Langner commented jokingly on the type of community the students form, Langner went on to say, "Once you're in you can never (really) leave."
When speaking to students of the, "club like" atmosphere a response you often hear is that the students currently in the class with them have been in lower level classes of the same subject together, for instance the Honors/AP English Program has a very low joining rate in the junior and senior years. So, often by the time the students reach their senior year they have been in English with people they have known for often more than a year or even two. AP English IV teacher Mitzi Abbot thinks that such knowledge of your peers is not necessarily a good thing, "(By the time they enter my class,) they all know each other so well that they begin to fall into roles." These roles may make things easier or harder for the students but all the same they know, just as all AP participants know, that there is a safety net of peers ready and willing to keep them from falling.
Arvil, Angie, Eve: three gals, three hot new CDs
By Latoya Bookins
September 26, 2002Teenage pop rocker Avril Livigne tops the Billboard Top 20 at number three with her debut album "Let go." Aided with a three-piece back-up band Livigne gives a collection of confessional songs with attitude, reminiscent of fellow Canadian Alanis Morissette. This self-professed tomboy writes inspiringly about independence in her first single "Complicated" which graced the number four spot on the Billboard Top 20 singles chart. Collaborating with producer/songwriter Clif Magness, the VMA Best New Artist winner relates more with the hard-edged styling of Pink than the so-called "bubble gum" music of Britney Spears and other pop divas.
Angie Martinez slides into the number eleven spot on the billboard charts with her latest CD "Animal House." Unfortunately, she was unable to land a position on the singles Top 20 list. Nevertheless, there is something about her no-nonsense style that allows her to hold her own against many of the rather famous celebrities she collaborates with. Brooklyn raised and hip-hop oriented, this popular new DJ is an easily respected artist. Martinez is both surprising and inventive. An example of this would be when she switches from songs with hip-hop beats to the track "If I Could Go," which mixes a Latin-inflicted guitar.
Eve's new album "Eve-olution" doesn't rank on either of the billboard charts but does quite well on television and online. Eve managed to get into the top ten list on MTV's TRL and Top video list with her first single "Gangster Lovin." Where Eve shined the brightest would have to be on Direct Effect where she beat out many for the number one spot. Eve's new CD has everything from guest appearances [Alicia Keys, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, Truth Hurts] to acoustic guitar. Her tracks go from slick rhymes to socially conscious tunes with lyrical warmth to catty but enjoyable skits.
Inland Invasion: Punk concert lives up to hype
By Ashley Ellison
September 26, 2002The Glen Helen Blockbuster Pavilion in Devore, on Saturday, September 14, had a sellout crowd for KROQ/ Levi's Inland Invasion 2, The Low Dough Show. The 17-band concert included a mix of first generation punk bands from the 1970's and some contemporary bands, and two afternoon stabbings.
Doors opened at 9 a.m., but the concert was opened at 11 a.m. with a performance by The Distillers on the side stage, followed by The Damned, X, Adolescents, Circle Jerks, T.S.O.L. and G.B.H. The Vandals closed the side stage around 4 p.m.
Unwritten Law opened the main stage during G.B.H.'s performance. Next on stage was the Buzzcocks, New Found Glory, Pennywise, Blink 182, Bad Religion, Social Distortion, Offspring and was closed by the legendary punk band The Sex Pistols, who also headlined the event.
Some people came just to hear the music, while others reveled in the entire scene, including the mosh pits. The main stage had a rather comfortable atmosphere of seats and healthy grass. While on the side stage, the audience stood on dusty dry grass and moshed on dusty dry grass. When people came out of the mosh pits, it looked as if they had just got finished eating dirt.
People consider crashing into other people in the mosh pits to be a healthy way to work out aggression, but not all the aggression at Saturday's concert was healthy, however. One male concertgoer was stabbed in Parking Lot C at 2:00 p.m. A second male was stabbed in the lawn area around 3:40 p.m. during The Vandals and Unwritten Law's performance. Neither injury appeared to life threatening.
Horoscopes
By Sandy Brown
September 26, 2002Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Mars, planet of energy, is in your sign. You'll rock at everything you try to do. Invigorated by your abilities, you choose homework over reruns.
Libra (September 23- October 23)
Mercury is in your sign through the 14th, helping you cope with friends' related anxiety. Misunderstandings abound during the second half of the month so think before you open your mouth.
Scorpio (October24-November 22)
Starting on the 9th, Venus, planet of love, boosts your creativity. You'll also squeeze a new extracurricular into your super-packed schedule.
Sagittarius (November 23-December 21)
You hate sharing the spotlight with anyone, but this month you have serious competition. By the 9th, Venus is in your friendship zone, so organize a sleepover.
Capricorn (December22-January 20)
Planetary activity in your spiritual zone makes this a great time to get closer to everyone- family members included. You'll also be on a major self-improvement kick. Try yoga, and don't go to bed without flossing.
Aquarius (January 21- February 18)
Your trust in friends wanes around September 14th when Mercury, planet of communication, disappears. Don't be so quick to doubt them- you're a little paranoid. Friction between you and your parents leaves you feeling as if you have no control over your life.
Pisces (February 19- March 20)
You've never spent this much quality time with your best friend. That's because there's lots of planetary activity in your seventh house of one- on - one relationships. On a negative note, family brawls abound midmonth when Mercury goes out of phase. Mom and dad want you to be with them, not your friends.
Aries (March 21- April 19)
Tell your friends the good news: You're not all about you for a change. Mars is in your sixth house of service to others, inspiring you to care deeply about everyone else. The last two weeks of September will be mellow.
Taurus (April 20- May 20)
The presence of both Venus and Mars makes you one of the luckiest signs this month. You'll acquire friends who will be in your life forever, and you'll lose those who, well, suck. Bust out the sewing machine or colored pencils- you're feeling insanely creative.
Gemini (May 21- June 21)
The first two weeks of September fly by. However, when Mercury goes out of phase midmonth, you'll find yourself spacing. Also, prepare for a battle with a sibling around then. Close to the 22nd, you'll feel as if nobody understands you. (Blame it on the full moon.)
Cancer (June22- July 22)
The full moon on the 21st pushes you to become involved with the latest family crisis. You'll ask lots of questions (not usually your style) and even offer to help out around the house. Despite your concern for mom and dad, you still find plenty of time to socialize.
Leo (July 23- August 22)
You're on a mission to prove yourself to everyone. Be subtle so other people's envy doesn't foil your plans. Also, make it clear to family members that you're there if they need you.
New flick "Swimfan" makes a splash
By Victor Valdez
September 26, 2002It was a warm September Sunday at the Edwards Cinema in Ontario. The movie was Swimfan (PG-13), starring Jesse Bradford (Clockstoppers, 2001) and Erika Christensen (Traffic, 2000), directed by John Polson (who was at the controls for Mission Impossible 2).
The movie is about a guy named Ben Cronin (Bradford) who has somethings going for him he has a girlfriend who loves him, He is on the swim team, about to be scouted by Stanford University, when he meets Madison Belle (Christensen). It starts off as just giving her a ride home then dinner and then she asked to see him swim. That's where he makes the fatal mistake of having a "one night stand" with her. She says no one has to know, so he goes along with it. Then she becomes obsessed with him sending him emails, calling him on the phone, and stalking him in the boys' locker room. He lets her know its over and there was nothing more and then she loses it. She slowly begins to ruin his life. She tampers with his drug test so it comes out positive for steroids when the scouts are at his swim meet. She gets him fired from his work and then puts his girl friend in the hospital, but she makes it look like it is all this stuff is his fault. So he has to find some way to get her back or away for good.
The movie is good if you like teen pop flicks. I don't usually enjoy these kinds of movies but it scored a seven out of ten on my chart. It has good acting so it stands out to the cheesiness of a lot of other teen movies that are out there. This movie could have gotten a better score if it didn't cheap Stater Bros. Music and the part at the end at which Christensen over acts a bit. So if you like teen movies then go see this one.
Football brings 1-1 record
by Paul Heredia
September 26, 2002
Varsity squad opens season with two non-league tussles, losing to district neighbor Bloomington 40-14 and trouncing Victor Valley, 30-15.
Do the Yellowjackets have what it takes to repeat last season's victory over the Fontana Steelers? As the Yellowjackets attempt to complete back to back wins with a victory over Fontana they also try to spring into the tradition of Colton Yellowjackets football. Colton football tradition consists of spirit, fan support, victory, pride and determination. With years of tradition behind them, the Yellowjackets have a lot to live up to.
Coach Harold Strauss leads his players into the season saying, "We just want to take a step farther from last season," as they come off an 8-3 record. Although Coach Strauss has many varsity lettermen with little experience, he says, "This team just needs to realize what a good team they really are." According to Strauss, all he expects from this Yellowjackets team is "to improve each week." With Cajon and San Gorgonio being top teams on the Yellowjackets' league schedule, senior Brian Sorensan says, "We should be a good contender in league." The tradition of great fan support will help make Sorensan's hope a reality.
Senior Robby Pope starts his third and final season at quarterback, dominating the Colton Yellowjackets offense. As the football rests in his hands, he says his team is "seriously pumped for the season." Pope encourages his team to, "first win league," and then carry that momentum into the playoffs. With the playoffs in sight this season the Yellowjackets will carry the thought with them all season. When Coach Strauss was asked how crucial non-league games are, he said, "They all have a bearing on a playoff spot." Senior Brian Sorensan also starts his third and final season at tight end and defensive end. He says, "He can't wait to hit somebody," as he pumps his team up for tomorrow night's game in hopes of building a winning tradition.
The team heads into tonight's game with a 1-1 record and coming off a huge 30-15 victory over Victor Valley. They will try to beat Fontana for the second year in a row with the league games on the horizon. The game is a road game and starts at 7:30.
Coach Strauss seems confident: "We beat them last year for the first time in the last 14 years and hopefully we will beat them this year."
Girls Tennis opens season
by Sandy Brown
September 26, 2002Colton Yellow Jackets girl tennis team faces off with the Cajon Cowboys on Monday September 30. There were also three matches last week whose results were not available at press time. On Wednesday, September 11, the team played at Redlands, and lost. Redlands won 16 games and Colton only won three. Coach Quinton Marley says, "Redlands has a strong tennis team."
With the 16 girls ready to try their best and play their hardest, captain Desire Hughes, coach Marley, and assistant coach Terry Urban are ready to help the girls and lead them to the best season they can. "The season will be interesting, we hope to make at least third place, and hopefully reach the playoffs," says Marley.
The girls are ready and willing to get as much practice in as they can. Practices started the first day of school on our tennis court here on campus. Practices run for about two hours, Monday through Friday. With practices beginning at 2:45 and ending at 4:45 the girls get their tennis practice and warm up in everyday, in hopes to have a great season. Kristine Macias, returning player, says, "All I know is we need a lot of practice and we need to try hard, we have to make it happen."
Volleyball begins new year
by Nicole Miller
September 26, 2002
Bump, set, spike, WIN! With practices starting in May, the girl's Varsity Volleyball team has a promising start. Last year the team was 2-6 in league. "It was a big growing season. We were able to learn a lot for this season coming up," states Coach Tonya Strauss. This year there are nine seniors and three juniors playing on the Varsity team. The captains are Jade Purcell, Leslie Fowler, and Sheree Holm. Strauss has high hopes for this team "I expect to have a good season, all of the girls are very positive and have a lot of heart. I think those key factors will help our team a lot this year." The team will play 18 games this season. "Yucaipa is a good team; they will be hard to beat," Strauss commented. "Cajon is another hard to beat opponent."
Junior Varsity Coach Robin Gill expects to have a winning season. With 12 players on J.V. and 14 on freshmen, the team's goal, according to Gill, "is to do better and look better than we did in previous years." Both teams have already celebrated a victory over Arroyo Valley at the Norco scrimmage, which was held in the Ken Hubbs gym on September 10.
The girls will play their next game on Monday September 30 at 4:30 in the Ken Hubbs gym.