Issue 1 2018-19 by anhsnewspaper

Vo l u m e X X V I , I s s u e 1

@ T H E G R O W L I N G W O LV E R I N E

FRIDAY SEPT. 21, 2018

Volume XXVI Issue 1

THE GROWLING

WOLVERINE wBACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 28000 WOLVERINE WAY, ALISO VIEJO, CA 92656

Emotional Resilience Night on Page 3

Senior Sunrise on Page 2 Santa Ana Football Game Page 4

Songs of the Summer Page 9

Pep Rally Welcomes Back Students By: ALYSSA SHON Senior Editor The Welcome Back Pep Rally, held on Aug. 31, was a memorable event, making all students feel welcome and signaling a great start to the year. After walking into the hazy gym with blasting music, crazy, colorful lights, and cheerful cheerleaders, the stands soon became packed. The decorations were admired all around. This included black senior posters with lights and the junior, sophomore, and freshman teal posters, causing the seniors to stand out. Also, the Welcome Back black wall was engaging and creatively painted. People were screaming and the students were chaotic, until drumline marched in. As usual, they played their iconic song “Cadence”. “Drumline was the best part about the rally” said Christian Lunt (12). Then our ASB President, Audrey

Cheer and song captains lead cheers. McKeon (12), gave a speech introducing everyone to the new school year and sending each class advice and the best of wishes. Next was the welcome back video, which has been the same for the past two years, but it was still fun to watch because it re-

minds everyone how much the seniors and the entire school how much we have grown. “It started off the year with positivity, especially for the freshman” exclaimed Arya Bastani (12). Finally, the hosts introduced themselves. Joey Mingo and Jed

A Welcome From the Principal Dear Wolverines: Welcome to the 2018-2019 school year! As principal of Aliso Niguel High School, I want to welcome you back for another full and productive year ahead. This year will mark my fourth year as the proud principal of ANHS; I feel very fortunate to be a part of our school and cannot imagine a more fulfilling career. This September will mark the culmination of our school’s 25th year anniversary celebration held over the past year, as we will now “officially” turn 25 on September 9, 2018 -- exactly 25 years since classes first began here at ANHS. Since that time, we have been “TEAL SINCE DAY ONE,” and we have demonstrated “25 years of integrity, character, and excellence in public education.” I know first-hand that Aliso Niguel is a high school like few others in Orange County -- a “community within a community,” fully supported by active parents and loyal students. For all of us who truly

know our school, being a Wolverine is really something quite special and unique. Students, although your exact plans after high school may be unclear right now, rest assured that the time you spend in high school will not only influence who you will become, but will also comprise an important part of your personal story. Therefore, choose your path carefully and take advantage of every opportunity Aliso Niguel has to offer. Most importantly, however, remember that your high school experiences will become a central and wonderful part of your young life. More than ever before, you will be discovering new strengths as you pursue the many opportunities available. Challenge yourself as never before. High school is the perfect time to try new things - time to play a sport, sing in the choir or play an instrument, act in a play, join yearbook or newspaper, or perhaps participate in a club or two. Your years in high school will be over in the

blink of an eye, and so I want to personally encourage each of you to fill these years beyond measure with friends, activities, fun, and most of all – personal growth and learning. Aliso Niguel High School is truly extraordinary, because of our not only our fine tradition of academic, athletic, and co-curricular successes, but also because of our wonderful staff, and the fact that our students and families truly care about our school. As you start this school year, don’t “settle” for the well-worn path; instead, consider the path lesstraveled and make this year a special one that begins the journey to your dreams. It will be my honor to walk alongside each of you as you experience all that your high school years have to offer. GO WOLVERINES! Sincerely, Deni Christensen Principal

Photo by Amani Taraman. Kaufman (12), the senior class presidents, Simon Jovanovic (11), the junior class president, Bella Thompson (10), the sophomore class president, and Kyle Jamora (9), the freshman class president, hosted the rally. By class presidents being the hosts, it showed everyone who

was leading their class and voicing their opinions, which is important. “It was fun to participate in the event, but rallies take up a lot of time and effort, so I got sick right after” proclaimed Kyle Jamora (9). After Verinia Gillebaard (12) sang the national anthem. “It was very inspirational” said Radhika Marolia (11). Next pep squad did the class roll call and performed with enthusiastic personalities and big smiles. The year cheer is implemented in rallies and is intended to get the students excited, but some classes participate more than others. “I was quite disappointed with our class’ energy in the year cheer” explained Christian Lunt. Later, the class videos were shown: freshman were inspired by the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, sophomores copied Friends, juniors mimicked The Late Night

Aliso Ends its Twenty-Fifth By: VISHNU NAIR Editor-in-chief Aliso ended the one year celebration of its 25th anniversary on Sept. 13, 2018. Students were given slices of ANHS’ “birthday cake” as well as an opportunity to sign the birthday card for the school. Last year the students were given t-shirts, lanyards, and the title of “Aliso’s 25th graduating class.” The actual birthday of Aliso Niguel was actually on Sept. 9, 1993. That year, Aliso’s doors were open to 1600 students who were able to be there as they made history. Twenty-five years later, on Aug. 22, 2018, Aliso now opens its doors to over 3,000 students. At lunch on Sept. 13, the birthday cake was passed out in the pit. During the beginning minutes of lunch, the line was so long that it snaked around to hallways. It was big enough to feed all 3,000 students because they only distributed a 1 inch by 1 inch piece to stu-

dents. The culinary arts teacher, Sargent, put many chocolate and vanilla costco cakes together and frosted them Sunday afternoon to make the big cake. But the cake was not the only thing marking the momentous event. ASB threw 25th anniversary t-shirts and Aliso crew necks to students near the attendance window, while blasting music was playing. Also, a big 25th birthday card was signed by many students. The event was originally planned to be held on Monday, Sept. 10, but due to the controversy with the football game against Santa Ana, it was postponed to a later day. The celebration was a sweet surprise to all students and enjoyed by everyone. “It was cool to be able to celebrate the anniversary during my senior year” states Campbell Inlander (12). Everyone this year was able to be a part of history as Aliso commemorated its twenty-fifth year.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

NEWS

UPCOMING EVENTS Senior Sunrise Makes History Date

Event

Oct. 12

Homecoming Pep Rally

Oct. 12

Pink Out Game against Dana

Oct. 19 Oct. 20

Homecoming Game against Laguna Hills Homecoming Game

Oct. 22-26

Red Ribbon Week

/....cotinued from pg. 1 ...Continued Show with Jimmy Fallon, and the seniors recreated a popular YouTube video. “Brady McCormick was a star for the juniors” stated Radhika Marolia. During the rally, a new point system was introduced called five star. By going to school events or displaying school spirit, people can earn points and win prizes. After, the new teachers were introduced with a video where they explained what they teach and a fun fact about themselves. When the video finished, the athletic commissioners, Sean Ibarra (12), Jeffery Hoang (11), and Lindsey Duhn (10), called out the fall sports captains and taught some cheers with Bryce Dewald (12) holding the flag and the mascot joining in.

“The cheers were cool” said Nik Perlman (12). Then, the homecoming theme was revealed. The overall theme was Pixar or “An animated homecoming”. Each class was a specific Pixar movie too: seniors are The Incredibles, juniors are Toy Story, sophomores are Monsters Inc., and freshman are Cars. “My favorite part was the reveal. The seniors were so pumped!” exclaimed senior Arshia Pouroryan. Overall, people enjoyed the first pep rally of the year. “The pep rally was quite incredible and I really felt welcomed back to Aliso” declared Abby Miller (12). With an great turn out and a diverse lineup, there will be much anticipation for the Homecoming Rally on Oct. 12.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE Editor-in-Chief Vishnu Nair

Ads Manager Simon Jovanovic

Senior Editors Alyssa Shon Amanda Zeitawi

Staff Writers Sanaz Ahmadi Pedram Bazargani Hayley Chung-Heng Tara Dukes Adele Giovanniello Matthew Gonzalez April Liu Kona Meier Sophia Parizadeh Cris Pineda Natalie Rudin Skylar Schlicht Sophie Wrath Hayden Weber

Layout Editors Olivia Agnew Ellie Bowmer Kayla Bowmer Gabi Poremba Copy Editors Natalie Glennon Brian Kim Brooke Orrill Cynthia Qi Jessica Tadokoro Nadav Winograd Audrey Xia

Photographers Sameeha Khan Amani Taraman Media Coordinators Ellie Bowmer Kayla Bowmer Faculty Advisor Mrs. Alvarez

28000 Wolverine Way Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 Room 305 ANHSCopy@gmail.com The opinions expressed in The Growling Wolverine are those of individual staff writers and they do not necessarily reflect the views of the Aliso Niguel High School administration and/or the Capistrano Unified School District. The Growling Wolverine is a self-funded organization and unauthorized reproduction or distribution is strictly prohibited and subject to penalty. Submissions are appreciated, but they must include a name--anonymous articles will not be published.

By: GABI POREMBA Layout Editor Senior year brings many traditions, one of those is the annual senior Sunrise. “Sunrise or not,” Co- Senior Class President Joey Mingo expresses, “that [senior sunrise] was the best feeling to look into the stands and see an amazing turnout and how well executed the senior sunrise was.” At approximately 6 a.m., students flooded the football stands in anticipation of the sunrise. Although the sun did not want to cooperate, hidden behind the marine layer, both Jed Kaufman and Joey Mingo believed that the annual event went smoothly. The class presidents worked hard with fellow ASB members and our principal, Mrs. Christensen, to deliver to first senior event of the year. To the 12th graders, the “sunrise” symbolizes the beginning of the academic school year. Co-Senior President Kauffman shared that the Senior Sunrise had a positive impact on the Class of 2019. People arrived as early as 5:15 a.m. to get their Krispy Kreme doughnuts and hot chocolate from Starbucks. Students brought blankets and wore their senior spirit wear as they anticipated the new year to come. Kaufman also confessed his amusement with Mingo as Mingo and Principal Christensen dressed in Starbucks uniforms while giving students cups of

Students at sunrise. coffee. Each part of the event brought the students to a realization that they are actually seniors, and that they are about to embark on many memories throughout the rest of the year. Even though we don’t all know each other that well, the sunrise definitely brought together the class outside the academic environment. Tannaz Dahandeh, a senior at Aliso, shared that, “Despite the fact that I just came to Aliso this year, the numerous ASB events that have occurred and that will happen this year in addition to senior sunrise have helped me transition to this student body”. She expressed that, “Aliso has a well-rounded senior class, with classmates I see myself acquainting with for the rest of the year”. With the passing of the senior

Photo by Katie Parker. sunrise, Kaufman knows for a fact that this senior class community goes unrivaled compared to past years. The positive feedback from students regarding the Senior Sunrise definitely set the tone for how the rest of the year will unravel, and how the class of ‘19 will enjoy upcoming events. Mingo feels that the hectic rushing around and scrambling to organize events appear to pay off. Since senior sunrise, Mingo expresses that he is, “addicted to the success of senior events” among the school year. Thank you to our incredible senior presidents, for making this seemingly ordinary morning, extraordinary. This year, full of dress up days and senior events will surely hold more excitement and memories.

Letter From the Editor

Vishnu Nair, editor-in-chief. By: VISHNU NAIR Editor-in-Chief Hey Aliso! If you didn’t alreadyhear the news, I’m going to be the new editor-in-chief of the Growling Wolverine this year. I joined newspaper when I was a sophomore and it was one of the best decisions in my life. I didn’t know much about journalism itself at that time, but, I learned from all the great people before me. I also have made some unforgettable memories and met some of the best people at Aliso in room 305. I cannot wait to deliver to all of Aliso (at least those

Photo by Alyssa Shon. who read the paper) with the best issues of the paper yet. I hope that in my time as editor-in-chief, I can help everyone see the amazingness of our paper. I have the amazing Aparna Sharma to thank for blood, sweat, and tears—literally—into this paper. Her hard work and dedication to the paper inspired me to want to do the same and I would not be in this position if it were not for her. She has shaped me into the journalist that I am today and hope that the paper shines even brighter because of it. I cannot wait for another fantastic year of issues being delivered

out of room 305. I look forward to working with my wonderful senior editors, Alyssa Shon and Amanda Zeitawi, and all of the newspaper staff to deliver Aliso with amazing content. Regardless if you pick up the newspaper just to read the horoscopes or if you close read every article published, I hope you guys all love this year’s issues. If you want more of the Growling Wolverine— and who wouldn’t, right?— follow our newspaper instagram @thegrowlingwolverine. (Can’t pass up the opportunity for a self plug).

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

NEWS

Aliso Niguel Welcomes Six New Teachers By: SAMEEHA KHAN Photographer If you are interested in Biology, As the new school year began, we welcome the new teachers to Aliso. This year, we have about six new teachers: Mr. Belanto, Mr. Curley, Mr. Henderson, Mrs. Ritner, Mr. Thrall, and Ms. Lusar. Sra. Thrall is a Spanish teacher who teaches Spanish 1 and 3. “I have such a passion for learning about cultures around the world and linguistics that I felt I wanted to teach others about these topics.” Sra. Thrall said. “I love when students are able to make the connections and comparisons between their own lives and the lives of those who live in Spanish speaking countries. It is truly rewarding to help students grow in their proficiency of a second language (although for some, Spanish is the third, fourth, or even fifth language they are learning).” Sra. Thrall has been learning some other things at Aliso as well. “Fun Fact: I just recently learned how to floss (the dance move).” Mr. Curley is our new World History teacher who had been teaching in Massachusetts for 3 years before coming to Aliso. “I was inspired to become a teacher by my parents and my passion for history. I think history is really important because it teaches us who we are, where we come from, and how the world works.” If you are passing through the 400 hall, you would not miss him since Mr. Curley is 6 feet and 4 inches.

Mr. Belanto would be one of

Sra. Thrall

Mr. Curley

Mr Belanto

Ms. Lusar

all photos by Sameeha Khan Mrs. Ritner

New Faces Arrive in Administration BY: NADAV WINOGRAD Copy Editor A relatively large faculty overhaul is taking place in the administration office at Aliso. One academic advisor and two assistant principals have taken off, and not all the positions have been refilled yet. There are two new admins will be joining the familiar cast this year, Assistant Principal Rich Nichols and Counselor – not to be confused with academic advisor -- Laura Liegler. Nichols is replacing Mr. Ezratty, who will become principal at Tesoro High School. He comes with an extensive résumé, bringing to the table 15 years in education as a bio teacher, a water polo coach, and an assistant principal at Warren High School. When asked why he came to Aliso, Nichols did not give a specific reason as to why Aliso captured his attention. However, he hinted that “students doing an amazing job taking care of the campus” and Aliso’s academic standing as a “smart school” factored into his choice. Looking to the future, Nichols had bright prospects. “Gonna be

the teachers to go to. “Science has always fascinated me and teaching science at the high school level did not really cross my mind until I was in graduate school. I noticed when I was teaching undergraduate classes that the students were either really excited about science already (and were probably majoring in it) or they did not care about science at all.” said Mr. Belanto. “I realized then that students entering college have mostly all decided whether they like science or not. So, I decided that teaching at the high school level was the best way to excite students about science and teach them real-world problem solving skills before they ever reach college.” Ms. Lusar teaches math, specifically, Algebra 1 and Geometry.”I have been in education for 14 years, I have coached for 9 years and taught for 3 years” Ms. Lusar said. “I enjoy helping students build their critical thinking skills. I am looking forward to helping students understand and enjoy math this year.” Ms. Lusar is also a coach for the girls’ track team and would love more recruits. Aliso Niguel is lucky to have these new teachers who are excited for the new 2018-19 school

an amazing year this year,” he started, adding “I’m especially excited for our sports teams, so far we’re undefeated in football”. In addition to Mr. Nichols, one other Assistant Principal will be hired – nobody has taken the open position yet. On the other side of the administration offices, Liegler shares many of Nichols’ contentions about the upcoming year. “I’m going in with the mindset that it’ll be a great year for students – even if it’s a tough year for me. A tough year on me is okay if the students have a great year.” Liegler is new to the counseling scene, coming to Aliso straight Chapman, her degrees still hanging fresh in her office and her confidence at full blast. One of her biggest challenges, she says, is “when kids come into my office, I want to go all in and help 100%... but I can’t always do that”. On top of her professional qualifications, Liegler is having an transition into Aliso. “I went to Tesoro, we had an idea of what Aliso was like, it reminds me of my high school days. It’s nice to come back to a good environment, and Dr. Kozel and I connect really well.”

Mr Henderson

A Postcard From Class of 2018

The mural sitting in the Cafeteria above the ASB room By: SIMON JOVANOVIC Ads Manager The Class of 2018’s gift to the school came in the form of a beautiful mural in the food court area that serves as a wonderful greeting for wolverines new and old. The idea for the mural, as last year’s Senior Class President, Maddie Brauer, explained, came about when “the Seniors in ASB met to discuss what the gift might be.” She explained that they “didn’t wanna do anything too cliche and wanted to be original.” Nothing seemed to be clicking “until Lil Banty[Anthony Dawood] proposed a vintage postcard style” inspired by the classic

‘Greetings from California’ postcards. Brauer continued adding that “it was a great choice and we thought it would give us enough creative freedom to fit all the diverse extracurriculars Aliso Niguel offers.” Throughout the summer, Mike Stanley, the talented muralist who brought the Class of 2018’s idea to life, worked long hours to complete the mural. The process was tedious and time consuming, however, seemingly every week without fail, something new would be added to the mural until finally, on August 16th, just five days before school started, Stanley had finished every aspect of the mural and signed it with his name and

photo by Kayla Bowmer the year. Stanley’s illustrations of certain people are based on yearbook photos. One lucky lady by the name of Alyssa Shon (12) noticed that the character used to represent Aliso Soccer looked eerily similar to a picture that had been taken of her. She took out her 25th anniversary yearbook and found that Stanley had used her picture for the mural. She described her discovery as, “exciting. It’s pretty flattering to be able to represent Aliso Soccer like that.” The mural presents a beautiful culmination of all the things that make Aliso so great and sets a standard that the Class of 2019 now has to live up to for their own senior gift.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

FEATURES 9/11 Patriotic Football Game Sparks Controversy 4

Posters from Aliso Niguel v. Santa Ana . Photos provided by Google.

Photos from the Football game.

By: VISHNU NAIR, ALYSSA SHON and AMANDA ZETAWI Editor-in Chief & Senior Editor During the Friday night football game against Santa Ana, Aliso held their annual Patriotic Game to commemorate the lives lost on 9/11. Later that night, Santa Ana Principal, Jeff Bishop, accused Aliso of racist behavior on Facebook. Since Sept. 7, the story has been reported nationwide and the Aliso Niguel community has been labeled as racist. Aliso ASB promoted the red, white, and blue game around the school and on Instagram. During the game, there were patriotic decorations, chants, songs, and many posters. They chanted “U-S-A”, along with the typical cheers of “A-L-I-S-O Aliso, Let’s Go” and “I Believe That We Will Win”. At the game they played “Party in the USA”, “Sweet Caroline”, “Born in the USA”, “the Macarena”, and more. A few posters read “We gonna...Trump ya”, “Aliso reps that Red, White, and Blue” and “We Miss Obama”. The two political posters were immediately taken down by the Assistant Principals before the game began. The Assistant Principals were also spread out in the stands to ensure that everyone had as safe and fun experience at the game. With all of this occurring everyone had a memorable night; but it was memorable for different

Photos by Amani Taraman.

reasons. Principal of Santa Ana High School, Jeff Bishop, took to social media later that night, accusing Aliso Niguel students of being racist. “It would have been easy to blame the racist welcome the ‘Saints’ received as they walked into the stadium and read the posters referencing - Trump, ‘We love White’, ‘Build the Wall’ and various other politically and racially-charged statement” wrote Jeff Bishop on Facebook after the game. He further claimed that he received “unchristian hate from the Wolverine stands”. But he made some false claims. There has been no pictures, video or auditory evidence that proves that there were chants or a sign saying “Build a Wall” or “We Love White” at the game. After reading Jeff Bishop’s posts, many were quick to condemn the Wolverines for their, as Bishop wrote, “unchristian hate”. Hours after, the ANHS Wolverine Instagram page had multiple comments. Some included “Build the Wall signs? Trashy” and “Pretty sad that Aliso Niguel represents cowardice and racism”. After, the comments were shut down, people continued to show hate to Aliso by direct messaging the Instagram page. Not only were their spiteful comments on Instagram, but there were over 800 comments on Jeff Bishop’s Facebook post and hundreds on the Resident’s of Aliso

Viejo page. Jeff Bishop even replied to parents and posted more on his Facebook page about the event. In a matter of days Aliso Niguel became infamous. They were portrayed in the media as racists in the Orange County Register, Santa Cruz Sentinel, Los Angeles Times, CBS, NBC, KCAL 9 News, Fox, and even in a paper in Great Britain. Aliso administration and district personnel spent countless hours over the weekend planning their response to Bishop’s claims. “I couldn’t sleep that weekend,” states Aliso Niguel Principal Deni Christensen. On Sept. 10 Christensen sent out a letter to the Aliso parents relaying the night’s events. “We had removed the politically-related signs as soon as we had seen them… a ‘Trump 2020’ satin banner that emerged briefly and was quickly removed… [the red white and blue game was] in no way intended as an affront to Santa Ana High School, and I stated that many schools have such a game.” Christensen later addressed Principal Bishop’s reaction to the game. “[Bishop threatened that] if our students continued to chant ‘USA,’ he would remove his team from the field and contact the media.” In one of his Facebook posts, Bishop claimed that he was going to go to the district board meeting to talk about the events that took

place. Despite this, Bishop did not speak at the meeting. Capistrano Unified School District held a board meeting on Sept. 12 and many people spoke concerning the football game, including students, former students, and parents of the Wolverine community. A former teacher from Santa Ana spoke as well. “I am here this evening because of Mr. Jeff Bishops continued Facebook posts and quotes in other media outlets are inflammatory and could endanger the safety of my children and other students” stated Ron Anderson, a parent of students at Aliso Niguel. “I was at that game from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m....and there were never banters or racist chants from either side” said Maryam Izadshenas (11), an Aliso Niguel student. “In my four years as a student, I found Aliso to be a diverse and growing campus. When there, I made friends with individuals from nearly every walk of life. That being said there were some individuals that threatened this great community, individuals who were misinformed, prejudiced and masked their hatred under the guise of humor or anonymity. However these students constitute a minority of the campus body” explains Joshua Swank, a former student of Aliso Niguel. Aliso Niguel may be predominantly Caucasian (around 56%) but we have one of the most diverse student bodies in the dis-

trict. The 56% “Caucasian” also includes those from Middle Eastern descent. Many have used this statistic to negatively paint Aliso as “white and racist” but the school is far from that stereotype. “There were mistakes made. But I think the big thing that is missing here is, those boys were your guests, and in my eyes, they were not welcome. That’s pretty much the bottom line to me, they were not welcome, they were your guests and I could go through and show you pictures that I am sure this community has not seen that would substantiate a case of racial insult. There was a sign that said ‘Aliso reps that white’” said Emil Barham, a former teacher of Santa Ana High School. He later displayed the photo, but the Aliso community had already been aware of the picture. It actually said ‘Aliso reps red, white and blue’. “I know we have a lot to learn from here. It hurts my heart that anybody felt the way those students did” expressed Christina Clarke, a parent of a student at Aliso Niguel. Many misunderstandings took place at Aliso’s red, white and blue game, from the signs, to the advertising, to the songs, to the chants. With Santa Ana’s student body being predominantly Latino, it is understandable that the event was taken in the wrong context and sent mixed signals.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

FEATURES

Aliso’s Upperclassmen Mentor Students By: PEDRAM BAZARGANI Staff Writer Aliso Niguel has an excellent program called the Peer Assistance Leadership Mentors (PAL Mentors). The program helps Aliso Niguel students academically and emotionally through positive peer guidance and relationships. PAL Mentors is composed of all upperclassmen, Juniors and Seniors, that help in any way they possible can to all Aliso Niguel students. “We help them with problems like homework, social needs, and if they are new to the school we help them get involved in clubs and other school activities”, said Nicholas Garcia (12). The program has 13 mentors that are available to help fellow students. Some of the things that PAL Mentors may help with are issues of academic disorganization where a Mentor can give you their advice on how they stay organized. They can also just be there for encouragement, so that you can build the confidence to go about your day. PAL Mentors also helps new and current students navigate

PAL members Gabi, Nick, and Ellie showcase their PAL t-shirts the school campus and connect with others in a positive way. In addition, they can also just be a friend and provide social support because PAL Mentors are trained to be positive and good role models on campus, have active listening skills, recognize when their support is needed, and build trust with fellow students. The PAL Mentors are very active

and involved students. Mentor Emmeline Kim (12) is involved in 6 different clubs on campus, plays the viola for Aliso Niguel’s chamber orchestra, and is on the Varsity Softball Team. Another extremely involved Mentor is Paige Meyers (12). Paige does track, is a member of the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, California

Photo by Ellie Bowmer. Scholarship Federation, and a freshman orientation Link Crew leader. To connect with a PAL Mentor, you can go to the ANHS counseling office and visit Mrs. Chan for more information. If you need any support at all don’t hesitate to see Mrs. Chan. “PAL Mentors is really important to creating a different culture in this

school of encouragement and positivity rather than self-deprecating stuff and rudeness”, said Ellie Hagemeister (12). More information is available on PAL Mentors on the ANHS website under the Counselor’s Corner tab.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

STUDENT LIFE

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

COMMENTARY STUDENT LIFE

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

EDITORIALS

Nike Takes a Stand By: BROOKE ORRILL Staff Writer Colin Kaepernick has been part of the National Football League since the middle of the 2012 season on the San Francisco based team, 49ers, until becoming a free agent at the end of the 2016 season. It was during this year that Kaepernick began his peaceful protest against police brutality by silently taking a knee during the singing of the National Anthem. Government officials, including the current President and VicePresident, immediately became involved in the protest. The current administration did not approve of Kaepernick’s protest and consistently expressed their disgust. President Donald Trump’s most controversial comment on the situation occurred on Sept. 22, 2017, during a rally. “Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners — when somebody disrespects our flag — to say, Get...[him off] the field right now. Out. He’;s fired. He’s fired,’” the President yelled to a crowd of supporters. According President Trump, the movement is unacceptable. He claims Kaepernick and fellow protester are disrespecting American flag and troops. However, the underlying message appears clear to those who favor

Nike Ad in Times Square. Kaepernick, President Trump does not oppose the racial injustice and police brutality. Some might goes as far as to saying the President approves of it. The very troops “defended” by President Trump have weighed in on the situation, but opposing the president’s comments. Veteran Thomas E. Ricks commented on the protest in 2017: “I kind of like the idea of the nation taking a knee and considering our racial situation, and

Photo provided by Google. how we can all do better.” Colin Kaepernick refused to be deterred from his original goal of protesting by not allowing counter-protesters to manipulate the situation out of his control. As the protest continued, over 100 players throughout the NFL joined the peaceful cry for equality. Kaepernick then was faced with a harsh reality, the NFL had not hired him for the 2017

season. That same year, Kaepernick filed an official accusation that the NFL’s owners had colluded to not hire him for the upcoming season. Throughout the entirety of the protest, no commercial company gave their opinion. Until September of 2018, when Nike released their new ad campaign featuring Kaepernick. Serena Williams and Lebron James are featured alongside their fellow athlete.

Despite the instant protests led by white conservatives and the decreased value in Nike stocks, the company stands behind their decision to support Kaepernick. Nike’s contract with the NFL continues until 2028, giving them the freedom to continue advocating alongside Kaepernick. This new politically active side of Nike distinguishes them from other companies. They are unafraid to support those fighting racial, religious, or gender inequality. With the divide in America due to the Commander Chief and his staff, having a mainstream company like Nike allows hope to reach those who feel as if they are alone. “Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything,” are the powerful words displayed across a divided country thanks to Nike and Kaepernick’s partnership. These words are powerful. These words make everyone stop and reflect on the society they stumble through. This ad campaign is not Nike’s ultimate scheme to increase profits. Instead, the ads are a representation of what needs to change. It calls to arms companies and people who might have been afraid to comment until the first person may have been too scared before.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The King Has Arrived

LeBron James on the basketball court By: PEDRAM BAZARGANI Head Staff Writer LeBron James is now a Los Angeles Laker. The three-time NBA champion and four-time NBA MVP as well as the possible greatest of all time of Basketball signed a four-year 154 million dollar contract on July 9. LeBron James signing with the Lakers was no surprise to many because the Lakers president of basketball operations Magic Johnson and general manager Rob Pelinka have been communicating back and forth with James for years. In addition, James has expressed that after basketball he aspires to be an actor and he already owns two

homes in Los Angeles. This signing is very important to Lakers because many of their target players did not sign with the Lakers. For instance, Paul George resigned with Oklahoma City and Kawhi Leonard got traded to the Toronto Raptors. However, the Lakers signed free agents Lance Stephenson, Javale McGee, Michael Beasley, and Rajon Rondo. All of these signings are one year contracts so that next year the Lakers can try to sign a superstar like Klay Thompson or Jimmy Butler. The 2018 Roster is looking strong this year because in addition to all the newly signed experienced players, the Lakers have a talented young core consisting

of Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, and Lonzo Ball. This roster could make the Lakers a champion contending franchise once again, and with the addition of LeBron James, the Lakers may finally wake up from their fiveyear competitive coma. In the Laker franchises first 65 years the Lakers have missed the playoffs only five times; for the past five seasons, the Lakers did not make the playoffs, and they did not finish the season with a record better than last season’s 35-47. Since Lakers star Kobe Bryant retired three years ago, the Lakers have existed without an all-star and face for the franchise, and it has gotten so bad that LaVar Ball, the father of Lakers’point

Photos provided by Google guard and No. 2 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft has become more of a figure than his son Lonzo and the other players on the roster. Thankfully that is no more because LeBron James has joined the Lakers and the Lakers have finally become relevant again. Despite LeBron James being a Laker and the addition of experienced players, still, the Lakers aren’t back. For the Lakers, being back means winning games and championships, and there is a lot of work to be done in order to compete with the Golden State Warriors. After spending 15 years in the Eastern Conference and making eight straight Finals appearances, James will have a difficult time

adjusting to the Western Conference and super teams such as the Golden State Warriors or the Houston Rockets. However, at least now that the Lakers have James, the Western Conference will become interesting to watch again and for that we have LeBron James to thank. LeBron James is arguably the most famous athlete in the world, and he will be part of the most popular basketball franchises of all time until he retires. His legacy as a top player in NBA history is secure, and hopefully in what is left of his career he will lead the Lakers to conquer the Western Conference and add to the Lakers’ 16-title collection.

Top Tunes of the Summer By: ELLIE BOWMER Layout Editor Summertime is all about those long days with nothing to do but relax and hang out with friends, and my guess is at some point during the day, you were probably listening to music. This past summer, our ears were blessed with multiple iconic tunes. Some of the most popular hits of the summer included “Girls Like You” by Maroon 5 feat Cardi B “The Middle” by Zedd “ I like it” by Cardi B “No tears left to cry” by Ariana Grande and “In my feelings” by Drake along with many more. Without a doubt, “ In my feelings” blew up as the top hit of the summer and even resulted in the “kiki challenge”. This song continues to be the top hit and has remained number one on the charts for seven weeks. Another artist who blew up this summer was crowd favorite, Cardi B. Her collab with Maroon 5 in “Girls Like You” is still sitting number two and “I like it” sitting number three showing that Cardi B isn't going anywhere this year.

Top album covers of the summer Ariana Grande released her new album Sweetener over the summer and fans can not get enough. The break out single “No Tears Left to Cry” followed by “God is a Women” were some summer favorites and set the album up perfectly. Some other favorites in the album include “breathin” and “goodnight and go.” Every song in

Photos provided by Google Arianas album is very meaningful, specifically “breathin” tells her audience that whenever they have a problem they need to slow down and just breathe, as cliche as it sounds. Backstreet boys are back and better than ever with their new hit, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.” Anytime you turn on the radio the chances are pretty high

that you will hear this song at some point during the drive, not that I’m complaining. Along with the Backstreet Boys, boy band 5 Seconds of Summer changed their sound, releasing the summer hit “Youngblood”. One of the less popular break out artists of the summer was Billie Eilish. She recently released “don’t smile at me” which has

nine songs, including “COPYCAT”, “idontwannabeyouanymore”, and “ocean eyes”. Along with this, she has been featured on many new hits this summer, best known for her collab with Khalid “lovely”. She has also been featured on the 13 reasons why soundtrack with her single “bored.” This young artist is definitely one to keep an eye on this year. A summer playlist would not be complete without some throwbacks whether it is jams from all three high school musical movies, some “country” hit Taylor Swift or “Summer” by Calvin Harris you know it will be on the best playlist this summer. Summer 2018 may be over, but we can still listen to the music.

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SPORTS

Wolverine Football Starts Season 5-0 By: AMANI TARAMAN Photographer The Aliso Niguel Varsity Football Team began their season Aug. 17 with a 49-8 win against Long Beach Jordan. The team is currently 5-0 in preseason play. This is the team’s best start since 2012.The team is led by captains Carter Axelrod (12), Jaden Clark (12), and Kyle Robertson (12) . “Our team gets better because we work out really hard” said Axelrod. “It’s pretty much a year round sport with all the work we’ve put in.” Jaden Clark claims what makes Aliso football different is that “we work really good together as a team”. Clark has been playing football for six years. He is excited to continue leading the team to success in Sea View League play. “It’s awesome being apart of the football team, we are pretty much one big family.”

Aliso football team prepares for another victory. Captain Kyle Robertson has been playing football for six years and has been a Wolverine quarterback for four years. “The most difficult part of football is responding to adversity. Whether that’s a tough loss or tough conditioning, or when inju-

ries start to pile up” he says. Robertson credits their team’s success to hardwork and perseverance. “We’re so good this season because of the amount of four year seniors we have and the amount of work we put in not only dur-

Volleyball Girls Bump to the Top

Photo by Amani Taram ing the season but during the offseason as well,” says Robertson adds. Although the team is undefeated so far, they know they have tough battles ahead of them as they approach league play. San Juan Hills is favored to win the Sea

Smith Sisters Verbally Commit to Play in College By: OLIVIA AGNEW Layout Editor

Girls volleyball gets excited for the game By: SIMON JOVANOVIC Layout Editor Aliso’s Varsity Volleyball Girls started off the 2018 preseason undefeated, dominating formidable teams like SMCHS and J Serra. Led by their captains Dana Stefinades(12), Hannah Edson(12) and Ava Quinn(12), the team won six games in a row to open up. This hot streak was, however, ended by a strong Foothill High School team. Despite this loss, Dana expressed her trust and hope for the team as they move on to start league. She stated that she, “believe[s] that our strong start in the preseason has set us up to have a good chance of winning league,” with their greatest threat being Dana Hills High School whom they faced on September

11th. After losing a game at San Juan Hills to start League off, the girls bounced back and displayed their dominance with a 3-1 win over Dana Hills last Tuesday. The team started the match on the wrong foot, losing the first game. They soon regained their footing and proceeded to start the next three games with large leads and end them with thrillingly close finishes. A spectator at this game explained, “it’s great that we have a good team this year. It makes the games a whole lot more enjoyable.” They continued to say that, “these games are so much fun because you’re so close to all the action which makes the experience more personal and fun.” Every home game, the girls are

Photo by Simon Jovanovic greeted by enthusiastic fans eager to taunt the other team and cheer on our squad. One of the seemingly most popular chants seems to be “she’s committed.” This is due to the fact that our team has two Division 1 Commits. What is even more unbelievable is that these two are twins, and better yet, they just began their sophomore year. This summer Katelyn Smith(10) committed to play volleyball at USC and her sister, Jessica Smith(10) committed to UCLA. Their acceptance into these prestigious and dueling volleyball programs cements Aliso’s prominence in Southern California Girls Volleyball. These Lady Wolverines along with the help of Coach Richie are really SETTING themselves up for success this season.

View League title, but the Wolverines are working to upset the favorites.. “We get better by getting up at 5:45 a.m. and having hard late night practices, but in the end it’s all worth it to be with my brothers” says Axelrod. Our Wolverines are especially unique because we “have 30 plus seniors on the team who have been playing together for four years, so we have a lot of close friendships and camaraderie”, continues Axelrod. With this positive attitude and great bond, it is no wonder our football team is finding success. The team has one more preseason game against Sonora, and then will open league play on the road against San Juan Hills. Other Sea View opponents are Dana Hills, Laguna Hills and Trabucco Hills. The Wolverines ultimate goal for this year is to reach CIF and bring back another CIF title, and they are off to a great start.

Twins Jessica and Katelyn Smith have verbally committed to UCLA and USC for Volleyball… and they’re only sophomores. The twins began playing volleyball at 12 years old when they started 6th grade. Jessica has always been an outside hitter and Katelyn has alternated between middle blocker, outside hitter and opposite. Their dedication to volleyball was no walk in the park for them. They play everyday and every game for school, in addition to the three practices and two weight trainings a week for club team. But their hard work has paid off, Jessica has verbally committed to UCLA and Katelyn USC as Sophomores. Jessica is also on the USA program and this summer played on the U17 USA beach national team. Jessica is looking forward to playing at UCLA as, “it was my dream school both academically and athletically, and because it feels like home every time I visit the campus. UCLA has great academics and their beach volleyball team is also ranked #1 in the country.” Katelyn shared similar reasons for committing to USC: “ the vol-

leyball is very competitive and the school is great academically. I am very excited to play D1/ Pac12 volleyball!” Both Katelyn and Jessica are very close to their teammates. Jessica said, “my club team and I bond through our mutual love for volleyball and the fact that we spend nearly everyday together during season. We also hang out whenever we can, not because we have to, but because we want to.” The girls would be teammates with new people, however, many of the women on the teams are from Southern California high schools, so they should fit right in. The head coaches, Michael Sealy and Brent Crouch, from UCLA and USC respectively, hold numerous titles and are experienced leaders for highly competitive teams. Katelyn also explained why she has remained a volleyball player for so long, “my favorite part about playing volleyball is getting to compete with my teammates, who are also my best friends.” And with the stress of school, “crushing balls is also a lot of fun!” Aliso is proud of Katelyn and Jessica for their dedication to both academics and volleyball.

THE GROWLING WOLVERINE

BULLETIN

Make sure to buy your homecoming ticket!

Letter of Recomendation packet is due Sept. 28

Suicide prevenion week starts on Sept. 24

Homecoming game against Laguna Hills on Oct. 19

Homecoming pep rally on Oct. 12

Pink out game is on Oct. 12! Make sure wear pink for Breast Cancer awareness!

Red Ribbon Week starts Oct. 22

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BACK PAGE

Horoscopes By: Calvin Tkachuk & Katin Gorsline Copy Editor and Photographer

Virgo

Pisces

(Aug23 - Sept 22) You will look what you made Taylor Swift do.

Libra

(Feb 20 - Mar 20)

Weaponized confetti will soon be unfortunately and according to you, unjustly, banned from school dances after your very short future stint as a planner for the Homecoming dance. (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Aries

The tender boughs of innocence burn first.

Scorpio

You will be facing allegations of cheating this coming month. Yet your determination and extreme use of lawyers will bring the case all the way up to the Supreme Court and shall influence the very future of this nation.

(Oct 23 - Nov 21)

When people ask you what happened here, tell them the North remembers. Tell them... winter came for House Frey.

Sagittarius

(Nov 22 - Dec 21)

You will claim you have senioritis even though senioritis is a serious condition one can only get when they are a second semester senior and their college apps are done, but that’s okay, keep disrespecting the seniors who will actually suffer from this malicious disease.

Capricorn

(Dec 22 Jan 20)

You will not be overwhelmed, you will not be underwhelmed. You will simply be... whelmed.

Aquarius New phone. Who dis?

(Mar 21 - Apr 19)

( Jan 21 - Feb 19)

Taurus

(Apr 20-May20) A single penny will come your way this week. Unknown to you, this penny marks membership in a very secretive society. You become the greatest member ever known to this secret society. Meanwhile, you’ll have no idea you’re in a secret society.

Gemini

(May21- Jun 20)

Large amounts of wealth will be soon acquired by you. Then immediately an even greater quantity of wealth is lost. Gambling is bad, okay?

Cancer

(June 21- July 22)

You will become a sceptic of the Horoscopes. Back-and-forth feuding with various newspapers’ horoscopes will lead to a televised debate between you and the leading astrologist. In the middle of the debate, you will see this event foretold in last week’s horoscopes and break down on live TV.

Leo

(July 23-Aug22)

At 5 PM in exactly two weeks, duck down. This is extremely important. Extremely. Important. Cut this one out and glue it on every wall in your house and on the back of your phone. It cannot be understated just how very important this is.

@THEGROWLINGWOLVERINE