wildcat the
est. 1930
Brea Olinda High School 789 Wildcat Way, Brea, CA 92821
Vol. 83, Issue 3 Jan. 21, 2014
don’t walk, dance 2
q&a with dp members
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leonardo reflects on year with dance
bohswildcat.com
24
q&a with dp captain jenna lambourne
2
The Wildcat
What's inside bohswildcat.com
Jan. 21, 2014
6 7 10 14
COMMON CORE
State Board of Education changes education standards with Common Core
by JAYMI WILSON news editor
earbuds for days
Students becoming quarantined from society due to usage of earbuds
by JULIA AINLEY OPINION EDITOR
overcoming fear of heights
Celeste Roh, staff writer, ventures out to rid of heights phobia
By CELESTE ROH STAFF WRITER
BUILDING BONDS
Javier Belmares, BITA teacher, fosters a mentor-like bond with BITA students
By NOELLE GRACIA content manager
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q&a with JENNA LAMBOURNE
26
‘do the jon wall’
Jenna Lambourne, senior, discusses dance career and future plans
Cover and index photos by TRENT PRESTON
Jonathan Wallace, senior co-captain of boys varsity basketball, discusses career
ON POINTE: Dance Production performs alongside freshman Mackenzie Blomquist as she tilts on stage in the “Sleepy Head” performance at the annual dance concert on Dec. 5-7.
by Christian santonil staff writer
THE WILDCAT ASKS DANCE PRODUCTION ‘FIVE RANDOM QUESTIONS’ DANCE PRODUCTION MEMBERS JACLYN ZORDANI senior
WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE DANCER?
FAVORITE DANCE STYLE?
Travis Wall
Contemporary
Skinny Hazelnut Latte
Ariel
Contemporary
Iced Soy Chai Tea Latte
Cinderella
Keeping up with the Kardashians
Napoleon & Tabitha
Hip Hop & Contemporary
Caramel Macchiato
Mulan
Oldies Music
Diana Vishenva
Sassy Jazz
Java Chip Frapp
Mulan
Amy Yakima
Contemporary
Caramel Frapp
Sleeping Beauty
BRITTANY JONES junior KARA RICHEY junior CHIHIRO TAKEBAYASHI sophomore
MACKENZIE BLOMQUIST freshman
FAVORITE DISNEY PRINCESS?
WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE?
The Wildcat
3 AUCTION OF OLINDA PROPERTY falls through NEWS bohswildcat.com
Jan. 21, 2014
by Julianne Tetreault, Staff Writer
“In a disappointing and unexpected turn of events at last night’s Board meeting, there were no bids presented in the scheduled auction nor presented orally by anyone in the audience to purchase the Lilac Lane Olinda property,” A. J. “Skip” Roland, Ed.D. and Superintendent of Schools, wrote in an email to BOUSD staff on Jan. 14. The old Olinda property, an 8.5 acre area where Olinda Elementary used to stand, is a part of the Olinda Village, and has been on the market since the school was relocated in 2011. The minimum price on the Olinda property is $2.95 million, but it will be sold to the company who bids the highest. According to Joseph Bartell, band director and president of the Brea Olinda Teachers Association (BOTA), the way the bidding process works is multiple companies submit bids if they wish to purchase the land and the highest bidder gets the property. Initially, City Ventures, an affordable housing developer was the highest bidder with an offer of $4.5 million. They had begun the process of purchasing the land; however, on Oct. 31, they sent notification to the district stating that they would not be completing the sale. According to the OC Register, the company backed out of the sale due to unexpected costs the property would require and the type of homes City Ventures planned to build, which were much different from the homes already occupying
in BRIEF VITAL LINK CAREER PROGRAM by Nicole Nam, News Co-Editor Funded by Fullerton College Career Transition’s Grant, the Vital Link Career Exhibit Program is coming to our school sometime in May of this year. According to vitallinkoc. org, the Vital Link Career Exhibit Program provides high school students to experience unique careers first-hand. For only one day, up to 1000 students will be able to view the exhibits of careers set up in the Auxiliary Gym. “It’ll be a great experience for students to be exposed to careers related to math and science,” Jennifer Beglin, guidance counselor, said.
Students will be able to meet industry professionals and learn how these distinctive careers started. Some of the careers that will be showcased on the exhibition date will be medical, biomedical engineering, environmental design, civic engineering, and aerospace engineering and designs. “Similar to the Career Cruisin’ program, [Vital Link Career Exhibit Program] helps [counselors] build up our career domain and to have more experiences for students to partake and relate to the career aspects [in math and science],” Beglin said.
the Olinda community. After City Ventures backed out, the district then discussed a sale with housing company Summerhill Homes. According to the OC Register, Summerhill Homes was offering $4 million for the land. However, since no bids were made during the Board meeting on Jan. 13, the Olinda property will remain vacant and on the market until the next auction. The failure of the Olinda property to sell has affected both district faculty and students. Teacher raises are frozen until the property sells. (A teacher with 21 years in the profession would expect a $5,500 raise this year, according to the most recent salary schedule posted on the BOUSD website.) Plus, nine furlough days are on the books, with five days of instruction lost. “The sale would have gone to restoring some of the cuts that everyone agreed to take this year to help balance the budget and keep the cuts away from the classroom in the form of layoffs and reduced sections,” Bartell said. Because the property remains unsold, there are no plans to un-freeze teacher pay or eliminate remaining furlough days . Despite the delay in the sale, the district remains hopeful. “Fortunately, the recently released Governor’s budget for next year shows new funding levels that could significantly reduce, or hopefully even eliminate, BOUSD’s need to request furlough days from our employees next year,” Roland said.
VACANT OLINDA PROPERTY: The old grounds of Olinda Elementary is still on the market waiting to be sold to a new company.v
2014’s NEW DRIVING LAWS
FRESHMEN BUG AWARDS
As of Jan. 1, the state of California Legislature has created and revised multiple laws regarding the safety of drivers. 2013’s AB 1536, which made it legal for drivers to dictate and send or listen to any messages while driving so long as they remained hands free, was revoked as of Jan 1, 2014, and replaced with SB 194. Under SB 194, drivers under age 18 are unable to use any mobile electronic communication device, even if hands-free, while driving. The only exception is if the driver is making an emergency call to law enforcement or other emergency service providers. The law, which is supported by Auto Club, is supposed to help ensure that teen drivers focus on the task of driving while behind the
For two years, Jennifer Ryan, Link Crew adviser, continues the Bug Award program, an award for freshman who have improved their grades. Ryan was inspired to begin the program after attending a Murrieta Valley High School workshop at a yearly conference known as the California Association for the Director’s of Activities (CADA). According to cada1. org, CADA is a conference for activity directors inspire one another with ideas for their programs. “It’s really nice that Link Crew takes the time out of their day to acknowledge [freshmen] for their improvements in [their] grades,” Joy Hsieh, freshman, said. For students to qualify for this award, freshmen need to
by Jaymi Wilson, Staff Writer
wheel. The law took effect on Jan 1, 2014. AB 1371, establishes the “Three Feet for Safety Act” and requires drivers to allow a minimum of a three-foot distance between their vehicle and a bicycle or its operator while passing. If three feet cannot be provided due to road conditions or traffic, drivers must slow to a reasonable speed and pass only when doing so would not pose a threat to the bicyclist’s safety. The base fine for violating the law starts at $35 and can be more than $150 when court and other fees are added. The law takes effect on Sept. 16, 2014, and is also supported by the Auto Club. The new laws are the state’s attempt to keep roads safe and minimalize traffic accidents.
KRISTEN BERTOLONI / the wildcat
by Brittany Tam, Staff Writer
raise their grades by at least two letter grades between quarter and semester grades. The names of the winners are then given to Link Leaders, who create a green certificate and a little pom-pom bug with googly eyes, commending their effort. “It is a load of work, but it is worth seeing the freshman smile and become excited for their accomplishments,” Ryan said. According to Ryan, both students and parents enjoy the recognition program. Parents have sent “thank you” emails to Ryan, and Link Leaders enjoy distributing the Bug Awards and witnessing the freshmen’s delighted faces. “The Bug Awards give students encouragement for good grades,” Michelle Maceda, senior, said.
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
The Wildcat
NEWS
4 Hanno, Japan Students Arrive in Brea
bohswildcat.com
Jan. 21, 2014
by Jaymi Wilson, News Co-Editor
17 Hanno students, accompanied by five chaperones, were welcomed, continuing the Brea Sister Cities exchange that has been going on for over 30 years. The exchange program was started by Leo Hyashi, a Japanese citizen who moved to Brea, and originally began as a summer program before it was changed to a program that takes place in January and February. This year there are six boys and eleven girls visiting, all of whom will stay with host families from the student body. “It’s a great cultural experience,” Devyn Lopez, sophomore, said. “I’m really excited for the students to come.” The Hanno students arrived in Brea on Thursay night, and attended a welcome dinner that allows them to meet their host for the first time and receive a warm welcome to our school and city. On Friday, the Hanno students attended the Boys vs. Girls rally hosted by our school, performed in the rally, and then danced in front of the flagpole at lunch. Japanese students are in Brea to experience American culture, and to teach the student body about their culture. “The program is something really special. It’s been going on so long, and it’s such a rich cultural experience for everyone,” Masako White, Japanese teacher, said. On Saturday, the Hanno group attended a picnic from noon to four at Carbon Canyon Park. Brea students were encouraged to attend the picnic to get to know the Hanno students. Sunday was a free day for the students and their hosts, and the day after, on Monday, the 17 students went to Universal Studios. Today, Tuesday, is the BOHS and
Brea Junior High (BJH) farewell party. Lastly, the students’ final day, Wednesday, will be spent with the Japanese students while they take part in Sports Day, or Undoukai, a traditional day of competitive sports that is practiced across Japan. All students taking Japanese or English as a Second Language (ESL) will be on a release list for the day so they can participate in Sports Day. During the week the Hanno students are in Brea, it is encouraged that anyone in the student body or faculty on campus say “hello” if they see a Hanno student, making them feel welcome and interacting in any way they can. “I think that, despite the language barrier, we’ll all be able to understand each other and have lots of fun,” Ethan Lieberman, senior, said. “It will be a great experience, and I’m excited to meet the student I’m hosting.” According to White, the Hanno exchange will allow the entire campus to enjoy a unique cultural experience and teach students about the interesting lives the Hanno students lead. “Having hosted and been hosted in Japan, I can personally say it was a brilliant experience,” Melissa van Daalen Wetters, senior, said. “The culture differences really made the trip memorable, and the generosity of those in the program is truly amazing. So many people took time to make it an enjoyable experience, and I’ll never forget it.” The Sister Cities Exchange will continue from Feb. 7 to 17 when seven Brea students will visit Hanno, Japan.
japan FAST FACTS Hanno is about 40 miles from Tokyo, Japan’s capital Flights from Tokyo to L.A. take 11.5 hours Japan’s literacy rate is 99 percent, the world’s highest On average, Japanese high schoolers spend 60 more days at school than their American counterparts
Sources: maps.google.com, travelmath.com, web-japan.org.
HANNO, JAPAN Hanno, Brea’s sister city, is located in Saitama Prefecture, a city with a population of 82,000 people. (In comparison, Brea has a population of 40,000.)
MICHAEL CHO / the wildcat
BREA WELCOMES HANNO: During the Boys’ vs. Girls’ Rally on Jan. 17, junior high students from Hanno, Japan performed a dance routine to show the culture of Japan after Dance Production’s hiphop styled dance. After the visit from the Hanno exchange students, seven Brea students will travel to Japan in February.
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
The Wildcat
NEWS
5 DISTRICT INVESTS IN NEW GOOGLE CHROMEBOOKS Jan. 21 , 2014
bohswildcat.com
by Deval Patel, Staff Writer
Electronics are taking over as Google Chromebooks are making their way into schools everywhere. Due to the new Common Core Standards, schools throughout the nation are acquiring the equipment necessary to fulfill school standards. In this case, Brea Olinda Unified School District (BOUSD) is obtaining a plethora of these laptops in order for students to achieve the Common Core Standards more efficiently. The Common Core Standards consist of taking state tests online, and changing the standards necessary for all students to be taught. The Google Chromebooks also allow students to have access to updated technology and it teaches them skills necessary for the 21st century. “Students in the 21st Century are graduating and entering a college and/or workforce that is very digital and changing rapidly. Technology should be in the center of the curriculum allowing students to research, collaborate, create, communicate and practice real world applications. To not have these tools for students in the classroom would be a disservice,” Heidi Burns, BOUSD district administrator, said. Students, in the future, will take their state testing online by utilizing the Google Chromebooks. By ordering these Google Chromebooks, all students will have easy accessibility to the mandatory tests. “Because of the aforementioned funds allocated specifically for the implementation of the [Common Core Standards] and the readiness of our technology, we have been provided with the opportunity to put technology into the hands of our students which we may not have been able to do otherwise,” Burns said.
Chrome Books have a six hour battery life and weigh two pounds. Chrome Books are integrated with Wi-fi or 3G instead of using school networks. Easier to use than other computers. Purchase of Chrome Books also includes carts, headphones, and mice. source: google.com
The money used to receive the technological devices came from the state; therefore, it did not cut into our school district’s main budget. BOUSD has purchased 1220 Chromebooks in total including carts, headphones, and mice. The Brea Junior High and BOHS will each receive 240 Chromebooks. Every elementary school shall receive 120 Chromebooks, and Brea Canyon will receive 20 Chromebooks. The
Chromebooks are inexpensive and easy to manage; therefore, making they are ideal for students, according to Google.com/chromeos. These Chromebooks should also be accessible throughout the schools’ campuses, and not just in one spot. This will allow for a more widespread use of the new technology. “Wireless infrastructure will be installed strategically at every site in order to allow students access with Chromebooks as an instructional tool. The ultimate goal is to have wireless access everywhere on all 9 school sites eventually,” Burns said. Of course it will take some time for everything to be set up and start functioning properly. However, the district is trying to get the Chromebooks up and running as soon as possible in order for students and staff to successfully utilize these technological devices. “When the Chromebooks arrive, we have to inventory them with a barcode and then check to see if they are all working,” Gil Rotblum, AP European History teacher and boys swim coach, said. Bob Parish, assistant principal, Ron Vasqeuz, Technology Support, Joy Cordia, Assistant Principal, and Gil Rotblum have decided to collaborate and unpack the Chromebooks when they arrive. However, they plan to utilize the talents from the GITA students to set up machines and to create bar-coding and machine identification processing. The expected arrival date of the Chromebooks is Jan. 20. BOUSD is anticipating that the Google Chromebooks will be up and running by the last week of January, so that students may begin using them.
wildcatters dog park opens near blackstone homes
by Brittany Tam, Staff Writer
MICHAEL CHO / the wildcat
BREA’S FIRST DOG PARK: The sign marks the entrance to Wildcatters Dog Park. The park is Brea’s first dog park, which opened to the public on Jan. 9.
From tiny Chihuahuas to massive Great Danes, dogs of all shapes and sizes and their owners are now able to access our community’s first dog park, Wildcatters Dog Park located on Santa Fe Road and near Valencia Avenue. On Jan. 9, the new park officially opened after a year of construction. A brief ceremony was commenced by Mayor Brett Murdock, the city council, and Parks, Recreation, and Human Services Commissioners. “I have been waiting for a long time [for the park] after years of planning. It has finally opened, and I am exceptionally happy,” Jules, a local resident, with his dog, Gizmo, said. Wildcatters Dog Park is part of the Blackstone neighborhood built by Shea Homes and Standard Pacific, according to the OC Register. Shea Homes paid an estimated $350 thousand for the park and donated to the city in exchange for the city’s approval of building housing on approximately 800 acres of land. An acre and a half of space is divided into two areas for the canines. Dogs weighing less than 25 pounds will roam on approximately onethird of the acre, and breeds 25 pounds and above will be allowed on the rest of the land. “My friend’s Giant Schnauzer has great energy and enjoys the large space where he can actually run. It is not often that he can play with dogs his size,” Christine Perez, Blackstone resident, said. On the grounds, there are amenities for the dogs and owners that were suggested and compiled in a community meeting in Sept. 2012, according to www.ci.brea.ca.us. Wildcatters Dog Park provides
dogbowls and human drinking fountains, benches and picnic tables, petwaste cleanup stations, double-entry gates, and a grass lawn. “I will be coming here everyday for the convenience and to avoid the dirt floors. The grass is so green, and I will not need to wash my dog everyday,” Jules said. To ensure safety at the park, the Community Services Department provided a basic list of regulations, according to the OC Register. The list was approved by the city council in the beginning of October. Some of the rules are the requirement of owners to attend to their pets and clean up after them, the prohibition of both human and dog food, and the restriction of bringing certain dog toys. “Compared to other dog parks, the rules are basic and easy to follow,” Melody Bermudez, junior, said. According to Leah Brazo, chair of the Parks, Recreation, and Human Services, Wildcatters Dog Park is the reflection of what Brea citizens wanted, influencing and inspiring the design and landscape of the park through collecting ideas from residents, mentioned by Leah Brazo, Chair of Parks, Recreation, and Human Services. The park expects to be enjoyed by families, pet lovers, and the dogs themselves. Wildcatters Dog Park is open four days a week from 7 a.m. to dusk, with the exception of Thursdays. On Thursdays the park will be open at noon due to morning maintenance. “[Wildcatters Dog Park] will bring a positive effect to the community and can draw more people and their dogs together to socialize and learn about one another beyond than they normally would,” Perez said.
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
6
The Wildcat
NEWS
Jan. 21, 2014
bohswildcat.com
COMMON CORE standards
new state standards provide high quality education AND BETTER PREPARation for LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL by Jaymi Wilson, News Co-Editor Photos by Michael Cho
E
ducational standards describe what each student is required to know and able to do by the end of each grade. In California, the State Board of Education decides what the standards are for all students, from kindergarten to high school. The new standards, known as Common Core State Standards (CCSS), have been adopted by 45 states since 2010, and are taking effect in California schools at the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year.
What is CCSS? CCSS is sponsored by the National Governor’s Association (NGA) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). It is an education initiative detailing what students, grades kindergarten through high school, are supposed to know in English and mathematics at the end of each grade, ensuring that high school students will be prepared to enter two or four year colleges and the workforce upon graduating. According to Joy Oseguera, assistant principal, CCSS is the first step in providing young people with a high-quality and efficient education. In theory, the new system will allow teachers to be better equipped to teach students and establish individualized benchmarks that will test their knowledge more effectively. “CCSS require students to demonstrate a higher level of understanding and application of skills and knowledge than the previous 1997 California content standard,” Oseguera said. “CCSS is just one piece of the puzzle in providing the environment necessary for students to have these skills upon completing their [kindergarten] through [high school] education.”
DEVELOPMENT In the 1990’s the “Accountability Movement,” a movement based on evaluating a school’s performance on the basis of student performance, began in the U.S. once states began to hold mandatory student achievement tests that were expected to demonstrate whether or not all citizens were accountable of a common core knowledge in order to be successful. “Ready or Not: Creating a High School Diploma That Counts,” a report from 2004, states that both employers and colleges are demanding more of high school graduates than in previous years. The report explains that the major problem currently challenging American schools is that students are not being provided the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed after high school. According to Achieve, Inc., “current high school exit expectations fall well short of [employer and college] demands.” This spurred the movement to create a more rigorous and challenging set of standards that educational administrators believe will better prepare students for the real world after their high school careers.
The new standards The focus of CCSS is on English and mathematics, but history and science classes will be expected to incorporate CCSS for literacy relevant to their respective subjects.
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
“For the science department, it’s really easy to adjust,” Betty Rudd, science teacher, said. “Our whole focus has already been teaching students, not memorization, but application of their knowledge, because that’s what happens in the real world.” The courses will still be titled the same, but the content and student expectations will be changed. The main difference between CCSS and the original standards is that CCSS focuses more on critical thinking, and less on content memorization. “With the new Common Core standards, students will increasingly need to refer back to the text to support their thinking. In English classes, students will read less fiction and more non-fiction, or expository text, throughout their school day,” Oseguera said. “Teachers will begin to require that students explain their thinking and justify their reasoning more frequently than what they may encounter now.”
English Standards
betty rudd, science teacher, helps A student with biology. ccss was adopted in june 2010 and is now applied to all k-12 students in the state.
Jonathon quiming, english teacher, writes lecture notes on the board. 45 STATES HAVE FULLY ADOPTED CCSS
CCSS emphasizes the importance of vocabulary skills, stating that students need to be able to use formal and proper English in their writing and speaking, while being able to make informed, skillful choices to express themselves through language. “In addition to using language and acquisition of vocabulary, students need to understand that, as they go through the process of literacy; reading, writing, critical thinking, and active listening, they need to know how to apply their knowledge,” Jonathan Quiming, English teacher, said.
Mathematics Standards The high school CCSS for mathematics challenges students to think mathematically by applying math to real world situations. The math standards focus on mathematical modeling, using mathematics and statistics to analyze empirical situations and understand them better, while improving students’ decisionmaking skills.
“I believe [CCSS] is an appropriate way of preparing my seniors for what they have ahead of them and college, no matter what discipline they choose to specialize in,” Chris Schaadt, English teacher, said. The English and Language Arts standards for high brian schlueter, history school students focuses on integrating increasingly complex How CCSS affects students and faculty teacher, lectures using ccss strategies. CCSS focuses more subjects into student curriculum to test their analytical The difference that students should expect in on real world application of abilities. their classrooms is the way they are interacting materials. According to corestandards.org, CCSS reading standards with the information and demonstrating what establish a “staircase” of increasing complexity in which they have learned. The need to articulate ideas students must be able to read and comprehend multiple supported by text-based evidence, both verbally types of literature. The standards require the progressive and in writing, and the level of thinking in development of reading comprehension so that students assignments will increase. This year, teachers advancing through the grades are able to gain more are continuing their learning of CCSS by from what they read. Students will be required to read a reading and discussing the standards and diverse array of classic and contemporary literature, as exploring the Smarter Balanced Assessment well as informational texts. The new standards mandate that Consortium practice test, an assessment aligned Chris schaadt, english certain types of content, such as classic myths and stories with the CCSS standards. teacher, entertains his from around the world, foundational U.S. documents, “CCSS are learning standards and are just part class. AN ESTIMATEd $16 seminal works of American literature, and the writings of of the effort to change education to be more in BILLION WAS SPENT in the U.S. IN Shakespeare, be covered. However, the standards allow line with the advances we have had in society. I implementing common core. states, districts, and schools to decide which of the many believe the effort behind their implementation source: corestandards.org remaining topics they will cover in their classes. and the incorporation of 21st Century Skills in The new writing standards emphasize that students will students’ learning experiences will be successful,” be able to write logical arguments based on substantive claims, sound Oseguera said. reasoning, and relevant evidence, while incorporating opinion writing CCSS is the state’s new way of preparing students for their futures into the curriculum as well. after college. Though some administrators and teachers believe that A new aspect of the speaking and listening requirement is academic CCSS will be more challenging for the student body and will require discussion in one-on-one, small-group, and whole-class settings. While time and effort to adapt to, however, it is believed to be a step in the formal discussions will still take place with the new standards, CCSS right direction. also focuses on more informal discussions as students collaborate “I think [Common Core] is definitely a step in the right direction. with each other to answer questions, build understanding, and solve It’ll be good for the school and I think it’ll really help prepare students problems. for their students,” Mitsuo Maeda, English teacher, said.
The Wildcat
OPINION bohswildcat.com
Jan. 21, 2014
7
earbud obsession isolates STUDENTS, disrespects teachers by Julia Ainley, Opinion Editor Illustration by Jessica Yim, Art Manager
I
n hallways across campus students walk to class with plastic wires snaking up their bodies and into their ears, blasting music and blocking out the noise that surrounds them. But the ubiquitous white earbuds sometimes seem to be perpetually plugged into students’ ears, even when conversing with peers and teachers. Earbuds are supposed to be used for listening to music, but more and more devices seem to be tools for people to ignore the world around them, creating isolation and a culture of half-listeners. “When my friends wear their earbuds while I am trying to talk to them, I feel like they are not listening to me or do not care about what I am saying,” Alyssa Hendrickson, freshman, said. Worse, it is not uncommon to see a student, buds tucked into ears, approach a teacher’s desk to ask a question. As an experiment, I decided to wear my earbuds for an entire school day to see how my friends would respond. I could not hear a single word my friends said while they each tried to tell me about their weekend. Instead, their words were muffled by the sounds of music being pumped into my ears. My friends eventually stopped speaking to me and turned to start new conversations with other students. I felt isolated and ignored, all due to the two plastic headphones that connected me to my music and iPhone. At the end of the day, I had not experienced a conversation with anyone during passing periods or lunch because of my earbuds. “It was weird to not be able to talk to [Julia] especially because [she is] my best friend and the person I communicate with the most,” Taulima Nua, junior, said, when asked about my earbuds experiment. Besides Nua, each of my peers stated they felt like I was being disrespectful towards them, because I did not pay attention to their conversations. They also found the sound of my music annoying while I sat by them at snack, oblivious to their discussions with other students. Earbuds are not only causing teens to miss out on conversations with friends, but they are also a source of disrespect towards teachers. In class, there seems to always be one student who discretely wears a pair of earbuds during a lecture, or another who attempts to ask the teacher a question with an earbud plugged into their ear. Admittedly, I have been that student who opted to listen to my playlist instead of my teacher, causing me to miss entire lectures in favor of my favorite songs. I had
shown my teacher disrespect by listening to my music instead of focusing on their lessons. Also, I cheated myself out of a learning experience that will help me with my homework all because I did not detach myself from my headphones and tuck them away in my purse. “Students want to listen to their music, and I do think they should be paying attention in class. They are only hurting themselves if they are not because then their grades will be lower,” Verronica Clements, Literature and Composition teacher, said. Jesse Vieira, Photography ROP teacher, said, “Students should take their headphones off and put them away in their backpack to show respect to the class they are in.” We are at school to learn and interact with our peers and teachers, not to listen to music, at least during class or when spending time with friends during snack and lunch. Students should only listen to their headphones when their teachers allow them to, such as at the end of class or when working on individual assignments. Then, when it is time to ask a question or turn to their neighbor for help, the earbuds should be pulled from ears and stashed away in purses and pockets. The result when teens can choose to put away their headphones: actual conversations with friends, classmates and teachers; the full attention of their peers; and no more distracting wires hanging from students’ heads.
A cartoon by
JESSICA YIM
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
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OPINION
The Wildcat
bohswildcat.com
Jan. 21, 2014
STUDENTS CAN minimize STRESS during finals week by Julia Ainley, Opinion Editor
I NEED A BREAK!
Hmm... Food...
Hello, my friend!
This is my moment #noregrets BRITTANY TAM
ate night study sessions, review Late night study sessions, review worksheets, and an endless amount of stress can overwhelm students if they do not prepare for finals. At the end of the semester, students can give in to feelings of anxiety and fear if they do not get ready for exams. But the stress of seemingly endless exams can be alleviated if students take certain steps to get ready for the rigors of finals. For example, students should set aside time to review as a way to avoid having to cram for exams. Last year during finals, I was stressed because I did not put aside an extra hour a day to review. Since I did not give myself time to practice, I ended up spending the weekend before finals studying late into the night, review worksheets and flashcards littering my bedroom floor. Instead of waiting until the weekend or even the day before finals, students should start budgeting time for reviewing material
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each day right now. Another effective way to prepare for examweek is setting up a study group with fellow classmates and holding review sessions at coffee house or at home and sharing notes and bouncing questions off of peers. Another common sense strategy for prepping for finals is to ask teachers questions. “Teens can become stressed during finals week because they simply do not know the material they are being tested on. Students should ask their teachers questions about their finals. In the long run, this can help fill up any last concerns students have for finals week,” Alyssa Glenn, junior, said. Teachers are usually happy to answer questions and are often available during snack or lunch if they do not have time to meet oneon-one during class. Some courses, like AP Literature and Composition, even hold study sessions on campus on the Saturdays prior to testing. Teachers are always happy to help students, so teens should take advantage of asking for help if needed during finals week.
STAFF EDITORIAL
weets are flooding in as the clock is ticking towards midnight. Students are tweeting about how Catch-22 for AP Literature has not been read for the reading check the next day, or how outlines for AP U.S. History have yet to be completed. Students then jump onto their computers to cram from Spark Notes or stay up until three in the morning trying to piece together a credible outline. Other students are on their phones the day of the exam, reading chapters from Shmoop during class or discreetly trying to finish homework the period before it is due. Some students give in to sleep and do not even bother to prepare, opting for a slumber over a passing grade. While this has become a regular routine for a large portion of students on campus, the last second cramming and blowing off of assignments amount to wasted opportunities to learn and broaden our horizons from lessons and teachers whose role, in short, is to make us smarter, more worldly, and more successful in college, and beyond. Instead of actually taking in the information and being able to apply it outside of class, we only prepare for the exam in order to see another “A” on our transcripts, using BOHS as a mere stepping stone to college. The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
“Students should ask what is going to be on the final and they should also ask for instructions about how best to prepare for the final exam. Lastly, they should trust in their knowledge. For English specifically it is a skill based final so, they have to have the confidence of they have prepared themselves well going into the final,” Summer Teal, Language Arts teacher, said. Students can also eliminate stress by not procrastinating before testing. “For people in general, major deadlines are stressful because it’s human nature to procrastinate and regret procrastinating. Teens feel stressed because they have not taken the steps to prepare themselves and have procrastinated instead of studying,” Daniel Truesdale, senior, said. I remember postponing studying for my French Two exam my sophomore year due to procrastination. Each time I sat down to start reviewing, I would pull out my iPhone and open Tumblr instead. Since I delayed reviewing for French, I ended creating needless stress
while I crammed vocabulary words at the last moment. Another way for students to get rid of stress is to work out on a regular basis. According to helpguide.org, stress can overpower “the healthy state of equilibrium that your nervous system needs to remain in balance.” This imbalance can be prevented with frequent exercise which can relax a person’s nervous system. Getting plenty of sleep at night--at least eight hours is ideal according to cdc.gov-will leave students fresh and energized during finals week. Plenty of sleep will help students stay alert while reviewing in class and at home, and focused during exams. While students can prevent stress through several different techniques, they should also remember that they are often the cause of their own anxiety. However, by prepping sooner, ensuring a good night’s rest, asking teachers questions, and maintaining a consistent workout routine, students will be at their best during finals week.
While it sometimes seems as if we just sit in class waiting for the bell to ring to mark another hour closer to going home, our teachers (most of them, anyway) are actually attempting to make us smarter human beings by arming students with real life experiences where they can apply their newfound knowledge. In Japanese, Masako White, immerses her students in Japanese language and culture and supports a popular exchange program that change students’ lives. Andrea Ramos, AP Environmental Science teacher, includes field trips in her syllabus to give students a more hands-on learning experience to apply this knowledge in real situations. Laurel Batchelor’s AP Literature class features college-level writing activities and, for the students who actually complete the required reading, expanded horizons via classic and contemporary literature. The history department especially melds practical life-lessons and essential information about government, politics, world affairs and current events, all in an effort to produce an informed, well-spoken, and aware student body. Instead of relying on Google and Shmoop to finish homework assignments or aid us with tough exams, solely for the sake of earning an “A” or getting into our first-choice schools, students need to focus instead on being enlightened by their teachers and useful classes before walking down the aisle in our green caps and gowns.
OPINION
The Wildcat
bohswildcat.com
BODY SHAMING in media needs to stop by Deval Patel, Staff Writer
“Fat.” “Anorexic.” “Skinny.” “Overweight.” These are all words associated with body shaming, a form of bullying that involves the judgment of people who do not have an impossibleto-achieve “standard” look portrayed by the media. According to bodyshaming.org, a major part of body shaming is the negative attitude towards a certain person’s body shape, and categorizing teens for the clothes that they wear. Body shaming thus creates low seft-esteem in teens just because they do not have an American Apparel-perfect
physique. The pressures placed on teenagers to look a certain way, and maintain a certain image is wrong and should be eradicated. Body shaming is a product of the narrow-minded and jealous and teenagers need to be more comfortable in their own skin. “When people have body shamed me, I tried to fix myself when really, I didn’t need to. [Society] should realize what people who have been body shamed do to themselves because of what other people have told them,” Jen Blehm, senior, said. When actress Gal Gadot was named Warner Brothers choice to portray DC Comics’ Wonder Woman, social media “blew up” with comments that Gadot is “too skinny” to play the superhero, according to mtv.com. Sitcoms make jokes about the overweight and memes attack anyone with a less-
than-perfect body. Girls who are smaller and thinner get called “anorexic” and “unhealthy” when really, they are just naturally like that. Just because someone looks a certain way does not mean that they have an eating disorder, that in reality, takes the lives of numerous people every year. “I have been called anorexic since sixth grade. It definitely does not feel good, and people fail to realize that it’s just as bad as calling someone fat. I think people body shame because they want to make themselves feel better about their own body by saying ‘at least I’m not as fat or skinny as this person’ when really beauty comes in all shapes and sizes,” Brianna Clark, sophomore. said. Body shaming takes a major toll on teens’ self-esteem. According to a study done by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, people who get body shamed develop negative body images and have low self-esteem. The study also showed that the average American woman is 5’4” and weighs 140 pounds, while the average American model is 5’11” and weighs 117 pounds. “Why do people have to make fun of others especially when it comes to body image? So many magazines imply that we should look like this or like that in order to be accepted, but we do not. Everyone struggles with body image even if they do not admit it. Making fun of someone for the way they physically look is just completely wrong and utterly pointless. In the end, body shaming does not benefit anyone,” Tiffany Lee, junior, said. Commonly known as “fat shaming,” the act of putting one down for being “overweight” appears so often that it is sometimes viewed as a MEGAN MOBERLY normal thing to do, but it needs to be put to an end. Jennifer Lawrence, famous for her role as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games, is strongly against body shaming and the effects it has on teens. She refuses to diet for any role in order to maintain a healthy body image that does not strike as skinny or overweight. “I am never going to starve myself for a part. I don’t want little girls to be like ‘Oh I want to look like Katniss, so I’m going to skip dinner,” Lawrence, actress, said in an interview with People magazine. Body shaming is a problem that should be taken care of ,because it is detrimental to teenagers’ self-esteem. Students of all shapes and sizes should be comfortable in their own skin; they should not have to try to change who they are in order to be approved by society’s standards on looks. Body shaming needs to cease being the social norm.
Jan. 21 , 2014
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Wildcat Brea Olinda High School 789 Wildcat Way, Brea, CA 92821 bohs.wildcat.newspaper@gmail.com www.bohswildcat.com
Our Mission
We, the Wildcat, are the voice for the student body of Brea Olinda High School. The purpose of our publication is to inform and educate the Brea community, as well as to highlight campus life and student achievement. Our energy is dedicated to the research of facts and opinions, and focusing on issues that concern the high school experience.
Editorial Policy The Wildcat encourages expression of reader opinion in the form of letters to the editor. We believe our purpose in pursuing the truth requires an open forum among students. Letters must be signed with a name and title and submitted online at www.bohswildcat. com or emailed to bohs.wildcat.newspaper@gmail.com. Any opinions stated in the Wildcat do not necessarily belong to Brea Olinda High School administration, faculty, and students. Unsigned editorials reflect views of the majority of the staff while bylined columns and stories reflect views of the writer.
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Wildcat Staff Sharon Cho Editor-in-Chief
noelle gracia Content Manager
STEFANI CLARK Copy Editor
Kristen Bertoloni hailee gallegos astyr ko jean park deval patel celeste roh christian santonil noah strobele brittany tam julianne tetreault amanda tortarolo jessica tseng stacy uhm eric yang sophie zambri Staff Writers
NICOLE NAM JAYMI WILSON News Editors ASHA KADAKIA REWA OUSMAN Feature Editors Linette cho Arts Editor RACHEL LIN TRENT PRESTON APRIL SANTONIL Photo Editors BETTY LEE Jessica yim Art Managers Venessa kim alyssa placencia Business Managers Emjay layco Web Master
michael cho michelle krizo hannah roark amanda tortarolo Photographers ALEX KOERS Adviser
ON THE COVER Dance Production members perform “Sleepy Head” at the annual dance concert on Dec. 5. Cover photo by TRENT PRESTON
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
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The Wildcat Jan. 21, 2014
SUCH GREAT HEIGHTS by Celeste Roh, Staff Writer
‘Taking [Dr.] Aguillon’s advice, I planned my expedition to conquer my phobia.’ Celeste Roh, sophomore
I nervously gnawed at my hair as I watched people at the top of Supreme Scream plunge down 300 feet with the force of gravity. Their terrified screams made my heart beat faster with each passing second. That was soon going to be me up there. Ever since my elementary years, I always felt left out during trips to amusement parks due to my heights phobia. Tired of being held back from such outings, I finally decided to conquer my fear. In order to do so, I began some research. According to phobialist.com, my condition is known as acrophobia, “a common fear in many people.” Through the advice of Dr. Steve Aguillon, BOHS school psychologist, I learned that acrophobia generally comes from anxiety in our personalities. When someone reaches a certain level of anxiety due to heights, it causes fear. In some cases, the fear can become so severe, it can impact daily life. Such cases are often settled through medication, psychotherapy, or bibliotherapy. But, Aguillon suggested, “in mild cases like [yours], systematic desensitization, or ‘naturally’ overcoming the fear, is the best method.” Taking Aguillon’s advice, I planned an expedition of rock climb, roller coasters, and flying in a hot air balloon to rid myself of the phobia. I went to Rock City Climbing in Anaheim with Venessa Kim, sophomore. As the instructor meticulously helped us get into our safety harness, I already began to feel scared even though I had not even started climbing. When the instructor finally indicated to me that it was my turn, I looked at him incredulously and then at the 25-foot tall wall. Taking a deep breath, I forced my shaking hand to grab onto a hand hold. About halfway up, I looked down and I automatically felt dizzy and lost my grip, falling about four feet downward. Luckily, the instructor aided me as I held onto the next available rock without descending any more. After ten minutes of shaking and tripping, I finally reached the top. To my surprise, as I gathered my courage and looked down once more, I was more proud of my accomplishment than scared. Next on my list were the two tallest rides at Knott’s Berry Farm: Supreme Scream, a 312-foot drop ride, and Xcelerator, a roller coaster that travels at 82 mph. After waiting in a long line for Xcelerator, I finally entered the car. Suddenly, I felt a strong rush of air—one moment I was at ground level, but the next second I was plummeting 200 feet. I barely had time to comprehend that I was on a roller coaster with a height that is equivalent to a 20 story building. When the car came to a complete stop at the end of the ride, it was not utter fear that grasped me, but a newfound confidence. I then ran to Supreme Scream excitedly. Rushing into line, I waited for my turn, anticipating the thrill. Soon I was sitting in my seat, and as the ride ascended, people transformed into ants, and the enormous amusement park fit into the palm of my hand. The ride was a hundred times more intense than I imagined. I could hear my heart pumping rapidly; the sound intensifying every inch I rose. Abruptly, I shot down, and the ride was over. I survived. Getting over my acrophobia did not seem impossible anymore, since I had survived both these challenges. The next day, I went to the Orange County Great Park in Irvine to ride in a hot air balloon. I anticipated the trip immensely, but I was still a little nervous to float 400 feet in the air even though the balloon would be anchored to the ground the entire time. Setting foot into the steel basket of this colossal orange hot air balloon, I slowly ascended. At first, my fear overcame me as I felt uneasy and had a strong urge to shout, “I want to get off!” However, when the balloon reached the maximum height, I realized that I was not scared anymore. Instead, I had an incredible 360-degree view of my surroundings within a 40-mile radius. When my adventures finally came to an end, I realized that my fear of heights had decreased dramatically compared to the level of fear I had before the expedition. I no longer have to wait outside the line, holding bags and cameras, while my friends enjoy roller coasters. I can now ride along with them and see the funny photo of myself taken during the attraction with pride.
Photo Courtesy of ESTHER ROH
OWNING THE WALL: Sophomore Celeste Roh climbs a 25-foot rock wall at Rock City Climbing. Roh also rode roller coasters at Knotts Berry Farm and a hot air balloon at the Orange County Great Park.
ROH’S VICTORIES 400 FT
312 FT
25 FT
GREAT PARK BALLOON Irvine
SUPREME SCREAM Buena Park
ROCK CLIMBING WALL Anaheim Graphic by SHARON CHO
FEATURE bohswildcat.com
The Wildcat
did you feel when you found out you were first nominated Q: How for Mr. Brea? A:
All I could think when ASB came in and told me I was nominated for Mr. Brea was ‘Um, what is going on right now?’ I was very confused at first but after Mr. Weber and Jake [Evans] told me what was going on, I was excited, and a little bit nervous. Mostly I was happy to have this opportunity that I had never had before. I had gone to Mr. Brea in my freshman, sophomore, and junior years and saw all those shows and hoped that I would be nominated to do that.
Q: What was the most difficult part about preparing for the show? A:
I think the dancing probably. Because all the guys had to learn the same dance [as] the Dance Production girls. I like dancing so I had fun with it, but I have to practice some more since all the dancing I’ve been doing for awhile has been for Mr. Brea.
Q: What was your favorite part of the entire show? A:
The beginning was the best part, I think, when we were all dancing together. It’s more fun to dance with people; like you go on with people who care and who you trust and who you can be yourself with.
do you think you would have felt if you hadn’t won the title Q: How of Mr. Brea? A:
I wouldn’t have felt sad. I still had a good time with all my friends, and it was really nice being able to walk with my escort, [Dannica Kelley, senior]. Her dress was really beautiful, like wow.
Q&A with Mr. Brea
JONATHAN CRAMPTON Jonathan Crampton, senior, discusses being named Mr. Brea 2013 and the surprise of senior Bret Yourstone unexpectedly awarding him the Mr. Brea crown. Interview conducted by Noelle Gracia, Content Manager Photo by Asha Kadakia
did you think when you were officially named Mr. Brea Q: What after [Yourstone] gave you his crown? A:
It feels like a dream come true, that I had been waiting for. That was the biggest day of my life, and it was my happiest moment when I was Mr. Brea. One dream was to just be in Mr. Brea and the other one was to win it. Now I did both.
Q: What do you think makes a well-rounded Mr. Brea? A:
To be a Mr. Brea, you have to participate in what other people are doing, and you have to come up with good ideas. Mr. Brea needs to be a good friend and person, and should always help out and care about other people. Because relationships with the people you are close with are the most important thing and a good Mr. Brea should always want to help people out, like talking to them about things that get them sad, or the stuff they’re interested in. It can be anything, really, as long as you show support for that person.
Jan. 21, 2014
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The Wildcat Jan. 21, 2014
FEATURE bohswildcat.com
A E R B INK
PERMANENT INK: Left, senior Cody Martin displays his “In God’s hands” tattoo, which was recommended by his older sister. Above, senior Michelle Bamsch shows her cancer ribbon tattoo on her foot. She also has a hummingbird and California poppies on her thigh in memory of her great-grandparents.
by Sop ichelle Krizo Photos by M
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he buzzing gets louder and the needle finally breaks skin. A few layers deep, and ink fills the wound. It is that simple to be branded for life with a design, a message, or a memory. From the most simplistic design to eccentric body pieces, tattoos are seen throughout people of all ages, including teenagers. Teenink.com states that ten percent of teenagers now have tattoos. However, tattoo artists in Downtown Fullerton have not seen a major shift, even with this statistic. “I have been tattooing for about 15 years. I became interested in it after I got my first tattoo at the age of 18. We get some teenagers, but here they are not the majority. Every now and then, we will get an excited kid and their mom for a 16th birthday present, but we won’t tattoo them,” Jonathan Kelly, tattoo artist from Fullerton’s Old Tyme Tattoo, said. Tattoos are very common in today’s society and continue to grow popular among teenagers. They get them to express themselves or to serve as a symbol. Whatever the motive, more teenagers are getting inked.
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HARRISON WITT | senior
hilippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” covers senior Harrison Witt’s right arm, a message that will stay with him forever. “I grew up learning and memorizing Bible verses, and this one was always my favorite. It stands out to me and gives a great outlook on life,” Witt said. According to Witt, he received his first tattoo when he turned 18. His tattoo is his way
of expressing himself as an individual and symbolizing who he is as a person. His older brother, Graydon (’12), also has tattoos, which influenced Witt to get one himself. Since Witt was a legal adult when he made his decision, he did not need his parents’ consent to get a tattoo, but even if he had needed it, they supported his decision. “I am very proud of Harrison’s initiative to express himself in ways that are not necessarily the traditional ways he was brought up in,” says Brad Witt, Harrison’s father. Though it has been three months since receiving his first tattoo, Witt does not regret his decision and plans on getting more in the future.
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MICAELLA BAMSCH | senior
Both of Bamsch’s tattoos symbolize, and are dedicated to, her great-grandparents who raised her and are her role models. A small heart made up of two cancer ribbons delicately pose on her foot, and a hummingbird and California poppies on her thigh. All of the women in her family got matching foot pieces in memory of her greatgrandparents. However, the thigh piece came about differently for her. “After my great-grandmother passed away, hummingbirds always seemed to follow me everywhere, and so I took it as a sign. I knew my great-grandmother loved hummingbirds, and I felt I had to do something to thank her,” Bamsch said. Bamsch came up with both tattoo designs on her own and wants to keep adding flowers to her thigh piece, in memory of her greatgrandmother.
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CODY MARTIN | senior
n God’s Hands” is stretched across his chest, the words forever reminding him “God watches over and protects all of us, therefore, we are in his hands.” “My older sister gave me the idea on this tattoo, because she says this quote fits me. She, and the rest of my family, really like it and have supported me getting a tattoo from the beginning,” Martin said. Martin does not regret his first tattoo, which was done two weeks before the end of his junior year. Martin paid for his tattoo on his own, because he felt like he needed to be like an adult with his decision to get a tattoo. According to snippets.com, tattoos can range anywhere from $40 to hundreds of dollars depending on the size, design, and detail. He is not ashamed to admit that he is addicted to ink and plans on getting a back piece and sleeves as soon as he can.
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SAIGE LANDA | junior
attoos are a form of beauty and artwork in the eyes of Landa. She started liking them after admiring her mother’s tattoos. She has two at the moment, but plans on getting more in the near future. Landa has the outline of a heart on one of her inner ankles, which she claims to have gotten in the “spur of the moment” with two of her other friends. Her second tattoo is the date of her grandfather’s birthday, written across her left ribs, in recognition of his passing three years ago. “I got my first one done a little over two years ago, but I certainly do not regret it. I find
tattoos very attractive and a way of expression.” Although some consider tattoos as more of an art form, according to Forbes, “31 percent of surveyed employers ranked ‘visible tattoos’ as the top personal attribute that would dissuade them from promoting an employee.” However, many companies are looking more at skill than physical appearance. “I’m glad that jobs are starting to care less about employees with tattoos. They should not care, because it is a way that people express themselves and is becoming more common throughout generations,” Landa said.
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JESSICA DOMBROWSKI | health teacher
s students’ bodies become canvases for tattoos, teachers also share the love of the art. Dombrowski currently has
two tattoos. “I have a hibiscus flower on my foot. Eight years ago I was on a road trip, and I was feeling very spontaneous and decided I wanted to get a flower tattoo. I also have my husband’s handwriting with ‘I Love You’ on my wrist,” Dombrowski said. As a teacher who deals with kids every day, she recognizes how easily the minds of young adolescents can be influenced. Dombrowski also has her own views on teenagers planning to get a tattoo at a young age. “I would not let my kids get tattoos before they turn 18. Deciding to get a tattoo is a very big decision, and since they are going to be stuck with it for the rest of their life, I would want them to be a little more mature before finalizing a decision like that,” Dombrowski
Jan. 21, 2014
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es and lv e s m e h t s s ers, expre h tattoos h c a e t s a ll e w ug Students, as morate loved ones thro r comme , Staff Write hie Zambri
The Wildcat
FEATURE said. efore going into a parlor, it must be understood that getting a tattoo is a serious commitment. And while the removal process is an option, it’s often a lengthy and expensive one. According to Discovery Health, lasers target the ink pigments and shoot pulses of lights through the top layer of skin, causing them to get smaller and later dissolve in the immune system. At least 11 percent of people with tattoos have gone through the removal process. Yet despte the risks, and the potential of a painful removal process if one wishes a tattoo to be gone, tattoos ultimately represent one of the most permanent forms of self-expression. Alex Koers, Literature and Composition
teacher, has several prominent tattoos, most of which are insprired by literature, his son, and his son’s Hawaiian heritage. “The tattoos are a means of conveying the affection I have for my son and my love of being a father. One of my pieces pairs a line from my favorite novel, The Road, which is about fatherhood, with a Hawaiian motif. It’s an expression of what’s most important to me.” Tattoos act as a means to hold on to a memory, a significant period in their life, to remember a person who made a difference to them, or even act as a reminder of the person they hope to be. The taboo often put on tattoos and on the people who recieve them is evolving from a rash decision that should cause shame, into a piece of personal artwork that is celebrated.
SELLERS HONORS brother WITH tattoos by Sophie Zambri, Staff Writer Photo by April Santonil
As the needle pierced senior Robert Sellers’ skin, and the tattoo began to take shape, the memory of his nine year old brother, Michael, forever became a part of him, something he could hold onto and openly express. On Feb. 1, 2010, Michael passed away from cancer. In recognition, Sellers tattooed his arms with messages dedicated to his younger brother. “Robert and Michael had an extremely close relationship. Michael loved, cared, and looked up to him quite a bit. Robert was an extremely protective older brother, and I know it has been hard for Robert to accept that cancer was one problem that he could, in no way, protect Michael from, even though he wanted to with every part of himself,” Miranda Sellers, Robert’s older sister, said. According to Miranda, “Robert was barely hitting his teen years at the time of Michael’s passing. As far as Robert’s attitude and personality changes go, he unfortunately had to grow up very quickly emotionally, and as a result, had to mature quite a bit more than was
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MICHELLE KRIZO / the wildcat MARKED WITH WORDS: Left, senior Harrison Witt displays his tattoo, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," a Bible verse from Philippians 4:13. Above, health teacher Jessica Dombrowski's wrist is tattooed with "I love you" in her husband's handwriting. Some students and teachers view tattoos as a form of artwork and selfexpression.
expected for his age.” Before Sellers had the tattoos done, he originally vowed to shave his head at least once a month in remembrance of his younger brother. He also always swore to himself that he would never take off the bracelets that his brother gave him. However, after one of the bracelets broke, Sellers realized that material objects were perishable, so he searched for a permanent memento. or Sellers, a tattoo was the first and only idea that came to mind. Before his 17th birthday, Sellers discovered a method to tattoo himself. He did not hesitate to immediately implement this new finding, and convinced his friend to help him tattoo a tribute to his late brother on the insides of both his forearms. Sellers and his friend used a part of a radio to spin the needle, a mechanical pencil to hold the needle in place, and a sterilized guitar string as the needle itself to create his homemade tattoo. The process he used is called “Russian jail style.” Even though his mother disapproved of his actions and made him get his tattoos removed, they are still a part of him and always will be. However, Sellers plans to have his removed tattoos redone in a few months. “[My tattoos] were something I would never regret because they meant something to me. My friends all seemed to love them, but my mom hated them. When she first saw the tattoos, she instantly grounded me for all of the stupid things I had been getting myself into. I did not tell her I was getting them beforehand, because they were homemade,” Sellers said. Sellers admits that many adults were not happy with his homemade tattoos. Besides his
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mother, his biggest role model and mentor, Javier Belmares, BITA teacher, was also not very pleased with it. “Mr. B is like a second father to me. I look up to him as a mentor, and the fact that he was disappointed in me made me realize that I had really messed up by tattooing myself. Still, I will never regret getting those tattoos,” Sellers said. Sellers is still in the process of completely removing his two forearm tattoos through a method called “shock impulse” which, when boiled down in its simplest terms, means that the unwanted tattoo is getting tased at the maximum level of 10 different tasers to blast all of the skin off in that specific area, according to dermbids.com Black scars still cover Sellers’ forearms from the removal process, which will remain there until he covers them. bout a month ago, Sellers had another arm piece below his shoulder, by a professional this time. The new tattoo is a Celtic cross with “Michael” written vertically and sharing the “I” horizontally, “RIP” is written. He plans on having two full sleeves within a few years. “Robert has been one of my best friends for many years now. Since everything that has happened with his brother, Robert seems to have grown up. He has become a better person and has matured a lot,” Chris Zeko, sophomore, said. Sellers’ life changed the day that Michael passed away. He even admits to “losing control and spiraling” after the passing of his brother. However, Michael will always be honored through the ink that adorns his older brother’s body.
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The Wildcat Jan. 21, 2014
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by Noelle Gracia, Content Manager Photos by Trent Preston
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t is not uncommon for students to eat lunch in the classrooms of their favorite teachers. A refuge away from the busy quad, a teacher’s classroom becomes a quiet place to catch up, whether it is with
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Javier Belmares forms personal connections with students through his work as BOHS’s BITA instructor
Jan. 21, 2014
bohswildcat.com
peers, homework, or even with the teacher themselves. While most teachers only have to deal with a handful of kids residing in their classrooms at lunch each day, that is not the case with Javier Belmares’ BITA (Building Industry Technology Academy) classroom. Walk into the BITA classroom at almost any given time of the day, and immediately you will be greeted with the din of high school student activity, whether that may be eating actual lunch, playing a fierce round of UNO, or discussing the day’s mishaps with friends. The one watching over all this controlled chaos (and often participating in it himself) is Belmares. Over the several years that Belmares has taught at BOHS, his caring nature and genuine interest in the lives of all the students who he interacts with have earned him a mentor-like reputation around campus, known for always lending a compassionate ear and offering advice only when asked for. According to Angie Winder, senior, “B is the glue that holds the BITA family together.”
JAVIER BELMARES
The Wildcat
CENTERSPREAD
espite the success and accolades that Belmares has earned while leading the BITA program, such as placing in the top three for the Skills USA State Competition for the first time in BOHS history, it was never his intention to make construction his main career, let alone be an instructor on it. Growing up in a family with most of the men working construction, Belmares was always raised with the impression that to work construction was “demeaning and that you were just a pair of hands and not much more.” To comply with his family’s wishes to work in another field, Belmares worked at a customer service company for a year and a half when he was 22 years old, and during his time there, he “absolutely hated it.” “I tried the whole office scene and I hated working there; it just wasn’t the type of work I took enjoyment from,” Belmares said. So when his distribution center shut down Belmares needed another job immediately to keep up with his growing family’s daily expenses. It was then that he took a job with a drywalling company, his initial intention to just pay the bills. “I never realized how much I missed it, how I loved being able to go outside and work with my hands. I had always kept
Page design by SHARON CHO
students, BITA and non-BITA kids alike, that have really characterized his past seven years at BOHS. “I think Belmares is able to relate so well to all of his students as a father figure, or a friend, or any such relationship as that, because he really feels for his students, really cares for them. This makes it easy for him to empathize with them,” Franco Ciccarello, Visual Communications teacher and close friend of Belmares, said.
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UILDING BONDS: On facing page, Javier Belmares, BITA teacher, stands in the BITA classroom as students work on cabinet projects during BITA 3 and 4. Above, Belmares assists Tyler Cowan, senior, with his project. Students view Belmares as not just an instructor, but as an adult figure to relate to and often confide in.
construction work as just a hobby, mainly a way to supplement my paycheck from other jobs and I thought that’s how it was always going to be,” Belmares said. “But getting back into the game after a year and a half of being out of it made me realize that this was something that I really loved and that I wouldn’t be as happy at another job as I was working construction. It was then that I decided that this was the job I wanted to stick with.” It was not until the economic downfall of 2007 that Belmares turned to teaching as his next viable profession. At the time, he was booking his own construction jobs with a close friend of his. Though he did not want to give up his own business, he knew that teaching was a stabler position. After seeing an ad in the local newspaper about teaching construction for 25 hours a week at BOHS, Belmares decided to apply, thinking that with only 25 hours at this job, he’d still have about 20 hours left over to work on his own jobs. “Well, what I didn’t know was that 25 hours was an entire school week, and yeah,
it says it’s only 25 hours, but if you include all the prep time to set up, all the time you stay after, and just all the extra time and effort you find yourself putting in, it always seems to feel like much more than just 25 hours,” Belmares chuckles. What Belmares also did not realize when he took on his first teaching position was just “how legitimate” this new occupation really was. Believing that he was only helping out a few students, showing them the basic principles of construction, Belmares was surprised to learn that he would be in an actual classroom and working with hundreds of kids throughout the day, not just a select few. “I was like a ‘teacher’ teacher, and that was weird at first,” Belmares remembers. “But just like when I made the choice to stick with construction, I decided that I really enjoyed teaching, that this wasn’t just another job to me. And here [I am], seven years later, still enjoying what I do.” Yet despite Belmares’ vast knowledge of construction and the business of the trade itself, it is the bonds he has formed with
ne of Belmares’ defining attributes was how open he was to bond with any student, whether or not that student was even enrolled in the BITA program. According to Winder, Belmares easily forms connections with his students because “he’s willing to get close to those who allow him to, yet he never tries to push it. He’s there for anyone who wants him to be there.” Belmares strives to create an environment where his students feel safe to explore the things they are interested in, or relevant to them, whether or not that involves construction, or personal qualities and talents they wish to acquire. “Everybody is going to learn something different while they’re in this class, and while I always teach construction, I don’t mind what they choose to learn in this class as long as they come away with something,” Belmares said. “I’m going to teach construction, but some students are going to learn teamwork. I’m going to teach construction, but some students are going to learn encouragement when they tell one of their crew members to stop texting during a job. Some students are going to learn punctuality when they have to start showing up to class consistently to finish their project. I’m just glad they’re learning something while they’re with me.” Belmares attests to the fact that for the past seven years, teaching at BOHS has made him learn more than at any other job he has had, not just in regards to the business of construction, but also about himself, and people as a whole. “Looking back, these past seven years haven’t just been about the paycheck; this isn’t just a job anymore. It’s about all that I’ve learned, and am continuing to learn,” Belmares said.
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FEATURE 16 CARRYING ON WITH BACKPACKS The Wildcat
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Jan. 21, 2014
From animals to colorful prints to simple designs, students and teachers display their personal styles and interests from the very backpacks and bags that they carry around with them everyday.
Compiled by Asha Kadakia, Feature Co-Editor Photos by Rachel Lin and Michael Cho “I got [my backpack] online. My backpack was getting old, and I wanted a new one, so I got that one on sale.”
“I think elephants are both unique and awkward animals, which I like. I found the backpack on Amazon for $15 when it was originally $50.”
“I got my backpack in Vegas because I thought it was cool, and since I watch My Little Pony, I thought it was nice how it had a collaboration with the backpack. I got it as a Christmas present from my parents.”
JOSEPH PARK sophomore
LAUREN SPICER senior
CATHERINE SYZNAL sophomore
“I got [my backpack] from Tilly’s, and I liked it because it goes with all of my outfits.”
“I got it at Urban Outfitters because it was on sale and I thought the color was nice.”
EDDIE HALLO sophomore
JORDAN PARAGAS sophomore
“I got [my backpack] from Urban Outfitters. I picked it because it was different than anything I had seen before and I really liked it.”
ERIC HAN sophomore
“I got my backpack at Sports Chalet and I picked it because I like floral stuff and it seemed to fit my personality.”
“I decided to put ‘Linsanity’ on my Ladycat backpack because I have the same last name as [NBA player] Jeremy Lin and I thought it would be fun.”
MIKAYLA REMIJIO sophomore
EMILIE LIRON senior
RACHEL LIN sophomore
“I like this bag simply because it’s an ‘old school’ bag. I got it from a retired basketball coach at Savannah High School.”
“My husband got it for me for Christmas this year because I kept complaining that my purse and my tote did not match.
“I got my briefcase from my greatgrandfather. He was a Marine and it had VFW and Marine stickers and [it] names the names of corporals in the Army.”
VINCENT OHLER senior
“I liked it because it’s unique and it’s blue, which is my favorite color. I was at Active Ride Shop.”
JENNIFER RYAN Literature teacher
GREG HIGASHI Economics teacher
The Wildcat
17 YLA students get peek at future professions
FEATURE
Jan. 21, 2014
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by Rewa Ousman, Feature Co-Editor
W
hile most adults are already well into their chosen professions, four sophomores joined Youth Leaders of America (YLA) to experience a preview of careers they may potentially enter. Jonathan Paek, Jean Park, Maddy Kim, and Helen Kim, sophomores, take advantage of the opportunities available to them by accumulating knowledge about the business world through an association called Youth Leaders of America. YLA presents an opportunity for teenagers like Park, Paek, Maddy, and Helen Kim to be mentored by successful business owners. It is their chance to network with notable individuals in the business world. “YLA in general allows you to make connections with speakers that come to tell their stories. You can get their knowledge on their career, and knowledge is really important. It prepares you for the future,” Park said. The founder of YLA, John Nguyen, started the Youth Leaders of America with some of his friends in 2006 in hopes of providing the next generation with valuable information to help them succeed in the business world. Extremely influential companies, such as Walt Disney and Hilton, sponsored the association, allowing it to blossom. Park learned about YLA through a mutual friend who would continuously talk about his experience in the association. She was intrigued by the opportunities and benefits presented by this association, and when she applied, she convinced Paek, Maddy, and Helen Kim to apply as well. After a “lengthy application process,” as Park called it, all four of them were accepted into the program as “associates.” The online application consisted of several questions which determine an individual’s ability to grow as a leader in the business world. Every Wednesday, dressed in professional, business attire with their portfolios in hand, the associates of YLA meet at the Disneyland Hotel, the Hilton, or other community centers. Once there, the event immediately begins, punctuality being one of the major aspects of professionalism they are taught to adhere. “[The advisors] time everything to the minute. They’re very precise and professional,” Paek said. Speakers from organizations such as Jubilee Project, an independent production company that creates short films to increase awareness and action about issues in society, come to talk to the associates about their career and how they came to be so successful. Recently, YLA hosted a mentor rotation event where extremely influential businessmen and women from around the world came to speak
Photos courtesy of Youth Leadership America
THE BUSINESS WORLD: Top, Park, Kim, Paek, and Kim, sophomores, sit on a USC fountain. Above, Maddy interacts with a fellow YLA associate. Left, Park completes “Facing Fears“ activity. to all the associates about their careers, the path to becoming successful, and what it is like to own and run a business. As well as being able to learn from experienced business owners, the associates are split up into groups and are responsible for creating a community service project. They are required to come up with their own unique event, draw up a proposal, find a venue to host the event, find sponsors to fund their project, set a specific date, and publicize their event through the media. All proceeds and funds collected after the event are donated to a charity of the group’s choice. Paek, Helen, and the rest of their associates group raised around $600, which they used to make 48 Christmas stockings, which they filled with Christmas lights, decorations, and other items
for the mental patients at Sunnyside Retirement Center. The retirement home has a special center for the rehabilitation of men and women with mental illnesses. The associates presented the patients with their gift bags and spent the day with them, getting to know more about their lives and what it is like to live with their illnesses as well as having relaxed conversations with them. “It was great to see their faces light up when they got their stockings and becoming excited when they were describing their plans for what they were going to do with their lights and decorations. They really do not get time to just sit down, talk, and relax with people, and I think that is really important for them to get the human interaction they are denied in the real world because of their disabilities,” Helen said. Maddy’s associate group decided to host a
fashion show, to which all proceeds went to She’s The First, a non-profit organization which promotes education for women in third world countries. Although, instead of buying new clothes for models to wear on the runway, the group accepted donations of old clothes, shoes, and accessories. After the fashion show was successfully executed, the donated clothes were auctioned off to those who attended. “Although my community service project had its bumps, it was really fun putting it together with a group of strangers that I have really come to love. It didn’t feel like work most of the time,” Maddy said. Park, along with her associate group, came up with the idea of hosting a field-day event, which they titled Games of the Gods, for the general community at Buena Park High School. This event included games and activities such as volleyball tournaments, watermelon eating contests, sack races, and more. As well as raising funds for their event through Christmas caroling, Park and her peers were generously sponsored by Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Souplantation, and Fuddruckers. All proceeds went to Disabled Sports USA, an organization dedicated to helping disabled athletes keep up with their fitness. “Working with my peers was definitely an enjoyable and fun time, and it has really developed my time management skills, because planning an event takes up a lot of time and dedication. I am really proud of my group and happy that we were able to give back to the community while having a great time,” Park said. At the end of the term, one group will be rewarded and recognized for their success on their community service project at the YLA graduation ceremony. At the ceremony, the group with the best project will be able to give a presentation demonstrating the steps they took to administer their event in front of the founders of YLA, the speakers that came to inform them about their careers, and the sponsors who assisted in funding their event. “The success presented by the community service project allows for the associate groups to make a lasting impact among some pretty notable people in the business world,” Park said. Park, Paek, Maddy, and Helen Kim have devoted their time to YLA in order to sustain crucial knowledge for their future from professionals who have already had success in their careers and to experience new boundaries together. “It is really humbling to know that there are so many other people in the youth that have already achieved so much, and being able to connect with the leaders of the world today is an interesting experience. YLA really teaches you to take advantage of what you have right now to secure better connections for later,” Paek said. The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
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FEST AWARDS FILMMAKERS by Stefani Clark, Copy Editor
APRIL SANTONIL / the wildcat
‘AND ACTION’: Craig Windes, Post-Production Supervisor, and
Reymundo Perez, Art Department Manager, give advice to prospecitive filmmakers. With a speaker’s panel, food trucks, and a bevy of student-made short films, the Brea Film Festival on Jan. 11 allowed aspiring filmmakers to put their work on display. The film festival provided a speaker’s panel featuring Reymundo Perez (‘97), Art Department Manager at Lightstorm Entertainment and Craig Windes, Post-Production Supervisor at Shine America. Perez is currently working on the “Avatar” sequel, while Windes worked on “Yo Gabba Gabba,” a popular children’s television show. “Be open to trying different things when it comes to your career. Jobs change quickly and technology changes quickly in this industry,” Windes said. While they mainly discussed the unique aspects of their careers,
Perez and Windes gave insight on what students should be doing in order to become recognized. “It is just a matter of identifying what you like and going for it, as long as you know the directors of films you like, and you know the kind of world you want to be involved in, just go for it,” Perez said. After the speaker’s panel, the films were played to be judged. Although this event was hosted in the Performing Arts Center, films were submitted from many different schools. “It was a good opportunity to get exposed to other people with the same interests, because it is all about connections in this career field,” Mari Locsin, senior and contestant, said. The winning film in the Comedy category was “Unexpected Affection” by Pooja Samaiah of El Dorado. Justine Senna of El Dorado was named the winner for her Drama submission, “Nevermore.” The Public Service Announcement winner was Arsenio J. Alvarez III of San Dimas High School for “Drunk Driving.” The winning Documentary film was “The Unspoken” by Angel Ruiz of El Dorado. “Nightmare” By Taurie Barajas of El Dorado won the best Thriller film. The last individual award was for the Music Video, “Fireflies,” by Andrew Vogt of El Dorado. El Dorado won about $4500 for Best Overall FIlm and Best Video Production “It was exciting to see the students’ inclination and interest in filmmaking. For some, you can tell that it is just a hobby, but there are those with real potential in the business,” Kari Windes, Brea Education Foundation board member and event coordinator, said. As young filmmakers were given recognition at the film festival, they were also provided with the chance to associate with other future potential directors.
LEONARDO REFLECTS ON YEAR by Missy Leonardo, Guest Contributor
To say I am blessed to be a Wildcat, is an understatement. I feel incredibly lucky to be in the position I am in and to have the students that I do. I love the energy of the campus and the excitement I receive from my students daily. Brea Olinda High School has truly been the best supporting staff a new teacher could ever ask for. I have enjoyed the camaraderie both inside and outside of school. Stepping into the Dance Director role last year was extremely exciting. I embraced the school’s traditions and was able to share my vision for the future of the dance program at the same time. Through all of the ups and downs I experienced during my first year, I am truly grateful to be where I am today. I have seen tremendous dedication and growth from all of my students since last year, which continues to inspire me as their teacher. The Dance Production (DP) team truly came together since last year and proved what a hard working team is all about. This group of dancers work hard every day, even if it is for a short 30 minute class. They are strong role models for the rest of the dance program. “DP Sisterhood” came about towards the end of the year as we all faced change, a bright future, and became one team, one family. Being a close-knit group, it has created a positive energy within the team, in the dance room, and on stage. As we wrapped up our Brea Dance Concert show in December and are working towards our upcoming show in April, I look forward to many more challenges, creativity, and performing ahead. I am proud to be the Dance Director at BOHS. The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
Highlights of Being Dance Director: The overwhelming excitement of the first sold out show. Rounding up the underclassman of the Dance Production to help create a secret dance piece for our graduating seniors. Performing in the Homecoming Rally with the most amazing colleagues. Being able to see the growth in my dancers since last year, and knowing that I have been able to be a helping hand in that process. Watching the dancers create amazing pieces of work. Encouraging my dancers to try something new, dedicate themselves to their personal goals, and to strive daily to experience all of the joys that dancing brings.
APRIL SANTONIL / the wildcat FINAL COUNTDOWN: Ashley Daniels and Johnny Williams, seniors, rehearse their scene for the show on Jan. 23 and 24.
DRAMA PREPARES ‘CLASS ACTION’ SHOW
by Nicole Nam, News Co-Editor
Lights. Camera. Action! For the past two months, students in Drama 1, 2, and 3 have been preparing for their drama show, “Class Action,” which they will perform on Jan. 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. “Class Action,” a published play, shows different situations high school students deal with outside of the classroom. Every character in the show deals with all of the situations typical students encounter. Each scene will display a variety of serious, yet light-hearted subjects, which audiences of all ages can relate to. This show portrays its scenes in three acting sets: at lunch tables, a set of bleachers, and a wall of lockers. “The show has all the drama high school students experience,” Kim Ofcacek, drama teacher, said. “[There are] moments of laughter and moments where you will want to cry.” “Class Action” will have only 25 scenes, where each scene will portray high school drama. Since all students play an important role, everyone is considered a main character. According to Ofcacek, each student was assigned the same amount of lines in this comedy drama show, making the distribution fair among everyone. In scene 15, Brenda Woods, freshman, plays the role of Wanda, who has just broken up with her boyfriend, Scott, played by Alex Garcia, junior. To her dismay, her best friend Tabitha, played by Tabatha Macedo, freshman, is going on a date with Scott, soon after Wanda and Scott broke up. “I am really excited to perform this show in front of my peers. I am sure the audience will really enjoy watching the struggles that most high school students go through,” Woods said. According to Ofcacek, performing a show is not simple. Actors must completely dedicate themselves to a character and develop believable relationships with other actors. “This show is great for the Drama 1, 2, 3 classes. All students received a good sized role, and several students will be playing more than one part,” Ofcacek said. “This will really give them the opportunity to showcase their talents to the audience.”
19 LOCAL EATS WORTH EXPLORING
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by Noah Strobele, Staff Writer Photos by Amanda Tortarolo, Staff Writer and Photographer
M
ownership, the interior of the restaurant was completely different in a way that disappointed me. The former Grascio’s was dimly lit with dark colors on the walls that created a relaxing ambiance. The once calm dining area was
Motivated to find quality affordable food, I have been sampling meals at local non-chain restaurants that are surpassed in popularity by eateries with commercial advertisements and multiple billboards.
RED LANTERN CHInESE 746 N Brea Blvd, Brea Next to the Vons grocery store on State College, Red Lantern Chinese is in a small corner of the business complex. With only eight booths and four tables, Red Lantern provides a small, peaceful atmosphere. I have been a patron at this restaurant for many years, and it has been just as fantastic as the first day I walked in. I was waited on within the first minute of sitting down and my food order went out quickly. The dishes I ordered were the orange chicken, the sweet and pungent shrimp, and the beef and broccoli. Each portion cost about $9, but I absolutely got my money’s worth. My food came out after about 13 minutes, and everything was fantastic. The chicken and beef were well-seasoned and cooked to near perfection, but the shrimp was by far my favorite. The taste was balanced between sweet and tangy, with a spicy kick. All the ingredients complimented one another, so each flavor was still distinct. Red Lantern Chinese is a place that I recommend, and whether eating on the spot or being delivered, their food never disappoints.
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
The shrimp was stiff and under-cooked, and the only flavor the pasta had was the massive amount of butter. The other part of my order was a simple pepperoni pizza. Aside from the slow service and overly buttered pasta, the chefs at Grascio’s managed to craft a pizza that makes Pieology, a popular local pizzeria, seem inferior. While the pizza was cooked with the most delicious crust and gooey cheese, it made my visit worthwhile. It seemed steep to pay $12 for a pizza, but it was wonderful and worth every penny. While the Grascio’s I once knew is gone, I can gladly say the pizza continues to live up to the expectations of the former restaurant.
379 W Central Ave, Brea
131 S Kraemer Blvd, Brea Grascio’s Italian, across from the Birch Hills Golf Course, is always a restaurant I enjoy. The employees were friendly, and there was great food. Sadly, Grascio’s was sold two months ago to a different owner, and the appetizing food and service that I once experienced seems to have disappeared. Walking in the first time under new
by Stacy Uhm and Astyr Ko, Staff Writers
CENTRAL DELI
GRASCIO’S ITALIAN replaced with a bright, loud atmosphere that made me uncomfortable. I did not get any service for the first 15 minutes since my arrival, and they did not bring me the correct drink. I played it safe and ordered the fettuccine alfredo with grilled shrimp for around $13.
Two Wildcat Staff Writers compare peppermint hot chocolates
Tucked away in a small shopping center of Central Avenue lies Central Deli. I had never noticed this place before, which surprised me considering how much I enjoy a wellmade sandwich. Offering everything from sandwiches, to pasta, to soups and salads, Central Deli guarantees quality food at an affordable price. The second I walked in, somebody welcomed me to the deli. This is unusual for an over-the-counter place, so I was quite pleased. Considering I was at a deli, I felt obligated to try a sandwich. I ordered a roast beef sandwich for $7.49. The appeal of any sandwich comes from the quality of the ingredients. The meat was made fresh and the vegetables were washed and cut right in front of me. However, the bread was not the best. It was a little over sized, which caused the sandwich to nearly fall apart. I have to mention the bathrooms. I am not sure what it is, but a nice bathroom goes a long way for me. The bathrooms were clearly well taken care of, which gave me a good feeling about the hygiene of the restaurant. I still recommend Central Deli despite the minor complaints and I will definitely return. The shrimp, pizza, and roast beef sandwiches gave me an opening to try new hole-in-the-wall restaurants, where I dined on under-appreciated food that was appealing without the use of special television effects on commercials and thousand-dollar advertisements.
STARBUCKS
$3.51 “Due to the bitterness of the chocolate, the taste of peppermint quickly faded and the drink just tasted like hot chocolate. Although the taste was alright, I would not get it again.”
EBAR
$3.25 “THE CAFE WAS OUT OF PEPPERMINT, SO THE BARISTA REPLACED IT WITH A MINT CALLED CREME DE MENTHE. WHEN WE FIRST TOOK A SIP, WE INSTANTLY KNEW IT WAS THE BEST BECAUSE OF ITS LIGHT BUT RICH FLAVOR.
MCDONALDS
$2.15 “WE COULD OBVIOUSLY TELL THAT THE DRINK WAS ARTIFICAL BECAUSE OF ITS DULL, BLAND TASTE. THE HOT CHOCOLATE LACKED FLAVOR, WHICH MADE THE DRINK UNAPPETIZING. NO WONDER IT IS ONLY $2.15.”
PANERA BREAD
$4.63 “THE HOT CHOCOLATE WAS VERY RICH AND DARK.THE FLAVOR WAS SO THICK THAT WE DID NOT BELIEVE THERE WAS ANY PEPPERMINT. WITHOUT THE PEPPERMINT FLAVOR, THE DRINK DID NOT STAND OUT COMPARED TO THE OTHERS.
COFFEE BEAN
$3.00 “THE PEPPERMINT AND HOT CHOCOLATE BLENDED TOGETHER PERFECTLY. HOWEVER, ON THE SECOND SIP, WE NOTICED THE PEPPERMINT FLAVOR BECAME LESS OBVIOUS. THE DRINK WAS NOT TOO SWEET, BUT WAS THE SWEETEST AMONG THE FOUR CAFES.
EBAR
Stacy and Astyr’s favorite: 500 Brea Mall Way Brea
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MARCHING INTO 3RD AT STATE T by Stefani Clark, Copy Editor Photos on facing page by April Santonil, Photo Editor
JONATHAN MADAMBA saxophone
MELODY KIM marimba
AMANDA COOK assistant drum major
JUN PARK saxophone
ELIZABETH DAVIS tuba
CAMERON BURT mellophone
he Wildcat Entertainment Corps improved upon last year’s fifth place standing, earning a third place ranking for the first time in school history. During the first semester, band competes in marching competitions which entails marching in formations on a field while playing their respective instrument. Since there are sections within band, leaders are chosen for the different instrumental areas. Monica Sharda, senior, is the head drum major, and Amanda Cook, junior, is the assistant drum major. Drum majors lead the marching band and are positioned at the head of the musicians. The Wildcat Entertainment Corps was given the chance to perform at California State Championships. Leading up to championships, band participated in three traditional season competitions. They compete outdoors against other schools’ marching bands and are judged on Music Performance, Music Effect, Visual Performance, Visual Effect, Percussion, and Auxiliary. Each performance consists of 11 minutes of memorized music while marching 50 to 60 sets of memorized drill. The students are expected to use proper breathing techniques, apply adequate marching form, and adjust their tempo. “At first, it was extremely difficult to adjust to performing for 11 minutes straight while marching at the right tempo. Getting the whole band to prepare to compete was also a hard task, especially for the newcomers. When it comes to performing, nerves are definitely there,” Cook said. “But as drum major, having the proper appearance and professionalism during the performances to represent the entire Brea Olinda band is important in bringing everyone to their highest potential. ” At their first competition on Oct. 12 at Norco High School, they placed first out of seven schools in Division III. They received 78.8 points out of 100, beating Oak Hills (77.05), one of their main competitors. They continued to prosper at their second competition on Oct. 19 at Glendale High School. They placed second overall with 75.45 points, right behind El Camino High School, who took first place with 76.6 points. The Wildcat Entertainment Corps participated in their last regular season competition at San Dimas
“I
Photo courtesy of Amanda Cook
only wish that people could look beyond their own prejudices and preconceived notions to see that the visual and performing arts are just as important as math, science, English, sports, and everything else.” Joe Bartell, band director.
High School on Nov. 9. Out of the nine other schools, they received a second place ranking with 81.55 points, following Gahr High School who placed first with a score of 84.7. Band was given the opportunity to compete at California State Championships on Nov. 16 due to their high regular season ranking. At West Valley High School, they performed against ten other schools. Gahr placed first with 86 points, and Oak Hills High School placed second with 81.2 points. The Wildcats received 80.96 points, earning them a third place ranking in the state for the first time in school history. Last year, they placed fifth overall. “We had a very successful season, and with any competitive group, reaching championships is always a very fulfilling experience. The students have been taught that every rehearsal and performance is important, but they always find a way to push themselves even further for those special events like championships. Band students practice many hours
band ACHIEVEMENTS
2013
Norco High School Marching Band Field Show
San Dimas High School Field Show
Glendale High School Field Show
California State Band Championships
FIRST
SECOND
SECOND
THIRD
Centennial High School Circle City Classic Regional Field Show
Norco High School Marching Band Field Show
Bonita High School Sound in Motion Field Show
California State Band Championships
FIRST
SECOND
THIRD
FIFTH
2012 LAURA CRUZ tuba
TODD THORSEN trumpet
MONICA SHARDA AND AMANDA COOK drum major and assistant drum major
each week, many times on nights and weekends, to become as good as they are,” Joe Bartell, band director, said. The effort that the students invested to beat last year’s fifth place was reflected in their training regimen. In preparation, the Wildcats attended four-hour practices every Tuesday after school. Each practice consisted of touching up marching skills, enhancing their playing, and improving field displays. “Often our activity is looked upon as being easy, or not as difficult as some other activities on campus. [People] don’t understand exactly how difficult it is to do what these kids do,” Bartell said. “I believe some people think we’re just there to play pep tunes at sporting events and pep rallies. I only wish that people could look beyond their own prejudices and preconceived notions to see that the visual and performing arts are just as important as math, science, English, sports, and everything else.”
Just like in various sports, band has numerous outside support. According to Bartell, the parents who are part of the booster club help fundraise, size uniforms, bring show props, and prepare for competitions. There are also teachers on campus that support the program and recognize the students’ achievements. Nicole Baughman, math teacher, drove all the way to Hemet to watch band perform at championships. Susan Luce, AP Language teacher, said, “My favorite part of football games is watching band. While everyone gets up to buy snacks and socialize during halftime, I stay to watch their performance. The band at our school is amazing. I love band.” With the increasing support, band has been able to progress as a program. A family-orientation is established, giving opportunities for the students to open up to new experiences and different kinds of people. “I find myself learning everyday being in the band program. Constantly being surrounded by such a diverse group of people, I cannot help but learn something new each day. And the fact that this diverse group of people can work together to achieve an awesome performance makes me appreciate being part of something bigger than myself that much more,” Sharda, said. After the end of band’s marching season, they prepare for wind ensemble. Wind ensemble differs from marching season because of the types of performances and events throughout the season. Instead of marching outdoors on a field, wind ensemble performances are indoors where the musicians are able to sit down during the show. Instead of competitions, festivals are held where each school is judged alone, then compared to other schools. Wind ensemble provides a different music style in comparison to marching band, and everyone is able to play their instrument. As wind ensemble begins after a successful third place state championship title, band is preparing for their winter school performances, winter drum line competitions, and spring concerts. Jazz band played a combo performance on Jan. 11 at the cafeteria for the Film Festival. Drumline, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, and Winter Guard do not start their spring concerts until March.
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this THE WILDCAT HIGHLIGHTS NEWLY RELEASED AND UPCOMING ALBUMS I’M AQUARIUS|METRONOMY
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However, the song could have been shortened by at least 30 seconds with the repetition of the line “I’m Aquarius.” This unnecessary interval obviously emphasizes the origin of the song title. Directly following that redundant expression is another minute and a half of doo-wops and instrumentals. Although the instrumental portion of the song is compiled well with the synths and bass, 90 seconds of this repetitious beat and background vocals made me weary of this last segment. The official music video for “I’m Aquarius” was released on Dec. 18 on YouTube. Directed by Édouard Salier, the video stars Mount as he is traveling through space in a retro spaceship. He then lands on a mystical planet with oversized, hairless cats and alien goddesses. Although Salier’s decision to have Mount act in a spacesuit was permissible, especially with Sandra Bullock’s recent performance in the film, Gravity, Salier succeeded in the video when trying to create an “apocalyptic and dark [undercurrents],” according to The Creators Project. However, I found it difficult to find a conjunction between the avant-garde music video and the actual song. The track is on sale for download from the The Night Sky app, which is available in the iTunes and Android App stores for 99 cents. The song was also uploaded and streamed on YouTube and SoundCloud. The album is available for pre-order on iTunes. According to Metronomy’s official YouTube channel, The English Rivieria sold a quarter of a million copies worldwide and was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2011. The release of the addictive single, “I’m Aquarius,” stirs hope for an equally catchy album this spring.
by Sharon Cho, Editor-in-Chief
RESTORING FORCE|OF MICE AND MEN
By integrating psychedelic synths and classic doo-wops, Metronomy announced their promising return with the release of their single, “I’m Aquarius,” from their new album, Love Letters, which will be available March 10. Love Letters will be the fourth album released by the British electronic group. According to Rolling Stone, “I’m Aquarius” premiered on Zane Lowe’s BBC Radio1. Metronomy’s former and most successful album, The English Rivieria, had a more old-school sound with the muted bass and simple beats. “I’m Aquarius” introduced a more modern sound with emphasized synths, but the track still captured their original style and feel of music. Although I was entranced by the voice and British accent of Joe Mount, lead singer and composer, it was the second time around where I realized the tragic sentiment behind the lyrics. Mount tells the loss of his love through the comparison of their incompatible horoscopes. The instrumental itself has a more mellow feel, but with the addition of lyrics like “now I’ve seen our stars, and there’s nothing aligning,” the song suddenly shifts into grief and misery. This complicated arrangement between the light-hearted music and somber lyrics pair nicely together to strangely create a song I can listen to everyday.
“What happens after a disaster? What happens after ‘The Flood’? You return to normal. You find balance again. That is what we feel like we are doing with this album. We are letting everyone know that we are here to stay,” Austin Carlile, lead vocalist, said in an interview for Alternative Press. Following their previous album, The Flood, originally released in 2011, Of Mice & Men (OM&M) will release their newest album, Restoring Force, on Jan. 28. OM&M started writing Restoring Force on Dec. 4, 2012. The new album was written to symbolize the band and how they have evolved. “Restoring Force is going to make better music than the previous album. They are going to have better songs and just amp up the vibes of their music,” Sean Eikhoff, freshman, and OM&M fan, said. This album will be the first without former bassist and clean vocalist, Shayley Bourget, replaced by Aaron Pauley, the former vocalist of Jamie’s Elsewhere, a post-hardcore band. Pauley started off as a replacement for Bourget who left due to personal reasons during Vans Warped Tour in 2012. After the tour, he became a full time member of the band, according to altpress.com
Shortly after “You’re Not Alone” was released, another single, “Bones Exposed,” came out on Dec. 23. Both songs exaggerated the band’s new rock-and-roll sound. “Bones Exposed” is meant to have a different, more energetic sound than “You’re Not Alone,” leaving listeners wanting more. The excitement does not stop with the album premiere. Following up the release of their new album, OM&M will be headlining the American Dream tour along with bands Bring Me The Horizon, Issues, Letlive, and Northlane in Feb. and March.
PRISM|KATY PERRY
by Sharon Cho, Editor-in-Chief Expecting the usual, teenage, cotton candy pop songs, I did not expect much when I received Katy Perry’s new album, Prism. However, the album was unlike my presumptions, introducing a new “Katy Perry sound.”
SONGS I LIKED:
The first song on the album, also the most well known, “Roar,” was obviously not a surprise to me since the track is played countless times on the radio and covered on YouTube. Although this female empowering song is overplayed, the song still deserves the popularity it received. I particularly enjoyed the instrumental track for “Unconditionally.” Although Perry’s vocals compliments the song, the music itself appeals to me more than her voice and lyrics because the constant repetition of the word “unconditionally” is wearisome. The first five seconds of “Love Me” oddly reminds me of another favorite ambient artist of mine, Tycho. Also, the song suits Perry’s voice, making her sound more soft and airy than usual. The lyrics are a bit cliche, but the self-liberating lyrics make the cliches bearable. The last song I preferred is “Double Rainbow.” The light and feminine electronic sound is refreshing compared to the sullen or upbeat tracks on the album. The chorus especially is well compiled, with Perry’s voice balancing the instrumentals. Although I find the phrase “a double rainbow is hard to find,” more amusing than romantic, the song as a whole was still interesting.
by Sophie Zambri, Staff Writer
SONGS I HATED: pitchfork.com
ontheredcarpet.com
OM&M released their first single, “You’re Not Alone,” from the new album on Dec. 1, 2013. The single maintains their original all-American metalcore sound, but newly introduces a rock-and-roll, grungy sound. It was written in hopes of sending the message of strength to people enduring hardships. “‘You’re Not Alone’ reminds me of ‘Unholy Confessions,’ by
Avenged Sevenfold, an American rock band. So far, the new album seems good. It is a far cry from their old music. but every band changes and progresses,” Andrew Wise, junior, said. In an interview with Alternative Press magazine, Austin Carlile, lead vocalist, claimed that the new music will be very structured, similar to bands such as Linkin Park and Limp Bizkit.
When the track “Birthday” began, I immediately imagined this song to be suitable for a typical “girl’s night out.” However, Perry compares herself to elements of a birthday party, such as cake and presents, which was a bit odd to me. I also found Perry’s whisper narrations to be uncomfortable. The album then transitioned into “Dark Horse,” featuring Juicy J, who should have been the only artist in the song. Perry’s portions sound irrelevant as if the wrong artist was chosen to sing this song.
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Discouraged by Perry’s contribution in “Dark Horse,” I was hopeful for the next track. However, I was disappointed by “This Is How We Do” because Perry’s voice and style fit the instrumentals awkwardly, only leaving a bourgeois “hood” impression. What seems to be a familiar pattern by now, for “Ghost,” I favored the instrumental over the lyrics. The immaturity of the first line, “You sent a text,” immediately made me lose interest in the song. “Spiritual,” my least favorite track, had me confused with the combination of religion, fantasy, and secularity. As I continued to listen, I was then just disturbed, as if Perry disrespected these different cultures. The last song of the album, “Choose Your Battles,” made me lose interest with the first line, “You are my hurt locker lover.” Again, the lyrics are too juvenile for me to enjoy the song. The instrumentals and lyrics are both mediocre and they left me unsatisfied with the finale. Overall, I just appreciated Perry’s attempt to release a more different style that did not resonate her usual, sugary music. Though I am not a frequent Perry listener, there are a few songs that should not have been included in Prism or in any of Perry’s albums. But, a few of the instrumentals will have me listening to the tracks that I did favor, although all the lyrics are too immature for my tastes.
I BELIEVE|BASIC VACATION
by Noelle Gracia, Content Manager Basic Vacation’s newly released EP is enjoyable to listen for the simple fact that all five songs are ridiculously catchy, with upbeat, soaring lyrics that are impossible not to sing along to. The first song on the tracklist, “I Believe,” is light and buoyant, with lead singer Chris Geatti praising the fact that if there is anything in this world he can believe in, it is the love he shares with his significant other. It is the perfect kind of summertime, road trip with friends, song to blast. All the other songs in the lineup follow suit, with “You’re in My Head” and “Worlds Collide” reminiscent of the anthemic Imagine Dragon’s Night Visions album. As laid back as these songs sound, the band succeeds in highlighting their serious side with their second song, “Jamie.” Basic Vacation manages to easily pair it with a lively, synthdriven tune that will leave a feeling of anything but morose. The only real criticism for this compilation of songs was that it did not have a huge “wow” factor. I have heard variations of this kind of altpop style through other bands, such as Youngblood Hawke or fun., all of whom have been blasted into their listeners’ heads by popular radio stations such as 102.7 or 97.1. Although, this EP is not the most unique of its kind, the songs’ upbeat and easy to follow lyrics make up for its slight lack of originality.
THE WILDCAT ASKED BOHS TEACHERS: ‘WHAT IS YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE SONG?’
“I CAN’T GET NEXT TO YOU” The Temptations
“I grew up listening to Motown and The Temptations is my favorite band. Also, I love five part harmonies.” GREG HIGASHI // Economics and Government The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
“ANIMAL” Def Leppard
“It just makes me feel good.” CHRIS SCHAADT // ERWC
“DOWN IN THE TUBE STATION AT MIDNIGHT” The Jam “The narrative is realistic and puts me into the song itself.” LESLIE LEAMING // US History
“Royals” Lorde
“DREAM ON” Aerosmith
“My daughters and I heard it everyday on the way to swim in the summer, so we sing it together.” GIL ROTBLUM // AP European History rateyourmusic.com
“It’s really motivational.” BRIAN SCHLUETER // US History
pitchfork.com
“CRUISIN’” Smokey Robinson
“This song reminds me of my parents.” LIAH NISHIJIMA // Chemistry
“Linger” The Cranberries
“It’s a beautifully written song with lyrics that are so true.” SUSAN LUCE // AP Language
“WITH OR WITHOUT YOU” U2
“Because: Bono’s voice and the lyrics ‘Sleight of hand and twist of fate / On a bed of nails she makes me wait.’” ALEX KOERS // Lit. Comp. 1 The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
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The Wildcat Jan. 21, 2014
A WILDCAT Q&A WITH DANCE PRODUCTION’S
JENNA LAMBOURNE A monthly spotlight of a BOHS Performing Arts member, this month’s subject is JENNA LAMBOURNE, senior, and captain of Dance Production. Interview conducted by Linette Cho, Arts Editor Photo by April Santonil, Photo Editor
Q Who is your inspiration? A
I have a lot of people that I look up to in all the areas of my life, but I really look at what inspires me rather than who inspires me. I’m inspired by good deeds, high standards, perseverance, and determination. When I see these acts being done around me it inspires me to seek after those things as well.
Q What are your plans after high school? A
Frankly, I only know where I want to go, but I have no idea what I want to do. I hope to attend BYU-Provo and continue my education in order to discover what career I want to pursue.
Q How many years have you been dancing for? A
I started dancing at Imperial Dance Studio when I was three years old. So I have been dancing consistently for 14 years.
Q What was the biggest challenge during your dancing career? A
The biggest challenge with dancing most of my life was the transition from dancing at a studio, to dancing on a high school varsity team. After making the Dance Production (DP) team my freshman year, I realized doing both studio and DP was going to be really tough. To me, Dance Production was something I knew I could never give up as I saw myself becoming more outgoing, becoming a leader, growing as a dancer, and even [growing] as a person.
Q
What is the hardest thing about being in dance?
A
The hardest thing would be separating friendship from work. Even though we are really close as a team and have fun with each other, there is always a time where we have to set those things aside and be each other’s harshest critics.
Q Most embarrassing moment during a performance? A
My sophomore year during a tap number I choreographed, we had flannels pinned around our waists because the sleeves were too short to tie around. We had leggings and a white tank top on, too. My pin came undone on my flannel and it fell to the floor. It was only embarrassing for me because I’m super conscious of my butt. I had to keep dancing and I just felt humiliated.
Q If you could not dance, what would you be doing instead? A
I’ve asked myself this question a lot, and it’s really hard to think where I’d be without dance. However, I’m very athletic and come from a family of natural athletic ability. I was thinking of joining the volleyball team or the basketball team when I was in 8th grade, because I thought the possibility of making the dance team was far-fetched.
Q What would you consider your greatest accomplishment in dance? A
Even though I consider being co-captain of Dance Production my junior year to captain my senior year great accomplishments, I think the greatest accomplishment and honor I could ever receive was just making the team in the first place. I felt so unsure of myself and had a lot of doubts when getting ready to try out. When the list was posted and I read my name, I could not have felt happier. I’m so grateful Cyndi Hermann [former dance teacher] had enough faith in me when others did not.
ARTS bohswildcat.com
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The Wildcat
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Jan. 21, 2014
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BOYS’ XC 2ND IN STATE; BREAKS MT. SAC COURSE RECORD by Rewa Ousman, Feature Co-Editor
With the titles of Century League Champions, third fastest all-time team at Mt. SAC, and record holders as the fastest Division III team with a time of 76:14 under their belts, boys’ varsity cross country was more than confident going into CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) Prelims. On Nov. 16, the boys arrived at the Mt. SAC course and toed the line early in the morning, the chilly weather to their advantage. Austin Tamagno, sophomore, crossed the finish line in second place with a time of 14:36, with Brennon Koryta, senior, following close behind with a time of 15:05. After that days’ races, the boys’ were awarded a first place trophy and were announced to have broken the DIII course record and were named third fastest team in Mt. SAC course history, a course that has been run for over 60 years. The following week, the boys’ went on to race CIF Finals at the Mt. SAC course once again. With stiffer competition and slightly warmer temperatures that day, they were in for a challenge. But that did not stop them from placing first and qualifying for the California State Championships. That day, Tamagno finished second with a time of 14:39, and Brennon Koryta, senior, placed seventh with a time of 15:03. Austin Shellito, sophomore, crossed the finish line in 15:28, closely followed by DiMaggio Orozco, senior, who finished with a time of 15:32. On Nov. 30, the team prepared to race at the State Championships in Clovis, Calif. Although the boys’ placed second in their division at the meet, only the first place team could qualify to go to Nationals. Tamagno, who finished third overall with a time of 15:03, would be the only athlete from Brea to qualify for the Nike Cross Nationals and move on as an individual. “Of course we were all extremely disappointed in not winning the state title. The tough thing is we beat the school that beat us a week before that, and we beat them at Mt. SAC too. So, it’s difficult to accept that we got beat by a team we’ve beaten a number of times. I don’t think we performed at our absolute best, at all, and it’s hard to accept that we didn’t have the best day on arguably the most important day of the season. With that said, I’m very proud of the progression that our program has made, and I’m proud of every person who put on a uniform and ran in that race,” Jeremy Mattern, head coach, said. On Dec. 7, Tamagno prepared to represent his team, as well as the state of California, at Nike Cross Nationals as he took his place on the starting line. the Oregon temperature a chilling 29 degrees. Even so, Tamagno managed to place 19th with a time of 15:25 among some of the fastest upperclassmen in
to be the fastest team in California. I want to be the best team next year because I think we can be, and I think that’s realistic,” Mattern said.
TAMAGNO BECOMES FASTEST SOPHOMORE IN COUNTRY by Asha Kadakia, Feature Co-Editor
“
This was the most successful year ever in the history of our program. But, I want to get to the State Championships next year and win it; I want to be the fastest team in California. I want to be the best team next year because I think we can be, and I think that’s realistic.” JEREMY MATTERN, HEAD COACH America. Tamagno was the first sophomore to cross the finish line. This accomplishment would make him an All-American Athlete, as well as the fastest sophomore in the United States. “At Nike Nationals, it’s mostly a team event, so it felt great to represent my team. I just kept telling myself that I have to represent the team and I have to represent California,” Tamagno said. Although boys’ varsity cross country fell one place short of a state championship, they
APRIL SANTONIL / the wildcat experienced one of the most accomplished seasons in BOHS cross country history. “The varsity team won the Orange County Championship for the first time in school history. We won our 10th varsity league title as well as the Mt. SAC Invitational, which is a really prestigious meet. Then we won the CIF titles and got second at State. This was the most successful year ever in the history of our program. But, I want to get to the State Championships next year and win it; I want
Crossing the finish line with a time of 15:25, Austin Tamagno became the fastest sophomore cross country runner in the nation at the Nike Cross Nationals. To earn this prestigious title, Tamagno trekked to the Portland Meadows Race Track in Oregon, on Dec. 7, 2013, to compete against some of the fastest high school runners in the nation. The climate on race day was not ideal for the 5000 meter race. The forecast showed that the high for race day was a chilling 29 degrees. Tamagno claimed that he could not “get used to the cold right away” upon beginning his race. The startling cold made the course Tamagno raced more challenging than initially anticipated. Tamagno ended up finishing 19th out of 197 runners racing that day. Prior to the race, Tamagno gained access to meeting a panel of professional runners. “They were in our shoes. And you get to ask them how they took on all this pressure. You get to ask them what kind of stuff they did to be at the level they are at now,” Tamagno said. The professional runners not only conversed with the athletes, but also provided advice and tips on how to do well in their upcoming races. With Tamagno hoping to become a professional runner himself, this experience provided him with a sense of what the sport of running after college will be like for him. Races like these provide Tamagno with a clearer vision of what it will be like to race against some of the top runners in the country. “Anytime you have an athlete make it to the pinnacle of competition in a sport, it’s very exciting, and you know that these things are not going to happen year after year. We might not get a runner of his caliber again. You have to be extremely talented and hard working in order to get to that level,” Jeremy Mattern, boys’ cross country coach, said. Finishing 19th in this national race earned Tamagno the title of fastest sophomore in the country, and earned him All American honors. According to Tamagno, these titles mean a lot to him and the accolades encourage him to keep on his current course to becoming a top athlete his junior year as well.
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The Wildcat
26 ‘jon wall’ inspired by athletic family Jan. 21, 2014
Wildcat star driven by the success his family has achieved in sports
The BOHS Wildcat Newspaper
role this year and he’s been doing a great job with it, he’s been our voice, he’s been our backbone, and he’s our utility player,” Hilliard said. “He’s a tremendous young man, great person, and high in character.” Wallace hopes to continue playing basketball in college, but his goal right now is keeping his GPA as high as possible to get into the schools of his choice. According to Hilliard, their main focus right now is finding a school that will suit Wallace best, both athletically and academically. After being accepted into a four-year university Wallace wants to “major in criminal justice. My motivation to do it is my family; they keep me on the right path, going strong. A future goal of mine is to become an F.B.I agent [and have] a wonderful family.” Denise is proud, not only of the athlete that her son has evolved into over the past four years, but also the strong moral character he has developed. Like Hilliard, she believes that Wallace’s temperament and encouraging attitude towards others is one of his most defining characteristics. “I think Jonathan’s success comes from the morals he has been taught at home.” Denise said. “[He] has always been taught to give respect to others, work hard, give the best to do whatever he is pursuing, be a team player and a good sport win or lose.”
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Girls’ h2o polo having best season in years by Amanda Tortarolo, Staff Writer
by Christian Santonil, Staff Writer Photo by TRENT PRESTON
When the majority of your family is comprised of successful athletes, many of them still participating in sports even to this day, it’s hard not to be engulfed in the athletic mania. This is the case for Jonathan Wallace, senior co-captain of boys’ varsity basketball, whose family has been his main inspiration to pursue competitive sports. Wallace’s father was an all-around athlete, playing basketball, football and baseball. Both his mother, Denise, and sister, Keitra (‘12) pursued basketball in high school. Keitra was a varsity Ladycat for four years at BOHS, winning a 2009 National Championship under head coach Jeff Sink. She now attends Pepperdine University on a full basketball scholarship and is having a breakout season, averaging 13.3 points for the Waves. Kirby Wilson, Wallace’s cousin, is the running backs coach for the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. “My parents and my sister are my biggest role models. They have taught me so much about life and have been behind me since d ay one,” Wallace said. Wallace began playing basketball himself at four years old, and has played on varsity since he was a sophomore. Being a player one could depend on has always been a main goal for the 6’1 guard, with him taking pride in his consistency for the team and for his family, which is what he considers to be one of his greatest accomplishments. “My biggest accomplishment is being a good teammate, putting the team before myself and as well as making my teammates better themselves. Most of my success comes from my family and friends that support me and show me love,” Wallace said. The Wildcats currently sit in second place in Century League with a 4-2 record under head coach Darryl Hilliard. In addition to being a consistent teammate, Wallace also takes pride in being a leader. Captain both his junior and senior year, Wallace attributes his ability to lead from characteristics he observed in his family while growing up. “Right away I could see he was a natural born leader; he wanted to take the leadership
SPORTS
DO THE ‘JOHN WALL’: Jonathan Wallace, senior co-captain of boys’ varsity basketball, is inspired to compete by his athletic family. Wallace draws pride from his sense of character, as well as his playing ability in competitive sports.
Despite being winless in Century League play, girls’ varsity water polo is currently enjoying their best season since 2007. At presstime, the team has a total season record of 8-11, and a Century League record of 0-4. According to Stan Sprague, head coach, this group of girls stands out from previous teams due to their dedication to the game and their consistently strong defense. “Experience, speed, and commitment is what makes this team successful compared to the past six seasons,” Sprague said. Varsity spent their off-season weight training, swim conditioning, and wearing weight belts in the pool everyday to prepare for Century League. The pre-season conditioning paid off as the Wildcats emerged successful in each of the tournaments they competed in this season. In a two-day tournament at Los Altos and Chino Hills High School, the Wildcats won five consecutive games. Referring to their first tournament of the season, Melissa Henrikson, junior attacker, said, “We all worked together really well and got second out of 20 teams. We also broke the record for most continuous wins in seven years for [BOHS] girls’ water polo.” The girls’ 10-9 win at Beverly Hills High School in the Western Tournament resonated with the players. The teams were matched point for point, leading into triple overtime. The Wildcats scored the final goal, securing the win. Despite the varsity team’s accomplishments in tournaments, their league games have not been as successful. With two losses, one coming from Canyon High School, 17-4, on Dec. 17, and the other loss coming against Esperanza High School, 11-6, on Jan. 7. The Wildcats are working to improve their Century League standing.With only two games left in the season, the girls look to continue exceeding the expectations set for them. “By the end of the season my hopes for the team are that we put in all the hard work we can to make our team better and help set up a solid foundation for next years’ upcoming varsity players,” Kylie Warther, senior, said.
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SPORTS
Jan. 21, 2014
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PINNING FOR THE PRIZE
Zach Arnold, sophomore, pins his opponent during a wrestling league tournament. This has been a “tough year” for wrestling, according to Brian Schlueter, assistant head wrestling coach and US history teacher. The higher degree of difficulty this season can be attributed to the team being “young,” with the majority of varsity players being sophomores; amongst them Arnold, Ryan Gutierrez, and Light Cho. However, this season has done nothing but “increase the communal feeling of fraternity amongst the boys,” Schlueter said. The boys have become that much more determined to prove their talent not only to their peers. But, to themselves as well. According to Feargus McTeggart, head varsity wrestling coach, the team can be expected to be “stronger than ever next year. They’re very strong as it is now, but with another year of competing and working together, they’ll be unstoppable.”
-Noelle Gracia, Content Manager
TRENT PRESTON / the wildcat
ADVERTISEMENT
GRAD NITE 2014 WHEN: JUNE 18, 2014
[the evening of graduation]
WHERE: BOHS Admission will be from 9:45-11 p.m. and will conclude at approximately 4 a.m. on June 19, 2013
$135 from JAN. 1 to APRIL 15 $150 from APRIL 16 to JUNE 18 *Tickets can be paid for by cash or check (payable to BOHS Grad Night) or paid online with PayPal at www. bohsgradnite.com
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MR. BREA 2013
The Wildcat
bohswildcat.com
Jan. 21, 2014
SURVIVING MR. BREA “SURVIVE OR SURRENDER”
Left, Jonathan Crampton, senior, is congratulated by fellow contestants Cameron Bishop and Daniel Dwyer, seniors, as the winner of this year’s Mr. Brea competition. Last year’s Mr. Brea winner, Jared Love (‘13), applauds. Crampton competed against 11 other seniors on Dec. 11 in the PAC. Below, Jonathan Gunther, history teacher, reads a poem during the talent portion of the competition. Gunther was also crowned Mr. Brea and Gil Rotblum, history teacher, was Photos by RACHEL LIN / the wildcat named runner-up.