Nov 2, 2012

Pg. 2

Editorial: Obama for president

Olympian weighs in on election

VOLUME 56, ISSUE 2

Trojans destroy Farmers

Pg. 6

Football team wins, 41-0

School board race heats up

Candidates vie for district seats

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2012 CASTRO VALLEY, CA 94546

“So Loud, So Free, Class of One-Three”

WWW.CVHSOLYMPIAN.COM

Ballot propositions could save schools from budget cuts

By Reema Kakaday Staff Writer

Alexa Ludke/ Staff writer

Seniors marched to victory during Homecoming. See photos on pages 4-5.

Prop. 34: death penalty on death row

By Leia Saelee Staff Writer

No matter how informed you are about this year’s election, one issue that should be on everybody’s mind is the controversial Proposition 34.

If Prop. 34 is passed, it would put an end to the death penalty in California, replacing it with life in prison without the possibility of parole.

“Some argue that the death penalty is too swift of a punishment and that life imprisonment could be a harsher punishment,” said junior Arian Akbar.

Only murder is punishable by death in California. While some argue that the proposition saves money and redirects it to law enforcement, others say these

criminals deserve to die.

“I believe that we should keep the death penalty because criminals will know that if they are convicted of a major crime, they won’t just get to live,” said junior Andrea Ortadiaz. “Their life is in jeopardy, making criminals more scared of committing a crime.”

Junior Sebastian Hood agreed, supporting public safety.

“There's a bad side to Prop. 34, but I still support it. The good thing is California will create a fund to be distributed to law enforcement agencies to help solve more homicide and rape cases, then we would have prisons filled with murderers, rapists, and other vigilantes with life in prison,” said Hood.

Junior Angun Bista, however, strongly opposes the death penalty.

“No matter what you do, you shouldn’t deserve death,” claimed Bista. “The death penalty is wrong and I’d rather live in prison than not have life.”

Opponents of Prop. 34 reason that it will cost taxpayers a needless $100 million over the next four years, and much more long term. Taxpayers pay at least $50,000 per prisoner annually, giving a lifetime of health care to criminals.

Those who support the proposition argue that Prop. 34 ensures that innocent people will receive life in prison without the possibility of parole instead of the death penalty, and criminals will work in order to pay court-order restitution to victims. This would save tax dollars and give $100 million to law enforcement to solve more rape and murder cases.

ions regarding who should win the election, and will be voting for different candidates.

“I’m voting for Obama,” Mill commented. “I like his policies and what he has to say, and I don’t trust the Republican Party.”

Senior Tiffani Truscott disagrees, supporting Romney.

“What has Obama done? He hasn’t done anything but increase the national debt, and I don’t trust what he will do. It’s time for someone new,” she commented.

Why are students so involved in the election? It may be because the issues at hand could affect their education.

Obama aims to abolish the No Child Left Behind law, which requires states to develop assessments testing basic skills in order to receive funding for schools. He supports a “Race to the Top” competition, where high achieving states can win extra funding for schools. For higher education, Obama wants to reduce college costs. He wants to increase Pell grants, which are government grants given to students under a certain income.

He plans to have the Department of Education create a website explaining college costs, make

Pg. 8

After thousands of pink slips, countless cut programs, and a state-wide budget slashed by a startling $18 billion, it isn’t hard to fathom that California’s dwindling educational system has been ranked 45th out of 50 states in spendings on public education per capita: a stifling statistic which renders our populous state’s educational budget among the lowest in the country.

So what happens now? How does California make up for the damage that has been done by this devastating economy?

Efforts to revitalize our educational system can be seen in Propositions 30 and 38. Even though both are determined to reboot California schools, they seem to have stirred up a bitter taste of political quarrel and discord.

Prop. 30, an initiative constitutional amendment supported

by Governor Jerry Brown, temporarily increases taxes on annual earnings over $250,000 for seven years, and increases sales and use tax by 0.25 of a cent for four years. This intends to raise revenue for K-12 schools, higher education and public safety.

Prop. 38, an initiative statute supported by billionaire Molly Munger, increases personal income tax on annual earnings over $7,316, and provides funding for K-12 based on the needs of the local school board. During the first four years, Prop. 38 sets aside 60 percent of the revenue to K-12 schools, 30 percent to repaying state debt, and 10 percent to

early childhood programs. After four years, it gives 85 percent of revenue to K-12 schools, and 15 percent to early childhood programs.

Prop. 30 and Prop. 38 are aimed at raising revenue to fund education, but differ in their ways of taxing and allocating the revenue made from that tax. So what do most people think? Here are the propositions some of the important voices from the Castro Valley community endorse.

“I fully support Prop. 30, and any proposition that increases the funding and quality of education. Prop. 30 is specific to funding education, but Prop. 38 is not as well written and does not guarantee that the revenue will go directly to education. Prop.

30 comes from the governor himself, which makes it more trustworthy. Prop. 38, however, comes from the very rich Molly Munger, which just makes me a bit skeptical, especially considering her brother is the one behind Prop. 32, a prop against unions,” said Ian Rodriquez, teacher and Castro Valley Teachers Association treasurer.

“Both Prop. 30 and 38 benefit education with funding through income taxes, but 30 includes state tax as well. The part I like about 30 is that it includes funding for public colleges, whereas 38 does not fund college, but funds early childhood programs.

It’s hard to pick sides, because both are beneficial to California schools. Even if a person is voting and isn’t part of the educational system, it’s still important

PROPS: Page 8

With election nearing, students weigh in on candidates

By Anya Keller

Business Manager The 2012 election is in full swing, and some lucky CVHS students will be able to vote this November in an increasingly close race between President Barack Obama, a Democrat, and Gov. Mitt Romney, a Republican.

Some students are very excited to vote and have the opportunity to voice their opinions. One such young voter is senior Olivia Mill, who commented, “I am voting because I think it’s important.

I want an opportunity to have a say.”

Students have different opin-

ELECTION: Page 8

Leia Saelee / Staff writer

Kate Pellegrini / Editor-in-Chief

The Reckless Drivers of Castro Valley

By Olivia Berden

Kate Pellegrini / Editor-In-Chief

Olympian supports Pres.Obama

Editorial: With the Presidential election coming to a close, there is a rush of excitement over who will be the next president in United States history. Will President Obama continue to stay in office, or will America see a new change with Governor Mitt Romney in the White House?

We, the staff of The Olympian, support President Obama for a second term.

The vast majority of us trust President Obama’s remarks over Romney’s in general.

In the past three debates, we watched Obama and Romney get heated by various issues, yet Romney managed to mess up statistics more often than Obama would.

When both of their comments were researched for validity online, a large majority of

Romney’s comments concerning factual information were incorrect.

That’s not to say that all of President Obama’s remarks were completely accurate, but overall, he was more honest than Romney.

In addition, we fear what Romney would do as President.

Obama’s social views include being pro-choice when it comes to abortion, against deportation of young immigrants who are the children of undocumented immigrants, and, as of recently, supporting gay marriage.

After changing his stance several times in his career, Romney is, for the course of the election, pro-life, along with his vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan.

In the recent past, Republicans have proven to be harsh and intolerant on important

issues, like abortion and health care.

In addition, we are nervous about Romney’s foreign policies and behavior towards other countries.

Many of us believe that Obama is doing a fine job keeping peace – or at least, a possible war at bay – between countries, particularly the Middle East.

However, we think that Romney’s brash behavior could lead us into trouble with other countries in the long run, including Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.

We believe in a step towards the right direction, and we hope that the country continues to advance rather than regress.

The man we believe can take us forward is Obama, and that is why The Olympian endorses him for another term.

PHOTOpinions pinions PHOTO

Staff Writer Have you ever seen an accident or witnessed a fender bender? What about seeing someone being dangerously cut off at a light? I’ve definitely seen my fair share, and I am appalled by the driving habits of people in Castro Valley.

Every day, I see underaged, even un-licensed teenagers illegally driving themselves and others.

These drivers run red lights, blow through stop signs, speed, drive on the wrong side of the road, refuse to yield to the driver with the right of way... and I’m just getting started.

The parents are no better than the students. I’ve seen practicing students with parents in the passenger seat run stop signs, cut people off, and drive recklessly.

The parents show no reaction, which seems to imply that they weren’t aware that anything wrong had happened.

This is mainly because their parents drive the exact same way, keeping the cycle going.

In the parking lots of the high school, there is a lot of road rage. Students use horns unnecessarily, give profane hand gestures, burn rubber, pur-

posely tailgate behind friends’ cars, and shout at other drivers.

Granted, some of this may just be fun and games, but what’s the joy of accidently hitting your friend’s car when you were just trying to fool around?

It’s not just students who are causing the issue. One day I was waiting to get picked up when I witnessed a teacher back out of his parking spot.

While backing out, he swung too wide and side-swept the car next to him, leaving a huge scratch. This teacher didn’t even notice and drove off.

The best example I can think of is by the stadium on Redwood Road. The parking lot is only big enough for two lanes going opposite directions, but parents continuously park in one of the lanes.

Parents do this so they don’t have to park to wait for their lagging child, but this also creates a huge blockage.

As I have been observing other drivers for a while now, I believe that this problem is growing worse every day.

Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone slowed down a little, paid better attention, and drove according to the laws?

We need at least one policeman patrolling the area at the time of release. I’ve seen the impact of an empty police vehicle, so what would be the impact of a patrolling one?

We need to change the way people drive around the high school and a police car would definitely help calm down the crazy driving.

By: Alexa Ludke

Which presidential candidate are you supporting and why? “ I’m supporting

Obama, because I believe in the things he stands for and I support the goals he has set for the country.”

-Ryan DeCarsky, freshman

“I don’t really support either side. On some issues I agree with both, and on other topics I can’t agree with either.”

-Ashna Deo, junior

“I support President Obama because he’s trying to help improve our economy and he has better relations with the people he’s trying to help.”

-Olivia Wallace, sophomore

“I support President Obama. Though I think Romney has a better plan for our economy, I value Obama’s social skills, common sense, and connections to the American people more.”

-David Lim, senior

The Olympian is a publication of the journalism class at Castro Valley High School, 19400 Santa Maria Ave., Castro Valley, CA 94546. © 2012 Editors-in-Chief....................................................Melody Moteabbed Kate Pellegrini Copy Editors..................................................................Reyna Garcia Joyce Liang News Editor..............................................................Michael Castillo Opinion Editor.................................................................Lily Carrell Feature Editor.................................................................Amber Yang Sports Editor.............................................................Emily Courchaine Arts and Entertainment Editor........................................Suzanna Chak Photo Editors..........................................................Cheyenne Donatello Natalie Fazeli Business Managers......................................................Matt Talajkowski Anya Keller Online Editor........................................................................Eva Chen

Staff Writers: Joelle Bassett, Olivia Berden, Cameron Beresini, Kelly Chan, Indigo Flowers, Stephanie Huerta, Kristen Jensen, Reema Kakaday, Savanah Khan, Evan Kwong, Alexa Ludke, Felicianna Marquez, Hans Mortimer, Lorena Ramos, Amanat Riar, Leia Saelee, Anna Talajkowski, Marissa Wu, Advisor........................................................................Matt Johanson

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Olympian

The November 2, 2012

Liberal ideas most attractive to young people

Voters responsible for our future

By Stephanie Huerta

By Cameron Beresini Staff Writer

Once we turn 18 years old, we gain the right to vote. And while I am too young to vote myself, I have noticed a strong trend of students leaning towards the left.

The ideas of liberals seem to be aimed towards younger people, as seen in their stances on issues like education, and the legality of same-sex marriage.

Many students these positions when they go onto different social media sites such as Facebook and Tumblr, and see pictures or documents supporting liberal ideas.

I know from personal experience that many of my friends support these sites and use them for entertainment or school purposes.

But when ideas evolve into persuading people to choose a side in modern day politics, students are the most vulnerable.

I am saying this from experience. I have seen many things relating to liberal ideas, and have been quickly herded closer to that side, due to ideas relating to education from seeing a mere picture of someone holding a sign explaining teachers’ rights.

The thought that people can be persuaded so easily to join one side or the other intrigues me. Will our children be just as liberal?

Aside from the almost invisible Fox News supporting advertisements on Facebook and YouTube, I do not have much access to different forms of conservative propaganda.

I do not watch Fox News, due to all of the bad things I have seen on Tumblr about it, and have never heard a word spoken from Rush Limbaugh’s mouth.

Because of all of the bad things I’ve heard from friends or seen on the Internet about the different forms of conservative propaganda, I feel that it is much less likely for someone at the ripe age of 16, living in the Bay Area to have those sort of ideas.

Students are being quickly pulled in with hopes of higher pay for teachers, or pro-choice ideas relating abortion, without batting an eye at the other side of the political line.

We need to examine things critically, and avoid having our own ideas replaced by the onslaught of ideas thrown upon us.

I am not saying it is bad to take a side but I feel that the propaganda targeting students may soon be getting out of hand.

3

Staff Writer Did you know that the ballot is used to vote for the president also includes voting on propositions? Have you heard of Prop.

34, whose goal is to end the death penalty, or Prop. 30 whose goal is to increase taxes?

In the United States, all citizens 18 and older have an opportunity to vote. It is a privilege to live in a republic country that prides itself in its democratic government.

I was amazed when learning in my history classes that not all countries get to vote on issues as we Americans do. It made me wonder, by allowing anyone who is a citizen to vote, are we hurting our government

or helping it?

When my sister came home from school and talked about her government class, she brought up a point that I had never even thought about: many people are voting, yet they aren’t exactly making educated votes because they lack the facts they truly need to make an educated vote.

Elections are coming up soon, and this is something all citizens should worry about. Many people vote for one candidate because they only know about that one candidate.

Many voters also make their decisions based on things they’ve heard about the candidate, yet don’t even bother to see if what they have heard is true or not.

If we have people voting without first researching about the candidate, the person they’re voting for might not be the right person for the job. The people who haven’t learned enough about the candidate are voting for shaping the future of our country.

Unfortunately, biases are ultimately making the final decisions for votes throughout the

country. Do we really want people to vote based on color of skin or where that candidate is from? Do we want these citizens to shape our country’s future based on their biases?

Of course there are voters who educate themselves on their candidate’s stands on certain issues before voting, but the fact of the matter is that there aren’t that many.

As a student, this worries me.

Irresponsible voters have my future in their hands. Since I can’t vote yet, they represent me.

I don’t want people who are unfairly biased shaping my future. Adults may complain about the results of the election, but they at least had an opportunity to vote. We students are forced to accept whoever is elected by both the responsible and irresponsible voters.

It isn’t easy to come up with a way to stop the irresponsible voters from making their decisions based on their biases. In this country, all citizens have a right to vote and it would definitely not be okay to take that away from any citizen. Yet is it fair to make the ones who can’t

vote go along with the candidate that was elected by everyone else?

That brings up an even bigger question: should students be allowed to vote?

Students are a significant portion of the country and, in my opinion, should also have a say.

Of course, the students must also make educated votes and not just add to the group of irresponsible voters the country already has.

Maybe what we need is to have a voter give a legitimate reason for why they are voting for the candidate they have chosen. That way we could see who has really thought about what is best for the country and themselves and not simply voting because of biases they have.

Any improvements that can possibly be made to prevent the uneducated votes likely will not happen for a long time.

As for now, we must trust our fellow citizens with our futures and hope that they make educated decisions that benefit everybody in the long run -- not just the ones who are able to vote.

Woman for president? Has the world gone sane?

By Anna Talajkowski Staff Writer

One of the most famous quotes in American history is from the Declaration of Independence, in which Thomas Jefferson wrote, “All men are created equal.” But there's still one unanswered question: what about the women?

With the presidential election fast approaching, there is one topic that

needs to be discussed: when is the United States going to elect a female president?

The United States is considered one of the most advanced and tolerant countries in the world. Isn't it time that we finally elect someone who’s not male? I think so.

For centuries women have been -- and still are -- fighting to be seen as equals to men. Some say that the war has already been won, but I adamantly disagree.

Women are constantly falling behind men in numerous sectors.

Perhaps the most prevalent gap is in the area of government positions.

Even though women make up over half of America's population, only 90 of 535 seats in Congress are held by women: a meager 17%. And no woman has ever held the position of vice president or president of the United States.

Some people say a woman in office is a drastic change, but I can't see why. More than 30 countries in the world have managed to do it, and I am very certain that we can.

As a strong believer in equality, I firmly believe in the idea of a female president. It angers me when I see intelligent, qualified female candidates passed over for their less accomplished male counterparts, for the mere reason that they are women.

It angers me that as much as eleven percent of registered voters say they wouldn't vote for a female candidate no matter their qualifications.

The fact that millions of people wouldn't vote for a woman just because of her gender is, to me, appalling. Not only is it blatantly sexist, but also intolerant and unjust. It makes me ashamed to live

in a country where people still see women as inferior to men.

So why is America's mindset so set against women leaders? Maybe it's how we see a woman's role in society. When all of us imagine a typical American family, most of us see the woman working in the kitchen, not the office.

Some say our ways come from how we were raised. Even as babies, girls are often treated differently than boys.

This suggests that maybe our generation has already been tainted.

But I think not. In fact, I think it is us who will change things.

Maybe our parents’ generation wasn't open-minded enough to elect a female leader, but I think ours is.

We are living in a time of change, and I believe that our generation can stand up and help pave the path for a more tolerant future.

suicide,” or “31 reasons to vote no Obama.”

It really bothers me that a place where people are all about “tolerance” and “respect” and “equality” can’t even show common courtesy to the opposing side.

A major problem concerning politics (not the Republicans only or Democrats only) is that people just flat out hate each other’s guts.

Difference in opinion leads to mental blocks and the devout belief that only their opinion is right. They fail to see a different perspective and think the other side is stupid or incompetent and cannot run the country.

Which, in my belief, neither of them should.

People are blind when it comes to politics. Many people vote for a party just because their parents stand behind it. Others have

formed opinions of their own, usually after being influenced by society. Either way, they create barriers between themselves and others.

But your opinion doesn’t have to be the only way. I suggest peaceful co-existence: by letting down barriers, we can meet some pretty cool people. We can be more successful when we work together and compromise and cooperate.

As my friend’s grandmother put it, “There are two things you should never discuss with friends or acquaintances. Those are politics and religion.”

She’s right. Whether you’re friends or just classmates, politics shouldn’t get in the way of a good friendship.

The key to politics is that you must agree to disagree. The way we think may not always be right, but we are free to believe

it just the same. If you disagree, you don’t have to say anything but if you do, say it calmly and with dignity and respect. Don’t get all fired up.

I asked three of my friends, if they could vote, who would they pick and why? Most said Democrat. Though I disagreed, I didn’t let it get in the way of our continuing to be friends.

In fact, it doesn’t even matter. I couldn’t imagine not being friends with them because politics or any other belief got in the way.

It all really comes down to practicing what we preach.

You want tolerance? Give it.

You want your opinion to be respected? Respect others. If we don’t we just make the world an even more miserable place.

This is why I hate politics so much. They can really bring out the worst in people.

Politics brings out the worst in people

By Marissa Wu Staff Writer

So the presidential election is coming up. Same old, same old.

Republicans versus Democrats, and a whole lot of hate, lies, slander, and intolerance. Not just between the two politicians themselves, but between even teenagers.

I’ve seen things on Facebook totally cutting down the candidates - things like “A vote for R&R is a vote for national

Trojans Destroy Farmers in Homecoming Game Girls Golf Putt Best Foot Forward

By Emily Courchaine Sports Editor

The Trojans destroyed the Hayward Farmers at the football game on Friday, Oct 21, scoring touchdown after touchdown with a stunning end score of 410. Students, alumni, and Castro Valley fans filled the stands to cheer on the home team in this exciting game.

“When our guys play well, we can really disrupt the other team,” said head coach Nic McMaster. “It was nice to see everything come together. The score was just an indicator of our effort and execution.”

Senior Patrick Cheek scored the first touchdown of the game during the last three minutes of the first quarter, giving the Trojans a 6-0 lead on a 25-yard run.

“We definitely wanted to come out with a good start and put them away early with our solid defense,” said junior Demareyeh Lane.

During the second quarter, Cheek brought the score up to 13-0 with a 20-yard scoring run. Nick Alfaro followed with a 71-yard touchdown run and Luke Huerta ended the first half on a good note by scoring on a 1-yard sneak 21 seconds before the halftime.

By the end of the first half, the Trojans had already established a 27-0 lead over the Farmers, who had yet to score a single touchdown. The CVHS cheer and pom squads kicked off the halftime festivities with an incredible dance routine that wowed the packed stadium.

By Savanah Khan Staff Writer

Matt Talajkowski / Bussiness Manager

Castro Valley Trojans face off with the Hayward Farmers in the homecoming game.

After they concluded their performance, the homecoming court winners were then brought onto the field with their escorts.

Following their introduction, the CVHS band was brought onto the field to play as the firework show dazzled fans of all ages, ending the halftime performance with a bang.

The third quarter began with a kick from Kevin Galvan, and Lane was able to recover a fumble to score the first touchdown of the second half, bringing the score to 33-0.

Hayward fought hard but was unable to make any kind of comeback.

“We needed

this win for a shot at league title Demareyeh Lane Junior

”

After a couple of successful kicks and a touchdown by Felipe Martinez, the game ended with an overwhelming victory for the

Cross country runs away with first

By Indigo Flowers Staff Writer

More than 15 schools around the Bay Area gathered together to compete at Canyon Middle School in the 20th Annual Castro Valley Cross Country Invitational on Oct. 13.

Sophomore Carter Mackey rose above the stiff competition, placing fourth overall for the boys varsity team with a personal record of 16:45.

“I’m proud that I did well. It was my first time running this course in a real race so now I’m just ready to keep up my hard work and improve my race time,” said Mackey after his race.

On the girls varsity side, senior Gabby Von Euw, took 27th place with a personal record of 22:15.

Trailing not too far behind Von Euw was senior Alyssa Granados, taking 31st with 26:03.

“I love running for CVHS, it keeps me in shape, keeps me motivated, I feel great after I run and best of all I get to run with my friends,” said Granados, who has been running with the cross country team for two years now.

Castro Valley’s varsity teams were not the only ones to come out with both guns blazing. The

Trojans to conclude an exciting week of homecoming activities.

But it wasn’t the homecoming crowd that made this game so important for the team.

“We knew we needed we this win for a shot at the league title,” said Lane.

While the crowds might have been impressed by their multiple touchdowns, their victory was largely due to their strong defense.

“There were a lot of defensive plays that may not have seemed very significant but were the difference in the game,” said McMaster. “We held Hayward's offense to less than 30 total yards while scoring on defense and forcing multiple turnovers. I will not mention only one player when a group of guys played awesome.”

“All our hard work in practice really paid off,” said senior Joey Tognolini.

The girls golf team traveled to The Alameda South Golf Course for the Western Alameda County Conference Tournament on Monday Oct. 15.

The Trojans finished second in the new league to Alameda.

They were granted an automatic spot in the NCS Championships while the Trojans also qualified for the NCS Championships with a strong performance at the NCS playoffs at Deer Ridge Golf Course in Brentwood.

All of the girls on this team made some amazing achievements. At the WACC championships, Tiffany Kwan scored a 91 on this course and qualified for the first team all league. Also, Suhani Abdullah shot a 94 and also qualified for first team all league.

But those aren’t the only girls to did well at the tournament.

Miranda Mild, Emiko Yamamoto and Alyah Thomas all qualified for the second team all league.

Mild scored a 97, Yamamoto scored a 98 and Thomas scored a 101.

Another player that has made incredible improvement is Natasja Wright, who ended the tournament with a score of 119.

“She just has made tremendous improvement,” says her proud coach Darrell Lavin. Wright has made her team proud and is still making improvements.

At the NCS playoffs, the Trojans placed 11th and had some amazing scores, with Yamamoto with a 92 and Kwan with a 94.

The other score was Abdullah with a 105, Nild with a 107, Thomas with a 122 and Wright with a 130.

Putt on girls!

Giving Back to Fans Banquet The CVHS baseball program is preparing for its season and in doing so is holding its third annual banquet, "Giving Back to the Fans."

The banquet will be on Dec. 1 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the CVHS cafeteria.

Tickets are $40 and include dinner, catered by Armadillo Willy's.

There will be a special guest speaker, door prizes, a

Indigo Flowers / Staff Writer

Senior Michelle LaPonte takes the lead followed closely by senior Alyssa Granados. frosh/soph team made a huge dent in the competition when the girls won first place.

“I have been coaching most of these young ladies since they were in fifth grade and to now see them in high school doing so well it makes me proud to

say I am their coach,” exclaimed Coach Raul Perez, who was overcome with joy when it was announced that Castro Valley won first place.

On Nov. 3, the Trojans will compete at Hayward High in the WACC Finals.

raffle and silent auction with items such as Raiders, Warriors and A's tickets, football and baseball memorabilia, hotel stays and more.

All proceeds will go to the CVHS baseball program to fund much needed playing field improvements.

Contact Coach Mario Iglesias or CVHS Baseball Committee at cvhsbaseball@yahoo.com for tickets or more information.

Swift’s “Ronan” Sweet and Sentimental when I kissed your face, I whispered in your ear, come on baby with me, we’re gonna fly away from here, you were my best four years,” were all taken from Thompson’s blog. Thompson

By Feliciana Marquez Staff Writer

Taylor Swift has always been one of my favorite artists ever since her first hit single, “Our Song.” Throughout her career, Swift has written countless songs about heartbreaks from her song “Back to December” to “Teardrops on My Guitar,” but her new single “Ronan” is about a little boy with a heartbreaking story.

Swift performed “Ronan” on Sept. 7 at the Stand Up Against Cancer 2012 Telethon as a tribute to Ronan Thompson.

Ronan Thompson passed away three days before his fourth birthday on May 9 due to neuroblastoma, a fatal child cancer.

Swift, like many others, was touched by Ronan’s inspirational story that was originally blogged about by his mother Maya Thompson. Maya Thompson started her blog “Rockstar Ronan” when Ronan was first diagnosed. Her initial

purpose was to keep families and friends updated, but soon the blog got thousands of followers, Swift among them.

When Swift called Thompson in November 2011 to give her condolences, both women shared tears and had a long talk on the matter. Then, just a week before the telethon, Swift called Thompson to let her know that she had written about Ronan and wanted to give Thompson credit, due to the fact that the song was written about her son and blog.

The lyrics in the song, “Flowers pile up in the worst way, no one knows what to say, about a beautiful boy who died, and it’s about to be Halloween, you could be anything you wanted, if you were still here, I remember the last day,

“ The song

had a huge impact on the crowd. ”

couldn’t believe how well Swift accounted the small details from her blog into a beautiful, breathtaking song.

The song had a huge impact on the crowd, particularly when Swift sang along with a picture of Ronan in the background. Anyone hearing “Ronan” can feel the family’s pain. I recommend anyone, Taylor Swift fan or not, to listen to this wonderful record.

Odd Life of Timothy Green “great for the whole family”

By Joelle Bassett

Staff Writer The Odd Life of Timothy Green is a fantastic book-turned movie.

My favorite part of this film was when Timothy found a friend in a girl who was similar to him.

This was a very sentimental part of the movie because it showed that you’re never alone, and if you look hard enough, you can find a friend in someone.

The movie is about a couple that wants a child but is unable to have one. This is where Timothy Green comes in.

It is a funny and entertaining film, but it also leaves the audience with a positive and sentimental message about love, family, achieving your dreams, and never giving up.

I would say that this is a good movie to watch when you go out with the whole family to see something you’d all enjoy.

I would rate this movie four and a half out of five stars because it had a good message, good acting, and it’s great for the whole family.

I encourage families to definitely check out The Odd Life of Timothy Green in theaters, or to either wait for the DVD release.

You won’t be sorry.

Battle Born Kills Expectations

By Amanat Riar Staff Writer

You may have heard of “Runaways,” the newest single from The Killers, but that’s only a snippet from their most recent album, Battle Born.

Their newest album has the same sound as one of their previous albums, with an American rock flare to it. As it is their fourth album, fans expected meaningful lyrics, pounding drums, and a track list they wouldn’t get tired of listening to. The Killers delivered in all of these categories, leaving their listeners extremely pleased.

Lead singer Brandon Flowers sings, “What are you made of?” letting his admirers interpret the lyrics while listening to the catchy beat of the drums.

The Killers threw in a track, “Miss Atomic Bomb,” which is a historic reference to their past

studio albums. It was inspired

by Sir Elton John after his advice to name the titles before writing the lyrics of a song. Not only do they have electronic, upbeat songs such as “The Rising Tide” and “A Matter of Time,” but they also deliver with smooth, catchy songs like, “Here With Me” and “Be Still.”

When I first heard that The Killers were coming out with their fourth album, I was a bit apprehensive about whether or not they would be able to convey an album that attracted all types of listeners. But I can now say that with their variety of tracks, there is a song that everyone can enjoy or relate to.

Candidates vie for seats in school board race

By Kristen Jensen

Staff Writer The race for a position on the CVUSD school board is well underway. With five candidates running and only three seats available, the race for November votes is tight. Three candidates are incumbents and two are new candidates to the political race.

Kunio Okui is a long time member of the school board and currently serves as president of the Board of Education. He has a bachelors degree in business and a masters in governance and boardsmanship. His former occupation before becoming a board member was an accountant and a financial planner.

“I believe in the future of our children and their pursuit of academic excellence,” he has stated. Okui has overseen many district projects such as the Trojan Stadium renovation and the construction of the Center for the Arts.

Jo Loss is an incumbent currently holding the position of vice-president and clerk. She has earned a masters in boardsmanship and governance by the California School Boards Association and has held many positions in the California State PTA, including president and vice-president. Loss has also

By Leia Saelee Staff Writer

Kate Pellegrini / Editor-in-Chief

Running for school board are (from left) Mary Pippitt, Kunio Okui, John Barbieri, Jo Loss and Charmaine Banther. been appointed to California's P-16 Council (preschool up to college) and has held offices in the Alameda County School Boards Association. She takes pride in a very strong record of public work as a "champion for public education in Castro Valley and statewide."

John Barbieri is currently running for reelection and is officially endorsed by the Castro Valley Teachers Association (CVTA). He has presided as a board member and personal commissioner for many years.

He has taught math, management, and economics at local Chabot College and holds a lifetime teaching credential and

a masters in governance.

Barbieri aims to "work collaboratively with parents, teachers and staff " to maintain Castro Valley's standard of education and student achievement.

Charmaine Banther is currently running for election to the school board and is officially endorsed by the CVTA. She has been a public school teacher for 25 years and is currently a math teacher. She is an advocate of smaller class sizes and the support and building up of "core" academic programs (math, science, technology, etc.). Banther believes in bettering the working conditions and learning environment of the staff and students.

She "will strive to look outside the box" for solutions and "work together with teachers, parents, principals, and administrators."

Mary Pippitt is currently running for election to the school board and is also endorsed by the CVTA. She has been an educator (including teacher and administrator) for over 30 years and promises to bring to the school board extensive experience and perspectives.

Her main priorities are to retain "superior" staff, preserving integral educational programs, and creating and maintaining trust and common goals.

"It's time an experienced educator sits on the board," she said.

finance laws, while a no vote opposes the changes and keeps current campaign finance laws as they are.

“The measure bans all corporate giving directly to candidates, preventing millions of dollars from exchanging hands between lobbyists and legislators to sway votes. And it closes a loophole that allows millions in corporate giving to political committees and parties that in-turn take that money and give it to politicians,” claimed the web site yesprop32. com.

The main argument in favor of the proposition is that it reduces the political grip of unions and corporations by limiting their financial support of politicians.

This will supposedly make politicians focus on the priorities of

the general population.

But not everybody supports this controversial proposition.

“Prop. 32 is a misleading initiative that will silence the voice of middle-class union members, while doing nothing to slow down corporate spending on elections,” said Castro Valley Teachers’ Association President John Green.

The “No on 32 Stop the Special Exemptions Act” campaign is supported by the California Teachers Association, California Nurses Association, and California Labor Federation, among other labor organizations and groups. No on Prop. 32 has raised $45,600,000 to campaign against the proposition, according to Ballotpedia.

The main argument against

the proposition is that automatic payroll deductions are the main source of funds for unions while corporations use other means to pool money for political campaigning. This will limit the ability of unions to support politicians with favorable policies, but it will not limit corporations from gathering funds to support politicians.

Similar ballot measures restricting payroll deductions for unions have been voted down in the past. These measures were Prop. 75 in 2005 and Prop. 226 in 1998.

“If Prop. 32. passes, it will be much more difficult for candidates and laws to support education because there is no monetary profit in education,” said teacher Carmelina Frasca.

Prop. 32 is misleading, teachers proclaim

By Hans Mortimer Staff Writer

During election day on Nov. 6, California voters will vote yes or no on Proposition 32, a measure placed on the ballot in an attempt to reduce the clout of unions and corporations in politics.

This proposition prevents unions and corporations from collecting money through automatic payroll deductions of their members for political candidates and their campaigns. It prevents unions and corporations from contributing money directly and indirectly to those groups. Prop.

32 also prevents contractors from donating to the politicians who decide their contracts.

A yes vote supports the changes listed above to campaign

PROPS: from Page 1

to vote because this affects their children, grandchildren, and the future of this country,” stated Suzanne Barba, a long-time member of the Eden Area League of Women Voters.

Although both are trying to support the same cause, it seems that the areas where funds would be allotted and the creators behind the propositions are the two main deciding factors of filling out that future-altering ballot.

“It’s an important time to be involved in the political process, to participate fully, to be informed, and to be active to ensure that all our voices are heard,” said Principal Mary Ann Valles.

Prop. 36 calls for Three Strikes reform this election

ELECTION: from Page 1

financial aid awards more understandable, cut interest rates on loans.

Romney, conversely, supports the No Child Left Behind Law, and claims that Obama’s “Race to the Top” plan would introduce too much government involvement. He wants more funding for charter schools, for-profit colleges, and school vouchers.

Although there is much at stake for students in this upcoming election, some who are able to vote still abstain.

“Voting between the two candidates is like choosing between Mario and Luigi. In the end, neither will save the princess,” said senior Cole Stanford.

Show student ID to get free cheese on your sandwiches!

Proposition 36 on the Nov. 6 ballot aims to provide more reasonable punishment to nonviolent criminals and keep serious criminals in prison by making changes to the “Three Strikes Law” in California.

Under Three Strikes, a person committing three or more felonies can receive life in prison even if the third crime is not violent.

“The Three Strikes Law should be reformed because the punishment is disproportionate to the crime committed and keeping non-violent criminals in prison for the rest of their lives costs way too much,” said teacher Mark Mladinich.

Three Strikes, passed in the 1990s, was meant to promote public safety and keep dangerous criminals off the streets.

Not only does it apply rapists, murderers, armed robbers, etc., but it also applies to those who have committed non-serious crimes like being caught with drugs or petty theft.

Prop. 36 would save California millions that could be used towards building better educations by allowing offenders, currently sentenced to life imprisonment, to petition the court for a new and reduced sentence.

“If you’re non-violent, then you don’t really deserve a lifetime in prison. It’s unfair and they should change it,” said junior Stephanie Avalos.

Senior Billy Moeller agreed, and said Three Strikes needs to be changed. “Prop. 36 is good because it makes major crimes more punishable than minor crimes. It only seems fair that way,” he said.

Sophomore Jessica Xie opposed changes to the law, reasoning that Three Strikes was made to protect.

“Why keep releasing a villain back out on the streets after repeating the same crime multiple times?” she wondered. “It should be applied to all criminals, because one day my future child could be affected by one of those drug dealers or thieves.

Think about the children.”

Prop 36 ensures that repeat, non-violent offenders would receive double the usual sentence instead of a life sentence.

If offenders have committed any past violent crimes, no matter how small the third conviction is, the initiative prevents them from receiving any benefit from the change in the law.