Desert Illustrated January 2020 Issue

Roaring Twenties A reflection and a blast from the past

The Nail Tech Who Keeps You in Check The insider scoop of @nailsbyjan__

New Years Resolutions Whats the deal with them and how can you achieve them?

DESERT ILLUSTRATED January 2020 Edition

Table of 1-2 : The Roaring Twenties: A Century Later 3-4: It’s Definitely the New Year, but Not Necessarily the New You 5-6: Eighteen and a successful queen 7-8: Worst National Days of the Year 9: An Athlete's Step Up 10: Can You Take the Heat 11: Tattoos: More Than Just Art

Contents 12: Family Follows 13-14: How To: Pursue a Real New Years Resolution 15-16: Living in the Past 17: The Downfall of Disney 18: Giving Up In School 19: It's Time to Make a Living

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A century later...

Written by Melissa Parsons

Through the sweet sounds of saxophones and sco-ba-debopping scat, the Jazz Age employed new musical

A time that defied Prohibition, introduced the infamous “bob” hairstyle, and indulged on a new concept of morality, a time in American history known as The Roaring Twenties. This decade had its ups (the ratification of the 19th Amendment)

techniques and styles of dancing. Jazz can be seen as the lovechild of lovesick blues and the syncopated rhythm of ragtime. The trumpet and the piano were prominent instruments in most jazz songs, as they delivered the ‘itfactor’ of the genre. Funky jams emerged from this era such as Fats Waller’s, “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and Louis Armstrong’s “West End Blues”. To dance along to these good ol’ tunes,

and its downs (the stock market crash).

were the

Nonetheless, here we are a century later, in a completely contradicting place. So, what made The Roaring Twenties utterly roaring?

Prohibition (the cease to manufacturing, transporting, and selling of alcohol) was ratified as the 18th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution in 1919. After the ratification, it was only up from there, as the prohibition served as a precursor to a decade of inherently breaking the law.

Prohibition was difficult to enforce because people always find a way to get

“The parties were bigger...the pace was faster...and the morals were looser.”

- novelist, F. Scott Fitzgerald

promiscuously, young generation of women who flaunted their disdain for moral standards, otherwise known as flappers.

Flappers tended to make their annual

appearance in the present day on the night of Halloween.

There’s always that one girl. The girl wearing the seducingly, sleeveless mesh dress embroidered in gold sequins with the

what they want someway or another.

low v-shaped neckline that accentuates her collar bones. The

Although the use of alcohol was

girl with the clean-cut blonde bobbed hair. The girl with the

subsequently illegal, it only increased

fancy white pearls draping from her neck. This girl is the

bootleggin’ bootleggers and jazz-playing

prime representation of ‘the new woman’ of the twenties.

speakeasies.

Arguably, the most vivacious flapper of them all was Betty Boop (a cartoon parody of singer, Helen Kane).

However, good fortune has its consequences.

In the spring of 1929, consumer spending began to decline. By October 24,1929, widely referred to as “Black Thursday”, people started to notice the trouble that was on its way. On October 29th 1929, the US stock market crashed, bringing a decade of poverty, malnutrition, and suffrage to all.

If Jay Gatsby were to live in our century of celebrities dying young and neverending impeachment hoaxes, he’d ask, “Where’s the party at?” The Roaring Twenties shaped our society more than we would have imagined.

Today, women actively exercise their right to vote, freeways are loaded with endless cars, and mellow jazz music plays in the background Acceptable vulgarity is one way to put the morals of the average person in the twenties. When people think of the time experimentation and wild weekends, they think of the 60’s or 70’s; however, it was originally the 1920’s where people lived with great exuberance and free-will. Liberalism can be credited in the 1920’s as people unlocked a sense of personal freedom and redefined social constructs. This new concept of morality in the twenties was a direct result of many social changes such as the ratification of the 19th Amendment (giving women the right to vote), the mass production of automobiles (Henry Ford’s Model T dominating most of the sales), and the adoption of psychoanalyst, Sigmund Freud’s “dual drive”.

The twenties started with a roar and ended with a crash. It is quite hard to stress just how booming the economy was in the 1920’s. Mass production enabled mass car ownership, as 60% of American families owned an automobile by the end of the decade. Technology was constantly improving, providing consumers the opportunity to purchase items to make their lives easier. Radios, refrigerators, and washing machines were among the new consumer items being rapidly purchased. People also threw their money (borrowed or not) at the US stock market; what a huge mistake. Soon enough, people noticed the pattern that investing in stocks brings good fortune.

of bars whose menus go beyond soft drinks.

The 1920’s was a decade of carefree mindsets and cheap liquor. Flappers filled speakeasies as people sipped on their crime. The roar of the twenties was so obnoxiously vibrant, you could hear it from a century away.

NEW YEAR,

A BETTER YOU? ARIANNA LEUER

IT'S DEFINITELY THE NEW YEAR, BUT NOT NECESSARILY THE NEW YOU.

You know it’s not going to be any different of

My advice to you, don’t wait until the new year

a year when almost everyone is walking around

to get your stuff together. Set goals all throughout

saying “new year, new me”. The phrase is so cliche,

the year. Make it so you know you can achieve it.

so overused. I don't even think I’ve ever witnessed

Get your priorities straight, see what could be

someone who set a new years resolution, kept it

improved, and do it. It isn’t the new year that

through the whole year, and actually achieved their

brings motivation to be a better you. If you really

goal before the next one rolls around.

want something, you are going to have to work for

Sure, this time of year can be for fresh starts and clean slates, but why do we wait until January

it any day of the year.

Don’t say this year is going to be it. First

rolls around to make it happen? I don’t see the

make this your day, then your week, then your

point in making a list of objectives, only to feel

month. When you start off with attainable goals

productive for a couple of weeks and completely

you’ll see progress sooner and it will motivate you

forgetting about it. Then what, repeat the cycle

to keep going. The feeling of progression and

again next year? You know what happens next?

success will always be a stronger motivator than

Nothing, because yet again you set unachievable

aspiring to be too much in too short of time.

goals and gave up too quick, too soon.

People always say this is their year; this is

Is there something you wish was different about you or your lifestyle? Good. Everyone has

when they are going to get it together. The goal is

something they can work towards to change for

always to better themselves in all these ways so

the better. There is always something that needs

they can be happier. News flash, happiness

improvement. Being perfect is not an attainable

doesn’t start with completely changing who you

objective. There is no real idea of what perfection

are.

is because everyone’s idea of perfect is different.

Accept who you are and learn to love the way

When you feel that you have done everything

you are, then work to be a better version of

possible to pursue your goals and you reach a

yourself; not because that’s how you want people

level of self-fulfillment then simply just enjoy it.

to view you, but because the modifications you want to make also make you genuinely happier.

Some argue whether or not people change. I think something changes us. We’re human. We grow, we evolve and, hopefully, with a little effort we improve into someone we are proud to be.

Eighteen and a Successful Queen By: Abbey Steinman

Nails. Nails. Nails. The set accessory

@nails byjan on IG

were quite wary of the idea. They were

only add spice to ones style, it’s a lifestyle as

sketchy about Janet's clients, strangers in other

well. Ranging from getting a new set to filling

words, coming in and out the house. Yet, as

in an old one, Senior Janet Watson keeps

time passed, they adapted to the environment.

everyone in check. In the midst of working at

@nailsbyjan__

“My parents think my business is great for

home and creating endless nail designs, Janet or

now, but they don’t see it as a stable career.

@nailsbyjan__ (via Instagram) started her nail

Since I employ myself, my parents aren’t

business over the past year, and it’s been

worried about work taking over my school

nothing but straight success.

life. I used to work for Rolled Ice Cream, and

Now, starting a business is filled with an

I had to be home at a certain time which

immense amount of complications; however,

would dictate my schedule. I also wanted had

Janet has pushed through the thick and thins.

time for my own social life. With my own job,

Sorting out things with her parents and

my parents and I aren’t stressed with my

difficulties, Nails By Jan launched March of

grades crashing while still having time for

2018.

myself and with them,” Janet stated

“I’ve always loved doing stuff that revolves around beauty whether if it was makeup, hair, or nails. It was practically my speciality. When I was younger, my mom would never let me get my nails done, so I figured why not figure it out for myself. Eventually, I got the jist of things and got good at it,” Janet expressed.

@nailsbyjan__

When starting her business, Janet's parents

amongst many. Having a perfect nail set will not

After designing her own nails, she went straight to her friends to help her gain experience. Within a matter of time, Janet's nail technician skills grew and the word began to get out.

“My go-to place to advertise for myself is either on Snapchat or Instagram. I have twitter too, but Snapchat and Instagram provide stories which makes quick and easy to share. I advertise myself heavily on Instagram and practically flood my snap story. I also dedicated an Instagram account for my nails, @Nailsbyjan.

This is where clients can find my website and book an appointment and can see my poppin nail designs,” Janet stated.

thankfully.

In return, after a client gets their nails done. Janet typically asks for them to promote her on their own social media. Typically, Janet says her business also spreads by word of mouth.

Getting a job and having to go to follow its management, schedule, etc. becomes none other than draining. Teens look for a job that pays somewhat good despite its consequences… practically whatever floats their boat and fill their bank account. As for Janet, she took things into her own consideration.

“Having my own business is a genuine blessing. The benefits I have are so convenient. I don’t have to work under somebody, and I get to create my own schedule. My job doesn’t feel dreadful, if anything it’s like I’m living out my hobby.

People say do something you love and it doesn't feel like work. I can agree with that statement one hundred percent,” Janet stated.

@nailsbyjan__

@nailsbyjan__

Even though having Nails By Jan has been rewarding, Janet has also dealt with the challenges that come along with owning her own business.

“It gets stressful when people try to ask me certain questions that are posted on my website and when they’re not considerate of me. I try my best to fill in as many appointments as I can, so when someone asks to squeeze them in it does get irritating,” Janet stated.

Pushing forth, Janet has also opened her eyes about customer service.

“I learned to respect people more who work for customer service.

Everyone already know it’s a tough job, but when you’re actually doing it, it hits harder. I’ve understood the means of working for tips because it holds a lot of weight. Also, definitely

“For anyone who strives to start their own business, it’s important to always believe in yourself- despite how corny that sounds- it works! If things aren't going the way you want them to at a certain time, it doesn’t mean they won’t later. Invest in your self and don’t ever cut yourself short. If you’re able to profit off of something you love to do, then just do it,” Janet expressed.

@nailsbyjan__

know not to judge a book by its cover now as well because sometimes

@nailsbyjan__

customers ask weird questions, but when they come in they were just confused and happen to be really cool,” Janet stated.

While reflecting on her success, Janet isn’t sure if she’ll see this as an ever lasting career. She plans to at least stay in the nail business between three to thirteen years. Yet, she strives to continue to make the best of it. Janet has never visioned her business to take her this far, but with never putting her head down and staying strong in the nail game, she is able to get break new grounds.

@nailsbyjan__

10 Worst National Days By: Byron Raymundo

January 22 Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day

January 22nd goes out to all you cat owners because on this day it is “Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day”. Now you might be thinking how in the world your cat is supposed to talk, I would love to know if anyone reading this finds out.

January 23 Going out and buying a pair of shoes on January 23rd might be the most ironic thing ever because you guessed it, it is Measure Your Feet Day! Go out there and start measuring those feet for that lovely new pair of shoes.

Measure Your Feet Day

April 5 National Go For Broke Day

April 5th might not be a national day I would recommend you follow because it could severely affect your financial status.

Although if you feel like participating in National Go For Broke Day go ahead!

April 15 Erasers are underrated, we don’t take for granted how many mistakes and errors the trusty erasers has helped us as students; so let us celebrate National Eraser Day on April 15th from now on!

National Eraser Day

July 3

National Compliment Your Mirror Day

If your a person who loves to take mirror pictures then July 3rd is definitely for you because it is National Compliment Your Mirror Day, so go and thank your mirror for those beautiful pictures you couldn’t have taken without it.

July 27 Now I don’t know how many pant lovers there are out there but if you love your pants then on July 27th it’s your day to Take Your Pants For A Walk Day. Not your dog, your pants!

Take Your Pants For A Walk Day

August 24

National Knife Day

If Michael Myers put in a request on August 24th to make it National Knife Day I would recommend keeping your eyes peeled when taking a walk.

September 5 If you have a serious commitment on do not participate, I repeat do not take it too seriously. It is National Be Late For Something Day, so be sure to check your agenda the day before.

National Be Late For Something Day

October 2 National Name Your Car Day

If your a person who is in love with your car be sure to jot down the National Name Your Car Day on October 2nd in your calendar!

It is National Use Even If Seal Is Broken Day so if your a person willing to take that risk, you might want to make a pros and cons list for this possible dangerous national day.

November 24 National Use Even If Seal Is Broken Day

An Athelete's Step Up 2020 MVP

By: Kyle Muna

After an amazing four years as the starting running back, senior, Christian Vaughn, topped off his highschool career by winning team MVP. Vaughn had a more than an exceptional season with 1,641 rushing yards and 18 total touchdowns.

“Honestly I wasn’t expecting it. It was one of those things where you just don’t know who’s going to get it,” said Vaughn, “It could’ve been a bunch of other players, especially with my mixed attitudes this season.”

With a rocky start to the season, Vaughn’s success in the backfield would come and go. He started the season off strong, ranking in the top five in the state throughout most of the regular season. However, due to the team not making it into the postseason, he is now ranked 27th.

At the start of the season Vaughn was expecting to

be

voted as team captain. When he wasn’t elected team captain, instead of using his anger towards his team he used it to fuel him on the field. As a senior, he had many aspirations and many of which he achieved. Vaughn made it first team in the all-star game. He also made it onto the all-state team. As an individual however, Vaughn brings high energy throughout every practice and every game.

“He’s a truly unique individual and a great athlete,” senior Alex Simi quoted, his teammate and best friend for over four years now, “He helps bring the team together on and off the field and he leads with his actions rather than his words. At times the team’s energy revolves around his own,” Simi expressed.

“Football has done a lot for me, it has given me many opportunities I never thought I’d have in my lifetime,” said Vaughn “The people I have met taught me many lessons not just in football but in life. The friendships I’ve made through football are the ones I hope to have all my life.”

Christian Vaughn treating his MVP award as if it were his own baby.

Can you Take the Heat By: Miracle Baker As the new year starts the most used resolution is to lose weight. People go to the gym for about a month, the gym is packed and machines are all filled up

but

over

time

people

lose

motivation

to

go.

Eventually people completely stop going and return to peoples old habits.

Turn up the heat on your personal goals and turn to hot kickboxing! Hot kickboxing is available at many “103

locations degrees

nearby.

hot

Such

pilates

as

and

“Trufusion”

yoga”.

and

Classes

are

designed to dedicate an hour to yourself and the healing of your mind. The classes environment is very

positive

and

helps

you

reach

your

fullest To experience the true benefits from the class

potential working yourself to be a better you while

recommended amount of times of practice should be

challenging your body's strength and endurance.

This class is physically beneficial because it can

4-6

days

per

week.

If

consistent,

will

create

improve coordination, burn mega calories helping

transformation over time. The price of the classes

with weight loss, better circulation, helps build a

range from $20 per class to $199 per month for

stronger immune system, more flexible muscles, and

unlimited number of classes. This is a barefoot class

gain more lung capacity. Mental benefits from the

so special shoes are not needed. Supplies can be

classes

brought

are

awareness, ability

to

reducing boosting

focus,

stress,

increasing

confidence

better

sleep,

levels, and

body

increased

more

mental

from

home

or

rented

from

the

building,

supplies needed are yoga mat, sweat towel, and more importantly water.

This is another creative way to stick to your new

endurance.

The environment of the class is very energizing

year's resolution and instead of going to a boring gym

the

relying on your own motivation you can go to these

entire class instructors are encouraging you to push

challenging yet energizing classes in order to help

yourself and reminding you to take breaks if needed

you build yourself while having a fun time. Falling

making sure not to overwhelm yourself. So the class

back into your old habits will be harder than adapting

is good for people who don't like to be pushed to

to your new ones.

and

the

trainers

are

very

motivating.

During

work themselves past their limits and isn't a shameful thing

to

need

a

break.

You

start

the

class

with

warming up with jumping jacks, running in place and

just

getting

your

heart

rate

up

with

simple

movements. The room starts at room temperature at that point. Going into more drastic workouts such as punching motions, burpees, running in place, upper and lower body workouts, and core workouts, at that point the room is filled with humid 100 degree air causing the class to get more intense and difficult.

TATTOOS: MORE THAN JUST ART

“Diamonds may be lost or stolen, it's a

by Jazmyne-Rayne Compehos

tattoo that is forever.”

While some students have tattoos with strong meanings such as Pescado, others Chasity Pescado tattoo located on her right thigh.

get them for the hell of it. Senior, Alyssa Rath has gotten a tattoo in memory grandpa.

In this generation, a commonly growing trend is getting a tattoo. Tattoos usually

“It's a memorial tattoo. The butterfly

have meanings, but sometimes they

represents my passed grandfather, and

don’t. Teenagers often go behind their

the color is a bright yellow to show that

parents backs and suffer the consequence

he lights up my life. The language of the

of being consumed with regret after

text is in Armenian for February because

words. But, when people get them with

that's where he was born and that's his

premeditated meaning, they experience

birth month. It's located on the side of

an unexplainable, everlasting feeling for

my arm because it means he'll always be

a lifetime.

right by my side," Rath expressed.

Chasity Pescado, a senior at Desert Oasis has a tattoo of a turtle to represent her connection with her grandpa. The tattoo served as a graduation present for Pescado. However, her teenage angst got the best of her as she got it without her parents approval last summer in Hawaii.

The tribal tattoo represents strength and prosperity. Her grandpa has the same tattoo, representing a connection between granddaughter and grandfather.

Rath's tattoo in the making. The before and after.

“He’s getting old so we wanted to have something that would help me remember our greatest memories after he’s gone,” Pescado said.

Tattoos are permanent. Some people act on impulse and just get a tattoo just to have one, whilst other preserve and hold a deeper meaning of their tattoos close to their hearts. It just varies from person to person and tattoo to tattoo.

Family Follows

The Benefit of Going To School with your Siblings By: Staesha Tadeo-Corpuz

For as long as I can remember, I was always going

Now that I’m currently a junior, my younger

to school with my siblings because of the closeness in

brother (Jaron) has started his journey and joined in

our ages. After many years, I never realized how

on my fun in high school. Like with Shayla, I hear so

much of an impact going to school with them would

many

have

of

teachers and friends. Now that I’m the one welcoming

lessons, made me go through so many experiences,

him into high school, I have become more of a role

and realize things about them and myself that I didn’t

model who has a protective side. That side of me

know before. Ultimately, I think that going to school

wasn’t something one would see a lot, but I know it’s

with my siblings was for the best.

my duty to make sure he is staying out of trouble and

on

my

life

until

now.

It

taught

me

lots

In kindergarten, I went to school with my two older

sisters

(Justine

and

Shayla).

Being

around

questions

and

comments

about

him

from

stays focused on his school work.

Going to high school with them also made me

Justine and her friends, taught me two major things.

realize

One, always be careful who you trust, not everyone

intertwined it was and still is. For example, Shayla

wants to see you succeed. Two, never be afraid to be

knows my friends because they were once her friends

yourself and go after what your heart dreams. I don’t

as well. Jaron also knows my friends, because his

think these lessons would’ve been stuck in my head if

friends are the brothers of my friends. Basically what

I hadn’t been around them constantly in school, but

I’m trying to say is that, we sort of have the same

now it’s something I remind myself of everyday.

friend group. Having the same friend group means

Justine also always made sure that I did my work and

spending even more time around them, which leads

got good grades, she set that example for me because

into discovering the different sides of ourselves for

she was a straight A student and I wanted to be like

example around school verses around our parents.

her.

This is only due to the fact that we all come from the Attending school with my siblings continues all

same

the

aspects

place

of

(Hawaii),

our

and

social

over

lives,

there

and

how

everyone

is

the way to high school. My freshman year, Shayla

family even if it isn’t blood.

and I were once again in the same environment class.

Sharing schools with your siblings isn’t as bad as one

If I had gotten a dollar for every time someone asked

could make it out to be, at least in my experience.

me if I was Shayla’s sister, I would be way richer

They’re

than I am now. Not only did I hear that question

someone who wants to be a better student to have a

frequently I was also the person people went to if

better future, someone who truly loves and cares for

they were trying to find out where she was. This

them,

became very annoying very quickly but I got used to

wrong. If it wasn’t for them, I personally believe that

it

and

who

person

knows

that

I

what’s

am

today,

right

and

learned

that

lack of self control I had gotten from the experiences

knowing where she or any loved ones are is important

with them at school. To those who have siblings in

in case of an emergency.

the same school, never take that for granted because

was.

anything

someone

the

I would’ve gone down the wrong path because of the

she

wasn’t

of

with

where

there

and

basis

wrong

know

realized

the

Overtime,

I

you don’t know what you could get out of it. When push comes to shove, you’re gonna want them there.

SEPTEMBER 2020 • ISSUE 15

HOW TO: PURSUE A REAL NEW YEARS RESOULTION THE YEAR SLACKING WILL STOP

By: Kylie Grullon

We’ve all been there at this time of year, it’s a new year, a new decade. The best time to set new dreams and goals we all wish to achieve. Although you must be aware that more than half of resolutions fail, but this year, they don't have to be yours.

Most resolutions fail because they’re not fit for the right person, and a resolution may be wrong for one of three reasons: It's a resolution based on what someone else or society expects you to achieve, it’s too vague, it’s not realistic for your kind of world.

Your resolutions should be smart, specific, achievable, and relevant to you personally.

When trying to make your list of resolutions, here are some mores to consider when planning, so you can pick the right resolution for yourself.

Set Intentions, Not Must’s. An intention is an aim, a direction in which you are moving. There is no set point or date in which you have to reach. You want to avoid goals that consist of set dates or certain completion times. Working on yourself takes time. Putting an imaginary stress over your shoulders will only make it dreadful and eventually you’ll feel overwhelmed with your own goals. Then, you'll just ditch the whole idea to avoid the fear of failure.

Don't make too many goals, keep it short and simple. When your choosing out what you want to accomplish or personally, improve within yourself. You don't want to go overboard with ideas. We tend

Connect with the WHY. Ask yourself why you want to achieve what you want. If your answer

to think outside of the box when it comes to our desires, which is

includes, “I should do this

usually why they never happen. It’s out of our capability to really

because…” or “I have to…” Scrap

achieve.

it. When we have an intention that is

If you choose too many goals at once with poor time management,

a deep desire and we can identify

you’re going to feel burnt out. You may end up disappointing yourself

and stay connected to the why

for being too ambitious. If you have small and tangible goals, once

reasons, it makes for a more

completing them- you'll have a higher chance at fulfilling higher and

meaningful and achievable

bigger goals.

resolutions.

Get out of your own way.

everyday life, things that you can

Have a plan for dealing with

Setting intentions that come off

make time for. You can try

missteps. Depending on the

the top of your head that contain

replacing unhealthy habits with

severeness of your desires,

no importance will seem too far

self improvements. Try achieving

there will be a lot of setbacks

way and less of a long term

something at times when you

in achieving your goals. The

goal. Don’t put yourself down

usually give yourself free time or

best thing you can do is create

when a goal is completed right

have nothing to do. Slowly

an action plan in case you fall

at hand. With this, it's important

incorporating your desires into a

off track. This may take extra

to understand how negative

real life situation gives you a

time and thinking, but if you're

thinking impacts and drive our

better chance in fulfilling them.

serious about it, having a plan B is always something to

thoughts and behaviors. Having positive thoughts and internal

Publicize your simple goals to

consider. Plans may not always

motivating talks leads to more

friends and family. Speaking

work out the way we want to…

positive behaviors, leading you

on our dreams isn’t always the

but don’t let setbacks stop you

more likely to achieve goals.

best thing because of the less

from pushing forth. Something

chance they have in happening,

good can always come out of

Try out having a theme or

but telling others about small

it.

genre in your list. A one or

simple goals is a step towards

two word mantra that supports

success. It could be drinking

Congratulate. Schedule

you and motivates you towards

more water daily - they can help

rewards for yourself along the

being more of the person that

keep you on track. You’ll be

way. Praising your

you want to be. Try setting a

accountable to someone other

achievements will keep you

theme for your list. In other

than yourself. Ask them to

more motivated along the way.

words, an overall idea of what

check your progress every once

You will have something to

you are trying to achieve and

in awhile. This well help in

look forward to in achieving

better in yourself.

keeping you reminded of your

them. They could be small or

goals and stay on track.

big rewards. These could help

For example: “Lean In.” Leaning into the good, the

with goals that have to do with

scary, adventurous… to build

Writing it down. When you

becoming a healthier person,

character and open up to new

make you're list, try to pick out

finishing with school, etc.

things around you.

the most achievable ones,

You’ll also want to outline

something you can fit into your

your plans and keep track of

Create a goal friendly

daily routines. Write it down in

your progress. Seeing how

environment. Creating the

a journal or on a piece of paper

you've come a long way will

setting and circumstances to

you can make visible to

give you a more personal

cultivate your goals. A resolution

yourself everyday. Pin it to a

rewarding feeling. You can

that results in real change

wall or set reminders for

keep track of goals that are

requires a shift in priorities. If

yourself. Write down your goals

working and what’s not;

one of your goals is to write your

whether it be small steps you

therefore, that should be your

own novel, make time in your

will take to achieve them or

cue of where you need to

day to write and improve. You

how you will reward yourself

improve and take on more

want to make goals that can help

along the way.

challenges.

correlate and flow into your

LIVING IN THE PAST

Written by Mckenna Bishop

In 2019 alone, Star Wars released episode nine, another Batman was cast, and five Disney live-action remakes were released. It seems as if everything from the past is being brought back. It feels like, culturally, we aren’t moving forward.

This past November, Disney released their own streaming service Disney +. Disney + allows people to go back and revisit their favorite Disney movies and tv shows such as “Hannah Montana” or Tangled. New content exclusive to the platform was also advertised; however, a lot of this content was not really new.

The three new things that were advertised for Disney + were: “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series”, a Star Wars series “The Mandalorian”, and the live-action remake of Lady and the Tramp. All of this “new” content is derived from already established movies and franchises. Although, “The Mandalorian” and “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” are new stories, they come from things that have been seen before.

This is not really surprising coming from Disney. It is how they became successful in the first place. They give classic fairy tales new stories.

Most of their most successful movies are examples of this like The Little Mermaid or Sleeping Beauty.

Recently DC has been successful using a similar strategy with their movies. Prior to 2019, DC had been trying to replicate the cinematic success of their competitor, Marvel, by releasing movies parallel to the ones Marvel was putting out. They released Batman v. Superman to

DISNEY LIVE ACTION REMAKES OF 2019

combat Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War, and Justice League to try and create their own Avengers. Unfortunately, these movies were widely unpopular.

However, in 2019 DC has been making a comeback from their history of infamously, horrible movies. They released the movie, Joker (directed by Todd Phillips), in October that has received a lot of positive reviews. The

1. Bandwagon

2. Team Building

movie gave a classic DC villain a newfangled story. It was also rated R, differing from Marvel’s PG-13 which is usually geared towards families.

It also seems that they will continue to use this strategy with their upcoming movies such as Birds of Prey and Batman, of which are also expected to be rated R.

DC has found success by walking the line between new and old material. They are using new stories to revive old characters.

However, why don’t they just make new characters? DC could simply create new superheroes and villains for this generation to grow up with, but they are consumed with fear no one would want to see a new movie. If Joker had been about someone else and not the Joker, would it have been as successful?

This is the possible problem the recent movie Doctor Sleep had.

Would it have been more successful if it was called “The Shining 2”? This is the fault of the audience. By not supporting any new or original movies as much as established films, audiences have convinced studios to make more remakes and reboots.

There isn’t anything wrong with going to see Star Wars or being excited about Robert Pattinson playing Batman, but it is important to realize that nothing can last forever. Everything has to end at some point.

Instead of dragging out a story for so long, making it old, predictable and boring, be happy with the story for what it was and move on to something else. Rewatch it whenever, but realize everything comes to an end. When something ends, let it go, and find something new.

We can never move forward if we don’t let our past die.

Baby Yoda from Star

Wars' series: The Mandalorian

The Downfall of

NDRA A L A ELI C

AND HOW DISNEY+ MIGHT JUST HAVE SAVED IT Digging deeper into Disney plus, you can

As a child in the 2000’s and 2010’s, Disney channel

climb into, “The Vault,” which is basically a

was the place for watching quality shows and even the

collection of Disney’s older films such as

movie premiers that aired every now and again. I still

Pinnochio, Fantasia, and even Bambi. All of these

remember coming home from school, grabbing a snack

seemingly ancient and legendary films can be

and clicking on Good Luck Charlie. That show, along

unvaulted onto your screens in the comfort of your

with others like Wizards of Waverly Place and Phineas and Ferb were just some of my favorite shows.

However, in recent years, Disney channel has been reduced to a sub-par viewing experience. Having a little sister, I have seen first hand the shows that air on Disney channel now; and it is far from impressive.

No longer are there family shows, now the channel has been reduced to animated cartoons such as Bob the Builder. It made me miss my days as a child when I could watch a show and actually

own living room.

I started with Toy Story. Not just the first or second, but I watched the whole series. Instantly, I was hit with the memories of these classics.

Before I knew it, I was re-watching every classic movie

from

Disney’s,

“Golden

Age.”

Then

found it; I found Hannah Montana. This show was the spark for a legendary Disney channel era in the early 2000’s.

With all of the junk on television nowadays,

enjoy it, instead of my current reality where I want

Disney Plus was a nice refresher. It’s hard for

to turn it off as soon as it comes on.

teens to relive our favorite memories as kids from

When Disney Plus was launched, I was

the 2000’s, but Disney revolutionized

skeptical of buying a subscription. After some

entertainment once again by giving us the

research, I forked some money into Disney’s cash

opportunity to re-watch our favorite, nostalgia

pile and I was allowed access to the new

filled movies. I highly recommend Disney Plus,

streaming service. I had low expectations going

and I will continue watching whatever Disney has

into this, but I was pleasantly surprised. At first

to offer.

glance, the normal viewer at home, can see movies such as Monsters Inc and Toy story. It was refreshing to view films and shows that brought happiness to a whole generation of kids and even adults.

I

GIVING UP IN SCHOOL Student's Name: Christian Manriauez

11

Grade:

That’s my biggest flaw. Whereas others might For the past three years, I tell myself the same three things: I will be more organized, I will be more responsible, and I will get straight A’s.

Every year so far, none of those things have happened. The signs are the same each year. I start procrastinating, I don’t put enough effort into the things I’m submitting, and eventually I stop trying all together.

It isn’t that I don’t care about my grades. Like every semi goal-oriented teen in Vegas, I want to move onto a good college. Then something happens; Maybe I don’t get the grade I was expecting, or I didn’t have enough time to study for a test. There it begins the agonizing feeling of losing hope in myself. I start thinking to myself how maybe it truly is hopeless. If I don’t get into those fancy colleges my family’s been drilling into my head since middle school, maybe it’s not worth trying all together.

That’s when all those goals I started the year off with start to dissolve. The determination I once had begins to shift and I watch as all the work I put into my GPA starts to diminish, until there’s nothing left but mediocre letter grades and an angry red late flag on all my assignments. The same mantra I’ve had for the last three years begins to play on repeat in my head: I work so hard only to get the grades that others would be ashamed of, so what’s the point? I look at my friends with 4.0 GPA’s; The kids who can skip finals week altogether and still get straight A’s. What do they have that I don’t?

persevere, I chose to quit. Year after year, the weight of a failure that hasn’t even happened yet is enough to crush the hope of success. This is where I go wrong. If only I could tell myself how much happier I would be if I just kept going. If, instead of running away at the first challenge, I ran towards it instead.

What would happen if I took the time to ask for help? If I really took the time to learn instead of spending hundreds of hopeless hours trying to memorize my half-completed study guides, would I be happier? I want to be one of those students who don’t have to think, “Wow, if I just study enough to get a C on this test, I’ll pass the class.”.

I want grades that when my family sees, they don’t have to lecture me about how much better I could be doing. For once in my high school career, I want to put in the same amount of effort the whole year. Instead of calculating the lowest passing grade I can get, I want to be confident that I’ll pass no matter what. Projects due at midnight should be done the day before, not half-assed thirty minutes before.

So for what feels like the millionth time in my life, I’ll start the second semester of my junior year with the same three goals. Except, this time will be different. I’ll accept the fact that, no matter what, I’ve tried my best. This time, I’ll add a fourth goal to the list: I’ll be proud of the effort I put into my work, no matter the outcome. Maybe, this semester will be the one to remember. This semester will be the one to be proud of.

METRICS: A - Superior

C - Average

B - Above avg.

D - Below avg.

E - Poor F - Failure

IT'S TIME TO MAKE A LIVING Places That are Looking for New Hires By: Julian Romo

Teens have the urge to make a fast cash. Money is a

Another popular job for teens is becoming a

necessity to a teenagers wanna be typical lifestyle of:

lifeguard. Lifeguard positions can be located at pretty

shopping, eating, concerts, etc. Teens love to go out and

much any casino or some gym pools around the city.

have fun, but with everything being costly, teens seek for

No matter where the position is, most of these jobs are

any job as long as they get paid a decent amount. If you’re

taken by teens between the ages of 16-18. Most

in need of a job, you are in the right place. Here for a few

positions start at around $10 an hour but can increase

places of recommendation if you are reading to open a

depending on the location. Many gym pools don’t

door full of experience.

require past experience but for bigger hotels and

A great place to start is in the food service industry, for

casinos will be highly considerate and make you go

example is In-N-Out. In-N-Out. It’s the holy grail for

through a training process. Although you don't need

teens in terms of getting a job. Starting at around $11 an

past experience as a lifeguard, you will need to

hour, it should be considered as a first choice. In-N-Out

complete a lifeguard training program and a first-aid

also has great benefits like: free meals for employees, paid

training class. You will also need CPR, first aid and

vacations, and dental/vision coverage. You do not need

automated external defibrillator (AED) certifications.

experience with fast food to get this job so anyone over

All of these jobs are great options if you’re a

the age of 16 can apply (as long as you have a health

teenager looking for some extra cash in your pocket or

card).

just looking for a great job experience. Most of these

The next top industry is retail such as Walmart, Target,

companies don't require you to have any prior

etc. Starting somewhere around $13 an hour, some teens

experience, which is perfect if you're looking for a first

might say retail is far better than the food industry. Both

job or if you aspire to find a better one.

stores offer some of the same benefits to their employees like health insurance, dental insurance, paid vacations and many more. You don't need any prior experience to work at these companies, but the preferred age is 18.

If fast food doesn’t fit your likings, the option of becoming a barista is present. This can conclude places like Starbucks, Dutch Bros, Black Rock, etc. These places pay well and, of course, increase pay as time goes on. The tricks and skills it takes to become a barista is manageable for anyone. If you’re highly into coffee, it is best suggested that you try out for one of these places a starter.

Save the Date!

Cheer & Dance Competition 01/11 Cheer 12:15 PM All Male 3:10 PM JV Hip Hop 4:30 PM Varsity Hip Hop 6:20 PM

Sadies Tickets Go on Sale 01/13 01/13 - 01/24 $10 01/27 - 02/07 $15 At door $20

2nd Annual Broadway Night 01/15 @6PM $7 for students $10 for adults