Rocklin High Flash #3

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new game. A new you. A new dream.

Imagine how to accomplish your dreams.

Ask yourself why you want to do what you dream. As high school students, we essentially live on what we imagine, and what the future holds. We know what we want to change, and we are learning how to actually make those changes. From Live Action Role Playing to aspiring actors, this issue of The Flash is brimming with the visions of Rocklin students. Read on to experience the imagination of our campus.

IMAGINE

Rocklin HS, Rocklin, CA my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

LIFE’S A GAME Imagine: A new town. A new class. A

You may say that I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one

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my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Table of Contents

I hope someday you’ll join us, and the world will live as one

March Contents March Contents Mental vs. Physical preparation

5: 7: 9: 11: 13: 15: 17: 19: 21:

“Practice is ‘ninety percent physical, ten percent mental’ where as competition is just the reverse.”

Life in a new country “The way the teachers teach here is different, the food is different, everything is different.”

Stress-free high school “We need to relax! You don’t have to wait until a vacation to relax, you can start at anytime of the year.””

Choose your weapon ““It gets intense out on the battlefield,” said Conor Delaney, one of the originators that introduced LARP to Rocklin .”

Future Actress “There is going to be a lot of rejection. A lot of luck and knowing the right people.”

Bucket List “I have a fear of heights, but I still rock climb,” says Egan.

“Rock climbing is the physical and mental challenges.”

Flash Perspective: Imagine “If enough is done, then we can build an Earth that our parents could not even dream of.”

Flash Perspective: Letting Go “As I was driving to school I decided to make one last trip to the Appalachian mountains – three hours away.”

H. Heikinnen

Editors’ Element

For the third straight year the varsity basketballl team returned to ARCO Arena for the seciton play-offs. Despite the semi-final loss to eventual champion (and league champion) Woodcreek, the team advanced to Nor Cals. Alika Lemon (above) was among the top scorers and rebounders on Coach Steve Taylor’s team.

March 2010

World. Health. Fashion. Everything you need to know NOW.

My Life Sucks

23:

I was hanging out with this guy I thought I was talking to in November. All of a sudden his girlfriend let herself in his house.

Design by Shannon Stowers

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The Flash

“I become prepared for battle, not just a wrestling match. ”

Is it in you...or your head?

Mental vs. physical preparation for sports-

percent luck, twenty percent skill, fifteen percent concentrated power of will, five percent pleasure, fifty percent pain..”

But are Fort Miner’s lyrics really that underlying secret to that perfect performance all athletes of all levels want to figure out? Athletic analysis has emerged as fresh branch of sports psychology that is constantly undergoing research.

Some researchers claim that practice is “ninety percent physical, ten percent mental” where as competition is just the reverse: “ten percent physical and ninety percent mental.” That would mean that come game-time, athletes need to alleviate the anxiety and just focus on the fact that they have invested hours, months, and perhaps even years to showcase their best skills.

According to a RHS survey, 16.3 percent of Rocklin athletes consistently use mental imagery to help them prepare for competition. USA Swimming says that, athletes will perform better if they visualize their competition because it helps them control mental energy.

The reason is that repetitive mental visualization creates neural patterns in the brain, just as if you had physically performed the action. These patterns are like that of the small tracks engraved in the brain cells, which can help athletes perform physical feats just by mentally going through the moves.

Mental imagery is powerful enough to create the neural patterns in the brain to our best advantage. Perhaps it really is all in our “mind’s eye”, considering that the eyes directly extend from the brain. The brain and nerves are

“Ten

With a Go girl in her hand, Junior Lauren Orozco rests before a softball scrimmage at Whitney. The combination of rest and energy drinks were common goals for athletes on game or practice days.

04

Which is more important?

jquick in their relay of messages. Connected by the Optic nerve, messages running from the back of the eyes to the brain can be transmitted as quickly as 395 feet per second. Medical studies confirm mental visualization is a proven strategy.

“I clear my mind and let my music flow into my body.

I become prepared for battle, not just a wrestling match.

Then when the time comes to step on the mat, I let all my energy come out into my performance,” said senior Tommy Williams who qualified for the state wrestling tournament.

Some tips for mental training include sitting in a comfortable place free of interruptions where you can relax, breathing slowly. It’s as simple as closing your eyes and playing an inspirational athletic motion picture. Try to focus just on the action in your mind. If you find yourself distracted on the image, focus on breathing at a relaxing rhythm. Picture the scene-the sights, sounds, tastes, feelings, and smells of it. Absorb as much detail as you can and always, always maintain an optimistic outlook. It is critical that you always end the visualization with a clear and positive image in mind. In terms of mentally preparing, an athlete does not need to be completely self-reliant.

Studies show that athletes with encouraging coaches, teammates, family, and friends outperform those who lack a support system. In a experiment performed by male college athletes at Bishop’s University, physical strength increased by twenty-four percent just through mental training. Mental strength is also a powerful remedy to overcoming a physical injury. As crazy as it sounds, even pictures relating to strength and power in comics have been proven to promote positive physical healing. Athletes can even push away pain through mental strength. This idea is supported by relaxation, because relaxed muscles hold less than tension. Strategies include visualizing a massage or the feeling of warm water from a shower. Simply, breathing calmly works, too.

“The sports that I do, do not require mental visualization of my performance; it is sort of redundant and unnecessary. Running is running: It’s that simple!” said Shahriyar Jahanbakhsh, a sophomore who competes in cross-country and track.

He says that he does not have an iPod and has already dropped over half a minute in his mile by “giving it his all” at practice. Simultaneously, athletes need to train their bodies to follow their mind. my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“Running is running: It’s that simple!”

This means being wise about what athletes put in their bodies and getting enough rest. Clearly, athletes need to stay hydrated for optimum performance. It is recommended that people drink roughly 16 ounces of water two hours before exercise. Water should be the first choice for fluid replacement, unless the exercise is over an hour long.

Sport drinks are designed to supplement the body when it is working at high levels of intensity and endurance. The electrolytes in sport drinks can help the body keep carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals for a longer time. Pre-game meals should be a sufficient source (at least 100 grams) of complex carbohydrates. Sources of complex carbs include oatmeal, fruit, carrot juice, wholegrains, low-fat yogurt, and fruit.

Sport nutritionists advise athletes to stay away from sweets. Studies show that consuming sugars results in reduced performances, especially within an hour of exercise because it leads to too much of an insulin rush, or a “roller coaster” of high and low blood sugar. Foods, such as orange juice, bananas, raisins, and carrots, have carbs that quickly raise blood sugar without the rollercoaster feelings Nutritionists also suggest that athletes pre-hydrate themselves three days prior to competition. Athletes

Rocklin vs Woodcreek wrestling match

should drink extra water at a rate of about three-quarters of an ounce per pound per day. If muscles aren’t hydrated, they weaken. Being prepared also means getting rested. Stanford University conducted an experiment and concluded that ten hours of sleep a night can improve an athlete’s speed and reaction time.

When diving into dreams or running after a goal, athletes can team up with their mental and physical strength to achieve their personal bests.

By: Amanda Calzada, Sports Editor

Now working from home: 3119 Strand Rd. in Rocklin Phone: 435-8801 or 316-1490

Boutonnieres $8 Corsages $20 Tax Included March 2010

Design by: Alyssa DiPippo Reported by : Davis Spaid-Banks

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The Flash

“The way the teachers teach here is different, the food is different, everything is different.” .

Two Homes, Two countries

T h o u s a n d s o f m i l e s a pa rt

Imagine the 6,000 mile difference between China and the United States n June 5th, 2007, Derek Song gave his mom an early birthday present that would change both their lives forever. Song’s mom was already living in the United States, and the day Song moved from China to the United States also happened to be the day before his mom’s birthday.

Song lived in Huainan, China, a city near Shanghai, and moved to Rocklin the summer before he began high school. His mom had already been living in the United States for seven years. Since he was meeting his mom, Song braved the 12-hour flight to the United States by himself. Although he knew this country would be very different, it still wasn’t quite what he had expected.

“It was strange facing a new culture, language, and school. The way the teachers teach here is different, the food is different, everything is different,” said Song.

The most challenging part about moving was the language barrier. As a matter of fact, it still is, though less of a challenge now. Song first started learning English in 3rd grade. Even so, it was extremely difficult to understand the teachers during his first year in the United States, especially the biology vocabulary.

Since he lives in the Whitney attendance area, Song attended Whitney High School his freshman year. Then, a school year Derek Song shops with his grandma in China before moving too late, he was informed to the United States. that Rocklin High has a better program for students learning English, so he decided to transfer to Rocklin High. Now, over half-way through his junior year, Song has graduated from his English Language Development class, and is currently in Honors English. While the English portion of the SAT was difficult, Song scored a perfect 800 on the SAT Chinese Subject Test.

Song is also highly involved in Rocklin High. Song is the Multicultural Club Secretary and the Commissioner of Publicity in ASB. He also belongs to Science Olympiad, Key Club, CSF, Interact, and is a member of Honor Guard.

O

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Song wanted to move to the United States “for a better education and a better life.” To him, the biggest difference about the United States compared to China is the education. He prefers the teaching method here, and he appreciates how the teachers are much nicer.

In addition to the difference in education, “the people are nice, the environment is clean, and there are not a lot of people,” said Song.

While about 100 million people live in the United States, China’s population is about 1.3 billion. This means while one out of every 20 people in the world live in the United States, one out of every five people live in China.

Even with all the changes in his life after moving to the United States, Song still preserves his native culture.

He eats Chinese food and even cooks for himself, and he speaks Chinese with his mom. Moreover, he keeps in contact with his relatives and friends in China, as his mom is his only relation who lives in the United States.

Every summer Song visits China, enabling him to spend time with his dad, grandparents, and friends who live there. But this summer, he may not go to China because he has to visit colleges.

Looking back, Song can see that he has learned a great deal from both his homes.“I know more about the world and I had the experience of other cultures and of meeting different people. And of course, I am always learning.”

By Karin Oxenham

Derek Song and friends, Sarah Mandon and Heather Smith, on the way to the RHS State basketball game.

my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“She left behind her life in India and came to Rocklin”

survey says How many times have you been out of the United States?

42.8%

Never

15.1% 42.1% How many languages do you speak besides English?

13.1% 16.1% 70.8%

I’m Learning a Second Language

Were you born somewhere other than the United States?

12.0% 88.0% No, I Wasn’t

Imagine the 8,000 mile difference between India and the United States Imagine moving eight thousand miles away from home.

December 10, 2009, that is exactly what Prabhjot Bhangu, a freshman, and her family did. She left behind her life in India and came to Rocklin.

She said that her uncle was already living in America and that he missed his sister, Bhangu’s mom. This is what motivated her family to come to America.

Bhangu is enjoying her life here. She says that she loves how everything is clean. She also likes school, as she has “more freedom,” because she chooses to her own classes, and does not feel as much pressure from teachers. She says the biggest difference in America versus India is better law enforcement.

She also finds that we are more serious about our future in the United States. Bhangu says that if you are not good at something in After immigrating from India, Prabhjot Bhangu outside a classroom at Rocklin High. India, you switch to do something different.

Here, she says, you keep working at things, even if you are not good at them.

The most challenging part about moving here, Bhangu says, is speaking English. She said that she began learning English at the age of eleven in India. She continues to speak Punjabi at home with her family, but practices English with her uncle and auntie.

She also says it was very difficult to come here, and that she did like the school in India because she was able to stay with her friends all day and the teachers came to them.

In India, Bhangu used to play basketball and do art, but she is taking a break from basketball and art, here in Rocklin.

Though she is a good basketball player, she is happy to be away from the sport for a while, because she said she has played since she was seven.

Currently enjoying her new life, she is excited to have met new friends and to have the opportunity to live and go to school in America.

272 Surveyed. February 11th, 2010.

March 2010

Design by Holly Petersen Reported by

By Danielle Huddlestun Huddlestun and Karin Oxenham

07

The Flash

“School is meant to help us learn...not stress us out”

Imagine...A stress free school year a hard time understanding. We have awesome teachI am determined to figure out how to create the perers at our school that are willing to help you on their own fect, less stressful school year. Obviously, there’s no time and really want their students to pass.” set equation for it but there are some elements that you When asked what students feel would make school need. School is known for being boring but there things more enjoyable the top answer was less homework, not that students can do it make it better. If someone is only focused on school it can stress a person out and make like that is much of a surprise. Another idea is open camthem forget that other things are important. Stress from pus which could help bring business to local restaurants.

Others want to be able to use cell phones and ipods durschool can lead to both mental and physical illness, like ing break and lunch. Ashley Brown is one of these stubeing prone to sickness, lack of sleep, and even stomdents. ach ulcers.

“Honestly, I don’t see the harm if we’re using them outCounselors, teachers and administrators are always encouraging students about challenging themselves and side of class. The rules at this school could be a little less controlling and strict. We get good grades and we are getting involved. While some might just ignore what they known as one of the best schools in the area. Therefore, are trying to say, others realize the benefits from it. Clubs and sports make students appear more well-rounded don’t we deserve some freedom?”

Basically, school is meant to help us learn, develop, and can be a great way to meet people and make school more enjoyable. Yes, clubs and sports take up time but and prepare for the future, not to stress us out. Utilizing what the school has to offer can really help lessen your as long as you enjoy them, they can provide a great esworries. Hopefully, if you take advantage of these stress cape from the stress of school. reducers you wont have to just imagine a stress free “Sports give me drive, focus, and a reason to get school year, you will be having one. good grades” says student Kelly Gruber.

Another way to make school a little easier are the

By Elisabeth Hartman people you surround yourself with. Friends have a great impact on who you are as a person. Friends can either make or break you high school career for you. When you have fun, nice friends, it makes you look forward to certain classes and help you feel more comfortable in school. They allow you to be yourself and help you forget about your worries.

Something else that might help is to find something you like and go with it. Take a certain class through out high school like Photo or Theater or even Journalism and stay consistent with it. When you find something you enjoy, it can act as a release from the pressures of school.

Also keep in mind that teachers are here to help you.

They can make things much easier and can save you hours of stress by clarifying any of your questions. When you communicate with your teachers, you will always be prepared and it will ease your stress. If you ever have a question, e-mail your teacher or go in during plus or break.

Sophomore Janis Chung says, “Teachers, believe it or not, help reduce stress because you know that they will Stressed out students need to relax. always be there to help you especially when you have

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Photo Credit: Elisabeth Hartman

Take your school year from anxiety to worry-free

my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“Be positive about life”

How do you feel about school?

I love it I enjoy it It’s okay I dislike it I hate it

8% 19.7% 42.6 % 14.5 % 15.2 %

What is your favorite part about school?

Friends

64.7% Extra Cirriculars 13.2 Something to Do 9% Learning 5.6% Nothing 7.5% A survey of 172 students

School WOULD be less stressful if...

“We didn’t have to get up at the crack of dawn everyday” Briana Sublette “We had more electives” Dominique Cook “We had less homework” Mehgan Bates “Classes were shorter” Jillian Lerner “We didn’t have to run the mile in PE” Brenna O’neil “There was less emphasis on competition” Niraj Amalkanti

March 2010

Imagine

yourself having a

more relaxing year.

Although academics takes up most of a students’ time, there is way more to life than school. There are jobs, extracurricular madness, family, friends, traveling...the list could go on forever. There are so many things we want to do, but there never seems to be enough time for it all when we spend eight hours a day in school. When we end up trying to do so much we sometimes find ourselves worn out and exhausted: We need to relax!! You don’t have to wait until a vacation to relax, you can start at anytime of the year. Here are some ways how.

#1. Instead of staying up late watching reruns on television, consider going to bed a bit earlier. Sleep deprivation not only affects how well your mind and body can perform the next day, but it also negatively affects nearly all the systems in your body, including the immune system. So chill out, and spend some more time dreaming; You’ll be glad you did the next morning.

#2. Turn up the tunes! Unlike what many people have said about music being a time waster, it has actually been proven to relieve stress and calm the mind. #3. Limit the time you spend watching television and online videos. Instead of watching people having a good time, go out for yourself and have a good time. Find a hobby to do or find a friend to do something with and start living your own life. #4. On a survey that was posted on the RHS website, a question was asked regarding what would make school and life better. One of the responses that kept repeating itself was to spend be able to spend more time with friends. So communicate more with the people who make you laugh! Set time aside for them when you have a chance and take a break from stress. #5. Don’t overwhelm yourself with commitments. Having less things to do will allow you to focus more on the things you do have to do. #6. Learn to be positive about life. Constantly complaining about your own life will only stress you out more. So look on the bright side and make life work with what you have. (Plus, who wants to hang around someone who is always negative anyways?)

#7. Remember, everything you do today, everything you did yesterday, and everything you plan on doing tomorrow is for a reason. Even if you are not too happy about doing something, somehow it will help you in the long run. So don’t get irritated and stressed about something you are doing today, because it will all pay off one day.

By Emily Brooks Designed by Emily Brooks Reported by Elisabeth Hartman, Emily Brooks and Paul Landers

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The Flash

“It gets intense out on the battlefield”

Home Is Where the LARP Is Imagine going back to when playing make-believe was still socially acceptable You’ve heard the rumors. Whispers of epic battles taking years ago. place within the monotonous suburbia that is Rocklin, Delaney and his cohort Connor Breight, both seniors, California. You might’ve even been one of the lucky few to began LARPing with their friends during their sophomore receive an actual invitation. year. Jordan English joined the Connors to form one LARP This is the kind of solicitation that is hard to ignore. team and Ryan Turner, Ryan Sicotte, and Drew Titus were A group of Rocklin High School students have joined in the adversaries. on an increasingly popular craze. It’s called LARP and to Delaney and Breight got the idea to start their own clan some it is not just a hobby, it’s a way of when they came across some LARP life. It’s an affair for like-minded souls who videos on youtube. This was before LARP rank medieval warfare right up there with entered mainstream awareness in Role oxygen. And now it is conveniently located Models, so Rocklin's original LARPers right in your hometown. were true pioneers.

That’s right, all you LARP aficionados, The league that the initial six began has this means no longer having to drive hours since expanded. Most battles generally to satisfy your LARPing needs. Good ol’ reach around 20 contenders, but some fashion live action role play can now be have boasted much greater numbers. found within Rocklin’s city limits.

Rocklin’s biggest LARP to date was For those unfamiliar with it, LARP (live the much-hyped sophomores-versusaction role play) is basically a planned seniors battle that took place on Saturday, event during which a group of people, February 13th. The two teams competed dressed up as medieval warriors, hit each for bragging rights as the best LARPing other with foam swords. They may also clan at Rocklin High. The event hosted be equipped with container-lid shields around 50 attendees at a top-secret in order to protect themselves from the location referred to as Helm’s Deep.

Ryan Turner and Trevor Whitney blows.

The huge turn out was due to much You might recognize it from the strategize their next move against the buzz among the sophomore class during 2008 film Role Models, which featured sophomores. Whitney is known to be the week before furlough. Their strategy: one of the most “decorated” LARPers. the sport. Augie, one of the film's main outnumber the seniors. characters, is a nerdy kid who LARPs. “We wanted to send in small separate At first, all of the other characters make fun of him, but fleets of groundmen to different parts of the battlefield so once they see what LARPing is about, just about everyone that we could have a more effective offense,” Sheldon Wen, realizes it's a lot of fun if you get into it. one of the sophomore captains, said.

LARP give players the opportunity to go back to their Despite the sophomores’ detailed plan of action, the childhood days of playing pretend. Just like little kids, it is seniors won due to superior weaponry. important for teens to excercise their imaginations as well.

“Their greater numbers didn’t matter,” Delaney said.

It may seem like a dorky way to spend a Saturday “Seniors were still victorious.” afternoon, but to the combatants, it’s serious fun. Local Another notorious match was the battle versus a Del LARPers cannot be blamed for resorting to playing make- Oro LARPing clan. Competition was every bit as fierce as believe in order to keep themselves amused. legitimate sporting events between the two rival schools.

“Rocklin doesn’t have much else to do, and LARP As custom, Rocklin smashed Del Oro in a nearly effortless something new and different that we’re bringing in,” said defeat. Del Oro’s players were noobs to the LARPing scene, Bryan Sheets, one of the original six LARPers. so their inexperience put them at a huge disadvantage. It Though RHS’s take on LARP is not nearly as hardcore as was no surprise that Rocklin’s seasoned LARPers were able traditional role-play, it gives players the same thrill. to pull out a win.

“It gets intense out on the battlefield,” said Conor Delaney, But it’s not as easy as it may seem. one of the originators that introduced LARP to Rocklin two In order to bridge the difference between the real world

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Imagine

“It’s something new and different that we’re bringing to Rocklin.” and the imaginary setting, players must actually pretend to die if they are “killed” in combat. Likewise, players are expected to portray lost limbs as well.

“If somebody got in hit the leg, they’d have to hop up on one leg for the rest of that round, or they’d have to wait for the healer,” sophomore Callie Walter said.

In LARP, each team has a healer. Their role is self-explanatory: they “heal” players that have been afflicted in battle.

“The healer just has to touch the wounded limb of a warrior and it would be restored to full health,” Wen said.

But sometimes the injuries are not make-believe. Healers may have the ability to magically reattach a severed arm or leg, but when it comes to real battle wounds, their healing powers are of little assistance. Just ask Levi Bonin, who got injured at a LARP battle.

“I was running down a really steep hill, then all of a sudden I tripped and skidded across the field. I was in a lot of pain and I still have scratches on my arms and legs,” said Bonin. “I still love LARPing though.”

Strict safety rules are put in place to attempt to prevent injuries like Bonin’s. Weapons are regulated and they must be safe and padded.

“Baseball bats wrapped in foam and lightasbers are now officially illegal for future LARPing because they’re dangerous,” senior Brittany Bellacera said.

Some other illegal weapons include airsoft guns and bb guns, which some of the spectators at the sophomores vs. seniors LARP were shooting at the players.

Those that choose to play by the rules fight with padded foam weapons like swords or battle axes. Because these homemade mockweapons can’t cause any serious injury, they are ideal for close combat during LARPing.

Sophomores and Seniors battle it out for the win.

Though weapons are a must, costumes are optional. Some players choose to sport jeans and a t-shirt, while others opt to go all-out with their ensemble, some seniors even sporting their team symbol “MC” (for Mercenaries Creed, visit http://mercenariescreed.tk). There are no decisive guidelines when it comes to theme, so costumes range from cardboard armor to vikingstyle fur. Senior Jordan English showed up to a battle wearing nothing but an Indian headdress, cheerleading Dorian Rohlfes shorts, and blue warpaint. and Bryan Sheets “There was definitely some pretty bizarre stuff,” said senior get into the action James Morrill. as they combat at But Rocklin High students haven’t yet had their fill of this a LARP event. outlandish form of entertainment. Planned LARP events in Rocklin are becoming more frequent, and more new LARP recruits are joining in on the action each week.

So now that you no longer have to drive hours for the nearest LARPing events, how are you going to spend all that gas money you’ll be saving?

Cool new scabbard for your foam LARPing sword?

Naturally.

By Alie Onea Design by Lauren Sotir and Alie Onea Reported by Krista Ferge March 2010 11

Have you ever been

LARPing?

Yes 18.4%

No 45.6%

What’s that? 36.0%

The Flash

“Yes, [my parents] support me 100 percent.”

LIFE IN THE SPOTLIGHT Senior Annie Dick makes performing an art

T

hey are few and far between. They can be referred to as Rocklin legends, where despite being forced to grow up in it’s humble and remote environs, a select few of Rocklin natives have allowed their big dreams to free them from the holds of the town’s almost uncelebrated history.

One Rocklinite who recently came on the scene is working hard to create his own name as a Rocklin legend. Nick Armstrong, an alumnus of Rocklin High School from its first graduating class in 1997, has finally been recognized by his fellow Rocklin citizens to be “making it big” in show business.

Those who followed this year’s Superbowl might be familiar with the Crash the Suberbowl contest, where contestants submitted 30-second commercials advertising Doritos® to hopefully be aired during the game.

Annie Dick performing her heart out in the Creepy Concert.

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Armstrong’s commercial was one of the top six finalists and eventually was chosen to air.

Currently a producer, director, writer, and actor, Armstong was once an admired and respected leader of the theatre department and heavily involved in broadcasting and football at Rocklin High School. RHS’s theatre teacher, Cinny Toepke, who had worked with Armstrong for all four years of his high school career, continues to stay in touch with him today. She described him as “flexible with the roles he played, a very hard worker and intelligent actor, and well respected all around campus.”

A few of Armstrong’s accomplishments include appearing in over fifteen commercials, winning “Best Director” in New York’s film festival for his sci-fi comedy television pilot “Team A.P.O.C.A.L.Y.P.S.E.”, making small appearances on the Emmy® award winning show The Office, and being cast in a Jimmy Kimmel Live short.

Following in his footsteps is current Rocklin High School student, Annie Dick, who is also dreaming of becoming successful in show business.

“I honestly don’t know what I imagine for the future.

[The acting industry] is very hard. Very difficult. There is going to be a lot of rejection. A lot of luck and knowing the right people,” said aspiring actress Annie Dick.

Ever since she began starring in community theater productions during elementary school, she has envisioned herself being on stage. This sparked her determination to make the world of theater her life, and has since appeared in every high school theater production since she attended Rocklin High.

Her motivation was the result of growing up in a household that revolved around the arts. Her father, the music director for Rocklin High School, and her mother, the music director for Granite Oaks and Spring View Middle School, have been her main influence and support throughout her life.

“Yes, [my parents] support me 100 percent,” said Dick. “My mother has been a huge influence [on me].

Since she wanted to be a flutist, she knows what its like to have a dream like this.”

Dick admits to not knowing if show business is going to be her final destination. The unpredictability of the business leaves Dick in question for her future. Luckily she has planned ahead. Her parents’ musical background also led to her involvement in choir, dance, art, my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“You can never give up.” and her love for English and writing, so if show business doesn’t work out, there is always Plan B. “I just enjoy the arts in general,” said Dick, “and I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t do any of these [activities].”

For now, her plan is to attend UC Davis and participate in the acting/theater program there. Based on her audition, she will be placed as either an actor, director, or on the stage crew. If successful in the program, she hopes someday to reach Broadway or star in a movie. “[Broadway] is appealing to me because singing and acting is something I really enjoy doing,” said Dick. “I’d also think about movies too, because there are some roles I see that I just say ‘I could play that perfectly!’”

It is dreams and ambitions like those of Dick and Armstrong that fuel future success in anything one chooses to pursue. Just imagine how all the rejection, hard work, and stress will pay off in the end. Imagine representing the town of Rocklin on the big screen.

Imagine inspiring others to pursue their dreams just by achieving the spotlight oneself.

By Natalie Pinna

Suvivial Tip for Acting World

by Ms. Cinny Toepke 1.You need to believe in yourself!

2.You need to want it more than anything.

3.You can never give up.

4.You will need to take some sort of formal training.

5.You NEED to be able to take criticism.

Your favorites were...

22.4% ...................................... The Wiz 9.2% .....................................Ghost Light 2.2% ..................... Apppointment with Death 9.6% .................................... All Shook Up 56.6%..Did not attend a theater production

Pride&Prejudice

On Feburary 24th and 25th, our own RHS theater peers auditioned for the last play of the year, Pride & Prejudice.

“I had a lot of students asking me if we could do Pride & Prejudice,”said the director of the play, Ms. Cinny Toepke.

Toepke also explained that it was the juniors specifically begging to do Pride & Prejudice. So she gave them two different versions of the play, one with three daughters, and the other with five, which is the traditional play.

Since the last two shows in the RHS theater were successful, would Pride&Prejudice follow up to their standards?

“Yeah, I believe it certainly could be very successful,” exclaimed Toepke.

Since “The Wiz” was a very upbeat and exciting play, and “Ghost Light” was more mysterious and dark, the romantic comedy sits in between the two, which should be a pleasant change.

Make sure to come see, Pride & Prejudice, in the Performing as Aunt Em in the winter musical, “The WIz”.

RHS theater from April

21st-24th.

Designed by Dominiquie Dates Reported by Jiommy Gibbs

13

The Flash

“I hve a fear of heights, but I still rock climb.”

Living Life on the

Edge...

Rocklin High School students do extreme sports

Whenever people say they want to do something before they die, it is usually the things they are most afraid of doing. Then there are those people who go out and do those things they want to do.

R OH C K C L I M B I N G

anging from a rock, forty feet above the ground may sound terrifying, but to Eddie Egan, a junior, rock climbing is the sport he loves.

“I have a fear of heights, but I still rock climb,” says Egan.

He says a big part of rock climbing is the physical and mental challenges. It takes a lot of strength to pull yourself up but he also has to remind himself not to look down.

On the rock wall at the gym he climbs anywhere from thirty to forty feet high, but if climbing outdoors, Egan says he can’t go more than ten feet high because there is no harness or rope.

“It kind of builds endurance and strength” says Egan. It all started four years ago at a rock climbing summer camp.

Egan does not rock climb with a group of friends but he says the sport allows him to meet a lot of interesting people.

“I liked it so I kept it up” says Egan.

Today he still rock climbs at Granite Arch in Rancho Cordovo about three times a month for two or three hours.

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Snowboarding R

yan Turner, a senior, loves spending winters snowboarding. Ryan began snowboarding at just seven-years old and snowboards at Northstar with his friends from Truckee every season.

Before moving to California, Turner spent his winters in Washington perfecting his ski skills, but decided to make a change and give snowboarding a try.

In the beginning he would snowboard about 120 days a year, this season he has not been able to snowboard as much because he is too busy.

Ryan competed a lot when he was twelve and thirteen years old, but now he doesn’t compete as often. He only races in smaller competitions when they come up. Ryan doesn’t do large competitions to qualify for nationals because he says it is time consuming.

“It is a large commitment, you can’t even miss one competition,” says Turner.

At 15, he was awarded a Northstar sponsorship. “I just snowboard because I have always enjoyed it,” says Turner. myhsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“You are always going, there is no waiting.”

Dirt Riding fast is one of the reasons Wes Nelson, a junior, loves riding dirt bikes and has done so for the past nine years.

Nelson rides his dirt bikes mostly on the desert trails of Reno and Sparks, Nevada, though sometimes riding on the trails of national parks with some of his friends from Whitney. Riding dirt bikes has always been a family event, usually riding with his brother and his dad.

“I haven’t gone in a while ,

By Shilpa Amalkanti

A

I go mostly in the summer,” says Wes. During the summer months, Nelson says he rides every weekend.

Nelson says he does not compete because he prefers to ride for the fun of the sport. “You are always going there is no waiting,” says Wes of the thrill he gets from riding.

His worst injury was one he got when he was ten years old, when he flipped over the handlebars on a jump, breaking his arm.

SKIING

riana Wong has been skiing for 15 years and has been competing for four years. She goes up to the snow as often as possible over weekends and holidays, and even travels to Oregon in the summer to ski.

Wong is a member of the Squaw Valley Ski Team and competes in two leagues.

In competitions she competes in her age group, which is usually fifteen and up, or in the sixteen through seventeen age division. However, in some events, she competes in an open class with skiers of all ages.

The two events she competes in are alpine skiing and skier cross. Alpine skiing includes many events such as slalom and giant slalom where she races to get the best time. When she competes in skier cross some of the other skiers are on the slope at the same time.

She has had a few injuries including a shoulder injury that took her off skis for a month. Ariana says the injury didn’t affect her skiing too much.

“I just came back and started skiing again” says Ariana.

Skiing is something Wong says she will continue to do as she gets older and hopes to attend a college that has her major and a competitive ski team.

“I’ll ski for the rest of my life” says Ariana.

March 2010

Biking “Imagine all the people Living for today.”

Designed by Nick Ragan and Emily Brooks Reported by Paige Chandler

15

The Flash

“If people abandoned the reasons they use to fight, then much of the pain in the world would end.”

Brave New World Do you agree with the John Lennon song’s message?

68% yes 32% no Do you subscribe to a religion?

56.4% yes 43.6% no What’s more important? Nationalism or religion?

50.6% nationalism 49.4% religion If you could change one thing in this world what would it be?

Free In-N-Out -Jake Price “The fact that the people of today are more willing to compromise their rights for the feeling of security.” -Paige Murtaugh “The modern mindset of greed and selfishness.” - Jessica Quittmeyer

If you had no worries and could simply live for today, what would you do?

“Well that’s an easy one, play in the sun and eat candy!” ~ Paige Murtaugh “skydiving, mountin climbing, bullriding...WING SUIT!!!!!!!!!” -Kelly Gruber “I would dress up like robin hood and take candy from the rich and give them to the poor.” -Shannon Rider

What would you give up (personally or as a nation) to end world hunger?

“I would give up Swedish Fish, I love Swedish Fish, so that fact that I would give it up is really saying something.” - Callie Walter “Packaged foods and National super stores like Walmart, stick to local markets and homegrown produce.” -Jessica Quittmeyer

What do you believe is the most important step to world peace and unity?

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.”

- Jimi Hendrix” - Shelby Thomas “Voting smarter” - Rahul Verma

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survey of 285 students, 3.2010 my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“Just imagine a world where everyone feels that they have a voice”

Imagine...

a world where peace reigns

We dream of peace, we dream of prosperity, and yet the world is filled with war and pain. Have you ever imagined a world without fighting? A world without poverty?

Some may call these questions nothing but naive fantasies, but in the end there is no way to change the world without an idea to start you out with.

The world we live in can be an unpleasant place. Disease, famine, constant warfare, and so much more make the lives of many people (especially those that live in less developed countries) little better than hell on earth. But dreamers throughout history have imagined a time when such things are gone when men can live as brothers rather than enemies.

A permananent world peace may seem farfetched, and perhaps it is, but if you think about it, would it really be that hard to create? If people abandoned the reasons they use to fight, then much of the pain in the world would end. Things like absolute nationalism or absolute faith often lead to different groups having irreconcilable differences. These differences, when allowed to fester, more often than not result in violent outbursts that end in everyone losing.

Perhaps if consumerism and greed were not held in such high regard, then we would not have to fight over the things in this world. Now, there are certainly those who would shout “communism!” at the mere sight of these words, but they are fear-mongers and nothing more. Captitalism and democracy are great ideas, but they are far from perfect, and all one has to do is look back at all of the follies that have been commited due to these ideas to see their imperfection.

A little bit of idealogical cleansing is good every now and then. As time goes by, societies slowly become less and less tolerable to its people. In fact even today, according to a national CNN poll, most Americans are dissatisfied with the way that democracy works within our country. When a majority honestly think that the world is not working the way that it should work, then it becomes time to start imagining what it should be like. And imag-

ining a world without war or hunger or pain is not a bad thought. It is often said that war is hell, so a world without it should be at little closer to heaven, right?

A world government or just a unified sense of humanity would make the world so much better. Just imagine a world where everyone feels that they have a voice and that their concerns are being looked into and eventually solved. Many terrorist organizations exist today because they feel that some super-powerful oppressive force (oftentimes the West or more specifically America) is crushing their cultures and subjugating their people. If these people felt as if they were represented in the same government that control that super-powerful force, and if the resources of that force were put to use in bettering the lot of the billions of poor in the world, then their would be no reason to commit the terrible acts of violence that periodically rock both our nation and the world.

Of course, if you want anything to change then it is up to you to do it. Whether it be in your own life or on a world scale, nothing will get done if people do not want it to get done.

Many people would say that they are only one person or are only part of a small group and that they cannot change anything. But if you look back at all the revolutions, all the upheavals in our history, one dedicated person or a small group of driven individuals are the only things that have ever managed to change anything.

If you can imagine a better world, then it is possible to make one.

All you have to do is set your mind to it and make sure that you never give up on your dream. If enough is done, then we can build an Earth that our parents could not even dream of.

By Justin Brooks http://www.obituary.cc

March 2010

Designed by Justin Brooks

Reported by Justin Brooks

17

The Flash

“I don’t want to be just a face, I want to prove something out there on the field.”

Life of a Softball Player It’s a never-ending journey...

It’s

a Friday night and all of your friends are at someone’s house watching movies eating ice cream and staying up late. But are you there? NO. You’re sitting at home alone watching TV with your little sister while your friends are laughing and having a grand time without you. The reasoning behind this is plain and simple.

You have a softball tournament this weekend and your parents don’t want you staying out late so that you can be well rested for tomorrow’s games. Having to wake up at 5:00 AM to get ready, leaving the house by 5:45 and making it to the field by 6:45 to start warm-ups for your 8:00 game down in Stockton is the usual routine for every weekend throughout summer. Welcome to the life of a softball player…

When we were little our dads brought softball into our lives when we were about four or five. We started with the cities Recreational programs, and we all wanted to be a pitcher, or at one point actually was one. Couple years later, we got picked to be on the cities All-Star team, which we thought was the coolest thing ever. After All-Stars we moved on to ASA which is competitive traveling softball. Our first year we thought it was the best, practicing twice a week, traveling to different states and competing in nationals in August.

As the years went on we all got used to traveling, being gone for weeks at a time, and spending every second with our teammates, family, and coaches. We stand out on the field in 100 degree weather with our feet burning because the dirt is so hot, and having scars all over the sides of our stomach from diving back to bags, or diving for grounders.

Those practices that last for four hours, and the coaches that yell at you nonstop. Basically living in hotels all throughout summer and sleeping in airports for hours on end are things that you get used to after a while.

Through 12U’s and 14U’s it was all about having fun, but still working hard. Soon 16U’s and 18U’s came and the time of getting serious about softball in college. Emailing college coaches and attending showcase tournaments happened quickly along with college visits. Before you knew it, it will be our last summer of ASA and we will have to move on to another state to play softball for a new coach and a new team.

Jamie Nakagawa has always dreamed of playing softball in college and getting an athletic scholarship.

“I’ve been playing ASA ever since I was nine, and it has gotten me ready to play softball in college. I’ve had some of the best experiences throughout my childhood and teenage career and I wouldn’t change it for anything. My coaches have been great and help me with deciding on what college to go to.”

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Jamie figures Occidental University would be the best fit for her academically and athletically. She has played right field all her life, and bats left handed giving her more versatility because she slaps, power slaps and hits.

Throughout her years of ASA she has been with the best softball organizations that best suit her in pursuing in her softball college career. Time spent on emailing college coaches, hitting lessons, extra work, and working on getting good grades all put together, Jamie says, has paid off throughout the years.

“I also play for my high school team. High school will help me get ready for ASA in the summer and hopefully I perform well during showcase tournaments so that college scouts can see what I’m capable of doing.

I’m going to miss ASA just because I have been playing with the same group of girls for a while now, and it’s something that I have been doing ever since I was nine years old. ASA has always been a big part of my life, my main priority, and something that I have been working at that has helped me get ready for the college level. My parents and my sister Sara, have supported me throughout my years of playing ASA softball and I’m very thankful to have a family that cares about what I love to do.”

Everyone has something that they love to do whether its art, basketball, dance, or even cooking, people enjoy doing things that relate to them or that they think is interesting. But what it really comes down to is how much you want to succeed, and how much you want to live your dream.

By Cara Delgado

my.hsj,com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Imagine

“That being naked for goodness sakes, is a sinful, shameful matter -- it’s all just a load of bull”

Letting Go

Of Prejudice, Brainwashing, & Frivolous Societal Rules

I

t’s been a year since I ran away to the mountains for a day. As I was driving to school I decided to make one last trip to the Appalachian mountains – three hours away.

After getting lost multiple times, I finally managed to make it to Shenandoah National Park. After my intentions to hike were ruined by lack of food, water, shoes, pants, map, and basic will, I settled for cruising on Skyline Drive for a view of the vistas – and then I met Rugged Shark.

Rugged Shark was a random man I saw airing out his tent on the road. Turns out he was hiking the Appalachian Trail, a 2,000 mile six month journey of awesomeness that I wish to do. In the end we went on a two mile trek up to an AT shelter, where we met up with other hikers such as Beardman and Raggedy Anne.

We dined on noodles and instant coffee in the comfort of each other’s company, and when I returned to my car and drove home, I left with a sense of satisfaction and human connection like I’ve never felt before.

Now, imagine if only people could let down their boundaries for once, so that we could all have a moment with a stranger once in a while, where you connect on something, anything, that brings you that sense of understanding. We

916-783-8611 CALL NOW

• March 29, 30, 31 & April 1 • April 8, 9, & 15, 16

March 2010

are so wrapped up in our own little worlds, and cling so heavily to our prejudices, brainwashing, and rules, that we never break free to just be. People unlike ourselves are seen as enemies. It’s sometimes to such a degree that we become so paranoid about stranger danger that we bar ourselves from moving towards peace. If we see every person that we don’t know as potentially harmfull, or anything that breaks convention as bad, than we are hurting ourselves in creating this world of paranoia and distress.

How is it that we let ourselves get so warped by certain beliefs? Why are we so steadfast in believing false statistics, adhering to the media’s pessimistic view of the world, to religion that tells us to not accept others for who they are. We have so much negativity shoved down our throats from the day we are born, that we seem to believe that it is all true. In reality, we’re being stupid.

That’s really what all of it is. If we could accept, connect, and simply be, many of our world’s problems would cease to exist. Unfortunately, stupidity seems to have some strange appeal to the masses that keeps them running back. For once I wish people could just not care. We spend so much time identifying with certain principles that we put our humanity as secondary, and therein lies the problem.

We’re ridiculous enough to believe that certain sets of principles are holier than thou, that every man on the street is a potential mugger, that being naked for goodness sakes is a sinful, shameful -- it’s all just a load of bull.

Where do these paradigms come from But you know? The world is progressing. I choose to be optimistic and believe that we as people are moving towards tolerance. We just need to smarten up and not allow things like the media to sway us, to let dogma imprison us, to let social prejudice push us to do things that aren’t necessary and only cause problems.

Is it too much to ask to put down the fists of fury and just accept? People will never be uniform. That is the truth, and yet everyday we all do things to fight the truth.

Please. Maybe for once step outside of yourself and view everything you think and believe in from as unbiased of a viewpoint as you can. You never know what things about yourself you can discover.

By Ashley Johnson Designed and Reported by Ashley Johnson & CaraDelgado

19

The Flash

fh

Editor’s Element flash health

For some reason, the stress of being a teenager is largely underestimated. Friendships, relationships, work, and not to mention all that comes along with school, can create a very difficult environment for a student to thrive in.

Temporary stress abuse can lead to other, more serious problems, especially when prolonged. Stress can lead to anxiety and depression, gastrointestinal disorders (such as ulcers), increased difficulty sleeping, intensivity of already existent pain, diffculty with concentration and memory, and even weight gain.

With prom, graduation,A.P. tests, and the end of the semester quickly approaching, here are some tips to dealing with the overwhelming stress familiar with this time of year.

1. Define the problem: The first step to dealing with your stress is identifying what the source of the problem is. Once you have determined what the source is, you can decide what you can do about it. You may want to consider ranking its importance; obviously the more important it is, the faster you should handle it and get it done. Is it in your control or is there nothing you can do about it? If not, leave it alone. It may help if you express your feelings and concerns to others. Find someone you can trust, and let it out.

2. Get Enough Sleep: A majority of teenagers get nowhere close to the recommended nine hours of sleep each night. You can’t expect to be able to handle stressful circumstances without giving your body the time it needs to recuperate and rejuvinate. Try taking a nap for 90 minutes (a hour and a half) then waking up at the end of that sleep cycle. In that time you will have come full circle from a light sleep to a slightly deeper sleep all the way back to the light sleep again. Your body will appreciate the extra time and will be well equipped for what is to come.

3. Eat Healthy: Right along with getting enough sleep is eating healthy and drinking plenty of water. To be in top functioning condition, your body needs energy and your dietary habits are the best way to ensure optimum preparation for your day.

4. Excercise Regularly: When you excercise your body releases endorphins that naturally help to make you happier. Excercise is one of the many ways you can effectively take time for yourself to sort things out or even to blow off some steam.

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5. Manage your Activities: An obvious way to avoid extra stress is to not overload yourself with unnecessary activities. Activities require work and commitment, thus making it highly likely to add stress to your already stressful life. It is important to be able to say no.

By Victoria Clark, Managing Editor

fc

flash college

Imagine yourself, next year. You will be on a new campus. You may be in a new town. You will definitely be in a new place in your life. Whether you are going across town or across the country, you will be beginning your life as an adult. Many of us have already started the final countdown to graduation – myself included- but there are still items to check off your to-do list.

For starters, it is vital to check-in with all of the schools you have applied to. The websites provided by the colleges act as an important link between student and school; use the log-in information given to you in e-mails to check your application, admission and financial aid statuses. Some schools will use this communication pathway to notify you of acceptance and/or financial aid packages.

In addition, you may want to call school for information that you are not clear on. For instance, if you want to verify that the school has received your FAFSA, or if you are wondering when financial aid packages will be mailed, simply call the number of the admissions or financial aid office on the school’s website. Don’t be intimidated about calling the colleges, they are used to calls and understand that you are simply being responsible about your future. Talking to representatives of the phone may also give you a feel for the college itself.

Once you have been accepted to a school, they may send you other forms to be completed, or ask for additional tax information. You should complete their requests as soon as possible, not only to ensure that you receive the aid that you need, but also to show your enthusiasm for attending the school.

Remember, the colleges that you have been accepted to hold the right to revoke admission if your grades are not consistent throughout your senior year. Even if you are feeling the senioritis right about now, try to find motivation to finish the year as your future college expects you to. We all know that this is easer said than done, but just think of yourself next year at college and it will all be worth it.

Soon, you will be signing the form of admission into the my.hsj,com/ca/rocklin/rhs

Columns college, and all that you have worked so diligently on this year will be a thing of the past. So do not fret, the forms will eventually come to an end. We are all stressing or maybe relaxing too much, during the home stretch; but imagine next year, in a new place, in a new mindset, and push through to the end.

By Shannon Stowers, Co-Editor-in-Chief

watch on every single thing we put into our mouths, and being young we don’t necessarily have the pressure to stay as healthy as our parents. Just because it doesn’t show, don’t let yourself go.

We love convenience, who doesn’t? And I’m not necessarily advocating eating in for every single meal. But if you’re sitting at home deciding what to have, instead of reaching for the car keys to pick up some In-N-Out, opt for this healthy, delicious and easy to make meal and the healthier lifestyle you’ve been imagining can happen In recent weeks, a series of earthquakes have hit not only without having to sacrifice taste.

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil Recipe Haiti, but Chile, Taiwan, and Eastern Turkey as well. These Ingredients tremors have taken thousands of lives, the most prominent 6 or 7 ripe plum tomatoes (about 1 1/2 lbs), 2 cloves disaster being Haiti’s 7.0 magnitude earthquake with an garlic, minced, 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon aggregate death toll of between 217,000 and 230,000 peobalsamic vinegar, 6-8 fresh basil leaves, chopped, Salt and ple, along with Chile’s estimated 700. The Chilean earthquake also shifted the earth’s axis and changed parts of freshly ground black pepper to taste, 1 baguette French the earth’s crust—the length of the day has gotten shorter bread or similar Italian bread, 1/4 cup olive oil Method by 1.26 microseconds, or millionths of a second, and the 1 Prepare the tomatoes first. Parboil the tomatoes for Santa Maria Island off the coast of Chile has been raised by 2 meters (in the 2004 9.1 magnitude earthquake that one minute in boiling water that has just been removed caused the Indian Ocean tsunami, the length of the day from the burner. Drain. Using a sharp small knife, remove the skins of the tomatoes. Once the tomatoes are peeled, was shortened by 6.8 microseconds).

The emotional toll of these disasters will stick around far cut them in halves or quarters and remove the seeds and longer than their physical ruin—which, especially in Hai- juice from their centers. Also cut out and discard the stem ti’s case, could be years. The earthquakes have flattened area.

2 Turn on the oven to 450°F to preheat. villages, created orphans, and ruined entire ways of life.

3 While the oven is heating, chop up the tomatoes finely.

The earthquakes even crushed facilities necessary to respond to the crisis, such as hospitals, transport facilities, Put tomatoes, garlic, 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, vinegar and communication systems; the roads were blocked or in a bowl and mix. Add the chopped basil. Add salt and broken, most of the radio stations went off the air, and tele- pepper to taste.

4 Slice the baguette on a diagonal about 1/2 inch thick phone systems were not available to civilians.

At this point, however, there has been a total of $2.1 bil- slices. Coat one side of each slice with olive oil. Place lion given to the relief fund for Haiti and another $1.3 bil- on a cooking sheet, olive oil side down. You will want to lion pledged, due to the generosity of individuals around toast them in the top rack in your oven. Once the oven has the world, most prominently the United States. The Haitian reached 450°F, place a tray of bread slices in the oven earthquake was a wake-up call to pay attention to the world on the top rack. Toast for 5-6 minutes, until the bread just around us, to not help only in the aftermath of tragedy; Haiti’s begins to turn golden brown.

Alternatively, you can toast the bread without coating infrastructure has been in a vulnerable condition since the it in olive oil first. Toast on a griddle for 1 minute on each days of Toussaint L’Ouverture’s Haitian Revolution. Hopefully this aid will continue in the days to come, but only time side. Take a sharp knife and score each slice 3 times. Rub some garlic in the slices and drizzle half a teaspoon of will tell if we learn from our mistakes in delaying help. olive oil on each slice. This is the more traditional method

By Alicia French, Columnist of making bruschetta.

5 Align the bread on a serving platter, olive oil side up.

Either place the tomato topping in a bowl separately with a spoon for people to serve themselves over the bread, We all occasionally find ourselves thinking about leading or place some topping on each slice of bread and serve. a healthier lifestyle than the one we have, but rarely do we If you top each slice with the tomatoes, do it right before follow through 24/7. serving or the bread may get soggy.

Being in high school it’s difficult to keep a constant

By Lauren Bloemker, Editor-In-Chief

fw

fc

flash world

flash Culinary

March 2010

Design by Shannon Stowers

21

The Flash

If you have My Life Sucks stories of your own, e-mail them to the flash to be in the next issue!

My Life Sucks

“Today I went to school…”

“I was hanging out with this guy I thought I was talking to in November. All of a sudden his girlfriend let herself in his house. I had to hide in his room for a half an hour.

He never told me she existed. I never spoke to him again.”

“I ruined my knee and it ruined my senior season and made my high school career seem pointless.”

“I lost a lot of my memory over summer because of head injuries, and I walked up to hit on this pretty girl. She got pissed and slapped me. Turns out she was my ex.”

“I was racing my aunts boyfriend on the street with dirtbikes. I sped into the turn and fell onto the side of the bike and rolled for like 20 feet. I got scarred up on my elbows and legs. Worst week of showers.”

“I worked hard to clear up a no mark. Afterwards, I looked on Edline and found out I was failing another class. The new plus period started the next day.”

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my.hsj.com/ca/rocklin/rhs

MLS

E-mail your stories to rhsflash@gmail.com, and look for it to be published in the next issue!

“My alcoholic grandmother is a guest in our house and has no intention of leaving.”

“The week after I fell off of my bike, I decided to go down a hill on my friend’s ripstick. On the way down, I hit a rock and went flying.”

“My car stalled at a stoplight and wouldn’t start again for another five minutes.”

“My girlfriend wanted to go see a movie. However, I couldn’t because I had make-up work. She asked again the next day, but I couldn’t because I had to help my grandma with her house and car. Now she’s really mad.”

March 2010

Design byShannon Stowers and Lauren Bloemker

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