The Santa Rosan Volume 10 Issue 4

E-cigs are becoming more and more widespread among teens.

See page 6.

Students discuss the impacts of the Andy Lopez shooting. See pages 8-9.

The fine arts classes run a holiday sale before dead week. See page 12.

Senior Jaeli Samonte serves the ball against Rancho Cotati on Senior Night. See page 14. Photo by Celine Sargis

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NEWS

Staff of the Santa Rosan Editors-in-Chief Trevor Greenan Jenifer Moretto Simon Managing Editor Isabella Froman Photography Editor Celine Sargis Marketing Editor Bryna Haugen Editorial Board Audrey Clark Milena Duarte Alesana Sunia Staff Britany Anderson Adriana Baez

Jack Brady Lindsay Bribiescas Raven Cipes Ally Daly Aaliyah Elias Sabrina Elias Tracy Fernandez Eryn Francavilla Sebastian Froman Miranda McCann Ally McCulloch Dakota McGranahan Alaina McIntyre Esteban Nunez Thomas Pastis Kylee Schroth Justin Thurman Ethan Vickrey Opal White Adviser Casey Elsa

Note: The views expressed in this newspaper are those of the Santa Rosan staff as approved by the Santa Rosan newspaper staff and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the school, students, faculty or the Santa Rosa City School District. An effort will be made to print all letters to the editor, as long as they are signed. The Santa Rosan reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, and factual correctness, but will not guarantee their accuracy. Letters should be delivered to Ms. Elsa, room D101, or put in her mailbox.

Rohnert Park’s Big Gamble New casino, Graton Resort & Casino, opens up in Rohnert Park Miranda McCann Staff Writer This past year, nearly a billion dollars were invested in building Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park. The casino offers many gambling opportunities and thirteen awardwinning dining options.

Graton Casino is part of a continuous lawsuit regarding increased crime, negative environmental impacts, and a lack of local regulations. Because the casino resides on Native American property, it is not required to follow all California state laws.

Smoking (which has been banned in California since 1995) is allowed in the casino, and while those under 21 are not allowed on the official gambling floor, they are still exposed to the secondhand smoke.

Traffic around Rohnert Park has increased since the arrival of Graton Casino; on opening day, cars were backed up for miles on the 101 freeway.

“I hate the casino. It costs

Providing over 2,000 jobs, the Graton Resort and Casino is already becoming a large part of the local economy. Photo by Miranda McCann

us a lot of money, and I don’t see the reason for it. We already have two others, don’t we?” said Freshman Fredy Perez.

However, the casino is providing over 2,000 jobs, and is benefitting the local economy.

It increases the local tax revenues while providing entertainment to the locals. The casino offers 13 alternative dining options, ranging from a gourmet steakhouse to a down-to-earth ice cream shop.

“It made us have a lot more traffic, but I appreciate it because it provided a lot of jobs

and cheered up previously unemployed people,” said Freshman Catherine Brunet.

Although the casino’s primary audience is adults, there are attractions for all ages.

There are sections where everyone is permitted, mainly surrounding the restaurants.

The food is well-made and served quickly.

The location includes 3,000 slot machines, 144 table games, and 13 restaurants, covering 254 acres. Graton Casino is owned by 1,300 descendants of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria.

Long-time ceramics teacher Lou Sparks to retire at the semester Sebastian Froman Staff Writer Isabella Froman Managing Editor Beloved ceramics teacher Lou Sparks has recently announced that she will be retiring at the end of the semester. She teaches two periods of ceramics during first and second period.

Though her students were devastated to hear of her departure, Sparks states that it’s for the best. “Family concerns would have taken me out of the classroom next

semester for extended periods of time, so after much discussion, we decided that it would be best if I resign my position,” she wrote in a letter that she gave to her class.

Sparks was said to be an all-around wonderful ceramics teacher. Her graphic design background gave her the tools she needed to teach a fun, creative class with a productive environment.

“When she’s teaching, it’s very relaxed. We make sure we get our stuff done on time, but she’ll give us more time if we need it. I felt like I could produce my best work when she’s there,” said Junior Grace Corley.

Senior Karina Banks agreed, saying, “She’d let us have a lot of freedom with

our art.”

Though Sparks will be missed by many, the SRHS art department and its students are fortunate to have had her during the time she was here.

NEWS

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Calendar by Isabella Froman

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FEATURES

Stepping Up Q&A with new cheer coach Jackie Clare Eryn Francavilla Staff Writer Santa Rosa High finally has a cheer coach; Twenty-five year old Jackie Clare coaches both the junior varsity and varsity cheer teams. SRHS cheerleaders are now able to get back to their normal routine of performing at games, stunting, and learning new halftime routines.

How did you hear about the job?

I heard about the job from one of the cheerleader’s moms that I used to work with.

Why did you apply?

Because cheerleading is something I love doing, and I wanted to continue doing it after high school. I got hurt so I couldn’t do it, so I decided to put my skills into a team that would be willing to work as hard as I did.

New cheer coach Jackie Clare used to cheer with the 49ers before an injury that put her on the path to coaching.

Photo by Jackie Clare

What past experiences have you had with cheer?

I have 15 years of cheer experience, [I was] Pop Warner all through high school, and I was supposed to cheer with the 49’s but I got hurt. I cheered with the Golden State Warriors cheerleaders, and I coached for three years.

What changes have you made to the cheer team, and what changes do you plan to make in the future?

Well, we’ve made changes to dances, we’re bonding way better, and I’m going to make sure the girls have uniforms and warm-ups, go to camp, and get the full experience with the four years they need to have. Oh, and I’m not going to walk out.

How-to: The College Interview Jack Brady Staff Writer Everyone knows of colleges that examine student test scores, judge applicants based on their essay content and word count, and even go so far as to decide based on the race or income rating of people wishing to apply. But another sort of test exists, known as the

“applicant interview.” You’ll usually be contacted via phone or email and told that college admissions has set up an appointment for you. The interviewer might contact you themselves. If this is the case, you should verify that the appointment is legitimate with your college’s admissions office. Here are some things to keep in mind before the day of the interview.

Be well-rested, good- Research Your Col- Ask Questions Though this interhumored, and punc- lege This might also seem view has some profestual These criteria can like an obvious point, sional undertones, try only be met outside of the interview. They should be quite selfexplanatory. Being late doesn’t make you look good, and it could even change the interviewer’s attitude towards you completely, whereas at first it might have been optimistic.

Interviewers want to say and think good things about you. This is your moment to shine, and simply not being there on time or acting cranky are sure ways to lose that shine. It would be best to arrive at least ten minutes early.

though it really does show your appreciation for the school. It tells the interviewer that you didn’t just choose it for its name or because of friends. Oftentimes, there are key qualities within your target school that you should mention, some interesting program or schedule or part of campus life that is unlike any other.

The interviewers love to hear things like this, because they are on your side and are more likely to write a lengthy report.

By referencing your research, you give them more to work with in their report to your college.

and visualize it as a normal conversation.

Ask questions. Show interviewers that you’re interested in their opinions and in their knowledge.

It would be best to write a few good ones down before your meeting. As a rule of thumb, the questions are usually saved for the end.

Make them count.

Ask to clarify something or for thier experience with the college.

It makes you seem sociable, a valued trait in most college students.

SRHS 140th Birthday Open House

What do you think of the team so far?

They have the ability to go so far and to be a competition squad if they wanted to. [Also], they have skills of every level, and its going to be a great season.

Are you planning on taking the girls to any competitions?

Yes. Probably next year, because it’s already mid-season and we can’t do it now.

Are you planning on staying on as the Santa Rosa High cheer coach?

As long as I feel it’s fun for me and the girls, then yes, I’m not going anywhere.

In celebration of its 140th anniversary, Santa Rosa High School will be hosting an open house on March 30, 2014. As part of the event, the administrators would like to invite groups from across campus to participate. This could range from ArtQuest specialties to FFA groups to departments and clubs from around campus. Anyone interested should contact Susan Burch at president@srhsstpo.org.

FEATURES

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Fun ways to spend your winter break Sabrina Elias Staff Writer As students are noticing, that time of year is getting closer. Those much-needed breaks are always going to have time to spare. Many get bored and don’t know what to do, when really, there is plenty to do. Here is a list of fun activities: Visiting Snoopy’s Home Ice: This fun ice arena is located on 1667 W. Steele Lane. The arena offers a café and a full range of skating activities with both public and private times. Go online to get more details at http://www.snoopyshomeice.com.

The Union Square Ice Rink: Getting away from town is good once in awhile. A day in San Francisco at the Union Square Ice rink is an exciting activity during the Holidays. Located on 333 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108. To visit the website and get details

Santa Rosa Ski and Sport: Going to Tahoe for a winter-like feeling can bring family and friends Picking up a good book: The closer with the joys of snow. Santa Fault in Ours Stars, by John Green, Rosa Ski and Sport goes to all ski is an amazing book to sit down to. resorts in Tahoe on a bus. It’s about This book is about a sixteen year $60 for a ski lift ticket and a four old cancer patient named Hazel hour drive both ways. The bus who is forced by her parents to at- drives you up to Tahoe to any ski tend a support group, where she resort at 5 AM and the comes back subsequently meets a seventeen down at 4PM, arriving at approximately 8:30 PM in Santa Rosa. It’s a year old named Augustus Waters. great way to have fun for teens that don’t drive.

Chopping down the tree: Instead of going somewhere to buy Be a cook: Learn some new a Christmas tree, grabbing some recipes over the break and impress friends or family and going to chop people with your new cooking one down can be a new and memo- skills! Go online and find new ideas rable experience and be the next best cook in your family.

Getting crafty: Find some cool arts and craft ideas online or goGetting to work: If you’re not ing to your local library and look old enough to apply for a job, neighthrough how-to books to get ideas bors will appreciate some yard on making new items. It’s a great work. Being considerate of others way to switch it up a little and make will not only earn you money but help you feel better emotionally. things interesting. for times, events and more, go to http://unionsquareicerink.com.

Enjoying a nice, warm cup of hot chocolate can be a nice way to relax over the winter break. Photo by Sabrina Elias

Be warm and cozy: There is nothing better than sitting around the fire with family or friends with warm hot chocolate, movies, or even just good conversation and laughter.

A multitude of volunteering options for this holiday season Alaina McIntyre Staff Writer During the holidays,it’s easy to be consumed in personal interests like what you’re getting for Christmas or what you want to do for the break. But, it’s important to think about those who aren't as lucky. Santa Rosa has the highest number of homeless people in Sonoma County.

So while you’re shopping for presents or just laying around during break, think of something you could do to help someone else. If you can't think of anything, here are some ideas.

Look through your cupboards for some canned foods like soup, tuna, peanut butter, or even boxes of macaroni and cheese. The Redwood Empire Food Bank, located at 320 Industrial Drive, Santa Rosa, CA, is a great place to drop off non-perishable food items. If that’s too inconvenient, most grocery stores have a food donation bin. If you're feeling extra helpful you could even sign up to be a volunteer at the location listed above.

Get a few boxes of cake mix or even brownie mix (you can buy some for 99 cents at Walmart) and devote a day to baking for those less fortu-

nate than you. You can even invite friends over and turn it into a party. There are many shelters that accept baked goods, but there are few in Santa Rosa. The Family Support Center, located at 465 A Street, Santa Rosa, as well as the Redwood Gospel Mission, located at 101 6th Street, Santa Rosa, are two options.

Take some time to write a letter to deployed troops. It’s good to show gratitude to those who serve our country and can’t be home for the holidays. Letters can be sent to Operation Gratitude at 17330 Victory Boulevard Van Nuys, CA 91406. You could start your letter with “Dear Hero,” and thank them for their service. Tell them a little about yourself. Avoid talking about politics and death. More information is listed on operationgratitude.com.

A lot of families don't have the money to buy winter clothes, so you could always go through your closet and find unwanted clothes. Most shelters accept clothing donations. Goodwill has a donation site located at 1116 4th Street, Santa Rosa.

These are just a few ideas of things you could do over the break, because helping others is a great way to spend the holidays. It’s definitely worth it to take time and help other people.

Several locations for helping out Redwood Empire Food Bank - 320 Industrial Drive, Santa Rosa, CA The Family Support Center - 465 A Street, Santa Rosa, CA Redwood Gospel Mission - 101 6th Street, Santa Rosa, CA Goodwill - 1116 4th Street, Santa Rosa, CA

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FEATURES

New e-cigs trend may have undesirable consequences Smoking e-cigs is becoming more and more popular among teenagers.

However, the addictive effects of nicotine remain the same as in normal cigarettes, posing a danger to high school students.

Photo by Alaina McIntyre

The effects of nicotine in electronic cigarettes Raven Cipes Staff Writer Electronic cigarettes are a trending topic among teens’ conversations, and can now be found on 10% of high school students according to NBC News. E-cigs are battery-powered pens that release water vapor. Cartridges are bought and added to the vapor pens to give them flavor, and, if desired, nicotine can be inserted.

Many teens pick up hookah pens, ecigs, or vaporizer pens as an alternative to smoking, when in fact the nicotine is just as damaging in an e-cig as it would be in a regular cigarette.

Aside from the assorted flavors, the only non-harmful part of the pen, there are many risks that accompany smoking vaporizer pens. One of these is the nicotine addiction that develops.

Nicotine is commonly thought to relax you and your brain, but in reality this is not the case. It actually speeds up your emotions and creates a spike in adrenaline.

A few common side-effects that are associated with this drug can be heartburn, stomach pains, belching, and coughing.

Whether the cigarette used for smoking nicotine is electronic or regular, the drug has the same effect on the body and brain.

Other than just being used as an alternative to smoking, it is a portable and easy way to get high when liquid THC, the chemical in marijuana, is inserted. THC mainly affects your brain and can cause serious disorientation, ruin your ability to problem solve, see correctly, comprehend, and can make you very drowsy. Long-term use can damage your lungs and heart and their ability to fight infections, and can cause paranoia and other psychotic emotions.

No ban at the moment has been placed on e-cigs because there is no risk of second-hand smoke, but THC and nicotine are still drugs that are illegal for minors. Aside from the assorted flavors, the only nonharmful part of the pen, there are many risks that accompany smoking from vaporizer pens.

The healthier choice? them because of the supposed ‘healthier’ choice.”

Another issue is that Staff Writer there is an array of fun flavors that can be added into When electronic ciga- the e-cigs, making them rettes were released and much more appealing to began to move up the pop- teenagers. The fact that the ularity scale, e-cigs are much smokers and cheaper benonsmokers cause they do Many people alike rejoiced. not have heavy believe that An electronic tobacco taxes e-cigs are cigarette, or eand instead cig as it’s more have only sales healthier, commonly taxes (though but they still known, is a this will most casing, usually likely change in can be remade of plasnear future) sponsible for the tic, that has a makes them a nicotine battery.

The much more acuser then adds cessible. addiction. a cartridge of Raeanne a flavor, or for Johnson, also smokers, nicotine, that will a Sophomore, has a slightmix with the water vapor ly different opinion from when the e-cig is turned on. White. “I think that they Many people say that e- are pointless and people use cigs are much healthier than them as a fashion statement, a regular cigarette because and I don’t think they are the user is inhaling water any harm,” she said. vapor instead of smoke. The The Wall Street Jourproblem is,the smoker is still nal website states, “The addicted to nicotine, which proportion of middle- and is a drug. When asked her high-school kids who have thoughts, Delaney White, a used e-cigarettes doubled Sophomore, stated, “I think to nearly 7%, or almost 2 people are more drawn to million students, between

Opal White

2011 and 2012, according to a recent report by the CDC.” This poses a problem, because many people believe that the e-cigs will turn into a gateway for nicotine addiction in younger kids.

Although studies show that e-cigs are healthier than the traditional option, many people still believe that they are unhealthy. There are not many restrictions because there is no second-hand smoke.

Ms. Correia, an assistant principal at Santa Rosa High School, stated that they would treat a student with an e-cig the same way they would treat a student with a traditional cigarette.

The debate is whether or not restrictions should be placed on e-cigs at the state and federal levels. Not many tests have been conducted on e-cigs, causing it to be hard to determine the lasting effects.

They may be the healthier choice now, but they will most likely be modified in the future. It is impossible to tell what the real effects will be on this younger generation.

OPINION

Helpful/Hurtful: This month’s

Need advice on an issue? Don’t mind being brutally insulted? Then feel free to write to the Santa Rosan! Questions can be submitted to Ms. Elsa in Room D101 or through email to santarosan@gmail.com.

an Advice Column

Questions:

1. I hate my coworkers, I don’t like talking to them, but they insist on staying on my shift to talk to me. How do I tell them nicely that I don’t like them?

2. My friends won’t stop teasing me. But it’s getting more and more annoying. I know it’s a joke but I can’t stand it anymore. I tell them to stop but they never take me seriously. What do I do?

aren’t so disrespectful that it will get to this point, but if it does, you at least have justification for getting very upset.

Isabella Froman Managing Editor 1. The simplest way to get them off your back is probably to tell them that while they’re “great and all” (even if you don’t think so), it’s really distracting to have them around while you’re working.

Blaming it on your concentration allows you to push them away without ruining your professional relationships. What can they say?

Tell you to put them before work?

If the pestering persists, you now have an excuse to get your employer involved.

Tell him or her that your job performance is being affected by your co-workers. The problem will likely disappear quickly.

If that doesn’t work (though I’m sure it will), you’ll have to straight-out tell them to please leave you alone while you work. Tell them again and again with increasing force until they stop.

Hopefully your co-workers

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2. First, make sure that when you tell your friends to lay off, you say it with a straight face and an earnest tone. If you say it with a light tone, it won’t be taken seriously, even if you mean it.

If you have tried to be serious, you may need to sit them down and tell them why it bothers you and that they need to stop.

If even that doesn’t work, you may need to evaluate your friendships with these people. Friends who won’t listen to and respect your needs are not friends worth having.

Even though it sounds harsh to drop your friends like that, it may be warranted -- especially if the teasing turns malicious and you suspect the “jokes” are really passiveaggressive insults.

Really, you need to think about the importance of these friendships. Is it worth having friends who incessantly tease you? How much work should it take to make them cut it out? If the answer to the first question is no, and you think you’ve exceeded the answer to the second, you know it’s time to make a change.

Thomas Pastis Staff Writer 1. If it were me, I would tell them that straight; just a quick ‘I hate you’ can solve the problem. But, of course, you’re not me, so you probably want something less abrasive.

Okay, so obviously, stick to your guns. Passive-aggression, such as writing to the local paper about your co-workers rather than just talking to them, is often a good solution.

There are many different types of passive-aggression, but my favorite has always been borderline aggression.

For example, if your coworker has a cup of coffee or whatever in his hand, conspicuously get up and knock the coffee out of his hand, with an insincere, ‘Oops, sorry.’ Then, just to drive your point home, make sure to ‘accidentally’ step on their toes, and maybe scratch their car with your keys on the way out- accidentally, of course. They will get the message, and, respecting your candor, they will leave

you alone without incident.

If this doesn’t work, deal with the problem yourself. Steal some money out of the register, making sure that no one sees you, of course.

Pocket the money and blame it on your chatty co-worker.

Then, during his shift, go into whatever store you work in, and steal some more money. Then, your co-worker gets fired for stealing, and you get money! You can sit back afterwards, relax, and count your money during a co-worker-free shift.

2. First, if you want a quick, direct solution, a right hook is always effective. Aim an uppercut for the chin, because that’s an instant K.O, but again, this might be too effective a solution for you.

If this strategy isn’t for you, there are other ways of getting out of this delicate situation. Often, delicate situations require a quick display of thoughtless force, so when your friend starts to tease you, yell ‘shut up’ as loudly and as shrilly as you can.

Your friend will immediately recognize that he was out of bounds and cease annoying you. If the problem persists, you can always result to the Muhammad Ali method of conflict resolution (right hook to the jaw).

How students on campus feel A random sample of 200 students was asked several questions concerning gun violence and their own personal safety. The following are their responses.

Do you feel safe in the Santa Rosa community?

Yes: 190 No: 10 Do you feel protected by the police?

Yes: 120 No: 40 Have you ever witnessed gun violence among your friends?

Yes: 24 No: 176

According to socalairsoft.com: Individuals in the U.S. must be 18 years of age or older to purchase an Airsoft gun.

An “imitation firearm” is any BB device or gun replica that could be perceived as a weapon.

Any person who changes, alters, or removes any markings that make the device look more

The after-eff Andy Lope On October 22, a 13 year old boy was shot in Santa Rosa by deputy Erick Gelhaus after his Airsoft gun was mistaken for a real weapon. Shot seven times, he was dead within seconds. In the aftermath of this shooting, protests have been held across the state, the story has reached national attention, and questions have been raised concerning the actions of

“A child or teen is shot every 30 minutes,” according to the Children’s Defense Fund, a non-profit child advocacy organization.

Ins your he

like a firearm is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Any person who gives a BB device to a minor, without the permission his or her parent or leToy AK-47

gal guardian, is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Real AK-47

Content contributed by Trevor Greenan, Jenifer Moretto Simon, Milena Duarte, Celine Sargis, Alaina McIntyre, and Audrey Clark Gun photos courtesy of Creative Commons

Homicide is the second leading 12-19, according to the John Ho

ffects of the ez shooting the police in this situation.

The topics of racism, police brutality, and gun ownership laws have all been brought into the spotlight, making this a weighty issue for discussion. However, although there is some debate as to the specific issues that need to be taken into account, there is a widespread mindset that something has to change.

sert face ere

“Between 1979 and 2010, 119,079 children and teens died from guns,” according to the Children’s Defense Fund, a nonprofit child advocacy organization.

“This is more deaths in 32 years than US soldier killed in the Vietnam, Korean, Iraq, and Afghanistan wars combined.”

g cause of death for youth, ages opkins School of Public Health.

The dangers caused by gun ownership vent innocent people from being killed by accidental or unjustified shootings. Even the most trained and experienced firearm Editorial Board experts, such as the deputy sheriff who We can’t forget the devastating event shot Andy Lopez, made the mistake that that occurred within the past month, the Andy Lopez was carrying a real firearm death of Andy Lopez. His death sparked a and, arguably, overreacted, shooting him controversy across the country and turned seven times. the heads of many people. Questions were How do we stop gun violence in our asked, accusations were made, and people nation? How do you protect a citizen’s continue to fight for justice. Because of all second amendment right to bear arms and the twists and turns in the story, we are still protect a society from unjustified killings? in the process of learning the exact details People are beginning to realize that the of this tragic event. violence has gone too far. There are now A comparable incident, the Trayvon proposed laws that require all guns to be Martin shooting, happened on February registered nationally and to keep them 26, 2012. He was a young African American safely guarded and out of reach from chilteenager killed by neighborhood watch dren. Also, background checks would be volunteer George Michael Zimmerman mandatory for those who want to purchase in Stanford, Florida. guns.

The main similarOne of the solutions ity between Andy to prevent another “... the US has the Lopez’s and Trayvon Andy Lopez incident best-armed civilian Martin’s cases is that from occurring, sugthe shooters believed gested by Efren Carrillo, population in the they were in the is that officers should world, with an estiright, one protectwear cameras to record ing himself and the their actions as well as mated 270 million other protecting his their contact with the total guns.” community. The two public. County Super-Small Arms Survey incidents are factuvisers ended up voting ally different, but in unanimously to spend the end, two innocent $250,000 on lapel camboys were killed. eras for police officers.

Both events caused an uproar in the Another is making toy guns look less community and the nation. We can’t help realistic, such as by making fake guns but ask, “Have guns made us safer as a sotransparent or more colorful. Noreen ciety, or are they now the problem?” More Evans and Kevin de Leon have introduced innocent people are being killed accident- the “Imitation Firearms Safety Act,” which ly and purposely by guns. The question is, would place all BB guns in the toy cat“Who is to blame?” egory, requiring that they be painted with Gun advocates such as the NRA, the bright colors. The question is, “Will it be National Rifle Association, say, “Guns don’t enough?” kill people. People kill people.” However, The answer is no, we will never be able according to the Geneva-based Small to reduce gun violence to zero, because we Arms survey, “…the U.S has the bestare imperfect human beings who make armed civilian population in the world, mistakes when motivated by fear, greed, with an estimated 270 million total guns.” jealousy, and hatred. What we can do is In addition, washingtonpost.com states show our communities that violence is not that, “… there is an average of nine guns the answer and address people’s individual for every ten Americans.” Because there motives to act out violently. are so many guns, it’s impossible to pre-

Milena Duarte

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OPINION

Interview with Ms. Correia New Assistant Principal Andrea Correia discusses the Santa Rosa High School dress code.

Andrea Correia is a new addition to the SRHS administrative staff this year, and has taken a leading role in cracking down on the dress code.

Photo by Dakota McGranahan, interview transcribed by Jack Brady

What are some of the things you look for when you’re going to grab someone because of a dress code violation?

Boys are a bit easier than girls in the sense of what they wear to school. A lot of times boys will wear more than one piece of a certain color that the district has designated as a color that is affiliated with inappropriate behavior. So we will ask them to not have more than two articles of that color of clothing.

Boys are not allowed to wear certain color belts and certain color belt buckles; that will bring my attention to them. So we’ll ask them to take those off. Anything that is affiliated with alcohol, drugs, weaponry, in any way [is a problem]. And also, their booties sagging out. If it’s pretty low, and I can see their underwear, I’m gonna ask them to pull their pants up.

There are a lot more areas for girls to step over that dress code line, I guess. And I think it really depends on the administrator.

I know in the past some administrators have felt maybe uncomfortable going up to girls.

I do not feel uncomfortable, I have two daughters. I’m a mom, and I will tell any of

you the same things I would tell my girls or my son.

If you went to the Homecoming dance, I may have asked, “Do you have shorts on underneath that dress?” If you don’t, I’m going to ask you to put some on. Anything that’s like cut out and I can see your undergarments, I’m gonna ask you to cover up.

Any article of clothing that doesn’t have bands or sleeves or tube tops[is a problem].

It’s not that I think those are inappropriate, I just think they’re inappropriate for school ,and there’s a couple reasons why.

So number one, because it’s a safety issue. If you were to fall, you could hurt yourself, you could bruise yourself and not have clothing on to protect you. Someone could come up behind and “Shoop!” and then it’s like, “Hi, nice to meet you.” And then you’ll be “tube girl” and that might be embarrassing, so we don’t want that to happen.

Also, I think that it’s distracting for some people. You know, I think that you have a school with thirteen or fourteen year old kids and eighteen, nineteen, twenty year old kids. And there’s a huge growth difference between thirteen and nineteen, right?

So a thirteen year old who’s in high school for the first time, [with] these senior ladies that are wearing practically bikinis to school, it could be distracting. [School] should be a comfortable, safe place for them to come and learn, and that’s what we want.

If a male student came to school in a tube top, how would that be handled?

Oh yeah, he’d have to cover that up too.

Are strapless dresses okay at dances like Prom and Homecoming?

Yeah, of course you can wear strapless dresses to Prom, we’ve let that go at Homecoming and Back to School Night. That’s an appropriate time for something like that.

And in most cases, we’re talking about very expensive, beautiful dresses, they’re covered up and it’s a gown.

What are the consequences for students who refuse to address breaking the dress code?

I have never run into that. I mean most kids are really great if we ask them to cover something up. I’ve never had a kid give me attitude, I’ve never had anyone be disrespectful, I mean they’re great, you know they’re like “Oh yeah, sorry about that, I’ll cover it up.”

If we have a student who is dressing inappropriately for school and has been asked several times, we’re gonna document that.

We’re gonna bring them into the office, sit down and talk to them, probably call home, tell the parents what the situation is and really get everybody on the same page.

If it continues to happen, we’ll have a conference, like any other form of defiance, we’d have the parents come in, we’d sit down, we’d talk about it, probably put them on a contract, tell them this is inappropriate, this is distracting, whatever the case may be.

And if they continue, at that point it’s not the dress code, it’s defiance and it’s behavior.

They will be held accountable for that, not for wearing the clothes they’re wearing.

Do you think the dress code is something positive, or a policy that most students will rebel against?

I think it’s really positive and I don’t think kids are gonna want to rebel against it.

For as many people as I have had say, “Well we didn’t do that last year,” I‘ve had people come up to me and say, “Thank you, you asked that person to cover up.” I think a lot of kids are relieved that it’s going to be taken care of, that they don’t have to see it.

How many times have you seen somebody walk into your classroom and been like “Good lord have mercy?” I know I’ve said it about a million times, and I know you have too.

So it’s actually a little bit of relief to not have to worry about. And I think it is positive because we’re not asking them to wear turtlenecks and long skirts, you know, this isn’t 1917, Utah.

OPINION

Failing the Students:

Trevor Greenan Editor-in-Chief With finals fast approaching and winter break just around the corner, students are looking at the last push of schoolwork before first semester finals.

However, for many Seniors on campus, the focus of the next few weeks will be on the looming college application deadlines.

And with these deadlines comes

the added stress of figuring out how to finance the next few years in college. For many, this will mean the acquisition of student loans.

Although these loans can create beneficial opportunities for students with lower incomes who would otherwise not be able to afford a college education, they all carry with them the key detriment of student loan debt.

Within six months of graduation, students are expected to begin making payments on their debts, which averaged about $29,400 in total for the class of 2012, according to the Project on Student Debt at The Institute for College Access and Success, in an annual report.

But the main issue with these student loan debts is the fact that they cannot be dismissed by bankruptcy. In fact, the only way to discharge these debts is

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Student loan debt crippling college graduates in the U.S.

by proving “undue hardship,” a And yet, as students face incondition which is highly varicreasing amounts of debt every able and notoriously difficult to year and college prices continue meet. to rise, student loan debt reStudents graduating from mains undismissable. college, or even dropping out At the same time, the borin many cases, face immense rowing limit for federal student amounts of debt that they must loans has fallen below the cost begin payof attending a four ing off alyear university, forcTotal student most immeing many individuals to diately and take out private loans loan debt for the can most with greater interest class of 2012 avlikely never rates, worsening the eraged approxidischarge. issue. mately $29,400 In 2010, In recent years student there has been increasper student loan debt ing pressure to deal nationwide with this topic, even rose above leading to a lowering of credit card debt. According to federal interest rates in August. the Consumer Financial ProtecHowever, until a more compretion Bureau, college debt rose hensive solution can be created, to above $1.2 trillion in 2013, this year’s college applicants are making it about 6 percent of the likely to face an even sharper national debt. increase in future debt.

Get some glasses ­­- the detriments of stereotyping Social stereotyping affects not just women, but men as well

Lindsay Bribiescas Staff Writer A commonly discussed problem in communities is the pressure on women to look a certain way, act a certain way, think a certain way. But what about the other half of the population? Don’t men feel similar pressure?

Ten years ago, a study in Florida found that the average male desires more than fifteen pounds of added muscle and a reduction

in body fat. Since then, it has only gotten worse.

Movies, ads, and other forms of media display muscle-bound men daily, emphasizing the idea of an “ideal” male. But such a standard is nearly impossible to reach, not only because most people don’t have 3-4 hours a day to dedicate to exercise, but also because the images on display are often edited to seem more impressive.

“I know some girls may think that society pressures only them to look a certain way, dress a certain way and act a certain way, but that happens to guys too. Everywhere we look we see guys with six-pack abs on advertisements, we see guys on tv who are tall, white, European, who get all the girls,” said one Junior, who would prefer

to remain anonymous.

An estimated 4 out of 5 men have body image issues, but few admit it, which is where society’s expectations come into play again.

Men aren’t expected to have “feminine” emotions, or to put it in a more politically correct way, strong emotions that could be considered weak or vulnerable. Instead, they’re expected to be more than human, able to be in control of themselves at all times and able to take care of others.

“I suppose there’s always the stereotypes and gender roles. I see that kind of thing every day, on a personal and impersonal level.

Since I was little, whenever my dad was gone, I was the ‘man of the house’. And then there’s things like men being expected to be

the breadwinners and strong and never cry and on and on. So yeah, I see it and feel it. But I can’t say it really bothers me. It’s just a part of life. Of course, I can only speak for myself,” said Justin Dante, a Junior.

Until adolescence, both sexes have been shown to cry approximately equal amounts and with similar intensities. But after puberty, the statistics drastically fall for men in comparison to women.

And such a change is not without harm; over time, emotional repression can trigger physiological changes, such as high blood pressure.

So maybe it’s best to step back and reconsider what is “standard” in our society, and how it affects those who try to meet those standards.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

At right, potential customers look over the 3-D Design table’s pieces.

The merchandise was sold to raise money for the art classes, while also providing easy and inexpensive gifts for the buyers.

At far right, Junior Mario Balitbit sells National Art Honor Society pins while Mr. Broussard supervises.

The pins were designed by students during two after-school workshops. “We were able to use our own individual styles, and it was cool to see them finished,” said Balitbit.

Photos by Lindsay Bribiescas

Fine arts classes hold holiday sale Lindsay Bribiescas Staff Writer With holidays rapidly approaching, the fine arts classes saw an opportunity to fundraise. Their annual winter art show was supplemented with National Art Honor Society’s

contribution of student-designed pins.

Non-art classes were brought into the teacher lounge to look at and possibly purchase the handmade pieces for the benefit of the arts program. Sales of pins went towards NAHS. All in all, the show was a win-win for gift-buyers and the artists of SRHS.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

A comparison of the book and the new movie Kylee Schroth Staff Writer Catching Fire the second film in the Hunger Games trilogy, came out in theaters on November 22. Fans of the books will not be disappointed. The 20 months waiting to see the second movie were well worth it.

The movie was nearly two and a half hours long, and the full time was needed to cover all 391 pages of the book. The special effects were done very well and give the same aura in the arena that was portrayed in the book.

The cliffhanger at the end creates even more suspense for the third in the series, Mockingjay.

The movie doesn’t fail to have action, adventure, drama, sci-fi, romance, thrills and more. Every main and key event that occurs

during the games is very evident.

However, there are a few minor changes that, fortunately, do not modify the plot much.

The time spent at District 12 waiting for the Quarter Quell doesn’t seem as long as in the movie.

The existence of District 13 isn’t revealed to Katniss by Bonnie and Twill, two characters unknown to someone who did not read the book.

Also, Peeta’s character is made more manly. For example, he is able to swim in the movie.

This does not in any way change his relationship with Katniss; it only adds to his character.

All in all, this is an extraordinary film made for all ages that is worth the eight or so dollars spent on it.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Miranda’s Musical Musings PAX AM Days by Fall Out Boy

Miranda McCann Staff Writer Alternative band Fall Out Boy quietly followed the release of their groundbreaking comeback album, Save Rock and Roll, with the thirteen-minute, eight-song extended play, PAX AM Days.

The EP strives for an oldschool punk rock vibe with its short, fast-paced songs.

Each song is approximately a minute and a half and adds an edge to Fall Out Boy’s alternative-pop portfolio.

PAX AM Days was a

refreshing change for fans who were not pleased by the pop-centric approach broadcasted in Save Rock and Roll.

“It’s what Save Rock and Roll should have been,” said Freshman Kendall Simpson.

Fall Out Boy still doesn’t reach the levels of classic apocalyptic punk with lead vocalist Patrick Stump.

His familiar melodic tunes are still apparent in songs “Hot To the Touch, Cold on the Inside” and “We Were Doomed From the Start (The King Is Dead).”

However, the lack of a traditional punk edge can be forgiven when compared to Fall Out Boy’s latest work.

The harder vocals and instruments are borderline shocking.

The album has been

controversially described as “so tone-deaf and try-hard that it’s impossible for the listener to detach from the novelty of the whole thing,” in a review by punknews.org.

The article continues, “But then again, maybe novelty is the whole point.”

In an interview with MTV, bassist and frontman Pete Wentz said, “The truth is, both lyrically and musically, I think we threw some things in there that we probably would consider outside-thebox of a standard Fall Out Boy full-length. . . there are some gems in all that grime on there. . . I’m proud of it.”

The extended play may not be a first choice as a punk album, but it is a great expansion from Fall Out Boy’s general alternative outlook.

Insight from a quiet observer

Tracy Fernandez Staff Writer Girls Generation, an all-girl K-pop group from South Korea, has gained immense popularity over the years, earning them the titles “The Nation’s Singers” and “The Nation’s Girl’s Group” in South Korea. Now awarded with “Video of the Year” in the first Youtube Music Awards for their hit single “I Got a Boy,” a congratulation seems to be in order, but is not received.

Disheartened fans of Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, and One Direction unleashed their rage on Twitter, bashing the K-pop group with racial slurs. A sampling of the tweets have said, “How did they win if nobody knows who they are?” “Open your eyes,” and “Why is Girls Generation in America if they can’t speak a word of English?”

The inaccuracy laced within each Tweet has succeeded in confirming the ignorance of fans who took the effort to write out blasphemous statements before pausing to consider how their behaviors would reflect upon themselves.

This includes the “professional” YouTubers of Awesomeness TV, consisting of three girls who made inappropriate remarks during a recap video, streamed live during the YouTube Music Awards.

An offensive statement regard-

If you enjoyed this EP, you may be interested in Take Off Your Pants and Jacket by Blink-182 and From Under the Cork Tree by Fall Out Boy.

Youtube Music Awards falls prey to racist comments

ing “chinese food” was made and reported, causing the video to be permanently removed. Awesomeness TV later uploaded a new video, apologizing to the fans of Girls Generation and the group themselves for the negative comments made.

Fans have been known to go to extremes, but when a fan must resort to racism to prove a point, dedication is no longer a word used to describe such a person.

Instead of reasonably approaching the situation, fans based their judgements off of biased emotions, questioning their credibility. The inability of fans to acknowledge both sides of the argument weakens their point, demonstrating their own ignorance.

“I don’t think they deserved the backlash. If other fandoms really wanted to win, they should’ve campaigned harder.” said Junior Yajaira Cardona.

The backlash encountered by Girls Generation was meant to undermine their victory of “Video of the Year.” Caught up in defending their idols, fans forgot to consider why Girls Generation had won the award.

Could it be because their name had, not mistakenly, made #1 on the Top Female Singer’s list for four consecutive years on the Leespiar Popularity Survey in Korea?

“The losing fandoms were hurt, and the more ignorant fans will create racism. It’s how the world works,” said Junior Kathy Pham.

In a flawed society, racism is tangled within one’s everyday activities; in the jokes we participate in, the news we see and hear, and within the TV shows we watch.

Racism exists everywhere, though it does not imply that all must adhere to it; as with most things, it’s a choice.

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SPORTS

The SRHS varsity girls volleyball family cho Cotate. The girls played a hard going into the fifth game tied with Rancho, just falling short in the end.

Photography Editor When asked about the environment of the team this year, Senior Molly Despite finishing 4-10 in the league, Bartlett said, “Since last year’s team had the womens varsity volleyball team end- no Seniors, we had almost the exact same ed the season fighting strong and togeth- team two years in a row, which is really er in their final home game against Ran- rare but a great opportunity to bond! We

Celine Sargis

are all really close and this was the best team I’ve ever played on. Having been together for two years made us really strong on and off the court. We are all like best friends, and being able to trust each other had a really positive impact on our game and we improved so much from last year.”

1. Sophomore Sophie Samonte and Senior Amanda Miller jump in celebration after scoring a point against Rancho Cotate in their final home game.

2. Seniors Molly Bartlett, Claire Bartlett, and Michelle Simonds watch as teammate Tori Garzoli, Senior, jumps to spike the ball and score against Rancho Cotate.

3. The varsity team joins together for a pep talk from their coach before their final home game on Senior Night.

4. Seniors and sisters Molly and Claire Bartlett wait with teammate Natalie Kennedy for the serve from Rancho Cotate.

5. Junior Janelle Diangson and Senior Claire Bartlett cheer from the bleachers as the team scores a point in the final minutes of their last home game.

Photos by Celine Sargis

SPORTS

Freshman Kalei Aukai joins the varsity mens basketball team Sebastian Froman

This basketball season, Kalei Aukai was placed on the varsity team as a Freshman, the only one this year.

“I am excited for the season because I love basketball, but I am nervous because I will be playing against much older players,” said Aukai.

Aukai started his basketball career when he was only 4 years old. “It was fun [playing basketball as a child], with no worries, but it was still competitive.” Starting at an early age has benefited Aukai’s basketball career greatly.

“I knew I was going to be on varsity because I was determined,” he said. Now, Aukai gets to play with the older players, and he fits in just fine.

“I think the team chemistry is

Varsity boys soccer season wrap-up Esteban Nunez

Staff Writer

Staff Writer

Kalei Aukai has already proven himself a valuable member of the Varsity team in the Alumni Game. Photo by Ally Daly

getting better day by day, and we are working much better as a team.”

Aukai has his hopes set high and wants to play professional basketball. And he will be one step closer to his dream after his four years of basketball to come.

“Playing for Santa Rosa High School will teach me to be a good sport and make good choices,” said Aukai.

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The Santa Rosa High School varsity boys soccer team had an amazing season this year. They made it to the playoffs and lost to Montgomery 4-2. Their record was 8-4-2, meaning they only lost four games in the entire season.

The first playoff game was against Sonoma Valley High School, and they won with a score of 5-4 Sonoma Valley. After that win, they played Montgomery, where they lost with a score of 4-2.

“The season was not the ideal season, but I think that we could have gone further in the playoffs,” said Bryan Juarez.

As a Senior, Juarez was one of their best players, scoring nine goals during the season and also the playoffs. He plays center-mid, a position that he has become very adept at.

“It was [a successful] year, the goals we scored were meant, and overall we had a good year.” “

Overall, the Boys Varsity soccer team had an amazing year by making it to the playoffs,” said Edwin Martinez.

The team’s win-loss record Newman Rancho Windsor Casa Ukiah Carillo Montgomery Newman Rancho Windsor Casa Ukiah Carillo Montgomery

Win Win Win Loss Win Tie Loss Tie Loss Win Win Win Win Loss

Washington Redskins refuse to change offensive team name Alesana Sunia Editorial Board In “the land of the free and the home of the brave,” the place where “all men are created equal,” and where racism is such a debated and controversial topic, our nation’s capital has been host to a symbol of racism for almost a century and counting.

Since 1932, Washington, D.C. has been host to the everpopular, three-time Super Bowl Champion, Washington Redskins. This team has been loved by many fans all across the country since its origin, and in a study done by Forbes Magazine was recently named the eighth most

popular sporting franchise in the Nation.

However, underlying all the popularity and fame associated with the franchise, the name “Redskins” has plagued the franchise and caused controversy for many decades.

Dating back to the 19th century, the name “Redskin” is a derogatory term that has been used by whites to identify Native Americans. Its meaning is similar to that of the “N” word, but directed towards the Native American population.

This name was adopted by the team when it was founded in 1932, and through the years Native Americans have repeatedly protested it. However, their petitions were rejected by the Washington Redskins organization.

For just over 80 years, this franchise has been the host of a symbol of racism and has done nothing to change it. In a recent letter, Washington Redskins’ owner Daniel Snyder expressed his feelings on their name.

“I've listened carefully to the commentary and perspectives on all sides, and I respect the feelings of those who are offended by the team name. But I hope such individuals also try to respect what the name means, not only for all of us in the extended Washington Redskins family, but among Native Americans too."

Snyder’s comments do not justify him keeping the name.

His comments suggest that people who do not agree with the name respect what the name means. How is it possible to

respect what the name means?

By dictionary definition the term Redskin is, “An offensive term for a Native American.”

It is simply impossible for someone to respect the meaning of such a disrespectful and flat-out racist name. Tradition and pride should not override the context of racism inside of the name “Redskins.” It is understandable that the Washington Redskins are a historic and everpopular franchise, but that does not make it justifiable to keep the name.

If this name is intended to offend Native Americans every time it is said, why is it not changed? Tradition, history, and pride should not be excuses to offend thousands of people in the United States.

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PANTHER LIFE

Dance Show Tech Week ArtQuest Dance Company prepares for their winter performance, Moving Images.

Celine Sargis Photography Editor ArtQuest Dance Company, the advanced dance group on campus, prepares for its Winter Concert on Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14.

Well known for their outstanding performances, the dancers, led by teacher Nzinga Woods, choreograph their own dances in preparation for the show.

The show starts at 7:00 PM both nights, with tickets selling for $5 presale to students and $7 at the door.

1. Junior Brooke Bierling kicks her leg up high, exemplifying excellent form while running through a dance.

2. Senior Taylor Tarantino cracks a smile during a run through of one of the many student-choreohraphed dances Dance Co will perform at their winter show.

3. Senior Hayley Murphy goes into a lunge in the middle of practicing a dance. The students have to go through the dances day after day in preparation for the show.

4. Junior Brooke Bierling leans into River McKelvey as they practice for the upcoming dance show. The dancers have to get very comfortable with each other in order to excel in their performances.

5. Junior Mira Craig-Morse watches her classmates run through a dance. Preparing for the performance is a tiring task that often keeps the students after school for two to three hours every day during tech week.

Photos by Celine Sargis