2025-26 ISSUE 5

Thousand Oaks High School

War leaves community conflicted

JOEY GOODNIGHT Editor-in-Chief

Early on the morning of Feb.

28 the U.S. and Israel launched a dual attack on Iran, targeting key government and military sites while also incidentally hitting multiple civilian buildings. The attack resulted in over 5000 casualties; roughly 500 were nonmilitary civilians and over 100 were children, most of which were killed in the bombing on Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school.

The attack also resulted in the death of many high level officials in the Iranian government, including Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader, and Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council.

In President Donald Trump’s first press release following the attack, he justified the bombing as having three key goals: destroying Iran’s missile capabilities, preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and giving the Iran’s people the chance to “take control of their own government.” This reasoning has

been questioned by multiple outside and internal sources.

Supposedly, Trump’s goal was to support the anti-regime movement in Iran, but it appears from internal sources that the strikes have only worsened the conditions for Iranian people, with the military upping their surveillance of citizens and cracking down even harder on protesters under the justification of protecting the country from possible Israeli terrorists.

Iranian communities in the U.S. are having mixed reactions to the death of the supreme leader and the attacks on Iran, with some arguing that the attacks might finally result in long overdue regime change, while others fear that the conflict will only result in more pain and suffering for the people of Iran. One thing that everyone in the Iranian community can agree on is their fear for the lives and wellbeing of their extended families still living in Iran.

Thousand Oaks High School senior Shiva Sadri explained why these events hit close to home for her and her family.

“I’m Iranian, and both of my parents are from Iran,” Sadri said, “so when we first heard that the Supreme Leader had died in the attack, we were cheering–we were very excited at first. The supreme leader led to the death of so many innocent people. Obviously he is not all the regime, and his death alone won’t bring down the entire

“Iranians have been revolting for so long...but then it hit us too, what’s gonna happen to the rest of our family?”

SHIVA SADRI

regime, but it definitely opened up hope for so many people.”

The supreme leader of Iran had been abusing his people since 1989 when he came into power, suppressing the rights of women and religious minorities, while turning Iran into an Islamic theocracy.

“Iranians have been revolting for so long, and desperately trying to

make change,” Sadri said. “So there was obviously an initial hopeful excitement, but then it hit us too, what’s gonna happen to the rest of our family?”

Many Iranian families, just like the Sadris, are spending the Persian New Year thinking about their loved ones back home, and wishing that there was a way to get them out of the conflict happening in their home country.

“One of my biggest memories as a child was asking my parents when the rest of my family would get to come to the U.S.,” Sadri said.

“I could never really understand why I couldn’t go visit them and they couldn’t come visit me. My parents always told me not to worry, that [the family members] had applied for their green cards. But they have been waiting for their green cards for years, and all I can do is be grateful that they aren’t in a situation where their lives are at risk because they were part of a political organization or if they were a religious minority. But even then, they aren’t safe there.”

Her family, like many families

in our local community, have a complicated relationship with the current war effort in Iran but Sadri and her family choose to stay hopeful.

“We’re definitely hearing a lot of people say that they won’t be participating in the festivities of Persian New Year, because it just feels insensitive to what’s happening over there right now,” Sadri said.

“My family’s perspective is that in times of misfortune, we have to stay hopeful,” Sadri said. “For Chaharshanbe Suri, the day where we let go of all of the bad from the past year so that we can embrace the year ahead of us, my mom and I made sure to celebrate. Even though it was still sad, we put all of our hopes into prayers for the Iranian people.”

With so much uncertainty about the war, not just the future of the regime but the future for so many families of Iranian immigrants in our community, all we can do is maintain hope that this war will somehow lead to improvements for the people in Iran.

STAFF LIST

JOEY GOODNIGHT

Editor-in-Chief

GEMMA SPRAGGINS

Editor-in-Chief

JULIA PINEDA-DOMINGUEZ

Managing Editor

KAILAH SPENCER

Managing Editor

MADELYN FRIEDMAN

Business Manager

LAILAH SERNA

News Editor

ABIGAIL KERNS

Opinions Editor

SOPHIA MUNHALL

Co-Sports Editor

LILAH SWAVING

Co-Sports Editor

Staff

MIKEL GONZALEZ

KELLY HOOLBOOM

JORDYN LIEBOWITZ

JACKSON MOSTON

JOHNNY PHAN

SOPHIE PODERS

APRIL RAMOS

AVA ROCHA

Adviser

JOANNA OTEY

The Lancer is the official school publication of Thousand Oaks High School, created and produced by students in Journalism 1, Advanced Journalism and Advanced Journalism Honors courses.

The Lancer reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed inappropriate for high school publication. Guest editorials and “Letters to the Editor” are welcome, but must be signed and are subject to editing for length, libel, obscenity, and grammar. They can be sent to thelancer.tohs@gmail.com.

The Lancer is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association (NPSA) and NPSA AllAmerican Hall of Fame. The Oct. 31, 2024 issue of The Lancer took 9th place in NPSA’s Best of Show contest in Philadelphia, PA.

Email: thelancer.tohs@gmail.com Instagram: @tohs_thelancermedia Website: www.tohsthelancer.org

Nutritional changes

CVUSD appoints new Director of Child Nutrition

MIKEL

News Writer

In April of 2025, Sarah Phillips, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, took over the position as Director of Child Nutrition in CVUSD. As a result, the child nutrition program is undergoing changes aimed at improving food quality and student participation, affecting students and staff alike.

Since Phillips’ appointment, breakfast and lunch options offered at the school cafeteria have been modified to better fit students’ needs. Students say the freshness and variety of food have improved.

Senior Aalia Blunt noted the change.

“They’ve stopped giving chips, and they have more unique choices,” Blunt said.

“They switch it more now.”

Blunt thinks this might be an effective strategy to reduce costs. By simplifying and periodically changing the menu, as well as changing the portion sizes, students can still have a satisfying meal while the school saves funds through seasonal foods, nutritional foods, and filling menu options.

Sophomore Guadalupe Amador said the food offered this school year has been upgraded in nutritional value.

“I feel like last year [the food] was more unhealthy and [there were] fewer options than this year,” Amador said. “If students are vegetarian or vegan, they’ll

have more variety to choose from and to be comfortable with what they eat.”

There is now a variety of foods on students’ plates, even for those with more restrictive diets.

While meal changes affect students, they also have a large impact on the staff that organizes and prepares the food daily. Monique O’Neill, the Child Nutrition Supervisor at Thousand Oaks High School, explained the changes she’s noticed in the cafeteria since last spring.

“We’re making more fresh food and the new menu has brought in a lot of options,” O’Neill said.

The cafeteria now has a wider variety of ethnic foods and foods that are prepared fresh rather than pre-packaged. O’Neill also noticed that the average number of meals served has decreased, but says she is unsure of the root cause.

“I believe that’s because enrollment is also down, so it’s really hard to gauge from year to year,” O’Neill said.

However, it is clear that students seem to be excited about the new changes for the nutritional aspect at TOHS.

“It does seem like the students are excited when they come in, and they see something new,” O’Neill said.

By incorporating more freshly prepared items and diverse menu options, the new program helps meet students’ nutritional needs, while more inclusive food options promote health and good habits.

Disappearing classes

News Writer

As students start to register for their classes for the 2026-2027 school year, some current classes are unavailable, specifically language classes.

Although some classes appear on the registration list for next year, if not enough students enroll, that course may be canceled.

As a school counselor, Darla Scott takes into account how many students are interested in different classes.

“We try to put classes on the registration list that we want to build and want to have for next year,” Scott said. “But it does depend on how many students sign up.”

Once Assistant Principal of Instruction Danielle Oliveri gets all of the students and their schedules figured out, she creates what is called the Master Schedule.

“We let Q place the kids into their classes, based on the course requests and what the teacher periods are, and then we start adjusting accordingly,” Oliveri said. “The goal is to get as many kids in as many classes as we can; not every student gets what they want, but we do the best we can.”

Counselors have already noticed certain classes have fewer student requests than required. The Japanese 1 world language class will no longer be available.

Kristin Benioff teaches English, Japanese, and Work Experience, and is

disappointed that Japanese will no longer be a TOHS class next year. She’s been teaching Japanese for 29 years.

“It’s been a long time, and it’s been a lot of fun,” Benioff said. “There’s a lot of value in students from a lovely bubble like Thousand Oaks learning about other cultures.”

Although no longer teaching Japanese, she will happily become a full-time English teacher next year.

Junior and Japanese 2 student Gabriel Walsh was not aware of the removal of the world language option from the schedule.

“At first, I enrolled so I could be in a class with one of my friends,” Walsh said. “I did start to appreciate the language and the culture after a while.”

Unfortunately, not only Japanese is losing student interest. Other world language classes have also seen enrollment numbers going down.

History and French teacher Kelly Cimity says that after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the number of students registered for French plummeted.

“Online learning for language is never good, so a lot of students who came back after COVID had a really hard time in French 2,” Cimity said.

American Sign Language and Spanish will be the only two options available for students to take to fulfill the language requirement for graduation.

Off Campus Pass

On Feb. 28, following a military operation involving Israel and the U.S., Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was reported to have been killed, according to U.S. officials. President Donald Trump announced the news on social media, saying Khamenei had died after the strikes. Khamenei had led Iran since 1989 and was one of the country’s most powerful political and religious figures. Reactions to the announcement were mixed, with some people celebrating and others mourning. The government has since chosen their new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.

North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party confirmed that Kim Jong Un will continue serving as the general secretary after a party congress, which took place in Pyongyang on Feb. 22. According to state media, the announcement reflects the continued leadership of the Kim family, which has ruled the country since the late 1940s. Kim Jong Un has led North Korea since his father, Kim Jong Il, died in 2011. As a result, the country continues to invest in nuclear weapon programs, but Kim has also said he aims to better the nation’s economy and living standards.

Junior rewarded for academic excellence

LAILAH SERNA News Editor

After hours spent balancing schoolwork and volunteering at a health clinic in her spare time, junior Marilyn Garcia is being rewarded for her academic excellence and services to those in the community.

The Carson Scholarship is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 by Dr. Ben Carson, a well-known pediatric neurosurgeon, who was aiming to combat the education crisis being experienced across the country.

The scholarship is offered to students in grades 4-11 who have proven to be advanced academically, and who are also well-rounded, having dedicated their time to their community outside their school.

Each recipient receives $1,000 that will go towards the tuition at the college of their choosing, and their name will be added to the long list of “Carson Scholars.”

This program is extremely competitive, as only one student from each school can apply and receive the scholarship, ensuring that the best of the best is chosen.

“My counselor told me about [the scholarship], and asked if I was interested,” Garcia said. “I was a little bit hesitant at first, but I thought, I might as well go for it.”

The scholarship application requires the applicant to discuss their involvement in the community. For Garcia, volunteer work is something she is very familiar with.

“I volunteer at Westminster Free Clinic for people who don’t have insurance,” Garcia said. “I talk to patients and write down what they’re there for and run down their medical history, symptoms, and things like that.”

Even though she is unsure which college she will attend to futher her education, Garcia is certain that her major will set her up for a career working in healthcare.

“I like interacting with people,” Garcia said. “In healthcare, you’re always interacting with someone and helping them.”

There will be an awards banquet in May, where all Carson Scholarship recipients on the West Coast will gather at San Diego State University to receive an official certificate and medal from Dr. Ben Carson and his wife.

Garcia plans to continue with the path she is on and take the skills she has learned at Thousand Oaks High School with her as she furthers her education, with the support of the Carson Scholars Foundation.

NASA has delayed Artemis II, a 10day test flight mission, until at least Apr. 1, as engineers continue testing systems and equipment to ensure safety. The delay also occurred as a result of damaged equipment, which needed replacement. The mission will send astronauts on NASA’s Orion spacecraft and will land in the Pacific Ocean. Artemis II marks the first mission with a crew to travel around the Moon since 1972, and will also be the first time a woman, a black astronaut, and a Canadian travel around the Moon.

Kim Jong Un in power

Artemis II Mission

Ali Khamenei Killed

Ali Khamenei - Iran’s former supreme leader.

GONZALEZ

JORDYN LIEBOWITZ

Unifed Sports takes the court

Thousand Oaks hosts Westake in dynamic game for inclusion

JORDYN LIEBOWITZ Staff Writer

With the Thousand Oaks High School gym filled with students, teachers and parents, the Lancers made their grand entrance to cheers bursting from the stands.

On Mar. 20, TOHS hosted Westlake High School for the annual Unified Sports basketball game during third period, where teachers brought their classes to support the athletes.

Special Olympics Unified Sports, brings together students with or without disabilities to compete in sports. It also brings attention to events that students wouldn’t naturally gravitate towards.

Before the game started, speeches were made by Tessa Whitman, Gabriel Chin, and Jorge Naravez, senior leaders of the Unified Sports program.

The leaders bounced off of one another, thanking the crowd for coming, and emphasizing the importance of being a community that supports all Lancers, especially with the significance of this award to our Special Olympics program.

After their motivating words, the Lancer Band had a short performance before the National Anthem was sung by TOHS alumni, Katie Adams. There was also a cheer performance by the Sparkles team, a club run by the TOHS cheer team under advisor Jennifer Jeziorski. They encouraged everyone to perform cheers, dances, and bond with Lancers participating in the games, hyping up the club before the game started.

Before the game officially started, there was one last speech made by Linda Cohn, ESPN sports anchor of 33 years, discussing the global importance of celebrating Unified Sports.

With Cohn were three Unified Sports global ambassadors: actor and model Charles Melton; Vice Chair of the Special Olympics Founder’s Council Christopher Schwarzenegger; and lifelong partner to Special Olympics and Chair of the Founder’s Council, Molly Shriver.

The game started with the Unified athletes, along with their mentors, and every three minutes, new players would switch in.

During the first period, senior Jorge Narvaez was one of the players who scored many points, which resulted in the crowd exuberantly cheering for the team.

“I liked watching the crowd get excited after any of the players made a shot,” senior Jordan Winston said. “It was really heartwarming.”

Students who attend have the chance to support the members of the TOHS community that they may have never gotten the chance interact with before. Unified Sports games, alternately hosted by the three district high schools, gives the opportunity for students in the program to be included in the school community, surrounded by people who support them, making this event a fundamental part of TOHS spirit.

“I feel great in the Unified Sports

Winter Paralympics

On Mar. 6, the 2026 Winter Paralympics began. The international event, taking place in northern Italy, brings athletes with disabilities together from around the world. The games took place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo and ran until Mar. 15. About 600-700 athletes competed in 79 medal events across six sports, including para ice hockey, wheelchair curling, and more. The games also recognized the 50th anniversary of the first Winter Paralympic Games. The major event brings attention to adaptive sports, with international participation, and recognizes these athletes and their dedication.

program,” sophomore June Neale said. “It’s so fun to be with my best friends and see them shine. I love seeing how happy they get when they do well and score.”

For mentors who are a part of the program, seeing the Lancers supported by the campus during these games emphasizes their reasons why these events are such an

important part of TOHS.

“The Unified Sports game brings attention to the kids with disabilities by showing they can do anything anyone else can,” sophomore Shelby Kaiser said.

Dramatically, the first period ended with a tie score of 24-24 between Thousand Oaks and Westlake.

The Lancer dance team provided a halftime performance to “Mamushi” by Megan Thee Stallion, which was followed by a speech made by Principal Eric Bergmann.

The speech was about inclusion and its implementation at TOHS, leading to Bergmann revealing the official banner of our school as a National Unified Champion school, with a plaque coming soon.

Melissa Martin, advisor of the Thousand Oaks Special Olympics program, rewarded her senior Unified Lancers with certificates for their commitment and sportsmanship as an athlete of Unified Sports.

“The connections I’ve made through the program are so special and these paast years with Unified have been amazing,” senior Sopia Munhall said. “I will miss everyone so much.”

In the second period, sophomore Benjamin Lee sunk multiple three-pointers, to the crowd’s delight. Lee scored the winning point for a 31-30 Lancer victory.

With enthusiasm running high, students from both teams high-fived each other and took group photos before a group luncheon.

ESPN awards $8000 grant to Unified Sports

As the global sponsor for Special Olympics Unified Sports for over ten years, ESPN gives a global grant annually to one school in California.

“Every year ESPN honors one school in every U.S. state, to be on the ESPN honor roll,” Chris Bence, Special Olympics Senior Director of Global Strategic Partnerships, said.

The three main requirements for this award is having a Special Olympics Unified Sports program in the school, inclusive leadership programs and whole-school engagement.

With Thousand Oaks High School’s Unified Sports program offering inclusion for all students, TOHS was one of the 45 schools awarded the $8000 grant by ESPN, and one of only three schools who received a live ceremony.

The other schools chosen were Bush Hill Elementary in Virginia and Victoria Fertitta Middle School in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Unified Sports program advisor Melissa Martin has worked with TOHS for eight years to keep the school a Unified School Champion, and has accomplished it time and time again. Every year adds more progress for the program, including new events, a growing club and being named a national banner school.

“Continuing the work, and to have some of our students become ambassadors for the Special Olympics [is the goal],” Martin said.

Expanding the program is not an easy task, and requires effort, support and dedication. This award money will help support what the program has planned, as they continue to flourish and spread positivity in the coming years.

“It feels amazing for our school to be recognized for the work we do with inclusion,” Martin said.

Off Campus Pass

On Mar. 5, the World Sprint Speed Skating Championships were held in Heerenveen, Netherlands. The competition took place at Thialf Ice Arena, a popular venue for international skating events. Skaters raced in the 500-meter and 1000-meter races with combined times, determining the winners of the high-stakes competition. Dutch skaters Jenning de Boo and Femke Kok were crowned the world champions in the men’s and women’s categories. The event brings together Olympic medalists and top athletes from around the globe, and is considered one of speed skating’s fastest and most demanding competitions.

The week of Mar. 15, California experienced an unusually early heatwave. Described as the “hottest stretch” of weather for the time period since 1988, families and meteorologists are equally concerned about how the unexpected change in temperature could negatively impact communities. Degrees in the 80s and 90s are expected along the coast, with higher temperatures inland. Excessive heat has caused many more deaths in recent years, and according to the California Department of Public Health, unhoused people, the elderly, infants and more are at greatest risk for heat-related health effects, and are advised to stay inside.

Latino Connection cancels events

Annual

gatherings, school-wide celebrations canceled out of fear

LAILAH SERNA News Editor

The Thousand Oaks High School Hispanic students pride themselves on coming together to celebrate their cultures and traditions, contributing to the diversity on campus. The Latino Connection Club holds many social gatherings throughout the school year to strengthen its community and celebrate its families’ history and traditions.

Recently, I.C.E. (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has made its presence known across the country, taking into custody hundreds of people who are perceived to be illegal immigrants, primarily people from South American countries.

These detainments have been causing fear for many of the Hispanic community in Thousand Oaks, even if they were born in the United States; given the indiscriminate history of I.C.E. agents, they are still very afraid of being detained in a raid.

As a result, many of this year’s events surrounding Hispanic heritage have been canceled. Parents are scared to come to a large gathering, celebrating their heritage, and possibly get caught in an I.C.E. raid, as social gatherings are usually targeted.

Senior Ashley Giles is this year’s Co-President of Latino Connection and has been working to accommodate the recent political turmoil throughout the country.

“It’s really sad because a lot of the students look forward to [our annual events], especially events where we can celebrate our Hispanic culture,” Giles said. “We were planning to have guards to look out outside while the event was happening to make sure nothing suspicious goes on.”

There were plans to host a posada, which is a popular nineday Christmas celebration in Mexico and Latin America. But, sadly, that gathering was canceled, starting the string of unfortunate events.

A popular event hosted by the Latino Connection is the quinceañera fashion show, where students display the traditional, extravagant outfits for the coming-of-age ceremony. Unfortunately, this event was also canceled for the safety of the students and their families.

“We thought that parents would be too scared to attend,” Giles said. “Students are worried, too, because right now it’s very common to get profiled, and that’s scary. I never know if someone’s going to come up to me and just start asking where I’m from or if I was born here.”

Junior Ariana Ramos is on the social media group for Latino Connection, and has seen the impacts that the latest political drama has had on this group.

“A lot of parents would be scared to come out or do anything,” Ramos said. “It’s kind of sad that we have to cancel our shows and things like that because of what’s happening.”

As the school year is slowly coming to an end, these students haven’t been able to gather and have fun with their friends and family the same way they could last year.

Constant raids and senseless deaths around the country have raised concerns within TOHS and, for many, there are fears about what will happen next within our community, despite local groups putting out warnings when I.C.E. is spotted in the areas surrounding the school.

However, on Mar. 20, Latino Connection will be hosting their annual dance for students and guests. This year’s dance is called Noche de Rodeo, with a western rodeo theme. TOHS will be hosting the dance on campus in partnership with Westlake High School’s and Newbury Park High School’s Latino Connection Clubs to come together and celebrate.

These students will not let this ongoing political drama stop them from having fun and celebrating and connecting with students that share in their culture.

California Heat Wave

Sprint Speed Skating

Jump shot - Senior Jorge Naravez gets the ball to the hoop for TOHS.

Lancer pride - Unified Sports advisor

Melissa Martin and senior Tessa Whitman accept the exclusive award.

The fraud behind the bunny mask

KELLY HOOLBOOM Staff Writer

Multiple times a year, as certain culturally significant days continue to encroach, questions start to arise, questions that rock the foundation of the modern world as we know it.

Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, Leprechauns, and Spiderman. All these real deities allow our world to run the way it does; without them, children across the globe would lack the jovial nature necessary to grow into adulthood.

But one figure was left out, as I throw into question the validity of his existence; the golden god of decorated eggs and their hunt, the Easter Bunny.

Throughout my life people have debated the existence of many supernatural idols, and in all of the questioning, I have held strong on my stance for all of these, while simultaneously understanding the naivety in not believing. If none of these beings were real, then who could have possibly done all those tasks in the dead of night? Laying

presents, trading teeth, wrecking elementary school classrooms–it didn’t make sense that adults would do it. In a world where magic didn’t exist, why would anybody go out of their way for something so inherently pointless?

However, one specific holiday always nagged at the back of my brain. It just never made sense to me. A giant bunny does not relate to the Easter holiday in any way. No one questions the existence of magical creatures. because there has to be something living in the mystical forests with

the leprechauns. But a giant bunny seems to be a stretch. Plus, there is no way a real bunny lays plastic eggs that have rewards inside. That simply seems not only biologically impossible for the creature, but incredibly environmentally harmful to anywhere it goes. In no way would I believe Mother Nature would create a creature so destructive to itself and its surrounding environment. In no way is the infamous magical figure related to the origins of Easter. Therefore, my working theory is that the corporate overlords are simply

taking advantage of the existence of magical creatures, and children’s hope residing in them, so they can manipulate another extremeconsumerist holiday to profit off of. I personally hate the exploitation of joy and there are people in our world taking control over the joy of children and their faith in our cultural idols. It is time to rip off the bunny mask and celebrate true joy on our praised holidays. We need to stop allowing our emotions to be manipulated by those seeking more money.

Beloved chocolate drink VS bitter sludge in a cup

ABIGAIL KERNS

Opinions Editor

Caffeine is a psychoactive drug, a stimulant to increase alertness and reduce fatigue. With repeated use of this drug, one’s body can become dependent. This type of dependency can be mildly similar to withdrawal systems of other psychoactive drugs, sharing the traits of headache, fatigue, irritability, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating, and nausea.

Despite this obvious downside of drinking caffeine, students still flock to it each morning, slowly becoming more addicted to this literal drug as days turn to weeks and weeks turn to months. I think it’s time that we move past this dependency, especially for teenagers whose bodies are still developing and certainly don’t need a drug to elevate their heart rate every morning. Moving on means slowly choosing a

different, less harmful option to have as a daily drink, and I think that option is hot chocolate.

Now, before immediately denying this solution, think about what’s already in that coffee that you drink everyday. Let me guess, cream? Sugar? Cold foam? And if you’re an avid mocha drinker, then you have cocoa powder or chocolate and steamed milk in your morning coffee. Now think about what makes up hot chocolate. I can tell you that one. Cocoa powder, sugar, and milk. See the similarities yet? Hot chocolate and coffee aren’t really too different in taste, since they use a lot of similar ingredients to create the two separate drinks. And yes, if you can afford a cup of coffee everyday, then you can certainly afford a hot chocolate.

Not only is hot chocolate a slightly more healthy option, it is also most affordable. To

get the sugary hand-ground beverage that so many crave, Starbucks, A popular place that’s constantly buzzing with the life of American consumerism, is a one stop shop to getting that coffee. Hot chocolate however can be found in any grocery store, in boxes with packets to last you a week for the price of one drug filled coffee cup.

Again, I know what you’re thinking, I don’t drink coffee for the taste, I drink it for the energy boost. First of

all, if you’re a teenager who can not regularly get at least seven hours of sleep in one night, that’s a time management issue. Especially if you live in a healthy household with parents taking care of your needs. The sugar in hot chocolate should give you enough of an energy boost to wake you up in the morning while keeping away the shadow of dependency. At the beginning of your day, there is nothing better than a smooth cup of liquid warmth to get your day started right. Especially one that doesn’t cause headaches and an erratic heartbeat.

Weeds in the garden

Effects of invasive species on local home gardening

KELLY HOOLBOOM Staff Writer

One of the most common and well known past-times for those stuck inside their homes, is gardening, whether in their yards outside, or indoor potted plants.

Many people are under the assumption that this is great for the environment and positively impacts their yard. To some degree, this would be true. Local residential gardening helps break up the soil more and allow more water to flow through, making it more permeable. Flooding in residential concrete jungles are common, so these personal gardens break up impenetrable surfaces such as cement, and prevent any home-side disasters. Although, that isn’t the only effect gardening has on these communities, as not everyone is careful about how they garden within the sovereignty of their own homes.

Invasive species are any foreign species introduced into an ecosystem that outcompetes the original species, often killing them off. Most people think of animals and the competition for food when invasive species are brought up, but plants can have these negative effects as well.

“Weed” is a very common term that people use to colloquially describe an invasive species. Now imagine, some of these plants people might be introducing into their yards count as some sort of weed, and suck the nutrients away from other types of plants. But that’s okay, because these plants are just stuck to people’s individual yards right? Not particularly.

Through a variety of mass breeding methods, many plants can spread incredibly quickly. For instance, whenever you see beautiful yellow and green fields on hills throughout southern California, it’s most likely some form of mustard, many of which are not native and are very harmful to our native ecosystem.

Most mustard came from early colonizers of the West, sprinkling small amounts of mustard seeds anywhere they went, which very quickly exploded. Now imagine this on a larger scale, plants many people grow in their garden, or in bulk, multiplied by the thousands of people who maintain them. Quickly invasive numbers truly start to explode, none of which considers California’s massive agricultural systems and the invasive fruits they cultivate.

Almost none of California’s classic fruits are native to our home-state. Although our beautiful, and tasty might I add, citrus trees are a foundational part of our identity, certain fruits such as figs and blackberries do nothing but crowd native plants, suffocate them from the sun, and suck every nutrient they would need from the soil they’re originally from.

While gardening on paper seems like an incredibly fun and engaging outdoor hobby, and a great way to connect with your local community, the mass amount of people who participate ignorantly seems to muddy the waters on the positivity of its net impact. Gardening, while great, should have a greater barrier of entry somehow, to preserve the very small amount of our environment we still have left.

THE THE JOUST JOUST through MY EYES

Teachers give opinions on the USA’s involvement in Iran

MICHAEL X. COWLEY Guest Writer

Article I of the Constitution gives Congress the sole power to formally declare war and authorize force, while Article II makes the President Commander-in-Chief to direct the military. Broadly speaking, Congress declares war, and the President wages it. It is not for a President to initiate war.

The War Powers Resolution of 1973 was designed to limit the President’s authority to commit armed forces to hostile, foreign situations without Congressional approval. This federal law was in response to our involvement in Vietnam. However, it allows presidents to deploy troops for up to 60-90 days without explicit, prior authorization. Presidents have frequently initiated military action without formal congressional declarations of war, often acting as Commander-in-Chief while navigating or challenging the 60-day notification requirement: President Ford ordered a military rescue of the SS Mayaguez (1975), President Carter ordered a secret military rescue mission (1980), President Reagan deployed marines to Lebanon (1982) and ordered military action in Grenada (1983), President George H.W. Bush directed the invasion of Panama (1989), President Clinton deployed troops in Bosnia (1995) and Kosovo (1999), President Obama ordered military strikes in Libya (2011), President Trump ordered strikes in Syria (2017 and 2018), President Biden authorized airstrikes in Yemen (2024).

As you can see, such circumvention of Congress’s authority to declare war crosses political boundaries and party affiliations. Both Republican and Democratic presidents have unilaterally deployed troops. Every president since the War Powers Resolution was passed has circumvented Congress’s exclusive authority to declare war. Presidents argue they have the constitutional authority to deploy troops to protect American interests and citizens without prior congressional approval. That justification is an inferred legal theory that allows the chief executive to act to protect federal personnel, property, or citizens from immediate danger.

An inferred theory is shaky ground upon which to stand to justify a war. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court has never directly ruled on the constitutionality of the War Powers Resolution. Regardless of whether or not I think President Trump was justified in starting a war against Iran, I do not think that any one person should have the authority to swing the sword of the U.S. military. Next to the assassination of President Lincoln, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 is the worst thing to happen to the government of the United States of America. It should be repealed. It is for Congress to declare war with specific achievable goals for victory. Then it is for the President to wage that war to attain that victory. But the president should not be able to declare it.

ERIC KAMM Guest Writer

On February 28, 2026, without warning, without hesitation, the United States attacked the sovereign nation of Iran. Within the first day we killed the spiritual leader of that nation. This deliberate action, done by the specific command of the President, is a dangerous breach of both constitutional and international law. This action not only increases global tensions but further erodes belief in the noble and honorable ideals of peace, justice, liberty, and freedom for which the U.S. has long stood and fought.

The Constitution is clear that the power to declare war rests solely with the Congress. Yet this nation is engaged in military actions against a sovereign nation without such a declaration. This is not a technicality, it is a fundamental violation of constitutional powers that anchors our democratic republic. The U.S. cannot simply dismiss international norms and laws when it suits us.

A rules-based, lawful societal order in the world cannot endure if the most powerful nation chooses to abrogate those rules on a whim, without cause or evidence, simply because it so chooses.

The financial costs alone should alarm every American. Estimates from numerous sources suggest this unwarranted action costs around $1 BILLION per day of operations! Those funds could be better put to feeding the hungry with the SNAP program, or educating children with “Sesame Street,” it could ease student loan debt, aide in reconstruction after the devastating local fires, and/or provide necessary medical care. Instead, these funds are fueling a conflict for which there is no meaningful end in sight.

The reasons for this hostility vary from administration member to member, with even the President lacking any consistency. Are we fighting for regime change? Nuclear disarmament? Regional stability? Or is it just for the oil? If the reason is for oil, the irony is not lost that the current administration has slashed conservation, alternative energy, and fuel-efficiency programs. No consistent rationale has been given or is forthcoming. Our nations history with regime change, especially in Iran, is disadvantageous to the U.S. at the least. The People of the U.S. deserve precise explanations about our goals and our exit strategy before American service member lives are thrown away and billions upon billions of dollars spent.

History offers sobering lessons. The U.S. record of regime change is a disaster. From Iraq, to Libya, and even in Iran, U.S. regime change has led to instability, poverty, distrust, and even terrorism against the U.S. Our grievances lie with the Iranian regime, but it is their people that bear the ultimate costs.

Our sons and daughters in the military put their lives at risk for an unknown goal, and some have already died. We should never put our troops into harms way for light and transient reasons. Congress must reclaim it’s constitutional authority. The American People demand accountability. The moral, legal, financial, and most of all, the human costs are too high to remain silent.

GEMMA SPRAGGINS Editor-in-Chief

Many people use Artificial Intelligence (AI) for a lot of things, such as asking simple questions or having Chat GPT write their English essay. I get it; new advancements in technology can be fun to mess around with. What most people don’t know is that AI systems use massive amounts of energy and water, negatively impacting the planet. Technology can be helpful and innovative, but it becomes a problem when it’s relied on. For those who use it on all homework assignments, or naturally go to Chat GPT instead of Google, that’s where the serious harm is coming from.

The powerful AI computers operate 24/7 and process millions of requests. All the data centers generate extreme heat, and water is used to prevent them from overheating. In simple terms, AI is using our water.

living organisms need water to survive on this planet; humans can only survive three days without water.

To make matters worse, the AI mode on a Google search automatically uses AI to answer any questions through Google. So instead of directing you to hundreds of resources that are human-written, we are forced to unnecessarily use AI.

“No one knows how long it will take to destroy [the planet], but we are certainly on the right track to finding out.”

GEMMA SPRAGGINS

According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI), large data centers use up to 5 million gallons of water per day. According to scientists at the University of California, Riverside, a 100-word AI prompt is estimated to use one bottle of water. One bottle might not seem like much, but think about the millions of questions asked per minute. To put into perspective, only 3% of Earth’s water is freshwater, and only 0.5% of all water is safe for humans to drink. All

When I asked ChatGPT, “Why is AI bad for the environment?” This was the response: “AI systems like me can damage the planet because we rely on massive data centers that use large amounts of electricity and water. These centers run powerful computers nonstop, and generating that electricity often involves burning fossil fuels, which releases carbon emissions into the atmosphere. They also use water to cool overheating machines, which can strain local water supplies, especially in drought-prone areas. As more people use AI every day, the demand for energy and water continues to grow, increasing the environmental impact.”

The harsh truth comes from the source of the problem. AI is damaging, and it will have long-term effects if we continue to let it take over. Our planet is a sacred place; no one knows how long it will take to destroy it, but we are certainly on the right track to finding out.

My view on I.C.E.

SABINA ELIZALDE Guest Writer

ICE is a government agency that enforces immigration laws. For many people, it’s just something they hear about on the news, but for some families in our community, it’s much closer than that.

There are parents who are scared to leave their homes because they worry about being stopped or detained. That kind of fear changes the way people live their everyday lives. No one should feel afraid to go outside to work, drop their kids off at school, or go to the grocery store. I have seen how this fear affects families.

Some of my friends have taken on more responsibility than most teenagers. They go grocery shopping because their parents are afraid to leave the house. They run errands, pick up younger siblings from school, and even help translate important information. These might seem like normal tasks, but they add extra pressure to our lives.

Balancing schoolwork with family responsibilities isn’t easy. Some days, it’s hard to fully concentrate in class when you know your family is stressed at home. You try to focus on lessons and assignments, but part of your mind is somewhere else. Carrying that kind of worry while also trying to be a regular teenager can be exhausting, and that stress doesn’t just disappear when the school bell rings.

At the same time, I believe our school has handled this situation well. Counselors are available to talk, and the school has shared helpful information about rights and resources. That support matters because it reminds

students that they are not alone. Even though students are taking on more responsibilities at home, we are also supporting each other at school. Friends check in with one another, share rides, and make sure no one feels alone. Because of these challenges, a stronger sense of unity has grown within our community. This issue isn’t just about politics it’s about real families and real students. No one should have to live in fear of leaving their house. Families should be able to go to work, shop for food, and live their lives without constantly looking over their shoulders. At the end of the day, we are people who want safety, stability, and the chance to build a future.

Awareness is an important step toward creating a more supportive environment for everyone. When schools acknowledge the challenges students face outside the classroom, it helps build understanding and compassion within the community. Small actions, like offering resources or simply checking in, can make a meaningful difference. It also encourages students to speak up and share their experiences without fear of judgment. When these stories are shared, something that once seemed distant becomes personal and real.

Listening with empathy and keeping an open mind can make a powerful difference. Behind every story is a person trying their best to get through each day, and no student should have to grow up carrying that kind of fear.

Everyone deserves compassion, understanding, and the opportunity to feel safe in their own community.

Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this editorial are the sole opinions of two individual teachers and do not reflect those of Conejo Valley Unified School District at large or Thousand Oaks High School specifically.

Los LANCEROS

Cumpliendo nuestro papel en la protección de las comunidades latinas

ZOE MALDONADO

Columnista Invitada

Los Estados Unidos, históricamente, ha sido un país muy diverso, con gente de todo el mundo, todos persiguiendo un deseo común: libertad y oportunidad. Este patrón se refleja en la población estudiantil de Thousand Oaks High School. El club Latino Connection y el grupo Latino Youth Leadership demuestran el significado de los estudiantes latinos en la escuela y el papel importante que desempeñan en la representación.

Nacionalmente, han sido tiempos difíciles para las comunidades inmigrantes, entre ellas nuestras poblaciones hispanas y latinas, debido al ambiente político sobre la inmigración. Por respeto al peligro y la inestabilidad presentes en nuestra ciudad, Latino Connection y Latino Youth Leadership

han decidido cancelar eventos familiares que han organizado en años anteriores, como El Desfile de Moda de Quince Años y la Posada, un evento navideño. Miembro de Latino Connection y presidenta de Latino Youth Leadership, Marilyn García, expresa la conciencia de los clubes sobre el riesgo de hospedar actividades enraizadas en la cultura latina; potencialmente podrían crear espacios que resulten blanco para las fuerzas migratorias. Sus decisiones son indicativas del estado del país y la hostilidad que enfrentan las comunidades no sólo latinas, sino también las que tienen ciertos rasgos físicos que han sido la base del perfilamiento racial. Marilyn enfatizó cómo para muchos inmigrantes en nuestra comunidad durante estos tiempos

La confirmación

DAIYANA POLINO

Columnista Invitada

La confirmación es uno de los sacramentos importantes que la iglesia católica celebra. Este sacramento sirve para fortalecer la fe y la relación con Dios. La confirmación culmina la gracia que recibimos en el bautismo y nos anima a vivir como verdaderos seguidores de Jesús. En este instante especial, la persona confirma las promesas que hizo en el bautismo y decide proseguir su vida como parte de la iglesia. Además, este sacramento representa una oportunidad para crecer en la fe y comprometerse a vivir según las enseñanzas de Jesús. Durante la ceremonia de Confirmación, el obispo o el sacerdote unge la frente del candidato con un aceite sagrado que se conoce con el nombre de crisma. Mientras hace esto, el obispo o el sacerdote pronuncia las palabras que invitan al Espíritu Santo a que esté presente en la vida del candidato. El aceite es un símbolo importante porque representa la bendición de Dios, la fuerza espiritual, y la dedicación a una vida cristiana. Durante este acto, la persona está recibiendo la guía del Espíritu Santo que le ayudará a

tomar decisiones correctas y a vivir con amor, respeto, y fe. La confirmación también conmemora los siete dones del Espíritu Santo que son la sabiduría, el entendimiento, el consejo, la fortaleza, la ciencia, la piedad, y el temor a Dios. Estos dones le ayudan a la persona a vivir su fe de manera más profunda y a enfrentar los desafíos de la vida con confianza en Dios. Por ejemplo, la sabiduría le ayuda a entender más el amor de Dios, mientras que la fortaleza le da la confianza para hacer lo correcto, incluso si es difícil.

difíciles, poder salir de la comodidad de sus casas se siente como un privilegio más que un derecho. Por esa razón, los eventos han sido cancelados para ayudar a mantener seguros a los miembros de las comunidades de Thousand Oaks. Para combatir las limitaciones creadas por el clima político sobre la inmigración, los clubes están considerando transmitir un evento de graduación en línea. Es una celebración que realizan todos los años para los graduados y sus familias. Al hacerlo a través de una transmisión virtual, permite a las familias conectar de forma segura con esta ocasión especial. A pesar de los desafíos que han sido presentados a los dos grupos, ellos siguen buscando formas de apoyar y representar a la comunidad latina.

Latino Connection cancela eventos

Celebraciones anuales en toda la escuela canceladas por miedo

LAILAH SERNA Editor de noticias

Los estudiantes latinos del Thousand Oaks High School se enorgullecen de unirse para celebrar sus culturas y tradiciones, contribuyendo a la diversidad del campus. El club Latino Connection organiza muchas reuniones sociales durante el año escolar para fortalecer su comunidad y celebrar la historia y tradiciones familiares.

Recientemente, I.C.E. (Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de EE. UU.) ha estado haciéndose notar en todo el país, deteniendo a cientos de personas que son percibidas como inmigrantes indocumentados, principalmente personas de países latinoamericanos.

Estas detenciones han estado causando miedo en gran parte de la comunidad latina en Thousand Oaks; incluso si nacieron en los Estados Unidos, siguen teniendo mucho miedo de ser detenidos por I.C.E.

Como resultado, muchos de los eventos de este año relacionados con la herencia hispana han sido cancelados. La razón es que muchos padres tienen miedo de asistir a una gran reunión para celebrar su herencia y posiblemente quedar atrapados en una redada de I.C.E., ya que las reuniones sociales suelen ser un blanco.

La estudiante de último año Ashley Giles es la copresidenta de Latino Connection de este año y ha estado trabajando para adaptarse a la reciente agitación política en todo el país.

“Es realmente triste porque muchos estudiantes esperan con ansias [los eventos]. Especialmente los eventos donde podemos celebrar nuestra cultura hispana”, dijo Giles. “Estábamos planeando tener guardias vigilando afuera mientras el evento se llevaba a cabo para asegurarnos de que nada sospechoso ocurriera.”

Había planes de organizar una posada, que es una popular celebración navideña de nueve días en México y América Latina. Pero tristemente, esa reunión fue cancelada, iniciando la cadena de eventos cancelados.

Polino - with permission

Fe y amistad - Alexander Díaz (Newbury Park High School), Darrelle Cruz (Westlake High School), Althea May Manalang, Mía Mendez, America Márquez, Daiyana Polino, Kimberly Vázquez, y Jenessy Fernandez asiste a la clase de confimación.

Además, durante la confirmación, muchas personas eligen el nombre de un santo, ya que es un ejemplo de vida cristiana. Los santos son un ejemplo de fe, servicio, y amor por otros. Al elegir un santo, la persona quiere seguir su ejemplo

y aprender de él. Por lo tanto, es importante señalar que la confirmación es una parte muy importante de la vida de un católico. El sacramento de la confirmación ayuda a reforzar la fe, a invitar al individuo a aceptar la guía del Espíritu Santo, y a anhelar una vida llena de amor y compromiso con Dios y con los demás. En el rito de la Confirmación, los niños y los jóvenes se convierten en miembros más comprometidos de la iglesia y se les invita a compartir el mensaje de Jesús en su vida cotidiana.

El “arte” de la IA versus el arte humano

ASHLEY CHOCÓN AGUILUZ Columnista Invitada

Hoy en día existe el un problema común de que muchas personas ya no pueden diferenciar el trabajo hecho por la inteligencia atificial (IA) del trabajo hecho por humanos. La IA se ha vuelto un gran problema en la comunidad de artistas. Yo creo que la IA no es mala del todo; puede ser una herramienta útil en nuestra sociedad. El problema es que la gente la está usando de manera incorrecta. Hoy en día se ve mucha “arte” creada por IA, y la mayoría de la gente no entiende por qué esto no es bueno. El problema con arte generado por IA es que no es arte real sino arte robado de personas. Lo que hace la IA es que busca estilos diferentes de artistas en el internet y los copia. Cuando esto pasa, cualquier persona puede decirle a la IA “hazme arte similar” y crea una imagen en sólo segundos. Sin embargo esto

no es justo para los artistas que dedicaron muchísimo tiempo y pasión. Otro problema es que la IA se ha vuelto tan difícil de distinguir del arte hecho por humanos que muchos temen que pronto todos los trabajos de artistas sean robados. La IA está comenzando a tener la habilidad de crear animaciones y dibujos en sólo unos segundos mientras que la gente que ha estudiado toda la vida o se ha dedicado por mucho tiempo se tarda más. Ahora la razón por la que digo que no es negativo del todo es porque la IA fue creada como herramienta para humanos, no para ser el reemplazo. Las personas pueden usar la IA para aprender a dibujar y crear arte de su propia creatividad, no la de otros. Un ejemplo puede ser cómo dibujar la anatomía de personas o que te genere diferentes colores que se puedan usar en tu arte. La verdad es que las creaciones de la IA se miran más muertas o sin vida. Cuando una persona crea arte, se mira la expresión y la emoción. El arte se mira vivo.

Un evento popular organizado por Latino Connection es el Desfile de Moda de Quince Años, donde los estudiantes usan los atuendos tradicionales y extravagantes para una ceremonia que marca una edad importante. Pero desafortunadamente, este evento también fue cancelado por la seguridad de los estudiantes y sus familias.

“Pensamos que los padres estarían demasiado asustados para asistir”, dijo Giles. “Los estudiantes también, porque en este momento es muy común ser perfilado, y da miedo. No sé si alguien se me va a acercar y empezar a preguntarme de dónde soy o si nací aquí.”

La estudiante de tercer año Ariana Ramos está en el grupo de redes sociales de Latino Connection y ha visto los impactos que el reciente drama político ha estado causando en este grupo.

“Muchos padres probablemente tendrían miedo de salir o hacer algo”, dijo Ramos. “Es un poco triste que tengamos que cancelar nuestros eventos y cosas así por lo que está pasando.”

A medida que el año escolar se acerca lentamente a su fin, estos estudiantes no han podido reunirse y divertirse con sus amigos y familiares de la misma manera que pudieron el año pasado.

Los eventos recientes han generado preocupaciones dentro de TOHS y, para muchos, temores sobre lo que sucederá a continuación en nuestro país.

Sin embargo, el 20 de marzo, Latino Connection organizó su baile para estudiantes e invitados. El baile de este año se llamó Noche de Rodeo, con un tema de rodeo del oeste. TOHS organizó el baile en asociación con los clubes Latino Connection de Westlake High School y Newbury Park High School para reunirse y celebrar.

Estos estudiantes no permitirán que el drama político actual les impida divertirse, celebrar y conectar con otros estudiantes que comparten su cultura.

Daiyana

Reina y Rey - Ofelia Delgado y Brandon García

Sandra Martinez Galvan - with permission

Es tiempo de béisbol

BRIANNA

NOVELO NEGRÓN

Columnista Invitada

El equipo títular (varsity) de béisbol de Thousand Oaks High School ha comenzado su temporada con mucha fuerza. El equipo abrió su temporada contra Ventura, ganando 4-1. Para el 12 de marzo, el equipo tenía un récord de 9-0, venciendo a todos los oponentes que ha enfrentado. Su fuerte defensa y ofensa han contribuido a que esté invicto. Aunque el equipo ha comenzado muy bien la temporada, el equipo de júnior varsity empiezó la temporada con un récord de 0-8 y espera conseguir su primera victoria en el futuro. A pesar de que el equipo de júnior varsity ha perdido sus juegos, siempre da una buena pelea y ha logrado anotar algunas carreras contra sus oponentes. El equipo de primer año también comenzό su temporada muy bien, ganando contra Buena High School 14-4. El equipo títular tiene un récord de 7-3 desde su primer juego. Aunque el equipo varsity ha estado jugando muy bien, enfrentó un reto cuando jugó contra los Mira

La

Costa Mustangs el miércoles 25 de febrero. El equipo de varsity se enfrentό a un jugador que jugará con UCLA, Garret Jacobs. Jacobs logró ponchar a 10 bateadores e hizo difícil que los Lanceros anotaran. Sin embargo, los Lanceros pudieron superar su fuerte actuación como lanzador y finalmente ganaron contra los Mustangs 2-1. El equipo de JV también jugó contra los Mustangs, pero terminó perdiendo. El año pasado, el equipo de varsity terminó con un récord de 18-13 y logró llegar a el campionato de la Federaciόn Interescolar de California. Comenzaron su participación en las finales el año pasado contra La Quinta y ganaron. Después de ganar contra La Quinta,

los Lanceros ganaron dos más juegos de eliminaciόn, pero en el cuarto juego los Lanceros se quedaron cortos contra Dos Pueblos, perdiendo 7-1. Este año el equipo de varsity tiene la oportunidad de volver al campionato de la Federaciόn Interescolar de California si continúa jugando bien durante la temporada. Como todavía es temprano en la temporada, los tres equipos tienen muchos juegos por delante y pueden tener mucho éxito en los próximos partidos.

alegría de hacer senderismo

SARAH CORRALES MOLINA

Columnista Invitada

Ya sea que quieras pasar el fin de semana con amigos, en familia o para desconectarte un poco, una excelente actividad es pasar tiempo en la naturaleza. En y por alrededor de nuestra comunidad, hay muchas opciones de donde ir. Unos lugares en particular son Sycamore Canyon Campground y Sycamore Cove Beach, que están del otro lado de la carretera. Sycamore Canyon Campground está dentro de Point Mugu State Park, en Malibu. Ya que está justo enfrente de Sycamore Cove Beach, es un lugar ideal para los que quieren combinar playa y montaña en un solo viaje y los campistas que quieren disfrutar de la costa. Este campamento acepta tiendas de campaña y vehículos recreativos, pero también tiene un lugar designado para los que nomás quieren estar un día. Usualmente, se tiene que pagar para quedarse en el estacionamiento del campamento, pero si no quieres pagar, se permite caminar a través del campamento hacia el inicio del sendero. Para acceso a la playa, hay un camino que conecta de forma segura el campamento con Sycamore Cove Beach, dejando que las personas pasen al otro lado de la carretera y que se puedan mover fácilmente entre los dos lugares. Además de eso, el campamento también ofrece acceso a varios senderos, incluyendo Big Sycamore Canyon Trail, que está bien para los que quieren caminar o andar en bicicleta.

El Big Sycamore Canyon Trail es un sendero que va desde el campamento a la zona de Newbury Park. Si se comienza desde Newbury Park, el camino es, por la mayor parte, cuesta abajo, permitiendo que se disfrute la experiencia sin mucha dificultad, sólo que se tiene que tener cuidado si vas en bicicleta para no ir demasiado rápido.

Si este viaje te parece bien y te interesa, la biblioteca de Thousand Oaks ofrece el pase gratuito llamado “California

State Library Parks Pass,” que permite que entres por un día a muchos parques estatales sin tener que pagar. Esto significa que puedes estacionarte en el estacionamiento de uso diario, dejándote pasar un día en el campamento o la playa, haciendo que la visita sea más accesible para los que lo quieran disfrutar. Por último, me gustaría mencionar que si estas actividades, estar al aire libre y hacer senderismo, te interesan, tenemos un club de senderismo aquí en Thousand Oaks High School.

¿Cómo van a pasar las vacaciones de la primavera?

ÁNGEL BALAM

Columnista Invitado

Este año, las vacaciones de primavera empiezan el 3 de abril y hay muchas formas de pasar esta semana de descanso. Con el buen tiempo durante la primavera y a sólo unos meses de que termine este semestre escolar, hay muchas actividades que hacer. La opción más popular de cómo pasar la semana de vacaciones es descansar. En las respuestas, 77,3% escogieron poder dormir y pasar el tiempo sin hacer nada. 40,9% escogieron ir a la playa y también van a mirar películas y otras series. Otros también van a usar este tiempo para estudiar. La mayoría de estudiantes que van a estudiar

El equipo de softbol comienza la temporada con fuerza

GRACE MARTÍNEZ

Columnista Invitada

El equipo títular femenino de softbol comenzó su temporada el martes, 24 de febrero. Se suponía que empezarían unos días antes, pero sus partidos fueron cancelados por la lluvia. El equipo jugó su primer partido contra Chaminade y perdió 8-2. Aunque perdieron, se recuperaron rápidamente al ganar su siguiente juego. Para el 13 de marzo, el equipo tienía un récord de 3-3. El equipo femenino de softbol júnior varsity comenzó su temporada el sábado, 21 de febrero. Al igual que el varsity, su primer partido fue cancelado debido a las condiciones de lluvia. Sus primeros juegos fueron contra Simi Valley y Río Mesa durante un torneo. Perdieron 0-11 contra Simi y ganaron 7-0 contra Río Mesa. Para el 13 de marzo, el equipo júnior varsity lleraba un récord de 6-5-1. El año pasado, el equipo varsity tuvo un récord de 19-8-1 y llegó a la primera ronda de la Federaciόn Interescolar de California. El equipo júnior varsity tuvo un récord de 15-8. El equipo de primer año (frosh) tuvo un récord de 5-4-1. Este año sόlo hay dos equipos: varsity y júnior varsity. Las jugadoras todavía tienen una gran temporada por delante y les deseamos la mejor de las suertes.

Aguachile

NIDIA SOTO GAMEZ

Columnista Invitada

El aguachile es un platillo típico del estilo de Sinaloa, este es un platillo fresco, picante y muy rico

(54,5%) dicien que estudiarán para exámenes. Para los estudiantes que van a viajar, muchos van a México. A muchos que se van a quedar en casas les gustaría viajar a Latinoamérica o ir a la playa. Sin embargo, muchos prefieren poder descansar, con 42,3% emocionados por no hacer nada y otro 23,8% contentos que no van a ir a la escuela.

Ingredientes:

• 1 libra de camarón crudo

• 8-10 limones

• 500 mililitros de agua tibia

• 2-3 chiles serranos

• 1-2 pepinos en rodajas finas

• ¼ cebolla morada o blanca

• sal • pimienta

• salsa negra (cualquiera)

• tostadas

• aguacate

Instrucciones:

1. Abrir el camarón por la mitad.

2. Hacer una salsa en la licuadora con el jugo del limón, el chile serrano, sal y pimienta.

3. Agregar la salsa a los camarones.

4. Poner la cebolla y el pepino.

5. Poner en el refrigerador por lo menos 10 minutos.

6.

se

en

Después

puede servir

un plato o en una tostada y agregar salsa negra y aguacate.

Defensa - La tercera base del equipo titular, Charlene Bonilla, pone fuer a la bateadora en primera base.

Peyton Wessels - Lancer Legend - with permission

A strike - Tristan Kulpaca observa cómo su lanzamiento cruza el plato en el partido en casa contra Agoura High School.

Vida de playa - Sycamore Canyon Campground está dentro de Point Mugu State Park, en Malibu.

Jessica Garrett - Lancer Legend - with permission

Sarah Corrales Molina - with permission

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English singer, songwriter, and actor, Harry Styles announced his upcoming fourth album, “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally” on Jan. 15. He hasn’t released a new album in four years, since “Harry’s House” came out in May 2022, and fans had been waiting anxiously for HS4.

New style for Styles

This 12-track album, recorded in locations including Berlin, leans heavily into synth-pop and indie funk with influences from 1970s dance music. Critics have described the sound as “musically deep but lyrically shallow,” focusing more on atmosphere and “vibe” than most pop artists’ songs and their radio-ready hooks.

The album’s lead single “Aperture” came out Jan. 22, and quickly topped the Billboard Hot 100. It’s one of two songs on the album with a music video. The album’s central metaphor is “Aperture” (the opening in a camera lens that controls light). Styles uses this to discuss how much of himself he reveals to the public. This track does a great job featuring the theme: the fear that being seen too clearly leads to being “erased” or misunderstood. This suggests that while he is “letting the light in” (returning to music), he is still searching for a space where he feels

Thirty years after the first movie, the iconic horror film franchise, Scream, released its latest installment. Many might say movies get boring after the trilogy, this is not the case for Scream. Scream 7 was a perfect mix of scary and funny, with us and the rest of the theater bursting into laughter from the remarks of returning characters, such as Sydney Prescott, played by Neve Campbell, and Gale Weathers, portrayed by Courtney Cox. For this reason, we argue that Scream 7 was better than the recent sequels, Scream (5) and IV (6). The change in casting is what made a huge difference. Slowly killing off original characters is how a franchise loses its spark. They did feature the original characters, Dewey Riley, Sydney, and Gale. The killing of Dewey in Scream 5 definitely set the tone for the rest of the series, as he was a beloved character. This, again, is why Scream 7 is better, as the main characters are Sydney and Gale, along with Sydney’s daughter Tatum.

One thing especially irritating to watch, was the fact that Tatum was constantly getting mad at Sydney for not telling her about her past. From everything Tatum hears from others, it’s surprising she doesn’t realize that it’s traumatic for her mother but, this is what sets the scene for them to get attacked and almost killed. This part of the story seemed like an overstretch, since her daughter is 17 years old and should know this by now.

This film’s Ghostfaces seemed completely random, along with their motives. Despite this, Anna Camp’s portrayal of a mentally unstable character was done well, with her being really invested in certain intense scenes, similarly to Mikey Madison’s performance as Amber Freeman in Scream 6.

Because it’s been 30 years, Sydney’s character is easier to watch. Knowing what she does, she’s prepared and isn’t portrayed as the helpless female character. Yet, she had no idea who Ghostface would be.

truly secure and not just observed.

Track 2, “American Girls,” also a single with a music video, is definitely a banger. Despite its upbeat sound, Styles claims these lyrics are “quite lonely” in a Cosmopolitan article, and the song reflects the contrast between his single life and friends, and finding deep and meaningful relationships.

The track “Paint by Numbers” has become a talking point for the fandom, with many interpreting it as a tribute to his late bandmate, Liam Payne, who passed in late 2024. It reminded me of growing up, and the lyrics were beautiful.

One of my personal favorites is “Dance No More.” It’s full of fun, really brings out the disco in the album, and makes you want to get up and dance.

There was one song on the album that I didn’t love. I thought “Season 2 Weight Loss” was mediocre. It’s a metaphor for gaining confidence in the

public eye and Styles describes it as the “mission statement” for the album. It’s hard to understand the message, which is why I think I wanted it to be more exciting compared to the other songs, but it is starting to grow on me since the first time I listened to it.

Styles reunited with longtime collaborators Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson, but the album also features production from Illangelo (known for work with The Weeknd). While primarily a solo effort, the album features background vocals from Ellie Rowsell of Wolf Alice and the House Gospel Choir.

The “Together, Together” tour which will start May 16 of this year in Amsterdam and will end Dec. 13 in Sydney, with a 30-night residency at Madison Square Garden in New York from August to October. Tickets are selling crazy fast.

Overall, Styles put out a fire album. I think some of the songs get a little

repetitive, but Styles is great with lyrics and matching them with the tune. If you haven’t already, go listen to the album track-by-track and live in the groovy pop that HS4 is.

Stars shine on Oscars stage

KAILAH SPENCER Managing Editor

The 2026 Oscars, held on Sunday, Mar. 15, was a night of historic wins, exciting performances and touching tributes. Hosted by Conan O’Brien for the second consecutive year, millions of people around the world tuned in to celebrate the impressive films produced in the past year.

The show opened with a skit by O’Brien, who impersonated Aunt Gladys from the 2025 mystery, “Weapons“. This was, after O’Brien’s opening monologue, followed by Amy Madigan’s Best Supporting Actress win for the same character.

The main competition of the night was between Ryan Coogler’s blockbuster “Sinners“ and Paul-Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another“, which dominated this award season. Sinners received a staggering 16 nominations leading up to the Oscars, the most in

Oscars‘ history. By night’s end, the film received four awards. Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for his portrayal of twin brothers, Smoke and Stack, celebrating with In-N-Out afterwards. Director Ryan Coogler received Best Screenplay, Autumn Durald Arkapaw made history by becoming the first woman to win Best Cinematography, and Ludwig Göransson took home Best Original Score.

“One Battle After Another“ continued with its award-winning streak, coming out on top with six Oscars. The film was recognized for high achievement in directing, screenplay adaptation, and film editing and Sean Penn won Best Supporting Actor. “One Battle After Another“ also received the most soughtafter award of the night, Best Picture. The category was stacked with competitive nominees like “Frankenstein“, “F1“, “Marty Supreme“, and “Sinners“. It was a great night for Anderson, who, after almost 40 years in the film industry and 14 previous nominations, won his first

Oscar and swept the show.

As always, the ceremony included a tribute portion to honor figures in film who passed away. Of these honorees, included Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, Catherine O’Hara, and Rob and Michele Singer Reiner. Billy Crystal, Rachel McAdams, and Barbra Streisand made appearances to pay respects to their colleagues and friends.

K-Pop Demon Hunters’ EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, snagged the award for Best Original Song with the hit, “Golden”. Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein won big in the craft department, earning Best Production Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and Best Costume Design. “Hamnet“, which won big at previous award shows, received eight nominations and ended the night with a win in the Best Actress category, earned by Jessie Buckley.

From animated shorts to full-length feature films, 2025 brought a class of visual art that will not be forgotten.

AROUND T.O.WN

On the topic of returning characters, Stu Macher’s appearance was a shock to the fandom. His character has not being featured since the first film, so the excitement was built up. The disappointment followed when his character was just that, an appearance. Incorporating AI, the Ghostface killers used a “fake” Stu Macker to scare Sydney. Confirming Stu is truly dead in Scream 7. If they were able to prove Stu is alive in the next sequel, it would be smart, but unlikely. Returning his character, even if he wasn’t really there, gained a lot of attention. Stu is ultimately one of the most beloved Ghostfaces because of his snarky remarks and no motive for being Ghostface. His return would definitely bring original fans hiding from the modern sequels, only time will tell what is to come in the next sequel.

Compiled

by KAILAH

SPENCER Managing Editor

Moorpark College Theatre Arts Presents “In The Heights”

7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark

Various dates between March 12-29 2:00 pm or 8:00 pm

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s touching and timely story of a tightly-knit Latin community from Manhattan is brought to life by Moorpark College’s Theatre Arts Program. Shows run through March 29th with evening performances from Thursday-Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday matinees at 2 PM on the main stage at Moorpark College Main Stage Theater. Buy tickets now at the Moorpark College Performing Arts Center Box Office, or save 10% by ordering online.

Spring Spectacular at The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College

7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark

Saturday, March 28 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Spring Spectacular is the The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College’s largest fundraising event of the year, with entertaining animal meet and greets all day long. The event will feature three shows, discovery stations, and food trucks. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors. Children 2 and under get in free.

Ventura County Farm Day

Ventura County Saturday, April 11 10:00 am-3:00 pm

Fifteen Ventura County farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will open their doors to the public to experience a day filled with behind-the-scenes tours, tractor rides, tastings, and giveaways. Check the online map for the list of participants, as some locations require reservations.

Santa Barbara Fair and Expo

Earl Warren Showgrounds, Santa Barbara April 23-26, May 1-3 4:00-10:00 PM

The Annual Santa Barbara Fair and Expo will feature carnival rides, farm animals, fair food, great live entertainment and more. There will be over 30 rides and attractions, pony rides, petting zoo, kids’ carnival, live entertainment featuring music, illusions, dancing, magic and more. There will also be free samples of featured desserts, appetizers and other foods at the Fair & Expo Cooking Contest. Tickets are available online.

Community Swap Meet in Simi Valley

5005-C E Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley Saturday, April 25 8:00 am-12:00 pm

The Rancho Simi Recreation &

On tour - Harry Styles will be at Madison Square Garden in August.

Softball gears up for strong season

APRIL RAMOS Staff Writer

With spring sports underway, the Thousand Oaks High School varsity softball team is preparing for a highly anticipated season. After months of training and conditioning, the Lancers have strong chemistry, high expectations, and a shared goal of making a deep postseason run.

Many players on the team have known each other for years, dating back to playing for Thousand Oaks Girls Softball Association (TOGSA), strengthening the team dynamic.

Sophomore catcher Olivia LePage believes the years of playing together have helped create a unique connection within the team.

“I feel that we are very close as a team,” LePage said. “I’m blessed to be put on a team with girls I connect with very well.”

That chemistry has been an important factor during the team’s preseason preparation. Many of the players have been playing softball since they were just four years old, and their shared experience helps them communicate and support one another both on and off the field.

Junior third baseman and varsity captain Charlene Bonilla emphasized how important the team’s offseason work has been in preparing for the upcoming season.

“Our preparation for our season is very important,” Bonilla said. “In the offseason, we did a lot of conditioning and team bonding to make sure our team was super gelled, but we also worked on fundamentals to perfect our skills.”

Preparing for a competitive season requires both physical and mental effort. The Lancers spend hours practicing together, reviewing game strategies, and supporting one another through challenges during training. Whether they are discussing opponents, refining their skills, or participating in team bonding activities, the players continue to build trust and friendship throughout the season.

Junior pitcher and varsity captain Samantha Case said the team has focused on staying positive and supporting each other as they continue to improve.

“I’m definitely prepared for this season,” Case said. “We try to bond a lot and not get mad when someone messes up. I feel like that really contributes to how we play.”

Looking ahead, the Lancers have ambitious goals for the season. The team hopes to qualify for CIF playoffs and advance beyond the second round. To accomplish this, the players approach every game with intensity and determination.

“I feel like one of my goals for this season is just to keep a high energy level with my team,” Bonilla said. “As an underclassman on varsity, it can be very hard to gel with the upperclassmen.”

Energy and team support have become defining characteristics of this year’s squad; the players encourage one another, knowing that momentum and morale have a major impact.

The Lancers are excited to compete against some of their biggest rivals, including Westlake, Oaks Christian, and Agoura.

“I’m really excited to play against Oaks Christian,” LePage said. “Because I also play travel softball, there are a few people I know on the team. They are very competitive, which always makes the games against them more exciting.”

Junior shortstop Faith Goldfield is also looking forward to a key rivalry match-up.

“I am really excited to play against Westlake, due to our having a rivalry with them,” Goldfield said. “We also have one of our new players on our team that just transferred from Westlake, so I think it should make for a very entertaining game.”

Throughout the season, the Lancers rely on each other for motivation and support. When one player brings energy to the field, the entire team feeds off that enthusiasm. At the same time, teammates are quick to lift each other during difficult moments.

“I think we really bond and stay together,” Case said. “We know when people are down, so even if one is not playing as well, we’ll always try to help each other play better and hype each other up.”

With strong friendships, years of experience, and a shared determination to succeed, the Thousand Oaks varsity softball team enters the season ready to compete.

New coach brings energy to girls’ tennis team

SOPHIA MUNHALL Sports Editor

The TOHS girls’ varsity tennis team is heading into the upcoming season with renewed excitement as Brenna Whelan steps in as the program’s new head coach. Whelan, a former Division I player at San Jose State University, brings high-level playing experience and a fresh perspective to a team eager for growth.

When players first learned they would be getting a new coach, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Junior Karina Jean said she was excited about the opportunity to learn from someone new.

“I was hoping that she would be able to give us tips that we couldn’t get from different coaches,” Jean said. “Every coach is different, so the insight that she could bring to the team [from a player’s perspective] is going to be very beneficial.”

For sophomore London Hoffman, the enthusiasm came from Whelan’s approach to coaching.

“I am very excited to get a new coach because I heard that she was really interested in coaching, and she was really passionate about it,” Hoffman said. “I feel like her excitement towards us as a team was great, and her drive was not just about winning.”

Players say the transition has already been smooth.

“It’s been good,” Jean said. “She’s been really good with communication with the team so far, and for the new season.” Hoffman added that Whelan has already begun organizing team practices outside of school.

“We haven’t fully gotten into the season yet,” Hoffman said. “But, we’ve had team

practices outside of school, so that’s going well.”

As a younger coach and recent graduate, Whelan’s age has also played a role in how players connect with her.

“I feel like she can relate to us more,” Jean said. “Since she’s younger, she can connect with us better.”

Hoffman echoed that sentiment, saying, “I think she’ll be able to understand us more.”

Looking ahead, players are excited about the direction the team is heading under new leadership. Jean said she is most excited about “being more active with the team and having us connect more with each other.”

“She has a great outlook on the student-athlete dynamic.”

LONDON HOFFMAN

“Definitely, I am excited about how she’s going to coach us to be a better team for next year,” Hoffman said.

Expectations for the season are high, with players hopeful for both individual and team improvement.

“We will improve by getting out there more and playing our best together,” Jean said.

“I feel like it’s going to go really well and people are going to improve a lot,” Hoffman said.

In the long term, the team believes this coaching change could positively shape team culture.

“I hope that it will get better and everyone will have more passion for the sport,” Jean said. “And just get out there and have fun.”

Hoffman pointed to Whelan’s recent experience as a competitive athlete as a major advantage.

“She will definitely have more recent advice on what athletes have been doing in tennis,” Hoffman said. “She also has a great outlook on the student-athlete dynamic.”

Despite the changes, players agree the team already has a strong foundation.

“It’s the people,” Jean said. “Everyone is really nice to everyone. It’s a good team.”

Hoffman added that many players have been putting in extra work during the offseason.

“Our teammates have been working harder and want to get better for next season,” Hoffman said. “Under this new coach, our team will definitely improve immensely by the season’s start.”

With a motivated roster and a coach bringing both passion and Division I experience, the girls' varsity tennis team is entering the season with confidence and optimism.

Track and field begins strong

Distance Carnival and Tara Davis Invitational highlight team’s preparation

JACKSON MOSTON Staff Writer

Thousand Oaks High School track season has begun and is off to a bright start. There have been three meets over the past three weekends.

With that, there was a Distance Carnival on Saturday, Feb. 21, and the third annual meet and greet with Olympic gold medalist Tara Davis. During the Distance Carnival, held at Moorpark High School, the Lancers ran laps for practice in their events. The students were given the freedom to do as many laps as they would like for practice. The better prepared they are, the better the athletes are going to compete and stay loose. While most students ran four laps around the track (one mile), some chose to run up to 16 laps to get the flow going.

Junior distance runner Layla Ward speaks on why the Distance Carnival was so beneficial to the athletes and how much better prepared they are for this upcoming season.

“It was a good opportunity for distance runners to get back into running, and there were a lot of personal records that day,” Ward said.

A fun practice and social event proves beneficial for longdistance runners; it gets them into a calm and ready mindset to compete in their next meets. No pressure or stress means athletes have more fun, and no heavy expectations. Plus, competing in a sport they love puts them in a great mind-set.

Track athletes also had the chance to meet gold Olympic medalist Tara Davis. It was an invitational track meet, which got the runners pumped for their new season. Although extremely crowded, with wait time in between events up to three hours, the Lancers were still determined. The times in between help them focus in and reset, prepare, and warm up for their events, while also cheering on the rest of their team, which is always an important part of track meets.

It was a great opportunity for the Lancers and a great start to the season. The four-by-one Varsity team placed second in total and ran a 42. Now that the prep is done and the track team is ready to compete, morale is at an all-time high, and the season is off to an amazing start.

Every NBA season there’s always at least one rookie who surprises people. This year, Kon Knueppel is starting to be that guy for the Charlotte Hornets.

Knueppel didn’t come into the league with the same attention as some of the top draft picks, but he’s been proving that he belongs. In one of his recent games, he scored over 20 points and hit multiple threes, helping keep the Hornets competitive. For a rookie, that’s impressive, especially in a league where the competition is way faster and stronger than college.

What makes his performance stand out is how calm he looks on the court. He doesn’t rush shots or try to do too much. When he’s open, he shoots with confidence. When a defender closes out, he makes the extra pass instead of forcing it.

His shooting has definitely been his biggest strength so far. The Hornets have needed more consistent scoring, and Knueppel has helped by spacing the floor and knocking down outside shots. When he gets hot from three, it changes the energy of the game. You can see his teammates start to trust him more.

But it’s not just about scoring. He’s also shown effort on defense and has been willing to fight for rebounds. He might not always be the loudest player on the court, but he plays hard. That matters, especially for a team that’s still trying to build for the future.

The Hornets are in a rebuilding stage right now, which means young players are getting opportunities to grow. Knueppel has taken advantage of his minutes and shown improvement already. Of course, he’s still going to have tough games; that’s normal for any rookie. The NBA season is long, and there’s a lot to adjust to.

Still, games like his 20-point performance show his potential. If he keeps improving and shooting with confidence, he could become an important part of the Hornets’ future.

For now, Kon Knueppel is definitely a rookie to watch.

Strike out - Junior Emma Vasquez pitches against Granada Hills Charter High School in a 9-1 win for varsity.

Keith Baldwin - with permission

Court experience - New tennis coach Brenna Whelan played tennis for SDSU.

Brenna Whelan - with permission

TOHS SPRING SPORTS ROUND-UP

JOHNNY PHAN Staff Writer

STUNT

Coach: Elsy Hernandez

2024-2025 Record: Overall: 5-2

2025-2026 Record: Overall: 2-1

Top Players: Senior Delaney Hatch, senior Devyn Masso, senior Mari Bassil, sophomore Avery Roberts, senior Kayden Studebaker, sophomore Addison Anello

Quotable: “During a slip-up, I remain calm, make sure everyone in my pod is okay and knows what’s going on, then as a team we talk it out and make sure we fix the problem,” Bassil said.

BOYS’ TENNIS

Coach: David Dewing

2024-25 Record: Overall: 1-1; League: 0- 0

2025-26 Record: Overall: 1-0; League: 0-0

Top Players: Senior Aiden Mueller, junior Hudson Middleton, junior Boden Middleton, sophomore Cash Lum, sophomore Tarik Noorzai

Inside Story: “My grandma’s a professional tennis player, so taking lessons and going to camp really got me into tennis, it’s great to play with my brother Boden,” Hudson Middleton said.

BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL

Coach: Seth Burnham

2024-25 Record: Overall: 24-15; League: 8-2

2025-26 Record: Overall: 3-7-1; League: 0-1

Top Players: Senior Till Koehler, senior Santiago Diaz, senior Alex Marco, junior Grant Weeks

Inside Story: The team doesn’t plan any team dinners, but instead has Saturday golf nights where the team can bond and engage in pre-game pep talks.

Graduating students leave team with work

Varsity cheer and stunt seniors share struggles sport will face next year

AVA ROCHA Staff Writer

As graduation begins to inch closer, cheer and stunt senior athletes decide if they continue the sport throughout college or if it’s time to part from it. Their years of dedication, hard work, and love for the sport will stick with them, life lessons that impact their immediate futures and into adulthood.

As the inspiring athletes take their leave, what will happen to the team next year, and how will the team handle their loss of seniors? Senior Gabby Napoli shares her thoughts and opinion about next year.

“It’s definitely gonna be hard, but if the other girls stay friends, stay motivated and keep cheering, it will be OK,” Napoli said. “I believe there will be more girls next year and if we keep that positive attitude with the team, more people will want to join.”

As someone with experience in a sport, as well as being a senior who guides their younger peers it’s no doubt Napoli would feel her friends and teammates will continue to work hard for stunt and cheer, stay together, and continue to recruit new members. All the athletes have a strong bond, so it will not be an easy goodbye for these teammates. Avery Worthington describes the team bond.

“I love the environment and the people [in stunt],” Worthington said. “I love how much fun we have; it’s such an exciting sport.”

Having a powerful connection with teammates and friends creates a strong love for the sport as a whole. It’s important to carry this moral into performances, and is useful outside of sports too. Being able to carry those skills into adulthood is important for seniors, but with the skills come great memories. Senior Allison Shapiro shares her experience with team memories and bonding.

“After we won our first game, we all did karaoke and sang songs together on the bus ride,” Shapiro said.

Though stunt and cheer will experience a loss of athletes next year, these girls have faith in their friends and upcoming freshmen next year. With that trust and positivity, the seniors can trust their teammates will carry on.

Expect the team next year to have a loud voice, new faces, and be persistent for new members. There are high hopes for stunt and cheer, and as long as they maintain their friendship and hard work, the team will be able to overcome any bumps in the road.

BOYS’ TRACK AND FIELD

Coach: Marlene Wilcox

2024-2025 Record: Overall: N/A

2025-2026 Record: Overall: N/A

Top Players: Senior Caleb Romeo, senior Gabriel Chin, senior Brady Beck, senior Jordan Johnson, and senior Lucas Schneider

Quotable: “Being D1, not everyone completely understands all the sacrifices and extra work I have to put in,” Chin said. “It’s so many of the things that make me ‘boring’ that make me better as an athlete.”

BOYS’ SWIM

Coach: Coach Rond

2024-2025 Record: Overall: 3-3

2025-2026 Record: Overall: 1-3

Top Players: Senior Curren Mealiffe, senior Eric Shea, junior Manny Gonzalez, sophomore Beckett Dowdle, and sophomore Ryan Henry

Quotable: “Swim is a mental challenge, the long 4-hour practices, and all the commitment that comes with the sport really pushes me,” Mealiffe said. “I love the water; it’s a very calming experience. I wouldn’t do any other sport.”

BASEBALL

Coach: Hayden Cronenbold

2024-25 Record: Overall: 18-13; League: 6-9

2025-26 Record: Overall: 6-0; League: 0-0

Top Players: Senior Bret Warner, senior Jameson Berigan, senior Wyatt Turley, junior Jake Ange, junior Gavin Berigan, junior Dane Bacon

Notable: “Before I pitch, I try to stay calm and focused on the strike zone,” Bacon said. “I remind myself to trust my practice and just take it one pitch at a time. I don’t think too much about the hitter, I just focus on throwing good pitches.”

Sponsored

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GIRLS’ TRACK AND FIELD

Coach: Marlene Wilcox

2024-2025 Record: Overall: N/A

2025-2026 Record: Overall: N/A

Top Players: Senior Maggie De la Rionda, senior Jordyn Brown, senior Taylour Falk, junior Maya Block, junior Trs’Ta Mitchell

Notable: “Right before the gun goes off and before a race, I lock in and don’t listen to music or anyone, just myself,” Falk said.

GIRLS’ SWIM

Coach: Coach Rond

2024-2025 Record: Overall: 5-1

2025-2026 Record: Overall: 4-0

Top Players: Senior Zara Dragoi, senior Ady Brown, junior Kira Jones, junior Abi Kerns, and sophomore Satia Khodadadi Notable: “The biggest lesson I’ve learned from swimming is just keep pushing,” Jones said. “Everything builds on itself, so I tell myself to keep pushing, and eventually I’ll reach whatever goal I have in mind.”

SOFTBALL

Coach: Heather Sphor

2024-25 Record: Overall: 19-8-1; League: 7-3

2025-26 Record: Overall: 2-1; League: 0-0

Top Players: Junior Samantha Case, junior Faith Goldfield, junior Charlie Bonilla, junior Penelope Yeomans, sophomore Madison Jauregui

Quotable: “My dad was D1 at CSUN, he gives me the motivation to play in college to be just as good as he was,” Yeomans said.

Lancers laser focused on fundamentals, league title

Varsity baseball team enters season with strong mindset and clear goal: win league

LILAH SWAVING Sports Editor

Last season, the Lancers showed flashes of potential but struggled to close out key moments. Instead of ignoring those setbacks, the team used them as motivation throughout the offseason.

“We want to win league,” senior pitcher Jameson Berigan said. “We feel like we could have been a better team last year. There were times we didn’t execute when we needed to. But I feel confident now because we’ve been through those tough situations, and I think we’ll be able to execute better this year.”

Execution has been a major focus during preseason practices. One of the biggest improvements the team worked on was pitching consistency.

“We struggled last year with throwing strikes,” Berigan said. “So our pitchers really worked on attacking the zone more and letting the defense do the work.”

By limiting walks and pitching more aggressively in the strike zone, the Lancers hope to control the pace of games and avoid giving opponents extra opportunities.

Junior Ryan Burton said the team didn’t just focus on pitching, they also emphasized fundamentals across the board.

“Everyone’s pulling on the same end of the rope, and we all want to win.”

JAMESON BERIGAN

“We really focused on the little things. Base running, defensive details, and fundamentals,” Burton said. “If we can get those dialed in, it can cause chaos for other teams and force them to make mistakes.”

That attention to detail could be the

difference in tight league match-ups. Clean defense, smart base running, and aggressive but disciplined at bats, are all areas the team believes will separate them from last year’s results.

Another noticeable difference this season is the team’s chemistry. Many players have competed alongside each other for years, creating strong relationships on and off the field.

“[Our chemistry is] really good right now,” Berigan said. “I think it’s a lot better than last year. Everyone’s pulling on the same end of the rope, and we all want to win.”

Burton agreed, adding that familiarity has helped build trust.

“A lot of us have been playing together for years. So we know each other really well, and that helps a lot.”

Leadership played a key role in setting the tone. Upperclassmen focused on staying composed and leading by example during the preseason.

Team huddle - Coaches talk to the TOHS varsity team after their 2-1 win against Mira Costa High School on Feb. 25.

Jordan Winston - Lancer Legend - with permission

How T.O.: Not park like an egotistical jerk

LILAH SWAVING Sports Editor

The A Lot and Tennis Court Lot at Thousand Oaks High School are part of every student’s morning routine, but lately, they’ve also become a little chaotic. Despite having licenses and passing driver’s education, some students still struggle with the basics of parking, and it shows.

Driving on campus isn’t just about getting to school; it’s about being aware of others. That means slowing down, using your blinkers, checking your mirrors, and remembering that there are students around you walking to class.

When it comes to parking, the rules are simple. The white lines on the ground mark your spot. Your car should fit completely

between them; not over the line, not at an angle. And the areas with white diagonal lines? Those are not for parking. They are there to create space for cars to turn, for traffic to flow. Parking in these areas can block visibility and make it difficult for everyone else to move safely. Plus, its illegal. White lines are not to be crossed.

The A Lot has it’s share of challenges. Trucks often take up more than one space, making it harder for other cars to park or exit. And the Mustangs? They stand out, but no amount of style makes up for poor parking.

The Tennis Court Lot is tighter, requiring a little more gratitude. One crooked car can create a domino effect, leaving an entire row in a zigzag pattern and making it difficult for others to navigate.

It’s important to remember that there’s always the baseball lot, which has plenty of available spaces. Choosing to squeeze into a crowded spot or park across the diagonal lines is usually just a matter of convenience or avoiding a short walk. Walking an extra few minutes can save you from cleaning off sticky residue from the sticker that the office puts on your car for being parked incorrectly or parking in the wrong area.

Parking properly is part of being a responsible driver. If your car isn’t lined up correctly, it’s okay to back out and try again. Taking two extra seconds ensures that everyone can get in and out safely and efficiently. I know it takes a long time to get out of school, but having extra cars trying to pull out of spots that are unsafe takes more time too.

Following the rules and being considerate of others helps keep the lots safe, organized, and stress free. Let’s all do our part to park with purpose and stay between the lines.

Easter is fun for all

ABIGAIL KERNS

Opinions Editor

With Easter around the corner and the spring sun already piercing through the cold air of winter, people are starting to prepare for the upcoming holiday in varying degrees. In the religious sense, Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion three days prior, however many turn Easter into a celebration with their family. One of the popular activities enjoyed is the Easter Egg Hunt.

The Hunt, which so many love, involves eggs that are plastic filled with money, candy, coupons, or dyed hard-boiled egg that people look forward to finding in hidden spots throughout a given area. Often, young children between the ages of three to eight participate in these beloved hunts to get some Easter candy.

“What made Easter Egg Hunts fun was the fact that there was sometimes money in them, and sometimes they weren’t fake, they were actually real boiled eggs,” said freshman Kristian Jeffery. However, soon after starting, Jeffery was let in on the one big idea, almost as top secret as Santa Claus, that the Easter Bunny was not real.

“I think I stopped believing around the age

eight or nine. I think I grew out of it a little bit,” Jeffery said. “Basically, since I knew that the Easter Bunny wasn’t real.”

Finding out the Easter Bunny is a thing of fiction may turn many young children off of the idea of an Easter Egg Hunt, since so many imagined a massive colorful white or pink or blue rabbit happily laying eggs just for them to find. However, Easter Egg Hunts aren’t made fun by the idea of an Easter bunny, but rather the actions of the parents or people who create a fun treat from someone they care about. There should be no social norm for an age limit in an Easter Egg Hunt.

“We do Easter Egg Hunts every year,” sophomore Natalie Edge said. “It is a great way my sister and me to bond because we get to look around together; we have an age gap of three years so it can be tough to get closer.”

The Egg Hunts are not just about looking for the eggs and whatever goodies that hide inside it, but to pull people closer together by giving them a common challenge. The real purpose of this annual activity is to bring people of all ages together; it is not just a childish game for kids under the age of ten, it helps highlight and celebrate relationships every spring.

compiled by The Lancer Staff

Warm weather With spring officially here, the weird winter weather is ending. Weekend beach days and tanning after school are back and so is warm summer weather. Temperatures and attitudes only go up from here.

War There has been a lot of worry regarding the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. The death of Iran’s President has made the conflict more intense, with the promise of war becoming a possibility.

Every Lancer has a story

What are your plans for spring break?

“I will spend time with friends, but mostly play golf.”

What is your sleep schedule during breaks?

“I go to sleep early and wake up early because I am responsible.”

Do you prefer clouds or sun?

“I prefer the warmer weather so I can go to the beach.”

Do you prefer time with family or friends?

“[During Spring Break] I’m going to be going to the gym and playing basketball with friends and family.”

What is your craziest spring break story?

“When I was around 8, I was camping with my dad and a raccoon bit my eye.”

Prom season

The excitement of prom is here. With tickets on sale, going dress shopping is the topic for juniors and seniors. With the theme and venue release, the realness of the anticipated dance is settling in.

Gas prices

Gas prices have gotten high and keep rising, making leaving campus more of a hassle than a necessity for students. Driving from school to home could cost students most of their paychecks in just one week.

Where is your favorite place to visit?

“I love to visit Oregon with family and explore the land.”

Who will you mostly be spending time with during break?

Wyatt Rodman

“I have a group of friends that play Dungeons and Dragons, and I will be spending time with them.”

Do you prefer the beach or the mountains?

“I would rather go to the warm beach and spend time with friends.”

What’s your favorite Easter candy?

“I really like the little chocolate brown bunnies.”

Compiled by JACKSON MOSTON Staff Writer

Daylight Savings Time

Getting dark at 5 PM is out and the sun setting later at 7 PM is in. We get more daylight, more motivation and more opportunities to go out with friends or family before the street lights go on.

Bad drivers

From parking in nonparking spots and speeding through the parking lot, to not letting people out and cutting others off, many students have caused others to wonder how they even obtained a driver’s license.

Needohs

As students wait for Spring Break, the use of stress balls or fidgets is increasing. These colorful, squishy and satisfying objects can be seen in almost every classroom, being shared by students.

Water Assassins

The anticipated annual senior event has not lived up to expectations this year. There wasn’t much hype leading up to it, and after the first couple of weeks, most people forgot about it. Has any team won yet?

Tristan Bergmann-Petersen

Presley Shattuck

Jackson Benic

Eric Shea

Flynn Van Dyke

Lorenzo Morales

Diana Walters

Greyson Wohlstattar

Lilah Swaving - The Lancer

Lilah Swaving - The Lancer