The Mirada December 2018

Rio dominates Jack Scott Tournament

Brian Asher travels the globe

SPORTS | PAGE 13

BACKPAGE| PAGE 15-16

The Mirada

Friday, December 21, 2018

School to add solar panels in parking lot Structure in overflow lot will supply 30% of site’s energy needs Katie Newton Rebecca Smith Mirada Staff After additions of the Performing Arts Center and Field of Dreams, Rio awaits one more upgrade: solar panels.

This summer, the district plans on installing solar panels above the overflow parking lot.

The construction will being in summer and will be completed before school starts in August. Originally, they wanted to install solar panels on the roof of the large and small gyms, but as Principal Brian Ginter explained, there are issues with this.

“Installing them on buildings that old could cause problems with roofs leaking and things like that,” said Ginter.

Different spots were examined for the installation including the back parking lot, the roof of the gym and the new PAC building, but the overflow parking lot was the ultimate decision.

“The location picked allows for the maximum size system while not obstructing any views of the school buildings (new PAC) or fields,” said Chris Ralston the manager of Maintenance and Operations for the district.

The structure of the solar panels themselves will be similar to those at the Sacramento State parking lots, and the shade provided by the panels will be a plus.

“They are being installed as part of the district’s general sustainability plan,” said Ralston. “The funding we received for this project is restrictive to just these types of projects. When complete, we expect this will

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Rio Americano High School, Sacramento, California

Vol. 53, Issue 4

IT’S A WRAP AVID students give 600 presents at grade school

SEE Solar panels PAGE 4

ADA helps students with disabilities Annalee Gorman Mirada Staff Former President George H.W. Bush enacted the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which impacts thousands to have employment opportunities, and participate in State and local government projects. This bill lives on as part of his legacy following his death at age 94 on Nov. 30.

The ADA is one of the most comprehensive bills allowing all Americans to have equal opportunities. His bill helped change the

Seniors Sean Remitz and Cody Rister give presents to students at Howe Avenue Elementary school.

Photo by Kaitlyn Shellooe.

Kaitie Newton Mirada Staff AVID has put on a toy drive for kids at Howe Avenue Elementary School for 23 years, and every year it means something different to everyone involved.

For Christopher Delacruz, the toy drive has been a part of his life longer than most.

“I used to go to Howe Avenue myself, so I actually got a toy when I went there,” said Delacruz.

Once receiving, and now giving, the annual toy drive has an even deeper meaning to Delacruz. He likes knowing that the toys will go to use and the kids will enjoy them for many years.

“It helped me see their point of view, and it really helps to know that I’m providing the kids with toys that are going to last pretty much their whole childhood,” said Delacruz.

Seeing things come full circle each year makes giving the gifts and watching the kids happily open them, that much more joyful.

This year AVID’s goal was to cover kindergarten through third grade, which is about 600 students. The toy drive is a lot of work, and preparation starts as early as September.

“It’s actually like a semester-long project,” said AVID teacher Leigh Sumers.

The project starts off with planning which teachers will allow boxes in their room, building boxes and ensuring that the toy drive is advertised everywhere possible.

The most interactive and fun aspect of the project comes in December when students collect, wrap and finally deliver the gifts to the kids.

In addition to the joy of giving, AVID students learn about how there are always people to help.

“It’s kind of easy to be stuck in your own

little bubble and not think about people just down the road from you and how much need there really is,” said Sumers.

“That giving back piece is so valuable and it’s good to start that when you’re young so that you can continue that through your lifetime.”

As a kid, Sumers always participated in Toys for Tots, and it left a big impression.

Now she leads AVID every year in a cycle of giving that’s inspirational to all.

“I have amazing kids and Rio has really come out,” said Sumers. “It’s amazing we have so many presents.”

All the work paid off when AVID passed out toys during the final week of school before break.

Whether it is Delacruz and his journey from receiving to donating, or Sumers and her journey from donating to leading, the toy drive certainly is a gift that keeps on giving.

SEE ADA PAGE 3

INSIDE >> News|1-5

Opinion|6-7

Features|8-12

Gifts |8-9 Sports|13-14 ONLINE >>

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The Mirada |NEWS| Friday, December 21, 2018

page 2

MIRADA FROM THE PAST Snow Flakes Will Whirl Friday, December 17, 1965 The searchlight that scans the sky tonight will beckon couples to “Aurora Borealis” the annual Rally-sponsored semi formal dance. Climaxing the evening will be the crowning of the King and Queen of the Northern Lights. Bill Rase and his band will provide the music for 8 p.m. to 11;30 p.m.in the Girls’ Gym. The Gym after undergoing a complete transformation, will resemble the white and wintery arctic regions where the Aurora Borealis, a scientific phenomenon, occurs yearly. Gigantic glittering white snowflakes will fall from a lowered Ceiling of white crepe paper.An arched rainbow in the entrance will welcome the couples. Glints of light will be cast about the room by a glass ball above the dance floor. Refreshments will be served in a secluded area,away from the band and dancers. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Bids are obtainable today at the student store.prices are $2.50 a couple and $1.50 stag

CALENDAR 12/19-12/21 Caring for our Watersheds Presentations @ 7:30 am in the PAC 12/24 - 1/4 Winter Break - No School 1/9 PTSA General Meeting @ 8 1/10 Rio and Beyond Alumni Day @ 8 1/16 RABB- Band @ 6 1/17 Kaplan Test Prep @ 6:30 1/21 Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School 1/24 Kiwanis Jazz Festival @ 5 1/29 Rio & Beyond Sophomore Interview Training @ 7 1/30 Science Night in the PAC @ 6

Views on the news: INTERNATIONAL

NATIONAL

Students respond to events from around the area and around the nation

STATE

LOCAL

Migrant workers jobs taken over by robots

Supreme Court rules to protect endangered frogs

Immigrants at Mexican border tear gassed

Brother of Stephon Clark announces his candidature

Immigrant farm workers’ jobs are gradually being taken away from jobs because artificial intelligence advancements are being made.

The world is continuing to make changes with citizens’ jobs, and they do so by using “robots” to replace them. This is believed to open up more opportunities for higher skilled positions for the people who are losing their jobs. In 2017, there was a 55 percent labor shortage in California, and 70 percent for people who depended on seasonal jobs like farming. A new door is planned to open for employees, but as of right now, immigrant workers are losing their workings more and more.

The United States Supreme Court recently held a unanimous vote ruling in favor of Mississippi landowners who were prevented from clearing timber on their land due to state environmental laws designed to protect the Dusky Gopher Frog. The lower-courts established that the land would be protected by the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act but the Supreme Court wrote that they should consider whether the agency’s assessment of the “costs and benefits” of a critical habitat designation on private land was flawed. There are currently about 100 frogs alive in Mississippi due primarily to habitat loss.

American border control used tear gas to keep the migrants from crossing the border. Hundreds of migrants who were trying to into the united states illegally officer’s shut down operations at the border crossing. Migrants tried crossing but then after they were getting tear gas thrown near them.

Families are affected because getting caught at the border split the family up. It affects the kids because when they are trying to cross the tear gas is bad to breath in.

Stevante Clark, brother of Stephon Clark, the 22-yearold man shot and killed in his grandmother’s backyard in March, has announced his candidature for mayor in 2020. Clark’s campaign promises to focus on developing life in underdeveloped communities.

Although Clark has publicly been critical of mayor Darrell Steinberg and the Sacramento police department, Clark has stated; “I’m not making this about me in retribution and revenge.”

Clark also plans to combat mental health, opening a resource center in his brother’s name, offering job training, recreational opportunities, childcare, mentoring programs, and mental health therapists.

“This conflict is inescapable in a way because of evolution, it naturally causes development of newer technology that will eventually take over.

The progression of technology is inevitable.”

Junior Dasha Kovalenko

“We should protect them from extinction because their absence can impact a number of other organisms and the functionality of the environment as a whole.”

Senior Lia Rocucci

“I can’t believe what our world has come to; people are now losing their jobs to robots. Who knows what could happen in the future now, it’s scary to think about.”

Sophomore Steven Vivaldi

“I don’t think any action negatively interfering with native wildlife is justifiable. I also don’t believe that the harvesting of a few logs is worth the risk of the extinction of an endangered amphibian species.”

Junior Jake Steinberg

“I think messed up and that something that shouldn’t happen to people.”

Freshman Laylonie Samayoa

“It’s stupid because it’s hurting the women and children and it doesn’t have to get to that point.”

Junior Zach Zalligan

“If the man wants to run for mayor, let him run for mayor.

He got some publicity, which will probably help him with his campaign.”

Senior Vlad Statnyk

“I think he wouldn’t of done this if his brother wasn’t killed, but I don’t think he’s doing this to get back at the people who killed his brother. I think hes doing it to prevent it from happening again.”

Sophomore Justine Waters

MENTAL HEALTH

Pop culture tied to suicide rates Sam Baccelli Susannah Swindel Mirada Staff Suicide is an important issue these days, between a rise in depressed teenagers and popular shows like “13 Reasons Why.” As of 2011 suicide has replaced homicide as the second leading cause of death in the United States with teens, according to a Population Bureau Analysis study.

As of 2012, about 1 in 20 teens have been diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Suicide rates have escalated, with a statistic from the Centers for Disease Control showing suicides for children between ages 10-14 doubling from 2007 to 2014, and they’ve only gotten higher since.

Shows attempting to spread awareness such as “13 Reasons Why” can often have the opposite effect. After the premiere of “13 Reasons Why” searches for suicide prevention related terms increased, but so did searches for methods to commit suicide.

Online searches for “how to commit suicide” rose 26 percent above the expected number of searches for that time. There was an approximate increase of 900,000 to 1.5 million more suicide-related searches over the 19 days after the shows debut than expected.

The graphic imagery showing sexual assault, self-harm, and suicide

can trigger even more dangerous thoughts in already on edge teens, likely causing the increase in suicidal thoughts.

In addition to the constant triggers in the media, the pressure of school also escalates the risk of teen suicide. Suicide-related psychiatric hospitalizations rise exponentially in the first few months of the school year in comparison to the rest of the year.

Summer months experience the lowest amount of hospital visits, while fall and spring show the highest, increasing by 118 percent, which isn’t a coincidence.

Along with school comes an increase in bullying, as well as pressure from teachers and parents.

This is especially hard to handle when a child is already mentally ill, as the stress can magnify anxiety and depression.

In worst case scenarios, this can result in suicidal thoughts and possibly attempts if the child feels too overwhelmed to handle the pressure. If bullying, either online or at school, is added to this, it’s even more dangerous.

Unfortunately, most schools aren’t doing enough to prevent these issues. While mental health awareness and suicide prevention are on the rise, schools are still far behind what they need to do to help struggling students.

Although there is easy to access

counselors and zero tolerance bullying policies, there’s only so much that can help. The problem with this is that there’s a huge lack of education on how to help teens in crisis.

One freshman, Angela Petersen says that the stresses and pressure of school make her mental health a lot worse. “I believe this school is great but how the staff doesn’t care about how the teachers are handling their students grades and mental health is just crazy,” said Petersen. “If they could do something to change this problem, I would like to see them at least try to care about their students so maybe then we would have a better overall school.”

Teachers are more likely to notice a problem but have virtually no way to help, and counselors aren’t much help either. Each counselor is responsible for about 400 students, so it’s unlikely that the counselor would notice any problem with a single student’s mental health.

The main purpose of a counselor’s job is to help students with academics, while students are getting very little help with any other sort of struggle. In addition to this, mentally ill teens often have a more difficult time in school, possibly making a student less comfortable in a classroom setting, having more trouble getting work done, etc.

For teenagers who are a part of minority groups such as the LGBTQ

community, these symptoms of mental illness can be even worse.

Between bullying from their peers to the constant self-doubt, suicide is much more common among LGBTQ teens.

A gay or bisexual teen is almost three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts than a heterosexual teen. The contemplation suicide is most of the time caused by the bullying these teens face from one of the most progressive generations.

In the hallways of schools, offensive slurs are still thrown around.

In our progressive generation slurs are mostly used as a joke rather than to verbally attack someone. Slurs are slurs, regardless of what intention someone has and are still hurtful.

Gay and trans teens are often rejected by their families. That type of rejection can cause harm to the fragile developing psyche. That kind of damage can also be a cause of suicidal thoughts among LGBTQ teens.

Suicide is a serious problem in youth. There is no apparent solution because of the complexity of the issue, so all you can really do is be there for your peers when teachers and counselors can’t be.

The Mirada |NEWS| Friday, December 21, 2018

Millions of people leave Calif.

Housing costs, jobs fuel exodus Annalee Gorman Mirada Staff In the last decade, over 5 million people have left California. Many leave to Texas, Arizona, Nevada and Oregon.

Since 2011, housing prices have risen over 71 percent. With prices getting exponentially higher, it is harder to sustain a family and afford California.

As wealthy business move into California, it drives others out.

Housing and jobs in California are more competitive as a result of the influx from these expanding businesses.

Evidence from California Legislative Analyst’s Office shows they are gaining highincome, college-educated residents.

Those who earn $55,000 or less were more likely to move out of California compared to those earning $200,000 or more who are more likely to move to California.

With growing technology companies, California is getting younger and sleeker. It gained mostly adults aged 26-35 yearsold who have at least a Bachelor’s degree. The increase in educated adults correlates with the increased housing prices.

Those who have obtained at least a Bachelor’s degree have more opportunities to earn higher salaries, especially in places like the Silicon valley. Since the recent growth of Silicon Valley companies, housing prices have skyrocketed.

For example, the median housing

Drawing by Abbey Overbey

cost in San Jose is $1 million.

However, even the vaunted silicon valley will take a hit from the housing crisis without a solution. A low supply of homes decreases the amount of people that a business can hire and eventually ceases the hiring process.

Housing is the prominent reason why many relocate. California’s median housing cost for a singlefamily home is $550,990 while the national average is $247,800 according to the National Association of Realtors. With a 13.3 percent income tax rate, it’s the highest in the nation.

Housing affordability in California continues to decrease and creates a higher demand for an already crowded state. According to the state’s housing department, less than 80,000 homes have been built annually thus escalating rent and house prices.

States such as Texas with an average home prices listed at $313,000 appeal to coastal

Californians (San Jose, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego) with average home prices of $720,000. Additionally, Texas has a strong market, no income tax and with many corporate moves such as Toyota, it has an astronomically high growth rate.

This year, California’s job market is expected to decrease. Last year, the job margins increased by 2 percent. Now, it is predicted to rise by 1.3 percent.

It’s not just the unaffordable housing prices that draw out Californians. The competitive and crowded environment leaves little room for jobs. More expensive cities like Seattle and Portland compensate through their booming market.

Living in Portland compared to Los Angeles is ⅓ the price, and is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. House prices aren’t decreasing either. Over the past year, California home prices have risen 6.5 percent and within the next year are predicted to rise

ADA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 way of public schools, as every student reserves the right for equal opportunities in education.

Programs under this bill include the 504 plan (specialized plans for those with disabilities in order to increase their success in school) and Individual Education Program (IED).

The ADA covers anyone with a physical, sensory, cognitive, or any other mental disability.

This act carries to off-campus activities, employment, and other educational opportunities as the government cannot discriminate against one’s disability.

At school, students are able to acquire a 504 plan to assist in accommodating a disability.

Typically, the student struggling can set up a meeting with a counselor, or be referred by a teacher.

“Before we put a 504 in place we will suggest some sort of accommodation for the student such as adding time for a person,” said Principal Brian Ginter. “If that doesn’t work, that’s when you go into a 504 plan. It’s not as intrusive as an IEP would be, but it’s not something as simple to do.”

An IEP can be used if the student requires more assistance than a 504 plan entails.

“If you start to adjust the amount of homework a student might have, or you’re able to access a computer during a test, or you need a calculator for something that you normally wouldn’t need a calculator for that’s when you start to get into things covered in an IEP,” said Ginter.

All of what’s on the IEP must be done as it’s a legally binding contract

Nathaniel St. Geme works on a bridge project in his engineering class. St. Geme says the Americans with Diasabilitues Act, which was signed into law

by President George H. W. Bush, who died last month, has greatly helped his education. Photo by Alex Lydon.

between the school district and the student. Typically, one starts with the least intrusive plan and adjusts the plan later as needed.

“To get an IEP you need to be tested to see what specific type of learning disability you have. Once that’s determined, you can get an IEP,” said Ginter. “However to get a 504 if you want one you can if other small accommodations haven’t helped you.”

Additionally, under ADA, schools and public services must meet the design requirements to provide equitable use, low physical effort, and size and space approach into the design for a facility. Failure to comply with these mandates results in a fine or lawsuit.

“Anything we’re touching here has to have ADA accessibility,” said Ginter. “Anytime you’re going to do construction, you have to make it all

ADA compliant.”

In public school districts, they must provide a free education including accommodating the needs of their students. This can include anywhere from physical therapy to allowing more time on tests for students.

“My students are independent living school students that have all different types of disabilities from autism, to intellectual disabilities that are all on a certificate of completion track,” said special education teacher Kaci Rodericks.

“In terms of education, I think the main thing is that it gives the students with special needs a chance of having accessibility.”

ADA has a great impact on many students like senior Nathan St. Geme: “The ADA means everything to me. It allows me to access places in my daily life. Any place that has

8.3 percent. For most, flocking to Nevada or the Sunbelt region makes the most fiscal sense.

Other factors such as crime, traffic, politics and friendlier people contribute to this trend. Proposition 47, enacted in 2014 is a potential reason for the increase in crime rates. Prop 47 reduces the harshness of penalties, but also releases thousands of felons from prison, reduces penalties for theft, gun and “date-rape” drugs.

According to the U.S Department of Justice, in some California cities, the crime rate has increased by over 50%.

The young generations that move to California contribute to the high number of liberals in the state. Conservatives are more likely to move to other traditionally conservative states such as Texas and Arizona.

The high taxes, worry of crime and frustration of the noticeable liberal shift leaves many to move to places like Texas where they can find a “friendlier” environment.

California is also known for its traffic and frequent road rage. With congested freeways throughout California, many opt for the open roads in less crowded states. As a result, there is less stress while driving and more job and life satisfaction according to City Clock Magazine.

As the California continues to become more expensive, more are predicted to leave, fleeing to open states with booming economies.

Now home to business tycoons and eager entrepreneurs, California is becoming younger, liberal and pricey, driving thousands out.

steps, if not the ADA would not allows me to step into the place.

Because of the ADA I can ride the buses, which is important because I am unable to drive. If it weren’t for the ADA, I would not have my independence.”

Accommodating the needs of the students benefits them in and outside of school: “I think [ADA] will have more of an impact on them once they transition from high school because they are going to be more accessible to community needs and services, and getting a job is a goal for the majority of my students and I think it will help them in that area,” said Rodericks.

ADA continues throughout college, .”..beyond just Rio, the ADA allows me to go to college without worry of not being able to access whatever I want,” said St. Geme.

ADA provides students with skill sets to be successful outside of school by its educational programs.

Yet, each year more arrangements are being made to assist those under the act.

“Still there is a lot of work ahead in that field but it’s a step ahead for people with special needs especially on the moderate to severe track like students that I have,” said Rodericks.

Bush’s act will allow students to continue their education, or start in the workforce with equal opportunities.

page 3

Rebecca Smith Commentary

District censors Arkansas high school newspaper A high school paper, The Herald, in Arkansas investigated the transfer of five football players to a rival high school which resulted in the district shutting down the paper and the advisor threatened with being fired.

After the players transferred to a nearby high school in the middle of the school year in late 2017, students from Harber High School decided to investigate.

Although parents signed letters saying their sons transferred for academic reasons, The Herald conducted interviews in which two players admitted to transferring to play football.

In a place like Springdale, Arkansas, a small town, Friday night lights means the whole city is watching football.

This raised questions with district officials who refused to comment and demanded the article be removed from the website. The principal requested to see the article before it went to print, but the advisor refused which lead to a threat of termination.

The article that was published questioned the legitimacy of the district approving these transfers.

The Freedom of Speech and The Freedom of the Press as well as Arkansas state laws protect the rights of student publications.

Public schools don’t face the same restrictions as private schools and districts aren’t allowed to censor what the paper publishes.

The editor-in-chief, Halle Roberts, came forward to the press saying that the district was violating her and her classmate’s freedom of speech. The Student Press Law Center agreed with her claims.

The article itself revealed the corruption of the sports programs at the two high schools, but it did much more than that: it revealed the corruption of the whole school system.

High school is supposed to prepare students for the real world and it’s supposed to help students find their voice.

By stifling these students and disproving and trying to discredit the investigation they worked hard to complete so they wouldn’t be reporting fake news, this high school did the opposite of what it’s supposed to.

For high school journalists, finding breaking news is rare.

When this kind of story comes along, the writers should be pushed to dig deeper and find out more, not shamed and scolded by their superiors.

What once started as a local story from an understaffed, small school in a tiny town, turned into a scandal heard throughout the nation.

The story of the crooked school district and principal have made national news through sources like Buzzfeed and Barstool Sports. Large press organizations recognize the bravery this staff had and that in the face of adversity, they chose the truth.

The Mirada |NEWS| Friday, December 21, 2018

page 4

SPIRIT

School-O-Rama brings together local high schools Jane Snider Mirada Staff

San Juan School District makes a model of the solar panel plan. The overflow parking lot will have one row of solar panels covering parking spots. Photo provided by San Juan Unified School District.

Solar panels CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

off-set power pulled from the grid by about 30 percent.”

SMUD will pay the district for unused power that the school produces and sends to the grid. The project will cost the district about $50,000 of the $800,000 project cost and save about $40,000 per year for the life of the system.

While the energy saving and cooler parking conditions are positive, some worry about sacrificing some of the already limited parking spaces. No parking spaces should be lost, however.

“They’re putting them up so they are situated to where you can park under them,” said Ginter.

Solar panels can power air conditioning, heaters and everything natural gas and electricity currently fuels. The initial cost for solar panels is extremely high, but once installed there are hardly any additional fees.

The school district will fund this project, though Ginter is currently unaware of the total price. The district hopes solar panels will save them thousands of dollars of energy bills, and they believe it is worth the initial investment.

“Ultimately, it will pay for itself at some point,” said Ginter.

This exciting step towards renewable energy will hopefully be beneficial to the district’s budget.

Energy storage can be expensive, but schools utilize so much energy that most energy will be actively use and that cost shouldn’t be an issue.

While the construction of solar panels over summer is news to most students, the idea originated years ago.

“A former student here is the one that had the idea of putting it in the student parking lots,” said Ginter.

“His name is Kenji Enzi.”

Enzi graduated over four years ago, and talk of solar panels began before the Performing Arts Center was built, even though the idea is just now being put into action.

Some schools in the district already incorporated solar energy systems within their school. Bella Vista and a few local middle schools have solar panels on campus. Mira Loma will get a system as a part of their new science wing.

“San Juan Unified has partnered with SMUD and has purchased ‘solar shares’, which provides about 47 percent of the entire districts energy needs from a green source, such as an offsite solar farms which is about 11 million kWh of our 24,000,000 used each year,” said Ralston.

No “I think there’s a couple other high schools that they’re going to try to do this summer as well,” said Ginter. “It probably will be happening across the district.”

The district has canceled two scheduled meetings to learn more about the situation, so for now Rio administration waits for more information on the installation of solar panels.

The 6th annual School-A-Rama brought five schools in the district together for a night of games and healthy rivalries. Del Campo, Casa Roble, El Camino, Mira Loma, and Rio Americano participated in Tube Dive, Tug-O-War, Crab Soccer, Izzy Dizzy, Body Slam, Bull Pull, Basketball Relay, and Obstacle Course. Each school was allowed 40 students per game and 10 alternatives.

Each event had winners but in the idea of fairness, there was no overall winner of School-A-Rama.

There were no coaches needed but the Activities Director of each school needed to be there.

Rio had the smallest team with the least number of supporters but those that came participated in the games.

Senior Gretchen Kerr said, “This is super fun; everyone’s really pumped up. We have a small team, but we’re small but mighty and we’re going to do this.”

Mostly seniors represented Rio but there were some student government people and some underclassmen too.

The games were simple and easy to understand but evoked school spirit in all of the teams. The students were cheering, dancing, and singing during the games.

Senior David Beilby said, “It’s so great to see all of our rivalry schools in our Sacramento area come together for a night of fun.”

Some games were more popular than others and students participated with their friends and classmates.

TEACHER OF THE ISSUE

Travel is instrumental Audrey Snider Isabella Searle Mirada Staff Many teachers do interesting things which a lot of students don’t realize.

Jennifer Jenks, a French teacher who has been teaching for 18 years is one of them.

She teaches French 1, 2, and Honors French 3. She has and continues to travel to countries all over the world.

Jenks has been to every continent except Antarctica. She has achieved so much in very little time what many people dream to have accomplished in a lifetime.

“I have traveled to every single continent except for Antarctica,” said Jenks, “so I’ve been to Australia. I’ve been to China. I’ve been to Japan. I’ve been to many countries in Europe.”

Aside from traveling, Jenks has many other interests too. One of those is learning and listening to new music.

“I love music and I love learning new instruments and I have been taking drum lessons for the past few years,” said Jenks.

Jenks really enjoyed traveling to Australia and exploring Sydney and its beauty. When Jenks travels, her, friends and/or sister love to spend time together.

“One of my friends was living in Sydney with her family so I visited,” said Jenks. “I was only there for a week. I would really love to go back someday. We visited these mountains called that were called the Three Sisters and it was fun because it was me and my two best friends.”

Jenks said that she couldn’t choose which trip was her favorite out of all her travels but in her recent trips she admired Japan.

“Everything is different and hard and has

French teacher Jennifer Jenks at the Great Wall of China. Photo courtesy of Jenks. things that are wonderful,” said Jenks. “My most favorite trip in recent memory was this past summer I went to Japan. I went and visited my friends family. We traveled to Tokyo for a week and Kyoto for a week.”

Jenks is always planning and thinking about future trips that she wants to complete. Africa is her next destination.

“In Africa I have only been to Morocco but in March I’m going to go to Senegal, and I’ve been to Bolivia and Peru and Nicaragua.”

Jenks even had experience living in a new and opening culture. Grenoble, she said was so beautiful and the people were amazing.

“I used to live in Grenoble which is in the Alps near the Italian border and I really love it there,” said Jenks. “I’m not a huge snow person but I liked...the people there were super nice and sweet and welcoming and the mountains were gorgeous. It was a challenge living in a different culture but it

was fun to work on my language skills and meet new people.”

Jenks experiences many different locals and many different people that have unlike qualities from Americans. She says Japanese people are the nicest locals she’s ever met but they can be a bit strange sometimes.

“Japanese people are super nice but they are extremely polite and very, very clean.

They don’t have any trash cans there.

Everybody keeps their own trash and puts it in their purse or their bag and they throw it away later. Nobody spits or puts gum under the table. Everybody is super clean, super polite, super helpful, but they’re a little bit more reserved, like Americans, we’re known for being loud.”

Jenks will continue to travel and see different countries and people. She wants to travel for the rest of her life and experience more new and exciting things.

Senior Gretchen Kerr shoots a basket. Photo by Jane Snider

Sophomore Sal Gardea said, “My favorite game was easily the obstacle course which I paid Dillon Gordon to play in.”

Because School-A-Rama is still fairly new, students hope for changes in involvement. Students that are in student government have representatives sign up for the event and coordinate the participants.

“If I had any say in it, I would say let some of the students that aren’t involved be more involved.

I hope that next year we will have a higher attendance because it would’ve made is so much more fun,” said Sal Gardea.

Students that attended for the first time were pleasantly surprised by the event.

“I was not expecting and event with this high of energy,” said Beilby. “I went to be involved for student government and to be a part of a new event that looked like a lot of fun,” said Gardea.

ON THE JOB

At McDonalds, is she lovin’ it?

Senior Jessica Lemus has worked as a crew member at the McDonald’s Arden and Watt location since July.

What do you do at work?

I do most of the positions there. I do backdrive, which is where you take orders on the outside speaker which is connected to a headset and cash them out. I mostly do second lane which is when you take orders as well but you make the drinks. Sometimes I present, which is where you give out the food at the window. On a rare occasion, I will do front counter which is when you clean the lobby and take orders What are the pros and cons of your job?

Pros: My manager is really flexible with scheduling. I like the people and they are really nice.

Cons: It gets really busy at times and it is really stressful when people are yelling at you. It is embarrassing to work at McDonald’s because there is a big stigma around working there but at the end of the day it is a job.

How much do you work?

I work around twenty to twenty five hours a week, depending on the week.

How much do you make?

I make eleven dollars an hour.

How much of your check do you save?

I like to eat out a lot, so a lot of my money goes there. I save the rest of the money to save for college What is your dream job?

I want to do international business law.

-- By Athena Acevedo

The Mirada |NEWS| Friday, December 21, 2018 SURVEY

Students want Newsom to focus on health care, tuition Free community college a high priority in 2 polls Emma Phoenix Mirada Staff The Public Policy Institute of California, otherwise known as the PPIC, conducted a statewide survey asking adults and likely voters what issues they want to see GovernorElect Gavin Newsom focus on throughout his term as Governor.

Issues that were voted on were universal health coverage, tuitionfree community college, universal preschool and the high speed rail.

Universal health coverage would allow for all citizens to have “the promotive, preventive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative health services they need, of sufficient quality to be effective, while also ensuring that the use of these services does not expose the user to financial hardship,” as stated by the World Health Organization.

Tuition-free community college provides the same idea as universal health coverage except in regards to education. Some California cities like San Francisco have already made community college for students with California residency and who live in San Francisco.

Not only are young adults being thought about in policy but also young children as seen with universal preschool which uses public funding to provide education

in children’s early years.

The high speed rail would span from Sacramento down to San Diego with stops along the way.

The project is set to be completed in 2033 and will cost the state $77 billion.

The survey found that the majority of both adults and likely voters say universal health coverage should be a high priority on Newsom’s list. Tuition-free community college came up as a high priority for 53 percent of adults and 47 percent of likely voters.

In conclusion, the survey discovered that the majority of Californians would like to prioritize universal health coverage and tuition-free community college and not the high speed rail which only a quarter of adults and 19 percent of likely voters thought to be most important.

To see if high school seniors reflected the same values that other voters and adults in California had, a similar survey was administered for students in English Reading Writing Composition (ERWC) classes as well as AP Literature classes.

70 students included in the survey voted on the same issues as the adults and other likely voters.

Just as in the statewide survey, universal health coverage and tuition-free community college were the highest ranking priorities for students with 28 percent and 29 percent of the vote.

The future voters followed the statewide trend with their beliefs of universal preschool holding 23 percent of the vote and the

high speed rail with 17 percent of students holding it as a top priority.

“Universal preschool is a priority because it helps develop and stimulate brains from a young age which helps evolve the future of humanity,” said Logan Duffy.

Students were also asked what they thought the biggest issue facing California was and what the state budget should go towards: jobs and the economy, the environment and pollution, housing costs and affordability, immigration, wildfires, and other.

Out of the 70 responses, most students thought the environment and pollution was the biggest issue with 19 votes. “While issues like immigration are very dire, we have a moral duty to protect our Earth,” said David Beilby, “at the end of the day, without our environment we have nothing.”

Close behind with 18 votes is housing costs and affordability.

“California has become an extremely expensive state to live in, so we need more affordable housing,” said Claire Parker.

With the wildfires happening all around California 12 students voted it as a top spending priority like Max Di Perna who said they “happen often, kill lots of people, and cause lots of dollars in damage.”

Following wildfires as an important issue is the economy, then immigration, and lastly other issues. Matt St. Geme said he believes the states priority should be “to reduce government spending and bring an end to the welfare state.”

This small sample size of future

TECHNOLOGY

voters displays the same goals and hopes as the larger population for the state of California in the years to come.

>36 percent of students believe universal health care should be a very high or high priority >38 percent of students believe tuition free community college community college should be a very high or high priority >27 percent of students believe universal preschool should be a very high or high priority >20 percent of students believe the high speed rail should be a very high or high priority

Stricter parents lead to sneakier kids Parents forcing kids to stay home on Friday nights, tracking locations, and setting harsh rules have proven to have the opposite effect on obedient teen behavior than expected. Research shows strict parenting leads to sneakier kids with a lower self esteem.

According to Aha Parenting, kids raised with strict rules tend to be more rebellious, and better liars.

“Harsh limits may temporarily control behavior, but they don’t help a child learn to self-regulate.

Instead, harsh limits trigger a resistance to taking responsibility for themselves,” said Dr. Laura Markham of Aha Parenting.

A study conducted by Rick Trinkner analyzed data from the New Hampshire Youth Study of middle and high school students showed that overly authoritative parents show less warmth than permissive parents. However, overly permis-

Do you think parents should heavily monitor their children?

sive parents have negative effects as well.

“The best approach, from my perspective, is to be an authoritative parent. This means have discipline and standards for behavior and also showing warmth and also being receptive to a child’s needs,” said Trinkner.

One survey of 110 juniors and seniors in North America reported 55 students admitted to sneaking out.

A 16 year-old from Rio said, “My mom doesn’t trust me to go anywhere even though I am a responsible student. I can’t fully experience high school because of this.”

Dr. Lynn E. Ponton believes it’s normal, or even healthy for teenagers to take risks and become independent...to a point. However, constant risks without limits proves to be dangerous.

“A formula of peer pressure, boredom, unchanneled energy, and some other catalyst[...] can lead teens to take the wrong risks,” said Teen Magazine.

The unchanneled energy and mis-

communication inhibits teens’ ability to reason. Parents who don’t take the time to talk with their kids also risk poor relationships with their kid.

Positive Parenting Ally said suppressing your teen’s voice and the ability to express their emotions is detrimental to their mental health.

For example, teens could become stressed from tip-toeing around and worrying about being judged for their actions. Additionally, it creates a risk of self-shame and thinking they’re disappointing their parents when punished.

A child’s development of self-esteem and discipline is interfered by overly strict parents, according to psychologist Laura Markham of Aha! Parenting. Constantly managing a child’s schedule potentially gives them the feeling of lack of control and thus lowering their self-esteem.

Chea Thavy, a social worker for People Improvement Organization said: .”..by communicating with [children] in a gentle way, [they]

“Teens are allowed to have fun, it’s part of the learning cause it’s part of life, parents shouldn’t be the ones taking them away from good opportunities to learn what not to do.”

-Maddie Bister (9)

Study: Electronics harm teens’ sleep Technology stimulates brains, makes it hard to sleep

TEENS

Annalee Gorman Mirada Staff

page 5

would be more likely to consider their actions and learn the pros and cons of the things they do.”

Another anonymous student reported that: “My parents don’t listen to me when I explain where I want to go and it has gotten to the point where I don’t bother asking because I already know I won’t be allowed to go.”

Thavy also explained that some parents, due to work, can’t spend lots of time with their child at home resulting in the parent unintentionally blaming their kid. Communication is important to relate feelings of both the parents and the kids to understand their reasoning.

“Children should have the opportunity to explain where they are coming from,” said Trinkner. Studies show communication and openness is key in parent-child relationships to make it stronger and avoid miscommunication.

“I feel that parents should be less strict. Parents need to understand that they need to trust their child and let them go out and have fun. Unless something bad happens to them, I think parents should be less strict.”

- Maci Marie (9)

Isabella Searle Lydia Ellis Mirada Staff Most people spend their time before they turn in for the day on their electronics. A lot of these people don’t realize that it makes it noticeably harder to calm down and fall asleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, using electronics before you go to sleep can be physiologically and psychologically harmful in ways that can affect your sleep.

Using your phone, computer, and other devices before rolling over to go to sleep sets back your internal clock and withholds the release of melatonin (a sleep-inducing hormone), making it hard to fall asleep. A simple act such as opening a text can send out cortisol (a stress hormone).

“I usually go on my phone leading up to when I go to sleep and because of that, I find it harder to fall asleep than if I had put my phone down a while ago,” said freshman Ellen Peppel.

The result of going on your phone before sleeping can be a long night of wakefulness prompted by the light from these devices along with the stimulating mental activity required to play games, watch movies, or take care of last-minute school-related homework before turning in.

“A lot of the time I find myself going on my phone for hours after I tell myself that I’m going to go to sleep,” said freshman Olivia Lynch, “it does affect how I act the next day and I do think it puts a negative impact on my mood the next day.”

Many studies have shown that it is beneficial to set a “digital curfew”.

This would mean setting a time where you and your family turn off all of the electronics for the night.

It’s recommended to choose a time 1-2 hours before you fall asleep so you can get a good night sleep.

While it may be the best choice for teens to shut off electronics it may be hard for students to do.“I don’t think it’s a good idea to set a digital curfew because some people may use their electronics to help them fall asleep,” said freshman Lily Mullen, “I get that it may not be great for your sleep, but electronics can be very helpful before falling asleep to some people.”

Many people do not like the idea of giving up electronics before going to sleep. But a good swap out would be to read before falling asleep. Reading can help distract your mind from the daily stress and tension you go through and it gives your mind a break. Plus, it doesn’t give off the same blue light that a phone or tablet would.

Opinion page 6

The Mirada | OPINION |Friday, December 21, 2018

The First Amendment: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

The Mirada

“At least your creations live on.”

The Student’s Voice Editors-in-chief Kaitlyn Shellooe Rebecca Smith Web Editor Jared Moisey News Editors Alex Lydon Emma Phoenix Opinion Editors Emily Borg Synia Thrower Features Editors Athena Acevedo Jessica Sheppard Katie Newton Sports Editors Mickey Doolittle Luke Richards Photo Editor Jane Snider Distractions Ashley Keene Staff Malek Amaya-Safi Sam Bacceli Lydia Ellis Annalee Gorman Deonni Humphrey Charles Johnson Martin Lopez Eamon Lopez Martin Michael Mehrdadi Isabella Searle Audrey Snider Susannah Swindel Advisor Mr. Michael Mahoney mmahoney@sanjuan.edu (916) 971-8921 ext. 6480

Published monthly during the school year by students in Rio Americano’s newspaper class, the Mirada is the independent voice of the students and the campus.

The Mirada welcomes story ideas, comics, letters to the editor and opinion pieces from all members of the school community. Submit articles to the box in A3 or the main office.

Contact the business manager for information on advertising, but we reserve the right to refuse any ad.

Contact us: email: theriomirada@gmail.com Twitter: @riomirada2019 Online: riomirada.com Mail: Rio Americano High School 4540 American River Drive Sacramento, CA 95864

Drawing by Allison Beck

OUR VOICE

How much pressure is too much?

W

ith application deadlines for college quickly approaching, students are feeling more pressure than ever.

For most high school students nowadays, school is one of the leading causes of built up stress and anxiety.

With six or more classes and other extracurricular activities students often times find themselves drowning in school work. Most colleges put the pressure on students to be well-rounded and at the top of their class.

Schools don’t want just straight A students: they want students that can do anything and everything. Leadership is something that many colleges look for, along with volunteering.

It has become nearly impossible to be the “perfect student” when applying for college.

Everyone wants to say that they got into their dream school but with all the competition it is becoming extremely hard.

High schoolers are working around the clock to maintain their grades but with six classes and extracurriculars it is challenging.

Their health is being compromised because they are so worried about getting into good schools. It is common for students to stay up till 1 or 2 a.m. doing homework or studying for a test.

Even with all this effort it is still hard for kids to get the grades they want.

Some students play sports or volunteer which takes up lots of time which contributes to their increasing stress levels.

Most students deal with overwhelming pressure from their parents to get amazing grades, and that has now turned into putting pressure on themselves.

Although most students stress and worry about school,

there are still some who don’t.

Some students choose not to stress over their grades or take basic classes to make sure things aren’t too hard for them. There’s an upside and downside to these students’ mindsets.

On one hand it alleviates unwanted pressure and stress off of their shoulders so they can have a stress free high school experience. On the other hand most of these students don’t push themselves and don’t perform as well as other students taking on multiple AP classes and extracurriculars.

There needs to be a middle ground when it comes to the amount of pressure students should deal with when it comes to school. It has gotten to the point where some students start to suffer from anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues because of school which I know most parents and teachers don’t want along with the students.

Allowing students to take difficult classes while still enjoying school will enhance their high school experience and will benefit their mental health.

At Rio students can decide if they want to take all AP classes or take no AP classes it is up to them, they decide the course of their education.

Nowadays most adults and parents find it hard to understand the stress and difficulties teens go through during high school.

Most parents need to lessen the pressure they put on their students, so that their students can stop putting so much pressure on themselves.

Although minimal pressure is good for motivational purposes, school should never make students feel as though they are out of control of their lives causing serious mental health issues, and this needs to be addressed.

High school is something that students should enjoy, not something they hate.

250 WORDS

Christmas comes too early Eamon Lopez Martin Mirada Staff

T

he holiday season seems to come earlier each year.

This year, society has gone too far.

Stores like IKEA have already started decorating for Christmas or selling holiday items before Thanksgiving had happened.

Stores have a habit of acknowledging holidays early such as Halloween by putting decorations in the store prematurely. After Halloween passes, restaurants like Starbucks or Denny’s, and the entire Arden Fair Mall, focuses on Christmas. Each

year, Christmas becomes more and more commercialized.

But what about Thanksgiving? I understand that not all people decorate their houses with “Thanksgiving decor,” but that shouldn’t give people the reason to completely skip the holiday.

Thanksgiving is an important holiday that celebrates what we’re thankful for and doesn’t focus on material items contrary to Christmas.

It brings families together for a delicious home-cooked meal, and gives them an opportunity to catch up with family members they haven’t seen in months or years. Yet,

for some reason people seem to skip Thanksgiving and cut to skip to Christmas.

Avoiding holidays removes the family aspect of them, and turns them into a commercial holiday. If the pattern continues, eventually, Christmas will get to the point where it’s advertised in summer.

It’s okay that kids give their parents their Christmas lists this early, or decorate for the holiday season, but people should not overdue it by using “selling” Christmas. The least they could do is put some effort into decorating for Thanksgiving.

If things continue like this,

Thanksgiving will soon be forgotten.

Thanksgiving is a holiday where we share what we are thankful for, and that should not be overshadowed by the excitement of Christmas. Although it can be an exciting time for many. I personally feel that Thanksgiving means more because you show what you are grateful for instead of expecting gifts from people.

It is always better to give than to receive.

YOUR VOICE

How much pressure do you put on yourself for school?

“I put lots of pressure on myself to do well in school.

It is hard to get into the top science programs if you are not at the top of your class.”

- Junior Olivia Seargeant

‘In high school, I think that it is important to get good grades to get into a good college. I put pressure on myself to do well.”

-- Junior Chloe Franz

page 7

The Mirada | OPINION|Friday, December 21, 2018

A is for Apple, B is for Boat, C is for Concealed Firearms?

Sergio A. Torres Guest Writer

T

his year, on average, there has been one school shooting every week, and in the past decade, the United States alone has had a total of 288 school shootings.

(Grabow & Rose).

Unfortunately, the number of cases are only rising. A school environment should be a place where individuals can learn, grow, and develop civic, emotional and cognitive skills. The responsibilities of a teacher are to teach, not to carry concealed firearms.

Providing concealed firearms on school campuses would be a costly endeavor. The price of an average semi automatic pistol ranges from $200-$1,000 (“Semi Automatic Pistols”).

Money for schools should be spent on books, school events, dances, and school supplies for office staff and students. Or perhaps, our tax dollars could be used to help fund mental illness programs considering, nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness (“Mental Illness”).

This notable data reveals that a large amount of gun holders could be victims of mental illness, and it is our duty as citizens to ensure safety in our country and prevent these massacres from continuing.

On school campuses, gun safety training for faculty members would be a tedious task. Time should be

spent developing curriculum to help students thrive and benefit in the future. Additionally, it is crucial that staff members have mental stability assessments.

The amount of responsibility that is needed to carry a weapon in the classroom is a heavy burden and a task that is only fit for law enforcement professionals. School Resource Officers spend countless hours preparing for unexpected situations and have a passion to keep communities safe.

Mac Hardy, Operations Director for the National Association of School Resource Officers is a sworn police officer who works on a school campus. "When I first started, they used to call you kiddie cops but that was a misnomer," said Hardy.

"Our job is so vital and important.

Every day when you put on your uniform you know there are thousands of parents relying on you to work closely with that school administration and that community to keep that campus safe" (Corley).

As a student in high school, I feel safer in the hands on law enforcement than the staff members who have less experience under pressuring events.

Emma Phoenix Mirada Staff

Drawing by Emily Borg Resource officers knew going into their career that they might have to handle weapons, de-escalate situations, and encounter life and death situations. They are more likely to be properly trained, and know how to handle a serious situation, as well as a firearm.

There isn't really a way to ensure that a teacher would be as educated and prepared as a resource officer.

Educators and students alike oppose guns on campus.

According to an online poll, if permitted, 72.4 percent of teachers would not bring a firearm to school

(Gates). In a poll involving students, 80 percent felt teachers with guns would not make them feel safer (Chambers). With this information, we can conclude that guns in classrooms is not the right answer.

It is time to take action and advocate for increased enforcement of armed security guards, tougher gun restrictions, and active emergency shooter drills to prepare campuses for the worst and enlighten communities about mental illnesses and help fund for programs that can save lives.

The future is Gen Z

Despite criticism of this young generation, Generation Z is shaping the world as we know it Annalee Gorman Mirada Staff

G

eneration Z, the “iPhone” generation, does not have a reputable reputation amongst other generations. Born between 1997-2010, Gen Z makes up 25 percent of America’s most diverse population so far.

But what most don’t know, is how crucial this generation’s role is for the future. Growing in size, this generation has the power to influence our world.

Studies have refuted claims that Gen Z lacks interest about political topics and the future of the nation.

According to the U.S Census Bureau, they are the most socially aware and justice-minded individuals who strive to make a difference. Staying up to date on social media allows them to actively participate in their society.

Growing up during the 2008 recession made Gen Z cautious and goal orientated. They grew up valuing hard work and witnessing their parents financial struggles.

77 percent expect to work harder than any other generation from growing up in economic turmoil unlike millennials. More driven than ever, 76 percent aspire to be in some management or corporate job five years after college according to Inc Columnist Ryan Jenkins.

Despite Gen Z’s drive to prove other generations wrong, they are still scrutinized for their use of technology. Born into ubiquitous connectivity, Gen Z has known a life with smart

phones, WiFi and on-demand information.

This generation’s political views affect what they strive for in the workplace. The Atlantic states that over 60 percent of Gen Z favored the Democrats to take the house surpassing any past generation. Now, the younger generation is more focused on a socialist-democratic government wanting federal jobs guarantee, single- payer healthcare and free college tuition.

In the workplace, 15 percent of Gen Z is prepared to do whatever it takes to earn a higher salary compared to millennials...even if it means staying later and on weekends. Their hardworking drive leads them to potentially be the most entrepreneurial generation yet. Nearly half want to own their own businesses, meaning these “phone addicted” teenagers will likely become your next boss.

Now, Gen Z’ers are entering the workplace at a time where it’s almost necessary to comply with social media and be involved in aspects of it. According to Hanzo, many Baby Boomers and Generation Y are not excited to work with Gen Z as a result of internal messaging and technological entitlement.

Despite their technological usage, Gen Z is changing the world and how we think of privacy. More interested in personalization, they are more likely to give data for a better internet experience.

In fact, phones have played in more positive ways than one. Teens from this generation drink less, take less drugs, and have the lowest teen-

Celebrities voice their opinions on the midterm elections

age pregnancy rate seen so far. All achieved from perhaps their biggest distraction: the phone.

Phones act as a distraction offering more activities and options outside from getting in trouble. Contrary to

“This generation’s political views affect what they strive for in the workplace.” belief, teens now are more social shying away from big parties and hanging out in small groups where they talk. Technology enables them to be active in every way.

With the emergence of a younger and motivated generation, they are ready to take the future into their own hands. Changing the workplace, politics and our world, Generation Z is the new innovative generation.

Otherwise known as a predictive experience, it allows online websites to add options on their sites.

It paved a new technology for marketers and gives them more predictive experiences. In turn, marketers work with trusted partners to keep the

customers’ information secure. This predictive experience allows secure information, and allows customers to voice their opinions, changing the way marketing works.

The use of technology encourages political activism mainly through social media platforms. From gun control to #MeToo, Gen Z plays an important political role. Those old enough voted in the midterms. This year, a record breaking amount voted in the midterms.

Social media fuels teen debates on issues such as climate change to other political matters. With information at their fingertips, it becomes easier to be engaged.

With problems such as climate change and politics, this younger generation is concerned about the following ones. The United Nations Climate Change Conference presented a study showing that 40 percent of Gen Z wants to make climate a priority, beating out terrorism, the economy and unemployment.

81 percent believe private sectors should lead the way in cleaner technology, 84 percent believe the government should support alternative energy options and 59 percent of this generation want to work in a world of sustainable energy.

It may not seem like it, but Gen Z is more cautious and risk-averse than their parents. At an early age, they’re aware of how they’re portrayed online and see themselves as part of a global community. Gen Z taught the world how to be socially and politically active while scrolling on their phones.

Recently, the United States held its midterm elections. Millions of Americans from all corners of the country came out and voted for various candidates and propositions.

Voter turnout for the midterms was the highest it has been in 50 years with 47 percent of eligible voters casting a ballot, according to the United States Elections Project.

Along with the increase in voter turnout, there was a large amount of celebrities promoting to vote in this election on social media.

Celebrities include John Krasinski, Pink, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jimmy Fallon, Beyonce and most notably Taylor Swift.

Swift, who has stayed silent regarding politics throughout her career posted a picture which she endorsed Tennessee’s Democratic party candidates. Within 24-hours of her post, voter registration in Tennessee increased by 65,000 registrations .

Many, especially those who lean towards the right side of the political spectrum, criticized Swift and thought that she should stick to music stay out of politics. This begs the question of if actors, musicians, writers etc. should use their platforms to promote political stances.

In America, there is a great problem of low voter turnout. In fact, the United States has the lowest voter turnout in the world. In this election, only 110 million of the 325 million people voted.

In 2016, Australia had 91 percent of registered voters come out for their federal election, which was the lowest turnout since 1924 when voting became mandatory. Other countries with mandatory voting are Belgium, Luxembourg and Mexico along with many others.

Since the U.S. does not have compulsory voting where citizens are fined for not participating in elections, the more people educated on elections and candidates the better.

If celebrities using their platforms creates voter awareness and increases voter turnout, there shouldn’t be any issue.

When more people cast their ballots, more values that represent the American population are represented and more voices are heard.

Telling an actress to not discuss politics is like telling someone with heart disease they can’t talk about it because they aren’t a doctor. Either way, the outcome is going to affect the everyday lives of people.

page 10

The Mirada | Friday, December 21, 2018

FEATURES National Charity League has all hands on deck for the holidays Jane Snider Mirada Staff National Charity League is a mother-daughter organization that gives back to the community and the Sacramento chapter has a heavy presence on our campus. The holiday time is a busy one for NCL. The organization is divided into grades. Each class decides to donate gifts or supplies for wrapping gifts during the holiday season. On top of class donations, girls and their mothers can sign up for events to give back during the holidays. Some of the events are the Women’s Empowerment Holiday Craft Fair, the Saint John’s Holiday Gift Wrapping and the Jingle Bell Puppy Crawl.

For Key Club, giving is fun and games Katie Newton Mirada Staff Key Club International is the biggest and oldest high school community service organization. Key Club participates in service events year round and especially during the holidays.

Junior Nicolas Gorman, the publicity officer, said, “I like Key Club because you get to meet people while getting community service hours, and it looks good for colleges.”

Rio’s chapter of Key Club is lead by Club President Anna Chriss and contains nearly 40 students.

In early December Key Clubs from local high schools participated in the annual Just For Kids Holiday Party. This particular event is a great opportunity to meet students from other schools and help kids in need.

Junior Natalie Link said, “The kids got to make crafts, decorate cookies and see Santa.”

During the Just For Kids Holiday Party students spent the day playing games and having fun with kids who have a family member with cancer.

Key Club helped bake cookies and wrap gifts the night before, in addition to hanging out with kids on Saturday.

“The event was well organized and the kids had lots of things to do,” said Link. “The spirit and joy that filled the room was incredible and I’m glad I had the opportunity to volunteer at this event.”

While Key Club is student lead, the program is sponsored

by Kiwanis International, an adult service program. Donna Gordon and Marianne Laws are Kiwanis members that advise the four Sacramento Suburban Key Clubs.

“I think the dedication to community service that this club has is remarkable,” said Gordon, “The whole point is that they help people in need.”

Key Club will continue to serve the kids they helped at the holiday party at other events including a spring party and trips to Fairytale Town and the circus.

“What makes Rio special is that they are very enthusiastic,” said Gordon.

Junior Amanda McGoldrick opens gifts with kids. Photo

by Annalee Gorman.

a e r a s y a d g i l n i o v i H g r o f e tim

Anna Chriss makes bags for the homeless Annalee Gorman Mirada Staff Senior Anna Chriss is a member of the Girl Scouts, president of Key Club, and founder of The Anna Chriss Care Package Project.

Since she was 11 years old, Chriss has collected supplies to aid those in need Thanksgiving day.

Her drive to help the homeless started on the way to ballet lessons downtown, which passed facilities to serve the homeless.

“Every time, my mom and I would drive past the Loaves and Fishes area,” said Chriss. “I asked my mom about the homeless a few times and I remember one of her answers being that the group of people I saw every Monday and Wednesday on our way to ballet did not have the same things I had.”

Wondering how she could help, she created her project to share resources that not all are fortunate enough to have. At school she informs students about the impact of helping, in hope of inspiring classmates.

“I have had a swarm of people wanting to donate this year,” said Chriss. “Younger Girl Scouts, older community members, families and many others have reached out to me wanting to donate whatever they can to the project.”

With the help of faculty, she is able to facilitate this project and inform students. Once everything has been donated, she assembles over 170 packages during one of her classes.

To Chriss, her favorite part is witnessing friends and classmates helping. Her hope is to teach those involved and gain perspective.

“I hope that anyone who takes part in the project gains more sym-

Senior Anna Chriss prepares gift baskets for the homeless with her classmates. Photo by Annalee Gorman. pathy and respect for the homeless,” said Chriss.

She encourages kids to participate and personally invest and spread joy to the families who receive the donations, for the gracious and kind thanks she receives is the most rewarding aspect of the project.

“The people receiving the bags are so thankful and kind. The experience of mutual humanity is so heartwarming and I love spreading a little bit of joy and being able to personally pass out the care packages.”

Her kindness and helping hand engages the community to make a positive impact in the world.

“I think the impact of this project reaches far and wide to so many different groups of people,” said Chriss. “The homeless benefit from the care packages and knowing they are not alone in their struggles. I want those involved to see the people behind the negative stigma that surrounds the homeless.”

Last year, Chriss was able to witness the people behind the stigma firsthand on the outskirts of Sacramento. She came upon a tent where a married couple lived.

“The wife was so grateful that we found her and her husband and called out to us that: ‘I prayed someone would find us out here on

Thanksgiving.’”

Unable to be with family, food, and warmth, the couple was able to share Thanksgiving day with the Chriss family.

“I want people to know that there are always others out there thinking of them and willing to lend a helping hand,” said Chriss.

Through the Girl Scouts, Chriss put in lots of research and effort to win the Girl Scout Gold Award.

Requiring at least 80 hours of work to win, she put in 300 hours into planning and executing her project.

Less than five percent of Girl Scouts receive this honor and is equivalent to a Boy Scout’s Eagle Scout Award. Last June, she received her Gold Award at the Girls Who Inspire ceremony.

Her compassion and selflessness continues to touch the lives of many as she continues this project for her sixth consecutive year.

This year, because school was closed the Friday before Thanksgiving, Chriss assembled and distributed bags in December.

“Each new year, there is more and more recognition of the project because more people have been involved with it in the past and share with those who want to be involved in the future,” said Chriss.

“Almost like a ripple effect.”

The Mirada | FEATURES| Friday, December 21, 2018

Stars of Rio’s award-winning band

page 9

Maddy Hill is all about that bass Katie Newton Mirada Staff

M

astering music is more than memorizing chords or lyrics because personal expression, harmony and rhythm don’t always come from hours of practice, but from something unteachable; passion.

Senior Maddy Hill has had the opportunity to master music, and she isn’t done yet. She is on her way to join the list of talented musicians to attend the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts for her freshman year of college.

Artists like Charlie Puth, Imagine Dragons, Aerosmith and Train include a few of the successful graduates from Berklee.

Maddy Hill began her musical journey in fourth grade, first learning the flute.

“I’ve always enjoyed music,” said Hill. “I’m sometimes not the best with my words so I think it’s a nice way to be able to express myself without words.”

Hill picked up the bass for her middle school jazz band, in need of a player, and fell in love with the instrument from then on. Now she

plays for the AM Jazz Band and Smamble, in addition to two of her own bands.

Free Candy! is a pop-punk band that Hill is in outside of school, with other members Caleb Martin, Carson Grimes and Jake Kaspari.

Free Candy! has two EPs out in addition to a full album. The band gained popularity throughout the music community in Sacramento and has received the opportunity to play at some impressive locations.

Hill’s success soars beyond her small, hit band Free Candy!, too.

She and the rest of her jazz “tRio,” including Jake Nalangan on the piano and Joseph Bly on the drums, had the privilege to be interviewed on Capital Public Radio’s Student Showcase.

“It was kind of scary being on the radio live… during the interview part when I was actually talking I was really nervous but then when we actually played I felt a lot better,” said Hill.

The interview was a celebration and recognition of the work Hill and the her trio have dedicated to perfecting their rearrangements of complex numbers like “Wise,” originally composed by Alex Mercado.

Jake Nalangan has the key to Berklee LEFT: Jake Nalangan performs piano at a concert.

BELOW: Nalangan practices piano in the new PAC at Rio. Photos provided by Jake Nalangan.

One of tRio’s greatest achievements was winning a DownBeat award for the best “small jazz combo” in the nation. The DownBeat award is a student music award with an emphasis on jazz and blues and is highly admired in the student music industry.

“Everyone was so happy for us and the band records are always really good about announcing Maddy Hill plays in a concert with bandmate Caleb Martin at Cafe Colonial. Photo that and making it a provided by Maddy Hill big deal so you feel proud of yourself.” an accomplishment in itself; only “And the faculty is really cool. They Even with all of Hill’s success six high school combos are accepted have really cool people like Victor and passion in music, the full-ride from the entire nation.

Wooten, who is a famous bass playto the Berklee College of Music was At the festival, they had live audi- er… so I took the scholarship.” a shock. tions to a five week camp at Berklee Maddy Hill’s passion for music “Berklee wasn’t even a dream School of Music over summer. Hill has opened up doors she never school because I thought it was so did the audition and was offered the even knew existed. Her experiout of my league,” said Hill. full tuition to attend the camp. Once ences showed her the power of The opportunity to go to Berklee at the camp she got a scholarship to taking risks, like doing an audition first arose when Hill’s jazz trio was Berklee for college. that snowballed into a full-ride at accepted into the Monterey Jazz “I really liked the environment Berklee College of Music.

Festival. Getting into this event was when I went to the camp,” said Hill,

Katie Newton Mirada Staff

M

usic, one of the most important aspects to many people’s lives. In most situations music has always been able to bring people together, and that’s exactly what senior Jake Nalangan prides himself on.

Nalangan has been playing music for as long as he can remember. His music journey began by playing the piano at his grandmother’s house.

Although he now has lessons pretty irregularly, he has the help of great teachers along the way to thank for his love and passion for piano.

“I transferred last year from Mira Loma to Rio specifically for the band program,” said Nalangan.

“So Rio’s band has greatly affected my music career because of the opportunity to play with other great musicians, and go farther.”

The trio he plays in won a Downbeat Award for best high school small combo in the nation which is one of the greatest accomplishments they’ve so far gained. They also participated in the Monterey Next Gen Festival.

Nalangan is also apart of the AM Jazz Ensemble where he went to Savannah, Georgia to the Swing Central festival and had the opportunity to play.

“A lot of cool opportunities have been forwarded to me by being at Rio,” said Nalangan.

He also plays in the Small En-

semble, also known as Smamble, along with several other combos outside of school consisting of most of the same kids he plays with at school helping deepen their musical chemistry.

Nalangan’s day consists of zero period AM Jazz Ensemble and another period of Smamble for his fourth period.

He and Maddy both were given the opportunity to go to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts this past summer.

“When we were in Monterey, Maddy and I auditioned for the Berkeley College of Music and we both got full scholarships to go to the camp in Boston,” said Nalangan.

The camp showcased different musicians from all around the world participating with different musical talents.

Nalangan received half a scholarship to officially attend Berklee for their music program.

“There were a lot of people from around the world there, I now have friends in Ecuador and Italy,” said Nalangan.

He also had the opportunity along with the rest of the Rio band to travel to Ireland this past summer.

“There was a lot going on for band this past summer, it was really awesome to be apart of it all,” said Nalangan.

Nalangan has many options for college and is looking at multiple universities.

“I wouldn’t say Berklee is my top choice because they’re so expensive so I also really like University of Southern California(USC), for their Jazz program, Oberlin college and conservatory of music, and University of the Pacific who also has a really great jazz program,” said Nalangan.

Nalangan’s musical trio was also chosen by Rio’s band program to be on the National Public Radio(NPR) radio.

“Rio band had been given the opportunity in the past to be on NPR so it was really cool to do something like that,” said Nalangan. “We went to Sac State and recorded there, and it was really fun but also nerve wracking because we had to get a really hard song together in two weeks so it was kind of stressful but worth it,” said Nalangan.

After going to Georgia to play in the Swing Central festival it truly hit him how much he loved music and Rio. “After playing I knew I had made the right choice coming to Rio,” said Nalangan. “I wouldn’t have come Rio if it weren’t for the great community that they already have.”

Nalangan would frequently play at a winery while attending Mira Loma.

“We played every week or so,” said Nalangan. “I would get a band together with my friends, people from Rio, and all over Sacramento.”

Nalangan has accomplished so much and he is ready to take on new challenges and adventures.

page 10

The Mirada | FEATURES| Friday, December 21, 2018

Alex Lydon Mirada Staff

Christmas carol controversy In 2018’s #metoo era, awareness of sexual violence against women is at an all-time high. This holiday season WDOK, a local Cleveland radio station dedicated to Christmas music has decided to stop playing “Baby it’s Cold Outside” on the basis that it is inappropriate in an age where the #metoo is so prevalent. The removal of the song from the stations’ rotation has sparked controversy over the questionable lyrics The track was composed in 1944

by Frank Loesser and his wife, Lynn Garland. The song was originally written by Loesser to sing with his wife.

Throughout the song, many advances are made by the male voice which all earn a negative reply from the female voice. From “I really can’t stay” to “the answer is no” the lyrics come off as aggressive. For many listeners, this comes off as a little too coercive.

Following the Ohio radio station’s action on the removal of the song from their rotation, many stations across the U.S. have followed WDOK decision. Radio stations in Colorado and California have followed suit in removing the song as well.

Although the lyrics may seem outdated today, many listeners have called and written in to KOIT, a San Francisco radio station petitioning for the song to be put back on air. According to Brian Figula, KOIT program director, he has received ten times more letters requesting the song be placed back in rotation than letters demanding it be removed.

These listeners have argued that the song must be regarded in a historical context. At the time, spending the night at a man’s house as an unmarried woman was considered scandalous.

A feminist perspective on this song argues that the woman would like to stay at her date’s house but is too preoccupied about her image and what others may think.

The feminine voice may be heard singing “what will the neighbors think,” and “my mother will worry,” all lyrics relating to other’s perspective on her escapade.

Currently, many stations that have removed the song from air have placed polls on their website to determine whether the song should be placed back on air.

Although the song may be interpreted in an explicit manner, I believe that the lyrics, written by Loesser and his respected wife, Garland subtly reveals the woman’s envy to stay over.

Starbucks receives backlash over cups Isa Searle Audrey Snider Mirada Staff Starbucks always comes out with annual holiday cups, creating controversy in the public’s eye.

This year, the public has something to say about it… again.

This years debate of the Starbucks cups spoke about Christ.

Some people have argued that the coffee company doesn’t display the true meaning of the holiday well enough. They say that the cups should represent more relations towards Christ and religious aspects of the holiday.

The other side of the argument includes feelings about how Starbucks does a good job already including aspects of Christmas and should stick with the minimalistic designs and decorations that the cups currently embody.

Starbucks’ Chief Operating Officer Roz Brewer said that they listened to their customers and they wanted and loved the tradition of Christmas.

According to “Eater”, people won’t be satisfied until Starbucks releases a cup design that features ‘Jesus sitting in Santa Claus’s lap’.

The public wants to see ‘the origin and meaning of Christmas’ on the holiday cups.This year the four new holiday cup designs include a red and white stripe pattern re-

This year’s Starbucks holidays cups are gaining controversy because they are not religious enough and don’t feature Christ on them. sembling candy canes, a white cup with holly and mint green leaves, a red and white flame pattern, and a “stargyle” design that features green and white stars on a dark green background.

The four cups are meant to display the history of Starbucks holiday cups, which were first introduced in 1997. They include “snipped pieces from Starbucks’ holiday past” with “doses of vintage colors and patterns...and reinterpreted them with graphic flair, and a dash of glitter and shine.”

The company has gotten the critique that their holiday cups aren’t Christmas-y enough and they don’t embrace the origin and meaning of true Christmas.

A self-described evangelist Joshua Feuerstein uploaded a rant on Facebook claiming that the

new holiday cups don’t represent Christ. Feuerstein said in the post, “Do you realize that Starbucks wanted to take Christ and Christmas off of their brand-new cups?

That’s why they’re just plain red!”

Some opinions, like those of freshman Carter Trueblood, say that the holiday cups should not include more of Christ, and should just stick with more of the simplistic feelings of Christmas.

“I don’t think they should include a picture of Christ on the new holiday cups,” said Trueblood.

“With the images of presents and snowflakes, the cup is trying to give off a neutral, more commercial idea of the holidays. They most likely are trying to give off this vibe because it may be more appealing to the common public or maybe because they don’t want to

include anything on their products that could start a controversy such as an image of Christ.”

Along with the Starbucks cups being festive for their customers, they are also cute and fun.

“I think the Starbucks cups are super cute,” said freshman Ani Petrosyan. “I think that they should offer the regular cup for people who don’t want it.”

If Starbucks did add an image or representation of Christ on their cups, their backlash could be even more than it already is without it.

“I think that putting pictures of Christ on the cups would possibly hurt their sales because they would be marketing to only a certain demographic when the majority of all people already drink Starbucks,” said senior Alec Sumner. “Legally they can because they are a private corporation, but I think it would impact their sales. Regarding if their Christmas-y enough, honestly everyone has their own interpretation of what Christmas means to them, but with that being said, I think the gift wrapping-esque cups do the job.”

So far this is the best Christmas for Starbucks in terms of controversy over their holiday cups for the company.

Freshman starts scrunchie business Katie Newton Mirada Staff Plenty of students are creative, but freshman Kaylee Barnes and her younger sister Kat take things to the next level with their own scrunchie business: KK Scrunchies Company.

Their small business originated with one scrunchie and the idea of making a business. The two sisters now make their own handmade, one of a kind scrunchies.

“Kat and I both wanted to start a new hobby and thought making scrunchies was a cool idea,” said Mustard yellow is one of KK Scrunchies most popular designs.

Barnes. “We got all the materials and before we knew it we were making scrunchies!” ric, elastic, and a sewing machine. formally on Etsy but also in person The sisters purchase all of the Fabrics vary between linen, cotton for those who see Barnes at school. fabrics themselves and the prices and velvet.

Walking around campus, Barnes of each scrunchie is dependant on Currently KK Scrunchies has and her friends can be spotted the quality of the material but they seven individual products in addiwearing a variety of the scrunchies range from $3 to $6. tion to their Checkered Scrunchie she and her sister makes.

While Barnes’ customer base Pack. Some best selling designs “We advertise mostly through is fairly small, they’ve sold out of include their Black and White Instagram and wearing our some of their cutest scrunchies and Checkered, Mustard Yellow and scrunchies,” said Barnes. are kept busy.

Black Velvet Scrunchies.

Barnes’ Instagram account for “I advertise the scrunchies on “It’s a great way for me to bond the business (@kkscrunchies.co) social media and sometimes make with Kat and work together to crefeatures their newest scrunchies the scrunchies,” said Barnes. “Kat, ate something for many to enjoy,” and highlights the old with creative who had the idea of starting the said Barnes. pictures. business, makes the scrunchies, Each product is homemade and KK Scrunchies is a great oppackages them and runs our Etsy packaged by hand with a note from portunity for the sisters to learn shop.” the Barnes sisters on a business some of the logistics of running Each scrunchie is made with fab- card. The scrunchies are sold a business while also using their

innovative side.

When not at school or making scrunchies, Barnes can be found running, swimming or hanging out with friends like any other teen.

For Barnes, balancing the business, school and extracurriculars isn’t too difficult because the company is more for fun than anything else.

“I love making people happy and getting to share scrunchies with them,” said Barnes. “It takes a lot to run a business, but putting a lot of my energy into it makes it meaningful and fun.”

page 11

THE MIRADA|Friday, December 21, 2018

REVIEWS MOVIE REVIEW

You’re a boring one Mr.Grinch Kaitlyn Shellooe Mirada Staff The newest Grinch movie came out on Nov. 9 reaching a whopping 58 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

Just like the other previous Grinch movies this takes place in Whoville where the Grinch watches the town in his cave with his dog Max. The Grinch is bitter about the Whos and their way of celebrating Christmas and tries to take away their Christmas, pretending to be Santa Claus.The Grinch goes through his plan and makes new gadgets to make his plan come to life.

If you enjoyed the classic Grinch movies then you’ll probably like this one since it’s exactly the same as the other ones, the only difference was there were some attempts to make the movie a little more modern.

Cindy Lou Who is the daughter of a single mother raising three kids and has a job all through the night, has the biggest wish to Santa to have her mother be happy. You follow her and her friends through their adventure to try and capture Santa Claus.

My least favorite parts of the movie was the parts where they focused on the Whos because the directors did a poor job trying to make this movie fresh and new. The Grinch had a few funny scenes, but overall this was nothing new and nothing we haven’t seen before.

The movie seemed to be drawn out way too long and could of been 15 minutes like it was back in 1966.

For it to be an hour and 30 minutes there needed to be a lot of creativity and newness like the Grinch movie that came out in 2000 with Jim Carrey.

The reason the other two were a lot better was because Jim Carrey did an amazing job imitating the Grinch and the story was entertaining, and humorous. The original was also good because it’s a classic and it’s a short, sweet movie for the holidays.

I was disappointed because I thought this was going to be about the Grinch and his life growing up, which was mentioned briefly in the new movie.

The movie has already been done before and there was nothing new to the movie, accept for occasional cheesy humor here and there.

For example, the Grinch was getting ready for the day and was in his underwear still with fuzzy green legs and then he puts on his “pants” that are green and fuzzy. Things like that were sprinkled throughout the movie and just got annoying after awhile.

I could see where the directors were going to try and appeal to a younger audience since our generation and many generations before grew up with the original, but it just was boring.

It has same moral to the story, that presents are not what makes Christmas, but what makes Christmas is the people around you makes it special.

Overall, the movie was disappointing, but it wasn’t bad. The story was good, and it had a good awareness with showing people the life of a single mother, but it was just nothing new. I wouldn’t go see it again, because the other two previous to this one were a lot better.

FOOD AND DRINK REVIEW

New food and drinks are here for the holidays Athena Acevedo Mirada Staff Every year, the unveiling of the Starbucks holiday menu is greatly anticipated all over the world, as their delicious seasonal drinks and food are only available for around two months.

I am one of those people and that try to taste at least one new holiday drink every year.

The carved ham and cheese breakfast sandwhich I tried two seasonal drinks, Photo by Anthena Acevedo one hot and one cold, a breakfast cinnamon sugar. sandwich, and a bakery item.

This drink might be too sweet I went to my usual Starbucks on for some tastes, but that was what Arden and Eastern, and the drinks I loved about it. This is one of and food were out in no time, which is made my experience great the best drinks at Starbucks and I highly recommend it. from the start.

The other drink I tried, was an My favorite drink of the two that iced eggnog latte which cost $4.45 I had was the snickerdoodle hot for a tall, disappointed me. I had chocolate, which costed $3.45 for high hopes because eggnog is my a tall. Normally I don’t go for hot favorite drink during the holiday drinks but this one is an exception. season but it lacked the punch of The already tasty flavor of hot the original flavor. chocolate is elevated with white The espresso overpowered the chocolate and cinnamon dulce eggnog flavor and made it taste syrup blended in and topped with

more like a regular iced coffee than a seasonal drink. For me, when I get a drink that is supposed to be different and special, I want it to taste special like it’s supposed to be.

The cranberry bliss bar is a holiday staple at Starbucks and is so good that I wish it was available year round. It is a blondie cookie with cranberries mixed in the batter and topped with sweet cream cheese and white orange drizzle.

It is the perfect mixture of sweet and sour in one bite. The tart cranberries balance out the sweetness of the frosting perfectly.

Another returning item is the carved ham and swiss breakfast sandwich. For $4.95, you get sugarcoated maple ham, a slice of swiss cheese, and egg on a croissant bun.

The contrast of the savory ham and egg with the sweet bun and sugar coating and is something I will probably get throughout the holiday season.

My only complaint is that the croissant bun seemed to be a

little dry and stiff, but was not so obvious that it ruined the sandwich.

Overall, I am happy with all of the items I tried and will definitely get the snickerdoodle hot chocolate, ham and swiss sandwich and cranberry bliss bar again.

I do not recommend the iced eggnog latte, unless you like drinks with more muted flavors. However, the hot version might have more flavor than the iced one so I cannot judge that.

Although everyone is different I think these new items are delicious and worth the price.

The cramberry bliss bar. Photo

by Athena Acevedo

MOVIE REVIEW

Mary Poppins is back after 54 years Emily Segale Mirada Staff Emily Blunt is starring in the new film: Mary Poppins Returns.

The movie is set to premiere on December 19, 2018, right in the midst of the holiday season.

The original Mary Poppins also premiered during the month of December way back in 1964.

Emily Blunt will be playing Mary Poppins in the new film, although it was originally portrayed

by Julie Andrews. Emily Blunt has outspokenly been nervous about stepping into the role that was made famous by Andrews.

After hearing that the former Mary Poppins had approved her casting Blunt said, “I felt like I wanted to cry. It was lovely to get her stamp of approval. That took the edge off it, for sure.” Blunt is most famous for her role in “The Devil Wears Prada.” The actress starred alongside longtime actress, Meryl Streep. Meryl Streep does make a cameo in the new Mary Poppins film which will make this the third total film Blunt and Streep

‘Mary Poppins Returns’ is in theaters Dec. 19. Photo taken from ign.com. have co-starred in.

Lin- Manuel Miranda is also one of the main characters in the film. He plays Jack who was played by Dick Van Dyke in the original film. Miranda is known for his performance as Alexander Hamilton in the Broadway Musical Hamilton.

Dick Van Dyke also is set to make a surprise appearance in the sequel film. Yes, sequel. Although there was speculation that the new Mary Poppins was going to be a remake of the original, it has been confirmed that the movie is a

sequel.

In the new movie, Mary Poppins returns to take care of Michael Bank’s children. Michael has grown up and gotten married and finds himself in need of a new nanny. He needs to look no further as he remembers the most wonderful nanny, Mary Poppins.

The movie has not come out yet but that has not stopped the world from asking themselves if Emily will be able to handle the monumental role. Emily has typically played intimidating and stubborn women, but as we all

know, Mary Poppins is a much different character.

How can one actress portray a witch and in her next film represent the exact opposite of evil?

Personally, I am a big fan of Emily Blunt and I am rooting for her but these are some enormous shoes to step into. Even if people say that Emily does not compare to Julie Andrews, I am certain that there is no one who could attempt the role better. So kudos to the casting director. Blunt first signed onto the title role in February 2016 and they then quickly signed Miranda.

The next to join the film was Meryl Streep followed by Colin Firth. Colin Firth is an Academy Award and Golden Globe winner, famous for his roles in the Bridget Jones films. The producers had approached Julie Andrews about making a cameo in the upcoming movie but she declined the offer after saying she wanted this to be “Emily’s show.” And that is what it will be.

I assure you, come December 19, the whole world will be talking about Emily Blunt. Best of luck, Emily.

LISTEN UP, KIDS

No movie beats ‘Christmas Vacation’

English and AVID teacher Leigh Sumers has been a fan of “Christmas Vaca-

Everyone has their favorite Christmas movie and teachers are no exception.

Mrs. Sumer’s favorite movie is Christmas Vacation. “ My family watches it every year and I grew up watching it every year,” said Sumers.

But the real question is what character would she be if she was in the Griswold family. She said that she would be aunt Bethany. “ I would be aunt Beth-

any because I am the absent minded professor, I don’t always know what’s going on around me,” said Sumers.

“The part where she wraps her cat and gives it to her family is something I feel like something I would do in my old age and I do think that it’s my personality.”

Not only that but her husband is also a character from the movie, the classic uncle Eddie.

“We don’t live in an R.V.

but the running joke in my husbands family is that my husband is cousin Eddie,” said Sumers.

Does she have the decorations to match? With every great movie comes a great set.

“My house is the Griswold house, on the street,” said Sumers. “ I am sure you can see it from space.”

With the characters, the jokes and the decorations all you need is a camera. But the

real meaning of Christmas is family.

“The movie really speaks to what the holidays are about crazy, chaotic memories, but ultimately it’s all about family.”

Each issue the Mirada asks a staff member to recommend something they were into in high school that they think students today would enjoy.

page 12

The Mirada | FEATURES | Friday, December 21, 2018

Bachelor

DISTRACTIONS Bachelorette

Pet of the Issue

Raider Quiz Holiday Edition 1. According to a recent survey, what percentage of Americans believe “Die Hard” is a legitimate Christmas movie?

A) 25% B) 40% C) 55% D) 65%

What would be your dream girl?

-Funny, can take a joke, nice and shows she cares.

What personality traits do you look for?

-Smart and not too serious, an athletic person.

What would your dream date be?

-Hanging out playing board games, or watching The Office together.

Biggest turn on?

-Someone who can joke with me and is funny.

Biggest turn off?

-Someone who takes things too seriously.

Favorite Disney character?

-Olaf from Frozen Favorite sports team?

-Sacramento Kings

Ruby Webb (9) What would be your dream boy?

- Funny, tall, caring What personality traits do you look for?

-Honest, outgoing, artistic, soccer player What would your dream date be?

-Spending the day together and going to a concert and afterwards, going out for sushi.

Biggest turn on?

-Honest and true, also shows that he cares.

Biggest turn off?

-Lying and ignoring definitely, and showing no interest.

Favorite Disney character?

-Lilo and Stitch Favorite sports team?

-The Raiders

Genesee Kearney(12) What’s your animal and it’s name?

-I have a Chinese Water Dragon named Jonathan.

What’s the story behind getting him?

-We went to the pet store to get my dad a lizard but instead we got one for me.

How big does can this animal get?

-Males can get up to 3 feet but mine is 2 feet.

Cutest thing he does?

-He bobs his head and dances to “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel.

Weirdest thing he does?

-He licks his lips after he eats Most annoying thing about him?

-He goes to the bathroom in his fresh water bowl every time I. change it.

4. What state lifted a ban on Snowball fights after a request was made by a 9 year old?

A) Maryland B) New York C) Colorado D) Wyoming

Couple of the Issue Seniors Melanie Burr and Dylan Searle have been dating for a month.

How did you guys meet?

DS: Homecoming Junior year.

How long have you been dating?

MB: 1 month, October 26th Best Quality?

DS: Her sense of humor she gets me MB: His hair because he lets me braid and play with it.

Annoying Quality?

DS: She wants to see my dogs more than me MB: He talks when we are on roller coasters like nonstop.

Favorite Memory?

MB: Going to a pumpkin patch and exploring and walking around. That’s also the day he asked me out.

DS: Going to Six Flags Fright Fest and her being told that there was scare actors in the parking lot and she freaked out about it.

Embarrassing moment?

DS: When I picked her up for our first date she didn’t want me to meet her parents so she slipped out the door super awkwardly.

MB: The first time I went to his house his room was a complete mess.

3. According to the American Christmas Tree Association, what percentage of Christmas trees will be artificial this year?

A) 75% B) 90% C) 50% D) 80%

A Holiday Poem

by Emily Segale I’ve just finished my finals That was my last test This Winter Break Will be the very best Santa Claus is coming, And so are finals grades The sweetest present will be That my GPA doesn’t fade You might binge on “The Grinch,” Maybe even “Elf” New Year’s Eve’s around the corner, Make resolutions for yourself I just want to say, Happy Holidays from me to you Enjoy this time because come January you’ll be asking: “Wait, what’s due?”

5. In “Elf” what toy was Buddy making when he failed to make his daily quota?

A) Jack-in-the-box B) Etch-a-Sketch C) Rubik’s Cube D) Bob the Builder 6. When Buddy leaves the North Pole, he floats away on a patch of ice. Which Christmas classic is this scene taken from?

A) Santa Claus is Coming to Town B) The Year Without a Santa Claus C) Frosty the Snowman D) Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer 7. What is the most listened to Christmas song according to BillBoard.com?

A) “Feliz Navidad” B) “All I Want for Christmas is You” C) “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” D) “Jingle Bell Rock” 8. Which of these toys are NOT a top Christmas toy pick for 2018?

A) Fingerling Untamed Raptors B) Grumblies C) Hugsy the Bear interactive stuffed toy D) Pomskies

Know your campus

Directions: Locate the image below somewhere on Rio’s campus. The first person to identify where the picture is from and tell Mr. Mahoney (room A3) will receive $5 gift card to the Raider Store. Good luck!

9. How many points does a snowflake traditionally have?

A) 5 B) 6 C) 7 D) 2 10. Which country does St. Nicholas originally belong to?

A) Turkey B) Norway C) Northern Ireland D) Scotland

BASKETBALL SANTA BREAK

CHRISTMAS

COOKIES BELLS HOT COCO LIGHTS

RIO BEAT JESUIT HOLIDAYS

STOCKINGS

FIREPLACE SKATES

1.A 2.B 3.D 4.C 5.B 6.D 7.B 8.C 9.B 10.A

Jason Smith (9)

2. Which is not a tradition of Festivus, the holiday made famous by “Seinfeld’?

A) Feats of strength B) Chugging eggnog C) An undecorated aluminum pole D) Airing of grievances

Sports

page 13

The Mirada |Friday, December 21, 2018

Great Scott!

RAIDER REPORT Cali Britton Sports commentary

Men and Woman’s Sports are anything but Equal

“H

Senior Jake Paxton goes for a layup through a double team. Photo by Jane Snider.

Junior Mitchell Dixon dribbles down the baseline past an opponent.

Photo by Jane Snider.

Fast breaks, interior defense and rowdy fans secured a victory for Rio’s tourney Mickey Doolittle Mirada Staff The action-packed annual Jack Scott Tournament took place last week and ended with Rio on top. The bracket consisted of three rounds, each team needing two wins to reach the final.

The Raiders faced the Monterey Trail Mustangs out of Elk Grove in the first round. An exciting back and forth first quarter opened the bout.

The Mustang’s junior guard, Elijah Shung, attacked the hoop well early, and would keep Trail in the game. However, Rio created separation thanks to consistent fast break points that led to a big 13-3 run to start the second half.

Senior center Jonah Roth led the charge defensively with big blocks that created opportunities in transition. Senior Jake Paxton and junior Denzel Harris made great passes to set up open shots.

“If you just protect the paint, get rebounds and make sure they can’t penetrate then you have a good chance of winning.” said Roth. “If you prevent the highest percentage shots from being made, then you have a good chance of winning.”

As the third quarter went on, Trail began to make a run, cutting into the Raiders’ lead. However, thanks to the Mustangs’ horrendous shooting down the stretch and Senior Cole Ramazzini’s four point play, Rio pulled away to advance to the semi-final.

Friday night was the highest-attended game of the three Rio played, and the deafening student section became the sixth man. The Raiders took on the Ponderosa Bruins for a chance to move onto the championship.

“We actually had a play where we

The crowd goes wild after Jonah Roth dunks on a Del Campo player.

Photo by Jane Snider. were forcing weak side [towards the student section],” said senior Roan Karavani. “[The students] were sitting there screaming at whoever had the ball.”

A turnover-ridden first half cost Rio a shot at building a lead between them and the Bruins. However, when they weren’t turning it over, they produced good mis-matches in the paint. Roth not only continued to play well defensively, but also made shots from the post.

Into the second, the Raiders continued to shoot themselves in the foot by giving the ball away. The game was close heading into the half, thanks to Ponderosa taking advantage of Raider mistakes.

Rio made many adjustments coming out of the half that greatly payed off. They started getting more open looks from outside and not missing.

Heading into the fourth, the Raiders held an eight point lead.

“We knew if we bought into each other and knew if we all played like we know we can that we would see the result we wanted.” Roth said.

For the second night in a row,

Rio absolutely dominated the fourth quarter. Jake Paxton lead the charge, using his dribbling to create space and open his teammates up for shots.

Ultimately, Ponderosa was overwhelmed as the Raiders who pulled off a 68-49 victory to advance to the championship game.

That contest against Del Campo was held on Saturday night, with most excited Rio fans wearing white.

However, that buzz did not last with the Cougars going on a 10-0 run to start play.

The Raiders allowed this by committing costly fouls and turnovers.

Some of those fouls did appear to be poor calls from the officiating, which had been consistently good to that point in the tournament.

Quickly forgetting this run, the Raider’s offense was sparked by Paxton who made plays getting to the rack, showing off great ball handling. In addition, Roth threw down a huge dunk to contribute to a momentum-shifting 13-3 run.

Following this run was an ugly, low scoring second half. Both teams committed constant turnovers in a

hugely physical battle. The Cougars would ultimately be leading at halftime.

The third quarter was Paxton’s time to go off. The Rio guard sparked a comeback, cutting Del Campo’s lead to three.

“Their best player was a big man, and we had to take him out of the game and shut him down,” Paxton said.

The Raiders went on a massive run throughout the third quarter, and while the crowd was the loudest of the weekend, they held a 43-38 lead headed into the final period of the tournament.

To begin the fourth, Del Campo was able to draw within three, courtesy of two costly Paxton turnovers.

After a Raider timeout, Cole Ramazzini buried an open three.

Down the stretch in every game of the tournament, Rio’s defense tightened. Saturday was no exception, with one amazing stand made

by Roth and junior James Davies.

When a Cougar player drove to the hoop and had an open look, Roth came seamingly out of nowhere to swat the ball away. Another Del Campo player picked it up and went up again, only to get rejected by Davies.

“As a team we really came together and put our focus into the game plan,” Paxton said. “We hustled, played one hundred percent, got rebounds and did the little things on defense and offense.”

Moments later, Paxton found Roth for yet another dunk to seal the game. Rio hit their free throws in the closing minutes and would go on to beat Del Campo 63-51 to win the Jack Scott Tournament.

ey, are you going to the basketball game on Friday?” “Is it a boys game?” “No, it’s a girls game.” “Then no, I’m not going.”

As a female high school athlete I know this conversation all to well. Despite the effort, women’s sports, at all levels, are underpaid, under-exposed, and under-appreciated.

Steps have been taken to better the chasm between men and womens athletics, however it is not enough and we must do more.

The average salary for a WNBA player is $72,000, while the average salary for an NBA player is around $5 million, or about 70 times what the average female basketball player makes.

The job is the same, play basketball and win games.

We have these predisposed gender roles deeming aggressive sports as masculine sports and non-contact sports, feminine sports. Due to some old-timed mindset, the media still crushes the equality many are trying to reach in the world of sports.

Reports show that women receive less overall coverage and are deemed as “girls” while men are portrayed as “strong and powerful.”

Now, why is that? Maybe because 95% of anchors, co-anchors, and analysts are male. Or perhaps that 90.1% of sports print editors are male.

I am not saying that all these men are the reason that women are receiving less exposure than their male complement.

Everyone has heard the name Kobe Bryant, but most likely have not heard the name Diana Taurasi.

They’re each virtual locks for All-NBA/WNBA teams every year and on the shortlist for MVP and Finals MVP. Both of which are no stranger to winning big five NBA titles for Kobe and two WNBA titles for Diana, to go along with Taurasi’s slew of international titles in the Euroleague and Russian leagues.

Now, I can write this article and some will read it and others will see the title and roll their eyes. But, this disrespect has gone on for too long and steps need to be taken to give the women of today a chance at a better tomorrow.

It starts with us. The steps need to begin now to ensure that those girls get the recognition they deserve when their time comes.

We must break the cycle and end the unfairness.

The Mirada | SPORTS |Friday, December 21, 2018

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Senior shines in three sports Bryce Casey is a four-year, three sport varsity and club athlete Mickey Doolittle Mirada Staff When varsity soccer ends in the rapidly fading light of a December day, most players go home for a quick meal and a long night of trying to finish their homework.

However, senior Bryce Casey trades in his cleats for sneakers and heads to his club volleyball team practice. It will be additional two hours of sweat and drills before he can go home and catch up on those other details of his life--such as eating and schoolwork.

As if balancing two sports with other life events weren’t hard enough, Casey is on the roster of five teams across three sports.

Casey was named MaxPreps Special Teams Player of the game against Woodcreek for football and scored three touchdowns in one game earlier this season. This, he considers, is one of his greatest accomplishments since starting to play his freshman year.

Senior Bryce Casey goes down after a long run in a game against Jesuit.

Photo by Rebecca Smith Casey plays wide receiver, tight end and kicker for the football team, hitting most of his extra points with his cannon leg. The level of talent one needs to play three different positions on the field is huge. His skills in soccer as a midfielder help him thrive in all positions.

Last year, he played 254 minutes (per MaxPreps) throughout the sea-

Prep of the Month Jake Paxton

son playing in the center defensive middle position. In addition, Casey was named captain of Rio’s varsity team for this season, received defensive most valuable player last year and has been playing since he was just three years old. Casey balances his busy schedule with year-round club soccer for Union.

“Bryce is a great leader,” said se-

nior Nick Vasquez. “He hypes us up and pushes us to work harder. Even when games are tense, he always keeps us positive.”

Casey plays volleyball for both Rio and for his club, Infinity. For this sport, his height is his biggest advantage.

Standing at 6’5, Casey is able to play up close to the net as middle outside and outside blocker. This is the player whose job is to read opposing teams and determine where and when they will attempt to spike the ball.

“I probably enjoy volleyball the most because I’m the best at it.” Casey said.

In a volleyball game last year, Casey made a bicycle kick over the net which scored Rio a point.

“Bryce is a great leader and he always gives his all when he’s on the court,” said senior Alex Erikson.

“He plays with lots of passion and never backs down from a challenge.”

As with football, Casey started playing volleyball when he was a freshman in high school. This year, he was named captain of Rio’s varsity team, which comes with a spot in Rio’s student body leadership.

Anyone who has participated in athletics is aware that it is extremely challenging to find a way to budget sports, school and a social life.

Casey has obviously mastered this

concept.

“I usually have two practices a day,” Casey said. “If two are going on at once, I choose which one is more important.”

Somehow, aside from his packed workload, he finds a way to spend time with friends. In addition to this, Casey trains outside of sports at a gym lifting weights on days he doesn’t have soccer after football practice.

“I actually have more free time than you would think,” he said.

“Even though I play a lot of sports, sometimes I have an entire day after school to relax and some weekends I’m totally free.”

He plans on attending a four year college to continue his volleyball career. Casey contributes to the school’s team which is ranked 180th in California, making them in the top 10 percent of schools in the state.

“I would like to play for UCLA,” Casey said. “Long Beach is up there because they have a really good program, as well as San Jose State.”

When asked why he plays this many sports, Casey answered that if he did not, he would get out of shape.

His love of athletics has taught him many lessons like time management and discipline, and has bettered his life both on and off the field/ court.

Girls basketball looks to impress Synia Thrower Mirada Staff

What’s your most recent accomplishment?

We won Jack Scott tourney and Mitchell Dixon won all tourney.

We couldn’t be anymore proud to have such a big accomplishment.

Winning Jack Scott felt great and we get to go down in the record books of Rio. The whole team stepped up big time and we pulled through.

What’s a memorable play of yours?

A memorable play was when Jonah got a pass from me on the baseline and dunked to seal the game vs Del Campo. We lost last year to Del Campo, so it was good to win this year and beat them.

When is the next big game?

Every game is a big game in our eyes, and all we do is go out and play like we always do. There are some games out there that are obviously important but all games are important.

What are your goals for this year?

Our goal is to go back to back to back league champs even with this new league and to beat Jesuit at home and show out at Golden One. What position do you play?

I play point guard and I usually am the general of the floor. Having a job like this on the court makes the game that much more fun.

What do you do off the court?

I go to the gym, hoop, and hang with friends and family.

As the winter sports season begins, the girls basketball teams have their eyes set on another successful season.

Unlike last season, the program is fortunately able to have 3 levels this year, Freshman, JV, and Varsity. An influx of freshmen came out to play this year which had not been the case for the past two years.

Returning coaches Shawn Steck and Randy Ricci continue to coach the Varsity and JV teams with new coach Mark Billingsley as the Freshman coach.

The teams are now in a new division which means harder teams to play but also chances to get better.

“The division we’re in now has a lot of harder teams,” said returning sophomore JV player Sophie Cysewski. “But every game has been a good opportunity for us to learn from and become stronger playing together as a team.”

The teams had their first game on Nov. 20 against Oakmont high school of Roseville, CA. For the varsity team, things are a bit different than last year. With senior players gone the remaining players of the team have had to take on the responsibility of helping out the new players.

“The goals for this season is to improve on our skills before every game, beat El Camino, and make it to playoffs,” said senior Cali Britton.

This year’s varsity team has

Senior Sunny Hernandez catches a pass from junior Katelyn Kamilos.

Photo by Synia Thrower. four underclassmen. They have two freshmen, Hailee Hackett and Abby O’Brien and two sophomores, Calie Thielen and Katie Hardwicke. All of the players have formed an incredible bond.

“I will miss this team so incredibly much,” said Britton. “We have freshman to seniors on the team and there’s not one girl on the team that I don’t love to death.”

The team has 13 players this year and stand at three wins and five losses.

The jv and freshman also have a roster of about 13 players with less success than the varsity team but hope to get better as the season progresses

Each team plays six days a week whether it’s games, practices or tournaments, and practices last for a little more than two hours.

The girls lost their latest game against El Dorado high school of Roseville, CA 51-25, and hope to come out on top at their next game against Elk Grove high school.

The varsity team gets the opportunity to play at the Golden 1 Center for the second year in a row on Dec. 22 at 6 p.m.

Order your yearbook at the financial office for $70

THE MIRADA | Friday, December 21, 2018

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Spanish teacher plans to visit every country In his year away from Rio, Brian Asher will explore more than 100 countries around the world. Six months into his journey, this is what he’s seen.

Rebecca Smith Mirada Staff Hop off the plane in a land where they don’t speak your language, don’t look like you, and don’t even have an air terminal. It seems like the whole town has gathered to see who is getting off, you look around, finding a friendly face aboard: This is your new partner for the next week.

Traveling alone can bring stress, excitement and danger to any adventurer. Spanish teacher Brian Asher embraces the unknown with open eyes and an open mind as he travels the world in his year away from Rio. Not much shocks someone who has seen every corner of the world, but when Asher got off the plane in Papua New Guinea, he had an experience unlike any he had had before.

“I went to a place called Papua New Guinea, it supposedly has cannibals and head hunters and that’s stuff of the past, but it’s more dangerous and tribal,” said Asher. “They have face paint and costumes, so going from a nice house in the suburbs to out in the bush that was definitely a big culture shock.”

Papua New Guinea is a relatively poor island country known for its diverse people and languages, and beautiful but isolated environments.

“I got in and the airport had no terminal, so you get out and there’s like a thousand local, tribal people, just staring at you, so I felt pretty uncomfortable,” said Asher.

“I went to the one other white person on the plane and it was a missionary that had been working there for 18 years and he said to come with him and that he would take care of me. He took me to his

mission (building) where all his priests live and I stayed there for the next five days. It was safe and they went to the communities and gave masses and they treated me like I was a priest in training, so all the local people loved me.”

It’s surprising how welcoming the people he’s met have been. In each country, someone has been willing to help direct, translate or lend a hand.

“The vast majority of the time, you’re amazed by how much people help you out,” said Asher. “Every day I ask people for help and ask questions about rides and can you take me here or explain that and help me change money.”

Although, he is bilingual, most times, translation can be difficult, but with the help of friendly people, he is able to communicate well enough to get around.

“If someone doesn’t speak English, you get a note written for you in Mandarin or Tegali or Nepali and you take it to the bus station and they give you your ticket,” said Asher.

“You do your homework, and you get what you need written down to get to the next place.”

So far, Asher has been to 45 countries during this trip.

He posts about his adventures on his blog at theworldhiker. com and posts stunning images from on his Instagram account, @theworldhiker.

This last week, he traveled throughout Egypt visiting museums, historic monuments and rafting up and down the Nile. Last Sunday, he visited the pyramids.

“The pyramids were supposed to open at 8, but I showed up at 7, and in a lot of these countries, rules are not really rules,” said Asher. “I got to the gate and the

Brian Asher joins a group of young monks in a small monastery in Bhutan. Photo provided by Brian Asher. guy told me to come in, so I walked next to the Sphinx and the pyramids and rode a camel before anyone was there.

I was done at 10 when the tours started, so I went into the museum with the mummies. Then I went to the big mosque here in town and by that time it was almost sunset.

I got this lamb, pita, salad and shawarma for dinner which cost about $2.”

The guest houses in Cairo are built so tourists can see the main attractions all the time. Asher’s guest house has a view of the pyramids from the roof, about 300-400 yards from the entrance.

“When I got back to my guest house they had a light show at the pyramids which I could see from my roof,” said Asher.

Asher is now in Saudi Arabia, a country many Western tourists avoid. It can be difficult to get a visa to Saudi Arabia, but Asher found that if he purchased a ticket to a car race he could get the visa and a little time explore.

Calling himself the World Hiker on his web site and Instagram account, Asher plans on seeing as many countries as possible. The time Asher spends in each country varies depending on the size, his interest and the amount of activities available to him.

The least visited country on earth, Nauru, is only 8 square miles, so Asher was able to ride a motorcycle around the Pacific island 10 times during his short visit.

“That one, three days was more than enough,” said Asher. “Nepal was one of my favorites and I was there for 20 days, and if I could, I would go back tomorrow.”

Nepal was Asher’s most memorable visit. The scenery and beautiful hikes catered to his passions.

“Nepal is probably the number one country I’ve been to because I love hiking,” said Asher. “I love the outdoors, and going to different monasteries and doing different treks and seeing the prayer flags and mountains was

beautiful.”

Asher said he only plans 2-4 weeks ahead and never more than a few countries because he never knows what he’s going to see or find, so he doesn’t want to have to leave before he can fully absorb the beauty of a country.

Now exploring Africa and the Middle East, places sometimes unwelcoming to tourists, Asher anticipates that his traveling will slow quite a bit.

“I’m planning on traveling quite a bit this whole year that I’m taking off,” said Asher. “I had no idea I’d be able to get through 45 countries by now in about six months. I’m going to start getting to countries that are a little bit harder, so it’s going to slow down once I get to African countries.”

These countries are often dangerous, so Asher travels safely. His experience traveling over 100 countries before this can be seen in the precautions and measures he takes.

“I always ask people that live there and get multiple opinions and go with company if I need to,” said Asher. “I meet different people all the time and you can join up with them short-term or long-term, but in general I’d say I’m traveling solo.”

Each country Asher visits has a budget. By flying, staying, eating and commuting as cheaply as possible, he is able to keep each new stop to just a couple hundred dollars.

“The preparing and the logistics for planning 45 countries by yourself is rough,” said Asher. “I never sign up for any tours. I’m spending a lot of time planning my own trips and trying to do it as cheaply as I can. For example, tonight I spent less than $5 on dinner.”

After years of exploration

and preaching to his class the importance of experiencing all the world has to offer, Asher is finally living out his dream.

“It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a long time and I think postponing your big dreams in life is not something that I want to do and never get around to it, so I don’t want to wait until I’m 70 and assume it’ll happen or something,” said Asher.

“I wanted to go for it. That’s what I talk about in class, so that’s how I try to live.”

The experience has been non-stop and action packed.

Each place he visits, Asher tries to see what life is truly like there rather than just the tourist attractions.

“I feel like I’m more on an adventure than on a vacation,” said Asher. “I don’t really sit around and go to the beach, whatever you picture as a relaxing vacation, that’s not my style. It’s hiking, it’s going to markets, it’s trying to visit as many places as I can.”

This truly life-changing, incredible experience must come to an end eventually, and Asher does miss life back home, especially Rio. He plans to return to Rio next year and continue teaching Spanish.

“I miss it,” said Asher.

“When you’re used to having 160-170 students in your class everyday it’s awfully strange when everyone’s there and you’re gone. I miss a lot of them and I love my former students. It’s a different feeling when you’re on your own traveling.”

To see more of Brian Asher’s pictures or to keep up with his travels, visit his Youtube channel or his Instagram account, @TheWorldHiker.

Winter rally highlights

Senior Emily Segale is the representative for the class that raised Varsity, JV and Freshman cheer perform a routine together. the most money for Pennies For Patients. She smashed a cream pie Photo by Ashley Keene. in Pincipal Ginter’s face. Photo by Ashley Keene.

Seniors Demitri Dogias and Cela Chamness preform in the lip sync battles. The sophomore class took fist place, followed by the juniors, then the seniors, and lastly, the freshmen. Photo by Rebecca Smith.

The Mirada | Friday, December 21, 2018

page 16

IN FOCUS

Spanish Teacher Seeks Adventure

ABOVE: Asher traveled to Turkmenistan and saw the Gates of Hell. It is a natural gas field that collapsed into the ground creating the hole in the Earth. BELOW: Asher hiked to the top of Thorong La Pass which is 17,769 feet above sea level with hikers from Spain. Photos by Brian Asher.

BELOW: Asher camped in the mountainous region of The Torres del Paine in Chile. ABOVE: A variety of spices in a street market in Jerusalem offer many different colors. Asher went to The Old City in Nov. 2017.

Photos by Brian Asher.

Countries Visited: Caribbean and Latin America:

Guyana, Suriname,Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, Bahamas, El Salvador, Belize

Pacific: Papua New Guinea,

Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Philippines, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Nauru, Tuvalu

Central Asia (Stan’s): Kazakhstan,

Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan

Caucuses: Armenia, Georgia,

Asher explores the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. According to Google Maps, the park offers mountain and glacier views, more than 100 bird species, camping, and boating. Asher traveled to the park in late Dec. of 2017. Photo by Brian Asher.

Azerbaijan Asia: Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives

Gulf Coast/North Africa: United

Inside

Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt

This was at a coming-of-age ceremony in Tanna, Vanuatu for a young boy.

Asher traveled to Vanuatu this August and experienced the culture rich country. Photo by Brian Asher.

Read about the Brian Asher’s adventures around the world during his one year leave from Rio Americano.

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