The Warrior December 2010

Warrior The Valley Christian Friday, December 10, 2010

Volume XXVIII Number III

Warrior.ValleyChristian.net

International Space Station Project

VCS CubeLab Counts Down to Liftoff Students Prepare Project for Flight to I.S.S.

Jon Lampkin

Editor-in-Chief One of Valley Christian’s newest expeditions is soon to take Valley’s CubeLab experiment to the International Space Station. The Applied Math Science and Engineering Institute, a new program created in early-2010, has exploded with a wealth of achievements and progress over the past months. The ISS CubeLab Team was formed, the Robotics program is winning countless awards, the NanoTechnology program is prepping their equipment ready for student use, the Math Club is achieving high awards and the Science Fair Group is picking up steam.

The ISS CubeLab Project has had exceptional progress over the past months.

The project is an ambitious endeavor which hopes to gain data which would be vital to scientists worldwide, and all those involved in space exploration. As the

Students Tae Park, Veronica Lane and Michael Lee work on the CubeLab enclosure with adult mentor and industry professional, George Sousa.

of its kind in the world, the high school students involved, and local industry volunteers, are in a bit of uncharted, but very, very noteworthy and history-making territory.

The goal has been to build a selfcontained plant-life experiment where students can monitor the growth of six different plants while aboard the International Space Station for 30-60 days.

The CubeLab contains a digital camera, LED lights, an onboard microcontroller, and a water source among multiple other components.

“One of our goals has been to help other schools to replicate our experiment, while still growing our own AMSE Institute,” explained Lead Project Manager, senior Veronica Lane. The ISS Project will open up possibilities for educational organizations across the globe.

Industry professional Dan Saldana was “discovered,” recently, by Werner Vavken over a round of golf when he shared that he has led engineering teams who have launched over 85 satellites in his career. Vavken drafted the contract with NanoRacks, which Dr. Cliff Daugherty signed, and made the ISS Project possible.

Vavken is the school’s chaplain, as well as the AMSE Advisory Board Chairman and course instructor for Valley’s new Engineering-I Course, along with Mrs. Annette Lane.

The ISS program also has been aided by various other well-known,

International Space Station CubeLab Prototype

retired, engineers. Mr. Howell Ivy was instrumental in helping students craft the brains of the system, the microcomputer, as well as other aspects of the project. Mr. George Sousa, another retired engineer, helped with many of the hands-on tasks with the students. College engineering students and even an astronaut, Dr. Yvonne Cagle, all chipped in to guide the students in this historic project.

Valley Christian faculty members, Jim Oliphant and Claudia Smith have guided the entire AMSE program as encouraging mentors and knowledgeable math and science experts. Oliphant was recently announced as a Space Foundation Teacher Liason, for his dedicated work as an aid to the AMSE Institute. Oliphant

received both his masters and bachelors with honor in Electrical Engineering from the University of Tennessee. Smith helps to guide the math program as department head, and was recently awarded the Santa Clara Valley Math Association High School Teacher of the Year Award, a very distinguished prize.

Keystones of the AMSE program, the robotics team, and the math club, have been extremely successful, winning the Think Award, and placing 8th in the National Team Scramble, respectively.

Only twelve years ago, the International Space Station was launched.

Come late-winter 2011, Valley Christian will have its own science project drifting through outer space, aboard the station.

Marching Band Places 2nd in West Coast Competition Staff Writer Early on the morning of Saturday, November 20, when almost every student was sleeping in and enjoying the days of their Thanksgiving break, the Valley Christian Marching Band was up at the crack of dawn, heading on two charter buses to compete in the WBA (Western Band Association) at Koligian Football Stadium in Fresno. Competing against 46 other bands, the Valley Christian Marching Band prepared themselves for the competition.

The performance was phenomenal, with no marching mistakes or technical The Valley Christian Marching Band was given the score 87.30 out of 100, placing second, only two points away from the place band with a score of 89.10. “I truly felt great as I was marching on that and everyone else looked determined to win,” said freshman

trumpet player Davis Grunman.

“It was really cool to win second

out of 47 bands. I just couldn’t believe it. All the hard work had paid off,” added

The Valley Christian band and color guard march toward centerfield during Fall Homecoming.

The band put on a terrific show.

AP Environmental Science Takes Field Trip to SF Zoo

Photo by Nick Rogers

WCAL Champions Fall Just Short in CCS Championship Photo by Nick Rogers

See Page 2

freshman drummer Justin Farravet. But that was just the beginning.

On Sunday, November 21, the VCHS Marching Band was up early to head over to Fresno City College for the half of the competition, when they found out that the were canceled due to the football being too wet from the last night’s rain. They made a pit stop at Clovis High for an early morning practice, where the resident band welcomed them with cheers for their second place Due to the rain, the lack of a round of competition left the VCHS band in 2nd.

The band didn’t just achieve what they did in a heartbeat, they had to practice diligently.

Monday-Wednesday and Friday, each section of the band practiced separately from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

On Thursdays, the band meets to practice together on the football “It’s very time consuming and tiring, but it’s worth it,” Grunman.

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in San Jose!”

See Page 16

See Pages 8-9

“Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Ephesians 6:10

Valley Christian High School 100 Skyway Drive, San Jose CA 95111

Photo by Drew Osumi

Jordan Lief

The Warrior

For December 13-17, 2010

6th period BREAK 8th period

Tuesday 9:00am: 10:30am: 11:00am:

5th period BREAK 7th period

On November 23, North Korean artillery shells hit Yeonpyeong Island in the Yellow Sea right next to the nautical border with North Korea. The shelling resulted in two South Korean civilians killed, 16 wounded, and 70 civilian homes were destroyed. South Korea fired around 90 shells in response, but due to the restrictive nature of the North, the casualties and damage there is unknown. American military presence increased in South Korea after the incident, with the aircraft carrier George Washington sailing to the yellow sea to participate in joint AmericanSouth Korean military exercises.

3rd period BREAK 1st period

Friday 9:00am:

MAKE UP FINALS

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2010-2011 Warrior Staff

Jon Lampkin Editor-in-Chief Hannah Lozinski Assistant News Editor

Zayn Kirkendoll A&E Editor

Shanti Reddy Assistant A&E Editor

Tarah Duarte Features Editor

Taylor Tanton Assistant Features Editor

Canadian-American actor Leslie Nielsen, known from films such as Airplane! and the Naked Gun series of movies passed away on November 28. Nielsen began acting in 1948, appearing in over 50 television shows and commercials in 1950 alone. He began his film career in 1956, acting in many movies up until his death. He first starred in dramatic roles, such as the captain in The Poseidon Adventure, but later turned to comedy. 1980’s Airplane! was a perfect example of his parody work of disaster movies.

Nielsen died of pneumonia in a Ft. Lauderdale hospital, surrounded by friends and family.

AP Environmental Science Class Travels to SF Zoo Joyce Chen

Photo Editor Bright and early on Tuesday, November 30, the AP Environmental Science students boarded two large buses and headed up to the San Francisco Zoo.

Seventy-eight students arrived at 8:50am, in front of the football stadium and got on the buses by 9am; soon enough, they were all on their way to the renowned San Francisco Zoo. Upon arrival, the students were split into many small groups, each with a chaperone to look out them. At the zoo, the groups were to go around the zoo to the different environments and learn about the different animal biomes. This was great insight into the class because students actually got to see how animals interact with their environment.

It was interesting for them to actually see the animal diversity

Arazue Zadeh Graphic Artist

Joyce Chen

Jordan Lief

Photo Editor

Staff Writer

The science club is all about people who devote Warrior Staff Writers their time to being the best Romie Asplund, Matt Faircloth they can be in the area of Jordan Hochmuth, Angel Hollstrom science, learning and growing Jamie Keener, Sarah Koenig as students and people. The 12 Lianna LaBerge, Jordan Lief members, including President Dillon Mena, Brenda Muldoon Mason Ivy, Vice President Buisness Manager

Taylor Pratt, Nick Usher

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Contact Diann Fugate at dfugate vcs.net for information.

Note: The Warrior is a nonprofit publication which is published throughout the school year by the associated student body of Valley Christian High School. Views expressed in The Warrior are those of the student writers and do not necessarily represent the views of the school, staff, and/or its students.

All type and layouts are created in The Warrior newsroom, Room 215.

The Warrior is printed at Fricke-Parks Press, Union City, California.

and the endangered species that the students read about in their textbook.

While at the zoo, students were to use the different displays to fill out a worksheet that asked them to write down observations of the animals living in that particular part of the park.

By writing down the animals seen, students were able to go home and look up the animals and study their habitat more in-depth.

On the worksheet were six different areas that students were to visit including Bear Country, and the Wild Outback, but one of the most interesting places that students got to visit were the insects.

There were up to twenty different kinds of insects in displays including large Goliath Tarantulas and even the deadly Black Widow. The insects were extremely interesting to look at and definitely gave insight to

the material learned in Mr. Cadiente’s classroom.

Yet, far above the insect zoo, was the most popular king of the jungle.

The lion den was the most anticipated exhibit in the zoo. At 1pm, the exhibit was open to everyone, and many students were given the privilege to see the trainers feed the lions large pieces of meat through their cages.

These beasts are even larger than people expect, and definitely have a large appetite.

The field trip was extremely informational yet fun and students loved it.

Science Club Works Toward March Synopsis Competition

Sports Editor

Darelle Jones

Parul Jandir

Wikileaks, the well known whistleblower website, attained significant notoriety beginning last April with the release of a video depicting an American helicopter supposedly killing unarmed Iraqi civilians and reporters. The controversy increased this July, with the release of 92,000+ classified documents depicting a negative image of the War in Afghanistan, documents showing unreported incidents of killing of civilians or friendly fire.

In October, 350,000+ classified documents were released that painted an unpleasant picture of the War in Iraq. And on November 22, 100,000+ classified diplomatic cables were released by the website, showing a different side of U.S Diplomacy.

Many of the documents showed unflattering opinions from U.S Diplomats about foreign leaders. Private First Class Bradley Manning is an intelligence analysis in the U.S Army, and has been convicted of leaking many of these documents. He is facing 40 years in a military prison for these crimes. On December 7, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was voluntarily arrested by the London Metropolitan Police on charges of sexual assault. INTERPOL had issued an arrest warrant for Assanage in late November, and was put under arrest in absentia in Sweden. His arrest was not related to his activism.

Leslie Nielsen Dies at 84

Wednesday 9:00am: 2nd period 10:30am: BREAK 11:00am: 4th period Thursday 9:00am: 10:30am: 11:00am:

Wikileaks Causes Controversy

Google Image

FINALS IN THE NEWS SCHEDULE North Korea Shells South Korea Monday 9:00am: 10:30am: 11:00am:

News What’s Going On December 10, 2010

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School for Dummies

Tae Park, Treasurer Mike Lee, and Secretary Michelle Wong, practice advanced science by conducting experiments and participating in competitions.

The club was started a few months ago by Mr. Kevin McLaughlin, and since then, the members have been working in pairs on experiments or projects.

They are preparing to compete in a

By Jordan Hochmuth

science project competition called Synopsis in March next year, with such developments as how to use solar energy for transportation vehicles, and a simulator to study how life flourishes and perishes.

But they are not alone. Four teachers run the Science club, each with a specialty area of science. Mr. McLaughlin work in Physics, Mr. Keith Adams

covers biology, Mrs. Jennifer Gerlach does physical science, and Mr. Ken Shamanski is in charge of chemistry.

Before the club started, students privately submitted projects to Synopsis. But now with the club, teachers can help fund and support the members with their undertakings.

Next club meeting: 1/14/11.

News

The Warrior

December 10, 2010

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New Engineering-I class Exciting for Students Werner Vavken

VCHS Engineering Teacher

“Valley Christian’s new Applied Math Science and Engineering Institute (AMSE) was launched this year with an amazing vigor with over 100 students signed up to be part of the historic launch in the 2010-11 school year,” according to the AMSE Advisory Board Chairman, Mr. Werner Vavken.

As part of the AMSE launch, a brand-new Engineering-I course was also launched this semester that is being taught by Mr. Vavken along with Mrs. Annette Lane. The twenty students in the new Engineering-I course are learning fundamentals about engineering, project scheduling, mechanical engineering as well as electrical engineering.

Right now, the students are designing and building an AM radio that requires NO power to operate [photos depict this part of the class]. “This radio

build project,” according to Mr. Vavken, “nicely demonstrates, in a very practical way, the many fundamental electrical laws of inductance, capacitance, resonance, Ohm’s Law, as well as AM demodulation.”

This semester, students were also introduced to the 30+ engineering fields in existence today as well as statistics from the US Department of Labor on important data on the fastest growing engineering fields over the next 10 years.

The engineering students kicked-off the semester by studying these statistics, accessing their own God-given talents, and reporting on what field of engineering they “think” they would want to pursue, and why. The findings were quite interesting.

About 1/3 wanted to go into electrical engineering, 1/3 into mechanical, civil or architectural engineering, and about 1/3 were yet undecided.

Next semester the students will learn about civil engineering, architecture, a bit more mechanical engineering, as well as an introduction to engineering economics.

When students finish this fullyear course they will clearly know if engineering is a career path for them.

Mr. Vavken and Marc Rauschnott work on a project.

WarriorBots Shine in Competition!

Annette Lane

AMSE Department Chair Robotics Program Director

Last Saturday, Valley Christian hosted the first Lego League Robotics Regional Tournament in which Valley’s WarriorBots successfully participated. The teams are evaluated in four categories: Robot Design, Robot Performance, Research Project and Teamwork. For research project, the team is proposing a wrist watch mounted, non-invasive glucose monitor using infrared technology.

Concurrently, the team designed and programmed a robot for the challenge.

The team of eight students earned the 2nd place Champion’s Award. The

Champion’s Award is the most prestigious award that a team can win. In conjunction, the team also earned an invitation to the upcoming Northern California State Championship to be held in January.

Congratulations go to: Chase Batinich-Garcia (8th), Victor Chen (7th), Trent Kelsall (6th), Liam Patterson (7th), Derek Snyder (8th), Brennan Smith (6th), Zachary Strauss (5th), and Matthew Thomas (7th) on this great accomplishment.

Photos:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/vcsrobotics <http://www.flickr.com/photos/ vcsrobotics>

Mr. Cannistraci Departs AP English Classes Shanti Reddy

Senior Business Manager

Mr C. Mr. Can. Mr. Cannistraci. Whatever they call him, the students at Valley Christian High School adore this substitute for his calm demeanor and intriguing devotions. Because of the birth of Mrs. Julie Wilson’s son, Mr. Cannistraci was approached to teach the AP English 12 class for most of the first semester, his first semi-permanent teaching job.

He was excited for the opportunity to teach an AP class, but was very nervous to be filling the beloved Mrs. Wilson’s shoes. However, when he was asked about his overall experience working as a full-time substitute teacher later, he replied, “I loved it! There was a lot of work involved, and coupled with my other jobs, there were times I just wanted to nap, but for some reason I can’t wait to do it again.” Mr. Cannistraci always began the class period with a devotion of the day,

and expounded on the topic by relating it to his own personal life experiences, and/or connecting it with the lives of teenagers.

Although he won’t be teaching AP English anymore, Mr. Cannistraci will not be leaving the campus. He will continue to keep his schedule packed by subbing for other classes, teaching debate, and coaching the mock trial team.

When he was questioned about some of his highlights being at Valley Christian this year he answered, “The senior retreat was definitely a highlight of the year for me. Spiritual Emphasis Week is another highlight because McBride is a really good speaker.” Mr. Cannistraci is a substitute teacher whom students always look forward to subbing their classes, and although his former AP English class will miss his lectures, they can always keep their fingers crossed that he will substitute for them another day.

Eyobed Mesfun and Sammy Qubain concentrate on sodering metal on a microchip.

Deck the Halls: Valley Christian Spirit Week Tarah Duarte Features Editor

Some believe Christmastime is magical - that it can fill you with joy as you decorate the tree and home, read the Christmas story or watch a Nutcracker performance. Most Valley Christian High School students would agree after celebrating the second consecutive Christmas Spirit Week.

The spirit week was held on the last week of the first semester before finals starting on December 6 going through December 10.

The school was filled with Christmas decorations such as painted windows and a huge Christmas tree in the quad; part of the new tradition - Christmas in the Quad. However, that was only part of the celebration. Returning from the weekend, students immediately began celebrating the Christmas season as they came decked out in their pajamas. This was not the only day to get dressed up (or down) however.

On Tuesday, students wore clothes for the “Winter Wonderland” themed day, so the halls were filled with people wearing mittens and scarves, looking almost as if they were about to go skiing. Wednesday, if possible, saw some even more wild outfits, as the theme was “Christmas Movie Day.” Rudolph appeared to be the most popular costume, with many walking around wearing reindeer antlers. Christmas sweater day was on Thursday and was received with amusement as many dug out their old sweaters buried in the bottom of their drawers and wore them proudly.

Today, the last day of Christmas Spirit Week, was class color day, with seniors as red, juniors as green, sophomores as white, and freshmen as green. The freshmen Christmas party was held today too, and was hosted by the Leadership class.

“We worked hard to make sure everything

ran smoothly,” senior Shanti Reddy, an Advanced Leadership student, said. The freshmen had fun with the candy and games provided, a welcome distraction from the stresses of Dead Week.

Many activities were held that allowed for more fun during the week. Along with Christmas Grams, there were also competitions held during lunch, like the gingerbread house building competition on Wednesday. On Friday, there was an ASB planned rally, with a performance from the Vivid Dance Company.

In the midst of the stress brought on by grades closing, many class assignments and upcoming finals, Christmas Spirit Week allowed Valley Christian students to forget all that for just a moment.

As they walked through the halls decorated with red and green decorations, passed the big tree in the quad or enjoyed dressing up in their Christmas apparel, they could reminisce on what makes this time of year so special. After a week of celebrated fun, students can continue to celebrate and remember the true reason for the season.

Junior Andrea Erris and senior Tayler James show their Christmas spirit on Wednesday

4 The Warrior

December 10, 2010

Project Santa Outreach Taylor Tanton

Assistant Features Editor

Christmas decorations are popping up everywhere in San Jose, encouraging excitement from all. Yet, for some Christmas brings sorrow and depression. The thought of Christmas being a time of sadness, instead of a time of cheer is confusing for many. But the fact is, many of the children in the Bay Area face this problem, because their families can barely afford food, let alone presents.

The famous song “Give Love on Christmas Day,” by the Jackson 5, declares, “No greater gift is there than love.” The community outreach class did just what this song suggests, and gave love for Christmas.

Picking five families from the nearby school, G.W. Hellyer Elementary School, the outreach class, led

by Mrs. Cindy Nardi, Mrs. Cindy Nardi

gave Christmas to these disadvantage individuals. In total, the outreach classes ended up giving presents to fifteen children.

Not only did they give toys, but also gave clothes and food. Yet, most importantly they shared love and the Word of God.

As Christians, Jesus is our role model. He showed us by acts of kindness, that Christians can help show people God’s unconditional love. The outreach class at Valley understands the importance of giving love, but they were not alone.

Students from the outreach class put up posters and gave out flyers, asking for donations. The outreach class even put donations boxes in all the Bible teachers’ rooms. Ms. Vivian Pipkin was only one of the many teachers who helped the classes collect money.

Every class period she made sure to remind her classes to donate.

In only two days, with the help of the donation boxes, the Ms. Viv Pipkin

outreach class collected $155.

But the money did not stop coming in; the outreach class decided to hold two bake sales on December 1 and 8. One student, Analisa Miyashiro, made posters for the bake sale. “Any thing counts,” said Miyashiro, “Nickles, dimes, pennies, all make a differences for these families.” Her words were true; after the first bake sale, the outreach class had $58.61 in change, plus $279 in cash. The total came out to $337.61, a record in bake sale history.

The students also made sure to keep connections with the families. Claire Karlsson visited a family’s house in hopes to learn about their needs and help them. “I want these families to be happy and have the best Christmas ever,” Karlsson stated.

Even the leadership class helped out by adopting one of the five families. Valley is a family and when one class has a project other classes join in to help.

Of course these families will need help after the holiday season, so donations will still be accepted. Remember anything counts.

Art Students Travel to de Young Museum Erica Parker

Guest Writer & Photographer

As a chilly breeze and rainy weather engulfed the Bay Area on Tuesday November 23, 2010, it did not stop the students in the VCHS Art Department from gathering their sketch pads and cameras for the field trip of the year! With two buses and four different art classes, the students and teachers headed for the de Young Legion of Honor museum in San Francisco, CA.

After a cold ride up to the City, the students piled out of the bus and huddled together under the bridge of the museum. The day included a wide range of activities, from interactive head phone tours, to an exploration of the artwork.

Connor Ballingal said, “It was definitely a trip worth going on! My favorite part was

taking photos for my concentration.” Not only were the students supposed to gather sketches and photos for their portfolios, but they also had to fill out work sheets that related to the exhibits.

The de Young museum featured a special exhibit on post-modernism and included artist from the post impression era such as, Van Gogh and Cezanne. Before arriving at the museum, many students did not know what postmodernism was or how it came to be. Postmodernism is a tendency in contemporary culture characterized by the rejection of objective truth and global cultural narrative or meta-narrative. It emphasizes the role of language, power relations, and motivations. Many of the postmodern works were actually rebuked back in the time period that they were created because only realism was

considered “true” art. Making an image abstract in any form was considered unnatural.

After the personal tours, the students were free to explore the different levels of the museum, including the famous top level that has a 360 degree panoramic view of San Francisco. Tori Pouleson said, “I never knew artist hid so much meaning within their artwork. It’s almost like a surprise waiting to be found, and the picture comes to life even more!” From this experience, many students learned about post modernism, a style of art that has been popular for centuries and still remains alive and thriving today.

The de Young exhibit showed students that any style of art is a masterpiece, regardless of the day or age.

News

Christmas Chapel Shanti Reddy

Business Manager

Last Wednesday, the high school student body gathered in the gym for the annual Christmas chapel. The dancers, singers, and performers were illustrating the Christmas spirit and getting everyone in the mood for the upcoming holidays. It was a time to forget any upcoming tests and homework and just enjoy themselves with the rest of the student body.

This Chapel was a part of Christmas Spirit week hosted by the Biblical Leadership class. In addition to the Chapel, there was a special “dressup” key note for each day, such as Pajama Day, Winter in Wonderland Day, Favorite Christmas Movie Day, Ugly Sweater Day, and Class Theme Day.

As students walked into the big gym, the man choir and others in Room 107 performed a couple of songs with solos from seniors Seth Gregory, Evan Loo, and Catherine Anderson. The performances also included dances from Mrs. Autumn Mortenson’s dance team, a tap dance, excellent performances by Room 107 and the Women’s Ensemble, and an incredible performance by senior Jonathan Ho. He described his experiences of performing in front of a loud, crazy crowd as, “It was really intimidating, but I gave it my best shot and hoped they liked it.” In addition, to his excellent musical performance with his cello, senior Diane Eykholt performed a dance number with Mrs. Mortenson and the rest of her Tap classes.

The crowd went crazy when the Women’s Ensemble performed three songs, and one of them was in Spanish!

Mr. Dave Hook directed all the singers from all of the classes. Senior Kristi Yoon and the rest of the Ensemble had back to back practices and rehearsals for this performance and other performances they have during the following week.

Overall, Wednesday’s Christmas Chapel was a success, and was enjoyed by not only the students, but the teachers and administration as well.

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6-7

and arts entertainment Warrior.ValleyChristian.net

Emotions Unleashed

Keeping Up with the Conservatory

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See Page 6

Voyage of the Dawn Treader Lianna LaBerg

Tip & Tricks Darelle Jones Graphic Artist

Still having trouble leveling up in Black Ops? Not to worry, the same glitches are used in Treyarch’s Black Ops. But players should hurry before the glitches are patched.

Obviously, just like in Modern Warfare 2, there are hacks to prestige with every weapon unlocked. Although, be aware that once these glitches are used, the accumulation of experience points, achievements, currency and trophies are disabled. Despite having those commodities not able to be used, the enjoyment does not stop when players have a Spaz and an assault rifle as a secondary.

Although the fact of the matter is, that the game looses its competitive edge and some players, as a result of that edge, are apt to complain the entire match. Lastly, be cautious when using these perks or just use then in private matches to keep your reputation from getting skewed.

As new players come and go, the alternate asset of mere competition is forgone in order to compile what the game is known for: a time killer. Players need to focus in on the real point of the game, and that is to have fun and try your best to win.

Staff Writer

The Narnian world is back in the newest installment of C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia movie series. Tonight, take the voyage on a fantastical ship of the Dawn Treader.

Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their bratty cousin Eustace Scrubb are whisked back to Narnia through a painting in Eustace’s home.

The two Pevensies are delighted to return to the place they loved so much, and are greeted by their old friends, King Caspian and the mouse warrior named Reepicheep.

Staff Writer

The first time I heard of Tangled, which was on /co/, the Western comics and cartoons board of 4Chan, I was skeptical.

I had good reason to be. After all, here I was, posting amongst a grouping of some of the most dedicated fans of Disney, and they were decrying the move away from traditional handdrawn animation, the unoriginal plotline, and most especially, the princess herself, who, despite being barefoot for most of the movie, was not deemed attractive or interesting enough. Since that day in October, however, I have come to revere Tangled, placing it next to such vaunted films as Hercules and Beauty and the Beast in the Disney pantheon. It is far better than it has any right

Rated PG, Run Time 112 min.

Release Date December 10, 2010.

Starring Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, Ben Barnes, Will Poulter, Simon Pegg.

The Redeeming Side of “Potter” Hannah Lozinski

Assitant News Editor

On November 19, thousands of fans waited for the release of the first part of the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows movie, many of whom followed the series since its inauguration in 1997. From the beginning however, the “Harry Potter” phenomenon did not only attract attention from fans: many Christian critics were not pleased with what they deemed as the occult in literature geared toward children.

But should the Harry Potter series raise alarm in

Tangled

Nick Usher

Their quest is to save Narnia, which you can imagine is no easy task.

Their journey takes them through strange islands, a golden river, the meeting of frightening creatures of all sorts, and a reunion with Aslan the lion.

Opening night is tonight; don’t miss the magic of Narnia!

Christians? As the series seems to glorify witchcraft, the obvious answer seems to be “yes” to those who have not read or watched any of the installments in the Potter saga. While those in the wizarding world, the backdrop for the Harry Potter series, use magic regularly though, magic is by no means the basis of the books. Harry Potter is first and foremost a story about the struggle between good and evil, the redemptive power of love, and the importance of forgiveness. Magic is used as a plot device, and is not rooted in the true meanings of the books.

The magic in Potter

rarely, if ever, reflects the rituals practiced by those who believe themselves to be witches in real life. “It’s not teaching magic!” Valley Christian teacher Jayme Cronquist exclaimed, “It’s teaching Latin!” Indeed, all of the spells Harry and his friends use have roots in Latin, educating people in the dead (or rather, immortal) language more so than they teach occult practices. There is little that one would consider traditional witchcraft, and if it is used, it is only used to further promote the author’s Christian message, that she has just recently revealed.

Charlie Brown

-REVIEWS-

to be, quite frankly.

The story is one that likely you’ve heard before.

Inspired by the Brothers Grimm’s classic tale, “Rapunzel,” it follows the tale of the eponymous princess on her journey of selfdiscovery. Imprisoned by her step-mother, Gothel, in order to keep herself young, Rapunzel has never seen the outside world, except for what can be seen from her window. Every day on her birthday, Rapunzel’s real parents, the King and Queen of the Kingdom, release thousands of floating lanterns into the sky, trying to make contact with their daughter. However, Gothel, who may or may not care for Rapunzel beyond her magic, youth-restoring hair, forbids her from leaving the tower in which they live. Enter the young and handsome thief, Flynn Rider, fleeing the Kingdom guards. After shaking everyone but a very dogged horse, Maximus, Flynn finds Rapunzel’s tower, but is captured by her. With Gothel away, she forces Flynn to take her to see the floating lights. Off they go, Flynn, Rapunzel, and a chameleon named

Pascal, on a journey to the Kingdom, pursued by a decrepit, rapidly-aging Gothel and Flynn’s old partners, the Stabbington Brothers.

This movie is a tourde-force for Disney’s landmark fiftieth film. The animation choice, though unorthodox, lends itself well to Rapunzel’s hair, and it’s always nice to see Disney remember that they first made their fortune off of original songs and scores. The so-called “DreamWorks Face” even makes a triumphant return. The humorous parts are easily as entertaining as any of Robin Williams’ epic ad-lib rants from Aladdin, and it even has Ron Pearlman voicing the menacing twin thugs, the Stabbingtons. This is the movie that should never have worked: an almost-unadapted story, computer-generated animation, out-of-practice song writers.

However, it all comes together for one brilliant film. Toy Story 3 set the bar for animated movies of the last decade. Now, I think, we may have the first shot of this new decade’s animation war.

Rated PG, runtime 100 minutes.

Starring Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy, Brad Garrett, Ron Pearlman.

These redeeming values, mostly hidden for the first six books, come into light in J.K Rowling’s final installment, thus ending the Harry Potter movie saga that we have all come to love and enjoy dearly. While no spoilers will be revealed here, Deathly Hallows is primarily about death, faith, and the importance of sacrificing for what you love. Rowling managed to masterfully tie Christian values together to make it accessible to people of all faiths in one story of trial and tribulation, creating the epic that we know and love as Harry Potter.

Dillon Mena

Staff Writer

In the time of the holidays of Christmas, Hanukah, and Festivus, the holiday of Christmas stands tall. While the overly-materialistic world of today is worrying about sales on the latest Christmas “must haves,” there still is a large amount of Christmas spirit in the world of today. Christmas music still stands tall among the most loved elements of Christmas spirit.

Christmas music has

ranged from the classic Christmas compositions of the classical and romantic composers of the past, to the jazzy creations of artists such as Louis Armstrong, to even the hard rock twist by bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Christmas music also comes hand in hand with classic television Christmas specials of the past century. The special that has risen above all is the Charlie Brown Christmas Special, and with it came a fine Christmas music album.

6

The Warrior

Tarah Duarte

December 10, 2010

Emotions: Unleashed

Features Editor

The lights begin to dim and the crowd goes from a small roar to a dead silence waiting in anticipation for the show to begin. The room, once pitch black lights up as the eighteen choreographers begin to dance to the James Bond theme song. Spread throughout the audience, the choreographers dance their way to the stage and give a thrilling opening performance that sets the tone for an inspirational show filled to the brim with successful student talent.

Seniors Taneisha Woodard and Rachel Ellam portrayed their dancing abilities as they moved to the songs Jar of Hearts

by Christina Perri and Best for Last by Adele, respectively. Woodard came out and danced to a piece titled, Unforgettable.

Through her undeniable talent, the theme of being “willing to deny yourself for a greater purpose than you yourself could ever fulfill alone” became clear. Ellam’s natural talent shone forth as she danced;

her body movements gave striking feeling and fluid motion. She wrote that her dance represented the importance of unleashing ‘all of your feelings once in while’ and that experience and “process can be freeing.”

Junior Janae Stewart and senior Amy Flohr choreographed a dance called “Unmasked,” focusing on the idea of being able to remove the masks society places on us in order to fully be the person God made you to be. The seven dancers used the genre of tap to teach the theme of being able to remove your fake identity and allowing your heart to shine forth.

Sisters Lindsey Sexton and Loren Sexton performed the dance “The Greatest Fan of Your Life” to the song I’ll Be by Edwin McCain. The idea behind the dance was to show to relationship between two sisters. Lindsey Sexton, the choreographer of the moving dance, wanted her piece to illustrate the fact that despite struggles, sisters will always be there for each other to pick each other up when they fall. No

matter how many times they move apart, in the end they will move together because of the love that only two sisters can share.

For the first time ever, Emotions featured an all-guys dance. Choreographed by sophomore Lauren Sanchez and senior Caitlin McNally, seven talented guys took the stage and performed to the song Work by Sho Baraka. The choreographers and dancers alike desired for the dance “to promote the power and strength” of men when they dance.

McNally also choreographed the dance “Stone.” Moving along to the lyrics of Turn to Stone

by Ingrid Michaelson, the four dancers showed the value of true friends who are precious and rare and that they should be treasured every moment even through trials and

hard times.

The student choreographed dance concert “Emotions: Unleashed” once again showed the brilliance of Valley Christian’s talented student body. The show’s message of the freedom being unleashed from sin was evident throughout each exceptional piece.

Keeping Up with the Conservatory Friday, Dec. 10 – JH Dance – to perform at Christmas in the Park, 6 pm Friday, Dec. 10 at 8 pm – JH Quest Band, HS Women’s Ensemble & Choral Groups, Room 107, Strings, Jazz Ensemble & Conservatory Winds Friday, Dec. 10 – Vivid Dance Team – to perform at Christmas in the Park, 7 pm

the Theatre at lunch, 12:30pm Tues. Jan. 11 - ALL Conservatory Students lunch meeting (all music, theatre, dance & art Conservatory honor students) during lunch in the theatre. Bring a brown bag lunch and be on time. Roll will be taken. Email Mrs. Wagner in advance if you have a conflict.

Saturday, Dec. 11- HS Dance Classes Christmas in the Park, 12 pm

Tuesday, Jan. 11 – Vivid Dance Team – to perform at Kids Club, Parkview Elementary School, 1 pm

Sunday, Dec. 12 – Vivid Dance Team – to perform at Sunday Worship Service

Jan. 14, 15, 16 – Vivid Dance Team – to Pulse Dance Convention (optional event)

Friday, Dec. 17 – SF Ballet Nutcracker Trip, 3 pm

World Famous Jazz Harpist, Greg Buchanan in Concert at Valley Christian! Workshop for Harpists and/or Private Instruction from Greg is also available January 15, 2011 - Purchase your tickets on-line now! www.valleychristianconservatory.org .

Friday, Dec. 17 – HS Jazz Ensemble – to perform at National Semiconductor Luncheon, 11 am Friday, Dec. 17 – San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker Field Trip & Backstage Tour – available to all Conservatory students.

Limited seats available. Bring check for $40 to Mrs. Wagner ASAP if you intend to go. A bus will leave Skyway campus at 3:00 pm after school.

Saturday, Dec. 18 – Rockettes Trip, Compaq Center, 2:30 pm Thursday, Jan. 6 – University of the Pacific Conservatory Winds – perform in

Tues. Jan. 18 – Theatre & Dance Conservatory students only during lunch in the theatre. Bring a brown bag lunch and be on time. Roll will be taken. Email Mrs. Wagner if you have a conflict.

Saturday, Jan. 29 – Vivid Dance Team -- to Homestead Dance Competition, 8 am Saturday, Jan. 29 – Folsom Jazz Festival (Jazz Instrumental groups & Room 107 Vocal Ensemble)

A&E

Features Warrior.ValleyChristian.net

Is Christmas too Commercialized?

Matthew Faircloth Staff Writer

We all love the stereotypical Western incarnation of Christmas. Beautiful highly-decorated trees, houses strung with more lights than Times Square, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, and Luther Vandros’ famous and loved Christmas songs, and the part we all love the mostgifts. Who didn’t love running into the room with the Christmas tree early in the morning looking to see what ‘Santa Claus’ had brought them when they were in early adolescence, and who still doesn’t? But, does all this come with a fault?

Billions of dollars are spent each year on holiday shopping, with large corporations and big box stores making large profits. A 2004 study showed that profits in department stores nationwide increased from $20.8 Billion in November to $31.9 Billion in December, an increase of 54%. Could this money be better spent? What if we took all the money spent on Christmas, and used it for a charitable cause. What if we used it to bring food to Africa, or help the plight of refugees in Sudan? How much could we do? Also, some say that Western Christmas celebrations distract from the true message of Christmas, the birth of Jesus. Some fundamentalist circles forbid the celebration of Christmas.

But, in the end, most people view Christmas as a time of good, a time for family, and a time for giving. Commercialism may have a dampening effect on this, but the good of Christmas will continue for years to come.

Can Reindeer Really Fly? Lianna LaBerge

Staff Writer

The lifelong question has finally been investigated… can reindeer actually fly? Mrs. Dawn Spencer, high school biology teacher at Valley, stands firm in her belief.

“Reindeer can definitely fly, and there is absolutely a scientific explanation to it,” said Spencer. “There happens to be an extremely rare kind of deer which only lives in the North Pole and the surrounding area. These few special deer contain an allele in their DNA which gives them the ability to fly.”

She goes on to explain that the gene that each of these deer carry is very recessive.

It is exceedingly rare, which is why there are so few with this unusual trait. The lucky few are commonly known as Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph. Spencer says she has never actually seen a reindeer fly firsthand, but claims to, in past Christmases, have heard them on the roof.

“These reindeer are so unique, and unlike any other animal on the planet,” Spencer continued.

Reindeer always seem to provide some magic for us all during the Christmas season.

From their huge antlers to their clickety hooves, these critters are the talk of each Christmas season! So now that you know all about them, make sure to look out for these super-deer when Santa comes down the chimney on Christmas Eve!

Ring in the Christmas Season!

See Page 8&9

A French Christmas See Page 10

Before He Came Down the Chimney Taylor Tanton

Assistant Features Editor

Christmas. Snow. Cookies. Santa Claus. How did the man in the red suit become the center of so many Christmas songs today? In the mall, in the street, with Christmas coming Santa is everywhere. Before children even learn how to talk their parents tell them the tales of Santa and his reindeer. But Santa did not fall down peoples’ chimneys overnight; his legend has taken years to become what it is today.

The American version of Santa Claus came from the Dutch legend of Sinterklaas. The term Sinterklaas means the Good Saint. Sinterklaas is connected with many legends including the god Odin as well as helping orphan children.

As early as 1773, Santa appeared in the American press as St. A Claus. But it was the popular author, Washington Irving who gave Americans their first detailed version of Jolly Old Saint Nick. Irving described the arrival of Santa on horseback, not reindeer.

When the poem, written by Clement Clarke Moore, “A Visit From Saint Nicholas,” more commonly known as “The Night before Christmas,” came out, the “true” Santa finally came to be.

Moore included such details as the names of the reindeer; Santa Claus’s laughs, winks, and nods; and the method by

which Saint Nicholas, referred to as an elf, returns up the chimney.

The American image of Santa Claus was further elaborated by illustrator Thomas Nast, who depicted a rotund Santa for Christmas issues of Harper’s magazine from the 1860s to the 1880s.

Nast added such details as Santa’s workshop at the North Pole and Santa’s list of the good and bad children of the world.

A human-sized version of Santa Claus, rather than the elf of Moore’s poem, was depicted in a series of illustrations for Coca-Cola advertisements introduced in 1931 that introduced and made the red Santa Suits an icon. In modern versions of the Santa Claus legend, only his toy-shop workers are elves. Rudolph, the ninth reindeer, with a red and shiny

nose, was invented in 1939 by an advertising writer for the Montgomery Ward Company.

In looking for the historical roots of Santa Claus, one must go very deep in the past. One discovers that Santa Claus as we know him is a combination of many different legends and mythical creatures.

The Spirit of Santa

Joanna Nam

Staff Writer

Do you believe in Santa Claus? If you’ve attended grade school, it’s almost inevitable that someone would ask you this. Of course, the existence of this jolly, potbellied, red-and-white robed figure is disputed even now, and the majority of high school students believe that there isn’t a man coming down their chimneys who bombards the Christmas tree with presents. But what about the time they still believed in him? How was Christmas when the spirit of Santa was still alive?

Parents often pose as the

mysterious bearded man and put the presents under the Christmas tree for their children. When the children wake up at Christmas morning they open the presents from their dearly beloved Santa. It’s quite the cherished childhood memory for people and the exchange of cookies and milk for presents is still a tradition.

However, there’s also a large population of people who celebrated Christmas casually. They meet their family members, feasted, played, and putting up a Christmas tree was optional, and the presents were almost never from Santa, if there were any presents. Mr. Nate Marshall, VC film teacher, has said that Santa was never an integral part of his Christmas, especially as

he figured out himself that Santa did not exist!

One tradition that stands out in particular is the division of naughty and nice. The nice are given gifts from Santa, while the naughty receive coal. As all parents think of their children as “nice,” naturally they receive gifts even if they were naughty, or they give them gifts simply because it’s the Christmas season. So would children be affected if they get coal?

Some students actually wanted to get coal, just to see how it would be like. “I never did get coal,” said freshman Lianna LaBerge, “Though I still want to get some, even today.” As you grow older, the spirit of Santa seems to diminish!

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York’s Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history’s most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

“DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old.

“Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.

“Papa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN it’s so.’

“Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

“VIRGINIA O’HANLON. “115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET.”

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong.

They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus.

He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus.

It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the

See Virginia on page 10

8

The Warrior

December 10, 2010

Features

Tis the Page Layout and Design by

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11

From the North Poll

Cookies4Santa

Q: What’s the most popular Christmas song?

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer Jingle Bells

40%

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

10%

1

1/3 1/4 1/4 50% 1 1 3/4

1/4

Q: What is on your wishlist this Christmas season?

Apple iPad

30% 50%

Amazon Kindle 20%

Applie iPhone 4

Q: What’s the best thing about Christmas break?

No School!

The Food Presents

Red Velvet Cookies

pouch of Betty Crocker® sugar cookie mix cup unsweetened cocoa cup butter or margarine, softened cup sour cream tablespoon red food color egg to 1 cup Betty Crocker® Rich & Creamy cream cheese frosting cup chopped nuts

Prize-Winning Recipe 2010! Create rich and dreamy cookies reminiscent of the classic red velvet cake.

1. Heat oven to 375°F. In large bowl, stir cookie mix, cocoa, butter, sour cream, food color and egg until soft dough forms.

2. Roll dough into 1-inch balls; place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.

3. Bake 8 to 9 minutes or until set. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. 4.Cool completely, about 15 minutes.

5. Frost cooled cookies with frosting. Sprinkle with nuts. Store tightly covered at room temperature.

Celebrat ing Ch ristmas in t he Bay A r ea Shanti Reddy

Buisness Manager

60% 20% 20%

FavoriteMovies:

“I love getting and giving presents!”

-Ronnie Stone ‘11

Christmas is just around the corner, and all the students at Valley Christian High School are eagerly waiting for the arrival of Christmas vacation. The practice of putting up special decorations at Christmas has a long history, and it is still continued today in many places. There are many events in the Bay Area which feature Christmas spirit from morning to evening! These gorgeous lights can be seen on Chavez Street and near the HP Pavilion in downtown San Jose. One way to get into season is The Lights of the Valley, which displays lights throughout California. Its gorgeous decorations and holiday spirit can be seen through the various houses on display.

Also another tree display can be seen in downtown San Jose at Santana Row’s very own Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! The event coordinator of Santana Row Lights said, “ Santana Row shopping complex welcomes the holidays with a tree lighting ceremony as the dazzling lights, sounds of music and special entertainment fill the cool San Jose evenings with song, celebration and wonder.” This special display can be seen throughout the twelve days of Christmas! Also, Santana Row’s band is another reason to attend for its holiday and wide appeal music, which is, featured right after the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Colette Lee said, “I love going to Santana Row, and doing Christmas shopping, and at the same time, looking at how beautiful the presentation is with all the Christmas decorations and lights!”

The San Jose Christmas in the Park be featured in Downtown San Jose from now until January 1.

People of all ages are welcome, and there are many things you can do. There will be a special Toys for Tots Drive, which gives toys to underprivileged children in the Bay Area. Also, the Raffle Drawing will be especially fun this year, as many kids will be participating. The Valley Christian’s Dance Department will be featured there; from Hip Hop to Jazz to Tap to Ballet! Valley Christian High School students are really excited to spend their Christmas holidays with their family and friends, with song, worship, and happiness.

Home Alone

White Christmas

It’s A Wonderful Life

Elf

Features

The Warrior

December 10, 2010

9

e Season Tarah Duarte and Taylor Tanton

May peace be your gift at Christmas, and your blessing all year round.

-Uknown-

Christmas Events This

What to Do Over Christmas Break

DOWNTOWN ICE event brings Christmas and paradise together. With people skating in a ring of palmtrees, it is a guarantee for nonstop fun!

The Fantasy of Lights comprises a one and a half-mile drive through Vasona Park, which has been dressed up with thousands of colorful light and light themes on its trees and bushes and in free-standing displays.

The outstanding VASONA PARK’S FANTASY OF LIGHTS improvements over last year’s event include more lighted vegetation, more animated displays, an in-park music simulcast and concession areas.”

Considered the Bay Area’s number one ballet performance, the SAN JOSE BALLET/ NUTCRACKER has become a yearly festive tradition. This treasured holiday classic returns for an extended run with full orchestra, stunning lobby decorations, and carolers and characters from the show meeting and greeting guests before every performance.

The Reason for the S eason

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As the Christmas season rolls around, chaos erupts; shopping, baking, planning and many more activities. Unfortunately, sometimes people overlook the meaning of the season. Gift wrap, ribbons and tissue paper blind eyes to the true significance of the season - the birth of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without the coming of Jesus Christ there would be no Christmas, no heaven, and no eternal life.

God sent His one and only Son to be born of the virgin Mary to deliver His people.

Mary and Joseph traveled far and wide and were denied entrance into every inn as they were all full. All that was left for them was a small manger. On a crisp night, Jesus humbly came into the world among animals and hay. The little Savior was welcomed by neighboring shepherds and wise men who were guided by a magnificent star. This is the nativity story, about the most important birth of all time.

1. Finish your shopping 2. Go to Christmas in the Park 3. Wrap your presents 4. Forget all about this semester 5. Read the Christmas story in Luke 6. Sing dorky Christmas Carols 7. Watch a Christmas movie 8. Make hot chocolate 9. Sleep all day 10. Make cookies for Santa

Top 5 Wishlist Items 1. Apple iPad 2. Apple iPhone 4

3. Apple iPod Touch 4. Play Station 3

5. Flip Vid eo Camera

..................................................

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Miracle On 34th Stree t

A Charlie Brown Christmas

The Santa Clause

Top 10 Christmas Jingles:

Top 10 Jingles 1Jingle Bells 2 Silent Night 3 Deck the Halls 4 This Christmas 5 Run Run Rudolph 6 Oh, Christmas Tree 7 O Come All Ye Faithful 8 All I Want for Christmas 9 Dashing Through the Snow 10 Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree

10

The Warrior

A French Christmas Jamie Keener Staff Writer Christmas. Here in California, people are busily hanging lights, setting up Christmas trees, and beginning their Christmas shopping. Across the Atlantic, according to junior Haizea Alemany, the French are doing much the same. By the end of November, the streets are decorated with bright lights and Christmas wreaths, although, due to the fact that many people live in apartments, fewer houses are ornamented with the colorful decorations people here are familiar with. “People put lights up around their apartment for decoration,” said Alemany. “Its really nice to see all the lights up around the city.”

Closely tied into the concept of Christmas are the stories of the Nativity and of Santa Claus, who is called Papa Noel in French. Traditionally, Papa Noel came down the chimney to hide presents and treats in children’s shoes instead of their stockings. However, because people live in apartments, now Papa Noel enters a house through the front door. “When I was little, I liked the fact that someone would give me gifts,” Alemany remembered. “It’s always fun to open gifts, even though I don’t believe in him anymore.

Other than Papa Noel and receiving presents, Christmas dinner is the most prominent part of the day. It is a sort of lunch and dinner combined that begins at four and lasts through the rest of the day, complete with pastries and a special logshaped, chocolaty cake called Bouche de Noel. “The Christmas feast is really good; it’s like the American holiday, Thanksgiving.

My grandma and mom prepare the meal and we all sit down as a family,” Alemany explained.

Although there are many similarities between the way people here and people in France celebrate Christmas, the French culture is evident in the way they enjoy the holidays. From Papa Noel to Bouche de Noel, Christmas in France retains its unique qualities.

Virginia

(cont. pg 7)

childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real?

Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

December 10, 2010

Features

Clean Slate: Chapter THree An original short story by

Angel Hollstorm and Taylor Tanton

Staff Writer and Assistant Features Editor and if he died, she would die. What was

Road trips were always boring car when her whole world disappeared. there to live for anyway? without music, thought Sierra. She had “I’m hungry,” Sierra moaned,

She bravely stepped out of car; it tried to hum to lighten the mood, but Scott though she really wasn’t hungry, she just was bitterly cold, even though she could hushed her instantly. More than anything, wanted to break the silence. see the red sun.

Weren’t they in Arizona Sierra missed music. When the world Scott instantly slammed on the by now?

She had read it was always warm went, so did all the radios, and CDs, no breaks, “Me too.” He gave Sierra his makethere, only to find a cold bitter place. She more music. She had only once pondered shift map and opened the car door. Sierra found Scott on the top of a small hill, surthe idea of creating her own music; after sighed, it was taking much longer to get to rounded by nothing deadly or threatening, all she was in the school choir. But sing- Texas than they had imagined. though at the end of his dagger she saw a ing, by herself, seemed so bizarre to her.

Scott lifted open the trunk, and large mouse.

Spiders, rats, and squirrels, If she was to sing, no matter how bad she began rummaging through their supplies, all seemed to be growing at usual speeds. sounded, that would mean she would be “We are running low on food,” he mut “Sierra,” Scott’s voice was nearly the only pop star alive. Yet maybe she tered, even though Sierra already knew. a whisper, “come here.” would meet another singer in this “colony” Since the war, rainwater was the

Lazily Sierra obeyed, hoping that they were headed too. only safe water. Even though there had whatever he wanted had nothing to do

She still doubted its existence. been about three rainstorms in the last with the large mouse he had caught.

No one had lived, only her and her brother. week, water was a luxury. At their old

When she reached him, she folShe had never met, nor seen another hu- shelter they had created a pond, which kept lowed his eyes and finger to a patch of man creature since the explosion. So why their water drinkable and secure, but now green.

Green!

Was that even still a color? now? Why was she suddenly hearing from they had no such thing.

Then her eyes hit another patch of green, other survivors? Scott was not being real- “I’m going to go hunt,” Scott said and another, and finally a glorious lake, istic, he was delusional. Every mile they closing the truck. That meant rats and large surrounded by small trees. got father away from their old shelter, Si- rodents for dinner. Sierra grumbled bitterly

Sierra screamed in response, erra would huff “I should have stayed’”or under her breath as she watched him grab a nearly fainting into Scott arms.

“I’m getting out of the car and heading small dagger. The dagger was Scott’s best

“The world is healing,” Scott bac.” But her threats did not faze Scott. friend ever since he had found it, but Sierra mumbled.

Plus she couldn’t leave, Scott was family hated it because with the dagger, he would

He was correct, thought Sierra. and company. Even sometimes with Scott bring home small dirty animals for them to Flowers, grass and trees for the longest she would still become lonely, so without feed on. time there had only been dirt, but now the him she would surely die.

Scott had only been gone awhile world was returning.

Sierra watched the world wiz when she heard his calls. They sounded

Sierra skipped to the water, by; it reminded her of the day of the ac- desperate and helpless. Her hand reached laughing, and singing. cident. So much had changed…where she the car door, but then she paused, and ques “Where are you going?” Scott would have seen buildings; she now saw tioned herself. Should she really go? Whatyelped, chasing her. dirt and debris. She had also once upon a ever was out there could kill them both, so

“For a swim,” she replied before time yearned for her license, now she was wouldn’t it be better if she stayed in the car finally diving into the blue. deathly afraid of cars, since she was in a and survived. No. The explosion had made her hard and cold. Scott was her brother

Walking Down a Winter Runway Parul Jandir & Erica Parker

Senior Buisness Manager & Guest Writer Just as Fall is falling away, the winter wonderland begins to snow in.

Students at Valley Christian High bundle up and wrap themselves in the latest winter fashions. Knitted head scarves and winter faux fur hats have been covering the heads of students in hall ways and boots from brands such as UGG Australia and EMU are walking the campus. The North Face ski jackets and Juicy Couture track suits have also been trendy sellers for the season.

A new trend that has been sweeping the Valley campus have been the VC “Oh Yeah” shirts and knitted scarves. Students have been rocking velvet fabrics, textured wool, and luxurious knits from different brands. In addition to the various fabrics and textured materials, the accessories of winter have been seen around campus.

These accessories include a variety of open totes, stockings, big necklaces, and stud earrings.

This year embellished handbags are classified as the hottest accessory of this year. They are handbags that include rhinestones, metal studs, or any kind of bedazzled embroidery. Embellished tote handbags create an edgy fashion statement that compliment the winter coat and previously stated accessories.

Stores such as the Burlington Coat Factory, Nordstroms Valley Fair, and Target supply coats that are in season and on sale. In terms of colors; black, brown and grey are the traditional hues for winter coats, while pink, grey, and black are the fashion colors for the season.

In addition to the notorious brand UGG Australia and EMU boots, high-kneed suede is also one of the more popular brands for the winter.

Stores such as DSW Shoes and Macy’s carry these boots.

As the leaves of Fall wither away, so do the fashion trends of the previous season. Valley transitions into a winter wonderland of glamour as students encompass the latest styles of the year.

Enjoy the holiday season and remember to Deck the Halls with fashion trends of 2011

The latest fashion trends of this Holiday season.

Embarrassing Christmas Stories

Brenda Muldoon

Staff Writer From mixing up words, awkward re-gifts, and those lovely Christmas sweaters, we have all had those embarrassing moments where you just do not know what to say.

Many students all over the Valley Christian campus have had these embarrassing but yet memorable experiences one of these is sophomore, Lianna LaBerge who had a confusing gift exchange within her family. Her aunt Mary had given her grandpa a gift with a tag on it that said from Mary. The next year the grandfather decided

to use the same bag to put his wife’s gift in, with the tag still there. A few years later Lianna’s grandmother decided to give her friend a gift named Mary, in the same bag with the tag still intact. Next Christmas, grandma’s friend Mary gave a gift to the grandfather in the same bag with the tag still there. A few years later, grandpa gave a gift to the aunt Mary in the same bag, with the “from Mary” tag still there. After almost five years of gift exchanges, the gift bag came back around to the original aunt who gave it!

Freshman Abigal Parsons, got

her first flocked Christmas tree when she was eight years old. She always wanted to eat snow off a Christmas tree like you see in the movies and decided to give it a try. She had a small sample of the white flocked part of her tree and received an embarrassing case of food poisoning in return. Soon her extended family would be visiting and she would have to share a room with her aunt. But because of her of her reaction to the “snow,” Abigal was forced to sleep in the front room of her house, alone, in a Teletubbies sleeping bag.

Sports

Girls Soccer Ready for Success See Page 12

JV Boys Basketball Kick Starts Season See Page 15

Warrior.ValleyChristian.net

Inside the

Spotlighted for Fall Successes Jon Lampkin

Editor-in-Chief After each sporting season, the Mercury News spotlights various athletes as first team, second team, and honorable mention. This year, the Warriors had 5 different athletes recognized for their achievements during the fall season. The awards for football have not yet been dulled out.

Valley Christian Atheletes Recieving Mercury News Awards:

Darelle Jones Graphic Designer

Following a solid 2010 league campaign, the Lady Warriors seek to run the table again this year by winning CCS. Last year, the Warriors came out on top of the CCS championship game finishing the season with a record of 21-6. A new year calls for new goals and those specific goals are not out of reach especially with the help of returning captain and University of Washington-bound, Jazmine Davis, who led the warriors to the state playoffs with alumnus Ajhanai Newton. That year, Newton was named All-State Division III player of the year.

The season has started off well for the Warriors coming off of a convincing 72-42 win over Monta Vista High School in tournament play. Their only loss this season came at the hands of Soquel High School in a 61-65 shootout. Despite that solitary loss, the warriors are still looking to have a strong season. Another senior, Brianna Cotton, will see her fair share of playing time as an integral asset in the Warriors offensive and defensive game plan. Yet, as the season ensues, several

Photo by Drew Osumi

Lines VC Athletes

Girls Basketball Prepares for League Play

University of Washington-bound senior Jazmine Davis flys down the court running a swift transition offense.

Davis looks to put up large numbers during the season this year.

juniors will have had to step in and grow in order to claim the title as one of the leaders of the team.

Being one of the top teams in the WCAL as well as in the CCS, a large target will be on the backs of the Lady Warriors as one of the teams to beat this season for

any school.

By beating the Warriors, just about any team they play could potentially make their season notable. But, be that as it may, the Lady Warriors will rise to any challenge as demonstrated by past performances, especially in playoff games.

Hockey Team Kicks Off Season; Ready for Bellarmine Morgan Lira Junior, Cross Country

Emily Blaha Senior, Cross Country

Dante Cavazos Senior, Water Polo

Shanti Reddi, Parul Jandir

Business Managers Valley Christian’s Ice Hockey team is excited to start their season this year. Senior Captain Tommy Nori and Senior Alternate Captain John Roth explained how the team works. Valley’s team is not part of the school’s Athletic department, but is handled separately.

There are enough players to field a junior varsity and varsity team, but most of the players participate in games wherever they might be needed.

The team’s goals are always to defeat the Bellermine Bells and the Junipero Serra Padres each season.

However, they were unable to defeat these teams in the recent Logitech High School Championship. The captains stated that the only drawback to playing and practicing at Logitech Ice is they do not get sufficient “ice time.” They receive one day of practice time at Logitech per week, which ,compared with other teams, is not enough time.

The hockey team is one of the newer ventures of the Valley Christian athletic program. Although one of the smaller programs in the department, parents, fans, and players are very involved

in the sport. Each year, more and more students attend the hockey games, and follow the season. But without a doubt, the biggest games of they year are against Bellarmine and Serra. The rivalries are fierce, and always induce a bit of gamesmanship and interesting cheers from the student section.

Although the rivalry between the Bellarmine Bells and Serra’s Padres is strong, senior alternate captain Manny Ahuja said, “We have never had team issues with either the Bells or the Padres.”

Ahuja continued, “Throughout the past four years, the team has become my family.

We have always had each other’s back!”

Over the past four years on the Varsity team, Ahuja has had one goal and three assists. Senior alternate captain Nick

Rogers described his experience on the team as, “Fun, physical, tough at times, but when you have a solid team it’s a fantastic feeling.” Rogers hopes to step up and be a key component on the team this year, and help lead the program with Ahuja.

Ahuja helps to take his team to wins over other teams in the league, especially Bellarmine.

The team poses together after a key win at the back end of their season.

Team Captain Manny Ahuja drifts down the ice during a close game.

Boys Basketball Prepares for League Play

Danny Buzzetta Junior, Water Polo

Casey Flemming Senior, Water Polo

Jon Lampkin

Editor-in-Chief

After facing a year of progress in the previous season, the Warriors are attempting to get right back up on the horse in the vicious WCAL.

For the team to be ready to bounce back on the court, they need an excellent coaching staff. The right man is obviously at the helm with a young, inspired, first year head coach, Marcus Martinez.

Martinez attended Valley Christian High School, and played basketball under Coach Steve Cotton. After playing basketball

in college, Martinez has returned to help return the Warriors to glory. After a season as an assistant coach, the young alumni is ready to take the reigns. Martinez pushes his players to their maximum potential, and stresses that hard work pays off.

The team opened the season with wins over Monta Vista and Evergreen, and losses to McClymonds and Willow Glen. The Warriors have a few more nonleague games, before opening against the Bellarmine Bells at home, on January 4.

Right: Senior Guard Zayn Kirkendoll brings the ball up the court. Kirkendoll currently leads the team in PPG

December 10, 2010 Sports 12 The Warrior Lady Warriors Dominate Girls Basketball Focuses on the Coming Season Sports Editor

Photo By Lauren Speers

Kicking off new season, the girls soccer program is excelling at a rapid pace.

It has been a turbulent few weeks, as the ladies begin forming as a team, and better yet, as a family. Coaches Jolene Fugate, Bill Stryker, and Troy Carson are eager to start the season, with a few victories under their belts.

Tryouts started on Monday, November 1, from 3 to 5 everyday after school. Looking for a fit and skillful team, Coach Fugate allotted one hour for hardcore conditioning and one hour to ball play during tryouts. With many new freshmen coming out for the team, the competition was strong. As senior Mariah Gutierrez put it, “It was really fun playing with so many new girls during tryouts.” In addition to the 5 freshmen, 3 sophomores, 3 juniors, and 11 seniors showed up for tryouts.

After making the final adjustments, the varsity roster was set with 12 returning players and 9 additions to the team. Senior captain Taryn Ng commented that, “Every player brings something different to the team, which is why I am confident that we will be leading the league this year.” Anticipating the first game of the season, practices began focusing on the new 3-4-3 formation Coach Fugate hopes will dominate this year. In addition to regular playing time, practices were also spent further conditioning the girls so that this formation can be used to its utmost potential. The Lady Warriors capped their practice sessions by running an additional 2000 yards after every day. As rigorous as

this may seem, the team has put in the work in hopes of a successful league campaign.

All of their pre-season effort was put to the test in their first game against Scotts Valley High School on November 30. Starting off the game, the Lady Warriors took an early lead when freshman Sara Van Wagoner volleyed the ball in the back of the net after a cross from senior Raylina Rodriguez. Seizing the momentum, the Warriors scored another goal late in the first half. The game ended in a 2-0 victory and great way to start the season. Two days later, the muchanticipated Monta Vista versus VC game took place on Valley’s home field. Always a thrilling game, both teams started the half with fire and aggression, which led to a Monta Vista. However, the Warriors scored the equalizer in the second half as junior Noelle Linamen’s shot found the back of the net. The game continued in a heated battle between both teams throughout the second half. Finally, it was freshmen Kendra Stewart who sank a tight angled shot past the goalie into the side of the net during the last few minutes of the game, ending the game in a 2-1 victory for the Warriors. On December 7, Sacred Heart Prep’s Gators traveled to Valley for another hotly-contested preseason game. It was a dominant first half for the Warriors, carrying the ball up the field for a number of scoring opportunities. However, due to a few mental mistakes by the Warriors, SHP put 3 in the net in the early minutes of the second half, eventually defeating the Warriors 3-0.

Make sure to check out their next game on Saturday, December 11 at Valley!

Freshman Sara Van Wagoner makes the first goal of the season against Scotts Valley.

Their first preseason game occurred on December 1 at Notre Dame Staff Writer High School. This game was the epitome

The freshmen and JV girls of teamwork as the Lady Warriors totally basketball program is stepping up their dominated Notre Dame. The game ended game this year, enhancing their offense and 63-21, with the Warriors taking their first defense for success. It has been a rigorous victory. This game is just a glimpse of the first few weeks of the girls basketball season to come, where these ladies will season, but all in good hopes, looking focus all their efforts on more wins like forward to an exciting and victorious this. season.

The JV program is gearing up for

Freshmen coach, Danielle Cotton, league with a series of preseason games. In works hard with the players to develop their preseason they hope to perfect their offense basic fundamental skills such as dribbling, and defense to the best of their abilities. passing, and shooting. The strength of her Head coach, Dennis Brown, challenges team revolves around their height with the team to remain focused in practice girls averaging over 5’5”. The post players and to continue to learn new plays. Brown look to be a dominant source for scoring continues to refine the defense to make points this season. All the players are it the most effective component for his working intensely to improve their skills as team. The players focus on fundamental guards spending extra time on lay up drills. skills to prepare for the season. Sophomore

The girls focus on achieving guard Mary Bradley said, “I’m excited personal and collective goals. Coach for the upcoming season to go out there Cotton said, “We’re looking good and and see what our team can accomplish.”

I’m excited for the prospects in the On December 1, Bradley got his wish. season.” They work on unity as a team and Traveling to Notre Dame High School, family, which has definitely shown during the Lady Warriors battled through four practices and games as well as on the social quarters of intense play and came out on scene. Freshman guard Megan Villarreal top, ending the game with a 40-34 victory! said, “My goal for this year is to have The JV girls program will friendship with my teammates not only on open league play on January 5 against the basketball court, but outside the gym Presentation High school. Looking and for our team to play to the best of our forward to such a tough season, the girls abilities to glorify God.” These student- are focused improving and developing as athletes are bonding together and forming a team. They are competing in the WCAL, lasting friendships through their diligence which many think to be one of the toughest in basketball. leagues in California.

Sarah Koenig

Photo by Ian Stephenson

Arazue M. Zadeh

Both the freshmen and the JV girls basketball teams focus on skills such as ball handling and turnover prevention. But most of all, the teams try their best to have learn to be better players, while having fun out on the court.

Sports

The Warrior

December 10, 2010

13

Boys Varsity Soccer Kicks Off Arazue M. Zadeh

Sports Editor

The seasons are changing, and so are the dynamics of the boys soccer program. With a completely new coaching staff, the Warriors are transforming rapidly into a powerhouse, tackling their first few opponents of the season.

On November 1, students from Valley Christian High School began the rigorous and testing tryouts for the boys soccer team. New head coach Erik Gaspar was looking with an objective eye for talented players who displayed their passion for soccer on the field. As difficult as these tryouts were, Gaspar ended the week with twenty-three players with high

soccer skills and athletic fitness. With eight seniors, eleven juniors, three sophomores, and one freshman. The varsity team began practices with even more intensity and competition to prepare for the upcoming season. After practice on November 30, senior captain Justin Berding commented, “We’re sure to pull some victories this year.

I can’t wait for the start of the season!”

The following day, on December 1, the Warriors took on the Leland Chargers on Valley’s home turf. By half time, it was evident that the Warriors were dominating the game. Using this opportunity to practice working through set plays and other technicalities, the boys walked back onto the field focusing less on a shutout

victory, and more on developing team dynamic. Although the game ended in a 2-1 loss, every spectator would agree that the Warriors clearly dominated throughout the game and could have clinched the victory had they wanted. As the week continued, the varsity boys battled against Santa Teresa High School on Friday, December 3. Santa Teresa proved to be a much more difficult team to play than the Chargers.

Both teams fought for goals from the moment the whistle blew to signal the start of the game to the final whistle. The 3-0 lead by ST did not dampen the fight in the Warriors, as they finally put one in the back of the net in the second half. Although the game ended in a 3-1 defeat, the Warriors

fought until the end, and definitely learned more about their strengths and weaknesses as a team.

On December 8, the boys welcomed Willow Glen High School on Valley’s turf for another preseason game.

Always an exciting game, the Warriors battled through the slippery rain in hopes of sliding one in the back of the net. In a very physical match, Valley Christians center back, Berding, was able to head the ball in off a free kick in the last minutes of the first half. Although the game ended in a loss, the Warriors played with much physicality and teamwork. The Warriors look for a win in their first league game against Sacred Heart in Saturday, December 11.

JV Boys Soccer Start Strong Angelique Hollstrom Staff Writer

Senior Christian Turnlund prepares to take a shot on goal during a game against the St. Francis Lancers.

The annoyingly loud buzzer that signifies a goal is not only awaited by the expectant fans sitting in the bleachers but also by the twenty-two soccer players rushing around on the field. For weeks the Valley Christian junior varsity boys soccer team has been practicing after school.

Coach Court Roberts took his team tryouts seriously saying, “I chose who would be on the team by who could play the game, and who I thought would be an asset not only to our team, but to the soccer program as a whole.” So, after tryouts he picked his players and they got right to work.

Players soon began practicing.

Working together as a team during practice is crucial to being victorious on the field. Therefore, the Warriors focused on meshing and molding together to form a team emphasizing each players’ strengths rather than their weaknesses. As freshman forward Andrew Saenz commented, “Our practices are pretty hard, but it’s all for a good cause. We’re hoping to win a lot of games this season, so it will be worth it in the end.” Although the practices were

strenuous and lengthy, it was all worth it, as the team prepared for their first game of the season. One important aspect not to be forgotten, however, is that practice has been a valuable time for the boys to develop lasting high school frienships.

The team got their chance to shine on December 3 when they played their first game against Santa Teresa High School on their home turf. Within the first ten minutes, freshmen foreign exchange student Peter Lee put the ball in Santa Teresa’s net, putting the Warriors in the lead. It was an amazing goal; occurring from a cross sent into the box by one of Lee’s teammates, Lee spun around and pushed the airborne ball into the net with his heel. Junior David Hong made a second goal with his head, that was nullified by the referee call.

So, with their first win, the team keeps practicing for their next few preseason games, leading up to season play. After their game against Willow Glen, the boys junior varsity Warriors will take on Sacred Heart Cathedral on Saturday, December 11 on Valley’s home turf in another exciting preseason match.

Don’t miss out on the many opportunities this season to watch this talented group of young boys.

14 December 10, 2010 Wrestling at Its Finest Romie Asplund Staff Writer The wrestlers have been working very hard, focusing on technique and trying to remember and utilize the material taught last season. Their efforts will be displayed at their first home match on Tuesday January 11 vs St. Francis.

The team has grown considerably since the beginning of last season with approximately 8 new wrestlers and 15 returning wrestlers. After a rigorous stage of a combination of weight-lifting and wrestling during the off-season, the boys’ hard work is beginning to show in the wrestling room.

When asked if the practices are intense, coach Steve Hernandez exclaimed, “Absolutely! Our practices are designed to have ‘no down time.’

When they come into the room, they are prepared to work the entire time.” Besides

Sports

A Fresh Start for Soccer Taylor Pratt Staff Writer The JV girls soccer team has started off a new year. As they plan to win their games, they play hard for God and show His love in how they play. Tia Martino, a sophomore JV soccer player said, “Soccer is fun because I get to take out my aggressions.” With each practice and game, the girls will get better and they will get closer as a team as the season progresses.

This season they want to win their games and finish strong. They spread

Valley Christian’s spirit as they play and show the other teams how they play.

The girls lost their first game at Scott Valley High School but won their recent game against Monta Vista High School. Tia Martino, said, “The games are fun and very intense and spark exhilarating adrenaline rushes.”

Practices are fun for the girls and rewarding when they win. They practice drills and get better each time. Every time they practice they work harder than the day before, just to build up to WCALs at the end of the season.

Defenders swarm to the ball as the Warriors set up during a crucial scoring attack.

Ty Marro, Yutaka Rodriguez, and Coach Steve Hernandez pose after an eventful meet.

Caption #3

Photo By

the obvious, a bit of the wrestlers’ agenda includes running, cross training, and weight lifting 2 days a week. The majority of the time is spent on the mat through learning new techniques and competing against one another every day. The sign that reads, “VC Wants State Placers,” is hanging in the wrestling room with intentions of spurring the boys toward prudently expending their efforts during practice.

Their goals are to work hard and improve each and every day. This doesn’t only apply to their time in the wrestling room, but also in their walk with Christ.

The team’s Bible verse this year is 1 Corinthians 9:25, which says, “All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.” Coach Hernandez’s main focus is to work to develop a greater understanding of what it means to be for Christ. He said, “It will take care of itself.”

The Warrior

Sports

The Warrior

December 10, 2010

Freshmen and JV Basketball Leap Into Action

Athletic Spotlight: Darelle Jones Joyce Chen Photo Editor

Zayn Kirkendoll

A&E Editor

It is time again for another season of basketball for the freshmen and JV boys basketball teams. New faces join both squads as they try to make a push for a league championship.

Both the freshmen and JV teams have new coaches. Coach Joe Lampkin is taking over the freshmen team and looks to get the team in shape. Boasting an undersized roster, he looks to make his team run and push the tempo of the game to get teams unorganized and create chaos on the court which works to their advantage.

Coach Randy Bartholomew is heading up the boys JV squad this year and intends to play a more steady and well-balanced tempo, emphasizing half court sets and strong defense to wear opponents down mentally, as well as physically.

Both boys’ teams worked hard to prepare for their first game on December 1 against Santa Cruz, the first test of their preparation and team chemistry. The freshmen boys finished with a significant 65-45 win. After this win, the boys spent more time preparing for their next game against Los Gatos High School. On December 7, both the JV and freshmen boys played, but unfortunately only the freshmen team won with a score of 63-22.

As the season continues, the boys hope to improve in their play and ultimately grow as teammates.

15

Senior Darelle Jones was featured on the front page of renowned Norcalpreps.com on December 6, 2010. The article was entitled, “Jones not to be overlooked.”

Jones’ story was compared to the stories of Michael Vick and Aaron Rodgers. With VC’s running back, Byron Marshall, out for the CCS playoff game against Serra, the Warriors turned to Jones. Jones played an outstanding game with sixteen rushes for 102 yards with one touchdown in the 31-20 win.

Jones has been playing football for eight years and has been a varsity starter for the last two years. Along with playing football, Jones also runs track for Valley Christian and excels in that sport as well. He runs a 40-yard dash in 4.49 seconds, and has a shuttle time of 4.23 seconds. Jones’ game and physique is very similar to Stafon Johnson, former USC Trojan. Both are very solid runners and always hit the hole at full speed. Along with his quick feet, Jones can also bench press 285 pounds, squat 495 pounds, and has a vertical of 34 inches.

According to Jones, his football strengths are his spin move, and his stiffarm that keep tacklers at a distance.

Varsity football coach, Mike Machado said, “Darelle is a hard working football player, a great teammate, and leader for our team. He has a great personality

and sense of humor off the field but is very focused in whatever he does. His performance in the Serra game was huge, but no surprise to us. He has been a great asset to our team and a guy we can always count on.” Jones is known as a very hardworking player on the team and is always focused during practice as well.

When Jones finished 6th grade in the Bay Area, he moved to Georgia and attended Woodward Academy in College Park. There he played a wide variety of sports, including football, basketball, and track. During the summer of his sophomore year, he moved back to San Jose and attended school at Valley Christian High School. Because of this visibility, Jones is being recruited on both sides of the United States.

During the summers, Jones has attended a wide array of camps that helped him work on his jump cuts, which is a move that makes it easier to feel the gap as it opens in the line. Vanderbilt, UC Davis, and San Jose State are some the football camps attended by Jones.

Jones is expected to play in college, and is favoring Oregon State and Washington State, both located on the west coast.

The criteria that Jones is looking for in a school is that it has a competitive Division I program, and also to provide a legitimate chance to play as a true freshman, although he would still consider taking a redshirt year. The schools that Jones is really looking at are schools with a com-

petitive program along with solid academics. Jones is planning to pursue a psychology major.

Darelle Jones, called “Young Money,” by his teammates, also works on graphic designs for non-profit contests during his spare time. He has a bright future ahead of him. Expect Jones to make his mark in college football.

Jones’ speed is a great asset on the field.

Darelle Jones’ renowned stiff arm blocks a tackle.

Darelle’s weight and power is extremely useful when it comes to tackling the other team.

16 The Warrior

December 10, 2010

Sports

Putting Their WCAL Champs Fight on During Final Heads Together Seconds in CCS Championship CCS Championship VC 14 Palo Alto 21

By Jon Lampkin Editor-in-Chief

Jordan Hochmuth Staff Writer

The Valley Christian Warriors’ season ended as runner-up to Palo Alto High School in the Open Division of the CCS.

The postseason success could not come soon enough for the Warriors. After their first playoff game against the Serra Padres was postponed due to lightning storms, Valley got off to a sluggish start. Serra’s Erich Wilson returned the opening kick for a touchdown, creating an immediate 7-0 Valley deficit. With Serra leading 20-7 midway through the second quarter, it appeared as if the Warriors would only make a short postseason cameo appearance. But, behind the running back trio of senior Darelle Jones, junior Jarrod

Lawson, and sophmore Ryan Severson, the Warriors were able to post 24 unanswered points, defeating the Padres 31-20.

Valley’s prosperity was present in the next game, too, as they scored the first 40 points of the game against the Palma Chieftains. This means the Warriors scored 64 points in a row without allowing any, which is an impressive streak. Led by the arm of senior quarterback Zach Vaiana, who threw for 143 yards and 3 touchdowns, Valley beat Palma in every aspect of the game, 40-14.

Junior running back Byron Marshall was dominant, rushing for 120 yards and two touchdowns.

A scary moment occurred in the second quarter, when senior linebacker Jaamal Rose and Chieftain wide receiver Tanner Sherman collided at full speed. Both players were on the ground for several minutes. Rose walked off the field under his own power, while Sherman had to be carted off on a stretcher with an apparent neck injury. Sherman high-fived all his teammates as he left the stadium, though, and is not expected to suffer permanent damage.

The final game of the season was the highly

anticipated match-up against the Palo Alto Vikings. Led by quarterback Cristoph Bono, the Vikings’ big play ability led them to a commanding 14-0 lead on scores of 33 and 78 yards. The Warriors’ defense was susceptible to long gains all night long. The Valley Christian offense, too, could never find a good rhythm, and did not score until halfway through the third quarter. Supported by their rambunctious crowd, the Palo Alto Vikings showed that a public school should not be overlooked by private WCAL schools.

But, the game wasn’t over just yet. In the fourth quarter, down 21-7, the Warriors had the ball in their own territory and started to drive down the field, desperate to score. Although Marshall did end up scoring late to cut the lead to 21-14, Valley Christian did not control the game clock, and they were left with only 30 seconds remaining.

The Warriors could not convert the onside kick, and the game was over. The Warriors were defeated, aghast and heartbroken.

Even though the team did not finish their season as they intended, they have a number of underclassmen returning next year, and are already preparing to win next year’s CCS championship.

Photo by Matt Gillooley