WOLF PRIDE | Volume 72 Issue 6

Wolf Pride

Volume 72, Number 6

April 2020

6933 Raleigh Street, Westminster, CO 80030

Attention Seniors: The staff of the Wolf Pride wants you to contribute to the Special Senior Edition of the Newspaper coming up in May! Please do one of the following, and email to whswolfpride@gmail.com by Friday, May 1.

0 202

0 2 0 2

0 2 0 2

202

1. Send your plans for next year.

2. Share a favorite memory of Senior year.

3. Tell us something positive to come out of the quarantine.

(Include a photo and your full name.)

0

Self-Care During Quarantine

Marisol Ramirez Staff Reporter

STEP-TEAM WINS!

Mercedes Cisneros Staff Reporter

Step Team stepped their way to victory when going to a competition in Colorado Springs against Step Teams all over Colorado.

Placing First, they won the grand prize! The competition team (select members of Step) competed against other Step Teams all over Colorado, while the other members watched in support. Latrese Davis, a new member of the Step Team, said that they had manycompliments on their routine, sportsmanship, and off stage performance. Congratulations Step Team, you did great! Keep on conquering the competition!

HOSA State Competition

Hi, Westy! I hope everyone is home and safe during these strange times. I know Estefania Pinedo it’s very hard to keep positive during uncertainty, but it is during this time that we Staff Reporter should be praticing healthy self-care more than anything. Our options range from something simple and silly to a daily routine or even picking up new or old hobbies. Westy’s members of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) competed in their Here’s a list of 10 free to low cost efficient activities to participate in during isolation: Spring cleaning: You now have more than enough time to declutter your messy room(s) or even your entire houses!

Read: Reread old classics or jump into a new one! (you can always find books online and some even for free) Paint/draw: Anything is art, so just let your creativity flow!

Coloring: Plug in your headphones and let your mind relax for a second!

Make something/anything: Time to get crafty and make home made gifts!

Binge watching: Marathon your favorite tv shows and movies with a nice big bag of snacks by your side!

Meditate: Light a candle, put on a face mask and just lay in bed and let your thoughts go!

Walks/runs: As long as you follow every safety measure, go outside! Get you and your pet a little bit of Vitamin D! Connect: Don’t forget to keep in contact with friends and family! Take this time to connect with the family around you right now, too!

Cook: Can’t eat your favorite foods right now? Make them! You’ll become a pro in no time!

I know it’s easy to become consumed by negativity, but don’t forget positivity spreads just as quickly! Don’t hesitate to reach out for any type of help or return that help to your community. We can get through this. Stay home, stay safe!

Stay home, stay safe!

State Leadership Conference in Downtown Denver in February at the Sheraton Hotel. Each student was permitted to compete in two separate events at the State Leadership Conference.

The top ten state finalists were recognized and the top three of each school chapter, regardless of size, are able to go to Nationals in Houston,Texas in June!

Congratulations to all of our competitors: Madison Perila, Home Health Aide & Job Seeking Skills Hayley Gonzalez, Home Health Aide Gabriella Cottew, Health Career Photography Estefania Pinedo, Home Health Aide & Job Seeking Skills Natalie Vorarath, Nursing Assisting & Job Seeking Skills Congrats to Junior Hayley Gonzalez who placed 2nd in Home Health Aide. She will go on to the next round for Nationals! She was asked about her experience. “The four days I spent at the HOSA Leadership Conference have been by far some of the best days of my life. Winning second place for my competition shocked me because I never thought I would be able to place for Nationals. I am so excited to have the ability to go to Nationals in June, and I am looking forward to more people joining HOSA next year,” she responded.

Congratulations to the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble for receiving Excellent ratings at the Colorado Bandmasters Association Regional Concert Band Competition! Wind Ensemble missed Superior by 1 point, which is the highest possible rating. On top of Excellent scores, the bands were complimented as the best behaved band and received a personal compliment from the man in charge of the entire festival for their beautiful playing. Westy made waves in the Colorado band world!

Commentary

Features

Special Feature

Ask Anonymous

School Resource Officer page 4

Meet the Staff Writers pages 6-9

page 3

Entertainment Ideas to Pass Time in Quarantine pages 10-11

Sports Outstanding Seasons page 12

April 2020

News

Safety After the Quarantine Lifts

Mercedes Cisneros Staff Reporter

Page 2

Changes in Business Operations

Samantha Gillogly All of us are looking forward to getting out of this quarantine! For many of us, we’ve been in lockdown for weeks, Staff Reporter

almost going on a month. Others of us play an essential role in our jobs, meaning we can’t follow quarantine as much as we would like. All I know is the first thing all of us want to do is see someone besides our family. That can’t happen if Due to the spread of the coronavirus, many busiwe don’t stay safe in the months after the quarantine lifts. Here are some things to keep in mind once you’re able to go nesses have had to close or make changes to their out, or if you have to go out while the quarantine is still happening, how to stay safe.

The first thing to keep in mind is that you can’t revert back to your old habits. Washing your hands for 20 seconds or normal way of functioning.

Many small businesses, including family-owned more should be a standard, since having your hands clean is essential for day to day living. This will not only keep you safe from COVID-19, but protect you the common cold and flu. You should also make sure that your hands are away ones, have had to shut down for about a month. from your mouth and face at all times for the same reasons.

Fast food restaurants have closed their dining If you spend too much time with people, washing your hands and keeping them away from your face might not be rooms and are only open for drive through. Some enough. Taking a shower when you get home is also something you should start doing, so that way you don’t spread anything to your family. It’s a safety precaution that you might not need too far into the future, but when the quarantine dine-in restaurants are still open, but only for carry out or delivery. is lifted, it’s something you should highly consider doing.

If you are sick with what you think is the Coronavirus, or even the flu, which has similar symptoms, make sure you Grocery stores have had to make a customer limit, stay home, even after the quarantine is lifted. Call the doctors in advance to see what they say before taking any action. which has caused lines to form outside their doors.

If you think you just have a cold, it is still important to throw away all of your used tissues, clean all of your shared surPeople have already grown restless just sitting faces, and wash your hands constantly. Try to stay away from family as well because if your immune system is already around in their homes, but it is necessary for the compromised, it easier for you to catch the virus.

Hygiene isn’t the only important thing. Social distancing, although as drastic as it is now, is something we need to keep wellbeing of everyone to stop the spread of this viin practice. Now, I’m not saying that you can’t see your significant other or your best friend. All I’m saying is that you rus. should hold off on any parties you’ve been wanting to go to, or that concert you’ve been dying to see. By going to such events, you’re putting everyone at risk to be quarantined again.

We need to remember that an epidemic doesn’t just stop. By the time we are “un-quarantined” the virus will probably be still out there. It’s vital that we keep others in mind and not just ourselves. I hope you find these tips helpful for now Kimberly De Anda Rodriguez Staff Reporter and into the foreseeable future.

Recipes to try at home

Less Human Activity is Helping the Planet Heal

Annalyssia Hernandez Business Manager

Since a quarantine has gone into effect to keep people home, there have been several people indoors rather than out following their normal routine, and even flights have been canceled. With people inside there’s a great decrease in the use of transportation and the use of greenhouse gases and the planet is benefiting greatly.

In New York, pollution levels have decreased by 50% since the virus. In China, emissions fell by 25% at the start of the year and coal use has fallen by 40% at China’s six largest power plants since the last quarter of 2019.

Nitrogen dioxide emissions have been fading away over Northern Italy, and similar play is in action in the UK, and in Spain.

Though this is great for the planet and its well-being, its effects are most likely temporary, and though it is a relief to see a decrease in the pollution rate, this virus is not to be seen as a way to keep our planet clean nor should it be celebrated, since it is causing so much more tragedy in our everyday lives.

Recipes to do doing quarantine Now, you probably have so much free time while being in lockdown and you have no clue what to do. Here are two easy recipes you can do at home without using an oven: For chocolate chip cookies, you will need: 2tbsp of butter, 1tbsp of brown sugar, 1tbsp of sugar, 1/4 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp vanilla, 3tbsp flour, 2tbsp chocolate chips after adding the ingredients, put batter in a microwave safe bowl and put it in for 60 seconds; after that, you can top with ice cream and enjoy!

For Rice Krispie treats you will need: a microwave safe bowl add 1tsp of butter, 8 large marshmallows, put in the microwave for 30 seconds, mix and after add 1 cup of rice cereal, mix, put in a squared container and press into container and let it rest, cut into the shape of your liking and you’re done!

Reporters without Borders Combat Censorship by Adding News to Minecraft Games

Paulrunninghorse Vigil Staff Reporter

Censorship of media has plagued reporters and publishers of various works for years, even going as far back as 399 BCE with Socrates being killed due to his spreading influence of philosophy in Rome. There’s no fact now that we’re starting to see censorship more and more as people are both made aware of it, not only because it’s able to be easily seen on the internet, but also how on the internet many people are trying to censor certain subjects through filters and other techniques. A good example of this is Youtube demonetizing (which, in turn also makes the video become less recommended, and thus shown to less people) any video involving the Coronavirus. Although this isn’t an extreme example of censorship, and is in a way an attempt to thwart misinformation, Youtube is in turn, throttling and showing less videos that could contain important and informative information for a good chunk of people about a widespread situation.

However, a group of journalists are themselves trying to combat censorship in the modern era. The name of this group is Reporters Without Borders. Reporters Without Borders is “The world’s biggest NGO (non profit organization) specializing in the defense of media freedom, which we regard as the basic human right to be informed and to inform others.” According to their ‘Our Values’ section of the website, not only do Reporters without Borders write articles on what other countries are doing to reporters and censorship, but they also rate each country using the World Press Freedom Index, which ranks each country based on how free the press is. Each country is rated from 1, the most free country which is Norway as of 2019, to 180, the least free country which is Turkmenistan as of 2019. The way each country is ranked would be extremely long for this article, but if you are curious you can check it out on their website under the ‘Detailed Methodology’ section of the World Press Freedom Index which delves into the methods, considered categories, and equations used to calculate each rank for every country.

In these recent times, Reporters Without Borders has come up with a clever way of spreading withheld information without the fear of censorship through the extremely popular game Minecraft. Conveniently enough, this creative sandbox game is actually not banned from any countries at all according to their article about the project dubbed “The Uncensored Library.”

Using Minecraft, they have gathered builders from a company named Blockworks, who specialize in building minecraft projects that can range from art projects to educational learning environments, to build the entire building that totals to around 12.5 million blocks! Not only that, but as of now, they have around 200 books written containing censored articles and even music discs, which play audio versions of articles and other media. Under their website ‘uncensoredlibrary.com’ you can access a guide on how to download Minecraft and enter the server, or even download it for yourself. For those who already own Minecraft, the ip address to the server is ‘visit.uncensoredlibrary.com’, and I highly recommend checking it out not only for the censored media and information, but for the astounding effort that has gone into the stunning architecture housing the media itself.

It is truly amazing to see how Reporters Without Borders was able to pull such a project off with a popular and easily accessible video game. It was a very creative and innovative project, and hopefully, this project will set an example and pave way for future projects that wish to use video games to educate and communicate information with other people and future generations alike.

April 2020

Commentary

Northern Ireland Serves a Victory for LGBTQ+ Rights Teylynn Peterson Staff Reporter In the United States, same-sex marriage has been legal for nearly five years. However, there are still an abundance of countries around the world where same-sex marriage, and even homosexuality as a whole, is illegal.

Northern Ireland has joined many other countries in legalizing same-sex marriage and had its first same-sex marriage on February 11 of this year. The newly wed couple is Robyn Peoples and Sharni Edwards, who have been engaged since May of 2015. They got engaged in Paris, while on a trip.

Northern Ireland has had same-sex civil partnerships since 2005, when the UK government first introduced them across Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Civil partnerships, however, aren't technically marriages. The Independent describes civil partnership as “a legally recognized relationship between two people and offers many of the same benefits as a conventional marriage.”

In places like Scotland, Wales, and England, same-sex marriage has been legal since 2014. Unfortunately, Northern Ireland had lacked its own functioning government from March of 2017 until last October.

Since Northern Ireland didn’t have its own government, decisions like legalizing same-sex marriage were halted.

In July of 2019, UK lawmakers voted on an amendment that would require the British government to extend same-sex marriage rights to Northern Ireland, if they didn’t have a functioning government by October 2019. October came and the region still lacked a functioning government, so the British government took action.

Since January 13 of this year, couples have been able to register to marry. Since the law, more couples like Peoples and Edwards will be able to wed.

Keeping Fear Away Adelita Rivera Sports Editor For many it’s hard to accept the truth. Especially when it seems to disrupt one’s everyday norm. Emotions emerge clouding clear thoughts with fear. Walking into a supermarket seeing normal every day things being sold out proves the fear and panic of the public. A malicious microbe that cannot be seen or heard, but can put fear into any human when in contact. Focusing on its victim’s respiratory system, halting their daily lives to begin an isolation with nothing, but fear and worry.

Now, with the current coronavirus, fear has once again hit the public.

Simply walking into any grocery store is a risk. Everyone in gloves and a mask in hopes of shielding themselves from the spreading virus. People speeding to stores to hopefully find toilet paper to take home or to help them stock up their food supply. A man was working his way around the store reaching for items he needed, people rushed in front of him, rudely, just to grab what they wanted first. Some were considerate, others not so much. Fear is a dangerous thing in people when they begin to not think clearly.

A pandemic has managed to change the world once again, it was over 100 years ago when we were struck with a deadly virus, the Spanish flu.

Do your part with this monster, and it will be gone before we know it!

Remember to stay safe, relax and stay home.

Page 3

Ask Anon: 4th Edition Ask Anon Hey guys! Round four is it? Well, here are some questions from last time that we could not fit in the last issue. Once again, there are not that many, but they are quite interesting.

“How are some ways to get our generation a bit more involved in things that really matter?”- Anon Well, here's the thing: no matter what you do, many people will not care. There was the global warming thing that happened and many people actually showed genuine concern. Most of the generation watched videos and commented; they did nothing to help the cause. There’s the virus and the World War III threat. What did this generation do? Make memes. No matter what you throw at this generation, even if you threaten their lives, not much is going to change until it’s too late. That’s the unfortunate truth.

“Is there such a thing as good and evil?” - Tord In my complete and honest opinion, I do believe there is. Some individual’s beliefs might be misplaced, but, if you really think about it, were they really “evil”? Thanos, for example, snapped his fingers to “save” the universe. He did indeed kill half of the universe, but was it for an evil cause? We have to look at motive and purpose.

“What’s your opinion on Pewdiepie?” -Gamer PEWDIEPIE (clap) REVIEW (clap)! Honest opinion? I have no idea. A friend of mine is slowly giving me her addiction to him. I no longer think he’s cringy at least. But hey....it’s LWIAY time, gamers!

“What’s the most difficult thing for you about high school?” - Jon Bellion For ME? Well, there are so many things that make my, and so many other’s, high school life difficult. One specifically, the school system. I understand that they just want to prepare us more for the future, but that just makes things harder for those that actually have talent, but also have important things to attend to outside of school life. You need a 90% attendance percentage to graduate; what about people that have to take care of a sick parent, get a job because of financial issues, or are literally dying in the hospital? I’ve known at least three smart, talented, and responsible students that had health problems and did not pass their classes because of their attendance.

Differing Reactions Around the World Linda Cabral Staff Reporter How did you react to this pandemic? This worldwide issue is affecting everybody and all countries.

The U.S. decided to act in a strange way. Many people went out to the grocery stores and stocked up on food and toilet paper. Once everyone saw everybody sweeping everything off the shelves, they decided to do the same. This was concerning for elders because they are more prone to the coronavirus.

On the other hand, governments of other nations are cleaning streets and public spaces. Making sure their people are good with money for supplies they need at home.

In Lima, Peru a sanitizing shower has been installed outside a police station to help stop the spread of the virus. There have also been protests around the U.S. over this issue.

This comes to show that the U.S. is handling this pandemic in a concerning matter.

April 2020 Marisol Ramirez Staff Reporter

Features

2020 Spring Outfit Trends

Hey, Westy! Searching for new looks this spring? Well, look no further! Here are some trendy clothes for this upcoming Spring courtesy of your own Westy Wolves.

Hair Clips: Also known as banana clips, hair clips have been a year round trend since the stone age coming in all types of colors and shapes.

Dainty and light colored clips are perfect for simple hairstyles during warm weather.

Nike Air Force 1: These trendy shoes originally debuted in 1982, and were mainly used by basketball players until the mid 90s when the all white leather AF1s were introduced and have made a huge impact on pop culture ever since. They are perfect for any type of spring outfits from lightweight jeans to sun dresses.

Babydoll Dresses: Babydoll dresses were actually used as nightgowns in the 1940s until the 60s and 70s when they became a casual look for young girls. They’ve stayed popular ever since for every Spring to Summer season, as a “go to” on warm days.

Loose Fit Levi’s: Levi’s were first invented in the 1870s and used primarily by labor workers because of the sturdy material, but were officially adopted by women as early as the 1960s. Loose fit Levi’s were worn fashionably by both men and women in the 90s and have made a strong comeback in the late 2010s. They’re the perfect unisex pants for all year round, especially as a comfortable garment during Spring.

Crop Top Blouses: Crop tops were the result of the hippie movement in the 70s, which was all about an all natural look. Women would tie their blouses in the front for a more chic look. Crop tops have been trendy ever since, coming in all colors and textures, and even popularized in men in the 90s, but the blouses always come back during Spring and Summer for their colorful patterns and light material.

Short Sleeve Button Ups: “Polo shirts” were first invented in the 1890s for polo players and other sports until the 1950s. Patterned versions were made in the 70s, and short-sleeved shirts were trendy in the 80s and 90s as well. Although typically used by men, in present day, they’re fashioned by both men and women during warm weather.

Light Colored Tees: T-shirts were first invented in the 1890s for labor workers to keep cool during hot days, but became more fashionable in the 1950s. Colored and printed tees became popular in the 70s for both men and women and have thrived ever since. Although an all year round trend, light colored t-shirts are perfect for a simple and comfortable look this Spring.

Westy Police Officer Interview

Jennifer Bencomo and Alejandra Franco Entertainment Editors

Officer Guzman is a School Resource Officer at Westminster High School, and this is his second year working here. He grew up in Thornton and went to Horizon High School. He has a baby daughter; she’s two years old and she is his biggest motivation. He also shared with us that he played baseball when he was a kid. We asked him a couple of questions relating his job: Why do you want to work in this industry?

“I like to help people; it’s exciting and it’s a good job. I love what I do.”

Do you like working here? Why? “Yes, it’s fun to work with kids. I like to help kids out and keep you guys out of trouble as much as I can.”

How long do you plan on staying a School Resource Officer?

“The rotation is from three to five years, but I want to stay all five years. I at least want to see a class from freshman to senior year.”

What is the biggest challenge when it comes to being a SRO? “Trying to relate to the kids as much as I can without having you guys being upset at me. Trying to teach you guys and letting you guys know that cops aren’t bad people.”

What is your greatest weakness?

“I work too hard, sometimes I take too much on my plate.”

Inside the Pride: Meet the Editor

Name: Valeria Gutierrez Luevano Why do you think this job fits you?

“I enjoy being a cop because I get to help people when they’re at Job: Features Editor Years on Staff: 1 their worst.”

Why did you join the newspaper staff?

Have you ever thought of quitting/giving up? Why? “No, I don’t think there’s anything else I’d ever do, I love my job.” “I wanted to show my creativity skills in writing, and now I’m even able to do so in other things.”

What motivates you?

“My family, and my daughter motivates me the most.”

Where do you see yourself in five years?

“Probably still being a cop, looking into being a Sergeant in the future.”

What do you do in your free time?

“I usually hangout with my friends or watch Netflix.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“A lot of Frank Ocean and J.Cole. Although, I like a lot of different music.”

Words of Advice: Anything else you would like to tell us?

“DRIVE SAFE AND DRIVE SLOW. I DON’T WANT TO GIVE “Enjoy high school and attend all the games and dances. High school is just four years and passes by fast.”

TICKETS!!”

Page 4

April 2020

Features

Westy Students x4

Mercades Cinseros & Andy Whitfield Staff Reporter & Editor-in-Chief

Genisis Tarang (Freshman) What do you think of garden gnomes?

“I don’t mind them, but personally, I wouldn’t own any.”

What was the last gift you gave someone?

“A necklace for Valentine’s.”

What do you think of Westy?

“I think that it is a good school. I like how I got to meet new people. Westy is a place where I can be myself, and I can experience new things.”

Hannah Brooks (Sophomore) What do you think of garden gnomes?

“They’re nice decorative items for old people’s lawns.”

What was the last gift you gave someone?

“I gave my Dad some coffee.”

What do you think of Westy?

“Westy is an interesting school. It’s hard to find where you belong, and teachers are pretty nice.”

Page 5

Motorola Flip Reinvented

Solange Perez Garcia Staff Reporter

Brace yourself for impact! The new Motorola Razr is making a comeback in the 21st Century!

Ever since, the old Motorola Razr model came out during the 2000s, Motorola wanted to shake things up again by bringing out a reboot of the Motorola Razr phone to our generation!

This reboot includes many awesome features, such as having foldable glass, an easier way to take selfies,and more! According to CNET, the rebooted Motorola Razr has a 6.2 inch screen and fits well anywhere from your back pocket to your purse. As well as, there is a screen on the outside of the phone like the old version, except it’s not touchscreen, this screen only displays to show the time or notifications.

Another cool thing about this phone is if you remember in the 2000s when you had a Motorola Razr, and you wanted to give a piece of your mind to someone, you can just snap your phone shut to hang up on them! This popular sassy move was presented throughout movies and tv shows in the 2000s. So, when you’re trying to get even with someone, just snap that phone shut.

Although the reboot of the Motorola Razr has many cool features, there have been some early faulty reviews. For instance, according to the CNET, there is trouble while opening and closing the phone and is a bit heavier than the old version, not to mention the foldable glass is very delicate. When the reboot version Motorola Razr came out, it went on sale on February 6 for $1,500, compared to other phones, it is pretty expensive.

Mercedes Cisneros (Junior) What do you think of garden gnomes?

“They’re kind of creepy, but I don’t have a problem with them.”

What was the last gift you gave someone?

“A teddy bear, chips, and a bag full of candy.”

What do you think of Westy?

“It’s alright.”

Haylie Vendegna (Senior) What do you think of garden gnomes?

“I kind of like them, you know.

Kind of cool. They can be the Gnomies.”

What was the last gift you gave someone?

“I got my bf a 50 psn gift card for Fortnite.”

What do you think of Westy?

“It could be better, but Westy is chill because of my friends.”

Ides of March

Hunter Magerfleisch & PaulRunninghorse Vigil Staff Reporters

If you’re reading this article, I’m going to assume you don’t know what the Ides of March is, don’t worry it’s primarily a front for the murder of Julius Ceaser. Quite simply the Ides of March sounds more appropriate and appealing to the masses. With the actual definition of Ides being the middle point of the month, falling on the 15th in March.

On March 15, 44 BC, Julias Caesar was killed at a senate meeting, stabbed by as many as 60 conspirators, lead primarily by men named Brutis and Cassius. They had wanted to get rid of the dictator, who was in charge of Rome. This led to the end of the Roman Republic.

At the time, Caesar was actually well-liked by most of the low to middle class, which presented a problem when word got out about who had killed him. The public began to riot against both Brutis and Cassius, which led to the start of the Roman civil war.

One of the more notable aspects of the Ides of March was how pompous Brutis was.

This led to him making coins with the writing EID MAR, or Eidibus Martiis on the Ides of March. The other side had a photo of himself shown, and also featured a cap of freedom, as Brutis felt he had freed Rome from Caesar.

Westy School Store Samantha Gillogly & Annalyssia Hernandez Staff Reporter & Business Manager

The school store has opened up again recently, and it has become a welcoming place for students to enjoy some of their favorite snacks. After interviewing two of the students that work in the school store after school, we found out a lot more about the store’s goals and other goods. We interviewed Esau Gonzalez and Caleigh Montoya, two of the school store employees to talk more about the store.

We asked about the things they sell and what the prices are for the snacks. They sell a variety of chips, bottled drinks like Gatorade and Jarritos, hot pockets, and even crafted drinks such as Italian soda and coffee ranging from $1-$2.

Beside the snacks, we wanted to know what else they sold. The store provides students, staff, and Westy families with choices of Westy gear, there are T-shirts, hoodies, lanyards, and class stickers for pep rallies.

Both Montoya and Gonzalez are students, so how do they benefit? They actually earn volunteer hours for the school, and since both students are part of FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), they earn points and raise money for the trips they take for conferences and competitions. Gonzalez also added that he really enjoys socializing and meeting the other students through the store.

There is also a new online store, so you can enjoy looking for gear at home or anywhere else!

Writing Staff

Page 6 April 2020 The Wolf Pride newspaper comes out every month with the hard work of some dedicated students! Without these students, this would not be possible. Every month, these students work hard to bring news, sports, and more coverage to you! We appreciate our staff so much! Read on to meet our writing staff. - Editors Words from our advisor, Carolyn Warren: “I am honored to have had the opportunity to advise the school newspaper at Westminster High School for the past 24 years. I minored in journalism in college, and I was able to step in as the advisor of the Warrior Pride when I was hired to teach English at Westy in 1996 (W.H.S.’s mascot was the Warrior back then).

Every year, I have learned and grown alongside my students. I believe that working on the Newspaper Staff is a unique and rewarding experience. We have been an example of Project Based Learning from the start. Students brainstorm ideas every month, select stories to write, and student editors manage the writing process through three deadlines leading up to designing the page layouts. Everyone works as a team and a product is delivered to Westminster H.S.’s community on a monthly basis.

Every student plays an integral part in the production of the Wolf Pride. I have observed great examples of teamwork by all the students I have advised.

It is not uncommon for students from very different backgrounds to find new friends while pursuing the common goal of producing a monthly newspaper.

Over the years, I’ve watched the process change from a basic hands-on cut and paste process using lighted tables to do the layout to a completely computer-supported and streamlined process we use today. What has not changed is the camaraderie and the creative outlet enjoyed by the students.

I want to thank every newspaper staff member from this year back to my first year for making me a proud advisor. When I look back on my teaching career, the newspaper is always close to my heart.

Name: Estefania Pinedo Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I joined Newspaper because I love writing, and I enjoy writing short stories as a hobby! It’s a way of selfcare, I encourage everyone to do it. Mostly I joined because I enjoy the topics that are written about, and I would like to add even more. Also, I wanted to have Mrs. Warren again (:” What do you do in your free time?

“I mostly work, listen to music, or hang out with my older sister.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Tomorrow’s Dust by Tame Impala 3 Nights by Dominic Fike Clouded Brent Faiyaz” Words of Advice: “Do what makes YOU happy regardless of others' opinions.”

Name: Solange Perez Garcia Nickname: Sol Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I’ve been wanting to do something that relates to my career interest for a long time. As well as, I want be in newspaper to test my skills and see if I have the potential to be a good writer.”

What do you do in your free time?

“Well, I’m really into watching shows/ cartoons and I’m a book nerd. Also, I love to listen to my music and rock out!”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“COIN-Talk Too Much COIN-Boyfriend Don’t Stop Now (feat.Michelle Gonzalez) by Daniel Rojas.”

Words of Advice: “Give your subconscious a chance to work by turning your brain off from time to time. Don’t focus on work or solving problems constantly.” Harvey McKay

Name: Kiara Garcia Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I wanted to further my writing and speak my mind about current events in society.”

What do you do in your free time?

“I draw/paint, play guitar and piano, play video games, listen to music, watch anime, and watch Pewdiepie :).”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“JOJIIIIIIIIIIIIIII, Frank Ocean, and Metallica are my main three .”

Words of Advice: “Subscribe to Pewdiepie.”

April 2020

Writing Staff

Xavier Garcia Staff Reporter Years on Staff: Two

Karina Torres Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One

Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I felt the love of writing and I wanted the feeling of making something someone would appreciate.”

Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I wanted a platform where I could spread awareness mainly about the environment, but also just controversial topics in general. A way to connect with people from an unbiased standpoint.”

What do you do in your free time?

“I love to play video games and listen to music, but I’m trying to learn to draw.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“The main song on my playlist is “War (Feat.Lil Tjay) [Bonus]” by Pop Smoke on Meet the Woo 2 album.

Words of Advice: “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’ This is important to me because you can hate working or studying, but you’ll be successful in the long run.”

Paulrunninghorse Vigil Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I joined the newspaper staff because I’ve always wanted a way to direct my writing skills into something that would be fun and interesting.”

What do you do in your free time?

“Usually, in my free time, I either listen to music and/or play video games with some friends. Other times, I will also use my free time to learn new concepts and things.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“I don’t know; to be honest, I just kind of play whatever comes up. I don’t really have a preference when it comes down to music. I’m alright with any genre except for some country and kpop.”

Samantha Gillogly Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I thought it would be a fun new thing to try for my senior year.”

What do you do in your free time?

“I usually binge watch TV shows and listen to music.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Jonas Brothers and Lewis Capaldi.”

Words of Advice: “Always be yourself.”

Page 7

What do you do in your free time?

“After my internship, I sleep for hours.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Sunflower, Vol. 6 by Harry Styles...well, the entire Fine Line album.”

Words of Advice: “No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.”

-Buddha

Mercedes Cisneros Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I joined the newspaper because it was a safe space away from the other worries school has brought me.”

What do you do in your free time?

“In my free time, I like to read, play video games and eat lots of food.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Anything by LUND, Melanie Martinez, Khai Dreams, and Mxmtoon.”

Words of Advice: “If you ever feel that you are in an unsafe environment, or you just aren’t happy with a situation you’ve found yourself in, you don’t have to stay in that situation. Instead of trying to be strong and stick it out, find a healthy way to seek help and find the best situation to get out of that space. At the end of the day, that’s the strongest thing anyone can do.”

Name: Mary Marquez Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I thought I could slightly improve my writing, even if it was a little.”

What do you do in your free time?

“Read, sleep, anime, and play games.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Get scared, Set it off, three days grace, cavetown, dodi.

Also, “bad Idea” by girl in red.”

Words of Advice: “Don’t let others drive your life, they aren’t the ones living it. You are, and if you don’t take the wheel from them, then they just might crash it.”

April 2020

Writing Staff

Page 8

Name: Elisa Cabral-Ramirez Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I joined the newspaper staff because I enjoy writing and learning about new topics. Writing has always been a good reason to just distract yourself from all your problems and just throw all your thoughts into a piece of paper.”

What do you do in your free time?

“In my free time, I mostly listen to music and stay to myself.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“My Playlist right consists of Key Glock, Brent Faiyaz, and Jhene Aiko.”

Name: Vanessa Montoya Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I joined the newspaper staff because I like to write about events or any cool stories.”

What do you do in your free time?

“In my free time, I nap and hangout with friends.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Mostly Drake, Tory Lanez, and some throwbacks here and there.”

Words of Advice: “Put yourself first always.”

Words of advice? “Don't lower your standards just to rush the process.”

Name: Teylynn Peterson Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I love writing.”

What do you do in your free time?

“In my free time, I like to listen to music.”

Name: Linda Cabral Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One

What’s on your playlist right now?

“The Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Bauhaus, and The Garden.”

Why did you join the newspaper staff?

Words of Advice: “What you’re supposed to know, you’ll know.”

What do you do in your free time?

“In my free time, I watch Youtube and Netflix.”

“I joined Newspaper because I wanted to experience writing something, and for it to be printed .”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Stressed Out- Rex Orange Country, Loaded- Key Glock.”

Words of Advice: “Stay focused and manifest whatever it is you want.”

April 2020

Writing Staff

Name: Kimberly De Anda Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One

Name: Nadia Martinez Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: Three

Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“Mrs. Warren would always tell me that my writing assignments were good, and that I had potential for joining newspaper, and after that, I was interested in joining.”

Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I’ve always had a knack for writing, and I thought it would be a good idea for me to join.”

What do you do in your free time?

“I like to spend time with family and friends.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“Drake, Travis Scott, NAV, Tyler, the Creator.”

Words of Advice: “Everything at its time.”

Page 9

What do you do in your free time?

“I usually just hang out with my friends, my mom, or I just catch up on some TV, or just scroll through social media.”

What’s on your playlist right now?

“A little bit of everything, but mostly Alternative.”

Words of Advice: “Life is beautiful, and you have time.”

The student editors of the Wolf Pride were featured in newspapers earlier this year: Name: Marisol Ramirez Job: Staff Reporter Years on Staff: One Why did you join the newspaper staff?

“I joined Newspaper because I love writing and would love to write a novel someday, so I thought this would be good practice. I also think the topics written about in Newspaper are interesting, but I’d also love to bring in new ideas. For example, mental health awareness, climate change and today’s immigration issues. Although, I wouldn’t want to write about serious topics only. I’d like to write about entertainment and news about our own school as well.”

What do you do in your free time?

“I honestly either nap, chill out, read or hang out with people (preferably my cats). I also work part time at Salon Real Event Center and do extracurricular stuff for school, but I don’t count that as things I enjoy doing on my free time.”

What’s on your playlist right now? “(Not my favorites, but at the top of my playlist right now) 1980s Horror Film II by Wallows Hey Kids by Molina Umbrella by Rihanna & Jay Z Bahamas by A$AP Mob Novacane by Frank Ocean” Words of Advice: “Get involved Go to school events Don’t be slacking in school, the consequences suck.

Have fun! Don’t be so uptight .”

Editors-in-Chief: Aala Watson Arianna “Andy” Whitfield Lizzy Zuniga News Editor: Lizzy Zuniga Commentary Editor: Johnny Loi Features Editors: Aala Watson (first semester) Valeria Gutierrez Luevano (2nd semester) Entertainment Editors Jennifer Bencomo-Trevizo Alejandra Franco Centerspread Editor: Arianna “Andy” Whitfield Art Director: Fabian Amarosa Sports Editors: Steven Montoya Adelita Rivera Business Managers: Annalyssia Hernandez Hunter Magerfleisch

Entertainment

April 2020

Ideas to Pass the Time While in Quarantine

TV Shows

Movies

Nessa Montoya Staff Reporter

Teylynn Peterson Staff Reporter

With a lot of time in our hands right now, I’m pretty sure we all want something good to watch to kill some time. Lucky for you, I have a list of shows that you can watch with friends and family during quarantine!

All American (netflix) 17-year-old Spencer James from Crenshaw takes coach Billy Baker’s offer to play football for ritzy Beverly High. Spencer struggles to fit in at this new school and goes through many ups and downs with trying to fit in while still trying to be involved in Crenshaw 2 seasons (16 episodes each) 8/10 recommend

We’re all struggling to find ways to stay busy during quarantine.

Here’s a list of movies to check out when you’re bored:

On My Block (netflix) A group of teens are getting ready for their first day of high school and are scared they’re not going make it out together.

3 seasons (no more than 10 episodes each) 6/10 recommend (gets better throughout the seasons) Money Heist (netflix) A group of people planning a heist targeting the Royal Mint of Spain.

4 seasons (about 9 episodes each) 9/10 (especially if you like action and suspense!)

The Fosters (netflix) A lesbian couple who love to foster, and the ups and down of their very diverse family.

5 seasons (about 20 episodes each) 10/10

Coming-of-Age Movies: Lady Bird (2017) dir. Greta Gerwig The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012) dir. Stephen Chbosky (available on Netflix) Can’t Hardly Wait (1998) dir. Deborah Kaplan, Harry Elfont (available on Netflix) Comedies: Austin Powers (movie series) all available on Netflix Just Friends (2005) dir. Roger Kumble (available on Netflix) Superbad (2007) dir. Greg Mottola Booksmart (2019) dir. Olivia Wilde Thrillers: The Platform (2019) dir. Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia (available on Netflix) Good Time (2017) dir. Josh Safdie, Benny Safdie (available on Netflix) Parasite (2019) dir. Bong Joon-ho Dramas: The Shawshank Redemption (1994) dir. Frank Darabont (available on Netflix) The King (2019) dir. David Michôd (available on Netflix)

More Movies to see Alejandra Franco Entertainment Editor Movies/Series to watch during quarantine: If you have Netflix The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez Money Heist Elite On my Block Jane the Virgin Vampire Diaries Grey’s Anatomy El Dragon Return of a Warrior Instructions not included Spider-Man Into the Spider Verse If you have Disney+ Frozen and Frozen 2 The Last Song Lion King

Music

Estefania Pinedo Staff Reporter

During this historical pandemic, we may catch ourselves in doubt.

Music helps us to forget our troubles for a moment and lifts our spirits. Here is a list of my personal favorites to help out!<3 10%- KAYTRANADA, Kali Uchis Can I Call You Tonight?- Dayglow Cayendo- Frank Ocean Dream Via Memories- Ceramic Animal Italo Disco- Last Dinosaurs No Going Back- Yuno Paint Me Silver- Pond Tomorrow’s Dust- Tame Impala Warm (feat. Mia) - Dre’es The Way Things Change- Yellow Days

Page 10

Books and Podcasts

Johnny Loi Commentary Editor The Handmaid’s Tale (by Margaret Atwood) A dystopian novel, it tells of the Republic of Gilead, which has overthrown the U.S. Government and installed a totalitarian rule over the country. Due to declining birth rates, fertile women are forced into a system where they must serve and conceive children for the elite members of Gilead. Offred, our main character, is one of these women.

It is truly a great read, one that tells of systems of oppression and control that can very much reflect what we see in reality today. A story of subjugation under a dystopian empire, it fills the reader with a sense of anxiety as the main character progresses to grow against her captors.

The Inheritance Cycle (by Christopher Paolini) A four book series, we follow main character Eragon in a fantasy world known as Alagaësia, where much of the land is ruled by a tyrant known as Galbatorix. Eragon, just a normal boy, stumbles into a mounting rebellion against the ruling forces of the land as he discovers that he is in possession of a prized dragon egg.

I myself do not take much interest in the typical fantasy plots of things like elves, dragons, and all that sort, but this series brings a sort of new light. It is easily thousands of pages in a whole, which really says some-

thing as to how much is truly in the book. One of my first ever reads, it offers an insanely complex storyline, definitely something to look into with all the time you have now!

Kaffir Boy (by Mark Mathabane) An autobiography of the author Mark Mathabane accounting his coming of age under the Apartheid system of South Africa, it offers a blunt look into the truth of something many may be ignorant about. Mathabane grew up under a system of government where black people in South Africa were deemed as lower-class citizens, stripped of their rights and constantly terrorized by police authorities and governmental policies.

I had read this in my IB World Literature class, and it was truly one of the best books I have ever read. It accounts the true detail and horror that Mathabane, his family, and many others had to face in Apartheid South Africa. Its outright detail and account of the suffering wrenches guts and forces your eyes open.

The Notebook, The Proof, The Third Lie: A Trilogy (by Agota Kristof) Regarded as one of the most provocative pieces in new European fiction, it accounts for twin brothers Claus and Lucas in an unknown part of Europe following World War II. The novel follows the twins as they become separated from their mother and father, forced to live in an unknown environment that represents the plunge that society had taken following the war. With their given situation, they are forced to become accustomed to the complexities of wickedness and cruelty in their environment and their own hearts.

The first time I had read this book, the entirely gruesome and blunt detail truly shocked me. You follow the twins through their childhood all the way through to their adulthood and eventual death. The trilogy accounts for themes such as murder, sexual violence, and even pedophilia. To this day, the storyline and detail of the events in the book (which I will not disclose) have haunted my thoughts. The twins are disturbingly nonchalant to the amount of suffering and atrocity they faced. If you truly pay attention, you’ll realize that there were never twin brothers to begin with. I cannot even begin to explain how mind-boggling and disturbing this read was. ) PODCASTS

Coco Wizards of Waverly Place Boy Meets World Aladdin Inside Out Moana Tangled If you have Hulu Parasite Big time Adolescence Bumble bee Zombieland Lady Macbeth Fighting with my family The cabin in the woods A simple favor Booksmart Instant family

Pod Save America (hosted by Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer and Tommy Vietor) This podcast is a progressive political discussion hosted by four of Obama’s former aides. They regularly bring in politicians, entertainers, activists, and many more figures in the media to update listeners on the politics of the United States.

One of the few political podcasts I actually love and listen to, it strikes a perfect balance of entertainment, awareness, and humor. Not only do they provide awareness and explanation of the complexities of politics in America, but they do it in a way that won’t bore you six feet under. One of my personal podcast selections.

Best Friends (hosted by Nicole Byers and Sasheer Zamata) A casual, humorous podcast hosted by comedians Nicole Byers and Sasheer Zamata, we follow them on their antics of their living and friendship. No specifics, just whatever is talked about is talked about!

One of my personal favorite podcasts, the casual talks between the two and their antics is a point of entertainment for me. Definitely uncensored, definitely not for kids at times; it truly is a rollercoaster.

Entertainment

April 2020

Games

Fabian Amarosa Art Director With every year comes new games and 2020 is no exception! With a wide variety of titles and genres this year, there are games for every type of gamer.

So, let’s dive in and take a look!

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX [Switch] - March 6th A a large part of many people’s childhoods, including mine, so many people are excited for this new release in the series. The excitement of being able to go back through and do the personality quiz again to get your pokemon (Vulpix Gang!) and just experience the nostalgia leaves it to be a game people are looking forward to.

Animal Crossing Switch New Horizons [Switch] - March 20th This is what any real gamer has been waiting for. A hardcore, intense, blood boiling game for the Switch! In all actuality, this calm game is perfect for any new/returning gamer to the Animal Crossing series. A fan favorite in games that leaves many people bubbling over with eagerness and excitement for this game.

Doom Eternal [PC, PS4, XBO] - March 20th Cool microwave...but can it run Doom? Off the bat, this game looks amazing, following good ol’ Doomguy through the trenches of hell with one mission...rip and tear until it is done. With refined graphics and availability on most of the large consoles this classic is something any game enthusiast must have.

Half-Life: Alyx [PC, VR] - March 23rd Ask and you shall kind of receive, while it’s not Half-Life 3 it’s still something good. Half-Life: Alyx is a prequel to Half-Life 2 also taking place before the events of Half-Life 2. Players control Alyx Vance as she and her father Eli fight the occupying alien Combine. While it’s sadly not what all HL fans have been 100% hoping for it’s still exciting to get a new game in the series and see that Valve still has some interest in it.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake [PS4] - April 10th Ahh, good ol’ Final Fantasy, king of remakes and sequels galore. Though that isn’t always a bad thing as a remake of the most popular game in the series is what many people have been wanting. As a remake of the original Final Fantasy 7, many rpg fans are drooling over this release.

The Last of Us Part 2 [PS4] - May 29th The Last of Us, the hit action-adventure survival game released in 2013 that has over 200 game of the year awards, is getting a sequel! The game is set in a post-apocalyptic landscape and looks to follow Ellie through a new exciting journey that we can’t wait to see.

Pokemon Sword and Shield: The Isle of Armor Expansion [Switch] - June 2020 With any new game nowadays DLC is soon to follow, but that isn't always sorrowful! The DLC for Pokemon Sword and Shield isn’t just some extra land to explore, it includes over 200 more pokemon (49 more than the original pokemon games) and with the extra expanse leave much more for players to explore!

Cyberpunk 2077 [PC, PS4, XBO] - September 17th Wake up samurai, we’ve got a game to get. Initially scheduled to release April 16th, it’s date was pushed back, which is good as we would rather have a good game that’s late than a rushed game that is on time. This role-playing game is set in the cybernetic future and even includes Keanu Reeves as a npc. While a little delayed,we are still excited to see this game in it’s full glory when it comes out.

Tame Impala

Lizzy Zuniga Editor-In-Chief/News Editor Tame Impala is a five member rock group from Australia: guitarist Kevin Parker and Dominic Simper. Synthesizer, Cam Avery. As well as Jay Watson and Julien Barbagallo.

They currently have two albums out, the first being Currents, released in 2015. Their most recent album is The Slow Rush. Currents has a total of 13 songs, whereas The Slow Rush has 12!

The group is a part of many different genres, including Psychedelic rock, Psychedelic pop, and Neo-psychedelia. All of their songs, they have really mellow beats.

Kevin Parker is the leadman for the group, and he definitely took his time perfecting The Slow Rush, as it took four years since the last release.

Parker worked on Travis Scott's album, which inspired his music. Song like “borderline” bring high energy that dares you not to bounce your foot.

Each song plays a story, for instance “Lost in Yesterday” talks about reliving memories.

Netflix Movie Kimberly De Anda & Linda Cabral Staff Reporters If you’re bored at home and want to watch movies and don’t know what to watch, here are some recommendations…

The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez- A crime documentary based on a true murder and abuse of Gabriel Fernandez, an eight-year-old from Palmdale.

What happened to Monday- A action movie based on 7 sisters named Monday-Sunday. They cannot be discovered due to the rule of families only being able to have one child because of overpopulation. They avoid government confrontation. They also investigate the disappearance of one of their own.

Someone Great- A girl that is going through a 9 year relationship breakup because she has to move to San Francisco to pursue her career as a music journalist, she and her two best friends go out for the last time and try to make the best of it before she leaves New York.

Therefore, if you are bored and don’t know what to watch, you might consider watching one of these, sit down, grab some snacks and relax.

P.S I Love You Estefania Pinedo Staff Reporter After the long-awaited year after watching To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before the sequel To All The Boys P.S I Still Love You directed by Micheal Fimognari was released February 12 of 2020. *Spoiler!* The film is about Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) and Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) that have just taken their relationship from pretending to officially official when another recipient is John Ambrose Mclaren (John Fisher), and one of her old love letters enters the picture, and his arrival complicates Lara Jean and Peter’s relationship. Personally, I think the film was good, but too rushed and the main characters didn’t really bring out the chemistry to fully understand the dilemma between either being on Kavinsky’s or Mclaren’s side. The two movies are about hindsight painting a bigger picture, the sporadic voiceover references that Covey’s fantasies have been shaped by films and the novel she reads. Although, there is a bit of controversy of viewers agreeing whether the sequel met the expectations that were envisioned. Perhaps reading the novel by Jenny Han will clear up anything that was misinterpreted from the film and clear up the controversy.

Great news is that there will be a third film To All the Boys: Always and Forever, Lara Jean that Netflix has yet to set the release date, but has let fans know it is currently in post-production. Based on Jenny Han's third To All The Boys novel, the film will most likely follow Covey and Kavinsky as they are wrapping up their final year of high school while getting ready for life after and preparing for the next chapter in their life. So, what will happen next? As for how much of this will go into the movie unchanged?

Page 11

Dominic’s Album

Johnny Loi Commentary Editor Artist Dominic Fike’s debut EP, Don’t Forget About Me, Demos, combines melodies of hip-hop and pop for a mere six songs and a combined total time of 14 minutes.

Born and raised in Naples, Florida, the then local artist was sought after by music giants like Columbia Records (which signed Fike) due to his upcoming. He had recorded part of his EP while on house arrest, and had released a demo tape while in jail prior to this.

Under Columbia Records, the revised EP Don’t Forget About Me, Demos was released in 2018. It has truly become one of my all-time favorite albums.

Though short and simple, something keeps me coming back.

“3 Nights” - An upbeat, high energy tune, “3 Nights” describes Fike’s interactions and woes with a certain someone. Since it’s release, the song has even been featured in former President Barack Obama’s list of his favorite songs in 2019. It is a personal listen that I use to wake myself up. It’s upbeat and fast-paced tone provides me with the energy I need to begin my day.

“She Wants My Money” - One of the slower, calmenergy songs on the album, the strums of an electric guitar combined with Fike’s soothing and farreaching vocals achieve a sort of inner peace when listened to. It is truly a display of Fike’s incredible vocals, which exert a soothing and slower effect. It is a song for a long commute.

“Babydoll” - Through the guitar, vocals, and overall melody of this slower and heartfelt song, the influence of rock artist Jack Johnson is clearly seen. The lyrics describe a sort of aimless wandering, a description of his inability to move on from his past.

From lines such as: Find me on Miami concrete Lookin' for somebody different 'cause my daddy was a pimp My mama had her issues but I miss her anyway Fike discusses topics such as the instability of his parents. In “Babydoll,” he shows a slight but everinforming look into his less than favorable upbringings.

“Westcoast Collective” - Another song on the album with a strong guitar presence, “Westcoast Collective” gives a rebellious, free life sort of tone. It is a reminiscence of how he lived his life in Florida, a tribute to his punk-like teen days wandering streets and experiences.

“Socks” - Much slower than any of the songs on the rest of the album, it presents more simple instrumentals and vocals. It is clear that this song is much more emotion-oriented; it is a mellow and calm listen meant to incite memory and emotion. Lines such as If I set fire to these walls right now Would I set foot inside your mind?

And if you say yes, am I allowed back in? present a tone that is unlike what we have already been presented. Fike shows his disorientation, his longing for something unattainable unless validated. This song has the same calming and tiring effect as if you were to come back into shelter after a day of wallowing in the bright sun.

“King of Everything” - This song offers a sort of dreamy, night-time listen. His vocal audio and instrumentals seem to be a bit disorientated and mumbly, contributing to the dreamy night-time tone of the overall song.

April 2020

Sports

Page 12

Shout-out to the girls basketball team for making the playoffs.

Way to go girls!

Shout-out to the Boys basketball C team for an awesome undefeated season!

Westminster High Wrestling Worked Hard Steven A. Montoya Sports Editor Although the season has ended, that doesn’t mean we stop now. The Westminster High Wrestling team had a great season by pushing themselves and never giving up, and from now on, all they can do now is keep up with training to do better next year.

Junior Caleb Romero, a previous member of the Wrestling team for Westminster High, has faced some challenges throughout the season, but they never stopped him from getting better and better for each match. Romero felt that a challenge that has been something to get past was getting new coaches, and since he didn’t have a summer program to keep up with skills, he felt a little far back from being in tip top shape for the season. Although the season has ended, it doesn’t mean you can’t plan on ahead with new goals. A goal that Romero has set for next season is to go to take first at nationals and learn another form of wrestling called Greco. Lastly, Romero felt that his best match throughout the season was here at a tournament in the Wolves den. He had won two matches leading up to one final awesome battle between him and Sheridan’s 113. He was in the lead, until a last second pin stole his victory, and afterwards, Romero learned a lot from the loss and dedicated himself to a lot of cardio, so for next season, he won’t be taken down.

Sophomore Jose Colon(Joey), was another member of the Westminster High wrestling team. Something Colon felt was a big challenge through the season was everything involved with wrestling, considering it his first year. He really found it to be not easy and saw how much determination and effort it took to wrestle, but nothing stopped him from moving on. He knew that quitting would never make you any better, and you just have to keep going, and he felt that firm motivation to move on and get better. A goal Colon has set for next season is to be more aggressive in his matches and improve his techniques. Colon’s best match was a home tournament, he mentioned he lost, but he got some really good moves in, and he worked really hard to get there and give it his all. So, with the season done, now all that’s left to do is prepare and get better than before, so he can take home those wins!