Welcome, Eagles, to Summer Nights! by Jordan Brooks
Photographed by Jordan Brooks
22 August, 2014, Olympian High School finishes the fourth week of school with a resounding bang! at Summer Nights last Friday afternoon, rounding up its greeting to the new group of freshmen flocking in from their former middle schools as well as to the returning sophomores, juniors, and seniors from their summer vacations.
Summer Nights took place from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
One of the primary purposes of this special event, besides to invoke pride within its newly arriving and current students, is to showcase the clubs, sports teams, and many talents of the students here at Olympian High. It is an opportunity for clubs to advertise their cause and potentially recruit new members, to demonstrate the initiative and passion of their members, and to fund raise for the development of their interests and to meet their undoubtedly high goals for this school year. (It is also one of the rarer opportunities for students to purchase funnel cakes, cotton candy, and popcorn at the school, but I digress.)
One such club is the “Just Worlds” Club, which was selling cake pops last Friday with the charitable purpose of raising money for kids in Cambodia, Honduras, Guatemala, and parts of Africa. The purpose of the club is to donate the money to these countries--and regions--and to help fund the improvement of their waterways--which, in their current condition, do not provide the sanitary water that the locals require--as well as the construction of schools for the children that live there.
Another club at Olympian High that has just begun to pave its way into the school, is the Robotics Club. As the name of the club may entail, this club is predominantly designed for our Eagle engineers who are eager to take on the next technological challenge. On Friday, the club was selling nachos in order to raise money to enter a competition. As far as the Newspaper Staff have been informed, the competition entails that the Olympian Robotics Club--teamed up with another such club--must build a leverage device with wheels to lift a plastic ball--so something that has a specific function--and to build a robot that is capable of placing objects on top of a line of pillars, also constructed by the club.
The Cinema Club had a booth set up with a game akin to the “Wheel of Fortune”. Students at Summer Nights had the opportunity of playing to win by spinning the wheel and correctly guessing the name of the movie that went with their selected triangle. Lucky winner got a candy prize! And, for those not so lucky, there was still plenty of opportunity to play the game again or to take the less complicated route of buying the candy. Members of the Cinema Club select and watch movies together and have socratic seminars about them after, analyzing the different characters and symbols that the movie had.
A very interesting club, which happened to be sitting across from the Newspaper Club booth, was the Drama Club. With an array of colorful costumes waiting on a rack behind the staff members, the Drama Club held a photo booth during Summer Nights, allowing students to dress up--for a modest price--in their costumes, and to have their photo taken and printed on the spot. Speaking with the president of Drama Club, Amira Temple, the purpose of the club’s photo booth was to raise money for future productions at Olympian High and to potentially get enough funds for the members to visit professional theatres in the area or to even visit Broadway in New York!
Homecoming Night: How We are “California Dreamin’” by Jordan Brooks
Photographed by Jordan Brooks
This year, on October 11, 2014, the Class of 2015 sponsored Olympian High’s Homecoming Dance at Coronado’s Loews Hotel with the selected theme “California Dreamin’”. Class of 2015 hoped to recall the magic of a night on the beach with glowing lanterns, crystal water glasses with fish, and a romantic venue that was placed just by the Californian coast. The dance was scheduled from seven to eleven o’clock that evening and promised a night to remember. There were two photo booths for the many attendants that were interested, one that was placed outside of the ballroom for guests that wished to capture the elegant and formal moment of the dance as well as one that was in the ballroom for those that wanted to take a really fun pictures with their friends, hilarious props and costumes included.
From the perspective of an attendant, the dance was fairly quiet at first, as friends met at different tables to talk or admire Class of 2015’s decorations, but from the moment that the DJs of the night played the “Cupid Shuffle”, the dance floor was filled with dresses, suits, and bare feet (as it is only appropriate and expected for heels to be removed after the first hour of a dance) to the end. Throughout the night, dance attendees were able to request songs to which they wanted to dance with friends or to get the courage to ask a special someone to dance. One of these requests was made by the very President of Class of 2015 himself, Yuma Kim to his date, and President of the ASB, Emily McKinnis. While I have no intentions to intrude on their lovely moment during the dance with this article, there is no denying that it was, indeed, a very lovely moment to see two of the leading members of Class of 2015 slow dancing to “I Need You Baby” (yes, because we can appreciate the oldies) on the last Homecoming dance of their high school careers. From that moment forward, a series of other dance songs finished the night, with everyone on the dance floor for the last time for the “Wobble” line dance.
However, as fun as the dance had been by itself, the night turned a little sour--and, admittedly, even more memorable--when a gentleman was discovered stealing purses and iPhones that the students had abandoned at their tables. Speaking to one girl who had had her wallet stolen during the dance, the event had been a total shock. One moment she was dancing, hearing rumors about a thief lurking around, then when she rushed to her table to secure her items, she discovered that her wallet was gone. As the dance ended, students walked out into the hallway just as the man was tackled to the ground by security and some of our own male teachers. (Go, Eagles!)
Fortunately, all wallets, purses, and phones were returned that night and everyone was able to return home peacefully… Well, except the thief, perhaps.
Homecoming: More Memorable Than Students Bargained For by Zusel Alarid
The Homecoming dance ended with a little more chaos than expected, leaving it to be an even more memorable event. On Saturday October 11, 2014, towards the end of what was to be a dreamy night turned into chaos when students reported that their belongings, such as purses, phones, and wallets were missing. According to the Assistant Principals (AP’s) Mr. Wahib, Ms. Grossman, Mr. Lara, and Mr. Melendrez who were at the dance, the man who had been stealing the items had been a guest at a wedding that happened to be taking place on the same night.
Speaking to Ms. Grossman, she said that the security of both the hotel and Olympian High School’s staff included 4 AP’s and 10 teachers that “do the best they can [to protect the students] but the man had access because he was a guest. Staff was very vigilant and checked around constantly.” Mr. Melendrez said that the man wandered in and has no idea how he got in by himself. He believes that the hotel “should be careful with who goes in and out”. He thinks that he and the staff did as much as they could to be vigilant and to keep students safe, he assures that student safety is always a priority, and he says that he and the rest of the staff always “stop everyone without identification or a badge in order to prevent strangers from coming on campus with students”. From Mr. Lara’s perspective, the hotel security was quick to arrive and deal with the culprit. According to him “It was some guy not related to the school, who was a guest at the hotel.” He did not stop him when he saw him because he thought it was a parent. Mr. Lara stated that, because it was a public location, the situation was dealt with as effectively as possible and nobody was hurt. He wants to reiterate that due to the unexpected things that can occur when an area is not exclusive to Olympian High there are rules every student and their guests must follow. In my opinion I think Mr. Wahib could be considered the hero of the night, he retold the events as he remembered them. “When I first saw him I thought he was a parent waiting for a student since it was towards the end of the dance and he was dressed accordingly. But I still followed him since parents were not allowed inside the room where student were at without permission. The guy passed by a table, looked around, and then grabbed a purse, as also reported by various students. That is when I realized he was not there to pick up a student, so I followed him into the service hall in the back and questioned him regarding his reasons for being in the same room as the students. When he lied and said he was there to pick up a student, I asked for his name. He gave it to me, but when I asked for a last name he hesitated and told me that he was lying. I asked him to show me what he had in his pocket. He pulled out two phones and took off running before being tackled by a student and an employee. No one was hurt, but Grossman and others escorted students out and made the exit smooth.” This all happened in the last 10 minutes of Homecoming and lasted approximately 7 minutes according to Wahib. Luckily, no one was hurt and all the belongings were returned but the thief was not arrested however the hotel banned him from returning. Nevertheless, that accident could have been avoided if the school along with the hotel had been more attentive.
At the end of the day, however, the students were happy with the outcome of the Class of 2015’s efforts that were put into the dance, Rodrigo Blanco stated “The dance was fun, interesting and funny. The centerpieces were AMAZING!” Stephen Burden, who is a senior and also part of ASB says “It was fun, but the dance floor was too small for everyone”, Michelle Mariscal says she enjoyed the dance but thought “there was too much space between the tables”, Sydney Watkins agreed that the “dance floor was too small and the DJ was bad because the music he played was not danceable.” Overall, students were happy and enjoyed the amazing night, despite the incident towards the end. To some, the event involving the thief hadn’t mattered because the dance was unforgettable either way. There were also many places where pictures were taken to remember the good parts of the night.
Eagles Enjoy an Evening of Fun and Football by Kassandra Ibarra
Photograph from OHS Link Crew
On Friday September 19, 2014, the Pavilion was the sight of one of the first festive events of the new school year, one especially created by Olympian’s own Link Crew Team to welcome the new students to the wonderful school. Freshman boys--and the occasional girl--got excited for an invigorating game of volleyball, while the Link crew leaders attended to the preparations of grilling hot dogs and welcoming a crowd of ninth graders to the third annual Freshmen barbecue. Held by the Link Crew program since 2012, this tailgate is a chance for freshmen to enjoy food, fun, and football. All complimentary, the freshmen have the opportunity to experience the year’s first Olympian home game. Though a prospect for an enjoyable time, Mrs. Rodriguez-- the coordinator of the Link Program, as well as a history and peer mediation teacher--stated that the purpose of the barbecue was not limited to a social event. “We hope that our 9th graders walk away from the BBQ feeling cared for, valued , and, of course, connected to OHS. ” said Mrs Rodriguez when interviewed by the newspaper staff. The motive of the tailgate is not that far from the Link Crew Program’s mission. An excellent program, the diverse group of Link Leaders offer their time to the freshmen, so that the new students can become well acquainted with one another and their leaders as well as, ultimately, feel a part of the OHS family. Remember, Freshmen, the tailgate is not the only event to look forward to, Link Crew will also have a leadership assembly in November, the 3rd annual Cocoa & Cram study session in December, and an ice cream Social in May. From all of us here at OHS we welcome the class of 2018 and on behalf of Mrs. Rodriguez may the Freshmen class utilize the wisdom that Link Crew Leaders have to offer, so that they too can soar.
Halloween: We Do It Now, We Did it Then by Jazmyn Liwag
With Halloween quickly approaching, it seems only fitting that we consider the origins of this eerie yet beloved tradition. Halloween originates from an ancient Celtic tradition, Samhain (pronounced sah-win). The Celts modern-day France, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. They celebrated the new year on November 1st, which could be compared to today’s New Year’s Day. It was a belief of the Celts that on October 31st, the day before the new year, the barrier between the living and the dead broke down. On this day, the ghosts would be able to travel to this world, therefore making it easier for Druids to predict the future. This practice was generally performed around bonfires and most people wore costumes modeled after animals.
The Romans conquered the Celts around 43 A.D. Many Roman traditions fused with Samhain, such as Feralia, a day that honored the dead, and a day that honored the Roman goddess of fruit and trees, Pomona. It is from these customs that the routine of “bobbing for apples” on Halloween was born.
One major contribution to the development of Halloween includes when Pope Gregory III expanded and moved the “All Martyrs Day” from May 13th to November 1st. Similar to previous Roman rituals, this day eventually blended with Celtic culture. Later, “All Soul’s Day” was created by the Roman Catholic Church, presumably as an attempt to replace Samhain. However, many routines were similar between the two, such as the lighting of bonfires and dressing in elaborate costumes. All Souls Day was also known as All-Hallowmas, so the day preceding it was called All-hallows Eve, which would evolve into “Halloween”.
When Halloween came to the Americas, it declined in popularity due to the Americans’ separation from the Catholic Church. Nevertheless, Halloween boomed once again during the potato famine of the nineteenth century. People would go door-to-door asking for money or spare food, thus creating today’s custom of “trick-or-treating”.
Clearly, Halloween has a mysterious and magical history tied to it.
Chalk Art by Mrs. Exum & Co. by Jordan Brooks
Photographed by Jordan Brooks
Introducing masterpieces created by both Mrs. Exum’s Advanced Art class and AP Art class, here is some of the chalk art that the students have been working on these first few weeks of September.
While this particular piece was produced by a couple of Mrs. Exum’s graduated students, it was the first sample of chalk art to be created--and is it not the most gorgeous thing to ever grace the school grounds? If this image of a powerful eagle highlighted by a warm, sunlit background does not inspire even the smallest amount of pride in our students, then nothing will!
Regarding the designs of these chalk drawings, the art students were told to choose famous artworks--such as the ones portrayed here--that they wanted to use for inspiration. The students arranged themselves into groups, each of the skilled members working together to complete the task set before them. Using the grid plan, the students drew a guide on an approved copy of their inspiration piece, using that guide to mimic the grid they drew on the ground and to make it easier to divide the work among themselves.
Speaking to Mrs. Exum, it was revealed that the students, as beautiful as these works are, were only practicing, for the chalk festival in little Italy, a competition among the art students from different schools. These pieces were to be submitted in their application for the contest.
The Starry Night by Van Gogh, depicted above, is actually an image that the painter saw from his asylum window. This work was completed in 1889 during the Post-Impressionist period of art, during which an artist would capture a single fleeting moment with quick and short brushstrokes and typically with an unidealized color palette that would capture the colors of that passing moment.
The original artwork of the American Gothic was finished in 1930 by Grant Wood, an artist that liked to emphasize Midwestern subjects in the rural regions in the United States. This particular painting, as an explanation for its given name, portrays a father and a daughter from an American rural family, both with very somber expressions, standing in front of their house, which has characteristics from the Gothic and grandiose period of architecture.
The Scream by Van Gogh, which has also been called “The Cry” marks the story of a man who had been walking with his friends until, in sudden exhaustion and feeling ill, and within the warm and swirling confusion of his environment, the man releases a scream. This painting is a work of the Symbolist period that prefigured Expressionist art. The bright colors in the background, reminiscent of fire, as well as the figure’s expression convey the sense of anguish that he or the artist feels.
Review of Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Ali Martinez
When I am asked about my favorite book, it is almost impossible to choose. Millions upon millions of book plots and characters pop up in my mind, all yelling to be chosen. But the one book that has truly stuck out to me was To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
One of the major reasons why this book stands the test of time is because the beauty of the characters in To Kill a Mockingbird is noticed by anyone who comes across the book. The book was published in 1960. Yet, these characters have stayed in the hearts of so many people not necessarily because they make the book more human and relatable ,but seeing the books through the eyes of Scout is one of the reasons that the book is a masterpiece. Through Scout, you see that growing up slowly dwindles your innocence and the delicate way you see the world with wild eyes. You see this same message with Jem and Dill, but what makes the book amazing is the way you see Scout’s world through her eyes. Then you have Atticus, Jem and Scout's widowed father, as a lawyer, he makes decisions not only with his heart but with much consideration. There is even a hint to mystery in this book with the man that lives an isolated life in the corner of their street. Mr. Radley, although very kind, is perceived as a mean madman and is often quite bothered by kids; like Scout and Jem, for example. Then there are characters like Tom Robinson, Bob Ewell, and Mayella Ewell that are important to the whole climax of the book and the Tom Robinson case.What makes the book a true classic is that the characters have so many intricate layers that a movie could never fully display.
Racism is prevalent throughout the book To Kill a Mockingbird. Never kill a mockingbird for their sweet sound. This is an incredibly powerful message,that is evident in Tom Robinson, Mr.Radley, and Atticus. They were the mockingbirds; they were misunderstood and outcast for doing what they felt was right. The book taught me that it is every person’s need to be loved: even the darkest, even the smallest. The book helped me understand life. That is no exaggeration. To Kill a Mockingbird struck a chord in my heart and taught me how to feel and love the human race, with all its flaws and variations.
The Peter Pan Play by Brandon Cordero
Photographed by Carolina Martinez
This year’s production of Olympian’s Peter Pan play was definitely a feast for the eyes. From the actors, to the wardrobe, to the props and settings, the Drama Club definitely did the story of Peter Pan justice. The actors were just absolutely astonishing. Every actor absolutely perfected their part to a limit that was over the top. The way every actor was able to stay in character, without a single freight or flaw throughout the play, was definitely an act of true potential in their acting careers. Props to Stephanie Emerson, for her patience, and skill in the art of fashion, for making the actor’s beautiful costumes. Prop makers, wonderful job on capturing the beautiful moments of Peter Pan, and making the story come to life. I interviewed a fellow woman in the audience by the name of Emma, she quotes, “Loved the play! It brought the story that I knew and loved to watch as a little girl, to life. The actors, costumes, and props were quite the cherry on top! I’ve seen other productions of Peter Pan, but none were as magical or beautiful as Olympian’s!” Overall, Olympian’s production of Peter Pan was an amazing play that’s great and suitable for any age! It lightens up any day and will definitely make anyone leave with a smile! I’d give this year’s production of Peter Pan two thumbs up, and would definitely love to see it again!
Independent Studies: “What is it, really?” From the Eyes of a Student by Zusel Alarid
Independent Studies. When people speak about it, it seems to sound like heaven for a student: the chance to study on your own, free time to do whatever you want with no responsibility, not having to deal with a teacher or others peering over your shoulder, and, finally, no finals. By definition, Independent Studies is an alternative education program in which a student completes work based on an outline, without the assistance of an instructor.
However, from personal experience, it really is not as amazing as it sounds. I am not behind on my credits for graduation, however I had decided to go into the program as a way to prevent that very thing from happening, especially because my school attendance was becoming inconsistent. Upon enrolling in Independent Studies, the coordinator explained to me that there are many disadvantages to being enrolled in the alternative education program. I would not be able to take any advanced or honors or accelerated classes, I could not take a math course because their math levels were not high enough, and that some credits may not be counted if I ever wanted to join the armed forces. As a student enrolled in the alternative education program, being involved in activities on the main campus is also prohibited so that was a major factor in making my decision. Nevertheless, I saw it as a more fitting choice since I wanted to finish fast in order to go back to school.
There are three sessions, first the morning session which is from 8-10, the second session that is from 10-12 and the afternoon session which starts at 1 and ends at 3; when enrolling you must choose a session that is the most convenient so that you are able attend the weekly meetings. In those weekly meetings work is turned, if no work is turned or you do not show up then the teacher marks you as absent for the whole week. I decided to go to the morning session so I would not lose the habit of waking up early for school. The first day I got a course outline and a book, the teacher instructed me to take a seat and to work quietly. The course outline included assignments of every chapter in the book with an addition of an assessment for each; I also had to write notes for every page assigned. When I first began I created a schedule to try to finish as soon as possible, however I was not able to stick with it. A class or a credit usually takes 3-4 week, but since I had so much free time I procrastinated and it took me 6 weeks. I did not fall behind too much because I already had a partial credit on other classes but it still affected my grade. A partial credit is given when 55% or more of a class is completed with a ‘C’ credit or higher. Grades are based on the aspect of the assignment, tests, attendance and quality of the notes. I am almost finished with the 4 credits I needed in 9 weeks so I will be able to return to school in January, but there are other students in the program who have been in the program for more than 14 weeks and have little to no credits completed. Honestly to be successful in the program I think one should be very responsible and able to work without the instruction of a supervisor.
Despite my positive experience, I would not recommend this program to students unless it was necessary. If I had had the opportunity to stay in school I would have because I miss my friends, being involved in extracurricular activities and having a teacher answer my questions. As a student, I feel this program would help a lot if you were uncertain about graduating since it is an easier and faster way to complete credits without the pressure of falling behind in school. However, if you really have the choice and are able to get through your credits successfully, stay in school!