Friday, June 1, 2018 El Rodeo @elrodeonews El Rancho High School Volume 66. Issue 9 www.elrodeonews.com Dons dance under the ERHS honors seniors’ accomplishments at awards night Grecian lights at prom literacy Seal, was one of the best moments of my life because it was one of my main goals since middle school,” said Asencio. “Every language I learn is an ac- complishment for me because that means that there may be more opportunities in the future.” Afterward, students apart of the Early College Academy with Rio Hondo received black cords. Additional rewards were given for Academic Decathlon, California Scholarship Fed- By Bremo Martinez eration, Generation 1st Degree, El Rodeo Staff Writer College Blueprint, CEC Whit- tier College Mentor Program, Prom, the event most high AVID, MESA, Project Lead school seniors dream about the Way, and Scholar Athletes. finally arrived on May 12th. Approximately $124,000 The Grecian Nights-themed in scholarships were awarded prom was not only extrava- to over 50 students. Scholar- gant but a wonderful event ships included Birney Dad’s for the senior’s last dance. By Leslie Plaza seniors for their accomplish- “I felt proud and ac- Club, Don Booster Club, Frank El Rodeo Staff Writer Prom took place at ments throughout the four years. complished for honor crest,” Terrazas, Pio Pico’s Woman’s Santa Anita Race Track on a Guest speakers such as said Andrea Chavez. “It’s some- Club, the Southern California El Rancho’s annual Awards Dr. Aurora R. Villon, President thing I’ve been working towards Gas Company, and many more. rather cloudy day. Seniors ar- Night, held on May 2nd, celebrat- of El Rancho Unified School Dis- since middle school and it feels Also, alumni from class of 1967, rived in stylish vehicles such ed seniors’ accomplishments in ac- trict’s Board of Education, and great to have it become a reality.” 1977, and 1997 returned to as limousines, party buses, ademics and athleticism. Students Karling Aguilera-Fort, Super- Additionally, the Biliteracy award students with scholarships. rental cars, their parent’s received scholarships, cords, cer- intendent of El Rancho Unified Seal was awarded to students who “I wasn’t expecting a schol- cars, or even their own cars. tificates, and pins for their hard- School District, acknowledged were able to master both English arship,” says Chavez,” but I sure Upon entering the race work and dedication to their edu- the students’ accomplishments and a second language. Students am grateful to the donor and will track, there was a red carpet cation throughout high school. and provided insight and advice. who spoke French and Spanish definitely put it to good use!” which divided students into The evening began with The ceremony quickly be- were also recognized and awarded. To conclude the evening, alphabetical order by last El Rancho Principal Hector gan by distributing the Honor Jacqueline Ascencio and Vasquez again thanked the audi- name. After checking in, stu- Vasquez recognizing staff, coun- Crest sash, which was awarded Stephanie Moran were hon- ence, guest speakers, El Rancho dents were allowed to vote for selors, administration, school to 166 students out of 612, over ored with the Triliteracy Seal Unified School District, par- prom king and prom queen. board, special guests, and the 25%. Seniors chanted for one due to their mastery in Eng- ents, and finally students. Stu- friends and family attending. another and parents cheered lish, Spanish, and French. dents will wear their cords and This year’s Prom King Additionally, Vasquez honored for their sons and daughters. “Honestly winning the Tri- pins for graduation on June 6th. and Prom Queen were An- drew Sepulveda and Krys- tal Marquez. The two, be- ing best friends, were very Sugar! hits the sweet spot fortunate and happy to win. By Leslie Plaza Prom Queen, Krystal El Rodeo Staff Writer Marquez, said: “I was re- ally nervous [about] run- Tears, laughter, singing, and ning against beautiful candi- cheers poured from the Little The- dates who looked amazing ater from May 9-12 for Mr. Stan- that night, so I wasn’t ex- ley Wlasick’s final musical Sugar! pecting [to win] at all.” In the play, musical bums “I was hesitant in go- Jerry, played by junior Tony Cor- ing to prom so it was defi- tez, and Joe, played by senior Da- vid Marquez, seek to land a job nitely worth it! It was also in Chicago. Rumors of an all-fe- such an amazing feeling to male band spread and desperation win with my best friend, grows. Jerry and Joe decide to Andrew,” adds Marquez. dress as women in order to travel The area of the event was with the ban to Miami, Florida. not at all crowded and provided Complications occur when enough tables and space for ev- Jerry and Joe witness a mur- eryone and their guest. The up- der scene by famous mob boss stairs area held food, desserts, “Taps” Columbo, played by drinks, and the dance floor. Xavier Marquez, and his gang- attitude his character possessed. Although he’s no stranger rected Sugar! for the 1991 musical. However, on the main sters, played by Geysha Govea “In all honesty, I didn’t to performing music, Marquez’s A surprise in the musical amused and Jordan Strickling. Jerry and acting also surprised the audience level, there was a photo booth choose drama,” says Cor- the audience on Friday’s produc- Joe are forced to deal with the tez. “It was given to me by since he hasn’t taken the class. tion when 1991 actors Joe Sepul- with props, karaoke, and complications of being Daphne my counselor, so I just went “My mom was in drama veda, playing Joe/Josephine, Joe a lit up carriage. The car- and Josephine, their female iden- for it. I like to think for some when she was in high school,” says Jimenez, playing Jerry/Daphne, riage looked beautiful and tities, as well as hiding their true weird reason drama chose me.” Marquez, “and she was the one and actress Erika Chavez-Blez- guests took two to five laps identity from the gangsters. They Sugar is an indecisive, yet who really pushed me to try it out.” inski, playing Sugar, performed around the track in a circle. even deal with complications ambitious character, who seeks Additionally, the play took on stage along with Wlasick. At the end of the night, over a girl, Sugar Kane, played to marry a rich man living in a different turn than the drama Wlasick delivered his fi- people struggled to put their by junior Natalie Sepulveda. Miami. Sepulveda ironically production’s previous musicals. nal drama production Sugar! high heels on after danc- Although the play presents uses wit to present her charac- Sugar! had many suggestive in- with the passion and dedication ing the night away. Prom serious, the actors and actresses ter in a rather innocent light, nuendos that parents couldn’t for performing and directing. was an overall success and maintain a humorous environ- since Sugar is not so pure. Mak- help but laugh. However, the play “Thank you, El Ran- left seniors and their guests ment. Cortez’s facial expression ing Sugar act more innocent al- wasn’t inappropriate, so children cho, for giving me the chance throughout the play delivered were able to enjoy the play as well. happy, tired, and fulfilled. lows for her desire to marry a to sing!” says Mr. Wlasick. both the humorous and realistic rich man seem less promiscuous. Wlasick had previously di- El Rodeo, Pg 2 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 FEATURES ER students recognized for their writing kov about his book, Lolita,” says By Emily Lopez Grisco. “I related to the main Advisor El Rodeo Staff Writer character and her struggles.” Paul Zeko The letter allowed her to express Editor-in-Chief Mr. Sorenson, junior AP how the book made her feel. Aleksey Soto English teacher, assigned all of “I’m excited that someone Copy Editors his classes to participate in the Li- enjoyed my suffering and I’m Sebastian Carcano brary of Congress Letters About nervous that people will want the Alonzo .Murrieta Literature National Writing Con- full story,” says Grisco. “It’s im- Leslie Plaza test. Juniors, Maggie Grisco and portant to not be afraid to get per- Business Manager Yazlin Juarez, finished in the Top sonal and write from the heart.” Leslie Plaza 10 list for the national contest. Yazlin also wrote about Section Editors “At first, I just saw it as something that was important to News Aleksey Soto a class assignment, but then I her. “I chose to write about a little- Juarez reads the book that got her into the top 10! Features really connected to the idea,” known book titled Cantora by Syl- meaning to my family and I. to self-discovery,” says Juarez. Sofia Dominguez says Maggie Grisco. Each stu- via Lopez-Medina,” says Juarez. My mother read it as a young, Both Juarez and Grisco’s Fatima Lopez Campus dent was asked to pick their The letter was a great way woke college student in Ethnic accomplishments show that El Emily Lopez favorite book and write about for these writers to express how Studies/Literature class. It has Rancho has great talent and that Mariela Michel the impact of it to its author. these books impacted their lives. been passed down to me and everyone can be a great writer. Sports “I wrote to Vladimir Nabo- “This book has a special Selina Torres my other sisters on our route Entertainment Devenie Anchondo Leslie Plaza Francis and Melgar take on Decathlon Senior Favorites studying the Sixties and it’s mul- state. We want to use our time wise- Aleksey Soto tiple aspects through topics in- #FROMELRANCHOTOANYWHERE ly and effectively while we study, Leslie Plaza cluding Art, Math, Science, Social but also keep the tradition of creat- Retiring Teacher Farewells Science, Economics, Literature, ing a family within the team alive.” Bianca Arias and Music. The Decathlon team “We understand that team- Senior Wills Sofia Dominguez will also prepare for performance work and the whole team sup- Fatima Lopez tasks including Speech, Es- porting one another as a group Staff Farewells say, Interview, and Impromptu. and as individuals is crucial,” Bremo Martinez Advising a new team is Francis said, “dealing with per- Kayla Perez Staff Appreciation a big task but Francis and Melgar sonalities can be hard, but we Bremo Martinez both have positive attitudes to- hope that doing group activities Reporters wards the new challenge. “We’re and getting to know each other Devenie Anchondo The new decath advisors are all smiles! Photo by Kayla Perez both really excited for the new year will help things run smoothly.” Bianca Arias Jennifer Becerra For the 2018-2019 and what’s to come,” Francis said, Good luck to Mr. Fran- Sebastian Carcano By Kayla Perez school year, AP Calculus teacher “we work really well together and cis and Mr. Melgar in their new Sofia Dominguez El Rodeo Staff Writer Steven Francis and Pre-Calculus hope we can both do our best job roles as the Academic Decathlon Franky Leon teacher Carlos Melgar will work to advise the team and score high.” advisors! The road to state may Emily Lopez A new school year together as co-advisors for the new When asked if they had be difficult, but this dynamic Fatima Lopez brings new changes and the El team, following the resignation of any new ideas for the Academic duo is confident that they will Bremo Martinez Rancho High School Academic previous advisor David Retana. Decathlon team, Mr. Melgar re- succeed. May the team score Mariela Michel Decathlon team is making many. The new team will be plied, “Our main goal is to go to well and state be in their future! Alonzo Murrieta Kayla Perez Leslie Plaza Fatima Lopez is Simply Irresistible! Alynna Rodriguez like seriously, I have folders de- Aleksey Soto By Fatima Lopez voted to them!” If you need a Selina Torres El Rodeo Staff Writer meme supplier, she’s your girl! Photo Editors All jokes aside, Fatima has Franky Leon Hey El Rancho, how are plenty of different sides to her Alonzo Murrieta you guys? For eight consecutive that no one seems to know about! Aleksey Soto issues, the staff here at El Ro- When we asked this cutie about deo News has brought you boys, her hobbies, she was very excited El Rodeo is published monthly girls, and gender-nonconforming to talk about her love of cartoons. except during vacations by the El Ran- cho High School journalism class. people who we have deemed to “I spend about ninety percent The El Rodeo offices are located at be quite irresistible, but what we of my time watching my favor- 6501 S. Passons Blvd., Pico Rivera, haven’t shown you is one of the ite shows,” Lopez said, “Some CA 90660 in room X-1. The paper is faces behind the iconic feature. of my go-to shows are Adven- printed by The Gardena Valley News. Well, all that is about to change. ture Time, Steven Universe, and El Rodeo, the student news- Lopez in her element! Photo by Sofia Dominguez paper of El Rancho High School is an Junior Fatima Lopez, one of Voltron: Legendary Defender.” open, public forum for student expres- many behind the madness of the Did we mention she likes quite the catch, then this will to her, your best bet is through sion and an opportunity to discuss its feature, is simply irresistible! anime? “I love anime,” Fatima get you for sure. She has a great her twitter. She’s never not on it! audience’s issues of concern. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and do Those of you who know said, “It’s one of my favorite taste in music! From indie rock As for love, Fatima said not necessarily reflect the position of the Fatima might be thinking, “This things to watch!” Rest assured to K-pop, Fatima’s playlist is all she’s down for some summer love! school board, administration, sponsors, girl? She doesn’t even do any- though, she is definitely not a over the place. “I would say I en- “I’m not picky,” Lopez said, “but parents, student body or advertisers. thing!” You’re absolutely right! weeb! Her favorite animes in- joy almost every genre,” Lopez if my Twitter background check The Editorial Board, which consists of the editor-in-chief, sec- But that’s what makes her so icon- clude the ever-popular Yuri On said. Even country music? “Does pulls up some fishy stuff, then it’s tion editors, and assistant editors, will ic. Fatima likes to consider herself Ice, Sailor Moon, Naruto, and ‘Life is a Highway’ by Rascal a no from me!” Her ideal part- determine the content of El Rodeo. a “jack-of-all-trades.” A master of Boku No Hero Academia. In the Flatts count as country,” Fatima ner is someone who has similar Student journalists on the El none, if you will. “I’m not great name of the moon, we will pun- asked, “because if that’s the case interests as herself and someone Rodeo staff will make every effort to publish following the legal definitions at anything,” Lopez said, “but I’m ish you if you don’t think Lopez then, yeehaw buddy!” Some of who has a good heart. “If you’re of libel, obscenity and invasion of pri- not terrible at anything either, ex- is one of the coolest girls around! Lopez’s favorite artists include going to talk to me, please don’t vacy. Consistent with California Educa- cept for sports. I SUCK at sports!” Apart from meme-collect- Kali Uchis, BTS, Declan McK- play games,” Fatima said, “that’s tion Code section 48907, the staff will Okay, but let’s be serious, ing, cartoon-binging, and anime- enna, and all subunits of NCT! what my Nintendo Switch is for!” refrain from printing material that may incite students, be a violation of school she’s not completely devoid of watching, Fatima has other hob- Whether she’s making If it’s friendship or may- regulations or disrupt school opera- any talents! Fatima has a killer bies that she shared with us! “One jokes about herself or jam- be something a little more that tions. At the beginning of each semester, sense of humor. Whether you’ll of my new favorite things to do ming out to her favorite songs, you’re looking for, Fatima is journalism students will be reminded actually like her sense of humor, right now is embroidery,” Lopez there’s no doubt that this girl definitely your girl! She’s sweet, of the legal, financial and ethical im- plications of each article they write. we don’t know, but to say she said, “Yeah, it makes me feel a bit likes to do these things while funny, and there’s never a dull Ed Code 48907 affirms the isn’t funny, well, then we’d be ly- old, but it’s such a relaxing thing she’s in good company. She’s moment with her. Don’t take it right of high school newspapers to ing! “Am I funny? I like to think to do and I end up with pretty not shy about making friends! from us, see for yourself! Hit publish whatever they choose, so so,” Fatima said, “But if you don’t designs! Who doesn’t like that?” “I’m always looking to make her up on Twitter (@fatimalo- long as the content is not explic- itly obscene, libelous, or slander- like self-deprecating humor then She’s really just an old soul liv- new friends,” Lopez said, “I’m pez240), but don’t say we didn’t ous. Also, there shall be no prior we can’t be friends!” This queen ing in a teen’s body, isn’t she? an awkward person, but please warn you! She’s always tweeting restraint of material prepared for also knows her memes! “Memes? Now, if we haven’t sold don’t let that stop you from hit- about something, so be prepared official school publications except I got those,” Lopez said, “No, you on the fact that Fatima is ting my line!” If you want to talk to see her constantly in your feed. insofar as it violates this section. June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 3 FEATURES OPINIONOPINION Dons sweep awards at 38th Congressional Art Contest ists and see their work. I espe- in a word, surreal,” said Juarez. cially enjoyed the live perfor- Juarez has both Mr. Paul mances and fancy sandwiches.” Zeko and Mr. Justin Diaz as Several VAPA teach- her art teachers. “They were ers encouraged their students both very supportive of me, to take part in the contest. before and after they knew “I participated in the con- I would place,” said Juarez. test because my photography For winning the contest, teacher, Mr. Diaz, recommended Juarez won a trip to Washing- that I entered,” said Zorrilla. “I ton D.C., a $500 scholarship, had been contemplating whether and her artwork will hang in or not I should submit any of my the U.S. Capitol for a year. “I photos but ultimately decided that felt happy and confused at the it would be a great opportunity.” same time, like I was on an epi- El Rancho High School sode on Pranked!” said Juarez. did extremely well in the Pho- The contest was able to tography portion of the con- bring people together to appreci- test. Our students took first, ate the youth and show them that second, third, and all honor- their passion can help their futures. able mentions in the section. “Through seeing different “I’m very proud of Ya- school and different students, you Art contest winners from left to right: Leilani Laurez, Yazlin Juarez, Mauro Medina and Karina Jimenez. zlin, Karina, and all students can tell it doesn’t matter how you digital animations, and paintings. cool,” said senior Karina Jimenez. that participated. It’s a privi- look or who you are. If you have By Emily Lopez The event was held at Senior, Miranda Zor- lege to help guide them to reach the ability to make art, you can El Rodeo Staff Writer the Norwalk Sports and Com- rilla said, “You could tell ev- their best potential,” said pho- win something,” said Jimenez. plex Center. There was a gal- eryone was a little nervous all tography teacher, Mr. Zeko. “Overall, I would say that On Wednesday May lery that showcased each night, however, it was a lot of Yazlin Juarez had the hon- our school carried a lot of pride for 2nd, art students from El Ran- participant’s work. In the pa- fun. With the mascots there, or of winning the overall grand our art,” said Zorrilla. From this cho High School participated in tio area, there were snacks, the photo booth, and the perfor- prize. “Since I rarely win things, contest, our students were able to the 16th annual 38th Congres- drinks, and live performances. mances, the tension was eased.” I didn’t believe it was real. To come together and demonstrate sional Art Contest. They submit- “It was pretty nice. I saw Yazlin Juarez said, hear my name being called by their talents and skills in the arts. ted different types of artwork the little boys and girls dancing “It was a great experience to Linda Sanchez and her board including sketches, photographs, and the award ceremony was really meet other cool student art- to come receive the prize felt, Velasco, Llanes, and Zeko awarded teachers of the year

From left to right: Velasco, Llanes, Zeko Photo by Annual Staff educators who pursue excellence By Aleksey Soto and contribute to both the staff El Rodeo Staff Writer and students. The award also in- cludes a cash prize of 500 dollars. The 2018 Zucker Award One award is given to recipients were announced on a teacher in the field of Math, May 11th at a faculty breakfast. English, Science, History, or This year’s winners were Mr. Modern Language. The other Paul Zeko, Mr. Frank Llanes, award can be given to any other and Miss Amaryllis Velasco. teacher, regardless of what they The Zucker Awards were teach. A committee comprised established in 1989 by Natalie of 2 administrators and 3-5 Zucker, a resident of Pico Rive- teachers chooses the recipients; ra. The award was established to this year, three teachers were recognize outstanding El Rancho selected to receive the honor. El Rodeo, Pg 4 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 CAMPUS Choir holds inaugural Senior activities mark end of 2017-18 school year Open Mic Cafe sizes, from those furthering their education, to athletes and those who performed well on Advanced Placement test. The rally says goodbye to seniors but it is sort of a new beginning for those who By Selina Torres will still be at the Ranch next year. El Rodeo Staff Writer Finally there is Senior Week. A week filled of last min- On Friday, May 3rd, the ute to do’s for seniors up until the El Rancho High School Choir held very last day. The week will have its first Open Mic Cafe. Over 100 much in store for seniors, it will students, family, and friends gath- start off with the three remain- ered at ERHS to celebrate the voic- ing days being shorter days, and es of students in the choir program. these are the days where it really The El Rancho cafeteria hits seniors that those are their was decorated in hand painted final days together and to make backdrops and tables were lined the most of what is left. Cap and up across the room. Colored spot- gowns will be distributed the lights covered the stage illuminat- fourth, rehearsals will start the ing the performers in a pink hue. fifth and there will also a Luau “The Open Mic Cafe was su- Pool Party event for seniors and per awesome because I got to per- later in the evening Senior Sunset form in front of all my friends” said Karina Jimenez, 12. Jimenez per- commenced where a slideshow formed with her band, Beach Clinic. made up of senior memories was “I’ve always had passion for music shown. Then it is the sixth where it’s just been in my veins for as long rehearsals will continue, seniors as I can remember” added Jimenez. get to go home and get ready for The Open Mic Cafe fea- the big event, graduation and they tured over 20 choir students and will see it all come to an end. That bands, including Beach Clinic however is not all, the following and Yellow Fuzz, who per- By Sebastian Carcano the beach, or starting fresh with ing announced from awards such day on the seventh Grad Nite took formed covers of songs or even El Rodeo Staff Writer new looks and finally preparing as honor roll, recognitions like place at six flags where now grad- some of their own originals. for what waits them next like scholar athlete or even scholar- uated seniors gave one last hoo- “The other performers The school year is coming jobs or college as they embark ships such as the inaugural Ray rah under the name of El Rancho. did fantastic and I’m so proud that to an end, and the final stretch has on the new chapters of their lives. Chavez Memorial Scholarship. The sand is running out in they stepped out to perform the way begun. The year is so close to fin- Also, big thank you to Students saw all their hard work the 2017-2018 hourglass as the that they did. It takes lots of cour- ishing, however the energy at El all the students, teachers, staff from the last four years at El Ran- school year comes to a close. age!” said Choir President, Isa Va- Memories of relationships and lenzuela. “I definitely think every- Rancho is in full swing as we are and administration who are cho being paid off on one night one did awesome” added Jimenez. approaching our final days of the helping plan the final events and seniors got an early taste of experiences will bring all seniors Ms. Cisneros wanted to put school year. Students are scram- and activities to finish off hearing their names being called to a bitter-sweet halt as they begin on the Open Mic to “ give students bling to get those grades up, staff the 2017-2018 school year. out as they walk on to the stage. to feel their last group of emotions another opportunity to solo.” Dur- and faculty are getting ready to fi- First on the agenda was Next up is the farewell as- under the title of graduating se- ing the school year, “ I only pick a nalize their agendas. The Class of Senior Awards night which took sembly that will take place May niors, but at the end of the day we handful of soloist for the Fall, Win- 2018 is getting ready to say good- place at the Gym on May 25th. 28th. The assembly bids farewell will always be Dons, who are re- ter, and End of the Year Concerts bye and leave behind their high The night saw seniors become to the school year and also to the spectful, responsible and ready to and I wanted more kids to be heard” school life and say hello to what more and more decorated with Class of 2018. It is the final pep learn. Once a Don, always a Don. she continued. With the help of her is up next on the horizon like hot the various awards, recognitions, rally for the class of 2018, recog- Choir students, Ms. Cisneros was summer nights with friends at and scholarships that were be- nizing seniors of all shapes and able to accentuate the voices of all of the students in the choir program. Cisneros believes that all of Sophomores find their voice at Night of Spoken Word her students should “feel what [she] felt as a kid.” She continued, “I start- By Aleksey Soto ed singing in my grandpa’s church El Rodeo Staff Writer when I was five years old and I sang all through school from fourth grade Mrs. Zeko’s sophomore up to college. I love the experience Honors English classes had a of music and performing. Exploring chance to let their voices be heard melodies new rhythms singing them at the annual Night of Spoken playing them, music to me is apart Word event on May 22nd. The of who we are a human beings.” Flourish Foundation, an organiza- Like Cisneros, VAPA has tion that aims to support and pro- been a major part of students’ lives. “VAPA has always been a vide opportunities for a complete part of my life, I did recitals & education for middle school, high choir when I was young & have school and college-aged students always loved being on stage! I’ve in the Los Angeles area with a always had passion for music it’s primary focus on the performing just been in my veins for as long arts, sponsored the event which as I can remember” said Jimenez. was held in Whittier College’s To all students with stage Ruth B. Shannon Center. fright, Ms. Cisneros says “Do what Every student in Zeko’s you love!! Just know whatever four honors classes was required whatever you chose your are going to do a group piece. Due to the to have to work hard at it even mu- great number of students in her sic. Most students think music will classes, not as many individual be fun or easy and yes it is fun but pieces were performed this year formance with performances of sault, self-image, and romantic The night officially came learning music as a subject in col- compared to previous years. various barbershop style songs relationships through their poems. lege is far from easy and takes a lot to an end after Mrs. Zeko took of discipline. If you are looking to Eric Morago, a well-known and a cover of Spring Day by The night had many inter- the stage and thanked all of the perform music as a career get use to poet in the Whittier area, aided popular Korean boy group, BTS. esting poems, but some of the people who participated in mak- going to a lot of auditions and you Zeko’s classes during the long cre- The duo sang as parents and au- best pieces were solo perfor- ing the night a success, includ- might not get the “gig”, this is where ative process. Zeko and Morago dience members filled the seats. mances by Natalie Pantoja and ing Mr. Zeko and his photogra- your hard work and persistence has exposed the sophomore students The night was a chance for Kaelynn Kuang. Kuang closed phy classes who provided the to kick in. You get over stage fright to different types of poems and the sophomores to open up and the show with her solo piece, photos used as the backgrounds, with two things being confident that had them participate in exercises express feelings they would nor- Be The Gold, which motivated the Flourish Foundation, Ms. you did the practice to get you on on literary devices and narrative. mally keep inside. The students everyone to be the best ver- Chodos, Morago, and all four that stage and the more you get up Kylie Moghimi and Cit- discussed relationships between sions of themselves and not let of her Honors English classes. there the easier it will become.” lalli Delgado opened the per- parents and children, sexual as- any obstacles get in their way. June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 5 CAMPUS Link Club brings a ASB’s Open Mic Night showcases talent at the Ranch taste of Coachella to ERHS at “Donchella”

Dons dance the Photo by night away. Mr. Diaz

By Devenie Anchondo and Bremo Martinez El Rodeo Staff Writers

Hey Dons, are you bummed you didn’t at- tend Coachella Music Festi- val? Good thing El Rancho held its very own Donchella! Junior Carolyn Contre- ras said, “I thought it was pret- ty cool. It was different than the other dances Link Crew hosts. I also thought the food and the music were good!” El Rancho’s Link Crew Carlos Mares shows off his singing skills at Open Mic Night. Photo By Emily Lopez members organized the event By Emily Lopez friendly towards each other! to sing loud without my sisters is everything,” says Calderon. which took place on Friday, El Rodeo Staff Writer Even when I messed up, people telling me to shut up like when The audience also had the May 25th. Senior Kimberly still cheered me on and clapped I sing at home,” says Juarez. opportunity of hearing original Medina said, “I think Don- In the Little Theater, along to other performers’ “I thought it had a re- songs from bands in the area. chella went really well! It was ER students take part in Open songs,” says junior Yazlin Juarez. lax vibe to it and it was a very “The band Yellow Fuzz perform- probably one of the best events Mic Night on Friday, May The night was filled enjoyable Friday night,” says ing their original songs was my Link Crew threw this year 18th. Students shared their with clapping and the au- senior Sophia Flores. “I liked favorite part,” says Juarez. “I and I’m really proud of the love for music and performing. dience singing along. Citlally because she had an had the pleasure of photograph- new leaders for pulling it off!” “The environment was “I was scared to sing on amazing A-cappella voice.” ing them a few weeks ago; if you Medina continued, “It very comfortable and loving, stage by myself because I have The event was overall want to see the photos, they are had a lot of attention before- with people playing guitars and never physically sung in front well-liked by all who attended. on both our Instagram pages at hand, which was a plus, and singing their hearts out,” says of a crowd like that,” says se- “I loved the event because @yazlinj08 and @yellowfuzz.” it was really fun. I really liked junior Rene Gallegos, who was nior Stephanie Calderon. “My it brought a group of people to- There was no limit to the neon look and the fact in charge of Open Mic Night. friends encouraged me to per- gether through art and talent, the talent throughout the night. that there was a lot of food to “It was very heartwarming to form solo and I just took the which is ultimately the goal of “My favorite part was when choose from, lots of games watch people do what they love.” leap.” Open Mic night became open mic night,” says Gallegos. people would ask me if it to play, and the photo booth, Open Mic Night showed a safe place for people to show- There was a great sense of was possible they could per- of course! It was nice seeing how much the students at El Ran- case their passion for music. family and community through- form again,” says Gallegos. other people have fun as well.” cho support each other. Every- “Performing was both fun out the night. There were amaz- Open Mic Night The glow-in-the-dark one was welcomed to the stage and nerve wracking because I ing performances throughout the demonstrated that tal- themed dance had games such and were encouraged to perform. have really bad stage fright; I night. “My favorite performance ent is endless at the Ranch. as Connect 4, Giant Jenga, “Everyone in the audi- was shaking the whole time I was Yazlin singing ‘Thank You Twister, and hula hoops. In- ence was really supportive and was on stage, but it felt good for the Music.’ Mamma Mia side the gym, students were able to purchase glow sticks AVID helps students bond through Dodger Night Fund-raiser to light up the dance floor. Senior Mariana Najera By Devenie Anchondo Senior John T. Rodri- said, “Donchella was a great El Rodeo Staff Writer guez said, “I thought it was a turn out! I loved all the activities really fun night and cool to get for people could’ve done like As a way to fund- seats close to friends and teach- Twister, Jenga, and of course raise, Mr. Porter’s AVID stu- ers from the school with their dancing. I enjoyed hanging out dents bought a bundle of Dodg- families, and it’s another way with my friends and taking pho- er Game tickets, selling them to bond outside of school.” tos with them in the photo booth! for twenty dollars each to stu- Rodriguez continued, “I It was a great event overall.” dents who were interested in would recommend it to oth- Students were able to pur- attending the game and spend- ers because for me, being a big chase food and snacks such as ing a night with their friends. fan of the sport, I think regard- candy, chips, churros, fruit cups, AVID Advisor, Mr. Porter, less you would have fun at the nachos, pizza, snow cones, and said, “This is the first year we’ve game whether you’re a Dodger tacos, all which were outside had the AVID Dodger nights. We fan or not. You could have fun of the gym. Students were also had one in the fall and one in May.” with friends, family and even able to get their face painted The ticket sales go into teachers from the school. It also and receive temporary tat- the AVID club account for ac- helps benefit AVID by raising toos, neon bracelets and more. tivities like their games, col- money from the tickets you buy.” Freshman Sebastian Galin- A view of the L.A. Dodgers vs. Photo courtesy of lege field trips, end of the year The tickets sold were do said, “It was very fun. Ev- Colorado Rockies game @MrPorterERHS banquet, and their pool party! in the same general area, al- eryone who participated looked Mr. Porter continued, lowing students to go to the really what made the event so The game took place on like they were having fun. I’d “The best part of the event is the game and sit with their friends. great because it was a bonding May 23rd and began around 7 say the food was the best part!” fun our AVID students have at Senior David Dominguez experience and it truly goes to p.m. The Los Angeles Dodg- The event, which ended at Dodger Stadium. It’s great to see said “It was cool, I had a really show that AVID is much more ers beat the Colorado Rock- 9:30 p.m., offered an opportu- the students, parents, and teach- good time. I think AVID sell- than a class. It truly is a fam- ies by a final score of 3 - 0. nity to interact with your peers. ers enjoy the night together.” ing tickets next to each other is ily both on and off campus.” El Rodeo, Pg 6 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 CAMPUS ER Renovation ElBy EmilyRancho Lopez SEl Rodeo Staff Writer Seniors sign up for their futures preps for “In 2015, Michelle Obama, as part of the Reach Higher Initia- renovationsThis summer tive, launched Better Make Room will be the beginning the in an attempt to reach students remodeling process for through social media and local El Rancho High School. events at their communities,” said Vasquez. “We are pleased to The first building that announce that El Rancho High will be torn down is the C School joined since its launch- building. ing in 2015 and is only one of This is where band the few high schools to continue and colorguard are located. to participate every year since.” The Better Make Room “I’m looking forward to campaign was established to aid the new room, but I’m students in challenging circum- not looking forward to the stances to make a commitment chaos it’ll cause us,” says to their future. Their focus is giv- Jenny Huezo, junior. “It’s ing young people opportunities for post-secondary education. going to be a struggle.” “We’re following in the Most band students footsteps of Michelle Obama’s are worried about how the Better Make Room Campaign. By Emily Lopez construction will affect When she was the first lady she El Rodeo Staff Writer their work. “Most of our led those initiatives with College Signing Day throughout the na- equipmentThis summer is going will to be the tion,” said Sandoval. “We, here at beginningbe put into of thestorage remodeling bins pro- El Rancho through Generation 1st cessmaking for El them Rancho hard High to School. Degree Pico Rivera, had Jackie Theaccess first and building our classroom that will beis Cisneros taking the lead on chan- neling what they did on a national torngoing down to be is much the C smaller,” building. ASB seniors smile because they are ready for college. Photo by Emily Lopez level and bringing it to El Rancho says Maria“We have Juarez, to move all our stuff and it’s going to be a has- “College Signing Day dents involved and how we can High School so that we could sophomore. By Mariela Michel celebrates high school seniors recruit students to participate in promote a college-going environ- sle to move everything,” says “I’m kinda sad El Rodeo Staff Writer choosing to pursue higher edu- it, taking pictures and submitting ment and make it more exciting.” Sandye Espinoza, juniors. Col- cation at a community college, their college acceptances,” said Parents and students orbecause guard, they’reband, and making choir willus move out of the band room The reality of the seniors’ a 2-year college, a 4-year in- Sandoval. “We have peer advis- came together in celebration have to move to other locations upcoming transition to college stitution, and/or a college or ers from the College and Career of the college-bound seniors onand campus there areduring so manyconstruction. set in at Generation 1st Degree’s university of your choice,” Center really help out and take participating in the assembly. memories“I’m looking in that forward room,” to the 3rd annual College Signing Day. said Principal Hector Vasquez. the lead on getting their peers to “We make it something newsays room,Sandye but Espinoza,I’m not looking Taking place on May 2nd, Col- “There are several months sign up for the event themselves.” that we celebrate every year forwardjunior. Evento the thoughchaos it’ll cause lege Signing Day spiced up the of planning that go into it,” says Senior peer advisors took and starting that tradition so us,”the movesays Jenny is going Huezo, to be junior. last few weeks of school before Generation 1st Degree supervisor the initiative to set up the slide- that students see that it’s a huge Band, color guard, and graduation. Seniors got to wear Michelle Sandoval. “For exam- show with the names of seniors step in accomplishment and that difficult students are still their college gear to the assem- ple, we had to book [Congress- to recognize them on their ac- we want to celebrate it not only choirexcited have to seean whatassortment will of equipment that are going to bly during fourth period to rep- woman Linda Sanchez] almost 3 ceptances to private colleges, with them, but with their un- come. resent their college of choice. months in advance and then we Cal States, UC’s, and commu- derclassmen so that they set the need to be relocated. “It’s going The assembly featured would go over last year’s event nity colleges. They also orga- example and with the parents to be a “Havingstruggle,” asays modern Huezo. campus is exciting, but I’m motivational speeches from El and see what we would to do to nized the college acceptances to as well because it takes the en- Students are worried about Rancho’s president of the board change it and how we can improve make the raffle tickets and en- tire community,” said Sandoval. howsad thatthe constructionI’m gonna willmiss affect of education Dr. Aurora R. Vil- to make it better every year.” couraged fellow seniors to take The assembly ended with theirout onwork. actually “Most usingof our it,”equip - lon, senior class president Ju- A significant aspect of Col- pictures with their acceptances. a raffle for the seniors, which mentsays isJuarez. going toStudents be put into only stor - lio Ornelas, Congresswoman lege Signing Day is the student College Signing including prizes such as gift agehave bins. a few This requests is making when them Linda Sanchez and Superin- participation in the planning of it. Day is a part of the Bet- cards to Starbucks and Tar- hardit comes to access to what and our they classroom want tendent Karling Aguilera-Fort. “We think of getting stu- ter Make Room Campaign. get, an HP laptop, and a printer. isfor going their toprograms. be much smaller,” says Maria Juarez, sophomore. “I just hope Not only will the move be The Average Joes take the win! difficultthat they because actually of takethe physi- Team, and the Dive & Dodgers. calinto move, mind but what students a band will also El Rodeo Staff Writer With multiple referees Alonzo Murrieta set and Mr. Rojo and Mr. Retana haveneeds. to sayThe goodbye acoustics to the of place commentating, the tournament thatthe area,they havelocker grown space, fond of. From May 21st to May began. Over the course of two instillation,”“I’m kinda says sad Huezo. because 25th, the El Rancho ASB hosted days, the first placement matches they’reIt is exciting making to ussee move how out its annual dodgeball tournament. of the tournament began. These ofthe thenext band school room year and will there Every year the tournament is matches were a best-of-one that are so many memories in that held for one week during lunch were held in the Main Gym. go when renovations and in either the quad or the gym. After two days of both room,”construction says begins.Espinoza. Even This year however, the tourna- normal and glow in the dark though the move is going to be ment was given variety as it was dodgeball, the quarterfinal posi- Photo by Emily Lopez difficult, students are still ex- held in both locations: outside tions were set. The new matches Average Joes pose after their epic win against staff team, The All-Stars. cited to see what will come. in the quad for regular dodge- for Wednesday would be another “Having a modern cam- ball and inside the Main Gym best-of-one and held in the quad. Average Joes versus The Riggers came back, sweeping the match for glow in the dark dodgeball. The matches for the day were The and Fifty Shades of Awesome and winning three games to one. pus is exciting, but I’m sad Sign-ups for the tourna- Warriors vs. The Average Joes, versus the Slow Painiac$. Both The Average Joes did not that I’m gonna miss out on ac- ment began in late April, from The Riggers vs. Crack?, Men of matches stretched to three games. go home without a prize. As a tually using it,” says Juarez. then all potential teams were the Sea vs. Fifty Shades of Awe- Still, only two teams prize, the team was given the Students only have a few given three weeks to sign up. To some, and Slow Painiac$ vs. could advance into the final honor of playing in the student requests when it comes to what be able to compete all a team The Dream Team. match. The championship game versus teacher game. Eventu- was a best-of-five glow in the ally, the Average Joes ended up they want for their programs. needed was ten members, a With no losers bracket, team name, and twenty dollars. loss meant tournament elimi- dark dodgeball match held in taking victory from the teachers “I just hope that they The banned list was not used. nation. The semifinals came the main gym. The two final in a grueling five game match. actually take into mind what The tournament had 16 Thursday. Still held in the quad teams were the Average Joes ver- Don’t worry if you a band needs. The acoustics teams: Monstars, Warriors, these matches were not a best- sus Fifty Shades of Awesome. missed out! The tournament of the area, locker space,and Average Joes, Brotherhood, of-one, but a best-of-three. The first round of the is held every year around the installation,” says Huezo. The Riggers, Purple Couches, The Average Joes, The Rig- match was taken by Fifty Shades time of May. So, if you be- Crack?, Su Woo, Ooga Boogas, gers, Fifty Shades of Awesome, of Awesome, who showed that lieve that you and your friends It is exciting to see how the Men of the Sea, Yumpz, Fifty and the Slow Painiac$ were all one this final would be no challenge can take the next tournament, next school year will go when ren- Shades of Awesome, Slow Pai- step closer to winning the champi- for them. Even after a decisive make sure to sign up next year! ovations and construction begins. niac$, the No Skins, the Dream onship. The semifinals placed the first round, the Average Joes June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 7 SPORTS Temple City tops Dons in CIF semifinals Boys’ volleyball season comes to an end

Catcher Omar Sanchez, junior, prepares to catch a curve ball. Photo by Sofia Dominguez By Sofia Dominguez El Rodeo Staff Writer team made the deepest play- in their first round of CIF. coach Larry Patino is very off run since their quarter- But as the playoffs pro- proud of how far his team Yahir Moreno serves an ace. The boys in blue had finals appearance in 2016. gressed, the teams get harder went in CIF competition. Photo by Annual Staff an amazing run through the Following their im- and in their semifinal game “It’s been so awesome. By Jennifer Becerra CIF playoffs before even- pressive regular season, the against Temple City, the sea- The kids have worked so El Rodeo Staff Writer tually losing to Temple Dons opened the playoffs son came to an end when hard and have come together City 6-4 in the semifinals. with ace pitcher Damien Temple City broke a 4-4 as a team,” says Patino.“We The boy’s volleyball sea- They turned some Ureta pitching his second no- tie with a pair of late runs. tried our best and fought until son has come to a end with an heads on the local baseball hitter of the season against Although the end- the very end, but there is no overall record of 11 wins, 12 scene this postseason as the Santa Paula High School ing was bittersweet, head changing what has happened.” losses, and a league record of four wins and six losses. The Softball sets sights on next season team placed fourth in league. “This season did not go well for us,” says se- nior Anthony Silva. “We were a solid team with unfortunate outcomes.” Even though their sea- son did not go as planned, their team chemistry was through the roof. “We’re like brothers now,” says Silva. “Both Varsity and JV are all connected as one.” Unfortunately all good things must come to an end. “I will truly miss the seniors, I feel proud to have been on a team with them,” says junior Steve Francis. “We got close from practices and playing Fort- nite. [The seniors] truly made this season a memorable one.” added junior Alex Bermudez. “Since I’m a senior right now, I’d like to say that it’s been an honor being in this Softball girls support each other during game against Santa Fe. Photo by Sofia Dominguez team for three years,” says Silva. “For the players stay- of the six teams in the league and playing their hearts out of making it to league ing, keep up the hard work By Sofia Dominguez continued to push themselves for the game they love. was not achieved, the and strive for the best. There’s El Rodeo Staff Writer to the limit in every round. “I hope our team builds girls aren’t disappointed. “My favorite memory stronger, individually and “I had a lot of great only going up from this point.” With the season now was all of the team lunches together, as we will play times this season, and I don’t Although this season over, the Dons softball team we had before every home every game our hardest to have any regrets,” says ju- did not go as expected, re- is reflecting and looking for- game and knowing that we make it farther each season,” nior Alexis Zacharias, “we turning players hope for a ward to the next season. The had a great bond on and off says Jimenez. The girls re- have a lot of talent, and I have better outcome next season. girls finished league with a re- the field,” says senior cap- alize where they may have high hopes for next season.” “I am very excited for cord of three wins and seven tain Dominique Jimenez. gone wrong and look for- There is always room for im- next year,” says Bermu- losses and an overall record of Regardless of the ward to future years of im- provement, and the girls are dez. “I can’t wait to go back eleven wins and eleven losses. outcome, the girls stayed provement and higher titles ready to warm up their bats and get back to work so we The girls placed fifth out humble and committed to Although their goal and bring home the gold. can hopefully do better.” El Rodeo, Pg 8 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 ENTERTAINMENT Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino Review track and Turner’s single, details the struggles of gaining posi- tive reception from the audience. The genre of science fiction pops up several times throughout the album, with the song, Sci- ence Fiction, being completely dedicated to it. Turner seems to get lost in entertainment and its role in different areas, such as politics and sending politi- cal messages in a clever way. Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino was an extremely daring step. Arctic Monkeys brought this album to life knowing the change in style would either receive completely negative reviews or be praised with positivity. The album also had an odd pace. It seems to be in a constant state of introduction and did not seem to resolve much of any- thing. The pacing was ever so slow, with little to no progress, a sharp contrast from past albums. In conclusion, Tranquil- By Mariela Michel record producer, and musi- keys were forced to take a hia- as a “Bowie-ish glam song.” ity Base Hotel and Casino is an El Rodeo Staff Writer cian, James Ford, to co-produce tus that lasted nearly four years. Turner diverges from the album with great metaphors and After a long hiatus, Arctic the album and make it a reality. For this album, Turner usual guitar-riff present in the pre- lyrical techniques, but there was Monkeys have returned to take The album consists of drew inspiration from Federico vious albums to a more prominent not much originality in the sen- back the music industry! Tran- eleven tracks and breaks off from Fellini’s 1963 film, 81/2, and its piano presence to make the style a timents of the album and how it quility Base Hotel and Casino, the band’s usual rock sound into portrayal of childhood memories, more lounge-pop style of music. manages to express them. None the bands sixth album, was re- a more jazzy feel. Many fans la- writer’s block, and the science The album took an oddly of the conflicts seem to ever re- leased on Saturday, May 11th, ment the change in genre, but the fiction genre. He also drew in- alluring tone. It seems a mess of solve, or even progress at all, and boy are fans talking about change in style compliments the spiration from the stylistic shape- different emotions and ideas. The either. Emotions about fame and its radical transition into a deeper overall effect of the album better. shifting of David Bowie and John narrator of the story behind the al- reception have been seen in sev- exploration of psychedelic styles! Lead vocalist, Alex Turner, Lennon. Bowie’s glam style is bum seems to ramble and talk in eral other albums, many of whom The album debuted at number began suffering from writer’s particularly prominent in Four mockery about his own popularity deliver their message more effi- one on the UK Albums Charts block shortly after the interna- Out of Five, which is described and about politics. Fame and pop- ciently. The change in style was and has sold 86,000 copies. tional success of AM. Unable to as a “Bowie-ish glam song.” ularity in entertainment was a ma- not as much of an issue as was Alex Turner collaborated figure out the direction of their particularly prominent in Four jor theme throughout the album. the progression of the lyrics and with English music composer, next music project, Arctic Mon- Out of Five, which is described Four Out of Five, the albums sixth how the message is delivered. BTS breaks records with release of Love Yourself album

By Aleksey Soto El Rodeo Staff Writer

If you still haven’t heard of Korean pop sensation BTS, you might want to start listen- ing now. The septuplet recently released their 4th full-length al- bum, Love Yourself: Tear, the second album in the Love Your- self series, which destroyed mu- sic charts all over the world. BTS kicked off album promotions on May 6th with the sudden music video release of Singularity, the album’s intro, which combined R&B and jazz sounds with vocalist Kim Tae- hyung’s deep vocals. The song 134340 is groovy; it’s ably their most ambitious song overall theme of finding out that achieved what is known as an was written in one sitting by the kind of song you listen to yet, marking their first dip into love isn’t real, and the three rap “All-Kill” on the Melon charts, group leader and rap line mem- on the way to the beach with Latin style music. It details line members, Namjoon, Yoongi, one of Korea’s most notable ber, Kim Namjoon and was pro- the windows down and the sun their successes as international and Hoseok, deliver probably music charts only one hour after duced partly by Charlie J. Perry warming your skin. But, despite artists and their love for mak- their most emotional verses yet. the album’s release. Four days who produced Jorja Smith’s al- its ultra-chill vibe, the song ac- ing music. It also criticizes ce- Hours after release, after release the album achieved bum, Project 11. Singularity is tually discusses the feelings of lebrities that obtain fame and Fake Love was at number 2 on 50 perfect all-kills, one for smooth, soulful and sultry, and rejection and abandonment; it wealth without hard work. the U.S. iTunes charts, surpass- each hour it occupied top spots. it is one of the darker songs that compares Pluto being stripped of Anpanman is based on a ing Childish Gambino’s recent Let’s be clear: this album the septuplet has released. It dis- its planetary status to a lover leav- Japanese superhero, whose head This is America release, and all isn’t Kpop. Yes, it’s in Korean, cusses hiding and confronting ing a relationship and completely is made of bread filled with red 11 songs on the album sat with- but the diversity of sounds and one’s emotions, as well as fac- forgetting what it meant to them. bean paste and who helps hungry in the top 20, surpassing Ariana genres in these mere 11 tracks is ing our loneliness. Paradise is a message to children by giving them bread Grande, Shawn Mendes, and was separates it from the entire Fake Love begins with everyone who feels that they have but becomes weaker in the pro- Drake. BTS also recently per- genre. BTS have once again tran- wistful vocals that transition into no dream or purpose in life to stop cess. BTS uses this super hype formed Fake Love at the Bill- scended both language and music falsettos and, later, hard-hitting and just enjoy life. It is a mix be- song to send out the message board Music Awards, making his- barriers, making an album that raps lamenting the realization tween pop and R&B, combining that they will continue to do their tory as the first Korean group to the entire world can enjoy and an that what seemed like fated love upbeat music with smooth vocals best to help others and say that perform at the awards; soon after, album that is worthy of being up turned out to be false. It sounds and lyrics. The song was produced they, along with all of us, are the Love Yourself: Tear became the on charts alongside big names in both soft and powerful at the same by lophiile and MNEK, who has new generation of superheroes. first Korean album to get the top the music industry. In short, Love time (with the choreography to worked on songs for Beyoncé, Outro: Tear concludes spot on the Billboard 200 chart. Yourself: Tear is a masterpiece. match) and is influenced by hip- Dua Lipa, and Zara Larsson. the album and features only the In Korea, every song hop, R&B, rock, and trap beats. Airplane Pt.2 is prob- group’s rappers. It enforces the topped multiple charts and even June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 9 ENTERTAINMENT Word on the Street What will you miss about High School?

What I’m going to miss the What I will miss about high school is I’m going to miss the number of friend- Although I am excited most is going to all the fun ac- definitely seeing my friends every day. ships that I made in high school that to start college, what I’ll tivities like the Night Pep Rally I’ll miss them so much because they will most likely stay in high school. miss about high school and making great high school are great people. Also, the teachers I’m also going to miss that daily rou- is meeting up with my memories with my friends. and staff that have helped me through tine of waking up and going to a friends during passing pe- -Andrea Gonzalez my four years, I truly appreciate them. school that doesn’t show me how riod to have a girl talk. Thank you ER for a good four years. to do my taxes or other adult stuff. - Monique Aquila - Giselle Molina - Anthony Silva What I’m going to miss the most from I will miss all the longtime friendships I had throughout my life and all the new friend- high school is the amazing friend- ships I made this year! I will also miss Mrs. ships I’ve made. I’ve met so many Rojo, Mrs. Stubendorff, Mr. Francis and great people here and made life- Mr. Crone for being amazing teachers of long friends! I’ll miss my amazing mine who showed they truly cared for me teachers and all the great memories! and supported me through high school. <3 - Kimberly Medina - Daniel Castañeda Word on the Street What excites you about Senior year?

“I’m excited to be playing “I’m going to be taking a “I’m looking forward to get- “I’m looking forward to my last year of football.” lot of art classes and it’ll ting more involved with having fun with my friends And making the most - Alexander Velasquez be a less stressful year.” activities my senior year.” - Karizma Reyes - Michael Meza out of my senior year.” - Rosie Carrillo Crossword for Issue Nine!

Down: 1. Name of El Rodeo’s Editor-in-Chief. 2. A Night Dedicated to the Seniors’ achievement. 3. Spanish teacher who is retiring this year. 7. Name of the most recent Drama Musical.

Across: 4. New Marvel movie starring Ryan Reynolds. 5. English and Drama teacher who is retiring this year. 6. 2018 Prom theme. 8. Band name that just released ‘Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino.’ 9. Program on campus throwing a Pool Night and going to a Dodger Game. The first person to deliver the correct answers 10. Name of new BTS album for the crossword to X-1 wins a prize! El Rodeo, Pg 10 El Rancho High School SENIOR FAVORITES

Most Spirited Most Likely Layla Prieto and Jose Mancilla to Succeed Andrew Sepulveda and Melissa Ochoa

Best Bromance Steve Acuna and Rodrigo Saldana

Most Likely to Sleep in Class Bethany Cardona and Alejandro Cortez

Best Personality Best Dressed Daniel Acosta and Amanda Jeffrey Car and Sol Rodriguez Robles El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 11 SENIOR FAVORITES Social Media Stars Most Likely to Succeed Andrew Sepulveda and Melissa Ochoa Best Smile Sarah Navarro and Sebastian Carcano

Best Bromance Steve Acuna and Rodrigo Saldana

Best Playlist Adeline Servin and Alfredo Alcaraz

Most Artistic Skylah Saenz and Marcos Weeks

Gabriela Nava and Steve Acuna

Cutest Couple Andrew Sepulveda and Krystal Marquez

Most Likely to be Late to Graduation Miranda Zorrilla and Justin Delira El Rodeo, Pg 12 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 #FROMELRANCHOTOANYWHERE

Melody Romero Stephanie Calderon Jasmine Santiago “My plans after graduating are to go to com- “This summer, I plan to visit Six Flags “I plan on pursuing a degree in biol- munity college and transfer over to a UC. many many times with my gradnite pass ogy. Once I get my biology degree, I’m really going to try to travel after I’m & work as much as I can to make money I will branch off to work in a specif- done with school before I try finding work. cause I’ll need it for Hawaii Pacific Uni- ic field of zoology and I will try and I want to see the world before I settle down!” versity starting next fall #AlohaDons” work at the a zoo or a wildlife park.”

Hannah Ramirez Sophia Flores Matthew Sanchez “After I graduate from El Rancho, I will be “I’m looking forward to working “I plan to attend the University of Or- attending Azusa Pacific University. I will be and making money so I can travel.” egon and pursue my dream of be- majoring in Criminal Justice and pursuing coming a writer. Also, I’m going a career in law enforcement after college.” to the beach like every single day.”

Julio Ornelas Lauren Alcala Rodrigo Saldana “After high school, I will get out of the Don “After high school I plan to at- “After graduation, I will contin- Memorial Stadium and be an Alumni. I’ll tend CUI for 4 years and start ue working and spend the most time start school at UC Berkeley for the sum- my chapter of adulthood.” I can with friends, family, and girl- mer. For the fall, I qualified for a program friend before I leave to Nebraska.” to study in Europe, Paris, and London.” June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 13 #FROMELRANCHOTOANYWHERE

Makayla Guerrero Benjamyn Barrientez Carlos Mendes “I’m moving to San Francisco “I am taking a gap year and prob- “I plan to go to Cal State Long to pursue my career in criminal ably getting a job. Then, I am go- Beach and pursue my dream of justice.” ing to go to community college for becoming a CEO.” two years and hopefully transfering to UCI for electrical engineering.”

Arturo Angeles Amberly Recendez Jose Mancilla “I will go to college “After high school I will cheer “After high school I will join and play basketball.” at Cerritos college because the Marines for four years.” #CheerIsLife.”

Aiyana Mendoza Samantha Rodriguez Jessica Lemus “I’m leaning more towards going to Cer- “I’m moving to Oregon for “I will be working out and going ritos Community College to play soft- school at the University of to school because #GymIsLife.” ball, then eventually transferring to a Oregon.” university.” El Rodeo, Pg 14 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 SAYING GOODBYE Coach Llanes ready to start new chapter in his life school to go to the finals and students might [be struggling].” win the championship game.” “He’s an honorable man “My absolute favorite part that truly cares about his pro- about being a teacher has been fession. [He] has put in many teaching Spanish Lit. [I like it be- years and he will always be cause it] talks about themes that our coach,” says French teach are very relevant to the lives of er Ms. Moghimi-Danesh. my students, and I think that those Over the years Llanes works of literature really help has had so many great memo- them understand who they are.” ries but one of the was making Llanes has motivated his it to the final CIF championship students by sharing his previous game with the baseball team. experiences with them. “I try to Teaching and coaching let them see, that if a kid from have been great, but Llanes also East LA can get a college de- shares a passion for playing the gree, it is a possibility for them. guitar. Recently, he’s been learn- It’s not something impossible.” ing how to dance Conga and One of Llanes’ many ac- focusing on being a grandpa. complishments was being As for the future, Llanes awarded teacher of the year this hopes to visit every baseball sta- past May. Another was seeing dium in the U.S. with his wife. He his kids pass both the AP Span- also wants “to help [his] daughter Mr. Llanes appreciating his time as head baseball coach. Photo on Google Images ish Literature and AP Spanish and [her] husband raise their [chil- By Bianca Arias teaching career at El Rancho Aside from being a Span- Language and Culture exam. dren] and would also like to con- El Rodeo Staff Writer in 1989. He first taught Span- ish teacher, Llanes is best known “Last year’s AP group tinue to coaching for 4-5 years.” ish 1, then worked his way up for his time coaching. “I’ve was awesome! All eleven kids Llanes encourages students Just as El Rancho’s gradu- to teach AP Spanish Literature. coached girls basketball for years. passed the AP [Spanish Lit- “to believe in what they’re doing ating class of 2018 gets ready Before working at El Ran- I [started off as] an assistant erature exam], and I’m very and to believe in themselves.” to say goodbye, Spanish teacher cho, Llanes was at Cal State Long baseball coach in 1993-1994.” proud of [them],” he says “I owe everything I Mr. Frank Llanes gets ready Beach getting a bachelor’s de- In 2007, Llanes became “When you start teaching, have to being a teacher here to turn in his last lesson plan. gree in Spanish with an empha- El Rancho’s head baseball you begin to look at things from at El Rancho. I wouldn’t have “These 37 years of sis in literature. Soon after, he coach and held that position un- a different perspective. It makes been the person I am today teaching have gone like the received a master’s in coaching til last year. “I’m really proud you look at how you’ve learned. if I didn’t have the chance to blink of an eye,” says Llanes. and athletic administration at the of it because we’re the only [You] can see where you’ve had work with the best colleagues Mr. Llanes began his University of Concordia, Irvine. team in the whole history of the trouble and [understand why and the best students,” he says. After 30 years, Garcia says goodbye to her second home By Bremo Martinez El Rodeo Staff Writer

This chapter of El Ran- cho’s sweetest, kindest, and most “mom-like” teachers has concluded. Fortunately, Mrs. Anna Garcia’s next chapter in her life is a new start: retirement! Garcia went to Cal State Los Angeles and majored in Chicano Studies. Although, she almost majored in Eng- lish, Spanish, and psychology. Garcia has been teaching at El Rancho for 31 years but has taught overall for 36 years. When she first began teach- ing it was not at all intentional. “I never wanted to become a teacher. I wanted to go into the medical field or dancing, but back then there was no money for dancing. I worked at a school as a tutor, and then a teacher’s as- sistant and teaching just came naturally to me,” said Garcia When Garcia began teach- ing, she taught English and sev- enth-grade World History at Bel- vedere Middle School in East LA. But when Garcia started at El Ran- cho, she taught a handful of topics. Photo by Gabriela Nava Her first year at El Ran- Mrs. Garcia thinks about all of the wonderful memories she’s had at El Rancho. cho she taught English, U.S. tired for two years, and I’m one of (Mrs. Kiralla, Mrs. Aguilar, Mrs. you are both happy for them ing about mutual inside jokes.” History, and freshman classes the last one in my family to retire. Mata, Mrs. Gregg and sometimes but also sad at the same time. “I will also very sin- like health. Other than that, she I felt I was ready to turn the page other teachers) but I’ll come back Well, that is exactly how I feel. cerely miss going to her when has also taught intro to geogra- to the next chapter,” she said. and visit them,” said Garcia. “After over 30 years I am in need of advice. I have phy in spanish, bilingual basic After Mrs. Garcia re- “We have excellent kids of teaching, she deserves to come to rely on Mrs. Garcia, math, bilingual history, bilingual tires, she will “stick to [her] here at El Rancho. People will travel, to relax, to spend time as I know so many others prob- U.S. History, bilingual govern- hobbies, like sewing. I’ll be tell me ‘Aren’t you afraid to teach with her family and to embark ably have too,” said Mrs. Mata. ment, bilingual economics, and sewing dance costumes for a high schoolers?’ And I’ll say ‘No, on an exciting, new opportu- Garcia said “I hope that the Mexican American History. dance contest, and I’ll be tak- they’re good kids.’ If we take them nity she desires,” said Mata. school continues to get better and However, U.S. History was ing classes about stuff I wanna on a trip, they’re so well behaved Mata adds, “Most people better. We have good kids, good assigned to her and it became learn about personal growth, but on the bus. We have good kids know that Mrs. Garcia is car- graduation rates, and we have a regular thing for her to teach not academic growth,” she said. and parent support,” she adds. ing and kind, but not everyone respectful kids. I’ve learned if each year. “There are so many Saying goodbye won’t be Mrs. Mata, one of her close knows that she is a huge jokester. you respect the kids, they’re go- juniors, so I’ve just stuck with easy for her. “[I’ll miss] the kids friends at El Ranco said, “When I will miss hanging out with her ing to respect you back, and I ap- U.S. History,” said Mrs. Garcia. for sure. I love working with one of your friend’s graduates at lunch every day [and] mak- preciate that. I’ll miss a lot, but “My twin sister has been re- kids, and I love my lunch bunch or goes to a university far away, ing fun of each other and laugh- it’s time for a new beginning.” June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 15 SAYING GOODBYE Wlasick says goodbye to El Rancho High School after 38 years By Aleksey Soto unless he found a replacement. remained dedicated to El Rancho. tatives of the Southern California El Rodeo Staff Writer He asked if I wanted a teaching “It was the perfect environ- High School Theater excellence job and I was so tired of what I ment to work in. The kids have and we took our show, A View After 38 years, Mr. Stan- was doing that I said ‘Yeah, sure.” such whole hearts and the parents From the Bridge, to the festival,” ley Wlasick, one of El Rancho’s Aside from Drama, Wlas- are so giving, understanding, and Wlasick said. “That happened most well known and loved teach- ick also became an English teacher. supportive. The El Rancho Dra- again with God’s Country and ers, is finally closing the curtain “When I first started ma Department has always been Tracers. We were the first non- on his long and illustrious career. teaching, I taught Senior Comp very successful and the district professional production of the Wlasick first took to the Review which was a basic course has always been very supportive play about Vietnam and its effects stage in the fourth grade, when for seniors that just needed to of the program and of the arts. I on the young soldiers who fought he performed in a school play. learn how to write a business let- was never questioned about the in it. The playwright came and “We did a Spanish play, ter, how to put together a resume, choices of plays I made so we worked with the students as well.” Broadway show. I also promised Ferdinand the Bull, and I was and how to utilize other basic did some things that were sort “We also did the world pre- my grandson he could ride po- Ferdinan. I got a laugh from English grammar and composi- of edgy,” Wlasick said. “It was miere of a musical called Teach- nies in the Grand Canyon,” he my first line, and I said that’s tion lessons,” he said. “Then, I just the right place to be for me.” er Teacher. I wrote the authors said. “My little five-year-old, all what I want to do,” he said. was invited to move into [the One of his favorite of the original musical, which I have to do is take her to Disney- From then on his acting T.E.A.M program] because I parts of teaching was seeing was written for Bette Davis and land, which is probably the most career expanded to include com- had a success rate with students students improve as actors. called Miss Moffat. It bombed on expensive of all of the trips.” mercials and a Summer Stock in my Senior Comp Review “My favorite part was Broadway. I asked them, ‘Do you But, he also has some theatre production in Pagosa class. I taught Senior T.E.A.M watching students when the light want a second life with this? Let’s solo travel plans in mind. Springs, Colorado, “but when the for a long time, and that was bulbs go over their heads and try it at my high school,’ so they “My grandfather came producers decided to stop paying one of my greatest experiences.” they finally get it. They put to- rewrote it and changed it from from Belgrade, Serbia so I us, I decided I didn’t want to be “Later, the trend ofAd- gether all the acting lessons that African Americans in the cotton want to go there and I would in show business anymore,” he vanced Placement classes rolled I’ve given them [to] create full- fields to Mexican American crop like to go Germany, the Greek said. After working as a technical in so Mrs. Ellis, the principal at fledged performances,” Wlasick pickers in the San Joaquin Valley. Islands, and Spain,” he said. director for the Costa Mesa City the time, felt I was the logical said. “You can see the change It was very successful. The first “I will miss laughing with Playhouse, Wlasick came to El person to teach AP” he continued. in them from when they were production of Sugar will always my fellow teachers, and my Rancho in October of 1980 after “For one year, I taught AP Lit, shy and embarrassed to begin be one of my favorites and I loved good mornings with Pauline, being offered the Drama position. AP Language, and the T.E.A.M with to when they become sure the 2016 [production of] Flower Gina, Annette and Yolanda in “[Getting the job] was curriculum, but I discovered I of themselves and speak well Drum Song,” he continued. the front office. I’ll [also] miss completely a fluke. Robb Rigg, couldn’t handle all of that, so and give great performances.” As for his retirement plans, working with the kids, working the previous drama teacher, with I narrowed it down to AP Lit.” Of course, with all Wlasick hopes to travel across on plays and laughing and yell- whom I went to college, called me Thirty-eight years is of the time he’s spent teach- the country with his family. ing and everything that it takes and told me that he and his wife a long time to work a job, and ing here, he’s made some “I promised my grand- to put together art,” he said. were having a baby,” he said. “I while some teachers may seek a unforgettable memories. daughter I would take her to Wlasick’s lingering advice? was a little tired of [my] job. Rigg new environment or venture out “I will always remember New York and she would stay at “Remember that we find our couldn’t get out of his contract to better-paying districts, Wlasick the first year we won as Represen- the Plaza hotel and see her first lives when the pavement bends.” Jimenez looks to travel the world after retirement cational career, becoming a District in 1983 where I had my continues Jimenez, “Being able I even thought about teach- teacher was not always her first first job teaching as a first grade to be apart of that process as they ing English in other countries plan, “I graduated from Cal teacher at Rio Vista Elementary.” become young adults and help or moving there permanently” State Dominguez Hills when it “For the next 20 years, I them reach their goals in life is When asked if she had any was a small new college,” says taught multiple grades at Rio Vista something I will always remain final words to say Jimenez said, Jimenez, “I got my Bachelor’s Elementary,” continues Jimenez, proud of and cherish forever.” “I am so thankful for the opportu- in Social Work but I didn’t know “I did one year of middle school Retirement will be a whole nity I had to work here, Pico Ri- I wanted to start teaching un- at North Park while I was getting new experience for Jimenez, but vera and El Rancho have become til I took on a job as a substitute my degree to become a counsel- she wants to embrace the for- my second home,” says Jimenez, teacher and absolutely loved it.” or and finally achieved my goal eign environment all she can, “I want to advise my students “There’s just something when I became a counselor here at “I’ve always been really out- and young teachers to never give about working with kids I think El Rancho High School in 2004.” going” says Jimenez “People up when they love something By Kayla Perez is absolutely compelling,” says When asked what was her know me as a carefree girl who and to always try their best.” El Rodeo Staff Writer Jimenez, “Not only do I teach kids fondest memory of working for loves to party, so this new ex- “I was the first girl in my the knowledge I know, but the kids the El Rancho Unified School perience is a little scary but I family to graduate and I’ve come Time flies by in a flash, in turn teach me about the world District was, Jimenez replied, want to embrace it all that I can so far from where I was,” contin- especially for Roberta Jimenez. as well and that to me is special.” “The most thrilling thing is when and keep challenging myself.” ues Jimenez, “If I could do it, any- After 34 years of working within Throughout her career I see my students achieve some- Jimenez has always been one could do it as well, they just the El Rancho Unified District, in education, Jimenez has had thing and I know that I did my known for her fierce drive with have to believe in themselves.” vocational counselor Roberta many titles to her name, “Af- best to help them in their process.” a tightly packed schedule, but Thank you Ms. Jimenez Jimenez is bidding her farewell ter substituting for a couple of “Moving from teaching she has even bigger ambitions for all that you have done for to El Rancho High School and years, I had my first very own youngers kids to older kids has for when she retires, “My main the El Rancho Unified School paving a new way for retirement. classroom at another district allowed me to work with stu- goal is to travel,” says Jimenez, District, we wish you the best Even though she has an in 1981,” say Jimenez, “I then dents more than once and I’ve “I want to be able to explore in your new adventures of re- honorable resume with her edu- moved to the El Rancho School been able to watch them grow,” the world and have a fun time, tirement, don’t party too hard! Kiralla bids farewell to “The Ranch” By: Bianca Arias enthusiasm for the arts. I hope Kiralla encourages her with her on our commute to El Rodeo Staff Writer that they have found a love for students to “make the most of work. [Even though] I will see the arts and [developed] skills their education, be serious [about her after retirement, [the] at- Lunch at the upstairs library they probably wouldn’t of have what they want], and work hard.” mosphere will be a different will never be the same! After 37 gotten elsewhere,” Kiralla says. Other than teaching, one. I’m sure we will adjust”. years of dedication and hard work Not only has she been Kiralla enjoys reading, play- “I will miss her a lot. for the El Rancho Unified School a good contributor to the staff, ing golf, watching movies, go- We used to work at North Park. district, Ms. Valerie Kiralla de- but she also started all of the ing to plays, and traveling. She is really going to be missed cided it was time for a change. digital and imaging classes. “My advice to incom- by many teachers and students Kiralla began teaching at Kiralla is also known ing staff members is to [not be and administrators. I always North Park Middle school in 1981, for having her own lunch afraid] to make mistakes and [turned to her] when I needed then arrived at El Rancho in 1990. club at the upstairs library. to develop a good sense of hu- help with my computer. I want to She has taught art, commercial Some of Ms. Kiralla’s mor with students,” Kiralla says. wish her good health and lots of art, math, English, and [recently] greatest moments was be- Her plans for the fu- fun during her retirement,”says digital animation and imaging. ing awarded teacher of the ture are “to travel, take pho- Counselor, Ms. Olga Espinoza. She has served year and seeing her previ- tography classes and rest!” Kiralla has certainly left with my students,” she says. as VAPA department chair ous students become teachers. History teacher, Ms. Anna her mark at El Rancho and has “I really have enjoyed for over two decades. “Some of the many Garcia says “I have many memo- inspired many students to want myself here. I love El Rancho and “My favorite part about things I’m going to miss about rable moments, but I will miss to pursue careers in the arts. the community. It’s always going being a teacher has been work- El Rancho is teaching, my stu- our lunches in the upstairs li- “I’ve made lifelong to be my home away from home. ing with students and seeing their dents, and my friends,” she says. brary and talking on the phone friends and relationships Once a Don always a Don.” El Rodeo, Pg 16 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 SENIOR WILLS

I, Roland Stumon, being of sound I, Layla Prieto, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: mind and body, do hereby bequeath the My love for 2pac to Brynn Romero, my right arm to Haley Tabullo, my terrible following: parking skills to Draven Mendoza, my patience on the field to Cristina Ramirez, the My bandana to Ryan Dominguez and Morning Announcements to Marissa & Christina, my whole heart to Emalie Guerrero, my gold chain to Nate Espinoza. my height to Daniel H. so he can be a little taller (I’m 5’3.....), my crocs to Alyssa So- tello, the aux cord to Jaylene Jaloma, my love for memes to Luis Perez, my hydro flask I, Emilly Vargas, being of sound mind and and simp playlist to Gavin Menchaca, my hoops (even though he doesn’t have pierc- body, do hereby bequeath the following: ings) to Isaias Martinez, the ability to asking for homework answers to Kevin Valdez, My poster writing to Abraham Calderon, my back seat playlist to Laura and Alex, my game day playlist to Josh Cabral And GiGi, my background story to Dawne Cisneros, my my school spirit to all underclassmen currently in A$B and anyone joining for the next patience towards Mr. Sanchez to Cecilia Lara, school year, my shade throwing attitude to Selina Torres, my twitter fingers to Bryan my backseat playlist to Samantha Anguiano, my Herrarte, my phat love for vines, my ugly laugh, and the Mexican flag to Alexis Zacar- School Spirit to LucyLu , and last, but not least ias, and lastly my varsity spot on left bench to Efren (aka, Pop). my love and strength to Jayvian Avila. <3

I, Jacob Navarro, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My #1 solo fortnite, my sweater to Briana, and finally I, Nick Rodriguez, being of sound mind and body, my clean clothes to William. do hereby bequeath the following: My spikes/flats to Sean, my volleyball shoes to I, Jacob Rodriguez, being of sound mind Conde, and my heart to Jessica. and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My Speed Flex to Fernando, my cleats to I, Melody Romero, being of sound mind and body, do hereby Alex, my pads to Jakob bequeath the following: My two inhalers to Joshua Baltazar (10th), my sick math skills I, Brandon Rosales-Valenzuela, being of sound mind and to Daniella Llamas (11th), my crude and dark humor to Katherine body, do hereby bequeath the following: Romero and Maricruz Parades (both 11th), my chemistry notebook My letterman sweater to Diego Macias, my roller skates to to Erick Ramirez (10th), my nutrition bagels to Jesse Bruyneel (11th), Jorge Torres, and finally my mad dancing skills to Carlos Nigo. my Twitter roasting to Paul Galaviz (11th), my Spanish speaking skills to Madison Ulloa (11th), my fire dance moves to Anthony Naranjo (11th), my musical talents to Adan Olguin, and finally all my love to I, Mariela Michel, being of sound mind and body, do Mr. Orihuela and the future students in N-3. hereby bequeath the following: My ability to wake up late and still make it on time, my annotated AP Lit books, my writing skills, my dark humor and sarcasm, and my many I, Jeffrey Car Ambrocio, being of tears to the underclassmen. sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My backpack to Xavier Marquez, my sunglasses to Alonzo Murieta, and my I, Eric Estrada, being of sound mind and body, do hereby be- Chicago Bulls Hat to Jordan Uribe. queath the following: My endurance and speed to run a 4:33 mile, beat my high school records and maybe my good looks. My dodgeball skills to little Jorge. My awesome laugh to Reileen. My everyday sarcasm I, Amberly Recendez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the fol- to Sam. My goofiness to Jamie, Ems my relatable feels, and last lowing: but not least everyone BRING IT IN (It’s a XC and Track & Field My amazing sense of style, good looks & cheerleading life to Jocelyn Recendez, the thing). I love you all runners. BLUE PRIDE ON THREE, 1!, 2!.... bench to the “Sexy Six,” my tumbling skills to Selina Torres, my sassiness & extraness to Clarissa Morales & Vanessa Villa, my flying skills to Marissa Chavez, my personality and good vibes to Savannah Padilla, my creativity to Maarqui Calvo, my varsity spot to Marissa Turner and finally my captain abilities to Nicole Lievanos, Maribel Alexander & Marissa Chavez. I love u babies! I, Sophia Flores, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My sarcastic remarks and my rusty old locker to Crys- I, Diego Macias, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath tal Burgos and Geysha Govea, my mom-like-habits to Geysha the following: (Please take care of my crazy boys), my yelling voice to Alyssa My PS4 to Jorge Torres, my television to Michael Garza, and my friend- Escalera, my senseless jokes to Destiny Rivera, and my undying ship to all my friends! love for the Little Theater to all the underclassmen of Troupe #2164. Act well your part there the honor lies.

I, Stephanie Calderon, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: The trunk to my car to Gigi, my A$B dedication to Marlo, my I, Michael Garza, being of sound mind and body, do parking spot to Josh, my daily moisturizing routine to Jesus, my col- hereby bequeath the following: lege boundness to Maribel, and my getting ready playlist to Christina. My backpack to Alonzo Murrieta, my pencil bag to Xavier Marquez, and my Spongebob hat to Jordan Uribe.

I, Taylor Banuelos, being of sound mind and body do, hereby bequeath the following: My cup pong skills to Gigi, my ASB position to baby Rojo and Alyssa, my blonde/Taylor moments to Josh Cabral, my boo Eloy to Deanna, my daily PB&J’s I, Aleksey Soto, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the fol- to Jesus Delgado, and finally my morning hype-ups and love to my hypeman, Erik lowing: Avalos. All of my love for BTS and music as well as my expert BS and procrastination skills and my favorite kids at work to Kayla Perez, an honorary diploma to Alonzo Murrieta, the ability to get through all difficult situations ever to Andrea Yaxcal, I, Rosa Melendez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the 1000 sheets of paper to Jessica Castellanos so that she can keep making those cranes following: and spreading happiness everywhere, and my writing skills (along with my intense My office powers and connections to my sun Steven, my love and affec- desire to fight Zeko) to next year’s El Rodeo Staff. I love you all. tion to my wife Naray of Skinny, my video games to Mr. Crone, my diploma to Jesse, the rest of my hair to Sarah, my drawing skills to the ASB sniper Amberly, and all my money and the rest of my belongings to my cat Mina. I, Klarissa Olivarez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby I, Sureya Obregon, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath bequeath the following: the following: My flake-y tendencies to Alonzo M., my music taste to Jess C., My dancing skills to Abraham Calderon, my facial expressions and my ability to not care what I say to Kayla P., and my self deprecating UNO playing strategies to Roxana Antonio, my swag and being the team mom humor to Andreya Y. <3 <3 <3 to Angela Trinidaddy, my art skills and love for baking to Justinian Cisneros, and lastly, my memes to Abigail Rincon June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 17 SENIOR WILLS

I, Danielle Rosales, being of sound mind and body, I, Sebastian Ruiz, being of sound mind and body, do hereby be- do hereby bequeath the following: queath the following: All of my wigs to Jasmine Bernal, my hairbrush to My knowledge of Calculus and mental stability to Selina Torres, Jorge Torres, my polygraph machine to Brandon Ro- my DJ skills to Kiwi, my Crocs to Mr. Francis, my volleyball div- sales, my outdated dictionary to Diego Macias for him to ing skills to Yahir (you need it), my memories to my underclassmen update, and my crayons to Poolee Carlos Nigo. The Few. friends, my leadership skills to Antonio, and my love for the school to The Proud. everyone who needs it.

I, Jenna Alvarado, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: I, Armando Ortega, being of sound mind and body, do hereby be- My brain to Jack, my lucky hat to Josh, queath the following: my tennis shows to Jessica, and finally, my My smarts and talent of being a goat to Selina Torres and Brianne’s sweater to my best friend, Kristen. left booger to Emily Lopez.

I, Kaeliana Vasquez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: I, Kaeliana Vasquez, being of sound My sarcasm to Natalia Reveles, my sass to Melanie Co- mind and body, do hereby bequeath the fol- rona, my loud laughter to Stephanie Garcia, and my roasting lowing: skills to Abel Vasquez. My sarcasm to Natalia Reveles, my sass to Melanie Corona, my loud laughter to Stephanie Garcia, and my roasting skills to I, Matthew Garcia, being of sound mind and Abel Vasquez. body, do hereby bequeath the following: My watch to Edward, my hat to Jocelyn, and my sweater to Nick. I, Brianna Herrera, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My choir jackets to Kimberly, my petty nature to Jai- I, Serena Marie Perez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath me, my sense of humor to Emily, and my red bangs to Nat. the following: My “loud voice” to continue the legacy of “YES *Insert name*” to Emily Arenas, my lifting skills to Kassandra Saldana, my position as Senior President I, Julio Cesar Ornelas, being of sound to the one & only: Erik Avalos, my “vivid mind” to Jesus Delgado, my positivity mind and body, do hereby bequath the following: & love to Emily Lopez, my sarcasm to Miguel (Gigi) Ornelas, my moments of My ASB chair and rigging tendencies to Rene Gal- spilling tea to Josh Cabral, my heart to Logan (Josh’s dog), my motivation to my legos, my thickness to Josh Cabral, my quirky character to future Junior ASB bbys, and an AMAZING and stress free Senior Year to my Mrs. Senteno-Tapia, my Blue Pride to Miguel “Gigi” Orne- future Senior ASB bbys. las, my big head to Jessica Castellanos, my heavyweight to Monica Aguirre, my cuteness to Bianca Aispuro , my will to live to Andreya Yaxcal, my laughter to the cutie patootie, I, Stephanie Alva, being of sound mind and body, do Laura Valle, and finally (and most importantly), my lazy eye hereby bequeath the following: will be shared between Selina Torres and Alonzo Murrieta. My inner mom skills to Janae Vasquez, my relatable per- sonality to Michelle Mendoza, my immature sense of humor to Miguel Romero, and to all my underclassmen I leave you the water balloons in the shed, the run was fun <3. I, Briana Alcala, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: The hate Francis has for me to Kassandra Sal- I, Ernesto Castro, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: dana, my weird personality to Jesus Delgado, and my My locker and Panera Discounts to Alyssa Escaladder, my love for the theatre to Ruben yellow discus to Emily Arenas. and Tristan, my sense of humor to Angel, and finally the Improv team to Tony Cortez.

I, Kyra Chavez, being of sound mind and body, I, Maria Castillo, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the follow- do hereby bequeath the following: ing: My red hair to whoever has the time to maintain My pink flute and memories in the band room to Berenice N, my not so funny it, my love for the theater to the ones who will lead jokes to Karla R, my marching shoes to Roger C, my “wows” to Priscila M, my hugs to the class, and finally, my locker to Angel Marquez (be Michael I, my love for band to the whole flute section, my obsession with my favorite careful, it gets stuck a lot). number (19) to Oscar M, my spot in the band room during lunch to Jenny H, my AP Chem seat to Adan O, my gift cards to Mr. Francis, my Bruin gear to Mr. Cordero, and finally my love and support to every Don. Goodbye and good Luck to you all! :)

I, Andrew Gonzalez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath I, Devenie Anchondo, being of sound mind the following: and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My waterpolo captain position to Eric Parra, my swim captain position My talented yearbook skills to Guadalupe to Carlos Rojo, the ER Aquatics account to Draven Mendoza, my leadership to and Carolyn, my amazing math skills to Julien, Samuel Munoz, and I give all my love to all my friends that I’m going to miss! and finally, my outstanding academic skills to the incoming freshman, a.k.a. my sister, Delany.

I, Jose Hernandez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby bequeath the following: My deep voice and Blue Pride to Alonzooooo Murrieta, my love and I, Sarah Navarro, being of sound mind and body, do hereby some height to Emily Lopez, my conceitedness and independence to Rene bequeath the following: Gallegos, my left shoe to Dylan Joseph, my decision making to Erik Avalos, My Dance Commish position to Josh, my playlists to Bianca, my adoration for Marvel to Oscar Maldonado, the pencil I borrowed and my obsession with The Office to Richie, my motivation to Draven radio to Kimberly Gonzalez, and my bad jokes and love for food to GiGi. and Erik, my school spirit to Grecia and Sophia, my Hoco Queen crown to Yulissa, and finally my addiction to naps to Ronaldo.

I, Ahtziri Sanchez, being of sound mind and body, do here- by bequeath the following: I, Margaret Gutierrez, being of sound mind and body, do hereby be- My spot on table to Deanna Roldan, my Social Justice queath: Presidency to Joshua Cabral, my ability to flake and peer advis- My poems and future Get Lit team to Jenn, my crazy good looks to ing skills to Alonzo Murrieta, my intelligence to Emily Arenas, my babies, Seli and Bryan, my Starbucks card to Abram, and finally my and better common sense to Gigi Ornelas. unconditional love to Michael. El Rodeo, Pg 18 El Rancho High School June 1, 2018 STAFF FAREWELLS have not been a lie, but it was the Aleksey biggest compliment to have my Bremo fellow friend and editor in chief enjoy my writing. Since then, Soto Martinez I’ve grown better at writing for El Rodeo, and it’s sad to leave when It’s been an amazing two years When Devenie first told I was beginning to enjoy myself but now it’s time to say goodbye. me, “Join journalism with me” and feel apart of this school for I honestly thought it would my obvious reaction was “No, once. I honestly suck at goodbyes be easier to write this but now that’s boring.” But honestly, being and dread them so I’m just going that I’m actually doing it, I can’t apart of El Rodeo was everything to cut to what I’ll miss about El stop myself from tearing up. I but boring. Everyone’s creative Rodeo. Zeko and his very, very, couldn’t wait for the school year and interactive process to write very, very hairless head and his to end so that I could finally leave the school paper that kids un- enthusiasm to read a journalism high school behind because let’s derestimate and throw away has book for twenty minutes on block be real, high school sucks (or at been fantastic. The entire class is periods (even though no one least it did for me). But, this feels full of wonderful girls (seriously reads it). Sofia saying bless you bittersweet. I thought that say- this class is just girls, apart from twenty times every time I have an ing goodbye to the seniors last Zeko and somewhat I, shout out annoying sneezing attack. Leslie year was bad, but now that I’m to non-binaries) that are better being super mom-like, energetic, the one going, it feels harder. writers than me, and will do great and encouraging; she’s seriously I remember coming into things in this messed up world. too good for this world. Aleksey this school year terrified of what Writing has always came natu- standing in front of the list of would happen this year. Would we rally to me, but not writing like sports articles no one volunteers have enough staff? Would every- I’m a news reporter, which is not to write. Kayla doing charming one learn quick enough? Would at all how or what we write. So, things for us and being the sweet- everything go smoothly? I don’t the first thing I wrote for El Ro- heart she is. Lastly, Devenie and I know how many times the pessi- deo was the LANY article about procrastinating and playing slith- mist in me feared that everything their first official album (shout er.io instead of writing our articles would go wrong. Now that it’s out to one of the greatest bands (I’m sorry Aleksey). It has been time for me to leave everything for being super positive and Alonzo, my favorite honor- of all time), and I was nervous one of the best times of my life behind, I’m glad to say that these cheerful. Tu vas me manquer! ary senior, you and your wonder- as heck to show Aleksey. I knew to be being surrounded by great fears were unfounded. You guys Alynna, I know you aren’t ful copy-editing have saved us so I was good at writing creatively, people, but it’s time to graduate are some of the coolest people a big writer but you came through many times and I’m really thank- but not journalismly. But, her re- and say adios to everything I love on campus and I loved coming with those word on the streets! ful that you came in even though sponse was “It’s good, you can and hate, so, goodbye El Rodeo into class, staying for layout, Thank you for helping us with you didn’t have to. I’m going to really write,” which could have or and good luck with your issues. and even fighting Zeko along- those, and thank you for decid- miss you so much, but I know we’ll side you. I will never forget these ing to take the class and staying! see each other again soon; after days. I hope you don’t either. And now, the juniors. all, we still have to go get poke. Before I go in, I want to To my best friend (and fa- Franky, one of my fa- thank all of you (even those who vorite BTS stan) Kayla, I LOVE vorite girl group stans, thank are no longer with us) because YOU SO MUCH. You are such a you for taking on photo edit- without you El Rodeo literally bright and intelligent person and I ing. You’ve saved our a**** would’ve ceased to function. You don’t know what I would’ve done many, many, MANY times. all put in so much of your time and without you this year. Never for- Thank you for doing that on top effort that you didn’t have to put get that you have so much ahead of writing really good pieces. in, and that means the world to me. in your future and no matter how Selina and Emily, our third I guess I have to say hard life gets, never stop working unit, you guys are really some- goodbye individually now. towards what your heart wants. I thing else. You both came in sec- First, the seniors. believe in you immensely and I ond semester and jumped right in, Leslie, I honestly don’t will always be here for you just no questions asked. Both of you know how the paper would’ve like you’ve been here for me. are amazing writers who are defi- survived without you. Even Fatima, WIIIIIIIIIIG! Be- nitely going to benefit the staff though this was your first year fore this year I had heard that you HEAVILY next year. Seli, try not here, you jumped in ready to go were an awesome writer and I to throw hands with the bald man. and always kept it together. You wanted you as part of the staff so Bianca, your writing has are truly El Rodeo’s mom. I ad- much. Thank god you joined be- improved so much since you with saying goodbye to people mire you so much for that. Merci cause you are seriously one of the started and this issue has prob- I’ve known for months or even beaucoup for putting in your all best writers I’ve ever met. You’re ably some of your best writing Alynna years? Easy. I don’t. I’ll just take (and also for having a part in always so positive and you’re yet. Thank you for always being this opportunity to thank every- reigniting my love for One Di- just so great in general. Good up for working and doing your Rodriguez one who has been involved in this rection). Good luck at Whittier! luck next year! Catch me still best throughout this whole year. chapter of my life, especially the Mari, you are so smart and retweeting all of your retweets. My second-to-last farewell Wow, farewells already? It Zekos for being the most incred- witty and honestly, the world Sofia and Jenn, just like goes to Mr. Zeko. I remember the seems as if my senior year just be- ible people ever. High School was isn’t ready for you. Thank you Bremo and Dev, I feel like I have first time I ever gave you an ar- gan… Well where does one start great but it’s time for adulthood. for all of the work you’ve done, to address you guys as a unit ticle to read I was practically in even when it seemed too stress- because I swear I never see you tears because I was so afraid you ful or seemed like it would take guys apart. Thank you for tak- were going to completely oblit- so long to get it done. I love my ing on the sports stories when erate it (I couldn’t take criticism successful Key Club president. no one else wanted to. You guys well), but now because of you Bremo and Dev, since you killed it every time. Sofia, keep I’ve gained confidence in my guys are always together I HAVE dancing to NCT; let me know news writing. In these past two to address you guys as a unit. You when you finish the ‘Go’ chore- years, you’ve become one of my guys are fantastic. I’m really glad ography! Jenn, keep going with favorite teachers at El Rancho you both decided to be in the class. your poetry; you’ve got a prom- and I am so glad I got to be a part Bremo, I’ve known you for so ising future in spoken word! of this class, despite how many long and it feels so weird to be of- Karizma, my artistic goth/ times I’ve tried to shut you up or ficially saying goodbye. I missed emo queen: you are so SO funny fight you. I’ll miss you. I’ll try to you a lot and I’m going to miss and you brightened up the room so come visit to make sure you aren’t you even more after graduation. much the brightness bounced off growling at next year’s staff. Devenie, thank you for writing of Zeko’s head and left me blind. Finally, I want to thank killer features, diving into layout, Thank you for everything you did the people that actually took the and being our #1 chip provider. 1st semester and an even bigger time to read the paper through- Sebastian, you are THE thank you for still coming in even out the year. All of the work photogenic skinny legend. Al- if it meant ditching your 6th peri- we did was, ultimately, for you though you didn’t have to, od. Please don’t ever block me on guys. I hope you’ve enjoyed you took a couple of articles Twitter because I don’t know how the ride as much as we have. and helped us out a LOT with I’ll live without seeing you wildin I’m so honored to have been copy editing, so thanks very out (or posting your art doodles) your editor-in-chief. Good luck to much for that, AS WELL AS on my timeline. Stay positive bb. all of the staff members next year! June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 19 STAFF FAREWELLS

layout, and even giving people Leslie a laugh. I want to thank the staff for their constant support, you guys make me smile and I’ve had Plaza a blast this year. I’m expecting a mail copy of the first issue from I’m Leslie Plaza, business next year! Also I want to thank manager, copy editor, and staff Mr. Zeko, not only for the laughs, writer for the 2017-2018 El Ro- but also the constant analysis and deo Newspaper Staff. My experi- critique. I’ve become a better ence in journalism has been mem- writer and journalist because of orable, from late nights with pizza you. I also want to thank Aleksey to group quizzes, brainstorming for giving me this opportunity to deadlines, and getting chased and allowing me to have more by a cat near the P building. I’ve responsibility. Most importantly, absolutely loved this journey with thank you to my mom, my dad, incredible people. Although I’ve and my sister for not giving me only been a part of journalism for the cold shoulder when I ask my last year, I feel very close to them to read my article. To the every single person in the staff. El Rodeo staff, thank you for I’ve loved helping with writing, the laughs, I’ll miss you guys!

our hard work being displayed in 8 to 12 beautiful pages. I’m Mariela glad I joined and I thank every- one who’s helped me improve throughout the year. Mr. Zeko, Michel thank you for being brutally honest with me on my work be- I came to the journalism cause without that I never would class thinking that I wouldn’t have been able to improve on learn or do much in the class. I my writing. Sometimes I genu- was wrong because I contributed inely feel that I improved more late nights learning to lay out and on my writing in journalism than edit pages as well as meet dead- in any other English class I’ve lines on multiple articles at once. ever taken. Thank you to the I met many kind and talented entire El Rodeo Staff for being students who would become like so supportive and kind. You’ve family, and I developed a new- all made a huge impact on my found respect for journalism. I of- life and I will forever be grate- ten felt drained and stressed, but ful for the times we spent to- after every issue, I felt a sense of gether. Thank you for the laughs, accomplishment and pride for all the tears, and the memories. :*)

came better friends with others. I would like to say Devenie thank you to the wonderful El Rodeo staff. Thank you to ev- eryone who stayed late. Thank Anchondo you to everyone who did a layout page. Thank you to Fatima, writ- Uhm, hewwo. I am not sure ing those bomb simply irresist- what to say in this but I will try ible articles. Thank you to Sofia my best :D. I first joined journal- for writing all them sports ar- ism because I’ve always wanted ticles. Most importantly though, to learn what writing articles, in- thank you to Aleksey. You’ve terviewing people, and making been amazing. Thank you for the newspaper was all about. I’ve all of your hard work. Also Les- always wondered what the pro- lie, for being our mom basically. cess is and what needs to be done I would like to say fare- to put out the school’s newspaper. well to Mr. Zeke, a once long Being on the El Ro- haired, punk-rock, cool skater deo Staff, I met many amaz- teacher who lived in Pico Rivers. ing people (a.k.a. Sofia, Jenn, Also, mom I know you’re going Fatima, and Karizma) and be- to read this, so hello! love you <3. June 1, 2018 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 20 STAFF APPRECIATION Teacher Appreciation Week! From May 7th to May 11th, El Rancho’s Teachers were celebrated for their dedication to their students. All photos taken by By Selina Torres Throughout the week ASB and other groups on campus, surprised teachers with gifts and games to show Selina Torres El Rodeo Staff Writer them how much they appreciate their hard work and dedication to their students. Tuesday: Thursday: Wlasick grabs his Dr. Ross burst with appreciation morning coffee at the teacher for his sweet gift of Starburst breakfast. candy!

Monday: Mrs. Senteno-Tapia Friday: Mr. Sierra gets his game appreciated her gift from her Wednesday: Mrs. Rojo awarded face as he munches on some ASB students! with Honor Roll and a Kit Kat sweet treats.

Advice to the graduatingAll photos taken by class of 2018 Aleksey Soto

To the class of 2018, remember to take it one step at a time. Keep moving forard until you real your goals. Always remember to take Stay hungry. Don’t lose focus on your dreams. Have fun, but time out to enjoy the simple pleasures along the way. Let the past remember that you’re going to school for a reason. guide you to make you wiser. And always make time to call you - Mr. Melgar mother!

- Mrs. Moghimi-Danesh

Follow your passion, work hard, and serve others. Enjoy the moment.

-Mr. Francis -Mrs. Qureshi

Mr. Coach Shigezane Mr. Jim Sorenson Mrs. Mary Helen Welch Ebert Ms. Cecilia Tsakim

El Rodeo apologizes for all typos made in the previous issue. Thank you teachers and administration for your outstanding work and for being apart of the 2017-2018 El Rancho staff!