Garden Grove Unified School District Volume IX Issue I September 2012 The Matador Monthly

9401 Westminster Boulevard Garden Grove, California 92844 School News Bolsa Spirit Day No Justice, Nirk to the rescue Friday, September 14 Megan Phan life in the city of Los Ga- He enjoyed working with his introducing himself to the Freshmen Elections Front Page Editor tos, California, where he peers, and he grew to love staff and student body is Monday- Friday, Septem- attended Los Gatos High helping others learn as well one of the most important ber 17- 21 School. During his time in as aiding others in making As students dust their things that should be done Welcome Back Fall high school, he held a great the best of themselves. With thinking caps and sharpen as quickly as possible. He Sports Assembly passion for basketball and his discovered passion, he Thursday, September 27 their pencils, faculty members hopes to meet students as played on the baskettball went on to the University of reorganize their classrooms he supervises during breaks, Homecoming Game- team for all four years of California, Santa Barbara, Varsity Football, Calvary antd collect their nerves for lunch, and school events, high school. However, this to earn his teaching creden- Chapel @ Bolsa the purpose of preparing for especially Homecoming. He Thursday, September 27, changed when Mr. Nirk was tial. Following, Mr. Nirk 7:00 PM- 9:00PM the start of the new school believes that his main pur- Homecoming Dance year. This year, as Matadors pose as assistant principal is Friday, September 28, 7:00 return from their summer hol- to do whatever he can to as- PM- 10:00 PM iday, one member will not be sist teachers and students in Super Saturday- March- joining this reunion as Bolsa regards to making sure that ing Band Rehearsal Grande bids farewell to as- Saturday, September 29 teachers have the support sistant principal Mrs. Orsi they need and that students Justice, who, having served have the guidance they need. World Quickies two fine years at Bolsa, has When asked about what he been transferred to Rancho wants to contribute to the Alamitos High School. How- As of August 23, 2012, school, he was uncertain but ever, all is not lost. Among researchers at the National In- stated, “As in basketball, the new faces that will greet stitute of Health have identified you fit whatever role helps Bolsa students is Mr. Todd a rare immune disease called an your team. I’m not sure of adult-onset immunodeficiency Nirk, Bolsa Grande’s very what that role is yet, but I syndrome. Patients with the own Zac Efron “look-alike.” admitted into the University taught at Redondo Beach for will be a positive influence. disease make antibodies that at- Mr. Nirk will be taking over of California, Los Angeles, nine years and later held the Whatever role I can take tack their immune system, and Mrs. Justice’s position as the where he discovered his call- position of assistant principal to help the school-no mat- exhibit AIDS-like symptoms, assistant principal, and al- ing in education. Mr. Nirk at Santiago High School for six ter what it is, I’d be happy though the disease is not a con- though he may not be one to always believed that his fa- years. tagious virus, such as HIV. Of sing and to dance, he is sure ther’s occupation as a teach- As a newcomer to to do it.” Mr. Nirk certain- the 12 known cases that date to be an outstanding addition er played a subctonscious the Matador family, Mr. Nirk ly has what it takes to be a back to 2004, all are of Asian to the Bolsa family. role in his decision to enter believes that introducing great Matador and will be descent and mostly occur in Mr. Nirk spent the the field as he admitted that himself to the Matador fam- a wonderful contribution to Thailand and Taiwan. first eighteen years of his he had always liked school. ily, Mr. Nirk believes that Bolsa Grande High School.

On August 24, 2012, the Norwegian court sentenced Anders Behring Breivik, who A Cool Turnout for a Hot Festival killed 77 people in a bombing Anh Pham that garnered the undivided at- and shooting massacre in Oslo, Staff Writer tention of not only children but Norway and on Utoya Island also young adults. Other orga- on July 22, 2011, to 21 years nizations, such as the YMCA of in prison for voluntary homi- Bolsa Grande High North Orange County, the Viet- School has certainly gained a namese American Federation cide and attacks of terror. The reputation in the Garden Grove of Southern California, and court’s principal concern during and Westminster community the Hong Bang Culture Center, the trial was Breivik’s state of for welcoming the public to the were not affiliated with Bolsa sanity, for if Breivik was to be variety of events and festivities Grande High School but decid- acquitted as insane, he would held on its grounds. This sum- ed to partake in the festival in have been secured in a mental mer has been no exception as order to not only raise aware- amazement. what brought a downfall to the annual Summer Festival, Members of each or- this year’s Summer Festival health unit. Breivik smiled as ness for their efforts to better held from July 20th to July the community but also to sim- ganization were asked whether and was the chief culprit to the court ruled him sane. 22nd, once again gathered peo- ply enjoy the many festivities or not they felt that their booth preventing this year’s festival ple from various parts of the and the crowd’s exuberance. was successful and if, compared from surpassing the previous Three French tourists area to enjoy the great selection Despite the undeni- to the other booths held at the year’s. Furthermore, many de- were convicted on August 22, of food, live entertainment, and able heat in the early morn- festival, their booth reigned su- clared that this year’s festival 2012, in a Sri Lankan court for carnival rides available at Bol- ings and the late afternoons, preme. All endearingly replied lacked the necessary public- sa’s very own parking lot. taking pictures of themselves several sensational acts took that they felt confident with ity to attract a larger crowd, as Bolsa Grande clubs their booth and believed that this year’s number of festival pretending to kiss a Buddha the stage once the sun had set. and organizations, such as Festival attendees flocked to due to the lively atmosphere, attendees greatly paled in com- statue. The tourists were arrest- AVID, Cheer, Journalism, Year- the festival’s stage to catch their booth was met with suc- parison to last year’s number. ed after the photo lab at which book, and Men’s League, par- live performances from notable cess. Although the heat and the lack the tourists developed their ticipated in this year’s Summer bands, such as Blue, Vovinam, However, a certain of publicity managed to re- pictures contacted the police. Festival. These groups lured in and The FreeFall. The audi- question remains unanswered: duce the number of attendees, The three were sentenced to six hungry passer-bys with their ence was awestruck by each How does 2012’s Summer Fes- it certainly did not dampen the months of hard labor in prison delectable assortment of foods band’s demonstration of strong tival compare to 2011’s Sum- spirits of those responsible for that included appetizing Ameri- mer Festival? Answers and the fun and the merriment as for violating a law that forbade vocals and clear talent. In ad- can fare, delightful southwest- dition to the musical perfor- comments were collected from all who were interviewed com- the insulting of “the religious ern cuisines, and savory Mexi- mances, VSA and martial arts booth holders, Bolsa students, mented that despite the lacklus- feeling of any class of persons” can dishes. In addition, Bolsa’s group UFK performed stunning and festival attendees, and all ter in this year’s feat, the Sum- as their actions were considered Vietnamese Student Associa- routines and entertaining skits gave the unanimous response mer Festival was still, without a to be offensive and uncivilized. tion (VSA) hosted game booths that left the audience in sheer that despite the fun, the heat was doubt, an enjoyable experience. Page 2 Editorials September 2012 2012 = It’s Rover We’re Spacing Out Surrender to the Slender Lisa Dinh Mars will be the day science fic- As-Is Editor tion fantasies come to life, which Shannon Advincula approach to the horror genre— However these well- will be not too far from impos- Editor-in-Chief an unknown pursuer and a sense merited concerns over the hor- Space has always cap- sible. The descent and landing of of urgency—Slender displays ror genre target the general tivated people from all walks Curiosity by parachute is aptly all the tactics of the horror idea of the modern sensation of life. Many humans have termed “seven minutes of terror” Over the summer the horror survival game’s effects on the of video gaming as a whole. dreamed of space travel, but it for the suspense it caused. The survival computer game Slen- human psyche. You are com- One cannot hope to undo what has only been fantasized about rover set wheels on Mars on Au- der enraptured the horror genre pletely immersed in the game, technological advancement has and has not been attained. The gust 6, 2012, about eight months of the video gaming indus- first-person, without any other made possible to the adoring scientists of the United States later, within the Gale Crater. try, amassing a cult following knowledge of the character you audience of the contemporary have always strived to achieve The technology that the and viral fame. Incorporating play to suggest dissociation or world. this dream and have designed a rover sports is amazing. Curiosity the virtual legend of the Slen- rational. What is it about these vehicle bigger and badder than is clad with seventeen high-res- der Man, the low-quality indie Horror survival video virtual realities that indulge a its predecessors, known to man- olution cameras: eight HazCams game is notorious for its authen- games offer the player an op- man’s nightmares, and what’s kind as Curiosity. to avoid hazards, four NavCams ticity despite its quick develop- portunity to surrender himself more—keeps him coming Roughly the size of a to navigate, two MastCams to ment as a humble project by cre- to an all-too convincing realm back? It’s odd to conceive that car, the latest pioneer to Mars provide true-color images, one ator Mark Hadley, evident in its of his very nightmares. Inducing man would actually seek to ter- is of the utmost novelty; it is ChemCam to fire a laser and simplistic nature and poor audio a primal fear so becoming as to rify himself, but it is that diver- implemented with ground- vaporize rocks, and two other quality. construct the very shadows that sion from the norm and impos- breaking technology with which cameras. Curiosity’s infrared la- As the player, you wan- haunt man in his wildest late- sibility of the monster-ridden it uses to examine the terrain of ser vaporizes and blasts interest- der through a dark forest collect- night paranoia, the reality of the scenarios that encompass hor- Mars and communicate with its ing portions of Mars and exam- ing disturbing notes of warnings unreal blurs the thin boundary ror’s inherent appeal. home planet over 127,000,000 ines and analyzes their mineral and distress, all the while evad- of rational. In that innate rush that miles away. NASA yet again composition. We simply cannot ing the elusive Slender Man The complete immer- helps man master his fears and perseveringly launches anoth- overlook the six-wheeled rover’s who ominously stalks you and sion of the individual through attach an identity to the shad- er spellbinding hunk of metal nuclear power source. Solar pan- draws closer with each note the harmonization of perception ows that haunt him at night, into space despite the tremen- els were flung aside and replaced you collect. Viewed through the and action forces the player to there is that subconscious reas- dous distance. As students start with a plutonium core, meaning viewfinder of a camcorder, your relate to his avatar in ways of surance that he will survive and school, their fellow compatriot that the little rover can work night peripheral vision thus obscured self-identification. As such, the return to everyday life. Despite the rover is making its mark in and day. Curiosity may be sent in darkness, the sight of Slender superiority of contemporary what dangers the convincing history, but in this case it would far from home to study two bil- Man’s faceless malignity lurk- media and its effects on the realm of horror scenarios may be better to say on Mars. lion years of Martian history, but ing behind a tree—or worse, human mind are profound and impose in the near future, the Curiosity began its it has all it needs to survive. right behind you—startles one steadily progressing to a point very genre is an integral part quest in Cape Canaveral Air The cost of two and a into frantic panic with accompa- of plausible danger—there is of returning needed suspense to Force Station in Florida, where half billion dollars is a worth- nying urgent background music little room for dissociation with the all-too comfortable life of it said adieu to Earth and was while sum to spit up for further- fit for a well-built jump scare. an avatar in the era of motion- the developed world’s all-too- launched from the Atlas V ing scientific knowledge. Hope- The relative simplicity sensor first-person consoles. willing denizens. rocket on November 26, 2011. fully the scientists do discover of the first-person survival game The objectives of Curiosity’s something new that they did not calls into question just how mission, as have been the ob- yet discover in the last three Slender is able to incite such jectives of the preceding Mars missions that they launched; it feral emotions of fear and pan- rovers Sojourner, Spirit, and would be quite the disappoint- ic. Moreover, the extent of ter- Opportunity, are to search for ment otherwise. To comprehend ror wrought from horror video evidence of Martian life forms, how far humans have come games has raised concerns over investigate Martian climate and along in terms of aerospace the safety of the player, espe- geology, investigate the role of is breathtaking. It seems not cially with the increasingly re- water in the sustention of life, too long ago when the Wright alistic graphics and convincing and help prepare for a manned brothers soared the skies in their atmosphere that modern horror mission to the Red Planet. crude aircraft, or humans first has reached. The day when another sent satellites to space, or travel With a minimalistic Neil Armstrong sets foot on to the moon became possible. Olym-Peeks Only on the USA

Dominic Nguyen The show was essentially a grab Tale of Jordyn Wieber became all members would be asked “How did it probably was not all that inter- Editor-in-Chief bag of the day’s events; segments too prominent. Jordyn Wieber, the feel to help Michael Phelps into winning ested. and fragments of sporting events favored gymnast going into the indi- his (x) medal?” Their own achieve- The decision for NBC were condensed into roughly four vidual all-around, had failed to qual- ment in contributing to the TEAM to broadcast how the United Every two years, all the hours. Because of the need to ify for the finals, yet NBC decided gold was placed on the backburner States is involved in the Olym- nations come together to cel- condense, NBC had to deem what to make her the martyr for women’s to show how great Michael Phelps pics gives off a nasty whiff of ebrate sportsmanship, camarade- was “most important” to air and gymnastics. The camera would con- was in becoming the most celebrated ethnocentricity (and in some rie, and culture at the Olympic surprise—what was most impor- sistently pan back to Jordyn and the Olympian in history. In women’s bas- cases, biases against race or Games as athletes and countries tant was coverage on American commentary would focus back to her ketball, the women won their fifth gender). In the airing of the across the world showcase them- athletes. As a business move, this through out the finals. The spotlight straight gold, and nary a segment, in- opening ceremonies, NBC cut selves in (mostly) good-natured choice is logical; an American rarely strayed far from how the rest terview, or celebratory congrats to them a tribute to the victims of the competition. Nations are able to broadcasting network with Ameri- on TV. In wres- 7/7 London bombings, ignored cheer on their athletes as they vie can viewers want to watch Ameri- countries following the USA as tling, when NBC for medals, records are surpassed, can athletes succeed so that view- the commentators continued to commentators traditions are carried on or re- ers are entertained and feel pride talk about the US team, and even were asked to molded, patriotism is expressed, for their nation. Yet the choice to mispronounced several coun- and for the younger audience, gear the Olympics for Americans leave due to tries’ names. It’s paradoxical: there’s also the added perk of inevitably caused the “news” to be their distracting The Olympics bring the world to attractive people! A compelling editorialized. Instead of celebrat- ringside com- a common ground that is filled and infectious sporting event, the ing the unity and many cultures of mentary, they with history and pride, while the Olympics gives opportunities for the Olympics, NBC ended up cel- reportedly said messages that NBC transferred the world to learn—about the di- ebrating the prowess of the United they didn’t want were “Is our nation ‘winning’?” versity around the globe, about States of America. to stay anyway, In just fifteen days, twenty six individual sports, even about the For example, throughout as there were sports, over three hundred sport- individuals themselves. the gymnastics competition, NBC ing events, the London Olympics of the U.S. gymnastics team “won This comment actually seemed to When the Olympics commentary villanized the Rus- stirred up excitement, unfiltered one (the gold medal) for Jordyn” or apply to many of the sports without are held in another country, one sian team; in contrast, the girls of euphoria, unbiased appreciation, broadcasting network is given the the American team were lauded how Jordyn’s loss helped her other USA athletes; on NBC, many of the and a general feeling of being task to relay information back to for their story of trying to be the teammates, Aly Raisman and Gab- sporting events without Americans mutually connected to the rest of the home country; for the United first American team to win gold by Douglas, compete in the finals. were either not broadcasted or shoe- the world. States, NBC Universal drew in since the Magnificent Seven of In swimming, whenever horned to open spots near the end of Unfortunately, Ameri- 219.4 million viewers overall to the Atlanta 1996 Olympics. Even possible, Michael Phelps would the Olympics or earlier on in the day. can editorializing failed to con- the London 2012 Olympics. The within the U.S. team, the Tragic be the center of attention. Relay If there were no Americans, NBC vey this message. September 2012 Editorials Page 3 Feigning Writing for Followers! Elizabeth Dao for blogs as discord with the ma- Matadors Editor jority will only lead to visible con- Are We Late? demnation on the comment page Patrick Jeon exactly when testing is over, And how does this affect and the eventual descent into on- while we and other schools anyone who does not take line oblivion. Writers, on the hand, Staff Writer As marked by its appar- have another month or so of AP classes or are opposed are by no means barred from intro- ent presence in societal life today, just class time. This period to having a short summer ducing novel thought to the world the ever-expanding establishments As proof that the of time is filled with mostly for one year? Well, any- as they do not write to please but of social media and social network- wonderful school year has projects and such to make one not taking AP classes to satisfy the relentless need of ing have generated the opportunity started, you are reading this the days pass by. Would it will definitely enjoy the the mind to divulge the wonders for the millions of people inhabit- article here in September. We not be better to have this fact that they will final- of human thought onto paper. ing the world to connect with one all have experienced other time off spent at our own ly be able to leave school Whatever philosophy or value one another as well as allow them to friends wonderfully poking homes instead? at the same time as their observes from a brief passage of contribute their significantly sub- fun at us for leaving school writing fails to reveal itself in any stantial sentiments on just about extremely late and we have blog posts on the entire Internet. anything and everything. Perva- always retorted back by stat- It’s accurate to then say that blog- sive in this modern culture of net- ing that we start school later. gers merely don’t hold a candle to working, these mediums of com- Without further inspection, writers; while blogging exacer- munication have instilled a sense this seems to be a standard bates, writing enlightens. of communal camaraderie, an es- trade-off. Only when we Regardless of writing sence which seems to be lacking delve deeper into this do we and blogging’s disparities in sub- outside the comfort of our rooms find the real flaws of start- stance, many bloggers maintain nowadays. Part of this structure of ing at a later time than other that blogging is indeed writing. online sociality encompasses the schools. When taking a look at the popu- revealing world of blogs, includ- Anyone who has al- lar blogging platform Tumblr, it is ing the teen attraction Tumblr. ready taken an AP class can stupefying (and distressing) to see In order to create a blog vouch for the fact that by that the majority of the top posts on the World Wide Web, one is starting later, students are consists of emotionally ambigu- first expected to fulfill a set of forced to go over materials at ous song lyrics; repulsively re- rigorous prerequisites, for not just a much more vigorous pace Though it could hold friends from other dis- dundantly advice that somebody anybody can arbitrarily log onto than other schools in order to true for only a few classes, tricts and may even have found on Google; or cliché quotes the computer and publish rubbish cram in the same amount of summer homework might a greater chance to hang about love, life, or friendship. The on the Internet; if it is on the In- material that another school even be drastically lowered. with them over the course sources of these profound posts ternet, it has to be legitimate ma- has gone through. By start- For many of the classes, the of summer. One short sum- somehow manage to rack up on terial. Despite this level of online ing earlier, schools can gen- whole reason we have sum- mer might sound outra- thousands and thousands of fol- accreditation, not all bloggers are erally grant their students an mer homework is because geous, but it can only be lowers, but one has to wonder how exactly what we can distinguish as effective two to four extra we do not have time to cover pictured as delayed grati- such worldly insight is achieved true writers. Although it is without weeks of AP preparation that that material fully in class fication. Once summers by those who sit at their comput- doubt that there are some decid- would previously have been during our shortened year are lengthened again, the er for hours on end refining their edly talented bloggers out there, nonexistent. Four weeks compared to other schools. very following year, it will million-of-hits blogs. Another writers offer substance that main- could mean the difference Imagine the joy it would feel elongated and satis- integral part of the website’s post- stream bloggers cannot attempt to between a student getting a bring to all people who do faction will brim among ings incorporate the everyday life imitate for the sake of their lives– five versus a four or even a have summer homework all students. of an average teenage. Because their blogging lives, that is. two versus a three on his or and dread doing it or would We might feel the blogs are web logs, it makes sense Unlike books of litera- her AP test. rather do it with the help of effects of a shortened sum- that bloggers would blog about ture that have endured the test of Truth be told, af- a teacher! As of right now, a mer for only one year. Af- the affairs of their lives; however, time and the like authored by writ- ter AP testing, most stu- summer free of homework is ter that, we would have it is simply ridiculous when they ers, blogging is predominantly dents are dead tired and are near unimaginable because the same summer that we try to make every single event that about self-promotion. The system waiting for summer break. of the sheer impossibility of always had, only sooner, happens to them sound like an oc- of acquiring followers or subscrib- School, however, does not classes not handing out sum- and even better. Imagine casion to be celebrated. It is bad ers and consequently the procure- end after we finish our test. mer assignments due to how the possibilities and drool ment of online recognition plays a enough that such nonsense is clog- Other schools efficiently end the school year is scheduled. your head off! major role in the development of ging up storage space on the web a blog. In such a case, bloggers servers, but when the bloggers try their tumblrs and blogs deserve the another blog due to its extraor- of an eye, whereas worthy writing must appeal to the masses by sole- too hard to sound sophisticated and Pulitzer Prize from the numbers of dinarily perceptive view of the can be processed over a period of ly marketing the vogues and trends interesting, it makes other of man- at the moment, never to advance kind, especially when the erudite followers they have and reblogs world as much as the “followee” days or possibly even weeks and lackluster ideas that have circulat- prose has grammatical mistakes in they get, but think again, blogging would like to think. ‘Tis the cruel still be remembered for a lifetime. ed reiteratively; conformity is thus it. OBNOXIOUSLY OBVIOUS fiends! These followers do not only world of tumblr and blogging. What an honor it is then that we the basis of a blogger’s page. The MISTAKES. Somewhere in their follow blogs for their nriching posts: It goes to show that a students are assigned to study venture of conceiving innovative delusional minds, these bloggers they follow to gain followers as blog ost can be read in a min- good writing rather than dull thought is an absolute deathtrap hold the vainglorious belief that well. Rarely does a blogger follow ute yet forgotten in a blink blogs throughout the school year! Violence is GUNna Come Bansari Patel government’s gun policies. might have with no outward one to do that. The law can be that they champion the legal- Matadors Editor Over the decades, sec- signs of symptoms. changed to limit the excessive ity of gun purchases that allowed ond amendment has made it pos- Owning a gun does not sale of firearms. James Holmes to buy the riffle sible for citizens to have easy ac- automatically mean protection. Compared to America, that killed a dozen people. What We have all heard the cess to firearms, for reasons such There are always other ways of England tightly controls firearms happened in Aurora was the act of as “protection and security.” And protecting oneself, such as self- by law, and there is no strong a mentally unbalanced man with famous argument: Guns don’t of course they are the only rea- defense classes and even the public opposition over its gun access to destructive weaponry. kill people – people kill people. sons, aren’t they? Because they cliché baseball bat. Research control. It historically has one of One of the issues was But honestly, is that completely are the “proper” reasons to give proclaims that guns used in self- the lowest rates of gun homicides the “easy access” Holmes had to true? when applying for a gun per- defense equate to two times out in the world. In the U.S., the re- “assault weapons.” The rifle that If the country supports mit. There cannot possibly be of 1,000 incidents (0.2%). Most corded intentional homicides Holmes is accused of using to kill practically giving away guns, hidden agendas in the minds of of the people that have guns sup- committed with a firearm are 12 people and wound 58 others brutal events such as mass shoot- those who desire to own an AR- posedly for self-defense do not about 40 times higher than that would have been illegal under ings are going to inevitably take 15 semi-automatic rifle, such as even use them when the time of England. Furthermore, 60% previous gun legislation that ex- place. There are no “if’s” about going on a crazy mass shooting comes. of all homicides in the United pired in 2004. If the policy had it or even any way to prevent it, spree at a, suppose, movie the- Guns have lead people States were perpetrated using a not been changed, perhaps the unless something is done about ater. to commit suicide, assassinate firearm. Maybe we should learn incident would never have taken the ineffective gun control laws The background checks presidents, go on a mass murder something from a country with place. in the United States. The mass that the government requires on shooting, etc. But the govern- effective policies. People kill people? That shooting in Colorado and the those applying to purchase a gun ment still upholds the useless Many people support may be true, but guns make it act of domestic terrorism in do not and cannot predict future second amendment. Yes, every- the current gun law and also feel happen. The Unites States should Wisconsin, which took place actions based on the past. They one does have a right to protect sympathy for the victims who learn its lesson from past events this summer, provide tangible also cannot detect possible psy- himself/herself, but it does not suffered in the Colorado shoot- and exercise more control over evidence of the fallacy of the chological problems that one mean that a gun is necessary for ing. However, it is a bit ironic the distribution of firearms. Page 4 Features September 2012 A Senior’s Classified School Survival Guide While you’re not hitting the books, hit the gym Anh Pham 1. The best kinds of smiles are clean smiles. Staff Writer Nicole Martinez hours, one can have his way and go The last thing you want is to talk as early or late as he pleases for his to a person who is more preoccu- Staff Writer workout. Twenty-Four Hour Fit- pied with the piece of fried chicken Based upon my own ness also has a number of different stuck between your teeth than with personal insight as a BGHS During the school year, machines, therefore allowing its you. So, when in doubt, check your senior, I can certainly say that most of Bolsa Grande High guests to target any and every mus- teeth out! high school has been a never School’s students are often too cle that they wish to tone. From a 2. The yellow door lines are there ending, emotional rollercoaster preoccupied to find time to work variety of machines to friendly and for a reason! ride. From the inclining high- out. Whether it would be home- helpful employees, Twenty-Four Having a door rammed into your lights of pep rallies and dances that you will lean too far and tum- work, last minute cramming, Hour Fitness is definitely a place face is not the best feeling in the to the horrible plunges of all- ble over like a tower of blocks in sports, clubs, or just plain laziness, that is hospitable to BG’s students. nighters and final exams, life as world. In all truth, it’s like getting a game of Jenga. As a solution, many students find it incredibly Furthermore, we have a high school student has been slapped in the face with a five-inch- carry an extra pencil, or better yet, hard to squeeze in a workout into all seen Planet Fitness’s com- highly enjoyable and sometimes thick piece of metal—because it’s ask a classmate to pick up your their hectic lives. For this reason, mercial with the guy that boldly not so enjoyable. Furthermore, basically just that. To prevent this, pencil for you. You might make a tons of teens take advantage of the states “I lift things up and put them we all must face what we never do take note of the yellow lines new friend out of it instead of be- summer to finally engage in exer- down.” Surely, we have won- want to experience: embarrass- down the hall because the person ing remembered as “the kid who cising and toning up. dered if we, too, could lift things ment. Whether it may be a sim- opening the door from the inside fell flat on his/her face.” Although getting moti- up and put them down at this gym ple loose fly or a dramatic trip isn’t always aware of who is on the 5. When there’s a tardy sweep, vated to exercise can be hard for ourselves. Well, with an initiation down the hall, embarrassment outside. make sure you look to your left some, finding a gym that addresses fee of only forty dollars and a fol- is embarrassment and it causes 3. Look at what you eat before and right when entering the their needs can play a harder role lowing monthly rate of ten bucks, us to feel like crawling under a you put it in your mouth. classroom. for others. Fortunately, for all of some of Bolsa’s students have al- rock and dying. The last thing you need is getting I cannot emphasize to you how ri- us underpaid or jobless Matadors, ready found their way to this gym. Although I may be no the reputation of ‘Sir-Gags-A-Lot’. diculous and utterly embarrassed various gyms throughout Orange Like Twenty-Four Hour Fitness, Superman, I’m here to save Check what you’re eating be- I felt when I had rushed into class County pity the fool, or in our case Planet Fitness is opened twenty- you—yes you!—from facing fore you mistakenly bite into who and unknowingly collided with the poor, enough to have reduced four hours Monday through Thurs- the inevitable possibilities of knows what. Not only will this another student. We both fell flat rates during the summertime. day, and it also accommodates its suffering a lifetime of unforget- save you, but it will save the custo- on the ground, with a grand audi- Twenty-Four Hour Fit- guests with a wide variety of ma- table high school humiliation. dians from cleaning your mess. ence to mock at our misfortune. ness, for instance, charges thirty- chines. Therefore, I present a few tips 4. When you drop a pencil and Do not try to encounter the same two dollars per month without Thus, Matadors don’t that can save you from facing think you can’t pick it up, don’t fate as I did, and be extra cautious anactivation fee during the dur- fret, for there are gyms out there some of the worst high school think twice in trying. of your surroundings, especially ing the early weeks of summer. waiting for you with open and af- experiences. The worst thing that can happen is during tardy sweeps. Since the gym is open twenty-four fordable arms. More Flavors, 100 Years Later! Advice Column with its overwhelming scent cold coconut drink. But if you of rainbow sherbet. Other than cannot get one and also have 1) Dear Sassy Suzy & Respon- something so pointless. Anhthu Dang its magnificent aroma, its lime a craving for chocolate, then sive Ronald, I’m an incoming -CheapChester As-Is Editor and raspberry filling is sur- stop by your local grocery freshman and I’m really scared. Dear CheapChester, rounded by two golden cook- for the most recent addition Could you guys give me any tips CheapChester there is a really ies. Indeed, the taste is quite of OREO cookies, the “Fudge to survive high school? clear solution to this: Super glue similar to rainbow sherbet, Crème Coconut Delight Nearly a hundred -Freshmangrl01 only not so tangy but more to- OREO!” Unlike other good- the binder onto your body. That years after it was dunked in Dear Freshmangrl01, ward the sweet. ies with coconut flakes, the way you will never lose your its first glass of milk, Nabis- Honestly, no one survives high Another new release “Fudge Crème Coconut De- binder again. co’s OREO cookies continue school. No matter who you are, of similar category includes light OREO” has the original to be an all time favorite you will come out of high school the “Limited Edition Cook- coconut flavor blended as its 5) Hey there Ms. Sassy and Mr. amongst many Americans to- with a set of unforgettable issues. ies n’ Cream OREO.” Though own crème filling. The tropi- Responsive, I’m new to Bolsa day. On March 6th, 2012, the Grande and I’m really excited to chocolate-crème-filled sand- it sounds bizarre to integrate cal flavor is quite fitting for 2) Hey Double S& R! It’s my OREO cookie pieces inside the the summer, but in admittance, last year here and I have a friend see what the school has in store. wich cookies finally mark its Is there anything that I should 100th anniversary, igniting OREO itself, it was actually a fudge and coconut is certainly that I’m crushing on. But I don’t pretty good idea. It gives the a unique flavor combination. know what to do. Should I con- keep an eye out for? a series of celebrations and -Missouri_Chick special promotions that in- OREO cookie more pizzazz to Even after a hundred fess or just stay as friends? Dear Missouri_chick, clude new unique flavors of its chocolate side, but one too years after its creation, OREO -Confusedboi Besides the BGHS journalism, the OREO cookie. many can leave its consumer still dominates in today’s mar- Dear Confusedboi, no. It’s not a real birth- dumbfounded with a lingering ket and in the lives of many It’s your last year. Obviously, day party without the cake. OREO aftertaste. people across the globe. And you should confess. Marry that 6) Sassy Suzy and Responsive Last February, Nabisco re- Summer is quite the despite the new distinct fla- girl. Just kidding, don’t do that; Ronald, I’m an incoming fresh- released its Birthday Cake heat, and likely, someone is vors, OREO continues to reign just confess. is bound to stop for an ice as “Milk’s Favorite Cookie.” man I heard that the school’s flavored OREO and it is to 3) Yo Suzy and Ronald, I’ve no- locker rooms are haunted. I’m continue throughout the en- ticed some people around school extremely paranoid when it tire summer. This limited with awesome lip rings. Know comes to ghosts and the undead. edition sandwich cookie where I can get my lips done? What should I do? is known for its confetti- -Thanks, LipRingLuver -Hates2beAlone like filling, adding an extra Dear LipRingLuver, Dear Hates2beAlone, crunch to the classic vanilla Why would you want a piece of Truth is you’re right. The girls’ crème. The promotion will metal in your lip? You know how not last long, so grab one easily that thing gets infected? locker room is infested with while it lasts! Would you really put your ability poltergeist. As you know, there Moreover, the Nabis- to eat at risk for a scrap of metal? is absolutely nothing you could co Company recently initi- If you decide to object the opin- do about these ghosts. There- ated its line of Ice Cream ions of a wise, wise man then fore, I suggest you be scarier and flavored OREOs with the I’m sure the jail cell at your lo- weirder than the ghosts. When release of the Berry Burst cal police department will have you enter the locker room, start OREO that consisted of a piercing booth that is pretty screaming something random strawberry crème fillings cheap. Stay clean. at the top of your lungs, like rather than the usual va- “radish tastes like my hair” and nilla. With its successful 4) Dear Sassy Suzy & Respon- banging on lockers, while doing run on the market, Nabisco sive Ronald, Every year, I always pushups or something strange. progresses its new line with end up losing my big binder that Everyone will think you’re a a more colorful addition, pretty much holds all my stuff. freak, but don’t worry, no ghosts the “Limited Edition Rain- What should I do? I’m tired of will dare come near you because bow Shure, Bert! OREO.” always wasting a good buck on you’re crazy. September 2012 Features Page 5 Peacock Boo! Where Are You? cock only reveals itself to in. The boy was stricken the peacock, one should not Paul Nguyen ly, a shrill squawk pierced the few who are faithful to it. their ears. With a sud- with fear and awe. Mo- move, immediately drop to Staff Writer A scared young boy den turn, the boy met eye ments later, the bird was the floor, and pretend to be who requested to remain to eye with the peacock. gone and nowhere to be dead. Recent studies show anonymous, thoroughly ex- that this creature, simi- Some have claimed plained his close encounter lar to a bear, is not one to that they have seen this with the deadly yet majes- find dead meat tasteful. Un- mythical creature in the tic creature. The boy re- der any circumstances do streets, in the neighborhoods called walking home after not run; you will only pro- adjacent to Bolsa Grande a community service at voke it more. After it has High School, or in the school precisely 11:32 AM with lost interest and is out of itself. This dangerous crea- one of his close friends. As sight, do not move. It may ture must not be tampered they walked off the school still be watching you from with. Those who question the grounds and headed into afar. However, if you spot existence of this fragile city this mysterious peacock, the neighborhood directly species are all at risk. please contact the BGHS across from Bolsa, he had Legend has it that the journalism department. a strange feeling, as if he peacock dwells within the Does this pea- was being watched, or as if forgotten corners of Bolsa cock actually exist or is Grande High School. Oth- he was being hunted. The He described the bird’s seen. The boy told his other it just a delusion that stu- ers say that the peacock is a boy and his friend entered gaze to be the coldest friends, but none of them be- dents under too much mere figment of a tired stu- deeper and deeper into the yet most marvelous thing lieved what had happened. stress tend to imagine? Is dent’s imagination. The pea- neighborhood, and abrupt- he has ever been caught If approached by this story fact or fiction? Awkward. It’s the New Word

Nicole Martinez Jenna finds herself stuck in a leaving Jenna heartbroken Staff Writer love triangle with Matty and and free for Matty. Unfortu- his best friend, Jake. nately, what Matty and Jenna When this season felt was “the right timing,” Most teenagers ended, many of Bolsa’s AKA their hook-up after the tend to find themselves in viewers wondered “who is break up, was not right at situations that have been she going to stay with?” Al- all, for Jake watched the pas- awkward, misfortunate, though she is still bombard- sionate session and believed depressing, or even all of ed with awkward happenings them both to be cheaters. the above. But unlike the on a daily basis, the audi- Thus, Jenna’s love typical teenage dimwit that ence sees Jenna coming out triangle was no longer con- tries to shy away from these of her shell in season two. fined to her mind, and it situations, Jenna Hamilton, the protagonist from MTV’s show “Awkward,” has been a role model to any human who has ever been a teen- ager, for she has learned to embrace all of these misfor- tunes and turned her lemons into lemonade. In the first season, which aired in 2011, the au- dience first meets Jenna, a girl who was forced to wear an awkward L-shaped arm cast after an accident that became a misunderstand- Now, she has gone would soon become public ing of epic proportions, for from the girl that every- when she allows the entire many of her fellow class- one thought was slitting her world to read her virtual mates of Palos Hills High wrists to the girl that is dat- haven, or blog, in which believed her accident to ing Jake Rosati, the presi- she had depicted every- be an attempted suicide. dent of her class and cur- thing: Her family life, Throughout the season, rent best friend of her first friendships, and relation- Jenna, although burdened love. As the season unfolds, ship with both beaus. By Jenna finds herself trying to by an anonymous and cruel claiming to be team Jake deal with her parents’ sepa- “carefrontation” letter and or Matty, her classmates ration, a love triangle, and her crush and friend with were pressuring Jenna to a cruel arch-nemesis, Sadie benefits Matty Mckibben, Saxton. Matty and Jenna choose, and later on, af- tries to turn the very stigma never told Jake about their ter the boys literally fight that was socially murdering former relationship. Thus, over her, they, too, want Newspaper Staff her into a way to show the her to choose. As the sea- Dom Nguyen (Editor-in-Chief) Staff Writers Kevin Le Steven Vu when Sadie rudely informs Shannon Advincula (Editor-in-Chief) Agata Ho Khanh Tran Theresa Tran world, or at least her fellow Jake that Matty had en- son comes to a close, ev- Megan Phan (Front Page Editor) Amy Gonzalez Manly Pham Thao Phan classmates, that she was not joyed some “Hamilton pie” eryone is still left wonder- Anh Pham Anhthu Dang (As-Is Editor) Philip Nguyen Tram Hong simply “that girl,” but her before he did, Jake abrupt- ing whom she will pick: Lisa Dinh (As-Is Editor) Chuong Vu Phuong NguyenTran Dinh Bansari Patel (Matadors Editor) Chris Bui Sophia Nguyen own person. In the process, ly ends the relationship, Matty or Jake? Elizabeth Dao (Matadors Editor) Daniella Phung Daniel Duong (Distribution Manager) Hubert Pham Disclaimer: The opinions Nicole Martinez (Business Manager) Janice Huynh expressed in the editorials Patrick Jeon (Features Editor) Julie Dang do not reflect the opinions Sy Ha (Features Editor) Julie Nguyen of “Matador Monthly” as a Tina Pham (Layout Editor) Katie Le whole. Our staff members Keven Le Photographers are capable of the myste- Ms. Hannah Jaspard (Adviser) Amy Lim rious phenomenon com- Don Phung monly referred to as inde- Questions? Comments? Write to us Hao Lu pendent thought. Tony Nguyen at [email protected] Page 6 Matadors September 2012 Kickin’ Off Retaining the Gold the New Season leaders from other schools, have put our tears and gave the school some much Julie Mai learn many life morals in sweat into something we needed pride. Nicole Martinez Guest Writer workshops, and experience had no idea what the out- Michael Marquez, Staff Writer once in a lifetime mo- come would turn to be. our running back and one of ments that they would When we found out that Bolsa’s most talented football “We are from Bolsa, treasure forever. Many we won, I had a feeling players and captains, says that we couldn’t be prouder… alumni, family, and peers of relief because from Bolsa Grande High he has a “positive outlook” for and if you can’t hear us, came to the performance that moment, I knew that School’s football team has, over this season. “I believe that we we’ll yell a little louder!” to show his or her support my cabinet would all feel the years, become infamous for Does this cheer sound fa- as BGASB proudly ended that it was worth it to its continuous miliar? At the 52nd annual the talent show ceremony spend all summer work- losses. But ever since the Orange team changed County coaches, it has Leader- seen a glimpse ship Con- of hope in the ference seemingly held at never-ending UC Santa tunnel called Barbara failure. Last from Au- season, our gust 14th- football team 17th, ended the two year losing can finish this season, not only BGASB streak by winning four out of ’12-‘13 with more wins than last year, ten games, thus showing the but also with enough victories represent- campus the team’s tenacious ed their to make it to the playoffs. We spirit and desire to improve. have what it takes, but we just school Now, with the start of the new as they need to take the season week by season, Bolsa’s students are week and look to become better placed asking themselves one ques- first for each game.” When asked what tion: how successful will the he felt that the team lacked, the second team be this year? he replied, “game-time expe- time in a On, Friday, August rience. We just need to get row with 31st, BG’s Football team one or two more games in so their original, creative with a standing ovation ing on a 5 minute skit. All played its first game of the sea- that some of our younger play- twist of their skit based on from the crowd. When in all, I am just so ecstatic son against Laguna Beach High ers can get the feel of playing the popular board game, inquired about how it felt that we were able to pull School. With a score of 14 to under the lights at the varsity Monopoly. With nearly two retrieving the gold two through as a group and ob- 62, the team seemed to kick level, because a varsity game months of having to endure years in a row, ASB pres- tain the gold!” It truly is off the season on the wrong is faster and a lot more intense the excruciatingly humid ident Travis Nguyen (12) a remarkable breakthrough foot. Most students at Bolsa than a freshman or JV game, weather, BGASB managed replied, “Wow! Words for BGASB to acquire first now thought to themselves, which means that it takes a lit- to practice their dances, can’t even explain the place for two consecu- here comes another season tle getting used to.” of defeats… hoorah! But our paint their backdrops and feeling of winning first tive years. As they would Now, as the season Football team had an amazing props, and have leisure place. I guess the feel- agree, “Gold coins are continues, all we can do as time to bond with one an- ing is a little bittersweet. worth a lot, but leadership comeback when they played Saddleback High School on spectators is keep our fingers other. They were “show My cabinet and I have is the jackpot!” Congratu- Saturday, September 8th. With crossed and be as supportive as ready” at camp as they had been working on our skit lations BGASB ’12-’13 for this victory, the football team we can possibly be to this fresh the chance to interact with for about two months. We your victory! not only gained a win, but also and hopeful team. Keep Calm and Lead On XCeeding the Limits individual group exer- With the races approach- Amy Gonzalez Janice Huynh cises. The crowd went ing at almost Jeannette’s speed, Staff Writer Staff Writer into different groups in there was one on Saturday, Sep. 8th separate classrooms for that took the spotlight away from more activities and in- the infamous first day of school for On August 28th, 2012, The cross country season sight about themselves them. Their day, beginning bright 77 new students arrived at the has finally arrived and the Bolsa and their fellow class- and early at 6:30 AM, ended with Boy’s gym at 7:00 A.M. At such Grande XC team, training long mates. great success; the girls team took an early hour, the gym was al- and hard since the day track season The activities home third place overall and Jea- ready buzzing with energy and ended, is well prepared and ready ranged from basic in- movement as students were rush- to defend its title for a third and nette coming fourth in the race. troductions of names ing up and down bleachers and consecutive year as Garden Grove While the rest of the student body and interesting facts doorways in preparation for the League Champions. The runners was worrying about what supplies about themselves, to 2016 Freshman Orientation. The the gym and locker rooms were, have been regularly attending prac- to get and what to wear, the cross informational and deep exercises, students, ranging from clubs such where they could purchase lunch, tices either in the morning or in the country team was worried about which allowed the leaders to talk ASB, Men’s League, and Wom- or where they could buy their afternoon, both testing their dedi- where their racing shoes were and about personal struggles that they en’s League, all had training in tickets for various school events. cation and hitting them with the whether or not to wear a watch. had faced in their attendance in preparation for this event months The freshman’s link scorching heat and the beating sun. Don’t be mistaken though, the team at Bolsa, or some examples of beforehand during their summer. leaders all came with props Whether it’s running hills or doing is enthralled with the start of school what would be expected of the At 8:00 A.M, tens of new fresh- prepared, and led the tour with speed workouts at the park, they’ve and new classes. Coach Van, who incoming freshmen in the future men had already filled the gym, the freshman in costumes rang- been fully committed to doing their doesn’t usually give his team a classes they would be taking. prompting the day to begin. ing from Pac-man and assorted absolute best so when the time motivational speech but lets the Overall, both groups got to learn The orientation started ghosts, Fairy princesses, pirates, comes to race, they represent Bolsa confidence surge within them and about each other, know a couple off with a few activities, such as and detectives. In the end, all honorably and make us all proud. allows them to motivate each other more names and faces, and learn assembling each other in various the students headed back into As the lead runner and one of the did have few but impactful words shapes in individual groups, fig- a couple wise words about high the gymnasium for a talk about youngest on the team, Jeannette this year: “Run ‘till you’re done!” uring out to order each other by school. Next, the freshman got the importance of leadership and Zambrano said: “Don’t be anyone These words will be reflected every height and age by only communi- a tour of the campus and a ba- an inspirational speech to enjoy but who you are,” in regards to time the runners put their uniforms cating silently, and learning a few sic introduction of important upcoming high school years. making decisions not only about on and enter each race course, sus- interesting facts about one anoth- and useful information about the The orientation was finished at sports, but in life too. She, along taining a strong will to move for- er. Then there was a quick word school, such as where the book- 12:00 P.M and by the response of with the rest of her team, is thrilled ward and striving to the finish. You from Mr. Engel and Mrs. Milner, store was, where they could pur- the freshman towards the whole for the start of a new season accom- may think they team is out of their prompting Link Crew leaders to chase an I.D, the basic order of event, it was a successful and in- panied by new opponents and new right minds because in reality, their gather their groups and to start the classrooms on campus, where formational day. goals. sport is your sport’s punishment. September 2012 Matadors Page 7 Back to School Survey! New but Familiar Faces

with. The dances look so fun! I face while another girl was swim- Steven Vu taken the position of advisor know there’s a lot of school spirit, ming the other way. Staff Writer of Key Club. Being the former Amy Lim and I know I have a lot but not Cindy Lim (10): I saw my friend Key Club President of his old Staff Writer enough. holding cup noodles and asked school, Anaheim High, Mr. Tinhuy Huynh: The thing that him where he got it. “I got it at The year 2012 is start- Tonthat is indeed familiar with I’m looking forward to for senior the student store,” he said. My ing off with big changes, but the pledge, cheers, spirit, and year is prom! It’s my last year other friend and I started to walk Teachers: What did you do nothing is bigger than the energy that makes Key Club and prom is something you get toward the bookstore until Mr. over the summer? changes of two major club ad- what it really is. When asked Mr. Miller: I worked out! I did once in a lifetime. Patterson stopped us. “Where visors. Mr. Rob Engel, former what goal he has in mind for Insanity over summer, hung out Paul Kim: Baseball season! are you two going?” “The book- Key Club in 2012-2013, he We’re going to take league! Yeah! store,” I replied. “What are you advisor of Cheer and Key Club, with my kids, and went on vaca- replied “to bring Key Club Elizabeth Lopez: I’m looking for- getting at the bookstore?” “Cup has given up his both of his po- tion. home, closer to our students ward to having fun and spending noodles.” “Well, I’m sorry but sitions in order to become the Mr. Aviles: I took my kids to and their community.” He time with my friends because it’s they don’t sell cup noodles at the new advisor for ASB. As he Knott’s Berry Farm because we wants to spread the image of our last year. I hope everything bookstore.” was the former president for got a season pass. We went to Key Club to the rest of the stu- turns out good for everyone! Alan Nguyen (10): During band his ASB back in Pacifica High Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, dent body and staff, while still Las Vegas, and Circus Circus. I Vincent Nguyen: Three AP camp, I poured water onto the School, Mr. Engel does know maintaining membership and was playing poker nonstop and classes. Just kidding! Gradua- grass while Mr. Miller was sitting about the expectations and du- high service hours both on and won some money. tion, definitely! I can’t wait to down, and all the water seeped ties that ASB embodies. How- off campus. Mr. Frey: I taught summer leave! into his pants. ever, he is still also fairly new Finally, the last but school and that was it. It was a Chelzea Tipones: I’ve been in Brian Phan (11): When I walked to managing this organization. certainly not least of our advi- boring summer! Summer school Lipsync for 3 years now. Despite into the wrong classroom. I was When asked what his biggest sor club changes involves none and drove my kids places. the fact that it’s time consuming about to sit down but then I was challenge with becoming the Mr. Martin: I taxi’d my kids. and a lot of work, I can’t wait for like “Wait, this isn’t my class!” new advisor, he said that be- other than our beloved cheer- My kid is a junior lifeguard so I Lip Sync! And, of course, Prom! Henry Vu(11): My funniest high cause his position is “new”, he leaders. In place of Mr. Engel, had to drive him to and from for Prom is very stressful… school moment was when my feels that there will be “new Ms. Trang Tran has gracefully eight weeks. While they were Diana Tran: The thing I will look friends tried to pants me. The surprises of the position com- accepted the role of advisor for doing that, I surfed for two hours forward to the most my senior button broke off and I walked ing fast and furious”. Although cheer. When asked what goals every day. We went to Utah for year is just making good memo- around the entire day holding up it is his first year advising this she has for this upcoming year, seven days and I went camping at ries and when I look back, I’ll my pants. club, he is quickly picking up she answered “to have the San Onofre. know that I made the most of my speed and getting on top of his same goal as Mr. Engel had last year Freshmen: How was your first game. He has already begun to and to carry on his legacy that Seniors: What are you looking day of school? make the club more involved has been present for 11 years.” forward to the most for your se- Juniors & Sophomores: What Jair Fabiah: My first day of with community service both She stated “Cheer will have a nior year? has been your funniest high school was different. There were in and out of school. Aside new look and a fresh face, but Brittany Concepcion: One par- school experience? more people and I was kind of from ASB, he is still currently the spirit and heart of cheer ticular thing that I’m looking for- Lily Cao(10): Opening a locker scared. the advisor for Men’s League will be the same. We will con- ward to is moving out when I’m that I thought was mine. I kept Kathy Lac: It was nice. All of and is still teaching his typical tinue to give 100% of our time, 18 and going to college through thinking, “Why won’t my lock- the classes were good, but it’s business course. efforts, and hearts to Bolsa.” the military. er open?!” after so many tries. been a slow day. With Mr. Engel no With all these upcom- Douglas Galm: I’m looking for- Then, a guy approached me from Tammy Nguyen: It was great! I’m longer advisor for Key Club, ing changes to our big clubs ward to a good year! Good is al- behind and said “that’s my lock- looking forward to the rest of the who would take his place? on campus, this class year of ways good. Let’s have a GOOD er.” I felt embarrassed and it was school year. Well, a beloved AP Stats 2012-2013 will surely be one year! in the middle of the school year, Alexis Flores: My first day of teacher and advisor of MESA to remember. Get ready Mata- Peter Huynh: Lip Sync and Gen- too! school was fun and exciting! I has stepped up to the plate and dors for a new and improved der Feud! I’m really excited to Victoria Le (10): During water liked it. I enjoyed meeting new accepted the challenge. Mr. look for a few of the clubs at see what themes they’ll come up polo practice, I got punched in the people and getting lockers! Ryan Tonthat has currently Bolsa Grande High School!

Alumni Corner Reality Check Cruz (UCSC). Now things the fear that has potentially Three months from one I had in high school. But are suddenly becoming real. masked all of my excitement now I will know if every- do not fret; I am still that I am about to begin my last for finishing a chapter in my thing I have done is enough obnoxious talkative nerd year of my undergraduate life. and I will be able to see what that once roamed the hall- career and that is not exactly During my under- my future holds – hopefully ways of Bolsa Grande High what scares me. Instead, it graduate years I have done it is something along the line School. Yet, I have man- is the thought of graduating everything I can to set my- of graduate school as well as aged to grow and understand and finishing everything this self up for the future and yet employment. I can sit and things that would have left December. Basically in three me confused. Still, no mat- short months I will be walk- ter how much I have grown ing away from UCSC with or even how much I under- a bachelor’s degree in busi- stand things around me, I ness management econom- have tons left to explore and ics. be bewildered by. Back in high school, Everything in the fu- Andrew Huynh the thought of graduating ture is unknown now but one BGHS Class of 2009 was exciting as I was ready thing I do know is for sure; University of California, Santa to explore my options and I will enjoy my last few Cruz take faith in going into the months at a school that has Major: Business Management world blind-folded and let- allowed me to mature and Economics ting it take me wherever it grow as a person, a student, wanted. However, knowing and a scholar. I will enjoy that I am graduating college the company of those who It has been three soon does not provide me I have met and experienced years since I have graduated with the same excitement. emotional turmoil with. I from high school and quite I am frightened, nervous, will enjoy the time I have a bit has changed. I began and anxious about what ex- the unknown quality of the worry now but I do have spent arguing the economy my undergraduate studies ists for me in the future. I world diminishes the slight- faith, well some faith. with students of history and at the University of Dayton have begun preparation for est spark I have. I have held The situations I have political science. But most in Dayton, Ohio and after graduate studies by taking a job, interned, and volun- experienced, the opportuni- of all, I will enjoy the fact my first year, I found my- my GMAT and researching teered countless hours and ties I seized have allowed that I will accomplish a feat self transferring to the Uni- potential colleges. However, still, I will never know if me to develop a mindset that that will allow me to move versity of California, Santa job employment has created that is ever enough. is much different from the forward in the future. Page 8 As Is September 2012

Across 3. First to perform human heart transplant (1967) 9. First successful around-the-world solo flight by a woman (1964) 12. First wrapped chocolate bar (1900) 17. First female President of the Philippines (1986) 18. First Vietnamese American member of Congress (2008) 24. First 3D film (1922) 26. First woman to have her baby’s birth broadcast live over the Internet (1998) 27. First person to wear and model the world’s first bikini (1946) 28. First Hispanic American to win Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (1959) 30. First non-Japanese sumo wrestler (1993) 32. First person to cheat on Robert Pattinson (2012) 35. First horror film to win an Oscar (1931) 36. First female serial killer in the US (1992) Down 1. World’s first chess champion (1886) 2. First Hispanic American supermodel (1983) 4. First woman placed on FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list (1968) 5. First Muslim member of the US Congress (2007) 6. First monarch to live in Buckingham Palace (1837) 7. First African American in US Presidential Cabinet (1966) 8. First cloned mammal (1996) 10. First African American woman to own her own television production com- pany (1986) 11. First known person to survive the jump off Niagara Falls (1829) 13. First US astronaut to orbit earth (1962) 14. First woman to run for President of the US (1872) 15. First openly gay US Congressman (1981) 16. First rapper to interrupt Taylor Swift at the VMAs (2009) 19. First US Supreme Court Justice (1789) 20. First artist on the cover of “Rolling Stone” magazine (1967) 21. First ethnic minority to lead a US Army Battalion (1943) 22. First person to get a perfect score in Pac-Man (1999) 23. First male to appear on the cover of “Playboy” magazine (1964) 25. First and only US President to resign from office (1974) 29. First quarterback to say “I’m going to Disneyland” after winning the Super Bowl (1987) 31. First African American woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress (2002) 33. First person to win an Oscar and a Tony in the same year (1975) 34. First US President to be inaugurated in Washington, DC (1801)