EXPRESSIONSSLOHS February Issue 2019 slohsexpressions.com

Black History Month Pages 8-9 2 Table of Contents Kara Hoover expressions February 2019 3 10 & 11 Staff List Sports Winter Sports Action Shots Club Hockey Season Recap 4 & 5 Culture Ace Visibility on Campus Shedding Light on the Positives of 2019 12 & 13 What’s Mock Trial Up To? Arts & Entertainment Who Will Win the Academy Awards? Febuary Rewind 6 & 7 Opinion 14 & 15 Being A Senior is Expensive College Essays are Corrupt People Why Valentine’s Day Sucks Paraeducator by Day, Wrestler by Night What it’s Like for a SLOHS Student to Study Abroad POTS: Do You Go to the Beach in Winter?

8 & 9 16 Feature Moneyphone is the New Watermelon Back Why Blaxploitation Films Matter African American Culture Shaped Modern Day Top Ten Things to Keep in Your Car Music Don’t Touch my Hair Cover Photo Courtesy of Scott Nairne Illustration Courtesy of Joella Holmes February 2019 3 Expressions Staff Editorial Staff Reporters

Kara Hoover Ryan Anderson Editor-in-Chief Kaylee Beardsley Feature Editor Luc Bettencourt Orlando Birdsong Sabrina Marks Olivia Boyne Opinion Editor Alejandro Brien Copy Editor Josh Brooks Kaya Burden Winnie Carroll Jena Naficy Sasha Cederberg Culture Editor Noah Clausen Natalie Davis Joella Holmes Kaley DeRose Arts and Allysondra Farrior Entertainment Editor Adam Garcia Sophia Garcia Calvin Giannini Zoey Nitzel Eline Kielland People Editor Sadie LaChapelle Isaac Lerner Scott Andree Ella Livingston Sports Editor Colby Love Devan Minicucci Clio Nelson Macy Nitzel Back Editor Joshua Ortega Qili Paape Olivia Rosplock Nina Ramezani Web Editor

Adviser: Scott Nairne [email protected]

Disclaimer: Official Student Publications “The San Luis Coastal Unified School District is committed to upholding the rights of each student to free expression, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, Article I of the California Constitution and the California Education Code. Consistent with California Education Code section 48907, stu- dents will publish only legally protected speech, which does not include obscene, libelous or slanderous material, or unwarranted invasions of privacy. Students will also refrain from publishing material which so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on school premises or the violation of lawful school regulations, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school. The views, opinions, and content expressed herein are those of the stu- dent author(s). Therefore, the content may not necessarily reflect the official policies, opinions, or positions of the San Luis Coastal Unified School District, its schools, administration, faculty, staff, or the Board of Education.” 4 culture Editor: Jena Naficy Ace Visibility on campus

By Olivia Rosplock

With a rise in gay pride and visibility on campus over the past asexuality counts as an actual sexual orientation. The discussion decades, many students at San Luis Obispo High School have soon turned hateful, hurtful sentiments being thrown from both met people from different parts of the LGBTQ community. sides. This rife tore the community apart, ultimately making One of these sexualities is asexuality, which is the lack of sexual Tumblr an unsafe place for aces. attraction, and is less known among the student body. Around one Since this time, ace pride has fluctuated on social media, causing percent of the population identifies as asexual, and as such, aces an overall depletion of ace visibility and awareness on social are hardly visible in talks about sexual orientation. Aces are part media. But has this effect also been felt on campus? of the student body, but how much does the student body know “I have no idea what is is,” said freshman Ayden Kim. “It kind about asexuality? of sounds like you filled in a bubble on a multiple choice test and Although asexuality may seem strange or foreign, it remains an important part of the LGBTQ community, as well as SLOHS made that into a word.” campus as a whole. The fact is, asexuals aren’t very prevalent in Despite the fact that ace discourse tore apart the LGBTQ our society as a whole, as not feeling sexual attraction isn’t as community on Tumblr, most other social media sites are relatively visible as other sexualities. The asexual flag isn’t widely known to peaceful, and asexual flags are still being sold at pride rallies. The the general public. Despite this, it is hopeful to see that asexual Trevor Project, an advocate for LGBTQ youth, has resources for representation has been seen in the past. questioning and knowingly asexual youth. Despite the hateful “I know people who identify as asexual, and the way that they rhetoric that was ace discourse, much of the LGBTQ community explained it to me is that they aren’t really interested in sexual is still accepting and kind to the asexual community. relationships,” said science teacher Ryan Ritchie. “But I understand “I believe sex can exist without love and love can exist without that there are different levels of indifference to those types of sex,” said freshman Elliot Graham. “I’ve always felt like the people relationships, from really uninterested, to mostly uninterested, around me are accepting, so I’ve never felt uncomfortable with my etcetera,” said Ritchie. orientation.” The LGBTQ community has always been a welcoming and It is nearing the third anniversary of the start of ace discourse, accepting community to groups oppressed by the heteronormalcy of our world today. However, since the beginning of 2016, aces on tension in the the LGBTQ community finally beginning to fade. Tumblr and other social media sites have been rejected from their The divides caused by ace discourse are finally beginning to mend. own community, as “ace discourse” tore asexuals from the LGBTQ Things are looking hopeful for the ace community. Despite the community. harm caused by ace discourse, asexuals are still accepted and Ace discourse was hurtful rhetoric between the asexual acknowledged in our society and on campus. community and the rest of the LGBTQ community about whether February 2019 CULTURE 5 What’s Mock Trial Up To?

By Sophia Garcia

The Mock Trial program at San Luis Obispo High School is full of dedicated, hardworking students who wish to learn more about the legal system. The Mock Trial season started in November, and has been continuing since. The County Competitions are soon approaching and the students of this program are working hard to get another award. Mock Trial teaches students how the legal system works in Shedding Light on the Positives of 2019 a courtroom, and gives them a role to play in competitions. The roles include: pre-trial motion, lawyers, witnesses, clerk, By Olivia Boyne and bailiff. The county competitions are at the San Luis Obispo Court- house and consist of two teams: the defense and prosecution Photo Courtesy of Joella Holmes arguing their sides in front of a real judge. The dates of the As 2019 continues, we’re beginning to see more and more competitions that we know of are February 2, 6, and 7. news coverage on the things happening around the world. Ex- “To prepare for our County Competitions we have weekly pressions wants to give San Luis Obispo High School students team meetings, along with prosecution and defense meet- some of the good news of this year in the midst of what seems ings, individual and team practices, and scrimmages against to be a constant stream of sad news. Global warming and cli- other schools. I'm the pretrial attorney for the people, which mate change have been highly prevalent issues over the past means I argue the motion for the prosecution. This year I'm decades, and are being spotlighted this year, as action is finally arguing that a threatening comment posted by the defendant being taken to restore Earth’s sustainablility. on a social media account is a true threat, which means it The state of New York is banning plastic bags. The governor isn't protected by the first amendment. This is my second of New York is taking a look at banning the bags that are given year in this role, and I really like it,” said senior Olivia Rob- out in grocery stores and department stores every day. Plastic ertson. bags are seen on the sidewalks, landfills, and most important- This year’s case is really different from all previous cases. It ly, our oceans. Hopefully the ban of plastic bags in New York involves catfishing, threats, bullying, and a bad dynamic to a will help to lead the other states of the U.S to do the same. long lasting friendship. The cases usually involve issues that The ozone layer is recovering with the ban of chlorine (CFC), the chemical that deteriorates it drastically. The ozone layer are really current, and ones that the students feel passionate helps the earth by protecting it from very harmful ultravio- about and can argue well. let radiation (UVR), so with the ozone layer closing together “To get ready for competition I am reading through ques- again in the North and South poles, ice caps are more likely tions every night and going to practice twice a week. This to be protected from melting rapidly. The ozone layer is being season has been going great! Our team is getting organized, watched as it is slowly recovers itself in the North. The north- practicing, and preparing for competition! It is a lot of mem- ern part of the equator should be completely restored by 2030, orization but I think everybody has their roles down or al- and the whole ozone layer is said to be repaired by 2060. most memorized all the way,” said freshman Jessica Good- The Ocean Cleanup project is working, and is said to be man. cleaning up 50 percent of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, Mock Trial helps students with public speaking, thinking which is twice as large as the state of Texas. The patch is locat- on their feet, and overall learning about the amendments, ed in the North Pacific Ocean, so the Ocean Cleanup team has laws, and rights. Mock Trial is a really professional program, ships located near it to help clean it up. The project is going where students have to work hard, focus on their roles, and successfully and will help the marine life, and the future of be dedicated. the Earth. 6 Opinion Editor: Sabrina Marks Being a Senior is Expensive By Eline Keilland

American education is known for being for college applications,” said senior Lili the fear of not being accepted,” said Steel. expensive, especially college. However, Steel. Seniors also need a senior portrait for the many don’t think twice about how expen- In order to go to college, seniors have to yearbook. Though the school does not re- sive it is to be a senior at San Luis Obispo take standardized tests such as the SAT and quire professional picturesand even offers High School. ACT. In addition, submitting the applica- free photshoots, few students want to ap- “Senior year comes with a lot of traditions tion itself can cost a variety of prices. pears lesser than everyone else. Most stu- which tend to be pretty pricey,” said senior “All of this discourages applying to col- dents feel pressure to pay a steep price to Chantella Stenvall. leges, which is a problem, especially in an have a professional photoshoot. After that, Simply to graduate, students are required environment where you feel the pressure they will have to order the yearbook, which to wear a cap and a gown. SLOHS has a to apply to as many colleges as possible, for is eighty dollars. collaboration with Jos- Prom is also a huge tradi- tens, where students tion at SLOHS. Most seniors can buy these with the look forward to this event, SLOHS colors and sym- but along with it comes tick- bols, along with many et prices, along with all the other products such as pressure to buy or rent ex- t-shirts, jackets, and even pensive dresses or suits. rings. The cheapest pack- “It really is ridiculous just age students can buy, in- for one year of high school, cludes only the cap and but because so many of us gown, and is priced at want to continue our educa- forty dollars. tion, spending all that mon- “I believe the extra costs ey is unfortunately a side ef- are incredibly capitalistic, fect of the dream of going to especially the huge price college,” said senior Saman- of test scores and paying tha Gibbs. Illustration courtesy of Sabrina Marks College Essays Are Corrupt

By Kaylee Beardsley

San Luis Obispo High School the competition for admittance ty. Yes, there are students who But it is institutions and the students are finally seeing the to university has gotten harsher, have gone through tremendous government who should be at end of college application sea- and students are forced to of- hurdles and have every right to fault. Why isn’t more money son, and with that comes the ten exploit their experiences in talk about how they’ve grown being put towards higher ed- time for decisions to start roll- life, just to have a chance. This from them. However, the line ucation and establishing more ing in. However, the lengths whole process is demeaning to between real and a stretch gets universities? Especially since it that students will go to to be a student’s psyche and is slowly blurred when applicants begin is widely known that the num- admitted to these colleges are turning minds away from true elaborating on how an event, ber of students applying to col- beginning to edge on morally creativity and towards a spiral which they only just remem- lege is rising with the evolution questionable. of endless competition. bered because of the prompt, of the job market. Overall, this The number of students that College applications often have helped them grow as a person. is a problem that doesn’t have apply to college now is higher one or two essay prompts that This is not to say that the stu- a foreseeable resolution, and is than ever, and will continue to ask the applicant to elaborate dent should be at fault for bend- forcing students to overthink grow. The modern world is ever on a hardship they have had to ing or exaggerating the truth everything they do with the developing, and with that devel- overcome, or to tell about how though, because they are doing subconscious thought, “Will opment comes a need for high- they were turned into a lead- it for a just reason: they want to this help me bulk up my appli- er education. As a result of this, er after overcoming adversi- go to college. cation?” February 2019 Opinion 7 Why Valentine’s Day Sucks

By Olivia Rosplock

Valentine’s Day is one of the largest com- sumers have been convinced that they planned on spending an average of $88.98 mercial holidays, and at San Luis Obispo need to invest in the holiday in order to on their significant other, more than all High School things are no different. Many have a successful relationship. other planned spending for the holiday students at SLOHS are in a relationship, This extortion of consumers is rampant, last year. That amount is comprised of the and it is customary to get their partner with products promising they are the per- money intended for other family mem- something for Valentine’s Day. Although fect gift to show your commitment. Retail- bers, children’s classmates and teachers, the gesture is sweet, it is also expensive ers know they have consumers trapped, friends, pets, and coworkers. This is an with stores raising prices on gifts through- as our society has convinced buyers that astonishing amount of money, and while out the season. But can stores put a price they need gifts for their partners on Val- devastating for students’ wallets, is good on love? entine’s Day. This allows stores to raise for retailers and the local economy. “Valentine’s Day is really cliché. It’s the their prices to absurd amounts. Amounts “I really don’t understand this holiday, day that society has told you that you that students cannot be expected to easily this all seems unnecessary,” ” said sopho- need to give your loved one chocolates or afford. more Isaac Fiala. something expensive. You have to receive “I don’t like how Valentine’s Day works. It During February, all possible Valentine’s something and they have to expect some- kind of seems like your bribing your part- Day gifts rocket in price, things such as thing in retur., I just don’t understand why ner to love you by getting them expensive chocolates and roses soaring over fif- this is all necessary,” said freshman Laney things. Plus, everything gets too expen- ty dollars. For students at SLOHS, these Wolfe sive for me to afford, which makes me feel prices are steep, making Valentine’s Day Why. should romantic partners have to like I’m failing at being a girlfriend,” said an expensive holiday. Students shouldn’t buy each other gifts? Shouldn’t significant freshman Alex Caprau. be expected to participate in such an ex- others be able to love each other without Valentine’s Day is one of the largest pensive holiday, especially when they are expensive gifts? Valentine’s Day, while commercial holidays worldwide, Ameri- likely saving for their future. innocent in concept, has been massively cans dishing out $143.56, per capita aver- commercialized to the point where con- age, in 2018. Of this amount, consumers Source: born2invest.com

Illustations courtesy of Sabrina Marks and Jena Naficy 8 Feature Editor-in-Chief: Kara Hoover “The black community is still pretty looked down upon I guess Moneyphone you could say. I feel like it has changed a little bit with more African Americans rising to wealth through rapping,” said senior Jaeden Suval. is the New Part of this change comes from the money phone (rappers hold- ing an outrageous wad of cash to their ears), which is a popular gesture among influencers and their audiences as well. Watermelon “I think that rappers being outrageously rich has caused some young black people to look up to it, yet a lot of it is more than By Qili Paape what really meets the eye to an average audience member. Rappers are on a whole different level than the average black person in the community, which has changed a lot, but is still suffering due to With rap culture being fully immersed into San Luis Obispo High poverty and gang violence, which a lot of rap glorifies. This percep- School students’ lives and infused into the media, our perception of tion causes everyone to want to be a rapper because they think it is the black community has generally changed. the only way out, and fail to realize it takes a lot of hard work and Although some still have very blatantly racist views towards the dedication,” said senior Leiyana Jefferson. black community, times have changed and these generalizing jokes The term “hypebeast”, describes those decked out in mainstream such as using the term “watermelon” or “fried chicken” no longer luxury designers with a coinciding lifestyle. Social media influenc- hold as much negative connotations among the newer generations. ers are good examples of hypebeasts, making it social normality “What does watermelon have to do with race?” or “What’s so offen- and seemingly viewed as cultural normality on an international sive about watermelon?” are common questions we have concern- level. ing this lost racial slur and stereotype. “It has changed society’s view by seeing us as higher class with all Historically, the fruit symbolized many of the same qualities as it of the designer and nice cars, society used to see us as struggling in would in post-emancipation America: uncleanliness, because eat- poverty,” said junior Kasden Bunn. ing watermelon is so messy, and laziness, because growing water- Perhaps this new generalized view of the black community is melons is so easy, and it’s hard to eat watermelon and keep working. demonstrated in the symbol of the money phone, as the increas- This stereotype historically served a specific political purpose, as ing number of black influencers have impacted the public with freed black slaves would grow and eat watermelon it was a symbol their rising affluence and excessive wealth. Which overall makes a of freedom, yet also racial prejudice. Illustration Courtesy of Qili Paape skewed stereotype about the community as a whole. Why Blaxploitation Films Matter kind of storylines and characters but gave hearing about the mutilation and execution By Kaylee Beardsley them their own unique twist,” said digital of a black man,” said senior Alec West. photography and film production teacher The sub-genre of Blaxploitation films is Zachary Roper. one that was at its height during a time Movies are something that is a large part Some popular Blaxploitation films include where African Americans were hardly see- of American culture, and San Luis Obispo “Foxy Brown” (1974), “Super Fly” (1972), ing any representation in the media. The High School is not an exception. From ro- and more recently “Jackie Brown” (1997). genre brought about an outlet for expres- mantic comedies to horror, movies often People sometimes assume that just because sion of the African American experience. have a message that they’re trying to con- an African American is in a film, that it “...Films tell stories that are applicable to vey, and one sub-genre of film that conveys immediately qualifies as part of this genre, all lives, and when you see yourself in those a heavy underlying message is Blaxploita- but that’s just not true. A good example of stories, it makes mass media easier to relate tion films. this would be “BlacKKKlansman”, which, to and identify with,” said senior Ari King. The sub-genre was at its height of produc- although it is not a Blaxploitation film, Overall, representation in the media is a ing movies during the 1970s and focused doesn’t mean it doesn’t hold up to other concept that African Americans have strug- on making movies where the hero was an films in terms of political message. gled with for decades. Blaxploitation films, African American “‘BlacKKKlansman’ I thought was pretty although they depict an outdated image of “I think that at the time they were trying cool just because you could see what he the African American community, are an to take some of the similar styles of action was trying to do throughout the movie ad- essential part of Black History because they films, like “Dirty Harry” or some of the dressed an issue that a lot of people have to show the progression of African Americans tough-guy-cop films that were mostly white deal with...There’s a scene in ‘BlacKKKlans- in film. In the 1970s, African Americans characters, and translate that to the African man’ where the Ku Klux Klan is in this had to insert themselves into a sub-genre American experience and community...So, theater watching ‘The Birth of A Nation’, that was largely based off of parodies of the what was really interesting about it was just and then you have all the black people in a white experience. to see how those directors took the same different venue getting lectured and they’re February 2019 feature 9 African American Culture

Shaped By Joella Holmes Modern Day Music Jazz. Blues. Rock. Hip-Hop. These are just some of the United started to take-over. “British Blues” became a huge phenomenon States’ most well-renowned music genres that have been shaped by back in the U.S with The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, who can early black tradition. Although black music can be traced all the both pay thanks to Franklin and Gaye for paving the way in blues way back to the slave trade, it started to heavily influence American music. music and entertainment in the 19th century. A profound part of Clearly, the influence of powerful, black musicians has created the this was the well-known “Minstrel Show’, an American entertain- foreground for the music we listen to today. Even in 2019 where ment performed in “blackface” that mocked comedy, dancing, and R&B and rap music is very prevalent, the appreciation for the genre music of African descent. stems from the struggles that black people have faced throughout Along with this, the banjo instrument, of African origin, started the centuries. Run-D.M.C, Wu-Tang Clan, and A Tribe Called to become prominent in American music with artists such as Ste- Quest were some of the original rap groups to articulate their feel- phen Foster. However, this was just the beginning, because within ings on discrimination into music. analyzing our 21-century music so many factors can be traced back From rock to hip-hop, and most other musical genres, style and to black artists. instrumental use can be traced back through early black music and Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Jimi Hendrix, artists. In this month of February, take the time to read more about and Tupac Shakur may sound more familiar as artists who changed how heavily influenced the music you listen to every day was in- the way music is today. Hendrix single-handedly innovated the use novated by black culture. It may even further your appreciation for of electric guitars in psychedelic rock, a genre which then Britain music in general. Don’t Touch My Hair

By Ella Livingston Illustration Courtesy of Kara Hoover Don’t touch a black person’s hair: it’s as simple as that. Touching is a form of expression. It’s a way for us to connect with our culture, a black person’s hair has become a hugely popularized thing, es- as our hair is something that others can never take away from us pecially at San Luis Obispo High School, with the extremely small or style as their own. It’s something that is used as a symbol of our amount of black students (16 out of all 1586). history, such as activist Angela Davis’s iconic afro during the Civil “Every time I meet a new person, they just go for it and touch [my Rights Movement. hair]. Like, just back off. At least ask first,” said freshman Honey Personally, it feels dehumanizing every time someone wants to feel Jones. or touch my hair. And that may be surprising to hear, as you proba- Touching a black person’s hair has become a huge racial micro- bly are just trying to compliment me, but that’s the fact. Constantly, aggression, which is a subtle form of often unintentional racism. I get “petted” by friends, family, even strangers, and it starts to tire The reasons why seem to be because people just aren’t used to see- me out after a while. ing black people’s hair, or understanding how it “works” the way it “First, coming up to me and [touching my hair] is kind of invasive. does. Expressions asked seniors Gabrielle Dilka and Noel McCann And second, it’s just kind of annoying. Like you’re not going to go why they touch my afro, and they replied as follows. up to another white person, touching [their hair], and saying, ‘oh “[I touch it] because it’s fun. my god, your hair is so pretty!’. It’s different than everyone Because our [African-Ameri- else’s and it feels cool,” said se- can] hair is different, you just nior Gabrielle Dilka. think you can touch it. Like, “It’s just so bouncy and mal- thanks for the compliment, leable. Like, I could position it but it’s just hair,” said Jones. straight up into the sky, and it So, next time you reach out just stays there! Like what?!,” to touch our hair, think first. said senior Noel McCann. People touch black people’s As much fun as it may be for hair all the time; we don’t need other people to mess around another person to add to that with a black person’s hair, to ever-growing number. us, it is more than just hair: it 10 sports Editor: Scott Andree Club Hockey Season Recap

By Colby Love

At San Luis Obispo High School, students have a large variety of “I play club hockey because it is exciting and there is good team different activities aside from school sports. One of those is Club support. It is also fun to have a good relationship with a team,” said Hockey, whose season recently came to freshman Trinity Di Santo. a close. There are multiple students that The team’s name is the 805 Outlaws. They are in the sport, however, not many stu- have a junior high team, two junior varsity dents know that. SLOHS Expressions teams, and one varsity team. Since it is not talks to some of the members to get an connected with SLOHS athletics, they play update on how the season has gone. every other weekend in San Jose. It is tech- “I like hockey because it is fun, it is fast, nically roller hockey and it is run through and it takes teamwork. It requires good the YMCA. hand eye coordination and it is a unique “Hockey is fast paced and crazy. It is really concept compared to other sports,” said exciting and also lets me get my anger out,” sophomore Ethan Morris. said sophomore Christopher French. The hockey season has just recently Although the season is technically over, ended on February 16. The team has this is not the end for the 805 Outlaws. done pretty well with many wins out of After an outstanding beginning of the sea- the short season they have. They don’t son, winning five out of six games, they are have that big of a team, so they get a lot guaranteed to go to the playoffs and keep of playing time. They are in the division Photo Courtesy of Chris French their season alive. They also have a spring three. The team is made mostly of SLOHS students, but there are a season, so if anyone wants to join, it is not too late. They are wel- couple from different schools. It has students from each grade, but coming to any new players who want to try hockey. they all work well together.

February 2019 Sports 11 SLOHS Girls Basketball Team Success

By Colby Love

San Luis Obispo High School girls basketball is having a spectac- overall at SLOHS, but girls basketball has made the most noise so ular season. The team has been good in past years, but it has not far. come close to how many wins the varsity team has this year. The “We have a very cohesive group and we have all been playing to- team’s success has brought a lot of excitement to the action packed gether for a really long time. That is what has helped us play better winter sports season. SLOHS Expressions asked a few of the varsity and win games for the season,” said senior Stella Boller. players how this season has felt different compared to the recent The season has continued to be stellar as we near CIF and state. ones. The team is continuing to have a great time together, having every- “I think that we just have a better team dynamic this year. Both the thing working right from practice to games. There is much excite- coaches and players are having great chemistry and we all have the ment for CIF, especially because of the team’s outstanding record. same angle on the season, which really helps,” said senior Anika No matter what happens from here on, SLOHS has been super Meyer. grateful for the excitement and happiness given from this team that The girls basketball season started off great, going undefeated for stays positive and plays hard. Those components, along with the the majority of preseason. Losing, however, did not phase them as talent of the players, have worked out well, making this season one they kept the wins coming in. This year has been great for sports to remember.

What is Gladiator Paintball Park? By Ryan Anderson

The local paintball course on O’Conner “The reason why I like paintball is the sends a referee with every party playing to Way, Gladiator Paintball Park is very pop- adrenaline rush, and it’s very different from regulate the people and help participants ular for many San Luis Obispo High School other sports because you play on turf and with problems. students. Gladiator Paintball has nine it’s very fast paced. Paintball is also just re- “I’ve been to many other paintball fields unique courses to pick from, good prices ally fun in the way that you get to hang out and I just have to say Gladiator is really well on playing and renting gear, and a great with friends,” said freshman Myles Shal- run. Everyone is really nice, and the staff staff. Along with this, it provides nerf wars, hoob. are really cool. Plus, all the fields are really splatterball, and airsoft. So in this way, paintball is a good way to well maintained,” said Shalhoob. Gladiator is located at the Army National hang out with friends and get to go head to I recommend that you try Gladiator Paint- Guard Base in SLO. One of the great qual- head in an all out battle. some. And then it’s ball for your paintball experience. If you ities of the course, besides the actual sport, like football in the way that you can make like adrenaline rushes, hanging out with is the convenient location. It is a 13 minute some crazy plays. It’s a pretty good feeling,” friends, trying new things, and playing a drive from the SLOHS campus, and has the said sophomore Tobin Merriam. strategic sport, then Gladiator is the place perfect space to offer many different cours- Gladiator also has great safety regulations, for you. es. and is very strict in keeping these rules. It Editor: Joella 12 Arts & Entertainment Holmes Who Will Win Academy Awards?

By Ella Livingston

The 2019 Oscars are happening on Febru- Expressions: Who do you think will win ary 24 at 5p.m., and the art teachers at San Best Actor? Luis Obispo High School are very excited Roper: I think Christian Bale is going about it. The Oscars celebrate the best films to be tough to beat for “Vice”, but maybe of the year, with awards such as Best Pic- Rami Malek for “Bohemian Rhapsody”. ture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Direc- Stephens: Robert Redford from “The Old tor, and many more. Expressions sat down Man and the Gun” will probably be nomi- with Theatre and history teacher Kate Ste- nated and, since he has only won for acting phens, and digital photography and film once before in 1974, he might be a senti- production teacher Zachary Roper, to see mental choice. The Academy loves those. what their thoughts on this years Oscar Mahershala Ali is also amazing and might nominees are. win. Rami Malek won the Golden Globe Expressions: Will you be tuning in to [for Best Actor so he is probably one of the watch the Oscars this year? favorites. Digital Photography and TV production Expressions: Who do you think will win Best Actress? teacher Zachary Roper: Yes, most likely. Illustrations Courtesy of I’m not a big fan of “ranking” films because Joella Holmes Roper: Nicole Kidman and Charlize Ther- each movie means something different to “Black Panther” makes it into the running on both had crazy, transformative perfor- different people, but it’s cool when quality too because I thought it was well done and mances for “Destroyer” and “Tully”, but films are up for awards. added something new to the genre of su- I’m sure Lady Gaga will probably get a lot Theatre and History teacher Kate Ste- perhero films. of votes for “A Star is Born”. Tough to call. phens: I watch it every year- it is like my Stephens: “A Quiet Place” was amazing Stephens: I would have loved to see Emily Super Bowl. and I would have loved to see it make the Blunt get a nomination. She has had many Expressions: What movies do you think list of nominees. There are a couple of diverse roles and this year going from “A will win Best Picture? movies I haven’t seen yet that I have heard Quiet Place” all the way to “Mary Poppins Roper: I’m sure “Roma” and “Vice” will be great things about and really want to see Returns” was impressive. It would also be in the running, along with “A Star is Born” that I think might end up winning like great to see Lady Gaga or Melissa McCar- (which I haven’t seen yet). I’m hoping “The Green Book” and “The Favourite”. thy get recognized for their work this year . Febuary 2019 Arts & Entertainment 13 The Febuary 14th Remix Songs for Everyone This Valentines Day

By Joella Holmes

Happily Single:

“I Don’t Like You”-The Regrettes “Twentytwo”-Sunflower Bean “The Weekend”-SZA “Solitude is Bliss”-Tame Impala “Teenage Girl”-Cherry Glazerr

Recently Heartbroken:

“Mystery of Love”-Sufjan Stevens “Superstar”-Sonic Youth “Show Me How”-Men I Trust “Hospital”- Modern Lovers “Peach Pit”- Peach Pit

Sad Boy Hour:

“Never had No One Ever”-The Smiths “Ivy”-Frank Ocean “So Good at Being in Trouble”-Unknown Mortal Orchestra “Flowers on the Wall”-Tomorrow’s Tulips “Holding Roses”-Twin Peaks

Falling for Someone:

“I Love You So”-The Walters “Close to Me”-The Cure “Necromancer”-Joy Again “Head Over Heels”-Tears for Fears “Bizarre Love Triangle”-New Order

All in Love:

“Keep on Lovin”-Hala “By Starlight”-Smashing Pumpkins “Merry Go Round”-The Equatics “All of my Love”-Led Zeppelin “Lovers Rock”-TV Girl Illistration courtesy of Joella Holmes 14 People Editor: Zoey Nitzel Roy Bean III: Paraeducator By Day, Pro Wrestler By Night

By Sasha Cederberg

Roy Bean III, also known as Ricky Ruffin, can make a difference every day and here I Juggernaut Sean Black. That’s my tag team is a legend. Bean helps out with the disabled feel like I’m making an impact on people’s partner. He’s great, he’s epic, he’s the man. kids here at San Luis Obispo High School, lives every day. Expressions: Do you still do a lot of charity while also winning professional wrestling Expressions: What made you want to be- shows? titles. Because of Bean’s unique history, Ex- come a wrestler? Bean: As part of Vendetta Pro, we send one pressions decided to go out and unmask the Bean: A lot of varying influences, but prob- class to science camp every year from time truth about this side of him. ably one of the biggest ones was my late to time. We sold out Santa Maria High with grandfather. He died when I was pretty 1,700 people, we had to turn away about Expressions: What do you do on a day to young, but every time I ask someone about 300 people. They made $5,000 off of us day basis? him, they’d tell me to say two things: he in concessions alone. With Simcoe, we’ve Roy Bean III: Well, here we work on a lot loved to cook and he loved to watch wres- done some fundraiser shows. I would love of life skills. It’s not a reflective classroom as tling and his favorite thing was when Ric to do a fundraiser for SLOHS. far as extracurricular and academics don’t Flair went “WOOOOOOO”. Expressions: What is your favorite part of really apply to much. We work on life skills, Expressions: What awards have you won being a paraeducator and a pro wrestler? things like getting up and brushing your through wrestling? Bean: The best part about being a Para(ed- teeth, or being able to weight bear. Things Bean: I won Wrestler Of The Year once, ucator) is the feeling of knowing you’re like that. More life skills, more indicative of Fan Favorite several times, The Breakout making an impact on people’s lives daily. the lifestyle in which these kids will lead. Star Of The Year once, I’ve been nominated The best part about being a wrestler… I’m Expressions: What made you become a for Match Of The Year award once or twice. not one who really does what I do for rec- Paraeducator? As for title belts, I have won the Vendetta ognition. I do what I do for the passion of Bean: I was very unhappy with my previous Pro Wrestling Underground Champion- the industry and the sport. career and someone who mentored me for ship twice, again the WMA Western States Expressions: Will you name your child Roy a long time suggested it. Assistant Principal Title, which was probably my biggest ac- Bean IV? Julie Mamo suggested I come to the class- complishment. I also won the WMA Pacific Bean: I’m not opposed to it, but the deci- room. Truthfully, it gives me a way to make Coast Championship. Currently, I am one- sion is not completely up to me. My wife a difference every day. Other jobs were just half of the Simcoe Professional Wrestling has a lot to say about that, so only time will working a job. But, it’s more about how I tag team champions, myself and the Urban tell.

Photos Courtesy of Roy Bean III February 2019 people 15 What It’s Like For A SLOHS Student To Study Abroad

By Kaley Derose

We always hear about exchange students studying abroad at San things I would have never experienced if I stayed at the same bor- Luis Obispo High School, but do you ever hear about SLOHS ing high school. students who are currently studying abroad in another country? Expressions: Was it hard to leave all your friends? SLOHS junior Skylar Ratty currently studying abroad in Spain. Ratty: Yes. I had a very strong relationship with all of them but Here’s what she has to say about her experience so far. they have to accept that this is for me and a great experience for me. I’ll be able to see them again. Expressions: What is the hardest part about being an exchange stu- Expressions: What advice would you give to someone for SLOHS dent? who is going to study abroad in Spain? Ratty: The first two months because I didn’t speak Spanish and I Ratty: Choose a good program because I’ve had to switch families didn’t know anyone, but once I got over that it was totally fine. Also three times. my original family last minute said they couldn’t host me due to Expressions: Would you ever consider permanently living in Spain? family problems. Ratty: Maybe when I’m older. I love everybody here and I feel very Expressions: Why did you want to study abroad? comfortable here so it’s a possibility. Ratty: I wanted to do something different and just experience POTS: Do You Go To The Beach During Winter?

By Orlando Birdsong all during winter, mostly because of the weather. It is always foggy With the winter season in full swing, a common destination for and cold, which makes it hard to do anything. students at San Luis Obispo High School is at risk: the beach. Al- Junior Rio Rosecrans: Yes, I go to the beach in the winter because though not everyone agrees on whether the beach is a fun way I don’t care about the cold. I would go in the water even if it is forty spend time during the winter, living on the coast students should degrees out. I like to swim and relax, and both those things can be feel lucky to have the opportunity to enjoy it whenever. done at the beach. Junior Alex Reading: I never go to the beach during winter. I hate Expressions: Do you go to the beach during winter? Why or why wearing pants, so there is no way I could do that. not? Sophomore Adonis Vigil: I’ll go to the beach sometimes when it’s Senior Rakhi Lucchesi: I normally don’t like going to the beach at cold. I will go for a bonfire or walking my dog at the dog beach. February 2019 Back Editor: Clio Nelson 16 Top Ten Things to Have in Your Car

By Natalie Davis Illustration courtesy of Clio Nelson Getting your license can be considered insurance is very important. an entryway into the beginning of adult- Expressions: What’s one thing you’ve hood. Most students at San Luis Obispo needed, but never have in your car? High School will have their license and Metzger: Gas, I never fill my tank up all a car during their time here at SLOHS. the way, so I always need gas. However, some of the new student driv- Nunes: Maybe like a GPS because I al- ers at SLOHS may not know the import- ways get lost, and the thing to prop it up ant things to keep in their car. Expres- with too. sions decided to talk to some people who Nickerson: A napkin, I always need a have their license and see what they like napkin at lunch. to keep in their car. Medlock: I need a new radio. Expressions: How long have you had your Expressions: What’s one thing you always Agbo: I can’t think of anything, I think I license? have in your car? always have what I need. Senior Jack Medlock: About two years. Metzger: I always have an engine in my Expressions: What’s the most important Senior Will Metzger: Since August of car, it helps my car go and if I leave it at thing to keep in your car? 2017. home then my car does not function Metzger: Brakes, because without breaks Junior Lily Nunes: Around nine months. properly. my car would crash and not function. Junior Grace Nickerson: About a year. Nunes: I always have food because I al- Medlock: Gas is pretty important, or a Substitute teacher Sofia Agbo: 34 years. ways go places and if I don’t have enough first aid kit. I’ve needed a first aid kit be- Expressions: What kind of car do you money I just have food in my car. fore. drive? Nickerson: I have an air freshener. It Nickerson: Gum, because you always Medlock: 98 Tahoe. smells like cologne, its mahogany teak- have to have minty fresh breath. Nunes: Mazda Prodige, it’s a stick shift. wood from Bath and Body Works. Agbo: The driver, and the driver’s mind Nickerson: Mazda CX 3. Medlock: I have a chain to pull people out and eyes. Because sometimes people get Metzger: 2007 Ford Focus. of the mud. in accidents, not from being under the Agbo: Honda CRV. Agbo: Driver’s license, registration and influence.

exhibitions art classes events

sloma.org 1010 Broad Street in the Mission Plaza San Luis Obispo Free admission