El Rancho High School Thursday, January 30, 2020 Volume 68.5 El Rodeo Inside look at our guests from Beijing, China pages 4-5 School construction to start next week page 2 Remembering Kobe Bryant page 8

Campus - 2 Opinion - 3 Center - 4 Center - 5 Index @elrodeonews Features - 6 Sports - 7 Entertainment - 8 www.elrodeonews.com El Rodeo, Pg 2 El Rancho High School Jan 30, 2020 CAMPUS In loving memory of Anthony Rojas Hernandez By Diego Gonzalez of Rojas, Emmanuel Huitron gathered near the area of the ac- El Rodeo Staff Writer was among the dozens in disbe- cident days after the incident, lief over the tragic incident. “My leaving flowers and decorated On Friday, January 10th, first reaction when I heard the posters in tribute of Rojas’ life. El Rancho High School tragically news about Anthony was this In an interview with CBS lost 15-year old Anthony Rojas has to be fake,” Huitron said. news, a close friend of Rojas, Hernandez in a hit and run incident. “If I could say one Justin Villa said, “I didn’t want The students of El Rancho last thing to Anthony, it would to believe the news but I had to, High School mourned the loss of be that he was truly a good I saw him in the hospital and Rojas in the days that followed, friend,” Huitron continued. I was heartbroken. I lost my and shared various posts on so- The staff at El Rancho brother, I lost my best friend.” cial media organizing a school High School also organized a Last week, the school wide tribute to Rojas on Mon- small event in which students joined together in a moment of day, January 13th. could send a message to the silence for Rojas, in which ev- Hundreds of students family of Rojas, and hundreds In loving memory of Anthony Rojas Hernandez ery student at El Rancho took a across campus wore articles of of students showed their sup- minute to remember his life, and black clothing in remembrance port for his family and friends. and the news report was surreal to port through posters and flyers pay their respects to Anthony of Rojas upon their return to The sudden loss of Rojas many of the people who knew him. made in remembrance of him. Rojas Hernandez one last time. school, and showed their sup- left many students in disbelief, Fellow student and friend Close friends of Rojas all El Rancho moves on with phase one of construction plan By Alexis Gallegos due to disagreements over how would like after construction, El Rodeo Staff Writer to proceed with construction. with new and old buildings. As After listening to the a teacher, I was a part of the Since September of 2017, city and students of El Ran- first move, and am not sure if the idea of a new, modern El cho High School, the Board we are getting new art facili- Rancho High School has been members have switched to al- ties for the VAPA department.” a topic in the hot seat. Count- ternate methods of a remodel After years of getting the less community meetings were instead of a whole renovation. plans approved, the fencing of held in order to discuss the pros Instead of an entirely the construction area will be- and cons, in the end, the idea new design, the ERUSD Board gin on February 2nd to the 3rd. has finally turned into a plan. Members decided to instead, The majority of the El Ran- The original $200 mil- improve athletic facilities and cho campus will be restricted lion plan for the “new high some other specific buildings. for construction workers only. school” was to completely Art teacher, Mr. Magda- Shown on the map, the Map of Construction Fencing Plans demolish and rebuild the leno says, “To be honest, I’m service road near the cafeteria dents and staff park now? ball, track and soccer practice. school within several phases. still a little confused and not and main gym will not be ac- A solution is across El Ran- Many alternatives have been All phases would take quite clear about what is actu- cessible, along with the North cho’s main gate at Rio Hon- brought up such as Smith Park’s place between the years of ally happening in the process Parking lot, where many stu- do’s parking lot, or the back baseball and soccer field, Rio 2019-2025, however, the Board because we, teachers of El dents and staff park their cars. of the school by the new gym. Vista’s softball fields, and the decided to suspend all con- Rancho, have not received a The question that is Another question California High School’s track. struction plans for some time, 3D model of what our campus brought up is, where will stu- was where will baseball, soft- Dons say goodbye to the Don Memorial Stadium with farewell festival and stories we have shared as one stadium we have many memo- By Alexis Gallegos Don family. It was important to ries in. But overall, I’m very El Rodeo Staff Writer uphold the legacy of our ERHS excited to see everyone come community and we wanted to have together as one big Don family.” As the ERUSD Board this celebration and farewell.” The Farewell Festival will moves forward with construc- After many discussions, take place on January 31st from tion plans for the new high the idea of a “Last Friday Night 5:30 to 9pm at the Don Memo- school, the fencing of the Don Lights” was brought to the table. rial Stadium. There will be car- Memorial Stadium will be- A two-in-one festival and carnival nival games with prizes along gin starting February 2nd. where students, friends, and fam- with food being sold. The As- Many students, alumni, ily all over the community could sociated Student Body advises and administration of El Rancho spend the very last moments to bring blankets and chairs wanted to honor the football field Photo by Mrs. Lillian-Lugo on the football field, together. for the movie night and perfor- one more time, before it’s too late. us. It sucks how they’re destroying Body Advisor and Art teacher, Senior, Angie Campos mances by numerous ERHS Senior, Monica Aguirre a place that means a lot to many of Mr. Magdaleno, adds, “It was says, “It will be a very bitter- clubs and city organizations. says, “I wanted everyone to re- the students, so we wanted to say something that admin and stu- sweet moment for our senior Make sure to stop by unite one last time at a place that one last goodbye all together.” dents wanted to have as a way to class and alumni as it will be and bring friends and family to holds so many memories for all of ERHS’ Associated Student commemorate all the memories one of the last moments in the join this heart-felt celebration.

Advisor.....Paul Zeko El Rodeo is published monthly except during vacations by Reporter.....Diego Gonzalez the El Rancho High School journalism class. The El Rodeo of- Editor-in-Chief.....Grecia Haro- Reporter.....Araceli Correa fices are located at 6501 S. Passons Blvd., Pico Rivera, CA 90660 Flores Reporter.....Alexis Gallegos in room X-1. The paper is printed by The Gardena Valley News. Copy Editor.....Sophia Lugo El Rodeo, the student newspaper of El Rancho High School is Reporter.....Grecia Haro-Flores an open, public forum for student expression and an opportunity to dis- Copy Editor.....Julia Diaz cuss its audience’s issues of concern. Opinions expressed are those Reporter.....Rocio Estrada of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the position of the school Reporter.....Alejandro Melchor board, administration, sponsors, parents, student body or advertisers. Section Editors Reporter.....Angie Campos The Editorial Board, which consists of the editor-in-chief, sec- Cover....Grecia Haro-Flores tion editors, and assistant editors, will determine the content of El Rodeo. Reporter.....Julia Diaz Student journalists on the El Rodeo staff will make every ef- Campus....Rocio Estrada Reporter.....Sophia Lugo fort to publish following the legal definitions of libel, obscenity and in- Opinion..... Alejandro Melchor Reporter..... Jordan Uribe vasion of privacy. Consistent with California Education Code section Center....Alexis Gallegos 48907, the staff will refrain from printing material that may incite stu- Reporter..... Rodrigo Osorio dents, be a violation of school regulations or disrupt school operations. Features....Sophia Lugo Reporter.....Amanda Escobar At the beginning of each semester, journalism students will be reminded Sports.....Grecia Haro-Flores of the legal, financial and ethical implications of each article they write. Reporter.....Alexia Garcia Ed Code 48907 affirms the right of high school newspapers to publish Entertainment....Araceli Correa whatever they choose, so long as the content is not explicitly obscene, libel- Photo Editor.....Carlos Rojo ous, or slanderous. Also, there shall be no prior restraint of material pre- pared for official school publications except insofar as it violates this section. Jan. 30, 2020 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 3 OPINIONOPINIONOPINION Whittier College is an acceptable alternative for graduation Girls sports It is only four and a half miles programs deserve away from El Rancho. This is a plus since most wouldn’t have to more attention drive out too far for the ceremony. By Rodrigo Osorio Although it’s unfortunate El Rodeo Staff Writer that this year’s seniors will not be able to graduate from their El Rancho’s girls’ water school, they will be reward- polo team has not only had to ed with the following incen- battle through intense practices, tives because of their sacrifice; tough opponents, and impor- The 2020 senior class will tant league matchups but also have a plaque with the entire through a broken pool heater. class’ names on it and will be The broken heater placed in the new stadium, there has affected their practice will be extra end-of-the school schedule, in-game perfor- year events for seniors, students mance, and overall health. will be able to have their pic- The girls’ water polo team tures taken at the Don Memorial has had to practice in a pool stadium’s farewell festival, and with water which would vary while this last reward has yet randomly from freezing cold to A hillside view of Whittier College’s stadium, this year’s confirmed graduation location. to be confirmed, but there have smoldering hot temperatures. By Alejandro Melchor and enjoy their last big day on Holding the gradua- been talks about seniors having The pool’s water tempera- El Rodeo Staff Writer campus, there are some benefits tion ceremony at Whittier Col- the privilege of attending football ture has not only forced the team to graduating at Whittier College. lege will also be beneficial as games at El Rancho free for life. to practice in uncomfortable con- Recently, it was an- Having the graduation cer- the demolition and reconstruc- As for now, I am set with ditions but it has also required nounced that the class of 2020’s emony a Whittier College will tion of the new El Rancho the idea of graduating at Whit- them to cancel practice on days graduation ceremony will be held be a greater alternative than at campus could begin sooner. tier College’s stadium, sure it’s where the water was unbearable. at Whittier College’s stadium Don Memorial stadium because Had the school decided on not going to be at El Rancho The inability to practice can since the demolition of the Don it’s simply a bigger stadium. having the graduation at the Don but at least it will be at a nice lead to a decrease in team perfor- Memorial Stadium and all of the The Whittier College Memorial Stadium, this would’ve stadium that would be able to mance and in the long run could fields will begin on February 3rd. stadium is much bigger being postponed the reconstruction and hold all of our large families, harm their chances of making CIF. While many seniors felt outraged that it has a capacity of hold- would have just made the al- it would not slow down the re- The water temperature that they would not be able to ing 7000 people, this could ready long project even longer. construction of the school, has also affected their health experience the tradition of gradu- potentially mean seniors will Even so, Whittier Col- all the while remaining local. and the health of other players ating at Don Memorial stadium get more tickets per family. lege is not far from El Rancho. from teams who play in the pool. Cold water has a repres- WWIII memes get too out of hand sive effect on the immune sys- By Jordan Uribe tem, which in turn could lead El Rodeo Staff Writer to a cold or flu developing. However, the risk for in- As many of you may fections such as swimmers ear know, the internet was a com- or Legionnaires’ disease which plete mess on January 9th af- could cause coughing, shortness ter the drone strike orchestrated of breath, chest pain, and muscle by the United States took out aches increases in hot water be- Iran’s top military general. cause germ-killing chemicals When news broke out about like chlorine break down faster. this attack, people took to social During an intense game media to not only to voice their against Sierra Vista, a player opinions on the matter, but to also from the opposing team suf- make some funny jokes about it. fered a heat stroke due to the Twitter topics like “World pool’s water being extremely hot. War 3” and “Iran” were filled She was transported to a with users tweeting some en- nearby hospital via ambulance joyable content like memes and and thankfully recovered fully. jokes making fun of the poten- Despite team parents con- Earlier this month after the the death of Iranian gerneral Qasem Soleimani, many took to twitter to joke about the situation. tial war that might take place, tinually calling the school to as well as users stating that the and even to celebrity jokes. received a lot of backlash from Although the situation is report the broken pool heater, jokes relating to this situation What I found funny many people on the internet who very bad, these jokes brought it took a player becoming se- aren’t funny and that this is a top- was how random and cre- didn’t find this joke to be funny the feeling of fear in the feel- verely harmed for the pool heat- ic was to be taken seriously, but ative the tweets were, not the or appropriate and demanded for ing of calmness as many were er to finally be made a priority. I thought that most of the jokes thought of a potential war. his account to be terminated. This able to get a good laugh out of When the snack shack were funny, and the best part was Twitter user @BASED- goes to show how the internet this terrible situation. It is im- outside of the El Rancho Foot- that Twitter was full of them. SAVAGE_ was one of the first could get so serious over a joke portant to remember that com- ball Stadium was vandalized The jokes ranged from to come up with these jokes, and that was meant to make people edy is subjective, many will find it was immediately cleaned up draft dodging jokes, to meet- was the most creative. One of his laugh, but unfortunately those jokes that you won’t person- by El Rancho staff despite the ing up with friends mid bat- very controversial jokes reading that demanded for the Twitter user ally find appropriate funny, and fact that it could not immedi- tle, to dating Iranian people, “Plan B, Drop Lizzo on Iran.” to be terminated got exactly that. there is nothing wrong with that. ately harm any player or coach. This depicts the school’s Word on the Street: What was your initial reaction when you inequity when it comes to cer- heard the news about the late basketball legend, Kobe Bryant? tain sports. Boys sports often get more attention than girls sports. The Smith Park stadium is used to host soccer games and practices for different El Ran- cho teams which means that the resources are there but are being implemented unfairly. For many of the players, this is their last chance at mak- ing a playoff run but are being cut short by the school’ inability to realize that all sports should “I couldn’t believe it, my whole “I couldn’t wrap my mind around “I couldn’t believe it, it felt as if I “I was devastated and couldn’t be treated with the same level body and mind just went blank and the news and it felt so surreal. I had lost someone I’ve known for a help but shed tears. I send love and my heart dropped”. didn’t want it to be true”. long time”. prayers to the families affected”. of priority regardless of their winning record or how much ~Andrew Velasquez, 12 ~Sarahid Hernandez, 12 ~Mario Morfin, 12 ~Ajohnnette Guerra, 12 profit they bring to the school. El Rodeo, Pg 4 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 5 埃爾蘭喬歡迎外國留學生！

universities, Ashley has been This isn’t Ashley’s first able to see interesting sites After seeing a Emma has been able Although Yolanda museum and the Griffith if she were to have a su- time in America. Last year like the Griffith Observatory video about last year’s to enjoy authentic Ameri- had many places to choose observatory. She also perpower, it would be the she attended a summer camp and Universal Studios. foreign exchange stu- can cuisine, frozen yogurt from, she chose to come to looks forward to visiting ability to be super smart. in Seattle. Visiting El Rancho Ahsley says, “ Actually I like dents, Emma knew she being her favorite, “It’s re- has been a much different El Rancho for many rea- nearby universities such Although she is the Universal Studios a lot had to come to El Ran- ally good!” she says. Al- experience from Seattle though, sons, including the warm, as Stanford and UCLA. away from her family, because it’s cool to see all the cho! It is Emma’s first though she has enjoyed the and she’s amazed at the cultural Mediterranean-like cli- Apart from school, Yolanda keeps in touch movies and cartoons I watch time in America and she food here she still misses and academic differences mate that Southern Cali- Yolanda has many inter- with her parents and in reality.” Ashley has also looks forward to learn- the food from back home. between our two countries. In been able to engage in many fornia is known for. She ests and hobbies. She en- grandparents through ing about biology and “The food is different and China, many students have to of Pico Rivera’s activities adds, “El Rancho is re- joys watching YouTube phone calls. She has tried visiting the many inter- great, but we miss our food live on-campus dorms. She says, such as touring the city hall ally attractive because videos and listening to the cuisine here which esting sites Southern from back home,” she says. “Here people live in separate and meeting the mayor. it has so many classes.” music, her favorite group she says has a wide va- California has to offer. Emma loves playing houses and in China, we live in In her free time Ashley Yolanda enjoys the being Red Velvet. Yolanda riety. Nevertheless, she School in America badminton and being really tall buildings.” enjoys reading, swimming, different classes that El also had a favorite series prefers her home food. Ashley’s expectations has been quite different active, embodying her spirit and watching her favorite Rancho has. Although growing, Harry Potter, During her stay, of how America was were from what Emma is used animal of a dolphin. “Dol- show, Happy Camp. Happy some lessons are relaxing, but she has outgrown it, Yolanda is most excit- accurate. “The reality from to. Compared to her life phins are great! They’re Camp is a Chinese reality Yolanda says that “some saying that it is too child- ed to visit her dream what I thought was a pretty back home, Emma says super friendly!” she says. show where contestants of them are challeng- ish now. Talking about fa- school, UCLA. She hopes close, [Pico Rivera] is a very “I have more free time She is excited about compete in events. Ashley ing, all are very useful.” vorites, she mentions that to come back in the fu- normal and quiet city, everyone also enjoys listening to her than I do at home.” With the rest of her stay and is While in California, her favorite animal is the ture, as a UCLA Bruin. is really nice,” she says. She was favorite C-pop band, TF Boys. her newfound free time, already thinking of com- she has gone to the Getty cat. She also believes that surprised to see the amount Although she prefers Emma has been able to ing back! She hopes to of cars on the road, “The study abroad in America her food at home, Ashley partake in one of her fa- transportation is different here, enjoys some of the food she once again but as a college vorite hobbies, reading. in Beijing public transportation has tried. “Our host family student. She is excited to visit college campuses that they Aside from reading, ing the Simpsons. “My is more convenient,” she adds. cooked some Mexican food plan to attend. “I’ve never Emma looks forward to visit- favorite character is UCLA and see the differences in There have been good and and it was very good and been to one, so I look forward ing Universal Studios, espe- Lisa because she’s American college campuses com- bad aspects to this visit. Since the spicy!” she says. Ashley hopes to seeing the differences and cially since she loves watch- very smart,” she says. pared to Chinese universities. Chinese New Year is celebrated she can return to the states eventually I want to go to a on January 25th, the students to attend a university. She university in the US,” she missed out on celebrating with their also wants to explore more says. families. Despite this inconvenience, classic American cities and Aside from the Ashely looks forward to visiting the explore downtown areas. Morty has once again ever, Morty isn’t just an returned to America after advent music listener, she her previous visit in mid- can play a total of five in- dle school. Although it was struments! She can play the a similar experience as be- flute, piano, guitar, drums, When faced with ent for Hugo, as this fore, she looks forward to and a Chinese string instru- many destinations time he is traveling going to Universal Studios ment known as a Guzheng. to choose from, He- with his friends. He and understanding life as In her time spent in nian “Hugo” Song ulti- does miss his other an American student. She California Morty has been mately chose to come companions who went decided to visit El Rancho able to try some American to Los Angeles. He to different destina- after seeing a video about goodies. “I miss the food from students’ experiences home, but I like donuts,” she chose to come to El tions such as Min- here and found Pico Rivera says. When asked what food Rancho after hearing nesota. He has en- to be the most interesting. item she would like to be she the previous accounts joyed the trip so far, For Morty, her typi- says, “ I would like to be sug- from students who saying that he feels cal school day starts at ar because it makes you hap- had visited before. “lucky to be here.” 7:15 a.m. and ends at py.” As you can tell Morty’s However, this Although he around 5:00 p.m., mean- sweet tooth is hard to miss! while here at El Rancho Although this trip is wouldn’t be Hugo’s says that “Every- she has more time to re- mainly to learn about Ameri- first time in America. one is very nice,” he lax and enjoy her stay. can student life and relax In fifth grade, Hugo still misses his home. “Teachers here show more during vacation, Morty will visited Los Angeles When asked what he of their personality, all of be visiting some college with his mother. They missed, he said, “Rice my teachers just taught us campuses, including UCLA. went to Santa Mon- and the food, par- how to do calculations, and Morty surely would like to ica, where they en- ents, family...Girls”. it is more relaxing and in- rine biology,” she continues. return to America and visit teresting,” she says. “Although Aside from school places like New York City. She joyed the pier. While Overall, Hugo some classes, such as the AP Morty enjoys listening to also hopes to attend the Mas- he did have fun, Hugo has had a great trip courses are similar, El Rancho music, Sufjan Stevens and sachusetts Institute of Tech- did not enjoy his first so far, and can’t offers many classes in art and David Bowie being some of nology (MIT) and study math- experience since he did thing that was going on. wait to get back home. other subcategories like ma- her favorite artists. How- ematics, her favorite subject. not understand every- This trip is differ-

John wanted to come classes are a lot differ- to Pico Rivera for his ex- ent, the style of teach- Before coming to Pico Ri- in China, they have a 70-min- change program after he ing is very different, to the mall and saw that When choosing a destina- vera, Raymond Xiong had been ute lunch break, during which visited Pasadena before. the teachers like to use it was more focused on tion to visit, a variety of courses shown pictures of El Rancho. the students “sometimes atmosphere in El Rancho, “The climate in LA is really experiments and dem- clothing rather than the was something that Thomas was He was happy to be assigned to take a nap in the classroom.” saying that “All the teach- nice compared to like Mas- onstrations in China we food. “In China a shop- looking for. El Rancho does have come to El Rancho since he was Raymond compares ers and classmates are very sachusetts where there just look at the book and ping mall’s most vital part many courses to choose from, so attracted to California’s sandy the classes here to the class- friendly.” Economics is his fa- are snow storms,” he says. memorize the details,” he is the restaurants,” he beaches and warm sunshine. es in China, saying,“back vorite subject, and Mr. Elias this was the obvious choice for Compared to his says. “Here you get to se- says. “People mostly go This isn’t Raymond’s in China we don’t have AP is his favorite teacher. Ray- life in China, the teach- lect your electives, but in Thomas. The fact that southern to the mall for the restau- first time coming to America. courses.” They get to par- mond says, “He’s funny and ers are more friendly. “In China all the classes are rants and shop for clothes California has warm weather He was in fact born in Amer- ticipate in these courses he teaches us basic econom- China we have the same compulsory,” he adds. on their way,” he adds. during their junior year. ics knowledge... and [we] are compared to Minnesota’s usu- ica and has dual citizenship. schedules every day, but During his stay, John loves being In his free time, able to master the material.” ally cool weather also helped Prior to this exchange pro- classes here are more John looks forward to active, he enjoys playing gram, he has visited America Raymond enjoys playing Raymond enjoys his him decide to come to El Rancho. free. You can go to the visiting colleges and basketball, badminton, ta- five times, where he went to games, basketball, soccer, stay with his host family, par- bathroom anytime and be going to see an NBA ble tennis and even partici- Thomas has enjoyed Boston and Washington DC. and his favorite sport, ten- ticularly enjoying the food. a little bit late, the teach- game. “I like that it’s a his experience in Pico Rivera Despite the fact is an edu- nis. He also enjoys watch- He talks about his host fam- pated in his middle schools ers don’t really mind.” he small city, and the natu- so far, especially the “envi- cational trip, Raymond enjoys ing The Big Bang Theory. ily, saying, “the food the baseball and football tea. says. “Lunch time is very ral environment is re- ronment and academic atmo- the classes. He explains that When asked about grandma made was very So far, John has different in China, [back ally good, people live enjoyed his stay in Ameri- sphere.” Although he has had a in China, they have assigned whether he preferred his delicious...I feel very com- classes and that their school day home food or the food here, fortable living with them.” home] we value the meals a simple life,” he says. can and hopes to return great time here, he misses some usually ends at around 5:00 p.m. Raymond says he pre- Although he likes his we eat so our lunches are He is excited to see the and go to New York to visit aspects of his home. After be- Raymond says, “[the fers the food here. His fa- host family, he still misses his longer,” he continues. Golden Gate bridge and different museums and ing here for some time, Thom- teachers] just speak and give in- vorite foods include ham- family in China as well as his John is also inter- explore San Francisco, see the Statue of Liberty as says, “I miss the culture.” formation. Here we have a lot of burgers, pizza, and chips. other classmates who went ested in the way material He was sur- and also go to Washing- discussions...” He also says that Raymond enjoys the to different parts of America. is taught to students. “The prised when he went ton DC and Philadelphia. El Rodeo, Pg 6 El Rancho High School Jan. 30, 2020 FEATURES Ruben Barajas is simply irresistible! By Julia Diaz Being friends with El Rodeo Staff Writer the junior definitely has its Ruben Barajas isn’t your perks.“Something interesting average junior, he spends his about me is that I can have a gen- time having fun with friends uine conversation with literally and living his life to the full- anyone.” Who doesn’t love mean- est. Apart from being musi- ingful conversations nowadays? cally inclined, a talented actor, “But if you get close to and a singer-songwriter, Ruben me, just know that you’re in for Barajas is simply irresistible! a ride of me making fun of you Trying to find this triple in a loving way,” Barajas added, threat isn’t as hard as one would “ I also tend to imitate every- think, he can often be found in thing about the things you do.” the little theater playing mu- Not only will you see sic during lunch. “It’s like my the playful side of Bara- second home,” said Ruben. jas, but you might find your- Actor, singer, and songwriter, Barajas, looks forward to a bright future. Photo by Karina Rivera Unfortunately, he is not self getting great advice! a part of any clubs around cam- His first band’s name is nerve-wracking but that is ing on making more to eventually “One piece of advice that pus. “As much as I would love to “Wild Youth.” With his two a good thing,” Barajas said, make an album,” Barajas said. has stuck with me is if things I can’t because music and drama friends Hayden Kennedy and “I remembered this quote Don’t be surprised if they’re happen or don’t happen whether keep me quite busy,” said Barajas. Lucas Jordan, the band is a that said ‘if you don’t get nervous music is played on the radio some- it is good or bad it’s for a rea- When Ruben isn’t in the three-piece punk rock band. before you get on stage is it really day. To keep up with his band, son you may never know the Little Theater, he can be found Barajas said, “We have worth doing? I’ll stop when there you can follow their Instagram @ reason but you have to trust doing a handful of things, from been a band for three months are no nerves,’” Barajas added, wildyouth_wildrecords and may- the process,” said Barajas. playing guitar to thrift shop- now and have played three shows “I didn’t really get that at first be you’ll find a new favorite band! He lives his life by this ping his time is never wasted. in little Tokyo.” They based but now it makes total sense.” Ruben’s love for music advice because to him “why He enjoys spending time themselves in a small vintage He continues to look at each doesn’t end there, he tends to lis- waste your time and energy try- with friends and would de- shop called Space City Vintage. new audience with a new mindset. ten to older musicians who have ing to make certain things hap- scribe himself as an old soul. “I His second band is named “Some things I notice is that passed such as Johnny Cash, pen when they were never sup- like to focus on physical things “The Projects.” Alongside his the way people respond to my mu- Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin. posed to in the first place.” such as restoring my 1955 friends Chris “guapo” Rodriguez, sic goes from ‘awe look at those “I would describe No matter what the situation Buick special with my dad, and Jason Mercado, David Marquez, kids rocking’ to ‘ holy sh*t those my taste in music as very is, there is no doubt that Barajas is dirt bike riding,” said Barajas. and Xavier Marques they play any- are kids?’ and that makes me feel diverse,” said Barajas. just the person to go to if you are If that wasn’t enough to thing from rock to bedroom pop. good,” Barajas said, “It makes Other than the classics, in need of a friendly conversation. convince you that Barajas is a Barajas shared his experi- me want to do it more and more.” Barajas also takes a listen to sing- Don’t be shy and miss the friend- special individual the fact that ence with stage fright and how The goal of the band is to ers such as Bruno Mars, Los Ret- ship of a lifetime! Stop by the lit- he is apart of two bands will he has learned to overcome it. one day expand their music world- ros, and even Adele! “I could go tle theater and strike up a conver- certainly do the trick. That’s “Performing in front wide. “Our band has three original on and on about this but I won’t sation with Barajas or follow his right, not one band but two! of an audience is always songs right now and we are work- say anymore,” Barajas said. Instagram, @ruben_barajas_13.

Mr. Magani discusses passion for teaching connection I have with the kids His favorite movie as of ety then many many humans in is the biggest reason I am here. right now is Spider-Man: Into the this world and with that, she was Just the takeaway I have and Spider-Verse. He’s watched it three still super kind and really humble. sometimes it’s really positive and times, on his lazy days of course. She was very sweet to everyone really funny and loud and great, As for music, he’s defi- around her, including me.” Just but it’s the intimate moments nitely not a band wagoner. His don’t ask his about Nicki Minaj... that are the best,” says Magani. favorite artist is Kevin Gar- He adds, “Although it was His goal as a teacher is rett. “Nobody knows him, he a lot of fun, it didn’t feel super to make sure that his kids are has very small shows in LA and meaningful. The money was getting what they need to suc- I go as often as I can. He has a good and that was great, but when ceed. He says, “Sounds su- very soothing, calming type of I went home I didn’t feel excit- per corny and cheesy I know tone about him.” Magani adds, ed about what I did anymore. I it does, but also that’s why we “I like most things except for needed to change that and teach- become teachers, to make sure heavy-metal, I can’t do that.” ing was always in my mind.” that we are providing for you.” When it comes to food, As the year winds down, he Getting into the swing Magani is more of a savory has some advice for the seniors. Magani plans to make his ER years memorable. Photo by Carlos Rojo of teaching has been taking up person. He says, “I don’t re- “It’s the last year so it’s hard to ally like sweets. Give me salty keep your head in the game the By Sophia Lugo most of his time saying, “My give me savory. If it’s sweet whole time and I totally under- El Rodeo Staff Writer Despite this being hobbies right now are pushed to Magani’s first year teaching the side because every minute I I’ll eat it if it’s in front of my stand that, but do your best to One of the fresh faces on and at the Ranch, it’s no foreign have outside of class is develop- face, but I never crave dessert.” focus and don’t distract your- campus is Anthony Magani! He land. “I grew up in Downey ing lessons and things for class.” Magani likes anything in a self too much,“ says Magani. teaches English 10 and ERWC for so somewhere local to home When he does have free tortilla or between two slices of He adds, “Just ask any ques- 12th graders. He attended Cal State was really important. El Ran- time he likes to go to the beach bread. “I can build any type of tions you have for what tomorrow Long Beach for his undergraduate, cho fit perfectly,” says Magani. or to the gym. “[The gym] kind meal out of that. Burrito or sand- looks like after you graduate, ask majoring in communication stud- He first loved commu- of gets my mind off of things. wich all day, burrito first,” he says. ask ask. Get as much feedback to ies, and National University for nications, but unfortunately It’s like my therapy, I can let This being Magani’s first see what you need to do once you his masters, majoring in English. it’s not offered in most high go of the day. But if I can and year teaching, he had a different leave the gates of El Rancho.” He attended Downey high schools. “English was the clos- the weather is nice, I like to career beforehand. For eight years When it comes to choosing school. While there, he was a part est thing I could get to [com- go to the beach,” says Magani. prior he was in charge of mak- a college that’s right for you he of ASB for his last two years and munications]. I was also good at He adds, “Growing up ing sure major celebrities were says, “Number one, it’s going to loved it. As for sports, he says, “I English so it fit,” says Magani. with my mom one of the bigger wearing the jewelry of his client. cost a lot of money to go to col- always wanted to swim but I was He also enjoys philosophy things we did was we would go “So it was my job to lege no matter where you go. If shy of being in a speedo and that’s saying, “I think English can con- rollerblading on the beach, bike make sure Sofía Vergara was a JC is something you are open the only reason I didn’t do it, but I tribute to those lessons which can riding, and just hang out and wearing my clients earrings to I would suggest doing a JC think I would’ve loved it.” He did allow more conversation in a phil- spend the day on the beach so or Emma Watson was wear- first to kind of get your feet wet. participate in baseball from eight osophical way to get people en- it’s an easy place for me to be.” ing my clients rings to what- Also make sure to do your best to to eleventh grade but not at school. gaged and interested in talking.” Straying away from his ever photo shoot so it was seen actually move forward and trans- He even met one of his fa- Magani’s favorite part of active side, he likes to be lazy. and represented,” says Magani. fer to a four-year if that some- vorite coworkers in high school, teaching thus far has been con- Magani says, “Let me sit on With this job came meet- thing that you’re looking for.” Amaryllis Velasco, an English necting with the students. “Some- the couch, watch a little Netf- ing lots of celebrities. His favor- No matter what you want teacher. “We were in ASB togeth- times there are really difficult lix show, Grace and Frankie all ite to meet was Jennifer Lopez. to talk about, Magani is the per- er so from that Velasco and I have days because they have difficult day. If I can just be a lazy bum Magani says, “She is an son to go to! His energetic, car- a cool connection and with that things going on and maybe I do for second, I want to do that.” icon of the world and she has ing, and free-spirited personality just kind of became super close.” too so I can relate, but just the He’s very relatable to us students. more clout and standing in soci- is sure to brighten anyone’s day. Jan. 30, 2020 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 7 SPORTS Lady Dons hope to see a championship ring in their future By Amanda Escobar ample for the underclassmen. El Rodeo Staff Writer She also feels that the re- lationship between the players is The Lady Dons’ league important to having great team kicked off league with a game chemistry and a successful season. against La Serna, resulting in a win This is the first year (57-54.) The team currently holds that Hernandez is the captain a record of 18 wins and five losses for the varsity team. She has with preseason games included. high hopes this year for the The team is preparing for team to thrive on the court. the competitive season ahead “We will win the league as they strive to better them- for the 8th year in a row and selves at practice. “Our team’s we can go far into the play- goal is to win a ring and go un- offs with the skilled players defeated for league,” says se- that we have,” said Hernandez. nior captain Sarahid Hernandez. The toughest opponent for A struggle that the team has the team this season is La Serna Lady Dons playing defense against their opponents. Photo by Carlos Rojo to deal with this year are the in- High School. Their team is the juries of teammates in their start- Hernandez says, “On “On the court, we’re good all to execute things to their most competitive because the Lady ing line. Another struggle would the bright side, these struggles at motivating each other through full capability,” adds Guerra. Dons find it a challenge to reach be that the team would be hav- have made some of our other some tough games,” says senior “The connection our team the level of La Serna’s players. ing some defensive breakdowns. players step up their game.” Ajohnette Guerra. This makes has with each other brings us Unfortunately the Press Despite these minor set- With the developing bond it easier to execute games, and success because we’re always wasn’t able to receive the backs, the team isn’t going that the team has, they are capa- have everyone on the same page there for one another on and scores in time for their game vs to let these struggles hinder ble of reading each other on the when on and off the bench. off the court,’’ says Hernandez. the Whittier Cardinals. Their their chance for a good sea- court. It’s also helpful that their “Our chemistry in the Hernandez, feels that next game is tomorrow against son, and it definitely doesn’t strengths and weaknesses are group improved how we play on it is her responsibility to lead the Condors at Cal High! shut down their drive. well known amongst themselves the court, everyone gives their her teammates and set an ex- Boys’ soccer in prime position to claim league title By Diego Gonzalez make some noise in CIF, and to of the ten seniors on the team. El Rodeo Staff Writer have our last game of the sea- “One difference from son be a win,” adds Goyenaga. when I was a freshman is that The boys’ varsity soc- The team this year has I was a little bit more nervous cer team is well into Del Rio also shown a positive attitude when playing, but now that I’m League competition, currently during their season, and the a senior I feel a lot more confi- holding a record of four wins relationships they have built dent on the field,” says Saldana. and one loss. The Dons only de- with each other are very im- Saldana also has high feat came at the hands of Cali- portant to their performance. hopes for the rest of the league fornia High School after a tough “Something that makes games, and believes that team has game that ended in 1-0 loss. this group unique is the bond what it takes in order to be suc- With four wins in league, that they have with one another,” cessful at the end of the season. the team’s overall record con- says Goyenaga, “I feel like on Saldana says, “My goal sists of ten wins, eight losses, and this team, even if we have fresh- for the rest of the season is to one tie for the 2019-2020 season. men and seniors on the same win the rest of the games and The boys’ preseason proved to team, everyone gets along.” hopefully end with a clean tough, but the team has found its Although the team’s ros- sheet, despite the goals we’ve rhythm in the past five games. ter has a lot of younger faces gotten scored on us so far.” Coach Gerry Goyenaga this season, Goyenaga feels Playoffs are a common is at the head of the team for a that this is a big help to the hope for the players on the 6th consecutive season, and he team’s style of play on the field. squad, and Saldana believes has high hopes ahead of play- “I feel like the younger that the team can make a deep offs. Goyenaga says, “My over- players are a lot more coachable, run during the postseason. all goal for the season is for the and a lot of the younger guys are “I definitely think that boys to play well, and for us to more hungry and ambitious to get we can make the playoffs this finish league on the right note.” out on the field,” says Goyenaga. season, and I think that we can After a first round elimi- Along with a lot of young- make it pretty far as long as nation from last year’s play- er players, the team counts on we keep up the intensity we Antonio Galicia running toward the ball. Photo by Carlos Rojo offs, Goyenaga hopes to per- experience from the seniors have going,” adds Saldana. to clinch the league title game last game of the Del Rio League form well in the postseason. on the roster. Four-year re- The Dons hope to contin- and move on to the playoffs. will be played at Santa Fe High “We’re definitely hoping to turner Fernando Saldana is one ue their winning ways in order The Don’s next game and the School on Tuesday, February 4th.

Girls’ water polo sets challenging goals for themselves By Grecia Haro-Flores Islam also takes a lam, “We do almost everything El Rodeo Staff Writer look back at the years she’s together whether it’s eating, play- spent invested in the game. ing, shopping or even just being The girls’ water polo cur- “With the help from my each other’s presence I think we all rently holds a recrod of 14 wins coaches throughout the years from enjoy it. Also we have no drama.” and seven losses overall, with both my club teams and high- “We always tell each other one win and two losses in Del school team, my skills in water- ways to improve and as team- Rio League play. This season polo have improved significantly mates we’ll stay a little later their heads are held up high, and since my freshman year,” Islams after practice to practice on hope to accomplish their goals. says, “I gained a lot of experi- small things like shots or a way Senior captain Karinna ence and learned a lot of things to turn someone,” says Lara. Lopez says, “The goals for this about polo that I did not com- They also think a few other season is to improve and clean prehend my first year playing.” keys to their success are “hard up our technique and go to CIF.” Though improving their work, punctuality, communica- Senior Sakeenah Islam has skills isn’t their only key to suc- tion and [their] desire to win.” Alexis Ortiz ready to pass the ball. Photo by Carlos Rojo the same goals in mind. “My goal cess. Another one of their keys to Lopez says, “We work for this season is to get the op- plishment for us and I think it them to the lowerclassmen.” their success would definitely be together by communicating portunity to make it to CIF with is something we are all striv- Looking back at her years their strong bond with one another. with one another so our team all my teammates,” says Islam. ing for right now,” adds Islam. in water polo, Lara says, “I feel “I think we all see each oth- can work more efficiently.” “Even if we don’t win A goal for junior Alex- like I’ve improved a bunch and er as a second family, we spend Their following game CIF, making it to the semi-fi- is Lara would be “to improve I look back at how I played a lot of time together and it has will be a non-league game nals would be a great accom- with more techniques and show as a freshman and I cringe.” brought us really close,” says Is- on Friday, January 31st.

Jan. 30, 2020 El Rancho High School El Rodeo, Pg 8 ENTERTAINMENT YOU Review: Kobe Bryant leaves behind a legacy of love Netlfix’s newest hit series By Robert Rios due to the passing of their idol. El Rodeo Staff Writer Clippers head coach Doc Rivers was fighting back tears NBA icon Kobe Bryant during questioning from the passed away at the age of 41 on media. “People think because Sunday in Calabasas, Califor- you compete against each other nia in a helicopter accident that that you don’t have a relation- claimed the lives of nine people, ship and you don’t like them,” one of them being his 13-year old Rivers adds, “I think it’s the daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant. exact opposite. Sometimes the The other seven lives that more you compete, the more re- were sadly lost were John, Keri, spect you have for the opponent. and Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah That’s the way I felt with Kobe.” The Netflix hit series and Payton Chester, Christina The teams scheduled to YOU is back for season two Mauser, and pilot Ara Zobayan. Kobe in a loving embrace with his daughter Gianna. play honored Bryant by open- in a new city and with a new A source told ESPN in- For the older fans, they and give them something tangible ing the games with 24 second love interest! The first season sider Adrian Wojnarowski that were able to grow up alongside they can use in their own lives.” violations from both teams in of the Netflix drama series was the helicopter was en route to Bryant and see him evolve from In 2015, Bryant re- honor of the number that he wore released in December 2018. Mamba Sports Academy in the moment he was drafted straight leased a documentary called, for many years. Some teams It has a very interesting Thousand Oaks, California, out of Lower Merion High School “Kobe Bryant’s Muse.” The took eight second violations editing style as it is narrated by where Bryant was scheduled in 1996, to his farewell game in documentary explored the men- to honor the number that Bry- the main character Joe Goldberg, to coach his daughter Gi- 2016 where he scored 60 points. tors, allies, and rivalries that ant also wore during his career. played by Penn Badgley. Joe is anna’s girls’ basketball team. Kids in the 80s and 90s want- have helped to shape the 18-year Atlanta Hawks point guard, a New York bookseller who will The news of Bryant’s ed to be like Jordan. Kids in the career of NBA legend Bryant Trae Young, had built a close re- go to any length to get the girl tragic death came as a shock to 2000’s wanted to be like Bryant. as he cemented his legacy and lationship with both Bryant and he wants, all while convincing many fans around the globe, For 20 years Bryant devot- contemplates life after the sport. his daughter Gigi, which led to himself that his dangerous and even including people who ed most of his time to his NBA After he retired in 2016, him switching his jersey num- disturbing acts are for her sake. didn’t follow Bryant’s career. career, and in his retirement he Bryant went on to win an Acade- ber to eight in honor of Bryant. YOU is horror filtered Bryant was one of the was able to spend more time with my Award for his short film, “Dear “One of the last conversa- through romantic comedy. Joe very few that people around his 4 daughters and be the coach Basketball,” which was a letter he tions we had, he was just tell- thinks he’s the leading man, the world felt was invincible, to Gianna’s basketball team. wrote to the game that he loved. ing me how much he’s seen my the nice guy there to rescue a untouchable, and immortal. In a Jimmy Kimmel in- As news began to spread game progress and he’s just been woman from heartache and her To many in both the terview, Kimmel asked Bryant and reports began to be confirmed, happy for me,” Young said to own bad choices, but to the sports world and the outside a question concerning having a some NBA legends, teammates of the media, “He said how proud viewer, it becomes ever more world, Bryant was an inspira- boy to carry on his legacy. Bry- Bryant, current players who had a he was of me and how he wants clear that Joe is the real danger. tion to work hard, be dedicat- ant responded by saying, “Gianna relationship with Bryant, players me to continue to be a role mod- YOU retains its thrills, ed, and to have that “mamba will be standing next to me, and who have never spoken to him, el for kids growing up and for chills, and thoughtful questions mentality” in whatever craft it’ll be like, ‘And you gotta have but had a high level of respect to Gigi and all the kids looking up about masculinity, abusers and someone chose for themselves. a boy. You and I gotta have a boy, him began to speak on the tragedy. to me, to inspire these kids and modern relationships in this “I’ve always said that have somebody carry on the tradi- Jerry West, who traded for continue to play my heart out.” season’s new episodes. The ac- I wanted to be remembered as a tion, the legacy.’ She’s like, ‘I got Bryant in 1996 said, “One of the Memorials began to spring tion moves to Los Angeles and player that didn’t waste a moment, this. No boy for that, I got this.” worst days of my life. The only outside the Mamba Sports Acad- transfers Joe’s violent affections didn’t waste a day,” Bryant said in Gianna Bryant had thing I can compare it to is I had emy, where the helicopter was onto a new woman, the ironically an interview with ESPN in 2015. dreams and aspirations to go a brother killed in Korea. I’m heading, and outside of the named Love (Victoria Pedretti.) From his early morning play for the UConn Women’s just devastated by this news.” Staples Center, which held his Most crucially, the season workouts, to marathon shooting basketball team, and then later Former teammate Sha- final game and has both of his tweaks last year’s stalker for- sessions, to a relentless desire to go onto play in the WNBA to quille O’Neal said in an Insta- jerseys immortalized in the raf- mula by adding Candace (Am- improve himself as if he was the be the heir to the Bryant legacy. gram post, “There are no words ters with all the Laker greats. byr Childers), Joe’s ex-girlfriend 12th man on the bench, Bryant’s Bryant only began to tap to express the pain that I’m go- The Lakers vs. Clip- and ex-victim, whom viewers work ethic was truly remarkable. into the second half of his ca- ing through now with this tragic pers game that was scheduled suspected were dead in season He showed that the des- reer in which he channeled and sad moment of losing my for Tuesday night was post- one. Candace channels her rage tination was not the dream, that Mamba mentality into his niece Gigi & my friend, brother, poned to a later day at the and vengefulness into playing but the journey one takes to new found love of storytelling. my partner in winning champion- Laker organizations request. his game of lies and manipula- get there, that was the dream. In an interview with Sports ships, my dude and my homie... On the day that bas- tion, making her way into Love’s Bryant had one of those Illustrated in 2018, Bryant talked IM SICK RIGHT NOW!” ketball’s greatest story teller life, too. YOU returns with the unique careers in which the about his love of storytelling in The NBA had eight passed away, the millions that troublesome situation Joe is younger generation grew up which he says, “I love the idea games scheduled that Sun- were inspired by his continued left at the end of season one, as watching him as his career went of creative content whether it’s day, and when the news spread strive for greatness, are left try- he runs away from Candace. on and was looked up to as the mythology or animation, written about the sudden death of Bry- ing to write the end to his story. At the beginning of season Michael Jordan of his time. or film, that can inspire people ant, players became emotional two, he changes his identity and moves to L.A. because he believes Mac Miller’s final album Circles is a masterpiece that Candace will never look for Miller’s family de- sad feeling with the lyrics, “A lot him among the palm trees, In- scribed his vision by say- of things I regret, but I just say I stagram posts, and celebrities. ing he wanted “two different forget. Why can’t it just be easy? Will sees Love, with whom styles complementing each Why does everybody need me to he becomes instantly obsessed and other, completing a circle.” stay?” and “Can I get a break? manipulates his way into her life. On January 8th, Miller’s Wish that I could just get out my He begins committing his litany family posted to his Instagram. goddamn way,” possibly referring of crimes earlier this time around. The post revealed his new al- to his depression and melancholy. However, season two does bum and the release date. It also The track was an instant more than exhibit Joe’s crimes; included a message from his success and started the build up of the writers make Candace a family, stating that Miller would anticipation for the release of the central and worthy antagonist. By Jordan Uribe on Spotify and Apple Music. have liked the world to hear full album. The full album has 12 She plays Joe’s game of pre- El Rodeo Staff Writer Before Miller’s death, his new project and thanking tracks and in total lasts 49 minutes. tending, but she’s also a deeply he was already in the works to all of his fans for the uncondi- With everything said, this scarred woman he abused. Her Despite the tragic loss put out a companion album to tional support that he’s received. album was a true masterpiece. pain takes precedence in the of beloved artist Mac Mill- his 2018 release, Swimming. Alongside the reveal of Miller put out one of the most story over his desperate mis- er, the release of his final al- When placing both album titles the album, Millers management thought out companion albums, sions to please Love, and it’s a bum Circles demonstrates together, Circles and Swim- team released the fourth track on and executed it like no other artist. welcome shift in perspective. how his legacy still lives on. ming, its meant to complete the the album titled “Good News.” Go and give this album a This season of YOU re- Circles was released on phrase “swimming in circles.” The release of “Good listen, but I highly suggest that tains much of what made it a January 17th, and immediately Swimming details his strug- News” took many fans by sur- you listen to his previous al- must-see first time around. It is gained traction. It debuted with gles of escaping from his past prise. It gave me an eerie feeling bum “Swimming” first, given an enjoyable binge-worthy serial millions of streams worldwide, problems, and Circles details his when hearing the voice of the that they are both two halfs to killer thriller filled with twists as well as having every song acceptance to his problems in order artist that is not alive anymore. a whole. Circles is now avail- and turns and if you haven’t in the US Top 30 Chart, both to move on and be a better person. The lyrics also gave me a able on all streaming platforms. seen it yet I highly suggest it.