The future of success pp.10-13 Success for some, success for one

The Armijo Signal Armijo High School, Fairfield November 2015 Volume XX, Issue III Board revisits mascot debate Indian representation put under scrutiny in current climate CAHSEE suspended Students earn diplomas By Sophia Santos Editor-in-Chief On Wednesday, October 7, Governor Jerry Brown signed Sen- At 125 years old, Armijo is ate Bill 172, “suspending CAHSEE the oldest high school in the Fair- through 2018. The suspension/ex- field-Suisun Unified School District emption is retroactive to 2003-2004. (FSUSD). With its age comes a The law will take effect January 1, long history. Armijo is named af- 2016. At that time diplomas will be ter the family that bought one of issued to eligible students,” said Ms. six original land grants in the So- Marie Williams, Director of Second- lano County area, but our mascot, ary Education for the Fairfield-Suisun the Indian, is representative of the Unified School District. people that the Armijo family had EdSource.org stated that, taken land from. So with all the across the state, about 6% of the stu- other reforms caused by Ameri- dents did not pass the test but many cans becoming more aware of the of those will not receive diplomas be- people who had originally inhabited cause they also did not have the re- the continent (namely: the fight to quired credits to graduate. change “Columbus Day” to “Indig- According to EdSource.org, enous Peoples’ Day” and the peti- “Senator Carol Liu, D¬-La Cañada tions to change the Washington Flintridge, who authored the bill, ini- Redskins to something less insult- tially introduced the bill because the ing) it is no surprise that the topic of exit exam is not aligned with new our school’s mascot came up at the Common Core standards. It was later These are just a few of the emblems and artwork that would have to be discarded FSUSD board meeting on Thurs- if the Armijo mascot was changed. amended to remove the exit exam day, October 22. Photos by Myrel Catacutan as a requirement for graduation for Antonio Gonzales, director students who still hadn’t passed be- of the American Indian Movement-West in San Francisco, and other representatives of various activist groups cause they no longer had an opportu- spoke out about the topic, saying that, “No people should be a mascot,” said Gonzales. nity to take the test.” Many find the change insignificant, unnecessary and even insulting to the mascot. Alumni and current State Superintendent of Pub- students alike see the Armijo Indian as something to honor. It is also noted that most don’t find the term “In- lic Instruction Tom Torlakson was dian” to be derogatory at all. The issue has been protested multiple times before, and has never changed. In pleased that the bill had been signed addition to that, the budget to change everything our school owns that holds the “Indians” logo simply doesn’t and expressed himself in a written exist. statement. Looking to our neighboring schools shows us a similar conflict. While both Napa and Vallejo High “The high school exit exam is School have come across complaints akin to those addressed at the board meeting, Vallejo High School has outdated and does not reflect Califor- changed its mascot from the Apache to the Redhawks, whereas Napa continues to use their Indian mascot as nia’s new, more rigorous academic well. standards that emphasize skills need- ed to succeed in college and careers A week of celebration for all students in the 21st century,” he said. The test is currently suspend- Sports rally, dress-up days, activities lead to gametime ed through the 2017-2018 school year but the state will continue to de- Students and staff spent a week of preparation for the annual football home- termine whether or not to reinstate it coming event and the only real disappointment event was the final score for the varsity or create another way of evaluating team. The focus, however, was on the fun and that was something that was in great the students’ preparation for gradua- supply throughout the last week of October. tion, based on Common Core Stan- The theme for the week was ‘90s TV shows and the focus was dards. on children’s programming. Monday’s topic was PowerPuff Girls and Source: http://edsource.org/2015/governor- everyone was encouraged to wear pink. Tuesday was all about the signs-bill-allowing-diplomas-for-students- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which was a chance for friends to dress who-failed-exit-exam/88698 alike. Wednesday was Rugrats onesies day while Thursday was a chance to Table of contents dress up to show off You’re All That. Be- cause the game would be on Friday and News 1, 3-5 Saturday was Halloween, the school was filled with cos- Editorials, etc. 2 tumed individuals, some sporting purple and gold. People 6-8 The JV team was a nailbiter, ending in a 15-13 vic- Center Spread 9-10 tory for Armijo. Then classes showed off their acting abili- Presidential News 11-12 ties and performed skits. At half-time of the Varsity game, Senior News 13 the Homecoming Court was introduced. At the end of the evening, the Varsity team had a disappointing 7-77 loss to Clubs 14-15 Will C. Wood. Sports 16-17 Entertainment 18-20 See list of homecoming winners on page 5 2 Editorials, etc. News 3

Editorial Meet the editor Stay healthy Funds raised for Cancer Awareness Writing to express Back to the future By Marianne Sabado By Mr. T.J. Sugimoto Club adviser By Andrew Zheng Staff writer There really isn’t anything more unpredictable than the future. We can Senior News editor I would like to thank all of the teachers who helped with the Breast anticipate, fear, embrace, but I think the one thing we can’t ever do is know what Infl uenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and happens next - just like how no one could have possibly predicted the campaign Cancer Awareness Fundraiser. We have so many amazing students and staff I never sometimes even death. Flu season is upon us, which means that it is very who helped Around the World Club raise a grand total of $1,868.32 for the of presidential candidate for 2016’s election, Deez Nuts. thought about writ- important that everyone six months and older, no matter how healthy, American Cancer Society! Thanks again for all of your generous donations We can all take our best guesses as to what could happen in the future, ing as a career, should get a fl u vaccine. and please make sure you thank all of your students for helping to raise this but in the end they are just guesses. Do we get into the college of our dreams? or just for amuse- Vaccination is especially important for people at increased risk for much money. To freshmen - is the college of your dreams even going to be the same by your ment, in elementa- complications from the fl u or at higher risk for infl uenza-related outpatient, There was a competition to see which teacher’s classes could raise senior year? What are we going to be doing fi ve years from now? Will we be ry school, let alone ED, or hospital visits. If the risk of death doesn’t put things in perspective, the most money and those classes would win Krispy Kreme Donuts. The drowning in college debt? Will the friends we have then be the same friends becoming a jour- here are some statistics: According to www.cdc.gov, “Over a period of winner of this competition was Mr. Bryce Jordan’s classes in T4 with a total of we have now? It’s a mystery how people don’t spontaneously combust with the nalist. Throughout 31 seasons between 1976 and 2007, estimates of fl u-associated deaths $165. Nice Job! in the United States range from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about Teachers could also challenge each other to see who could raise the anxiety surrounding the uncertainty that is the future. With everything that could my education, how- ever, as the years 49,000 people. During recent fl u seasons, between 80% and 90% of fl u- most money, and the losing teacher would either have to take a pie in the possibly happen, to not know is an overwhelming disposition. fl ew by, I started related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older.” It is clear face, shave their head, or dye their hair pink. Here are the results for the And yet, somehow, all people who live their lives (a.k.a. everyone) get to communicate that people should get vaccinations to lower this extraordinary number of individual competitions! The “losers” will face their punishments in November. through it, because, somehow, the nauseating idea of being in the dark is sub- on paper like I had deaths. dued by the general curiosity and anticipation for the future. With the countless never believed I Vaccinations are not only important for people’s own health. They Winning Teachers vs. “Losing” Teachers and Punishments possibilities, there is great potential for success and satisfaction - which is like could before. I be- are also important for the health of others in the community. The circula- Sharp Meyers (Pie) the light at the end of the tunnel or the ‘big game’ at the end of the season. We gan to enjoy scrib- tion of the infl uenza virus is very high at this time, and the risk of catching Jordan Bright (Pie) Nanfi to Stenger (Pie) just don’t know, and the mystery is all part of the enjoyment. bling onto paper it is even greater from October through February, though fl u activity can Cerda Johnson (Pink Hair) and formulating el- last as late as May. Getting a fl u vaccination will help keep people from Maybe in 2016 will be our president, or maybe there will Andrew has learned the power Arbizu Macias (Pie) oquent responses getting sick and keep the disease from spreading to your friends or family. actually be an apocalypse. Whatever happens, it’s something to anticipate and of the printed word. Klapper Macias (Pink Hair) Photo submitted by Andrew Zheng Although early immunization is the most effective, look forward to, no matter how scary or even bleak it may seem at times. (only if it wasn’t a Klapper Burzynski (Pie) dull topic). I began and it is certainly best to get the vaccination as Klapper Stoll (Pie) to see how powerful the ability to write was. I began to early as they are available, it is not too late to get By Sophia Santos Shabazz Clawson (Pie) consider writing as a form of true expression- the potential the vaccine as late as January. The vaccine can be Editor-in-Chief Blum Summers (Pink Hair) to convey a style…a thought process and imagination. injected or taken in as a nasal spray, though a doc- Chapman Rockwell (Pink Hair) When I entered Armijo High School in my freshman tor about which is best for the individual. Students Plebani Stoll (Pie) What is Armijo thankful for? year, it wasn’t long before I stumbled upon the Armijo Sig- should get a fl u vaccine today to keep both them- Galarneau Dudley (Pink Hair) nal. Its iconic black and white newspaper that unraveled selves and their community healthy and happy! Sugimoto Salinas (Pink Hair) By Jesalin Belk into a lengthened book-like item was truly enticing. I was Staff writer actually hesitant at fi rst to report for it, but I soon overcame that doubt and simply wrote what I could. The variety of It is fi nally the month of November, and it is almost time for our stomachs to feel articles pleased me and I loved reporting about Armijo and Practice makes perfect its community. I became the co-editor of the Senior News joyful. November is mostly known for the holiday Thanksgiving where we get together Isabella Roxas section my sophomore year. This year, I still am still in the with our families and refl ect on our reasons to be thankful to this day. Staff writer Armijo’s students and staff were asked, “What are you thankful for?” They could position of Senior News Editor and remain dedicated. I genuinely love being an editor and reporting choose from a variety of topics: family, friends, or even that new video game received On Wednesday, October 14, the Preliminary Scho- about Armijo High School. I fi nd a passion in talking about from the grandparents. lastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) was offered to students across the great scholars and athletes that are attending, the OMMUNI Marissa Ornellas said, “Every day I kind of think that today’s going to be a good the country. This test is only offered twice a year for juniors, OLANO C TY COLLEG events that occur around campus and the Fairfi eld com- S E day...so I guess I could say that I am thankful for good days and everyone around me.” and they can only be taken by students one of those times munity, and the helpful information that builds the Armijo Ornellas was specifi c with her reason, which made her response stand out fromthe each year. Sophomores will be permitted to take special students’ awareness about their futures. The Armijo Signal rest. PSAT practice test in February. does not only open the portal to my creativity, but also my All Incoming Chemistry teacher Mr. Pete Smith seemed to have been unprepared for the ques- Almost 250 students lined up outside the Fairfi eld eyes to the superb unity of the Armijo students, teachers, tion. However, he did eventually respond. “I am thankful for having a good family. That’s Community Center at 7:45 am to take this test. Most of and mentors. a good response, right?” he said. Mr. Smith’s statement was on the humorous side, but them were juniors, but there were students at other levels that does not take away the idea of his appreciativeness. there, too. They appeared eager to start this practice test, “My family, education, being healthy, and that I am around educated and healthy yet nervous as well. They were shaking their legs, twirling Students: people,” said Julian Angel. pencils, and tapping the table to try and ease their stress. Armijo’s students and staff have much to be thankful for and eventually society Keep connected with For most students, this is just a practice test for will learn to recognize their gratitude every day, including Thanksgiving. The Armijo Signal! the SAT, for juniors it could mean additional scholarship One Stop Shop money for colleges. All of the students in attendance took Stay up to date on newspaper news, join in it seriously. NOVEMBER 7, 2015 • 9 AM Signal Staff - November 2015 fund-raising activities or participate in ad sales and pro- After a thirty-minute overview of rules and regula- motion. Check us out on Facebook at: tions, the test-takers fi nally began the PSAT. The test in- 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield eDITors: Alexa Ugarte cluded took English Language Arts, a section of Math that Sophia Santos, Editor-in-Chief Laura Wadsworth required no calculator, and another section of Math that Gabriel Zanipatin facebook.com/pages/The-Armijo-Signal/140982599266253 Annika R. Uyenco, News calculators were recommended. Get priority registration to enroll in Tom Zheng Trina Reynolds, People For three hours, the students silently bubbled in Andrew Zheng, Senior News Questions? Call (707) 438-3308 or e-mail [email protected]. the classes you need by completing: coMIc: each answer to the best of their ability. “I feel that it was Derek Wadsworth, Classes & Clubs Rachel Liu diffi cult and I should study for the next one,” said freshman Orientation, Assessment, Counseling. Elyce Dixon, Entertainment conTrIbUTors: Letters to the editor? Arianna Mestas who was taking the test for the fi rst time. aDVIser: Alexis Alexander (2010) That was the consensus of many of the sophomores and · Recommendation: Ms. Lynne D. Herring Carlos Crenshaw We realize that readers may not always agree with our articles or have something that they want to share with the school, which in- juniors as well. Allisa Louis Crisostomo Complete admissions application in advance reporTers: cludes the students and the faculty. If you would like to contribute to our Those who had taken it before saw that it was dif- Maria Cruz (2010) Jesalin Belk Editorial Page, including letters to the editor, please deliver them to C-3. ferent than the PSAT last year. The new layout for PSAT Bring high school or college transcript (unofficial ok) Alexis Dineen A name must be included. De Ronte Bridges and the upcoming SATs (new tests are starting in March Ashley de Groot Cam’ron Freeman The Armijo Signal is a student publication created to provide for the SATs, although the current tests have not changed) · Assessment testing requirement: Kevin Garcia Ms. Louise Jacob information and entertainment to the students at Armijo High School. Mr. Joe Klapper We strive to be factually accurate and encourage our readers to bring is different, trying to meet the rigorous demands of Com- PHOTO ID (no exceptions). School ID, Royce Guo information to our attention that could improve our newspaper. Tatanisha Johnson Mr. T.J.Sugimoto mon Core. Theme Park ID Pass, Driver’s License, etc. Articles and advertising are selected at the discretion of the For some fi rst-time test-takers, it was stressful and Elaine LeDoux Semhar Teklu Journalism Club members and adviser but do not always refl ect the time was a concern. It was tempting to race through the Rachel Liu pHoTograpHers: views of the club or the culture of the school. Refreshments will be served, Syan Lopez Trevon Carrie The Governing Board is committed to equal opportunity for all questions to fi nish in time. Those who took it as under- Arianna Mestas Myrel Catacutan individuals in education. District programs and activities shall be free classmen will have a chance to take it again in their junior bring a bag lunch. from discrimination based on gender, sex, race, color, religion, ances- year but be better prepared. Peter Popescu Royce Guo try, national origin, ethnic group identifi cation, marital or parental status, Kayla Reynolds Jordan Kelley physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or the perception of one The price for the PSAT is only around $15, but it is Ario Rostami Elaine Ledoux or more of such characteristics. The Board shall promote programs, a great way to prepare for the SATs. Information about the solano.edu Isabella Roxas London Legree which ensure that discriminatory practices are eliminated in all district SATs can be found in the Senior News section or at Col- Marianne Sabado activities. legeboard.com 4 News News 5

And the dark descends A chance to give Cash Prizes $$$ Homecoming activities By Ashley de Groot A modifi ed reprint from November 2010 Staff writer by Alexis Alexander, Staff writer HoMecoMIng coUrT

Volunteering. Whether they need Creativity/Action/Service (CAS) On Sunday, November 1, at 2 am, Daylight Saving Time ended in the US. Every Freshman Winners hours or just love giving back to the community, many Armijo students will year in the spring, we wind our clocks an hour ahead and lose an hour of sleep. In the fall, Elijah Jude Ibahim end up volunteering this year. Sometimes though, it can be hard to fi nd 1st place $300 we rewind our clocks an hour and gain back that hour. This is where the phrase “Spring Nalani Cruzen places to volunteer, especially when one is under the age of 18. So, here forward, fall backward” came from. It’s a phrase that helps people remember which way to turn their clocks and when to do so. are some pointers. Sophomore Winners Ms. Sara Johnson, head of the Helping Hands club had some 2nd place $200 All of this time changing isn’t for nothing. In modern time, it has been used as way to reduce the use of ener- gy. The extra hour in the afternoon during Christian-John Forcadilla suggestions. Helping Hands is geared towards volunteering and helping Hala Alkhatib the local community. Ms. Johnson said that Helping Hands usually volun- the summer months is sup- posed to lessen the amount of time that teers two to three times per month, with lengths ranging from a few hours 3rd place $100 people have to turn on their lights, in places such as offi ces to all day. There are no limits on how many students can attend each or restaurants. Junior Winners event, and one does not have to be a member of the club to participate, Daylight Sav- ing Time was not standardized Muhindo Kapapa although it is recommended. “Our focus is to make a difference in our DEADLINE: January 8, 2016 @5pm across most of the United States until 1967. It was Jackie Elder community by volunteering time, talent, and effort,” said Ms. Johnson. instituted during World War I to save energy for If a student isn’t into clubs, or if Helping Hands doesn’t work with war production by tak- ing advantage of the later hours Senior Winners Poste of daylight between April and October. During World his or her schedule, Solano County still offers many volunteering opportu- Delton Engle-Sorrell – Prince War II, the federal gov- ernment again required the states nities. Mission Solano is a great place to volunteer, as is Solano County’s r & Vide Nicole Primer - Princess Meals on Wheels program. Many local animal hospitals also have volun- to observe the time change. Between the wars and af- Safe ter World War II, states and communities chose whether or not to teer opportunities, as does the local Solano County library. Jobs o C Andrew Murphey - King fo observe Daylight Saving Time. In 1966, Congress passed the Uniform There are also some websites that students can volunteer on, r You on th M Time Act, which standardized the length of Daylight Saving Time. This is how Daylight Angela Balalong – Queen such as HandsOnBayArea.com or RedCross.com, but most of these are onth tests geared more towards San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose areas. Savings Time came to be. Students should be careful though when looking for volunteering In 2005, President George Bush signed the Energy Policy Act of 2005, extending Day- sKITs websites and steer clear of any sketchy looking websites or events. For more informa�on: youngworkers.org light Saving Time by starting it three weeks earlier, on the second Sunday of March, and 1st place: Juniors ending one week later, on the fi rst Sunday of November. This is an American version of As this generation, it is our job to work towards a better tomorrow; OR Joselyn Delgado (510) 643‐8483 [email protected] SpongeBob and just a few selfl ess hours can make such a big difference for so many Daylight Saving, and doesn’t necessarily apply to the rest of the world, most of which still Sponsored by the California Partnership for Young Worker Health and Safety people. begin at 2 am on the fi rst Sunday in April and end on the last Sunday in October. When it comes to Daylight Savings Time, people tend to have strong opinions. 2nd place: Seniors Some dislike it because it ruins their sleeping habits and confuses them. Others see it in Rugrats ASVAB test interpretation a good way because it saves energy and gives more sunlight hours in the summer. College and High School Fair While it is practiced worldwide, not every country participates. Many countries, 3rd place: Sophomores By Ms. Sandy Anderson like China and Australia for instance, practice Daylight Saving on a regional basis. Some Power Puff Girls The campus was buzzing the eve- College & Career adviser countries have tried it briefl y and returned to maintaining the clocks at the same time year ning of Tuesday, October 6, and it was round. Not even all of the United States uses Daylight Savings. Hawaii, most of Arizona 4th place: Freshman: like a candle lit at both ends. The Col- On Thursday, October 22, 61 students sat down to take the ASVAB and some overseas territories consider themselves exempt.

University of San Francisco

Humbolt State University Colorado State University Pokemon Washington State University lege and High School Fair burned bright (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test. It is used to evaluate one’s

University of the Paci by inviting representatives from a vari- personal skills and abilities. Just like the SAT or ACT, this free test helps stu-

U.C. Davis Congratulations to all the participants and es- fic dents determine how they learn and what they may want to pursue after high Sonoma State ety of colleges to share information with th school. Although the ASVAB may sound like a military test alone, the test is pecially the winners of the Homecoming Court and October 6 , 2015 6-8pmFIDM current high school students and invit- Location: Armijo High School, 824 Washington St. Fairfield,Chico CA State Vanderbilt University ing students from local middle schools similar to other career interest inventory tests. the half-time skits. A lot of fun was had throughout the Financial Aid WorkshopsUC Berkeley 6:30-7:00 (in English) Penn State University The ASVAB can also help students choose courses for college and 7:15-7:45 (in Spanish) Academy of Art University to discover the opportunities available evening. Sacramento State make personal career decisions. Armijo High School offers the test twice a by Alyssa Locsin at the high school level. The main gym was fi lled with col- year: once is the fall and once is the spring. lege representatives and the crowds On Thursday, November 12, from 8:15 am to 9:30 am, test-takers can meet in the library computer lab, for a workshop to go over the results. It were fl ocking to see what the schools had to offer. There were giveaways is important to attend this workshop to understand the scores on the ASVAB Mark your AHS calendars and applications for interested students and schools from around the test. country as well as military representation and trade schools were there to Thursday, November 5 meet the students. FAIRFIELD – NIRASAKI SISTER CITY PROGRAM Deadline for December SATs In the cafeteria, tables were set up for clubs and classes from Want to learn more about Japan? Armijo, Rodriguez and Fairfi eld as well as the adult school and the Matt Friday, November 6 Garcia Learning Center. Current middle school students and their par- The Sister City Program Armijo’s 125th Anniversary Celebrations ents were able to get a taste of what their future will be like as they came is the place for YOU! around and spoke to the club advisers and representatives. Saturday, November 7 The opportunities were amazing for both current and future Armijo This year is the 44th anniversary of the Fairfield – Nirasaki Sister City Program. SATs at AHS Our Sister City of Nirasaki, Japan, is located in beautiful Yamanashi Prefecture, students and the night helped a lot of people in consideration of their fu- One-Stop Shop at Solano College ture. which is famous for grapes, peaches, wine, textiles, jewelry, and for being the home of Mt. Fuji. The city is about 90 miles from Tokyo. Nirasaki’s population is around 30,000. Monday, November 9

Solano College Orientation Night at AHS What will you fi nd at the Armijo library? Fairfield students in the program are given many exciting opportunities:  Ability to apply to be part of a delegation of six student ambassadors Thursday, November 12 each summer! ASVAB Interpretation Fiction focus: Family o These student representatives depart for Nirasaki around the second week of July, and stay with a Japanese family for a three weeks. While in Japan, the student group participates in activities planned Sunday – Saturday, November 16-20 What to watch for in by the City of Nirasaki, including visits to local high schools, sight- American Education Week seeing excursions to Tokyo, Mt. Fuji and local scenic areas, and tours November? of historic and cultural sites, plus a 4-day excursion to Kyoto and Hiroshima via Japan’s famous bullet train, the Shinkansen. Week- Tuesday and Thursday, November 17-19 National American Indian Heri- ends are normally devoted to activities with a student’s host family. Solano College Math and English tage Month  Ability to host a Nirasaki student for three weeks in December each year! Placement Tests at AHS  Chance to participate in various American/Japanese cultural exchange forums in Fairfield and the Bay Area! American Education Week Wednesday, November 18 National Education Support Professionals Day (Nov. 16-20) For more information: The Fairfield – Nirasaki Sister City Committee meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Fairfield Senior Center, at 7 PM. National Education Support Interested students are invited to attend a committee meeting and get Wednesday - Friday, November 18-20 Professionals Day involved with the program. The Senior Center is located at the corner of “We’ll Be Back Right after This Murder” Pennsylvania Avenue and Civic Center Drive. For more information, please (Wednesday, November 18) contact Arletta Cortright at 426-5603 (home) or 428-7400 (City Hall), or by e-mail at [email protected]. The Sister City Committee is composed of Thursday, November 26 Thanksgiving community volunteers, who recruit local students to travel to Japan, organize Thanksgiving fundraising and cultural events, and plan and carry out the December student (Thursday, November 26) visit from Nirasaki. 08/15 6 People People 7

Question of the Month: All in a name ASB Focus Where do you see yourself in five years? Who will say Grace? Paving the way In some families, it is traditional to say grace before a meal, especially before Thanks- for the future Freshman Ireaunna Washington: Freshman Alessio Ibarra: giving’s feast. But in three Armijo families, saying Grace is more than just an expression of “I see myself in college. I’m not sure yet “In five years from now, I see myself going gratitude before a meal. It is an everyday occurrence. Alec Barrett has been part of the leadership class what I want to study right now. I’m good at to college. I plan on majoring in geography. Grace Baxter earned her name because, when she was born, her mother decided since his freshman year, but now, as a senior, he is in charge , so I think that I may want to play As for sports, I want to continue playing that she looked more like a “Grace” than a “Marisol.” She likes her name, even though she of the entire student body. Barrett is the Associated Student that in college.” in college.” thinks it sounds a little old-fashioned. It is fitting because she is actually a ballerina. “Anyone Body (ASB) president, which means that he is in charge who knows me teases me for being such a “grace”ful dancer; they agree that my name fits of the activi- me. ties that are Baxter intends to go to St. Mary’s College and eventually become an elementary run at Armi- school teacher, hopefully focusing on 1st through 3rd grades. She has some practice teach- jo, with the ing as she currently teaches ballet. She also enjoys cooking and spending time with family assistance and friends. Her favorite type of music is classical versions – such as piano instrumentals – of of his fellow Sophomore Alana McCoy: Sophomore Nick Larkin: modern songs. officers. “I’m not quite sure where I’ll be five years “Five years from now? Well, college obvi- “Grace is a theological term meaning ‘constant gift from God’ which is how my par- “ I ents see me,” said Grace Curry. “I was named after Grace O’Malley of the O’Malley clan in from now. I guess I see myself working. I ously. I want to be successful and happy chose to go Ireland who lived from 1530-1603. She is my ancestor through my Dad’s mother… She was like writing and I want to try to become an with my life.” into student known as the Pirate Queen and once met with Queen Elizabeth I.” Sometimes when people author.” hear Curry’s name, however, they start to sing “Amazing Grace.” government Curry’s cousins attended Armijo: Jennifer, Michael and Daniel Lavell. She is involved because I in the varsity water polo team and is also vice-president of Film Club. While she doesn’t know saw it as a what she wants to focus on when she graduates from high school, she does know that she fun experi- wants to go to college. “I wouldn’t change my name if I had the chance because the name ence that Grace is part of what makes me me,” she said. would also The youngest of Armijo’s Graces, Grace McSweeney, is generally pretty quiet. She build my Junior Dorian Voyce: character,” “Well, I believe I’ll be in college. I’ll be living hasn’t made any plans for her future but, as a freshman, she has plenty of time. She enjoys Junior Graciela Ofalsa: horseback riding and running cross country and likes listening to lots of music: rock, metal said Barrett. “I see myself going to college hopefully to in a dorm, an apartment, maybe? I’m not core, post-hardcore and death metal. Her sister, Erina, is a sophomore. Like the others, Mc- For those finish my degree as a nurse. Having a job sure what I’ll be studying. I play in the band Sweeney wouldn’t change her name, even if she had the opportunity. who are and I think that I could be a musician.” and a good life.” The three girls have not met each other yet but some of them are familiar with others For Alec Barret. spirit goes beyond contemplat- who share their name, like the actress Grace Kelly as well as Grace Helbig, a YouTuber. just attending games and playing sports ing joining Photo by London Legree leadership in the future and, more importantly, getting involved in student govern- ment, Barrett quoted the familiar Nike slogan, “Just do it!” Senior Camryn Jackson: Senior RE-U Som: In addition to being the ASB president, Barrett is also a member of the Junior Statesmen of America (JSA) “I’m going to the military, so I see myself, “Five years from now, I see myself, I guess club and plays on the water polo team. In fact, he said maybe, in another state. In five years, I’ll in college. I see myself having a stable job with a good family. I’d like to major in politi- that if he could change only one thing at Armijo, he would be 21, so I want to be working towards a “change the pool.” cal science and paralegalism..” stable life. I want to be working so that I’ll Barrett has a younger sister, Zoe, who is a fresh- be ready to settle when I get older.” man. His role models are Shia Labeouf and Donald Trump By Royce Guo and he has an obsession with, as he says, “Ugh, Tom Brady.” When he graduates from Armijo Barrett wants to Far from home At work eventually earn his master’s degree in nursing and get a They might share job working in an emergency room situation. On the run a name, but these California welcomes three Graces are By Tata Johnson very different new residents individuals. Staff writer Photo by London Legree India is a Teacher feature Kirah Overman is large country with Mystery person a lot of people, but busy, but she doesn’t let that A fresh start at Armijo Mohamed Asfel no slow her down. While other Mr. Derek Claw- longer lives there. students are working hard at Who do you know? son spent a lot of time tu- In March, he and school after lunch, Overman By Trina Reynolds toring, but this is his first his mother moved is busy working at Dr. Chris- People editor year teaching. Although from Chennai, a big tensen’s Optometrist Office, he graduated from Fair- city in Tamilnadu located right next to Solano This month’s mystery person is a 15-year-old sophomore at Armijo. In middle field High School, he is which is in South- Mall and NorthBay hospital. school, you wouldn’t have found him at Green Valley, Crystal, or any other local schools. now dedicated to being an ern India, to live Overman’s job is to Instead, he attended a middle school near Sacramento. This sophomore’s favorite sub- Armijo Indian. His role as with his father in scans patients records into ject is English, and his favorite teacher at Armijo is Ms. Sylvia Herrera, who teaches a teacher involves guid- Fairfield. the system. While her co- English. ing students in Math 2 and “In India, I workers are nice, the job itself When he has free time, this person loves to draw. Although he took an art class Math 3 classes. While he played cricket and can be a little monotonous. at Armijo last year, he was unable to do so this year. However, he still plans to pursue his earned his Bachelor’s de- volleyball. Here, Still, she enjoys the fact that Mohamed sees a lot of differences passions in the future by going into film and becoming a producer or director. gree and his teaching cre- I’m involved in the everyone she works with is between India and his new home. nice and gives good custom- This person has three siblings: two brothers and one sister. He is the oldest of dential by attending CSU International Club,” Photo by London Legree them all. He doesn’t have a favorite TV show, but he says that his favorite movie is Whip- East Bay and UC Davis, said Asfel. He likes er service. She would recom- Mr. Clawson is starting his career lash. His favorite color is green and he doesn’t have any pets. off in the right place! he said that his own high listening to Indian hip-hop music, rap and R&B. He has mend the office for eye- ex Here is your last clue: this month’s mystery person has black hair. Photo by London Legree school teachers were a big been enjoying his months at Armijo so far. He has found ams, even if she didn’t work there. Last month’s Mystery Person was junior Kshaf Naveed influence on his choices. that the teachers are kind and that is something that makes who, at the last moment, was identified by Michelle Ramos. While minimum wage Before earning money in the classroom and work- fitting in easier. “My experience so far is good. Most peo- If you know this month’s Mystery Person, go to G-10. ing with students as a tutor, Mr. Clawson worked at Star- ple are nice and the education is good, but some people for ten hours a week may not The first person to correctly this individual will receive a free movie Kirah doesn’t have time to stop in her busy life, bucks, Mary’s Pizza Shack and Hollister, but he said that seem mean to other students sometimes,” he said. be much, it does give Over- ticket at Edwards Theater. Only one prize per month will be award- man a little spending money. not if she wants to get everything done to perfection. he “became a teacher because I enjoy helping people…. When he graduates, he hopes to go to either UC Photo by Trevon Carrie ed. Journalism students or club members and Armijo teachers the advice I would give a student considering being a Davis or UC Berkeley and study medicine. If he does go She doesn’t have a lot of time and staff do not qualify. Armijo’s Mystery Person will be presented teacher is that being patient is very important.” back to India, it would be only to visit. He said that he does to spend it, though, since she between September and May. Prizes will be available to the first person that correctly identifies the individual from the description While teaching takes up a lot of his focus, he does miss his friends and his family, especially his nephews. He runs back over to Armijo after her two-hour shift to practice for cross-country. The job given. Submission cannot be taken during class time but will be find time to enjoy watching movies—“I watch a lot of mov- also misses the Indian-style coffee shops. gives her just enough time away from campus to make coming back worthwhile. accepted between classes, before and after school. ies!” he said--and playing games. 8 People Senior News 9

Sibling spotlight Volunteers Senior spotlight The other experience The next quiet step It’s all good, It’s all about the kids By Andrew Zheng For almost four years, Vanessa Valle has man- People Senior News editor aged to avoid the spotlight at Armijo. She started attend- except when it’s not get their volun- ing Armijo as a freshman and quietly attended her classes, teer experienc- What exactly is a lib- The Segura siblings don’t mind sharing the campus. In fact, the preparing herself for her future. “I’m planning to go to Mi- es for a variety eral arts college? It has older two--Javier and Lelani—actually don’t mind sharing a class and it been referenced in snip- lan Cosmetology and becoming a great cosmetologist,” of reasons, but helps them learn about each other. “I have Spanish class with my bro,” pets here and there, but she said. the best way to said Lelani. “Never knew he could be quiet!” many people do not real- She never got involved in sports and clubs weren’t achieve them Helizett, the youngest, does not share a class with either of them, ly know what type of cur- her focus either, but she did grow to enjoy the people who is by doing but does enjoy having someone to go to, and advantage for any fresh- riculum these colleges got her to this school year. something that man. offer or what the campus “I’m going to miss some is interesting to life is like. It is not all good, though. “They observe what I do when I’m here,” of the staff and teachers the individual. The opportu- said Javier. Helizett agrees. “You really can’t do much without getting the most,” said Valle. She Maria and Kar- nity of learning in a lib- caught and sometimes it’s embarrassing,” she said. What’s even more would encourage stu- ina Flores and eral arts manner is con- embarrassing is when people observe how close they are and think that dents just starting their Oliver Chavez stantly estranged from a Javier is something other than a brother. Lelani has experienced “that high school student’s list high school lives “to re- have had the awkward moment… when people think we’re a thing… It’s gross!” she of colleges they want to ally try their hardest and, if opportunity to said. apply to and attend. We, they need help, to not be get involved This will be the last year that the three will attend the same school as a high school popula- scared, to ask and to be with the Par- as they plan to go to different colleges, although they aren’t sure which tion, have not been fully themselves.” ent Institute for These three students bring fun to the campus when they exposed to the potential ones. Lelani wants to become a medical assistant, Javier intends to be- Liberal Arts colleges allow students the additional luxury She’ll be able to Quality Edu- work with children at the Wednesday night PIQE meetings. of liberal arts in any way! come a doctor and Helizett hasn’t made a choice yet, but she does know Photo by London Legree of creative thinking and diverse class loads. continue sharing that ad- cation (PIQE) Photo from Wikipedia Or have we? Well, some that she wants to attend college. Their youngest brother, Adrian, just vice as she watches her where parents of us have, since the In- turned 11 so he will be attending Armijo in a few years. younger sister, Yezenia can get the information about Armijo that they need while this trio helps ternational Baccalaureate (IB) program is incredibly similar to a liberal arts experience. While they are close on campus, they do have their own interests. Vales-Godoy, who is a ju- keep their younger children distracted and cared for. A liberal arts education focuses on imparting a broad general knowledge and develop- Vanessa has her future “I go crazy on a dirt bike,” said Lelani, who also enjoys playing piano, ing general intellectual capacities. Students in liberal arts colleges generally major in a particular mapped out in cosmetology. nior this year, as well as Maria got involved with the help of her counselor, Mr. Carlos Agui- ID Photo drawing and reading as well as spending time at the beach. Javier likes discipline while also receiving a well-rounded exposure to a wide range of different academic sub- her younger brothers, 10- lar. At the beginning of the year, she knew that she wanted to make a spending time doing “everything out doors,” he said. Helizett likes to listen jects, such as the sciences and traditional humanities. Essentially, all of the students gain knowl- year old Oscar and 6-year difference in her community “and be a positive contribution.” She does to music and watch funny movies. She also likes to “chill,” she said. edge in the major fi elds, knowing a lot more than just their fi eld of interest. Liberal arts has been old Arturo, grow up and take their place in Armijo history. that by working with PIQE on Wednesday nights and also at the Kroc While Javier and Lelani said that they had no clue what the others acclaimed to “hone the understanding of the universe by viewing it from multiple perspectives.” Thinking about what needs to be improved about Center in Suisun. Her work at the Kroc Center involves “helping elemen- would say about each of them—“they’re full of surprises,” Lelani said— Liberal arts colleges that seem appealing might be Williams College in Williamstown, the school itself, Valle was quick to mention the food tary schoolers with their homework.” At PIQE, she helps take care of the Massachusetts, Amherst College in Amherst, Massachusetts, and Pomona College in Claremont, Helizett was more confi dent. She believes they would describe her as served on campus. “It hasn’t changed and I’m pretty sure younger kids who often come with their parents. California. “awesome, because obviously I’m awesome!” students would want that to change the most,” she said. In the spring, Maria will graduate and she hopes to attend San Williams College has three academic curricular divisions--humanities, sciences and so- When she is off-campus, Valle said that she likes Francisco State as a biology major. If she doesn’t get into that school, cial sciences--24 departments, 36 majors, and two master’s degree programs in art history and to go hiking “or over to my cousins’ house and watch Em- she’d like to attend Cal State Monterey Bay. She plays soccer and loves developmental economics. There is a great student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1. As of 2012, the school had an enrollment of 2,052 undergraduate students and 54 graduate students. pire, or play with my brothers’ PS4.” She will probably to be active in general. Amherst College offers 36 fi elds of study in the sciences, arts, humanities, mathemat- continue with these hobbies throughout her experience in Karina got involved with PIQE when her sister Maria introduced cosmetology school, so long as they don’t ruin her nails it to her as an opportunity to “get in tune with my community,” she said. Continued on page 19 - and make-up. She had been volunteering with the Robotics club at Grange, but has not Liberal Arts Colleges limited her volunteer time to PIQE. Like her sister, “I spend my time keep- ing the kids entertained. We usually watch movies, play games, draw and—my personal favorite—play soccer.” Solano College News for Seniors Like her sister, Karina is interested in science and is considering Fall/Winter going into the medical science fi eld at one of her many favorite colleges. Orientation and Application Night English and Math Placement Tests She hopes to go “far, but not too far” from home. SAT Dates Attention seniors! Do you plan on attending A placement test is required for all students It was because Oliver’s mother wanted him to get some volunteer Saturday, November 7 Solano Community College in the fall? On Monday, who intend to attend Solano Community College. hours that he got involved in volunteering for the PIQE program. He helps (Registration closed; November 9, from 5:30 – 7 pm in the Armijo library, a Armijo seniors can take the test on either Tuesday, the Flores sisters in their tasks taking care of the children. He’s been in- scores available November 24) representative will conduct an orientation and assist November 17, or Thursday, November 19, in the volved since PIQE meetings started. Saturday, December 5 students in completing an application to their school. Armijo Library Computer lab. The test will take place When he graduates, Oliver hopes to attend Chico, but in his spare (Registration deadline = November 5; Both are required to attend. Please sign up on Na- from 8 – 11 am on each of those days. time he likes to hang out at the gym with his friends. scores available December 22) viance or come to the College and Career Center and Please sign up on Naviance or come to the Maria would encourage others to get involved in a volunteer op- see Ms. Sandy Anderson for details. College and Career Center and see Ms. Sandy An- portunity that interested them by sharing her positive experiences. Karina For more information, go to www.collegeboard.com derson for details. would do the same. “I would let them know just how fun it is. You get to These tests are offered at Armijo connect with others and make new friends and memories to share.” Oliver Fees: knows that getting volunteer hours can be tough, but he offered a reason Reasoning Test with essay = $54.50 The Segura siblings spend a lot of time together, to do it through PIQE: “Just come ‘cause I’m there,” he said. Taking it step by step Help for seniors so it is a good thing that they get along with each other so well. Reasoning Test without essay Photo by Trevon Carrie (March - June) = $43 By Elyce Dixon By Israel Jurado Subject Tests: Entertainment editor SCEC college adviser Basic Registration = $26 + $18 per test through Berkeley Change fee = $28; Waitlist fee = $48; The college application process can be a long and tiring process but all the while worth it. There are Seniors who are several steps to take before an applicant can submit the applying to universities Winter ACT Date fi nal forms. College applications require personal data, this fall should stop by grades, information about extracurricular experience counseling room CC-15 Saturday, December 12 and fi nancial status. Some require additional insight Tuesdays between 9 am (Registration deadline = November 6; about the applicant. and 1 pm, Wednesdays scores available December 28) Most state colleges require basic personal in- between 11 am and 3 For more information, go to formation. These are probably the simplest applications pm or Fridays between http://www.actstudent.org/ because most of the answers are pretty straightforward. 9 am and 4 pm. I am also trying to adopt a classroom The UC’s require a bit more. They ask for the same ba- where I will give presentations in regards to fi nancial Fees: sics before going into more depth about what the high aid, dream act, university applications, community col- Without writing = $39.50; school experience. Some questions include the awards lege, scholarships and much more. With writing = $56.50 Score Reports to 5th and 6th Colleges = received, work experiences, volunteer experiences, If you are interested, please let me know. I will $12 each and more. There is also the personal statement and ad- be reading personal statements as well as going over Change fee = $25 ditional comments aspect of the UC application that al- the UC and CSU applications with students in the fall. Telephone Registration = $15 low colleges to know more about the applicant. In the spring semester I will be providing one- Late registration fee = additional $24 on-one assistance with FAFSA/Dream Act and commu- Standby fee = $49 Continued on page 14 - nity college applications. This is a free program to help College App Process parents and students. 10 Center Spread 11

“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.”-William Shakespeare

Success Story Steve Jobs: Successful People Timing and talent Right Music for By Trina Reynolds People editor Place the masses It seems that everyone has heard of J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter fan or not. She has written her way to being one of the wealth- iest women in Britain, even wealthier than – Right the Queen of England! Her masterful Harry Potter series has been translated in By Alexa Ugarte 69 different languages and published in 200 different countries. It is estimated Time Staff writer that 400 million copies of Harry Pot- ter have been sold worldwide. This success didn’t happen overnight, however. J.K. Rowling ex- By Derek Wadsworth Demetria Classes & Clubs ed- perienced many trials during her life pre-Harry Potter, including--believe Devonne Lovato is one itor it or not--several rejections from publishers on the way to getting of the most popular her first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, published. female singers in the Steve Jobs was Growing up, Rowling’s life was far from perfect. Something world. With high-sell- born Feb 25, 1955, that was very impactful during her childhood was her mother’s death ing albums that top and died in 2011, at from multiple sclerosis. Rowling’s feelings about her mother’s death the charts, she is one the age of 56. Wal- made their way into Harry Pot- ter, which she was writing at the ter Isaacson wrote of the most successful time. She knew how it felt to lose someone and was able to include a biography about women in the music more detail regarding the loss of Harry’s parents. the entrepreneur, industry, too. But for As an adult, Rowling went through a divorce and ended up as which he published after his death. Isaacson describes Jobs by say- Demi it was a very rough and challenging path to get to where she is a single mother with a very young daughter. She was diagnosed with ing, “His ferocious drive revolutionized six industries: personal now. computers, animated movies, music, phones, tablet computing, and clinical depression and even had thoughts of suicide. Dementors, soul- As a teen, Lovato was known for her role in the Disney film digital publishing.” sucking creatures featured in the Har- ry Potter series, were inspired by this “Camp Rock.” From there she became a breakout star as she began As a newborn, Jobs was adopted and raised by a family in Cu- dark period of her life. She described her situation as “poor as it is possible writing her own music and releasing it for the world to hear. Lovato pertino. By the time he was ten, he was interested in electronics, to be in modern Britain, without being homeless”. was on her way to outstanding success when, in 2010, her personal and his classmates described him as somewhat of a “loner.” He was a Her life was forever changed when the idea for Harry Potter came to her while issues put her career on a pause. smart kid, but didn’t always do well in school. He loved his fourth she was riding a train. She said it “simply fell into my head”. Without a pen, she sat in the In November 2010, Lovato was checked into rehab, a move that grade teacher, and said, “She kindled a passion in me for learning train for four hours, just thinking and imagining the character of Harry Potter and the magical world of Hog- things! I learned more that year than I think I learned in any other shocked her fans. She was checked in for depression, self-harm, an warts. That idea was spun into a complex wizarding world and developed into a multi-billion dollar brand, read and year in school.” eating disorder, and an addiction with drugs and alcohol. At that time re-read and watched and re-watched by kids and adults all over the world. J.K. Rowling is a phenomenal example After high school, Jobs went to Reed College in Portland, she was suffering major body image issues and “hated every inch of of what passion, hard-work, and a little imagination can do. Oregon, for a short time, but dropped out and moved to India to my body,” she said. Everyone believed Lovato had hit rock bottom and study Buddhism. At age 21, he moved back to the United States and wouldn’t pick herself back up to become one of the most inspiring role co-founded Apple, with his high school friend, Steve Wozniack. They models in teen history. They thought wrong! wanted to start a company to sell the personal computer that Wozni- In January 2011, Lovato was checked out of rehab but, while she The movies told us there would be days like this! ack had developed called the Apple I. was recovering, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder which she had Jobs said, "I always thought of myself as a humanities person problems with since she was 11 years old. But that didn’t stop her. On Back to the Future (1, 2 and 3) Prometheus X Men (all 8 of them) as a kid, but I liked electronics … then I read something that one of my heroes, Edwin Land of Polaroid, said about the importance of September 20, Lovato released her new album “Unbroken”. She named Star Trek (all 12 of them) Robo Cop (all 4 of them) Ultraviolet her album “Unbroken” to prove that she is unbroken and stands tall, people who could stand at the intersection of humanities and sci- Star Wars Terminator (all 4 of them) ences, and I decided that's what I wanted to do." like a skyscraper. Lovato put a lot of emotion into this album, which Titanic 2 (all 11 of them… so far) Hunger Games (all 4 of them) Jobs and Wozniak started to make a name for themselves in includes the powerful song “Skyscraper” about her personal issues and The Road 1977, when they developed the Apple II, which was the first personal “For the Love of Daughter” which is about her problems with her fa- Avatar The Purge The Matrix (all 4 of them) computer that was mass-produced. After the success of the Apple II, ther. Big Hero 6 Wall-E however, they developed the Apple Lisa, which was a failure. Jobs Lovato was back in the music industry feeling more powerful did not get along with the CEO at Apple, and in 1985, Jobs was forced than ever. In 2012 she released a TV special on MTV called “Staying out of his company. He said, “There are people around here who start Strong: A Documentary” which gave a look at her personal life and her companies just to make money, but the great companies? Well, that’s recovery. She said, “My fans literally saved my life.” She continued on not what they’re about.” her path to recovery and later released her self-titled album “Demi,” What did the future hold? Job’s decided to start a new company, NeXT, to focus on mak- ing powerful computers to sell to colleges and to big businesses. He which includes a very powerful song called “Warrior” that shares how By Annika R. Uyenco nobody can break her down and nobody can destroy who she is. “She was also interested in computer graphics, and he helped fund Pixar, News editor which went on to produce the first fully computer-animated film, Toy is really inspiring and everyone should look up to her because she went Story. In 1995, Jobs said in an interview, “Of all the inventions, through a lot when she was young but she stayed strong,” said Arielle October 21, 2015 was Back to the Future Day. Back to the Future was a popular film series made in the 1980’s the computer is going to rank near or at the top as history unfolds Encinas. about an American teenage boy who found himself in different places in time. In the second installment, he finds himself and we look back. It is the most awesome tool that we have ever in- Her triumphant comeback inspired teens all around the world. in the future, October 21, 2015, checking on the behavior of his own teenage children. vented. I feel incredibly lucky to be at exactly the right place in Demi Lovato became an advocate for mental illness. In 2013, she re- Leo Gallegos happened to be sick and stayed home from school that day. He celebrated by watching all three Silicon Valley, at exactly the right time, historically, where this leased her book Staying Strong: 365 Days a Year, a book filled with Back to the Future films. Some students in the band program were huge fans and decided to dress up as the main char- invention has taken form." In 1989, Inc. Magazine awarded Jobs with 365 powerful and honest quotes and sayings that helped her overcome acter from the films. Now that’s what you call dedication. Entrepreneur of the Decade award. Though power laces or actual hover boards don’t exist -yet- there are some predictions from the movie that came things and hopefully will help other teens, too. Apple bought out NeXT in 1997, and Jobs took over the CEO po- true. For one, nostalgia for the 90’s decades is quite popular and has become a trend. Labels such as hipsters and Indie Throughout the years, Lovato has worked a lot on recovery and loving sition at Apple. At the time, Apple was almost bankrupt, but Jobs kids are thrown out quite often, not to mention the fashion from back then. help turn the company around, with new ideas, such as, iMac, iTunes, her body and becoming confident with herself. She is an inspiration Another prediction that came true was the obsession with technology and an infinite amount of TV shows. People and role model to teens all over the world. Lovato conquered her prob- Apple Stores, the iPod, iTunes Stores, iPhone, App Store, and the these days have their eyes glued to screens of all sizes watching whatever they please. iPad. lems and is now conquering the world with her most-recently released One more prediction that came true was instant gratification. People in 2015 hate waiting and thankfully SIRI and Unfortunately, in 2003, Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic album “Confident.” Maria Acuna said, “She taught us that there is Google are there to help. In school, many students are too impatient to actually research and read library books and cancer. Fortune magazine named Jobs the most powerful person in nothing wrong with being confident.” instead just search it up on their trusty phones, laptops, computers or tablets. business, but he died four year later in 2011. Demi Lovato is a successful singer, actress, songwriter, and phi- Although floating transportation methods, time machines, and laces that will tie themselves don’t exist, most if not Although Steve Jobs died young, he was able to pursue his passions lanthropist that went from hating every inch of her body to loving all ideas have evolved to become better and more efficient for people. Who knows, maybe years and years from now we’ll and revolutionized computers. He has been inducted into the Cali- every single inch and she is the reason teens look up to her every day. be able to travel by real hoverboards to and from school. fornia Hall of Fame and is honored at the California Museum for His- tory, Women, and the Arts. source: http://collider.com/back-to-the-future-2-2015-predictions-that-came-true/#sequels 12 Presidential Candidates 13

Martin O’Malley

O’Malley is a former Baltimore mayor and Brother of George W. Bush, and son of George governor of Maryland. He thinks that we need to Bush, Jeb Bush was governor of Florida from 1999- work on reducing national debt by increasing tax- 2007. He believes abortion should only be used for vic- es. He also believes that global warming is a seri- tims of sexual abuse or because of health issues. He Who’s next? is a supporter of the death penalty and of Common ous threat and that government needs to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. He wants to increase gun Core Education. He also supports nuclear power. He control, ban 45 types of assault weapons, make gun opposes same sex marriage but respects same sex re- magazines smaller, and require a fingerprint in order by Ashley de Groot lationships and adoptions. He believes in expanding gun to purchase a gun. He supports citizenship for illegal rights and dislikes “Obama Care”. He believes illegal immigrants and he wants to pass the DREAM Act. He immigrants should be allowed to legally stay, but not supports Obamacare, legalizing same sex marriage, Debates, advertisements, tours, to become automatic citizens. abortion, and getting rid of the death penalty. He also speeches. Elections aren’t for another wishes to raise minimum wage. year, yet presidential candidates are already up and running. It can be hard though, to figure out all the politicians’ views and beliefs, so here is a handy dandy Former CEO of Hewlett-Packard, Fiorina is list that explains the top 5 candidates from the only female Republican candidate. She believes lowest to highest. Senator for Vermont and previous mayor of gun access is an important right, and that states Burlington, Sanders is Senate’s only socialist senator. should be able to vote on gay marriage rights. She He believes in charging companies for carbon emissions, thinks that abortion should be made illegal after 20 and that state colleges should provide 2 years of free weeks, unless the child was conceived through sexual tuition. He also thinks that the government needs to assault or if the mother’s health is at risk. She also break up big banks ( ie- Bank of America) into smaller wants the DREAM Act to get passed, which allows chunks. He wants to ban assault weapons and expand qualifying immigrant students to get cheaper college Obamacare even further. He wishes to increase border tuition. She is apprehensive of Putin and believes in security but offer a path to citizenship for illegal immi- arming the Kurds (people in Kurdistan) against ISIS. grants. He also wants to raise taxes on the wealthy but cut taxes for the middles class. He supports talks with Iran and the nuclear deal, but he is anti-war.

Lawrence Lessig Rubio became a Florida senator in 2011 and is the only Cuban candidate this year. He believes that Lessig is a professor at Harvard Law School, po- Obamacare should be repealed, that we need to slowly litical activist, and occasional contributor to the At- stop the flow of illegal immigration, and that marriage lantic Monthly. His focus for the Democratic presidency is between a man and a woman. He does, however, think is campaign-finance reform. He is also an advocate for that we need to respect the Supreme Court ruling. He looser copyright restrictions and has proposed a con- agrees that climate change is real, but is not caused stitutional convention to modernize the nation’s found- by man. He doesn’t want to improve ties with Cuba, and ing document. thinks that the president should have more power to attack ISIS. He also believes that we need to toughen sanctions with Iran and get rid of the nuclear deal.

Ben Carson Carson is a pioneering brain surgeon who re- cently decided to run for president. He is believes we Secretary of state under Obama, previous New should follow the Supreme Court ruling on gay mar- York Senator, and first lady, Hillary Clinton is cur- riage, and that abortion should be illegal after 20 rently at the top of the Democratic polls. Se is against weeks- with exceptions regarding sexual assault and No Child Left Behind and in favor giving illegal immi- the mother’s health. He thinks we should establish a grants a path to legal status. She is unsure about Com- basic, standard tax and eliminate the IRS. He is con- mon Core and legalizing marijuana. She wants to keep cerned with legalizing marijuana, although he does Obamacare and strengthen it. She used to be opposed believe it has some medical benefits. He is also a firm to same sex marriage, but now she supports it. She also believer that Congress needs to be involved in the nu- supports access to abortion. She wants to cut taxes for clear deal and that the US should be more active in the middle class and supports the Nuclear Deal. She destroying ISIS. also doesn’t want American troops fighting ISIS, but is Republican candidates also include: rather in favor of using regional troops. Donald Trump Reality tv host and successful billionaire busi- nessman, Trump is currently at the top of the GOP (Re- publican) polls. He believes that climate change is a hoax, that government has to cut spending more, and that John Kosich Obamacare needs to be repealed and replaced. He thinks In October, that undocumented workers should have no chance for and citizenship, but thinks that we need more European immi- Joe Biden grants and college graduates should get citizenship. He Dropped out Well, now, as a student, you can better believes that all undocumented workers are criminals of the running decide who you support for president, and that we need to fund a wall between the US and for the who you don’t, and why. Given that we Mexico. He also thinks that abortion should be limited Democratic are soon to be voters ( or maybe al- and that gay marriage should be decided state by state. candidacy. ready are) it is important that students However, he later said that abortion should be available can understand candidate's political for the woman to decide. He doesn’t want nuclear and views, so we hope this helped! wants to increase sanctions. He wants American troops to start fighting ISIS. 14 Classes & Clubs Classes & Clubs 15

Virtually Amazing AFJROTC update Use time wisely IB Seniors see “King Lear” Fall is here! By Carlos Crenshaw & Allisa Louis Crisostomo By Semhar Teklu By Alexis Dineen Virtual Enterprise reporters College & Career Club reporter By C/TSgt Cam’ron Freeman IB reporter ROTC reporter The College and Career Club is a great way to academ- When people want to be the best, they need to train in order to improve. For Armijo Senior International Baccalau- High School students, excellence is in the blood. That being said, our Virtual Enterprise Class at- ically enrich lunch time. Students can stop by F-5 on Fridays to reate (IB) English students had the op- tended Solano Community College to host the annual NorCal Virtual Enterprise Student Training Our Unit Evaluation on Monday, September 21, hear and talk about the road to success. on Wednesday, September 30. Over 125 students from all over Northern California attended the was a great success for ROTC, the corps “exceeded stan- The club offers a variety of helpful tools for the future. portunity to watch Calshakes’ production student training. dards” for the inspection. Our logistics room was a perfect Every week there is something new to learn. Throughout the of Shakespeare’s tragedy “King Lear” Students were able to choose whichever breakout sessions they wanted to attend in both example due to the cleanliness and organization, even be- year, the club will have guest speakers and representatives to on Friday, September 25. The students the morning and the afternoon sessions. Some sessions were presented by professors from Sola- coming displayed the JROTC Facebook page! talk about their college, and, or major. Come by to learn how to traveled to Bruns Amphitheater in the write personal statements, fill out the college apps, and more. no College, including Stan Arterberry, president of the school, and Erik Visser, the athletic director. The district-wide College and Career Fair was held hills of Orinda. Since “King Lear” is one The club also offers workshops, useful information It was filled with incredible seminars that will further student knowledge in the business world. As a at Armijo on Tuesday, October 6, while the High School of the plays IB English students read in host school, Armijo was in charge of setting up breakfast to ensure that the guests had the energy about careers and colleges, and college field trips! their senior year, this was a fantastic op- Fair for the Class of 2020 took place. Our cadets were On Wednesday, November 4, the club plans to take to attend these fun and eventful workshops. Mitchel Nosbisch, CEO of Armijo’s Virtual Enterprise portunity to be able to see the play come at both events, passing out fliers, discussed the goals of a trip to a prestigious university. Students who have been at- business Next Level Athletics, welcomed everyone and talked about the day’s event before turning to life. it over to Mr. Dan Gutowski, Virtual Enterprise teacher, who got the students to mix and mingle with JROTC to parents, students, and future. tending regularly are eligible to attend this and other field trips The seniors, chaperones, and an icebreaker. JROTC hosted a fundraiser at Panda Express throughout the year. See you on Fridays! Next Level Athletics from 3 – 8 pm on Wednesday, October 14, earning 20% teachers boarded the buses and head- was one of several other of profits. They will find out their totals in November and ed out to Orinda to watch the play. The Virtual Enterprise com- that money will go towards several events, including the Drama bus ride was filled with laughter, chit- panies represented. The military ball and various field trips. Update chat, and excitement about the trip. As other businesses includ- The ASVAB test was given on Thursday, October the buses arrived, they were greeted by ed a sports apparel com- 22. The ASVAB is an aptitude test for the military; it does Murder employees who led the group up a small pany, a custom printing not require students to join/enlist to complete the test. hill to the outdoor lobby. The lobby had company, a coffee cup madness many picnic tables, fruit for the students advertising company, and JROTC club members are grateful that it is fall, a season that has been looked forward to by students, to munch on, a café, and an interesting more! By Peter Popescu teachers and parents. Fall brings various holidays, such art piece in the center each of the tables. This conference cov- Staff writer ered many of the topics as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Veterans Day, a manda- There were also other picnic areas filled are needed to run a suc- tory JROTC event. The cadets will be participating in the with students from other schools. The “We’ll Be cessful business. There annual Veteran’s Day parade and they will also be hosting theater employees kept the groups enter- Right Back after was an accounting ses- another fundraiser, specifically to help fund a future field tained as they waited to enter the theater, This Murder” is a sion, keys to a success- trip to a military museum. conducting a competition between the comedy/mystery ful trade fair, a marketing Happy fall, everyone! schools in which students had to recite plan workshop, and oth- play that is com- lines from the play as quickly as possible. ers. Over the course of ing Wednesday Walking into the theater, students noticed that it was decent size with green plas- the day, several people College App Process - through Friday, tic seats surrounding the large stage. The set of the stage had an industrial vibe to it and shared tips for running an Continued from page 9 November 18-20, was outlined with natural hills, and featured a large metal transformable cage. Unfortu- exciting and successful to Armijo High. company. nately, because the performance was outside, there were many bugs and bees flying Armijo’s Nicole Primer shares some information with another student The requirements of private colleges and universi- Admission is $6 at around scaring some of the students, but the bugs eventually went away. from Lynbrook High School out of San Jose. Roya Ghiasvand, vice ties as well as out-of-state colleges and universities vary, the door and the As the actors were getting ready to perform, a man came on stage to introduce president of sales for Next but they share a similar format. Some schools also require Level Athletics said, “My play will start at 5 and summarize the play. When the action began, a hush fell onto the crowd and the ACT and SAT scores which can be done through the sites favorite part of the training was meeting new people and going through this exciting experience pm. students were mesmerized by the acting, the personalities of the characters, and their that sponsor these tests. because I was able to hear about other companies’ business ideas!” The play actions. The play was filled with action, some humor, and of course—tragedy. No matter where a student plans on applying, it’s For Ghiasvand’s assistant, Derek Saephan, his favorite part “was the information that was takes place in After the fantastic performance, the audience members had the chance to ask imperative that they start soon because for early admis- Darrius Parnell and Clayton Johnston fed to us and the informative business tips.” modern day New the cast questions about how they prepared for the play, and what they thought of their sions for majority of UC, CSU and some private colleges Ballman play out a hilarious scene where Attending this conference was a huge pleasure and gave the students a better under- Darrius, the son, is followed by his England and the characters, receiving some interesting answers. standing of their own virtual company and the direction they wish to take it in the future. Solano are due November 1. Regular admissions are due Novem- overbearing father, Clayton, into the bath- cast of characters The experience overall was wonderful and I interviewed a few students about Community College and its guest speakers were a huge help. The speakers made the students ber 30 for UC and CSU colleges. Other colleges have vary- room of their relative’s home. . features 18 mem- Photo contributed by Ms. Sheena Beeson their opinions on the play. Paola Alvarez from Mr. Christian Stoll’s class said, “I loved feel comfortable and confident in running the company as a team. Nosbisch said, “I was really ing due dates for their applications as well as private col- bers of drama club impressed with the real life knowledge and experience the speakers told us on how to run a suc- everything about it, and there was drama, comedy, and everything in between.” leges tend to have their regular admissions due later. members who play members of a rich family who experi- cessful business.” Another student, Nicole Mijs from Mr. John Brandt’s class, said, “I thought the play was ence a ridiculously funny murder. The cast is so large that enjoyable experience. The actors were really good and they played their roles very well. some performers will be filling dual roles. The stage props and background sound were cool.” This is the first full length feature play that drama Club 180 Serving as an officer on Youth Commission Daniel Wood, also from Mr. Brandt’s class said, “It was enlightening; it really made me teacher Ms. Sheena Beeson has done at Armijo High. better understand the depth of Shakespeare’s work displaying the characters’ emotions Let the praise begin By Derek Wadsworth Don’t miss out on this great play. through the actors. Which they did very, very well I might add.” Classes & Clubs editor All in all, this was a successful field trip and that the students had a great time and By Trina Reynolds Band update experience! Club 180 reporter If you are thinking about applying to be a Youth Commissioner, you might also want to consider running for one of the three officer positions. If you’re selected to be the Chair, Looking good, district-wide The 2015-16 school year has officially started for Secretary, or Treasurer, the first thing you will do is attend a training session, where each of- Club 180, which had its first meeting on Thursday, October ficer learns to carry out his or her duties. By Ms. Louise Jacob 8. The meeting was a huge success, with around 70 people The Chair is responsible for presiding over all meetings and must become familiar Band teacher Dinosaurs in Space filling up the Health Room. Pizza was served, officers were with parliamentary procedures, such as Robert’s Rules of Order and the Brown Act. The Chair By Gabriel Zanipatin introduced, and games were played. This year, Club 180 is arrives 30 minutes before the meetings and determines whether a quorum is present, before On the second weekend of October, the Band went out Staff writer excited to welcome Drew Baker, an intern from the Father’s opening the session and calling all members to order. Next, he announces the business at San Jose and almost brought home a clean sweep! They House, a church in Vacaville. He will be helping out with the before the Commission, in the order it’s to be acted on. He explains each motion, before it’s managed to win top Music and Show. club during this school year. voted upon, and if there is discussion and debate, the Chair shouldn’t talk any more than is Armijo was back on top after three hard competitions. On Friday, October 2, more than 30 clubs at Armijo prepared their promotion for There are lots of amazing guest speakers coming necessary. Along with presiding over meetings, the Chair is also responsible for working with What is even better is that out of the top five bands in Northern potential new members at the 2015 Club Fair. to Club 180. Baker was the first guest speaker, sharing his the staff liaison to prepare the agenda and work with Committee Chairs to carry out specific California, the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District (FSUSD) Each club had a table to attract new recruits in the new quad area and members testimony and talking about purpose during the meeting on assignments. The Chairperson is also called upon to officially represent the Youth Commis- holds three of the spots and a total of four of those spots are discussed with students why the students should join their club. With a Dinosaurs in held by Solano County Schools! Thursday, October 22. Also in the lineup are Chris Gray and sion and speak at City functions on behalf of Youth Commission. Space theme reminiscent of Jurassic Park meets Star Wars, a large number of students All three high schools came home with amazing results Tim Bittle, both youth pastors at local churches. If you’re not interested in running for the Chair position, you could also consider the came to Club Fair to check out some of the clubs at Armijo. from two different competitions! It was a very strong showing of A new feature that Club 180 is emphasizing this year It was a perfect opportunity for students to find clubs that matched their interests, Secretary position. The Secretary is responsible for maintaining the records for the Com- FSUSD music programs. is discussions. Once a month, the club will split into small mission. At the meetings, the Secretary takes minutes and keeps track of attendance. The A week later, Armijo solidified its place as the #1 parade whether it was religious clubs such as Club 180 or debate clubs such as Junior States- groups to tackle tough questions about the Bible, God, and Secretary also keeps attendance for all the committee meetings. The Secretary updates the band in Northern California! It was an amazing day for the kids men of America (JSA). This was especially beneficial for freshmen who may not have life in general. The first club discussion took place on Thurs- Commission calendar, and reminds each Commissioner about upcoming dates and respon- and I couldn’t be more proud of them. What is truly amazing is heard of any of the clubs at Armijo as they got exposure to the different clubs on campus. day, October 15. The questions revolved around what our sibilities. When paperwork is required, the Secretary makes sure everyone has a copy and the friendship and support we give to each other in this district! Additionally, there was a chance for students to win prizes if they filled out a purpose is on a large scale (in the world, in Fairfield, at Armi- conducts all correspondence. While in competition each school is battling it out to win, we put stamp sheet by collecting at least 10 stickers from 10 different clubs. With this in hand, jo) and on a small scale (in Club 180, in our classrooms, on Lastly, there is the Treasurer position. The Treasurer is required to attend all Officer aside our school colors and bond as one true band family of they could spin the prize wheel for a chance to win a prize ranging from candy to an ASB sports teams). Meetings, and keeps track of the finances. The Commission gets an annual budget, and the FSUSD. Super Card. This year is already off to a great start for Club 180. Treasurer communicates the expenditures at the meetings. If you’re interested in volunteer- All the band kids, parents, and especially directors de- The main focus of the event went to the wide variety of clubs present, including Join us! Club 180 meets every Thursday at lunch in the ing your time and getting involved with Youth Commission, all Commission and Committee Continued on page 18 - the favorites from years past such as Helping Hands, DECA, and Virtual Enterprise, while Health Room, located at the end of the gym hallway. Hope to meeting times are posted at the PAL Center. also highlighting new clubs such as Latino Club and Disc Golfers of America Club (DGA). see you there! Band excels 16 Sports Sports 17

Victory for Off-campus athlete Athlete focus Records are made to be broken On the bench The season ends By Mr. Joe Klapper The fastest student in all of Fairfield Girls’ Golf Coach By Tatanisha Johnson “I want to go to college to might just be Luis Grijalva. On Saturday, Staff writer become a history teacher,” October 17, he won the Varsity Boys Large On Tuesday, October 26, Madi- said offensive lineman Michael School division at Bella Vista Cross Country son Kudsk competed against 70 of the It’s tough for Abby Donald. For now, he is finishing Invitational at Willow Hills Reservoir in Fol- best golfers in the greater Sacramento Wolf. She recently injured up his football career at Armijo som. He didn’t just win it because he was the area. She was paired with one of the her ACL and meniscus High School. fastest runner. According to an article in the top ranked girls in Northern California, and that means she won’t Donald has played for the Daily Republic, Grijalva actually set a new and held her own for majority of the be able to play soccer, a Indians for the last four years meet record of 15:35 for 5k (3.1M), breaking tournament, even having a better score sport that she’s partici- and has also played for the Su- the old record of 15:54 by 19sec. which was through the first nine holes. The coach pated in since she was isun City Titans. “I have just al- previously held by Psalm Ocampo of Clovis that scored her said she represented six years old. That’s when ways loved the sport,” he said. North HS set last year. the Monticello Empire League (MEL) her parents signed up Michael is a class act, both While the team has suffered on Grijalva makes it into the record and Armijo very well, and many coach- Wolf and her siblings and on and off the field. the field over the years, Don- books with the fourth fastest All-Time speed es were rooting for her to make it to the she has taken off from Photo by London Legree ald does wish that the fans and on that course which hosts some of the best next round throughout the tournament. there. even some of the team mem- runners in the state. He had already earned Unfortunately, golf can be won or Wolf really got into bers would change their own attitudes. “We always feel the nickname Luis the Legend and continues lost on one swing of the club or one putt, soccer when a girl on a lo- second-rate,” he said. to impress people in the classroom and on and Madison missed out on the next cal club team got injured Donald would encourage others to join the team the cross country courses around the com- round of the playoffs by one shot! She and they needed her to next year. “It will take a lot of your time but, just remember, munity. The MEL competition should be worried that shot an 87 at Silverado Country Club, Abby’s time out is lasting play. She is hooked and you play the sport because you love it so enjoy it while it “For those who do not understand Luis is only a junior this year. Madison hasn’t played golf for very long, on a day where the course was playing a little longer than she’d like. race times, Luis is breaking more than just Photo by London Legree but she’s already making it her game. Photo by Trevon Carrie plays for both the North- lasts and have no regrets,” he said. He considers his fa- Photo by London Legree extremely tough. The cut off for the next bay Elite and San Juan ther and his coaches as role models. records,” said Ms. Julia Monk. “If he contin- round was 86 in which three girls tied clubs, traveling all over to Looking back over the years, Donald remembers ues on this path he will be the fastest high school runner Fairfield has ever seen!” The with that score to move on! make it to games and score goals. the game against Fairfield during his sophomore year. “It current holder of that title is Grijalva’s coach, Mr. David Monk. While this doesn’t seem like a victory, Kudsk took seventh out of 48 golfers who Now that she is injured, she has been sidelined for was the only time we ever beat Fairfield,” he said. That’s were competing for six spots . She posted a top 20 score overall and improve her score the season. Wolf said that she is sad that she cannot play definitely a memory worth cherishing. from last year by 20 shots...And she’s only a sophomore! but felt that this experience will make her a stronger and Coach focus Cheer focus In defeat, she was rooting for a fellow player she wanted to make it through, and a better player. She is definitely looking forward to when Athlete focus was very excited for her . Kudsk said. “I’d rather lose by 1 shot than five or six shots.” she has healed enough to go out and enjoy the sport once Guiding the team A is for It was a great season and Kudsk’s victory was a victory for the Armijo community. again. Many roles While this is just the first year that Awesome Mr. David Castillo has served as Varsity David Reyes plays Football Coach, he managed to start the Brandi Martin football on the Armijo Junior Athlete focus Athlete focus season with an impressive win. “I love the has been involved Varsity team, but he also game of football and helping young people at Armijo since On top of his game Water Polo for life plays soccer for the Vacaville to reach the athletic goals,” he said. she was a fresh- United Soccer Club and vol- By Laura Wadsworth While Coach Castillo spends a lot man when she By Tom Zheng unteers at the United Heart Staff writer Staff writer of time working with his team on the field, wrote for The Training Center. He hopes Brandi’s cheer goes he teaches construction trades during the Armijo Signal and to coninue playing football in beyond the squad. Aaron Wood is a senior at Armijo High Rachel Andersen was on the Rancho So- David has a lot of faith in the work day. He has also taught civil engi- started her three Photo by London Legree college, perhaps at the Uni- future of Armijo football. and, with four years of water polo experience, he lano swim team, playing water polo before she even neering and architecture. When he wasn’t years on the vol- started high school. She said, “Sometimes for fun, versity of Southern California Photo by London Legree is one of the best players on the varsity team. teachng, he worked in construction car- leyball team. She kept the crowds going we’d play ‘noodle’ water polo, and I had a great (USC). Wood started playing water polo in his freshman pentry and more. In his free time, he enjoys with cheerleading in sophomore and se- time.” After her freshman year, she joined the Dia- His most memorable game was the game we (the year because of a family legacy that started when woodworking and paddle boarding. nior years. “Cheer is something that rally blo Water Polo Club in Walnut Creek. She’s done JV team) beat Fairfield 27-0. “I felt like we played asa his father played in the Armijo Class of 1981. Aaron is in the water at Rachel feels at home “It would be gets you involved, creating unforgettable so well that for the past two summers she’s been team and stood togethe when things didn’t go our way. In When he started playing, Wood had some diffi- Armijo almost all year long. in the Armijo pool. a dream if all memories and bonds. It also helps build Photo by London Legree invited to play in the USA Water Polo National Junior Photo by London Legree this game I had scored my first touchdown of the season culties but has since improved into a water polo Olympics Tournament. While she is currently cap- schools were your confidence and leadershp skills,” said superstar. and had gotten many stops and tackles on defense,” he tain of the Armijo team, Andersen plans to continue on a level Martin. One of his main highlights on the team was defeating the Vintage said. playing in college. Her dream is to play at Stanford or UC Berkeley. playing field Her hobbies are drawing, writing Crushers for the first time as a JV player. A few days before that, Armijo was Reyes started playing football because he “wanted For Andersen, her most memorable game was her first high school com- when it comes poetry and dancing at the Bliss Urban Arts defeated by Vintage in a tournament. However, Wood led the Armijo team to to challenge myself, learn life lessons and play the sport I petition. She was a freshman, and had to play goalie against Vintage. She was to funding and Center. She’s also in the Alpha Kappa Al- victory against Vintage. “Thanks to the skills we learned from the tournament upset with herself after they lost 3-24, but her teammate, Victoria Rodgers, came had grown to love,” he said. He feels that other students community in- pha Sorority / Kappa Beta Omega Chapter. and my new-found focus and confidence on a personal level, we were able up and told her how well she did. “She really encouraged me to keep going, and who have an interest in the sport should pursue it. “If you volvement,” he She plans to attend CSU Long to beat Vintage 6-1, almost shutting them out.” I’m so glad she did,” Andersen said. work hard at what you do and dedicate yourself to the said. That is a Beach. “I feel that it’s a beautiful place and Wood would like to continue playing water polo in high school but Andersen also swims for Armijo and her two main events are the 50-yard sport, you can accomplish a lot,” he said. has good vibes on campus,” she said. Her “…that really depends on where I get accepted.” His first choice for college, free style and the 100-yard backstroke. She is a member of Leadership and is dream that he “I strongly believe that our JV program will have a ultimate goal, though, is to earn a degree Coast Guard Academy, does not have a competitive water polo team. How- currently the junior class secretary. In terms of hobbies, she enjoys reading, writ- wants to help winning season and, soon enough, our varsity teams to Coach Castillo has a passion in culinary arts and eventually own her own ever, he will most likely play if he is accepted to UC Berkeley, UC Davis, or ing, and “messing with my friends as much as possible.” Andersen loves Armijo, make true. come will, too,” said Reyes. for football. restaurant. CSU Maritime Academy. but she said that the pool needs lots of work. It is too shallow at one end for water LinkedIn Photo Although Wood does not have one singular role model, he looks up to polo, and some of the starting blocks are “broken and dangerous to use,” she water polo player Sam Breeding whom he played in the offseason. He looks said. She also said that the water is “freezing cold all the time!” up to Breeding because “…his physical and mental abilities in the game were Andersen has two older siblings. Her brother Kyle is 21 and majoring in Football Cross Country nothing less than spectacular to me. I later found out that he was the 9th top Biological Sciences at UC Davis. Her sister, Caitlin, is 19 and majoring in Politi- cal Science at UC Berkeley. She admires her sister, because “when she wants scorer in the nation.” He also sees Breeding as a role model because he has Varsity Head Coach David Castillo; Coach David Monk something, she goes out and gets it, with no apologies,” Andersen said. watched him play and learned from him. Wood has utilized many of Breed- In college, she’d like to major in English, and become a teacher. She’d JV Coach Richard Eaton Saturday, November 7 - Sac-Joaquin Sub-sections at Angels Camp ing’s strategies in his games to great effect. “Every time I see him play even like to focus on helping others improve their writing skills. “If I could, I would like to Friday, November 6 against Rodriguez Saturday, November 14 - Sac-Joaquin Sections in Folsom now, I watch carefully and make mental notes of how I can try to use some of do what Mrs. Davis does, and teach TOK (Theory of Knowledge) or Philosophy the strategies he uses for my game.” as well, making my schedule and options more diverse.” If she taught at a high @ 5:15 pm JV / 7:30 pm Varsity Saturday, November 28 - CIF State Championships in Clovis In addition to playing water polo, Wood is a year-round swimmer and school, Andersen said that she would plan to coach the water polo team. Friday, November 13 - Playoffs - Time TBA has won the 200-meter butterfly in the Junior Olympics. He also has a pas- This year, the Armijo water polo team is improving. Andersen said, “I’m sion in robotics and is the vice president of the robotics club. Boy Scouts is really honored to be captain of a team that has so much potential and is willing another big part of his life as he is currently up for promotion to the highest to work as hard as they do.” They currently aren’t the most powerful team in the rank possible, Eagle Scout. League, but every game they are getting better. Water Polo Boys’ Soccer Coaches: Megan Payne (Girls); Scott Willson (Boys) Coach Brad Burzynski; JV Yoram Rosenmann Girls’ Girls’ Golf Volleyball Friday, November 6 - Girls’ Sections: Round 1 - Time / Place TBA Tuesday, November 3 - Playoffs - Time & Place TBA Saturday, November 7 - Boys’ Sections: Round 1 - Time / Place TBA Coach Adam Bright Coach Joe Klapper Coach Paige McConlogue Thursday, November 5 - Playoffs - Time & Place TBA Tuesday, November 3 - Girls’ against Monday, November 2: Golf Masters @ Spanos Park, Stockton Tuesday, November 3 against Rodriguez Wednesday - Friday, November 11-13 - Sections Semi-Finals - Time / Place TBA Wednesday, November 11 - Playoffs - Time & Place TBA Rodriguez-3:30 pm Monday, November 9 - NorCal Tournament - Time TBA @ 3:45 pm Saturday, November 14 - Sections: Round 3 (Finals) - Time / Place TBA 18 Entertainment Entertainment 19

Video Game review CD Single review Book Review Nothing is truly normal Not quite Wanted The perfect fi t By Marianne Sabado By Alexa Ugarte Kayla Reynolds Staff writer Staff writer Staff writer

Life is Strange is an amazing game developed by Soon after The Wanted broke up, Nathan Sykes “I could tell the pants hadn’t come into our lives be- DONTNOD entertainment and published by Square Enix, decides to come back as a solo artist and release his sin- cause of tragedy. They’d just witnessed one of those regu- which is a name you may know from the 2013 release of the gle Kiss Me Quick. The fi rst time I heard this song, it was lar but painful life transitions. That, it turns out, is The Way Tomb Raider reboot. It’s a game with a story driven by the not as good as I thought it could be. of the Pants.” Being friends since birth, four girls--Bridget, player’s choices, sort of like Telltale Games’ The Walking Dead Game with less of a focus on Carmen, Lena and Tibby--who live in Bethesda, Maryland, zombies and more on the life of an Oregon-based hipster girl with time-travelling powers. The song starts off with some trumpet sounds and The game takes place in the fi ctional town of Arcadia Bay, Oregon, with the protagonist, later leads off to Nathan’s voice which did not sound good suffer through a summer in which they will spend apart. Max Caulfi eld, who is an avid photographer, introvert, and general people-avoider. It opens on at all with the loud music. He has a very deep voice and it Aimed at teenagers, this book offers a fun and easy read a vision of her in a devastating storm, which she discovers later will take place in town in just a honestly did not go well with this song. By the slice or that includes a theme of friendship and family with a touch by the pie, matter of days. After abruptly waking up from her dream in the middle of class, she heads for the Kiss Me Quick also has a very 90’s sound which of travel. Big Evelyn’s offers It begins with Carmen who purchases a pair of bathroom to compose herself. isn’t really the type of style that Nathan should go for. some of the best pizza Another student, Nathan Prescott, comes in--which drives Max to hide behind a bathroom Honestly, Nathan has a lot of talent but this song did him in Fairfi eld and beyond. pants in a thrift store. Magically, the pants are able to fi t all stall-- and begins muttering to himself about some insane-sounding stuff. Even stranger than that, no good. Kiss Me Quick may be a good song for people of her friends perfectly despite them all being different sizes. a punk-rock girl she’s never seen before comes in and begins hounding him about the very thing whose music taste is pop but overall it is not a good song. Spending the summer apart for the fi rst time, she and her he’s ranting about. During the confrontation Nathan actually pulls out a gun and shoots the girl, Restaurant review friends decide to use the pants as a way to keep connected. and Max leaps out with her arm outstretched in an effort to save her. This action somehow rewinds In the same secret place where their parents got together time, landing her back in the classroom she was in earlier and kicking off her new life with the It’s big, when they were young, the four girls make a vow to send the power to rewind time. pants between themselves as a way to share experiences. First off, the game is beautiful. The setting is very nice and the game almost looks like a The magical pants turn their summers upside down and dur- painting come to life. The characters are very likable: Max herself is a nice change from the gung- it’s round, ing their adventures, shocking confl icts arise. ho, adventurous, tough-as-nails male characters we’re always getting in video games. On the contrary, Max is a shy and meek girl who learns to toughen up a bit through the use of her rewind and it’s topped with condiments During the summer, Carmen visits her dad in South powers. The plot is great; the story pulls you in with a seemingly calm ambience until intense plot Carolina who, by surprise, is engaged and shares a new twists happen that pull at your heartstrings. The rewind feature also lets you experience all the By De Ronte Bridges house with his fi ancé and two of her teenage kids. Her dad possibilities of a decision without consequence, which may be terrible for indecisive people like Staff writer becomes preoccupied with his “new family” and does not me but elevates the severity of your actions in-game and subsequently makes you really think fi nd much time to spend with Carmen. This results in a lot of about the consequences of your actions. Friday Night fun Downtown Fairfi eld is fi lled with an assortment of casual restaurants, but there’s frustration from Carmen when she is asked to participate as The music is phenomenal: Alt-J, Angus and Julia Stone, and more! That’s trashy indie a bridesmaid in their wedding. By Monica Spencer one where students go every day: Evelyn’s Big Italian Pizza. hipster paradise right there. Lip-syncing is wonky in the fi rst couple of episodes (it gets better, I Evelyn’s hosts a menu that features Italian foods such as pizza, spaghetti, cal- In Greece visiting her grandparents, Lena, who promise) and the script is full of outdated terms and can sound a bit like an old person trying to Gordon’s reporter zones, and more. The founder of this establishment, Piero, was raised in the Bronx, New doesn’t trust boys and has trouble connecting with people, connect with the younger generation (a price to pay because DONTNOD is French and therefore York. He owns and manages other restaurants as well. He said that he named this res- is annoyed by Kostos, a family friend, who seems very in- sort of disconnected from American slang and mannerisms), but it’s still a fantastic game overall. For the past two years, Gordon’s Music in Fair- terested in her. Due to her lack of interest, Lena becomes If you love a good story and are looking for a game that you can drive with your own fi eld has been sponsoring local bands and artists at their taurant after his wife Evelyn. “The pizza is delicious with the stuff they put on there,” said Gabriel Carranza. a little rude to him. However, after spending quite a bit of decisions, as well as a great soundtrack and a reason to get your heart broken multiple times by weekly Friday Night Concert Series. Come join the fun and forced time with him, Lena begins to have completely unex- fi ctional characters, play DONTNOD Entertainment’s Life is Strange. Be warned, it does get a “The only thing I didn’t like is how they charge you and the time service. I would say it is listen to some of the local talent. pected feeling towards him. little intense -- drug abuse, suicide, kidnappings, and death are all a few themes within the game delicious but slow.” If you have a band or make music as well and are Bridget, at a soccer camp in Mexico, takes a liking to -- but nonetheless, it is a must-play game for those who love an interactive story. As someone who Diana interested in booking a show at the store, please e-mail her young coach, Coach Eric, which causes her great disap- played the game and loved it, I highly recommend it for everyone interested. Arvia agreed [email protected]. pointment when she is turned down. Later, however, she is about the Gordon’s Music is located at 810 Texas Street, caught by an astonishing surprise. anD eXcels b - show entrance is from the back alley. food, calling Continued from page 15 Lastly, stuck at home, Tibby suffers through her bor- it cheesy, ing job as a clerk at a drugstore called Wallman’s. Then, she big and deli- serve a big round of applause for being able to do what we do in this fi eld with what little we have. meets a twelve-year old girl by the name of Bailey who is We make it look easy when it is truly a diffi cult job, giving countless hours away from our real cious. How- dying from cancer. At fi rst Tibby is annoyed by this girl, but CD review families to give the kids an experience of a lifetime. ever, she later fi nds herself caring deeply for her. My colleagues are amazing friends and family! Scott Miller and Brian Swetland are two was more After the summer is over, the sisterhood reunites. Finding beauty worthwhile of the best friends and educators I have ever met and worked with. We all want the best for our impressed While they have changed, their friendship has not, thanks to students and are willing to help each other out no matter what is going on in our own programs. with the ser- the pants. By Syan Lopez Other districts wish they had the same bond as we do here in FSUSD!! vice. “The Through the intertwinement of the adventures of Staff writer Armijo led the FSUSD’s 1-2-3 punch, coming down the street playing Hercules. It left me pizza is the sisterhood and their magical pants, this book is a great speechless and without one ounce of a correction to make it a better performance. Then, lining good,” she and simple read for teens that brings out the appreciation up along the side of the street after the performance to support and salute Fairfi eld, they played Beauty behind the Madness is the sophomore ef- said. “The for friends and family in everyone. And if you like it, the fun through the zone with an amazing performance of The Elephant! The crowd was blown away not fort from R&B artist Abel Tesfaye, better known recording service they doesn’t stop as there are two sequels that continue the sto- under the name The Weeknd. Prior to its release in Au- only by two great bands but the showing of support for each other was impressive. We just weren’t done as we waited for Rodriguez. have there is ry. gust, The Weeknd had gone from a smaller cult audience While Fairfi eld continued through the zone onto percussion competition we had a band really good.” to pop stardom since his release of Kiss Land. This album in between us, allowing the judges to regain their footing. Without fail, Rodriguez gave it the third Did lIberal arTs colleges - shows, for better and for worse, his newfound direction to punch as they performed Boys of the Old Brigade, giving another strong and spectacular perfor- these con- Continued from page 9 pop music. mance! vince you to Without getting into too many specifi cs, there are a Rodriguez stopped right in front of us. As I called Armijo to attention, Scott asked where try one giant ics and computer sciences, social sciences, foreign languages, few stand-out tracks on the project worth mentioning. The we were going. I told him we had to get back to the bus and change into concert attire and get into slice of their classics, and several interdisciplinary fi elds (including premedi- third track, Tell Your Friends, showcases The Weeknd’s the concert performance. He had a great idea!! He told my kids to get into his band. We marched pizza? You cal studies), and provides an unusually open curriculum. Stu- persona as a rapper, as well as the masterful production back to the buses together hand in hand! People on the street were just blown away! don’t have dents are not required to study a core curriculum or fulfi ll any The kids were so pumped up! The thought of both schools playing Boys of the Old Bri- quality and instrumentation (it also certainly helped that to settle for distribution requirements and may even design their own unique Kanye West, who co-produced this track). gade together was electrifying. However, 200 kids would have bled into the competition zone and interdisciplinary major. Freshmen may take advanced courses, stopped the other bands! Now while that would have been fun, it would have cost us the parade. dining at the Two other stand-out tracks would be In the Night and seniors may take introductory ones. Instead we marched back together creating a powerful memory that will bond these kids together downtown The closest liberal arts college to home, Pomona Col- and Can’t Feel My Face, taking major inspiration from even further. Fairfi eld lo- lege, requires students to take at least one course in each of Michael Jackson. They defi nitely would not seem out-of- If we just had Fairfi eld in this, we could have used it for a Rose Parade Application! cation at fi ve areas: Creative Expression; Social Institutions and Human place from Bad or Thriller. Marching as an FSUSD Band with a uniform that incorporates all three schools? Some food for 704 Texas Behavior; History, Values, Ethics and Cultural Studies; Physical The sole single from the album, Earned It, is a thought! Street. Pie- and Biological Sciences; and Mathematical Reasoning. More played-straight pop song. Lana Del Rey and Ed Sheeran The day continued as we went into the concert hall and gave an outstanding performance! ro’s delicious than half of Pomona students study abroad, mostly in their ju- also make an appearance on the album, featuring on the Not realizing Fairfi eld was right behind us till we were exiting warm-up, some of us decided to stay Italian food nior year. Pomona also has 47 majors; students who would like haunting track Prisoner and the blues and electronic-in- in the concert hall to support Fairfi eld! It was wonderful to hear them perform some great literature can also to create their own major are eligible to do so following specifi c and see how wonderful Brian is as an educator! We never have the opportunity to just sit and listen spired Dark Times. be found in guidelines. Some of the most popular declared majors for spring It is up to the listener whether this new approach to each other’s groups. When we have rare moments like these it’s a priceless moment that we 2014 were: Economics, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Biology, hold onto. Vacaville at to a pop-oriented, lighthearted, and overall more acces- Computer Science, Environmental Analysis, and English. Rodriguez had already left us to continue to represent FSUSD in the fi eld portion of the 555 Main What all of these colleges have in common is the small sible sound by The Weeknd is for them. If you enjoyed competition. If you haven’t seen Rodriguez perform on the fi eld you really should! I am very im- Street and population and quiet environment. Liberal arts colleges have in- his darker sound from his previous projects, you may be pressed by the Rodriguez Entertainment Unit! Those kids work so hard along with their staff and in Vallejo at credibly relaxed atmospheres and a friendly vibe. The tranquility disappointed by this album. Overall, if you enjoy this more parents!! 3335 So- may be broken once in a while to part way for school-wide ac- accessible and eclectic sound on Beauty behind the Mad- The day ended with lots of trophies and cheers! How many districts can say that all three noma Blvd. tivities. Clubs and organizations are always present. Ultimately, ness, you will certainly enjoy the new direction that The of their high schools are in the top fi ve in Northern California? I encourage all of you to attend the #20. liberal arts is for those who love to be seasoned in everything. Weeknd is headed. Tournament of Champions hosted by Fairfi eld High School on Saturday, November 21. Consider it! 20 Entertainment

Movie review DVD Review Intelligent life on Mars Going back to the ‘90’s By Kevin Garcia By Ario Rostami Staff writer Staff writer A powerful story of an aspiring rap artist, B-Rabbit On Friday, October 8, sci-fi nerds everywhere woke to see the sky part, and the heavens (played by Eminem), 8 Mile takes place in mid-90s Detroit, where send us a message from above. Our eyes squinted and adjusted to the heavenly glow until we the rap genre is primarily dominated by African-Americans. As a could fi nally understand what it said: “There’s a good Ridley Scott movie coming out.” My god! challenger to this stereotype, B-Rabbit tries to make his voice On a more serious note, The Martian was a thoroughly enjoyable fi lm. It’s fi lled with great heard by consulting a friend, Wink. Convinced by many of his humor, intense suspense, and captivating adventure. Much of this is due to Matt Damon’s im- companions that’s he’s nothing but trouble, B-Rabbit continues peccable performance as astronaut Mark to follow his promises of a record deal. Watney. After facing extreme hardships, more directly caused by In short, Watney and his team have the pursuit of his dreams and his affi liation with Wink, B-Rabbit landed on the planet Mars, but a few days is able to transcend his problems with a rap group that continu- later a massive storm appears and the ally beats him both physically and mentally; by seizing it all in team is forced to evacuate and return to one moment, in arguably one of the greatest rap battles in cin- Earth. In the process of escaping, Watney ema history. is hit with debris and presumed dead while Combining a great proving ground story with a highly his crewmates are forced to return without acclaimed soundtrack fi lled with rhyme and rhapsody, 8 Mile him. Watney miraculously survives and gives one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted in is left to survive on the desolate planet of one movie. A classic fi lm of an underappreciated music genre, Mars with nothing but his wits. The story 8 Mile is sure to appeal to all audiences, regardless of music continues with him trying to survive until preferences. Earth can fi nd a way to bring him home. For a movie about a man trying to not die on a dead planet, The Martian is sur- DVD Review prisingly funny. Watney’s interactions with NASA scientists and his fellow astronauts Getting Blindsided made our theater burst into laughter more than once. The Martian is almost entirely A modifi ed reprint from November 2010 a one-man show, with Damon more than By Maria Cruz, staff writer up to the task. For a majority of his time onscreen, Damon just talks to the camera, The Blindside, directed by John Lee Hancock, was but he does it so well. He has an excellent based on a true story of the football player Michael Oher and sense of humor and suave confi dence. how he got his start. A decent amount of people liked/loved the Yet, under all that, one can tell that this is movie, others not so much. Kaelynn Mixson (’13) said, somebody who is very afraid. Matt Damon “I really liked the movie and I thought the message was great,” really brings to life Mark Watney’s sarcas- The Blindside is about a boy named Michael Oher tic nature from the book by Andy Weir. I (Quinton Aaron) who is homeless and has no sense of family. really started to like this character, and He has been in and out of foster care since he was little and wanted to see him return safely. The fi lm also shifts back to NASA on Earth trying to fi nd a way to his mom was a druggie but a twist of events leads him to meet return Watney safely home, and his fellow Ares III astronauts in transit back to the Earth. Leigh Anne and Sean Touhy. When he meets Leigh Anne (San- All in all, I defi nitely liked The Martian. I would give it a 92/100, overall an awesometacular dra Bullock) and Sean Tuohy (Tim McGraw,) he has no idea fi lm. There was never a dull moment and it really made me sit and think about the future of our what is in store for him. Leigh Anne takes him in, gives him a exploration and colonization of outer space. Who knows? Maybe one day when we look up at the loving home, and treats him like part of the family. He ends up stars, we will see other people looking back at us. fi nding an interest in football but he has to bring his grades up to be able to play.

SCHOOL SPIRIT SCHOOL SPIRIT TASTES GREAT TASTES GREAT

Make dinner a selfless act by joining us for a Make dinner a selfless act by joining us for a fundraiser to support Armijo High School Newspaper. fundraiser to support Armijo High School Newspaper. Come in to the Chipotle at 1586 Gateway Blvd in Come in to the Chipotle at 1586 Gateway Blvd in Fairfield on Tuesday, November 10th between Fairfield on Tuesday, November 10th between 4:00pm and 8:00pm. Bring in this flyer, show it on 4:00pm and 8:00pm. Bring in this flyer, show it on your smartphone or tell the cashier you’re supporting your smartphone or tell the cashier you’re supporting the cause to make sure that 50% of the proceeds will the cause to make sure that 50% of the proceeds will be donated to Armijo High School Newspaper. be donated to Armijo High School Newspaper.