Volume 2 Issue 6

May/June 2011 SeniorsSeniors On the blog: • rchsjournalism.wordpress.com toto be be ... Written By: Josie Placencia

The feeling of graduating is School, is completing all 32 hours thing. Junior, Breanna Corsi, will not like having butterflies; you’re nervous of community service. Senior year be experiencing her senior because and excited at the same time. Whether requires 8 hours, like every other year, she is graduating early due to an you’re ready or not, your senior year and in order to graduate you must excessive amount of credits. Breanna will come. Are you ready? have completed those hours. now will be walking with the senior Juniors becoming seniors have As for Saul Herrera he has not class of 2011 in June. Meeting ou[rc]ity staff a lot to look forward to being the class done junior year’s community service. When asked about how she felt, her & Editorial Policy of 2012. Some current juniors at River He will now have to complete junior response was, “It’s a good thing but and senior year’s community service Page 2 City High School believe that they are sometimes I wish I was graduating ready and can’t wait to graduate but hours in order to be responsible for with my real class instead of seniors I some have a different perspective. graduating. Saul said, “I should have don’t share memories with,” she then FEATURES: Soon-to-be-senior, Saul done junior year’s hours when they said timidly, “I won’t experience my • Freshman Year Herrera, was asked what his feel- were supposed to be done; now I have real senior year but just as long as I Written By: Jacquelyn Elvira ings toward senior year were and his to catch up on 16 hours!” can do things the senior way this year response was, “I’m not worried about Junior, Ivette Lua, said, “I’m excited, than I guess I’ll be fine.” • Artists to Watch For becoming a senior; I just hope I make it’s my last year, I have a lot of great A message to River City’s seniors- Written By: Alan Tellez grades and everything goes smooth things to look forward to such as the to-be, your senior year should be • Three Down, One to Go that year, I’m trying to have a senior homecoming dance, and especially stress-free. In order for that to happen, Written By: Gustavo Flores year that will be memorable, you only prom.” Ivette has all her needed cred- one must get the “hard stuff” out of get one senior year your whole life.” its to become a senior and she hopes the way early. Don’t wait till the last • Rolling Papers There will be a lot of new responsi- also that she does well. minute to do your community service, Written By: Alan Tellez bilities soon-to-be-seniors will have to If you are up to par with your credits try not to get in trouble, and get your achieve. senior year should be easy, fun, and credits organized so you can focus on Ou[RC]ity Sports: One responsibility, which is actu- exciting. Believe it or not, sometimes having fun. ally required here at River City High having too many credits can be a bad Page 8

• Being Big Can Have its Side Effects Written By: Tyler Stalling A Disease that’s Sweeping River City: Senioritis • River City Tennis Loses Written By: Jordan Ligons to Rivals Escalon Written By: Jacob Olsen Seniors, class of 2011, have been exposed to one of the most crippling disease known to man— Senioritis. Students of River City have become a part of this epidemic; records show early cases as soon as August 25th.

I caught up with a senior, Leticia Campaz, to see how she was dealing with being exposed to this illness. “When I had Senioritis, I didn’t wanna go to school—I didn’t feel like doing anything,” I tended to stay far back from her as she spoke so I didn’t get sick as well, “By me Tutt feels like a superhero after having this illness it caused me to be Senior Leticia Campaz is one of the numerous students here at River City winning the high school Teacher lazy and dress down for every occa- that is highly infected with the known disease Senioritis. of the Year Award for WUSD. sion. By doing this, it slowed down and often wearing sweats and hoodies Branch adds the symptoms she has, Mrs. Tutt has been recognized for the process of me graduating.” every single day. Lacks of completing “Major procrastination is something her work in the AVID program, simple tasks and often a drag to get you are feeling.” If you are experi- Symptoms include exces- English department, and the out of bed in the morning are known encing any of these, please seek help advisor for the River City Writer’s sive laziness, short attention spans, factors of Senioritis. Senior Laura immediately! Club. short and long term memory loss, Article Continued on Page 5 Page 2 | Ou[RC]ity | 2011 Ou[RC]ity News Staff

Editorial Policy Letters to OuRCity News is a student publication and public forum. In the editor. accordance with state education code, the editorial staff of OuRCity News shall be responsible for Questions assigning and editing the news, editorial and feature content of Comments this publication. Editorials reflect the or Concerns opinion of only the writer. If no byline appears, the editorial About reflects the opinion of the Editorial Board. Ou[RC]ity Letters to the Editor will Newspaper ? only be published if they are signed. Senders may request their Email: names be withheld, or OuRCity Jordan_Ligons News editorial staff may decide to withhold a name if it deems @yahoo.com it appropriate. OuRCity News reserves the right to not publish any letter it receives. Letters will Editor-In-Chief: Jordan Ligons be edited for length, clarity and Layout Editor: Leticia Campaz grammar and all letters are subject Managing Editor: Samantha Colbert to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy, and disruption of the Article Editors: Sam Urrea educational process. All contents Karina Bueno of the newspaper are subject to the same standard. All letters become the property of OuRCity News. accept, reject, edit or cancel competitors or disparaging their particular service or product. Views of the editors and any advertisement. The staff products, services or methods staff, as well as letters to the of OuRCity News will not of doing business. Advertising Photography Policy editor do not necessarily reflect accept advertising that incites or accepted by OuRCity News Published photographs those of the administration and/or encourages illegal activity or is shall not be construed as an will not be altered except as staff of River City High School. libelous or obscene in the opinion endorsement by the school staff, necessary in professionally of the editorial board. Advertising adviser administration or Board of accepted darkroom and cropping Advertising must offer merchandise or service Education. OuRCity News makes procedures. OuRCity staff has the right to and must refrain from attacking no guarantees as to the quality of a

Senior Year, an Arm and a Leg? F Y I: Written By: Samantha Colbert

Another year comes to an end book you’d like to have it to look back jacket is a must have. At the aver- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk at River City High School, as the class on goofy hairstyles or that dreamy age of $500 a jacket, each extra font, is one of the last times you can be of 2011 makes it’s triumphant exit, the boy/girl you fantasized about marry- patch or color could cost you big together to make memories before juniors step up to take their place as ing. Better buy it in the beginning of time! graduation. Starting at $110 it’s well seniors. It begins to sink in when that the year before it gets more expensive, worth the money. Senior trip includes: postcard comes in the mail, saying, $65. Collegeboard.com will be a bussing to and from Santa Cruz, an ‘Hey Senior! It’s time to make an ap- successful tool at your success to a unlimited ride wristband, an afternoon pointment to get your portraits!’ This Jostens, our school’s cap and future education, taking the SAT is an BBQ, the use of a private beach, and is merely just the beginning of a costly gown provider, will be at back to essential to going to college, $47 for dancing the night away on a dinner year. school night. With the Raider Pack- early registration. cruise boat in San Francisco Bay. age at about $150, it’s well worth the Senior pictures are just the money. The package includes: Cap Speaking of college, USC and Senior year is a costly year! start, at $15 just to put your photo- & gown, 25 announcements, return CSU’s cost is $55 for EACH applica- Although it may seem overwhelm- graph in the yearbook at Prestige. Not labels, envelopes, tissue paper, seals, tion to their schools. ing, never fear River City is behind to to mention how expensive each pack- tassel, name cards, tankard, sweatshirt, help your finances with Raider Cards! Prom. So expensive, yet, age is. For example, one of the cheap- t-shirt and thank you cards. Details about Raider Cards with Shan- worth it! Tickets at $70, don’t forget est packages is the graduate package non, our school’s bookkeeper. about the cost of apparel, food, and $190 2 5x7’s, 4 4x5’s, and 32 wallets Jostens is also a provider in entertainment. from 1 pose. class rings, at the minimal your class Be ready juniors, senior year ring will be $200. is around the corner! Yes, senior year Represent your class! Buy a Now that you’re in the year- does cost an arm and a leg! If in athletics, a letterman’s senior sweatshirt, $35. Page 3 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011 Ou[RC]ity Features

Rolling Papers is the third mixtape didn’t make much sales but studio album from the Pittsburgh it gave people something to listen to rapper Wiz Khalifa. Rolling Papers Rolling Papers until his album was released. is also Wiz Khalifa’s debut album on Rolling Papers was released his new labels Atlantic and Rostrum Written By: Alan Tellez records. on March 29, 2011 and it debuted at number two on the US Billboard Wiz Khalifa heightened Khalifa later announced the 200 Chart. According to Wikipedia, his reputation after he released his album’s title and release date but many it would eventually sell over 197,000 mixtape Kush & Orange Juice. The people disagreed with the title. copies in its first week of sale. mixtape drew in the attention of vari- According to Wikipedia, when ous labels and rappers. So far the album has received asked about the album’s title, Wiz positive reviews and released five Including rapper Drake, Khalifa said,” It’s not just about the singles which include “Black and who offered Khalifa a chance to co- weed thing. It’s bigger than that. My Yellow,” “Roll Up,” “On My Level,” headline his album tour. Khalifa also career really took off when I started “The Race,” and “No Sleep”. received an offer to sign with Rick smoking papers.” Ross’ Maybach Music label; accord- Rolling Papers is a little dif- “The second reason I called it ing to Wikipedia, he ended up reject- ferent from Wiz Khalifa’s original Rolling Papers is when I left Warner ing both offers and announced that he style but it’s still worth listening to. Bros. (his former label), I sort of got was signing with Atlantic records. It’s not like his old music because half my ‘rolling papers.’ I was able to walk The cover of Wiz Khalifa Album titled “ Rolling Papers” of the album sounds like radio songs Khalifa didn’t waste any time and I was able to leave and I was able but the album still has a couple songs and immediately started working to do my thing and I was able to capi- in his Blackberry or iPhone. He would that sound like the old Wiz Khalifa. on his new album, Rolling Papers. talize off that.” write notes down, but didn’t write He released the album’s first single, whole verses. Overall, Rolling Papers is He said his third reason for “Black and Yellow,” on September 14, something you can listen to from the title was because he “quit writing On February 18, 2011 Wiz 2010. “Black and Yellow,” eventually beginning to end and not be disap- a long time ago.” And that he stopped Khalifa released the mixtape Cabin became one of the highest selling hip- pointed. physically writing it down or putting it Fever in promotion for his album. The hop singles of 2010. Artists to Watch For Written By: Alan Tellez

New artists appear every day more songs that are that much better, Wikipedia, problems with their label Sean is now planning to re- and a lot of them seem to come out of just to boost the level of the album.” have postponed the release of their lease his debut album, Finally Famous: nowhere. They go from barely known album. The Album, on May 3. According to to having the spotlight of mainstream I think that J. Cole’s album Wikipedia, Sean also revealed that music. will be the best album of 2011 and The problems with their label Kid Cudi, Drake, Wale, Eminem, Wiz maybe even one of the greatest albums have been solved and The Cool kids Khalifa and many more were to be J. Cole is one of those artists of all time. have announced that they are releasing featured on the album. who appeared out of nowhere and their debut album sometime this year. jumped straight into mainstream. Cole The Cool Kids are an example Big Sean has already released practically became famous over night of artists that didn’t necessarily go The Cool Kids haven’t re- his album’s lead single “My Last” when he signed onto Jay-Z’s label, mainstream but they’re known by leased anything that doesn’t have rat- which features Chris Brown. If the rest Roc Nation. many people. Their unique style and tling bass so far, so their album should of Sean’s album sounds anything like self-titling name of “the new black be something to look forward to. the single, then it should be something Since his to look forward signing to Roc to. Nation, J. Cole has released multiple Other art- mixtapes and is ists that are plan- starting to earn the ning to release respect of many albums sometime rappers and fans. this year are Lil Cole has yet to Wayne, Tyga, release an album Chris Brown, and but according to Kid Cudi. Drake The Cool Kids show off how cool they Wikipedia, a re- J.Cole on stage during a performance. Big Sean goofs off during a has also said that photot shoot. really are. lease is scheduled he’s releasing his for spring of 2011. version of the Beastie Boys,” has Another artist who isn’t well sophomore album, Take Care, but no caught the attention of many listeners. known but still popular is Big Sean. official release date has been set. During an interview with a Sean started out free styling on a local member from Rap-Up.com he said, Their sound consists of rat- radio station in Detroit. All of these albums have the “The album could be done. If I needed tling bass and catchy lyrics. They potential to be one of the top albums to put it out next week, I would be have released multiple mixtapes that He was discovered by Kanye of the year. One thing is for sure, 2011 able to.”He continued on to say “My showed what their music is all about. West who decided to sign Sean to will be filled with classic albums and expectations were already super high his label, GOOD Music. Sean has music that will fill everyone’s head- and I think the fans’ were too, but now The Cool Kids have been released three mixtapes called Finally phones and be stuck in everyone’s that the mixtape(Friday Night Lights) saying that they were going to release Famous Vol. 1: The Mixtape, Finally head. is out and the response is what it is, I their debut album, When Fish Ride Famous Vol. 2: UKnowBigSean, and kinda want to go back in and do a few Bicycles, since 2009. According to Finally Famous Vol. 3: B.I.G. Page 4 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011

Life by Oh, Freshman Year…. Written By: Jacquelyn Elvira the App The first day of school I was excited. I expected it to be fun but some days it was hard to keep up Written By: Josie Placencia with everybody else who has been here at River City High School lon- Do you ever just get on your ger than you, my fellow freshman, smart phone and immediately know that have. Some tips to surviving high there is an APP with the information school are never start drama!! That’s that you’re in need of? Apps were com- one of the main things. monly used on only the Apple iPhone until Verizon Wireless started making Another tip would be try to Google Android phones that are similar make new friends but try not to lose to the iPhone but what was contrasted the old ones as well. Also, know between the two brands of phones were your way around the school campus. the speed, quality, and the price. A main thing is always be you, don’t try to impress somebody. The top 5 apps online that get the most Freshmen Students of 2014 downloads for Android phones are: Freshmen year is expected to be easy and fun, but sometimes yourself and your not as shy as you We all know that high school 1) Facebook for Android it’s difficult. Michael Moore, fresh- were before. could be scary and nerve racking. The 2) Pandora Radio man at River City, said, “I thought I advice that I would give is always was going to get beat up.” The most difficult part of have a school map around, always 3) Angry Birds freshmen year was finding my classes have your schedule, never miss a day Remember one thing; high on this confusing campus; however, of school, and have as much fun as 4) Google Maps schools are never like movies. Usu- Fernanadez didn’t think her freshman you can in your freshmen year. Fer- ally high school doesn’t have the year was difficult at all. nanadez added, “Don’t think you’re 5) YouTube big bullies and they don’t have the cool.” ‘Mean Girls’. High school is filled with Student here at River City High School that have smart phones believe that hav- surprises. The biggest surprise would Freshmen year is probably ing apps make life a little easier. Some The best parts of freshmen be how much work River City does one of the best years in high school of the following apps listed are the apps year were the rallies because you for its students and community. RCHS besides senior year. Freshmen year is didn’t know what to expect. When helps out churches and the local K-8 used by most of the students here at one of the hardest years too because school. I asked freshman Edith Fernanadez, schools. When you help out for your fitting in into a new school, finding she said, “A.V.I.D and dance be- community you feel like a better your classes, and staying organized cause I was comfortable around the person when you’re done. Michael with your work is not as easy. Take people.” The reason why is because Moore’s high school surprise was advantage of freshmen year and do as as soon as you know everybody in simply “The food.” much as possible like going to dances, your class you start being more like participating in rallies, and join clubs.

Students Carolynn Vela, Jordan Ligons Video Production Redone and I show off out Android phones in Written By: Joseph Arcinas class.

This year, the Video 1) Pandora Radio Production class received a new teacher since Mr. Newborn, the 2) Words with Friends previous Video Production teacher, 3) Facebook for Android retired; his replacement is Mr. Barber. Before Mr. Barber came 4) Twitter to River City, he was a wedding photographer and worked on a film 5) Skype for most of ‘08-‘09. His credentials only allowed him to teach the Video Senior Marina P’s favorite App is Facebook for Android. “I love this Production class, and the day he App because I can log on to Facebook started working he described it as “the anytime, anywhere! It’s great!” she best day of my life”. responds with such bliss. The Facebook After teaching for an entire App makes life easier by always being year, he says, “it hasn’t been easy, but able to communicate with friends from it also hasn’t been hard.” By trying to all over in the palm of your hand with take care the equipment was the hard just a touch of a finger. part, but teaching it was easy. The difference Mr. Barber Freshman Bo Alvarez desires Mr.Barber working hard in the studio. did this semester than last semester is the SportsCenter App because it always that he tried teaching different things collaborated with Ms. Fassiotto’s doesn’t favor, but he likes both of his keeps him up to date with highlights and through trial and error, then decide if Calculus class to create “how-to” semester classes, personality wise. scores of daily major sporting events. he wants to use it again. videos on how to work several Overall, Mr. Barber had The SportsCenter App makes life easier for mainly sports fans because it also This semester, he’s been formulas as a project. He loves an amazing first year at River City comes along with commentary, reviews able to work with the students more, working with other teachers. and looks forward working on later of the games that were played, and thanks to the server, organization, and The thing Mr. Barber is years. Next year, he will be teaching feature stories. With Apps, you’ll never the equipment. He wants his class to proud his first year of teaching is the two new subjects along with video miss out on a thing. “benefit” for another class. creativity his students put in their production: Animation and Beginning For example, his class videos, which makes him laugh. He Web Design. Page 5 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011

Senior Year Dorm Life Tips Memories Lasts for Seniors Forever Written By: McKenna Colvin Written By: Gustavo Flores It’s time seniors, your starting ting your own phone, make sure that over again and becoming a freshman your roommates know that they can’t Seniors are starting their new ings remembers, “junior year I got bit for the second time. Senior year can make long distance calls on your life outside of high school in just a by a black widow and I had to come be stressful and you may not know bill. Most experienced dormers will few days, they will leave the school to help set up things for homecoming what to do to prepare for college tell you not to get a phone in your but their experience, knowledge, and because I was in leadership.” life! The most stressful part of col- room - use your cell phone and keep memories will stay with them forever. lege life is living in dorms. Here are it close to you. After being in high school for four Senior, Samantha Colbert, some helpful tips to prepare you for years, they have absorbed enormous “junior year I was walking down the living in a dorm: 6. Find out how far your dorm amounts of information and matured stairs and I was wearing flip flops, it is from the campus buildings in a lot of ways. was right after second period and the 1. Find out about the options where your classes will be. The sad beginning of passing period, I tripped for dorming at your school before fact is that freshmen normally get Graduating seniors are mov- down the stairs, and I pretended that it you get there. Some dorms are the least lovable dorms. Your classes ing because of the admission of dif- didn’t happen and walked it off.” smoke free or focus on a vegetarian and the cafeteria might be far, so ask ferent colleges and universities. Some diet while others are more relaxed about on campus transportation. Can universities are better than others in Here are some teachers which with mixing different lifestyles. If you bring your own car or does ev- varies ways such as the areas of study. still have that one sticky memory that you have a choice between several After graduating they do not know they do not expect to forget any time residences, find out which one will if their likely to see their friends or soon. be the best match for you. River City ever again; they are forced Spanish teacher, Ms. T Her- to move because their choice in career 2. Ask about what is allowed in nandez, experience was, “My fresh- and of college, but no matter how long the dorm. Don’t arrive with a whole men year our school was going to the distance is from their high school, door room kitchen ensemble only to have a battle of the sexes rally and all River City is going to be remembered find out that fire regulations prohibit the students were going to cross dress and go where ever they go. cooking in your dorm. which means girls dress as guys, and Teenagers spend most of their guys dress as girls. The administra- 3. Find out who your dorm time in high school for four years. tion found out and they did not want mates will be and get in touch Here are some experiences that are the guys to dress up like girls and they before you start school. It is best to staying in the memories of senior canceled the rally. We all still did the get to know your dorm mate before forever: cross dress and we all went out to the living together because if you don’t quad and we went out to the street and think you can live with them you An anonymous senior says, the cops came and threatened us with can request another room mate. “freshmen year, at the old school, gas and releasing the dogs, we finally Some good reasons for asking to be on the second story there was a girl went to the football field. At the end switched might be getting paired leaning over the balcony and she we still didn’t get our rally.” with a smoker if you don’t smoke or looked exactly like my friend from the getting matched with someone who Belushi just realized that he has to live back… I ran up and smacked her with The one memory that stands has strong objections to your values in a dorm. (siouxcityjournal.com) my folder really hard. As the girl that I out to Ms. Mathrole is, “sophomore or lifestyle choices. year, because me and a group of my smacked turned around I realized that eryone ride a moped or bicycle? Try it wasn’t my friend.” best friends made the homecoming 4. Define responsibilities. float, and I remember the game and Define who what do what to help out getting in touch with some people Graduating senior, Tyler Stall- riding on the float.” within living conditions. Who will who’ve been at the school for a while do the dishes, clean, ect. and can give you some information on the layout of the campus and what 5. Draw boundaries. The col- other students do to get around. lege may have put you with someone from a family where everyone wears 7. Bring quarters. Vending Continued Article machines and coin laundries need everyone else’s clothes. If you don’t want to share your favorite blouse quarters and there are never enough or sweater, make that clear from the to go around. “Senioritis” beginning. If you’re planning on get- Tips from:www.chiff.com

The worst part is: most se- We will never know… end, of course I have Junioritis and it’s be prescribed to the sick. The only niors don’t know they have it. It seems horrible.” known cure is one dose of graduation. to only be apparent to teachers and Facts show that seniors with For those who make it to June 11th, administration. the infection have been spreading it to River City is scheduled to be they’ll be put out of their misery and juniors. roped-off and set-up for inspections if freed. As those acceptance letters a number of seniors tend to cruise in start to roll in, most seniors have a Junioritis is known to be ac- late again wearing slippers and PJs. Beware of the walking in- college mindset and are “so over” custom to the same symptoms along Juniors, sophomores, and even fresh- fected. Students with Senioritis are high school. However, really scientific with the mindset of I only have one man are perhaps in need of an Anti- sweeping the campus and slowly statistics show that not only seniors year left, who cares? Despite the fact Senioritis vaccine to prevent these becoming the majority. Senior, Kristy are being exposed. Branch adds, “Ugh that it’s the most important year of symptoms to ever occur on campus Simms, tries to warn the Raiders that this campus! I can’t wait to be on a your high school career, doesn’t seem again. are left and not yet distressed, “I feel college campus!” Maybe she is trying to matter to these victims. Junior Jas- as if it’s a disease that is taking over. It to infect everyone before she leaves. mine Jaguar comments on the subject: There is no medicine that can is not one to mess with.” It could be “Even though I don’t want this year to you next, get vaccinated. Page 6 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011 SENIORS River City Royalty The Path to Unknown Written By: Samantha Colbert Written By: Emily Herman An inspirational quote from author Marianne Williamson reads, “Our deepest fear is not Believe it or not, there is a that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, royal family running around on River City high schools campus. Lucky for not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, you RCHS’s journalism class has the talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? We are all meant to shine, as children do. It scoop. is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence On May 14, senior Jose Ma- cal and senior Hayley Sweeten were automatically liberates others.” These moving words from the renown book, A Return to Love. crowned king and queen at River City’s prom. “I was nominated and it seemed As humans we mechanically feel irresolute of our futures. I am scared to death of tomor- like fun to run,” stated senior Hayley row, but will I hide from it? No. We here all share a gift; we are all prospective students going Sweeten; “I ran for fun, just because,” from the light into unknown; the unknown world from adolescence to adulthood. Today we are declared senior king Jose Macal. together as a whole, but tomorrow we will go in our separate ways, creating our own lit paths Campaigning this year was not into our own vibrant futures. Whether heading into college, leaving for the military or jumping as strategic as would be expected. Macal strait into a career, River City will always be where we came from and be a part of who we are. simply told people to vote for him and We will start our own lives, but carry what we have learned from family, teachers, and friends to Sweeten just facebooked and tweeted for her votes; fortunate for them, merely help us through the challenges we will face. We may leave behind what we came to love; Friday expressing their need for votes worked night football games, watching teachers dance witlessly at the rallies, reping green on spirit days to their advantage. and even the simplest moments with best friends, but we can always look back on our high school Hayley had a hunch that she years throughout the rest of our lives with a grin on our face. Today is simply our forever. We are was going to win but Jose was surprised the Raiders, the graduating class of 2011! at the announcement. “I celebrated the rest of the night with my king Ozmar Aburto,” declared Sweeten.

Alongside of Jose and Hayley there was another crowning for royalty. Junior Billy Mistler and Junior Sage Breanna, Sibaja were crowned prince and prin- cess of the prom. We are so proud of you! “I ran because me and my You’re such an amaz- friend Alyssa wanted to win, but she couldn’t run because she won home- ing young woman with coming her sophomore year,” said prince Billy Mister. Sage Sibaja said so much talent; you hold she ran “because me and Billy are like best friends.” your future in your hands. “My friends put up a few Always believe in your- posters; I didn’t really have a strategy to win,” stated Mistler. Sibaja said she self, set goals and bound- “made a poster and put it on sally’s car.” aries and go for it! NEV- Sage had no idea that she was going to win. Billy, on the other hand, ER forget, through HIM was pretty confident about his votes and stated “as bad as it sounds yeah I all things are possible. thought I would win.” Love, After the crowning, Sage cel- ebrated by taking a lot of pictures with Dad, Mom & Brother Billy. Billy on the other hand had a spe- cial way of celebrating his night, “I sat with my pet unicorn named Charlie and wrote love songs about Silvia Yanez.” Page 7 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011 C/O 2 11

The Ones You'll Remember... Page 8 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011 Ou[RC]ity Sports

River City Tennis Loses To Rivals Escalon Written By: Jacob Olsen

The River City Tennis Team Felix and Zack Mundo. RC’s Tony The doubles matches went lost to the defending Sectionals Cham- Yang and David Simmons confronted first with Victor Vang and Terry Vang pions Escalon in the Semifinals of the Mark Cisneros and Kyle Rose, RC’s crushing the opposition, winning 6-4, San-Joaquin Sectional Championship. Michelle Trong and Mary Neverov 6-1. RJ and Jai also won their match challenged Parker Pilati and Ashley 6-3, 6-0. Tony Yang and David Sim- “It was really disappointing,” Lima, and RC’s Elizabeth Manulet mons had more of a challenge but they River City Coach Dave Brooks said. and Christine Maltez opposed Megan tore through the enemy, beating them “We had chances to win and we didn’t Faria and Michelle Pinasco. 6-3, 6-4. take it, we didn’t want it enough.” The girls had a harder time The playoffs are in a 7-game with their opponents, with Christine match, the opposing teams play seven Maltez and Elizabeth falling into a games against each other to determine hole 5-7 and battling back until the the winner. The team with the most end. Escalon sealed their fate by games won is the winner and advances beating them 4-6. Michelle Trong and to the next round. Edward Xu rallies back against his op- Elizabeth couldn’t get started and Es- ponent Jack Berry. River City Tennis lost calon’s Parker Pilati and Ashley Lima The seven game formats to Escalon 3-4. beat them quickly; 2-6, 3-6. have one boys’ singles and one girls’ singles. The doubles are as follows: Edward Xu took the position Singles came after the doubles two boys’ doubles, two girls’ doubles, of number one boy singles player and matches and Edward Xu along with and one mixed doubles. There are five faced off against Jack Berry, who de- Cindy Oseguera defied their respective doubles and two singles matches, so feated RC’s number one player Victor opponents as long as they could but the doubles are the most important. Vang in a tournament. Cindy Oseguera Jack Berry and Presli Pilati were too took Jai London’s place in number one much. Edward Xu lost 1-6, 0-6 and The RC Tennis Team needed girls’ singles to play against Escalon’s Cindy was brought down 1-6, 1-6. to win four of the seven games to Presli Pilati. The two singles games clinch the match and move on to the played last. Escalon went on to lose to next round. Dave’s plan was to load Placer and Placer went on to win the up the doubles matches with his best RC’s Jai London and Rudy Sectional Championship. players and let some of his less experi- Maltez played against Ian Fitzgerald Christine Maltez returns a ball sent to enced competitors take on the singles and Shay Beam, RC’s Victor Vang her by her opponents Megan Faria and games. and Terry Vang challenged Rafael Michelle Pinasco. Being Big Can Have its Side Effects.. Written By: Tyler Stallings

Anabolic steroids are often Common beliefs of side effects dianabol, something that pro body- control blood pressure. When it comes thought of as something exotic; some- due to steroids are: acne, testicular builder in the 70’s would inject. Both to steroids, it is much better to put the thing that movie stars and bodybuilders atrophy, aggression, and hair loss. In of these compounds are ingested orally. value of health above any other factor. would only do. Truth is steroids are actuality, steroids won’t make your hair In order for these compounds to be striking much closer to home than Hol- fall out, but will speed up hair loss if it absorbed in pill form, they must be During a cycle, natural testosterone lywood. runs in your family. Aggression or more altered. A “methyl” group is attached to production will shut down because the commonly known as “roid rage” only their molecules to allow for absorption. body finds testosterone from an outside Currently there are over 25 affects about 5% of users that’s only if By doing this, it puts an excess strain source. To reverse this, a user must run students on the RCHS campus who are the user has had previous aggression on the liver and can quickly weaken it, a natural testosterone booster such as experimenting with anabolics. Of these issues. Nevertheless, most of these side causing possible failure. tribulus or ZMA after the cycle. To pre- 25+, a safe bet is that at least 20 users effects are mild and will go away once vent gynecomastia, hyperglycemia, and have absolutely no idea how to protect the person stops using. When injected, steroidal com- shutdown of organs in the endocrine themselves from the harmful side effects pounds will actually NOT put excess system, either nolvadex (tamoxifen associated with steroid abuse. There are much more seri- strain on the liver, which does make citrate) or clomid should be ran for the ous LONG TERM side effects to them a safer choice than oral anabolics. same amount of time as the steroid was There are two major types of be cautious of such as; liver failure, However, injectable steroids are illegal used. anabolic steroids. There’s AAS (andro- gynecomastia (breast tissue in men), under the steroid control act of 1991 genic-anabolic steroids) and Prohor- impotency, and a shutdown of natural which sways users towards their legal, If a user performed a 4 week mones. AAS is often injected intramus- testosterone production, just to name a but more harmful oral counterparts. cycle of dragon, they would run nolva- cularly, but can also be taken orally in few. dex for 6 weeks after they have ceased some cases. Prohormones are almost There are ways to protect use of the steroid. always taken orally. The most popular anabolics go- yourself against these harsh side effects; ing around the high school scene right however, it makes running a cycle much All of this is to prevent/ dimin- The difference between the two now are; “dragon” and “D-bol”. Dragon more expensive. The best way to protect ish side effects of anabolic steroid use. is; AAS is a synthetic version of tes- is an androstenedione and superdrol yourself ON cycle is to purchase milk However, this is not a 100% guarantee tosterone and prohormones are precur- compound. Both are very potent prohor- thistle and run it at 1000-2000mg a day. that there will be no long term or short sors to testosterone. Prohormones will mones with very serious side effects (as This will protect your liver from the term consequences. convert to testosterone once inside your previously listed). harsh side effects of orals. Hawthorne body, while AAS is ready to be absorbed berry should be ran at the same dose to once it is injected. D-bol is an altered version of Page 9 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011

Disaster in Japan...The Fukushima 50 Written By: Elena Tyannikova

The tragedy of Japan affected cancer and eventually die from it. the whole world and brought a lot of suffering to the Japanese people. The The food they eat is not so 9.0 scale earthquake, and tsunami that good and the same food every day. For followed, hit the northeastern coast of breakfast they eat 30 crackers each Japan on March 11, 2011. It caused with vegetable juice and for dinner a lot of destruction and many prob- they eat instant rice. They do not have lems to the land and to the Fukushima lunch because it is hard to get the food Nuclear Power Plants. distributed to them during midday.

In this terrible situation, the Battling to cool the danger- Workers at Fukushima screen a child for radiation. radiation that keeps leaking out of the ously overheated reactors, these Picture Provided by: Www.Cherwell.org plants continues to spread into the people are also known as the “atomic samurais” because of their courage. A environment. Many people would not Many people write letters ing so high that it is almost compared student from River City commented want to be even near the plants, in fact and emails to the workers saying how to the explosion that happened in on how they feel about these heroes people who lived 25 miles near the much they are thankful but it does not Chernobyl on April 26, 1986. That and they said, “Wow, I would never plants got evacuated. There are some really mean anything to them because incident was so bad that even many be able to do such a heroic act for my citizens who sacrificed their lives to as one said, “I just wanted people to years later the radiation is still affect- country…maybe for my family…but help stop the leaks. understand that there are many people ing people in strong ways. I would not want to leave my family fighting under harsh circumstances in Knowing that they are affect- and die. These are true heroes.” the nuclear plants, that is all I want. To reconstruct and fix the Fu- ed by high levels of radiation, there kushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plants The families of the volunteers Crying is useless. If we’re in hell now are 300 volunteers that work in shifts completely, it may take many years. are very proud for their husbands and all we can do is to crawl up towards by 50 people at the heated power Knowing this, we hope and wish the sons because they are giving up their heaven.” plants. These people are affected by best for all the victims of this devas- lives for their country. They say it is such lethal doses of radiation that they The radiation level is becom- tating incident. will have either radiation sickness or an honor to have such brave citizens.

G2: Green House Aggies Three Down, One to Go Written By: Najeli Chavez Written By: Gustavo Flores

G2 is an organization here at As eighth graders enter high River City High School that teaches school to become freshmen they start students how to care for a garden and a new experience, but at the same expand their skills in having a high- time, seniors branch off to begin quality garden. Members of this club another life. All the while, juniors gain knowledge of what materials to get ready to prepare themselves for use and what steps to take in order to the final chapter of their high school obtain a healthy garden. career.

Students who love nature, Junior year is filled with; enjoy playing with the earth, and like entering scholarships, taking the SAT planting seeds, should join G2. Not for admission to college, making sure only will they get to learn how to plant their credits are in place and that they fruits and vegetables, but will also learn don’t owe books or money to the how to be responsible—by caring for school. ‘Junior year is the best but plants, they learn the value of work. hardest year in high school because Junior Gustavo Flores, freshmen Jacquelyn G2 members in there well you can’t mess up.’ Says junior Car- Elvira, and graduating senior Josie Placen- G2 members plant garden conserved garden. olynn Vela. cia preparing for what is yet to come. seeds for germination, transplant seed- lings, water the garden and maintain ‘I am exited but mostly journey. “High school is like home, a weed-free environment. The future melons, watermelons, coconuts, apples, it’s a security blanket were you know bananas, broccoli, spinach, carrots, and nervous about senior year because the plans of G2 are to donate their fruits road ahead is a mystery’, answers a everyone and you are safe. College is and vegetables to residents of West the list goes on and on! scared Ms. Vela. different because you don’t know any- Sacramento. They also plan on asking one, I am scared because I don’t know The advisor Ms. McAllister the residents to return a small monetary how the new experience will be, and it’s says, “It is fun to watch students get Katie Nishimura is a junior donation to G2. The money will be used like walking into a dark hallway,” says their hands dirty and see how they at River City High School; she has all to continue the growth and development enjoy themselves planting seeds.” The her credits and is on track to gradu- graduating senior Samantha Colbert. of the garden. garden that G2 cultivates is located next ate. Katie has changed a lot from her freshmen year. One lesson that she Even though seniors and eighth The president of this associa- to the swimming pool and tennis court. would never forget is, “How to deal graders are very different, they do have tion, Denise Guerra says, “I enjoy being Currently G2 has six members with situations, and learning how to one thing in common, they are both up part of this organization because I enjoy involved—they need more students to a important and mysterious new ex- learning about the processes that a gar- and overcome every obstacle that is who take pleasure in growing plants to perience in their life’s. As juniors look den requires in order to grow.” Denise put in my path.” Students look back come out and help preserve the garden. at their freshman and sophomore year is amazed by how a little seed in the at their previous years and remember Students can easily become part of I.D. picture, they see a completely dif- ground can grow into food that feeds the experiences that they had in high this exciting project. G2 meets every ferent person that they are today. To see human beings. Such foods are toma- school. Thursday after school in Ms. McAllister how much they have learned, matured, toes, lettuce, strawberries, corn, man- room. Do you want to get your hands Seniors have only a few and overall completely transformed in goes, soy beans, nuts, oranges, grapes, dirty? weeks before starting their new just three years is priceless. Page 10 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011

Blankets: The Ultimate Clean Braces Shield Against Monsters Written By: Rachel Sayles Written By: Emily Albusche Braces aren’t near as bad as some people make them out to be. We’ve all experienced that They are something many of us have moment when the ominous music to go through in our lives. plays and we know that any second, the killer will come out of the closet They are much maligned due and chase the protagonist sending you to the fact that they are expensive, into a moment of panic. You grab the often painful and make your eating person next to you, or a blanket and habits a little more difficult. Howev- use it as a shield, yelling at the charac- er, the satisfaction of having perfect Sophomores, Shellsea Nasca and Jenna ters as if they can hear you, to not turn teeth makes the wait worthwhile. Adler show off their braces. around, and to not go back. Little boys expressing exactly how you Some people are drawn to this feel, when watching a horror move. Approximately 4.5 million you first get them on, but they also feeling when watching a horror movie, Picture Provided By: Google Images. people in the United States alone completely straighten your teeth! It’s and others completely despise it. The are wearing braces, or other types worth it.” reason why so many people like it is “I love scary movies, but I get scared of orthodontic appliances to correct because it gives them that adrenaline too easy. I have to hide on my bed, their smiles. Junior, Salina Ries stated rush that some people crave. Others because underneath it scares me. I also “Literally, my life depended on brac- don’t like it because it scares them to love when I scream because it scares There are many different es. I had my braces for four years, the point where they have a feeling other people. But I couldn’t choose ways to achieve a beautiful smile and without them, I wouldn’t be that there is someone just waiting for which one is my favorite.” with braces; there are traditional confident in my smile. The biggest them, ready to reach out and snatch When people think of horror braces, ceramic braces, or clear brac- downside to braces is having to wear them. movies, they usually don’t think that es, lingual braces, which fit behind retainers afterward, the metal mouth Some students at River City there are many types. Horror movies the teeth, and Invisalign, which is still haunts you! Overall, braces High School were asked if they like can range from ones with ghosts and completely clear and can be re- were completely worth it. Everyone scary movies, and which one is their monsters, to murderers and the para- moved for eating and brushing teeth. likes a perfect smile!” absolute favorite. Felecia Duboise, normal. Many people have different sophomore, replied, “Of course I do! opinions of what kind of horror genres Invisalign braces are usually only Braces can be seen as It’s better than any other genre of they find most interesting. used for minor corrections, where painful, annoying, and especially movies. My favorite would definitely But no matter what you like as traditional or ceramic braces are awkward. The truth of that is up for be The Stepfather.” to see in scary movies, they are a used for more complex refinements. debate. Not everything in life can be Another sophomore, Cera fan favorite and continue to surprise achieved easily. For braces, patience Cable, says, “I like scary movies, us. Even with the background music Sophomore, Jenna Adler is very much required. Once you’ve because they are entertaining and you warning us that it was a bad idea for said, “I just got my braces on for a attained that, the process goes by never know what’s going to happen. the character to open the closet, you second time, and all I have to say is quickly, and before you know it you My favorite is probably Haunting in still hide in fear as if you don’t know wear your retainers.” She continued, have the perfect smile everyone Connecticut.” what’s coming. “Braces can be terribly painful after longs for. Sabrina Fields, agreed saying, appointments, and especially when Winners for RCHS Student Art Show

2-Dimensional 3-Dimensional Photography On April 12, 2011, in the B building the annual Student st st Art Show was held. The West st 1 - Kraisit Chaikaeo 1 - Alisha Prabhakar 1 -Jorge Macias Sacramento Arts Guild presented 2nd- Victor Avdeyev 2nd- Steven Ancheta st 2nd- Alesya Gaponova awards to 1 place Alisha Prabhakar, 2nd place Steven 3rd- Sonia Bola 3rd- Andrew Baylon 3rd- Vera Akhanova Ancheta, and 3rd place Andrew Honorable Mention- Victorya Van Buren Honorable Mention- Keiko Mertz Baylon along with Honorable Honorable Mention- Ashley Boone Mentions Keiko Mertz and Victoria Honorable Mention- Alexis Garcia Honorable Mention- Victoria Vlasov Vlasov for their amazing art work. Honorable Mention- Ana Ledezma & Katie Saleeba Great job guys! Page 11 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011

Ending the Year On Blood Drive: a High… Or Low? Save a Life Written By: Najeli Chavez Written By: Sam Urrea

On April 1, 2011 students my finger to take a small sample of Summer is something stu- learned not only during the current were given the opportunity to save a my blood. This was to make sure I dents look forward to since the start semester, but the previous one as life. Blood Source is a blood bank that had enough Iron in my system. If you of the year. It is a time where you well. This, added to homework and enables people to make a difference on don’t have sufficient Iron, you can faint are not pressured with the demands studying in other classes can make other people’s life. A member of the while giving blood. of school work, a time when you school really rough for a student, Journalism class had the privilege to be can relax and interact with your especially at a time when summer is a part of this life changing experience. While waiting for my results, friends in an amiable environment. far approaching. she stated that a person in the United However, it is important to end the That member was I, Najeli States receives a blood transfusion year on a high academically which River City Student Brittnie Chavez. I had the pleasure to cooperate every two seconds. Additionally, she is something that students are cur- Ringor says that she has tried to with an organization that rescues hun- declared, that approximately one out of dreds of people facing possible death seven people entering a hospital needs rently and arguably always strug- remain and improve on being a good due to blood loss. blood. That made me realize how vital gling with. student by studying more and doing her homework completely, but she it is to donate blood. It is a Friday morning and I Every year, around the claims that even her parents have quickly make my way to the H Com- My tests came back with good months of April and May, students been making her take one eye off mon Room where other students are results and I departed to a recliner. The become excited about the looming school by making summer vacation situated in designated areas. They are chair was extremely comfortable and summer. They begin to plan for their plans themselves. ready to give their blood. the nurse was very friendly. Gently, she summer vacation as if the year has examined my arm and searched for the already come to end. Dismally, the “My parents were talking As I advance, I encounter two main vain. consequences of this come in the about a trip to Hawaii the other staff members greeting students walk- night. Before then, I had been very ing in. I sign in, and I think to myself, She told me not to move my shape of forgetting about their aca- arm. I turn my head and demic responsibilities and often observe other students failing to keep up their grades. lying down, looking The case is the same at relaxed. I realize the pro- cess doesn’t look scary. River City. Some students have The nurse then puts on expressed their agreement with a cold liquid on my vain the fact that when summer seems and asks, “Do you want to near, they forget about school turn around or observe?” and focus more on their summer activities. Sophomore Rachel “I want to look” I Sayles gave her consensus on announce. the subject by saying “Yeah, I The nurse inserts am really excited for summer, the needle in my vain. but lately I have not been doing And within minutes the too well in Math and History.” process is over. “It didn’t hurt!” I say in a high Kids generally believe Junior, Carolynn Vela tries to I stand next to a Blood Source nurse that helps students donate chirpy voice. I stare at the that because it is the end of the concentrate on her school work as the end blood and save up to three lives with one pint of blood. two plastics bags contain- year, they shouldn’t have to of the year approaches. ing my blood and ask her worry too much about school “I can do this. There’s no turning if I can hold them. “Sure you can”. because according to them it is the responsible because I wanted to back”. The blood feels so warm. So full of easiest time of the year when, indis- keep up my good grades. But now, life. putably, it’s the toughest academic I just can’t wait to go! I am really At that moment the assistants period throughout the school calen- excited and I want school to be over give me a free t-shirt, making my anx- I am then asked to lie down dar. as soon as possible,” she exclaimed. ious thoughts disappear. I smile back for some minutes. I take the moment to and decide to wear it right away. examine my arm— the bandage around Finals are only one of the The end of the year is a risky it feels like a golden metal. I realize They proceed to escort me to a few examples that show how im- business. It can affect a student in a that donating blood is such a brave act. different staff member. She is a nurse. Getting over my fear of donating blood portant the end of the year is. Some variety of ways. Sadly, most of these She checks my body temperature and teachers may even decide to test influences can be negative. wasn’t easy but saving a life was worth reviews my information slowly and it all. their students on what they have clearly for me to understand. At last, I am granted access to She also tells me about what the snack section where many goodies her job requires her to do. The blood await to be eaten. I grab some cookies LGB Cleaning Service must be stored in a cold room, with the and orange juice. I am good to go. different components of blood orga- nized appropriately. She explained that Donating blood isn’t danger- Free Estimates immediate information must be kept on ous or scary, as many people make • Move Ins-and Move Outs display in case of an emergency. it seem. I encourage others to go out there and save a life too. If you would • Specialized in Kitchens and Bathroom After that she gave me some like to give blood outside of River Phone: (916)317-7594 forms to go over at that moment. Then City, there is a Blood Source center she asked me if I had any tattoos or any in Midtown Sacramento on 1608 Q Laura Bueno -- Owner/Operator medical infections that I was aware of. Street. You never know if you or a Afterwards, I was walked to another loved one can become one out of the Lic & Insured nurse. seven people who enter a hospital in need of blood. Email: [email protected] The second nurse pinched Page 12 | Ou[RC]ity | May/June 2011 Ou[RC]ity Editorials

Doing the Most Since 1995 Written By: Karina Bueno

Usually when you see Journalists white; and you think ‘it was worth it.’ they’re on TV; they’re intimidating and Journalism has changed the way I determined people. They will stop at view the world around me. Before, I used nothing to bring a hard-hitting story that to just walk through school and the streets will ripple through the city. These strong- without giving anything a second glance, minded people don’t just exist in day-time only noticing the people that walked past TV; they also reside in the F building me. Since I’ve been in this class it has room 755. taught me to look for stories and details in The Journalism class hasn’t been everything and everyone. here for very long but it has achieved In my opinion the hardest part of more than anyone could have ever Journalism is coming up with headlines imagined. This being my first time in this for your articles. Many of us here have

The 2010-2011 Journalism Class meets in rm.755, first period to bring you the scoop. class I had no idea what to expect. sat a good while trying to come up with a Lola Ganchenko, the amazingly talented photographer, is a junior It wasn’t a class you could sit golden title that will lure in unsuspecting and do absolutely nothing in; you couldn’t readers. See what happened with my title here at River City. On May 15, 2011 Meaning and Medium: High blow through all your work and expect was…I suck at titles. Alright, now we’re School Self-Portrait Show opened at the Crocker Art Museum. Out to leave this class with a failing grade. getting off topic. of 16 school participating this year, two of Lola’s pictures won People depend on each other to meet Not very many people would awards. The pictured shown above, The Mask of Happiness, won deadlines. consider being in Journalism but it really 3rd place overall as well as an Honorable Mention! Being the first After all that hard work you see is a rewarding experience and it is a great the end product, a twelve page spread with class with a great teacher. I would just time at the Crocker Art Museum, this exhibit gives students the everyone’s articles and pictures laid out like to thank everyone for letting me be a opportunity to showcase their talent at a professional level. The perfectly. You start to flip through it and part of this experience. You may enter this artwork shall hang till July 10th in the Education Wing on the first you see your name printed in black and class not knowing a single person but you floor. Go check out Lola’s remarkable work! leave a family.