El Rancho High School • Volume 57 • Issue 4• Thursday, December 11, 2008 www.erusd.k12.ca.us/elrancho Drama Serves a Tasty Treat in A Catered Affair By Re b e c c a Ro b l e s El Ro d e o Ne w s St a f f Wr i t e r

On December 4th, 5th, and 6th Mr. Stan Wlasick directed the play A Catered Affair. The actors were strictly from the Advanced Drama class which included eight Thespians from Troupe #2164. A Catered Affair is about a lower middle class family who lives in the Bronx. Jane, Con- suelo Rivera, announces that Wlasick Receives she and Ralph, Jeremy Zazueta– Ruiz, are getting married. All Teacher of the the two want is to have a small and quick wedding so that they Tri Award can go on their honeymoon. Soon Ralph’s parents meet Re b e c c a Ro b l e s Jane’s. At dinner Ralph’s parents, El Ro d e o Ne w s St a f f Osmin Riperto and Sarah San- chez, (Mr. and Mrs. Halloran) Mr. Wlasick, the Senior go on and on about big weddings Team and Drama teacher, was with lots of people, and money. presented with the Teacher Re b e c c a Ro b l e s Aggie Hurley, Chantel The Right Mood: A few of the star actors begin to get into character before a scene presentation. of the Trimester award. He Moreno, realizes that she wants said, “The award honored her daughter Jane to have a with common class people who and I hope our hard work shines cido, pulled the scene together him because by being chosen grand wedding with traditional struggle with common problems. through.” The audience agreed. by keenly speaking a line about by the students this shows items. However, the problem is The cast hoped to sell all The star of the play Ch- the silly blunder. Hence the au- that he has made an impact that Aggie and her husband Tom of the printed tickets so that they antel Santos said, “ My favorite dience believed the fallen prop in the lives of students.” Hurley, David Hernandez, have could have a full theater to per- line of the play is when Pasha, was just a normal part of the play. Students voted by log- been saving for several years. form in front of. Friday night the Diana Jimenez, said, ‘You didn’t The tone of the play was ging on to the Don Page, select- Tom has been saving for a cab theater seemed to be quite full, see by any chance my cat...An- optimistic, and the play had a ing a teacher, and writing their with a medallion, but now with as did all of the other nights of gelo...you know the pink one.’” characteristic of comedy that reason for their vote. A student, the wedding he is obligated to performances. As the audience Along with the cast the shone through whenever Uncle Consuelo Rivera, has known spend the money on his daughter. took their seats there did not seem audience found this humor- Jack Colon, played by Carlos Mr. Wlasick for many years At the end Aggie Hurley to be any need for seat fillers. ous line full of entertainment. Figueroa, appeared in the play. and voted for him for Teacher learns that there is always some- Before the play began I had a On Friday night, about Carlos was happy to say, of the Tri. Miss. Rivera said, thing new to learn and love about chance to speak to Jane, Consuelo midway through the play, a stage “My inspiration is comedy, I “ Mr. Wlasick is a great role a relationship over a lifetime. Rivera. She said, “I hope the play prop, a changing screen hit the just feel comfortable in a co- model. I would like to thank The play integrated kitchen is a success because all of the ac- floor. Casual and cool the actors medic situation. For my part in him for all he does and more.” sink realism. Kitchen sink real- tors deserve it. We have been prep- continued the scene. The bridal Mr. Wlasick began his ism means that the play deals ping for this play for ten weeks saleswoman, Emily Wold–Sal- [See Theatre, Pg. 5] career as an actor, but becom- ing bored with this occupa- hour travel period is due to the to experience the German life- tion came across a friend that time difference and change of style, just for a day,” said Tapia. taught at the Ranch. Later, his planes, it is still a long flight. “The “I am looking forward to friend Mr. Rigg, the drama plane ride will take…um…A going the Holocaust museums and teacher at the time, offered LOT of hours, enough to watch the BMW museum. I really want him the opportunity to take a movie or three,” said Zeko. to see the cars. Most of all I am re- his place. Mr. Wlasick took “While on the plane, I plan ally looking forward to tasting the the position and started at El to talk to the person next to me, lis- food from Germany,” said Molina. Rancho in October of 1980. ten to my music, and sleep. As for Senior Jose Tapia, who is El Rancho High School reading material I’m thinking of not a stranger to Europe, will be is Mr. Wlasick’s first and only taking my old “Brown bear, brown traveling with the Gadabouts for teaching job. He said, “El bear, what do you see?” Book,” the first time. “I have been to Italy. Rancho is my home.” His fa- said fellow traveler Jose Tapia. I went with my cousin and brother. vorite aspect in an everyday “I plan to sleep a lot and I I didn’t know what the Gadabouts school day is “Senior team am taking Twelfth Night, 1984, or were at the time,” said Tapia. because it inspires my mind Do n Pa g e Emily Dickinson to read on the With the trip less than two and Advanced and Begin- Four Christmas Wishes: Gadabouts will travel to Germany, Aus- plane,” said senior Angie Molina. days away, the Gadabouts have to ning Drama because it brings tria, Czech Republic, and Hungary. This will be the Gadabouts’ think of packing and money plans. out my artistic yearnings.” third trip to Europe. “Our first “I used to travel with the band Mr. Wlasick has taught trip was to London and Paris from North Park, so I know how the Senior Team class along- Gadabouts Head Out for during the 2006 spring break. much to pack,” said Senior Angel- side Mr. Meza since 1981. During the summer of 2007 we ica Molina. I think I’m going to Mr. Meza said, “Teaching visited Italy, Greece and Tur- take like $500,” said Abril Perez. This trip will not be with Mr. Wlasick has been Europe Trip this Saturday key, and now, during the 2008 the last one, according to Zeko. the highlight of my teaching winter break, we are going to By Ma d e l i n e Ro d r i g u e z rope, will take more than forty Germany, Austria, Hungary, and “I have a book of destinations, career because he is funny, El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r people to Germany, Austria, Hun- Czech Republic,” said Zeko. and the kids are currently mark- witty, extremely well-read, tal- gary, and the Czech Republic. The tour will start as ing the places they want to go. ented, and a dynamic teacher While everyone sleeps in “We leave LAX at 6:00 soon as they step off the plane. When this trip is over, we’ll of English and Drama. His on the first morning of Christ- AM on Saturday the 13th, change “We will head straight see where the kids want to go intelligence and sense of hu- mas break, El Rancho’s travel planes in Atlanta, and land in Mu- to Dachau, a concentration next by narrowing the choices mor never fails to amaze me club, the Gadabouts, will be fly- nich, Germany at 8AM on Sunday,” camp,” said Zeko. The stu- to the top three, and then vot- and I look forward to more ing to Central Europe. The club, said club advisor Charissa Zeko. dents have high hopes for what ing. There’s some talk of Japan” years of working with him.” which plans low cost trips to Eu- Although much of the 26 they will experience. “I hope

El Rancho High School

Page 2 Dec. 11, 2008 End of the Year Environmental Science Learn’s that Watsewater can be Reused Begings the By Re b e c c a Ro b l e s El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r Senior Year Last Friday Mr. Leonardi’s AP Environmental By Ma r i c r u z Ca s t r o -Sp e n c e r Science Class took a field trip El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r to the Wastewater Management Facility and the Whittier Narrows Nature Center in South While everyone is prepar- El Monte. ing for the New Year, seniors all At the Wastewater across the nation are filling out Management Facility the stu- financial aid and college applica- dents were shown a movie about tions. The pressure to fill out and how people waste water and the The AP Environmental Science class takes a trip to the Wastewater Management Facility an the Whittier turn in all applications having to amount of freshwater on earth. Narrows Nature Center in South El Monte, to learn about the recycling of water. do with college is showing on the Then the students were faces of seniors. From the twitch taken on a walking tour of the ued the students were exposed to fore me and I was drinking re- the tour the guides advised them in the eye to the hair that is messy facility. This walk through con- rancid smells. Nearing the end of cycled water.” to be aware of their surround- and uncombed to the bags under sisted of a tour of the special the tour the students were shown After this tour the stu- ings because of the wild animals. the eyes, a senior’s face is an open low flow toilets, the communi- the final product of the treatment. dents were driven to the Whittier Overall Mr. Leonardi, book that reveals just a glimpse of cation building, the wastewater The Mr. Moss, the tour guide, Narrows Nature Center. There they the AP teacher, said, “I thought their journey into the real world. treatment areas, and the ripar- said, “ In about five years with had the chance to view live ani- the field trip was great because There is no denying the ian zone located by the facility. water drinking treatment this mals such as the Red Tail Hawk, it provided the students with fact that some students have yet The wastewater treat- wastewater will be drinkable.” the Owl, and the Gopher Snake. real life experiences and it made to fill out a college application. ment area was a vast area that Wendy Reyes, Senior, The students were taken them appreciate how vulnerable School counselors have been try- contained pools of raw mate- said, “ I was shocked when I on a sight seeing tour at in the their water source is. It did a nice ing with all their might to get stu- rial being treated with chemicals found out that my drinking wa- Nature Center where they were job of tying in with the curricu- dents into college, but there is only and bacteria. As the tour contin- ter was consumed by people be- given binoculars. Throughout lum the students are learning.” so much they can do. Students are expected to know deadlines such as college cutoffs, Free Applica- tion for Federal Student Aid also Powder Puff Traditions Continue Tonight best friend/Varsity Pepster Janine known as FAFSA, Cal grants, By Ge n e s s e Ca rr i l l o coaches constantly remind their game was played in 1966, al- Vazquez). But will the cheerlead- and other important documents. El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r players. But, sorry girls, no butt though the notion of “transvestite ers’ confidence be enough to earn The college application pads. December after December, cheerleaders” wasn’t introduced a victory on either side? Senior cut-off date was November 30, In its forty second year the Junior and Senior girls who until after 1973. Today, the aspir- Coach Albert Arias says, “I think 2008 for students wanting to at- at the Ranch, the annual powder participate put on the pads that ing boy cheerleaders really get the Seniors are going to win be- tend during the fall of 2009. Stu- puff game will be played at the the boys used that very fall. “ into their role as the Pepsters of cause they want it more. They’re dents still have an opportunity to Don Memorial Stadium at 7:00 That’s grossssss. They’re going El Rancho, using the opportu- gonna play hard and win big. It’s submit an application, but it be- pm tonight. Along with the Night to smell and probably be heavy, nity to hike up their skirts and fi- our last year and they wanna go comes difficult as most colleges Pep Rally, the powder puff game so I’m most likely going to fall. A nally put on that cherry lip gloss out on top: Victorious.” Only one begin their classes in the fall. is one of the few traditions that has lot.” Senior Grey Team Receiver, they’ve been curious to taste. team will be able to call them- While applying for col- survived throughout the decades. Victoria Serrano says. Despite the “All I have to say is that last year selves the victors and champi- leges, students can see if they Although it is flag football, ERHS scents involved, “(Powder puff) we out-cheered the Seniors and ons after tonight’s game. But qualify for a fee waiver. A fee is the only school known to allow is the biggest money-maker here this year we will do the same to who will it be? Find out tonight waiver allows a student to apply their girls to wear full tackle gear. at El Rancho,” says Lil Gonza- the Junior cheerleaders!” says as the defending champions, to four colleges without having “You can’t tackle or wrap, but les, and it’s no wonder why… cheerleader Michael Becerra, al- the Senior Class of 2009, take to pay fifty-five dollars con- you still sure can hit,” the senior The first powder puff ter ego: Jamikey (in honor of his on the contenders, the Juniors. tinuously for each application. FAFSA is Federal Ap- plication for Financial Aid. It is an application that determines an Can Food Drive applicant’s eligibility for federal ABS Spirit Week money. Eligibility differs from college to college. Your fam- ily income and cost of attend- Comes to an End ing the college of one’s choice saved Christmas one foggy plays a big part in your eligibility. By Ge n e s s e Ca rr i l l o night. Some students and teach- Cal grants are a great El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r ers painted or otherwise applied advantage if a person chooses to red noses, while others refused go to college. It is money that In commemoration of the to “risk clogging their pores.” the state gives students to attend upcoming holidays, El Rancho’s The very same day, the college. Unlike student loans that ASB decided to take a different annual Christmas Tree Decorat- you have to pay back, Cal grants approach on Hanukkah and bring ing Contest took place in the are free State money. Each state the holiday spirit to El Rancho Quad during lunch. The Fresh- differs in the amount given. For for five consecutive days. “Spirit men took first place, channeling example, if a student wanted to The ERHS canfood drive met a goal of 7,887 pounds. The Seniors Week” is being held throughout a gingerbread/Candyland theme attend a college outside their got 1st place. Ms. Carreon’s class got 666.76pounds. Ms. Lugo came this last week of school before with homemade ornaments. home state, the amount given in 2nd with 596.92 pounds. Ms. Quresji followed 3rd with 539.14. vacation, sending off students Wednesday will give the to him/her would be different into the three-week break with students an opportunity to roll if they would attend a college Winter Formal an enjoyable school experience. out of bed and walk into El in their home state. In that case On Monday, students were Rancho. Although this is highly they would also pay out-of-state January 31, 2009 encouraged to wear red and green unlikely, considering that most tuition, which is much higher. Location: clothes to maintain traditional girls will take longer to dress up This is just the tip of the Quiet Cannon Christmas garment colors. Senior in pajamas than normal clothing. iceberg. There is much more to Purchase dates: Lucy Vargas dressed for the oc- Today, Spirit Week will take learn before an applicant venture Jan 5-9 casion in green, knee-high socks a short hiatus in order to celebrate out into the world. For more in- (which lit up with each step, no Powderpuff. Join the Juniors and formation on FAFSA visit their With ASB-$35 Guest $40 Without $40 less) and matching jingle bell the Seniors during lunch in the website at www.FAFSA.com. gym and watch performances by Jan 13-16 earrings. Other students, like For college applications go to Senior Jefferson Colindres, de- the Junior and Senior cheerleaders. www.csumentor.com. Fee With ABS-$40 Guest $45 cided to go for a more low-key Friday, the final day of waivers can be done online. If Without $45 look, simply wearing a shirt Spirit Week, will be Santa Hat you need further information ask Jan 19-27 with green and red graphics. Day, honoring the fat man in the your counselor or visit your career With ASB-$45 Guest $50 Tuesdays was Red Nose red suit who will stop by on the center. A new year and a time for day, in honor of Rudolph the 25th and leave students either a change are just around the corner. Without $50 Red-Nosed Reindeer, who nice present or a lump of coal. El Rancho High School

Dec. 11, 2008 Page 3

El Rodeo Asks: What changes do you hope to see in the world in 2009?

Teacher, Mr. Diaz Senior, Michael Wong “I expect the war in Iraq to end, I “Better presidency, no more hope that the economy improves, racist judgements, a better and I hope our global standing economy because I hope we get will improve because of our new back on our feet and resolve the Great Christmas Gifts Under $25 president.” health issues and I hope that the By Ir e n e Co r t e z Dodgers win the World Series.” El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r Guys and girls do not stress over what to get your boyfriend The best Christmas or girlfriend if money is the issue, gifts under 25 dollars can be then that is when your creativity found anywhere. Either go- kicks in. A simple card saying ing to Wal-Mart or going to the how much you love him or her mall, you can get a gift for $25 will make Christmas a day he or and it will have a lot of mean- she would not forget. Decorate ing to the person you give it to. the card to your choice and as a If you are a person that finishing touch a picture of you Senior, Jennifer Franco does not care what he or she gets two in the middle with a heart Advisor “I hope our new president will Freshman, Daniel Martinez for Christmas but worries what surrounding it will be wonderful. Paul Zeko stop the economic crisis and “There is going to be a new to give your girlfriend or boy- Girls if you do not know Editor-in-Chief hopefully end the war that president from a minority group friend, you can easily use your what kind of gift to get your best is dramatically crippling our so hopefully he can make a Madeline Rodriguez creativity or just hit the stores. friend, I believe that a scrapbook Jonathan Ruiz country.” difference for the United States” Some good gifts you can filled with photos of you and your Jonathan Ruiz give your girlfriend are some best friend would be great, if your Editors accessories from Forever 21 or best friend were a girl. If your News a couple of CD’s of her favor- best friend were a guy then a shirt Anabel Santillan Retraction ite bands or singers. You can or a gift card would be perfect. Opinion The El Rodeo staff would like to apologize to the history depart- Opinion also get something for your girl- Guys, a good gift for your Anabel Santillan ment for printing information about a teacher offering extra credit to friend for under $25 at the mall best guy friend will be a gift card Anabel Santillan protest lunch policies (Planned Student Protest Fails, By Ryan Rojas, and it can either be a nice shirt worth $25, and he can use the Features November 21, 2008). Since then we have learned that the source had from Macy’s or a shirt of her money for anything he wants Madeline Rodriguez provided false information and that there was no truth to this statement. favorite band from Hot Topic. to. For your best girl friend it Campus Some good gifts for your would be a gift card also but Jonathan Ruiz boyfriend would either be a from a store that is in the mall. Sports shirt of his favorite band or You do not have to spend so Sports Letter to the Editor with a funny saying or a simple much money on Christmas gifts. Jonathan Ruiz gift card. CD’s are also good Just make something special that Entertainment leave. Let us on board!” All Aboard? for your boyfriend or an I-tunes your boyfriend or girlfriend or Jonathan Ruiz They shouted. card would be perfectly fine. best friends would not ever forget. Style Letter Published in the Again, the white Anabel Santillan Whittier Daily News liberals argued with the Reporters Saturday, Nov. 28, 2008. engineer to let these people Ryan Rojas on board also. But, most of Victoria Serrano A train was about to Victoria Serrano the Hispanics and blacks, as Chantel Moreno leave the station. On board Chantel Moreno well as a few whites, said Jessica Flores were white people. Just Jessica Flores no: the train should leave Irene Cortez before it left, a group Irene Cortez without them. So, the gay Sandra Quinteros of blacks and Hispanics and lesbian people were left Sandra Quinteros Matt Crocitto came running over to the at the station and the train Matt Crocitto Jesse Rizo platform. “Please don’t departed. Jesse Rizo Alyssa Zacarias leave. Let us on board!” It was the civil rights Alyssa Zacarias Vanessa Banuelos they shouted. train to equality. I wonder, Vanessa Banuelos Stephany Castellanos The liberals on will it one day return to Stephany Castellanos Stephanie Pena board the train persuaded pick them up? Stephanie Pena Genesse Carrillo the engineer to let them Genesse Carrillo Maricruz-Castro ride. [Note: Both blacks and Maricruz-Castro Spencer The black and Hispanic California voters Spencer Hispanic people boarded. voted overwhelmingly—at El Rodeo is published Just before the train least 67%--in favor of once a month, except dur- left, this time, a group ing vacations, by the journal- Proposition 8.] ism class of El Rancho High of gays and lesbians School, 6501 S. Passons came running over to the Wes White Blvd., Pico Rivera, CA 90660. platform. “Please don’t Whittier El Rancho High School

Page 4 Features Dec. 11, 2008 Christmas Basket Committee give out to people who quali- fied. Volunteers receive a number and they have to look for the box with their num- ber then its carried out and given to the deserving family. It may all seem that the volunteers are working non stop, but they get a free El Rodeo Asks: By Jo n a t h a n Ru i z breakfast and a homemade El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r lunch that is made every day. What are you’re plans for The event is usually about Sophomore, Julie Nunez It’s the time of year eight to nine hours and all day this winter break? again when the Christmas the volunteers must be carry- “My family and I plan to go Basket Committee is offering ing out the heavy boxes to get to San Francisco then to the students under the age of eigh- their community service hours. mountains to snowboard.” teen a chance to volunteer. The The event provides Christmas Basket Committee the opportunity for all high is an organization made up of school students and parents. elderly people that helps the Every year Key Club and needy by providing a box full Leos Club participate in the of food for their Holiday meal. event because they are all If the family has kids they get about community service. It a bag of toys if they have kids. is not only about getting the Usually the commit- community service hours, but tee gets together in the gym the students also have the op- at Rivera Park, were volun- portunity to gain a experience teers get together with a part- from the event and they get the ner and a shopping cart and chance to meet new people. start filling up boxes with the People who usually rest of the food that could not volunteer are high school Teacher, Ms. Figueroa be put inn at the beginning. students that are doing it to Junior, Bobby Torres Junior, Jacob Gonzales “I plan to go to San Diego Volunteers must be willing to get the community service “My family and I are going “I’m going to Big Bear carry heavy thing out of the hours. The event has an ap- with my brother for a week, gym and to the person’s car. plication that the students to Utah to my cousins to with my family, I’ll be then go to Vegas, and then The boxes are num- must fill out if they are un- sled in the snow. Then were really excited to wake up spend time with my many bered, because they usually der the age of eighteen, and going to my uncle’s house and see snow on Christmas animals (on my mini- have one thousand boxes to the event will be tomorrow. to play video games.” morning.” farm).” El Rancho High School

Dec. 11, 2008 Features Page 5 Top Jamz for this Season Woogie Christmas is their best. tones versions of “Jingle Bells” 3) Tis’ the Season for Los and “The Little Drummer Boy”. Straitjackets (Los Straitjackets): 5) Sleighed: The Other Los Straitjackets are an instru- Side of Christmas (Various Art- mental rock-n-roll band with surf ists): The title says it all; this is rock influence that bring a lot of definitely not your mom’s classic energy and excellent guitar skills Christmas album. Talented bands to some otherwise lackluster orig- such as The Mighty Mighty Boss- inals. Again, because they are an tones, Beck, Less Than Jake, instrumental band, there are no Sonic Youth, and Local H, make words, but it really doesn’t matter this unconventional holiday al- because the excellent musician- bum exciting and clever. Some ship through the album makes tracks like “You Ain’t Getting up for it entirely. Los Straitjack- S*** For Christmas” by the Red By Ch a n t e l Mo r e n o (The Ventures): One of the 1960’s band the Stray Cats; Setzer now ets definitely put their own spin Peters, and “I Farted on Santa’s El Ro d e o St a f f w r i t e r greatest surf rock bands, The Ven- works with his orchestra on this on songs like “Christmas in Las Lap (Now Christmas is Gonna A large part of the American tures do Christmas songs like no exciting Christmas album filled Vegas” and “God Rest Ye Merry Stink for Me)” by The Little tradition of Christmas, besides one else. This awesome album with classics, as well as creative Gentlemen” which is played to Stinker, are somewhat childish, mass consumerism, is the Christ- actually no words, just a lot of originals, that have a rockabilly/ the surf rock classic, “Pipeline”. but still very funny. A majority mas music. Around this time you driving guitar, and the classic big band twist that is signature 4)Reggae Christmas From of the bands on the album are of can’t go shopping or turn on the surf rock sound. They do a good Setzer. Originals on the album Studio One (Various Artists): the ska and/or punk persuasion, radio with out hearing the fes- amount of the classics on this 12- such as “Boogie Woogie Santa” This album has a good collection but if you’re not into that, Beck, tive, sometimes irritating, holi- track album, from “Jingle Bell and “Cactus Christmas” are hu- of early reggae/”rock steady” art- Sonic Youth, and Spinal Tap hold day music. The classics are good, Rock” to “White Christmas”. This morous and fun. Setzer’s take ists such as Bob Marley and the their own with tracks “Santa but often the covers some current creative, entertaining, and unique on the classics are my favorite; Wailers, the Heptones, Alton El- Doesn’t Cop Out on Dope”(Sonic artists do are mediocre at best. album is definitely one of the his versions of “Baby, it’s Cold lis, and Freddie McGregor. Bob Youth) and “Christmas with the If you’re tired of the same old best Christmas albums out there. Outside” and “The Nutcracker Marley and the Wailers’ version Devil”(Spinal Tap). Overall this holiday music every year, check 2) Brian Setzer Orches- Suite” are some of the best covers of “Sound the Trumpet” is excel- is one of the funniest and uncon- out the following untraditional tra’s Boogie Woogie Christmas of the songs I’ve heard. This al- lent and includes “Santa Claus is ventional collections of holiday Christmas albums that bring some (The Brian Setzer Orchestra): bum originally came out in 2002, Comin’ to Town” in the bridge. music out there; check it out. edge to those much-loved classics You may recognize Brian Setzer and BSO has since put out anoth- Other enjoyable tracks are Ten- 1) The Ventures Christmas as the front man of rockabilly er Christmas album, but Boogie nessee Brown and the Silver-

Band gets a new Band Director for...the third time.

Ma r i c r u z Ca s t r o -Sp e n c e r El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r

In marching band, it only takes one person to throw off a rank. That same rank will mess up a diagonal. That diagonal will mess up a file, and all of that will result in the entire band being thrown off because of that one person. With the help of new band director Reggie Cordero the band no longer faces that problem. “The Band and Colorguard Rebecca Robles has consistently exceeded my Cast of and crew of A Catered Affair hams during dress rehersal. expectations,” says Cordero. After having three dif- Bottom row: Matthew Crocito, Bejamin Cobain, Shane Green. Middle ferent band directors in three Row Genevive Dominguez, and Maricruz Castro-Spencer. Top row: years, the Marching Dons were Dara Belarmino, (not in picture Erika Rodriguez) are the last remain- beginning to lose hope in find- ing Seniors in the Marching Band. Theater ing a band director that “knew us, our band and our learning (Continuation from Page 1) changed a lot because of band. style,” said Senior Genevieve Cordero says, “I think it’s “It has changed me because The play I viewed my Dominguez, Band President. great. With a lot of freshmen who viewed the play, I discov- I have become more open to music Grandpa’s movement so I could “I’ve always known El they learn from the examples of ered all said good things about and I’ve become more responsible get into character. Also, I gave the Rancho had lots of potential. Jose the upperclassmen, so I think the performance. Sarah Medina, and a more dependable person.” play a 110% because Mr. Wlasick Diaz was a college colleague of it’s been great because they’ve senior at ERHS, said, “I thought said Drum major, Ivan Briseno. has done do much for me that I mine and, so, since he started done well with what we do here.” the lighting was really good. It “It’s taught me the value feel like I owe him.” working here I have followed “They’re a really good seemed like the lighting gave of friendship, because band Dilprit Singh and Jose the band and what they’ve been bunch of kids and they are all the effect of a different room people are some of the best Tapia, seniors at ERHS, both doing.” Cordero said of why he very talented. They made the every time the light changed.” people and they will teach you agreed that Bianca Leon’s act- decided to work at El Rancho. band better and for that I’m There was even a little ro- things about music, life, and ing as Alice Scanlon stirred With a change of three thankful,” said Dominguez. mance throughout the play that yourself,” said Dominguez. emotions. Dilprit Singh said, “ directors the band has been re- Freshman John Bar- made the younger part of the The Marching Dons Miss Leon’s small yet signifi- classified three times. This rios said, “It’s been challeng- audience giggle. Consuelo Ri- have overcome many obsta- cant role was very memorable. year the band and colorguard ing because there are so many vera, as Jane, and Jeremy Za- cles and have still been able Her ability to bring tears to her have received awards at all the limitations, but at the same zueta–Ruiz, as Ralph, shared a to go out and impress others. eyes and breaks in her voice dis- events that they’ve competed in. time there is so much poten- few blissful kisses that stirred Dominguez summed up her played pure professionalism.” “In the summer time we tial and everyone works hard.” the crowd to the edge of their feelings by saying, “I would de- All of the actors possessed had a very small program and With marching season seats. Also, at the end of the play, scribe the Mighty Marching Dons a sense of professionalism as the first two weeks of school it coming to an end the March- Chantel Santos and David Her- as brilliant, fun, competitive, and they took the stage speaking with began to grow. The band and col- ing Dons are getting ready for nandez, as Mr. and Mrs. Hurley, surprising. We’ve surprised peo- appropriate accents. The cos- orguard members both worked concert season, but their band shared a jaw-dropping smooch. ple who once thought we were tumes fit the era and the stage extremely hard,” says Cordero. director is looking even further. The play seemed to be a hit nothing special. We proved them was beautifully constructed. Along with a new band di- “What I’m hoping [for with the El Rancho audience along wrong and showed how we can The lighting helped rector came fresh new faces. This next year] is that the band with several people from the com- persevere and strive to become set the mood, as did the musi- year the band consists mainly of grows and that we build the munity. El Rancho Thespians can what people didn’t think we would cal interludes between scenes. freshmen, and that seems to em- size of the band.” said Cordero. put another feather in their cap. be again, the pride of Pico Rivera.” After speaking to others power the band to raise the bar. Students have learned and El Rancho High School

Page 6 Dec. 11, 2008 Independent New Begining for Lady Dons Blue Pride Classic Tournament Continues Through Saturday By Ma t t h e w Co r c i t t o Gomez, forward/ guard Miriam a three point third quarter putting have a lot of returners and every- El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r Espinoza, guard Gabriella Vil- them behind the eight ball and fin- one is hungry for a league cham- The Lady Dons varsity lalobos, and guard Joanna Villa. ishing with twenty turnovers. El pionship,” says Jefferson Colin- basketball team begins this sea- Senior captain Tatiana Rancho battled back in the fourth dres senior forward. He adds, son away at the Fullerton tour- Gomez says, “ I feel anxious for quarter but was not enough to “It’s important because most of nament looking to improve this season even though it is going stop the Gaucho’s 63-40 victory. us have been on varsity since on their 8-18 record last year. to be a challenge. She also explains Brandon Rodriguez, cap- sophomore year and it is finally Coach Shigezane explains that though the team is not a very tain and point guard, says, “It time to see all that work pay off.” that the team’s main goals this experienced, the commitment lev- was a tough lost but I still have Carlos Estrada senior small year is to improve on their re- el and work ethic are exceptional. The boy’s basketball team high hopes for the rest of our forward says, “This year’s team cord from last year and to con- Senior captain Miriam Espi- launched the Blue Pride Clas- games.” Forward Ishmael Santa has a certain type of swagger and tend for a league title. He also noza says, “ this year means a lot sic with a score of 49-38 against Cruz adds, “The game was like we know what we are capable adds that returning four-year especially to the seniors because Rosemead High. sand in our hands, it slipped of. It’s as simple as redemption; point guard Tatiana Gomez and we really want to make this year the right through our fingers.” a chance to make up for all the By Ma t t h e w Co r c i t t o the play of the post is going to most memorable as a Lady Don. The Dons, now 1-1 in sea- years prior. Anything less than El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r be a big strength with the team. Senior Gabriella Villalobos son, look forward to the rest of a championship is a failure.” On the other hand, since talks about her role as a captain, the tournament which will contin- For the seniors that have there are only three return- “to make the team better I will do On Dec. 5th the boy’s varsi- been in the program since ing varsity players, the team whatever it takes to accomplish ty basketball teams launched into freshman year, it is their last is going to have to be more our goals meaning getting every- their regular season with a 49-38 “The game was year to show the true poten- independent which will be a one to stay focused, practicing win over Rosemead High School. like sand in our tial of El Rancho basketball. Despite the victory, the Dons fell weakness for the Lady Dons. hard and being punctual. We have hands, it slipped right Senior Ricardo Gutier- “I hope to be in the hunt to play as a team, ‘we not me.”’ to Narbonne High School in the rez says, “It is our last year and to win an league title and get into There seems to be a first game of the fifteenth annual through our fingers” we have to leave everything on the playoffs,” says Shigezane. common trend this year for the Blue Pride Classic ; a Tourna- the floor and have no regrets.” The players that will lead the Lady Dons; work together and ment hosted by El Rancho in This senior oriented Lady Dons this year are the three play hard in order to change the which fifteen teams from around ue through December thirteenth. team looks very promising for captains: point guard Tatiana 1992 league banner into 2009. the area go head to head and As the boy’s varsity bas- this season and in the end they compete for the championship. ketball team begins their jour- look to make history by add- Ganesha High Down’s Dons 2-1, Led by Captain Jeremiah ney towards league, a hint of ing a class of ’09 on the league Salcedo’s fifteen points and eight determination besieges them. championship banner which In Boys Soccer rebounds, the Dons fell short with “I feel great because we has been untouched since 1962. By Vi c t o r i a Se rr a n o as pumped up as they were in El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r the first. Second year starting This past Monday, boy’s defense, Dorian Puntes, commit- Girls Water polo Team Start Season Strong soccer played against Gane- ted a foul which resulted in pen- winning the games against Bur- sha High School and reached alty where Ganesha made a goal. bank High School, (12-5) and a very close score of 1-2. They were now neck and neck. Temple City (10-4), were key El Rancho had a domi- Finally, at the last 10 games in preparing them for the nating beginning. They minutes of the game, Gane- rest of the upcoming season. had plenty of chances for sha managed to slip by the de- Senior Mehgan Carbajal, and goals, but they didn’t finish. fense and made a final goal. Junior Isela Aguirre were key They then committed a Senior Ceasar Roldan was players in those victories against foul that resulted in a penalty, asked what could have been Temple City and Burbank. but hen the penalty kick was a done to improve El Rancho’s The water polo team miss. So El Rancho had a chance tactics, he said, “Forward needs or D.W.P (Dons Water Polo), to get the ball with a corner kick to finish. (We need to) play to- has suffered close losses to La and Senior Ceasar Roldan, last gether.” While Senior Marvin Canada, (11-9) who were di- years goalie converted to for- Valenzuela simply said, “We vision 4 and ranked fourth in ward, got the ball and scored have to play better as a team.” league. The other close loss a header in the 31st minute. Despite the loss, the was to St. Lucy’s (14-10) who When the second half team will still rise above is ranked second in division 3. came along, El Rancho was not and win their future games. While the rest of El Ran- cho is vacationing and eating lots of tamales, the DWP team will continue to train hard and play one of their toughest games CoachPringle helps the Waterpolo team to win tournament. The of the season, against Martin ERHS Waterpolo team starts season with a record of 5-2. Luther King Jr. High School. By Jo s e p h Ma r t i n e z “The girls are playing hard El Ro d e o St a f f Me mb e r cord of 5-2. After winning the and showing improvements, and El Rancho tournament title last we look to be in a very good spot The Girls Varsity water weekend, the team feels posi- at the end of the season.” “We polo team is starting the sea- tive about the rest of the season. plan to be in the hunt for the son off with a successful re- Head Coach Pringle felt league title,” said Coach Pringle

Girls Soccer Enters Successful Pre-Season The entire team was thrilled to come out as tournament champs. “I feel very overjoyed and excited that we made school history,” Captain Vanessa Torres says about the victory. This is the first time the Dons have placed first in a tourna- ment of this caliber, and this victo- ry helps the Lady Dons feel confi- dent about their upcoming season. The Lady Dons finished the tournament with a record of 5-1-0. Senior Tanya Moreno says, By Ge n e s e e Ca rr i l l o ern Christian Soccer Tournament. “I feel really happy; I hope that the El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r It was a hard fought battle, season continues to be successful.” with the Lady Dons prevailing The girls played St. On Monday, the girl’s soc- in penalty kills in overtime. Se- Paul on Wednesday after- cer team defeated Hesperia High nior Johanna Interiano scored noon. Results were unavail- School in the title game of the West- the final goal to break the tie. able at time of publication. El Rancho High School

Dec. 11, 2008 Page 7 Metallica’s New Tour Comes to California in Time for Christmas By Jo s e p h Ma r t i n e z added to the Metallica sound. El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r For the past four long years, Metallica hasn’t toured in A Very Magnetic Christmas Southern California since 2004, Metallica is currently touring the which was at the Arrowhead states on their “World Magnetic Pond in Anaheim, CA. For the Tour” for the release of their new al- many unfortunate people that bum “Death Magnetic,” including missed the concert, it was not a three dates scheduled in Southern show to be missed. Songs that California that take place haven’t been played in count- during the Christmas break. less years like “Disposable He- Metallica is easily one of roes” were played that night. the biggest names in heavy met- During the winter break they al with record sales peaking as will be playing shows in Fresno, high as the Beatles and Michael San Diego, Ontario, and a two- Jackson. On September 12, 2008 night show in Los Angeles. Tickets the band released their ninth stu- sold out quick for the concerts in dio album “Death Magnetic.” San Diego and Ontario, but The new album heavy metal there are tickets still available at its finest with a main focus on “Death Magnetic” is everything lease “St. Anger,” which was filled for the shows in Los Angeles. Bitten by uprooting the classic thrash riffs. but a “Part II” of their 2003 re- with many different elements Just in time for Christmas! Twilight Fails to Shine Twilight supposed to be one of the great- The special effects were hor- from the movie completely as est movies of the year, was very rid and belonged in the 90’s. well as other important content. By Vi c t o r i a Se rr a n o disappointing to both fans of Throughout the movie, This movie was a disaster and El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r the book and those who just en- romance in the air, or at least the only reason why people went joy good movies. Twilight failed that was the feeling that was sup- back to watch the movie was for The Twilight saga, a storm to meet the basic standards of posed to be there. The romance Edward, a boy with perhaps the that has swept the nation, is any good movie’s structure. was too overdone and the dia- largest forehead and the thick- adored by teens across the U.S. As millions of people logue seemed like something a est eyebrows I’ve ever seen. Everywhere you go, you waited in lines at midnight show- child would say not a vampire I give this mov- will see someone wearing a Twi- ing, people’s anticipation was start- who was well over a century old. ie a single star out of 5. light shirt or talking about the ing to build. As I sat in the theatres This book was aimed for book. Senior Josh Munoz said, hearing millions of people chat, teenage girls and even as I left “At first I wasn’t too fond of it; I most of them female, I thought the theatre number three I heard figured it was just a teenage trend a movie with this much fuss had girls younger than I am say- that everyone wanted to be in- to at the very least be decent. ing, “Wow that movie sucked.” volved in, just like any other...but Sadly I was mistak- What seemed to be after reading the books, I can see en. Watching the movie made the biggest disappointment to why so many people enjoy it.” me feel like I was back before the fans of the book was the The story is about a dev- By Ry a n Ro j a s Shakespeare’s time, where in amount of content left out. ilishly handsome vampire El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r depth comedy did not exist. The The descriptive detail, named Edward and the seem- acting was horrible and no one which was one of the greater ingly simple Bella and their un- Twilight, which was seemed to playing the right part. qualities of the book, was stripped accepted dangerous love. Ed- ward does all he can to protect Bella from his world; Bella, on Twilights Lights Up the the other hand, attracts trouble. From book to book their love grows, and the situations get Movie Screen’s more and more dangerous. But the St e p h a n i e Pe n a awkwardness that many hoped Cullen family (Edward’s vampire El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r for. On the other hand, every family) always sticks together and time that Pattison looks at Bella, manages to make it in the end. Since its movie release it looks so ridiculous that the Then there are Quileute on November 21st, Twilight has viewer cannot help but laugh. tribe (A group of descended from been breaking box office records, Thankfully Bella’s wolves) who, at first, are com- making an estimated $70.6 mil- monologues are kept to a pletely against the Cullen fam- lion on its opening weekend. minimum. Her sometimes im- ily and all vampires. Throughout The biggest opening sales for pure and all too lovey-dovey the books they begin to work a female movie directed ever. thoughts are not said out loud together to fight off rival vam- Walt Disney’s Bolt, Televisions Although many say through out the whole movie. pires who seek to do them harm. that the movie missed too The movie is not just well Jacob Black, an heir al- Super Dog Falls in Real Life many of the books more sig- done because of the love story pha dog, is completely in love nificant parts, it was refresh- between a hunky vampire and a with Bella and despises Ed- By An a b e l Sa n t i l l a n convince Bolt that his super pow- ing to not have another Harry teenage girl but Charlie Swan, ward. Until, Breaking Dawn, El Ro d e o St a f f Wr i t e r ers are fictional and attempts on Potter wanna-be movie series. Bella’s father, will remind teen- the last and final book in the teaching him how to be a real dog, Robert Pattison, who age girls of how their fathers saga, they seem to get along. Reaching a moderate while Rhino preoccupies himself plays the role of Edward Cul- reacted the first time they went This love triangle di- $79.2M in the box office, Dis- with trying to “fight off evil”. len, and Kristen Steward, who out with a boy. Even if it doesn’t, vides Twilight fans into three ney’s Bolt is a fun and quirky From simple-minded pi- plays Isabella Swan, completely they’ll remember what they groups: Team Edward, Team film about a naïve television su- geons to whimsical cats, Bolt of- capture the chemistry from the thought their father would do! Jacob, or Team Switzerland. per dog (voiced by John Travolta) fers a vast amount of comedy (al- book between Edward and Bella. Overall, the movie made Senior Genesse Carrillo that accidentally gets shipped out though mostly simple jokes) that The bedroom scene could not record breaking sales and it kept said, “It will be impossible for of his show stage in Hollywood can reach a variety of audiences. have been more intense or sweet. true to Stephanie Meyer’s book. me to ever find true love; un- to New York City and tries to And just like many other animated Although that is the only scene It might not have perfectly cap- less of course, the boy is Ed- find his way back to his human films, it was the side-characters where the intensity of Edward tured every moment of the book ward Cullen…Team Edward!” and co-star Penny (Myley Cyrus). who stole the majority of the spot- and Bella’s relationship is seen, but that is what made it so great, a Cassandra Mendoza says, Accompanied by a sarcastic light, Rhino being the funniest. it is enough to keep the viewers lot of it was left to interpretation! “Jacob and Edward are so in love cat named Mittens (Susie Esman) Having a main theme of wanting more. Who ever thought with Bella that I just can’t choose, and hilarious hamster named devotion and friendship Bolt is that Bella could be so aggressive! so I’m Team Switzerland.” Rhino (Mark Walton), Bolt goes a wonderful film for the fam- Steward is definitely clum- With its intriguing tale through a number of adventures ily or even for a date. But enjoy- sy and does look very uncom- of romance that breaks past in order to save penny from the able as it though, it isn’t a film I fortable when getting attention, all possible and mythical bar- show’s “green eyed” villain, who would watch many times over. especially when the attention is riers, Twilight allows readers Bolt believes to be real. Along the given by Edward (Pattison), giv- to fantasize and dream that an way, Mittens continuously tries to Overall Grade: B+ ing the movie the same sort of impossible love can happen. El Rancho High School

Page 8 Style Oct. 31, 2008 Simply Irresistible

By: St e p h a n i e Ca s t e l l a n o s El Ro d e o s t a f f w r i t e r

Saray Sanchez is known by Babie.S. She’s a junior and is simply ir- resistible with her smart, cute, funny personality. She would do anything to make you happy, and loves mak- ing everyone laugh. She also is Currently taking a dance class in West Covina, to stay in a good shape. She loves art, open to any music, and like to have good time. What she like in a man, is really hard to find, she is difficult, and is picky about whom she lets in her life. Ariet Angeles Melissa Carrillo Valerie Jimenez Federico Bobadilla Her dream boy has to be into Senior Sophomore Junior Freshman art, open to music, open- Beanie-Calvin Klein Shirt- Hollister $26 Scarf- Charlotte Russe $15 Shirt-Anchor Blue $20 minded, having a really fun- Collar shirt-Kenneth Cole Vest-Bloom $35 Long sleeve- Burlington Sweater-Krew $50 ny personality, and knows how to move. She likes to be $40 Jeans-PacSun $39.99 $16 Vest-Calvin Klein $45 spoiled, and taking out once Vest-Jeffrey Beene $50 Boots- Ross $20 Jeans- Anchor Blue $25 Pants-Levis $36 in a while. The main thing Jacket-Claiborne $75 Shoes- Vision $15 Shoes-Converse $40 she wants in a relationship Belt-Vans $15 is true love, someone that Shoes-Vans $35 shows that they really care. The thing that both- Trendsetters of the Month ers her the most is negative people, and just like every- one else she doesn’t like li- Word On the street: ars. She believes that nega- tivity makes this world a How is the economy ugly place, and no one will going to affect your By: Je s s e Ri z o be happy. Lying to her is El Ro d e o s t a f f w r i t e r like spitting in her, “there is Christmas break? no reason to lie about any- thing you insecure about your self” said Sanchez

Name: Saray Sanchez Age: 16 Status: Single Senior Gerardo Sophmore Andrew Grade level: Junior Rosales said, “It will Gamboa said, “This will affect me like me either affect me or be in not going to Mexico my favor. It can be in my anymore, I’m really favor because that will bummed out by that. mean that I wont have to And I’m not getting as buy my family anything. much presents like last It will affect me in a Christmas.” way that I will not get expensive presents.”

Mr. Elliot math Senior Edgar Torres teacher/ basketball coach said, “It will affect me said, “I don’t know if by my presents not being it is going to affect my as expensive as the past winter break, because I years. And I wont get as spend most of my time much either.” here at El Rancho.”