The Matador Monthly

Garden Grove Unified School District Volume IX Issue III November/December 2012 The Matador Monthly

9401 Westminster Boulevard Garden Grove, California 92844 School News • Winter Play, “A Night of Joy to the Matador World Skits” @ Black Box The- ater Hubert Pham Christmas cheer would not no one should have missed! she was assigned to, Agata Thursday, December 13, 7-9 Front Page Editor be complete without the But that is not all! On Ho (12) replied, “$150! It PM jingles of Christmas carols, Thursday, December 21st, burned a hole in my wal- Friday, December 14, 3:30- and Mr. Stanley’s many AP Bolsa’s musical department let, haha.” Surely, the joy of 5:30 PM & 7-9 PM It’s the most won- • Pictures with Santa @ Psychology ASB room derful time of the year-- students can Monday-Friday, December and it’s here! Bolsa Grande surely gift 17-21 High School staff and stu- you with a • Winter Choral & Instru- dents have already pre- carol-- that mental Concert @ Don pared for the long awaited Walsh Auditorium is, a Psy- Thursday, December 20, Winter Break, which comes chology-re- Time TBA with the two widely cel- mixed carol! • Winter Holiday Assembly ebrated holidays: Christ- In addition, Friday, December 21 mas and New Year. Not Bolsa’s very • Winter Break only is the holiday recess Saturday- Sunday, December own faculty 22- January 6 a very much-needed stress has decided • Return from Break reliever, but it is also a to sprinkle Monday, January 7 time for jolly festivities competitiv- with friends, renewals of ity into the family bonds, and hope- holidays by World Quickies ful thoughts of resolutions. holding its With the holiday celebra- very first an- There is a school tions in mind, teachers, the in Tokyo, Japan called To- nual Christ- kyo’s Santa Claus Academy. associated student body, mas Sweater True to its name, this school students, and even our Contest, Our janitor, Tony, flaunting his festive spirit by decorating his car. Make sure trains people to be-- as the lovely custodians have all with Ms. check it out! Japanese say, “Santa-san.” flaunted their Christmas Steele win- The “Santa school” agenda spirit in joyful anticipa- ning first place for the best held its Winter Choral and giving has outweighed the includes learning magic tion for our great escape. sweater and Ms. Terfling- Instrumental Concert. This result of an empty wallet! tricks, how to behave like From fluffy, red Santa Santa Clause, and how to er being awarded for the year marked an alteration Two weeks off school? hats to beautifully ornate worst Christmas gear. in tradition, as the band, Certainly, many would answer children’s difficult Christmas trees, Christ- questions. One such ques- Many of Bolsa’s the orchestra, and the agree that two weeks is tion is “If my house has a mas spirit was present this many organizations and chorus department joined ample time to take a break security system, how will whole week and was seen clubs hold annual Christ- together for one concert from early morning awak- you come and delivery my all around the campus. mas traditions to prepare filled with classical, popu- enings, stressful schedules, presents?” The school’s an- Perhaps you spotted the staff and the student lar Christmas tunes. Add- high school drama, and any swer? The system should our custodian, Tony, with a body for the holidays. May- ing to the Christmas cus- school-related work. The recognize Santa Clause and bright-red Santa hat cruis- be you caught a glimpse toms, our very own ASB mention of Winter Break let him enter. ing around all week on his of Santa Claus in the ASB also arranged a toy drive would surely ignite a stu- remarkable electric rein- room and pinched yourself, to donate gifts to children dent’s bursting impulse to On Monday, De- deer. The janitorial cart cember 10, Uzbekistani only to find out that the in need. ASB not only as- exclaim his or her antici- President Islam Karimov cosplaying as a reindeer jolly fellow was not a hallu- signed a child to homeroom pation of it. If I received placed an informal ban on would surely warm your cination after all. You see, classes that wished to par- a dollar for every time I Father Frost and his wife hearts! B o l s a ’ s ticipate but also included heard the words, “I can’t (our Santa Clause and Mrs. B o l s a very own the designated child’s wish wait for Winter Break”… Claus). Much like Dr. Se- c l a s s e s Photogra- list and thereby, helped Yet, be forewarned, oh dear, uss’s fictional character, the are also phy Club spread the Christmas cheer fellow Matadors. Finals Grinch, the authoritarian reveling government of Uzbekistan cleverly to those who would not re- loom in the imminent dark in the organized ceive a Christmas present shadows of Winter Break’s is said to be stealing Christ- spirit of mas. Reports have indicated a photo otherwise. end and are just around the that Karimov is attempting the sea- booth Furthermore, Secret Santa, corner. It would be advis- to rid Uzbekistan of its So- son and held dur- a Western Christmas tradi- able not to entirely shut off viet culture, starting with h a v e ing lunch tion in which members of a one’s brain and to not erase eliminating the celebration incor- f r o m group or a community are the extensive collection of of popular holidays, such as porated M o n d a y, randomly assigned a per- the valuable information New Year’s Eve and Valen- certain Decem- son to whom they anony- acquired this school year! tines’ Day. Christ- ber 17th, mously give a gift, was or- Sadly for some, homework On December 14, mas el- through ganized by the numerous and study packets have 20 year-old Adam Lanza ements Wednes- and various clubs of Bolsa been assigned over the entered Sandy Hook El- to their day, De- Grande High School. To break. Do not procrasti- ementary School in the class- cember name a few Secret Santa nate, for it will be the death once peaceful town, New- r o o m . 20th, practitioners, M.E.S.A., of your recess relaxation! town, Connecticut, and Uncer- allow- Bolsa’s music department, Get it off your hands from opened fire, leaving 26 peo- ing you Key Club officers, and ASB the start and enjoy the rest t a i n ple dead—20 of the victims to take a all partook in this amus- of your break, carefree. of the were young children of ages Mr. Tonthat’s albino Christmas tree. picture ing tradition. Notable for The beginning of the various 6 to 7. Also amongst the de- with your their annual dedication school year filled with our ceased were 6 adults, includ- avail- ing the school’s principal friends and with the addi- to fulfilling each other’s hard, vigorous work takes able sorts of Christmas tion of a jubilant, real-life wish lists, ASB happily ex- its bow from the school Dawn Lafferty Hochsprung. trees? One can spot an The shooting at Sandy Hook Santa Claus. Featuring a changed their gifts on Fri- year stage and leaves us Elementary is the second- albino Christmas tree Santa Claus sporting his day as with the other clubs. with the blessing of a two- deadliest school shooting in decorated with golden, traditional attire, a warm When asked about the aver- week vacation from school. the US, following the 2007 glittering ornaments in smile, and a deep “Ho ho age price she spent for the Joy to the world-- or, joy to Virginia Tech shooting. Mr. Tonthat’s classroom! ho”, it was an opportunity secret club member that Bolsa! Page 2 Editorials November/December 2012 One Text Makes a Huge Effect cause. Driving is an action that the morning; you may breathe tention is usually immediately dollars in repair costs. Was it Kevin Le requires your utmost attention. a sigh of relief when you hear pulled toward the direction of really worth it to respond to a Staff Writer You have several mirrors you the sound of the school bell the phone. This poses a huge text immediately? need to consis- threat to a person Texts are meant to be It is clearly stated in tently look at, you who is driving. a convenient means of commu- the California Driver Hand- constantly have Imagine an nication, made for people with book: “Regardless of age, it is to scan your sur- average scenario, busy lives so they can respond illegal to drive a motor vehicle roundings to de- with a person driv- quickly whenever they are free. while using an electronic wire- termine whether ing comfortably People can respond to texts less communication device to it is safe to turn toward the green whenever they want, but people write, send, or read text mes- left or right, pay light, down West- expect replies the instant the sages, instant messages, and attention for traf- minster, with the text is sent out. It isn’t worth emails.” This is a key concept fic lights and usual amount of responding to a text while driv- to understand when you’re tak- signs, etc. Any traffic there is in ing, when the same thing could ing your permit test. This ques- attention diverted the area, while be accomplished when you stop tion is almost always given on away from recog- texting. The light driving and/or arrive to your any version of the test you may nizing your sur- turned red a few destination. I suggest that peo- be taking, and most of the time, roundings and put seconds ago, and ple stop, and think for a second people answer this question into looking down said person was not about what they could possibly correctly. After all, it IS com- at your lap for a paying attention lose by choosing to respond mon sense, right? text message is a Avoid texting and driving at all cost! There are lives around you because he took a to a text five or ten minutes Wrong. It’s amazing crash waiting to that you are endangering as well as your own. second to look at late. If you choose to not text how there are still people that happen. the text he had just or handle electronic devices text or use electronic devices Our brains respond ringing. Most of us respond sent. He crashes into the car in while driving, not only would while they drive. One would to certain sounds in different to the tones of our cell-phones front of him, causing no severe you be obeying the rules of the think it would be basic knowl- ways. You may become more with two questions: “Where is injuries to either person, but road, but you could also save edge to know how much dan- alert when you hear the sound my cell phone?” and, “Who is causing major damage to both the lives of both you and your ger texting while driving can of your alarm clock ringing in calling/texting me?” Our at- cars involved, and hundreds of fellow members of the road. ‘Tis the Season to be Sneezy Up Close and Personal tentially miss fully covering up your sneeze, it would be much Dominic Nguyen ization that nothing exciting has tensive vocabulary he has learned more beneficial to others if one Editor-in-Chief happened in his life. from his AP classes that must be were to sneeze within his/her Shannon Advincula Many a despairing soul employed: it’s bull--- excrement. shirt. Someone may complain: Editor-in-Chief When we were all chil- is applying outstanding fabri- And so many a de- “Oh but that’s gross! If I sneeze dren, we had a natural, inborn cations and exaggerations to a spairing soul has BSed his way inside my shirt, I will have the The personal statement habit where whenever we felt an life event with the desperation through his personal statement icky germs touching my body!” has elicited hysteric urgency inch on our nose, we prepared to elude college admission offi- and submitted the convincing ar- Well, it’s not any more contami- amongst the senior class of pro- our hands in order to sneeze and cers into the misconception that ticulation to teachers and unfortu- nating than touching common spective students (and appli- cover our lovely little palms with he is a culturally versed, experi- nate editors-in-chiefs for review. items that has been riddled with cants) at UC campuses. Seem- infectious, tiny droplets. Our enced intellectual. Ironically so And so many a third party has plenty of germs then using your ingly descended upon college parents scolded us because it his abuse of Thesarus.com has assumed the misfortune of revi- hands to touch your face (except hopefuls like a plague or curse was simply improper and would sionary effort towards for in the case where a sneeze in such immediacy, it only aid spreading germs around a rather private affair could concur a big wad of mu- is astonishing to know to others as our grabby hands of a student’s life that cus; in this instance, I’d suggest that UC applications might touch bathroom door- prior was unknown and to simply hope for the best in were open for progress knobs, other childrens’ toys, our following should have deciding which method to use to well over a month ago. own food, etc. Thus, they taught continued unknown. block a sneeze) and any possible The Common Applica- us to avoid using our hands and The fabricated moisture from the sneeze will go tion for private univer- instead use the inside of our arm significance of a minor away given a minute or two. The sities, even, has been in order to cover our noses. This life event is glaringly shirt is much closer to the nose available since Sum- way, the vast region of our fore- obvious, apparent upon then the arm, and by a quick tug mer. arm could blockade the mucus the essay as an over- of the hand, it’s quick and easy So why the coming from our nostrils. It grown tumor. Apparent to sneeze into the inside of a rush? Can it be as- sounds simple enough! is the mental image of shirt so that viruses and bacteria cribed to senioritis or It has come to my at- a young student fran- are kept away from others. I im- the age-old epidemic tention that over the years, us- tically searching his plore you all to be practical when of procrastination? ing one’s arm in order to cover a memory database for an it comes to sneezing; think about Insecurity or uncer- sneeze is actually quite pointless event--any event--and how you could stop spreading tainty? A general infor the most part. Just imagine: a subsequent applica- the flu or common cold around ability to apply drama- tion of the world’s most You feel a tingling sensation by changing up your reaction to tized significance and noble themes to said within your nose. It suddenly sneezes! Then there wouldn’t philosophical analysis event which before had rushes through your nostrils, be problems of students walk- of “character-building” no meaning. tickling the hairs inside, and you ing around school either carrying and “aspiration-devel- And inglorious have an uncontrollable urge to let tissues because they were un- oping” effects to life as it seems, the college the sneeze rip. You place your willing to take a day off in order experiences? shall praise the work of arm up in front to act as a shield to recuperate as they believed a Having had to bull excrement. It is af- but OH NO! Your face has al- Writer’s block will be the death of you, your sleep, and small cold they received from scrutinize the “cause ter all what they should ready puckered up as a plethora your chances. being exposed to a sneeze won’t and effects,” “change expect in requesting of germs come flying through be much of a bother. over time,” and “rhe- a young individual’s the air, and only a few are caught adversely misplaced nonsensi- “most significant accomplish- Although the peak torical devices” of historical in- within your arm, while the rest cally advanced vocabulary into ment” and admirable qualities. during flu season hasn’t been dividuals and verbose essays on are free to roam and contami- inapplicable situations. And the essay sounds good de- reached yet (it tends to happen the nature of humanity have ap- nate others who are in the nearby His insistence that his spite its shallowness. around February), the weather parently left many a despairing vicinity. The effort to try and greatest trait is “perseverance” Exaggeration aside, definitely is cooling down to be soul incapable of writing about stop germs from reaching others or “positivity” has condemned some poor unfortunate souls or Southern California “winter” himself. was partially in vain; in about him to a class of overused cliches over-achieving prodigies have weather. With the shift toward Perhaps one is hav- one sneeze, 100,000 germs can and makes his argument for the experiences and talents worthy winter comes more susceptibil- ing difficulty condensing a be released at up to 100 mph; significance of learning to ride a and impressive of a personal ity to getting sick and I certainly cataclysmic life situation into the amount of germs and their bike a harder one to argue. And statement. The personal state- would not want to be stuck at approximately 500 words. Per- ment in itself however more often speed could easily overcome thus realizing, he has scrapped his home looking like Rudolph the haps he’s effectively applied draws out advanced abilities of first two essays and opted for the the arm and still lead to spread- Red Nosed Reindeer, blowing his analytical abilities but has bull excrement and forces one to ing around. on tissues. So when you get that adversely conjured up an un- impression that he “would like to apply exaggerations and impos- As a much more effec- tingling sensation in your nose, containable excess of romantic be a doctor to save lives.”Perhaps sibly philosophic life lessons tive alternative, I have found please remember that keeping new epiphanies on the signifi- an even more difficult argument. to an event of a no real signifi- that rather than taking the time it to yourself will help make a cance of life events. Perhaps he And then he realizes: it’s cance. It’s as painful to read as to move the forearm up and po- healthier world. has been paralyzed by the real- not the analytical skills and ex- it is pleasing. November/December 2012 Editorials Page 3 A Love Letter to the College App out each and every time with Bathroom Etiquette Patrick Jeon particular care. Writing multi- need unnecessary people essay, at least remember this Features Editor ple essays as if my life depends Paul nguyen in here. Next, all forms of one). The most basic rule of Staff Writer The college applica- on it because my life depends touching in the bathroom are all: don’t attempt to alleviate tion: How do I love thee? I love on it? GOT IT. Writing essays not traditional. By all means yourself in the urinal directly thee with a passion I can hardly was obviously what I was born A bathroom is a sanc- greeting an acquaintance in next to an occupied urinal un- explain. I love thee with all my in life to do. I had some doubts tuary. A haven built for one’s the bathroom is perfectly nor- less all other urinals are taken. heart, of course, because you about why my mother named relief and alleviation. In a mal, but any direct contact If there is an open urinal why are fuzzy, cute, and quite lovely me Patrick “ESSAYMAN” Jeon normal society, the in- in the restroom is extremely risk the awkwardness? That when you shoot rainbows from when I was born, but now the teractions that men face could lead to some your buttocks. pieces of the puzzle are finally in the bathroom should eye contact. That My confession to you arranging themselves into a be very limited and the leads me to rule goes something among these worthwhile picture and every- respect for others in the number three of lines; please do not judge me thing is starting to make sense. bathroom area should this series. too harshly and refute my ado- Another shocking truth be unparalleled to any Rule number ration. I very much love spend- is that I, a student, make bank. other place. Not at Bol- three: eye contact ing time with you every day Nothing you, my precious col- sa Grande High School. in the bathroom is of the week as I pore over you lege app, send at me can faze No, the vulgarity of prohibited. That constantly to make sure I’m fill- me, whether it is the $90 fee for teenage boys knows no unholy moment ing you out in the right way. As some cool school or any other bounds. There are rules; when I turn and I recall, as a junior, I hardly had sum of money for just any col- an unspoken set of rules accidentally make any troubles, worries, or even lege. I love spending money that illustrate correct direct eye contact thoughts for the senior year, as because I need to “send” things mannerisms that one with the gentle- I heard how chill the last year over the internet. It is whole- is obligated to follow man stationed on of high school would be. With heartedly logical and that is when stepping foot into the next urinal you in my life, I now know why why I pay money each time I a public bathroom. should never be people say senior year is so send an email and log onto my Why is there experienced by chill. It is obviously because facebook. It just makes me a line inside the bath- any man in any you are so unique and distinct. adore you so much more. room? When I walk bathroom. Con- I would say the same too, with I am so glad I never into the bathroom, find versation is suf- this enlightening and wholly listened to those seniors who a urinal and attempt to ficient; direct eye edifying experience that I am told me to get started on fill- relieve myself, I do not contact is com- having. The application pro- ing you out as soon as I could. want to turn around and pletely unneces- cess has never been more fun. I would spend every dying hour see a line of guys liter- sary, I can clearly It is never monotonous and I of the day with you because I ally shoulder to shoul- see you through feel as if I am doing something love it so. Any student, under der directly behind me. All public restrooms should be as clean as this! my peripheral vi- new and exciting each and ev- or upperclassmen should have It’s terrible. Further- sion. ery time I do it. Fill in all my no fears about the lovability more, there is little to This next that you can offer. Any student student information ten times no space from one guy to the hazardous. Please, do not at- rule should already apply, un- will be so enthralled to have over because there is no com- next. And I am expected to tempt to give me a high five as less you could care less about an opportunity to fill you out monality between these colleg- relieve myself when there are you come out of the bathroom cleanliness. Rule number when the time comes. You will es here and other colleges over people waiting for me to fin- with your filthy, germ-ridden four: Clean up after yourself. be the one and only heartthrob there? GOT IT. I will fill it out ish? It’s impossible. To add hands. Rule number one: No No one will want to encoun- I ever had; post-graduate ap- ter your germs so wash your ten times over and over because to the chaos, there are men lining up or touching. plications have nothing on you. hands. I mean you just went to that’s just how I enjoy spending who come into the crowded Rule number two: Oh, how I am going to miss you the bathroom, isn’t it a given my time. I totally have nothing bathroom to check their hair Spaces between urinals. Ac- so much, my sweet college ap- to wash your hands? And I’m better to do because this infor- or give themselves a quick tually this one is mandatory not talking about a quick rinse mation does need to be typed plication. glance in the mirror. We don’t (if you get nothing out of this either. Wet your hands, apply a generous amount of soap, and scrub your hands for at least four seconds. Also, complete- Unwrap the Rapture ly flush your toilet. Don’t let it stew. I don’t want to walk into to corroborate their flimsy -as may possibly be a fatuous char- it would make perfect sense for a stall and see what you had Elizabeth Dao sertion. Obviously, systematic latan, yet people time after time people to take action now as to for lunch. Matadors Editor substantiation has nothing on a will sell all their worldly pos- submit to these oracles’ divina- Rule number five (is a fraudulent pseudoscience that sessions or even paradoxically tory premonitions. given, but I feel a need to re- originated from the very same Whatever one’s re- instate it anyway): Under no Looks like Christmas commit suicide to be closer with hearth as sponse to the proph- circumstance should anyone isn’t coming this year, ladies and Facebook ecy, it is important to eat in the bathroom. As a half- gentlemen. According to cred- giveaway bitten apple takes its descent ible sources on the Internet, the note how the Mayans hoaxes. off your lunch plate and onto world is coming to an end on were capable of an- Analogous the cervices of the cold, dark December 21st, 2012. Though ticipating this doomed to the-boy- bathroom floor, hoards and many predictions for apoca- December 21st date who-cried- armies of insects lie in wait lyptic events have been made with inhuman accura- wolf fable, for their time to attack. No one in the past, this is the real deal. cy. Such supernatural previous likes bugs. No one. Among all Our approaching annihilation is aptitude stems from doomsday the visitors who enter Bolsa made certain on the account of the very fact that they prognosti- hard factual reports by anony- were not human; they Grande’s restrooms, many cators have mous folks, whose testimonials were aliens who only leave stenches deadly enough generated a are based on concrete Mayan resided on the planet to combat mustard gas. Why bad reputa- prophecies and astronomical ob- temporarily, explicat- then would any normal human tion for pre- servations. Through dedicated ing their sudden disap- being even attempt to eat in dictions of research and specialization in pearance from Earth’s the most rancid of rooms? The apocalyp- the field of Mesoamerican - cul surface. While some tic events bathroom is an area to dispose ture and space exploration, these believed they were where we of food, not consume it. Case assiduous individuals have pro- abducted by space in- would all closed. vided substantial evidence for vaders, they were not spontane- Although these are the looming destruction of Earth. telluric to begin with. ously com- Are you ready for doomsday to come or do you believe it is all a the only rules listed, they are Nevertheless, there re- The otherworldly sag- bust or God haux? not the only rules one should mains a vast majority that refutes es with their esoteric would come follow when entering a pub- such plausible claims. Among wisdom realized the destruction in his spaceship and save all his God. Of course, Internet recluses this population of “in-denials” that was to come on December lic bathroom. The awkward true followers. Harold Camping, are much different from Camp- are NASA scientists and profes- 21st, 2012 and made a run for it bathroom conversations, the ing because their inactivity with sional Mayanist scholars. These for one, has made at least five after completing their altruistic spread of diseases, and the contenders regard the divination predictions envisaging the oc- the outside world allows them terrestrial mission of warning the discomfort of everyone can be of impending doom as a sham currence of the Rapture. After to develop prescient visions, humans. easily avoided if one is courte- but only offer meager scientific the first time, you would expect producing the foresight of the Doomsday is here. ous. Study these rules and take data and Maya primary sources people to realize that Camping world’s demise. Consequently, #YOLO care of your duty wisely. Page 4 Features November/December 2012 Music Reviews New Single Makes You Dance on Your One Direction Heads in a New Direction “Tip Toes” talent and skills. Unlike Up All once) with its upbeat and joy- a listen to. Although this may not Night, the boys share an equal ful melody. Their music video Amy Lim be the song for you, you can still Daniella Phung Staff Writer enjoy listening to Mahone’s mes- Staff Writer amount of solos, which gave for “Live While We’re Young” each member a chance to show shows their silly and carefree merizing vocals by checking out off his polished and improved side as they simply just want to some of his song covers. There One Direction’s sopho- voice. You will also be able to have fun. If you thought their There is a new kid step- will definitely be something you more album Take Me Home hit see their new development in first single was great, their sec- ping onto the music scene. It’s will like! about time that we “Say Some- the shelves on November 12th in songwriting from several songs ond single, “Little Things” was Jayme Dee’s song “Tip thin’” about Austin Mahone! their native country of UK and that they wrote together such even more ama-ZAYN-ing. Toes” will certainly leave you on This sixteen year old pop singer November 13th in the U.S. Take as “Last First Kiss,” “Summer This moving ballad was co- your tip toes! The fresh track for from San Antonio, Texas has cap- Me Home has already grossed written by UK singer- this star on the rise is something tured the hearts of thousands of you don’t want to miss. At first the third-biggest songwriter Ed Sheeran teenage girls. Austin Mahone be- listen, most would automatically opening week and added a new ele- gan his music career by covering say that it’s the typical “girl sing- sales of the year ment to the album. songs on YouTube. Eventually, ing about how madly in love she with 540,000 Their soothing voices copies being sold. his career took off on February is with a boy” song and overlook and acoustic guitar 14, 2012 with his single “11:11.” They also made it. However, Jayme Dee man- sound not only mes- Mahone is back to woo the crowd history for being ages to enchant the listeners to merizes their listeners once more with his second sin- the first British press the replay button over and but also touches their gle, “Say Somethin.’” While over again to this catchy single. boy band to have hearts. According to this song is catchy, it would only “Tip Toes” consists of irresistible their first two - al Zayn, the message be- strongly appeal to the younger hooks and addictive beats. Not to bums debut at hind the song was to female listeners in comparison mention that Jayme Dee’s vocals number one on show that all girls are to older teenage girls. The mu- are impressive and flow harmoni- the U.S. Bill- beautiful and that they sic video does have its perks with ously with the song. The music board charts. need to hear it more of- a “boy meets girl” storyline, but video itself is bubbly and cute for While ten. it is easily overshadowed with it captures the feeling all girls get most people ex- The boys will begin scenes of students throwing when a boy gets them on their pected Take Me One Direction’s newly released album in November, “Take their Take Me Home crumpled pieces of paper, jump- “tip toes.” The song “Tip Toes” Home to closely ing on desks, and praising how Me Home”. World Tour this spring. is upbeat and refreshing; in fact, resemble their de- cool Austin Mahone is. The lyr- They will be visiting you will probably catch yourself but album Up All ics are about how “hot” a girl is singing along within seconds! All Love,” and “Back for You.” the UK, Ireland, North Amer- Night, the five members - Harry and how he would like her to “say Their first single from in all, Jayme Dee has remarkably ica and Australia. However, if somethin’” to him. Austin Ma- Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, this album was “Live While captured the attention of many you were hoping to buy a ticket hone is a very talented singer with Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlin- We’re Young,” which lures lis- fans nationwide with “Tip Toes.” now, you are out of luck. Most a lovely charm; however, the song son - proved everyone wrong. teners in at the very first seconds Her passion for music has shaped The boys have successfully cre- with a catchy guitar strum. This of their shows have already does not do him any justice for her into being the fabulous singer ated a new sound for themselves song truly describes the popular been sold out, but don’t worry older audiences. Nevertheless, she is today. Make sure to check showing they have matured in concept of YOLO (you only live there is always next year! Mahone is very popular with the out Jayme Dee and her music. young female teens and is worth Trust me, you won’t regret it! Big Bang’s Bangin’ California have a wide range of renowned high anticipation and excitement fans such as ‘N Sync, Perez Hil- to experience a two hour perfor- Anh Pham ton, Swizz Beats, Snoop Dog, mance from their favorite artists. Staff Writer Pixie Lott, and even Flo Rida. Prominent faces and names such Therefore, Big Bang has shown as Kevin McHale; Harry Shum Jr. that it is not a group that would of Glee; Youtube Makeup Guru Big Bang, a notable Ko- befall under the typical, pretty Michelle Phan; Youtube sensa- rean boy band that has been long faced, idol boy band donned in tion KevJumba; and Youtube star, established in the music industry glitz and glam. as well as a fellow friend of Big since 2006, recently made Bang’s, Qui Truong were all their L.A. and New Jersey present and just as excited as stops for their Samsung any other fan in the stadium. Alive World Tour 2012. Songs that were per- The group consists of re- formed on both nights con- markable talents such as sist of Alive Intro, Tonight, G-Dragon (Kwon Ji Yong, Hands Up, Fantastic Baby, 24), Daesung (Kang Dae- How Gee, Stupid Liar, sung, 23) T.O.P. (Choi Knock Out, High High, Seung Hyun, 25), Seung Strong Baby, What Can I Ri (Lee Seung Hyun, 22), Do, Gara Gara Go, Num- and Tae Yang (Dong Yong ber 1, Café, One Of A Kind, Bae, 24). Not only is the Crayon, Bad Boy, Blue, Ego, group highly respected Love Song, Feeling, Look and adored in South Ko- Only At Me, Wedding Dress, rea, but they also are also Wings, Haru Haru, Lies, well-known throughout Last Farewell, Heaven, Bad Asia, Europe, and the Boy, Feeling, and Monster. Americas. Though Big Through the entire concert, Bang‘s music falls under the stadium was just a never- the stereotypical—and at ending, screaming mass sea times cringing—genre of of black and yellow as thou- Newspaper Staff ‘K-Pop,’ these boys are a Big Bang starting off their concert with a bang! Dom Nguyen (Editor-in-Chief) Staff Writers Philip Nguyen Thao Phan sands of fans held official sure force that should not The fans go wild with their $30 light sticks. Shannon Advincula (Editor-in-Chief) Agata Ho Phuong NguyenTram Hong Big Bang glow sticks. Not Megan Phan (Front Page Editor) Amy Gonzalez Steven Vu Tran Dinh be reckoned with. They With ticket prices rang- only was it a memorable night for Anhthu Dang (As-Is Editor) Anh Pham Theresa Tran are five musically talented - art Chuong Vu ing from the VIP package of $300 the lucky thousands of fans who Lisa Dinh (As-Is Editor) ists who have brought endless Bansari Patel (Matadors Editor & Chris Bui Disclaimer: The opin- (not including the $15 US fee) got the chance to witness their fa- Diane Vu ions expressed in the Business Manager) happiness into the lives of their to the basic seats of $75, tickets vorite men live, it was also a night Elizabeth Dao (Matadors Editor) Hubert Pham editorials do not re- fans from their individual styles, Janice Huynh for all the concerts dates, in both to remember for Big Bang, for it Daniel Duong (Distribution Manager) flect the opinions of charms, and music, and they have Patrick Jeon (Features Editor) Keven Le “Matador Monthly” California and New Jersey, were was their first US tour and their Sy Ha (Features Editor) Kevin Le as a whole. Our staff shown it time and time again. For sold out within minutes once on first-ever California stop. Thus, Tina Pham (Layout Editor) members are capable example, they have received nu- sale. Thus on the nights of No- the smiles etched on each of the Photographers Ms. Hannah Jaspard (Adviser) of the mysterious phe- merous titles and honors such as vember 2nd and 3rd, thousands of Big Bang member’s faces were a Don Phung nomenon commonly being the first Korean boy band to fans from different backgrounds, Hao Lu proud display of success and grat- Questions? Comments? Write to us at referred to as indepen- Paul Nguyen receive the Best World Wide Act ethnicities, and ages flocked to itude to their adoring V.I.P.s (their [email protected] dent thought. Tony Nguyen at the 2011 MTV EMA. They also the Anaheim Honda Center with fandom official name). November/December 2012 Features Page 5 The Barackin’ Presidential Election nately for Romney, more than half States’ citizens, as some proposi- of the swing states’ votes and their tions were passed and some were electoral votes went to Obama. denied. In California, specifically, Keven Le The votes concluded that Obama Proposition 30, a law that will Staff Writer would be re-elected for a second soon be implemented, as the sales presidential term as he garnered tax will go up by a quarter-cent on a total of 332 electoral votes that the dollar for the next four years, Last month, the General greatly surpassed Romney’s 206 was passed. The measure will also Election was held with great an- electoral votes. Obama also won raise the income tax for people ticipation for both the Republi- the majority of the popular votes who earn more than $250,000 for can and the Democratic parties. with 50.6% of voters siding with the next seven years. Portions of Throughout the months prior to his campaign opposed to Rom- the money collected by these new October, Presidential candidates, ney’s 47.8%. taxes may be directed to education Mitt Romney and Barack Obama, Although we will not be and may help balance government visited various cities and swing having “binders full of women” budgets by decreasing the amount states in an attempt to win the of tuition hikes and votes of the population at hand. by increasing spots The patriotic and anticipation- in California’s inducing event grew nearer and community col- nearer to its finish, as each candi- leges and public date’s campaign ended at the start universities. Other of November. Nations all over controversial top- the world watched and waited to ics, such as the see who would become the next state’s death penal- President and to discover how the ty, was also put up future of the United States would for voting, as Prop- turn out based on the newly elect- osition 34, a mea- ed President’s values and goals sure that would for the nation. People all over the The two candidates, Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, have repealed the nation strived to vote regardless showing sportsman-like conduct before the debate started. state’s death pen- if they were in the East Coast or alty, failed. Thus, if they were affected by a hurri- any time soon in the Presiden- the death penalty will stay in cane, they were going to partake tial office, there will be more California. In addition, Proposi- in representing their democracy. females senators in the 113th tion 36, which amended the “three The election seemed to be run- Congress than ever before in the strikes law,” was approved by ning well for Romney, as when United States’ history. In regards voters. Judges will now impose the small states recorded and to the Senate, Democrats are the a life sentence only when the submitted their votes before the majority as there are 55 of them third felony conviction is serious larger (swing) states did, the votes and only 45 Republicans. On the or violent rather than imposing a were in favor for his presidency. other hand, Republicans are the life sentence for a petty crime. In However, as the night grew, mil- majorities found in the House of short, with this 2012 election pro- Book Review lions of citizens anxiously waited Representatives, as there are 234 cess and its various results of who for the results of swing states: Republicans and only 201 Demo- was elected for the following term Be Spellbound by the Assassin’s Curse Nevada, Colorado, Iowa, Virgin- crats. and of what rules and regulations protect himself. The two must ia, North Carolina, and Florida, Other than the people states may implement into the Anhthu Dang also not stray too far from one which would either break the that were elected, the General elec- upcoming years, America moves As-Is Editor another as it would cause un- candidate’s campaign or lead him tion brought up the ever-changing forward on to what we hope to be necessary pains for Naji. With to Presidential victory. Unfortu- morals and values of United a better country for all. such different personalities, Electronics Review Escape the stress of the their adventures would be full holidays and pick up an adven- of bickering, nagging, and lots ture with Ananna of the Tanarau of time with each other. And and an assassin named Naji so the slow, awkward romance The Wii U Should be Getting this winter. Filled with wonder, commences. GamePad controller, which en- controller, depending on what mystery, and magic, The Assas- Ananna and Naji con- tinue their journey to distant Daniel Duong riches a person’s gaming experi- game is being played. The possi- sin’s Curse by Cassandra Rose lands to find those who could Staff Writer ence. With a 6.2 inch LCD touch bilities of combining two gaming Clarke is sure to grab your at- screen, traditional button controls screens are endless; with such a tention with its evil wizards and possibly free them from their such as those on Xbox and Play- revolutionary concept of having arrogant manticores alongside curse. On their travels, they en- With the holidays fast station 3 controllers, and two ana- two connected gaming screens, the rest of its venturesome plot. counter a series of never-ending approaching, there has been a lot log sticks, the GamePad control- the controller could make a huge This of buzz over the recently released ler steps up the playing field for impact on the gaming industry by story is told Nintendo Wii U. For Forbes con- hardcore gamers who like to play changing how gamers play. in the per- tributor, Erik Kain, it had been a games such as Assassin’s Creed Now what happens if a spective of “miniature Black Friday” experi- by allowing two playable screens: friend or a family member want- Ananna, an ence as he waited in line at ed to watch The Walking Dead or ambitious Best Buy on the day of re- Vampire Diaries? Usually there seventeen lease. As expected, the Wii would be some sort of conflict, year old pi- U had sold out minutes just but one could simply switch the rate of the after Best Buy opened. For game to their GamePad controller Tanarau clan Kain, the upside to the Wii while the other party can watch who has just U is that it is backwards shows on the television; this in- been recently compatible (meaning it can novation satisfies both parties. sold off by play Wii games), has great The versatility of the Wii U defi- her parents graphics, and is simple to nitely tops the predecessor Wii use; the only downside to marry Tar- Find the time to read this amazing, adventurous book while still retaining many of its rin of the was that the load time was functions. As of now, the Wii U over winter break! Hariri for slow and the firmware -up gaming console can be played political purposes. Irritated and date was lengthy. Having with the included GamePad con- enraged by her parents’ plans, dangers where Naji uses his used the Wii before, Kain’s troller and up to four Wii remotes. Ananna takes off on a stolen dark blood magic to keep Anan- praise only makes me want As of now, the eight gigabyte camel in hopes of pursuing her na and himself safe. Of course, to acquire the Wii U even Wii U basic set, currently going own goals and achievements in they are also running from more, especially since it for $300, includes a white Wii U The WiiU shows off its superb high defi- life. Little does she know, the the Hariri clan that still wants has been a bit over six years Console, white GamePad, Game- since the initial release of nition graphics. Ananna’s head and from other Pad Stylus, sensor bar, console Hariri clan has ties with some the Nintendo Wii. more fearsome enemies of Naji. AC adapter, and GamePad AC well known assassins that will So what’s up with the The television and the Gamepad Does the novel interest Adapter HDMI Cable while the later cause more troubles for the next successor of the Nintendo controller itself. Not only does you yet? If not, then go back and thirty-two gigabyte Wii U deluxe young pirate. Wii? While retaining its function the GamePad include front and Eventually, the assas- enjoy your holiday stress (or rear cameras, but it also includes set, currently going for $350, in- to be compatible with older tele- sin and Ananna meet and the peace). Meanwhile, for those of visions, the Wii U has enhanced a microphone and speaker for chat cludes everything mentioned be- story twists. The assassin, Naji, you who want to find out more, its video graphics to support high capabilities. With so many fea- fore and Nintendo Land Video definition quality (up to 1080p tures already, one can also play a Game, GamePad Stand, Game- had a curse placed on him, and purchase the book at your local resolution!) for gaming enthu- game on the television while see- Pad Cradle, and Console Stand. Ananna just happened to trigger bookstore and carry on the ad- siasts. Now what really makes ing different perspectives, maps, Get your Wii U’s while they are it. Now instead of killing her, venture with Ananna and Naji the Wii U so special is its new or inventories on the GamePad hot! Naji must protect her in order to and their exotic fantasy world! Page 6 Matadors November/December 2012 Athletes of the Month October and November Rolling on Skates

Tennis Football Girls’ Cross Country Keltner trying to dance while he was skating to pop mu- Agata Ho sic.” The students, family, and Staff Writer friends were all entered into a drawing to win prizes; such as, The choir department movie tickets, iTunes gift card, held a skate night at the Foun- and Dave & Busters game card. tain Valley Skating Center on When tired after skating a few Phuong Nguyen - Dedicated and Michael Marquez - Leading the Kristie Son - Personal Record at November 16th for family and laps around the skating rink, player with 4th place finish in dou- Matador offence and defense dur- OC Championships this month friends to start off Thanksgiv- each was able to head over to bles at League Finals ing league play. One of the top Angela Delavara - Had a 3rd ing break. As the lights began the food court and enjoy their Tracy Van - Winning League and running backs in the League! place finish at League to dim, the students of Bolsa favorite snacks! After a night successfully achieving 8th Round Alex Gomez - Excellent special Grande came CIF Individual competition team play out to skate the night away. As the Boys’ Cross Country Volleyball Water Polo night went on, students participated in the Hokey Pokey, the Cha-cha Slide, and other vari- Alex Perez - Consistent results and Alyson Nguyen - Kill leader for Joel Nguyen - Best defense ous activities excellent work ethic October Terry Le - For his hardwork put in hosted by the FV skating The choir department’s skate night took place at Foun- Luis Gomez - Who ran the 4th Yolicia Torres - Who is great at at the Varsity Level tain Valley Skating Center. fastest time in the history of Bolsa everything! center. When Cross Country and qualified for CIF asked, Les- as an individual lie Tran (11), “What was your filled with lights, skates, and experience like at skate night?” music, the choir skate night She answered, “I haven’t been was a huge success! Not to to skate night in a while and mention the skate night ended the last time I went the music up becoming a great turn out Band-its Steal the Show was really out of date; but this with plenty of happy attendees formed. Their show this year the band was equally impressive, time skate night was more en- amounting to over 180 by the joyable because it had music end of the night. Even though Janice Huynh was an Italian love song themed and the entire group was beauti- that is played on the radio. I the place was full of people, Staff Writer routine titled “Mi Amore”, with fully conducted by this year’s band leader, Eliza- also really enjoyed spending everyone was allowed to min- beth Lopez. The Col- time with my friends and ha- gle with each other, meet new On Tuesday, Novem- or Guard also left the rassing Mr. Keltner on the skat- people, and enjoy good music ber 13th, Bolsa Grande high crowd in amazement ing rink.” When asked, “What while skating. What a good school hosted the annual district with their difficult was your favorite part of Skate way to start off Thanksgiving showcase, a night where sev- and intricate flag and Night?” The president of choir, break! The choir department rifle work, along with eral schools come to the football Sarah Baird (12), answered, would like to thank all of those many beautifully per- stadium to perform. Each year, “My favorite part was seeing who came and supported them marching bands from the entire formed dances. Their so many kids from Bolsa there and would like to see everyone district come to BGHS to per- captains this year, having fun and supporting our form their annual marching show, Dianna Marie-Ann at their Christmas choir concert complete with their entire march- Tran, Yarisamar Gar- choir department… and seeing on December 20th. ing band and Color Guard. The cia, and Kieu-Ahn bleachers were packed with dif- Phan, lead the group Grove high school all performed their amazing work and dedica- ferent school’s marching bands into amazing heights their show. Finally, Showcase tion throughout the summer and and attending guests. The show Daniel Bui (12) and Tiffany Nguyen (12) flash- with their master- was wrapped up as all the bands marching season to produce such gathered to play “America the wonderful shows. Through the started with a dazzling perfor- ing a smile before showcase starts. ful technique of both mance by Santiago high school, flag and dance - per Beautiful”, leaving the show to a entire show, each of the band’s leaving the crowd energetic and songs such as “O Sole Mio”, formances. In addition to their festive and spectacular end. The performances shows the dili- ready for the next performances. “Nessun Dorma”, “Mambo Ital- phenomenal marching show, the entire group was given a stand- gence and dedication to produce Ranch Alamitos and Los Amigos iano”, and “It Had Better Be band showed the audience that ing ovation and the end of Show- such an amazing routine, which high school also left the crowd Tonight”. Their musical compo- they could have fun by adding case also marked the end of the was no easy task. Good job to impressed as they performed sition was definitely impressive, adorable dance breaks in their district’s Marching Band season. Bolsa Grande’s Marching Mata- their marching routine. Next, our as they had many complicated show, leaving the audience in Overall, Showcase displayed dors for their entertaining show own marching band, the Bolsa and entertaining drills. The mu- wild applause by the end. Next, the immense talent of the entire and great work during this year’s Grande Marching Matadors per- sic amongst all the sections of La Quinta, Pacifica, and Garden district’s Marching Band, and marching season. The Artistry Within BG Amnat’s and her members’ help, they sketched drawings and computer art. violin drew the audience in; it was as one’s relatives, such as Stephanie Bansari Patel and Diane Vu was able to organize an opportunity Such artworks included Viet Nguy- if we were transported to another time Peou’s “My Great-Grandmother Business Manager to display the world of art through en’s “Batman” ink work; Brittany and place, listening to the phenom- Sun.” It was evident that these poems Staff Writer their eyes. Quach’s “White Magic;” Anh Bui’s enal music that Kelly had created. were written from the very depths of As mentioned above, the “Starry Night at Russel Street,” and However, it was far from being the the writers’ hearts and emotions. Introducing Artist’s Ha- members and performers of Artists’ lastly “Cat,” by Ngoc Mai. only marvelous performance of the Many of the performances had the ven’s first annual gallery - a gallery Haven were successful in creating a The Artists’ Haven was evening. Another performance that amazing abilities to make the audi- that displayed not only the unique welcoming atmosphere for guests to also comprised of many profound stood out was Elizabeth La’s singing ence feel part of the music, the set- talent of Creative Writing Club and come and enjoy art pieces drawn by performances that clearly showed the of “Beautiful”; her soulful voice cap- ting, and the scenes. Though some Art Club members, but also the pas- Bolsa Grande’s very own students. hard work, emotion, and dedication tured many emotions in the audience. are not mentioned here, all the per- sion of the performers. When guests As a matter of fact, their appearance that went into preparing for this an- Performances such as Long Phan’s formances were exceptional and first entered Artists’ Haven, it was and demeanor gave the gallery a nual event. There was a wide variety cover of “Paranoia” in correspon- captured the audience’s attention. startlingly evident how sophisticated great start to an anticipated evening. of acts performed. Some consisted dence to his artwork on the Joker and One notable characteristic of the the members were, dressed in formal One particular artwork that claimed of singing and playing an instru- Batman, Eranny Franca’s cover of event was the encouragement of the dinner attire, toward the guests. From everyone’s eyes right before entering, ment, while others included reading “Zombie”, and Daisy Allred’s cover members’ and audience towards the waiters holding party drinks on trays was Yvonne Pham’s “God Has Been self-written poems while still others of “Skins” consisted of beautiful performers. The whole evening was to attendees being assigned to seats, Good to Us, No?” A piece that was contained monologues from fictional singing. Other covers had rap origi- enchanting from beginning to end, the members’ level of professional- composed of a sinful chocolate cake literary works. One exceptional per- nals that were performed acousti- from the marvelous pieces of art- ism was to par to a professional art with sprouted wings that was not just formance that captured, I am sure, cally. Still other acts had creative po- works to the profound performances. show. In fact, the gallery exuded a mouthwatering to the eyes but also everyone’s full attention was done by ems that the performers had written If you missed the chance to attend calming ambiance of excitement, captivating. Other artworks ranged Kelly Pham, Junior, who with his vi- themselves, with the subjects ranging this year’s Artists’ Haven, be sure to especially with classical music play- from adorable crafted polymer clays, olin, combined several tunes to com- from school subjects, such as Ngoc attend next year’s show. You won’t ing in the background. Through Vicki made by Melina Cao, to detailed prise his own “Gypsy Medley.” His Nguyen’s “Physics Love Poem” to regret it. November/December 2012 Christmas Page 7 Christmas Well Spent with the Christmas Polls Favorite Song to Listen to During Christmas BG’s Faculty Event 1. “Mistletoe” – Thang Thai (Grade 11) ing. Well first, as students lerinas. Once I heard of this, 2. “Holly Jolly Christmas” – Miranda Nguyen (Grade 12) entered the gym, there would I immediately burst out in Chris Bui 3. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Fernanada Guzman Staff Writer be Christmas decorations laughter. My next thought and ornaments positioned was, “Wow, how in the world (Grade 9) throughout the place. Ban- did the school ever find tutus 4. “I Knew You Were Trouble” – Chuong Vu (Grade 12) As we eagerly an- ners hung elegantly from the to fit those two teachers?” 5. “All I Want For Christmas is You” –Thuy Tran (Grade 11) ticipate the arrival of winter walls and in the middle of the Unless Santa Claus took ballet 6. “Lumiere” – Thomas Nguyen (Grade 12) break, we also reflect on the gym stood a Christmas tree, lessons and sent his uniforms 7. “Greyhound” – Shelly Le (Grade 12) undying holiday traditions of wrapped around with dazzling to us from the North Pole, I 8. “Back to December” – Jeffrey Nguyen (Grade 10) giving gifts to show our senti- lights and trinkets. Despite all don’t think that this scene 9. “Polar Express Sound Track” – Shawn Pham (Grade 12) ments of others and gathering this finesse, the main attrac- would have ever been pos- 10. “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” - Peter Soukharivong (Grade 12) with close friends and family. tion still remained to be the sible. For those who know Mr. 11. “Carol of the Bells” – Eric Tran (Grade 11) That cozy feeling Brodowski and Mr. 12. “Winter Wonderland” – Adriana (Grade 9) of spending time Cardoza now, it 13. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” – Priscilla Bang (Grade 10) in a warm house is hard to imagine 14. “Jingle Bells” – Anh Diep Pham (Grade 10) away from the that they had ever 15. “Winter Wonderland” – Manly Pham (Grade 12) bitter cold outside donned such cloth- 16. “Last Christmas” – Hilary Lu (Grade 12) is one that many ing. All in all, by 17. “I Wish You A Merry Christmas” – Betty Tamayo (Grade 11) of us seek once dressing up, those 18. “A Spaceman Came Traveling” – Richard Gamett (Grade 11) every year around two served the 19. “Escape “Pina Colada” – Cynthia Tran (Grade 10) this time. Yes, all event’s purpose of 20. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of The Year” –Jonathan Arenas these traditions entertaining the (Grade 12) of the holidays students. have endured, From the Favorite Movie to Watch During Christmas but there is one sound of it, I think 1. “Breaking Dawn” – Tinhuy Huynh (Grade 12) at our school that that the Faculty 2. “The Grinch” – Jasmine Sanabria (Grade 9) has ceased to con- Christmas Event 3. “Transformers” – Julie Tran (Grade 10) tinue. I’m talking was a pretty amus- 4. “The Polar Express” – Kimberly Phung (Grade 12) about the Faculty Mr. Lewis, Mr. Cardoza, Mr. Brodowski, and the mystery ing celebration. 5. “Marley & Me” – Theresa Bui (Grade 10) Christmas Event. teacher showing off their holiday spirit! It’s a bit depress- 6. “Harry Potter” – An Nguyen (Grade 11) Ten years ing that we don’t 7. “Home Alone” – Jonathan Le (Grade 12) ago, the last show have much teacher- 8. “Twilight” – Ainhi Le (Grade 11) for the Faculty Christmas school faculty. Generally, the student interactions today, but Event was held. This event teachers sang Christmas car- this assembly in the past has 9. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” – Brandon Ngo (Grade 11) was an annual assembly that ols, danced, and enthusiasti- shown how much fun we can 10. “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer” – Leslie Tran (Grade 11) was held on the Friday before cally talked with the students. have. Although this tradition 11. “Pearl Harbor” – Jeffrey Nguyen (Grade 10) the start of winter break, and In addition they would sport has ended, I am interested in 12. “Serendiptiy” – Liza Dinh (Grade 12) unlike the usual assemblies holiday costumes such as the having this event return to 13. “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” – Daniel Duong (Grade 12) where the students perform, well-known Santa Claus. As Bolsa Grande. Yes, we have 14. “Prothemius” – Nancy Tran (Grade 12) this assembly had the school Grandma described it,“It was many projects and tests to fin- 15. “Finding Nemo” – Vanessa Nguyen (Grade 11) faculty entertaining the stu- all about having a good time!” ish on the last week before 16. “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” – Kevin Wu (Grade 11) dents. It was a heartwarming There was one thing, break, but I think this assem- 17. “Mean Girls”- Eric Juarez (Grade 12) way for the teachers and staff however, that struck me as bly is a great way for both 18. “Home Alone 3” – Anh Diep Pham (Grade 10) to send the students off with both most surprising and hi- faculty and students to take 19. “Harry Potter: Deathly Hollows Part 1 & 2” – Quang Nguyen high spirits and of course, larious. Apparently one year, a breather and enjoy the up- (Grade 12) homework. the robust Mr. Brodowski and coming holiday season. Who 20. “Love Actually” – Beoung Lee (Grade 12) I had questioned convivial Mr. Cardoya (Car- knows, maybe we can see our Grandma about this event, and doza) both dressed in pink two history teachers in tu- The Person You Want to See Under The Mistletoe her recollections of it were tutus, giving off the presence tus again, or maybe Mr. Cho 1. “Channing Tatum” –Tina Ngo (Grade 12) quite enjoyable and amus- of two bulky (graceful?) bal- dressed up as Psy! 2. “Selena Gomez” – Tony Arreola (Grade 10) 3. “Misa Campo” – Trong Phan (Grade 11) 4. “Moon Geun Young” – Brian Lang (Grade 12) Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer 5. “Adam Levine” – Julie Dang (Grade 11) pushed aside by a little old the elderly located at Hardy’s 6. “Tom Daley” – Jenny Nguyen (Grade 10) lady who didn’t do much but Reindeer Ranch in Rantoul, 7. “Harry Styles” – Kymberly Sotomayor (Grade 9) Anh Pham got plowed 8. “Miranda Kerr” – Joel Nguyen (Grade 11) Staff Writer into the 9. “Jason Chen” – Victoria Truong (Grade 12) snow by a 10. “Katy Perry” – Alex Gomez (Grade 12) couple of The corky and unfor- 11. “Fransico Lachowski” – Theresa Bui (Grade 10) reindeer be- gettably tacky Christmas jin- 12. “Zac Efron” – Tina Nguyen (Grade 11) cause she gle has not only gained ador- 13. “Kate Upton” – Matthew Ha (Grade 12) got drunk ing popularity since its release 14. “Chris Evans” – Jennie Nguyen (Grade 12) from too back in 1979 by Elmo and 15. “Cody Simpson” – Mimi Nguyen (Grade 10) much egg- Patsy, but it has also become 16. “Girls’ Generation”- Joshua Baird (Grade 9) nog? a wonderful and joyous real- 17. “Erica Law” – Samuel Kim (Grade 12) Well ity for a few special victims 18. “Kim Myungsoo (aka L)” – Manly Pham (Grade 12) it may be during the Christmas season. 19. “Jay McGuiness & Joey Diggs Jr.” – Liza Dinh (Grade 12) so because The song’s popular 20. “John Fitzgerald Kennedy” – Anh Bao Pham (Grade 12) grandma lines “Grandma got run over isn’t plan- by a reindeer/Walking from ter” that she’ll never forget. and one on her wrist.” Aschen- ning on go- our house Christmas eve/You The trip was going ac- brenner relayed of the tragic ing any- can say there’s no such thing cording to plan as the elderly event. Morris was quickly where soon as Santa/ But as for me and had the chance to pet and feed , especially sent to the hospital, and in re- Grandpa we believe” resulted the gated reindeer, however, with her sponse to the whole event, Ju- in an animated Cartoon Net- someone had apparently left immense lie Hardy, owner of the ranch, work Movie adaptation of the the gate open. With Morris stated “Sixteen years, thou- popular- trailing in the back of the tour jingle that was entitled so fit- sands of people have fallen in tingly as “Grandma Got Run ity. Despite group, a reindeer escaped and love with these animals. The Over by a Reindeer.” The the song’s headed toward her like Santa reindeer are not normally ag- movie gained a wide and en- cherry and Claus after he has identified whimsical gressive animals at all.” thusiastic response from chil- Gift your grandmas with a helmet! his first plate of cookies and dren across the nation: they melody, the milk. She was shoved and So this Christmas, loved it and they loved grand- song actu- “went flying backwards”, as let’s all keep an open mind ma even more for getting run ally became a reality for Ruth Illinois. The eldery were over stated by fellow retirement through the festivities and over by a reindeer. Have the Morris on October 12, 2011. excited and had high anticipa- resident Aschenbrenner, who presents and wish that Grand- faces of Christmas classics The Prairie Village Retire- tion for their visit to the ranch, witnessed the event. “She put ma doesn’t actually get run such as Jack Frost, Rudolf, ment Home held a special yet for Ruth Morris, it was a her hands up and that’s when over by reindeer because— Scrooge, and the Grinch been early holiday field trip for day of complete “deer-sas- she got ripped (on her arm)... hey, we all love our grandmas. Page 8 Christmas November/December 2012 Gifts Galore, I Want More! you have left is an empty bottle. you already know that the person gender, but it in fact repels them season? If not, I would go with Janice Huynh Some might say that lotion might in question already wears said even further away. For that spe- the photo frame idea again, be- Staff Writer be too boring and mundane for a cial guy in your life, I would cause your parents would love a gift, but to that I say nonsense! recommend a photo frame picture of your face in their bed- Nothing says “I-thought-of-your- with a cute picture of your- room. Try to print the picture as elbows” more than a $5 bottle self. Not only will your special big as you can, so there won’t be The holiday season of Cetaphil at Target. Her skin guy love this and not think of any possibilities for the picture brings people joy for its cold and she will thank you for your it to be creepy at all, but for- to become “lost”! Actually, now weather, charming house decora- consideration in no time. For ever remember you because that I think about it, you can give tions, and its bountiful vacation that special lady in your life, you of this special gift. For added the gift of your aesthetic qualities periods. But most of all, the start should go a bit further and get effect, take the picture in front to anyone! Whether it be your of the season marks the begin- her something even more special. of house; maybe even in front friends, neighbors, relatives, nings of annual gift giving tradi- Scented lotion will do, and if you of his his bedroom window if teachers, fellow peers, or even tions. What was once a period of really want to impress her, get her you can access it. Remember, your mailman, everyone will ap- charitable donations to the less one of those bottles with glitter it’s not trespassing if it’s in the preciate a frame with your face in fortunate has become a month of infused in the cream, because as spirit of yuletide sharing. This it! Note that the picture can ap- miscellaneous department store we all know, everybody likes glit- is the ultimate gift, because pear on anything with a clear flat sales. Even so, who is one to ter. what material object could be surface. For creative purposes, I judge the social dynamics of our For boys, I would sug- better than a close up of your would recommend mugs, t-shirts, culture? With negativities aside, gest something a little out of the face? That’s right, nothing is, iPhone cases, collectible novelty here is a list of popular gifts to ordinary-- such as some manly Fill up the bottom of your Christmas so a buy a photo frame and get plates, etc. No one will ever for- give to your loved ones and some body spray or slick hair gel. If tree with presents for your loved ones! going! get the gift or the gift giver! other suggestions for those who you are confused on which body For your parents or any So this holiday season, you are obligated to buy a gift for. sprays to buy, grab the one with “cologne” quite too frequently, I relatives, make something home- relax and enjoy your vacation pe- For girls, I would sug- the packaging that screams “I- would perhaps gift them a book made and crafty for them. Your riod around those who you love, gest any type of lotion. Why lo- have-insecurities” the loudest. If on self-esteem and maybe a de- parents have received question- and make sure to sound humble tion? Because it’s always that one you really are confused, I would tailed letter on how wearing more able macaroni collages all those when you receive all those ecstat- thing which no one remembers to most definitely go with Axe as Axe doesn’t increase the attrac- years in elementary, so why not ic thank-you’s for those wonder- buy until that moment when all your first choice. However, if tion of any person of the opposite resume the tradition this holiday ful and heart-warming gifts.

Across 9. The best-selling Christmas 17. An annual celebration of the 22. The first artificial Christmas 25. An enormous log that is typi- 4. Known as the “Flower of the song of all time. birth of Jesus Christ. tree was made of this dyed green. cally burned during the Twelve Holy Night,” it is a traditional 14. The last U.S. state to declare 20. This Canadian province leads 23. In this language, “X” (Chi) Days of Christmas as this is said Christmas a legal holiday. the world in exporting Christmas means Christ, which is how the to offer health, fertility, and luck Christmas flower originally from 16. An environmentally friendly trees. word “X-mas” came to be. as well as the ability to ward off Mexico that was brought over President who banned Christmas 21. Puritan who outlawed Christ- 24. The first state in the United evil spirits. to America by Joel Poinsett in trees from the White House in mas celebrations and carols in States to officially recognize 1829. 1912. England from 1649 to 1660. Christmas in 1836. Down 1. The most expensive Christmas tree was decorated in this country in 2010 at an estimated cost of over $11 million. 2. The first president to decorate an official White House Christ- mas tree. 3. According to Dutch legend, this companion of Saint Nicho- las is responsible for actually dropping the presents down their recipients’ chimneys as well as punishing bad children by put- ting them in a bag and carrying them away to Spain. 5. A tube that stores paper crowns worn by the British while they eat Christmas dinner. 6. Bolivians celebrate this on Christmas Eve when they bring roosters to the midnight mass, a gesture that symbolizes the be- lief that a rooster was the first animal to announce the birth of Jesus. 7. In this state, there is a town with the name of North Pole. 8. A plant that derives from an Anglo-Saxon word meaning “little dung twig” because it spreads though bird droppings. 10. Fat, old guy in red who brings gifts to children on Christ- mas Eve. 11. British illustrator who de- signed the first Christmas card in 1843 12. In this country, Christmas Eve is a time to eat fried chicken and strawberry shortcake. 13. Jewish song writer who wrote Christmas songs, including “Rockin’ Around the Christ- mas Tree,” “Rudolph, the Red- Nosed Reindeer,” and “I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day.” 15. Reported to be the first person to decorate a Christmas tree. 18. The reindeer with a red nose. 19. Bishop of Rome who pro- claimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birthday of Christ in 350 A.D.