Wall • Rchsjournalism.Wordpress.Com Written By: Joseph Arcinas

Volume 2 Issue 5

March/ The April 2011 Internet’s On the blog: Wall • rchsjournalism.wordpress.com Written By: Joseph Arcinas

here has been an ongoing grudge doesn’t support a student curriculum; categories” are needed to be able to file that students and staff have downloading files from the internet that it as a complaint (R Rated, Hacking, Tto face. The war of blocked may contain viruses; and hacking of the Local Block, Personal Pages, etc.). websites on school grounds. system/using proxies. Unblocking of websites is What this means is that if In River City’s student possible, but only by submitting a anyone tries to go on sites like YouTube handbook, it says students have to website to the district that doesn’t go or Facebook, it’ll say it’s blocked. sign a Computer Use Agreement against the CIPA. “Once reviewed, Other websites like failblog.org or before starting to use a computer. The the site will either stay blocked or be Meeting ou[rc]ity staff knowyourmeme.com are also hit with agreement defines such rules as the unblocked.” this for “obscene and tasteless” content. unacceptable conducts above, and if The teachers around school & Editorial Policy The school’s Use of Internet broken, students will be disciplined by say that streaming videos are blocked, Page 2

FEATURES: • Hypnosis is Not What You Think Written By: Gustavo Flores

• Spread the Plague Written By: Jessica Rodriquez

• Man on the Moon II because if too many people use it, then Written By: Alan Tellez Technology policy states that, “Using some of the following consequences: any technological system is a privilege detention, suspension, and revoked the network will be slowed down. Tom that may be revoked at any time for computer access. proves this by stating that, “One of the • Inspiration is a Click Away reasons that services such as YouTube Written By: Karina Bueno unacceptable conduct.” With Vision The source of the website software, the staff and teachers have blocks occurs in one place, or as a have been restricted or blocked is due to the ability to monitor all the computers matter of fact, one person. That man is bandwidth restrictions.” Ou[RC]ity Sports: within their room. the district’s Director of Information and There could be a day where everyone on the district can access Page 8 When they mean unacceptable Technology, Tom McNinch. conduct, they mean using the computers “The district’s web content everything on the internet instead of being restricted to only a few sites. • Lady Raiders’ Journey to for uses other than education value. filter complies with the Children’s Some examples of unacceptable conduct Internet Protection Act (CIPA). In Until then, you’ll have to deal with Playoffs are as follows: accessing websites that order for a site to be blocked “specific sites that are considered acceptable by Written By: Jordan Ligona educational standards.

• Rugby: The Unfiled Sport Written By: Sam Urrea Pennies for Patients Written by: Emily Herman

Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodg- proud that they donated because they Ionesco had a bit of a rivalry going on to kin’s disease, and Myeloma are four blood helped get the foundation one step closer try to get their students to participate and related cancers that cause a death every to saving many lives. bring in change. ten minutes. The Leukemia and Lym- phoma Society’s mission is to stop these “I just went through my piggy If Ionescu raised more money deaths and find a cure. bank at home and took a bunch of pennies than Schroeder, he promised his classes and coins,” stated Blanca Zarate, a current that he would wear a wig and a dress for a Our school had the opportunity senior at River City High School. “Know- day. If Schroeder raised more money she to participate in the Pennies for Patients ing you helped someone does make you promised to give her classes a pot luck. program which was put on by The Leuke- feel really good about yourself.” mia and Lymphoma Society. During this Miss Schroeder raised $370 and two week program, students and teachers According to a student connected Ionescu raised over $600. On Thursday all around the world gathered all of their with the interact club, our school raised February 17, 2010, Ionescu kept his prom- loose change and put it in their classes’ approximately $1,200. This surprising ise and became part female for a day. Congrats to Mr.I’s Class change box. amount made this the most successful fundraiser yet at River City High School. The Pennies for Patients program for raising the most money The money our school earned brought joy to our school and help to for Pennies for Patients for this program went towards finding a Different teachers had different many people that are in need of it. Thanks cure for these potentially deadly diseases. ways of trying to persuade their students to everyone who participated in this fund- Everyone who participated should feel into donating. Miss Schroeder and Mr. raiser! Page 2 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011 Ou[RC]ity News Staff

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

Moving Up and Moving On Written By: Daniel Green

As many people know the Scott he was asked if he would feel end of the year is coming up soon, any emotions or be sad about any F that also means Graduation is also of his friends leaving. coming up. For most seniors it’s a very exciting time of the year but He responded by saying for some juniors it could be very “Of course I’m going to be sad but heartbreaking. if they’re going to college, getting a job, or moving on with their life, While most of the seniors I’m happy for them.” are going off to college or, getting a convenient job, they usually for- While a number of juniors get about the juniors and most of despite the seniors leaving, some Y their other friends. People can have are overjoyed about the matter. The way many juniors feel when friends in many different grades Many juniors are actually looking senior friends graduate though seniors and juniors are forward to the seniors leaving. usually the closest because they’ve Junior Gustavo Flores is attended the school the longest. The only thing Gustavo one of the people who are glad is not looking forward to is that In spite of having many se- about the seniors leaving. While several of his senior friends will be nior friends junior, Daryl Scott has speaking with him he said he has graduating and going off to colleg- to deal with many of his basketball many senior friends but he is happy es were he will not be able to talk teammates and other friends leav- because they get to leave and he or hang-out with them like they use I steps up to the senior plate. to. ing. While in an interview with Mr. Page 3 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011 Ou[RC]ity Features

Hypnosis is Not Spread the Plague What You Think Written by: Jessica Rodriquez Rock violinist, singer and Written By: Gustavo Flores harpsichordist, Emilie Autumn has been performing music for several years, but People have used hypnosis “happy place” where one can feel is still somewhat unknown to the world. as a relaxation technique, or to set comfortable and secure. To make Most of her Muffins or Plague Rats (two a goal to stop smoking or to lose them more comfortable and more loving nicknames that Autumn has given to her adoring fans) would like to get the weight but, No one really knows relaxed. word out about her and even hear her on who invented hypnosis an Austrian 4. Ask your partner to relax the radio. physician (Franz Anton Mesmer) all over. “Feel your entire body believed in the healing of mystical relaxing”. Autumn grew up playing violin powers. Who2.Com states that 5. Gradually change your in all sorts of venues and theatres all throughout her childhood but her first big Mesmer studied hypnosis, but was instructions into suggestions which break was touring with Courtney Love hated and discredited for his belief increase the strength of the feeling as an “anarchy violinist.” Autumn toured because he couldn’t prove that of relaxation. “You can feel a heavy, with Love for a while before making guest hypnosis was actually possible. relaxed feeling coming over you. appearances on a Billy Corgan and an There are three types of And as I continue to talk, that heavy OTEP album. hypnosis; we are all different relaxed feeling will get stronger and Her first bit of independent therefore we function different, stronger” work was her “Enchant” album, which Captain Maggots on stage, waiting in our needs, how we learn, and 6. Using your partner’s breathing consisted of mellow and romantic songs for her cue to charge at the audience. how we think. The different and body language as a guide, written mostly in Autumn’s teen years. In types include: stimulating your gradually make your suggestions her newest album, “Opheliac,” the songs with girls in the audience, Contessa eats imagination, creating a sense of more directive, using suggestions are more powerful and dark than “En- people, and Captain Maggots puts rum in relaxation, or self-hypnosis. similar to the following. Repeat chant,” but still have her same beautiful the tea and spits it on the audience. harpsichord and violin talents. Creating a sense of the verses and choruses of a song, Not only do they have cute per- relaxation is the most common until your partner appears to be Autumn is on her “The Door” sonalities, they also have special skills; used by hypnotherapists. Ask.com totally relaxed. “Every word that I tour, which stopped off in San Francisco Veronica performs burlesque routines for states that this type of hypnosis is utter is putting you faster and deeper, at a club called Bottom of the Hill. The the audience, Contessa suspends herself a mental state but it works like a and faster and deeper, into a deep, show was luckily all ages and people from from the ceiling from a long cloth and deep meditation. The tricky part peaceful state of hypnosis.” 12 years old to 40 and older attended the spins herself around in it, and Maggots eccentric display of women dancing in walks on stilts and hula hoops with fire. of hypnosis is that you have to be 7. The final step would be, to tell corsets and making out with each other. a willing participant; if you don’t your partner to come back into the There’s something for everyone agree to participate it would not world. Using words like, “when I Each show includes her “Bloody at an Emilie Autumn show! Whether work. count to five will open your eyes”, in Crumpets,” a group of lovely women you’re there for the wonderful harpsi- If your mind is not a soft and calm voice say “you can who sing backup and dance with Autumn. chord and violin performances, girls completely blank, hypnosis will open your eyes now” Each of the Crumpets have their own wild making out, stilts or being eaten, you’ll personalities that they display on stage. feel at home at an Autumn concert, just not work. Your mind has to be For example, Veronica Varlow makes out as all her Muffins do. completely free of all thoughts and ideas. Mr. Shriver, a psychology There are many resources teacher here at River City high Do you need a $500.00 scholarship throughout the internet that give you school, knows about hypnosis. He steps on how to hypnotize yourself teaches his students how to relax to help with the cost of college or and even another person, WikiHow. using some of these techniques. vocational school??? com shows these steps. There Mr. Shriver said “I teach hypnosis are seven simple and brief steps because it helps out students by Minimum Qualifications: to experience the relaxation that relieving them from stress.” 1) Available to upcoming graduating seniors who are planning to attend a 2 or 4 year college or vocational school. hypnosis offers. Mr. Shriver was first 2) Good student attendance with no disciplinary problems. 1. Tell the partner ahead of time 3) GPA of 2.5 or above. that they will clearly remember recommended to using this 4) Active participation in the RCHS Recycle Program is highly rec- everything that happens. This technique by a doctor at Kaiser ommended but not required. makes the person more comfortable Hospital. Doctors use this on their 5) Submit a "500" word essay, double spaced, in your own words and and builds more trust. patients for pain management or just thoughts on "How Recycling impacts you, others, and the environment that we all live in?" or "What Recycling means to you, others, and our 2. Ask your partner to sit or lie to keep them calm. Students still approach him saying that this skill environment?" or "If you received a $500.00 Scholarship Award from down in a comfortable position in the Recycling Program, how would you spend it?" a dimmed room where you are not has been successful in their life. 6) A college transcript or enrollment listing course studies with your likely to be disturbed for a while. name is required before receiving any $500.00 scholarship award. Everyone has to relax Turn off cell phones, and anything from time to time. By using these that would be a distraction. Deadline for all essays must be submitted between April hypnosis techniques, anyone can 3. Ask your partner to close his 1st through April 24th, 2011 learn how to relax and improve their or her eyes, and imagine being in a lives. Submit essays to Ms. Grisaffi or Mr. Yip Any questions contact Mr. Yip @ (916) 203-2439. Page 4 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

Inspiration is a Click Away Written By: Karina Bueno

When you have a terrible An example from the site is: day the normal thing to do is to just 28 years ago, a pregnant sit in your room and wallow in self- woman went to a doctor who told pity right? Well there’s a completely her that, due to her drug abuse different way to turn your day around and alcoholism, her baby would be and make you feel so much better, mentally handicapped and physically not just about your day but about deformed. He recommended an tomorrow and about life in general. abortion, but she refused. Yesterday, This site makes you think that even I received my doctorate degree in the littlest act of kindness can make astrophysics from MIT. Mom, you such a big difference. GMH. Many people have signed Many more stories like these on to GivesMeHope.com to read the Picture from Bing images, Millions of people have visited the site and read these pull at your heartstrings and make amazing stories that everyday people stories come on and help spread the hope! your heart grow twice its size. We post onto their site to be seen by who need a little more positivity in this might need it most. These stories were tired of reading through the experiences or beautiful stories and world and this site is one of the ways make you heart grow with every word stories and seeing all the negativity for other people to come and read people are contributing and talking that you read and really make you and saying that the site is such a them and hopefully draw inspiration about all the rights in the world think, ‘what can I do?’ ‘downer’. They also didn’t like how or hope from their words. Other sites instead of what’s wrong. In the words This site was made as a everyone was talking about all the that are linked with GivesMeHope of the co-founders, ‘With all of the response to FMyLife.com, or FML. things going wrong in the world thus, are LoveGivesMeHope, hurt and suffering in the world, who Emerson Spartz and his fiancé Gaby GivesMeHope was born. KidsGiveMeHope and six billion couldn’t use a few, more reasons to Montero, the co-founders of the GivesMeHope is a site where secrets there are more sites, some for hope each day?’ site, created this site because they people can come and post about their laughs and others for interesting facts. Pregnancy Buster Written By: Najeli Chavez

Pregnancy Buster is an orga- They are very helpful and they know nization in our school that helps both the correct information to give and are males and females learn more about available to see, anytime when needed pregnancy prevention. Not only do for assistance. they advise you but can also make a huge difference in your life about Having a family in an early why being pregnant in a early age can age is really challenging and confus- bring more stress in your life than it ing. Students don’t know what to do. already has. But you can still be successful and go to school; you don’t have to drop out Their goal is to reach out to of high school or you’ll regret drop- the community and you! They help ping out. those students who are pregnant or have any questions regarding preg- Come to this organization nancy or diseases. There are many and you’ll walk out as a different students who do not know why being person, you won’t be disappointed. sexually active in an early age is dan- For example, a professional member gerous, so Pregnancy Buster informs in this organization says, “We want to students how and why it is. give students facts about reproductive Professional staff members of Pregnancy Bust- health and healthy relationships to Almost in all cases the parents er that want to help the students and the community. help them make informed decisions.” don’t talk to the students about the (on the far left Susana, on the left Kate, middle Najeli, on the right Yaminah ) risk in being sexually active. It’s They won’t judge you or different when teenagers talk to you nitely help you. Anyone is free to join ple, STD’s. It’s a great opportunity to make you feel bad, they just want about pregnancy than adults because and it’s a great club to join because go and gain knowledge. to help. They want to make a huge the advice you receive is in a different you meet new people and also stu- impact in student’s life and make you perspective. dents who join gain information and Also in this club they have into a better person by gaining you learn more about diseases, for exam- professional staff and good resources with a lot of information. Come and This organization will defi- that are also there to help teenagers. you’ll find out!

WHERE: WHY: River City High School (in Parents don’t really talk to the office conference room) students about pregnancy prevention; in this club they have WHEN: professional staff and students WHAT: Wednesdays in both Early that will give you all the cor- A club about pregnancy and Late lunch rect information you need. prevention that are here to help Page 5 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

The Monster Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager

Ball Rages Written By: Alan Tellez Written By: Drake Aguilar Scott Ramon “I’m your biggest fan; I’ll It’s funny because my dad goes crazy Seguro Mescudi, better follow you till you love me, papa- over Lady Gaga.” Danielle said while known as Kid Cudi, is an paparazzi.” This excerpt from one of giggling at the thought of her Dad. American rapper from her most famous songs Paparazzi is just Cleveland, Ohio. a taste of Lady Gaga’s talent. For those However, it’s not all love for of you who don’t already know who Lady Gaga from the students at River Kid Cudi has won Lady Gaga is, she is the meat wearing, City. Crystal Rice, freshman, claims that over fans with his unique top selling, and most unique artist in the she “can’t stand Lady Gaga”. She says, sound and style, which industry. “Last year I liked her a lot, everything about her was cool. But now she is just is inspired by events that Lady Gaga is not only known doing way too much. She’s annoying.” have happened in his life. for her catchy music but you might have also heard about her unique style and Lady Gaga’s tour, The Monster Cudi’s father was the way she expresses herself through Ball, came to Sacramento and I got the Mexican and his mother art and her fashion. chance to attend it. Lady Gaga per- was African-American. formed all her popular songs and kept When he was eleven- years-old, Kid Cudi’s father passed away from The cover of Man on the Moon II provided cancer. by Google Images.

According to Wikipedia, the passing of his father had a significant effect Cudi was now receiving on his personality and consequent- more attention from the media than ly his music. ever before and he decided that there couldn’t be a better time to Cudi first began rapping release his album. towards the end of high school and, after dropping out of the University Kid Cudi released his of Toledo, he moved to Brooklyn, second album, Man on the Moon Lady Gaga performs with her minions dancing behind her. Picture New York to pursue a music career. II: The Legend of Mr. Rager, on November 9, 2010. from Bing images. In July of 2008, Cudi released his first mixtape, A Kid After listening to Man on It’s not a secret that Lady Gaga the crowd pumped all night. Between Named Cudi, through a New York the Moon II, I think that Kid Cudi is one of the most controversial artist’s songs she would talk to the crowd and street-wear brand called 10.Deep. was trying to come up with a dif- out there ranging from her racy music inspire everyone with stories about her ferent sound when he recorded the video’s to her crazy interviews. Every- high school years and how we should be The mixtape was released album. He still had his own sound one has a different opinion on Gaga, ourselves. as a free download and it quickly some people look up to her and love her, but he threw in a different style and caught the attention of rapper while others don’t like her, and some Lady Gaga’s show is a must it ended up with a good result. just don’t understand her. see. The Monster Ball is a fun and Kanye West. Cudi later signed onto electrifying concert and you will not Kanye’s label, GOOD Music. The best tracks on the Danielle Pope, a sophomore be disappointed. You are sure to meet album would have to be “Marijua- here at River City high school, gave her new friends who dress in costumes to After signing with Kanye, na” and “Erase Me” because they impression on Lady Gaga. She said that look like Lady Gaga or to show off their Cudi started to receive attention remind you of the old Kid Cudi. she liked Gaga’s music and she liked uniqueness. from the media and his fan base “how she just doesn’t care about what quickly grew. Kid Cudi then re- Man on the Moon II people think about her.” It’s amazing to see what people will do for Lady Gaga. It’s clear that she leased his debut album, Man on the received mostly positive reviews She also noted about her fash- is a role model for many people around Moon: The End of Day, on Sep- from music critics and as of Janu- ion sense, “Its unique, it’s different. It’s the world. It’s safe to say that Lady tember 15, 2009. ary 23, 2011 the album had sold nothing I’ve ever seen before. Her mu- Gaga isn’t going anywhere, any time 353,000 copies. sic videos are crazy! I like them, a lot. soon. The album sold 104,419 copies in the first week and it even- When asked about the tually reached Gold selling over album, Kid Cudi stated that “Man a half million copies. The album, on the Moon II is dark by nature LGB Cleaning Service according to many critics, showed and instead of bringing you into Kid Cudi’s diversity. my dreams like my first album, Free Estimates I’m bringing you into my reality, • Move Ins-and Move Outs Kid Cudi was starting to good and bad. It will explain more • Specialized in Kitchens and Bathroom make a name for himself and a of who I am as well as pushing the lot of artists wanted to work with Phone: (916)317-7594 envelope musically.” him because of his creativity. He Laura Bueno -- Owner/Operator soon worked with artists such as Kid Cudi has been a differ- T.I., Shakira, Talib Kweli, Robin ent type of artist so far and with his Lic & Insured Thicke, Kevin Rudolf, David unique sound and genre-bending Email: [email protected] Guetta and many more. style, you can only imagine what he is capable of. Page 6 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

What Really Grinds Your Gears River City? The Hobby Written by: Karina Bueno and Emily Albusche Let’s say you’re walking down that make you want to rip out your the street, and you see someone you hair, and stomp your feet; the little “What really grinds my gears is know, you ecstatically wave at them, but annoyances throughout the day that of Drawing when someone is eating and they they don’t see you. Now you’re standing we can’t stand. We all have them, bite down their fork, but not only do there looking like an idiot; doesn’t that and are all familiar with them. Many Written by Joseph Arcinas they bite on it they pull it out of their grind your gears? people share these same aggravations mouth still biting on it.” Or maybe when you’re in and can relate to them through their the drive-thru and you are excited experiences. Around River City, there for your meal but they get your order We went around River City are many students with different wrong. Now you’re sitting in your car High School and asked students talents they possess. Whether its with onions on your burger which you personally “What really grinds your music, dance, or even athletics, for specifically didn’t ask for. gears?” Here’s what we heard from the some of them, its art. Pet peeves are the little things mouths of your very own students and staff here at River City. Drawing is something that most students have been doing “I hate when you open the door for since they were young. Just take a “That feeling you get when you’re walking down the stairs, and you one person, but end up holding it for pencil and paper and draw however miss the step by an inch, and you twenty people.” you feel. feel like you’re going to die.” At this school there are “I hate when a song gets played out, artists that have been serious about and I no longer like it.” drawing for most of their lives. With the amount of drawings they “When people come up to me and have created, it has an impact on say you look tired, which is another way of saying I look horrible.” their lives. “Art is a way to be creative “I hate it when people be doing too and have fun at the same time, much” and it gave me something to do “When you call someone’s name, but whenever I’m bored. When people “What really grinds my gears is when they turn around, it’s not them.” look at my art, I don’t expect double standards. When it’s okay to be a shirtless guy in the newspaper, “I hate when people tYp3 Liik Di$.” much; I just want them to enjoy but not an undead nurse.” it,” Sophomore, Cheyenne Neasbitt “I hate when girls who are absolutely stated. “When you have to repeat yourself, even “It grinds my gears, when you tell beautiful, think otherwise.” “Art is a way to express though they know what you said.” a funny story, but no one laughs, or yourself freely, more or less, it gets it.” “It grinds my gears when people “I hate when a random number texts allowed me to connect with other think they are whispering, but me ‘Hey’, and I reply ‘Who is this?’ “I hate when people wear artists, and made me more social everyone can clearly hear them.” but I don’t get a reply after.” sunglasses inside.” by sharing my drawings. I want people to be truthful about my art “I hate when people don’t have “When you send a text to the wrong “It’s annoying when people update common sense, and are just plain when they see them,” said junior person.” their statuses constantly on any dumb.” Jaymee Pingol. website.” “Art helps people express themselves, plus it set up a path in life I wanted to follow. When people see my art, I like them to have honest criticism, so I can improve on my art,” explained sophomore Anthony Peckham. “Art is inspiring and realistic, basically it’s real life. Since I began drawing, I was respected more by people, and I want them to see drawings that make them happy,” sophomore Alesya Gaponova said. Those were a few artists that took their time to tell how a simple hobby can cause a change in their lives. There are probably more artists out in River City, unknown to the public. Perhaps, there is one in character, Kage, dressed up you… There’s an artist in all of us, Some of Jaymee’s art of the girls from the Phoenix Wright series. as Prussia from Hetalia. just take the time to realize it. Page 7 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

Getting Bromantic Written By: Carolynn Vela

A Bromance is a friendship Matt and Darryl hang out all the that most guys have here at River time they say. Matt laughs “me and City which is filled with whether Jalani hang out all seven days of they agree with it or not. What the week.” Now that’s a bromance is a bromance? According to right, how long can you go without thebromance.com “A Bromance is talking to your best friend? These a close but non-sexual relationship boys said “we always talk to each between two or more men, a form other” Darryl laughs “well if I’m homo-social intimacy” asleep it’s bad.” Matthew Scott, Darryl Some guys might not think Scott and Jalani Davis are seniors that their friendships is considered here at River City and are a perfect a bromance but Matt says “We look example of a bromance. All three at it as a family thing” Jalani agrees are tall, athletic and funny, or in and says “it’s a bond that can’t be their own words “Tall, fitted & broken.” They have known each swag.” While interviewing these other for quite some time, Jalani gentlemen they had a lot to say and Darryl since sophomore year, about their friendship. Matt, Darryl and Jalani give us a taste of their and as for Matt and Jalani they say They have developed their personality in the quad. they have “known each other since friendship from spending years like birth.” together. Matt says “our families Matt and Jalani went from place to hangout would be the and when asked how often they are really close.” Jalani agrees and growing up together and will soon mall, Barcode and parties. hang out? And will it ever get to says “we also have basketball.” be graduating together. Will their A friendship between guys an awkward stage where they were They also noted that their favorite bond be as close after high school? is just as close as girl friendships, just hanging out too much? Jalani, Without a doubt it will be.

Inked Written By: Ivette Lua and Emily Herman A permanent memory, a or to just show off the names of meaningful symbol, and an un- the people they love. forgettable picture are what many teenagers want on their bodies. Tat- “It really did not hurt at toos are found everywhere includ- all until it got to my collarbone,” ing River City High School. commented an anonymous student on the pain. The pain “It’s art work and it has a depends on the position of the special meaning,” stated a student tattoo. at RC. Everyone has a different Junior, Oscar Paz, shows off his reason for their tattoo. “Yes, if I could I would tribal art tattoo. get another one,” said Anony- However, we all like the mous. “I want like five more,” skin infections, and it may cause idea of having a memory forever. declared another River City Quote tattoo are popular among many complications with future A possible way, if you really want RC students because they have a student. MRI exams. that memory to stick with you, is certain meaning. having it tattooed. The choice of There are many bad side Usually people can’t just getting inked may be considered effects of getting a tattoo. You have one tattoo. Some people a bad idea because of its effects in can have an allergic reaction to would actually go as far as saying the future. the ink, you are in jeopardy of that they are addicted. Addicting or not, people use this technique to Junior, Oscar Paz, has a express themselves and show who tattoo on his shoulder blades. The they really are. style of the tattoo is tribal art, “I’ve always wanted one,” he answered. People who get tattoos “Though I just got this one done would be considered risk takers; not even a month ago, I want they live life, they don’t worry another one already, my mom’s about the pain, and they live with a name.” long lasting memory.

To others, people may The next time you walk think it is a great way to express around school try to find some their personality. Whether that is students and admire their body art. Names are possibilities for tattoos. They honor those names by keeping It may even give you ideas for the getting a tribal tattoo or a butterfly them close and inked on them. future. Page 8 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011 Ou[RC]ity Sports

Lady Raiders’ Journey to Playoffs Written By: Jordan Ligons

As the City Limit signs pass intensity. As preseason rolled around, because we didn’t pull out the win us by, the once beautiful day fades to with many tournaments flying our that I believed whole-heartedly we a chilly Tuesday night, we, the Lady way, challenges were knocking at our could’ve. But I didn’t. This journey Raiders varsity basketball team, head door waiting for us to answer them. has been like no other and for my to Loomis, CA to the number two Then league came and everyone was junior year, I wouldn’t have wanted ranked Del Oro Golden Eagles on ready; ready to start putting the Ws to go out any other way than to a top their home court. where they matter most. With a tough ranked team in the area as well as in A bus ride that started with jokes and first three games being away, we the nation. laughs to cease the much anticipated started off strong. New rival games An overall record of 23-3, I give Del hype soon grew to silence and the may have brewed as the most chal- Oro some praise. However, for us, an only noise came from iPod music lenging teams in league, Galt and El overall record of 18-10 surpassed last seeping through the speakers into the Dorado were the only two teams to year for the most wins in the history of air. Was this the beginning or the end? beat us both times we met. River City Women’s Basketball. Ever. It couldn’t help but cross my mind. With one game left in league play and A roster starting off with 14 girls and Everyone is counting us out, “the with a record of 5-5 up till that point, ended with 11— an additional two number fifteen team can’t possibly we had one game to prove that we JV players were chosen to move up beat the glorious number two team,” deserved to play in the CIF playoffs. for playoffs— we have been through they chanted with an assertive tone. The Lady Raiders headed to Folsom a lot together. With some teammates They were just so sure. Underdogs to square off against Vista Del Lago, preparing for this season as long as ten again; always fighting to prove who previously beat us by 2 points in months ago, we have battled through ourselves in this battle of the crazed a buzzer shot with 1.9 seconds re- injury after injury, sickness after world of high school basketball. But maining in the game. sickness, to merge into this tight-knit you know what? I still believed be- As a playoff type atmosphere filled the family that no one can break. cause my heart was yearning for a W. air, it was a close battle throughout all Five seniors that I will miss terribly, The journey to get here was a roller- 4 quarters and we ended pulling out four juniors, two incredible coaches, coaster ride that consisted of loops the big victory by 2 with a score of one sophomore, and one freshman and many ups and downs in search 42-40. Karma is fun isn’t it? made-up the RCHS Lady Raiders for for consistency. Dating back to fall February 22, after the final buzzer the 2010-2011 basketball season. Yes, league we were unstoppable. No one sounds in the black and yellow gym this journey might be over, but another could match our high energy and of Del Oro, I wanted to hang my head one is soon to begin.

Millions of people watch the team isn’t really there”, said football annually. Rugby, on the Rugby: The Unfiled Sport Ringor. other hand, is a sport that does not He continued, “Also, there’s confu- Written By: Sam Urrea receive the enough recognition it sion as to where to meet and where deserves. the practices would be sometimes. It is a sport just as tough as It should really be made a sport its counterpart if not slightly more just for River City. It would be a physical. Most Americans would lot better that way.” agree that their favorite sport is Albeit the disappointment on the football. It is symbolic of the matter from different sections of American culture due to its iconic the school, Ms. Ghio, the RC Ath- league, the NFL, and its players. letic Director, had her say on the It is such a huge sport in the coun- subject. “Rugby is not part of the try, that it gathers itself into a mass sports program because of the risk of emotion on Super Bowl Sunday, of injury for the players”, she said. arguably the biggest day in the na- “Yes, Football is very similar but tion’s calendar only behind impor- Rugby does not have the same pro- tant holidays. tection. Injuries are a very high risk Rugby, on the other hand, with each passing game. Currently, does not have the same levels of we’re not planning on filing it as popularity. The sport is just as a school sport any time soon”, she physical as Football if not more ex- went on. citing so what could be the reason river city sports program. like for that to change in some It seems as if the intensity of the for its relative unpopularity? River City Senior Manuel Gutier- point in the future.” sport is what is preventing it from The case is the same at rez is one of those students. He There is, though, a club River City reaching its full potential in terms River City. Rugby is currently not feels disappointed about the matter, students can sign up for locally. of popularity not only at River City filed as a River City sport which saying, “I love the sport, I can’t Erin Ringor, who is part of the but in America. Sadly, the sport is has led some students to show their believe it’s not treated in the same club, claims it is not the same. likely to stay where it currently is, disagreement, let alone their confu- way as other sports at the school, “The club gathers people from relatively unknown to most. sion as to why it is not part of the like soccer for example. I would different schools so the spirit of Page 9 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

True Meaning of Soccer Dive into SwimTeam Written By: Gustavo Flores Written By: Rachel Sayles and Brittnie Ringor

To some people soccer is a and to win. She has been playing The River City High School tice. second rate sport that doesn’t get a along Katie’s side since her fresh- swim team is dedicated, driven, and lot of respect. To other people soccer man year also. doing their absolute best during prac- Elijah Finn, who is also part of is more than a sport, it is a passion. tices and meets. the team claimed, “The swim team is Rios has used “patience and a productive and fun way to spend my Katie Nishimura, a junior to think before I act” in her daily Sophomore, Ashiley Silviera time. It can help students obtain scholar- here at River City High School, life, and she learned these skills said about the swim team, “Swim is a ships to good colleges, and it keeps me is one of those people that have from soccer. There are some games lot of fun. Practicing with my friends motivated to keep my grades up so I can learned more from soccer than just that they have lost but Alicia and on the team is something I look for- stay on the team.” how to play. She has been compet- Katie were happy about how they ward to everyday and I’m really glad I joined the team.” The swim team is very serious ing for River City since her fresh- played and even though they did not about practicing as well as doing their men year and is currently playing on best. The intensity of the sport is so big, the girl’s varsity soccer team. even the most dedicated swimmers are encouraged to practice daily, no matter To Katie, soccer is “a sport what the weather is. where I will never cease to learn new things. It’s a sport that keeps Assistant Coach Rose Berghash me motivated and thriving to suc- asserted, “The best thing about coaching ceed. It means the world to me the swim team is getting to know all of because it’s a place where I can play the kids. On the other hand, the hardest and forget about everything.” part about coaching is finding a balance between being an authority figure and a She plays defense and mid- friend.” field. Soccer has thought her “that Katie Nishimura and Alicia Rios after soccer Juniors, Alyssa Ringor and Sterling Liffring even when you fall and think you practice at River City High school have developed a friendship while on the She goes on to say that she very can’t get up; there is always some- swim team. much believes in her crop of swimmers win the game they felt as if they and hopes to have a successful season. one there to help you up and encour- “My favorite strokes are had accomplished their goal. “Come the end of the season, I truly age you to keep on going.” definitely free style and butterfly. I like believe we will look back at what we’re butterfly because it is challenging and The girl’s soccer team has doing today and be proud of ourselves.” One of those teammates that free style is the easiest stroke,” she helps motivate Katie to persevere is worked hard even though they continued. Swim is an exciting as well as Alicia Rios, a junior on the varsity have struggled in some games. The tough sport; it keeps you in shape and team. Alicia loves soccer in general, varsity teams’ overall record as of Ashiley says the hardest part pushes you to do your best, for yourself March 25th is 3-7-3. about swim is getting motivated and she likes the competition, games, and most importantly, for your team. waking up for 6:30 AM morning prac- Page 10 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

your road trip. One item would be a many photos as memories at those cooler and to pack snacks, (snacks places, and be sure to find some sites Can You Afford A are an essential part of any road trip online before you go. it means no stopping at stores and Fill up the tank! Save money spending a lot of money). by filling the gas tank and by plan- Spring Break Trip? Carpool, budgeting spring ning ahead and not waiting until the break road trips becomes easier tank is near empty. Www.gasbuddy. Written By: Josie Placencia when you can fill the car with com lists the cheapest gas values in friends and all divide the costs. The a specific town that you choose. & Carolynn Vela savings on gas and expenses add `Be sure to split the hotel up fast when you split with your prices among each other. Budget- Spring Break is near! What there are so many ways to work friends. Also know where there are ing a spring break trip does not have are you going to do? Can you afford around that or even work with it. restaurants and find them ahead of to leave you lodging at the crappy to go anywhere? What is Spring You can road trip with time so you’re not wasting gas driv- motels. If you can divide the cost Break anyway? Here are some friends to SF so they all pitch in an ing around a town you don’t know equally you can also upgrade where detailed bargains you can use to go equal amount, but a helpful tip is looking for one. Planning ahead you stay. on a trip to San Francisco; a place always plan ahead, it’s the most saves time and money. This trip will be in all the memo- where many teenagers from Sacra- efficient way. Call in a few weeks Be sure to stop at sites along ries of your teenage years and a mento go for spring break. before to arrange a hotel and cal- the way in SF because there are so good memory at that. You also will Spring break is a time where culate the cost with the friends you many different sites to see such as remember how much you saved, not teenagers are supposed to have fun came with. Fisherman’s Warf, Peer 39, Alcatraz, saying you’ll be cheap, but its hav- and to simply get their minds off According to www.associat- and Angel Island. Be prepared to ing a good time and saving money, school and work. Some may say edcontent.com, here are some of the stop at places that interest you. There who could ask for more? they just don’t have the money but main things that you will need on are free attractions and you can take

Obesity At Think outside the LARGE Drive-Thru Written By: Daniel Green Written By: EmilyAlbusche Image provided by Google Images

Obesity and overweight have Whether you enjoy eating the huge consequences on our nation’s greasy french fries from McDonalds, the health and economy. Both are linked calorie-infested Whopper from Burger has been trying to pass bills, chang- to a number of diseases, including King, or the chocolate frosty from ing California’s physical activity and heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Wendy’s, you’re still contaminating food environments. One of the bills some cancers. your body with unhealthy amounts of states that California is going to “set carbohydrates, calories, and sodium. In 2010, “California Center standards for foods and all competi- Fast food has become an almost for Public Health” states that Cali- tive foods sold in California public every day thing for students here at Riv- fornia’s population was about 37 schools, limiting the amount of non er City, after school with their friends million. More than 10 million were nutritious foods that can be sold in and even their at-home environment. th Many choose the fast alternative of just kids. Of those 10 million about 67 kindergarten through 12 grade.” zooming through a drive-thru, because percent of them were considered Another bill also sets stan- it’s convenient and inexpensive. overweight and 55 percent were dards for beverages sold in Califor- Most think that if they serve considered obese. About 1 quarter of nia Public Schools, and stops the hamburgers and french fries in a combo them said they have had no physical sale of most sweetened beverages meal, it’s considered fast food. But what activity in the past month. exactly is fast food? Fast food is defined including sodas. So if you’re mad as food prepared and served quickly. Often causes of obesity are about what the school is serving, or Even Subway, mistakenly considered that kids eat food and drinks that are not serving, take it up with the gov- as the opposite of fast food, still falls high in sugar and fat on a regular ba- ernment! under the definition of food being made sis. They also watch TV, play online, quickly. Another problem with obe- or play video games, activities that Students continue to be sur- sity is the BMI. BMI stands for body don’t burn calories. Less than 1 in 6 rounded with more and more fast food mass index. The body mass index teens report at least 1 hour of physi- places like Taco Bell, Burger King, Mc- is a measurement calculated from cal activity per day. Donald’s, and In-n-Out. Some students your height and weight to determine eat there as much as every week like Obesity also affects the state where you fall on the scale of obesi- freshman, Alonso Medina, who says, economy. In 2006, due to physical ty. But muscle mass is not accounted “I go to Taco Bell maybe three times a inactivity, obesity and overweight, for. So muscle bound athletes like week.” But some like sophomore Sa- brina Fields claim to “only eat In-n-Out according to the “California Center football players, body builders and softball players are often considered about 2 times a month now.” for Public Health” cost were esti- Eating fast food has become mated at 41.2 billion- 21billion for overweight or obese. such a regular routine within kids, as with low prices, and bigger sizes, overweight and obese children and one-third of them are purchasing fast Therefore, River City, get ultimately handing them an offer they 20.2 billion for physical inactivity in foods daily. Fast food corporations grab out and exercise and eat healthy! It’s cannot refuse. the attention of their younger audience California. Fast food is a weekly thing for students just the right thing to do. with bribes like mascots, toys, and kids here at River City, and probably will Over the last 3 years the state meals that reel kids into their franchise. continue to be that way. They convince their older audience, Page 11 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011

Cakey Face The Art of Ceramics Written By: Emily Herman and Ayeree Pipersburg Written By: Elena Tyannikova

Ceramics is the art and Some of the things that are weekend, he comes to school and Beauty is in the eye of the technology of making objects of made in this class are: pinch pots, takes them out because you must beholder, but what if the beholder is clay, treated by firing in a kiln. In whistle creatures, coil forms, and wait 24 hours in order for the hidden behind a face full of make- the ceramics class at River City, many more. To complete a project, it projects to cool down and be able up? Many people tend to hide their students get a chance to make must go through a long process. to be handled. natural beauty behind cosmetics. various objects out of clay. The process of making a clay When the bisque firing Everyone is naturally pretty; Being in Ceramics class is project begins with a detailed step- is complete and the projects are it just takes courage to show off fun and the teacher of this class, by-step handout given by Mr. Jones. taken out, it is then that students that beauty. An anonymous student Mr. Jones, is a strict and artistic After a demonstration on how to are able to go far in their creativ- stated, “I don’t even walk out of my person. make the project, it is the students’ ity and chose to either paint or house without makeup on.” turn to get started on it. People have different rea- To decorate the project, sons for hiding their face. Some there are specials tools that are used think that they look better with to shape, carve, and make creative makeup, others are trying to hide designs on it. It is very important to their acne, and some are trying to make all of the walls of the sculpture put color in their face. a quarter inch or thinner- or else they “When I do wear makeup will explode in the kiln and can ruin it’s because I look really pale and someone else’s project. because I’m a mess.” said Talia The kiln is a furnace that is A coil project that was made of stacking up Macias. “I feel ugly without it.” Mr. Jones with a project in one hand and coils and then smoothed out. declared anonymous. glaze in the other. used for burning, baking, drying, and firing pottery. The temperature in the glaze their projects however they “I wear makeup because Mr. Jones has been a kiln can get up to 2800 degrees. like. without it, I look younger,” stated teacher at River City for 20 years. When the finished project is sophomore Rozy Garza. As little He is most likely retiring next modeled and dry, it is put in the kiln When students ask if their girls we all used to get into our year and he wishes to pass the ranging from 24-60 hours. Mr. Jones projects are good enough, Mr. mothers makeup and pretend that love of learning and art to his usually puts the projects in the kiln Jones likes to say, “Good enough we were older, and now many of us students. on last day of the week. During the is neither.” have carried that on to adulthood. Making Students Care About STAR Testing Written By: Jordan Ligons

How would you like your school.” with 728; however, it can have it if you scored better on one Shasta High School in even more growth if we adapt to standardize test and then your Redding, CA has this same policy this policy. As people age they feel like whole class grade raises in that and was active as of April 2009. they need more makeup to hide their subject? If you ask, you shall Their policy was only available “It would motivate me imperfections, but makeup could be receive. to 10th and 11th graders as well more,” Cindy Oseguera a 10th the reason behind those flaws. There The Test Grade and was accounted by their Social grader at RCHS, “However, some are many studies that have found Enhancement Policy states that if Science Department Chair Gary students might not do well in class cosmetics to be the cause of acne, a student in the tenth or eleventh Connolly. on purpose because they know wrinkles, early ageing, oily faces, grade scores ‘Proficient’ or “It is our desire that all of they’ll get 5%.” This is true, but and even cancer. ‘Advanced’ on a Math, Science, our students succeed in school, there are other limitations. The Where is the boundary History, or English STAR test, preparing them to succeed in their students must have a 55%+ to between looking nice and looking their current second semester lives beyond Shasta High School,” receive a grade enhancement. fake? “Some people wear too much grade in the subject will be raised says Connolly, “We hope this makeup, they cake it on”, stated by 5%. For example, if you have Grade Enhancement Program will With RCHS and our junior Ivette Lua. a 75% (C) in Math and receive a encourage our students to strive to block schedule it might be a little ‘Proficient’ on the STAR test, your succeed.” changeling to complete this task, Wearing cosmetics is okay academic grade will be changed to “[It would only work] if you have just as long as you don’t overdo it. an 80% (B). For SHS, their API for the class the second term to score Many people, girls especially, tend to Mrs. Hoffman, veteran Large Comprehensive Schools in high,” Eleventh grader Serenity put too much on. Physics teacher here at River the city of Redding had a score Groce states her opinion. If you are going to wear City High School, thinks it’s of 805 after they have switch to makeup, take care of your face cor- a great idea. It would not only this policy. They had the second Personally, I would love rectly. Every time you put makeup raise test scores as a school, but highest score next to Foothill High this policy and it would not only on make sure to wash your face after motivate students to do better on School. help out my grade and even my waking up and before you go to bed. the STAR test in general for their school. As you get older, you tend grades. “You just have to go to As for River City High to “not care” about the STAR; I Next time you look in the Administration,” she stated, “Get School, we had a miraculous believe this would motivate me to mirror, try a natural look. See what the facts and make a change for growth in API score as a school care. responses you’ll get. Page 12 | Ou[RC]ity | March/April 2011 Ou[RC]ity Editorials Impact Teen Drivers Written By: Elena Tyannikova and Najeli Chavez

Impact Teen Drivers is an tivity with three students that had people and family.” texting, eating or having friends organization that brings aware- a chance to drive in a cone zone in the car. ness to teenagers all over Cali- with and without texting. When A startling statistic that fornia. One of the schools they they drove with no distractions, was emphasized in this meeting Impact Teen Drivers visited recently was River City they drove carefully and aware of was that more than 5,000 teen hopes that bringing this message High School. everything that happened on the deaths could be prevented by to students at River City will not road. When the students started eliminating unsafe driving be- only bring awareness but also Their purpose is to bring receiving text messages, they haviors and distractions such as save lives. a meaningful message to students started swerving and hitting the who drive and give them the facts cones. about the danger of being distracted while driving. The volun- One of the speakers at the teers in this education program press conference from Impact share their stories and experi- Teen Drivers shared a story about ences with teenagers. her son that died two weeks into his senior year, because of getting th On March 7 , 2011, the distracted by his passengers in members of this association the car. This story touched many along with representatives from students and teachers because the CHP, made a huge impact on he was a good student and never the students at River City High knew his life would end like that. School. They performed a driving demonstration followed by a A River City student who press conference. attended this event was personally affected by this speech. “It To show students about made me think to be more cau- how dangerous it is to be distract- tious and just by a little distrac- Hundreds look on as a River City student, accompanied by a CHP officer, par- ed while driving, they did an ac- tion it can cause a lot of harm to ticipates in the distracted driving obstacle course.

The 2010-2011 River City Mock Trial team has accomplished a lot in their season. With Mr. Connor advising the students, they finished 2-2 by defeating Del Campo and Natomas Pacific Pathway Prep. Keiko Merks received the Most Valuable Team Member award. RCHS Mock Trial is also Yolo County Champions 2011 for the fifth year in a row! Congratulations Mock Trial!

Rear, left to right: Gabriel Harker, Iann Tharp, McKenna Colvin, Keiko Mertz, Anthony Follett, Vineeta Kumar, Jakub Davis, Jordan Kersey Front, left to right: Irina Tolstova, Tu Hoang, Cheyenne Neasbitt, Sydney Lucero, Levi Lebhart, Chris Colcleasure, Tim Daley