Teacher Bio: Interview with Mr. Fishel by Aaron Espinosa January 10, 2007

Mr. Fishel, Fish, Fishel, or coach are some of the names he is called by his students and his players. It all began when Gary Fishel was born in 1972 in Victorville, California, where he enjoyed watching over the same three sports that are viewed mostly by Americans today. Can you guess the sports? If not they are, football, baseball, and basketball. He is fond of football because it shows emotion from the players, and also it acts like a battle. He enjoys watching basketball because you can always get better at it. And in baseball he likes the mental aspect of it how it challenges your brain. Along with
favoring these sports, he also has his negative influence about them. He dislikes baseball because it is a game of failure, and that you aren’t going to succeed all the time. He disapproves football because too many football players are drawing way too much attention to themselves. And the reason why he does dissimilar basketball is because in basketball you absolutely have to be tall to play the game.
Growing up in Irvine, he attended Woodbridge high school. He got the idea of becoming a teacher when attending Woodbridge because his teachers always gave a positive influence towards him and he wanted to give that same positive influence to all his students. A typical teaching day for Mr. Fishel starts the night before. He takes time at night to plan the lesson for the next teaching day in class. When he arrives in the morning he usually grades some papers or passes papers out to the class. After he finishes, with grading and/ or passing out the papers, he presents the lesson to the entire class about 50 minutes for 4 classes a day. After, he is off to go to work in baseball, where he is the head coach for the varsity team. He also runs the practices for a couple hours in which he will choose the drill they are going to practice today. For example field ground balls or hit in the cages. After a long day of hard work he is ready to go home. After he is finished with all of that, Mr. Fishel starts planning for the day ahead to do it all over again.

Wii: Successor of Nintendo by Michael Goode January 10, 2007

The Wii is Nintendo’s seventh- generation video game console. It is the successor to Nintendo GameCube and competes against Microsoft’s Xbox 360 and Sony’s PlayStation 3. The Wii console is more undersized then any other of the other game consoles. In fact, it is the smallest home unit Nintendo has made. It is about the size of three DVD cases stacked together.
One of the greatest features of the Wii console is its one-handed wireless controller (the Wii remote) which may be used as a handheld pointing device and can detect motion and rotation in three dimensions. Users can control the game using physical gestures as well as traditional button presses. The controller can connect to other devices through a port at the base of the controller.
The operating system interface for the console is designed around the concept of the television channels. That means that with a Wii menu used to access these separate channels which are graphically displayed in a grid and are navigated using the pointer capability of the Wii Remote. There are eight primary channels: the Disc Channel, Wii Channel, News Channel, Forecast Channel, Photo Channel, Wii Shop Channel, Internet Channel and Virtual Console Channel(s).
The Wii console is a backward compatible with all Nintendo GameCube software and most GameCube peripherals. This backwards compatibility is achieved with the help of the slot- loading drive being able to accept GameCube discs, and a set of four GameCube controller ports and two Memory Card slots, concealed by flip- open panels. A GameCube controller is required to play GameCube games, as neither the Wii Remote nor the Classic Controller will function in this capacity.
The Wii console supports wireless connectivity with the Nintendo DS. Shigeru Miyamoto said Nintendo was still working out when features using this connectivity would be available, but that it would be soon after the launch of the system, due to the popularity of the Nintendo DS. The connectivity will allow the player to use functions like the Nintendo DS’ microphone and touch screen as inputs for Wii games.

Girls Fashion by Jasmine Vega January 10, 2007

A new style of fashion has become talk of the new world for girls. Girls are not spending over thousands of dollars on new clothes but also on facial expense and plastic surgery. For example, there is a new way to get your eyebrows done, instead of waxing. Women from the India would use threads to clean eyebrows and any other facial hair, this is called “threading”. They believe in this method because it is more efficient not to pull the skin hairs like waxing does. Also women who feel unattractive or they critic themselves on there what their body parts look like end up paying for over thousands of dollars for plastic surgery to try to fix their problem. Paying money for a surgeon to operate on how your body looks like is just not worth it. You have to be yourself no matter what you look like. However a slight bit of make-up, new hair style or new clothes is a good idea to become attractive and noticeable. Once in awhile to much make-up for ones face and buying new clothes every week for girls who start to think about how they look on the outside then on how they look on the inside. One of the most influential fashionable magazines in our society today for girls to have is “Cosmo”. Girls look inside this magazine and see beautiful models with new fashionable clothes and beauty throughout the magazine. In which girls that read the magazine will begin buying these certain clothing and style from this magazine. Another bad influence on young girl’s tin our society is the television show “America’s next top model”. This is a reality television show about girls desiring the need to become models. The young women do not realize that when they see these celebrities on television, they are just putting on a show. In reality, women do not need to have a lot of make-up and hair color. Its fun being fashionable but it sure is a tough life.

Movie Review: Accepted or Not by Dharti Nasit January 10, 2007

Although the film does manage to deliver some laughter, Accepted it to cliché and predictable to really hold your attention or make it worth taking the time to watch. At its core, the movie does have a good message, but it is one that has been done hundreds of times.
The film is the directorial debut of Steve Pink (the writer for two great comedies High Fidelity and Grosse Pointe Blank) and was written by Adam Cooper, Bill Collage, and Mark Perez. Accepted has a young and funny cast including Justin Long, Jonah Hill, Adam Herschman, Blake Lively, Columbus Short, and Maria Thayer. They are joined by some veterans of comedy namely the great Lewis Black.
The film follows a “loser” high school student named Bartleby Gaines who has been rejected from every college. Bartleby just has talents that most schools don’t find as a reason to accept him such as the art of making a fake ID or a sarcastic with that leaves others insulted without even knowing it. After his fall-back school rejects him, Bartleby is forced to come up with a new plan to keep from disappointing his parents. To him the answer is simple – he will just create his own college and go there. To pull off the con, Bartleby enlists the help of his friends – two who have also been rejected from the college of their dreams and another who is the only smart one of the group. The group creates the college of South Harmon Institute of Technology.
The gang believes they have it made until knock on the door, and the school is quickly overrun by other “rejects” that couldn’t get into any other college. After a bit of scrambling, Bartleby and crew decide to keep the college open. The school is a place for students to take the courses they want and how they want to learn it. The problems come in the form of Dean Van Horne (played by Anthony Heald) who wants to clear out all the real estate in the area to make room for his own college. There is also a love interest for Bartleby’s friend Sherman Schrader (Jonah Hill). Schrader not only got into a real college, but is also trying to get into the frat. Bartleby and his school eventually have to face accreditation challenge from Van Horne or to be shut down, not to mention Bartleby has to come clean to his parents.
Fans of American Pie or college comedies will find some laughs in Accepted, but that is about all that is there. Long and several of the cast are funny in the movie, but there is just not enough to hold your interest. If you are in the mood for a comedy with a couple of laughs and plot that doesn’t require any thought, give the movie Accepted a try.

Global Warming by Danny Valencia January 10, 2007

The earth as a whole is changing. As we advance in industry, we are creating more chemicals which are being released into the atmosphere. One of the major chemicals destroying the planet is carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide stays in our atmosphere and holds in the earth’s heat. Because the heat is being held in our climate and seasons are changing and temperatures continue to get warmer. This is called global warming.

Carbon dioxide comes from many sources. Some of the sources are emissions from cars and trucks, airplanes, and buildings. This carbon dioxide is created by the burning of fossil fuels.

Another chemical is methane. Methane Is a gas that comes from places like rice patties, cow fields, and stagnant water. The bacteria in these places rot and create the methane gas.

A non chemical cause of global warming is deforestation. Cutting down trees and destroying forests, particularly rain forests, causes millions of tons of carbon dioxide to escape into the atmosphere. Trees absorb carbon dioxide; we should be planting trees rather then cutting them down.

Because of our increasing temperatures there is an increase in the number of some diseases, such as malaria, encephalitis. These diseases are spread by mosquitoes and rodents which increase in number with the climate change.

We can also see changes in the earth’s landscape due to global warming. There are many glaciers that don’t even exist anymore and some that scientist say will only exist for maybe 10 more years.

It’s very important for our future well being and existence to stop global warming. There are many things we can change to make the planet cleaner and cooler. We need to come up with clean burning automobiles and stop being dependant on fossil fuels. Our cities are “hotspots.” We can cool down by using renewable energy which energy is created by wind for example. We need to think differently about everything we do and use. We need bike trails not six lane freeways. We need to reuse items even before we recycle them. To stop global warming, it is going to require everyone to change there mindset on what is really needed and the cleanest way to obtain it.

Movie Review: Babel by Fendi Valerio January 10, 2007

If you look up the word ‘Babel’ in the dictionary it explains that in the ancient city of Shinar, the building of “The Tower of Babel” intended to reach heaven and the confusion of the language of people had taken place. “Babel” is a movie directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and written by Guillermo Arriaga. This film tells four distinct stories that all connect to one weapon. The weapon? A rifle. This film travels from the mountains of Morocco to fluorescent Tokyo to the heavily gated border between the United States and Mexico. A Japanese tourist first had the rifle, who is the father to a deaf and mute teenage girl who has several complications with her dad. The tourist gave the rifle as a gift to a Moroccan guide. He sold it to a Moroccan family, which included two young, and competitive boys. The father of the Moroccan family handed the rifle to the two young boys and ordered them to protect their sheep. While they were following their task they saw an American tourist bus a couple of kilometers away. An American couple, Richard and Susan, (Academy Award Winner Brad Pitt, and Academy Award Nominee Cate Blanchett) was aboard this bus enjoying their vacation stay in Morocco. The two young, Moroccan boys wanted to see how far this rifle could actually shoot. One boy missed the bus, but the other boy accidentally wounded the wife, Susan (Cate Blanchett). The last story is of a Mexican nanny who is taking care of two kids. These kids belong to the American couple in Morocco. As the nanny’s son is getting married, she illegally crosses the border between the United States and Mexico with the two kids and gets severely punished by the United States government. Four different stories, four different settings all connecting to the one weapon, a rifle. This film by Alejandro González Iñárritu is put together nicely and with care. It is a very powerful movie that could leave you dazed or even traumatized when the film is over. I give it 3-½ stars out of 5 stars.

Democrats Take Over the House by Jennifer Oliver January 10, 2007

After twelve years of Republican rule, the Democrats won control of the House. Exit polls showed middle class voters who voted Republican twelve years ago returned to vote for the Democratic Party. The Democrats won 234 seats, enough to gain control of the house in Washington DC. The Republicans barely lost with a seat number of 201.
Exit polls showed that three in four voters said corruption was very important to their vote and they tended to vote Democratic. Also, ethics woes, the war and overall anger toward Bush appeared to drive voters to the Democratic side. Voters were dissatisfied with the President and thus voted Democratic. Eight in ten voters said the economy was very important to their House vote and thus voted Democratic. Nancy Pelosi stated that “The American people voted for a change and they voted for Democrats to take their country in a new direction and that is exactly what we intend to do.”
The Republicans fell from power in all regions of the country including conservative, liberal and moderate. Also they fell in every district, such as urban, rural and suburban. Scandals appeared to have hurt Republican incumbents even more so than Bush’s unpopularity and the four-year-old war in Iraq. For months, national surveys showed Democrats favored over Republicans by numbers not seen since 1990 as voters grew restless with the Bush administration and seemed more ready to end one-party rule on Capitol Hill. American casualties climbed in Iraq, and public support for the war fell, as did approval ratings for Congress along with the president.
For the first time, a woman will become the nation’s speaker of the House. Nancy Pelosi is a hard-charging Californian Democrat who stated earlier that, “Today we have made history, now let us make progress” she said in an interview with the press. Even though the Democrats have now taken over gas prices (which were one of the woes the Democrats complained) have not yet come down. In fact, they seemed to have risen. One can only hope that any changes the Democrats will make will be for the good of the people and that all parties will now benefit from the decisions the Democrats make.

Being Hot, A Benefit? By Tyler Huddleston January 10, 2007

Tyler Huddleston – Being Hot, A Benefit?
Ultimately Californians can and will choose their atmosphere’s fate. Directing themselves in a new path, rather than the one they are on right now, can lead to less severe effects in the future. Emissions of catastrophic pollutants into the atmosphere from sources such as cars, factories, electricity plants, or lead contributes to the rapid pace at which global warming is increasing. Residents of California need to pave a path for the world and rest of the nation to follow by cutting down emission rates of harmful substances and finding alternative sources of power, that can perform the same tusk, in a cleaner way. In the year 2080, if Californians continue to pollute the atmosphere at the pace it is set today, catastrophic events will occur such as: a 90% loss of the Sierra Nevada snow pack, 2 feet rise in sea level, 4-6 times more heat-related, 20% energy need increase, and an increase of temperate of about 9 degrees Fahrenheit. All of these dilemmas will ruin California and diminish the high life expectancy California currently holds. Later this month the state of California is expected to pass strict, new laws on the problem of gasoline, and the burning of fossil fuels and the greenhouse gasses that are coming out of automobiles.
Many procedures can be followed to help reduce the magnitude of global warming. For instance replacing the household incandescent light bulb with a small, fluorescent light bulb not only gives off brighter light but helps save money on the electric bill, and on average keeps 700 pounds of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere over the bulb’s lifetime. Replacing your refrigerator with one that comes with the “Energy Star” label one it will use 15% less energy than the federal requirement, will save money on an electric bill, and will cut the release of carbon dioxide gas by one ton. Our world will become a far different place, that nobody will recognize. Leisurely activities around town will be limited due to extreme temperatures, and winter sports will come to a screeching, with no snow, the heart of people’s favorite past times such as skiing or snowboarding. This leads back to the issue of the local citizens. Do they know or care if the decisions they make now, will lead to deaths of thousands of people? Education is key, and people around the state as well as world need to be taught the effects of this pandemic, and learn ways to slow it down, so they can enjoy the world in which they live in. Do they care enough to make a change and see the improvements? Or will they be oblivious to the destruction of the world we live in, and ruin it for future generations to come. You decide.

USC and Michigan battle in the 2007 Rose Bowl game Presented by Citi By Chad Miller January 10, 2007

This is the third time in four years that one of these two teams have been in this historic bowl game. USC battled throughout the year after losing to Oregon State in a close game that came down to a two-point conversion that failed at the end of the game. They won every game since then except to bitter rivals UCLA that cost them a chance in the BCS Championship game. USC ended the year with a 10-2 record.
Michigan on the other hand won every game this year except to Ohio State who is now playing in the National Championship game. They only lost by 3 points and were disappointed when Florida got the nod over them to play in the National Championship. Look for Michigan to start with a lot of energy because they still have a chance to win a share of the AP National title. Michigan ended with an 11-1 record and barely missed out on being in the National Championship game.
Both teams have high powered offenses lead by their quarterbacks, John David Booty for USC and Chad Henne for Michigan. These two quarterbacks have very similar stats throughout the year but Booty has the edge in passing yards with 2956 while Henne only has thrown for 2199. These two players must step up not only with passing yards but as being leaders for their team to win this game.
The running backs for both teams are very talented and are capable of breaking the big play every time they touch the ball. Michigan’s running back Michael Hart gets most of the carries while USC has a running by committee with running backs such as: Chauncey Washington, Emanuel Moody, and C.J. Gamble. Hart has ran for over 1500 yards with 14 touchdowns this season which is more than the USC running backs combined. Look for Michigan to establish this running game early in the first quarter.
USC has two of the best receivers in the league with Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith which will help John David Booty in the passing game. Michigan uses a plethora of wide receivers so look for Smith and Jarrett to make some huge plays for Booty in the passing game. Advantage USC.
Michigan has a potent defense that is ranked number 12 in the nation. It is lead by linebackers Prescott Burgess and Dave Harris. They have played better this year than USC’s defense which is not ranked as high but still has the talent to step up in this tense game. USC is led by one of the most talented line backing core in the nation with Keith Rivers, Brian Cushing, Rey Maualuga, and Dallas Sartz. Look for each defense to show their identity this game. Advantage Michigan.
Throughout the year these two teams have been watched with great care and precision. Each team has its strengths and its weaknesses and look for both of them to show in this classic Rose Bowl match up. All in all USC has the slight advantage on offense but Michigan has the slight advantage with its ferocious defense. USC’s young secondary must show up to stop Chad Henne and the air attack for the Wolverines or it will be a long night. But it will be hard for Michigan to stop the great wide-outs of Steve Smith and Dwayne Jarrett so look for SC to pull off a close victory 34-28 in a great game

New Music: The Game by John Greubel January 10, 2007

The Game’s Change

The Game is a strong upcoming rap artist. For years, his CD’s have been featuring hit songs, yet their new CD has made a big change from “gangster” to what some might say is too “mainstream”. They have lately been trying to create “club music.” In a recent interview with the rap artist, The Game claimed that old beats seemed to “1990’s.” The new CD with these new beats is called, “The Doctors Advocate” and it has sold thousands of copies within the first week of its release. Its name comes from “The Game’s” producer, Dr. Dre in which helped him greatly in producing his album. The CD contains
the hit record, “Let’s Ride” which hasn’t gotten as far as previous songs from “The Game,” yet with any hope, it will soar to the top of the charts in these next few weeks. Also one song that has already been on the radio is “California Vacation,” which happens to be one of his “most cherished songs.” It features other Artists such as Xzibit, Snoop Dogg, Nas, Kurupt, and Jamie Fox. These well known artists have added to the great success of this album, and if you are a fan of these artists I would greatly recommend this album to you. Furthermore, because of the great dilemma with illegally purchasing songs, The Game claimed that he would have a lot more respect for his fans “if they’d just stop that s*@*.” So, for all those looking for a good stocking stuffer during the holidays be sure to pick your son up the CD at any record stores.

New Technology by Scott Ha January 10, 2007

Technology has become intertwined with every day life. Newer, better means of communication and entertainment is constantly being updated with better, faster, and cooler devices. Here’s a little peek at what’s to come this Christmas season.

Currently Released:

PS3

Not your average gaming system that you would find these days but with new capabilities such as Blu-ray disc and an amazing amount of 3.2 GHz, that’s faster then the computer you’re on right now. With the highest available technology, Sony has spent a huge sum in building this console, in turn, causing the price to skyrocket. This unit goes for a whopping $500 – $1000!!! Good luck finding one for this Christmas season. I strongly recommend this for anyone with family members involved in the gaming community.

Mac OS X Tiger

Although this is an Apple computer, do not be fooled by its company’s past reputation. Apple has made a great jump in advancement with the introduction of the Intel Core Duo, a Windows processor, that now allows the Apple to run faster then ever before! With this new upgrade, Apples run up to 3.0 GHz, that’s fast! Although this is only the OS X Tiger, the future release of the OS X Leopard will definitely be held up to high standards for it may just be the computer to boost Apple in front of Microsoft! Need a new computer this Christmas? Consider any of the currently released Apple Mac OS X!

The Best Bad Influence for You: Celebrity BAD Trends! by Kourtnei Ryan January 10, 2007

Every year or so celebrities come out with some lame style of fad. First it was to get married, then it was to cheat and get divorced. Now it’s to acquire as many children as possible. The celebrities seem to enjoy this little game of “stay on the cover.”
Take Brittany Spears for example. Nine months after having her first baby, she goes and pops out another. Some celebrities like to conceive their own, then adopt as a way of saying, “I want my own, but it’s for charity.” It’s lame if you were to ask me. Brangelina recently had a baby in the beginning of this year, now its time for them to adopt so they can stay in the tabloid. Everything these celebrities do is a publicity stunt. Madonna sure didn’t keep her name out of the paper; she went and adopted a baby from another country. Now the father of this baby has said that he realizes that he made a mistake about the adoption and he wants the baby back. But in my non-important opinion, it all seems a little strange and a lot like a publicity stunt. And it definitely caused a commotion.
Recently a new trend has appeared out of nowhere; getting arrested for a DUI. About a month ago Paris Hilton was arrested for a DUI. Then of course, monkey see monkey do, Nicole Richie got arrested after a late night of partying and driving on the wrong side of the road. She was not only drinking but yes, doing drugs too, tisk, tisk.
Now, Paris and Nicole tried to pull off the anorexic trend, but it just didn’t catch on. Nicole was supposed to have been seeing a nutritionist to get help, but why is she out partying? I tell you, its all for the publicity! We all know about when Mel Gibson was also pulled over for DUI. He totally crossed the line and started ragging on Jews. I hope his public rant doesnthat doesn’t become a new fad among the celebrities because I know that the Pope, Jesus and Buddha will not like it!
I’m sure new fads will soon, probably in a week or so, but this concludes my lovely one-way conversation with you. All I know is that the new trends of today are having lots of babies and get arrested for a DUI. I don’t know what these celebrities are thinking; maybe they’re trying to escape reality, who knows.
I call ‘em as I see ‘em, and I’m sure you will too.

Student Spotlight: Montgomery Vermiylea by Danielle Holmes January 10, 2007

Montgomery Vermilyea, a junior at Foothill High School, is optimistic for his future and has set many goals he is working to fulfill. He is a member of the astounding future rock band called Symplistic. The other two members of Symplistic who also attend Foothill are Thomas Turnbull and Forest Allen. The trio has practiced regularly in Forest’s garage since jr. high school.
Montgomery gets lost with the lead guitar in his hands and Thomas loses control with the bass. Forest rocks out on the drums. Forest exerts so much energy into his drums, that he snaps his drum sticks at least once a week! Listening to Orange County punk bands such as Social Distortion and the Offspring has influenced these boys to express their own talent and discover their own sound. Some of Montgomery’s other favorite bands include NOFX, The White Stripes, Pennywise, and The Distillers. Montgomery has always loved the sound of these bands. These three future rock stars attend shows of these bands to see how the pros play and focus on how they get their distinct sound in hopes to replicate it with their own style.
These talented boys have performed their own music in Fullerton at The Alley. They all put their heads together to creatively come up with their powerful lyrics. Every song has meaning behind it and is performed with the intentions of touching someone. You can expect these boys to make something of themselves and be recognized in the future. According to their lead guitarist, they “like their rock loud and their lyrics to be meaningful.”

The Avian Flu By Tyler Welmon January 10, 2007

The Avian Flu often referred to as the “Bird Flu” is a highly contagious bird virus. The virus is carried in the birds’ intestines and infects millions of birds worldwide. The virus can be easily transmitted between birds through their saliva or feces but there have been very few human-to-human cases. The most common way for a human to get the virus is simply from eating infected poultry and not knowing it. Some of the common signs of this virus are the common flu like symptoms like a cough, fever, or a sore throat. The bird flu has had the most effect on the countries located in Asia but soon could be a world problem. There has been a total number of 230 human cases since July of 2006 and more than half of them have died making this virus a very serious matter.
The most common type of the Avian Virus is the H5N1 subcategory, which infects most birds and people with the virus. At the beginning of 2004 more than 100 million birds either died from the virus or were killed in order to control the outbreaks. But since then there have been many more new outbreaks among the birds.
So far there has been no bird flu cases in North America but scientists are afraid that, this may change shortly. Scientist have estimated that the Bird flu will reach North America during the next bird migration season. If the bird flu does reach North America it is estimated that up to thirty percent of the population may become ill. The main concern for scientists today is that the virus will mutate and be able to easily spread from one human to another. Scientists fear this because the human flu originated as a bird flu but slowly mutated over time and gained the ability to spread from human to human. The bird flu and the human flu are just two different variations of Influenza Virus and if the virus has changed in the past chances are that the it could change again in the future.

Angels’ Off-season Progress: Nil by Wesley Cummings January 10, 2007

The Angels’ main goal off-season is to find a big bat and try to keep the pitching staff together. The Angels are supposed to be willing to include young prodigies such as Ervin Santana, Chone Figgins, and Casey Kotchman among others in possible trades. This hope of adding a big bat is looking slimmer and grimmer as we approach the launch of the New Year. The reality is that the Angel’s general manager, Bill Stoneman, is very hesitant on departing with future all-stars such as Santana and Shields. Stoneman feels that there is plenty of time to sign or trade for a bat, but the evidence proves otherwise.
The Angels missed out on opportunities to trade for homerun hitters Alex Rodriguez (NYY 3B) and also missed signing Aramis Ramirez (CHC 3B). Ramirez re-signed with the Cubs and Rodriguez refuses to be traded. With the failure of those two opportunities, Stoneman and the Angels look to possibly sign Shea Hillenbrand (SF 1B/3B; who batted .277 with 21 HR in ‘06). The Angels are held back from this possible contract with Hillenbrand because he was essentially kicked out of Toronto, as a result of a heated argument he had with Toronto Blue Jays manager. That little fact is halting the Angels’ possibility of signing him, for now.
Recently at the Winter Meetings the Angles struck up the possibility of trading for Adam LaRoche (Atl 1B; who hit 32 HR and had 90 RBIs in ’06), but in return the Braves are asking for Chone Figgins, Casey Kotchman (the Angels are willing pardon with both) and/or either Scott Shields or Ervin Santana. However, as usual, Stoneman is hesitant to do this because Shields and Santana were both key contributors to the success of last year and years prior. The Angels also had a conversation with the Chicago White Sox about another possible trade, Chone Figgins and Ervin Santana for Joe Crede (CHW 3B; who hit 30 HR and drove in 94 RBIs) and Feddy Garcia (CHW SP). Again, Stoneman is still hesitant to go through with this.
However, the Angels have made a few great acquisitions. Stoneman was able to bring in four important people that could lead the Angels’ success in the 2007 season. The Angels signed Gold Glove Winner Gary Matthew Jr. (formally on the Texas Rangers) for five years and $50 million. How this is going to unfold will be seen in the next few years. The Angels also signed right-handed reliever Justin Speier who last year had an ERA of 2.98 and 55 strikeouts. He did and outstanding job of putting guys out and setting up the saves for B.J. Ryan in Toronto. He will be a key pitcher for the Angels this following season, sharing the load with Scott Shields. With the departure of legendary pitching coach and beloved Angel, Bud Black, the Angels needed to find a pitching coach. They found in him in the form of Mike Butcher. This marks his return to the Angels. He too will play a crucial part in the pitching success of the Angels this season. Along with these three, the Angels signed Daren Oliver on Monday, December 11. He is an expert left-handed pitcher, who was formally on the New York Mets. He held lefty opposing batters to a .231 batting average and lefties to .208 average in ’06. The Angels needed a situational left-hander in the bullpen and Oliver should easily fill that void.
So as to not paint the wrong picture, the Angels off-season has not been a failure, but in the eyes of many die-hard Angel fans, it has. Angel fans want to see a big bat signed here soon or this season, many fans will be angry. Stoneman’s idea of not breaking up important pitchers in the pitching staff, just to bring in a bat and possibly allowing a few more runs cross home plate in doing so, is smart. He knows that the Angels need a bat to back up big Vladimir Guerrero, but he is not going to rush into a transaction that could possibly hurt the team without checking all his options. The Angels will keep tabs on LaRoche, Crede, Garcia, Hillenbrand, and others. Something will happen, just maybe not as fast as Angels fans would like. Regardless of a big bat or not, the Angels’ pitching staff, once again, is the favorite to be the strongest in Major League Baseball and will continue to dominate.

Movie Review: We Are Marshall by Allison Pelletier January 10, 2007

The movie We Are Marshall, an amazing story of human strength, is a true story based upon a 1970 college football team from Huntington, West Virginia. Suddenly, seventy-five town leaders, players, coaches, team administrators, and students are killed in a devastating plane crash on the way home from an out of state game in North Carolina. When the news hits the town, grief strikes and leaves the town struggling to cope. Grieving families search for hope and strength.
When the school president thinks he should suspend the program, the new football team captain and many other students join together to convince the board to keep the program alive. The school board begins to realize the possibilities of forming a new team so they offer the job to several coaches who one after the other turn down the offer. That’s when a young Coach named Jack Lengyel comes with the ambition to rebuild Marshall’s football program with a high quality new team, and heal the community with determination. Because of his enthusiasm for reconstructing the team, the school and team finally realize the seriousness of Lengyel’s aspirations and comprehend the reality of the situation. That is when players from other sports in the school are drafted and innovation begins.
The storyline is so gripping that it doesn’t need anything but the truth to make it a brilliant film. With its remarkable soundtrack and mind-blowing plot line, it scores big in every way. We Are Marshall, like Rudy, Coach Carter, and Miracle falls under the same underdog overcoming adversity genre. It provides the truth that life can be very cruel, but one’s desire to conquer makes all of the difference. It offers real emotions and the sentiment of never giving up on where you came from and who you are. These beliefs can always help you defeat old feelings, one day at a time.
Make sure you stay until the end of the credits. It’s worth way more then the price of the movie ticket. Official opening day is December 22, 2006

The War in Iraq: By Brandon Carroll January 10, 2007

What do we have to say about the war in Iraq? Well, many Democrats say that, “the war in Iraq was started on false pretenses, conducted terribly. , and distracted us from the real war on terror.” They also say, “The war in Iraq was a complete distraction from our main objective of crippling Al – Qaeda and finding Osama Bin Laden.” Which democrats say to be Bush’s number one priority. While colleges Republicans say that, “President Bush will not tolerate rogue states that threaten, whether implicitly or explicitly, the national security of the United States. Saddam Hussein’s Iraq posed a serious threat to the united states, its global interests and our allies.” So why is that while our men and women are fighting for our freedom we make a game out of it and criticize what they are doing for us? We’re already there we’ve made the invasion already, so why not support our troops in Iraq, rather than downgrading there willingness to die for our freedom? Considering there are only two people that would ever die for you Jesus Christ, for our sins, and the American GI, for our freedom. There is a man that has strongly expressed why we should support our troops in Iraq through his article; “Support Soldiers Deserve” this man is Norman Schwarzkopf, a Commander for U.S. troops in the invasion at Grenada, in Desert Storm. He has stated that, “The fighting in Iraq has been underway since March of 2003, making it such a constant part of our daily lives that it easy to go about our business without ever thinking about the incredible sacrifices being made each and every day by the men and women in uniform.” He also expresses the hardest thing a member of the military will ever have to do. This is “To leave his or her family, because there is never a guarantee that he or she will return to them. Often young, and the parent of very small children, the service member knows the risks in leaving are very real, but he is honor – bound to serve his country.” An American soldier has posted a blog on the internet stating his opinion on the war. He says, “Your decision’s in war is yours alone. The hardest part is being able to except them in the end.” He was responsible while on his watch of patrolling his sector, and then things went really wrong really fast leading to an Iraqi Marines death. That the soldier now holds to his fault. While the public who have read this story say, “Sounds to me like you did a damn fine job for what you had to work with. Just know that you’re the soldier, that any other would want to watch his six. A lot of men would probably buckle under that kind of pressure.” Although this supportive citizen has expressed his gratitude for this soldier there are several others that would criticize this man and use it as an example of why we need to pull out of Iraq. Students from Berkeley college have expressed there support for our troops through some on campus interviews. One of the students says, “It’s a big deal. It involves every one. I’ve been deeply affected by knowing our troops are over there in danger, and that innocent people are dying. But I think what were doing is the right thing – we need to go in there and get rid of Suddam Hussein. In the end, even though were worried about friend and family, this is something we need to do.” There are also students there that have expressed that all the war is, is another mercenary to obtain oil. Which I believe to be far from the reasons were over there. I have a cousin that just got back for Felujah, Iraq last April and have seen how the war has affected him, but still support the troops fighting for our freedom. I also have a family friend that is just being deployed to Iraq to base security. We are terrified for him, but still back him 100% for what he is doing for all of us.
Please go on the website www.blogsofwar.com to read the stories of our fellow American soldiers that have so willingly put there lives on the line for us, to hear there story, an maybe it will change your mind about the war.

How to Live a Long and Healthy Life by Jenessa Villegas January 10, 2007

Statistics how that the death obesity people are living less and less each day. It is about utmost important that we not only have a balance diet and have a daily minimal exercise. Our young people are eating more fatty and process foods that are actually killing out younger generation. Fast food restaurants are pooping left and right because of its big business. Unfortunately, it affects the health of our people today. Doctors are constantly reminding us to watch what we eat and do some exercises which will help increase our likely hood. Here are a few facts from health-fitness-tips.com on how to keep a long and healthy life.
1. Keep Yourself Active
You should keep yourself MOVING throughout your day. Keeping yourself active at least 15 to 30 minutes a day, will help you feel good about yourself. Make sure to drink at least 12 ounces of water every time before you eat.
2. Cut the Fat
Avoid anything that has grease, process food, like Twinkies, donuts, cakes, brownies, especially McDonalds.
3. Do Not Get Stressed Out
When someone gets stressed out, they sleep less; have upset stomach, headaches, irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression and etc. These things can cause some one to age faster more than anything. The more a person stresses out, the more they take years off their life time.
4. Wear Your Seat Belt.
Statistics show that when someone wears their seat belts then they have a longer chance in living than those who do not.

Better ways to eat healthy is to never eat past 7:00pm. Your food needs time to digest and if one goes to sleep then the food turns to fat, which gives you higher risks in blood clogs and heart attacks.

What are some of the healthy foods?
This question is asked a lot of times. Eating grains is one way to lead a healthy life. An average 13 year old boy and girl should eat at least 2 to 2 ½ cups of grain each day. Fruits, milk and other calcium foods are good to eat too. Another important nutrient is Iron which a person should consume a minimum amount of meat, beans, rice, and nuts to lead a life with out any serious problems.

Visit this website to get more information about how to eat healthy.
http://www.kidshealth.org/kid/stay_healthy/food/pyramid.html

Restaurant Review: Chipotle by Tommy Herrera January 10, 2007

Chipotle is the name on everyone’s lips if they are having a craving for some nice Mexican cuisine. Located in Irvine, Santa Ana, and soon Tustin, Chipotle is becoming quite the popular place for teens, and people of other ages. Serving a small but tasteful variety of gourmet Mexican food, it has people wanting to return more and more. You can chose from a regular burrito, a fajita burrito (with grilled onions and peppers), a burrito bowl (everything you can have in a burrito without the tortilla), or 3 tacos. With meat choices of steak, carnitas, chicken, and barbacoa. They all come with an excellent mixture of rice and cilantro. Depending on what kind of beans you like or if you like any at all, you can have black or pinto beans. You can have salsa if enjoy an extra kick of spicy flavor, and to finish it off you can add some delicious homemade guacamole or sour cream. Any one of these items will be sure to fill you up and satisfy your taste buds. This is a quick and efficient restaurant. Even with the longest line in the restaurant, you can be at the end of the line and be sitting down eating in a matter of minutes. What if you are thirsty and Do not have any extra money to spend on a drink? No problem. If you are a student all you need is your student ID card and you can receive a free drink. Although it is a little pricey, the food and service is definitely worth it.

Restaurant Review: Chipotle by Tommy Herrera January 10, 2007

Chipotle is the name on everyone’s lips if they are having a craving for some nice Mexican cuisine. Located in Irvine, Santa Ana, and soon Tustin, Chipotle is becoming quite the popular place for teens, and people of other ages. Serving a small but tasteful variety of gourmet Mexican food, it has people wanting to return more and more. You can chose from a regular burrito, a fajita burrito (with grilled onions and peppers), a burrito bowl (everything you can have in a burrito without the tortilla), or 3 tacos. With meat choices of steak, carnitas, chicken, and barbacoa. They all come with an excellent mixture of rice and cilantro. Depending on what kind of beans you like or if you like any at all, you can have black or pinto beans. You can have salsa if enjoy an extra kick of spicy flavor, and to finish it off you can add some delicious homemade guacamole or sour cream. Any one of these items will be sure to fill you up and satisfy your taste buds. This is a quick and efficient restaurant. Even with the longest line in the restaurant, you can be at the end of the line and be sitting down eating in a matter of minutes. What if you are thirsty and Do not have any extra money to spend on a drink? No problem. If you are a student all you need is your student ID card and you can receive a free drink. Although it is a little pricey, the food and service is definitely worth it.

Winter Season January 10, 2007

Snow season is here as we know it. Our local snow parks such as Big Bear and Snow Summit are open and ready to go. This winter season is looking like a good one. The snow came a little late this year but we are seeing more snow almost everyday. More and more snowboarders and skiers are going up to the mountains to get some of the fresh powder. Season passes are available for both mountains.
The snow is rolling in at Bear Mountain and here are the current conditions: the temperature has highs in the middle 40’s and lows that are in the low 20’s with a 6 mph breeze. The snow machine is off and the snow coverage is “excellent on the open runs.” There is some loose powder up on the higher runs and not too much ice all together. All of the main highways and roads leading to the mountains are cleared and good to drive on, chains are recommended.
Season passes are all different prices depending on how long you have it, what days of the week you go, and your age. If you are 22 or older you have to pay the most, ranging anywhere from 249 dollars to around 600 dollars. That is the priciest age group. The young adults and elders (13-21and 70+) can pay from 199 dollars to 600 dollars, and children from ages 7-12 pay from 99 dollars to 300 dollars. If you don’t think you go enough to get a season pass, for one day in either park costs adults $39, young adults $36 and children $14.
Top snowboarding companies are coming out with new top of the line performance boards all the time to keep you on top of your game. There are all sizes of snowboards and they very from beginner boards to expert boards, whether you carve the mountain or hit the pipe; there is a board for you.
Mammoth Mountain is also up and going for this year. For those of you who want to make the 6-7 hour journey will get some really fresh powder and there is everything you can imagine at their park. They have triple diamonds, huge half-pipes, fun jumps and rails, and even some bunny slopes for you beginners. Houses and hotels are near the mountain for easy access. This is going to be a great winter season this year. Get out there and ride!

XBOX 360 VS. PS3 by Chris Lopez January 10, 2007

To 90% of all the gamers out there right now who have the slightest idea of current events, the big question is which platform is better? I n a nutshell I believe the answer is Xbox 360, with no doubt in my mind, only consideration to the powerful aspects of the rival Ps3. The first category the Xbox 360 wins in is price, obviously, for the Xbox 360 core system is $299. While the Ps3 20GB systems is $499, both prices being the lowest offered. The 20GB Ps3 comes with a hard drive; however you do not need a hard drive to experience and enjoy most games on the 360, plus you can always buy a memory card if needed. The Ps3 does not have memory card slots, an adaptor is required. And if you want the premium versions of both systems (60GB Ps3 and an Xbox 360 with a hard drive included) just add on a $100 to each one. The Ps3 may have the available 60GB hard drive, but the 360’s 20GB hard drive is removable where the Ps3 is only replaceable. Next category is game selection. Another win for the Xbox 360, considering it has a year head start which is a millennium in the gaming world. Just about all multi-platform game developers have made the 360 their primary choice due to the timing of release. This means the games will perform and look better on the 360, and the Ps3 versions will just be reenactments of the Xbox versions. The 360 is also far quicker to develop due to better tools, documentation and the fact that the 360 runs on 3 general purpose CPU’S vs. the 8 specialized processors on the ps3 which require direct memory access. Another key point is the impressive line-up of 360 games on store shelves. The Ps3 just launched so there is virtually nothing of interest on the system. Not to mention that some Xbox 360 games are already discounted, all Ps3 games will be full price due to recent launch. In multimedia, the Xbox once again blows Ps3 away with its full media center extender 2.0 experience, and it supports live and recorded TV (HDTV) over your home network; all along with shows and movie downloads. The 360’s device connectivity is top of the line; Microsoft built Xbox 360 can connect with an ipod and, ironically enough, with the PSP (Playstation portable.) which is pretty damn cool, along with many other portable devices. The Ps3 can play content from some devices and it cannot play protected WMA files, the Xbox 360 can. One of the biggest areas in which the 360 prevails in is Live (online game play). Microsoft has got the online system down, they have nailed it. On the Ps3 gamers are playing on isolated areas of connectivity in which you can only talk to other gamers if you are in the same game. On Xbox live, you have an account and a profile where you express yourself with a gamer score, gamer picture, screename, and a motto and so on. Also you have a friends list where you can invite to game, send messages or have a private chat with at any time game or no game. The Xbox live support is phenomenal; the Ps2 online support was horrible, now Sony is playing catch up but is having trouble since they took a huge leap with going with blu-ray technology. The Ps3 does have blu-ray tech. which is a new disc format with considerable storage capacity, 25 -50GB resulting in very high quality. The Xbox delivers a HD-DVD player; blu-ray disc cannot play on this and vise versa, HD-DVD is like comparing VHS TO DVD. Now besides the console war, there is one between blu-ray and HD-DVD. To explain this war would take another page, so in the point of view from the consoles I would go with the 360. For the soul purpose that the 360’s HD-DVD is a separate unit, while the blu-ray is built in the Ps3. Some might think, well the built in blu-ray seems more convenient. Indeed it does, but after about 3 years of playing DVD’s, including games on the Ps3, the DVD reader will burn out resulting in having to buy a new Ps3, where when in 3 years the HD-DVD burns out your Xbox 360 is safe and you can replace the HD-DVD player at anytime, and in 3 years the price of the player will decrease. Backwards capability is an issue to some; personally I buy a next-gen console to play next-gen games. The Xbox has partial backwards compatibility, Ps3 has near complete compatibility. Now some might love that fact some might not care at all, one more fact to consider though, is original Xbox games are up scaled to HDTV resolutions and some games are graphically enhanced. The PS3 is only able to downscale current-gen games to non-HDTV resolutions. For some miscellaneous information, the Xbox enables four wireless controllers plus wired ones via USB, same as Ps3, however 360 controllers can be used on any windows based pc via USB as well. So if you haven’t decided which next-gen console you want, choose wisely.

Who’s your Superhero? By Victor Garcia January 10, 2007

This year, the first season of Heroes stormed onto the nation’s spotlight. This compelling new hit series combines elements from many different movies such as X-Men. This new series tells the struggle of ordinary people who are discovering extraordinary abilities, and their quest to find answers about themselves. Somehow, throughout all of this, the story lines of several different characters must somehow merge together in order to save the planet from its untimely demise.
Almost every character in the story has his/her own special ability, some more or less useful than others, and each must learn to harvest these abilities to better humanity, and save it too. A man, Isaac Mendez, can paint the future, but only when he is high. When he does this, however, he paints a disturbing image of New York City with a looming mushroom cloud behind it, showing an inevitable apocalypse. Meanwhile, in Japan, Hiro Nakamura discovers he can jump around in time, and space. When he does this, he finds himself in New York City, in the apartment of Isaac Mendez, only months later, with his head cut open and his brain missing. Even more disturbing is when Hiro gazes out the window of the apartment and sees the city being engulfed in the atomic blast that is to come…
Sylar, the evil being that discovers he can rob people of their abilities by removing their brains, goes around in an attempt to kill all of the “special” humans so that he can gain more and more power. Every hero is in danger when this man is on the loose and it is their goal to stop him, and save the world.
Peter Patrelli, a simple nurse discovers he could fly, but only around his brother, Nathan, who has the ability to fly. Also, he later discovers that flying is not his ability, but his ability is the ability to temporarily absorb other’s abilities when in the vicinity of that person. It is this that ultimately pushes Peter forward towards his goal of discovering his purpose, and the reason why the many other heroes exist. When Peter sees a painting by Isaac of Sylar attempting to kill a cheerleader named Claire Bennet, he immediately goes to try to save her. His initial instinct to do this was spurred by a message from the future from Hiro Nakamura who said, “Save the cheerleader, save the world.”
Overall, this series is compelling, original, and exciting. It brings science fiction, with intricate plot lines together to form a brilliantly made show of destiny and heroes. The stories of several heroes slowly begin to show many connections with the stories of several different heroes as the series continues to unfold. Although the series has temporarily taken a hiatus during the winter holidays, it will surely come back with even more strength and excitement in the spring. Go on the Internet and try watching the pilot show if you haven’t already, and I guarantee that you will be addicted to this show.
(For the sake of keeping this article concise, some people/events have been omitted)

The Disney Movie “Cars”, is it worth the watch? by Ulises Ramirez January 10, 2007

The movie is directed by John Lasseter and (co-director) Joe Ranft. The plot of the movie is about a cocky race car named Lightning McQueen where he gets stuck in a little town named Radiator Springs where he discovers the true meaning of friendship and love. This is probably the best Disney movie that was released for the year 2006. The moral of the story is heart warming. Here is a comment posted on a website on greeneyedange108 from United States. The comment just rips the words right out of my mouth. When going to see the premier of “Cars” last night at the Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Concorde, it was certainly a delight to find that the hours of traffic was worth it.
The story has a clear point and message of friendship that is easily understood by kids and adults alike. The variety of humor suits all generations as well making this the first “summer must see” for the family.
Being an artist, I was struck by the vibrancy of the animation. The colors were rich and beautiful, and there was such diverse vocal talent that the entire experience made it a treat for the crowd’s eyes and ears. I’ve never been to a movie with no only more than a few hundred people in the theater, but let me assure that that all 30,000 plus attendees at the Speedway that night applauded during the credits and for all very good reasons. As stated before, I could not have had put it better myself. The movie got many awards for its excellence. They were nominated for Golden Globe Award, Golden Trailer Award, Grammy, and Satellite Award. It won Hollywood Film Award, the NBR Award and last but not least the World Soundtrack Award. The awards reflect the movie’s quality as well as accomplishments. If you have an extra twenty lying around in your wallet, get off the couch and go pick up the DVD and have an enjoyable time with your family and it could be a learning experience for some.

Horoscopes for Everyone by Sabrina Reynolds January 10, 2007

Aries March 21-April 19: January will be stressful. Just take a deep breath, relax, and look forward to accomplishing several difficult tasks this month. Avoid starting new relationships because that will only lead to more unwanted stress.
Taurus April 20-May 20: This will be the month for change. Expect new people to walk into your life, or maybe someone close to you will walk out. Face each change as it comes, and go with the flow.
Gemini May 21-June 21: For Geminis, January is a boring month. Nothing exciting will really happen but take this opportunity to reflect on your life and by next month look forward to more excitement.
Cancer June 22-July 22: Be open to new things this month. Lately youve been stubborn and that has only hurt you. Be open to new experiences, new people, andnew changes because this will only help you.
Leo July 23-August 22: Have fun this month, the stress of the holidays and your own personal problems have been getting to you. Clear your mind, forget your problems and focus on having a good time.
Virgo August 23-September 22: January is not your favorite month. Expect difficult things to come about, but over coming them will help you in the long run.
Libra September 23-October 22: This month, expect a new special someone to come into your life. Same thing goes if you are currently taken, you might not realize there potential at the moment but in time you will.
Scorpio October 23 – November 21: Now that the holidays have past, make this month more productive. Accomplish things you have been saying you wanted to. January is the month of accomplishments so make the best of it and do something.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21: Expect to make a new set of friends this month and dont judge people by first impressions. You will be wrong and it could prevent a possibly great friendship.
Capricorn December 22-January 19: Something bad will happen to either you or one of your family members. Nothing life threatening, but somethings may become difficult. Hang in there, and you will pull through
Aquarius January 20-February 18: This month you will experience something that you will never forget. This may be good or bad depending on how you look at it. Keep your eyes open and your gaurd up, but don’t be afraid to let the good times roll.
Pisces February 19-March 20: January will be your luckiest month all year, congratulations. You will meet new people, make new friends, find someone special, and have a good time. =]

The Invention of Myspace by Paul Yun January 10, 2007

In less then a couple of years time, Myspace has become one of the top five most visited sites in the U.S. While it will never come close to the profitability of Yahoo, eBay, or Google there are many factors that draw crowds to this website, the choice factor would be that it had its greatest early success with teenagers, and teenagers use this site to share pictures, communicate with friends, and create the best possible “my space” on the web.
Independent music bands for music discovery is also a great compliment, but isn’t what is driving the innumerable amount of page views. With a hundred million users -and growing- Myspace puts up many different entertainment opportunities involving blogs, instant messaging, classifieds, peer voting, special interest groups, user forums, and of course, user created content.
Myspace has statistics that show 35 million visits a day at an average of one hour online time per each visit. This site is free, with the site only supported by advertisers who are eager to reach the web-savvy teenagers out there. So what did Myspace do to enable this great environment for self expression? It started with the basic notion of not having boundaries and moreover letting users display what they wanted to their own profile.
When users started to create group profile pages around interests and associations, Myspace had an idea to accept this behavior where many other web sites like this did not. Myspace listened to the users and hastily made the development of this product as rapid as possible, much before Friendster was able to upgrade theirs.
Myspace also features an internal search engine, along with an internal e-mail system. Myspace is becoming so popular it is now considering in taking the next step in going mobile. American mobile phone provider, Helio, released a series of mobile phones early in 2006 that can utilize this service. Also apparently another company by the name of UIEvolution, is currently developing a mobile version of Myspace for a wider range of carriers to make access and use of the website more advanced and continent to its users across the nation.

Teacher Bio: Interview with Mr. Kavigan by Brenna Millones January 10, 2007

Roger Kavigan was born on April 4th, 1967 in the Choc Hospital of Santa Ana but, grew up in El Torro, now known today as Lake Forest. Mr. Kavigan lived through most of his life with his father and an evil step-mom, according to him. During his high school years, Kavigan was rather popular during his day. He was a member of the ASB, president of the German Club, and always had good grades to top everything off.
After graduating high school, Kavigan went to collage. During his first two years he went to Fullerton Collage, and his last few years, he transferred to Cal State Fullerton to get his Bachelors Degree. Once he got his bachelors degree in 1990, he started teaching the year after and always has to this day. Kavigan has been teaching here at Foothill High School for about the past 15 years.
Through his years of teaching, he actually went through many challenges and activities as well. Mr. Kavigan could not deny his passion for traveling. He went to every Olympics since 1984. He was the director of a camp called Camp Titan; a common camp where many Foothill students have gone to. He was also the treasurer of the Rose Park Neighborhood Association. Moreover, Kavigan ran for political office, three times, but sadly, was not permitted into office all three attempts. Right now as a teacher, he is involved in a union for the Tustin Education Association.
He is also now currently a commissioner for Long Beach on the Public Safety Advisory Commission. As many can see, Mr. Roger Kavigan went through many events throughout his life. He not only had many accomplishments in high school, but was also able to receive his degree in college. What’s not to like from Mr. Kavigan, as a US-History Geography teacher? He’s friendly, smart, always humorous and is always willing to help a student in need at any time. He makes teaching in class much easier through his lectures, despite the fact if he has a lot of notes to give for the day. Who, that has him, wouldn’t agree?

Student Spotlight: Itzel Reyes by Brenna Millones January 10, 2007

Q: Your Name:
A: Itzel Reyes

Q: How has your senior year been going so far?
A: It was interesting, challenging, nerve racking…

Q: What were some goals you wanted to achieve in the last 4 years?
A: Get all my credits, make good friends, mature, open new opportunities, gain confidence.

Q: Did you achieve any of your goals?
A: Somewhat, some are still in process.

Q: What are your plans after you graduate?
A: Collage, of course, and then figure out what I am going to do after.

Q: Was Foothill your first choice, if not why did you get sent there?
A: I got sent to Foothill because I moved, I would’ve been sent to Century or Santa Ana High because of where I lived.

Q: Do you think that the close friends that you have now, are still going to be there in the future?
A: Only some.

Q: What specific person do you think will be there in life and who do you think might not?
A: Well you, Brenna, because you were there for me whenever I really needed someone and even when I didn’t. You showed me what a true friend really was.

Q: What are some of your favorite activities you have done through your senior year in and out of school?
A: In school Senior Munch, all of my classes because I had fun in them. Being with my old friends, and making new ones. And out of school, having a job because I became more independent and responsible.

Q: What challenges did you go through throughout your 4 years in high school?
A: Making new friends because I was new to Foothill High. I was basically a loner in the beginning. And also being transferred from sheltered classes to regular classes.

Q: Have you seen yourself change in any way throughout the four years you’ve been at Foothill? How?
A: Yes. Physically; I grew taller. I’ve changed my hair several times. I started wearing make-up by the end of last year. I’ve been more influenced by music, and art and my teachers. I became more mature. I’ve gained a little confidence in myself. I’ve discovered talents I didn’t have.

Q: Who were your favorite teachers (At least 1 or 2 teachers per year)?
A: Freshman year: Mr. Hobbs because he was chill, he was funny and because he was funny… lol
Sophomore year: Locks because she was understanding, helpful, fun, and cheerful.
Junior year: Mr. Price because he was fun and he was pushy in a very helpful way. And Mr. Gillette because he was also helpful, he discovered my talent of drawing. He was fun and he had an interesting point of view.
Senior year: Mr. Kulter, because he makes me understand things more clearly. He makes things easier to analyze, makes good class discussions and oh, because he’s funny too.
And also Mr. Rousch because he is patient and because he’s helping me develop another talent and because he pleases me…

Teacher Bio: Interview with Mr. Holmes by Jennifer Boyer January 10, 2007

1.] Q: Where did you grow up as a child?
A: Pasadena , CA
2.] Q: Did you move a lot in your child hood?
A: no
3.] Q: Would you say that you had a “normal” child hood?
A: yes
4.] Q: Do you have any siblings?
A: yes, one sister
5.] Q: When growing up did you have any heroes or anyone to look up to?
A: my father, Dale Murphy
6.] Q: What was your favorite holiday growing up, is it still your favorite and why.
A: Christmas; it’s not my favorite holiday anymore because I like Easter.
7.] Q: Would you have considered yourself popular or even spoiled throughout childhood?
A: no
8.] Q: Do you still talk with any friends you might have had during childhood?
A: yes
9.] Q: Why did you become a Latin teacher?
A: I became a Latin teacher since I enjoyed studying about the Greeks and Romans.
10.] Q: Did anyone inspire you to become a teacher or was it a decision you made on your own?
A: my father inspired me to teach (he was an English teacher)
11.] Q: What schools did you attend when growing up?
A: Harvard-Westlake
12.] Q: Have you ever wanted to give up on teaching, if so why?
A: yes, it was a bad school (no name)
13.] Q: How is your commute from Tustin high to Foothill each day?
A: not bad
14.] Q: Which school is your favorite to work at?
A: BOTH!
15.] Q: If you were visited by a genie and you were giving three wishes what would they be?
A: 1. end world poverty 2. Have everyone know they are loved by God 3. Visit every place in the world.
16.] Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: read, work with mentally disabled people, visit prisoners (like ex-students), go to church, and exercise.
17.] Q: Do you have any weekend hobbies?
A: dancing, karaoke, reading.
18.] Q: Would you rather decrease your intelligence to gain looks?
A: maybe just a little
19.] Q: Have you ever played a prank on someone that backfired and came back onto you?
A: no
20.] Q: Do you wish to come back to our school next year?
A: so far

Baseball A to Z by Kevin Raff January 10, 2007

Here are some updates for each MLB team:
Angels: Anaheim has been busy adjusting their team, recently trading Brendan Donnelly for lefthander Phil Seibel. He joins Anaheim’s squad along with left-hander Darren Oliver, and right-handers Justin Speier and Chris Resop and as new off-season pitching additions. Seibel will compete with Resop for the sixth spot in the lineup.
Astros: Jeff Bagwell announced his official retirement in Friday December 8, 2006. Bagwell has not played baseball for a year and his announcement last Friday merely confirmed what many people have been expecting for some time, his playing career is over. “Most of you that know me know that I have had a tough time for the last four or five years with my shoulder, which took a lot out of me both on the field and off the field, mentally,” Bagwell said. “This is a day that I knew was coming. I’m OK with it. I feel blessed to have been part of the Houston Astros for 15, 16 years. This is my home, this is my family.” He seams to leave with no regrets knowing he did his best throughout his whole career.
Athletics: Mike Piazza is satisfied with a one-year deal with the Oakland A’s. “I have really been blessed in this game,” Piazza said. “At this time in my career, a two-year commitment [isn't for sure], I’m not young anymore.” This is one reason why he has signed for a one year deal. Could this be the last year for the 12 time all-star?
Blue Jays: Vernon Wells could be headed to Toronto. A source says that Wells is close to agreeing with a seven-year contract extension worth $126 million. Watch the papers for more on this story.
Braves: Tim Hudson is finally over his several seasons of nagging injuries, and is attempting to find the talent that had been there throughout his successful days with the A’s. “I’m excited,” said Hudson, “I’ll be a lot stronger.”
Brewers: Doug Melvin is looking to put a boost in Milwaukee’s payroll to good use by looking to secure some pitching talent. He has been expressing some interest in Jeff Suppan for the position.
Cardinals: Juan Encarnacion had surgery on his wrist last week, but “The club does not expect the procedure to be a hindrance in Spring Training.” “It was just a small repair in the wrist,” general manager Walt Jocketty said, “It was nothing substantial. It happened, I guess, last week, when we were in Florida [for the Winter Meetings].”
Cubs: Jim Hendry had finished negotiations and signed left-hander Ted Lilly for $40 million.
Devil Rays: Infielder Akinori Iwamura signed to a three-year contract $7.7 million. “I am really excited and humbled by this opportunity,” Iwamura said. “I look forward to being part of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and wearing the uniform.”
Diamondbacks: “It hasn’t seemed that fertile of a trade environment, for whatever reason,” Arizona general manager Josh Byrnes said. Diamondbacks met with various teams at the Dolphin Hotel but came up short handed.
Dodgers: Eric Gagne, Jayson Werth, Toby Hall, and Franquelis Osoria are now all former Dodgers eligible for salary arbitration. Dodgers also lost their manager Jim Tracy.
Giants: San Francisco has acquired three new key players to their roster. Center fielder Dave Roberts, infielder Rich Aurilia and catcher Bengie Molina will add speed, versatility, and solid batting to a dwindling lineup.
Indians: Former Indian, Cory Snyder, has entered the game at last after he hung up his boots due to the 1994 strike. “I was bitter against baseball for a long time,” he says, “because I felt like I was pushed out.” 44-year-old Snyder is now the manager of the newly formed St. George (Utah) Roadrunners of the independent Golden Baseball League.
Mariners: As the story goes with most teams this year Seattle has added another piece to their rotation by signing right-hander Miguel Batista to a three-year, $25 million contract.
Marlins: Florida has offered contracts to all 36 of their players. Dontrelle Willis, Miguel Cabrera, Miguel Olivo, and Kevin Gregg are their key players this year. Why should they have to go negotiate with high priced free agents when you have that top four?
Mets: New York plans to meet with Barry Zito and his agent to negotiate price range. They must be careful not to exceed their budget by paying what the pitching market now mandates.
Nationals: The negotiations between the Nationals and Mariners for second baseman Jose Vidro to Seattle and outfielder Chris Snelling and right-hander Emiliano Fruto will have to wait three days due to the fact that Vidro still needs to take his physical.
Orioles: The Club has two non-tendered contracts with reliever Todd Williams, and utility man David Newhan making them free agents. Orioles lost a big catch with that one.
Padres: Greg Maddux, after many years of “negotiation tag” has settled to a one-year deal and a “mutual” 2008 season with the fryers.
Phillies: “We felt that it circumvented the rules of claiming players on waivers,” MLB spokesman Patrick Courtney said. “It wasn’t following the order of teams on the list.” The deal between Tampa Bay and the Phillies over left-handed pitcher Bobby Livingston proved void.
Pirates: Atlanta Braves were close to closing the deal with the Pirates sending Mike Gonzalez to Atlanta for first baseman Adam LaRoche. Atlanta had doubts about Gonzalez’s health and let the deal fall threw.
Rangers: Texas signed ex Dodger Kenny Loftin for one-year contract worth a reported $6 million.
Red Sox: The Sox are stacking their reliever stock pile, adding righty Brendan Donnelly from the Angels.
Reds: The club resigned reliever David Weath’s contract to a two-year, $5 million contract.
Rockies: Colorado tendered Josh Fogg’s to return to the team. “I couldn’t worry about arbitration because it’s out of my control — besides, we just had our first baby a week ago and have been busy taking care of a lot of stuff around here, so I couldn’t be that concerned,” Fogg said
Royals: the newest man to the “clubs 40 man roster” is Closer Octavio Dotel. This did not come without consequence though, the Royals had to designate catcher Paul Phillips for assignment.
Tigers: Finding a left-hander for the team was the pitching staff’s main priority until they found Jose Mesa and signed him for a one-year, $2.5 million contract.
Twins: Minnesota made pitcher Willie Eyre and infielder Luis Rodriguez non-tendered free agents by not offering them contracts for the 2007 season.
White Sox: White Sox and Phillies made a deal sending Freddy Garcia to the Phillies in exchange for right-handed pitcher Gavin Floyd and left-handed pitcher Gio Gonzalez. The hole will be hard to fill with Garcia out of the team.
Yankees: Aaron Guiel might not get to be playing time next year now that the Yankees claimed him off waivers from the Royals. “I’m not really surprised,” Guiel said. “I was made aware that they’re a strong left-handed-hitting team right now. I wanted to be a part of it, but with the way things were, the arbitration process wasn’t attractive for them.”
And that is your MLB update.

Student Spotlight: Chad Miller By Bill Brogden January 10, 2007

1. Chad, how do you feel about how the football season went and how the entire season resulted as?
I thought that the team as a whole played very well throughout the entire season. We were able to go undefeated, 5-0, in our Seaview League, but we probably could have started a little stronger if we would have been able the pull out a big win against our rivals, the Tustin Tillers. Even though we were unable to go to the final game, and lost in the quarterfinals, I think the team played strong and with a great deal of intensity throughout the entire season.

2. How do you think the football team will do next year with a great deal of key players leaving this year?
Well although a great deal of talent will be graduating this year I still believe that we will again win league and advance to CIF next year. We will have some key returnee’s such as Michael Clenshaw, Ruurd, Julian Jacobson, myself, and many others.

3. Switching to the upcoming basketball season, how do you think foothill will do against the tough competition?
I think that the basketball season will be very difficult because of the teams we will have to be facing. Yet, I am still confident that our team will do very well and hopefully advance to CIF.

4. Chad who inspired you to play football?
I was inspired my both my father and Michael Vick.

5. Chad who inspired you to play basketball?
For basketball I was not really inspired by anyone, I just pick up a ball and played.

6. Are you as much as a stud on and off the field?
Actually, I am very well both academically and in sports.

7. How long have you been playing football?
I have been playing football for about nine to ten years now.

8. How long have you been playing basketball?
I think I have been playing basketball for about ten years.

9. Were you a natural at football or did you have to work hard to get where you are now?
Football was not that hard for me but it did not come extremely easy.

10. Were you a natural at basketball or did you have to work hard to get where you are now?
Because of my freakish height I just picked up a ball and was baller.

11. Who is your favorite football player today?
My favorite football player would probably be Michael Vick.

12. Who would be your favorite basketball player today?
My favorite basketball player would probably be either Kobe Bryant or Lebron James.

13. Between Basketball and football which would you prefer to play in college?
I am really hoping to play football at the college level.

A New Day A New Way to Start A Regime at the UN by Kevin Raff January 10, 2007

Ban Ki-moon from South Korea was sworn into office as the secretary-general of the United Nations on Thursday December 7, 2006, swearing to “Conduct himself solely in the interests of the United Nations and to refuse to accept instructions from any government or other authority.” He also pledged “to set the highest ethical standard” and “work to enhance morale, professionalism and accountability among staff members, which in turn will help us serve member states better, and restore trust in the organization.” Ban will oversee the UN with its 92,000 peacekeeping troops all around the world, and its 5 billion dollar yearly budget. Ban Ki-moon is the eighth secretary-general for the UN and the first Asian secretary-general in 35 years when Maha Thray Sithu U Thant was in office. He will officially enter into office on January first of 2007, with his top priority of restoring the trust of the world in the UN charter that has grown weak over the past decade.
Ban’s current intention is to succeed Kofi Annan who has served as secretary-general for the last 10 years. Ban has chosen to attempt to reversing the UN’s global reputation which has declined due to scandals in its Oil-for-Food program, and the process of purchasing supplies for UN peacekeepers. Ban has to answer to remarks by critics such as, “The UN’s outdated practices need reform to meet the challenges of the 21st century.” “The good name of the United Nations is one of its most valuable assets — but also one of its most vulnerable,” Ban stated during his defensive statement. “The member states need a Secretariat that is dynamic and courageous and not a Secretariat that is passive and timid.”
It will be interesting to see what the United States’ opinion toward Ban will be. The United States did not have a good relationship with the last secretary-general, Kofi Annan, due to quarrels over finances, and issues in Iraq. It will be a challenge for Ban to show improvement on his predecessor’s record.

Purple Apple by Montgomery Vermilea January 10, 2007

The cool wind blows through their hair as they stroll down one of Tustin’s steepest hills on their skateboards. A safe trip down and a head full of great music are the only things clouding their minds. Care free teenagers with minds brilliantly possessed with the will to rock, they glide to the garage. With the walls of the room littered with the inspiration of history’s greatest rock stars they begin to play. Amazing creations begin to flow from their hands and come out of their instruments in the form of musical genius. People come and gather to listen to the smooth rhythms radiating from the garage.
In the summer of 2000, the house of the kid down the block, Thomas Mellow got his first taste of musical interest. His friend, Ramone, played the bass guitar in a band. Thomas used to go to his house and watch Ramone play and witness the creation of his fantastic rock lyrics. That was all Thomas needed to hear and see. Thomas went to his dad one day and told him that he would like to play bass guitar and grow up to be a rock legend. That year for his birthday, Thomas received a brand new Fender bass.
From the acoustic guitar that Mike received for his 10th birthday, his musical interest began. Everyday he picked up the guitar, trying to come up with his own simple songs. He taught himself chords and created easy lyrics. He began to compose his own songs and incorporated verses and choruses. Later he began writing lyrics to his songs and put them all together. He enjoyed playing solo to his family, but he soon realized that he needed to start to play with others. In the summer of 2005 Mike got together with Thomas Mellow and together they began to play with each other. They formed the band Purple Apple. Instantly the two harmonized and started producing songs with great melodies.
Today, Mike and Thomas still play together and are still composing songs. They play at people’s parties and small venues. You might even be able to catch them at a local coffee shop or café lounge.