Dragons Tale

Page 6 Page 3 Homecoming 2011

sonomadragonstale.com October 2011 - Volume 21 -Issue 1 - Sonoma Valley High School

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Rep. McCarthy speaks to seniors

Parking lot panels to be completed in December

By Sarah Summers As the last months of summer unfolded, so did the massive solar panel construction project in the SVHS parking lot, temporarily inconveniencing students and faculty for the sake of going green. Principal Dino Battaglini revealed that the decision for SVHS to go solar was made in Oct. 2010, when a community bond was passed to sponsor a transition in the environmental policy of Sonoma schools. It also makes us independent from PG&E, added Mr. Battaglini. The solar panel production, anticipated to reach completion by mid-Dec. of this year, is estimated to eventually save SVHS roughly half a million dollars per year. SVHS will be 100 percent solar when the project is completed, reported Mr. Battaglini. However, we will still be connected to the grid in case of a shortage. Despite complications in the parking lot, most SVHS students are pleased with the installation of the panels. Schools must consume so much energy with all the

Green Dragons go solar:

Photo by Rebecca Stone

By Selena Caruso and Sarah Summers Textbook concepts became live talking points for Mr. Gissells senior Civics students, as they engaged in a question and answer session with California Congressman Kevin McCarthy Mon. morning, Oct. 17, in the Little Theater. Congressman McCarthys cousin, SVHS senior Walker Wicks, collaborated with Mr. Gissell to arrange the last-minute assembly. McCarthy was eager to address the students, who he feels have a better sense of forward looking and understanding of the global world. The students inquired about McCarthys political stances on such issues as the economy, the war in Afghanistan, Wall Street protests, immigration and the Dream Act, abortion, public education, and current Republican candidates. McCarthy, in turn, responded with detail and cogency, demonstrating textbook political composure and public speaking techniques. I think [the presentation] will make politics more real as opposed to a teacher talking in class, commented Mr. Gissell. Congressman McCarthy, a conservative Republican, spoke to an audience of liberal-leaning teenagers. However, Mr. Gissell believes, It is a great benet to see what, to most students, will be an opposing view. The Congressman felt that the presentation would have its rewards for the students, as future voters, and for himself, as a politician. We benet from one another. Government affects everyones lives no matter what. Its important for elected ofcials to listen, especially in this day and age. Taking risks has made this country great, insisted Congressman McCarthy. There has never been a country like ours, where success is partly determined by how we feel. Its important to pay attention to politics whether you care or not and stay engaged.

Photo by Jessica Marioni Construction crews work in wet weather to erect solar panels in the SVHS parking lot. The project, which will be constructed in stages, is set for completion in Dec.

buildings, remarked Kerusha Naidoo, junior. Its really cool that they took the initiative. Mr. Battaglini disclosed that several additional green projects are in the future of SVHS. He said that the windows and drapes of classrooms and ad-

ministrative buildings will soon be modied to be more energyefcient. Additionally, there are plans to begin the making of an SVHS greenhouse. Angelina Gardello, senior, feels that there are additional low-cost steps the school can take for the

environment. They need to crack down on the no-littering policy, stipulated Gardello. Also, we need more campus beautication, with owers and plant life, maybe some murals. [Our campus] is not organic enough.

Mock fugitives capture Sonoma

By Selena Caruso and Sarah Summers Bandits in black darted, dashed, and detoured across moonlit Sonoma streets Fri. Sept. 16. With determined cops hot on their tails, they raced from Ernie Smith Park, eyes set on the familiar SVHS rotunda. These wanted men and women were united not by criminal conviction, but by the West Coast phenomena known as Fugitive- a mock version of Cops and Robbers that has gained popularity among teenagers through Facebook, texting, and other forms of social media. The game began as a Facebook event group, organized informally by a former SVHS student. However, the night of the game, an estimated one hundred students congregated for a night of fastpaced pursuit and adrenaline. I got there about two minutes before it broke up, recalled Madeline Cline, sophomore. Once it started, everyone scrambled. Fugitive is a boundary-free adventure game that combines elements from Cops and Robbers, Capture the Flag, and Sharks and Minnows. Participants will divide themselves into cops and fugitives, at the initial place of gathering, and the chase begins, as the fugitives trek across town on foot, the cops patrolling the city streets in cars. The fugitives objective is to reach a designated landmark on the other side of town without being tagged by a cop. The winner is the rst fugitive to reach the landmark- in this case the SVHS rotunda- unscathed. A game that is simple in theory, but dramatically complicated in practice, Fugitive inspires players to think quickly and creatively as they route their escape strategy. Adam Curry, freshman, explained that stealth is key. Right when we were in El Verano, we were about to go through the parking lot when a car pulled up, recalled Curry. So we sprinted to a eld and laid face-down for ve minutes. Billy David and Ethan Glago, seniors, found that speed triumphed over caution, as they claimed a dual victory by running as fast as possible without stopping. The Fugitive rush managed to unsettle those outside the group of pseudo-convicts. Marissa Meredios, senior, harbored fugitives in her garage, after deciding to spend the night at home. Michaela Worona, sophomore, explained, the fact that actual police were around made me feel more secure. Fugitive participants reported hearing the sound of legitimate sirens intermingling with the wailing car alarm that had been attached to a studentcops bike handlebars. Despite his secured victory, David feels, like many critics of the game, that Fugitive has its downfalls. The game seems to have some potential dangers. According to David, Someones going to get hurt. Running across the streets in all black? Davids portent bodes true in Sammamish, Wash., where a 16-yearold female driver and her friend were hospitalized after crashing into a tree and fence. They were reportedly chasing fugitives. However, some SVHS participants insist that there is something to be said in defense of a game that brings so many students together outside of school and involves physical activity rather than substance abuse. In Fugitive, as in life, players are required to think-and run-on their feet, navigate unfamiliar streets, work with fellow students, and react quickly under pressure. John Wittbrodt, senior, insisted that if people play correctly and are smart about it the game is harmless. It puts [students] on the streets, but it creates a different environment, separate from parties. Worona remarked, I would denitely play Fugitive again. I enjoyed how it put some variety into the usual weekend routine. SVHS fugitives eagerly await the next Facebook update to set the time and place for the continuation of their pursuit.

Opinion-Editorial

By Arianna Maysonave

Is ignorance really bliss?

Being raised in the picturesque and secure town of Sonoma manifests the glorication of less fortunate regions. Children are sheltered from the angst of the outside world in a naturally sound environment nourished by a convivial community. They are granted the opportunity to harvest tomatoes from their family garden, bicycle at sunset, plunge into the local creek, and take pleasure in the recognition of more than one friendly face at the traditional Tuesday night farmers market. However, this reality ceases to exist beyond the connes of small-town security. There is a world of distress, anguish, and neglect silently lurking past the glistening valley hills. Recently, even Sonoma has been plagued by a dose of this ravaging economic turmoil-- individuals have been robbed of their homes, deprived from employment, and forced to seriously reevaluate their spending tendencies. Family businesses and self-employed individuals are struggling to remain aoat in this inated nancial environment. Die-hard community members are refusing to support larger institutions such as Staples, a recent, controversial addition to Sonoma. Global distress is trickling into our blissful hometown, and Sonomans are in an uproar. This past Fri. Oct. 14 there was an Occupy Wall Street protest on the plaza, an event that highlights the presence of national politics in our hometown. While it is necessary for adolescents to be informed as to the state of domestic affairs, it is both a blessing and a curse. Often desired for its seclusion, Sonomas recent economic strife has somewhat eliminated this idealized reality. There is trouble in paradise, and home-town heroes are caught in the duality of potential enlightenment. Often, parents, teachers, and ofcials are conicted with this predicament. Where is it appropriate to draw the line? How much exposure is too much exposure? Is it more benecial to be sheltered in naivete or exposed in corruption? Children deserve to exist in the ecstasy of ignorance for the rst half of their psychological development, but once they hit the double digits a gradual stream of external, timely, relevant knowledge should be instilled in their psyches to ensure proper maturation. A conventional, suburban environment often promotes the distinctive development of a small town mentality. There is a suppression of diversity and a pressure to conform to traditional views. Conversely, in more populous environments, adolescents are presented with cultural, religious, and racial diversity. In addition, they reside in more informed, progressive atmospheres directly associated with current events. Maturing individuals bear witness to both the selective prosperity and widespread suffering induced by the current state of economic affairs. Teenagers adopt a more expansive view of independence in an urban environment; they are expected to explore, question, and observe the intricacies of their fast-paced, hectic surroundings. Their ignorance is rapidly demolished in light of necessary knowledge.

Wall Street is crumbling on the brink of budgetary crisis, more than a million American children fall asleep with an insatiable ache for sustenance, and over 1.4 million individuals led for personal bankruptcy in 2009. With 7.2 million dollars spent daily on the foreign war effort and 4.2 million U.S. citizens facing a full year of unemployment, the political and economic climate of our nation churns in a state of chaotic ux. But for adolescents blessed to spend their youth in this idealized Valley of the Moon, life appears relatively uninuenced by the economic upheaval. Individuals naively meander through their lives, focusing on the here and the now rather than pausing to acknowledge the presence of a collective struggle.

Redefining Creekside
By Liam Casey Adjacent to the academic grind at SVHS, with students paddling through ever-churning rivers lled with CP, Honors, and AP classes, lies Creekside High. With the overall affairs being separate from those of the larger high schools, Creekside is independently run with its own administration and teaching staff. Creekside High is an alternative high school designed for students who are interested in studying in smaller classroom environments that will suit their academic needs, or for those who need to make up lost credits. The new Creekside principal, Pam Garramore, who took the job just over a year ago, has begun to radically redesign the overall academic structure of the school. Despite the physical size and weighty reputation of the establishment, the quality of Creeksides available academic programs and the dedication of the administrative staff couple to outweigh any negative aspects of the school. For instance, Mrs. Garramore has recently introduced an innovative computerized learning program called Odyssey, which she claims is a rigorous academic challenge for students. Using this program, pupils at Creekside have the opportunity to take online classes in math, English, and social studies. Additionally, Mrs. Garramore is working on an additional program that will focus on project based learning. She adds, I want Creekside to take an even more alternative route. An enticing new academic as pect of Creekside grants students the opportunity to learn a subject through divergent media, valuable resources for those struggling in a classic learning environment. However, how will colleges view a student who has attended Creekside? Moreover, how is Creekside seeking to fulll students A-G requirements? Mrs. Garramore responded, Creekside is an alternative high school; we focus on students who are decient in credits, and making sure they earn those credits. As for the A-G requirements, Mrs. Garramore added that Creekside doesnt operate on the same A-G system exhibited at the larger high school. Most students who attend Creekside dont make the transition from high school to a four year college. Generally, we nd that our students opt for the j.c. or pursue a specic eld. At Creekside, teachers instruction is based upon the needs of every individual, with the ultimate goal of assisting students in completing their studies and convincing them to ponder the prospects of their future. Both the academic programs available at Creekside and the patient dedication of its staff are structured to accommodate students on an individual basis. Conclusively defending Creeksides uctuating reputation, Mrs. Garramore requests that students everywhere, Take a second look. We have a reputation that reects neither the standards nor the quality of Creekside as an academic establishment. We are working hard on turning that around.

In tight-knit communities, ignorance is gently abolishedindividuals are allowed to live in a state of fantasized paradise until it is deemed absolutely necessary to shatter the illusion. Whether to reside in a comfortable, tender community or a harsh, opportunistic, reality-bearing city has been disputed for centuries. Based predominately upon personal preference, this fundamental decision serves as the root of collective development. Bombarded by modern technology, the parents of today are faced with an increasingly precarious balancing act between detrimental overexposure and the necessary preservation of blissful ignorance. The mature, tainted side of life cannot be avoided. After all, the children of today are the adults of tomorrow. They must be informed as to the multi-faceted nature of their civil expectations before they come face to face with a culture shock of controversy. Sonomans beware, for our alcove of existence may not remain a romanticized nook secluded from global collapse for much longer-- this home sweet home is growing up.

SVHS gets dose of T-dap

By: Maddie Connors The average person touches her face two or three thousand times a day. In between, were touching door knobs, water fountains, elevator buttons and each other, reveals the recent lm, Contagion. An epidemic is spreading across the state, proliferating from classroom to classroom and affecting each student. No one is safe from the T-Dap regulations in the state of California. Legislatures have made it a statewide requirement that all students enrolled in 7th to 12th grade are required to receive the vaccination. The vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough. Sonoma County reports 48 cases this year, which is four times the number of last year. Doctors expect the number of cases to increase as more families decide to opt out. There is a whooping cough epidemic sweeping the state, so legislatures deemed the vaccine a necessary preventative measure. It was due the rst day of school but extended to Sept. 16 in order to allow the students sufcient time, explained Mr. Battaglini. If students did not comply, they were removed from class for violating state law. Approximately 180 students were pulled out of class, declared Mr. Battaglini. He agreed that unvaccinated students are a health hazard to themselves as well as their peers. The U.S. Center for Disease Control argues, Children of parents who refuse to have their children vaccinated against whooping cough are 23 times more likely to develop the disease than children who receive the shots, according to

Dragons Tale Staff

ADVISER- Alison Manchester EDITOR IN CHIEF - Jamie Ballard COPY EDITOR - Grace Bon NEWS EDITORS - Selena Caruso, Sarah Summers OP-ED EDITORS - Arianna Maysonave, Liam Casey FEATURE EDITOR - Lindsey Jasperse CULTURE EDITOR - Sebastian Amara PHOTO & TECH EDITORS - Jessica Marioni, Matthew Amatori SPORTS EDITORS - Alex Conner, Gabby Petersen BUSINESS MANAGER - Gianna Biaggi REPORTERS - Sebastian Amara, Liam Casey, Grace Bon, Gabby Petersen, Alex Conner, Maddie Connors, Sarah Summers, Matthew Amatori, Chelsea Krause, Natalie Minuzzo, Lindsey Jasperse, Ellen Angeloni, Alex Arellano-Halford, Jamie Ballard, Gianna Biaggi, Selena Caruso, Erik Castillo, Connor Griggs-Demmin, Anneliese Koch, Jessica Marioni, Arianna Maysonave PHOTOGRAPHERS - Maddie Connors, Jessica Marioni, Lindsey Jasperse, Chelsea Krause, Ellen Angeloni, Natalie Minuzzo, Gianna Biaggi, Gabby Peterson, Connor Griggs-Demmin ART & GRAPHICS - Alex Arellano-Halford, Sebastian Amara Dragons Tale

a new study. Although the majority of students were required to receive the vaccine, some were excused on account of personal conict. Robert Woodworth, junior, opted out of the shot due to his Christian Science background. He disclosed, My parents signed a waiver form explaining that it was against my religion. Other parents refused to have their child vaccinated in fear of potential side effects which include paralysis, high fever or difculty breathing. Two adults reported having complications in the nervous system. While whooping cough is spreading, fear is spreading even faster. Most scientists agree that as long as most people get the vaccine, they are providing immunity for the rest. Although some are ignorant to the dangers of T-Dap, it should not be a required vaccine.

Editorial Policy
The Dragons Tale is a public forum newspaper produced by the Sonoma Valley High School Newspaper class. The newspaper attempts to inform its audience in a broad, fair and accurate manner on all subjects, and to encourage an exchange of ideas and opinions on issues of prominence to the readers. The newspaper staff encourages letters for opinions and responses on the content of the publication. Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit all letters for content. No material, opinionated or otherwise, will be printed which is libelous, irresponsible, advocates an illegal activity or which the editorial staff deems in poor taste. Editorials reect the collective views of the staff and will not contain bylines. Other opinionated pieces will include editors columns, feature columns, letters-to-the-editor, and entertainment reviews. If the staff discovers that a mistake has eluded the editors, a correction will be printed in the next issue. Page 2 October 2011

Culture

Real Women tailor Latina immigration experience

By Sebastian Amara From a small high school cast comes a insightful play capturing feminist values with dramatization as well as humor. Real Women Have Curves, a play by Josena Lopez, is the tale of ve women who work in a sweatshop. Estella, the owner as well as an illegal immigrant, faces deportation if she cannot make a dress deadline and pay off her debt. Although her staff are all legal citizens, they help Estella hide from immigration authorities and meet her impossible manufacturing deadlines. This is a play that involves all of us, Director Jane Martin, commented. With these words, Martin foreshadowed the sentimental connection of the play to audience. The ve woman cast captures this connection with three themes that thrive in the female population of the world: feminism, individualism and sexual desire. The opening night performance featured Ana Dagio as Ana, Maya Smoot as Estella, Monica Torres as Carmen, Itzel Macedonio Santiago as Pancha and Cinthya Gamino as Rosali. The cast performed admirably with no noticeable stumbles or forgotten lines. Most of the cast easily speaks with the Latina accents related to their characters. Smoots accent was lacking; however, she redeemed her performance with her radiating voice and her

Handwriting speaks truth

By Alex Halford
Graphology, the study of handwriting, has recently risen in the science community. This type of scientific study involves analyzing the handwriting of an individual to determine personality traits. The application of graphology extends from simple personality tests to court trials. Although the process of handwriting that takes place in criminal court is much more complex, samples of writing were taken from two SVHS students for me to analyze. The two students, Chase Campion and Arthur Morgan, both juniors, volunteered their handwriting for analysis. The meticulous process works like this: First, I looked at the stroke pressure. Dark lines indicate a highly motivated individual. A light line indicates a lack of enthusiasm in certain areas. While Champions handwriting appeared to have a medium stroke pressure, Morgans indicated an intense passion. Secondly, I examined the letter size. Large letters imply the writer is outgoing while small letters suggest that the writer may be shy or anti-social. In our samples, Campions handwriting once again showed an average with his letter sizes, while Morgans appeared much more compact, expressing a contradiction to the outgoing personality indicated by his pressure. Next, I checked the slopes and angles of the strokes. Right slopes translate to aggressiveness as well as assertiveness while left slopes indicate a more rational mind set. Both Campion and Morgan showed a right slope, which means that they are less likely to be swayed by outside influence. Finally, I observed the connection of their letters. Connected letters suggest the author is wise, while unconnected letters imply that the writer is whimsical and compulsive. The two samples were connected and fluid, showing that both the juniors are thoughtful in their actions. Although this isnt a very highly appraised science, it is still entertaining and may go somewhere in the near future. In recent times handwriting analysis has been used more frequently in trials to reveal forgery attempts and match documents. However, for SVHS students can use it for a quick personality test.

P hoto By Gianna Biaggi From left, Yaranara Morales, senior; Maya Smoot, junior; and Stephanie Reyes, senior, play the roles of Latina women working diligently in a sweat shop under harsh conditions.

New valley life for foreigners

striking acting. Gamino took the spotlight with her captivating scene where Rosali falls to her knees and cries about her weight problem. Gamino commented on her experience, It was difcult to learn lines and practice for hours after school, but at the end of the show its worth it. It feels good

because everyone is congratulating you. Assistant director Destinee Loehr, junior, added, The cast did well for their rst performance and has grown a lot since the beginning. Not only did Loehr direct her rst play but she also lled many other roles, including voice coaching to practicing lines.

The show ended with a sexy catwalk of the cast as well as other members of the drama through the aisles in the Little Theater. In an excerpt from YouTube, played at the performance, Lopez explained that the intent of her play was To empower women with writing.

Photo By Annelise Koch From left, Tove Ekman, junior, from Sweden and George Yates, junior, from Australia. From left, Jaron Ameloot, junior, from Belgium and Raul Lema, junior, from Bolivia.

By Anneliese Koch At a first glance, these four individuals from Sweden, Australia, Bolivia and Belgium appear to be regular students at SVHS, but each comes from their very own culture, and each will leave an impression on our school. Although these four students have only been living on United States soil for a few short months, Tove Ekman, George Yates, Raul Lema

and Jaron Ameloot, all juniors quickly gained their bearings and acquainted themselves with the Sonoma Valley lifestyle. I have been here before, and especially in this area, and I really like the family Im staying with. I fell in love with it here, remarks a beaming Ekman. Ekman has visited Sonoma in the past, and has an idea of what her year abroad will be like. Yates, Lema and Ameloot all admit-

ted to being nervous prior to their arrival. I honestly didnt expect people to be so kind and open, and I expected to feel more like an outcast, commented Lema. All four students agree that the majority of the people that they have encountered here have been open and friendly. The people are much nicer here than in Belgium, they ask you how you are whether they know you, or not, added Ameloot The reasons for embarking on their

journey differ only slightly, as all four wish to bring home a piece of the American culture and embrace the English language. Living in another culture will open my mind to different opinions, perspectives and situations, comments Lema. At first I thought American accents were a little annoying, and everybody speaks so loudly, and I had absolutely no idea what hella meant, Yates laughed. Unlike the other three, Ameloot is not traveling with a foreign exchange program. He moved to Sonoma with his family from Belgium. However, he is still having experiences similar to that of his fellow foreign cohorts. These students all feel differently about certain aspects of the average American lifestyle. You have a lot of food. A lot. But I like it, although Im kind of disappointed in the butter. I miss Swedish butter and candy, remarks Ekman. Despite the fact that these students all come from different cultures that may seem a world away, they share certain commonalities. They all have aspirations, and are able share this foreign experience with others, as well as integrate what they have discovered into their lives back home.

By Sean Hall

From France: Nutella, babes, and socialism rule

away land known solely as France. La France, pardon. Ive only been here for a few weeks, but am thoroughly primed for much longer. This is fortunate: after attending a political carnival of sorts hosted annually by the communist newspaper lHumanit, Im not entirely sure whether America plans to let me back in. At times, it verges on impossible to absorb the smorgasbord of French culture as I struggle to get a handle on the language. The French people, art, scenery and food could fill several lifetimes; ten months will have to suffice. And now, a handful of observations propos de la France: -No amount of Nutella can fully fill the hole left in my heart by peanut butter. -The student/teacher relationship is strictly professional. Hug Gibson Day would not fly here. Page 3 -Fat French people do exist, and with surprising frequency. I presume the omnipresence of McDonalds is involved. -In the United States, communism is practically a swear word. Here, the Socialist Party just took control of the French Senate, and is a near-lock on the presidency next spring. -Speaking two foreign languages will make you smart inAmerica; it will make you average in France.

Editors Note: Sean Hall, a SVHS junior, is currently living in Picardie, France as a foreign exchange student . He will be contributing columns to the Dragons Tale to keep us informed on his adventures abroad. After two weeks of taunting my friends who had already started school, I boarded a plane to a farDragons Tale

-I realize that people tend to put their (unnaturally) best face forward on Facebook. But the girls here are, on average, three points less attractive than their profile pictures would have one believe. -Theyre still cuter than American girls. (Except you.) I must excuse myself now; my mustache needs curling and my baguette is getting stale. A la prochaine. October 2011

Feature

By Ellen Angeloni & Jamie Ballard

A smashing time at Float Fest

cal Honolulu. With the sunset and ocean as the backdrop, the float was occupied by a volcano and shack with palm trees. Each class crowded around their own float while some individuals meandered from float to float. From 6-9, each city blasted their own music while students danced and sang along. As a break from the loud music and chaos, the pavilion offered a separate source of entertainment. For many, the sole blight on the festive evening was the lack of the traditional bonfire. Due to the construction of the solar panels, Float Fest could not be held in the parking lot as usual and was thus held behind the school, where fire marshals determined that a bonfire would not be possible. Senior Allison Howlett remarked that it was Disappointing. I think we should have been able to do one in the parking lot, [next to the workout room, between the fence and the bridge]. Kaitlin Chipchase, senior, adds I think the school should have tried to get the necessary permits in time rather than just accepting it. Sophomore Courtney Bristow

When the lights go down at Homecoming 2011...

Cecy, Jojo claim the crown
By Chelsea Krause SVHS Homecoming week came to a spectacular close as students danced the night away in anticipation of the Homecoming King and Queens coronation. The Boys and Girls Club was adorned in SVHS colors as students strutted around the dance floor in their finest formal wear. After nearly three hours of fist pumping and cutting loose, the D.J. silenced the music and called the Homecoming candidates to the stage. Olivia Donald, Walker Wicks, Karly Burningham, Jersey Witous, and Cecilia Corona ascended the stage, accompanied by Sam Morgan, Eric Clouse, Chris Swanson, Jojo Sanchez, and Ky Newman. Witous and Burningham had arrived only moments before the lights dimmed from their Dougherty Valley High volleyball tournament, and had no choice but to mount the stage in full uniform. As the candidates anxiously waited onstage for the results, the crowd was waiting with bated breath for the winners to be announced. The room exploded into cheers as Corona and Sanchez were declared the Homecoming King and Queen of 2011. I had no idea; I was definitely blindsided by the nomination, explained Corona. After the announcement of the winners, Sanchez and Corona slowly swayed to Just The Way You Are, by Bruno Mars, as their first dance. On the night of the dance, Sanchez stated apprehensively, I plan to spend time with Ky [Newman] because he knows how to make a night to be remembered. My favorite part about Homecoming was definitely the dance, as I was able to spend time with friends and thoroughly enjoy my final year as an SVHS student , divulged Homecoming Queen Corona. Most candidates agreed with Corona about the dance being the weeks most treasured Homecoming activity because the students were able to dress up and relish adolescent glory in the accompaniment of their spirited peers, teachers, and administrators. The dance was a dazzling finale to a phenomenal week, leaving many in anticipation of Homecoming 2012, along with the many years to follow.

Although left in the dark, SVHS spirit brightened at Float Fest as students mingled, danced, and supported their class. Regardless of the relocation and the lack of a bonfire, Thursday night was full of optimism. Inspired by the theme of cities, each grade created a float representing their chosen city. With first pick, seniors selected a city close to home, San Francisco. The float was adorned with a mock-up of the Golden Gate Bridge, a trolley, Chinatown and AT&T sign. With dedication and SVHS spirit, the seniors rightly claimed first place. With the second choice, juniors agreed to recreate Las Vegas. The classic Las Vegas sign, a wedding chapel, a poker table and large dice stood out against the image of the iconic Las Vegas skyline. As third in line, sophomores voted for New York. A newsstand, taxi, street signs and scenery of Times Square portrayed the Big Apple. With last pick, freshman separated from the rest of the school and selected the decidedly tropi-

Photo by Natalie Minuzzo The senior oat, which claimed rst place, actively displayed the bright and vivacious city of San Fransisco.

agreed, commenting that it was Kind of a bummer. I dont think theres anything thats quite as good a replacement. However, Raquel Rios-Gomez, junior, opined , I think that this shows

how well the leadership class can improvise something awesome! In lieu of the bonre, seniors Chris Swanson, Eric Clouse, and Sam Morgan smashed pumpkins on the ground, repeatedly kick-

ing and stomping them until they were entirely demolished. The student body surrounded the platform from which they were thrown and cheered in approval. Regardless of the initial disap-

pointment regarding the absence of the classic Homecoming bonfire, students were able to reconcile with this decision and valued Float Fest as the peak of Dragon pride.

Photo by Chelsea Krause Ceclia Corona and Jojo Sanchez dance to Just The Way You Are in celebration of their

Dressed t o i m p re s s
By Natalie Minuzzo A rainy start to the week didnt dampen the Dragon spirit, as students strolled around campus in mustaches, togas, and wackytacky outfits. The greatly anticipated homecoming week began with a new dress up day called MJC day. MJC day, standing for mustache, jean shorts and cut off shirts, started the week on an exceptional note. Getting the students excited for the upcoming days, MJC day turned out successful. Tues. was the ever-popular wacky tacky day. Students dressed up in their craziest outfits; the most popular being knee-high socks, tie-dye, different shoes and bright colors. Wacky tacky day was definitely my favorite day, I wore different colored socks and pink pants, explained Ronald Kohut, senior. The carnival that took place brightened Dragon spirits as students enjoyed various activities and foods. SVHS went Roman on Wed. for toga day. Homemade togas were made from bed sheets in an array of colors and patterns. The rally on Wed. also introduced the captivating green men who strutted around school in their head-to-toe green suits. The purpose of the green men is to be a catalyst for school spirit and brighten everyones day, says Ms. Rivara, SVHS leadership teacher. On Thurs., green and black filled the halls for Noma pride day. I just wore a black tanktop, white t-shirt and green beads for Noma pride day because it was easy to dress up for, said Shelly Marmaduke, freshman. The upbeat atmosphere continued to rise through the Homecoming rally and to Float Fest later that night. Spirit week concluded on a sunny afternoon with float theme day. Each grade dressed up in their class T-shirts and float related items to celebrate their graduating class. Students proudly showed off all their hard work on their floats during the parade down Broadway.

Boys soccer triumph in 3-peat

By Erik Castillo Students from all directions rose from their third period classes and rushed to Pfeiffer Gym, anticipating the event that stood as the epitome of SVHS spirit. Spectators from all grade levels crowded at the doors, seeking to enter and nd a seat. This years rally began with the SVHS cheerleaders infamous routine, displaying impressive moves and a gravity-defying stunt that left the crowd awe-struck and begging for more. Following their dashing display of talent, SVHS sports teams made their grand entrance. The boys and girls soccer teams entered, followed by water polo, volleyball, boys and girls cross country, girls golf and last, but certainly not least, football. Much to the crowds surprise, a blackclad Seor Leon ascended the stage to expose his hidden dancing skills. The Homecoming King and Queen candidates were called up next to answer an array of personal questions posed by Principal Dino Battaglini, principle, allowing SVHS students to see a different side of their peers. The annual musical chairs game was followed by the formal introduction of the Green Men. After a game of basketball and freestyle dancing, their true identities were nally revealed: Sam Morgan, Riley Clark, Sam Keechler and Jojo Sanchez, all seniors, are the individuals behind this catchy institution. Near the end of the rally, students gathered with their grades for the infamous SVHS cheer. Despite leaderships early warning regarding booing policies, the sophomores disobeyed and were thus disqualied from the event. The seniors and freshmen protested as the juniors were awarded the victory. Overall, this years rally proved to be quite a memorable one, with surprises popping out in every corner and keeping the students satisfied with fresh content.

Floats brighten Broadway

By Lindsey Jasperse Who knew that the small, tranquil town of Sonoma was capable of possessing not only its phenomenal wine culture, but also the sweet taste of San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York City, and Honolulu? As the parade of oats breezed down Broadway, the crowd couldnt help but leave its heart in San Francisco with the class of 2012. Following SVHS tradition, each grade constructed a oat displaying the theme chosen by the student body. This years focus was cities: the seniors represented San Francisco, following with the juniors, who chose Las Vegas. The underclassmen oats were impressive as well, with the sophomores portraying New York City, and the freshmen embodying the scene of Honolulus island breeze. The class of 2012 agreed with John Wittbrodt, senior, who confessed, Being on the senior class oat was special for me, and I couldnt have been happier with the experience. It feels absolutely incredible to have taken part in the winning oat. The leadership class, as every year, chose the oat themes, asking for the opinions of peers. Following the rules of seniority, the senior class was allowed rst choice of cities. To ensure the privacy of each oat, they are kept at a students home and constructed by students interested in partaking in the activity. While the majority of students choose to assist during the oat building process, music lover Isaac Hernandez, senior, commented, DJing for the oat was an honor; it was a phenomenal experience to witness the spirit of my classmates. For the seniors, an entire two weeks, including weekdays and weekends, was spent working on the masterpiece at senior Eric Clouses house. I sat on the edge of the oat with my friends and it made me realize how much I am going to miss Sonoma. The entirety of this week has been so blissfully spirited and I couldnt have asked for a better last Homecoming, rejoiced Brinkley Capriola, senior. In the midst of bleachers full of screaming, spirited fans of all ages, the scintillating oats trailed behind the Homecoming candidates in their respective cars, setting the tone for this years homecoming game. While the juniors may have trailed closely behind in the competition for rst place oat, the senior class clearly deserved to win. My favorite oat was 2012s. It was very creative and the bridge denitely added a great touch to it, commented Maria Hawing, sophomore. Without a doubt, this years homecoming was quite memorable. As the week wound down, a sense of Dragon pride lingered in all of the hearts of fellow Sonomans. As Mr. OMeara stated, Homecoming is the best way to bring our community together as a whole, and welcome all of Sonoma.

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October 2011

Sports Opinion

Hounds hang on at Dragons Homecoming

By Connor Griggs-Demmin Despite a lively display of school spirit and an equally spirited Dragon comeback, Healdsburg managed to defeat SVHS 17-13 at Fri. nights Homecoming football game. Ultimately, we couldnt make plays in critical situations, remarked Sonomas longtime head coach, Mick OMeara. We had a lot of opportunities to score, but we couldnt put points on the board, added senior quarterback Sam Morgan. This game was all about defense as Sonoma forced three fumbles with both sides having trouble moving the ball. Sonoma turned the ball over on downs on its opening possession, but a few plays later, Charlie Stellon, junior, recovered a fumble in Healdsburg territory, giving Sonoma excellent eld position. Conversely, Sonoma opened the scoring with a masterfully executed offensive touchdown play. Morgan received the snap but handed the ball off to backup quarterback and standout running back Dan Deely, sophomore, who threw a strike to senior receiver Christopher Swanson for a beautiful touchdown pass. Swanson converted the extra point and in a matter of minutes Sonoma had a 7-0 lead. However, the lead was short-lived as Healdsburgs offense marched down the eld, their drive nishing with a 29-yard touchdown run. The score would stand at 7-7 after the rst quarter. The second quarter began uneventfully as both teams were forced to punt the ball three times. However, after Sonomas second punt of the quarter, Healdsburg drove down the eld and eventually scored on a 1-yard touchdown run. Healdsburg completed another successful drive and was able to kick a eld goal with seconds left in the rst half, extending their lead to 17-7 at halftime. The halftime Homecoming festivities seemed to re-energize a Sonoma team that came off of a rough second quarter. The Dragon defense stepped up in the second half and ultimately allowed no points and forced two fumbles, allowing the offense to attempt to wear down a stingy Healdsburg defense. Sonomas offense conducted a ne long drive, but ended up missing a 24-yard eld goal. However, they quickly got the ball back when Josh Jones, senior, recovered a fumble in Hounds territory. The offense, led by quarterback and captain Morgan, moved forward and converted a huge third down and 13 play. The drive reached a crescendo when Deely ran the ball into the end zone from ve yards out, but Sonoma missed the extra point. The third quarter would end with the Hounds leading 17-13, a sure sign of a dramatic nal quarter. However, the third quarter was full of missed Dragon opportunities. One issue was the kicking game, commented OMeara, referring to the missed eld goal and extra point. We couldve been tied at the end of the third quarter, added OMeara. For the majority of the fourth quarter, both sides were unable to muster much offensive production, but Sonomas nal drive showed much promise. The Dragons received the ball on their own 7-yard line, but immediately began moving down the eld when Morgan hit his favorite target, Swanson for a 28-yard completion on the rst play of the drive. The Dragons made it to mideld before being faced with a fourth down and 6 situation, but once again, Morgan found Swanson for the rst down with around a minute remaining. With the clock winding down, the Dragons entered desperation mode and Healdsburg intercepted a deep pass, ending the game with a 17-13 victory. Sonoma entered the game with an overall record of 3-2, while Healdsburgs was and impressive 5-1. Although a disappointing result for the Dragons, the game came down to the nal play and was undoubtedly a thrilling contest.

The leagues they are a changin

By Alex Conner

As the 2011-2012 school year passes and grade levels, classes, and attitudes shift, so will one more thingsports. When the Sonoma County League opens its fall seasons in 2012, they will have to welcome Santa Rosas Piner and Elsie Allen saying farewell to Windsor and Petalumas Casa Grande. The shift in leagues indicates a typical, 12-year cycle that shifts the teams in the SCL/ NBL to look for teams out of place, remarks athletic director, Bob Midgley. Teams out of place are dened as schools that are different from the other schools in population, and this time around that includes Windsor and Casa Grande who have a student body of over 1,700 high schoolers. Midgley declares the change was made to eliminate, the discrepancy in the size of schools because it discredits Division 2 schools in the NCS seeding process when they lose to Division 3 or 4 teams in league matchups. Ultimately, the league is hurting itself by butchering the NCS seeds. The primary motive for the change was, the safety issue when the talent from a larger school faces off with a smaller school, explains Midgley. While the decision might seem football-minded, no other sports teams stepped up to dispute the move. With seemingly sound logic, the change takes an ugly turn for teams that are going to be in the new, smaller, and inevitably less signicant league. Midgley acknowledged, I enjoyed the tougher competition. The way we measure success will be entirely different. As the league juggernauts, Casa Grande and Windsor, leave the opportunities for league titles will open up for Sonoma, but the denition of Sonoma County League Champions will forever be altered by the lower quality of our sports teams. The credibility of Sonoma County sports will be diminished in addition to age-old rivalries. The vicious, fervent rivalry that dened Sonoma v. Casa will perish as the teams will only meet for the occasional preseason friendly competition, a concept students never thought would describe a Sonoma v. Casa showdown. Ultimately, the change allows Windsor and Casa to move onto the big leagues and reap the benets of favorable NCS seedings while Sonoma County League is left to wallow in its small school irrelevance.
Dragons Tale

Photo by Jessica Marioni Chris Swanson, senior, catches a long pass from quarterback Sam Morgan, senior.

Krouszkevitch pummels prejudice

By Gabby Petersen The standards of female athletes have been recently tackled by #57, Alexis Krouzkevitch, junior. She has shocked and amazed the student body by playing football with the boys. It all started with a simple joke between friends. Raquel Paz, junior, wanted to try out for the j.v. team to see if she could make the cut. Paz, who tried out last year for the MTV Made competition as an aspiring football player, realized she didnt want to do it alone. She asked Krouzkevitch to join her, and she agreed. The only other extra-curricular activity that Krouzkevich had ever been involved was Mock Trial. She approached the football program realistically, but still unaware of the circumstances that she was about to face. However, by the time summer workouts were ending and tryouts were beginning, Paz hadnt prepared her athletic paperwork in time - leaving Krouzkevich alone on the eld. Now in the middle of the season, Krouzkevich feels comfortable with her position on the team, but she claims it wasnt always so easy. I was really nervous at rst, especially at workouts, but my brother is on the freshman team so I stuck by him. Only a couple of the varsity players really reached out to me, she explained. The j.v. team has since become much more accustomed to having a girl on the eld, but there are still minor slipups. She stated, Sometimes I have to remind them that I am a girl, like when they say something too grossCoach Midgley slips up sometimes, too, but catches himself. Hes
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Photo by Maddie Connors Alexis hustles to practice after changing out of a dress and high heels.

surprised that I am actually playing, but hes supportive. She adds, Im pretty girly sometimes Ill be sitting at my desk in high heels, painting my nails, but wearing my football jersey. As far as Coach Midgley is concerned, he claims to be fairly comfortable with Krouzkevichs role on the team. Midgley declined to comment, because he didnt

want to single out only one of his players. This only adds to the ground breaking goal that Krouzkevich has achieved. Krouzkevich plans to compete in track and eld this spring season to help her stay in football shape. Although there are no other girls on any football teams in the SCL, she is eager to continue playing and plans to try out for varsity next year.
October 2011

Sports

October Sports Update:

Mixed bag for Dragon fall sports

Time Out
What is your pre-game...

...meal?
10 Jack in the Box Tacos. Brian Hurley, junior Water Polo

Photo by Gianna Biaggi Cross Country runners Alex Conner, Steven Wedell, seniors, and Christian Martinez, sophomore, kick start a race last Wed. vs. Windsor.

By Alex Conner Varsity football is off to an impressive 3-2 start coming off a no-win league campaign in 2010. Led by captain and quarterback Sam Morgan, senior, the team made a key offensive change in the off-season towards a faster, upbeat offensive approach. The Dragons varsity volleyball team, deep into their league season, have a stoic 8-2 league record to their name. Led by captains Karly Burningham and Jersey Witous, the girls have claimed impressive victories over the highly ranked Casa Grande and annual powerhouse Analy, winning in 3 games and 5 games, respectively. As their league season winds down with a big game at Casa and a home showdown with

Petaluma, they look to add a few wins to their NCS resume. The varsity boys soccer team, receiving a boost from phenoms Conor and Rory Johnston to add to the corps of Riley Clark and Diego Benitez, have started their 2011 season 5-3 with a huge win over perennial rival Casa Grande. While it may seem like a less impressive year than previous, the Dragons still have the NCS playoffs to prove themselves. The girls soccer team, led by seniors Annie Studdert, Emily Wilbur and Selena Caruso, have had a rough start to their 2011 season. Their league record stands at 2-6, with two decisive wins over El Molino. They hope to turn it around in the second half to nish strong.

The boys cross country team, have begun their season with a 1-2 record in league races. The Dragons beat Healdsburg but lost to perennial powerhouse Petaluma and fell to Windsor at their grueling hilly home course. However, due to a pair of foot injuries, Sonoma has been without two key team members, Chris Tose and Owen Ljung at full strength. The girls cross country runners, led by junior captain Serena Spry, have busted out to a solid start and have posted a 2-1 league record after squaring off against Healdsburg, Windsor, and Petaluma. The boys and girls water polo teams have come out of the gates with a choppy beginning, both going 0-3 in their matches to Ukiah, Marin

Academy, and annual foe Cardinal Newman. The boys team, led by juniors Arthur Morgan and Chase Campion, looks to turn the season around in the weeks to come. In the middle of rebuilding year, girls Tennis is highlighted by freshman standout Celia Montano and sophomore Michelle Stovall. So far, they have one loss in number three doubles. The netters, led by senior captain Corinne Labitzke, have two more home matches against El Molino and Windsor. The girl golfers, led by junior sensation Jordann Dagner, have had a rough season, going winless thus far. However, Dagner has two medalist performances to her name and making her a threat for an SCL title and NCS berth when Nov. rolls around.

...song?
I dont have one, but Kamryn and I dance and try and pump the rest of the team up. Katie Durkan, senior Golf

By Connor Griggs-Demmin

NBA remains locked out

when the previous Collective Bargaining Agreement, formed to end an earlier lockout in 2005, expired before the two sides were able to reach an accord. Due to the leagues signicant yearly monetary losses, stronger salary caps and reductions were proposed. The NBA players union immediately rejected the proposal and urged the owners to compromise and share some of the nancial burden. Many also felt that actions need to be taken to promote parity throughout the league. I think theyre all being too greedy, remarked Daniel Dwyer, junior. Most fans are dismayed about the ongoing ordeal and feel emphasis should be on playing the sport rather than on money. Further negotiation yielded little progress. The lockout had already caused the cancellation of preseason games, prevented players from accessing team facilities and trainers, and disallowed teams from trading or signing

For more than three months, the National Basketball Association players and owners have been struggling to compromise on a new labor deal; consequently, NBA commissioner David Stern has canceled the rst two weeks of the NBA season. The lockout began on Jul. 1st

Petaluma fumbles for frosh footballyear has been The team this By Gabby Petersen
The frosh football team broke through an old curse to kick off their new season. The Dragon Freshman have not claimed a win in three years and their victory was worth cheering about. The young Dragons- led by captains Jack Biaggi, quarterback, Noe Baron, offensive line, Gabe Berstein, wide receiver, and Alex Gustafson, running backfought off the Petaluma Trojans in a 13-0 triumph on Sept. 22. Coach Gibson claimed The defense won the game. Gabe and Alex did a fantastic job during the third quarter. Petaluma got the ball and kept pushing the defense back, but we stopped them near the end zone and forced a turn-over on downs. What made this game different from the others in the past three years? much more dedicated than the teams of the past, explained Coach Gibson. This year the team is more disciplined and practices are productive with high attendance and energy. Gibson continued to claim, Of course, you go into every game expecting to win, but this time, they didnt take their opportunities for granted, and we obviously hope to win more. The captains, Biaggi and Gustafson, were thrilled with win, but say that Petaluma is a decent team- not to diminish their win. However, they believe their toughest competition this year will be their rival, Cardinal Newman. Gibson was everything, exclaimed Biaggi, He inspires us, me, every game and he gave us every play for our win. Without him, it wouldnt have happened.

players before Stern announced the cancellation of the rst two week of games on Oct. 10. As a result of the ongoing lockout, dozens of players have signed in various leagues in Europe and Asia and organized pick-up leagues and charity events throughout the summer. However, their contracts have clauses that allow them to return to the NBA, should the lockout be resolved. Regardless, all parties involved wish for the situation to be resolved without further consequences so the excitement can commence.

...ritual?
I listen to music before every game. Carlos Amezquita, senior Soccer

...warm up?
I volley and rally back and forth with my partner before a match. Celia Montano, freshman Tennis
October 2011

Photo courtesy of Google Images

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News

A+, ex periods cause confusion

By Connor Griggs-Demmin Every year students begin school with feelings of excitement, apathy, or little of both, but this year confusion is also abundant. The majority of students, from freshmen to seniors, are bewildered because of the changes to the schedule of the study hall periods before lunch. Many students, especially new ones, are struggling to understand the system, commented Fidel Garcia, junior. Once again, the daily schedule has been changed at SVHS. To many, A+ seems to be in an arbitrary order, and the phrases flex A+ and freshman seminar are thrown around while their significance remain unclear. Tier has been removed completely from the schedule, which raises a multitude of questions. Essentially, teachers and administrators felt that too many students were doing too poorly in their classes, particularly the freshman classes, and therefore, the Design Team developed a new system. In this system, there are three teams of freshmen teachers, and on each team, there are teachers for each of the core freshman subjects (science, English, P.E., etc.), and all students on the team will have the same selection of teachers. The students then meet with each of their team teachers once a week in a typical week with four A+ periods. Its a good time to finish up your homework, commented Sam Sondheim, freshman. These freshman seminar periods are very similar to A+ periods, as one can usually use the time to do homework, but they also allow each student to know their teachers better and receive more individual assistance and guidance. Meanwhile, the schedules of sophomores, juniors, and seniors were changed as well with the addition of flex A+ and the discontinuation of tier. A+ is now three times a week, as opposed to two as last years schedule allowed. The Design Team felt that A+ is much more valuable than tier, so they made it occur more frequently, declared principal Dino Battaglini. The tier system had the right intentions, but the staff felt that other systems would allow for better results in terms of grades. Students were assigned randomly to tier teachers they probably didnt know, so students couldnt get much individual help, added Battaglini. Last year, rallies and other events took place during A+ periods, which caused inconsistencies in the schedule. To remedy this, every Fri., flex A+ occurs and any rallies or events will be scheduled during these periods. The Mon., Tues., and Thurs. A+ periods rotate numerically on their own two week cycle, while the flex periods rotate numerically on their own six week cycle. On the flex days, students with satisfactory grades and no unexcused absences will be allowed to leave 15 minutes early, at 12:10, similar to the 2010-2011 tier procedure, but occurring less frequently. Many students disliked the tier program, but a large number enjoyed the privileges one was able to earn, namely the ability to leave campus early. I dont like how we arent able to leave early this year when we can go off-campus, commented Kristin Gare, junior. Ultimately, the administration felt that A+ was more valuable than tier because of the individualized assistance. Last year, a students tier class also determined his or her right to go off campus at lunch, assuming the student was a junior or senior. This year, a students progress report grades will again determine his or her privileges in the same manner as last years system, despite the lack of tier class periods. However, as with prior changes, it is expected that students shall come to embrace this new schedule as well.

Caught in Thought
What aspect of this year are you most anticipating?

Lauren Simpson-Gomez, freshman Im really looking forward to playing basketball this year.

Former Dragon flies in as vice principal

Mr. Andrew Ryan, SVHS alumni, recently joined the Dragons administration team as Vice Principal. In addition to his duties as Vice Principal, Mr. Ryan now teaches an Independent Study and Health Education course at SVHS. I am a Vice Principal sixty percent of the time, elaborates Mr. Ryan so to be here full time I also have to teach classes. Along with a teaching credential, Ryan holds a health component in his degree. He was previously a Physical Education, Leadership, and Health teacher at Altimira Middle School. He also filled the role of Athletic Director. From here; I was, I am, and am still a dragon, describes Mr. Ryan it is fun to see you students develop into adults and move forward with life. Mr. Ryans life recently moved forward as he and his wife Shellie, as well as their son Jake eagerly welcomed Joe Ambrose Ryan to their family on Oct. 15, 2011 at 11:15 a.m. He weighed in at 8 pounds, 11 ounces and was 21 inches long. In his first month here, Mr. Ryan feels that he has already established an excellent relationship with the student body, and is comforted by his re-acquaintance with the campus and Dragon spirit. A Sonoma native, Ryan is enthusiastic about amount of Noma Pride the students still hold and enjoys seeing students attend football games. He eagerly anticipates a bright future as an SVHS Vice Principal and teacher, and is excited to learn and grow alongside the students. Mr. Ryan can often be found meandering through the halls, greeting and taking time to converse with both students and faculty alike. Though he will be missed at Altimira, SVHS is delighted to welcome him.

Logan Ebert, sophomore Im kind of excited about the dances. I think theyll be more fun because Im not a freshman anymore.

By Matt Amatori Although a multitude of staff and administration changes have been made over the last few years at SVHS, many students are comforted by the sight of a familiar new face.

New classes bring choices, complications

By Selena Caruso The horizons of SVHS students have broadened this year with the addition of many new classes that were not offered previously. A total of seven classes will be taught for the rst time at SVHS. Principal Dino Battaglini explained that new programs were added this year for a number of reasons. The new SVHS rule, stipulating that starting with the class of 2015 and all subsequent classes must fulll the A-G requirements in order to graduate, partly accounted for the addition of new programs. This required the school to offer more classes that were college prep certied. Requests from teachers, administrators, and students for certain programs were also taken into consideration. Choices are always important, claimed Mr. Battaglini. More interest means a higher success rate. If [students] choose the class, they are more likely to try hard in it. Although new programs bring more options, they also bring more complications. With additional singleton periods, a class that is offered only one time, scheduling is more challenging. SVHS is also faced with difculties such as the hiring of new Page 8 teachers, cost factors, as well as competition among classes for student enrollment. The SVHS German curriculum fell victim to the issue of student enrollment, as there was not a sufcient number of students enrolled to sustain the program this year. While the course offerings at SVHS can be traced back to economics, they are also determined largely by the interests of the staff and student body. Christen Silkey, freshman, expressed such interest in the new World Geography and Cultures program that is now a mandatory course in the freshman curriculum. Im learning a lot. Its great to know all these things, Silkey explained. I think its good that freshman have to take Geography. Six other classes join Geography on the list of new programs at SVHS, including Dance, AP Computer Science, Earth Science, Intro to Spanish Literature, RSP Algebra, and Ag Chemistry.

Joe Wilson, junior Im looking forward to the rest of season two of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic.

Yesenia Vargas, senior Im looking forward to graduating, because its a way of paying off all of our hard work.
October 2011

Dragons Tale