CORYDON APRIL 2005
VOL. 50 ISSUE 7
FRONT PAGE/Page 1
By Jerome Calimquim
Editor-in-chief
Senior Deviyani Gurung was the winner of a speech and debate tournament on February 16 at the Skylinks Golf Course. The contest was hosted by the Lions Club, and students from Poly and Wilson High School were among the competitors.
Contestants spoke about whether they felt that the Internet played a role as a “hero” or “villain” in society.
“My speech was about how the Internet is a hero. Although it has many faults, I chose to look at the many positive aspects,” says Gurung.
She is the president of the Millikan Speech and Debate Club, and has participated in two formal speeches.
“I wasn’t nervous at all when I was delivering my speech. I was passionate about the topic, and I believe that is why I won,” Gurung adds.
The first place prize was the amount of $50, and the second place prize was $25.
In the fall, Gurung will attend the University of California, Berkeley, where she hopes to pursue studies in the area of mathematics.
By Marina Gurrola
Staff Reporter
Mario! Mario!” the crowd chanted moments before Mario Rosado was announced Mr. Ram 2006. He was crowned by 2005 winner Louie Huesman.
March 16 marked this year’s Mr. Ram pageant with the theme of “A Galaxy Far, Far Away.” 20 candidates expressed themselves through formal wear, talent, best Star Wars impersonation, and sash.
Michael Robertson won Best Formal Wear, Mario Rosado won Best Talent, Steven Garcia won Best Star Wars impersonation, and Brandon Roundtree won Best Sash.
Ryan Harris made the audience laugh with his stand-up comedy, while Christopher Nguyen and Oscar Abundez performed ethnic dances (a Cambodian Folk dance and a Polynesian dance).
Aaron Ledesma showed his talent by reading a poem and Shaun Garrett sang ‘Let’s Just Kiss and Say Goodbye.’ Bruno Onwu performed a song with his brother from his native country, Nigeria.
Mario Reyes, Michael Robertson, JD Morgan, and John McKissic showed off their dance moves, and Ricardo Martinez danced on roller skates.
Steven Garcia and Ivan Laguna both performed on electric guitar, Jesse Rothstein and Nathan Huesman played acoustic guitar and sang, and Rhett Jones played popular theme songs on a xylophone. Brandon Roundtree impersonated Ray Charles. Alex Salas performed a theatrical skit from ‘Rent,’ while Lane Whitney re-enacted Tom Cruise’s dance from ‘Risky Business’ and his serenade from ‘Top Gun.’
Throughout the night prizes were raffled off, such as prom tickets, gift cards, and mugs.
“It was a privilege being the host of Mr. Ram” said senior Brook Baird. “All the nominees were amazing and I know they worked hard.”
The judges included: Beverly Benton from Sanford Studios; Commander Billy Quach from West Division LBPD; Lieutenant Dave Hendricks from East Division LBPD; Barbara Powell from Long Beach Unified Special Education Department; Janet McCarthy from Goodwill Industries, Long Beach and South Bay; and Lisa Gamboa from Levy- NCCJ.
By Regena Ngeam
Opinion Editor
The 2006/2007 school year is going to bring a new look and feel to Millikan High School. Along with full implementation of the uniform dress policy and mandatory ID tags, the current block schedule of classes will be changing. The new schedule, called a “Win-Win” block, will be in full effect next year.
Millikan first began the block schedule in 2002, a departure from the six-period traditional day. Classes met for 54 minutes, and all classes were held every day. Lakewood High School, for example, still maintains this schedule.
When the change was made, a charter was written on the 4x4 block schedule that was adopted after a faculty vote. If not renewed, the schedule could change again.
A concern to be addressed in changing the schedules is in the amount of electives students have a chance to take. With the current eight classes as an option, many students are free to take as many electives as they want, which include performing arts or AP classes.
“We were the first class to have to wear uniforms, and now they’re changing the schedules on us” says junior Stephanie Pate. “It’s almost like losing a class. Next year, I have to change the classes I was planning to take because we’ll only have seven classes!”
The new schedule will take time to adjust to: on Monday of every week, students will attend all periods 1-7, each lasting 46 minutes; nutrition and lunch will still be given. Every Tuesday and Thursday will be a Gold Day, with periods 1, 3, and 5 held for 96 minutes each, and period 7 for 60 minutes. Every Wednesday and Friday will be Blue Days, with periods 2, 4, and 6 held for 96 minutes each, followed by period 7 for 60 minutes. School will begin at 7:50 a.m. and dismiss at 2:40 p.m. Nutrition will be shorter, and classes longer.
The new schedule was voted in at the end of March.
By Jocelyn Rodriguez
Staff Reporter
Like something out of a movie scene, more than half a million Latino people of all ages took to the streets. They assembled on Broadway and Olympic Blvd. in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday March 25th to protest against the Sensebrenner Law (HR 4437).
More than 500,000 people wore white t-shirts as symbol of peace while carrying American flags to demonstrate their loyalty to this country.
Protesters chanted phrases like, "si se puede" (it is possible) and "we are neither one or three, we are millions, count us right." They also carried signs with powerful messages like "this country isn’t ready for so many prisoners" and "you’ve awakened a sleeping giant," that demonstrated their disagreement with the law.
There has been much discussion of what proposition HR 4437 really is since it was approved by the House of Representatives in December of 2005.
The Sensebrenner law states that any illegal alien found to be living in the United States will be not only deported, but will be criminally charged as felons. This law also states that disciplinary measures will be taken against anyone who has given an illegal alien any type of sanctuary.
The building of a concrete wall along the Mexican and United States border is also part of the proposition. The wall will make it almost impossible for anyone to penetrate it.
This protest was the largest manifestation of Latinos that the United States had ever witnessed. It became more than just a message of disagreement--it was one of unity. The protest demonstrated that Hispanic Latinos are here and they are here ready to unite as one.
Standing in the midst of thousands of people, hoping to influence the Senate’s decision made me feel the presence and power of the Latino community. It was an overwhelming emotion to think that those people were there in support of each other and united under one cause. Asian supporters of the Latino community made themselves heard at the protest as well. They stood with signs saying, "We are immigrants too."
This law is a statement of pure ignorance and an effort to point fingers of blame for the United States’ decreasing economy.
Illegal immigrants make up an unnoticed part of the United States. They do jobs that make our lives so much easier. According to Time magazine, 70% of illegal immigrants do jobs that average Americans wouldn’t do, including agricultural and manual labor.
Immigrants from all over the world come to the United States looking to find work to improve their economic state.
Many countries such as Mexico and Ecuador pay a minimum wage of $1.65 an hour compared to the United States, which pays $6.50 an hour. Although you might think that prices in those countries adjust to the wage, the reality is that they don’t.
Not all propositions are bad for immigrants. President George W. Bush proposed a Guest Worker or Amnesty program, which would provide temporary visas for agricultural workers.
The United State Senate started delegating on this and other immigration laws on March 27th.
The United States is a country built up of immigrants. This law goes beyond the Mexican Border. This is a global issue that affects people of all races and colors; people from all over the world that have come to the United States looking for a better life.
Everyone is an immigrant somewhere along the line, so don’t forget it.
I do agree with you that “readmits reinstate hassles.” When I was absent for a day, it was a lot easier to get my attendance cleared with just one note and an extremely short line. Ever since the new/old policy came back into place, there is a long line of students scrambling about the office to fill out those pink slips. The readmits are creating hassles and I do agree that some policies need to be changed!
-Christina Him, Grade 11
Reading the Corydon is entertaining, but I want to suggest that you may include more information on our school clubs. I want to learn more about them, and what kinds of activities they do. The student body should see what clubs there are, and see what they do to see if they’re interested in joining.
-April Ochoa, Grade 11
The Oklahoma! article was splendid. I saw the play and really enjoyed it, so i was pleased to see the article commending their efforts. You portrayed the actors, dancers, and stage crew as hard-working individuals who are very dedicated. However, you forgot to mention the director, Wendy Atwell. Thank you for recognizing these talented students!
-Jessica Ranes, Grade 11
MySpace is not the reason that young girls are getting kidnapped and raped by predators. Irresponsibility on both the child’s and parent’s part in regards to use of the Internet is the main cause. Parents need to realize that being involved in their children’s lives is very important. I have a MySpace and my mom got her own so that she could check up on me and my friends. Although some kids would say that she’s totally invading my privacy, in truth, it’s nice to know that she cares. Please don’t go blaming myspace.com, because if you do, you might as well just blame the entire World Web.
-Amanda Lucas, Grade 11
I enjoyed reading your feature article about Millikan in the 60s. It seems like Millikan was way more fun in the past than it is now. I can’t believe the students and staff competed, and the coaches did ballet!
-Vanessa Aguirre, Grade 11
By Miguel Felix
Staff Reporter
Having a loved one stolen away from you is something many people would not think could ever happen to hem. The reality is that in the United States alone over two million people are being held prisoner in unsanitary, cold concrete cells.
Over half of these inmates are given harsh, unreasonable sentences. For example, Robert Blasi was sentenced 31 years in prison for stealing a pair of AA batteries. This disproportionality in crime and punishment is all due to the three strikes law that was passed in California on March 7, 1994.
Since the implementation of this initiative, 42,445 people have been imprisoned under the Three Strikes law.
At first, the law sounded like it would really help protect people. Voters were conned into believing that this law would put violent murders and rapists away for good.
The offer, however, did not discuss the sixty-five percent of prisoners that were imprisoned under Three Strikes for non-violent offenses like petty theft or drug possession.
There are many Millikan students who can describe what it feels like to never be able to see their friends and family again.
Krystal Fleming, a senior at Millikan, had to watch her boyfriend get locked up at Lancaster Camp Mendenhall. She said that it affected her emotionally.
“He was my heart and I needed him mentally and physically,” she says. He described the conditions inside the Juvenile Hall as “people are constantly fighting and you have to always be aware of your surroundings.”
The Three Strikes law was a good idea that went haywire. The law needs to be reevaluated and those sixty five percent that are being imprisoned with harsh sentences need to be freed.
FEATURE PAGE/Page 3
By Melina Castelan
Staff Reporter
A Celebration of Life, this year’s Cultural Assembly, was produced by QUEST student Rosa Correa as her senior project.
“Millikan’s Cultural Assembly--both day and evening performances--were spectacular representations of the school and honored the diversity that we have,” said Larreta George, Correa’s Mentor.
This assembly will make history because it was the first one to ever have an evening performance. To open the show Alysse Sweat sang the National Anthem.
Various students showed off their musical skills. Junior Shannon Thompson sang and played the harp. Five students sang ‘525,600 Minutes.’ from the hit movie ‘Rent,’ Dominic Sylve who did an excellent rap interpretation along with the well-known gospel ‘Joyful, Joyful.’
Senior Christina McCarthy performed an Irish step dance and the All Islanders Get Along Club (AIGA) did a Samoan folk dance. Michelle Guillan showed her Hispanic pride by performing to merengue music.
The Cambodian community was also well represented by the students who showed the traditional coconut dance. There was also an excellent number from India in traditional costumes, as well.
Rosa Correa reflected on the night by stating, “ It was a learning experience. I had a lot of fun. It was really stressful to get everything together. I want to thank the performers and all of the people who supported me such as, Ms. George, Lilia Rodriguez, and Mr. Lind.”
By Jennifer Pletcher
Senior Staff Reporter
Aries: Your emotional sense isn't as clear as you think,. Chances are that you are blowing a fantasy out of proportion.
Taurus: Your exuberance has you feeling so optimistic that it's difficult to turn down potential problems. Keep your options open, don't overlook the details.
Gemini: There’s activating tension that you can't seem to avoid. You can, put this stress to good use. Sift through the noise so you can make a lasting decision that you truly want.
Cancer: Don’t let your emotions get the better of you, take deep breaths and don’t forget your chill pills.
Leo: You tend to paint your face to hide it. Don't think that your way is the only way. Only time will tell which path is the best.
Virgo: Your feelings have been building to a crescendo for the past few days, but now it's time to acknowledge what's in your heart.
Libra: Don’t take on all the responsibility; share some of it with others who are going through the same thing. Tonight: spend some time with people you care about.
Scorpio: Although you will soon feel like you are being bombarded with work, take a deep breath. Just remember, never take on more than you can handle.
Sagittarius: Enthusiastic and energetic as you may have been, don’t burn yourself out. There are still things that you need to take care of before all of your energy disappears.
Capricorn: Don’t be scared to open up to others, especially your friends. Not everyone can understand what you are going through, but some can help you.
Aquarius: You may think that keeping yourself busy will keep you from feeling any emotion, but it’s time to realize that you are only exhausting yourself.
Pisces: There might be a minor crisis about to occur, so keep all whom you love nearby. You never know when something can happen. Don’t lose your loved ones because of a mistake.
Multitasking Decreases I.Q.
By Bianca Palos
Staff Reporter
Juggling things is a part of life for most American adolescents. Many teens can watch TV while working on the computer, talking on the phone, making dinner, or waiting for an e-mail or fax. And while doing their homework, they listen to music at the same time. Although this multitasking may seem efficient, it is possible that it can be damage your I.Q.
According to the BBC and The New Yorker magazine; multitasking can reduce I.Q by ten points. Surprisingly, this decreases I.Q. twice as much as smoking marijuana. This condition is known as “infomania” and can reduce a person’s mental alertness. This is also much like a person losing sleep, when the mind becomes worn out due to the lack of rest.
Though it may be an easy way out, it is sometimes best to make time for individual things. Some things can get done faster if you slow down. Handling things with caution is better then procrastination.
By Brooke Posen
Staff Reporter
The work of artists from the Long Beach Unified School District was featured at the annual Norman Gotleib Youth Art Show earlier this month which was held at the Alpert Jewish Community Center.
Millikan sophomore Tianjing “Sissy” Bu was awarded second place and senior Mitchell Hubbard took third for his pen and ink and watercolor self portrait.
He said, “Being in this competition truly inspired me.”
Mitchell also earned the title of Best in School which was additionally awarded to Amanda Lem.
Senior Steven Garcia was named Best of Show and received a cash reward for a self portrait of himself kneeling in his football uniform. “It was exciting to see so many young artists be appreciated to the extent that they were,” says Garcia. “I think young kids need to realize that art is more than just pretty pictures, but a way of life.”
Camille Granger, a twelfth grader, also participated by entering a still life which she created with pastels. When questioned about the event Camille said, “It was wonderful to be able to share my work with others. This has really been a great experience.”
Other Millikan participants included senior Greg Lilly and Andres Villarreal.
SPORTS PAGE/Page 4
By Jessica Lopez
Sports Page Editor
Even though Millikan varsity baseball started off a little rough, they are ready to play their hearts out. With a few losses in the beginning of the season, the team is now ready to really show everyone what they can do.
“The varsity team is forming into championship shape once again,” says Coach John Guggiana.
Kyle Christiansen leads the Rams in pitching, while Justin Brooks and Justin Shinar anchors the infield defense as well as provide strong offensive support. Seniors Sean Plummer and Jourdan Castro will be in the outfield and will hopefully make some big hits according to Guggiana.
However, the whole team is very promising so far. A few players could be looking at playing college ball.
“As far as recruitment goes, each of these mentioned players are being looked at by all of the local colleges as well as some of the stronger university baseball programs,” said Guggiana.
By Megan Boles
Staff Reporter
Millikan’s girl’s varsity water polo team made history this year with a victory over Wilson to clinch the Moore League title.
This is an enormous achievement: The Wilson girls hadn’t lost a Moore League game since water polo became a CIF sport. The game was intense from the start as the Rams fell behind early. Wilson was up by two goals in the first quarter, and by half time, the Bruins led 3-1.
Millikan came back into the third quarter strongly and turned the game around. The game-winning goal was scored by sophomore Katie Rogers in the fourth quarter. Wilson tried to make a comeback and score, but a point-blank stop by senior Lauren Taggart sealed the victory for the Rams.
As the clock finally wound down Millikan maintained their one goal lead; the final score was 6-5 and the Rams were on top.
Millikan had many supporters in the stands including the boy’s water polo team who was only there to cheer the girls on.
Other spectators of the game agree that it was very exciting. Stephanie Valdez, a junior on the team comments, "The game was so intense! The girls were so tired but so determined to win. They stuck it out to the last few seconds and won the game, making history!"
The players found the competition to be thrilling as well. "It was the most fun game that I have ever played in!" comments Mieke Howell, a junior who has had 38 goals this season.
After the victory the girls went on to the CIF play-offs. They won in the first round against Laguna Hills, but suffered a loss to Montebello.
The team was lead by Frederickson and dedicated captains, seniors Lauren Taggart (goalie) and Brittany Berry (driver). There is no doubt that this season’s success was a team effort.
Contributing greatly were Tabitha Absmeier (driver) and Kallie Berry (utility defender); both had 51 goals this season.
The girls have worked hard.all year Pre-season meant morning practices which began at 5:45 a.m. most school days. Once their season began, their practices heated up and they work ed every day until 4:30 p.m.
Outside the pool, the girls worked hard at academics as well. The team combined had an average GPA of 3.0, which is the highest of any of Millikan’s winter sport.
Overall, the season was summed up best by captain Lauren Taggart: This season has been so fun for me as a senior, and I’ll always remember that [Wilson ] game."
As for the next season, juniors Mieke Howell and Margaux Fitoussi will lead the Rams as captains. Of course, they want to make their own tradition of winning Moore League.
Jenna Stain, a junior on the team says, "We’re going to be just as passionate about winning next year!"
By Jodi Nakawatase
Front Page Editor
What this year’s boy’s volleyball team lacks in numbers it makes up for with experience. Starting seniors Dustin Gerard, Santos Gonzalez, Ivan Laguna, Greg Morales, and Kevin Vikchai lead the team along with juniors Daniel Martinez, Ian McKelvie, and Jeremiah Pulu.
The boy’s have finished in a three-way tie with Lakewood and Wilson for their first half of season. On April 11, they beat Lakewood in three games 25-23, 31-29, and 25-22.
Earlier that day they had attended the funeral mass for Justin Ferreras at 10 a.m. at St. Cornelius Catholic Church.
The Rams took first place in the University Tournament, and in their appearance at the OC Championship Tournament, they reached the third round of semi-playoffs, losing only to Marina. Their next tournament will be the Redondo Beach Classic held the weekend after spring break.
This year the Rams’ main competition may be against the Bruins for the Moore League title.
“Our weakness is just slowing down and losing our momentum after a few bad plays,” says senior captain Greg Morales. “We need to just keep pushing and learn to not let up, and if we play at our own pace, we could take league.”
By Regena Ngeam
Opinion Editor
For one of Millikan’s best athletic programs, the 2006 season will be one of transition and change.
Captains and seniors Arlene Cottrell, Tayler Keaneman, and Jodi Nakawatase will be heading the team along with only one other returner from varsity, junior Kaci Carroll. Keaneman and Nakawatase have been on varsity for four years.
After clinching the CIF title last year, the team looks forward to another successful season. “I feel pretty confident about this year and us as a team in general,” says sophomore Chesha Lessig. “I was nervous and excited for the game against Lakewood, which ended up being pretty crazy!”
All three levels competed in games against rival Lakewood on March 30 at Mayfair Park. Frosh/soph lost, JV won, and varsity tied after a long and strenuous game. The score remained 0-0 after 21 innings, finally ending the game at 12:30 a.m.!
“With only four returning players, it’s hard to say how this year will end,” says Varsity Coach Lynn Curylo. “We’re on a bit of a roller coaster ride, and it’s been an extremely competitive season already. The recent Poly game was definitely a demonstration of the importance of staying focused throughout a whole game.”
Softball games between Wilson, Jordan, and Cabrillo are yet to be played, along with a tournament in Canyon Town this weekend.
“I love softball,” adds freshman Juliette Antony. “It feels pretty good to be a part of one of the best teams in Long Beach.”