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THE PANTHER PRESS2
Table of Contents
Festive Features
Ways To Give Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Fall Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Best and Worst Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Holidays Around the Globe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-13
Political Correctness During The Holidays . . . . . . .14
Seasonal Stories
Activities Over Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Top 10 Holiday Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Winter Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Mountain Madness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
New Year’s Resolutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The Panther Press18 H StreetModesto, CA 95351
Editors:Liam Coyle, Alex Hunn, Nicole Parhizgari, Karina Olivera, Enya Rodriguez, Macy Swen-son, Lucy Wenstrup
Panther Press Staff:Allegria Enriquez, Waleed Khan, Gabriel Malonzo. Blake Martin, Nicklas Natale, Marie Nunez Rivera, Priya Radhakrishnan, Renee Ri-als, Natalie Schlenker, Rajeev Singh, Shivani Thakur, Alexandria Yaum, Kristina Zuroff
Cover by Scott Mitchell
Adviser: Kerrie [email protected]
The Panther Press is created for and by students of Modesto High School. The goal is to bring news to MHS and to acknowledge ideas, events, and individuals on campus in an unbiased and professional manner. The opinions expressed in this publica-tion are those of the journalism staff and not of Modesto High School or Modesto City Schools. This publication may also be accessed at mohipantherpress.com. Letters may be mailed to MHS or submitted to Kerrie Glenn’s mailbox in the main office.
TEST YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRIT! 1. You spot Santa Claus in the middle of the mall, you...A) Cut the line of little children and dive onto his lap for a picture.B) Smile as you remember the memories of when you were little and waited in line for Santa.C) Roll your eyes and judge everyone waiting for a picture with “Santa”.2. When you realize Starbucks started selling their holiday drinks, you...A) Run over to the nearest Starbucks and order a Treinta pumpkin spice latte.B) Plan to get a holiday drink some time soon.C) Couldn’t care less3. When you see that the holiday decorations are already up in stores, you think...A) What took them so long?! I’ve been ready since August!B) Yay! I love this time of the year!C) It’s not even Thanksgiving yet...why can’t we just take it one holiday at a time?4. It’s Christmas morning! You wake up...A) Really early in hopes of catching Santa in the act!B) Like I would on a normal day.C) Whenever I feel like it. Christmas isn’t really my style; I prefer to stay in bed.5. It’s the annual holiday party, you’re wearing...A) A rented Santa costume, while trying to balance the large sack of presents over your shoulder for the kids.B) Festive colors-maybe a cute red dress or a classy green tie!C) What I always wear...duh.
To view your results, please visit www.mohipantherpress.com .... HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
The Gift of Giving By Nicole Parhizgari
As we are all anxiously awaiting the holidays, preparing our Christ-mas trees, hanging decor, buying presents, and preparing our holiday feasts, there are thousands of people elsewhere not feeling the spirit of the sea-son. Many are unable to be home for the holidays, while others don’t have a home to be in. This holiday season, spend your time a little differently. Instead of receiving presents, let’s give back for the holidays. Whether you donate your money, time, presents, or yourself, you can make someone’s holiday a little brighter. Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to meet new people and will receive the satisfaction of knowing that you are responsible for giv-ing someone a holiday they’ll never forget!
1. Donate your presents! Head over to the local homeless shelter or Salvation Army and donate some presents or little items to keep someone warm and comfortable on those awfully cold nights. These items can include:*canned food*blankets*gloves*socks*hats*coats
2. Donate your time! If you don’t have the money to donate to a shelter, you can always volunteer! Spend your Christmas Eve serving food and giving blankets to the homeless. It’ll be a great opportunity to get involved in your commu-nity!3. Donate yourself! Some people may not need anything but a companion for the holidays. Visit your local nursing home during this season and give the gift of friendship to someone who may not be feeling the holiday spirit just yet!
Here are some ways you can give back this holiday season:
December 2014 3
Coaches: Brian Heese, Arlen Peters, Kris Lewis, and Ali Battig
MMC: Boys 1st Place and Girls 2nd PlaceWhen one joins cross country, one doesn’t just join a team but a family. About the coaching staff, sopho-
more Hilda Perez said, “They are always trying to help us think positive.” Throughout the season, the runners pushed themselves every day for practices and even
a bit more for their meets. They endured hills, cement, and even mud, for one race. The cross country fam-ily also runs no matter what weather, rain or shine
throughout the year.
Coach: Mario AvilesRecord: 6-4
MMC: 3rd PlaceThe girl’s golf team of Modesto High came out with a strong showing in the 2014 season. This year the whole team averaged around 50 strokes in 9 holes, which is excellent for a high school team. The golf
team had a record of 6-4, due to losses against Beyer and Enochs. In their MMC Tournament, they
received 3rd place.
Coach: Richard AlkireRecord: 5-1
MMC: 2nd PlaceModesto High’s football team had a very strong
season winning almost every game. Despite their loss to Downey, the Panthers’ practices and hard work paid off for them. Players like Nate Phillips, Will Gallo, Kendall McNair, and
Antonio Perez helped bring MoHi to the play-offs with the rest of the team. Modesto High
did not make it past the first round of playoffs, but this does not take anything away from their
successful season.
Wrapping Up Fall Sports Girls’ Golf
Cross Country
Football
Amir Patel
Montana Tyrus
Nate Phillips
Hilda Perez
By Rajeev Singh & Kristina ZuroffPhotos Courtesy of Mr. Mitchell
4 THE PANTHER PRESS
Coach: Mike ChiavettaRecord: 12-0 (Undefeated)
MMC: 1st Place This year the girls’ water polo was amazing! The Team placed 4th in the Rocklin tournament, which Modesto High hasn’t placed in for a while. After going undefeated this season; the team unfortunately, fell short at sections after having to face a difficult opponent. This did not deter the team from having the right attitude. Emily Mesches said, “It was a really fun season and next year is going to be great!”
Coach: Mike ChiavettaRecord: 3-8The Modesto High School boys’ water polo team didn’t have their great-est season, however, they all put their hearts into it and did their best. “All that matters is that we came together as brothers and pulled through,” said sophomore James Diaz. Even though they were one of the best teams out in the water, they did not come out on top.
Coach: Traci HarrisRecord: 3-9MMC: 5th Place The Lady Panthers may have been short on wins, but the team makes up for it in heart. With a new coaching staff, the team won both games against Johansen and one again Davis. The last game for seniors was a close battle, the Panthers coming up just short of victory at home, losing in the fifth set to Davis 11-15.
Coach: Matt VaughnRecord: 8-4
MMC: 3rd PlaceModesto High’s girls’ tennis team had a stellar season. Despite their four season losses to Gregori and Enochs, our tennis girls just dominated the court. Juniors Chalalai Eggen and Yunah Kim represented MoHi in the playoffs. They put up a strong fight, but were eliminated by Lodi. There was also a tournament among MMC teams where Yunah, Chalalai, senior Venice No-mof, and freshman Niki Patel played. Even though no championship was obtained, the Panther Presence was felt when Nomof won a Sportsmanship award.
Coach: Matt MendesRecord: 10-1-1MMC: 1st PlaceThe reigning MMC Champs once again took back their title and won the league again this year. Led by team captains Artemio Contreras, Julio Corona, and Cris-tian Robles, these Panthers had a very strong season except for the comeback tie against Downey and the regular season finale loss to Davis. Yet still they went into the playoffs very strong, falling just a little short of Pitman in the first round, losing by a score of 3-2. Their expectations were not reached this season, but the evolution of soccer here at our school is still rising.
Boys’ Water Polo
Girls’ Tennis
Boys’ Soccer
Girls’ Water Polo
Volleyball
Emerson Klump
Neve Foresti
Serafin Alberto
Emma Meches
Cassie Sexon
December 2014 5
Bottle Cap Snowman Ornaments:Materials:* 3 bottle caps* 2 colored ribbons* hot glue* Sharpie markers (black and orange)* White paint or nail polish
Directions:1. Take 3 bottle caps and lay them face down2. Glue bottle caps together3. Paint the bottle caps white to resemble snow.4. Draw a face of a snowman. 5. loop a ribbon around the snowman’s head and glue it into place.
Recycled CD Mosaics:Materials:* 1 CD * scissors* A plain glass or plastic ornament* glue* colored sharpies
Directions:1. Take a recycled CD and cut it up into small pieces each about the size of your thumb2. For each piece, apply a dab of glue on the back and stick it onto the ornament3. After the glue on the ornament dries, color the mosaic with desired colors
B y S h i v a n i T h a k u r a n d P r i y a R a d h a k r i s h n a n
HomeAlone 2
Vote for
your fa
vorite
holdiay m
ovie at
mohipantherpress
.com!
6 THE PANTHER PRESS
10 Holiday Movies to WatchOver Winter Break
~In No Particular Order~
It’s aWonderful Life
The Christmas Story
The PolarExpress
WhiteChristmas
Miracle on34th Street
Elf
How the Grinch Stole
Christmas
HomeAlone 2
Vote for
your fa
vorite
holdiay m
ovie at
mohipantherpress
.com!
NationalLampoon’s ChristmasVacation
A Christmas Carol (1984)
December 2014 7
In the spirit of the holidays and the gift of giving (and receiving), a few Modesto High students were asked what they considered to be the best (or worst) gift that they’ve ever received. From a pen, to a brand new smile, the gifts range all over in price but the common denominator amongst all the best gifts is that they were all thoughtful and personal to the people they were given to. For the single worst gift, make sure you remember the “thoughtful and personal” part about the best gifts when you do your gift giving this year. Happy Holidays, and good luck with your present shopping!
“My Grandma she gave me a card reading, “My gift to you is a perfect smile.” She then explained that she would pay for my braces. As soon as I read the card, I started to cry and I would definitely say it’s the best gift I’ve ever received.” - Amira Wheeler, ’15
“Best gift I’ve ever received would have to be a foosball table since it made me a foos-ball enthusiast. It’s a cool thing to have when people come over, but it really started me on my path to becoming a professional foosball player. I mean, I have played all around Cali-fornia… Which is technically true. Technically. More or less.” - Sam Kara, ’16
The Best (and the Worst)Gifts Ever Received
Written and Illustrated by Macy Swenson
THE PANTHER PRESS8
“The best gift that I’ve received would have to be a Pierre Cardin pen, which may sound kind of lame but I really loved it. I really enjoy writing and I really ap-preciate having good pens for that purpose, and to me, it really shows how you don’t really have to get someone a really flashy gift as long as it’s meaningful and personal.” - Toshali Katyal, ‘15
“I would say that the best gift I’ve ever received would be a Molly American Girl doll, just because I absolutely didn’t expect it and I remember being so excited. I remember it being basically duct taped to my arm, and carrying it around basically everywhere.” - Molly Delaplane, ’15
“I would say the worst gift that I’ve ever received would have to be from when my friend and I decided that we would ex-change gifts with each other for Christmas before break. I remember I thought it out and got her nice gifts, and she got me used lip gloss, old dirty sunglasses, and a scarf that was already ripped and kind of knotted. And I was just like, oh… Okay… Thank you?” - Bianca Guiterrez, ’15
December 2014 9
THE PANTHER PRESS10
What is it? A powerful stress relief and an ef-fective, soothing exercise for the body and mind – which is especially helpful, consider-ing the fast-paced rhythm of American society. Unfortunately, most plants are unable to grow during winter – time when most plants either die or greatly decrease in vigor. Here are some (useful) species I have repeatedly planted and grown during winter over the years in Modesto:
Winter Gardening.
Bok ChoyA very hardy plant and a versatile cooking ingredi-ent; bok choy (Chinese cabbage) can survive cold winters and light frost. Sow directly in the ground (will sprout after 1-3 weeks) or in pots (will sprout within 1-2 weeks, transplant later). Water regularly; as water shortages can result in per-manent, visible damage. Use fertilized soil; oth-erwise, bok choy is a naturally small plant when grown in regular soil. Occasionally monitor while a seedling (stage of life after the plant sprouts but before new leaves fully develop); but requires lit-tle attention when mature. Use standing supports when the plant flowers; as bok choy produce flow-ers on long, but unbalanced and fragile, stems.
KaleA leafy green that has gained recent reputation as a sig-nificantly healthy vegetable; kale is capable of surviv-ing light frost here at Modesto. When planted from seed directly on the ground; kale will sprout in 1-3 weeks. Because the plant is a leafy vegetable; it will require some attention while still young. But the plant can grow to over four feet tall, and provides many leaves for consumption. Kale is a popular food for many kinds of pests, such as beetles (the most common ones are brown or orange) and caterpillars – so watch for insects. Use fertilizer to maximize growth rate and resistance against disease and pests. Requires regular, medium watering; although the plant can recover from brief dry periods.
Leeks/Onions/Garlic/ChivesBasically, those grasses that taste like onions. Unlike most other plants; plants within the Allium genus natu-rally grow even during the coldest days of winter. They can grow throughout the entire year, actually. Plant as bulbs or as seeds in pots or directly in the ground; al-though starting with a pot and later transplanting to the ground presents less risks of death. Medium watering and any kind of soil are sufficient for growth; little at-tention is needed. The time needed for the plants to grow to full size varies with the species; leeks take the lon-gest to grow to full size (4-6 months from seed, usually).
Article and Photos by Gabriel Malonzo
Mountain Madnessby Liam Coyle
Before heading off to a man-made sledding hill this winter, one may want to consider some of the more scenic options available to those of us lucky enough to live within driving distance of some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the US. When you’re looking for a winter adventure, consider these options:
Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the country, if not the world. It offers stunning scenery and memorable hikes up waterfalls, over mountains and through valleys. For beginners, full dome offers simple yet rigorous hikes, but hikes can extend to day long treks throughout the gigantic park. If you’re looking for a way to escape from it all with a long, vigorous hike, this is the place to go.
Knight’s Ferry If you’re looking for something a little more close to home, try Knight’s Ferry. It’s right on the Tuolumne River and offers beautiful and brief hikes in the stunning California foothills.
Bear Valley and Dodge Ridge Both Bear Valley and Dodge Ridge are primarily ski and snowboard destinations, but the sur-rounding areas offer exciting snow-based activities for all members of your group. Dodge is a tamer mountain for those who are just looking for a fun and entertaining time on the slopes. On the drive up to Dodge Ridge, one can’t help but notice the abundance of sled-able hills in the area. Pull the car over and hike along one of the snow-covered roads until you find that perfect hill, then settle in for a picnic and snowball fight. Bear Valley is a more challenging mountain for those skiers and snowboarders who want to push the limits a bit. It has everything dodge has, plus a little added spice in the form of a lower bowl chock full of difficult and steep runs. At the base of the mountain (for those who aren’t so ski-inclined), off-road snowmobiling is offered. It’s a great activity and one that can be adrenaline filled, or simply a nice snowy ride in a winter wonderland.
There’s no limit to what can be done in the mountains this holiday season, but don’t limit your-self to just the options suggested here. Go for a drive, and find a place that speaks to you. The moun-tains are about good, clean fun so find something you enjoy.
December 2014 11
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLDby Nicklas Natale
France: Christmas celebrations be-gin on December 5 with St. Nicho-las Eve, where French children leave their shoes by the fireplace so Pere Noel, Father Christmas, can fill them with gifts. Their Christmas Eve is a day of fasting and religious celebration. Families attend beau-tifully lit churches and cathedrals and then return home to enjoy Le Reveillon, a feast composed of oysters, pate, and buckwheat cakes with sour cream.
Mexico: Las Posadas, a popular Christmas celebration in Mexico, begins on Decem-ber 16. The ninth night of Las Posadas is Buena Noche, or Christmas Eve. Everyone attends midnight mass and the children set up the nacimiento, or nativity scene. The tradition begins by reenacting the Holy Family’s nine-day journey to Bethlehem. Following church, families enjoy oxtail soup with beans and hot chili, as well as turkey and a special salad of fruits and vegetables. Children receive gifts on the twelfth night, January 5, from the Reyes Magos, the Three Kings. Children leave their shoes on the windowsill and wait for them to be filled the next morning.
Throughout the world, Christmas traditions differ and represent unique aspects of people’s culture and history. There are differ-ences between nations, however the underlying theme of Christmas is constant throughout the world; the holidays are a time to celebrate fam-ily and certain religious figures that appear in a country’s culture. Here are just some of the many different celebrations and customs practiced around the globe:
Brazil: Brazil has been influenced by many Christ-mas traditions originating from Portugal. Their nativity scene is known as the Presépio and Papai Noel leaves gifts for all the Brazilian children on Christmas Eve. Many attend the Missa de Galo and decorate their homes with flowers and Christmas trees. One popular tradition in Northern Brazil is the performance of “The Shepherds” or Los Pas-tores, where shepherdesses and a gypsy attempt to steal Baby Jesus from the manger.
12 THE PANTHER PRESS
India: India is mainly Hindu and Muslim, so there is no established Christmas tradition, however around this time, many people take part in Baksheesh, where handouts and charitable acts are carried out for the poor. Some Christians in India deco-rate mango or banana trees during the Christmas time and lights made out of clay can be seen on roofs.
Ethiopia: Ethiopia, one of the oldest nations in Africa, follows the Julian Calendar, mean-ing they celebrate Christmas on January 7. The Ethiopian Christians call the day of Christ’s birth, Ganna. The day before this holy day, the people fast. The following morning, they dress in all white and wear a traditional shammaor, a western garb. During this holi-day season, wat, a thick stew of meat, vegeta-bles, and eggs, is eaten. Wat is served from a watertight basket which is embroidered with beautiful designs and eaten with an edible spoon called injera. Twelve days after Ganna, Ethiopians celebrate Timkat, which com-memorates the baptism of Christ.
Sweden: Santa Lucia Day starts the real Christmas spirit in Sweden, celebrating Santa Lucia, the patron saint of light. The eldest daughter gets up before dawn to dress as the “queen of light” while the rest of the family sings songs to commemorate the saint. The best part of the Christmas celebrations is the elaborate and delicious smorgasbord, a huge feast of lutefisk, Christmas ham, princekov, boiled potatoes, sil, bread and much much more food. The Jultom-ten, Santa Clause, comes at night to give gifts to the children; however the gifts are opened following the smorgasbord on Christmas Eve.
China: Those in China that cel-ebrate Christmas call it Sheng Dan Jieh, or Holy Birth Festival. The Christmas tree is called the “tree of light” and symbol-izes happiness. The big cities like Beijing and Hong Kong are heavily decorated, bringing light to the dreary winter mood. People in Hong Kong celebrate Ta Chiu, which is a festival of peace and renewal. Children hang up their stockings and wait for Dun Che Lao Ren, “Christmas Old Man,” to fill them up with gifts.
Australia: Australia is located in the southern hemi-sphere, meaning Christmas is celebrated in the sum-mer. The most popular tradition is called Carols by Candlelight, where people come together at night and sing Christmas Carols outside under the stars. Traditional house decorations are the Christmas Bush and Christmas Bellflower. On Christmas Day, families enjoy a roast turkey, ham, and rich plum pudding doused in brandy, mirroring the traditional British Christmas dinner.
December 2014 13
THE PANTHER PRESS14
Political Correctness During the HolidaysOpinion by Waleed Kahn, Background by Alexandria Yuam
‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year, with kids jingle belling and everyone telling you be of good cheer. It’s the most wonderful time of year!’ Ahh, the Christmas season, no wait, the holiday season, truly is magical isn’t it? The United States of America is a place in which all people are free to practice any religion they please and so there are countless religious groups residing and celebrat-ing in the country. Despite all the diversity, the dominant religion has always been Christianity. This is never more apparent than in the winter season as “Christmas fever” takes over. However, recently there has been controversy over whether this should truly be the Christmas season. Recently, this time of year has not been called the “Christmas season”, but has instead been referred to as the “Hol-iday season”. This has led to outrage from some Christian groups who say that the season is about Christmas and should be labeled thusly. Proponents of the change say that other holidays must also be represented and that the government cannot favor a religion under the 1st amendment of the Constitution and so terms such as “Happy Holidays” should be used to be fair to all religions.
Now these controversies also extend into retailers and TV networks that greet shoppers and viewers with a “Happy Holidays!” instead of a “Merry Christmas!”. This change stems from retailers and networks trying to send out a more religiously neutral message to appease all shoppers. At the same time however, the major themes of Christmas have been preserved such as color scheme and Christmas or Holiday trees. So everything is about the same, but is being called by a different name.
Many opponents to the change, such as Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly, call this controversy a “War on Christmas” and believe that Christmas is being attacked by others who seek to undermine it. People like O’Reilly try to paint a picture of them defending Christmas from other people, but in actuality this is wrong. The opponents to the change say that banning Christmas trees in government build-ings and institutions is wrong and depressive of the Christmas spirit, but the trees should never be there in the first place. According to the 1st amendment of the Constitution, the government can-not support any religion above any other religions. So basically, the trees are illegal according to U.S. law without also including holiday symbols from other religions alongside them.
To me, the fact that everything is still the same makes me think that this is not really an issue of importance or much influence. Christmas themes are still prevalent throughout TV programs, schools, government buildings, retailers and other places and there does not seem to be anything that will change it. I think that the change in name is a nice tip of the hat in acknowledging the other faiths here in the U.S. The fact that Christmas is so heavily ingrained in American tradition is indisputable and while we must make sure that we do not make it a dominant feature in U.S. gov-ernment, it is important to acknowledge its presence and influence upon this time of year. Because of this, I agree with the policy of calling this season the “holiday season” to represent all religious festivities but I maintain that it is also important to have a Christmas influence on the season. Either way, happy holidays…or merry Christmas.
New Year, New Me
Teresa Rodriguez “My New Year’s resolution happens to al-ways be to do better in school. I also want to work harder at not procrastinating.”
William Zamora “My New Year’s resolution is to stop making promises I can’t keep.”
Jaskirat Gaelan“My New Year’s resolution this year will be to enjoy every moment we have left of high school whether it be at school or at home. Although the last semester may be stressful, I want to make sure I make enough memories to make my senior year memorable and leave high school on a happy note.”
Sabina Villalobos “For the new year I want to learn Italian to better connect with my friends overseas.”
Samantha Angelino“My resolution for 2015 would probably be to stop allowing others’ opinions to influence my life. I’ve learned a lot about myself especially after realizing how much I let myself be influenced by others and I think it’s time to remove the negativity in my life.”
Cheyenne Brazil “ I always seem to have the same New Year’s reso-lution to be a better person throughout the year. This meaning that I eat healthy, go to church, be polite, and of course keep my grades up!”
By: Karina Olivera
December 2014 15
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Happy Holidaysfrom The Panther Press Staff
