Martin Carranza

Ever since Aug. 11, the Academic Decathlon (ACADEC) class has been preparing and using all they have learned for the

Academic Decathlon competition, which will take place at UOP and Scottish Rite in Stockton.

The purpose of ACADEC is to advance the knowledge of the students beyond their academic subjects. Everything that is learned will soon appear in the first Academic Decathlon taking place on Jan. 30. The classes are conducted by Cathleen Hebert-Swartzer, who also teaches Geometry, Algebra 1, and Algebra 2.

“To prepare, they each have a copy of the study guide, a complete copy of the study guide for the competition in the ten areas.” Hebert-Swartzer said. Students around school are often seen studying packets during lunch or free-time. Learning also takes place outside the school.

“They also attended the Fine Arts Day at Delta College,” said Hebert-Swartzer. Students also attended the county-wide scrimmage, which is a practice competition for the Decathlon.

Multiple subjects are taught to students and practiced daily. “When in class, we have slides of art, sound bytes of music and practice our speeches and essays. We learn subjects like math, biology, chemistry, and social science,” said Hebert-Swartzer.

To set up the starters in the competition, who compete in 10 subjects, the students are sorted out by their academic grades from last year with three placements: Varsity, Scholastics, and Honors, along with the Alternates.

Students on the other hand, may not enjoy this as much as Hebert-Swartzer thinks.

“I feel nervous because I am going against sophomores, juniors, and seniors,” said ACADEC student Priya Patel. “Sometimes there is a lot of strain, like when they give too much homework and put too much pressure on us when we have other homework in other classes.”

Khushpreet Choumwer explains more about what goes on in ACADEC. “Basically, we learn the material that will be on the test during the competition. We do a warm-up every day. For each section we have a quiz.” Along with quizzes, there are presentations “about once a week,” said Choumwer.

Some students are a little unsure about the competition, like

Rebecca Palmer.“I don’t know if we’ll win, because we have to learn so

much info. Juniors and seniors do have a head start. However, I do believe that we can do it, and if we won first place I would be speechless, I would be like OMG! I won’t believe it until at least three days after,” Palmer said.

Michael Hall, school principal, predicted that the team will come in first place. “I do believe they’ll make it in first place, I think they’re doing very well, and I think the program that Dr. Swartzer set up is an excellent one. I fully believe they are going to win the gold medal.”

Even if students are pressured, they cannot complain. “ACADEC is also an elective and people chose to be in

the class. At SECA, we expect the very best from everyone and everything all the time,” Hall said.

At this school, expectations are high. Everyone is expected to succeed and to be able to do all the work with no problems or complaints. When the time comes, SECA is confident that students will take those standards with them.

“That’s what this school is about, excellence,” said Hall.

“I want to show se-niors that although we are short, we are just as smart as they are. Math is my

forte, but I don’t think I studied enough math this year. ”

Nico Brondial

“I’m not ner-vous! [Only of] losing, and the science. Winning a gold medal for science is my

goal this year.”

Wolves’ ChronicleVolume 1, Issue 1 stockton early college academy december 18, 2009

the

Vampires are unleashed in “New Moon” mania on page 4

Feel the rhythm in your feet on page 5

Find the true spirit of the holidays on pages 6 & 7.

Going for the GoldACADEC students train for the top

www.tinyurl.com/secanews

Photo: Amy KralMutiple students paid close attention to Rebecca Palmer’s Clas-sical Art presentation. While she presented they took Cornell notes.

Shearaz Khan

Melissa Cruz & Amy Kral Chronicle Staff

“I want to go beyond the material and research stuff that will help me go beyond competition. The math [also makes me anxious because] I don’t know any of it; I only know some.”

Photos & quotes: Amy Kral

In November, SECA had its first canned food drive. It was put together by the canned food drive committee in Key Club. The cans that are collected will be donated to the New Hope Family Shelter.

The committee is part of the Key Club, which is a group built on helping the society. The members of the committee include: Andrea Fua, Jorelyn Calam, Sandra Mendez, Vanisha Patel, Alondra Jaimes, and Cerena Gaoat. They wored together to plan the canned food drive and make it run smoothly.

“It has taken a lot of organization,” said Fua, who was in charge of the event.For all the work they’ve done, this canned food drive will be worth it. The cans

that are being donated will be given to families who don’t have enough food especially those struggling with having food for Thanksgiving.

“I think they will appreciate canned food drives in the winter because during holidays it’s hard for people, no matter what food they get, at least they’ll have some,” said Patel.

The canned food drive will benefit the New Hope Family Shelter located near the school. The shelter has been running since 1939 and helps the homeless in Stockton. It is located in the downtown area where there are many homeless families. They provide an emergency food bank which is where the cans will be sent. Members of the can club committee feel it is rewarding to volunteer in the drive.

“It is the thought of knowing you are helping and it is a good deed,” said Calam.With the economy in shambles and people losing their jobs, the canned food drive

will help many people in need. More people each year depend on shelters to provide them with food.

“The canned food drive will help the needy and it will make society better,” said Jaimes.

Four years from now, we’ll graduate with high grades and fancy diplomas—two of them, in fact. But will we be physically fit? The philosophy that we can attain the necessary amount of credits by taking a more challenging course could backfire when applied to physical education.

As an athlete, I knew there would be no team sports at SECA, and you did too, but we all made the decision to apply. The focus here is on academics, and physical education simply isn’t seen as important. But let’s face it, physical fitness is a key component of our well-being.

In fact, according to the California Department of Education’s physical education framework, P.E. is “an important venue for the social, psychological, and emotional development of young adults.”

Besides being good for us, it’s required. The California Education Code says that we have to take

two courses of P.E. in order to graduate, as set down in Section 51225.3(a)(1)(F). Principal Michael Hall has anticipated this problem.

“The state requires that you have 20 credits of P.E. by the time you’re sixteen,” he explained. “So we’re going to have you take P.E. at Delta.”

But in this case, it could backfire. Section 60800 of the Ed Code mandates that we take the PFT, or Physical Fitness Test, at the end of ninth grade. That’s right—it doesn’t matter that we’re a charter school, on a block schedule, or aren’t even enrolled in a P.E. class. We’ll take the test, sometime between February and May.

“We’ll take that here, unless we decide to move it to one of the other high schools,” said Hall.

So this is your heads-up: we’re taking a P.E. test before we take P.E. That means that we have to get in shape on our own by the end of the year, or possibly even before that.

Although it’s everything short of set in stone that this school is based on academics, not athletics, maybe we would have been a little better off with a little P.E. in our schedules a little earlier.

After all, it’s our belief that “to be early is to be right on time.”

12.18.093opInIon12.18.092 newsAttack of the swine. Flu. H1N1 in the San Joaquin Valley

Many kids and adults are dying, schools are closing down, and people are traveling less due to the flu that is spreading. H1N1, also known as the swine flu, is a contagious influenza virus. It has seasonal flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, stuffy nose; also vomiting and diarrhea. Many kids don’t know much about the flu and what you get from it.

“I think it’s like any other flu,” said Bailey Salemme. “I know it attacks your lungs too.”

Indeed, H1N1 includes the same reaction of the common seasonal flu, but is more deadly. In order to keep healthy, certain precautions should be taken; such as covering your mouth when you cough, or sneeze, and not having contact with people who are sick. If signs of symptoms appear, it is recommended to stay home,.

San Joaquin County received shipments of vaccines to over 50 clinics. Caregivers, anyone from the ages of six months to 18 years, and pregnant women should get the vaccine because they are more likely to get H1N1. Even though the flu hasn’t affected any school in the San Joaquin County, it’s better to have the vaccine for safety reasons.

“We already took the flu mist,” Anthony Kean said, “but maybe sick kids could stay home so other kids won’t be infected or be ill.”

Stockton Public Health Service will give the H1N1 vaccination from December 1 to the 21, with specials every Tuesday from 8:00a.m. to 11:00a.m. No one knows for sure when the flu will end, but some doctors say in the near future. People should be more aware of what they do to keep themselves healthy.

“I’m not afraid because they have medicine now and it’s better,” Annette Manzo said.

Nura NasserChronicle Staff

Photo: Nura NasserUsing Purell or other hand sanitizer is one helpful way of preventing H1N1. This can help kill harmful bacteria.

SECA helps out societyDonated cans helped the homeless

Adrianna Guerrero & Katie PerezChronicle Staff

Photo: Geena Moreno Several homeless men lean against the iron fence of St. Mary’s Dining Hall on a Sat-urday afternoon. Some are receiving complimentary meals, while others have a good time chatting with their peers. Canned food drives, like those held by the Key Club, help shelters like this support families and individuals in need.

Freedom Keepers For hundreds of years,

journalists have been the guardians of freedom. We printed stories of battles, both victories and losses. We printed calls of justice, equality, and liberty. We printed blurbs about lost items and lives. We tell the public what they need to know, and perhaps our heroism isn’t as visible as that of soldiers or firemen, but we, too, risk our lives for the citizens we protect.

Ever since our country began, the newspapers were a key part in the peoples’ lives. During the American Revolution, it was the printers who cried out for the rights of the people. They risked capture and punishment by the British officers by filling their papers with essays about tyranny, oppression and freedom. They fought their own battles against the same enemy, not with guns and blood, but with paper and ink. Newspapers like the Boston Observer kept the flames of the Revolution alive.

As America grew stronger, so did journalism. Newspapers had earned the right to a free press and used it well. Some made

mistakes and some exaggerated the facts, but this only helped the newspaper become a more integral part of America—and the world—by strengthening it, setting down new guidelines, instilling a thirst for truth in every newspaper in the country.

As our teacher, Ms. West, paraphrased, we are the “watchdogs of democracy.” We have both the power and the responsibility to report the truth to the people. Here at SECA, things are no different. We have a duty to you, to ourselves, and to our forefathers who fought so that the dreams we hold today can be possible.

This newspaper is not just for you and it isn’t just for us. This newspaper is going to help keep the belief of freedom alive for the children to come. We are here to take a stand against the lies, the deceit and the narcissism of today’s world. We see the good, the bad, and the in between, and we set it down in neat rows of crisp black and white. We bring the truth to you.

This is our promise.

Emily WilburnOpinion Columnist

Prepare Yourselves:

H1N1 in San Joaquin County

Number of cases

Severe Cases

ICU cases

DeathsP.E. at SECA won’t be in time for the test

The Wolves’ Chronicle newspaper is published quarterly and distributed free of charge. Our newspaper is an open forum for free student expression. Student editors and reporters make content and style decisions with the adviser offering guidance. Editorials reflect the view of the entire editorial board and therefore are unsigned. Opinion columns reflect the view of the writer. Readers are welcomed to write letters to the editor. We will make every effort to print any letter as long as it is not libelous. Letters longer than 250 words will be edited. Unsigned letters will be printed only in unusual circumstances, and only when we know who the writer is. Letters may be brought to the newspaper room, room 6, or emailed to wolveschronicles@gmail.com

Wolves’ Chronicle Staff:Section editors: Desiree Alcocer, Sucharita Yellapragada, Josephine Espinoza Copy editor: Emily WilburnWebmasters: Jonathan Kwan, Holly DeHonestisLayout & Design: Angelynn Jose, Karen Alvarado-Contreras, Mikey Aguilar, Chanchharath RosEquipment manager: Faviola PazBusiness manager: Jorelyn Calam Staff members: Jhovany Gomez, Adrianna Guerrero, Katie Perez, Geena Moreno, Jenni Smith, Amy Kral, Monica Guzman, Sirenio Gonzalez, Pheng Lor, Adriel Escalera, Melissa Cruz, Richard Huynh, Alex Xiong, Daniel Beltran, Sandra Mendez, Anissabel DiazAdviser: Rachel West

Editorial Policies: About Us:Stockton Early College Academy (SECA) is in its first year as a public charter school in the Stockton Unified School District in Stockton, CA. We are currently an all-freshman student population of 121 students. Our newspaper is published by Herburger Publications in Galt, CA.

Go Timberwolves!

20204

Information from the California Department of Public Health.

1. What year was Edward born?A) 1954B) 1901C) 1930D) 1902

2. When is Bella’s birthday?A) October 15B) August 7C) September 13D) December 12

3. Where does Edward leave Bella?A) The Meadow B) The ForestC) Outside Her HouseD) The Beach

4. What car does Alice steal?A) Red FerrariB) Yellow PorscheC) Red PorscheD) Yellow Lamborghini

5. True or False: Jacob’s dad has a heart attack.

A) TrueB) False

6. What color was the event in Volterra?A) PinkB) BlueC) WhiteD) Red

7. Where is Volterra?A) ItalyB) FranceC) PortugalD) England

8. Where are the Italy scenes shot?A) Volterra, ItalyB) Montepulciano, ItalyC) Florence, ItalyD) Rome, Italy

9. What is the name of the flower that’s on the front cover of New Moon?

A) TulipB) Pulled RoseC) Ruffled TulipD) Lily

The r e wa s ch ao s everywhere. Everyone talked excitedly to their friends and family. They couldn’t wait any longer. They jumped up and down, releasing the

energy they had been saving for the whole night, as the usher came by, accepting their ticket and letting them go through the two glass doors. Their smiles filled the theater with joy as they entered the building, walking towards the room that held the premiere of “New Moon.”

The “Twilight Saga: New Moon,” was released on Nov. 20. Many fans from all over the world had been waiting for its release. Many teens and adults lined up to get their tickets confirmed, which took a while. The tickets were completely sold out and only tickets for the 2 p.m. show were available. Many of the fans were out on Nov. 19 at about eight or nine o’clock in the evening to wait in line. They had a line that reached the other corner of the Regal City Centre Stadium 16 on El Dorado St.

The movie received many reviews. “I think it was great and it showed a lot of action

because the wolves appear all of a sudden,” said Ruben

Salas. Different scenes appealed more to others like

Vanessa Palomares, a freshman at Weber Institute “It was like the book, but I liked the fact that

Victoria was the person who caused the death of Harry. It was cool,” said Palomares.

Most people said that this movie is something worth seeing. Bella went through depression for many months when Edward left her because he didn’t want to put her life in jeopardy by living the life of a vampire. After a while, Bella started talking to her friends again, especially to Jacob, who was secretly a werewolf. It took only one reckless decision to finally see Edward. But when one decision went too far, Bella had to go to Volterra, Italy to save Edward from getting killed from the Volturi.

“I think people should watch this movie because it can give you a feeling of something you never had. It can give you real life and fantasy,” said Robert Tamayo.

The excitement of the fans proved that the movie was worth waiting in line for. So if you are a person who looks for fiction, romance, and adventure in movies, this is a great movie that will capture your interest.

12.18.095Features12.18.094 FeaturesFeel the rhythm in Your Feet Students enjoy many different kinds of music

The Timberwolves have no art or music programs that they can participate in. In spite of this, they still find a way to listen, and even play, their favorite tunes.

A majority of students love listening to their iPods and MP3 players; there are a few who have a secret talent

and can play what type of music that they like best. “My favorite type of music is classical and rap; I like classical because I play the viola,” said Sharlena Edwards

There are many students who enjoy well-known types of music like rap, country, and rock. Some enjoy types of music you may never have even heard of.

“I enjoy listening to K-Pop, [Korean Hip-Hop], because it’s different and I’m trying to learn Korean,” said Ashlee Cruz.

Others listen to specific types of music because they make them feel good.

“I like R&B, hip-hop, and J-Pop, [Japanese Pop], because they’re fun to dance to,” said Marissa Carpenter.

After surveying the Timberwolves, the results were that a majority of them favor music that is outside the standard genres of music.

“I listen to pretty much anything because it’s pretty boring having your focus on one type of music,” said Desiree Palmer.

Not all students have a favorite genre of music, but most do. These students find a way to listen and enjoy their favorite music every day.

Richard Huynh & Geena MorenoChronicle Staff

The adrenaline of footballAn exciting sport for everyone

On Feb. 7, two teams will enter the Super Bowl, the championship game for pro football. The Vince Lombardi trophy will be awarded to the winning Super Bowl team of the National Football League (NFL).

Before entering the Super Bowl, 32 teams will clash together for 17 weeks. There are approximately 16 games per week, mostly on Sundays, sometimes on Mondays and Thursdays.

Football has been around for a long time and it is still enjoyable. At first football, started off by the players wearing tights and leather helmets. Many rules have been changed since then. For example, using leather helmets has been changed to wearing plastic helmets and also more protection to protect from impact.

“I like to play it instead of watching it because if you score, you get an adrenaline rush,” said Jaikeydreo Cano.

There are many teams in the NFL that play against each other for the win. There are 32 teams that go head to head. Some are better than others and many people have favorites.

Daryl Palafox and Marissa Carpenter both like the San Francisco 49ers, while others, like Loren Perkowski, like the Green Bay Packers.

Most of the football games are on Sunday, but the biggest game is on Super Bowl Sunday, when two teams go up against each other for the win. Last year it was the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals.

This year people have different perspectives. Perkowski said, “I want the Packers to win.”

However, Palafox said, “I want the New Orleans Saints to win.”

There are many football positions that help each other to win a game. One of the most important positions is quarterback (QB).

On defense is a l inebacker (LB), and on offense is a wide receiver (WR) who helps out the QB. All positions are important to the team. “I like football, because it seems fun to tackle people,” said Carpenter, who is like many other people who adore football.

“Football is one of the best sports,” said Jesus Nevarez.

Football is a great sport and involves many people who enjoy playing it.

Adriel Escalera & Alex XiongChronicle Staff

Anissabel DiazChronicle Staff

Vampires unleashed!“New Moon” the anticipated film of the season

Are you a true “Twilight” fan?Take our quiz to prove it!

1. B 2. C 3. B 4. B 5.B 6. D 7. A 8. B 9. C

Photo: Richard HuynhKatie Perez (left) and Jasmine Frederickson go from taking notes to playing them. They play the piano in one of the practice rooms next to the Wolves’ Den.

“Football is a great game

because I like the

aggression.”

Annette Manzo“I like football because it brings people together for a great time.”

Robert Tamayo

“I don’t like football. I think it’s

dangerous and it makes

my clothes dirty.”

Xe Her

“I like football because it seems fun to tackle people.”

Marissa Carpenter“It is very

fun because I’m good at

it.”

Jaikeydreo Cano

“Football is a good American sport. It gets you money and fame.”

Matthew Culberson

What’s your favorite type of music?

10%

Roc

k

Metal

Pop

Alte

rnative

Rap R%B

Disco

Jazz

Cou

ntry

Class

ical

Other

5% 14% 9% 12% 11% 1% 1% 1% 4% 19%

*Based on a survey of 116 students.

survey says:Did you see “New Moon” the weekend it came out?

yes no37 84

Photos: Anissabel DiazTop:Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, and Kristen Stewart start as Edward Cullen, Jacob Black, and Bella Swan in the newest release of the “Twilight” series. Below: On Nov. 19, teens and adults lined up in front of the Regal City Centre Stadium 16 on El Dorado Street. Many people waited in line since 8 p.m. for the midnight showing.

= of all students30%

Holidays are often said to be the time for giving and receiving, but many would rather be the receiver rather than the givers.

“I want a skateboard or camera, whichever one, just to keep me occupied when I’m bored,” said Priya Patel.

Patel is not the only one that has a list for the holidays. “I want a flip camera so I can make YouTube (videos) and money,”

said Loren Perkowski. However, not everyone has demands for material items.“I just want my family to be safe and healthy, presentsI’m not really worried about it,” said Miguel Ventura. Like Ventura, not everyone looks forward to receiving toys, money,

and electronics during the holidays. Showing the spirit of the holidays seems to be more than enough because they view this occasion as the time to kick back, share conversations, and hang out with family and friends. However, for students that do look forward to presents, like Andrea Mathis, it’s not always guaranteed what one asks for will be received.

“My parents don’t always have the money,” said Mathis. This inconvenience may be due to the failing economy, which impacts

what students receive, often leading to disappointments. These disappointments are not just created by the failing economy, but can also be because the person who buys the present does not know what to buy.

“My grandma gave me this ladybug purse and it was really embarrassing,” Caitlin Leedy said.To students, these disappointments don’t take away from the holiday season. Lisa Perez, college instructor at Delta College and SECA says she enjoys the holiday season because “families get together to share food, fun, laughs, and love.”

12.18.09712.18.096The holidays are

just around the corner. Chores around the house get done a little faster than usual, school behavior

seems to improve dramatically, and the words ”I love you” start to be used more often.

Many students want as many presents as possible, but do they really know the true meaning of the holidays?

The holidays are a time when parents, friends, and relatives get to spend time with each other.

“Being with friends and family [during the holidays] is getting to see all my relatives,” said Yeng Her.

For some, being together is what makes the holidays special.“My family has a big celebration and everyone comes together;

[they] fly from different places,” said Bailey Salemme.Students like Melissa Jimenez think that nowadays kids prefer

presents over family because “presents is what makes [kids] happy.” But overall the majority of students prefer family over presents.“I love being with my family because they are special to me;

they love me” said Joseph Petty.

C h r i s t m a s time! It’s a time in the winter for family, giving, and lots of presents. It makes

people think of things from presents and stuffing, to lights hanging from the Christmas tree.

“[I think of] a tree hung with sparkling lights and candy canes hanging from its long boughs, with brightly wrapped presents underneath [when I think of Christmas],” said Emily Wilburn.

To most, the main figure of Christmas is Santa Claus, also known as Kris Kringle or St. Nicholas. Santa is a big figure at Christmas, showing up everywhere from movies to television commercials, right down to personal appearances in malls and department stores. Many people believed in the jolly, cookie-eating man when they were young and kept believing in him forever. Others grew out of the magic and stopped believing.

“I help pack the presents [for my family], so I

am Santa Claus,” said Marissa Carpenter.To some people Santa brings presents to

children. But is Santa just that or does he have a different purpose all together?

“Santa just helps promote the holiday. He is a commercial icon that lets big companies believe they are doing good in the world,” said Wilburn. Yet she said that Santa does some good in the world and she does believe he exists.

Although Santa is often used to promote stores and boost sales, he is still loved.

“He brings hope and joy to small orphans and in movies he melts adults’ cold hearts,” Wilburn said.

Some people don’t believe in Santa and never did, whether for the lack of proof, because their parents said he didn’t exist, or for some other reason.

Sandra Mendez said she doesn’t believe for an entirely different reason.

“I get dragged into the store to pick out what I want for Christmas,” Mendez said.

Many young people find it easy to believe in magical figures like Santa Claus, while other kids are skeptical even at a young age. Yet, some believe that they had proof of Santa’s existence.

“I went and told Santa what I wanted, and no one else. Not even my parents. I got what I wanted so I believed he was real. It wasn’t until years later that I found out my parents went and talked to the Santa after I left,” said English teacher Rachel West.

Just as Santa could be used to promote companies or commercials, he is also used to bring hope within people.

“You want [Santa] to be true [which is why], Santa represents hope,” West said.

No matter what you believe, Santa still stands at the front of the line when it comes to Christmas icons. He can represent giving, or hope, or the side effects to many Christmas cookies. Believers and non-believers alike still enjoy the wonder of the Christmas season, jolly old St. Nicholas involved or not.

The spirit of Christmas Santa Claus: Believers vs. nonbelievers

Holly DeHonestisChronicle Staff

Family or presents?Bossy family members, or presents wrapped

in Hannah Montana wrapping paper?

Monica Guzman & Faviola PazChronicle Staff

D e c e m b e r Holidays. What comes to mind when you hear that? Of course Christmas and Hanukah, but what

about all the other holidays? On Dec. 12 our lady of Guadalupe Day, on Dec. 18th, the Islamic

New Year, and on Dec. 26 the first day of Kwanzaa. Many of our students are unaware of these holidays; most only celebrate Christmas.

“I only celebrate Christmas and New Year in December; I don’t really celebrate anything else,” Andrew Palacio said. Others in our school celebrate other holidays not only Christmas.

“My family and I celebrate our lady of Guadalupe day on December 12th because it has to do with our religion, and it was when an Indian named Juan Diego encountered the Virgin Mary for the second time on Tepeyca Hill,” said Daniela Ruiz.

Another little recognized holiday is the Islamic New Year, which is every 354 days and celebrated by most Muslims. Muslims don’t celebrate this holiday as a New Year holiday; it is more of a cultural event with peace and special prayers. They sometimes exchange gifts with one another and listen to the story of Hijar (the flight of Muhammad’s from medina to Mecca) on the radio.

Another holiday, Kwanzaa, is celebrated by African-Americans and was created by Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa is a holiday that brings African-Americans together to better their lives, families, and communities.

“This holiday is one of my favorites because we get together, have a big feast and after that we sit in circles and talk about ways we can better ourselves,” said Jaikeydreo Cano.

These holidays and other during this December are very important to people’s religions even though some may not know much about them. These are just few of many cultural holidays that take place in December.

December holidaysWhat are your favorite holidays this month?

Sirenio GonzalezChronicle Staff

Photo: Monica GuzmanEvery year the Weberstown Mall displays a large decorated tree and Santa so children are able to take pictures. A month before Christmas, everything was already set up, but no Santa. Despite that, the spirit of the holidays still lingered in the air.

Jorelyn Calam & Jenni SmithChronicle Staff

Two different sides to a perfect holidayWhat do kids want for the holiday season?

Photo: fenni SmithDuring this time, people want newer technology. Why not help them out with an iPod gift card? If you want gifts like this, go to your local Target, Toys-R-Us or any store with elecricals.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Santa Claus?

“Fat, with a pot belly.”

-Andrea Diaz

“Big belly, red, white, reindeer, free cookies, milk, and big presents.”

-Carlos Shelton

“A big guy in a red suit, with a long white beard and a sack of pres-ents on his back”

-Jacob Crone

What does the “spirit of the holidays” really mean?

Commonly associated with Anime clubs, the snack food “Pocky” is a Japanese junk food combining cookies and chocolate in a stick form.

Ou r n ew An ime c l u b o n campus devours Pocky at their meetings.

Anime is short for animation that has originated from Japan. There are a lot of Anime shows that are watched on T.V. and on the Internet.

“Naruto is a really big one, Inuyasha, Bleach, and Fruits Basket,” said Sandra Mendez, about the most watched Anime shows.

So why would someone join the SECAnime club? Many different people have specific reasons why they like Anime.

“Because it’s a way to get away from reality,” said Benjamin Robles.The club was started early in the year by Rebecca Palmer, president, and Emily

Wilburn, Vice-President. They asked around, got people to sign up, and then they came up the SECAnime club name.

Why would you want to be in the club? You are not even a good artist, and isn’t that what Anime club is all about? Also you might ask, what are some skills someone needs to have? The club is learning about different artist, reading books, and watching episodes of Anime.

“You need creativity and be able to imitate drawings,” said Melissa Cruz. “The more you are able to imitate, then you would be able to do it yourself.”

Now that you have all the info on why to join and how to join, you are probably asking yourself, “Out of all the things someone could be doing, why would they join SECAnime club? Is there even a career in this?”

“You could be a manga-ka or even do animations for movies,” said Wilburn.If you are interested, join in a meeting on Tuesday during lunch starting at 11:15.

12.18.099Features12.18.098 FeaturesHeard of the SECAnime club? The only club to run on Pocky Jhovany Gomez & Daniel Beltran

Chronicle Staff

Photo: Daniel BeltranAnthony Kean, Marissa Carpenter, Melissa Cruz (left to right), members of the SECA-nime club, voted on a new membership policy for the club. The club will now charge a $5 fee to become a member.

The truth behind the smokeThe causes and effects of cigarette smoke

Smoking is one of the main causes of small cell lung cancer. This kind of cancer is spread by the rapid

reproduction of cells that can cause tumors. According to LungCancerAlliance.org, lung cancer kills approximately 437 people a day. It is mainly caused by a product that is sold in stores by different company names, cigarettes. Cigarettes contain 4,000 chemicals that attach to your lungs when inhaled. Those who undergo second-hand smoke are just as much at risk as those who are former and current smokers.

“I have two uncles that smoke at my house, [and an] aunt,” said Norah Quilenderino.

Quilenderino does not feel like she is at risk, because her aunt and her uncles do not smoke inside, yet the risk still stands. Lung cancer causes many deaths, but the risk increases with age.

Some students, like Quilenderino and Holly DeHonestis, do not like the idea of smoking. Victor Acosta, along with some other students, would ban cigarettes if they could. Others think, however, that “smokers will find another way” to smoke.

“For every cigarette you smoke, that’s ten minutes of your life,” said Benjamin Robles, after being asked what he would say to smokers.

Lung cancer is a risk to anyone who is exposed to smoke. Former and current smokers are 85% more likely than non- smokers to be diagnosed with lung cancer, but the risk for those who have never smoked still lingers in the air.

More pop-ular than popcornStudent food store more helpful than imagined

Many students have heard of the student store, and many more have purchased food from it , but what many don’t know is how the school benefits from the student store.

“ [ Th e p r i c e s a r e ] p r e t t y reasonable, I mean, 75 cents for noodles is pretty good,” said Marissa Carpenter.

Besides affordable food the student store also helps support field trips. The money raised from the student store will be distributed to all the classes and will provide funds for the field trips students will go on.

“It’s a good way for us to raise money for field trips, so it benefits us that way, plus we get good food,” said Sa rah Pa lmer .

P a l m e r ’ s mother works at the student store but isn’t the only parent to help out. Since the PTO meeting took place, more and more parents have volunteered to work at the student store as a way to help out. Most admit they enjoy it.

“The kids are nice and respectful. [They’re] good kids; and I get to meet

other parents too,” said Maria-Vargas Perez. A convenience that many students

agree on is the student store location. “It’s a place for me to eat, without going

far, that’s why I like it,” said Robert Tamayo.Some s ay tha t t h e s t uden t

store is a safer way to buy food. “It’s a good way for students to spend

their money instead of running across the street,” said Yolanda Mariscal, secretary.

A few students, however, feel the student store should offer healthier products.

“Instead of Hot Pockets , we can have Lean Pockets. It tastes the same but it’s healthier,” said Tamayo.

Carpenter, on the other hand, feels the student store would lose customers

because “a lot of s tuden t s don ’ t like healthy stuff.”

Some parents don’t mind the junk food consumption.

“ I t h i n k i t s o k a y i n moderation; they’re gonna get these things in other places anyways,” s a i d P e r e z .

Having students’ choices on the menu isn’t always the worst, according to Perez.

“Our biggest seller is popcorn and cup of noodles and that’s not too bad as far as nutrition goes,” she said.

Josephine EspinozaChronicle Staff

Photo: Sirenio Gonzalez

About to order skittles, Fer-nando Hernan-dez prepared his dollar that will contribute to the UCLA trip students are planning to attend at the end of the school year.

Buy a yearbook!

Commemorate the first year of SECA and your freshman

year in high school.

Books are $50

All color

Hard Cover

All students are included!

See Ms. West to buy yours today!

survey says:Which would you prefer, Coke or Pepsi?

Weigh in on our next survey at www.tinyurl.com/secanews

Coke

Pepsi39.2%68.6%

Photo illustration: Sandra MendezA cigerettes best friend, from the gas station to your lungs.

Sandra MendezChronicle Staff

Photo: Sirenio Gonzalez

After purchas-ing noddles, one of the best sellers of the student story, Daryl Palafox (middle) waited patiently while Tommy Xiong (left) and Jim-my Lee (right) observed from the sidelines awaiting to take their pick at the menu.

MISSION STATEMENT:

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE of Stockton is a non-profit, all-volunteer, philanthropic organization dedicated to meet-ing identified community needs through unique service programs.

OUR PROGRAMS:

• Operation School Bell

• Kids on the Block

• Kids Komfort Kits

• Operation Rescue

“It’s a good way for us to raise money for field trips, so it benefits us that way, plus we get good food,”

-Sarah Palmer

12.18.0911Features12.18.0910 FeaturesMousetraps, and egg drops, and gliders, oh my!

On Nov.21, the Pacific theatre at UOP held the first Mathematics Engineering Science Achievements (MESA) Quiz Bowl, in which SECA students participated.

Four members made up the teams of the six schools that competed. The SECA team members were: Josephine Espinoza, June Yang, Desiree Alcocer, and Sandra Mendez. Though SECA’s team consisted of only freshmen, other teams had students from all high school years. Being the first time at MESA day, SECA received 6th place.

“I was a little bummed [about getting 6th place],” said Espinoza, “I was expecting something better.”

It was not all a loss, however, as the team won the first round of a game against Stagg. The games consisted of two 5 minute rounds: The Lightening round and the Iron Man round.

“You know what to expect a little more after the first

round,” said Alcocer, after her first game with Franklin.

SECA competed in three games before the places were announced. The contestants later admitted they were nervous during their games.

“I was terrified, it was scary to be honest, to be in front of so many people,” said Espinoza.

The students want to continue in the MESA program under their advisor Obed Galang, biology teacher. The meetings take place every Monday or Tuesday after school in room 11, in preparation for the next MESA day on Feb.13.

Many other students have signed up to participate in the activities offered, such as the Mouse Trap Car, and the Egg Xpress.

The benefits for members of MESA include increased scholarship chances, even for the student who just registered for the fun of it.

Sandra MendezStaff member

Months have passed by since students first began studying and doing homework at this school. Through these months, students have been

studying, and in return, they have been deprived of much sleep. The amount of sleep, the students had before they came to this school depends on how much homework they used to have. One thing is for sure though, ever since school started, this Wolf Pack has been howling more than usual at night.

Sleeping patterns have changed and are no longer the same for many students because of this new environment.

“I sleep earlier and need to wake up an hour earlier and I don’t have as much [sleep],” explained Cerina Gaoat.

Before, the Wolves used to get much more sleep.“I used to get 8 to 9 hours of sleep, and now I only get

six hours of sleep,” said Andrew Palacio. “Now I wake up way early in the morning for no reason.”

Students nowadays are finding less sleep is affecting their morning routines.

“It’s harder for me to wake up in the morning because before I used to be able to wake myself up, and now my mom has to wake me up because now, I go to sleep later and it wears me down which makes me want to go to sleep more. I need to sleep more,” said Karen Alvarado.

When the students signed up to attend this school, they

didn’t know it was going to be so hard. “I thought at the beginning I was going to lose some sleep,

but not a majority of my sleep, like I am, because I have to sleep later and wake up earlier,” said Alvarado.

So what does losing z’s do to students?Statistics show that people are recommended to receive

8 hours of sleep according to the National Sleep Foundation. Teens are recommended to recieve a good amount of 8 and a half to 9 hours of sleep. This is something that has been hard to achieve for these students and is really starting to take a toll on some of them.

“I am more tired in the morning, and I am losing weight. Because I lose sleep in the night, I don’t feel like eating, and this is affecting: my energy to focus, my appetite, and my alertness in class. Ocassionally my mind will wander and I feel sleepy, and I almost fall asleep in class. I am getting more frustrated and stressed out with all the homework and trying to finish notes, and I am losing sleep by doing that,” said Jasmine Singh.

However, in the end, what matters more is up to the them. Whether they start to sleep earlier, or keep going to sleep late is their choice, and just shows how committed they are or not.

“I would rather stay up late, because even though its a lot of work and it affects my health, I don’t care how long it takes. I would finish the work, even if i’m sleep deprived...it’s all worth it in the end,” said Jorelyn Calam.

When do the Wolves sleep?SECA students turning sleepless

Rita YellapragedaEditor

Save the dates: May 8, 2010Walk for the Health of It

Lodi Memorial Hospital

July 10, 2010Summer Fest food & wine tasting event

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Winery

September 13, 2010Dr. Steele Memorial Golf Tournament

Woodbridge Golf & Country Club

For information contact Donna Shaw at (209) 339-7582

“I was terrified; it was scary, to be honest, to be in front of so many people,”

-Josephine Espinoza

That happy feeling of getting out of school is in the air. Winter is approaching as

school is about to get out for break. Every day, children are wondering about what they can do during break.

“I will plan out what to do [important and unimportant things] to do during break. But I know that I will not do the important things,” said Rebecca Palmer.

But where does the fun come in? Daily, students have to juggle 2-3 hours of homework, chores, and other priorities.

To some students, coming home from school is the worst thing that can happen because of the stacks of homework that are waiting to be completed.

“We can do it at school, but at home we can [want to] kick back and relax,” said Benjamin Robles.

Students have their lists filled with places to go, but they need to have their time managed so they can go have fun and be able to finish all their homework.

According to “Use Your Whole Brain While Studying”, studying more than one hour without short breaks tires your brain and you might lose the information.

“I didn’t know that; I thought not eating or studying would lose your brain’s information that was given,” said Andrew Ngai.

Students can have fun during winter, but how, if time is always fast forwarding without leaving time for students to have fun?

“I will try to finish homework and then play games. But if I can’t finish all my work I will still play games,” said Robles.

Students want to go to the places they want to have fun, but they can’t have fun if they don’t have the time to.

“I want to go to Japan, Philippines, Austria and Germany, if I get the chance,” said Robles.

As the clock ticks, students try to think of “really” important things to do first, before any of the “fun” comes in.

“Well, you can always have fun later on, but you don’t do your chores, you will get in trouble and that isn’t fun at all,” said Palmer.

If homework and chores are important, then couldn’t having fun be important, too?

“If you don’t have fun, then you will stress, which causes your hair to turn white or grey; strains of hair will fall off,” said Robles.

“Of course, having fun is important because [if you do have fun] then, you won’t die from boredom,” said Palmer.

Students think of what would happen if they didn’t do their work and because of this they end up not doing the things they want. Thinking stuff over is a good thing but sometimes you just needed to take action for once. There are a lot of fun things people want to do, but they decide not to. People decide either to do their school work or chores at home all the time.

“Life is too short without having fun,” said Palmer.

Jonathan Kwan & Pheng LorChronicle Staff

Without time, winter “fun” fades awayStudents struggle to manage time for fun

MESA Spotlight:

“Life is too short without having fun.”

-Rebecca Palmer profile:“I joined MESA for the

experience and I thought it was going to be really fun.”

Fua is registered as a participant of the Human Brain and Solo Math Course.

Andrea Fua

“I joined because I enjoy engineering and learning new things, and I’ve been in MESA in previous years.”

Patel a participant in Solo Math, Balsawood Glider, Egg Xpress, and the Mouse Trap Car.

profile: VanishaPatel

Tips to help prevent sleep deprivation: 1) Set a specific time for each activ-ity you will be doing.

2) When doing homework, stay away from distractions like the internet, T.V., and texting.

3) Once you are done doing your homework, go to sleep. Finish any important things like eating, or show-ering, and go to sleep.

4) Stay alert and focused, don’t put off assignements so long you have to finish them instead of getting sleep.

5) Keep track of time, and get the best of it. Don’t let time get the best of you.

Tailthe end

Do you Alec? Yeah, I AlecThe new trend captivating students everywhere

A new phenomenon has taken the school by storm. Most call it “the pen-flipping trick” but some call it a “distraction.” The originator of the trick,

Alec Sanchez, discovered it a few months back.“My brother did it one time, but he couldn’t do it,

so I tried it,” said Sanchez.Like many others, Sanchez began as an amateur but

slowly escalated in his talent.“I dropped it soo many times,” he said.Some students, like Daniela Ruiz, find it difficult to

carry out the trick.“I tried, but it was too hard,” she said.Sanchez, however, disagrees. “It’s not hard,” he said, “it just takes time. It takes

a lot of time.”But pencils aren’t the only things Sanchez is known

to flip.“We’ve [Dawson and I] tried it with a tuna

sandwich,” he said, grinning side to side.Luckily for them, the sandwich was wrapped in

plastic and they accomplished the trick perfectly, mess-free. Apparently, there’s more to the trick than just killing time.

“It helps me concentrate on work ‘cause I’m a tactile learner, I have to do something; [but] for people [who] can’t do it, it’s distracting,” admitted Sanchez.

And indeed many students are now noticing that the trick has become a distraction in class and an annoyance to teachers who find it difficult to teach with pens falling constantly.

“When you hear a pen crash,” said Priya Patel, “you can see that look on their faces, like, here we go again.”

Sanchez also agrees that students “shouldn’t be doing that if it disturbs the class,” and he doesn’t feel that he is at fault when a student gets in trouble.

“They’re doing it at their own risk,” he said.However, the disturbance in class isn’t exactly what

bothers Sanchez the most. Loss of originality seems to be affecting him since “more and more people are doing it now.”

Students like Patel sympathize with Sanchez, “I would feel like I lost a unique—not a unique—but a different part of me,” which is why Patel is choosing not to follow this trend; she feels “it’s more of his unique thing.”

Sanchez, however, is looking on the bright side of the situation.

“I’m a trendsetter,” he joked.Many say the trick shows his uniqueness or

“awesomeness,” (as one student said) and just as many are wondering what he thinks the trick says about his personality.

“What can I say about me…,” thought Sanchez out loud, “…I wanna find a big word…I’m a very… persevering person; I don’t stop until I get it.”

After much thought and deliberation, Sanchez finally settled on a name for his trick.

“…The Alec,” he said with a smile.So now every time you see a classmate giving their

fingers some exercise in class, at lunch, or maybe even after school, know that they’re not just flipping their pencil; they’re officially “Alec-ing.”

Photo: Josephine Espinoza Demonstrating how to flip his pencil, Alec Sanchez, en-joys his lunch. “It’s just for fun,” said Sanchez, referring to his trick.

Winter Fun! Q A&

What movie represents your life and why?

“‘The Notebook’ because one of my relationship was based on the movie.”

Xavier Lucero

“‘Forrest Gump’ be-cause it’s very inspira-tional.”

June Yang

Josephine EspinozaEditor

Across

1. Used to be the tenth month of the Latin calendar, hence its name

3. A small, portable version of a device that accepts input, processes it, and produces output in the form of data

6. A holiday that celebrates the birth of a man whose name can be abbreviated as the Greek letter chi, or X

9. In the 1950s, Walter Pauk developed the __________ style.

12. A black, red and green holiday that lasts a week

13. the transfer of something without the need for compensation

Down

2. Degree-awarding tertiary educational institution

4. Lack of hostility—represented by a symbol that was originally used for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament

5. Wax or fat with an axially embedded object to burn in order to produce light

7. Anine-branched candelabrum used on a specific eight-day holiday

8. Small, cold, and falls from the sky—but rarely, if ever, in Stockton

10. Latin name Rangifer tarandus

11. What is a job for people who teach? Photos & quotes: Jonathan KwanCrossword by Emily Wilburn