Category: Citrus Valley High School

Photos: Citrus Valley swim concludes 2024 season with success

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By AMBER BOGH

The 2024 Citrus Valley swim season has been a challenging, rewarding, and overall great season for all of the swimmers. Every athlete has pushed themselves to keep up competitive times so they can win meets and beat personal records. The team consisted of 20 girls and 22 boys. Our Blackhawks won the majority of their meets. Both varsity and JV teams got second place at the Blackhawk Invitational this year. Then, at CBL Finals both varsity teams won second place again.

The 400 Freestyle Relay turned out to be a close race between Citrus Valley swimmers (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

Nathaniel Johnson, a JV boys sophomore swimming Event 36 the 50 breaststroke (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

What is your favorite event to swim?

Ava Northcott, a varsity girls freshman swimmer says her favorite two races are “The 100 Freestyle because it goes by very quickly, and the 200 IM because with every new stroke it feels like a new race.”

Elysa Loraine Lebig, a varsity girls senior swimmer enjoys the “100 Freestyle” because she has “been seeing a lot of improvement this year.”

Rian Walker, a JV boys freshman swimmer likes the “100 IM” because he is “able to work on all of his strokes” and the “50 Breaststroke” because it is his favorite stroke.

Evan Rout, a JV boys freshman swimming Event 32 the 50 backstroke (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

What is your favorite memory from swim?

Aaron Amaya, a JV boys junior swimmer says his “favorite swimming memory is during the 400 freestyle relay when the entire team comes together to cheer” for our swimmers.

Addison Allo, a JV girls freshman swimmer, says her favorite memory has to be “The Blackhawk Invitational.” Allo and her relay team won first place in the 400 Freestyle Relay and got “rubber ducks for it” as the prize.

Aaron Amaya, a JV boys junior swimming Event 18 the 50 butterfly (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

Why do you encourage others to join swim?

Mia Noun, a JV girls freshman swimmer, says “It’s a great experience, with team bonding and you can eat whatever you want because you’ll just burn it the next day. You also make lifelong friends.”

Trinity Le, a varsity girls senior swimmer says she “encourages others to join swim to experience a rewarding sport and a family-like community” 

Elysa Loraine Lebig, a varsity girls senior swimmer says “It’s very hard and mentally tough, but that’s what makes each victory and the ending taste so sweet. Because all the hard work, perseverance you put in pays off.”

Madison Cortez, a varsity girls senior says “Swim is a really fun sport because your achievements come purely from how much you put in the work and the family environment is really supportive.”

Hayley Smith, a varsity girls senior swimmer encourages others to join swim because “it’s something that gives people a chance to try a sport that may not be their first choice.”

Jack Simonton, a varsity boys junior swimmer tells people “It’s a hard sport but when you see yourself improve as the season progresses, it is worth it.”

Yvana Van Dyke, a varsity girls freshman swimming Event 19 the 100 butterfly (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

What advice would you give a younger swimmer?

Joe Fordon, a varsity boys sophomore swimmer says “just keep your head down and do what you need to for yourself. You know exactly what you need to do to improve. Don’t let swimmers and coaches bully you around.” 

Madii Greer, a varsity girls senior swimmer says “don’t let one bad meet or race affect how you view the sport or yourself.”

Rian Walker, a JV boys freshman swimmer says “don’t give up when things get hard or you feel like you’re getting slower, everyone has bad days and it will get better.”

Danniella Rodriguez, a JV girls sophomore swimming Event 35, 50 breaststroke (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

How do you prepare yourself for meets?

Isabella Newell, a JV girls sophomore swimmer says she “usually lives in a bubble of denial that the meet is happening until the meet actually occurs.” When she finally realizes “that the meet is happening,” she gets “really panicked” and distracts herself “until it’s time to visualize” her race, and that always calms her down.

Ava Northcott, a varsity girls freshman swimmer says she “makes sure to eat and drink plenty of water, say a quick prayer and try to stay in a positive attitude.”

Joe Fordon, a varsity boys sophomore swimmer, goes into a meet “with a plan for the events I’m going to swim that day.”

Addison Allo, a JV girls freshman swimming Event 31 the 50 backstroke. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo).

Madii Greer, a varsity girls senior swimming Event 19 the 100 butterfly. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

Sophia Ihmud, a varsity girls senior swimming in Event 41 the 400 Free Relay. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

Isabella Newell, a JV girls sophomore swimming Event 39 the 400 Freestyle Relay (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo).

With the ending of this season, the team is losing 12 senior swimmers who are graduating.  Many of the seniors say they hope to keep their passion for swimming, whether that is continuing to swim in future years or just supporting it.  

Varsity girls: Madii Greer, Hayley Smith, Elysa Loraine Lebig, Ashley Sorrell, Ava Northcott, Amber Bogh, Monica Boonprakobku, Madison Cortez, Piper Gile, Sophia Ihmud, Trinity Le, Keira McDonald, Iris Price and Yvana Van Dyke

JV girls: Addison Allo, Daniela Rodriguez, Zoe Rahn, Mia Noun, Isabella Newell and Elizabeth Perez

Varsity boys: Jack Simonton, Joe Fordon, Conlan Coulter, Bryce Hitter, William Kay, Aiden Kelley, Matthew Kelley,  Jonah Martinez, Dominic Pedroza, August Roth, Israel Roth, Lucas Teeter and David Thomas

JV boys: Aaron Amaya, Jacob Castaneda, Immanuel Hutabarat, Nathaniel Johnson, Caleb Odom, Carlos Quintero, Evan Rout, Adrian Salido and Rian Walker

Photos: Citrus Valley celebrates last rally of the year

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By RONIN DELGADO

As the 2023-2024 school year comes to an end, Citrus Valley High School students take time to show their pride and spirit at the spring rally, CV showcases performances by the cheerleading and song teams, and showed appreciation for spring sports and the performing arts department.

Senior Jacob Shahatit helped open up the rally, getting the students fired up as they shout their graduation year for their respective grades as a competition to show who has the most spirit. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News Photo)

The cheerleaders put on another amazing performance as they do every rally along with the gymnastics team. The energy they brought from their routine had the crowd cheering them on.

(RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News Photo)

Na Shiya Blackwell and Alyssa Aguero Cannon performed their last routine of the year during the rally. Na Dhiya and Alyssa have put in the practice to put on their performances year round. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News Photo)

Sophomore Gavin Serrano played the bari saxophone as a part of CV’s jazz ensemble led by band director Austin Meiners. The jazz ensemble got the rally started with their music setting the rest of the rally with high spirits. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News Photo)

The Blackhawk Theater Company shocked the audience with their sneak peak performance of the song “When You’re An Addams” from their spring musical “The Addams Family”. The performance showcased their incredible talent and the hard work they’ve been putting in to put on the musical. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News Photo)

Photos: Citrus Valley’s PossAbilities hosts collaboration with Peaceful Painters

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By JULES ACUNA

PossAbilities Club at Citrus Valley High School had a collaboration with the Peaceful Painters Club on Feb. 13 which involved a painting day for all of special education students. PossAbilites Club had a couple volunteers that helped out the students drawing and guiding the paintings. 

PossAbllities officers president Savannah Hudson, vice presidents Riley Brossia and Rylie Grames pose with Maura Hampton, Madison Williams, Noelle Joiner, and LJ X. They all loved seeing the roses and colorful background. (Photo courtesy of Savannah Hudson)

Junior Adrian starts his beautiful painting with the help of his amazing supporters. (Photo courtesy of Savannah Hudson)

PossAbilities and the Peaceful Painters club collectively set up the flowers with sweet Valentine’s day cards for students to take as they please. (Photo courtesy of Savannah Hudson)

The classroom showed their wonderful spirits with the collaboration of PossAbilities and Peaceful Painters. (Photo courtesy of Savannah Hudson)

RUSD students attend ‘Pass the Mic’ at Valley College

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By MEANNA SMITH, NALEIAH MILLER and KYA ANTHONY

 San Bernardino Valley Community College held a Black History Month event for local high schools with various guest speakers on Feb. 2. The “Pass The Mic” field trip offered so many resources and great advice for students this year by presenting multiple important topics. Guest speakers addressed how to start your own business, the signs of domestic violence, and mental health issues. At the end of the sessions, performances were held outside with dancers, singers, and even musicians.

When the event started, all the different high schools such as San Gorgonio, Carter, Hesperia, and the four Redlands high schools: Citrus Valley, Redlands East Valley, Orangewood, and Redlands, joined together in the theater for keynote speaker Demarco Washington. Washington spoke about how to navigate college and life after high school. After the speaker’s presentation, the room broke into small groups to start the different sessions.

“The open mic event really opened my eyes to relevant conversations that are always needed as growing into young adults. I enjoyed the positivity and education on opportunities for careers and how to go about life aware and cautious of safety” says Citrus Valley senior Anniya Session.

The domestic violence presentation was one of the most emotional and serious presentations of the day. The speaker spoke about different real domestic violence cases and about how easily teens can fall victim to many different kinds of abuse such as verbal abuse and mental abuse as well as physical abuse. During the presentation, the speaker also talked about the importance of self-love and body positivity. This was to explain that people without self-love are more susceptible to different kinds of abuse.

The mindful space presentation discussed different coping mechanisms that students can use to deal with stress, depression, and anxiety. This presentation also explained how people cope in different, unconventional ways such as dancing, singing, or drawing. Students were given more important information such as the national suicide hotline number which is 988. During this presentation, there were t-shirts and water bottles given to students who remembered information about the presentation.

“The most impactful part of this all was being allowed to come together as a community,” says Orangewood senior Skye Gaynair. “We came together to not only physically see each other but to educate one another, celebrate one another, and love each other.”

After all the presentations were complete, the students were released to explore different pop-up informational booths and fill out a bingo card for every booth visited. There were multiple booths discussing how to get into business or how to start their own business. There were also sororities and other extracurriculars offered at the booths. After visiting the booths, students were given a free lunch which was a sandwich of their choice and a water bottle on the side.

To close out the event, the San Gorgonio BSU (Black Student Union) step team performed a dance and step routine for the audience. After them followed multiple other performers such as rap artists, Latin rap artists, and traditional Spanish musicians. (Naleiah Miller/ Ethic News photo)

The Pass The Mic event served as a very educational and informational event for young students. This event is important to the community because it offers information on serious topics that teens don’t often get the chance to hear. This advice information and experience will stick with students and influence them to make good decisions in the future.

“This event taught me that a sense of community matters and how important it is to see people who think or look like you being able to break unimaginable barriers,” says Gaynair.

The event was very successful as it got close to everyone who participated and did an amazing job putting together such a big event. It was a great experience to hear different stories to help make your own businesses, how to prevent domestic violence and even how to cope with mental illness. 

Members from the Black Student Union at high schools in Redlands Unified School District take a picture with Dr. Alise Clouser of San Bernardino Valley College. (NALEIAH MILLER/Ethic News Photo)

Members from the Black Student Union at high schools in Redlands Unified School District, the Umoja program at San Bernardino Valley College take a picture with Dr. Alise Clouser of San Bernardino Valley College and Superintendent Juan Cabral of RUSD. (NALEIAH MILLER/Ethic News Photo)

Dr. Alise Clouser and Redlands Unified School District superintendent Juan Cabral with support team who helped coordinate the ‘Pass the Mic’ event at San Bernardino Valley College. (NALEIAH MILLER/Ethic News Photo)

College of various presentations and performances that took place at this ‘Pass the Mic’ event at San Bernardino Valley College. (NALEIAH MILLER/Ethic News Photo)

Citrus Valley’s girls soccer clinch league championship for 5th consecutive year

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BY JASMINE ROSALES

Citrus Valley High School’s girls’ varsity soccer have had a target on their backs by being Citrus Belt League champs for the past four years and running. The girls and coaches have shown tremendous dedication and hard work to get the program where it is. 

Coach Delgado said, “This season was full of energy, and positivity” and that hard work paid off this 2023-2024 season where they clinched CBL for the fifth consecutive year, undefeated. 

Girls Varsity Soccer hold their hands over their heart during the playing of the national anthem, prior to game time at Hodges Stadium (Photo courtesy of Scott Pearne)

Kicking CBL off in early January, the Blackhawks had their first away game in Terrier Town versus Redlands High School on January 3rd. Working with the weather, the girls had a delay in game time to adjust to the heavy rain and hail  but came up victorious with a win over the Terriers 2-0. Following the next game, held on Friday, January 5, 2024, the Blackhawks held their first home game of the season against Beaumont. This game Citrus Valley came up strong and finished the game 5-0 against the Cougars. On Wednesday, Jan 10, 2024, the Citrus Valley Varsity Girls Soccer traveled to Cajon for their third game where they won their game against the Cowgirls by a score of 4-0. Moving onto their 4th game of CBL, they traveled to Redlands East Valley High School and played an intense game versus the Wildcats; leaving halftime with a lead of 4-0 the Blackhawks soon battled with a hard comeback from REV. The game left both teams huffing and puffing, leaving CV with a win over the Wildcats with a close game 4-3. Coming to the end of the first round of CBL, the Blackhawks host a home game against the T-Birds. This matchup of Yucaipa versus Citrus Valley is known for being very competitive as they battle for the number one spot in their league, at the final whistle both teams leave the field with a tie 0-0. 

On Friday, January 19 the girls start round two off strong. Citrus Valley had prepared to go head to head with each school for the last time of the season. Starting back up with the terriers, the Blackhawks made it a point to come back harder than last round, proving why they have been four-time CBL champs, shutting RHS out with a score of 4-0. Traveling to Beaumont the next week to face the Cougars, CV was determined to keep the streak alive especially with a target on their backs thus far into CBL; the Blackhawks came out on top with a score of 2-0. Celebrating on their bus ride home and looking forward to the next game versus Cajon on their home field. CV works from beginning to end of this match, rising out of this match with a smile on each of the girls faces as the final score is announced 9-1. 

After scoring from outside of the box, Citrus Valley Senior, Vanessa Alcala celebrates with her teammates (Photo Courtesy of Mike McCue)

Looking towards the following week with two challenging games, the girls use their goal of becoming five time CBL champs as motivation and work twice as hard at practice and film to learn from their mistakes. 

“It starts with the warm-up” Elizabeth Northcott, senior and captain of the girls varsity soccer team, states prior to warm-up to encourage her teammates that they warm up with purpose and get in the game mindset. 

The Blackhawks held their senior night against the Wildcats on January 29, 2024. Making it so that not only are they playing for the title but also for the seniors; as the whistle is blown the Blackhawks connect passes up along the field crossing and Junior Julia Pacioratti bangs the first goal into the back of the net creating momentum for CV to run with. The second goal, scored by Senior Vanessa Alcala and assisted by Senior Sasha Amezcua, brings the score up 2-0 against the Wildcats. From this point the Blackhawks held their ground for a shutout, working in unison and defending from the top of the field until last man, CV shut out the Wildcats 2-0; securing their spot as the Citrus Belt League champs. 

The Blackhawks travel to Yucaipa for their last game of League, in the huddle prior to game time Ava Lopez Senior and the other captain for the girls varsity soccer team, reminds the seniors, “This is our last time playing against Yucaipa with this team.”

Lopez puts two goals in the back of the net within the first half of the game, with a lead of 2-0 by halftime. Coach Delgado encourages the girls during halftime to continue playing intensely, being first to the ball, and most importantly, “Do not let up.” 

All the way to the final whistle the girls finished strong holding the lead over Yucaipa and a final score of 2-0.

Post win against Yucaipa High School, and the team’s last CBL game, the girls freeze this special moment in time with a picture on January 31 at 7:46pm (Photo courtesy of Cassondra Delgado)

Clinching CBL for the fifth consecutive year in a row, and fourth undefeated; Citrus Valleys girls varsity soccer team have made Blackhawk history once again leading them into CIF where they were scheduled to play JSerra High School the following week on February 8th; where the Blackhawks season sadly came to an end with a battle from start to finish they were short 0-2. 

Wrapping up Coach Delgado’s first season as the new head varsity coach, Delgado shared, “Of course like any team, we did have our share of challenges however because the girls responded with hard work, effort, and were there for each other. We were able to reach our goal of winning CBL 5 years in a row.”

Opinion: Students and teachers impact each others’ lives

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By AMBER BOGH

Many students and teachers are unaware of the impacts they have on each other. They share small details of their lives with the other, only some teachers and students try to dig deeper into the lives of the people around them. This can make it uncomfortable for students to share life challenges, circumstances and good things that are happening in their lives.

As students grow up, they face difficult challenges that they can’t talk with their parents about. Teachers and school staff are people that many students go to when challenges are presented. How much these teachers and students know about each other can affect the way they treat the other. When teachers know more about their students, students feel more comfortable in a classroom setting. 

Teachers often share about their lives at the beginning of the year. Then students have a basic overview of their teachers’ lives. Some teachers share more about the experiences they go through throughout the school year. The more these teachers share about their lives the more comfortable students are with sharing their own experiences. Let’s hear what the Citrus Valley High School teachers and students think about how they have impacted the other.

Elena Villa is the theater teacher at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

Villa said that students have impacted her life by watching “little things they do everyday” and getting to “meet them on their journey, but every student has their own journey and story.” Villa hopes she has impacted a students life, and “enjoys when a student comes back and tells” her that “they are doing well.” 

Rebecca Strode is the freshman English honors teacher at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

Strode said students have “absolutely” impacted her life. Strode believes her students “keep [her] young” because she gets to “see what they listen to and read.” Strode has students “who continue to come back and visit,” students have also told her that she has “impacted them in many ways.” 

Jesse O’Donnell is an Integrated Math I, Integrated Math I Honors, Advanced Placement Statistics and aquatics teacher at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

O’Donnell “wouldn’t say one student has, but groups of students have [affected him], as a team.” An “example was the 2019 girls swim team, who weren’t expected to be contenders and ended up shocking everyone, and won it all.” Certain groups have reminded O’Donnell that “if we work hard we can achieve anything.” He hopes he has impacted students’ lives as well, as he teaches and coaches “to help them understand the dreams they can achieve and how to achieve them.”

Isabella Newell is a 15 year old sophomore at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

Newell believes teachers have impacted her life in every way possible. She said a teacher who has impacted her greatly is O’Donnell. First as her “math teacher and later as a coach.” Newell had been struggling all her life with the subject, but in her “freshman year of high school, O’Donnell not only made math easier, but he also got [her] excited about math.” For the first time in her life, she got an A in math. Not only did he help Newell excel in math but in swim as well. “As the year progressed Mr.O’Donnell became Coach Jesse to [her].” As a Coach he pushed Newells physical limits of swimming and he also pushed her mentally to truly believe in herself and her abilities. Without his impact on her life last year, she “wouldn’t be half the athlete or student” she is today.”

Jennifer Lim once said “Mistakes are proof that you are trying.” Newell had a teacher, at a young age, who used this quote as her classroom motto. “After hearing that quote everyday, it has truly stuck with” Newell all these years. Newell said that she “most likely hasn’t made much of an impact” on teachers, but knows that she has at least “made a few teachers laugh and smile.”

Ashley Sorrell is a 14 year old freshman at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

Sorrell believes that teachers have impacted her life in many ways. Including her “8th grade math teacher who was very patient and helped [her] understand math.” Although Sorrell doesn’t believe she has impacted a teacher she does believe that “students can affect teachers in both positive and negative ways.”

Savannah O Roark is a 15 year old sophomore at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

O Roark says “Mrs. Strode is a great example of someone who has impacted” O Roarks’ life. Strode is one of her “favorite people to talk to and she has a sense of humor that really brightens the mood and just really enjoys talking to her.” O Roark believes Mrs. Strode can seem “a little intimidating to other people but she is truly one of the sweetest people.” O Roark is glad to be “close to her and is glad [she] can go to her for anything.” O Roark thinks “everyone needs a Mrs. Strode in their life.”

Daniel Davis is a 15 year old freshman at Citrus Valley High School. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

Davis believes that “Coach Bruich” has impacted him and taught him “to learn to push against being uncomfortable.” Although Davis doesnt think he has positively impacted a teacher’s life, he does feel he might have negatively impacted one.

Students and teachers impact eachothers lives everyday and they don’t even realize it. They can even change each others’ views on life as well as brighten each other’s days.

Students and staff across RUSD spend Valentine’s Day in different ways

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By ALEX VERDUZCO, JENAIA THOMPSON, AMBER BOGH and ANGELA MOAWAD

Valentines Day is a Holiday celebrated in many countries on Feb. 14. Near the end of the 5th century, Pope Gelasius replaced the celebration of Lupercalia with St. Valentine’s Day. Valentines Day is celebrated for people to show their appreciation for each other, such as through greetings and gifts.

How did students at staff from different high schools around Redlands spend their Valentine’s Day?

Redlands East Valley’s Associated Student Body wrote every student’s name on a heart note placed on the bulletin downstairs in the English building as well as the gym doors (not pictured) on the morning of Feb. 14, 2024 in order to encourage students to find their name and inspire Valentine’s Day spirit. (ALEX VERDUZCO/ Ethic News Photo)

Lupe Barba, Citrus Valley High School counselor, says he “got flowers and took them to his wife at work” and she loved them. After work, Barba got “Cuca’s burritos and had a wonderful dinner.” Barba and his wife have been together for 44 years.

Kami Pham, a Citrus Valley freshman, spent Valentine’s day “sick, failing tests, and with a sore throat.”

Citrus Valley students, Dominic Stevenson a senior, Claire Olson a freshman, and Emma Ritter a junior say they had a great Valentines Day. Stevenson “played volleyball after school.” Olson “took a nap” and Ritter “hung out with friends.” (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo)

Jessica Washburn, office clerk at Citrus Valley, said she “went to work, went home, took a walk, and made spaghetti for her husband.”

Orangewood High School senior Kai Moyles and Kevin went to Build-A-Bear at Ontario Mills for Valentine’s Day. Moyles says Ontario Mills was packed and there was a long line at Build-a-Bear. (Photo courtesy of Kai Moyles)

Citrus Valley freshman hearts in the C building, shaped in their graduating year, 2027. (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News photo)

Jesse O’Donnell, math teacher and aquatics coach at Citrus Valley says that he “worked, coached swim practice, then coached a baseball practice for his sons.”

Rebecca Strode, English 9 Honors teacher at Citrus Valley “hosted a Galentines party” at her house for her daughter. (ANNALEIGH DE LA ROSA/ Ethic News Photo)

Chalk art of hearts can be seen in the hallway heading towards the J-Wing on Valentine’s Day morning at the Redlands East Valley High School campus. (ALEX VERDUZCO/ Ethic News photo)

Alan Perez, United States history teacher at Citrus Valley High School, spent “the first half at work” and the second half with his wife. Perez said he “took her to dinner and gave her a nice gift.” (AMBER BOGH/Ethic News Photo)

Redlands marching bands perform in 2024 London New Years Day Parade

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BY DESTINY RAMOS

The Redlands All Star Marching Band, with a total of 95 performers, pose for the team photo in Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London, before setting off on the two and a half mile parade route. (Photo Courtesy of Austin Meiners)

High school marching bands of Redlands got the once in a lifetime opportunity to perform in the 2024 London New Years Day Parade during their 2023-24 winter break.

The preparation for such a trip began all the way back in early 2022, allowing for nearly two years to plan and rehearse. “It took some years of planning and organizing from many different people and logistics,” Citrus Valley Band Director Austin Meiners shares. “Working with three schools was challenging at first to figure out ways to communicate, but we did eventually come up with some great systems.”

The LNYDP began in 1987, first called the Lord Mayor of Westminster’s Big Parade. The parade was renamed in 1994 to the Millennium Parade until 2000 when it became the famous name everyone loves today. It started out with only 10 participating groups, nearly doubling every year.

This year, there were 93 total participating groups, ranging from marching bands to multicultural dancers to giant inflatables and over 10,000 performers showing off their talents. The parade was estimated to have over 500,000 people lining the streets of London with an additional 50 million others watching from the comfort of their homes, according to the LNYDP organizers, Destination Events.

The parade route began on Piccadilly and traveled two and a half miles through some of London’s most notable landmarks, such as The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Square, Horses Guard Palace, Tower of London and ending most notably at Westminster Abbey.

The route, being longer than any local parade that the bands have previously participated in, made for a completely different experience for Redlands students. “There were thousands of people watching us as we marched through London. The audience seemed so excited to see all the marching bands participating and they reacted so positively to us performing,” Citrus Valley Senior Danielle Diaz shares. 

“The environment felt so much different. I felt more engagement from the crowd than in previous parades,” said Citrus Valley sophomore Joseph Fordon. 

The marching band prepared three pieces for the parade, two for the route itself and one for their “grand finale,” Dancing Queen by the 70s group ABBA and Confident by Demi Lovato 

Marching band students weren’t the only ones who participated in a performance of a lifetime. Orchestra students from all three schools participated in the LYNDP Concert Series, performing at the Holy Trinity Church in Sloane Square, London, alongside schools from all over the United Kingdom and United States.

The Redlands All Star Chamber Orchestra stands in the center of the Holy Trinity Church in Sloane Square before taking the stage for their performance in the LYNDP Concert Series. (Photo Courtesy of Austin Meiners)

Not only did Redlands students get the opportunity to perform in the LNYDP, they also were able to tour a few of the United Kingdom’s most popular locations, including the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, Oxford University and the heart of London. 

Redlands High School Senior, Matt Connelly, says that his favorite part of the trip was “definitely visiting Oxford, the architecture was amazing.”

Redlands East Valley Junior, Ellie Brown,  shares that she enjoyed “experiencing everyday London weather and all the tours that we took.”

Citrus Valley welcomes new semester with winter rally

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By RONIN DELGADO and MIA GRIFFIN

Citrus Valley High School holds its winter rally on Jan. 26 to start off the new semester, to celebrate the end of old sports and the start of new sports. This is the time of the semester when students of all grades are able to compete in fun games for prizes, show off their skills, and display their Blackhawk spirit and pride.

Citrus Valley High School student Kohen Ramos has his eyes on the hoop as he poses for the perfect half-court during the rally. Kohen and other students were competing for a free yearbook or prom ticket. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

Citrus Valley´s varsity song put on a performance showcasing their energy and talent to the crowd at the rally. The rally for this semester was held in the Blackhawk gymnasium. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

Citrus Valley High School student Elaine Saji kicked off the rally with an incredible rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, setting a patriotic tone for the new semester’s rally.(RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

Citrus Valley juniors chanted ´25´ as loud as they could to prove to the rest of their classmen that they have the most Blackhawk pride. During every rally, all classmen cheered as loud as they can for their respective classes.(RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

The JV cheerleaders delivered a stunning and captivating routine that electrified their peers. They performed extraordinary stunts and lifts in their routine as well as dance. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

Teacher feature: 20 questions with Citrus Valley’s Candace May

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By MIA GRIFFIN 

Learn more about Candace May, biology teacher at Citrus Valley High School with her answers to these 20 questions.

What’s one of your hidden talents?

I am GREAT at parallel parking.

What’s one of your main hobbies?

My husband and I love playing board games and go camping!

Do you have a dream vacation, if so what would it be?

I just went on my dream vacation to London, England and Edinburgh, Scotland this summer! If I had a chance, I would love to go back again for more time and see more of the countryside and other famous cities. I would also like to visit Ireland as well.

How long have you been teaching at Citrus Valley?

This is my 8th year here at CVHS. Time has flown by.

When you were a student in high school what was your least favorite subject?

Spanish was probably my least favorite, I was horrible with it.

Who or what made you decide to start teaching?

I had a great relationship with many of my high school teachers, and I have always wanted to help others. Shout out to some of the most influential teachers: Mr. Sherrodd (band), Mr. Maxwell (AVID/AP English), and Mr. McKean (World History and Government).

If you were not teaching what would be your dream job?

I would love to work in animal conservation or something with ecology/research. Also, it would be cool to have a job that was fun and I could travel or take extended vacations.

Is there any type of sport that you have played before?

Nope

When you were in school what was your strongest subject?

My strongest subject was math; I took pre-calc and calculus and actually enjoyed it. 

What’s your dream pet?

I think it would be pretty awesome to have a big cat (maybe like a lion or something?). I’ve also always wanted to own a cow; the highland coos are the cutest.

If you weren’t teaching the current subjects you are teaching right now, what else would you teach?

I would love to teach AP Environmental or perhaps give chemistry a try.

What’s your favorite holiday?

Christmas is probably my favorite holiday; I enjoy the festive decorations and cool weather.

Do you enjoy reading, if so what was your favorite book that you read?

Favorite book is Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

What is your favorite music artist?

The Kooks or The Killers

Who inspired you the most throughout life?

My mom; she was the strongest and most hard-working individual. She was caring, but still would stand up for herself and others too.

What is one quote that inspires you?

“‘Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama” 

When you were a kid what was your favorite thing to do?

I loved hanging out with my friends, having campfires out in the desert, and just driving around together listening to music.

What is your favorite animal?

Cow!

Are you more of an introvert or extrovert?

I am more introverted, but I often have to be extroverted as a teacher.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone as the semester comes to an end?

Do all that you can to ask for help before finals week. Take the time teachers give you in class to review or complete study materials. Do not wait until the night before to study. Consistently review and put the time and effort in. 

Citrus Valley High School science teacher Candace May in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. (Photo courtesy of Candace May)

Citrus Valley’s new Latino Student Union wraps up successful first semester

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By ALINA SANCHEZ SANTA CRUZ 

Citrus Valley High School welcomed Latino Student Union for the first time this semester. With a largely Latino demographic at Citrus Valley, the club has amassed more than 80 members and a social following. The purpose of LSU has been to promote Latino excellence by helping the community at service events and encouraging a focus on academic achievement.

The club was first introduced at Club Rush and passed out Mexican candies to those who joined. A crowd of students formed, joined together with Latino music as they waited.

Citrus Valley High School senior Jasmine Rosales, Bryana Diaz and Alina Sanchez Santacruz welcome new members to the newly formed Latino Student Union at Club Rush early in the semester. (Ethic News photo)

Dania Martinez, a senior at Citrus Valley said, “I was happy to see representation on campus.”

The first meeting filled up C-05 the room of Citrus Valley history teacher Alan Perez, the club’s advisor. Club members enjoyed fresas con crema, or strawberries with whipped cream, a traditional Mexican dessert and learned about the officers.

A group selfie with Bella Sommerfelt, Bryana Diaza Plancarte, and Ariana Gutierrez in the center of a group of club members in Citrus Valley High School teacher Alan Perez’s room.  (ALINA SANCHEZ SANTA CRUZ/ Ethic News photo)

The LSU leaders also joined Victoria Elementary School and helped with their after school program. Fellow students assisted with learning activities and played with the kids during breaks. 

Jose Avila Mendoza, a spirit leader in LSU, says helping the children “was nostalgic of when older kids came to my school and I was happy to give back to the community.”

The final service event of the year was for Dia de Los Muertos. Members of the club colored skulls and wrote facts to teach students at Citrus Valley about their culture and posted them in the hallways.

Latino Student Union members decorate a hallway in Citrus Valley High School for Dia de los Muertos 2023 with images, information and papel picado. (ALINA SANCHEZ SANTACRUZ/ Ethic News photo)

Blackhawks struggles against bigger team in first boys basketball home game

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By BRAYLON SMITH

Citrus Valley High School had their first home basketball game against Grand Terrace High School on Dec. 1.  

The game starts off slow for the Blackhawks, with Grand Terrace Titan’s scoring 20 points in the first quarter to Citrus Valley Blackhawks’ six points.  The first point for the Blackhawks is scored by senior Jayden Call.  

The Titans run a press so the Blackhawks have to run their press break.  

The second quarter starts with Grand Terrace up by a big lead. Citrus Valley senior Novaiah Little-Kong scores the Blackhawks’ next point to make the score  8-30. 

The Blackhawks run a zone defense to try and stop Grand Terrace from driving in the paint and getting layups.  

Size-wise, Grand Terrace is a bigger school with players much taller than Citrus Valley, making it easier for them to drive in the paint and score. 

The second quarter comes to the end with a score of 22-44.

The Blackhawks go into halftime and reproup to fix their mistakes and come back to try and win the game.

The Blackhawks start the third quarter down by 20 points. 

Jordan Davis is in the game, a freshman on varsity and their lead scorer. 

Tragically  Davis goes up to block a Titan from dunking the ball but gets dunked on.  The crowd goes crazy screaming. Everyone is shocked but Davis shakes it off and keeps playing. 

With the third quarter coming to an end, Citrus is scoring also but they can’t get any stops so Grand Terrace keeps the lead. 

The third quarter comes to the end and the score is 41-65.

It’s the start of the 4th quarter and Citrus Valley continues to run a zone defense. Grant Terrace’s players are too big and break the zone. They continue to score and Citrus Valley is trying to figure out how to stop them. 

At the end of the 4th  quarter Citrus valley has lost its first home game of the season to Grand Terrace. The final score is 52-75. 

“We need to move the ball around better and get more rebounds,” says Citrus Valley Coach Yon Okorodudu.

Citrus Valley tried their best but Grand Terrace got the better of them. 

Video: New and senior Orangewood students share perspectives on the school

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By EMMERY SOGBESAN and HANIYYAH MCCOVERY

Orangewood High School students were interviewed to get their thoughts on the school. The first students are new to Orangewood and currently going through the OASIS program, which stands for Orientation Assessment, Study Skills, Insight and Success. Next, seniors who are looking towards graduation share their thoughts.

Leilannie Flores came to Orangewood to get back on track with credits. She thinks OASIS is very easy and a good way to ease into the school. Her first impression was that the school is small and everybody is more to themselves.

Noah Madrid feels he was forced to come to Orangewood. He thinks OASIS is cool but kind of boring. His first impression was that the school is pretty cool and people are nice.

Karina Juarez came to Orangewood to get her credits back up. She thinks OASIS is a good environment. Her first impression is that it is a very friendly environment.

Andrew Contreras came to Orangewood because he feels he had to and was behind. He thinks OASIS is chill and easy. His first impression is that it’s a nice quiet school with not a lot going on.

Arius Ruiz feels she was forced to come to Orangewood. She thinks OASIS is alright and  that going to school for three hours and 45 min during the orientation block is easier than seven hours. Her first impression is better than expected. She thought there was going to be fights and arguments but it’s actually chill.

Watch the video to hear thoughts from seniors at Orangewood.

Blackhawk Theatre Company’s ‘Trap’ breaks fourth wall and cast members love it

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By ANGELA MOAWAD and JOSIE DURAZO

The Blackhawk Theater company presented “Trap” by Stephen Gregg the week of Oct. 20. 

The play is a very interactive and audience-influenced show, with much of the cast and fellow BTC members excited about this new form of production.

Citrus Valley High School students Aaron Filji, Mia , Dedrick Vazquez, and Brooklyn Bellard perform ‘Trap’ in the Blackhawk Theatre the week of Oct. 20. The play is unique in that it involves much audience participation. (Ethic News photo)

The show starts out with the protagonist, played by Kaia Yoshimitsu, describing a time when they were the most scared. As the show plays out, the main character is revealed to be a detective investigating an interesting phenomenon: an entire theater fainting to the point of almost being brain dead. The mystery is that this only happens every 16 years. 

More of the cast joins the stage as they bring out additional details and evidence of what is going on. Interviews are shown through TV’s telling the audience about the phenomenon. 

Cast and crew members said the show was unlike previous ones and they really enjoyed it.

 Citrus Valley High School senior Anthony Rivas played Ephram in the Blackhawk Theatre Company’s production of “Trap” the week of Oct. 20. Rivas became involved in theatre last year. (Ethic News photo)

 “It’s my senior year and I really like theater and last year is when I finally had courage to do the show,” says Citrus Valley senior Anthony Rivas, who plays Ephram in the play.

Rivas said that this play was “way different because “Alice” [in Wonderland] “was more kiddy and this is more serious.” 

He says that he loved working on the play and that he very recently got into theater junior year. 

He said that something that helped him get into the character was, “You have to put yourself in the mindset where you just wanna help.” 


Rivas says that he really enjoyed playing his character and “sometimes I feel like I switch to on and off from ‘trust me and know me’ and ‘I hear noises, I hear them, no no I promise you’ like I’m schizophrenic.”

Citrus Valley High School senior Sam Rojas, who was an audience member in the play “Trap,” walks through the Citrus Valley quad. The play ran the week of Oct. 20, 2023. (JOSIE DURAZO/ Ethic News photo)

Citrus Valley senior Sam Rojas, who was an audience member, said, “You could also feel the suspense and the intensity and you could feel the emotion in the room and at the end you were just like, ‘What?’”

Citrus Valley sophomore Savannah O’Roark said, “It was different because this role is nothing like my last role. You get to really prep yourself for playing a crazy person.”

O’Roark’s experience on the show was good. She, like many others, says that the show is like nothing she’s ever done before.  

“There was a lot of technical aspects,” says O’Roark. “It was very different to be sure, overall good experience.” 

Working on this show O’Roark had many bombshells dropped on her. She had a role change two weeks before the cast had to have their lines memorized, and she also learned to play the keyboard for her role. 

Citrus Valley High School sophomore Savannah O’Roark stands in front of the Blackhawk Theatre stage. O’Roark learned to play keyboard for her role in “Trap.” (ANGELA MOAWAD/ Ethic News photo)

“I did enjoy when I learned the keyboard for the show, because that was really fun because I don’t have any experience with it,” says O’Roark. “It was definitely out of my comfort zone, but it was fun.”

Citrus Valley senior and BTC tech crew member Jasmine Aceves says, “I love theater and I love working on shows and working on ‘Trap’ was amazing and very technical, something like I’ve never done before.”

Jasmine had a great time working on the show.

“It’s very different from the other shows because it’s very technical based,” Aceves says, “It’s not just acting on stage. It’s more interactive. I love it and I feel like breaking that fourth wall is just another way of getting closer to the audience and them getting to interact with the show.”

Citrus Valley High School senior Jasmine Aceves was a tech crew member for the production of “Trap.” Aceves says “Trap” was a very technical show. (ANGELA MOAWAD/ Ethic News photo)

Citrus Valley senior Mia Davies says, “I’m so glad I got the chance to perform again. As a senior it’s a great way to say goodbye to the department as well as meet and mentor the underclassmen.”

Mia had a good time working on the show with the cast. She says that the funniest person in the show is Keely. “Whenever she’s onstage I always have a huge smile because she nails her performances and she is truly hilarious!”

For information on upcoming shows, visit the Blackhawk Theatre Company website or Facebook page.

Review: Students share first impressions on flavors from Redlands’ newest donut shop, Deaux

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By ETHIC NEWS STAFF

Photos by ETHIC NEWS STAFF

The “X is silent” in Deaux, according to the tagline of Redlands’ newest donut shop, but student taste-testers from three local high schools were not.

About twenty students from Citrus Valley High School, Orangewood High School and Redlands East Valley High School sampled a dozen donuts from the gourmet donut shop, Deaux, to share their opinions on the unique and traditional donut flavors.

Students from Citrus Valley High School, Orangewood High School and Redlands East Valley High School tried a dozen donuts from Deaux, the gourmet donut and coffee shop that opened in October of 2023 in downtown Redlands. Donuts were cut into smaller portions so that each person could sample multiple flavors if they chose. (NALIEAH MILLER and CYNTHIA FLORES DIAZ /Ethic News photo)

“It looked so cute, I liked the frosting on it. It was so good. It tasted sweet but also the lemon was very noticeable. Definitely recommend, especially if you’re looking for something gluten-free.”

Monique Varela, Citrus Valley senior

“It looked really good and very tasty. It tasted as good as it looked.”

Annaleigh De La Rosa, Citrus Valley freshman

“Very cute and formal frosting presentation. Very excited because the flavor mixture seems unique. [After tasting] The frosting was abhorrent. The flavors don’t mix well at all and the actual donut part was just the vanilla bean donut but with a nasty lemon cheese mixture on top. Very disappointing.”

Earendel Henriquez, REV junior

“From first glance, it had frosting on top going around the whole donut, also being glazed. My first impression is that the flavor of the lemon plus it being glazed adds so much delectableness to it. This donut is like a mini lemon cake, but with a bunch more flavor. A donut this great is a must-try.”

Joseph Eskander, Orangewood senior

“Looks very interesting, I have never had a donut with any sort of frosting on the exterior.”

Sam Uribe, Citrus Valley senior

“Overall the whole donut tastes just like lemon cake.”

Jayleah Parchman, REV freshman

“The Vanilla Bean was good. It was the right amount of sweet.”

Jimmy Mazariego, Orangewood senior

“The donut looked large and had the top glazed. The dough looked very fluffy and it was a nice brown color. Too chewy and not enough glaze-to-donut ration.”

Alina Sanchez Santacruz, Citrus Valley senior

“Vanilla Bean is my favorite because it’s sweet and it just tastes like a glazed cake. It’s sweet.”

K Bonna Dancy, Orangewood senior

“It was kind of like a glazed donut, but with more of a vanilla flavor.”

Sora Reynolds, Orangewood senior

“Nothing special about it for an “artisan donut.” Seems more normal than the other unique looking ones, like the pastrami. Really doughy and not very sweet, unless you have the glaze in your bite.”

Eerendal Henriquez, REV junior

“The donut itself looked good and had a nice layer of glaze that didn’t appear too heavy. It was chewy, it tasted like a mochi donut. It wasn’t overly sweet and I enjoyed that the frosting wasn’t overly sweet.”

Melanie Perez, Citrus Valley senior

“The presentation on the donut was good, shown to be very flavorful. My first impression of it made me think it was gonna be a super flavorful donut. I felt like although it had a good amount of topping on it, it was still very non-flavorful. I feel like if the dough was made with some type of chocolate or peanut butter it would’ve been more effective.”

Jayleah Parchman, REV freshman

“It’s original because the chocolate is thin like in a donut shop. I liked it.”

Amierah McWilliams, Orangewood senior

“The presentation was good. The donut looks aesthetically pleasing. The donut was great. It had nuts on top that made the donut even better. It tasted great.”

Braylon Smith, Citrus Valley freshman

“The peanut butter was really good but there was not enough of it. The chocolate was good too, really light on the palate.”

Edgar Cruz, Orangewood senior

“I enjoyed the dough of the donut, but it didn’t have enough topping on it. It reminded me more of a cake than a donut.”

Amber Bogh, Citrus Valley freshman

“The presentation was decent, it looked like the sprinkles were going to overpower the doughnut. Super sweet but really good. Airy and dense at the same time. If you like simple but with an extra kick this doughnut is the one for you.”

Josie Durazo, Citrus Valley junior

“Very basic for something more on the pricey side. Appetizing to a donut lover, but not unique compared to any other donut. Basic, but good.”

Earnedel Henriquez, REV junior

“I thought it would be kind of nasty because of the name it had but when I looked at it, it looked pretty good; it looked appealing. It was pretty sweet despite how it looked. I thought it was yummy and you can taste everything that’s inside. It was pretty good. I didn’t expect to like it, especially because of its name.” 

Monique Varela, Citrus Valley senior

“The presentation was pretty basic from the outside which kind of looked like a sandwich. It didn’t have any of the frosting to be called a donut, but the shape of it was there. The overall taste was kind of confusing. The goat cheese kind of just overtook all the other ingredients, such as the bacon. There wasn’t a lot to take from this donut, however the overall texture was pretty nice and the donut was good.”

Adryiel Manalac, REV senior

“The outside gave high expectations; it looked very good and it was. The dough was flowy and tasted good. The meat in it was evenly mixed with the goat cheese which gives a sweet and savory flavor.”

Jules Acuna, Citrus Valley sophomore, and Mia Griffin, Citrus Valley freshman

“Thought it was a sandwich because there was nothing “sweet” looking about it. I was a little scared to try it because goat cheese is not appealing to look. Gross texture and taste. It smelled and tasted like smoked bacon. There was nothing ‘donut” about it. This should be listed as a sandwich. I literally had to empty it out and could only tolerate eating the dough part of it.”

Earendel Henriquez, REV junior

“It looked kinda gross from the outside, but on the inside it was just a sandwich. It was savory and didn’t have any sweetness in the dough, which was probably for the better, but had a slightly sour aftertaste. It tasted good. There was a nice balance of flavors between the pastrami, mustard, and onions. The dough on the outside was kind of dry and reminded me of a croissant.”

Hamzah Odeh, Citrus Valley freshman

“It looked kind of weird looking at it but I looked inside and it looked pretty good. I thought it was delicious and tasted like a normal sandwich, but with a kick. It was so good and a nice mix of everything that was inside of it. 100% recommend.”

Monique Varela, Citrus Valley senior

“The donut was overall pretty good-looking. The inside was filled with meat which was very appealing to look at. I was skeptical about meat-filled donut and didn’t know how it would turn out taste-wise.”

Kya Anthony, REV freshman

“It looks big and thick, but like a normal glazed donut. It had weird taste feeling in the beginning but the after-taste is pretty good and it honestly tastes like a glazed donut.”

Brianna Melliz, REV senior

“Overall they did a good job with showing how the donut would taste and the textures of it. Seeing how the donut was very baked with the frosting layering it just showed how the donut would be very crunchy. The donut had only a few things that were different from other donuts, and that was how the frosting just melts in your mouth. The outside was crunchy enough to satisfy your needs for a crunch, while the inside was very soft. That’s what makes this donut stand out from others.”

Adryiel Manalac, REV junior

“At first I think I’m tasting the miso, then the banana comes in almost as an after-taste; it almost hits you. It pairs well with the caramel.”

Christian Rolle, Orangewood senior

“It tasted like banana bread but burnt, crispy on the outside. It’s not good or bad; in the middle.”

Sophie Gomez, Orangewood senior

“It’s actually kinda gas [really good]. It tastes like really crispy banana nut bread.”

Edghar Cruz, Orangewood senior

“It’s dry. I didn’t like it.”

Jimmy Mazariegos, Orangewood senior

“The presentation was neat and had a small cute flower on the top. It had some touches of the orange color on it. It was very delicious and had a citrusy flavor to it. I had the piece with the yellow flower and it had a strong taste to it. The after taste was sweet and yummy. The flower left a strong pollen after-taste. I would recommend it to people who love a fresh and slightly citrusy treat.”

Cynthia Flores Diaz, Citrus Valley freshman

“This one’s gas. It’s fire. It’s probably the best one. The cake part is sweet and it’s like a cake, that’s what it’s like.”

K Bonna Dancy, Orangewood senior

“It tastes like fruity pebbles. It’s good, but don’t eat the flower.”

Jimmy Mazariegos, Orangewood senior

“I haven’t tried anything orange blossom flavored before, and I would have this again.”

Sora Reynolds, Orangewood senior

All of the Olive Oil and Salt donuts were gone by the end of the taste test, so they were indeed tasted. However, while we did not hear any complaints, we also did not receive any reviews.

Therefore, the jury is still out on the Olive Oil and Salt donut.

Seasonal donuts were also merrily gobbled up, leaving crumbs but no reviews.

Looks like you’ll have to check this one out yourself, too, but don’t wait too long. Per the name, it may not be around too long.

Deaux is located at 501 E. Citrus Ave. in Redlands, where Hogi Yogi was for decades.

Shop hours are Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 6 pm or weekends from 8 am to 2 pm.

Citrus Valley’s girls soccer program kicks off with try-outs

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By JASMINE ROSALES

As many students and families favorite time of the year comes to an end, football season leads into playoffs and the winter sports kick off into tryouts. Girls soccer at Citrus Valley High School began the week of Oct. 16 stretching through the week until Oct. 29

Annelise Guzman, Junior and Lily Ledesma, Senior rest after participating in the Manchester United fitness test at Citrus Valley High School. Both girls cheer on the rest who are still running to encourage their teammates. (JASMINE ROSALES/ Ethic News photo)

Beginning at six in the morning until 7:30 a.m, on Oct. 16, all girls interested in trying out for the Citrus Valley High School soccer team showed up, starting with check-in and then verifying clearance to participate. After a huddle-up with the coaches, they break off for warm up with a lap around the field, followed by static and dynamic stretching. 

To ease everyone into tryouts, day one consisted of running statistics on each athlete. Stats taken included: a 30-yard kick; the goal being able to lob a ball 30 yards before contact with the floor, five shots on goal within ten seconds, dribbling at speed in a zig-zag line of cones, a 40-yard sprint, and a timed 5-10-5 shuttle run. Day one was concluded with a cool down lap and stretching around the center of the pitch. 

Coming back for day two of tryouts was fitness day. Changing it up this year, varsity coach Cassondra Delgado introduced the Manchester United Fitness Test to the program to test girls’ stamina. As a whole, the stamina paced test takes up to 20 minutes to be completed if done from start to finish. From one end zone to the other, girls sprint to make it in 25 seconds or under with a cool down jog of 35 seconds to get back in time for the whistle as it repeats. The fitness test goes 10 times repeating a 25:35 ratio then follows the next 10 sets going down in sprint time and up in recovery time. 

Senior and returning varsity player Alaina Johnston-Cabral said that “running that fitness test was tragic but it’s more fun when you are dying with your friends.” 

After the fitness test came to an end, players were called for a water break and were broken off into teams of seven to end tryouts with small sided games of seven on seven. 

Posted on Instagram, “ImCollegeSoccer” provides an image of the fitness test  and challenges their followers to complete it (Photo from instagram)

Returning on day three, after warm ups players got numbered off and split into eight teams to set up four fields of 1v1’s, to test players skill and offense versus defense. After 1v1’s, players then switched to 2v2’s for the remainder of the time, the players then got a chance to cool down and were dismissed. 

Coming close to the end of week, the fourth day of tryouts had more scrimmaging to give coaches the opportunity to understand how players play in more game-like situations and more time to see their choice making. The whole time consisted of seven on seven games, rotating around fields giving everyone a chance to go on the bigger field. 

On the last day, players were advised to bring shin guards as they would be playing the full field that day, once warmed up and stretched, players were once again split into teams and put into positions ready to kick off. In total, there were three different games, lasting about 20 minutes each to give each player a chance to be subbed in, and rotate teams around. 

Returning varsity player and senior, Kylie Mccue said, “I think that tryouts went really well, there were lots of new faces to add to the program, and it was very organized with the drills and activities.” 

After the scrimmages, coaches met up in the middle with everyone thanking them for all their hard work and dedication for coming out and wishing them best of luck, breaking off in a cheer.


Concluding the week of tryouts, coaches take the weekend to think over teams and reflect on notes and observations from the week to create rosters and create the game plan for the upcoming season.

Opinion: Metaverse journeys towards a fully digital era

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By SAMUEL URIBE

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, a new concept has emerged that is capturing the imagination of both tech enthusiasts and the general public alike: the Metaverse. This term, popularized by science fiction and tech enthusiasts, has now become a hot topic in discussions surrounding the future of digital connectivity. It represents a convergence of augmented reality , virtual reality, blockchain, and social interaction, promising a multi-dimensional, immersive online experience that goes far beyond today’s internet. The Metaverse is often described as a collective virtual shared space, merging physical and digital realities. It is a space where users can engage with a three-dimensional, interconnected, and persistent world, creating a seamless blend of the physical and digital realms.

This pair of virtual reality lens, coupled with a cell phone, is all it takes to experience virtual reality. Virtual reality has become such a staple in the gaming industry that it has become highly accessible. (SAMUEL URIBE/ Ethic News photo)

The driving forces behind the Metaverse are advances in technology and a growing demand for richer digital experiences. Augmented reality and virtual reality technologies have made significant strides, with companies like Facebook (now Meta), Google, and Microsoft investing heavily in their development. 

One of the most notable pioneers in the Metaverse space is Meta, formerly known as Facebook. Meta envisions the Metaverse as the next big thing after the internet, focusing on creating a seamless transition between our real-world lives and the digital realm. Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, believes that the Metaverse will be the next major computing platform, enabling users to work, socialize, and entertain themselves in entirely new ways.

This vision for the Metaverse encompasses diverse applications. In education, students could attend virtual classrooms, explore interactive historical events, and conduct science experiments in a simulated environment. In the world of work, remote teams might collaborate within a shared virtual workspace, and businesses could host virtual conferences, trade shows, and product launches. Social interaction, gaming, and entertainment will also be deeply impacted as people explore limitless virtual worlds and interact with friends and communities in novel ways.

The Metaverse is already taking shape in various online games and virtual spaces. Games like Fortnite and Roblox are providing glimpses of what the Metaverse could be, as millions of players interact in these digital worlds. Virtual concerts have become a sensation, with artists like Travis Scott and The Weeknd performing for millions of fans in digital realms.

Despite its immense potential, the Metaverse faces several challenges. Privacy and security concerns are at the forefront, as users may be sharing even more personal data in these immersive environments. Monetization and the potential for corporate control of the Metaverse raise questions about accessibility and fairness. And not everyone has access to the necessary technology to participate in the Metaverse, potentially creating digital divides.

Furthermore, there’s the issue of content moderation and governance within these virtual spaces. Ensuring safety and preventing abuse in a world with fewer physical boundaries will be a formidable task. There are also significant ethical questions regarding the use of the Metaverse, its impact on our sense of reality, and its potential to exacerbate existing societal issues. 

At Citrus Valley High School, nine students were interviewed and asked about the Metaverse. Opinions ranged from Metaverse technology being more fun than useful to Metaverse’s potential for “limitless possibilities for creativity and connection.” This includes a dynamic digital realm where people can work, socialize, and explore together in immersive ways, making this new era of human interaction intriguing.

In conclusion, the concept of the Metaverse represents a thrilling glimpse into the future of digital connectivity. It has the potential to transform the way we work, learn, socialize, and entertain ourselves. The convergence of AR, VR, blockchain, and social interaction is laying the groundwork for a new era of digital experiences that could change our world as significantly as the internet did.

However, the journey toward a fully realized Metaverse is filled with challenges and uncertainties. Privacy, security, accessibility, and ethical concerns must all be addressed. As technology continues to evolve, society must come together to navigate these challenges and create a Metaverse that enriches our lives and connects us in new and exciting ways while upholding our fundamental values and rights. The Metaverse is a tantalizing vision of the future, but it will be up to us to shape it into a reality that benefits all.

This snapshot of a pokemon from Pokemon Go, Far Fetch’d, on the campus of Citrus Valley High School demonstrates how virtual reality has been incorporated into many things such as video games. (SAMUEL URIBE/ Ethic News image)

Photos: Blackhawks show spirit for Homecoming football game and rally

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By RONIN DELGADO and JULES ACUNA

Citrus Valley High School had its first rally of the year to spark energy for their homecoming on Friday, Oct. 6. At their football game that night, Citrus Valley announced their homecoming princes, princesses, kings and queens. Seniors wore customized crowns to show off their Citrus Valley senior spirit.

Citrus Valley High School senior Joshua Gonzalez storms out of the inflatable helmet after being announced at the 2023 fall rally. The rally was held in the Robert Hodges Stadium, where the Blackhawks would compete against Beaumont Cougars that evening for the Friday night Homecoming football game. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

The Citrus Valley High School song and cheer team sets off the rally. The Blackhawk song and dance teams performed a variety of routines at both the Homecoming rally and football game on Oct. 6, 2023. (RONIN DELGADO/ Ethic News photo)

Dania Aguilar, Citrus Valley High School Field drum major, shows off her senior flower crown. Aguilar leads the Citrus Valley marching band during rehearsals and performances. (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News photo)

Citrus Valley High School PossAbilities’ presidents, Savannah Hudson and Rylie Grames, show off their spirit with their senior crowns. The PossAbilities Club  provides activities and opportunities for interaction for students with diverse abilities. (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News photo)

The Citrus Valley High School senior student section shows off their crowns at their Homecoming game. The student section cheered the Blackhawk football team to a 33-24 victory against Beaumont High School on Oct. 6, 2023. (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News photo)

Introducing Citrus Valley’s girls varsity soccer coach

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BY JASMINE ROSALES

Beginning the 2023-24 season for Citrus Valley High School’s soccer season, the coaching staff come into the season with a fresh set of faces and a familiar one. Cassondra Delgado, former girls Junior Varsity Coach, has been put as head coach at CV.

Cassondra Delgado, new head varsity coach for Citrus Valley High School. (Photo Courtesy of Cassondra Delgado)

Growing up on the pitch, Delgado loved watching David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo play on tv as they were her favorite players. Delgado began her soccer career when she was just five years old. She played for 17 years where she played for American Youth Soccer Organization for a few years, and was quickly moved to club soccer where she played for the Pateadores soccer club for nine years. Delgado was later scouted by Cal State University of San Bernardino and recruited to play for their team. 

Delgado doesn’t wish for anything to be different in high school soccer, and shares that she always enjoyed seeing great players from different clubs and organizations coming together to represent their school. 

Outside of coaching high school soccer at CV, Delgado works as a PE teacher at Clement Middle School. So for Viking Alumni, CV’s new head coach will definitely be a familiar face.

Reflecting on all the coaches who helped Delgado achieve her goals, it was a deciding factor that “I wanted to impact my athlete’s life in a positive way like great coaches did for me.” Delgado positively shares. Delgado also shares that she had a few coaches that were great mentors that taught her great life lessons and gave amazing advice. In addition, these mentors created positive characteristics that helped Delgado to become successful in life. Taking all of that into consideration, Delgado was inspired to be that memorable coach for the athletes she coaches as well. 

This season, full of new opportunities and a fresh slate, Delgado plans to bring hard work, drive and culture into this program. She wants to help the girls understand that effort and hard work is everything. One quote Delgado often says at practice is “Hard work beats talent when talent isn’t working – Tim Notke” because she truly believes and resides with this quote as a coach and player. Delgado wants the girls to see each other as family, and have one another’s back on and off the field. Truly bonding the girls together to make this upcoming season memorable and full of moments they will look back on and smile after their high school years. 

Counselor Feature: Fernanda Santana introduced to Blackhawk Campus

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By MARSHALL SCOTT

Citrus Valley High School welcomes new counselor Fernanda Santana. Santana is the new student advisor for 10-12 grade students with the last name N-St. She will answer 13 questions about her career as a Blackhawk counselor. 

Fernanda Santana smiles brightly for a picture. (Photo Courtesy of Fernanda Santana) 

Q: Is this your first year as a counselor? 

A: “This is my second year, almost my third year.”

Q: Favorite thing about CV so far?

A: “My favorite thing so far is how lively the campus is. [Citrus] is really big, there’s a lot to offer here. A lot of clubs, a lot of school spirit. I really like the co-workers I have here.”

Q:What’s something you’re looking forward to?

A: “Something I’m looking forward to is my first senior graduation.”

Q: Did you want to work with high schoolers?

A: “I started off with middle school, and that was probably the last on my list. But, I ended up liking it. Ideally, I wanted to do high school or college level.”

Q: General advice you’d give to students?

A: “To students, I think it’s important to remind them that they come first. I think this is a really good time for them to start thinking about themselves and be a little bit selfish because you will be determining your future very soon. My advice is to prioritize [yourself]. Friends will always be there but you want what’s best for you.”

Q: What’s something you wish you knew before starting your job?

A: “That your masters will prepare you as much as it can but, being a counselor you really learn how to do [it] on the job. I don’t think that there’s any program that can really prepare you for what a counselor is going to be and all the hats you’re going to wear.”

Q: What about CV made you want to work here?

A: “I think I have heard good things about [Redlands] district. I did have a friend that worked at one of the schools within [this] district. It sounded like a place I wanted to be a part of. I’ve known about the Redlands district since I finished my program. I’ve been trying to get in for a while. It’s kind of like a little dream come true for me.”

Q: How is it working with students?

A: “It’s different everyday. It makes the days go by so quickly, I feel like I never have enough time. In a way, it’s good because your day goes by fast. You get to meet new personalities by working with different students. You just hope that you can be the help that they need.”

Q: What do you do in your free time?

A: “I just became a new mommy for the first time, that pretty much takes up most of my free time. I go home, I play with my baby and I get stuff ready for the next day.”

Q: What quality of “CLASS” do you think you represent and why?

A: “My attitude, I think I have a pretty positive outlook on life. I make sure that my students find me approachable so that’s something that is important to me.”

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do as a counselor?

A: “Definitely speaking to my students and meeting new students and hearing their stories. Even if it’s not something that’s academic, I love hearing about my student’s personal lives. I live through my students, it’s so exciting for me.”

Q: If you weren’t a counselor what would you be?

A: “Something Artistic, I’ve always liked acting and singing. Something around in that area.”

Q: As a counselor, what are some things you do here?

A: “So far, I work alot in academics. High school is very academic heavy. [I look at] transcripts very frequently, making sure students are on track. Something that’s been added in recent years is focusing on social-emotional learning. Lastly, college readiness.”

Santana will be the counselor for students’ last names N-St for the remainder of the 23-24 school year. Staff and students welcomed her with open arms and are excited for everything she has in store for CV students.

Photos: Blackhawk Theatre Company presents, ‘Elephant and Piggie’s: We Are In A Play’ in first play of school year

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By JULES ACUNA

Citrus Valley High School’s very own Blackhawks set out on the stage to present their first fall performance of the year, for only 3 days in September, from 5-6 p.m. The play, accompanied by Citrus Valley’s choir director Kimberly Anaya, was scripted by Mo Williams, with music composed by Deborah Wicks La Puma. The Citrus Valley cast had an amazing performance performed by Vallerie Morris as Piggie and Aden Sam as Elephant.

In the play, Elephant and Piggie go on multiple adventures together that test the close relationship between the two; they go to a party, wait for ice cream, and play ball, yet nothing can break the two’s friendship.   (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News photo)

Kimberly Anaya, Citrus Valley High School choir director, accompanied the cast at the Citrus Valley Theater in September to view Citrus Valley’s performance of  “Elephant and Piggie’s ‘We Are In A Play!’” (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News)

Citrus Valley High School students Vallerie Morris as Piggie and Aden Sam as Elephant,  set out on the stage to present their first fall performance of the year. (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News photo)

The performance of  “Elephant and Piggie’s ‘We Are In A Play!’” is about an hour and a half, full of music and dancing, that concludes with a twist that includes a dance number with audience interactions.  (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News photo)

The Blackhawk Theatre Company had many in attendance each of the three nights of the performance. After the performance and applause, all of the cast members joined the stage and encouraged pictures with the cast, where two large lines formed of kids eager to take photos with characters from the play. (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News)

Citrus Valley’s chess club expands horizons following field trip to Cram Elementary

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BY TRAVIS FOLEY

Marcus Perry, chess club president, engages with a group of students in a game of chess at Cram Elementary School on Sept. 11, 2023. (SHEENA LE/ETHIC NEWS PHOTO).

Citrus Valley High School’s Chess Club visited Jeff Stanners’ fifth grade class at Cram Elementary on Sept. 11. With the trip, the club sought to teach the class about chess and overall get them interested in the game.

Upon arrival, the students were informed on how to play the game, then split into seven groups, each led by a Chess Club member. The club members heading each group acted as a mentor of sorts to the students, and helped to guide them in actual matches of chess for about an hour and a half. 

Chess Club President Marcus Perry said, “The kids were excited to see something they had done before showing up in class. They were pumped about making the plans and trying to checkmate their opponent.” A sentiment echoed by club Vice-President Sheena Le, who said that the children “were brimming with enthusiasm, and displayed remarkable engagement with a strong desire to learn.” 

Holly Truong, Citrus Valley Chess Club member, guides her group of students in a game of chess at Cram Elementary School on Sept. 11, 2023. (SHEENA LE/ETHIC NEWS PHOTO).

Surprisingly, most of the children already had prior experience playing chess. One student in particular was rather good at the game, and ended up challenging Perry in a match of chess.

While Perry did end up victorious, he still said the kid played really well and that “it’s cool to see that even a fifth grader can hold his own in chess.” 

The trip went really well according to Perry.

“I was originally worried it’d be disorganized or the children would be too embarrassed to be around the big kids,” Perry said. “Overall, the trip exceeded all of my expectations.”

Following the trip to Cram, Smiley Library of Redlands reached out to the Citrus Valley Chess Club and asked if they’d be willing to create Smiley Library’s very own Chess Club, an offer that they were swiftly taken up on.

Smiley’s Chess Club will function the same way that the club does at Citrus Valley; there will be plenty of chess games set up and ready to be played for anyone who wishes, and Citrus Valley Chess Club members there to help out anyone new to the game. 

Perry, who will be heading the club at Smiley just as he does for Citrus Valley, said he hopes to create an environment where people “have the opportunity to talk and play with others who like chess,” and “give people without a place to play chess somewhere to do so.” 

Smiley Library’s Chess Club is projected to meet on the last Saturday of every month, and will be open to anyone who wants to go. More information about meetings for the Citrus Valley Chess Club and the Smiley Library chess club can be found on Instagram. 

Photos: Citrus Valley displays different interests at Club Rush

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By CYNTHIA FLORES DIAZ, DANA EYRE and DESTINY RAMOS

Club Rush, held on Sept. 6, was a display of different arts and talents for the students of Citrus Valley to enjoy. Many brand new clubs were introduced, such as Crochet for Cause and Book Club, and many other existing clubs continued to thrive like Key Club and Pals for Paws. Almost all clubs faced success with club rush, with most presidents excitedly talking about the large numbers of students that were interested in joining their clubs.

Peaceful Painting Club, one of the new clubs on campus, is one where students will be able to have a safe, peaceful place to learn to paint. (DESTINY RAMOS/ Ethic News Photo)

The new Love Without Limits club is the go-to for community service hours and charity work. In this club, students will get to create different forms of art to sell on campus and donate the profits to charities. (DESTINY RAMOS/ Ethic News photos)

“Do you want to learn how to own your own business and make money? Come and sign up and we can help you with that!” says Entrepreneurship Club President Kiana Abella. In the Entrepreneurship club, participants will learn how to begin their own business and learn things such as how to create your own business cards. (DESTINY RAMOS/ Ethic News photos) 

“We volunteer at hospitals and help students find a place in the medical field,” Caduceus Club President Brianna Illacus shares about their new club. Caduceus Club will be one of the few clubs on campus to introduce careers in the medical field and much more. (DESTINY RAMOS/ Ethic News photo)

BSU was one of the many clubs that had interactive games, including jump rope. “We wanted to offer a different variety of games because we thought it would compel people to sign up,” says BSU club President MeAnna Smith. (Photo Courtesy of MeAnna Smith)

The Crochet Care Club cabinet shares information about their new club. Crochet Care Club will teach interested parties how to crochet and make stuffed animals and blankets, and will donate finished projects to children’s hospitals, homeless shelters and animal shelters. (DESTINY RAMOS/ Ethic News photos)

Photos: Blackhawks voice hopes for high school

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By MIA GRIFFIN, ALEROMI OMAGHMIi, HAMZAH ODEH, RONIN DELGADO and MEANNA SMITH

Citrus Valley High School freshman and seniors share high school experiences and aspirations during their first and last years of high school.

Citrus Valley freshman Malik Sanders said that he was most excited for the basketball season starting because he plans to join and wasn’t nervous for high school at all. He also said that up to this point his  favorite classes have been theater and PE.

Citrus Valley senior Brianna Ton said the biggest accomplishment of her senior year was being nominated for Girls State because it “is a cool program.” Ton also says that while starting high school, she was nervous for new teachers. Focusing on the future, Ton says that she looks forward to college because it is her “next big thing.”

Citrus Valley freshman, Jayla Bowens said that they are “most excited about watching sports games and playing softball,” but mentioned that they are nervous about how many people go to the school. In terms of extracurriculars she was interested in, she responded “also looking forward to joining Black Student Union.”

Bryce Hitter, a senior at Citrus Valley, says that the biggest accomplishment of high school career “was placing top three in CIF finals for swim.” He is now looking forward to going to college and starting own business. Hitter also says he “will miss the social life and hanging out.” Hitter advises freshmen to “not stress and take it easy.”

Citrus Valley freshman Jesus Saldana said most excited about “attending the football games and going to homecoming,” but that was nervous about taking tests and his grades. His favorite classes so far have been Math 1 honors and PE.”

Video: Citrus Valley teacher surprises seniors with song during graduation charge

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By DESTINY RAMOS and NADIA CENICEROS

Citrus Valley High School seniors selected teacher speaker Kenneth McGrath to give the charge at the 2023 graduation commencement ceremony, but probably did not predict his closing words: a heartfelt rendition of James Taylor’s “Secret o’Life” sung by McGrath himself. 

During his speech at the Redlands Bowl on June 6, McGrath expressed how joyful he was to be chosen as the 2023 teacher speaker. He gave the senior class of 2023 advice that had been given to him, passing on the wisdom. He also gave recognitions to some of his students that contributed to “an amazing year.” 

Citrus Valley 2023 graduate and former student of McGrath, Elijah Ceniceros said, “Mr. McGrath was a kind teacher who I loved to be around. He always spoke wise words that encouraged me throughout my senior year.” 

McGrath encouraged seniors to “stand on your feet and give your parents the recognition they deserve,” at which point the seniors gave a standing ovation to families in the audience, with waves, cheers, whistles and “I love yous” throughout the crowd.

At the end of his speech, McGrath said, “Now I’d like to sing a song for you that was popular when I was a kid, about a hundred years ago, but here it is.” 

After a few seconds of silence as the background music was prepared, he began to sing James Taylor’s “Secret o’Life,” released in 1977.

A short excerpt from the Citrus Valley High School 2023 graduation ceremony at the Redlands Bowl, which included a surprise song from staff speaker and English teacher Kenneth McGrath. (NADIA CENICEROS/ Ethic News video)

The crowd was pleasantly surprised, many reacting with gasps, cheers, tears and swaying of arms and cell phone flashlights. 

“The song was shocking to me,” Ceniceros said,  “The song had an amazing message and was very nice to hear.”

“It took a lot of courage to make a speech but Mr. McGrath sang,” said Citrus Valley English teacher Jerry Shearer, “I was amazed that he would do that in front of the students and parents. A lot of teachers have spoken in the past, but none have ever done anything like that. Now there is a shadow for next year’s speaker.” 

To watch the full commencement video, including McGrath’s speech and impromptu song (starting at about 1 hour and 20 minutes), visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDCHzB81Gq8

Citrus Valley’s BSU visits Arroyo Verde BSU for first “Mentor Day”

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By MEANNA SMITH

The Black Student Union club for Citrus Valley High School traveled to Arroyo Verde Elementary School for the first ever Mentor Day on May 25.

Third grade teacher Andrea Jessup invited BSU  to come out and spend time with a newly formed BSU at Arroyo Verde, while also spreading the message of inclusivity and equality.

Citrus Valley High School senior and BSU president Amanda Keza said that “It was a really gratifying experience to be able to touch these kids’ hearts and give them a more hopeful outlook on how fun a club like BSU is in high school.”  

Citrus Valley students started by assigning five children to one Citrus Valley BSU member. In these groups the mentors played icebreaker games to allow the children to feel less shy and more comfortable.

This then gave mentors a chance to explain to children what BSU is and why it is important and also a good club to join when in high school. BSU members also made sure that the children knew that BSU is and always will be a safe space.

Keza also says “hopefully we helped alleviate some of the anxiety they had with moving on to middle school and high school.”

Citrus Valley played more games with the elementary children, conducting races and dance circles.

One of the more popular games was “the cup game.” In the game, two people stand across from each other with a plastic cup in between them and while Citrus Valley mentors played a game of Simon Says. When the mentor announced the word “cup,” the first person to grab the cup won a prize.

The event was overall beneficial for all students because it gave Citrus Valley Students a chance to spread their message while also providing the youth with a better understanding of BSU.

Citrus Valley High School BSU advisor Sheena Debose remarks “Epic seeds were planted that day.”                    

Members from the Citrus Valley High School Black Student Union visit the BSU Club at Arroyo Verde Elementary School for the first “mentor day.” BSU Members pose with Citrus Valley BSU advisor Sheena Debose in front of the Arroyo Verde mascot wall. (Photo courtesy of Andrea Jessup)

Citrus Valley’s AP Chemistry class visits Beattie Middle School to teach chemistry

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By MIA CALIVA

As part of their end-of-the-year final project, Citrus Valley High School’s Advanced Placement Chemistry students bussed to a neighboring middle school to teach 7th and 8th-grade students chemistry experiments on Friday, May 26. 

Citrus Valley’s AP Chemistry class posing for a picture inside a school bus before departing to Beattie Middle School. (Photo/Courtesy of Michelle Stover)

The AP Chemistry students, led by their teacher Dr. Michelle Stover, worked for two weeks to craft and research a hands-on learning experience. Students created their own tri-fold poster board displaying their experiment and included an analysis and data tables for their experiment.

STEM students at Beattie Middle School spent their 5th and 6th periods after lunch touring through the different displays of experiments prepared by the AP Chemistry class. The projects ranged from stirring oobleck and slime to conducting chemical “traffic lights” and dry ice “Boo” bubbles. 

Four Beattie students with safety goggles mixing ingredients together and learning about the chemistry behind slime. (Photo/Courtesy of Michelle Stover)

For over ten rounds, the students presented their chemistry experiment for seven minutes each and encouraged the middle school students to take part in the experiment as well. After an introduction of safety precautions which required that everyone wear goggles and at some tables, gloves, Beattie students were able to hold the dry ice bubbles, mix chemical solutions, and even take home their own plastic bag of slime, and much more. 

Citrus Valley junior Alexzis Ngyuen says, “It was an interesting experience collaborating with the middle schoolers and interacting with them.”

Citrus Valley students taught, and Beattie students learned about different types of chemistry, including acids and bases, the pH scale, chemical boiling points, and molecule chains.

Citrus Valley junior Julianna Stover says, “I thought it was really cool…how they were eager to learn more about the experiments and it seemed like they were having fun learning about chemistry.”

AP Chemistry students Jacob Shahatit and Eunho Seo standing next to their experiment “Slime”, prepared for the incoming 7th and 8th grade students (Photo/Courtesy of Michelle Stover).

Atypical to a more common final exam, the Beattie field trip has become an annual tradition for the AP Chemistry class. 

Dr. Stover says, “I’ve been doing the AP field trip since 2014 when I took over [AP Chemistry].” 

In the beginning, Dr. Stover partnered with a teacher at Beattie Middle School, Robert Foster, to make the annual field trip a success ever since. 

Dr. Stover explains the significance of having this field trip contrary to a normal final exam when she says, “I think that students must be tested in practical application, collaboration is very important in the real world, at a workplace, in college, in everyday… so another final exam… [or] another sit-down test doesn’t really engage [students] in all the other areas that they should be good at.” 

The Beattie field trip finished within a few hours and the AP Chemistry class made their way back to Citrus Valley campus after school hours.

Citrus Valley lockdown brings about support in many forms

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By MONIQUE VARELA and MARSHALL SCOTT 

Citrus Valley High School was put on lockdown during lunch on May 12 in response to an explosion-like sound that went off in the quad by the E-building during lunch. 

Students who were around quickly evacuated the premises into nearby classrooms, off campus, or the library. 

According to the Redlands Police Department School Safety Reports on the City of Redlands website, “RPD responded to calls of a sound like an explosion on campus at Citrus Valley High School during lunch period Friday afternoon. The campus was placed on lockdown until shortly before 3 p.m.” 

Citrus Valley acted fast by putting students on lockdown and calling the Redlands Police Department to come investigate what happened. Parents were alerted when the lockdown happened and were given updates once information was found out through the Aeries parents portal. 

Once police arrived K-9s were brought to Citrus Valley to do a sweep of the school to make sure there were no other threats inside the school. 

The School Safety Report investigation process states, “Officers arrived and determined that two students had set off a firework. Both students are in custody. No injuries or damage were reported. There is no threat to the school, students or staff.”

Image of Citrus Valley High School after the lockdown was lifted near where the incident occurred. (Marshall Scott//Ethic News photo)

The next day, an instagram page by the name of cv_neverforgetmay12 with a link to a google site was made. The page served the purpose for students to anonymously submit what they were feeling during the lockdown. The account made students feel heard and as if they were not alone in what they were feeling during the lockdown.

Karen Ravelo, a sophomore at Citrus Valley said, “I felt as though the account helped me feel more understood. Seeing other students having the same experiences and feelings as I did made me more comfortable to open up about my own feelings during that time.” 

The creator of cv_neverforgetmay12 said that they “originally made the account to collect stories from the event. It was also to be able to have recorded experiences that wouldn’t be lost over time. For any change being pushed there’s always going to be naysayers pushing back.” 

The creator of cv_neverforgetmay12 also emphasized that their main intent when first creating the account was to have the stories shared by fellow students to help create change and said, “I’m also now hoping it caused some changes in people’s hearts as well,” when referring to the lockdown seriousness.

The account was also made to help movements such as Citrus Valley sophomore Raylene Mejias’ petition to change the hallway policy. 

After the incident some parents and students were worried about the new hallway school policy that was put into effect on April 4. The policy made it for the buildings to be locked during lunch and with one entrance to this building. Students are allowed in if they have a ticket which they get from teachers.

Sophomore Hadiel Hamad said, “Yeah, I wish things could’ve gone different. It hurt seeing all those scared people, including myself run from an unknown force. The hallway policy should definitely not be abandoned but rather edited.” 

The lockdown started conversations about updating the hallway policy in order to safely get students into classrooms in dangerous situations. The hallways restricted students to be able to enter the buildings to get to safety without security guards or staff opening the doors. Many people expressed concern that if there was a more severe situation lives would be in danger. 

Isabella Beaumont, a sophomore at Citrus Valley, said, “I think it was a good thought. I understand why they enforced it. However, I don’t believe that anyone was there to open the doors to let students in during the lockdown. So, I feel that it needs to be updated and modified.” 

At the time of the publishing of this article, the hallway policy petition had 642 signatures.

To support students who were feeling upset and uneasy after the incident, Citrus Valley invited therapy dogs on May 15 to be at the school and offered counseling services throughout the day.

The therapy dogs were offered before school through the first period and lunch. The therapy dogs were brought in by the organization, Inland Empire Therapy Dogs. IETD is a non-profit organization that is local and very active in the Inland Empire. IETD arranges for the dogs to be at local schools, hospitals and more community settings. 

Extra help by District Crisis Response team counselors was offered in A-114 for students who needed support. 

Jake the dog, a new addition to the Inland Empire Therapy Dogs family, visits Citrus Valley High School on May 12, 2023. Jake is a cock-a-poo and recently got his license to be a therapy dog. (Marshall Scott/ Ethic News photo)

At the time of the publishing of this article, both the instagram cv_neverforgetmay12 and google site had a statement that they were no longer updating content.

Citrus Valley Winter Guard hosts 2023 District Showcase

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BY DESTINY RAMOS AND MONIQUE VARELA

CV hosted the showcase in their own gym, showing off their tarp used in previous winter seasons. (Destiny Ramos/ Ethic News Photo)

The Citrus Valley Winter Guard hosted the 2023 District Showcase on May 5, as a way to give the Redlands School’s W›inter Guards a final performance. The performers included the Redlands Unified School District, Redlands High School, Redlands East Valley, and Citrus Valley High School winter guards.

The RUSD Winter Guard was first up, performing their show “Golden Hour” to artist JVKE’s popular song of the same name. The RUSD team is the only competing winter guard team in the district for their age group and is composed of middle school students from the four RUSD middle schools. The middle school students wore a yellow tunic with orange flowers and birds to represent the sunsets of Redlands.

Next up was the RHS Winter Guard, performing their show “100 years” to Five for Fighting’s song about the stages of life. RHS competed in the Scholastic Regional A (SRA) division for West Coast Winter Guard (WCWG), where they scored a 68 at Colony High School and a 67 at Championships. Their costumes consisted of black and maroon dresses and suits. 

Next was the CVHS Winter Guard, performing their show “As it Was” to Harry Style’s most popular song. The show represented the stages of life, from childhood to adolescence to graduation/adulthood.

CV competed in three of WCWG competitions in SRA along with RHS. They scored a 63 at Colony High School, a 65 at Murrieta Mesa High School, and a 68 at Championships.  The CVHS winter guard wore a galaxy-like tunic with pink leggings underneath to represent the colorful childhood world. 

CV’s saber line shows off their pink sabers with grace and performance as they present their show for the last time. (Destiny Ramos/ Ethic News Photo)

CV presented a dance around the varying age pictures of the soloist as the show came to an end. (Destiny Ramos/ Ethic News Photo)

Lastly, REV presented their show “A Lovely Night” from the soundtrack of the movie “La La Land.” The show was a nod to the popular movie, with street light props and benches to match the movie scene. Their costumes consisted of a variety of dress colors such as red, yellow and green, similar to the colorful movie. REV competed in the Winter Guard Association of Southern California (WGASC) in the Scholastic AAA (SAAA) division. They competed in five competitions, with their final score at championships being 78 and winning third place. 

The showcase brought together many people from different schools to all look at how hard the winter guard has been working throughout the year. It was able to shout out their success, recognize the dedicated seniors and even inspire other students to join winter guard. 

Q&A Teacher Feature: Sheena Debose reflects on her first year at Citrus Valley High School

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BY MEANNA SMITH

This year, the Citrus Valley High School staff have had many new additions within different departments and Sheena Debose was one new addition to the math department. In addition to teaching math, Debose is the girls basketball assistant coach and the Black Student Union advisor on campus. Debose will be answering questions about her first year at Citrus Valley High School and teaching in general.

Debose was at an event for BSU, the Black Girl Magic Summit and photographed by one of her BSU students. (Photo courtesy of Jazz Daughtrey)

If you could describe your first year at Citrus Valley High School in one word, what would it be and why?

One word I would use to describe my first year here at CV is “eventful” because there have been several momentous events that I have been a part of, being an Assistant Varsity girls basketball coach and BSU advisor. 

What has been the highlight of your year here at Citrus Valley High School?

I have two highlights:

  1. Girls Basketball Senior Night, where we defeated our newly acclaimed rivals RHS with a packed house. 
  2. The “Black History Living Wax Museum”, where BSU put together a hugely appreciated contribution to prominent African American figures throughout American history.

How have you or how do you plan on making a positive change on campus?

I can only hope to have made a positive change to Citrus Valley, as I often feel I am not doing enough. However, I would like to help formulate a support system that gives a voice to, that is a  light for, and gives resources to all students who are underrepresented, underperforming, overlooked, and/or misunderstood. Basically I want to help positively promote and enhance the underdog at Citrus Valley High School.  

What led you to be a teacher?

I started working as a Paraprofessional in the classroom shortly after receiving my Bachelor’s degree, where I discovered my passion for teaching and being a role model for students who needed a strong support system in the classroom.

Why is being a teacher important to you?

Being a teacher is important to me because I believe the youth are the future of this world, and you all need effective guidance from a passionate community of educated people. 

What has helped you become comfortable here at CV?

Being the BSU club advisor and Assistant Varsity Girls Basketball has helped me to be more comfortable at CV. These roles allowed me to build connections with students and staff in a way that I feel grounded as a staff member on campus.

Can you see yourself having a lengthy career at CV?

I can see myself having a lengthy career at CV, due to the fact that I see my role being needed and significant to the culture of Citrus Valley High School.

What drew you to teach at CV?

Principal McCue drew me to Citrus. She hired me initially to work at Moore Middle school, and I’ve always had a great respect for her, and thought it would be cool to work with her at CV.

What are you most excited for in upcoming years at CV?

I’m excited for the growth in all of the students I’ve met, as well as the growth in the Girls Basketball program and the Black Student Union. All will be epic to watch grow under my support.

How long have you been teaching?

I’ve been teaching for a total of 11 years, and have been working in education for about 15 years.

Do you love teaching and if so, why?

I absolutely love teaching. Teaching gives me an opportunity to spark minds that can potentially positively change the world.

Have you always loved teaching or was it more of a rocky start?

Teaching for me has had a rocky start and can still be rocky. There is always some adjusting that is needed in education. Just think about it, Distance Learning had 20 year veterans feeling like first year teachers. So rockiness just comes with the job!

What are some trials and tribulations you have overcome as a teacher?

I have overcome the trials of being overworked and underpaid. I take work home with me, I work during the breaks, and feel like I could use another $500 a month for out of contract hours I spend working.

What is your favorite thing about teaching at CV?

My favorite thing about working at CV has definitely been working with all of my students this year.  

What separates CV from the other schools you have worked at?

What separates CV from other schools is the prodigious school pride and the remarkable student unity. I strongly felt the Blackhawk love/pride when I first stepped on campus. The students here are the most intelligent, charismatic, and unified young people I have yet to meet.

If you could tell students at Citrus one thing/piece of advice, what would it be?

Self-Love when you are young yields healing for others when you are old. Knowing your worth right now is the key to making the world a better place later. I love you all for real – Coach D. (Debose).

Photos: Citrus Valley holds last rally of school year

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By  CITRUS VALLEY ETHIC NEWS STAFF

Nearing the end of the school year, Citrus Valley High School holds their Prom Rally on April 14. Showcasing the spring sports, captains from each sport all share their favorite memory from this season. 

Students show support for the Inspire Choir by waving flashlights. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

An array of multicolored lights lit the CV gymnasium and upbeat music performed through large speakers, upkeeping the rally’s lively festivities. Students participated in lighting the rally by turning on and waving their flashlights during CV’s Inspire Choir’s performance of “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman.” Other festivities of the rally included performances, dancing, graduating class games, and cheering.

Citrus Valley winter guard performs to “As It Was” by Harry Styles. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

The Citrus Valley wInter guard got the chance to perform their 2023 show “As It Was” before closing out their winter season. The show presents the stages of life, from childhood, to adolescents, to adulthood, using the song “As It Was” by Harry Styles. After three competitions and three other performances, the winter guard was happy to present their skills to CVHS students after not having a team for nearly six years. 

Winter guard member, Destiny Ramos, performs as a soloist in their show. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

Citrus Valley Inspire Choir performs “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman soundtrack. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

Spring sports captains participate in a competitive game to see who can get the most balls in their basket. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

Hyping up the students in the stands, ASB brings out the spring sport captains for a competitive game. The game consisted of one captain standing in the inner circle reaching to throw balls into their teammates’ bin on their head. The goal was who could catch the most balls in a limited time. 

Upperclassmen and lowerclassmen go head to head to see who can pass the ball from side to side fastest. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

Carrying on the games throughout the rally, Kira Bruich, a junior, announces the next game versus upperclassmen and lower classmen. The goal of the game was to have the opposing teams work with their side to pass a big beach ball across the bleachers the fastest. Pumping up all the students on both sides of the gym, the lowerclassmen scrape by with a win over the juniors and seniors.

Sophomore Addison Rusk shares, “It felt shocking on how fast the year is going by.”

The Blackhawk Theatre Company performs a routine to “Voulez-Vous” by ABBA to advertise their Mamma Mia! play showing this April and May. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

Citrus Valley senior Illir Burns performs to “Billie Jean” by Micheal Jackson while doing some of Jackson’s most famous dance moves. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

During an intense “two-what” game, seniors try to be the loudest. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

Rylee Thornton, a senior at Citrus Valley, shares “When someone tells you high school goes by fast, it’s true. Although it was sad leaving those bleachers for the last time, I am excited for what’s next!”

Juniors show school spirit by wearing their class color, blue, for the spirit day. (Elizabeth Molloy/Ethic News Photo)

“I was really emotional to be honest, it felt so weird to move to the other side but i thought it was really cool, can’t wait for next year!” Charlee Witham, a junior at CV, shares her thoughts after the rally.

Closing out the year, students were able to show their Blackhawk pride by gathering together to sing the alma mater one last time for the 2022-2023 school year.

Citrus Valley implements new hallway restrictions

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By MONIQUE VARELA and MARSHALL SCOTT

Citrus Valley High School students received an email from the Citrus Valley administration team on March 31 explaining the new hallway policy during lunch. On the first day back from spring break, students would no longer be allowed inside of the buildings during lunch. This new rule was due to the amount of trash students were leaving in the hallways which caused many teachers to complain about the messes.

This image shows that there is spilt milk and a meat looking patty on the floor of a hallway, as well as other trash. (Monique Varela/Ethic News)

The new hallway expectation became  active on April 4. Only one entrance from every building would be opened and have a security guard at the entrance. The guards look for tickets given to students to prove they have somewhere to be rather than loitering in the hallways. 

The ticket shows that this ticket is assigned to the C-building and Mr. Howard’s classroom. (Marshall Scott/Ethic News)

The tickets are different colors depending on the building, name of the teacher and ‘lunch pass’ on the top. Teachers were given these tickets in order to let their students into the building after the grace period. These lunch passes are only to be given for educational purposes such as tutoring, test retakes, quiz corrections and club meetings.

Becky Gidcumb, environmental science teacher at Citrus Valley, said, “I’m in favor of the hallway policy at lunch because we get too many kids in here. They run around, they make a mess, they disrupt the teachers. This is supposed to be our duty free time. We can choose whether or not we have students that come into our classrooms to get help. It can be very distracting when there’s many kids in the hallway creating a mess, and havoc.” 

Students got this privilege revoked because of the amount of trash that was left in the hallways, such as chip wrappers, candy wrappers, food, etc. The messes were mainly in the E building. 

Within the email that to students and parents, there were written consequences if students were to be found in the hallway without a ticket. These consequences include lunch detention, after school detention, campus cleanup and more. 

Karen Ravelo, a sophomore at Citrus Valley, is not in favor of the rule and said this, “not all of us have a place to sit during lunch time. It’s nice to have a place where we feel comfortable to have lunch.” 

There are specified checkpoints for students to go to in order to be let into the building after the five minute grace period. Students show the ticket checker the designated ticket for that building. (Marshall Scott//Ethic News Photo) 

Students who do not have a ticket but need to talk to a teacher must be accompanied by security or admin. These hallway expectations are to exclude inclement weather, such as heatwaves, rain and other potentially dangerous weather. 

Though there is a way to still enter these buildings with the five minute grace period. The grace period allows students to enter the buildings after the bell rings. If students do not make it within this grace period they will need to have a ticket to enter the building.

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with the PossAbilities Club

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BY JASMINE ROSALES

In the month of February, it is considered the month of love which is represented by people showing those around you how much you love and appreciate them. The possAbilities club at Citrus Valley High School made it possible for everyone in the special education class to have a chance to receive something on valentines day.

Savannah Hudson, possAbilities club president is posing with students on campus who received a valentine’s day gram (Photo courtesy of Rylie Grames)

They held a PossAbilities club meeting and brainstormed what they were going to do, they ultimately came to the conclusion to give every student a flower with a note tied to it as well as getting the advanced mixed choir to come and sing to the students, much like a sing a gram. The club was sponsored by Hilton Flowers, a local business in Redlands where they were more than happy to donate. 

Rylie Grames (Treasurer), Riley Brossia (Vice President), Dania Martinez (Secretary) and Savannah Hudson (President), and with help from fellow students created notes to tie to each of the flowers to let the Special Education students know that they are loved no matter the circumstances. On February 13th, Hudson picked up the flowers and they tied the notes to the flower to be ready to give to the students the next day. 

During first period on February 14th, Brossia, Grames, and Hudson walked into the special education class, taught by Christine Hearon, Meghan Hudson, Pam Martin, Phil Noiset, Reggie Pulliam, Chanel Tessitore, and April Finazzo helped with the flowers and chocolates and “immediately saw the surprise and joyful look on the Special Education students and teachers” Hudson says enthusiastically. Each one of them were very grateful for our gifts to them. Hudson, Brossia, and Grames stayed in the class for a while handing out one by one a flower and chocolate. They made some great conversations with some of the Special Education students,Robert and Samuel, and then continued to the other classrooms. 

Hudson shares, “Overall the experience of knowing that PossAbilities Club made an entire class feel loved on a holiday where some don’t have the opportunity to share it, made us feel uplifted.” 

Citrus Valley girls soccer titled 4peat CBL champs

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BY JASMINE ROSALES

Girls’ varsity soccer having a fun time posing on picture day (Courtesy of Liz Fierro)

Making Blackhawk history, the girls’ soccer program at Citrus Valley has excelled within the years, holding the title for the fourth consecutive year in a row as the Citrus Belt League champs. 

Starting league games the first week of January, the Blackhawks traveled for their first league game against the Beaumont Cougars where the Blackhawks won 2-0 starting off the season strong. On the fifth of January, the girls had their first home game of the season that Thursday in Hodges Stadium against Cajon. Keeping up the strong start, the varsity team took their second win against the Cowgirls with a score 11 to 1. The following Tuesday, the Blackhawks hosted another home game against Redlands East Valley for their third game of CBL winning 2 to 1.

 On January 12, 2023, the Blackhawks traveled to Yucaipa for an away game. CV came out very strong. Once the whistle was blown, Ava Lopez, a Junior at CV, put a goal in the back of the net within the first 5 minutes, getting the game going. The girls were victorious over the T-Birds with a shutout of 4-0. For the last game of the first round of CBL games, the Blackhawks held a home conference against Redlands High School. Blowing the final whistle for the game, CV finished the game 6 to 0 against the Terriers. 

Already halfway through league games, the girls’ varsity team practiced hard to hold down their undefeated status and first place spot. Going for their second time this season, the Blackhawks versus the Cougars in their home field took another win of 4-1. Traveling to Cajon on the 24 of January, CV beat Cajon on their turf with a final score of 3-1. Thursday, the 26 of January, the girls’ soccer team prepared themselves for a late night game at 7 p.m against the Wildcats. 

Pushing through the season with teamwork and hard work, the Blackhawks came out on top against REV 6-0. Held in Hodges stadium, the Blackhawks went head to head against Yucaipa’s T-Birds in a tough nail biting game. Running off adrenaline both on and off the field, in the last five minutes of the second half, senior Sabrina Benjamin, scored the game winning goal to put them over Yucaipa with a final score of 2-1. The last game was held in Terrier town on February 2nd. At the away game against RHS, the girls finished their last league game 4-1 against the terriers. 

Taking a look into the past to remember where it all started and how far the girls’ soccer program has come, Assistant Coach Allen Thoe shares, “When we first joined Citrus Belt League (CBL) we had never beaten Yucaipa and we always had tough battles with REV and RHS on all levels. Four years ago, led by seniors Sam Smith and Mashayla Leilua, we managed to break through and beat Yucaipa for the first time ever to take first place in the league standings.” 

Senior and captain of the CV girls’ varsity soccer for the 2022-23 team, Marika Lee says, “It feels great to be a part of this accomplishment, I’m really proud of our team and how hard we’ve all worked for this. We put in the work and got the result, so I’m extremely grateful for everyone who was a part of the team during those four years.”

Clinching CBL for the fourth year in a row, the Citrus Valley girls’ varsity team move onto CIF games to be determined. 

News brief: Redlands Community Scholarship Foundation deadline approaches for seniors

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By NATALIE LOPEZ

The Redlands Scholarship Foundation application process is being offered at each Redlands Unified School District high school to give seniors the chance to earn money for their education.

The applications opened Friday, Jan. 30, at 6 a.m. The deadline to submit applications is Feb. 6.

Students may use scholarships towards community college, university and maybe even trade school.

The scholarship foundation was created as a memorial in 1966. On the RCSF website it states that  “inspired community members created the first scholarship  to honor Mr. Kenneth Hurlbert, Assistant Superintendent”.  

 According to RCSF website, they have been “supporting over 131 community, business,educational, and individual donors who desire to make a positive impact on students’ lives.” 

Seniors have a week to prepare their main essay and any additional essays for a chance to earn a scholarship at whichever high school the senior attends.

News brief: Citrus Valley High School’s mock trial team wins semi finals

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By MEANNA SMITH

Citrus Valley High School’s mock trial team won the semi finals against Oak Hills Red on Jan. 12. 

After winning against Oak Hills Red, Citrus Valley mock trial became the top team in San Bernardino County. 

Acuna states, “This is my first time winning semi finals and I’m nervous but more excited.”

The mock trial team’s teacher coaches are Kathryn Fonken-Stoker and Debbie Muniz. 

Fonken-Stoker states, “The team is very slightly nervous, but we’re excited.”

The team will compete in the finals on Saturday, Jan. 14. If the team wins this match, they will advance to state finals and compete to win the title of mock trial state champions. 

Juliana Acuna, senior at Citrus Valley, was awarded the MVP title for her role as witness. (MEANNA SMITH/ETHIC NEWS)

High schools in Redlands host hot cocoa competition

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By ANNETTE ALFARO

High Schools across Redlands competed in a hot cocoa competition. The competition tookplace on Dec. 9 between Citrus Valley High School, Redlands East Valley High School and Redlands High School. 

Citrus Valley High School, Redlands High School and Redlands East Valley High School each promoted the hot cocoa competition on their instagram accounts. (Instagram screenshots/ Ethic News media)

The competition was also named the “Mug-of-War” contest.

Kylie McCue, a Citrus Valley junior, said,”It was good. Participation was good and hopefully it will be an annual thing.”

At each high school, the student government representatives scanned identification cards, filled cups with water, and provided hot chocolate packets. Students had to come before school to have their cups filled. Citrus Valley also went out of their way to provide disposable cups to anyone who did not bring their own cup. 

The winner was announced at the end of lunch. The results were posted on Instagram announcing that RHS had won the competition by 45 cups with Citrus Valley coming in second and REV placing third.

Citrus Valley junior Riley Brossia said,”Even though we lost, I think it really rallied our school spirit.”

All three high schools posted the results of the “Mug-of-War” on their instagram accounts. Citrus Valley High School and Redlands East Valley High School congratulated Redlands High School for their win. (Instagram screenshot/ Ethic News media)

Overall the competition was a big success with Citrus Valley, REV and RHS all receiving high participation in the first “Mug-of-War” hot cocoa challenge. 

It was announced that this was going to be an annual tradition and this year was the first. 

Local swim team requests access to Citrus Valley High School pool from School Board

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By MIA CALIVA

Amongst the chaos and politics of the Oct. 25 Redlands Unified School Board meeting, a local swim team named the Inland Empire Aquatics took to the podium to request pool access at Citrus Valley High School. The Inland Empire Aquatics Club has been adamant in requesting this pool access, with several student-athletes and parents speaking during public participation with the School Board, sharing their stories and reasons for request. 

Citrus Valley High School parent Karen Hitter says, “[IEAQ] started at a community pool in Highland, and then to Pacific high school, and finally we were at Indian Springs High School before we were pushed out by another San Bernardino High School.” 

According to community members that spoke at the board meeting, IEAQ is currently practicing at Indian Springs High School and does not have access to pools in Redlands schools. 

Several parents and students referenced a swimming pool access contract that they feel should be terminated.

According to Redlands resident Maria Figueroa’s comments, “Roughly 80% of Citrus Valley aquatics athletes come from clubs other than Redlands Swim Team.” 

Despite the fact that many Citrus Valley aquatic athletes are members at IEAQ, they feel that limited pool access for IEAQ prevents Citrus Valley athletes from pursuing their extracurriculars. 

Figueroa went on to express her disappointment with the School Board. She said, “This creates inequality with access to Citrus Valley and RST’s ability to serve Citrus Valley athletes.”

Hitter says, “We just want a fair opportunity to use or share the facility.” 

The IEAQ team carries more than 100 competitive swimming members per year but has had fewer members since COVID. Still, the club is still largely community-oriented. 

Citrus Valley student Jonah Martinez says, “I’ve been a member of this family for 6 years. We’ve all grown close together through COVID. Nothing had broken us apart and now thanks to the relevant and old contracts, exclusive clubs, and decisions made by the district and school board we are ultimately torn apart.”

According to supporters, because of restricted pool access, IEAQ is being broken up and prevented from possibly giving rise to many great swimming athletes. They state that requests have been denied multiple times and many are upset at what they feel is mistreatment. 

In a heartfelt conclusion, Martinez says, “This issue is beyond contracts, rights, and laws. I just want to be with my teammates and under the advice and direction of my coaches.”

Feature photo: An empty Citrus Valley High School swimming pool prior to the water polo match on Dec. 15, 2022. (DESTINY RAMOS/ Ethic News photo)

Correction: A statement in the original publishing of this article about a pool access contract was removed due to not being fully verified.

Diving into who coach Bruich is

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BY JASMINE ROSALES

Showing his humorous side, Coach Bruich strikes a pose for the camera (JASMINE ROSALES/ETHIC NEWS)

Growing up, Citrus Valley High School football coach Kurt Bruich was an all around athlete who dabbled in whatever sport was in season. From a young age, Bruich could always be found on the court, the diamond, the mat, or field year round, but the football field at Fontana High School where his dad, Dick Bruich coached, would be the place that would shape Bruich into the person he is today. 

As a child, Bruich grew up in Fontana, California. He is the middle child with one older sister, who is 11 months older, and a younger brother, who is nine years younger than him. While growing up, his older sister became his best friend, they did everything together. The two of them would always be outside playing sports or games until the street lights came on. 

 Jerry Sheare, an English teacher at CV, shares his fond memories of his childhood spent with Bruich. 

“I remember racing up and down the sidelines running fade routes with Kurt before, during and after every FOHI game,” Sheare says, “We topped it off with greasy pizza from Mazzullis, what could be better for the sons of two football coaches?”

With his dad as the head football coach at Fontana High School at the time, Mr. Bruich was busy coaching during the fall. So because of that, Bruich and his sister would go to school with their dad to the practices where they learned to run around the school and make it like their second home.

In high school football, Bruich was an offensive player. He played both sides of the ball, but on offense he played wingback and H-back. 

Being able to be coached by his dad really impacted Bruich because his father is his role model. Bruich grew up watching his dad impact his friends’ lives on and off the field.

Elijah Penrice, a senior at Citrus Valley states “He’s taught me to keep myself in check and i’m the one who controls my own destiny, he really has been a role model and father figure in my life for the past four years and I will always be grateful for that.”

Seeing what he was able to do, the lessons he taught them, and just the impact he made overall really inspired him to do the same as a coach now. 

Bruich’s platform is to not only teach his team how to win on the field but to also win in life. He wants to be able to mentor kids the way he watched his dad do when he was younger. It’s deeper than football.

Penrice also says, “One thing that I’ll take with me that coach B taught me is to be resilient in any situation life threw at me and keep pushing to my ultimate goal whatever that may be.”

Bruich shares how having past players come visit him 20 years later and to see how they’ve grown as a person and even as parents is what it’s all about. He takes great pride in every kid that he coaches and loves watching them become great players and people. 

Leaving high school, Bruich received a scholarship to Cal Polytechnic State University where he majored in Physical Education with an emphasis in Sports Psychology. He attended CPSU for two years and then transferred to the U of R where he received his degree in physical education and a masters in education.

Following Bruich’s college graduation, he had already begun his coaching career while assisting his dad in the spring during Bruichs’ off season. After graduating from the U of R, Bruich became a graduate assistant. 

His first head coach position was at Cerritos High School, Bruich got the position at just 23 years old. Moving from Cerritos to Redlands became a reality when one of his old college coaches called him, and asked if this is somewhere he would want to be. 

“Being in Redlands, Inland Empire, it’s home to me so it was an easy decision for me to come back” Bruich confidently answered. 

He then got hired for Redlands East Valley High School and to Citrus Valley where he is currently working as the head coach of the Blackhawks. 

Early on Bruich knew he wanted to have a family, so when he moved to Redlands to coach at REV, he had been given a miracle.

At his first head coach position at Cerritos, he met his wife, Lisa Bruich in the spring of 1988 where she worked as the cheerleading coach. The two began dating in January of 2002, they got engaged three months later on April 1, 2002. That following year she was hired to teach English at Moore Middle School. Currently, Mrs. Bruich serves as the Director of Human Resources in the district office.

Coach B and Mrs. Bruich were inseparable since. With time, Bruich would get married to his best friend.

“Because of Coach Bruich’s support and encouragement, I have been able to accomplish many things. We’re a great team and I am truly thankful,” Mrs Bruich shares.

Working together as a team, the pair have accomplished many things in their careers. Bruich achieved his 200th win this season at Citrus Valley.

On coach Bruichs right arm, he has a tattoo to signify him and his dad’s coaching. The state of california as the base, the top ring was when Bruichs dad were state champs under his coaching in 1989. The ring under that is when coach Bruich led the Redlands East Valley team to the championships in 2014. Bruich and his father are the only father and son duo who have each won state championships and won 200+ games in their career. (JASMINE ROSALES/ETHIC NEWS)

Throughout the years, Bruich had to overcome many challenges growing up which have shaped him into who he is today. From being the son of the head football coach, having an older sister who was an All California Athlete in two different sports and got a scholarship to Marymount California University. This left Bruich with a lot of pressure on him to live up to the Bruich name his family had built up. He really wanted to find his own identity and create a name for himself. 

Going through a rough patch in his early 20’s showed Bruich just how strong he was as a person, having to relay and rebound from unfortunate circumstances made him stronger. Meeting his wife and committing to a relationship, and being able to establish himself as a coach separate from his dad really helped Bruich be able to define who he is. 

One of the many mottos that Bruich heavily believes is “Find your passion & pursue it.” This motto keeps him young and motivated and hopeful. Day by day he continues to better himself and continues to find his identity. 

In his spare time Bruich enjoys spending time with his family, as his two girls give him a purpose in life, he loves to watch sports, mainly football. Bruichs’ favorite hobby is barbequing. He loves to smoke all kinds of meat, and different woods, really changing it up. His specialty and well known brisket, seasoned with his special recipe. Smoking tri tip on a day to day basis is where it’s at, boneless chicken thighs the list goes on and on. 

Coach B, as many call him, is a very uplifting person with a sense of humor, Bruich shares that he is very keen on dad jokes and even has a book on them.

Taking it day by day, Bruich strives to better himself and see what the future holds for him. Hitting a milestone of receiving his 200th win on October 14, 2022, he is setting and achieving personal goals, always pushing for more. 

Q&A: Academic case carrier counselor helps students overcome challenges

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By NORYAH COPAS

Sophia Malsher-Lopez is an academic case carrier counselor in the Redlands Unified School District. Malsher-Lopez is known as Ms. Sophia by her students and visits different schools, including Citrus Valley High School. 

What is your position or title? 

Academic Case Carrier Counselor

Pronouns?

she, her and hers

What are some of the main responsibilities with this position?

As a counselor, my main responsibilities are to ensure that students are successful academically and in their personal lives.  I help students with academic challenges, social challenges, mental health challenges, homelife challenges and help prepare them for life after high school. 

How long have you worked in education?

I have worked in education for seven years.

Have you held any jobs outside of education? 

Yes, I previously worked in the business sector and worked for a publishing company in the motorsport industry.  I dedicated nine years to Racer Media & Marketing and started out as an office manager and ended as an advertising manager

 What made you choose this job?  

My sister-in-law recognized I could be ideal material for becoming a counselor.  She encouraged me to apply for a position as a Career Coach so I did and loved the job within minutes!  I thought, “What have I been doing with my life?!”  I helped students with college and career readiness.  I immediately went back to school to get my Master’s degree in School Counseling. 

What is one of your favorite parts of your job?

My favorite part of being a counselor is working with students and helping them overcome barriers so they can be successful. Everyone deserves happiness and success and there can be many obstacles that get in the way of that, so I love to equip them with the tools necessary to both give the best of themselves and earn the best for themselves.   

What’s the hardest part of your job?

The hardest part of my job is to mentally shut off at the end of the working day.

Did you have any mentors or role models growing up? How did they influence you?

Both my parents are hard workers yet endured very troubled times from their late teens through to their early 40s, a period where they went down potentially self-destructive avenues. They have shown me it is possible to overcome barriers and difficulties and find a way back to the right path – which undoubtedly contributes to my belief that the work I do can help nudge students in a direction that can lead to happiness and fulfillment. As for my parents, both have qualities that I admire and try to emulate:  my mother has the biggest heart I know and loves unconditionally, while my father is ambitious and never gives up.   

Is there an experience or event that had a major influence on who or where you are today?

I was never a studious person; I actually disliked school.  I knew I had to go to college because that was what my father wanted for his children.  He never wanted us to do physical work, he wanted us to build our brains and use them in the careers we chose.  It took me 12 years to get my Bachelor’s degree; it typically takes 4-6 years.  I learned to never give up and to just keep going even when you fail or it feels like a never ending journey.   

What advice would you give your teenage self?

Pay attention in school!

Which languages do you speak?

English and Spanish/Spanglish

Do you have skills, interests or hobbies that you would like to share?

I like to hike, travel and eat.  I am interested in history and love to learn about different cultures and ways of living. 

What do you enjoy doing most with family and friends?

I love to create memories by trying new things, going to new places or spending the holidays together.

What is a goal you have?  

Although school is not my thing, I plan to finish my doctoral program within two years.

Dual Enrollment program offers high school students college credit

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By MEANNA SMITH

The dual enrollment program offered in Redlands Unified School District high schools, which operates through Crafton Hills College, allows high school students to get college credit while also making high school credit.

Citrus Valley High School dual enrollment counselor Christina Rodriguez states, “I encourage high school juniors and seniors… to take the offered partnership and CCAP dual enrollment courses. UC and CSU colleges will weight the dual enrollment courses when considering admission to their campus. Simply put, dual enrollment makes college more affordable.”

According to the California Community Colleges website, dual enrollment offers college courses which are taught by college professors at students’ high school campuses. Each semester taken through dual enrollment will count for one year of high school credit. These courses help students get a head start on their higher education goals.

There are many different courses offered throughout the spring, summer, and fall terms. Some of the courses offered include American Sign Language, Introduction to Sociology, English Freshman Composition, Astronomy, and many more. 

Citrus Valley High School junior Danielle Diaz took the Intro to Sociology course at Crafton Hills College through the dual enrollment program last summer.

Diaz says, “It was interesting and I really learned a lot. I would definitely recommend the dual enrollment program as well as the intro to sociology course  to other students because it was an easy and beneficial way to gain credits.”

Citrus Valley junior Riley Houser, states “I took the medical terminology class through the dual enrollment program during ninth grade. It was interesting and I would recommend the program to other students.”

To enroll in dual enrollment, students must possess a weighted academic grade point average of  2.0 or more. There are three different types of dual enrollment available to students. These categories are listed as Partnership, College and Career Access Pathway, and Standard. 

Partnership dual enrollment consists of evening classes taught by Crafton Hills college professors on a high school campus. In recent years, partnership dual enrollment has moved from high school campuses to zoom instruction. 

CCAP dual enrollment is college courses offered during the school day. This type of dual enrollment is only offered to seniors. These courses will also count for high school graduation requirements. 

Lastly there is Standard dual enrollment which consists of courses not offered by Redlands Unified School district. This type of dual enrollment may also include fees that students will be responsible for such as textbook fees, registration fees, etc. 

According to the California Community Colleges website, to enroll in any of these types of dual enrollment, students must complete six steps. 

First: Complete an online college application.

Second: Complete the orientation by watching a video and answering the following questions.

Third: Submit Transcripts

Fourth: Meet with a counselor.

Fifth: Complete and submit a dual enrollment form

Sixth: Register for your desired college course.

The California Community Colleges website provides reasons for students to consider dual enrollment. Dual enrollment can provide students preparation and an introduction to college life and the opportunity to build skills that are needed in the workforce.