Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Occupy San Diego

Opinion: Occupy Everywhere
by: Sierra Holter


Occupy Wall Street. Occupy San Diego. Occupy Everywhere. I know many of you are thinking, "what does this mean"? Why is all over the news and Downtown?" Occupy Wall Street is where it all began. It was a people-powered movement against the power of major banks and multinational corporations over the democratic process, and the role of Wall Street in creating an economic collapse that has caused the greatest recession in generations. This one protest has fueled over 100 more in different cities across the U.S. Occupy San Francisco and San Diego are the biggest ones on the West Coast.

You may ask yourself, " Why San Diego? We're not overflowing with bank power?" The answer is simple, they are protesting the financial corruption and corporate greed of 1% of the population that negatively affects all aspects of our lives. Basically, they are protesting for the common people, not the 1% but the 99% that is affected by the 1%'s decisions. This protest is far from being over. Just look at their website.

On their website,
http://occupysandiego.org/, there are many links on which to click on. One of them being their "Legal" link. This link gives you basic information on what to do if you are arrested for being a part of this protest. Nevertheless, protesting in San Diego is still legal; therefore, you have your right to voice your opinion, just be careful about posting videos and photos. Those who are already involved in this protest aren't going down without a fight.

A local man, John Kenney has been on a hunger strike for more than a week now, "b
ecause of the inaction of the City Council after nearly a hundred people have petitioned them by taking part in the Non-Agenda Public Comment in City Council session twice weekly, asking for OSD’s proposal or resolution to be considered." He says he will "Continue until the San Diego City Council puts Occupy San Diego’s resolution on the agenda." Until then he and many others will fight for this protest and stand up for the 99% affected by the greed of Wall Street.

OSD's main argument is to create a world for the 99% not just the wealthy 1%. If this is something you are interested in, drop by their website and find out how you can get involved. Or if not, just go Downtown. Chances are you'll see dozens of people protesting around the Civic Center. Don't worry, it's legal and you can do something to help the 99%. Remember, Occupy Everywhere, not just Wall Street.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Veterans Day

11/11/11: More Than Just a Number
by: Cheyenne Alexander

Friday was an important day to remember, not just because it was 11/11/11, which many of you made such a big deal about. No it was Veterans day. While many of you spent the day on Facebook counting down the seconds until 11:11 AM and PM, others spent the day remembering those brave men and women that fought for our country.
This is year is the first and only Veterans Day that will be 11/11/11/11. If you have Ms.Stretcher, then you know what I'm talking about as she would say, " The 11th hour, the 11th day, the 11th month, not its the 11th year." Originally called Armistice Day, it commemorated the fallen dead of the First World War. Now, Veterans Day is a very special day that pays tribute to all those that care so much about our country.

For Southwest Raiders, it was a day off. Many Raiders spent the day hanging out with friends and on Facebook . However, we still had Saturday school this weekend so their fun was cut short. Remember, if you are one of those Raiders who are failing a class and are forced to go to "Saturday Study Session" you should have taken the time off to do homework and catch up on missing work. We will have Saturday School this weekend, Raiders, so do your work, be productive and be ON TIME!



Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Senioritis

Just a Common Cold?
by: Sierra Holter


With only six weeks left in the first semester, many seniors are finding it hard to pay attention, stay awake in class, and even do do sports. This lack of motivation is called Senioritis. The scary thing about this common 12th grade disease is that it can strike anytime. It can be first semester, second semester or even on the last day of school. You may feel that your Senioritis isn't so bad, or that it'll go away with time, but that's not true. Like any other illnesses, the only way to get rid of it is to do something about it. Here are some helpful tips to kick your Senioritis to the curb and enjoy your senior year.

1.) Keep yourself occupied- The more extracurricular activities you're involved in the less likely you are to slack off and become lazy.


2.) Eat Breakfast- If you feel more awake during the day, you'll be more likely to get through the whole day and even do your homework at night.


3.) Stay Positive- Maybe you didn't win Homecoming, or you're failing a class, just keep a smile on your face and breathe. The more you let stress get to you, the more likely you are to just give up and let Senioritis take control.


4.) Take time for YOURSELF- You may be so busy your senior year that you forget what really matters. Stressing about a college or about a club that you're president of isn't the most important thing. YOU are the most important person your senior year. Everything you do this year affects your future life in some ways. If you can't take time out to enjoy the awesome person you are then you already let Senioritis win.


Lastly Seniors, don't slack off. I know first hand that it's hard to stay on top of your work, especially this year, but don't freak out, stay calm and work hard. Everything you're stressing about will pay off, whether it is a college you're applying to or a part-time job you got, your hard work will be something to someone. Don't get depressed when things don't go exactly as planned. Remember, you've got six more months of school left and the rest of your life to become something great. So next time you feel Senioritis coming on, stop, breathe, and remember YOU have the power to be your best.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Construction

SOH Construction to Overcome Snags
by: Omar Navarro

We’ve all noticed the construction at our school and have asked ourselves why isn’t done already? Why aren't there any workers? According to proposition O, it's supposed to repair and improve old and new schools - 42,000 middle and high schools. Proposition O is giving nine of the oldest schools in the district these funds first, such as Sweetwater High School, Montgomery High School, Mar Vista High School and Southwest High School. Construction usually takes about two years, and so far ours has taken three years and it doesn't look like it'll be done any time soon. HAAR, the company that was in charge of the construction
construction, had some problems paying their subcontractors causing the deadline to be pushed further and further back. Because of all the unanswered questions, this Raider sought out the truth.


Q: What is the main reason why there's no work getting done on our construction site?



A: “HAAR wasn't paying the subcontractors, that’s why there's no work getting done”.




Q: What are your feelings towards the completion deadline being pushed back?


A: “Disappointed, sad that it had to be that way, but good as well because it will be back on track.”
Q: When can we expect work to begin?
A: “Work is expected to begin after the next board meeting, and be ready next year.”
Q:Many of the seniors are disappointed that there isn’t a Senior lawn anymore. Is there anything you
can do about that?


A: “I am open to suggestions about a new senior lawn, or make a bench with 2012 imprinted in it or a plaque remembering class of 2012, I'm open to any suggestions.”




As construction is expected to be completed next year, us Raiders will have to hang in there with the daily, noisy, interruptions. As for Class of 2012 we will have to unite and push for a bench or plaque or anything that will leave a memory of us imprinted in the school. Though the pending construction has been a main issue for three years, it will be a beautiful contribution to our school and will be beautiful when completed.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Football Season Opener

Raider Football Starts Off Strong
by: Cheyenne Alexander

Great job at the football game last Friday, Football players! Our Raiders did a fantastic job of stopping the Hamilton football team. The team did their best and didn't stop until they took it home, and they got what they all worked so hard for, which was 27 to 0.What a wonderful game! Keep up the amazing work, boys! Remember always believe in yourself and your teammates and a little hard work will pay off. Always,"Imagine, believe and you will Succeed."

R.J Rodriguez said, "The game was exciting, we had confidence that we were going to win. Our coaches, team players, cheerleaders and the fans on the bleacher were our motivations. We are looking forward to wining the bell back this year." R.J also stated that Ernie made 3 touch downs and that includes the the first touch down. Then R.J included that B.J made a touch down as well. R.J was very proud at all the members and hard work they put in the game and so were the coaches.Keep it up, Raiders, show off that team spirit!

Yadira Ramon-Soto stated that "The game was very fun because we won and because the game was very intense." She ended her statement with, "Southwest Raiders are on top!"

Jocelyne Chavarin, who is a cheerleader said, " The game was a memorable first game and it was a lot of fun cheering for the guys."

Jocelyn Leal, a fan of our football team, supported the boys by yelling and cheering from the bleachers. She said, "I was so proud of them."

Raiders, keep up all the hard work. Always keep in mind to never stop trying and always do your best. Our school is very, proud of you and we are supporting you every step of the way. Good luck to you guys for the up coming games that await you. Everyone has faith in you guys. Dont ever stop believing in yourself and your teammates. Congratulations, way to start off the season!

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Adult School

​Put the Fun Aside!
by:Austin Lopez

Hey guys, do you need extra credits? Did you fail classes in the past? Well then, what you need is Adult School. This is especially true for Seniors that are missing credit requirements for graduating. If you're cool with staying after school for most of the week, then it’s perfect. You're probably wondering what the details are.
​
Adult School is available until the end of the school year. It is from Monday through Thursday, and yes the program is even open on minimum days. Regular days are from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm, and minimum day schedule is from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. You have to serve a required 60 hours minimum to complete the course, and you need to complete the bookwork and test. If you don’t finish all of the work within the 60 hours, extra time is given until you complete the assignments. If you need to take another credit course, then you may choose to complete it in the same or the next semester.
​
Now that you know the details about the Adult School program, you're probably thinking, “ How can I get into Adult School, and why didn’t I find out sooner?”
​
Well, if you're interested, what you need to do is go see your counselor. Once you're there, ask her what classes you're able to make-up. Then after you know what classes you can make up, ask for the application forms for Adult School. If you are under the age of 18 then you and your parents will need to sign the forms. Turn them into your counselor, and from there you're ready to go.
​Remember Raiders, it's important to finish before the last minute, so put the fun stuff aside for a little bit and get your work done!

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Get Going Raiders

Join a Sport
by:Omar Navarro

So, it’s the start of a new school year, and it’s summer. But we know you rather be sleeping late and hanging out with friends, but instead we’re staying up late doing homework and trying everything to stay awake by third period. Joining sports is a big thing for you freshmen it gives you a sense of belonging and school spirit as well.

Fall sports such as Football, Cross Country, girls Volley Ball, girls Tennis, girls Golf, and boys Water Polo are starting. Yes, we have a Water Polo team here at Southwest, as well as a Swim team in the Spring. Joining a sport will boost your self esteem and school spirit so it's a win - win. So, listen up Freshman! Get off the couch and join a sport. Being in a sport will make you feel more connected and involved at school, plus it'll give you a reason to do well in your classes.

If you're a runner, think about joining Cross Country and talk to Mr. Tompkins or Mr. Buse and they will be happy to answer all your questions. If you want to score touchdowns and field goals, join Football, talk to Mr.Thompson in room 208. If you're interested in being a next Serena Williams, head down to the tennis courts and talk to Coach Bill. Ready to set, spike and dive? Join girls Volley Ball practices are every day at the gym; talk to Marx. And if those sports still aren't your thing, you can join our banner-winning girls' Golf team, you can talk to Coach Sieble. For you men out there, if running is not your thing, try mens Water Polo. Practices are everyday, 4-6pm at Mar Vista High, talk to coach Carson on the pool deck. Southwest High has some great sports program, and they open the doors to colleges and scholarships, so get off your butt and join a sport. Who knows, you might just become the next big thing at our school.