Luis and the Glitter Planes, a band of six juniors, won first place in the Friday Night Live Talent Show. I recently caught up with them for a quick interview.

Baron Banner: When did you guys form?
Luis and the Glitter Planes: Actually, we got together maybe a month ago. Some of us have been playing with each other for a while, and then maybe a month ago we picked up Luis and got this band going.

BB: How long have you guys been playing your instruments?
LGP: Some of us have been playing for a while now. Some of us probably started playing maybe negative four years ago. (laughs) Just kidding.

BB: Whose idea was it to get together and join the talent show?
LGP: Brandon, our singer, actually had the idea of forming and joining the show.

BB: How did it feel to win the talent show?
LGP: We were actually surprised that we won because all the other times we practiced, we sounded really bad. That was probably the first time we played together and sounded good. It was pretty cool winning the show. It was “awesomesauce” (credit to Matt Sheldon, drummer).

BB: What have you guys done with the prizes?
LGP: Well, we still have our Best Buy gift card for $100 and we are probably going to buy a “keytar” which is a combination keyboard and guitar. We thought we lost the candy but it was in one of our cases.

Click to make really big.

Credits
Original Sketch – Thomas Warloe
Penwork – Heng-yi Liu
Coloring – Heng-yi Liu and Thomas Warloe
Text/Writing – Sheshanna Phan
Addtional Ideas – Connor Halsted

If you were wondering what sport to watch this season, a top choice of yours should be boys Volleyball. Games this year should be extremely entertaining, considering their off-season training has consisted of gym-time for 3 hours every day.

Last year the boys didn’t make it to CIF, but that doesn’t mean that this season will end the same way. In the previous season, the team lost 11 seniors. Coach Hanson says,” This season the team is just rebuilding from the loss (of losing so many seniors).”

Coach Hanson has been coaching Boys Varsity for 11 years and previously before that Girls Varsity for 3 years. With 14 years of experience, he would have a good reason this year to say he feels confident. It might be because of their new training techniques of heavy emphasis on strength and conditioning. His main goal is for the boys to fight and get the superior title, CIF Champions.

To make this team strong, team captains have a big hand. This season we have Senior Captain Chris Van Vuuren and Senior Captain Karlo Cirson.

Captain Chris Van Vuuren previously played Volleyball in a club like other players on the team this year. If his name sounds familiar its probably because you heard his name in soccer this year.

“We have a young team. I am pretty sure if the seniors step up we could place in the upper half of the league,” said Senior Captain Chris Van Vuuren. According to Vuuren, the boys varsity team are the underdog team and will surprise others with their talent.

Some people to watch out for are Senior Captain Chris Van Vuuren, Senior Captain Karlo Cirson, Junior Tom Peters, Junior Johny Quan and Junior Brandon Courtney.

This year the boys are going to give many reasons for people to come watch. It is assured that not only their charming looks but their surprise attacks will attract you and will make you want to see more. Show your support at their first home game on Tuesday, March 9.

Boy’s Golf began this week on March 1st, starting with the Ayala Tournament in Chino Hills. The Barons played well, but failed to place among the top of the many schools of Orange County.

Soon after, Boy’s Varsity went up against Lakewood High at Skylinks Golf Course on Tuesday and at Old Ranch on Thursday, defeating the opposing team twice through their first week.

With a starting record of 2-0 wins, Boy’s Varsity remains optimistic that this season will be the best yet and feel ready to challenge University High at Strawberry Farms on Monday, March 8th.

Junior Varsity however, was not as successful, with 2 loses and zero wins. The Barons battled Canyon High on Tuesday and Wednesday, and unfortunately the Barons fought hard to the finish, narrowing the scores to close margins. Yet in the end, Canyon proved to be victorious against FV on both occasions.

This year’s varsity team line up includes old faces such as Captains Loren Tengan (’10) and Mitchel Char (’10), Jake Christy (’10), and Justin Smith (’11), as well as new players on both Varsity and JV: Andre Vu (’13), Willy Chen (’13), Kevin Kato (’13), and Jordan Char (’13).

Both Coach Keyser and Coach Wilton assure that this year’s team, both JV and Varsity, will easily surpass earlier seasons, earning the Barons a place in the best of the Sunset League. With such a strong start on behalf of Boy’s Varsity, the Barons will without a doubt find success in the coming weeks.

Our school campus has had such a busy week, but since International week has come to an end, Baron Banner had the time to catch up with the champion of the Ping Pong Pandemnium Tournament, a junior named Nolan Moder.

Nolan Moder

Baron Banner: How did you feel when you won the Ping Pong Pandemonium tournament?

Nolan Moder: I was a little surprised and excited because I didn’t think I would beat Nam Pham, since he beats me almost every time in tennis.

BB: How was the competition?

NM: The players were very competitive. I almost lost during the second round.

BB: Would you compete again if there were another Ping Pong Pandemonium?

NM: Of course I would participate in the tournament again.

BB: What did you receive for winning the tournament?

NM: I got a 25 dollar visa debit card and I’m going to use it for a new paddle.

BB: How long have you been playing ping pong for?

NM: I’ve been playing since I was nine years old, and took lessons for a year.

BB: What are your other interests or activities are you in outside of school?

NM: I’m an eagle scout, and I did play on the junior varsity soccer team. I’m also in cross country and varsity tennis.

BB: Did your tennis skills apply during the tournament?

NM: Yes, my tennis skills definitely did because the strokes are very similar between the two sports.

BB: Did you practice for the Ping Pong Pandemonium?

NM: I have a Ping Pong table at home and I practiced by playing with my brothers.

BB: It is rumored that there will be Dodgeball tournament; would you have any interest in entering?

NM: I’m actually good at dodgeball too. So, I am interested in joining the dodgeball tournament as well.

BB: Thank you so much for your time!

NM: You’re welcome!

March 8, 2010

Baron Banner went to interview a staff member on FVHS campus. This week, we were able to  to ask Spanish teacher  Ms. Benitez some questions.

Ms. Benitez

Baron Banner: How long have you been teaching here at FVHS?

Ms. Benitez: I’ve been here for 36 years starting in 1974.

BB: What part of teaching here do you like the best?

MB: The kids. I love the different personalities; it just makes the day go fast.(I love) even the ones that are funny and frustrating because you learn. It’s almost as if I learn to be tolerant because of all the diversity. I learn to be understanding of different music, lifestyles, religions, and traditions. I really think that I’m blessed to be in it.

BB: What is one interesting or weird event that occurred in all your years of teaching?

MB: A fun event was Edison Game 1997, when a student hired a helicopter, and I paid for the ping-pong balls which were thrown all over Edison High School when they came out of their [Bell Game] assembly. That was the most fun. People didn’t know that I paid with my American Express Card (laughs).

BB: Well, now people will know!

MB: Now people will know, it’s ok (laughs).

BB: You also teach AP Spanish 5, so what would you say are the challenges in that?

MB: Well, you  know the challenge is that I don’t get enough students enrolled. I get between 16 to 25 students, and it is run like a college class. And when they are done they will be exposed to 44 different authors, hundreds of years worth of literature. It is challenging, but also rewarding. When they walk away they love literature.

BB: It’s also known that you are retiring this year…

MB: Yes, I am retiring with a heavy heart. I probably could’ve worked another couple of years, but sometimes it seems like its time and at others it’s like, “oh my god, what did I do?” But, my parents are older now, they are approaching their 90s, and I’d like to spend whatever time they have left with them.

BB: Alright. Thank you!

MB: No problem!

Congratulations to our Color Guard for placing 2nd in San Diego last Saturday in a major regional tournament. Good Job Team.

Congratulations to the women’s track team for winning the Bishop Amat Relays. The Barons defeated 22 teams in their division. Lily Trinh, Laura Weber, and Caitlyn Ducat dominated the hurdles. Carmille Garcia, Maddy Ward, Catherine Martinez, and Alyssa Tao were strong in the DMR relay. On the men’s side, the Barons start the season ranked 5th in Orange County. Hassan ILIAS was impressive in the hurdles, Sese Misili was strong in the shot put, and the distance crew of Luis Morales, Arturo Diaz, and Christian Olive raced to season best times.

Congrats to FVHS Advanced Drama class for their participation in the Fullerton College Theatre Festival! Senior, Emily Fitzpatrick made it to finals for her humorous monologue and ranked in the top 8 with over 3000 competitors! Watch out Long Beach Theatre Festival!

Good Luck to the Dance Team today and tomorrow at the Miss Dance Drill National Competition!!!!
The competition today is at the Irvine Hyatt and Saturday at the Bren Center. For more information check the team website.

Are you interested in being on ASB Administration next year? Come by the activities office and pick up an ASB Handbook. All materials are due by Friday, March 26th. Please see Mrs. Krimker if you have any questions.

The cafeteria will be barbequing hotdogs, cheeseburgers, and vegi-burgers today outside the snack bar. Combos are just $3.00

Due to popular demand: the cafeteria will be making orange chicken on a daily basis beginning soon…More info to come!

Pride Day this Saturday! Student, parent, faculty, and community volunteers are needed to help with planting, landscaping, painting, and repairs to improve our school campus. This is a great opportunity for everyone to have fun and for students to earn points/hours towards community service requirements. Students should ask their teachers or club leaders/advisors about earning points for their class/club requirements by working this important event. Bring planting tools, especially shovels, with you if you can. Snacks & refreshments donations for our workers also appreciated. For more information or to help, please email joan.h.verstraete@verizon.net or PTSA@FVHS.com. See you Saturday!

Data-Match results are here! Stop by room 131 or at the Senior Commission table at lunch to pick yours up. Results are $2 for school-wide matches and $3 for those and your grade-level matches.

Are you interested in being a part of the award-winning FVHS Academic Decathlon team? We need all types of students, especially those with mostly B’s and C’s in academic classes. Come find out more about Academic Decathlon today at lunch in Mr. Diecidue’s classroom, room 204.

Are you interested in going green? FBLA members have created a “Go Green” pamphlet, check it out at fvhsfbla.tk

Creative Visions, the district art show will be held at the district office from March 26th to April 15. Celebrating 2 and 3 dimensional art from all 6 high schools, the Gala will take place March 26th from 5-7 pm. Don’t miss this great show!

Sadie’s for the Win is around the corner! The Olympic-themed girl-ask-guy dance will be Saturday, March 27 from 8-11 in the gym. Doors will close at 9:30 and there will be a shoe check in. Tickets are $12 pre-sale and $15 at the door. Looking for some healthy competition? Challenge your date in the inflatable obstacle course. But get there early since the obstacle course will only be up between 8 and 10. If you’re feeling more romantic, stop by the winner’s circle to get married for the night. Only students who bring a signed permission slip will be able to participate in the obstacle course. Permission slips are only available with the purchase of pre-sale tickets. Dance contracts are due by Wed. March 24 by 3 pm and detentions must be cleared by Thursday, March 25 by 3 pm. Tickets will be on sale between Monday March 22 and Friday, March 26. Again, pre-sale tickets are $12, at the door $15.

After Sadie’s come support CSF by dining at the Denny’s on Brookhurst from 11:00pm to 3:00am. 15% of your bill will go to the California Scholarship Federation to honor seniors! Support your fellow Barons!

It’s time to pick your favorite teacher of the Year. Each year PTSA honors two teachers, one veteran and one new teacher, neither of which has won the award previously. Fountain Valley High School PTSA recognizes the important role that professional educators have in our school and want all students, parents and staff members to take this opportunity to identify two of our teachers by nominating the “best of the best”. Ballots and ballot boxes are located in the Activities Office and in the Main Office. Nomination Forms must be placed in the ballot boxes by April 1st.

Hey Barons, next week is Gender Wars! The spirit dress-up days are,

Tuesday, Bob the Builder vs. Dora the Explorer

Wednesday, N’Sync vs. Spice Girls

Thursday is Blue vs. Pink.

Be sure to dress up and defend your gender!”

Here are your morning announcements for Thursday, March 18th, 2010:

The cafeteria will be barbequing hotdogs, cheeseburgers, and vegi-burgers tomorrow outside the snack bar. Combos are just $3.00

Seniors, today is the last day to see the registrar for changes or corrections to your diploma. The list will be sent to Jostens tomorrow morning.

The Jostens Ring Man is here today, Thursday, March 18th during Lunch by the Cafeteria for Class Ring Orders. Extra ordering packets are available in the Activities Office. You can also design your custom class ring online at Jostens.com

Are you interested in being on ASB Administrative Council next year? Come by the activities office and pick up an ASB Handbook. All materials are due by Friday, March 26th. Please see Mrs. Krimker if you have any questions.

Student, parent, faculty, and community volunteers are needed to help with planting, landscaping, painting, and repairs to improve our school campus. This is a great opportunity for everyone to have fun and for students to earn points/hours towards community service requirements. Students should ask their teachers or club leaders/advisors about earning points for their class/club requirements by working this important event. Bring planting tools, especially shovels, with you if you can. Snacks & refreshments donations for our workers also appreciated. For more information or to help, please email joan.h.verstraete@verizon.net or PTSA@FVHS.com. See you Saturday!

Here are your morning announcements for Monday, March 15th, 2010:

There is an Honors Commission meeting today at lunch in room 148.

CAHSEE Testing is tomorrow, March 16 and Wednesday March 17. Tomorrow is a modified day, however, we start the CAHSEE testing as soon as we can after 8:00 in the morning. Please be at school by 7:45 am, with a photo ID and a #2 pencil. For students testing in the Cafeteria and Gymnasium please use the follow alpha guide:

A – GHI will be in the Cafeteria

GHU – Z will be in the Gymnasium

Other students testing with their third period teachers will report to their third period class at 8:00 am.
Good luck Barons, you are well prepared because you are Fountain Valley Students!

It’s time to pick your favorite teacher of the Year. Each year PTSA honors two teachers, one veteran and one new teacher, neither of which has won the award previously. Fountain Valley High School PTSA recognizes the important role that professional educators have in our school and want all students, parents and staff members to take this opportunity to identify two of our teachers by nominating the “best of the best”. Ballots and ballot boxes are located in the Activities Office and in the Main Office. Nomination Forms must be placed in the ballot boxes by April 1st.

Attention Seniors – Don’t forget to check the diploma list posted on the windows outside the main office. This is how your name will be printed on your diploma and in the graduation program. If your name is missing or needs to be corrected, please see the registrar. You have until this Wednesday, March 17th to make any changes.

The Jostens Ring Man will be back Thursday, March 18th during Lunch by the Cafeteria for Class Ring Orders. Extra ordering packets are available in the Activities Office. You can also design your custom class ring online at Jostens.com

Interested in being on ASB Executive Council next year? Please attend a mandatory meeting today at lunch room 301. Please see Mrs. Krimker in the Activities Office if you have any questions!

The FVHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Chapter attended the annual Southern Section Leadership Conference at UC Irvine, placing sixth overall in one of the best performances in the chapter’s history. The conference consisted of mostly competitive events but also featured a keynote address by Dr. Thomas Eppel of UCI’s Paul Merage School of Business and campaigns and voting for section officers.

Many members received awards for their outstanding finishes in individual events.

• Albert Lai                           First Place, Economics; Seventh Place, Business Communication
• Thang Nguyen                 Third Place, Economics; Eighth Place, Business Calculations
• Donald Chan                    Third Place, Marketing
• Mina Pham-Tran              Fourth Place, Charles D. Cox Name Tag Event; Seventh Place, Computer Applications;
• Februnia Ishak                 Sixth Place, Creed
• Steven Chan                     Seventh Place, Computer Program Solving, Eighth Place; Computer Applications;
• Uyen Tran                          Eighth Place, Introduction to Business; Ninth Place, Business Math
• Aileen Nguyen                  Tenth Place, Sports Management

The chapter also performed very well in group events.

• Alan Bui                             Fourth Place, Management Decision Making
• Brandon Nguyen
• Sheshanna Phan

• Alan Bui                             Fifth Place, Global Business
• Brandon Nguyen

• Linda Doan                       Fifth Place, Entrepreneurship
• Aileen Nguyen
• Nicole Quang

Regarding the results, chapter adviser Mr. Eggert says, “That’s an excellent showing, the best finish we have had in over twenty years!”

Co-President Mina Pham-Tran (’10) says, “I think this is my proudest FVHS moment. Our chapter went from only two remaining members to over twenty active members in a year. With the achievements we made this year, who knows what can be made in the future with hard work and determination.”

Students who placed fifth or higher in most events are eligible to compete in the State Leadership Conference on April 15-18, 2010, which is also in Irvine. This marks the first time in several years that members are planning to attend the state conference.