Daphne Ong: Editor in Chief

Journalism is my life—and I’m not exaggerating. From an outside perspective it sounds pathetic that I’ve spent all my free time these past four years in a single classroom. Crosby, thanks for trusting me with everything and basically giving me an opportunity to boss around 35 kids. Thanks for letting us use your microwave. Lili, I can’t believe we started out together as cub reporters under Yul’s rule. I’m so happy that I had 4 years to get to know you and the wonderful person that you are. Arp, I will never forget when we got caught trying to sneak in to The Hangover II so instead, we watched Something Borrowed. Don’t party too hard in SB, but if you do, TFTI. Se, you’re lowkey better than me. I’m only one call away so if you ever feel overwhelmed, I’m here for you, girl. Aggie, you’re so Agnessecary. Don’t forget me when you become a famous journalist. Maryam, I’m going to miss your sassy attitude. Alex, I’m going to miss how I can always look at you during awkward situations for a good laugh. An, I’m going to miss the little Asian behind the lens. Harut, I will forever hate you for stealing my desk.You really affect me. Dahn, four words—hotter since middle school. I’m going to miss walking in to the studio and bothering you while you edit videos.  Josh, why are you so obsessed with me?  Jeannie, stop being so intimidating! I love you, Cheetah Sista! Paul, you will forever be a bad influence. Danny, you are the most amazing human being. I just love you so much…wow I’m crying as I write this. I’m going to miss you a lot. Kim, I’m going to miss your hugs. In a room full of people, you’re the only one who truly loves me. Agnes, never stop smiling, I’m serious. I love your small face. Victor, you’re annoying but you always amaze me with all the material you give me to use against you. Now, the people I purposely put off until the end. It’s been hard being your boss and best friend at the same time. Michael, what can I say to you? You’ve been my best friend for five years and it’s hard to think about what will come next. You will always be what I think about when I think of “home.” Thank you for always putting me first. Please remember me when you become a big time actor. Edward, how do I even survive without you? You’ve helped me so much throughout high school; I don’t even think I would be graduating if it wasn’t for you. Thank you for being my right hand man for everything. You’re so selfless and I know you’re going to be successful. I’m so proud of you. I’m actually really proud of everyone. Thank you for all the memories. Look forward to layouts from my dorm in Long Beach!

 

Michael Yapujian

Not everyone is lucky enough to have his own section in a newspaper, his own writers, and his own incredibly smart, talented, neurotic, funny, irritating, fun-loving newspapers staff. I am.
And now that my 2-year Journalism run is coming to an end, it’s time to address all of the people who have made my experience with the paper so memorable.
Se Yeon—I don’t think that I’ve ever met someone quite like you. I’m going to miss working on pages, and turning around after hearing you say something like “your face in a hole” or “all day, erryday.” Agnessa—It has become impossible for me to count the number of times we’ve gotten into arguments about cutting your articles, even though I’m sure you are still able to count the number of words I’ve cut from them. An—It was great having you on staff for the year, you’re a pretty nifty kid. Mr. Crosby—Thank you so much for helping me grow so much as a writer. Oh, and also…BECAUSE YOU’RE NOT CORRECTING THIS, I CAN USE AS MANY DASHES AS I WANT — — — Alex—I won’t put our “relationship” on blast in front of the whole world, but just know that I’ll miss you buddy…and that I love you. Dahn—Wake up. Arpineh—We have yelled at each other, sung with each other, and best of all, we have laughed with each other. Well, your laugh is a lot louder and scarier than most, but that’s why I love it. Despite all of the times we have gotten mad at each other, we share this weird connection and I’m glad that we don’t let our stupid fights get in the way of that. Jeannie—My successor. Take a chill pill…seriously. And you might just be one of the most interesting things that I have ever met. One minute, I want to hug and kiss you, and the next, I want you to lose your red lipstick (which I know would be the highest form of torture for you). Lili—I’m not going to lie, I’m really going to miss you. It’s hard to imagine living day-to-day life and not seeing your face all the time, and not offending you all the time. Oh, and tell your mom not to lose hope: maybe next summer ;) Edward—You have irritated me, you have made me feel guilty laughing, and you have made me bruised. But through it all, you’ve always been there, ready to help me whenever I needed it…and to make fun of me, too. And lastly, Ms. Daphne Gail Margarette Paguio Ong…I decided to join Journalism because I was joking around with you one day after school, and you told me to actually consider it—so everyone can blame you for having me on staff ;). I’d just like to thank you for calming me down when I would have panic attacks and whipping me into shape when I would be taking things a little too easy. Thanks for not getting mad at me for asking the same thing over and over again, or telling you the same thing more than once. Just thank you for providing comfort for all of us even when we’re at our worst.

Arpineh Oganesyan: Feature Editor

Wow, I cannot believe I’m actually writing my Editor’s Goodbye…& saying goodbye to journalism. This has been our home for the past 3 years & I think I’ve forgotten how to live my life without the constant deadlines and articles & craziness. But all good things must come to an end. Alejandra. You’ve made me so proud with your diligence and creativity these past few weeks. I know you’ll do an amazing job as Feature Editor next year! Oh, &don’t forget, color pages & are always ours ;) Jeannie. You are one of the hardest-working people I’ve come to know in journalism..too bad that talent will go to waste in the opinion section (don’t tell Michael). Have fun next year!!Ashley. We’ve known each other for the past 4 years & I’m so glad you chose to be a part of the Feature staff! You are a great writer & I loved having you with me this year. Maryam. “Have you called Friar today?” “Yeah, they told me to call back.” If I had a dime for every time we exchanged those words… I couldn’t have done the Ad stuff without you, thanks for everything. Agnessa. You’re the best writer this newspaper has ever seen. I’ll never forget having to deal with & cut your 13 page articles. An. You are an amazing photographer! I’m so glad you joined this year! Lili. Remember 8th grade journalism?  As the editors of the best and most-read sections of the newspaper, we’ve dominated these past two years. & it’s been so fun, I hate having to say goodbye<3 Michael. Okayyyyy lykee you were a great editor and stuff but lyke the thing I’ll miss the most is your lkye impersonations and shhh. Hahaha, Michael I’m going to miss that and how every time I sang a song, you automatically turned it into a duet. Love. You. Edward. Tea>. Our journalism paths were virtually identical, since 10th grade<3 We’re cut from the same cloth & I’m going to miss having someone share the same views as me on everything & anything. Oh and don’t forget, you “got me.” Se Yeon. We both started with news, but I soon switched over to the better side…You were such an amazing news editor & will be an extraordinary EIC. Please don’t stress a lot—you got this, jilted lover. Dahn. Best. Prom. Date…to say the least. You are the sweetest guy I know and senior year would definitely not have been the same without you.  Alex. Best friend!! We decided to join journalism after 9th grade together & have come all this way, Buff Guy! I love you so much. My pages & I would be nowhere without your creativity & Photoshop skills. Daphne. “Daphne you’re so pretty.” You were an amazing EIC & are one of the greatest people I know. I’m going to miss us<3 BUT it ain’t over ‘til we take pic with red cups ;) Mr. Crosby. Remember when you couldn’t tell Sarah & I apart? Boy, we’vecome a long way since then. You were the greatest adviser & I’m glad to have been in your class for the past 3 years. I thank you for all the knowledge I’ve gained through journalism.

Alex Karibyan: Layout Editor

As a sophomore, I decided to join journalism  just because I thought it would just be another class I would put on my brag sheet. I was in for a big surprise. With three years on the paper behind me, I can say that this experience has changed my life, and my fellow editors have played a huuuge part in this. After three long  years, I feel as if the editors are like my second family. I have created a strong relationship with each an every one of them, whether it is a good relationship, or a bad one. The main reason why I joined journalism in the first place was because of Arpineh- I can truly call her my best friend. Sometimes to get somewhere in life, you must be a follower, and I don’t think I could have picked a better person to follow. Daphne, my editor in chief, is someone who I respect greatly. I will never understand how someone can deal with such chaos like you do. Lili, you make me really angry and you know why, but journalism wouldn’t be the same without you…can I have gum? Edward, you’re something else,   I love those moments when we’re lowkey thinking the same thing and you give me the classic look, haha. Michael, you’re one of the most genuine people I know, and I respect you a lot for that. Relax, you’re still annoying. Se Yeon, I don’t even know what to say to you because you never give me the time of day. Plus, I don’t want to waste too much of your time reading this because you probably have to study for all the classes you’re failing. Agnessa, what do I have to do to prove to you I’m not a jerk. Honestly, you made our newspaper very strong, and you’re very ambitious, keep doing your thing. Mr. Crosby, you were a great adviser, mentor, and role model. I don’t know how you manage to handle so much on your plate, but it is very inspiring. Thank you for everything you have done.

 

Lili Mikaelyan: Entertainment

I’ve been putting off writing this goodbye, partly because  I’m a laggy armo in nature, but mostly because writing it would mean the end of a huge part of my life. Journalism has had an impact to say the least—four years have been spent writing articles, editing, making layouts, and it’s hard to imagine anything else. But it’s not the work that’s made this class memorable, but mainly the friendships we made along the way. Natalie: You should feel honored to carry on my three year legacy. You better not run off with one of The Wanted boys. Sophie: I could not have asked for a more versatile writer; you’re amazing. Oh, and I have my eye on you! To my fave unofficial writers, Jeannie  & Danny: you obvi picked the better section, and you’re always welcome at Golden Wheat. Except for Danny, you still have to ask for my permission. :D Se Yeon: You’re gonna make an awesome EIC, but you’ll always be the worst offender. ALL DAY ERRYDAY. Maryam: We suffered so much  in our classes together. Props for the fashion pages! Josh: I wish you joined sooner; our gossip times will never be forgotten. An: You saved us this year. Thanks for putting up with all my late requests. Harut: I’ll never forget our deep conversations about life over the years. Paul: BUDDHA! That is all. Dahn: You have been the biggest pain this year, but I know you love me. OPEN YOUR EYES. Alex: The only person worse than you is me, remember? Your talents have done so much for us. You’re going far, kid. Arpineh: I can’t believe I didn’t know how to spell your name. Yay for jobs and getting closer! I still think you’ll make an awesome singer. Agnessa: You’re an incredible writer and I know that I’ll be reading your pieces in a big time newspaper one day. But you’ll still always be my Aggie<3 Oh, and that myth is on it’s way…Michael: I’m going to miss your enthusiasm and random bursts of song/plays so much. I know that the only reason you offend me so much is ‘cause I broke your heart. But I’ll always love you! Maybe next summer. (; Edward: My favorite mop in the world<3 Nobody else understands my sense of humor quite like you and I will forever appreciate that. TRIANGLE. I can’t pick a better person to spend the next four years at SD with. Daphne: Where do I begin? BURGER. We were babies when we joined as freshman. Over the years, you have been the person that I’ve shared the most stress and laughter with in this class. I honestly never thought we’d be this close, but I’m so glad we both stuck it out for all of high school. And finally, to Mr. Crosby: thank you for all the love and dedication you have given to us and the newspaper. Without your push, we would never come out on time. Best foster parent ever.

 

Edward Nadurata: Sports Editor

When new students come and ask about joining this class, the first thing we say is that Journalism is not your typical class. This is true. Journalism is life. I used to hang out in the quad but ever since joining, room 11202 has been my workspace and hangout spot. It was where I grew, learned and had fun. And now it’s time to say goodbye. Mr. Crosby, thank you for letting me grow in your class. Journalism, with you as the adviser, has offered me many opportunities and taught me lessons that I will use forever. Thank you for dealing with our weirdness and craziness Paul: The Sports section has been controlled by Asians for the past three years. DO NOT FAIL. Victor: You may have stressed me out but you’re a lifesaver. Danny: You are just the best feature editor from Clark. Maryam: You missed us so much that you rejoined. Eh ;) Jeannie: I can’t even imagine you next year. Red lipstick replaced <3. Alejandra: Please have more Chew On This next year! Ashley: I will always love you because we always have the same thoughts during critique. Ani K: Shower all the time ;). Sophie: You’re too adorable and too hipster. Agnes: Aeropostale discount for Toll kids! Natalie: The Wanted will hug you soon! Josh: Better late than never! But you’re still #2 though :P Alex: You’re always going to be the “buff tennis guy.” You’ve grown so much since 10th grade to say the least. Agnessa: You’re just crazy!!! 10 page articles!!! I swear I’m the only one that can control you. An: Thank you for saving us and sharing your skill in photography, fellow intellectual. Arpineh: I hated you but with this class, I have grown to love you. We’re cut from the same cloth and you know…I got you ;). Lili: you were that weirdo that called me her writing buddy when you found out I was joining during summer school. This class would have been unbearable without the bread you brought.  Se: We’ve had this moment before and I couldn’t be anymore proud. Just remember what I told you when you were a freshie. Michael: You don’t know how happy we were when you joined because you weren’t a throw anymore. Journalism without your histrionics and “singing” would have been completely nothing. And last but not least, Daphne: You were basically the reason I joined this class and it was more than a bonding experience that strengthened our friendship. I love you. And to the rest of the staff: Always see the fun in this class because it probably will be one of the only classes you will miss when you graduate. Make the most of it.

Agnessa Kasumyan: Copy Editor

I hate saying goodbye because it makes me feel all emotionally mushy and gushy, especially when I’m saying goodbye to the one class that made high school worth attending. Well, here it goes: Se Yeon:  I love how you coerced me into writing for News, telling me it would only be for an issue or two. Sigh. I should have known, considering the whole Alex affair  P.S. I love you, Se Se, and you have no idea how much I’m going to miss you. You’re going to be an amazing EIC, and don’t forget to carry around a hyperventilation bag. You’ve been my rock. <3333 Maryam: I love you for keeping me sane and always boosting my confidence when things got crazy. You have no idea how much that has meant to me. Harut: I will never forget how we rushed to the plane crash scene, “following the helicopters,” and how you told me to stop harrasing the cop because we didn’t have a camera. I can’t wait until we work together on stories in the future, my fellow disaster buddy. Arpineh: Our writer/editor relationship was always a rocky one, BUT we always made it work in the end. I’m going to miss you and our explosive arguments <333 Lilikins! We’ve been through a lot since B13 and you making my myspace layouts (you still have to send me our myth, btw!) **Tears** The Black Swan is flying from the nest. Don’t forget to fly back home every once in a while. Michael: Oh Fangs. I can’t wait until I start writing scripts for you to act in. Talk about an award-winning friendship ;) Edward: I’ll still be your “inner conscience” when your partyin g and bullying seniors in San Diego. You’re going to make it big, and you know it. (You still owe me a million brain cells from all your head bumps >.<) I love you, Eddie! Daphne: You’ve been the best EIC imaginable and managed to keep us all sane. I’m going to miss your random bursts of laughter when I’d say things that weren’t meant to be funny. Sophie: Red! Don’t be afraid to edit with an iron fist, my Armenian, British look-alike successor <333 Ani: I love that you’re opinionated and know what you want.  Dahn: Go Steelers!!! You’ll learn. Paul: Oh Pauli Parrot, you SO smart.  Alex: I’ll never forget how you were the loud, short kid in Tech Theater but walked into Journalism as the buff/tennis guy. You’re annoying with your temper and all but you know we all love you. The newspaper wouldn’t be able to function without you…literally! An: My fire buddy! I hope one day we can go on a mission to a warzone together! Mr. Crosby: I will never forget your first advice to me as a reporter about “the masks.” I feel like journalism with you has been a very long journey, one that’s forced me to embrace my strengths, face my weaknesses, and grow up. You were never easy on us and treated us like adults, giving us the freedom to work on our own stories but always being there to guide us through and hold us accountable.You have helped me grow both as a person and a journalist, and if I ever win a Pulitzer for my work, you’re going to be one of the first people I mention. I wouldn’t have journalism in my life if it weren’t for your class and mentorship. Thanks for everything, Mr. Crosby!!!

An Uong: Photo Editor

For the past four years, I have worked with only a few individuals from the senior editorial staff, and even then, usually as an acquaintance. Ranging from the people to the product, the entire process of working on the paper has not only been fun, but also gratifying. Much fun has been had as well, what with chasing down obscure individuals I had not even known before. I want to thank those who have worked with me this year, including our advisor, Mr. Crosby, and wish the best of luck to everyone who will be contributing to this publication during the coming year. To the photo staff: No matter how last-minute the photo assignments might have been, nothing makes me happier than seeing you all go out of your way – such as when Kim went to all of the boy’s volleyball games or when Alejandra hunted down and went to Dr. Stoddard’s past living space. Edward, I’ve known you for four years now, and I still remember how naïve and awkward we were back then. We’ve come a long way since then, and I wish you the best of luck in all that you do. I love how progressively sentimental (but still sincere) your columns have become as the year draws to a close. Michael, I have much more to say to you concerning theater, but nonetheless, it has been a pleasure to work with you in a different setting. Sometimes I feel you have too much energy for one human being, but you make use of it, so that’s all good. I’m sure you’ll get your well-deserved chances to do super-cool things in life. To Daphne: You’ve been a pretty awesome Editor in Chief. I never understood how one person could be so patient and collected, but thank you, because I think that kept all of us level-headed during trying moments. Ashley, I’ve only really gotten to know you this year, but it’s been pretty grand. You’re a wonderfully kind individual, and I hope you are met with all things awesome in your future. Joshua, child, after the past six years, there’s nothing else to say other than thanks for all of the memories, You’ve grown a whole lot since seventh grade (obviously) and I am very proud of you. Agnessa, I admire your determination, and it’s been a pleasure to read your work.