Reopening the curtain on a tradition
Posted on September 6, 2019 by Cristal Rincon in News, Uncategorized
Melisa Lovos and Cristal Rincon
Chronicle Reporter and Website Editor
Hollywood High School’s beloved JROTC is making it’s return after the program met it’s demise on the 100th year anniversary in 2017. The program is being led by Colonel Darryl Hensley, who runs all of the JROTC programs in Los Angeles Unified School District.
The program was cut due to financial reasons, but is being brought back now thanks to interim principal Fonna Bishop. Hollywood is the fastest school to have gotten approved for this program, due to the school’s history, administrators said. In 1917, Hollywood was one of seven schools across the nation that was chosen to introduce and run JROTC.
“When I came here and I visited the school three weeks ago and I saw all of the photos,” said Colonel Hensley, “I literally got emotional and I said, I’ve got to bring this school back.”
JROTC stands for Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps, and is a program that is focused on discipline, teamwork, and leadership values. Contrary to popular belief, the purpose of JROTC is to create better citizens, rather than soldiers for the military. It also offers credits to those participating, and helps students stand out when applying to college.
“It’s just a great program that inspires students to become leaders,” said Assistant Principal Pacino Furioso.
JROTC is now being offered as a free seventh period class every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:15 to 4:45 p.m. Anyone interested in joining should speak to their counselor for more information.
The Hollywood stars perform
Posted on May 23, 2019 by Katie Adaya in Uncategorized
Katie Adaya
Chronicle Reporter
Hollywood Idol, an annual event that Hollywood students look forward to, will be held Friday after sixth period. The school schedule will be the same as a minimum Tuesday except that instead of going home, students will be attending Hollywood Idol.
Contestants for this show include Ivana Drew, Randella Drew, Rachel Fadersaer, Zirah Hajjaj, Julia Jean Mendez, Tyler Ramson, Kings of No Nation, and Black SpadZe. Five judges, one teacher from each SLC and a counselor, will be judging these eight contestants.
After months of rehearsing, performers will finally show off their talent. All their hard work will finally pay off, as they get to present their hidden talents to the audience.
Karla Gonzalez-Echeverria, a Black SpadZe member, said “I’m scared and excited for it. When you practice for it for a long time and the day gets closer, you start working on stage with the lights and you’re like ‘It’s here. It’s finally here.’”
Students are looking forward to this event, as it is something that emphasizes the talent that this school holds.
Janelly Diaz, TCA senior, said “I’m excited to see Black SpadZe perform because they always come up with new, cool dances and to see new people show their talent.”
This year, however, will be different. After years of James B. Carmicle hosting this talent show, he will no longer be doing so due to his retirement. Although students are still excited for the show itself, students wish they could see Carmicle host one last time.
“Mr. Carmicle brought the fun in Hollywood Idol and made it more exciting. He made the audience more hyped up, and it’s not going to be the same without him,” said Mary J. Hunter, SAS senior.
Please be respectful of all contestants. They have put in a lot of time and effort in this in order to make a perfect performance for the audience.
Billie Eilishs’ nightmares become a dream
Posted on April 10, 2019 by Mayeli Acuna in Entertainment, Uncategorized
Chronicle Reporter
Mayeli Acuna
Billie Eilish, a 17-year-old pop singer, recently released her second debut album WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? on March 29 receiving transatlantic success. Eilish second album hit the Billboard 200 charts securing the spot of number one, is the third woman to have a massive number of streams within the span of a week.
The album is constructed of 14 songs, each having great meaning that many can relate to. Eilish has impacted the teenage community greatly, considering that she herself is one, she has written songs that various of her age can sympathize too. Hence why she has made a large mark in the music culture. WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? is surely one that leaves her audience in deep thought. She has gained an image that many find controversial, being called “fake emo” and “fake depressed”, but with such thought put into her tracks in this album has provided great vulnerability that is respected by the spectator.
It can be noted that her goal was to make a statement, a statement filled with fear and alienation. Eilish resembled her songs to “Batman” and not be saved by him; being left in sorrow. With song titles that are rather questioning, beats that are meticulous and lyrics of despair, Eilish has provided a message of strength. “Xanny” being a tribute to the friends she has lost through the use of drugs. “I Love You” projected the fear of loving someone to avoid heartbreak. “All Good Girls Go To Hell” poking fun towards individuals who only speak to someone for their own benefit and will turn their back on you.
WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? is filled with teenage anthems. Heartbreak, fear, insecurities, and strength is composed in an album of 14 songs. The reality of young adults is surely produced in this album and is heard through the headphones of a teenager daily.
Kindness Week can Touch Hearts
Posted on April 3, 2019 by Novalee Lopez in Uncategorized
Melanie Aguilar
Chronicle Reporter
As a reminder to spread love and kindness our very own Hollywood High School students have put up posters all over campus to invite students to display friendliness and compassion. The importance of being kind goes great lengths as it helps with uplifting peers when they are in need of it.
Being kind to someone when they may be having a rough day brings increased happiness. Doing things for others even if it is as small as giving out a compliment can change someone’s entire day. It is important to be kind because it may also make you feel good about yourself. Doing good for others feels good. Showing kindness to others is just as rewarding as receiving it from someone else.
“Kindness week is significant because its a way to show affection towards others, little do we know, we can be making a significant impact on someone’s day” said Ali Dugally, SAS Senior.
Being kind can also boost someone’s self confidence. Kindness leads to many good things like better relationships, improved self-esteem, compassion, happiness and good mental and physical health. In honor of kindness week make sure to spread care not just this week but every week.
Start applying for Hollywood High scholarship(s)
Posted on March 25, 2019 by frida larios in Uncategorized
As the seniors begin to receive their acceptance letters, they also have to begin thinking of how to pay for college. Hollywood High is here to help out by handing out scholarships to a handful of seniors.
Achieve The Honorable Scholarship Night will be held on June 5th at 6pm. Ms Pinedo posted a link to a brag sheet that seniors can fill out and list any awards, activities, etc to help themselves stand out.
There will be 13 scholarships, some being handed out to multiple students. There are scholarships for dedicated marching band students, creative students, students who are pursuing a career in engineering, and more. You can go to the college center to get a scholarship application and apply for any scholarship you think fit you. The deadline to apply is April 25th.
Hollywood Seniors Explore SMC
Posted on March 13, 2019 by Novalee Lopez in Uncategorized
Melanie Aguilar
Chronicle Reporter
Hollywood High seniors took a trip to Santa Monica College on March 12 to get a hands on experience on the college life. Over 50 students attended the field trip where they were able to gather information about a potential college choice.
The trip consisted of a mock registration for potential classes if students attended SMC. There was also a very beneficial activity that gave students a chance to place themselves into groups based on what type of person they perceived themselves as. This grouping provided many major choices based on the self evaluation our students did. The six different groups were the thinkers, creators, helpers, persuaders, and organizers. The groups would them come together and discuss the similarities they shared in terms of majors and career plans. Shortly after this, students heard from SMC students as they shared their own experiences in a student panel.
“It was the most informative aspect of the trip because we were able to hear from students not to far from our ages on what the college life is all about” said Jadine Ramirez, SAS senior.
After the student panel, we were given meal vouchers for up to $8, and students had an opportunity to eat various food options at the SMC cafeteria. From this, seniors were able to get a taste of the lifestyle they will be living in a couple months. As the last activity of the day, Hollywood students participated in a scavenger hunt to better explore the campus. From looking into particular majors that sparked our students interests to familiarizing ourselves with the campus, Santa Monica College will definitely be taken into consideration for many of our students.
Take action this March
Posted on February 28, 2019 by Elvira Roman in Uncategorized
Elvira Roman
Chronicle Reporter
Since 1991, the United States observed Women’s History Month and on March 8 International Women’s Day will be celebrated. We use this month to celebrate women and their accomplishments, courage, cultural achievements and etc.
Another way to appreciate women is by helping organizations. Here is a list of a few non-profit organizations based in Los Angeles that would appreciate a donation. If a donation can’t be made why not help by volunteering and giving back to the community.
East Los Angeles Women’s Center
This organization was founded in 1976 by women in East LA. ELAWC helps women who survive domestic abuse and sexual violence. Their mission is to make sure women and their families live in a place free from violence and provide access to health services and social support as well.
Downtown Women’s Center
Founded in 1978, this organization was the first housing provider for women in the United States. This organization provides a health clinic for homeless women located in Skid Row. Their goal is to end homelessness for women in Los Angeles by providing them with housing, employment, and wellness.
https://www.downtownwomenscenter.org/volunteer
Los Angeles LGBT Center
The LGBT Center has an organization that is membership based and helps support their vital services for women and girls. The Los Angeles Women’s Network provides opportunities for service, education, and networking.
https://lalgbtcenter.org/how-you-can-help/los-angeles-womens-network
How to prepare for SAT day
Posted on February 26, 2019 by frida larios in Uncategorized
Frida Larios
Chronicle reporter
As most Hollywood High juniors know, we are getting the chance to take the SAT with essay for free next Wednesday.
The thought of the SAT scares many people because they do not know how to prepare themselves so here’s a few tips to help prepare yourself.
1) Practice on Khan Academy every night.
Khan Academy offers a free SAT prep program which can help you track what you need to improve on, and will give you questions similar to the actual SAT.
2) Read the SAT prep book
SAT and ACT prep books are available in front of the college center for free. They have questions from years before so you can see what types of questions and problems you will see on the test.
3) Get tutoring for subjects you know you struggle with
If your teachers offer after school tutoring, go and ask for help. If they don’t, LACER offers after school tutoring every day in the library.
4) Brush up on your grammar and vocabulary
This will be very important since we are being offered the essay section as well and will help you in the long run. Along with Khan Academy, another academic website that can help you with this is Shmoop.
Golden Globe nominations to look out for
Posted on December 7, 2018 by Elvira Roman in Entertainment, Uncategorized
Elvira Roman
Chronicle Reporter
The Golden Globe Awards are to be hosted on Jan. 6 by Sandra Oh and Andy Samberg, who have both won a golden globe award. The nominations were announced on Thursday morning. Glenn Close (“The Wife”), Lady Gaga (“A Star Is Born”), Nicole Kidman (“Destroyer”), Melissa McCarthy (“Can You Ever Forgive Me?”), and Rosamund Pike (“A Private War”) were nominated for best actress in a motion picture.
Bradley Cooper (“A Star Is Born”), Willem Dafoe (“At Eternity’s Gate”), Lucas Hedges (“Boy Erased”), Rami Malek (“Bohemian Rhapsody”), and John David Washington (“BlacKkKlansman”) nominated for best actor in a motion picture. Here are some of the nominations for Best Picture
Best Motion Picture – Drama
T’Challa also known as the Black Panther, has to be a king for the very advanced kingdom of Wakanda after his father was murdered. Wakanda uses vibranium to develop advanced technology for their kingdom only, but to outsiders they are known for being a third world country. T’Challa faces problems as king as an intruder tries to overrule him and take control of Wakanda.
“BlacKkKlansman”
This movie is based on a true story of Ron Stallworth, who is is hired as the first black police officer in the Colorado police department. He successfully joins a local KKK branch to prove his worth to the Colorado Springs Police Department with the help of his Jewish friend.
“Bohemian Rhapsody”
Bohemian Rhapsody is based on the real life events, accomplishments, and problems Freddie Mercury faced while in the band Queen. This movie follows the band in the years that lead to their iconic appearance at the Live Aid concert which happened in 1985.
“If Beale Street Could Talk”
In 1970, 22-year-old Fonny and 19-year-old Tish are in love and planning their life together. Tish’s dream life doesn’t work out when Fonny is arrested for a crime he did not commit.
“A Star Is Born”
In Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut he stars alongside Lady Gaga as a couple of musicians who found each other when they needed it. Bradley Cooper’s character ,Jackson, is a country singer who is an alcoholic and meets a struggling singer Ally. They fall in love and have hardships because as Ally’s career rises, Jackson’s career falls.
Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
Based on the best selling novel by Kevin Kwan, Nick Young and Rachel Chu are brought to life. Nick Young and Rachel Chu are dating and they go to Singapore for wedding and to meet Nick’s family. Rachel finds out he is crazy rich. Family is bump in the road for their relationship.
“The Favourite”
In the early 18th century, England’s Queen Anne has the throne and her very close friend Lady Sarah governs the country in her stead. However, when a new servant by the name of Abigail arrives, her charm is noticed by Lady Sarah. Sarah then takes Abigail under her wing and prepares her to be the Queen’s companion.
Dr. Don Shirley is a very talented African-American pianist who is going to go on a concert tour in 1962. Shirley needs a driver and someone who will protect him. He recruits Tony Lip, avery tough bouncer from the Bronx and the two develop an unexpected friendship.
“Mary Poppins Returns”
Emily Blunt will be the new Mary Poppins and she is back to take care of the Bank’s kids. This will be Lin Manuel Miranda’s first main role in a big film. Dick Van Dyke will make a cameo and as well as Meryl Streep.
“Vice”
Christian Bale will play Dick Cheney. This film is about Gov. George W. Bush of Texas picks Dick Cheney to be his Republican running mate in the 2000 presidential election. When Bush becomes victorious, Cheney uses his newfound power to help reshape the country and the world. Steve Carell, Amy Adams, and Steve Rockwell will star alongside Christian Bale.
For the list of all nominations, check https://variety.com/2018/film/news/golden-globe-nominations-2019-1203082075/amp/
Another Robelo joins the Posse
Posted on December 5, 2018 by Katie Adaya in Uncategorized
Katie Adaya
Chronicle Reporter
Milagros Róbelo, president of Debate Club, LGBT, (F)eminist (I)ntersexuality (G)ender-neutral (H)elpful (T)ogether Club , and Latino Student Union, is the third in her family to win the POSSE scholarship. With this scholarship, she will be attending Kalamazoo College in Michigan State.
“I think the pressure of having two siblings going through that process and winning it made it ten times harder for me to go through the same process,” said Róbelo.
This foundation “is rooted in the belief that a small, diverse group of talented students—a Posse—carefully selected and trained, can serve as a catalyst for individual and community development,” according to Posse Foundation. Their goals are to enlist students with different backgrounds, help create more welcoming campuses to diversity, and keep students on check to take on leadership roles.
To become a Posse scholar, Milagros went through three rounds. In her first round, she was placed in a room with 100 other students. They were divided into different small groups where they had to do different activities such as mini discussions, presentations, and build stuff with legos. This round was created to show if they had the ability to be a team leader and cooperate with others as a team.
In her second round, she had a one-on-one interview where she was interviewed by two posse staff. “I felt more confident in this round than I did on the first because I talked about myself and I’m good at that,” said Robelo.
Her third round consisted of 20 kids who were Kalamazoo finalists, the president of the school, an admissions officer, and two professors. This round was very similar to the first round, where they would divide them into small groups and do similar activities.
Two hours after she finished her last interview, she was eating dinner with her family when she received a phone call from Posse, and it was the president of Kalamazoo. Robelo recounted the story, “the president answered and he said, ‘we forgot to ask you one more question, do you have winter coats for Kalamazoo?’” A Posse staff congratulated her on her success, in which she celebrated with donuts.
