The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
The Student News Site of Foothill Technology High School

The Foothill Dragon Press
Alivia Baker

Alivia Baker, Communications Director

"Lock up your libraries if you like; but there is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you can set upon the freedom of the mind" - Virginia Wolf

All content by Alivia Baker
Leaving the climate crisis on the back burner can have devastating effects, slowly turning our colorful world more grey as a chemical haze of smog and air pollution fills the atmosphere and leaves of faded green trees fall.

Cartoon 107: “Chasing grey”: The importance of taking action for our planet

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
March 27, 2023
Money at times seems to move the world and those in it, but with the world’s environmental health moving in a downward direction, one might ask what effects the Willow Project will have on the planet. Writer Emma Ippolito explores the complicated aspects of this new project and the effects it could have on the planet’s health.

[Photo] Alaska’s Willow Project: How much of the Earth’s health are we willing to sacrifice to boost the economy?

March 26, 2023
Writer Theo Kayser delves into the new Lil Yachty album and its impact on mainstream music, as well as how it departs from other instances where rappers have ventured outside their normal genre.

[Photo] Lil Yachty strikes gold where his predecessors have come up empty-handed with “Let’s Start Here.”

March 23, 2023
Writer Kelly Quinn discusses the differences between the two popular video games, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Dark Souls. These two games may both feature warriors and battles, but there are major differences between the two.

[Photo] What makes “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” different from “Dark Souls?”

March 5, 2023
Hogwarts Legacy is an interactive spectacle for users with its rich and detailed graphics. Learn more from writer Paula Gonzalez in this in depth review of the game.

[Photo] Hogwarts Legacy: An interactive return to the Wizarding World

February 21, 2023
Writer Linda Manzo gives a scathing review of classic romance film The Notebook.

[Photo] Satire: Ripping out pages of “The Notebook”

February 15, 2023
Check out four timeless rom-com hits this Valentines season with movie enthusiast Linda Manzo.

[Photo] Four rom-coms to ring in Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2023
“Avatar: The Way of Water” continues the series’ theme of relevant topics and stunning visuals as it delves into themes such as human relationships with nature, loving others despite differences, family bonds, and tradition.

[Photo] “Avatar: The Way of Water” is dominating the movie industry

February 11, 2023
Semester one finals are right around the corner, and there’s no need to stress with writer Frances English’s tips on how to prepare.

[Photo] How to prepare for finals week

January 11, 2023
There were many new changes and old favorites at Foothill Tech in 2022; these are some that made students and teachers smile.

[Photo] Best of 2022: Best of Foothill Tech

January 11, 2023
From battling monsters in other dimensions to summer getaway romances, these shows were some of 2022s best.

[Photo] Best of 2022: Shows

January 11, 2023
A cat with a backpack and intergalactic battles are just the beginning of this years best video games.

[Photo] Best of 2022: Video games

January 11, 2023
Take a visit to Harrys House and meet Taylor Swift at Midnight in this best albums of 2022 review.

[Photo] Best of 2022: Albums

January 4, 2023
The media as a whole impacts the perspectives of young teens in many different ways, including the romanticization of the work force. Take a closer look at this very topic with writer Amber Duhs in the article below.

[Photo] Opinion: How the constant romanticization of the workforce in media affects teenagers

October 23, 2022
Writer Julia Brossia reviews and shares her opinions on the newly released, highly anticipated film, “Don’t Worry Darling.

[Photo] Olivia Wilde’s “Don’t Worry Darling” fails to live up to expectations 

October 9, 2022
College can dictate much of a young student’s future, and there are many factors to consider such as money, family life, passions and more when choosing whether or not to commit. Take a look at this complicated topic with writers and students Emilie Huovinen and Linda Manzo as they pick apart the pieces of college consideration.

[Photo] The pros and cons of college

September 23, 2022
Serena Williams’ tennis legacy lives on as she continues to inspire others. Read more about this women’s tennis champion in the following article.

[Photo] Serena Williams: A monarch of women’s tennis

September 22, 2022
The increasingly popular multinational entertainment company ‘Disney’ sketches and paints an unrealistic picture of what high school life should look like, causing an abrupt awakening for many incoming students left without the comforts of laugh-track background noise to soften harsh realities.

[Photo] Opinion: What Disney doesn’t tell you about high school

April 25, 2022
Relate with writer Tessa Shinden in this satirical piece on how the flood of emails from prospective colleges can throw one into the water too early, carrying students unnecessarily down the river towards application decisions.

[Photo] Satire: Beware premature college emails and their flood-like spam

April 19, 2022
Peer into what life is like as a twin with writers Claire Hadley and Frances English.

[Photo] Being a twin: An unbreakable bond or a struggle for identity?

April 1, 2022
Witness the beloved super hero, Batman, on a whole different level with writers Carmen and Kelly Quinn in this spectacular movie review of 2022’s “The Batman”.

[Photo] Will the release of “The Batman” usher in a new era of DC dominance?

March 28, 2022
Experience the complexity in this multi-level Netflix series that takes viewers from grief to joy, love to murder, with writer Ryann Liddell.

[Photo] “The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window”: A new spin on the classic murder mystery

March 14, 2022
Take a look at whether or not certain students deserve the right to ‘claim’ lunch tables as their own on campus with writer Tessa Shinden.

[Photo] OPINION: Lunch table ownership

February 13, 2022
Remember and celebrate the faces that changed history this month in Black History Month article by writer Carmen Quinn.

[Photo] Celebrate Black History Month in Ventura with this local figure

February 2, 2022
Charge your headphones and plug in those earbuds-its time to reflect on some of the best work 2021’s artists have to offer.

[Photo] Best of 2021: Albums

January 14, 2022
Battle monsters and robots as a mechanical man in this beloved video game.

[Photo] Metroid Dread: Here after a dreadfully long wait

December 19, 2021
Feel the joy of giving without the difficulty of knowing what to get-or make-after reading writer Lily Toreja’s gift guide for this holiday season.

[Photo] Don’t spend more money, spend good time: A Holiday gift guide

December 18, 2021
The ability to see film over the decades through the eyes of brilliant directors and screenplay writers has shaped society in immeasurable ways, all around the world.

[Photo] Older shows that have left a lasting impact on society

November 19, 2021
Photo credit: Banksy

Five things to do today that will change your life on social media tomorrow

Alivia Baker, Writer
November 8, 2021
Both reading as a hobby and reading for school assignments can lift students to higher literary levels.

[Photo] One for The Books: How Language Classes Affect Reading Appreciation

October 29, 2021
Writer Olivia Zoll brings advice on how high school hallway experiences can improve for students spending each day walking past their concrete walls.

[Photo] WikiHow: To walk in Foothill hallways

October 26, 2021
Step into spooky season this October with writer Frances English’s Halloween movie recommendations.

[Photo] Five movies to get you in the Halloween spirit

October 15, 2021
Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) students have returned, masked, to campus with stories of new experiences and life changes from their time away from Foothill Tech.

Dragons at a distance: Student life during school closure

Alivia Baker, Writer
October 6, 2021
Cartoon 98: The application anxiety epidemic

Cartoon 98: “The application anxiety epidemic”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
September 27, 2021
Learn more about how MJ Rodriguez has supported the transgender community, becoming part of a shift in the mindset of generations new and old.

[Photo] MJ Rodriguez cements herself as legendary and not just as a house mother

September 17, 2021
Disney’s Cruella 2021 brings viewers a deeper look at the origins of evil from their 1961 101 Dalmatians film.

[Photo] Cruella: A new perspective on the classic Disney villain

September 14, 2021
Discover the latest on Foothill Technology High Schools speech and debate club from writer Noelle Villaseñor.

[Photo] Speech, debate and the improvement of student mental health

June 9, 2021
Even if one is considered a low risk candidate for severe negative impact if infected with the coronavirus, choosing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine can create a ripple effect on many others. By making the choice to find a local vaccinating hospital or center, oneself and others can benefit from the reopening of businesses, community areas and travel availability. Receiving the vaccine brings safety, paving the way for families and friends to reconnect with less worry. With millions killed, those who get vaccinated are saving more lives that could be taken by this deadly virus to come.

Cartoon 94: “The Vaccination Ripple Effect”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
June 3, 2021
This year has been different from any before for Foothill Technology High School (Foothill Tech) students. Congratulations to all Foothill Tech seniors for ending their time at the school strong and enduring their senior year in a much different world than planned. Whether traveling somewhere new, staying in town, going to college or starting a career, we know that our beloved class of 2021 will have a bright future ahead.

Cartoon 92: “Hats off to FTHS class of 2021”

May 19, 2021
Have you taken time to relax recently? Spice up your down time with these quarantine favorites featured by writers Ryann Liddell and Isabella Fortunati that are sure to help you relax to the max.

[Photo] Extraordinary movies to enjoy during summer break

May 8, 2021
The Olympics. Millions look forward to this exciting time of the year in which athletes compete for highly desired medals, however behind the scenes the cities in which these games are hosted often take a negative blow.

[Photo] Why are cities reluctant to host the Olympics?

May 3, 2021
Join writer Sam Noah in observing how monetization of the youth sports industry can be detrimental to those on and off the playing field.

[Photo] OPINION: Too much profit, not enough play; the problems with the youth sports industry today

May 1, 2021
After almost a year spent online learning over Zoom, the majority of Foothill Tech students have returned to campus once again for the remainder of the school year this spring. With this shift comes opportunities to connect and have fun with others as well as a present need to follow safety precautions. Many students are counting on others to take these measures. Have fun, stay safe and finish out the rest of this unexpected school year strong dragons!

Cartoon 90: “Finish strong Foothill Tech students”

April 28, 2021
Learn of the ‘Golden Face of Rap’ with writer Alex Jannone and Ethan Sequeira as they explore the life and rise to fame of Chance the Rapper, uncovering what happened to the popularity of this beloved artist.

[Photo] What happened to Chance the Rapper?

April 23, 2021
College admission is a dog-eat-dog world this day in age with more competition for acceptance than ever. Take a journey with writer Olivia Zoll in this article to discover her beliefs on one of most the painful post-acceptance or deferral experiences: college shaming.

[Photo] OPINION: “College Shaming” needs to end

April 21, 2021
Will sports make a full comeback? Writers Claire Hernandez and Cierra Marienthal elaborate on just how a COVID-19 vaccine might effect upcoming sports seasons, and the athletes participating.

[Photo] Optimistic athletes share their insight on the COVID-19 vaccine

April 13, 2021
This year on world water day, over 800 million people suffer from lack of access to clean water. However, you have the power to make a lasting impact on the lives of others by supporting organizations and non-profits that help a wish of access to clean water for all become reality.

Cartoon 88: “A worldwide wish”

March 22, 2021
Connecting with nature in our environment can provide an escape from the worries of everyday life. If writing papers, staring at a screen or staying inside creates a repetitive cycle, breaking it by getting outside and experiencing the magic of nature can provide a world away whether at the beach, a dog park, hiking locally or in your backyard.

Cartoon 86: “Escape”

March 8, 2021
Beautiful bodies of water are a given for rowers, and a favorite aspect of the sport for those who love nature.

Rowing: more than meets the eye

February 28, 2021
As easy as it is to dwell on the past before the COVID-19 pandemic, having hope that joy can still bloom in present circumstances by adapting to the world we live in now rather than looking behind or ahead can make all the difference.

Cartoon 84: “Hope in the here and now”

February 22, 2021
A detailed outline of how to apply to the various special programs at Foothill Tech.

[Photo] A guide to applying for special programs at Foothill Tech

February 10, 2021
Take gifts to the next level this Valentines Day by saving money and staying safe at home with homemade gifts that are sure to bring joy to the gift receiver, and giver.

[Photo] Simple yet spectacular homemade gifts for your Valentine

February 3, 2021
Isolated from others during this pandemic era, technology appears to be a necessity for everyday life. However, it is essential to know that consumers of technological devices and their controlled content are often left in the dark when it comes to knowing what is true, and what is not. Cartoonist Alivia Baker warns to beware of falling victim to the distorted reality our devices -- and the people behind them -- can create.

Cartoon 82: “Pixelated lenses: reality blurs when viewed on a screen”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
February 1, 2021
Read about and vote for your favorite shoe, dive into a battle between Converse, Docs, Nike and Vans.

[Photo] Showdown of the shoes: Docs, Vans, Converse and Nike

January 31, 2021
Be aware of and discover what is tracking, manipulating and dividing us as a society--social media--in writer Sam Noahs review on the new Netflix documentary, The Social Dilemma.

[Photo] “The Social Dilemma”: Why technology and social media are tearing us apart

January 27, 2021
Have you heard it all? Discover and remember some of the best rap music 2020’s brilliant artists have to offer.

[Photo] 2020 Rapped: Best rap albums of the year

January 21, 2021
COVID-19 vaccines are born in a world taken over by the virus, shedding a light of hope to many in dark and uncertain times.

Venturing into the COVID-19 vaccines

Alivia Baker, Reporter
January 21, 2021
Learn of what the 46th president-elect of the United States Joe Biden and vice president-elect Kamila Harris’ inauguration ceremony will be like during the current pandemic era.

[Photo] The conclusion to the 2020 presidential elections: Joe Biden’s and Kamala Harris’ inauguration

January 20, 2021
With full calendars on online learning platform Canvas, students and teachers at Foothill Tech brave Semester One finals week from their homes for the first time.

Cartoon 80: “Online learning leaves Foothill Tech taking finals like never before”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
January 18, 2021
Foothill Tech students and teachers have been learning online for months, however plans to reopen safely are underway. Discover the latest on in-person education at Foothill Tech from writer Emma Ippolito.

[Photo] Foothill Tech plan for small group integration

January 7, 2021
When long days of online class seem to take all your energy, visit this article written by Ryann Liddell and discover ways you can refresh and recharge a tired mind.

[Photo] Reboot your brain after a day of online school

December 10, 2020
Packages seem to fall like snow on the steps of those looking to stay safe and shop online in this pandemic holiday season.

Cartoon 77: “Doorsteps fill with cheer as holiday shopping turns virtual”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
December 8, 2020
Stay up to date as to what lies ahead in these changing times as writer Caroline Hubner informs of the new curfew for California citizens.

[Photo] Governor Gavin Newsom orders curfew for counties in California amid rise of COVID-19 cases, possibility for stay-at-home order

December 6, 2020
May thankfulness for the little things fall like autumn leaves and gratefulness be like a cool November breeze in times of trouble as you enter this Thanksgiving season.

Cartoon 75: “Happy Thanksgiving!”

November 25, 2020
Refresh and recharge your emotional battery, prepare and be ready for the pandemic winter with this psychological quarantine survival guide.

Cartoon 73: “Psychological quarantine survival guide”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
November 9, 2020
Day by day passes by as another polar ice cap melts, greenhouse gases burn through the ozone layer, hundreds of trees are cut at their core and helpless sea animals die from ocean pollution. Earth has taken a blow from the actions of our population, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing we can do about it. Illustrator Alivia Baker believes that you can help sustain the world we live in and our futures by recycling, saving water, volunteering to plant trees locally, going solar, choosing electric cars or supporting businesses and nonprofits that help the environment.

Cartoon 70: “Only one Earth”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
October 19, 2020
Time travel back to a century in which a woman did not have all the rights she might today and witness the adventures of a young aspiring detective who breaks societal norms in the new film Enola Holmes.

[Photo] Enola Holmes: A twist on the timeless mystery

October 17, 2020
In memory of Ruth Bader Ginsburg; a fallen hero to many.

[Photo] Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s life and legacy

October 15, 2020
Two candidates go head to head for a chance at becoming the next leader, the next president of the United States of America.

[Photo] A tale of two candidates: Donald Trump vs. Joe Biden

September 23, 2020
Illustrator Alivia Baker displays how local hair salons go a cut above; offering outdoor service to clients in need.

Cartoon 66: “A weight off your shoulders – haircuts following quarantine”

Alivia Baker, Illustrator
September 22, 2020
Finding the perfect movie to keep you entertained while staying at home is not always an easy task. Luckily, writers Isabella Fortunati and Ryann Liddell have put together a list. What will you watch next?

[Photo] Intriguing movies to spice up your quarantine

September 25, 2020
20 years in the making: Foothill Techs teachers and staff

20 years in the making: Foothill Tech’s teachers and staff

Bella Meza, Lillian Li, Jordyn Savard, Naomi Schmitt, Chloe Scofield, Kaelyn Savard, and Alivia Baker
September 4, 2020
Russell Gibbs is Foothill Techs new principal. His former jobs include working as a journalism advisor for two years at Grant Community High School, English teacher at Ace Charter High School and Rancho Campana High School (RCHS) and assistant principal at Hueneme High School. Although this year may look a little different, Gibbs is ready and excited for the task!

[Photo] Administration, Counseling and Career

September 2, 2020
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