Student News Site of Ruben S. Ayala High School

Bulldog Times
Flag Football Coach Ms. Amy Campbell shows off that she got nominated as the LA Rams Girls' Flag Football Coach of the Year with the help of votes from enthusiastic supporters.
“Coach of the Year” nomination shows that hard work pays off
On Thursday, the first day of the Winter Concert, Mr. Kyle Martinez is seen conducting Ayala Jass Ensemble.
Winter Concert sets the holiday season off with cheerfulness
Charlene Cheng (12) prepares elementary debate students for their upcoming debate tournament.
Elementary debate coaches prep the next generation
Finals will include a lunch break and earlier zero periods, different from previous years.
Finals schedule: A sudden change
A day before performance, Choir director Mr. Robert Davis was about to begin conducting student.
Madrigal Feaste is an event that never disappoints
One day left before choir students performed on December 6, studious work must be done to compensate the pressure of doing Madrigal Feastes' 25th event.
[Photo Essay] Madfeaste: Behind the scenes
While teaching was not his original career plan, Mr. Lynus Vuong has found a love for teaching Human Anatomy and Physiology. With many hoping to pursue the healthcare field, Vuong's entrance into the subject has expanded the knowledge of many students.
Teachers of Ayala: Lynus Vuong
A different view on the Christmas season, this song describes the sadness the holidays can also bring. Taylor Swift explores old regrets through "Tis' the Damn Season."
Song Spotlight: “Tis’ the Damn Season”
In compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the school-issued Chromebooks must filter content that is deemed obscene or harmful to students. Oftentimes the internet filter blocks content unnecessarily or arbitrarily in complete disregard of its very goal: to keep children safe.
CIPA restrictions block access to content
Taylor Swift has performed her "Eras Tour" various worldwide stadiums such as SoFi Stadium and many others for the past two years and it has finally ended on December 8. How much has changed since its first show?
The Eras Tour: End of an era, start of an age
Ayala GSA is one of the many clubs on campus available to all. This club is one accepting of all no matter what defining qualities you choose to express. Led by President Collin Moreno Crestejo (12), the club hopes to bring acceptance on campus.
Club Spotlight: Gender and Sexuality Alliance [GSA]
Concepcion presents a breakdown of the characters of Disney’s “Zootopia.” Focusing on the main character of the movie, Judy Hopps, Concepcion shows the club the concept art or drafts that showcase the development of the fictional character.
Club Spotlight: Disney Club
From left, Grace Kim (9), Zoey Lepo (9), and Joann Park (9), members of Korean Culture Club, celebrate their Korean heritage. Hoping to find a community of people who share common customs, the girls eagerly wait for the club's first meeting.
[Club Spotlight] Korean Culture Club shines a light on heritage
From left, Emily Nakasaki (11), Dodie Wong (11), Charlene Nguyen (11), Sophia Loriso (11), and Sofia Tovar (11) at this year's Club Rush, promoting the Storybuilding Club. They hope to shine a light on creative writing.
Club Spotlight: Storybuilding Club
Drama club has been gradually growing over the years, but one of the best things about it is the community it has. Every member is supportive of one another with no judgement or hatred for what the other is doing.
Club Spotlight: Drama Club
"I made this record in the space between life and death. It feels like I've waited an eternity for you to have it. I'll wait a bit longer. I've waited a decade already," said  Halsey via Facebook. "The Great Impersonator," Halsey's new album, is full of raw emotion and portray's the artist's life in a new and untold light.
Album Analysis: “The Great Impersonator” by Halsey
In keshi's sophomore album "Requiem," he innovatively intertwines what it's like to love and what it's like to lose. It's an album of alluring melodies and touching lyrics.
Album Analysis: “Requiem” by keshi
Mad Tsai's first album, "teenage nightmare," released on October 10, 2024. It takes listeners through a journey of the harsh reality of teenage years unlike the cliché teen movies Hollywood forces us to believe.
Album Analysis: “teenage nightmare” by Mad Tsai
Released on June 21, 2024, Gracie Abrams' album "The Secret of Us" describes the intense and hectic feelings that come from the aftermath of a breakup. The relatable lyrics give listeners a fresh perspective on love and heartbreak, like pages in a diary.
Album Analysis: “The Secret of Us” by Gracie Abrams
Clairo's third studio album, "Charm" is the album analysis for September. The album perfectly encapsulates the month through its whimsy.
Track by Track: Charm
Boys Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshmen Basketball won against Marquez's Gladiators with stellar performances from all players.
Boys Basketball triumphs over the Marquez Gladiators
Ayala's Boys Varsity Basketball team kept the audience on their toes as they secured a tight win.
Boys Varsity Basketball team narrowly defeats the Calvary Baptist Cougars
Ayala participated in a tournament game against Claremont this past Saturday. Though they lost, they managed to put up a good fight against the Wolfpack.
Ayala varsity girls basketball came up short in tournament game
With 2024 coming to a close, it finally marks the start of the College Football Playoffs within the nation.
College Football Playoffs: it’s anyone’s game
Ayala went up against Chino Hills High in a tournament game. This now sets Ayala at a record of 4-5 with four wins and five losses.
Varsity Girls Basketball suffers loss against Chino Hills High
On November 13, ten recruited senior athletes officially signed to colleges in the gym where family and friends joined in the audience to celebrate their commitment.
Student athletes commit to colleges across North America
Kaylyn Wee (9) is the perfect example of determination and grit. "She handles the pressure very well," Truong said.
Athletes of Ayala: Kaylyn Wee
Aubrey Figueroa (9) stands ready to face her opponents. Though she is only a freshman, Figeuroa has displayed her leadership skills both on and off the court with the JV team.
Aubrey Figueroa: Beyond the Court
During their Yorba Linda game, Sarah Avila raced down the field to score a touchdown.
Sarah Avila: Powering through her obstacles
Senior Zachary Zheng in his letterman jacket covered with patches showcasing his accomplishments in football and academics.
Zachary Zheng: The Definition of Student Athlete
With 2024 coming to a close, it finally marks the start of the College Football Playoffs within the nation.
College Football Playoffs: it’s anyone’s game
The Los Angeles Dodgers won the 2024 World Series, their second in five years. With now eight World Series wins to their name, the Dodgers look to continue a hot streak going into next season.
Los Angeles Dodgers win the World Series
The fifth regular edition of Sports of the Week once again sees the approach of both the NBA playoffs and the start of the MLB season.
Sports of the Week: 3/5-3/11
As always, Dodgers news powers MLB narratives while Juan Soto gets the Yankees back in the conversation for the top teams in the American League going into the 2024 season; NBA keeps on going as the playoffs slowly inch closer.
Sports of the Week: 2/20-3/4
MLB is as exciting as ever while the NBA is actually as exciting as ever in this week's edition of Sports of the Week.
Sports of the Week: 2/12-2/19
Despite losing the homecoming game on September 20 against Glendora's Tartans, this was one of the best performing games for the Varsity team.
A season of ups and downs for Ayala Boys’ Football
Boys Varsity Football loses a close match-up to Etiwanda High School. The Bulldogs, making the D6 playoffs this past Sunday, will face off against Northwood High School on the road.
Boys Varsity Football loses final matchup of league season
Varsity Flag football celebrates their seniors at their senior night game.
Flag football’s inaugural season promises bright future
The Varsity team huddling together at their last game of the season against Bonita's Bearcats.
Bulldogs Season Recap: Girls Varsity Volleyball
Ayala plays their final away game of the season, falling short to the strong Damien team. This will leave Ayala to one league rival left, the Etiwanda Eagles.
Ayala Football loses in final away game of the season
(From left to right) Seniors Victoria Rivas, Sydney Rich, Julian Juarez, Tyler Johnson, Ben Trull, Angelina Hernandez, Donovan Thomas, Alexander Florentinus, Nathan Cheng, Ryan Chen, Joshua Chan, and Roseanna Ashak line up in front of the pool as the friends, parents, teammates, and coaches commemorate the Bulldogs.
Bulldogs dominate against Bearcats during Swim Senior Night
The Varsity Girls Flag Football team fell to Chino High School's Cowboys during their previous game on Monday.
Girls Varsity Flag Football falls to Chino
After securing their third win in a row, the Junior Varsity (JV) team continues to advance after sweeping the court against Jurupa Valley's Cougars.
JV team secures another volleyball victory against the Jaguars
After the success of their previous records, our girls in the Varsity Softball team continue to push forward in their league as they win against Alta Loma Braves.
Varsity Softball team destroys Alta Loma Braves
After pushing through a close game, the JV Boys Volleyball team finished the week winning both of their games. They left the crowd at the edge of their seats during the tight game against the Los Osos Grizzlies where they won 2-1.
JV boys volleyball finishes the week with another win
Boys Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshmen Basketball won against Marquez's Gladiators with stellar performances from all players.
Boys Basketball triumphs over the Marquez Gladiators
Ayala's Boys Varsity Basketball team kept the audience on their toes as they secured a tight win.
Boys Varsity Basketball team narrowly defeats the Calvary Baptist Cougars
Ayala participated in a tournament game against Claremont this past Saturday. Though they lost, they managed to put up a good fight against the Wolfpack.
Ayala varsity girls basketball came up short in tournament game
Ayala went up against Chino Hills High in a tournament game. This now sets Ayala at a record of 4-5 with four wins and five losses.
Varsity Girls Basketball suffers loss against Chino Hills High
Los Osos defeated by Ayala in the most recent game. This win leaves the Bulldogs with a record of 4-1.
Ayala Boys Soccer gets another win in their season
Austin Elder, track athlete and scholar, works hard to set a great future for himself as he navigates high school, learning from and fixing his mistakes.
Bulldogs of Ayala: Austin Elder
After his victory in the E-board elections, Don Kumar (10) ventures to his celebratory dinner to commemorate the occasion.
Bulldogs of Ayala: Don Kumar
Despite the criticism Crestejo faces for being part of the LGBTQ+ community, he still lives out loud and unafraid of the backlash he receives. From receiving rude comments online to facing hate in-person, Crestejo doesn't let the haters get to him and embraces his identity.
Bulldogs of Ayala: Collin Moreno-Crestejo
Alfaro performing at the Jumangi rally on August 23. Swaying along to Alfaro's song, the audience raised their phones as flashlights.
Diego Alfaro: Nobody said it was easy
Over the past three years, Rosas has given everything in order to have the privilege and honor of saying that he was the Editor-in-Chief of the Bulldog Times. Now, he says goodbye.
Farewell from the Editor-in-Chief
Taylor Swift has performed her "Eras Tour" various worldwide stadiums such as SoFi Stadium and many others for the past two years and it has finally ended on December 8. How much has changed since its first show?
The Eras Tour: End of an era, start of an age
Spotify Wrapped finally came out this year after a long wait full of delays, complaints, and anticipation. Except for getting the annual Wrapped that everyone expected, Spotify users got something far worse.
Spotify Wrapped: Wrapped in Disappointment
As the holiday season approaches, myriads of streaming services pump out as many formulaic, cliche Christmas movies as they can. However, the most hated manufacturer of such entertainment, Hallmark, might actually be the ultimate Christmas comfort.
Hallmark movies are actually the ultimate Christmas comfort
There are many movie franchises out there that have been affected by this theory of the "trilogy curse," but what exactly is it?
Cursed Thirds: Trilogies gone wrong
Microtrends have been a big part of 2024, and everyone has fallen into the trap of microtrends. Are they as beneficial as we thought they were?
From hot to not, the rise of micro trends
"Close your eyes, little one" Sophia Lam
“Close your eyes”: Comic illustration
Thank you to everyone who participated, and congratulations to these runner-up entries!
Spooky Scary Stories: ’24 Runner-ups
Thank you to everyone who participated in this Halloween's writing contest!
Spooky Scary Stories – ’24 Halloween writing contest
Friends Kyle Cheng (9) and Derek Chen (9) also have AIR books. Chen is reading a classic "The Hobbit" and diving into the literary works of J.R.R Tolkien. Cheng is reading "The Neptune Challenge."
[Photo Essay] AIR books: read to succeed
As Dear Asian Youth (DAY) club and South Asian Culture Club (SACC) continues to inform students on campus regarding subjects of Asian culture, they recently collaborated together to host a DAY x SACC Art Festival. This festival featured a wide range of art forms from origami to digital pieces.
DAY x SACC Art Festival
Maybe death isn't so edgy after all.
A “Wholesome” Story (3/3)
Bastet, protector of the dead
A “Wholesome” Story (2/3)
Death is an unfortunate habit, isn't it?
A “Wholesome” Story (1/3)
"Chocolate was something Mr. Hershey enjoyed. . . "
Anthelme Syndrome (6/6)
"Chocolate was something Mr. Hershey enjoyed. . . "
Anthelme Syndrome (5/6)
With the 2023-2024 school year coming to an end, it has been a roller coaster of emotions and memories. What's better than a playlist that captures these emotions?
[Playlist] Your 2023-2024 school year wrapped
Want to learn more about your favorite topics? These podcasts are a great way to do so!
A guide to educational podcasts
Want to learn more about your favorite YouTubers? These podcasts are a great way to do so!
A guide to YouTuber-hosted podcasts
Silent Night, Gloria, Joy to the World, Little Drummer Boy. These are a few of the classics that are sung while going door to door Christmas caroling. These classic and traditional songs tell a story that no other Christmas songs can do.
[Playlist] Traditionally Christmas
Blast from the past! Here is a list of nostalgic songs to bring you back to your childhood!
[Playlist] Nostalgic songs from our childhood
Cosmic Powers: Issue 11
Cosmic Powers: Issue 11
Adventures of Blip and Bloop: Issue 3
Adventures of Blip and Bloop: Issue 3
Marigold: Issue 1
Marigold: Issue 1
Cosmic Powers: Issue 10
Cosmic Powers: Issue 10
Adventures of Blip and Bloop: Issue 2
Adventures of Blip and Bloop: Issue 2
Cosmic Powers: Issue 9
Cosmic Powers: Issue 9

Bulldog Times
Student News Site of Ruben S. Ayala High School

Bulldog Times
Wren Bulawin

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Staff Writer

Wren Bulawin (12) is a first-year staff writer and Open Canvas manager for the Bulldog Times. Having just recently developed their passion in writing, they hope to finally step out of their comfort zone for their final year and become more involved in campus culture through reporting on school events and fellow Bulldogs. As their favorite thing about Ayala is its diverse and accepting culture, they also hope to uplift the diverse voices of students on campus, whether that be promoting talented Bulldogs or fostering a kinder community through their articles. Currently, they serve as the UCC Rep of the Dungeons and Dragons Club. Outside of school, they enjoy playing video games with friends, drawing, writing free-form poems, and creating worlds in their head. 

All content by Wren Bulawin
"Dream jobs" are becoming more unsustainable as living wages and qualifications rise. As a result, today's youth is now tunnel-visioned into thinking the only paths to success are in the medical, engineering, law, or business fields. But just because the road less traveled is not as stable doesn't mean we have to abandon it altogether.

“Dream jobs” are dying. It’s up to us to revive them.

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
May 10, 2023
Now that British and American boy bands are no longer in vogue, musical acts from the East - most notably the incredibly popular Korean boy group BTS - are rising up and becoming household names in the global music industry. The primary demographic of boy bands and groups has always been teenage girls and young women because of how these artists are catered and geared towards the female gaze.

[Photo] K-pop boy groups are taking over in a post-One Direction era

Kaitlyn Luu, Staff Writer
May 10, 2023
Unlike other visual-performing art courses, AP Music Theory allows students to study music as audience members rather than on-stage performers. From ear-training to analyzing the compositions of iconic classical pieces, students will learn the history of classical composers, the techniques used in musical discipline, and leave with a newfound appreciation towards the musical arts.

So you want to take… AP Music Theory?

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
May 4, 2023
"Draw This In Your Style" May 2023 Contest Finalists

“Draw This In Your Style” May 2023 Contest Finalists

Wren Bulawin and Jessica Rios
May 3, 2023
Positive affirmations, while not a cure-all solution to exam stress, can help students get into the right mindset before and during the big day. Repeating these mantras to yourself can not only boost your mood and confidence, but may help you manifest your best self on exam day!

Six academic affirmations to aid you through AP season

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
April 28, 2023
The transition between pre- and post-pandemic life has proven difficult for everyone, especially teenagers. As the world shifts back to "normal," is it really fair to suddenly expect the younger generation to return to their previous selves unscathed?

Three years later: Are we okay?

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
March 23, 2023
Seniors Kirsten Linton (left) and Grace Quinones show off their respective Cars and Paw Patrol backpacks. As part of the recent "inner child" trend, seniors nationwide are choosing to sport elementary-school backpacks to celebrate their nostalgic childhoods.

Exploring the childishness of today’s teens

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
March 16, 2023
Toxic productivity occurs when a productive mindset warps into a cycle of constant guilt and self-criticism regarding one's work ethic. Many people with this mindset may take on far more work than they can handle, which may cause them to feel overwhelmed and guilty for being "unproductive" or not using their time efficiently enough.

Toxic productivity: the constant need to “do”

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
March 7, 2023
Thank you to everyone who participated in Open Canvas' first writing competition!

Spread the Love: Valentines’ Writing Competition 2023 Results

Wren Bulawin and Jessica Rios
March 2, 2023
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[Photo] [Valentines’ Writers Comp 2023] My Love

Caroline Schwartz, Valentines' Writers Comp 2023 First Place Winner
March 2, 2023
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[Photo] [Valentines’ Writers Comp 2023] Latibule

Autumn Velarde, Valentines' Writers Comp 2023 Second Place Winner
March 2, 2023
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[Photo] [Valentines’ Writers Comp 2023] Flowers for You

Jen Reclusado, Valentines' Writers Comp 2023 Third Place Winner
March 2, 2023
At first glance, CP Literature is just your average high school class, complete with demotivated seniors and busy-work. But behind its stereotypical façade, students are given the unique opportunity to delve into historical classics, practice all forms of writing, and even pen their own tales.

So you want to take… CP Literature?

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas, Assistant Features Editor
February 9, 2023
AP Literature provides a challenging yet enriching experience for students by challenging them to interpret different types of literature in their own unique ways. Students will develop a specific toolkit for analyzing fiction, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in various stories and truly appreciate the magic found within words.

So you want to take… AP Literature?

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
February 8, 2023
Artistic sports such as gymnastics, diving, and figure skating more often than not have their legitimacy questioned by avid ball sport fans and people who only see the rough, nitty-gritty demonstrations of athleticism as valid. The question of whether these are "real" sports belies the notion that art and sport can act as one, a notion that has contended much debate.

[Photo] Teetering on the line between sport and art

Kaitlyn Luu, Staff Writer
February 8, 2023
The Ultimate Bulldog Glossary: 20 terms and traditions every High Schooler should know

The Ultimate Bulldog Glossary: 20 terms and traditions every High Schooler should know

Wren Bulawin and Isabel Sim
February 6, 2023
Graduation season is the perfect time for newly-grads to take the world by storm and explore and travel before college. Pictured above are Yosemite's famous Half Dome and El Capitan natural wonders.

[Photo] Top 5 Places to Go on a Grad Trip

Pooja Singamsetty, Staff Reporter
January 30, 2023
Unlike traditional English classes, ERWC places emphasis on analyzing heavily-debated topics and encouraging discussion. Students will analyze a variety of non-fiction texts on both sides of a subject, and learn to form their own opinions through personal writing.

So you want to take… ERWC?

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Assistant Features Editor
January 25, 2023
Untitled Artwork

[Photo] Is she annoying, or is she just a woman?

Pooja Singamsetty
January 18, 2023
Artists of all mediums throughout Ayala gather in Mr. Spellman’s room (D132) to connect with like-minded individuals and improve their skills. Art Club aims to provide multiple opportunities for these artists, from volunteer hours to art shows and competitions.

Art Club’s revival promotes the artists of tomorrow

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Staff Writer
December 1, 2022
[Review] "The Owl House" S3 E1: The little things that matter

[Review] “The Owl House” S3 E1: The little things that matter

Wren Bulawin, Staff Writer, Open Canvas Manager
November 12, 2022
the visit visual

[Photo] [Review] “A Visit”: the light found in grim

Maximus Hemming, Kaitlyn Luu, David Rodriguez, and Avery Rosas
November 7, 2022
[Playlist] Cozy Autumn Vibes

[Playlist] Cozy Autumn Vibes

Wren Bulawin, Staff Writer
November 4, 2022
Clay Dennis (12)

[Photo] [Photo Essay] Ayala Halloween 2022: Celebrated in style

Sayee Deshmukh, Arts and Entertainment Editor
October 31, 2022
Juniper Witt's entry for the "disguise" prompt captures the whimsical melancholy of revealing the unknown.

Ayala Arttober 2022 Results

Wren Bulawin and Jessica Rios
October 31, 2022
Part of the LGBTQ+ community, asexuality is an identity that describes a lack or complete absence of sexual attraction to others. However, those who identify as ace tend to be disregarded as part of the community and their identities dismissed because of ignorance and misinformation, leading to the creation of campaigns such as October's Ace Week.

What does it mean to be asexual?

Wren Bulawin, Staff Reporter, Open Canvas Manager
October 28, 2022
Ting Xiao (12) prepares to dive into the water during one of Ayala's boys' swim meets. These meets often coincided with his architecture team's meetings, but Xiao quickly learned to adapt to the changes and fit both extracurriculars into his schedule.

Ting Xiao: Finding Patterns in the Pool

Wren Bulawin, Staff Writer
October 27, 2022
Junior Varsity girls' swim coach Pamela Luncz (far right) stands with her team during May 2022's CIF swim championships.

Coach Pamela Luncz: Giving Back to the Team

Wren Bulawin, Staff Writer
October 27, 2022
Bulawin - Left-handedness (Dallas)

[Photo] How Are You and Your Left-Handed Friend Different?

Dallas Mangold, Staff Reporter
October 7, 2022
As graduation draws closer, seniors begin to truly feel the effect of four years of chronic stress set in. Unable to hold themselves together, many succumb to burnout, causing a severe drop in grades and academic performance.

Surviving senioritis: Keeping the fire burning when it matters most

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Staff Reporter
October 7, 2022
Environmental Science (APES) students discuss their experiences in the class, which poses the question--is APES Ayala's easiest AP or simply mimicry? While some find the content-heavy memorization challenging, others find its hands-on learning style fitting for those hesitant to take a science AP course.

So you want to take … AP Environmental Science?

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager, Staff Reporter
October 7, 2022
Vivienne Westwood Spring/Summer 2023 brings blue tartan print blazers and trousers and bags to the runway for London Fashion Week as well as patterned socks paired with platform slides to complete the look. Westwood's famous corsets also make an appearance in this collection.

[Photo] London Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2023: Vivienne Westwood

Kaitlyn Luu, Staff Writer
October 7, 2022
Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) player Logan Cromwell (10) poses as a fantastical character as he listens to the foreground of the game's story. D&D Club consists of improvisation, storytelling, and worldbuilding at its heart, which stimulates members' imagination.

Rolling initiative: D&D Club prepares to launch its first campaigns

Wren Bulawin, Open Canvas Manager
September 27, 2022
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