Student News Site of Ruben S. Ayala High School

Bulldog Times
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
Teachers such as AP research teacher Mrs. Kimberly Barreras decorated their doors to bring holiday spirit to the "Deck the Quads" competition.
Teachers show off their school spirit with “Deck the Quads”
As the Class of 2025 officers planned to introduce a new event, Senior Movie Night, this event was met with mixed response on attendance. The previously scheduled date on December 6 was rescheduled to December 18, but a sizable attendance still remains unknown.
Senior Movie Night: Why the reschedule?
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
As the end of the semester approaches, classes start their final projects. Ranging from research presentations to symbolic posters, students use their creativity and knowledge from the school year to create a variety of mediums.
[Photo Essay] Ending the year in style
As the weather gets colder, try out these three recipes to make the holiday season more jolly.
Baking for the Seasons: A Guide to Holiday Treats
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
For many LGBTQ+ teens, coming out can be a terrifying ordeal. While some friends and family may be more supportive than others, fear prevails.

Facing the reality of coming out

Trina Lizama, Staff Reporter
October 31, 2022
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