On May 28, the Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) announced that it had chosen its replacements for Assistant Principals Zach Larsen and Jason Law for the 2008-09 school year. After a long interview process, it was announced that Washington High School science teacher Diane Brumbaugh and FUSD Program Specialist Carlisle (Carli) Kim will be the new assistant principals for the next school year. 

Sophomore Lena Sizikova recently conducted a survey comparing the relative popularity of drugs between students here at MSJ and those at a public school in Russia. The students, ranging from 9th to 12th graders, took a survey in April 2008 that aimed to portray the prominence of drugs in both countries. 

The Supreme Court of CA ruled on Thursday, May 15 that same-sex couples have the right to marry, making CA the second state, following Massachusetts, to legalize gay marriage. Marriage licenses for same-sex couples are not scheduled to be released until June 17, but the opposition has already qualified an initiative for the November ballot that would again ban same-sex marriage in CA. What voters need to realize is that the state supreme court’s decision was long overdue. 

It’s about time a law went into effect banning the use of cell phones while driving. Trying to multitask while driving is irresponsible and hazardous to the safety of everyone on the road, though the majority of drivers simply ignore this. 

 This year, MSJ will say goodbye to five school teachers and one grade-level secretary. This Smoke Signal interviewed these staff members on their careers, memorable moments and retirement plans. 

With the vast amount of diversity in the US, people are becoming more tolerant of others, regardless of their sexual orientation. The month of June was deemed Gay and Lesbian Pride Month by Bill Clinton in 2000. June was chosen to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall riots, which are thought to be the start of the Gay Liberation movement in the US.  This month symbolizes acceptance and diversity in communities. 

With summer just around the corner, many of us are getting ready to pack our bags and start traveling. But for those staying home for the summer, there are numerous local hangouts that will assuredly provide the perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation. 

When you leave here, don't forget why you came. And in the end, it was worth all the time. 

While commercial blockbusters like Iron Man and Indiana Jones are winning at the box office, a couple of limited releases are making names for themselves on the indie scene. These are some of the most critically acclaimed and anticipated indie films of the year. 

For seniors entering college this fall, it is crucial to have powerful yet affordable devices for the sake of schoolwork, entertainment and hipness. Here are some of the latest to choose from.