highlights
April 30, 2015 Volume 88, Issue 13 Beverly Hills High School Beverly Hills, California beverlyhighlights.com
ASB implements change Robotics places Eleanor Bogart-Stuart, culture editor of the constitution and to fix any problems through a proposal to Lucas Harward, staff writer ASB to amend the constitution. Any amendment requires the Although summer is only a few approval of two-thirds of ASB,” weeks away, ASB and senior vice Kashfi said. president Amir Kashfi are still ASB and the constitution combusy working to plan events for mittee are now focusing on students and improve Beverly’s changing a law that regulates ruling student body. how long delegates can hold Kashfi only became a part of elected positions. Currently, ASB during the last semester of those who have been elected to his high school career, but has a role in ASB can only maintain already initiated some major the job for half of a year. Adminchanges. istration asked the members of “Last semester, I passed a conASB to change the length to a full stitutional initiative, the first year so as to prevent scheduling successful initiative in BHHS problems and be more similar to history, as a student outside of other student governments, deASB. That’s what inspired me to spite some student backlash. join as a second-semester senior. “Semester elections are disrupI decided to join our student govtive for the flow of the class. With ernment to continue increasing year-long elections, people who ASB’s transparency, accessibility get good at their positions will be and constitutional effectiveness,” able to keep their positions. OthKashfi said. er ASBs do year-long elections The ASB constitution commitand succeed, so why can’t we?” tee, made up of Kashfi, Student Schenk said. “We debated the Board Member Josh Schenk, jutopic over several class periods nior representative Shawn Ahand, by the time we decided to doot and sophomore vice presivote, there was an overwhelming dent Noah Lee, is taking the steps majority in favor of the change.” to change ASB for the better. ASB also addressed the con“The constitution committee’s cerns of students who were afraid job is to scrutinize every aspect
of losing elections and being forced to wait a full year before running again. This was done with more additions to the constitution, such as still allowing commissioners to join at the semester point, among other provisions. “We made the commissioner process a little more vague in the Constitution, which makes it more up to the Director of student activities (Mark Mead). We also discussed new methods for the commissioner application process and made it so only seniors can run for Head Row president and vice president,” Ahdoot said. ASB hopes that these changes will increase the class’ productivity and set them up for future success. “This is a healthy amendment that was passed to ensure the productivity and efficiency of class work,” Lee said. “I hope that those with a negative perspective on this topic understand that the amendment was passed for the betterment of the class, keeping in mind that the outcome of our work is to best serve our constituents.”
Boys tennis sweeps Samo Karen Shilyan, business manager The boys varsity tennis team defeated Santa Monica High School, 12-6, in a home game and in their previous away match, with a score of 13-5. The team remains undefeated in their D1 standing and has been named Ocean Leagure champions for the third consecutive time in this school’s history Emilio Yera and Jonah Malkin, co-captains, claim their success is due to their consistent effort and years of compatibility among the team members. “There were many factors that contributed to our success this season. For one thing, since day
one, everyone has been really locked in and focused on the season,” Malkin said. “In addition, a lot of us have been around one another the last couple years so we have good chemistry and team camaraderie.” For some players on the tennis team, this was the last League game that they would compete in. Yera explained his personal thought process throughout the match. “During the match, I was trying to focus on each individual point as if it was the last I was going to play for Beverly. I felt completely relieved after the math, and I’m glad that we were able to take League easily this year,” Yera said.
INSIDE
“Being that it was my senior year and last time playing against Samo, it felt great to get the win and sweep the series against them,” Malkin said. While the tennis team highlights that their success was an easy win, they reflect on recent years and Samo’s increasing set of skills in comparison with their own. “In more recent years, Samo has been a stronger and more competitive team, however this year, due to our teams improvement over the offseason, Samo was an easy win,” Yera said. With Ocean League complete, boys tennis sets its sights on CIF, where it will compete among other D1 teams.
The robotics team won 51st place at their competition in St. Louis. Photo courtsey of: RICHA VIJAYVERGIYA of equipment that only came out in our final match and it worked Lucas Harward, staff writer really well,” Foreman said. “We Robotics placed 51st out of 600 also had to rebuild parts of the teams at the FIRST Robotics robots, as well as problem solve Competition (FRC) champion- a couple of the electronics isship held at the Edward Jones sues. We wanted to improve evDome in St. Louis, Missouri. erything as much as possible so FRC is a six-week competition we could have a better chance of program that challenges students winning.” to build a 120 pound robot that The robotics team participated can complete the year’s task, in the Tesla subdivision.What which changes annually, using also made the competition enjoystandard parts. able was its amiable atmosphere. Senior Garrett Foreman, who “Most robotics teams are really has gone to the St. Louis compe- friendly so we weren’t really intition for the last three years, de- timidated,” Foreman said. “The scribed the challenges the team team is like a family and we get to faced while competing. have a lot of fun building robots “It was fun, but we had a lot of while also competing against work to do. We added a new piece many other teams.”
Consultant recommends auditoriums remain closed Marty Schnapp, news editor Professional engineers are set to report on the K.L. Peters, El Rodeo and Hawthorne auditoriums for safety, and in the opinion of BHUSD Consultant Timothy Buresh, the district should keep the buildings closed. Buresh reported that the condition of the buildings may be even worse than what was expected. He read a series of reports on building structure and the risk of an earthquake affecting Beverly Hills. “The buildings, if anything, are weaker than we thought. The seismic risk is also higher,” Buresh said.
He claims that seismic risk plays a large role, because Beverly Hills is at risk of a large earthquake in the near future. “Every seismic prediction of cycling says that we are overdue for another Northridge, but in a different location,” Buresh said. He warned the Board that the risk of children’s lives potentially being lost should be taken seriously and addressed immediately. “You have too many factors in play. At some point, the ice gets too thin and you will break through, and I’m telling you that you are very, very close to that. That’s my professional recommendation,” Buresh said.
SPOTLIGHT CULTURE OPINION
this issue
FEATURE: Substitute teachers Page
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REVIEW: Treats to try this spring Page
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EDITORIAL: Police brutality in America
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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS April 30, 2015
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News analysis: Modern police brutality Jackson Prince co-editor-in-chief Sadie Hersh photo editor The last three years have been defined by tensions between the urban African-American populations of several cities across the United States and their governing police departments. Most recently in the news, Baltimore has been consumed by riots over the apparent mishandling of Freddie Gray’s medical conditions upon arrest by Baltimore police, leading to Gray’s death. Highlights has broken down the story into three parts: its background (including the cases preceding Gray’s death), its current situation and what the future holds. Background In February 2012, Florida teenager Trayvon Martin was shot and killed by George Zimmerman, a white neighborhood watch volunteer. When Zimmerman was acquitted by a Florida grand jury, the conflict between the AfricanAmerican community and the police intensified, but little violence occurred. The situation in Ferguson, Missouri was the beginning of violent
protests that were related to racial discrimination against AfricanAmericans. Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson shot and killed Michael Brown after he had allegedly robbed a convenience store and reached for Wilson’s gun. Wilson was acquitted after months of jury deliberation in August 2014. On the night of Nov. 24, the city of Ferguson was set ablaze. The town experienced a riot-filled night of looting, tear gas and citizencaused terror. Then, the names of AfricanAmericans who died from police brutality began to pile up, and the public has become more and more emotionally connected to each individual story, as well as the broken record itself. Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, Cameron Tillman, Walter Scott. Three weeks ago, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Eric Harris was shot accidentally, according to reports, by a reserve sheriff’s deputy who was reaching for his taser but grabbed his gun instead. The man is Robert Charles Bates, described as “a wealthy 73-year-old insurance executive with close political ties to the sheriff.” Through it all, governmental reform has been absent, and tension
between the police and their constituents has intensified.
have been called in to help the state police.
Highlights Juliette Deutsch and Jackson Prince editors-in-chief
Marty Schnapp Freddie Gray Freddie Gray was 25-year-old resident of Baltimore who was resisting arrest for weapons charges. He ran away from three police officers on April 12. Once the officers tackled Gray, they proceeded to beat him into critical condition, reaggravating an injury, according to reports. One witness says that an officer had his knee on Gray’s neck, causing his voice box to crush and making him scream, “I can’t breathe.” He was then dragged to a police van and taken to booking instead of receiving medical attention. After going to the hospital an hour later, it was said that Gray suffered a spinal cord injury and three fractured ribs. He fell into a coma and was unable to be saved by surgical attempts. Gray died from his injuries on April 19. Since Gray’s funeral on April 27, violent protests have erupted all over Baltimore, causing the city to be placed on a citywide curfew of 10 p.m. As of Monday, six officers have been seriously injured and 35 protesters have been arrested. 2,000 National Guard soldiers
What’s next In response to the riots, 2016 presidential candidate Hillary Clinton addressed the situation at a fundraiser for her campaign. She conveyed her regret for the death of Gray and said, “The violence must stop.” Moving forward, Clinton explains the need for police officers across the country to wear body cameras. She expressed the need firm reforms to ensure justice and equality. President Obama confronted the issue saying that the violent riots were “counterproductive” and expressed no sympathy for the protesters who are rioting in the streets. He described that the incident between the police department and Gray brings up a broader recurring problem in the United States. President Obama addressed that the violence must stop. Los Angeles All LAPD officers will be equipped with body cameras in the months to come in order to prevent these racial discriminatory incidents and the riots that ensue.
news editor
Guy Ginsberg sports editor
Sadie Hersh photo editor
Ben Shofet
graphics editor
Karen Shilyan
business manager
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist
Ben Shofet graphics editor
Eleanor Bogart -Stuart, Lucas Harward, and Celine Rezvani staff writers Gaby Herbst
adviser — The mission of Highlights is to deliver community-relevant news in a timely manner while adhering to professional ethics. Highlights is a forum for student free expression that is produced by the Advanced Journalism class of Beverly Hills High School, 241 Moreno Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212. Letters to the editor may be sent to beverlyhighlights@gmail.com.
HIGHLIGHTS APRIL 30, 2015
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LIBERAL EDITION
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Politixworks.com
“Sub me in” What you never knew about Norman Nation subsitutes
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HIGHLIGHTS SPOTLIGHT APRIL 30, 2015
Highlights: Can you tell us a little about yourself? London: I was born in Winnipeg, Canada, and came to Los Angeles via Cal-Berkeley, where I majored in French and received my teaching credential. I arrived in Los Angeles after living in Paris for three years to work and live here. I received my registered nursing license in 1997. I had my own advertising agency where I was self-employed for many years, working with photographers who mainly worked in the music magazine and fashion industries. Then, I returned to teaching at Beverly Hills High School seven years ago. Highlights: What kinds of things did you do while living in Paris? London: I worked for photographers in the fashion industry as a photo stylist, which included accessorizing and dressing all the sets for the photo campaigns. I also went there to perfect my knowledge in French and help my fluency in the language. Highlights: Any memorable projects you worked on while running your own business? London: I went to Tahiti on a fashion shoot for two weeks, which was a very memorable occasion. I, the agent, along with a group of 20 people who were models and producers oversaw a photoshoot. I was responsible for many campaigns and many exciting fashion shoots and a lot of music business, which included work with CD covers. I also worked on editorials for magazines like Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, Wired and Vogue. In addition, my photographers were responsible for the initial Bullseye Target campaign. Highlights: How have your other careers helped prepare you for subbing and taught you the best ways to work with students? London: I would definitely say communication skills and skills of relating to people and of helping people. Highlights: What are some hobbies of yours? London: I am a francophile, so I love to maintain my studies in French. I’m interested in the arts and I’m interested in my dog Desie Arnaz Babaloo London, a French poodle. Highlights: What kind of art are you interested in? London: I like photography a lot, but I’m also interested in art of every period and culture, especially American and French art. Highlights: What is your favorite part about subbing for high school students? London: My favorite part is the flexibility, which makes me feel like I’m still in control as I was when I ran my own business. I like the culture of the school, the atmosphere, the camaraderie with my peers and with the students and it all ties into my focus of helping. Highlights: What is the most challenging part of subbing? London: Subbing isn’t challenging for me. I feel like it’s second nature for me. I really don’t have any significant problems. Highlights: What is the most rewarding part of subbing? London: My happiest times have been teaching and working at Beverly Hills High School and working with the kids here. It’s definitely the most rewarding part of my job.
Highlights: Can you tell us a little about yourself? Kraft: I was born and grew up on the east coast until I was 13-years-old. Then, my family moved to Beverly Hills and I started at Beverly High as a freshman. At Beverly I got involved in the theater department which was a big part of my high school experience. I also got involved at Beverly with a new program called Opportunity. We were known as Opportunity Aides and, after being trained by professional counselors, we provided peer academic and social counseling to fellow students. I was also active in the school’s backpacking and camping club and we took weekend camping trips to the local mountains. Outside of school I started first volunteering, and later working, for the City of Beverly Hills Recreation Department (BHRD). Back then, the BHRD had a division called Outdoor Education that taught environmentalism by organizing programs in the classroom as well as taking students on backpacking trips all over California. Working in this program was my first job and was a tremendous learning experience. Working on these trips was not only a tremendous skill building opportunity, but was probably the most fun job I’ve ever had. Highlights: How have your other careers helped prepare you for subbing and taught you the best ways to deal with students? Kraft: After college I worked for a number of year researching and producing documentary television. I developed great research skills and learned how to present the information that I gathered in a way that was clear, concise and easy to understand. I think I’ve been able to transfer this skill to the classroom which has made me a better teacher. Later, along with my family, I started our company, Sticker Planet, that we grew to employ 25 people and deliver our products worldwide. I think being an entrepreneur and running a company was the best business education I could have gotten. I learned so many things about perseverance, innovation and problems solving, all of which I find very helpful in the classroom. Highlights: What are some hobbies of yours? Kraft: I’m still a theater lover and spend a lot of time going to plays and shows. I’m also a complete political junkie and spend many hours keeping up with current events and public affairs. I also love to bike ride and my goal this summer is to start doing long distance training. Highlights: What is your favorite part about subbing for high school students? Kraft: I love being in the classroom with students. High school students are at the age where they are being exposed to ideas and concepts about the world that are completely new and different to them. Getting to engage with students and be a small part of opening their eyes to new things is very rewarding. Highlights: What is the most challenging part of subbing? Kraft: I think teaching in general, is keeping students focused in the present moment. Mobile devices are a huge distraction and it’s often hard to convey to students the importance of engaging in what’s happening in the classroom right in front of them. Highlights: What is the most rewarding part of subbing? Kraft: One of the most rewarding parts of subbing is when I’m able to explain something to a student that creates an “ah-ha” moment and I know I’ve added value to the classroom that day. I love to see students graduate who I remember teaching in elementary or middle school and realizing how much they’ve achieved over their school career.
Highlights: Can you tell us a little about yourself? Outlaw: I am a teacher and a choreographer and I grew up in Glendale, California. I went to Cal State Fullerton and majored in Dance and Kinestheology. I’ve taught in Burbank, Irvine and Anaheim so far. And right now I’m just substitute teaching and choreographing. Highlights: What got you interested in dance? Outlaw: I’ve been dancing since I was three, so my parents just put me into dance and I haven’t stopped since. I played basketball a little bit too, because they were both basketball players. But by twelfth grade I was just dancing. Highlights: Why did you want to teach dance? Outlaw: I wanted to teach dance because when I was younger there were some things that my dance teachers didn’t tell me that I wish I had known when it comes to body alignment and stuff like that. I just think that when you’re a teenager, you really need to know how to move your body correctly, so that when you get older you don’t injure so easily. I got injured really easily, and if I had been doing things correctly in dance, then I wouldn’t have gotten injured so quickly. Highlights: How do Burbank and Irvine compare to here? Outlaw: There are great kids in all of the cities. This is definitely the biggest school I’ve been to, in terms of grounds. All the classes are pretty much the same. Highlights: What’s been the most challenging part for coming in in the middle of the year and becoming the new dance teacher? Outlaw: A lot of the times the students kind of compare you to the regular teacher. They’ll say, “Ms. Findley didn’t do this” or “Ms. Findley didn’t do that”, but what they don’t understand is that we are not their other teacher. We are going to do things differently. Their teacher has already told me that I kind of have free reign. She told me the basis of her grades and I’m kind of doing exactly what she does, anyway. I think it’s just getting the kids to adapt to a new person, because they don’t understand that I’m a new person with new ideas. Highlights: What’s the most rewarding part about subbing for this class? Outlaw: Being able to meet new people and meet new kids. I think every time I get into a new class I think of new ideas to help them learn. I think meeting new kids helps me become a better teacher, because I figure out new ways to help them learn and help them grow as a dancer and as a student. Highlights:Have you taught people other than high schoolers? Outlaw: I’ve taught adults in another studio in Burbank and North Hollywood. I do a lot of freelance stuff. I create videos, and grab friends and ask if they want to make a video. Just look up London Outlaw. I’m the only London Outlaw in YouTube history. Highlights: Are there any other activities or hobbies you enjoy doing outside of dance? Outlaw: I like to read a lot. I love watching movies. My guilty pleasure is probably reality TV shows. If it’s [Step Up] is on TV, what I do is just tape it and fast forward through all the acting scenes and go straight to the dance. Highlights: Where do you draw inspiration from? Outlaw: I draw inspiration from other choreographers and other dancers from the dance community. It’s a really small dance world, so a lot of us know each other anyways. I’m also in a work study program at Movement Lifestyle, which is a dance studio in North Hollywood, so I draw inspiration from the teachers there.
What Normans think...
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Subs are an important part of the Beverly family. They spice things up during the school year and put a little twist on things. -junior Mikey Barcohana
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Ms. Outlaw
Eleanor Bogart- Stuart staff writer
Mr. Kraft
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist Eleanor Bogart- Stuart staff writer
Ms. London
Lucas Harward staff writer
I feel as if some substitutes at this school are
very well organized and
care about the well-being
of the students. Other substitutes I feel come because they have to.
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-senior Zack Gorokhovsky
The cool ones are the ones that aren’t strict. The annoying ones are the ones
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that are trying to look for misbehavior.
-sophomore Isaiah Friedman
HIGHL IGHTS CULTURE APRIL 30, 2015
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Treats to try this springtime Decay of ‘Grey’s’ ity amongst New Yorkers, OddFreeze at Pressed Juicery Fellows NYC has stood the test of Sold exclusively at West Holtime against longtime lywood, Brentwood and Beverly popular creameries Hills locations. such as Emack & BoJust as the taste of liquefied lios and the Queens’ greens and fruits was becoming original Van Leeuwen. trendy and tolerable in LA, Pressed This popular NYC treat Juicery’s Heidi Gores and Hayden will be available at Slater have hit us with their newyour local LA market est trendy item. They are calling starting in June 2015. it “Freeze”, a soft serve treat that Pastry chef and Brook- is created from the juice of fruits lyn native Sam Mason and vegetables and is vegan and has conjured up some gluten-free. Freeze effectively satnoteworthy flavor isfies spring frozen cravings but combinations such as without the guilt. Freeze. Freeze chorizo caramel swirl comes in six flavors: greens, citrus, Ricotta and jam toast paired with other classic and spiced pear. Ma- fruit, roots, vanilla and chocolate Sqirl LA dishes and freshly brewed coffee. son’s confections are almond, which are all inspired by Toast at Sqirl truly exceptional and drinks sold at Pressed. Toppings 720 N. Virgil Ave., Los Ange- will become an instant classic offered are freshly shaved coconut, les among ice homemade If you enjoy chaos and communal cream congranola and tables as much as you do crispy bri- noisseurs in fresh fruit. oche toast smeared with almond- LA. Upon Although hazelnut butter or fresh quince visiting the Freeze is a paste, then Sqirl may be your new East Village type of softfavorite place to brunch in the city. store, locatserve, it is Plus, any place that serves G&B cof- ed between not sweet like fee is a good option to begin with. Bowery and soft-serve at Created and run by notorious jam- 2nd Ave, I the Bigg Chill stress Jessica Koslow, also behind highly recor typical froDimes NYC, Sqirl elevates toast to o m m e n d zen yogurt. new level. It doesn’t get more basic getting your Each cup is than toast, or much better than the hands on made with toast at Sqirl. the butter- Oddfellows Buttermilk honey and sprinkles juice and almilk honey ice cream from their East Village store in mond milk Instagram: @sqirlla or sprinkles New York. Photos by: Juliette Deutsch. products givflavor when it becomes available in ing it a surprisingly but delicious OddFellows Ice Cream LA. If you’re not in the mood for frozen and tart taste, accompanied The East Village outpost of this something as heavy, try the mat- by a whipped consistency. popular Williamsburg creamery cha sorbet. serves up a rotating roster of ice Instagram: @pressedjuicery creams that are made fresh daily. Instagram: @oddfellowsnyc After gaining extreme popularJuliette Deutsch co-editor-in-chief
Sadie Hersh photo editor
*SPOILER ALERT* The following article includes details from various ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ episodes. 11 seasons. 241 episodes. 173 hours. This is how much time Grey’s Anatomy fans have devoted to watching the series. We religiously tune in every Thursday to see the latest drama going on between the doctors at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, from intense make-out sessions in the elevators, even more intense twelve hour brain surgeries, to “meetings” in the on call rooms. As the show closes its eleventh season, only four of the nine original cast members remain on the show. The other five have either left the hospital or have been killed off. New characters are constantly introduced because the cycle of the hospital hierarchy from interns to residents to attendings repeats every season. So, the show can hypothetically run forever, as new cast members join. But at this point, who wants it to go on? After the last heart wrenching episode that aired, where Derek Shepherd dies in a car accident, fans were left heartbroken and in utter disbelief. Social media platforms flooded with #RIPDerek and #RIPMcDreamy. The loss of such a crucial character leaves many wondering, “Where will the show go next?”
This same question was asked when George O’Malley was killed when he was hit by a bus at the end of season five. These are vital characters who cannot be replaced. Sure, the creator Shonda Rhimes can cast new people to fill the former actors’ position, but it’s not the same because the fan base is emotionally invested in the originals. No one would expect a main character, like Derek, to die, which was the suspense Rhimes wanted to bring to the episode. Killing Derek also brings an abrupt end to the relationship between him and his wife Meredith Grey, for whom the show is named. While many are mourning the loss of McDreamy and can’t imagine a fulfilling episode without him, the show must and will go on. As the mastermind behind the show, Rhimes will save her fan base from their pit of sorrows and bring the halls of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital back to the drama the show’s fans have come to expect. From what we have seen in the past, whether it be plane crashes or bombs in body cavities, it is safe to assume that Rhimes will bring it back with a bang. Viewers have invested so much time into the show and feel emotionally connected its characters. This strong devotion cannot be broken by Derek’s death. Just like the fan overcame the death of George, they will overcome this loss. We will continue to tune in on Thursdays to keep up with the most recent scandals at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
Jenner dilemma
Damien Rice: lonely thunder
Jackson Prince co-editor-in-chief
Guy Ginsberg sports editor
his announcement as “incredibly We don’t react to the media brave.” Those of us who applaude well. We are fed a headline, and his action want to make this situproceed to think and speak and ation normal in the future, so it act, without reading the entire ar- no longer is a “weird” thing. Howticle. We are exposed to a Vine or ever, the more the public makes Tweet, and we go on to build our this case so special, the farther we distance ourselves from the future positions within which this anout considernouncement is ing the rest of not a big deal. the tale. True accepThe headtance can only lines read: be achieved BRUCE JENwhen these difNER ANferences beNOUNCES come part of the TRANSITION “norm”, and not TO BECOME an exception to FEMALE. But the rule. Hopethat’s not the fully there will story. That’s come a time in the hook. the near future Anyone who when these anconnects to A photo of Jenner pre Diane Sawyer n o u n c e m e n t s the Internet interview. Photo courtesy of SKRATT will no longer was aware need to be “anof Jenner’s nounced” and will simply be as transition. We kept up with the ordinary as Brad and Angelina getKardashians. And while it was inting back together again. teresting for Jenner to make his In order to reach the standard transition “official” in his interwe so desire in regards to athview with Diane Sawyer, the story letes being comfortable in makwas out long ago. It was what Jening statements about their sexual ner touched upon before and after orientation or identity, we have to the aforementioned headline, that stop clapping so loudly. In order to gives the public much to consider. make this situation normal in the What we did wrong in our reacfuture, it has to be normal now. tion was our ceaseless heralding of
Rice stand motionless, like the unsuspecting shy student forced to read in front of class. But, it wasn’t awkward, lonely or boring- you couldn’t take your eyes off it. It was hilarious watching him
showered with light flickers and explosions, only to abruptly take it Irish folk-indie singer Damien all back down from full force to a Rice released his third studio allight note, effectively erasing from bum, My Favorite Faded Fantasy, our minds that the last ten seconds in 2014, with various musical exever happened- only to be remindperience. He toured with ‘90’s ed of it by his smooth rock band soulfulness, a complete Juniper, beand stark contrast. fore settling It was compelling down for a to watch Rice orchessolo career trate the audience to with the alharmonize with him bums “O” while strumming away in 2002 and to “Volcano”, splitting “9” in 2006. the crowd into thirds It’s Fanand asking each to sing tasy which a piece of the song that brought brought us all together Rice to as a whole, like pieces of The Greek a puzzle added that we on Friday, didn’t even know were April 24. missing. Strumming A light show during Rice’s performance at the Greek theater on Arguably the most ballads from Friday, April 24. Photo by: GUY GINSBERG memorable part of the his new recomplain (uncensored) about the show was when Rice delivered cord as well as channeling his old cold weather, tell crude stories a soulful ballad to close off the hits, Rice never failed to stun. But about sexual miscues from his show, and a belligerent fan began it wasn’t only the songs that kept childhood and sip wine while in- screaming back the lyrics, like a the show alive. teracting with the ever-so-appre- drunken echo, hilariously conRice, clad in a grey tee and ciative of him audience. trasting Rice’s finely tuned vocals. skinny jeans, spent most of the “You’re hot!” A fan screamed. Rice, being the entertainer he is, show alone on stage basking in a “No, I’m actually f-----g cold!” invited the fan on stage to join him. single spotlight. Pure and isolated, Rice replied. The crowd erupted In a turn of events that could only all he had to shield himself from in laughter and applause, but Rice be described as epic, the two went the chilling cold of night was his was already gone- on to the next back and forth while everyone in 6-string and a microphone. song and story. the audience laughed and clapped. There was something captivatIt was beautiful to see him di- It was remarkable to watch, and ing about watching 41-year-old vulge head first into a blasting riff amazing to be a part of.
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HIGHLIGHTS OPINION APRIL 30, 2015
Police brutality in context: the bigger picture Editorial Don’t let one rotten egg spoil the whole dozen. While the public’s rampant reaction to recorded cases of police brutality is justifiable, the media’s outburst shines a bad light on all police officers, which is unfair to those who perform their duties the right way.Most police officers serve their communities well. They do their jobs, and, as a result, their areas of jurisdiction remain safe. The overall crime rate in the United States has been on a steady decline for decades, and overall effective police forces are largely responsible. There is a reason that you can walk around safely in neighborhoods that used to be deemed unsafe and that is because of the effectiveness of the police officers who do their job right. Yes, police brutality is an issue in this country. There is no immediate solution, but blaming a group of people for an individuals actions is not the answer to this troubling issue.
The prevalence of social media has played a major role in this. At the tip of their fingers, viewers can like, share and comment on videos depicting brutality. It is important to look at each police officer as an individual. There
are good eggs and there are bad eggs, but it is important that we do not overlook the contribution that the good ones make to society just because some corrupt officers make headlines with their actions. Recent events in Baltimore show
Letter to the editor When my family moved to Beverly Hills from the east coast, I remember driving past Beverly Hills High School, where I was about to enroll as a freshman, and being duly impressed with the majestic façade and rolling green lawn of our beautiful campus. I was proud, four years later, to graduate on that lawn, inspired by my classmates’ speeches that exhorted us to do good in the world and make our planet a better place to live. Now, in 2015, we are facing a challenge unlike any we’ve faced before. As we experience one of the worst droughts in California history, our community of Beverly Hills is sadly among the worst water wasters in the state. Fortunately, our City Council has just voted to implement measures designed to achieve the 36% reduc-
tion in water consumption that has been mandated by the state. Here at Beverly High, we have an opportunity to lead our community on this issue. We should stop watering our iconic front lawn and let it go brown. We would not be alone. Another great institution in Southern California has done the same thing. On a recent visit to the world-famous Getty Museum, I was pleased to see that they’ve let their beautiful lawn, enjoyed by visitors from all over the world, go dry. If the Getty is willing to give up their lawn for the sake of water conservation, then certainly we can too. We could even take our efforts a step further by replanting a small portion of our lawn with native, drought-tolerant plants to educate our community through demonstration and show Beverly Hills residents how they might reduce water consumption in their own yards. Imagine the impact when our graduation speakers this year can not only speak to the importance of creating a better world for future generations, but can point to the brown lawn we’ll all be sitting on and show what we’re already doing to achieve that. essential goal.
- Richard Kraft Photo by: Richard Kraft
It was reported that in the recent Baltimore riots, 15 officers were injured and two remain hospitalized. To add, destroyed patrol cars and burned property were just part of the damage that the city has incurred. Changes are necessary and voices need to be heard. This is true and this is still possible, despite what happened on the streets of Baltimore, and even in Ferguson. What happened to Freddie Grey was tragic and should never be repeated. However, looting property and destroying the city of Baltimore will not bring change. It will only bring more tensions. But now, the anger and brutality of those claiming the right to violence in Freddie Gray’s name needs to cease. The right to inflict vioCartoon by: Veronica Pahomova lence on police officers that an entire police force is being who woke up to do their job to blamed for the excessive force that keep their cities safe but in turn two Baltimore police officer took get the blame for another person’s in the arrest of Freddie Gray. The actions needs to cease as well. It’s outcomes are almost as detrimen- no one’s job to tolerate either of tal as what happened to Gray. these actions, so let’s just stop.
‘Star-Park’ comeback Veronica Pahomova cartoonist Eleanor Bogart-Stuart culture editor
Whether it’s the dashing Captain Kirk, maniacal Freddie Krueger, or even that beloved magic boy Harry Potter, childhood movies carry a lot of weight and importance to most people. Recently there’s been a trend in remakes, sequels, and even prequels of these childhood favorites, so people can relive a small but meaningful part of their past. Things like Spiderman, Star Trek, or even live action versions of Disney cartoons are allowing people to relive these sentimental moments. The last couple months have seen the release of the trailers for fan favorites and belobed franchises “Jurassic Park” and “Star Wars”. These movies have an extremely loyal fanbase. “The new ‘Star Wars’ trailer for episode seven has made me feel like a kid again. When I was really young, I was, and still am, a huge ‘Star Wars’ nerd,” sophomore Randy Schmidt said. “The release of this teaser trailer has brought me back to the second grade when I used to play ‘Star Wars’ with my dad. I’m sure I speak for more than just for myself when I say that I can’t wait for ‘Star Wars’!” Imagine a little boy infatuated with this science fiction series. Now, imagine his dad inhibiting the same love for the movies. And now picture the look on their faces when word catches on that ten years after Episode Three, there’s finally a continuation in the making. In a generation far, far away, “Star Wars Episode Four” was released in 1977. Incase that date was skimmed over, then it is vital to repeat the fact that it was released in 1977. This means that even the parents of this generation would know the infmaous sci-fi series “Star Wars”. Although the “Star Wars” fans have found solace in Cartoon Network remakes, a slew of “make-your-own” Darth Vader legos and a silly amount of jedi related apparel, Jurassic Park fans had little to exhibit their devotion. Now with “Jurassic World” coming out starring such a big name as Chris Pratt, fans finally get their pay day.
“I was a big fan of Michael Crichton,” history department chair Dan Moraica said. “It depends on how they do it. If they do it well, it can be amazing. If they don’t, it’ll still make money but I’ll be pissed off.” Whether you are a fan or not, you’ve heard about the “Star Wars” and “Jurassic World” trailers and the shocking amount of response from their fandoms that has generated around the world. First of all, these two trailers have garnered a ridiculous amount of hits on YouTube, and it’s easy to infer that the rabid fanatic has a something to do with it. The “Star Wars Episode VII- The Force Awakens” official teaser trailer has over 66 million views. The “Jurassic World” official trailer has over 57 million. To put that in comparison, Obama’s inaugural address has around two million views. Miley Cyrus at the VMA music awards has almost four million. Though many times a sequel of a movie or series is considered taboo and somewhat “milking it”, imagine the continuation being just as good, if not better, as the original. Fascinate about seeing that movie near and dear to your heart in the big screens. Bold text slowly panning across the screen. Cinematic music fading in and out with each cut. And then leaving the theater knowing that your allowance will be spent on multiple tickets to the same movie. “I like it when they take things and obviously improve,” Moroaica said. “In ‘Star Wars’ it was believed that Goeorge Lucas kinda of took a step back with the prequels. And these new ones are going to be, in my opinion, amazing. We’re excited about that.” These classic films aren’t only for the current young generation, they’re for the kid in all of us. Whether that kid used to spend Saturday nights going to the drive-in movie theater, or whether that kid now drives to see films in Century City doesn’t matter. So if you haven’t seen these trailers already, go watch them. On Dec. 18, 2015, tell us how the new “Star Wars” episode truly was. And on June 12, 2015, feel free to share if those dinosaurs really did meet up to their expectations.
HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS APRIL 30, 2015
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3-PEAT: Tennis wins OCEAN LEAGUE
Boys varisty tennis defeated SAMO 12-6 in a league match on Tuesday, April 28. To read more about boys varsity tennis and their win, visit beverlyhighlights.com or follow us on Twitter @bhhighlights
Lacrosse star makes sacrifices for sport he loves Celine Rezvani staff writer No red meat for 24 hours. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich to start the day. Lots of vegetables. Lots of protein. Coconut water. No fast food. No soda. To varsity lacrosse captain Eli Soroudi, game-day eating habits should not be taken lightly. Disobeying these strict dietary standards could affect his performance during a game, by making him sluggish or slowing him down. “My role on the team is really physically taxing,” he said. “If I’m not properly nourished I won’t be able to perform to the best of my
abilities.” Soroudi has been playing lacrosse since freshman year, and currently holds the third best face off percentage in California. For Soroudi, the sport has brought a calming effect. “Lacrosse is a great way for me to take out my anger for the week, or even the day,” he said. Soroudi plays the midfield position, and also competes in the face-off, one of the most physical components of the game. “A face-off happens at the end of every quarter and the start of each game,” he said. “The ball is put down in the middle, and the two players practically wrestle for
possession. I used to wrestle, so it’s a great way for me to transfer my skills from wrestling to lacrosse.” Soroudi, stresses the face-off’s impact on the game. “It’s important because it gives teams a huge advantage,” he said. “It’s my favorite part of the game because it’s where I’m most dominant.” Soroudi also feels lacrosse has distinct characteristics. “It’s really dynamic and unique,” he said. “No other sport has a stick that you care for, string up on your own and to your own preferences.” Soroudi feels the biggest challenge he faces is maintaining stamina throughout the game.
“Having good endurance is key,” he said. “Being able to still play well and make good decisions while you’re tired is really important.” To get to where he is, Soroudi spent a long time honing his skills. “I spent a lot of time just throwing the ball against a wall and catching it with my stick,” he said. “Just as you would with any sport, you just have to work at specific things Soroudi playing midfield during a game. you want to be good at.” Photo courtsey of: ELI SOROUDI
2015 NFL Draft boasts strong class; Winston tops board Lucas Harward staff writer
ZennieAbraham/FLICKR The 2015 NFL draft, where 256 young men will realize their dream of becoming professional football players, begins tonight with the televising of round 1. The draft begins at 5:00 p.m. pacific time and will be broadcasted from Auditorium Theatre in Chicago. The draft is a crucial opportunity for NFL teams to build themselves for the future and create the best team possible. Any drafted player from the vaunted first overall pick to the last overall pick (“Mr. Irrelevant”) can make an impact in the league. But no one likes talking about low picks. Here are the best players in the draft, organized by the most significant positions. Quarterback: Jameis Winston, Florida State: Winston’s got a strong competitive spirit, an aura of confidence and a big frame with arguably the
best combination of arm strength and throwing accuracy in the draft. Concerns raised about his mobility were vindicated when he ran a 4.97 second 40-yard dash. However, many analysts have devalued these concerns, pointing to the fact that Winston’s inate ability as a pocket passer limits his need to run. Winston is the most pro-ready player in the draft and, although he still needs to mature, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have the first overall pick, would be silly not to grab him. Marcus Mariota, Oregon: Mariota’s ability to put pressure on the defense with his speed and athleticism is what made him such a dangerous player in college. College is not the NFL, however. Mariota will need to develop the skills necessary to be an NFL quarterback, like dropping back from under center and scanning the field. His potential, though, should take him off the board second overall. Running back: Todd Gurley, Georgia: Gurley is no doubt an NFL back. With a muscular frame and a balanced style, he’s a natural when it comes to seeing holes, hitting them and bouncing off defenders. The 232-pound Gurley can
also operate in pass protection and receiving out of the backfield, however, injury concerns could hurt his draft stock. He’s currently nursing a torn ACL that is going to keep him sidelined until midAugust 2015. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: Gordon’s ability to accelerate makes him a constant threat for huge gains running the football. While not overpowering, he is physical and will generate the momentum to break tackles. Obviously, NFL defenses are much tougher than the ones Gordon has faced, so he will need to prove himself as a pass-catcher and not rely so much on breakthrough runs by practicing patience at the line of scrimmage. Wide Receiver: Amari Cooper, Alabama: Cooper excels at quickly releasing off the line to beat press coverage and accelerating to create separation from defenders. He’s always a threat to make a highlight catch, but will occasionally drop catchable balls. At 6’1”, his height isn’t scaring anyone off, but he’s thick and fast, with a complete skillset for the position. Look for him to be the first receiver off the board.
Kevin White, West Virginia: While Cooper is ranked ahead, White is arguably the most gifted receiver in the draft. He is tall and lean with a great vertical, and is best when he can rise up and pluck passes out of the air. He can accelerate quickly and has very reliable hands, yet, while he is fast, his speed isn’t elite. Of course, this is only a small price for a team to pay when drafting a player like White. Defensive Line: Leonard Williams, USC: Williams, in the eyes of many, is the best player in the draft. The 6’5” 302 lb. behemoth has the rare combination of size, athleticism and power that any team would love to have. He can play anywhere on the line, and his large frame and quickness make his gap penetration and pursuit look effortless. The cherry on top is his love for the game, meaning teams should have no problem keeping him focused and inspired. Shane Ray, Missouri: Ray is freakishly athletic and can rely more on his abilities over technique to make plays. He is very explosive, blowing by defenders with balance and the ability to easily change direction. His motor is great as well, but he’ll need to
develop more legitimate pass-rush moves and rely less on athletic improvisation to be successful at the next level. Secondary: Trae Waynes, Michigan State: Waynes is a confident player who is very experienced when it comes to one-on-one coverage. Luckily for the team that drafts him, he has the size and ball skills to do the same in the NFL. A very physical player, Waynes will use his body to disrupt receiver’s routes and will hold nothing back when tackling the ball-carrier. Yet, while he does have the size, he doesn’t necessarily have the strength, and will need to get stronger to avoid being bullied by bigger receivers and backs. Landon Collins, Alabama: The fact that Collins is considered the top safety in the draft while at the same time criticized for his struggles in pass coverage is a testament to his dominance in run support. He has a knack for open-field tackling and forcing fumbles with his aggressiveness, but is susceptible to savvy quarterback tricks used to free up wideouts. Collins is most certainly at his best when paired up deep with a more talented cover safety.