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January 23, 2015 Volume 88, Issue 8 Beverly Hills High School Beverly Hills, Calif. beverlyhighlights.com
Over 100 seniors given probation, punished Sadie Hersh, photo editor Lolita Gorbacheva, staff writer Last week, about 100 seniors were placed on probation, barring them from attending Grad Night at Disneyland, according to House A assistant principal Renee Cobb. In order for seniors to be placed on probation, they would have to have received an F in at least one class, 30 tardies or 10 unexcused absences. “We all have individual meetings with the students, and when we meet with them, our priority is to address academics and how to be successful in academics and how to be successful in life,” House B assistant principal Kevin Brown said. “The two go hand-in-hand, meaning attendance, being on time, putting forth the work ethic to be successful…you need to sacrifice at times to get what you want. So if you want to have the privileges of Grad Night, what are you going to sacrifice?”
Many seniors have been placed on senior probation and therefore lost Grad Night privileges. Photo by: MARTY SCHNAPP All three assistant principals were ardent in their position.
“Seniors need to be in good standing in order to earn privi-
leges; that’s what we believe, that’s what our philosophy for
all grades is,” House C assistant principal Michelle Halimi-Dar said. “With seniors, there are more opportunities for students to be involved in activities. We don’t want to take a bunch of kids to Grad Night who cannot get to school on time or are failing classes. It is a privilege and you have to earn that privilege.” When five week report cards come out, counselors of seniors who have been put on probation will check their progress since their last meeting. If the students continue to be tardy to class, miss school or fail classes, more of their privileges, such as Prom, beach day or graduation participation, will be taken away. Likewise, seniors can be relieved of senior probation on a “case-by-case” basis, according to Cobb. The first wave of probations hit many of the seniors unexpectedly, according to anonymous sources. continued on page 2
Basketball battles Samo A ‘Twisted’ show Ben Shofet, graphics editor
Karen Shilyan, staff writer games, because it’s a rivalry,” power forward Jalen Sands said. This will likely be the varsity seniors’ final chance to beat Samo on their home court. Last year, the Normans swept Samo in both of their league contests. Having beat Samo in their first matchup
“Playing them one last time at Samo makes me think about all The Normans will be facing off of the memories I had playing against the Samo Vikings for the there and how I will never play second time this season, in their there again. I’m looking for19th game of the regular season ward to seeing all our fans at the on Friday, Jan. 23. So far, the game, and getting one last ‘dub’ Normans are undefeated in their at Samo,” shooting guard Ryan two Ocean League games, and Manoocheri said. boast a 13-5 record in With the acquisitheir overall season. tion of Comanche, as This year, the boys varwell as improvement sity basketball team have by core players such acquired 6’10” senior as shooting guard Chance Comanche. HowTrevor Bergher, powever, Comanche is not goer forward Sands and ing to be the tallest player point guard Navid Raon the court on Friday; falian, the team hopes Samo’s 6’11” Jayce Johnto matchup with the son will be matched up Samo squad. against Comanche. “I’m looking for“Having Chance on our ward to having fun team gives us great con- Senior Chance Comanche dunks in the Swim Gym playing with my fidence going into the during practice. Photo by: SADIE HERSH teammates and I’m game because we know of this season, the team is “ready” also looking forward to seeing how great of a player he is. It to end their Beverly basketball our fans cheering us on as we also means that Samo will most careers ahead of Samo, at Samo. look to beat Samo,” Sands said. likely be playing one of their best
INSIDE
Students of Theatre Arts Workshop, along with director Annie Terry, are crossing new barriers with the upcoming winter play, “Twisted Myths”. It is composed of original adaptations of popular stories from Greco-Roman mythology. The students crafted each piece from scratch, in conjunction with Terry’s guidance. The adaptations are unique in that they will all include a “twist” of the original myth. Hoping to encourage creativity, Terry selected “Twisted Myths” and assigned students to produce scripts based on mythology. “I am very much interested in delving into the entire creative process with the students, so I wanted to do something that would allow them to create a piece from scratch. That means giving them the control of the writing and direction,” Terry said. Senior Yassi Noubahar describes
“Twisted Myths” as different from their typical productions. “I feel so honored to be a part of this production, because it’s the first kind of unique production Beverly has done in a really long time,” Noubahar said. “I’m so excited for people to see the work we’ve put into it.” Noubahar, student director of “Narcissus and Echo”, faced challenges during the production process. “The greatest challenge I’ve encountered in doing “Twisted Myths” was the very beginning, when I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I received support and wisdom from Ms. Terry, and she made this entire process really smooth and a great learning experience,” Noubahar said. Theatre Arts Workshop will debut the free show, “Twisted Myths”, on Feb. 4 through Feb. 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Salter Theatre.
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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS JANUARY 23, 2015
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Q&A with ASB President Juliette Deutsch co-editor-in-chief Marty Schnapp news editor
An ASB veteran, junior Debbie Lee has four semesters of ASB experience under her belt, which have culminated into her current Head Row presidency. She recently sat down with Highlights concerning her recent victory.
A Thousand Words: Yo Soy Charlie
Highlights: What one word would you use to describe yourself? Lee: Aspirational. I’m constantly aspiring to be something greater than myself. I know it sounds cheesy, but I really aspire to be someone who will inspire and empower others. Highlights: Who is your role model in life? Lee: My role model is Vince Lombardi. I think he embodies the idea of persistence and determination, and he definitely made a large impact not only on his team, but also on society as a whole. Highlights: What is it that inspired your initial decision to run for Head Row President? Lee: It comes from my ultimate vision for the school. I envision a student body that isn’t apathetic, and a school that encourages stu-
Head Row President Debbie Lee speaks to ASB during a daily meeting. Photo by: MARTY SCHNAPP dents to actually care about what they’re doing. I really want to create an ASB that works for the purpose of serving the student body and doing what’s best for the school. Highlights: What are some of your semester goals? Lee: Something that I want to emphasize this semester is to change the motivation of ASB. I plan on doing this by not only helping ASB members find what they’re passionate about, but also by listening to them and actually making the effort to implement their ideas and opinions. I also think that fostering good relationships with both students and faculty will be the first step in creating a more cohesive community.
Highlights:How does it feel to be ASB Head Row President during your junior year? Lee: It’s been pretty tough, but it will beextremely worthwhile. I’m glad I decided to take upon this role as a junior because I have more time to improve myself during senior year. Highlights: How does being Head Row President compare to your previous ASB positions? Lee: Head Row President is a demanding job because I serve as the face of the student body, responsible for ASB as a whole. It requires me to hold others accountable, which is something I’ve never done in my ASB years.
Spanish teacher Joseph Isaac decorated his classrom door with notecards on which each of his students wrote “Yo soy Charlie” , the Spanish translation of “Je suis Charlie”, sympathizing with the victims of the Charlie Hedbo attack in Paris. Photo by: JACKSON PRINCE
No Grad Night for over 100 seniors continued from page 1 The Senior Performance Contract did inform all seniors that they ran the risk of being placed on probation and having privileges taken away in their second semester. “The punishment is too extreme, out of the blue,” an anonymous senior on probation said. Many seniors, both on probation or not, did not care to comment on the subject, for such reasons as being “ashamed” or “embarrassed”.
“I dislike senior probation because I cannot go to Grad Night, and I will never be able to experience it with my colleagues,” another anonymous senior said. Senior Reese Brucker, who is not on probation, believes that the stripping of Grad Night is “unfair” to many of her classmates. “Students who have generally gotten good enough grades, participated in extracurriculars and not been disruptive in class should
not be penalized so abruptly,” she said. “If someone contributed to this school as a good student and, more importantly, a good person, the little missteps that are being magnified by senior probation should not jeopardize that person who has looked forward to Grad Night for their entire BHHS, if not BHUSD, lifetime.” Students have the opportunity to shed their probation status during second semester, but Grad Night
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will remain banned for the initially-sentenced students. “You’ve been warned your whole life. Being on time is important. Being present in class is important. Not getting F’s is important. It’s not new information,” Cobb said. “There was no need for another ‘warning.’” Seniors are not locked into probation, and cases will be revisited throughout the course of the second semester.
Juliette Deutsch and Jackson Prince editors-in-chief
Guy Ginsberg sports editor
Marty Schnapp news editor
Sadie Hersh photo editor
Ben Shofet
graphics editor
Karen Shilyan
business manager
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist
Eleanor Bogart -Stuart, Amanda Christovich, Sadie Hersh, Lolita Gorbacheva, Lucas Harward, Veronica Pahovoma and Celine Rezvani, staff writers
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HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 23, 2015
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HIGHLIGHTS SPOTLIGHT JANUARY 23, 2015
Changes in Perspective: Transgender Culture Ohio girl’s suicide raises trans-awareness Marty Schnapp news editor Leelah Alcorn, the Ohio teenager who took her own life on Dec. 28 after her parents reacted negatively to her announcement that Leelah was transgender, has gained national, as well as local, recognition and sparked discussion about accepting transgender people for who they are. Numerous LGBT community leaders and celebrities have reached out and commented on Leelah’s case, some mentioning that it signals a turning point in the road for transgender people. Prior to her death, Alcorn wrote a Tumblr post describing her struggles, including that her parents attempted to ‘treat’ her through conversion therapy. As a result, many of Alcorn’s supporters blame her parents for her causing death. Her parents’ actions have also raised discussion about whether or not conversion therapy is an ethical practice. “If you can’t handle having a trans kid, do not have kids,” Stephen Ira, trans-
gender son of Annette Bening and Warren Beatty, said. Up until late 2012, transgenderism was officially listed as a disorder. According to a Highlights survey, 57 percent of Beverly students support transgenderism, six percent are against it and 38 percent do not care about it. Senior Andrew Rudy thinks that some people need to change the way in which they view transgender people. “People need to know that being transgender is perfectly alright, and transgender people need to be looked upon as humans, not as freak shows. We are all living in such a great age of acceptance, and we need to now accept that being transgender is okay,” Rudy said. Rudy stresses that people should not jump to conclusions or judge transgender people, because the only way to fully understand a transgender person’s struggles is to actually experience the same things. “People like Leelah feel that they are trapped within the opposite gender’s body, and those of us who do not feel
this way have no idea what it is like to feel like that, yet those people feel free to speak against transgender people. That’s just wrong. Everyone should feel comfortable with who they are, and for some people, like Leelah, this can only be accomplished by changing genders,” Rudy said. Senior Allie Finer feels that because times have changed, people from younger generations should keep an open mind and accept transgender people as they are. “Some people are just very closedminded about the issue, but that closedmindedness is mostly associated with the older generations. Still, some young people are not accepting and really the only way to help further prevent suicides like Leelah’s are for people to open their hearts and not feed into the Manichean way of thinking. Life isn’t black and white,” Finer said. Junior Gonzalo Sanchez feels that gender identification is completely up to the individual. He partially attributes transgender discrimination to hurtful human tendencies that certain things
are normal and others are not. “Human beings are a very judgmental species, and if they do not like what they see, they immediately think it is incorrect or unnatural. So, naturally, they will refute any idea at changing genders,” Sanchez said. Sanchez believes that through spreading awareness, people can advocate acceptance and therefore fix part of the problem. “Even though many people have set beliefs about transgender people, if those people are exposed to others advocating transgender acceptance, it could lessen the negative connotation and eventually allow people to realize that human beings are killing themselves and that words do hurt,” Sanchez said. Rudy believes that proper and ideal transgender awareness can be achieved by following one basic step. “It all really comes down to the timeless saying: treat others like you want to be treated,” Rudy said.
Transgender representation in the media Ben Shofet graphic editor
John (Shiloh) Pitt: In 2006, the world-renowned power couple Brangelina, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, gave birth to their first biological child, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt. And within four years of the child’s life, she decided to go by the name of John. Ever since parents Pitt and Jolie have fully accepted their child’s wish to go by the name John. The couple says that Shiloh not only wishes to go by the name of John, but she also yearns to wear male clothing as well as have a shorter hair cut as a part of her gender identity.
Photo by : Getty/ROBYN BECK
Mr. Herbert Garrison: In season nine of the satirical animated series South Park, elementary school teacher Mr. Garrison gets a sex change so that he may marry another man, only later to discover his desire to become a lesbian, destroying the purpose of ever having the sex change. South Park’s confusing representation of what a transgender is has distorted their viewers perceptions of what a transgender is, causing much confusion among society.
Photo courtesy of: HUNKYHUBBIES
Importance of early gender education in school Sadie Hersh photo editor Veronica Pahomova cartoonist Short hair, sporty outfit and a hairy chest? Definitely a boy. Make up, long hair and a dress? Obviously a girl. Or, so we used to believe. As time progressed and generations developed, humanity has broadened its perspective on gender stereotypes, yet many schools haven’t quite opened their eyes to this new world. Leelah Alcorn, formerly known as Josh, was only 17-years-old when she committed suicide by walking into speeding traffic this past December. She took her life because “the life [she] would’ve lived isn’t worth living in…because [she’s] transgender,” as stated in her suicide note posted to her Tumblr page. She goes on in her note, “Gender needs to be taught about in schools, the earlier the better. My death needs to mean something.” In this progressive generation, schools might want to consider exposing children to information about gender and gender identity, before children are forced to find out through events such as these. The current curriculum is to learn the basic sex-ed information in fifth and seventh grade, and the rest in a high school health class (which isn’t required). We live in blissful ignorance where kids pop Molly and cut themselves in faraway places, but surely not at Beverly Hills High School. Leelah said that she had felt like a girl trapped in a boy’s body since she was four years old. But when she turned 14, she found out what transgender meant and “cried of happiness.” For once, she did not feel like an outcast and the fact that other people, not just she, felt trapped was brought to her awareness.
Photo by: FIREBRACKERRRRR/ FLICKR
“Gender expression is often curtailed by our society’s gender norms—the expectations and assumptions that govern how a girl or boy is supposed to look, act, dress and play. These arbitrary norms are ubiquitous: Children’s toothbrushes come in pink or blue; the toy aisles in big box stores are labeled girl (full of dolls and kitchen sets) and boy (full of trucks, LEGO sets and toy tools),” the project of Teaching Tolerance wrote in an article. Being transgender is not a disease or an ailment that needs to be cured. Much like homosexuality, people are born with the mindset that they’re different. That key snippet of information wasn’t found in Leelah’s guardians. Her parents confiscated her access to social media and pulled
“‘My death needs to mean something.’” her out of school. What were they trying to get out of that? At this point, their confused and depressed child was now isolated from all of her friends. Leelah’s parents did not seem to understand their child’s true identity, and wanted her to change who she was and identify as someone she was not. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt’s daughter, Shiloh, has recently asked to go by the name John, and has her parent’s full support. Because of how Jolie and Pitt have encouraged John, their child has been given the fortune to feel comfortable in his body. If all parents embraced their child’s decision with opened arms, maybe what happened to Leelah could have been avoided.
Jenna Talackova- At 19-years-old, Jenna Talackova began her transformation from male to female. Ever since,Talackova has been an active member in the transgender community, participating in numerous pride events, from Los Angeles to Vancouver. In 2010 she was a top 12 competitor in the annual Miss International Queen Pageant for transgender and transexual women. Later, in 2012, the native Canadian was banished from the Miss Universe Canada Pageant for being transgender. Talackova later took her banishment to court and eventually won, granting her participation in the pageant. Photo by: Dominick D/FLICKR
But it’s not only disapproving parents who can make a difference. Schools can definitely do something to support the tiresome war of gender stereotypes. That “something” is to begin to teach identification tolerance. By fifth grade, students already have their mindset straight. At this point, their opinions from their friends, school, parents and society has helped them mold their own perspective. Sex-ed is taught in the last year of elementary school. Rooms echo with “if you have a penis, you are a boy” and “if you have a vagina, you are a girl”, possibly followed by a few snickers from immature kids at the mention of genetalia. “One modest but important step educators can take: Make explicit at the start of the school year that in your classroom, everyone deserves respect and that making fun of people based on gender identity or expression won’t be tolerated,” stated the project of Teaching Tolerance. What doesn’t seem to be taught or even mentioned is the difference between sex and gender. Sex is what anatomically lies in between one’s legs, and gender is what one identifies him/herself to be. You can be a girl with a penis. You can be a boy with a vagina. The shocking truth that shouldn’t be so shocking is that 78 percent of transgender/gender not-conforming teens are harassed, 35 percent are physically assaulted, 12 percent are sexually assaulted and 6 percent are expelled, as stated by the National Center for Transgender Equality. “A gender-diverse child’s best predictor of success is whether that child receives support at home and from teachers. Often, families push schools to make the necessary changes for their children. But for kids who don’t have support at home, informed and sympathetic educators are their only chance for a safe place.” So how about it schools? Let’s take that step that will hopefully open a whole path that will lead to equality and understanding, one little change at a time.
Laverne Cox- The original series Orange is the New Black, brought awareness to its viewers about the LGBT community Within the show, several of the characters are lesbian or transgender. When in reality, some of the actual cast members and legitimately transexual, specifically Laverne Cox. As a child, Cox felt out of place; in fact at the age of 11, Cox had admitted to attempted suicide due to her gender identity issues. Now, 29 years later, Cox has become a well respected member in the transgender community. This past year Cox has become the first transgender woman ever to be featured on the cover of TIME magazine, as well as become the first transgender to receive an Emmy nomination.
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HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE JANUARY 23, 2015
And the Oscar goes to... The Highlights staff broke down the Best Picture nominees for the 2015 Academy Awards. Selma Juliette Deutsch co-editor-in-chief “Selma” follows the events leading up to the 1956 march from Selma to Montgomery led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo). The film provides a historical interpretation, rather than a direct representation, of the relationship between Dr. King and President Lyndon B. Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) as well as King’s wife Coretta Scott King (Carmen Ejogo). The movie gives the audience a deeper understanding of the burden that being a leading civil rights activist had on King’s family and marriage. To add, the impeccable costume and location designs create an authentic representation of 1960s America, which brings the audience right back into history.
The Grand Budapest Hotel Jackson Prince co-editor-in-chief Wes Anderson’s most recent disaster of utter brilliance was in the form of “The
Grand Budapest Hotel”, nominated for its epicly picaresque journey and its unique lens upon an experience and an environment. What is delightful about this film is that, if a viewer held a remote to pause the movie, a beautiful picture would be discovered at any point during the showing. That is classic Wes Anderson and that is incredible. What might not be so delightful to the average moviegoer is the caviar-like quality of “The Grand Budapest Hotel” and its humor. Many critics appreciate the movie’s effort, and the Academy is sure to consider it as top of the class. However, perhaps the movie is too elevated, too satirical, too ironic, to be Best Picture. It’s still a damn good one. Birdman Jackson Prince co-editor-in-chief “Birdman”, or “The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance” is, for an experienced actor or struggling English major, a dream film. Its ability to capture the conscience of the audience, by opening our eyes to ideas of reality and glory within reality, makes it a front-runner for Best Picture for this year’s Academy Awards. What is a terrifically-acted movie is highlighted, however, by director Alejandro González Iñárritu, who puts the “one-take” to use, weaving together the dream-like plot.
It is a movie that, unlike the other films up for nomination, explores the deeper roots of issues within our perception of reality. It’s two hours for the viewer to experience a neatly messy film, and days after of the viewer to feel privileged to have watched such a film. Whiplash Guy Ginsberg sports editor “Whiplash”, Damien Chizelle’s dark and jazzy thriller, follows the story of Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller), a tunnel-visioned, aspiring jazz drummer studying music at the Schaffer Conservatory under the infamous twistedly encouraging conductor Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons). The story illustrates a boy’s destruction through psychotic and abusive treatment from his conductor and his obsession with perfection and achieving greatness. Teller delivers a breakthrough performance that excites viewers for what he will do next. His depiction of a tormented musical talent creates a true and vibrant terror in the audience. J.K. Simmons, barely a newbie to the Oscar scene, once again gives a magnificently concocted performance as a jazz-loving, nightmarish monster, who lives to torturingly transform students into jazz legends a la Buddy Rich. It’s an underdog, but it has everything to win “Best Picture” for its beautiful storytelling.
The Imitation Game Lucas Harward staff writer “Imitation Game” chronicles the creation of a machine that not only changed people, but changed technology as well. The film tells the little-known story of the creation of Turing machines, otherwise known as computers. Benedict Cumberbatch (Alan Turing) is an awkward, brilliant mathematician with a blunt personality and quiet self-confidence. His performance is breathtaking. “Imitation Game” keeps us on the edge of our seats while celebrating what Turing taught us. Despite the many difficulties he faced throughout his life, which is that “sometimes it’s the very people who no one imagines anything of who do the things no one can imagine.” American Sniper Marty Schnapp news editor Clint Eastwood’s “American Sniper” does an excellent job in not only thrilling its audience with military action but also exploring the emotional struggles of Chris Kyle, whose time in Iraq cripples his home and family life. Bradley Cooper gives an outstanding performance as Kyle, whose Manichean view of death in Iraq leaves it to the viewer to decide whether he is a war hero or a cold-blooded killer. The film’s portrayal of the war in Iraq is contro-
versial: many claim that Eastwood glorifies events involving the war and killing Iraqis, while others claim that Eastwood told the story true to Kyle’s autobiographical account, to create the most entertaining experience. “American Sniper” is not another “Hurt Locker”, nor is it as thematically simple as most Eastwood films. It is an intricate, complicated interpretation of Chris Kyle’s autobiography, a tale of perserverence and the power of the mind, Boyhood Celine Rezvani staff writer “Boyhood”, the coming-of-age movie of the new millenium directed by Richard Linklater, has received attention and praise this awards season. It is nominated for six Academy Awards. We all know the story: it took over 12 years to film and features the same exact cast from beginning to end. Linklater’s ability to adapt the film to the growth of his children actors is unprecedented. Unfortunately, it is the realness that makes the movie an elevated yawn. It drags on and on to an inconclusive end. A beautiful effort to capture life , thwarted by a lack of life.
‘The Interview’ can’t Benedict Cumberbatch: society’s meet its expectations newest, weirdest sex symbol Veronica Pahomova cartoonist For weeks, “The Interview” reoccuringly made headlines everywhere, informing the nation that North Korea was against the release, and considered it both humiliating and an act of terrorism. A movie directly targeting a country that doesn’t like America is already something to talk about, and the genuine threats only added to the fuss. But compared to the set expectations, this film seemed to be more of a disappointment to the U.S. than to worshipers of the infamous dictator himself. Talk-show host of “Skylark Tonight”, Dave Skylark (James Franco) seeks the ultimate interview that will make him even more famous than he already is, while his best friend and producer Aaron Rapoport (Seth Rogen) yearns for the story that would actually make a difference in the world. Two coworkers with two different opinions, what could go wrong? After learning that notorious North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un was a fan of their American gossip show, a plan was devised to allow three dreams to be met: Skylark’s, Rapaport’s and the CIA’s, who desperately want to rid the world of Un. Sent on a flight to North Korea to get the most unlikely interview ever, the two best friends take on a mission to as-
sassinate North Korea’s personal Jesus. Let’s face it, people will always be lured in by the idea of controversy. But honestly, the hype that the media and Sony molded proved to be all talk and no walk. If viewers knew how unsatisfyingly “okay” “The Interview” truly was going to be, it wouldn’t have already grossed about $30 million dollars. By the time the credits were rolling, the film left the audience slouched and thinking, “Wow, that was, eh.” “For all the controversy, in the end, the funniest thing about ‘The Interview’ may be people’s ‘Is that what the fuss was about?’ response to the finished product,” Kofi Outlaw said in his article for Screen Rant. Maybe if they knew how much media attention their film would get, directors Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg would have spent more well-needed time on the overall comedic aspect, instead of incorporating a bunch of random styles and jokes as if they made a list and blindly threw a dart to determine what they should add in the next scene. Or, honestly, it probably wouldn’t have even mattered in the first place. To read the full article, visit www.beverlyhighlights.com
Eleanor Bogart-Stuart staff writer
looks from the start of his career. Almost overnight, a dedicated base of adoring fangirls sprung up around the Englishman. Tenderly known as “Cumberbabies”, the primarily teen-girl group has created hundreds of blogs, fanfiction and even an inspired name generator in honor of their favorite Brit. “When we first cast him, people were saying, ‘You promised us a
Part time English detective, part time dragon, full time unlikely sex symbol, the oddly captivating actor Benedict Cumberbatch has taken the stage as one of the most alluring Englishmen to grace the screen. The television show “Sherlock” is thought of as the catalyst of Cumberbatch’s sudden rise to fame. The awardwinning British series stars and follows the adventures of Cumberbatch as detective Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as his partner-in-crime, John Watson. The show has been incredibly successful, and many credit Cumberbatch’s appeal to his role in its success. Cartoon by: BENNETT GERSHWIN “I think that if you watch ‘Sherlock’, his appeal sexy one!’” ‘Sherlock’ producer is more apparent than if you just Sue Vertue said to Entertainment looked at a picture of him,” sopho- Weekly. But the question is, why? Why more Katie Hertz said. “Personally, I think Cumberbatch is a very has this striking English man sudattractive man and can be consid- denly stolen the hearts of millions and skyrocketed to fame? ered best as a man of class.” As one of his female counterInterestingly enough, Cumberbatch wasn’t always expected to parts in ‘Sherlock’, Irene Adler, become the icon he is today. As if once said: smart is the new sexy. “Honestly, I think the reason his peculiar name wasn’t hindering enough, people doubted his so many people consider him to
be sexy is because he seems so smart,” Hertz said. Cumberbatch tends to play roles that present a shockingly brilliant mind, from whipsmart Sherlock to the computer genius Alan Turing in the recent film “The Imitation Game.” But his rise to fame is actually another clue as to what the sex symbol caveat has truly become. Women are no longer interested in the stereotypical, muscled, blond quarterback. They want someone with a bit more substance. Tom Hiddleston, best known as Loki in “The Avengers”, has become a favorite due not only to his looks, but to his eloquence and intelligence. “I never take that for granted. It’s kind of an amazing thing. There’s lots of theories about it,” Cumberbatch said to the “Vulture” when asked about his sex-symbol status. Even though he may not believe it himself, it’s time he faces the facts. Cumberbatch brings something people have been craving to the table: a smart, talented man who often plays a smart and talented role. And the British accent doesn’t hurt either.
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Sex Sells Jackson Prince co editor-in-chief Guy Ginsberg sports editor
Advertising has always existed, and the tactics for ad campaigns haven’t changed much. There’s one very simple concept: sex sells. Everyone feels the impact of sex in advertising. Alcohol is sold with sex, clothes is sold with sex and more recently, iPhone games are being sold with sex. Often times, these advertisements draw up critics who deem it sexist to “materialize” the human body to help sell something. The issue that comes to mind is the recent ad campaign by the iPhone application “Game Of War”, featuring a somewhat sensually dressed Kate Upton leading her army into battle while riding, and bouncing on, a horse. It has been called sexist. But it simply is not. Sexual advertising is not sexism. Sex is one of, if not the most, universal ways to reach people. It goes both ways. Both men and women are affected by sex in advertising. Because don’t tell me that those six-foot something, shirtless hunks outside Abercrombie and Fitch are there to attract pigeons. In other words, we cannot be so
HIGHLIGHTS OPINION JANUARY 23, 2015 sensitive to these sort of issues, else we take away from the weight of the issues themselves. Sexism is a heavy topic that evidences itself constantly in society. Equal pay is still a huge problem. For every dollar a man makes, a woman makes 84 cents. That’s not fair. But this issue, which arises in the form of Carl’s Jr. commercials, GoDaddy.com infomercials and Game of War promos, is not an issue of fairness. Hell, it’s barely an issue. Women are choosing to play these roles, as these women probably don’t believe that they are promoting a sexist ideology. (Which, they are not.) If the feminist movement seeks to make this an issue, there is a valid argument to be had. But the movement should not be driven against the advertisers who are merely attempting to sell products and promote capitalism. Rather, those wishing to improve the feminine image must seek out those who choose to fill these roles in sexual products and target their beliefs if it is thought that they are skewed. Societal progress will not be made by getting rid of sexual advertisement. Societal progress will come with the evolution of understanding situations, and that this situation is not something hindering our growth.
Sexist hamburger
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist Eleanor Bogart-Stuart staff writer
Kate Upton’s promotional display. Photo credits to: BABOGAMES/ FLICKR
Topless male models outside A&F. Photo credits to: ALAN LIGHT/ FLICKR
Disney’s disasterous drop examples of terrible comedy. In each TV show, the humor is tacky and makes the viewers who have Remember the good ol’ days? experienced decent shows express Miley’s scandalous double-life a torturous groan. drama, Zack and Cody’s hotel diUnlike those on the old Dislemmas and Raven’s future vision ney ++Channel, in “Shake It Up” powers? Of course, how could one the main characters are certainly forget what then seemed to be the not people a child should look everlasting epitome of the Disney up to. Both Cece (Bella Thorne) Channel. Great acting, great huand Rocky (Zendaya Coleman) mor, great plots, great life lessons. are bland teenagers with no charBut just like any other plateau, the acter development. Also, they’re Disney Channel experienced a sudway too skinny. Unlike the old TV den and unexpected drop in terms shows, such as “Thats So Raven”, of…everything. these girls need to put some meat Let’s first reminisce and bask in on those bones and stop setting the greatness of some of the Disan unrealistic expectation for chilney Channel’s early 2000’s hits. dren. Though most don’t have a “But just like any other And speaking of unrealtwin, a secret identity or viistic expectations, “A.N.T. sions of the future, many do plateau, the Disney ChanFarm” is a show about midface the everyday problems nel experienced a sudden dle school prodigies who are that were featured in the and unexpected drop in sent to learn in high school. shows. Imagine a kid with no spe“Hannah Montana”: A norterms of...everything.” cial talent watching a show mal country schoolgirl by day, one annoying sibling, but also how that portrays some kind of incredteen popstar sensation by night. The show is based around the life to live happily with divorced par- ible modern Picasso. Most would of the main character Miley Stew- ents. And the most recurrent: con- feel bad about themselves already, art (Miley Cyrus) and her friends sequences. Two little twin blonde why would they need a TV show to boys in a hotel, it’s trouble waiting add to the lack of self confidence? and family. Not only are reviews reflecting Miley might seem like an un- to happen. Zack (Dylan Sprouse) and Cody (Cole Sprouse) always a low level of liking for the new relatable girl who has the best of found themselves in a predicament shows, the audience appears to be both worlds, but aside from her and were disciplined with the right too. “Shake It Up”’s most viewed constant paranoia about her secret punishment, teaching kids right episode reached 6.2 million getting out, she faced normal probfrom wrong. people, while Hannah Montana lems. The show taught viewers And now to submerge into the grossed 7.6 million, landsliding about the importance family, even with constant sibling rivalries and topic of the current disappoint- with more than a million comfather-daughter situations. And ment. The shows nowadays are pared to the new show. Okay, Disney Channel, everyone let’s not forget the lessons of how night and day compared to the classics. Their plots are copy-andneeds a break now and then, but to be a true friend, there’s even a paste identical. It’s almost always it’s time to step up. Enough of the song about it. about some skinny kids, who are fun and games, just sit down and “Thats So Raven”: A curvy Afriin desperate need of an attitude make a TV show that won’t cause can-American girl named Raven adjustment, with problems almost viewers to moan in despair. Bring Baxter (Raven Simone) looked up always revolving over the desire back the positive messages. Bring at a comet and gained the power to be famous. Take “Shake It Up”, back the knee-slapping humour. to occasionally get visions of the “A.N.T. Farm” and “Jessie” for exBring back the grasping plots. future. Now she goes about her ample. Bring back the magic. days in high school with her best Those are just a few top notch friends, using her powers to someVeronica Pahomova cartoonist
how get them in and out of trouble. Aside from the usual friendship, family and boy drama that seemed to be a common occurrence in the show, Raven’s issues dwelled deeper than just that. The show indulged into touchy subjects such as racism, body image and self confidence. “Suite Life of Zack and Cody”: Two blonde twins who seemed to make it their job to unintentionally cause trouble in the Tipton Hotel shared some of their mistakes and hilarious moments with their friends and hotel employees. This comedy-filled show expressed not just how to love that
Trivia Crack has become one of the biggest apps on the market seemingly overnight. Literally everyone I know has either asked me to answer a question about football records or abstract European history. But Trivia Crack isn’t simply a simply a free question game. They know how to play their market. Along with every few rounds of a game with someone, up pops up an ad. And, at least currently, this ad happens to be a fifteen second long video of Kate Upton and her cleavage in very revealing “armor”, sponsoring the app “Game of War”. Through this product placement, Kate Upton and Game of War are both mainly enjoyed, admired and promoted by a male audience. The creators of this app are clearly trying to cater to this male audience by making an ad like this. But don’t we as a country, a collective force of humans, have some inkling of what decency is? It’s almost worse that Game of War is trying to be discreet in their objectification of women. If you are going to blatant, you should go all the way. Own up to being objective and discriminating towards womankind.
Carl’s Jr. is a company who is not afraid of acting like, to be blunt, pigs. They simply film girls in bikinis eating their latest burger. At least Carl’s Jr. isn’t pretending that they aren’t doing something ridiculously objectifying. It’s time that we level the playing field. When John Stamos appears on a television screen eating yogurt, it needs to be dripping onto his shirtless body. Slow jazz should be playing in the background. This commercial, and all other ones, should be modeled off of Kraft’s Zesty dressing. Their adverts feature a half naked, chiseled man licking sauce from a stirring spoon and making a variety of well-timed sexual innuendos. Yes, a nice shot of cleavage and chiseled abs will catch the eye of anyone, but why? Sure, more people might click on this certain ad, but honestly, the product won’t even get a second glance. Not only will viewers most likely not even remember the title, but instead of being acknowledged as “that cool new video game” or “that yummy yogurt” the company will be known as “that one ad with the boobs” or “that one ad with a smooth talking man who sucks on spatulas.”
We are all Charlie Juliette Deutsch co editor-in-chief Eleanor Bogart-Stuart staff writer
Two years ago, a small group of French cartoonists practiced the right to free speech. Last week, they were murdered for expressing this right and this art. “The massacre was motivated by
strong, suggestive backlash from Islamic groups. In 2011, the Hebdo offices were firebombed by Islamic extremists after pretending their guest editor was the Prophet Muhammad. In 2012, after publishing a cartoon depicting Muhammad naked, the French had to close embassies in 20 different Muslim
Cartoon by: VERONICA PAHOMOVA Free speech, though broken, can be mended. hate. It is absurd to suggest that the way to avoid terrorist attacks is to let the terrorists dictate standards in a democracy,” the editorial board of the New York Times wrote. It’s true. The moment we let someone dictate what should or should not be being said is the moment we lose the right that all humans should have: our right to free speech and expression. “Charlie Hebdo” is known for its provocative illustrations and pieces, which mainly satirize politicians, politics and religion--basically the things that most people don’t want to go near when it comes to comedy. Although “Charlie Hebdo” is so daring, it’s still surprising to see the violent history it’s had with those who disagree, which happen to mainly be Islamic extremists. In 2006, after reprinting a comic about Muhammad taken from a Danish newspaper, there was
countries. Clearly the two opposing factions are not on the best terms, and their rocky history culminated last week when the 12 innocents from “Hebdo” were killed by Islamic terrorists. Clearly, what the terrorists did was simply unacceptable. But we cannot simply regard the incident as an attack on a magazine. It was an attack on freedom. It was attack on our natural rights. It was an attack on our humanity. “Muhammad isn’t sacred to me,” the late editor-in-chief of “Hebdo” Stephane Charbonnier told the Associated Press in 2012. “I don’t blame Muslims for not laughing at our drawings. I live under French law. I don’t live under Quranic law.” Although it makes sense to feel fury, frustration or sadness about the lives lost or the unfairness of the event itself, the one thing we should all focus on it stopping it from happening again.
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HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS JANUARY 23, 2015
Pinning them down: what it takes to be a wrestler Guy Ginsberg sports editor Ben Shofet graphics editor
Compared to sports like basketball, baseball or football, wrestling is relatively obscure as a high school sport. In fact, it ranks sixth of all boys sports in terms of high school participation. However, those who do wrestle at Beverly know exactly what it takes to be a wrestler. The basics of high school wrestling are as follows. Student athletes wear singlets, or one piece uniforms, as well as headgear and wrestling-specific shoes. Student athletes are placed into weight classes, much like basketball or football players have positions. Schools compete against each other in “dual meets�, where the highest ranked wrestlers of the same weight class at both schools compete, second highest compete, and so forth. A match usually consists of three periods totalling six minutes, with overtime periods completed if necessary. A winner
is determined in many possible ways: through pinning the opponent (fall), getting more points than an opponent (technical fall), earning a referee’s decision, opponent disqualification, or opponent forfeit. Preparing for a dual meet is both physical and mental. “The day before matches we go over technique. We need to really warm up to get our muscles loose. Warm up consists of stretching, jogging, sprints and shots/rolls. Then we get with a partner and go over technique at a fixed intensity. We learn new defense tactics and what to expect from the other school,� varsity wrestler Sam Cohen said. Varsity wrestler Kyle Khalili also touched on the mental aspect of preparation. “Preparing for a match is thinking about what moves you will do and seeing how you will beat your opponent,� Khalili said. The major differences between
wrestling and other sports is the use of weight classes instead of positions. Students fall into weight classes specified by the National Federation of State High School Associations. The difficulty that certain student athletes face is the ability to keep the necessary weight so as not to be disqualified from competition. Qualifying for weight classes has impacted Khalili’s diet and eating habits. “Starting wrestling had an impact on my diet as I couldn’t go over a certain weight. It’s been mildly hard, but I got used to it as time went on. Only a couple of varsity wrestlers, including myself, go through this significant weight loss as it helps us do better in tournaments,� Khalili said. Cohen, however, has felt a different impact from wrestling on his diet. “I don’t eat as much as I did before, and I have to eat more protein and calcium. I always stayed
around my weight class so I didn’t really have to lose much weight, but I was two pounds over the day before a tournament so I had to practice with a jacket and eat light for dinner. The change is not hard, but rather good because I’m in better shape,� Cohen said. Cohen and Khalili also feel significant effects on their personality due to wrestling. “To be a wrestler you have to be strong, mentally and physically.
I’ve gotten stronger mentally because I had to overcome pain in order to beat my opponent,� Cohen said. Khalili sums up the importance of mental soundness to be a successful wrestler. “Mentality is a big part of wrestling, if you think you are going to lose, you will lose. It takes courage, work and effort to wrestle. If not, you will just stay at the bottom,“ Khalili said.
Junior Greg Yaroshevsky leads the varsity wrestlers in a chant before their meet against Lawndale on Jan. 22. Photo by: GUY GINSBERG
Soccer coach leaves school to train for Navy service
Lucas Harward staff writer
Robert Oyamo, JV boys soccer coach, has decided to begin training as a nurse in the Navy, ending his time at Beverly. Oyamo, who also coached crosscountry at Beverly, is relatively new to coaching soccer, but has been involved in the game his whole life. “I’ve been coaching soccer close to three years now. I’ve been in Beverly Hills close to two and a half months, maybe three months. This is a game that made me what I am today,� Oyamo said. “If it weren’t for soccer I wouldn’t be living in the United States. It’s the game that I identify myself with. So, I’m
happy to have played soccer and to be a soccer coach as well.� Oyamo, born and raised in Kenya, went to college, worked and played soccer before moving to the U.S. “In Kenya, I worked as an engineer and I played soccer. In college, I played some semi-professional soccer and I continued to work as an engineer. I did engineering because that is what I studied in school, so I pursued it. Then, I moved to the U.S. about 14 years ago,� Oyamo said. Oyamo’s decision to join the U.S. Navy was one that was mostly inspired by his family’s history of serving in the military, as well as
his own love for the U.S Navy in perticular. “I joined the Navy about four years ago, and I’ve worked as an
Oyamo expressed his deep appreciation and commitment to the U.S. Navy as well. “I’ve always wanted to join the U.S. Navy and I’ve always admired the U.S. Navy. I think it’s the greatest Navy in the world, so I’m proud and happy to be a member of this great Navy,� Oyamo said. Although his time at Beverly was short-lived, Oyamo still left a positive impression on the players he coached. “Coach Robert [Oyamo] was an excellent coach. It is a shame that he has to leave, but he is leaving for a good purpose,� junior Kyle Chlavin said. Chlavin also spoke of how Oy-
“It is a shame that he is leaving, but he is leaving for a good purpose.� aviation mechanic, so I fixed the fighter jets,� Oyamo said. “My family has a military background. My grandfather was in the military, my dad was a police officer and an officer in the military a little bit, so the military thing is just something that relates to family blood.�
amo’s coaching style influenced him as an individual player as well as the team as a whole. “Coach Oyamo was a good coach because he tought the other players and I discipline,� Chlavin said. Oyamo will no longer be an aviation mechanic, for he will soon begin the training process of becoming a nurse. “The reason I am leaving now is I am going to school to pursue a different career,� Oyamo said. “So, I’m going to train as a nurse and work as a nurse in the Navy. I will be trained at New Mexico State University for two and a half years. And after my training is done, I’m not sure where I will go to work as a nurse. The Navy will decide.�
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Beverly Hills O R T H O D O N T I C S
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Left: Oyamo yells at a referee after a blowcall. Right: Oyamo enjoys himself before practice. Photos by: KATIE HERTZ