highlights
March 13, 2015 Volume 88, Issue 10 Beverly Hills High School Beverly Hills, California beverlyhighlights.com
Can’t. Stop. Winning.
Lucas Harward, staff writer The varsity basketball team dominated Bernstein 78-48 in the first round of the state playoffs on March 11 at home. 1st Quarter: Beverly opened up the game with an 8-1 run, though Bernstein turnovers and Beverly fouls kept the scoreboard from lighting up. 2nd Quarter: The beat turned up in the second quarter. A smooth Eurostep by senior Eman Rafalian sparked a 13-2 run for the Normans, fueled by the dominant play of senior Trevor Bergher, who would end up with 16 points in the first half. There was a temporary scare to end the half when junior Fidel Quiralte went down with a knee injury, but he would play again later in the second half, and Beverly went into halftime with a 37-17 lead. “After hitting my first two shots in the first quarter I started to feel very confident. Whenever I had an open shot I did not hesitate and just let it go. I took a lot more shots than I usually do in [Wednesday’s] game because I got hot early and kept the confidence I had throughout the whole game,” Bergher said. 3rd Quarter:
Bernstein didn’t stand a ‘Chance’ against the Normans. BevBall defeated Bernstein (HLWD) in their first game of State Championships on Wednesday, March 11 by a score of 78-48. Photo by: SADIE HERSH
INSIDE
The second half featured more of the same. Bergher opened up the half with a three from the corner and a layup, and senior Chance Comanche dunked four times over the course of the third quarter, one of which came from an alley-oop toss from the
three-point line by senior Navid Refalian. The score was 57-34 at the end of the third quarter. “We started off slow in the first half, but as the game progressed we played with much more heart,” Refalian said. “[Coach Jarvis Turner] told us to pick up the pressure and play hard because we needed to start playing championship basketball.” 4th Quarter: The start of the fourth quarter was highlighted by senior Ryan Manoocheri, who scored 10 of Beverly’s first 12 points in the quarter, and sprinkled in a couple fancy spin moves for good measure, drawing “oohs” and “ahs” from the Norman Nation, who packed the stands. With the game all but decided, the Norman bench players got to see some minutes and guide the team through the closing moments of the game, ultimately leading to a 78-48 victory. “We played hard like we always do, but to be honest, we didn’t play a real good game. Our rotations just weren’t there tonight defensively, but our intensity covered up a lot of our mistakes,” Rafalian said. Norman’s Victory: The post-game celebration included Turner throwing up a deep three-pointer. While this shot missed the mark, Turner has poised the Normans for a shot at the state championship. Beverly (ranked 56 in the state, according to Maxpreps) will face off against Cantwell-Sacred Heart in Montebello on Saturday at 6 p.m.
NEWS
CULTURE SPORTS
Robotics Long Beach regional
“Guys and Dolls” takes center stage
this issue
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Beverly Alumnus wins Super Bowl
Page 11
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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS MARCH 13, 2015
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Team 1515 competes at Long Beach Ben Shofet graphics editor Beverly Robotics Team 1515 will attend will be attending their first regional competitions this year. The Long Beach Regional is taki ng place on March 11 through the 14. According to co-president and senior Gabriella Shofet, the robotics team will compete against 40 to 70 other teams from across the state. “We have already finished creating our robot and currently we are working on presentations, printing packing and other last-minute competitions preparations for next week,” Shofet said. In 2013 and 2014, Team 1515 made it to the Robotics World Championship.If the team wins
at Long Beach Regional, they they will be able to attend the Robotics World Championship for the third
year in a row. “If we win, we will be competing on a global scale, against hundreds
Members of Beverly Robotics Team 1515; they will compete on March 11 at the Long Beach Regional competition. Photo Courtesy of: ROBOTICS
of teams and thousands of people from nations varying from Germany to Chile to Saudi Arabia,” Shofet said. Although the team has great ambitions for the future, their primary goal is still to obtain an award at the regional competition so that they may continue on to the world championship. “I’m pretty excited even though I’ve been doing this six years now,” sophomore Ari Berkowitz said. “Each time I get to go to a new competition, it’s a new challenge and I’m looking forward to that.” Team 1515’s second and final regional competition for the year isthe Ventura Regional, which will take place on March 19-22.
District struggles to hire substitutes Guy Ginsberg sports editor Marty Schnapp news editor Over the past year, two classrooms without permanent teachers experienced extended periods of time with short-term substitutes, due to the hiring process for qualified long-term substitutes taking longer than expected. There is a step-by-step process that the district must follow in order to hire long-term substitutes. “The process that is usually adhered to in hiring long-term substitute teachers is first the job gets posted. The district utilizes a national site called EDJOIN. Applicants have until a certain date to apply. The district convenes a paper screening process to vet out the properly completed applications based on the job description. That committee then forwards a list of applicants to be interviewed,” Board of Education member Noah Margo said. Margo explained that the screening process is detailed and thorough. “There may be two or more rounds of interviews before an applicant is recommended to the board. That applicant is then thoroughly screened and has detailed references checked before appearing on the personnel reports voted on by the board,” Margo said. In addition to the paper screening and interview, all employees of the district must undergo background checks. “[The Board of Education] conducts background checks, demonstration lessons and Department of Justice/FBI checks on all substitute teachers,” Superintendent Dr. Gary Woods said. Margo added that the Board of Education expects the entire process to take about 30 days. Dr. Woods added that 30 days is the expected period of time in an optimal case. One of the teachers who took leave this year was a former F.S.T. and AP Computer Science teacher. This teacher took a leave of absence without giving notice before the beginning of second semester for “complex” reasons, as described by the teacher. The teacher hasn’t been back since Monday, Jan. 3, and a long-term substitute,
Ms. Kirchhoff, began teaching on Thursday, March 5. The teacher’s students had shuffling short-term substitutes for 61 days before a qualified long-term substitute began working. “Finding qualified math teachers is incredibly difficult. We sent over 20 emails to local universities identifying our need. We also had a qualified candidate decline our offer of employment at one point in the process,” Dr. Woods said. However, F.S.T. and AP Computer Science students claim to not have studied their curriculum during the 61-day period, and Honors Physiology students spent several weeks taking “half-classes”, during which they would be instructed for only 30 minutes. Some students have expressed discontent and frustration toward the current hiring process, because they feel that the waiting period between teachers is detrimental to the learning experience. Junior Aaron Barzi, a Computer Science student, feels that having a class with shuffling shortterm substitutes wasted potential learning time that may never be regained. “Even though many students tried to self-teach and continue on with the curriculum, many students had no incentive to learn how to code. Overall, this was a very rough time where nothing academic was done in class due to the lack of a teacher,” Barzi said. Junior Justin Hong, an F.S.T. student, was surprised by his teacher’s sudden leaving. “I was a little taken aback by [our teacher’s] sudden leaving. I feel it was irresponsible of the School Board to take so long to find a replacement,” Hong said. Junior Gonzalo Sanchez, an F.S.T student, expressed frustration in that his education was negatively affected not only this year, but also last year when he endured a similar situation. “This year, for about two months [our F.S.T. class] did no work whatsoever. [The school] finally gave us a teacher and we’re beginning to learn, but overall my education has been tarnished, and I struggle with the math portions of the SAT,” Sanchez said. “Last year, I had no teacher for about three months, and once we finally got
a teacher I was so behind on the learning that my grade suffered. My parents and I are very frustrated; we’ve sent various emails to the School Board.” In November of this school year, an English teacher notified the district that s/he would take a semester leave beginning in February. A long-term substitute was hired by the time the original teacher left, but the substitute had not yet been properly screened and cleared to teach until two weeks later. Junior Sam Rickwood, enrolled in the class, feels that the two weeks in between teachers was disruptive to his learning. “The transition period between our teacher and long-term substitute was inconvenient due to the multiple short-term substitutes within a period of two weeks. It was
very difficult to focus on work and learn without a teacher, and this was especially detrimental during junior year when every minute of class is valuable,” Rickwood said. Another instance like those of the math and English teachers was when a science teacher’s absence was not filled and his/her Honors Physiology classes were left teacherless. The teacher did not return this year, so Kevin Nourian, a biology teacher from El Rodeo, took over the absent teacher’s classes. Nourian was supposed to be a long-term substitute for just one semester, and the district’s goal was to either have the original teacher return, or to find a new teacher for the second semester to take over those classes.
Highlights Juliette Deutsch and Jackson Prince editors-in-chief
Guy Ginsberg sports editor
Sadie Hersh photo editor
Karen Shilyan
business manager
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist
Marty Schnapp news editor
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. Visit beverlyhighlights.com Follow @bhhighlights on Twitter and Instagram. Highlights is sponsored by PTSA and BHEF.
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A Thousand Words: The man behind the musical
Dr. Brad Vincent, director of this year’s musical production, “Guys and Dolls” shines in the spotlight. Photo by: JACKSON PRINCE
HIGHLIGHTS NEWS MARCH 13 , 2015 Continued from Page 2 None of what the district hoped for happened, so after Nourian’s semester ended, physiology teachers Steve Geanakos and Sue Yovetich took over the classes. The district decided to conjoin Yovetich’s original fifth period physiology class with Nourian’s fifth period Honors Physiology class for the rest of the year. The two classes are now
combined and have class in the Jon Cherney Lecture Hall. One of Nourian’s former Honors Physiology students, who is currently being taught by Yovetich, junior Adriano Saitta, weighed in on how he thinks Yovetich is handling the situation. “It’s been a rocky year with so many teacher changes from [our original teacher] to Nourian and now to Yovetich, but I think Ms. Yovetich is providing some stability and
3 helping us really learn and understand the material,” Saitta said. Dr. Woods offered his explanation as to why the district has been struggling to find long-term substitutes as a whole. “Public education funding has increased across the state over the last two years. More and more certificated teachers have full time jobs and are not applying for long-term substitute vacancies,” Dr. Woods said. “The
pool of applicants has diminished recently. It is more difficult to hire a deep pool of applicants to fill our open positions, especially in the areas of math and science.” Dr. Woods also illustrated his position on whether it is possible to expedite the hiring process in the future. “No,” Dr. Woods said.
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HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE MARCH 13, 2015
‘Guys and Dolls’gives a glimpse of the 1920s Juliette Deutsch co-editor-in-chief After months of planning and weeks of rehearsing, the cast of “Guys and Dolls” finally tok the stage this week in the K.L. Peters Auditorium. “Guys and Dolls”, music and lyrics written by Frank Loesser and book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows, first showcased in New York in 1955. The story takes place in 1920s New York City and centers around gamblers Nathan Detroit, played by senior Jackson Prince, and Sky Masterson, played by junior Scott Senior. Detroit needs to find a location for his craps game but needs $1,000 to have it at the venue of his choice. As part of Detroit’s plan to get Masterson to give him money for the venue, Detroit makes a bet that Masterson has to take Sergeant Sarah Brown, played by senior Yassi Noubahar, to Havana, Cuba.
The show follows these characters, as well as the relationships between Detroit and his wife Adelaide, played by senior Amanda Christovich, and the relationship between Masterson and Brown. Senior, who plays Sky Masterson, feels that unlike other shows, “Guys and Dolls” allows him to play his character more organically than other roles. “We are able to put a lot of ourselves into our characters. You get to have a lot of freedom and fun with it, and its not as structured as other roles,” Senior said. The auditions for “Guys and Dolls” began earlier in the year and were open to any student who wished to audition. “Auditions were open to the entire school and you signed up applied. Then, we had to sing 16 bars of a musical theatre number and performed a short monologue,” Noubahar said.
Noubahar, who plays Sergeant Sarah Brown, reflects on how she and her character share similar qualities. “My character is very passionate. I am extremely passionate about my work in musical theatre and I really connect with her character development as well,” Noubahar said. Unlike Noubahar, Senior had a more difficult time relating to Masterson. “He is incredibly different from myself and it’s so difficult to play a part that is human yet completely different from yourself. With this part, the biggest challenge was being as slick as he is,” Senior said “Guys and Dolls” is being performed Thursday-Saturday in The K.L. Peters Auditorium. Tickets are $5 for students, $10 for general admission and $15 for reserved seating. Junior Tristian McIntyre, Senior Andrew Rudy and Senior Tim Lee in mid song during “Guys and Dolls”. Photo by: JONATHAN PRINCE
Meet The Cast
Theater arts workshop, dance company and choir take the stage once again to bring you this year’s spring musical: “Guys and Dolls”, a production about the 1920’s New York underground gambling scene. Go behind the curtain to meet this year’s cast.
“It’s been one of the fastest pulled together productions I’ve ever worked on. I can’t believe how everything came together,” senior IZZY KALICHMAN said.
“This play’s amazing. It’s so funny. We’ve worked so hard as a team. We got so close we’re like a family now,” senior TIM (HAECHAN) LEE said.
“It’s a fabulous production. It’s a very classic musical comedy. It’s something everyone will enjoy. It’s funny and it’s romantic,” senior YASSI NOUBAHAR said.
“The musical is always great. It’s so much fun ‘cause all of your peers get to see you really express yourself on stage. It’s awesome,” junior SCOTT SENIOR said.
“The theater has given me confidence I didn’t even know I had. There’s a lot of comradery on and off stage,” sophomore OWEN LLOYD said.
“This year we’re taking a lot faster pace with this play, but we’re doing it a lot more intensely,” junior ANDREW RUDY said.
“I think that it’s a lot of stress for everyone in the show, but when we get everything right it turns out to be beautiful and fun,” sophomore JUDAH BENAIM said.
“We’ve made so many memories. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my senior year,” senior ALLIE FINER said.
“Since we only had four weeks to put on a production like this, I’m really proud of what we’ve been able to do,” said junior ISAAC SPECTOR.
HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE MARCH 13, 2015
Don’t spend your Saturday nights with Netflix Eleanor Bogart-Stuart staff writer
It’s happened to everyone. It’s late on a Saturday night. You’re curled up in bed with your laptop and, if you’re lucky, a bowl of ice cream. You decide to watch an episode of “Friends” and then go to bed. Innocently, you click next. And then when that episode is done, you click the next button again. And again. Soon enough, you’re 10 episodes in, the ice cream is gone, and it’s five in the morning. Even though you’re thinking, “Another one can’t hurt”, that’s where you could be wrong. “Binge-watching” is a word that has become unfortunately common nowadays. The word itself refers to the rapid indulging of a large amount of television. Although once upon a time this casual splurge of a show wouldn’t be thought of twice, people are now beginning to question this trending habit. Recent studies are trying to analyze the possible side effects of such obsessive watching.
Although binge-watching Net“Television as a medium is not sink in,” writer Emily Maas wrote flix isn’t a cause of any direct is- meant to be viewed all at once, in the Daily Targum. At first it’s hard to know where sues, there are many to place the blame, but problems that stem then you just start lookfrom sitting down ing at the source. Sites and watching a TV like Netflix, Hulu Plus show for so long. and Amazon Prime are Spending so much designed to get viewers time in one place, to watch more and more. not moving, can acInstead of waiting weektually be harmful. It by-week, biting your lowers metabolism nails after a cliffhanger and the rate of blood and discussing each circulation. episode with friends, And, according to you can just click “next” a study done by variand have all your quesous doctors at the tions answered. Shows Sleep Disorders and Unfortunately, spending your nights with Netflix like “House of Cards” Research Center, may end up badly. Photo by BEN SHOFET. and “Orange is the New people who tried to Black” are delivered seaforget their troubles son by season, not episode by epiwatching television had a 4 per- but rather in short bursts in each sode. Old and new shows alike can cent increased risk in developing episode. Episodes are not there to be devoured in a weekend within a insomnia. give a viewer the option to take a click of a button. Even if you decide to ignore the break from watching, but rather Over the past decade, computphysical and mental toll, think to encourage a viewer to stop, ers and technology have become about the enjoyment of watching in order to take the appropriate a vital factor in everyone’s lives. TV itself. amount of time for the story to
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Shopping for clothes, listening to music, video chatting with people from across the world, even ordering food for delivery, have become central to the way that people live. Although beneficial in so many ways, this new technology has already caused permanent damage. Can you even remember what a Blockbuster looks like? It seems like there’s a simple solution: boycotting Netflix. But if it were that simple, it wouldn’t be a problem. Binge watching is as addictive as any drug. It perhaps should be treated even more seriously because no one knows what the long term side effects are. Maybe, instead of quitting entirely, people should try to pace themselves before devoting a whole night to finishing all of “Breaking Bad.” Instead of binge watching, just watch. Appreciate the show: its characters, its dialogue, its costumes. Change from five episodes a night to two. Or maybe three. Four if all the homework’s done.
Turning the page #Flashbackfriday: Cartoons
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist Eleanor Bogart-Stuart staff writer Ben Shofet graphics editor
Ever since the rise of online shopping, book stores nationwide have vanished. However, there a still a few bookstores that managed to survive the wrath of Amazon. Here are three independent bookstores that and not only surviving, but thriving in an era of online endeavours. The Last Bookstore 453 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90013 (213) 488-0599 In the depths of one of the most crowded places in California, The Last Bookstore serves as a major tourist attraction of Downtown Los Angeles. With cheap, affordable books filling every inch of beige walls, the selection is endless and far beyond what the eyes can see. With features like stacked books defying gravity to form a tunnel, and papers in mid air flying over the piano as if time has stopped, there are countless artsy sculptures and arrangements that beg for the eyes of a photographer. How often do people take pictures of a bookstore? And it’s not only books. The variety is executed in a broad domain that ranges from used books, to vintage vinyls, all the way to graphic novels. It’s the Taj Mahal of all palaces. The Smithsonian of all museums. It’s a one of a kind sight. One does not need to be a book enthusiast, or even like reading for that matter, to develop the indisputable initiative to get in a car and take a quick road trip to best and, apparently last, bookstore. Chevalier’s Books 126 N. Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA, 90004 323-465-1334 Located in the middle of the cultural hub that is North Larchmont, Chevalier’s Books is one of the most underrated of the few remaining book stores in Los Angeles. Since 1940, this diamond in the rough has sold a variety
of books in its quiet hideaway in Windsor Square. It even recently renovated its store to charming perfection. But Chevalier’s doesn’t only offer books. The quaint shop also boasts book readings, signings, kid’s story times and sing-alongs and book club meetups. Going above and beyond the usual bookstore quota, Chevalier’s has become a favorite among locals. “I love this place. There’s something so friendly about it. I come here almost every week with my husband Robert and buy a few books. It’s nice to have a place where you can still physically buy them,” Larchmont resident Sarah Folger said. Book Soup 8818 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (310) 659-3110 Of all of the remaining book stores in Los Angeles, Book Soup is truly one of the most iconic and revered. Founded 40 years ago, Book Soup has become one of the remaining few independent stores who have not only survived but thrived in the age of online shopping. In face, Book Soup has been declared the largest independent bookstore in the Hollywood area, according to Publishers Weekly. From the outside, Book Soup appears to be an ordinary store; however, when one steps inside, they are immediately struck by the stacks and stacks of writing there is throughout the tiny store. One way that Book Soup continues to draw an audience is through their book recommendations. Online and in-store, Book Soup employees constantly recommend books that might not make it into the limelight by themselves. Book Soup prospers as an independent bookstore because of its ability to take advantage of the fact that its not solely online. The store has a minimum of four events per week to keep customers returning. Book Soup will continue to flourish regardless of the obstacles that may seem to cripple other brick and mortar book stores because of its innovative and intriguing ways to captivate an audience.
Marty Schnapp news editor Ben Shofet graphics editor Sadie Hersh photo editor Guy Ginsberg sports editor Veronica Pahomova cartoonist
Teen Titans
Photo courtesty of Neznáme “Teen Titans”, based on the DC Comics series of the same name, revolves around a team of five hilariously immature teenaged superheroes. Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Raven and Beast Boy use their powers to fight crime in the city, and when they are not at work they are managing personal issues that are relatable to their adolescent viewers. The 2013 follow-up to the show, Teen Titans Go!, tries to mimic the original series’ fast-paced, playful mood but fails to deliver on the original Teen Titans’ unique suspense and intensity. “The Powerpuff Girls”
Sugar, spice and everything nice: the initial ingredients Professor Utonium mixed together to create the “Powerpuff Girls”. With a little added “Chemical X”, the flying ladies became symbols for a generation of young women. “The Powerpuff Girls” first aired in 1998 and
ran until 2005. Each episode was packed with action, villains, life lessons and three adorable girls. It did not matter if you were a Bubbles, a Buttercup or a Blossom girl, as each girl brought something to the table. Young viewers learned the concept of following the rules, for example, the importance of not stealing and lying. And, most vitally, the show stood for girl power. The three girls all stand for different qualities young girls should aspire for. Buttercup is stubborn, but confident in herself. Blossom is the leader of the three girls and is the most level headed. Bubbles is optimistic and emotional. Putting all of their personalities together makes for the characteristics that should exist in every young girl.
“Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends”, which originally aired on Cartoon Network in 2004, follows the story of Mac, a little boy, and his imaginary friend, Bloo, who live in a world where humans coexist with their imaginary friends. Bloo, as well as other imaginary friends such as Wilt, Eduardo and Coco live in an orphanage for outgrown or forgotten imaginary friends owned by Madame Foster, yet run by her own imaginary friend, Mr. Herriman and her granddaughter Frankie. Every character is brilliantly layered in their own way, and Foster’s is an upbeat and thoughtfully designed tale of a young boy’s imagination and dedication to his only true friends. I am forever grateful to this show for showing me the importance of devotion and compassion. 10/10 stars.
Photo courtesy of DontSpeakSilent “Avatar the Last Airbender” Cartoons have captured the hearts of children for generations. However, “Avatar the Last Airbender” was certainly the most captivating. Avatar is one of the only cartoons that has a complete and legitimate story that extends over a long period of time. In 2010, “The Last Airbender” came out in theatres, taking place during the early days of the Avatar. In fact, the show was so successful, that there was a sequel show created, “The Legend of Korra”. If a cartoon is so successful that it is able to produce a Hollywood movie and a sequel, then without a doubt “Avatar the Last Airbender” is the greatest cartoon of our past time. “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends”
“Scooby-Doo” A rag-tag team of five solving mysteries, each person as different as they possibly can be from the next. The clique consists of Velma Dinkley, the genius; Daphne Blake, the attractive one; the Fred Jones, the jock trap-maker; Shaggy Rogers, the entertainment and comic relief; and one of Hollywood’s most iconic dogs, right next to Air Bud and Clifford, the ever so famous Scooby-Doo. Each and every single member never failed to entice children with their “supernatural” dilemmas, or bring a smile to their face from the many surprising convict catches by the dynamic duo that is Shag and Scoob.
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HIGHLIGHTS SPOTLIGHT MARCH 13, 2015
What do Normans think? We asked the student body what they think ASB does...
The (AS)Breakdown What exactly goes on in the ASB room? Jackson Prince co-editor-in-chief
“What is ASB?” Junior Stratos Chatzinikitas
“I think ASB usually tries to get students’ opinions on school related problems.” Sophomore Andrea DiBattista Gonzalez
“I think ASB collects money to fund clubs and it also sets up events like Color Wars and things like that.” Sophomore Jessica Beroukhim
The Associated Student Body (ASB), comprised of about 35 freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors, has zoned in on several goals to improve Beverly Hills High School, though the class has struggled to do so in the midst of unopposed elections, faults in communication and public misperception. ASB Director Mark Mead hopes to create a “healthy democracy”, in which anyone who cares about the school can participate in ASB to make the school a better place. “We need people running,” Mead said. “You need opposing viewpoints, you need political debate, there needs to be issues. if people are running alone, there are no issues, which means there is no voice.” According to Mead, the class is focusing in on reaching the “marginalized” students, or those who don’t feel the impact of ASB’s efforts. “There are kids in this school who might be a little bit marginalized. They may not be the popular kid or the AP kid, the kids who are potentially forgotten about. I want everybody considered, so the ideal trait in ASB is first and foremost caring about others, more than popularity, more than leadership,” he said. Student Board Member Josh Schenk, who has spent all eight of his Norman semesters as a member of ASB, believes that there is room for anyone to be in ASB.
“We have a wide range of students. a more definite way of communication We have introverts and extroverts, that would prevent accountability isathletes and scholars, musicians and sues,” Lee said. artists, and pretty much everything. According to Mead, a more invested All of these different personality types student body would assist ASB in its and skills come together so that we quest for making the current situation can have an understanding of the better. whole student body. diversity is really “I’m currently reaching out to English important to us, and we hope to at- teachers and social science teachers to tract all different types of students in try to encourage their students to think the future,” Schenk said. about what they love about this school, Accordw h a t ing to ASB “We need people running. You t h e y ’ r e President g r a t e need opposing viewpoints, you ful for, Debbie Lee, the need political debate, there and what class has they’d like needs to be issues. if people are to change improved vastly in running alone, there are no is- as well. its “proceThose are sues, which means there is dural” duthe types ties. of people no voice.” “SomeI want thing that in ASB, has been improving in ASB this year the type of people who look at the high is the accountability in paperwork and school and [see] some things that they procedures,” she said. “ASB is working love and want to keep, and others that diligently to make sure all procedures they want to change. So, I’m actively are being followed correctly, and all and personally trying to reach out to paperwork is accounted for.” people who have certain characteristics However, recent issues with com- that’d be good for ASB,” Mead said. munication for Color Wars have Lee hopes that students would be brought up concerns within the class. more understanding of ASB’s struggles. “An area in which ASB could really “Many factors go into the perceived improve on as a whole is communica- ‘failures’ of ASB,” she said. “Often tion with students, faculty and admin- times, many unexpected conflicts arise, istrators. Although this effort must and the majority of these conflicts is not come from the other end as well, I in ASB’s control. Some of these conflicts would like to see future ASBs develop could include timing of sports-related
events, miscommunication among a line of different people, etc. As a whole, these perceived ‘failures’ are often not results of ASB’s failure to follow through.” Mead hopes to make the class more “fun” by being driven by “actions”, rather than the desire for grades, in the future. “I want to improve my grading system, I want to hold people accountable but I don’t want this to be a class about grades, I want it to be a class about actions. I want to create creative leadership where kids could learn skills, leadership and, most importantly, find new ways to make this place better,” he said. Though the class has gone through its trivialities, Lee is “thankful” to have found ASB. “I have the privilege of working with some of the brightest and most spirited students on campus. These students are truly driven towards making Beverly better than what it was before, and I am extremely grateful that I have the opportunity to work with these enthusiastic and hardworking students. Their presence and passion for the school inspire me to work harder,” she said. She shares a similar sentiment with Mead, that the class hopes to attract students who care to help. “I hope to see students who are passionate about what they do, are believers in the virtue of humility, and are willing to dedicate themselves and efforts to creating a positive school environment,” Lee said.
The ASB hierarchy Head Row: President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Student Board Member
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Representative
Commissioners: Commissioner of Publicity Commissioner of Graphic Design
“On my best guess, I think ASB takes care of making sure that money goes to certain clubs and organizations. Besides that, they organize the assemblys, but I don’t know what else they do.” Junior Lauren Scheide
hjvgcvgjhvh “ASB organizes all the fun events the students attend.” Freshman Sydney Fogelman
Mead encourages new students to run for ASB Ben Shofet graphics editor Highlights: What do you want the student body to know about ASB? Mead: I want the school to know that ASB exists to express the voice of every kid on campus, that when we have an election people are electing with their voice. And if people are running in a healthy democratic election, then they are going to be running on ideas. The most important thing for me is for the students on campus to realize that they have a voice, and in order to effectively use that voice, they need a strong functioning democracy. So that’s the most important thing: we want ASB to represent every single kid in the school. Highlights: What have you been doing to eliminate situations where candidates run unopposed? Mead: One of the things I’m trying
to do, and I’m working very hard on it right now, is to have one election per year. So no more winter election, which is where a majority of unopposed elections occur. In our school, right now, we don’t have as many kids, which means we don’t have as many classes, which means kids can’t really easily change their schedules mid-year. So unless they have a sixth period elective, it can be very difficult, if not impossible, to run. As for the beginning of the year, there are fewer students running unopposed. In short, I’m trying to make the democratic situation more healthy. Highlights: What traits or attributes do you think a student needs have in order to join ASB and actually make a difference, rather than just passing through the class? Mead: Well, as in any class, a student needs to care about the class. The students in an English class, they ideally all care about literature, but we know that’s
not the case. Kids are now doing it for grades or for some other reason. We want a kid in ASB because s/he wants to be involved in making the school better for every single kid on campus, and I think that’s the critical thing here. In the leadership I encourage, kids are thinking all the time outside of the ASB room about everyone on campus.
of procedural duties and the secondary class would be far more spirited and will be involved in ways that are way less political and more social. I’m not petitioning administration or anything like that, but it’s just an idea of mine.
Highlights: Why do you desire that new students join ASB?
Mead: I’m not asking for new, I’m asking for more. From my perspective as the director, there are tons of ways to improve. In the procedural part of the class, I don’t blame them for thinking it isn’t fun. But once the procedures are dialed in and automatic and they’re ingrained in the class, they become much easier to deal with. A lot of the frustrations and questions that come up from the procedural changes, I’m hopeful, will begin to fade away. I would like ASB to have a real mission statement, one that they believe in, one that they vote on and one that they stand behind. We haven’t got there yet. But we can.
Mead: I’m not necessarily saying I want new kids. The kids I have are great. But for democracy to be healthy, we need more people and more voices. Let’s say more kids run next year and there’s a lot of people who genuinely want to be involved to make things better. A long-term goal that I have is to create a second leadership class of nonelected commissioners. They’d make posters or budgets for clubs, or make movies or podcasts to boost publicity. The elected officials would have a lot
Commissioners of Audio Commissioner of Video “ASB plans events and they hold elections for positions, and I don’t know what those positions do, but I vote on them.” Sophomore Abbey Whelan
Sports Accountant Commissioner Club Accountant Commissioner General Commissioner
“ASB makes Beverly a ride of a lifetime.” Freshman Spencer Edelman
Highlights: What do you think needs to be improved regarding ASB?
“I’m not sure about currently. I know they did a lot at the beginning of the year for Homecoming and they have Color Wars coming up, so they are obviously spend time organizing events, but these events do not happen frequently.” Junior Jane Rothstein
“ASB gives money to clubs, as well as puts on events such as Color Wars, Prom and Formal, for students” Senior Yoav Gelfer
HIGHLIGHTS OPINION MARCH 13, 2015
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The late bird: best 1 a.m. bites in Los Angeles Karen Shilyan business manager Celine Rezvani staff writer
Photo credits to: JAY JANNER AMERICAN-STATESMAN Tatsu Ramen 2123 Sawtelle Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025 7111 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90025 11:00a.m.-2:00 a.m. Sun.-Weds. 11:00a.m.-3:00 a.m. Thurs.-Sat. This is a perfect late-night spot for affordable, tasty ramen noodles. Tatsu is almost always packed during lunch, dinner and late night hours. Ordering is easy; with electronic iPad menus stationed at the front of each store, customers can browse the menu, order and pay. If you’re not afraid of the heat, this hip LA spot is a must visit. And don’t forget to order sides of sweet corn and add it to your bowl-it’s free!
Photo courtesy of: MASON LEIB Fat Sal’s 927 Gayley Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90024 11:00 a.m.-3:00 a.m. Mon.-Sat. 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m. Sun. Warning: Fat Sal’s is not for those with delicate stomachs or healthy diets. Packed with anything from chicken nuggets to mozzarella sticks, a Sal’s sandwich can leave you feeling Thanksgiving meal full until the next day. That being said, if you’re a fan of anything carby, saucey or cheesy, Fat Sal’s is the place for you.The Fat Buffalo is a combination of chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, fries and buffalo sauce all on a garlic hero. It’s delicious and magnificent and everything you would want in a heavy fluffy sandwich.
Photo credits to: ENGLISH LANGUAGE WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Mel’s Drive-In 8585 W Sunset Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069 Open 24 hours Mel’s Drive-In is the typical American diner, and more typically known for being a staple of Hollywood history. Walking in is a step back to the 50s, complete with jukeboxes. And a meal just isn’t a meal without one of their thick milkshakes. Whether you prefer an old-fashioned vanilla, chocolate or strawberry, or try their black and white milkshake, it’s bound to put a smile on your face. Mel’s is open 24 hours, seven days a week, and has four locations throughout the Los Angeles area, making it accessible at all times. wrong at Mel’s.
Photo credits to: SGERBIC WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Photo credits to: FLICKR CERVUS VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
The Apple Pan 10801 W Pico Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90064 11:00a.m.-12:00a.m. Sun., TuesThurs. 11:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m. Fri - Sat.
Il Tramezzino 454 N Canon Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90210 7:00 a.m.-4:00 a.m. Fri., Sat. 7 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Mon. - Thurs. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun.
Great burgers, fantastic pies, plus the fact that it’s open until 1:00 a.m. on weekends makes this 1950s-style diner an excellent choice for a late-night grub. The burgers are of good quality, but it’s the hickory sauce that makes each bite unforgettable. But, if you find yourself craving something sweet, take advantage of the opportunity to taste the best banana cream pie on the west coast. Be prepared to wait a bit, the restaurant is small so a line sometimes forms, and don’t forget it’s cash only!
This quaint Italian cafe puts all others to shame with its hearty pastas, as well as their renowned paninis. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, Il Tramezzino is the perfect option for anyone looking for traditional Italian food late and night. Locally, they are known for having the best Chicken Special Sandwich in town. And you simply can’t go without adding cholula and pesto to their sandwiches, it’s a no-brainer. No matter the size of the group, Il Tramezzino leaves every person happy with their choice.
Technology creates Food delivery revolutionized racist platform
Favorites. The best NYC $4.99 options are Baked By Melissa, S’Mac Murray Hill, Sasabune, Magnolia Once only thought of as stereoBakery West Village and Waffles typical Chinese and Dinges. takeout or pizza Uber, on the other delivery, the foodhand, has gained fame delivery scene over the last year in has evolved due several cities across to UberFresh and the country. It’s also Postmates, two of become a phenomenon the leaders in the at Beverly. Uber is a car speedy gourmet service that, by downfood-delivery serloading the app, can vice. give you access to a ride Postmates is a most anywhere. company that was Naturally, Uber has created in 2011 by jumped on the food three New Yorkdelivery trend, but in ers: Sam Street, a simpler way than Sean Plaice and Postmates, with their Bastian Lehmlaunch of UberFresh. ann. First only serv- A spectacular view. New York’s pretty, too. Photo by: JULIETTE DEUTSCH The service is available ing the boroughs of for lunch from 11 a.m. to Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, Pastaio. However, what really makes 1:30 p.m. and for dinner between Postmates delivered on-demand delivery of Manhattan’s finest res- Postmates unique from other de- 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily. If livery services in LA is their “Fleet you’re in the coverage area, which taurants to anyone. Four years later, the company Pick” system. Depending on your includes the Beverly Hills, the now services Los Angeles, Chi- location in your given city, Post- Westside and West Hollywood, a cago, Dallas, Philadelphia, Wash- mates reccomneds their Fleet small fork and knife icon will show ington, D.C., Miami, Denver and Picks for you. Every day, there are up to the far right in your regular San Francisco. Postmates first 12 new restaurants available to or- Uber app. However, unlike Postmates, began servicing Beverly Hills and der from. Some of the most delicious Bev- Uber cannot be expected to have the greater Los Angeles area in the erly Hills and Los Angeles picks the availability of the full menu Spring of 2014. Using Postmates is simple. Cus- include: Joan’s on Third, Blue or the 24/7 schedule. UberFresh tomers must download the Post- Plate, Tender Greens, 800 Degrees only has a select number of items mates app, enter their location and Pizza, Lemonade, Gracias Madre from each restaurant that can be ordered. credit card information and, then and Pressed Juicery. My favorite UberFresh deliveries As for New York City, my favorby a list of restaurants in their area ite Postmates options include the include Bottega Louie, Il Tramezavailable for delivery. Postmates has grown to extreme famous Dominique Ansel Bakery, zino, The Church Key, True Food popularity among students and Sushi of Gari, Rubirosa, Black Kitchen and All About The Bread. According to the UberFresh foodies all over Los Angeles. Post- Seed Bagel, Momofuku Milk Bar, mates delivers from some of the Dos Caminos Soho and The Mer- Blog, the company plans to expand premier restaurants in the city. My cer Kitchen. New York City’s ver- its coverage in other parts of Los favorites include Sugarfish, Cafe sion of Fleet Pick is called $4.99 Angeles and later into other cities. Juliette Deutsch co-editor-in-chief
Sadie Hersh photo editor
This past Monday, a video of the Oklahoma University chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon chanting a fraternity song about never allowing an African-American to be a member of their fraternity went viral. The words were about as crude as could be and the song also mentioned the act of lynching, as well as the antiquated, derogatory word associated with darker times in our country’s history. The video was released by a black student group on campus and then went viral, leading to the expulsion of the fraternity and many of its members. This time, it happened on a southern college campus at a fraternity that has the largest national membership. “It” has been around for quite some time, but has found a new mode of exposure through the internet, social media, hackers and technology. This “it” is glorified racism in America that, on the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s march across the bridge in Selma, Alabama, is alive and well and completely appalling. The Oklahoma University fraternity issue comes on the heels of learning about the intense corruption inside the Ferguson, Missouri, police department. A number of emails recently surfaced that contained racist comments about both President Obama and the First Lady, which resulted in the resignation of two police officers and the firing of the city’s
top court clerk. This past summer another incident occurred that questioned the integrity of the police department, this time in New York. A video instantly went viral of two policemen brutally beating Eric Garner, who was illegally selling cigarettes. In the video, taken by a bypasser, Garner is clearing say, “I can’t breathe.” Garner died on the scene. This racism has even hit corporate America, where North Korean hackers leaked private emails between Sony Pictures’ CEO and a film producer that also contained racist comments that were about the president. That CEO has since resigned from their position. One would think that America has come so far in race relations since the Civil Rights Movement to become a nation that is more tolerant and accepting of all races and religions, but as private comments, emails and videos go viral, we are learning that not much has changed...it is the technology that has become more advanced, which makes this topic ever present in our world. With this advancement of technology, it is clear that racism is still a public issue in our country. The United State’s infamous first amendment gives everyone the rights to our own free thought, but it is too easy for these opinions to become a national topic and cause racial controversy. It was thought that this subject of racism had been overcome in our nation, but it is starting to become clear that it is not.
Gratitude, Madeo Restaurant, Katsuya, Native Foods Cafe, Bay Cities Italian Deli and Bakery, and Il
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HIGHLIGHTS OPINION March 13, 2015
Screamo isn’t real music
No, it’s real music
Eleanor Bogart-Stuart staff writer
Veronica Pahomova cartoonist
What is the strangest and most confusing phenomenon in the music industry currently? Sia’s hidden face and ever increasing hairstyle? The success of Iggy Azalea? Chief Keef’s Chief Keef-ness? If any of these are your answers, you’re not too far from the truth. Far stranger than any Kanye SNL performance, the subgenre of metal and hard rock, called screamo/metalcore, has now taken the crown for the most baffling and undeserving success story in modern music culture. If you haven’t heard of screamo yet, consider yourself lucky. To describe it simply, it’s a wall of furious guitar and continuous screaming set to a rapid tempo. Void of melody, lacking substance and comprised of primarily violent and explicit lyrics, it’s not anything to be excited about. Screamo’s only unique quality, and perhaps the only talent its bands have, is the way the singers project their voices. Using their diaphragm, screamo singers release and maintain an unearthly groaning yell that usually persists for the length of an entire song. Although a neat party trick, personally, it’s just unpleasant to listen to. Yet, somehow, screamo has gained an incredible amount of popularity since it started in the early 1990s. Its fans are extremely loyal, and are commonly found obsessing over the lead singers of the bands, quite similar to fans of One Direction and Justin Bieber. What is truly dumbfounding is how the music can attract multi-generations of people with the kinds of messages and lyrics that it contains. One of the most popular metalcore bands, Eyes Set to Kill, have a song called “Violent Kiss”, which contains lyrics like “I can’t keep pacing, I need your blood tonight, you’re so far from me, and I’m so weak inside, come fly to me, I’ll show you what it’s like, when the full moon shines, we’ll stop hearts together.” This is the kind of underwhelming, and frankly, creepy kind of musicianship that has, for some reason, captured the hearts of millions. Unsurprisingly, the dark and violent lyrics in these songs have negative side effects. Look, it’s not like listening to Bon Iver is any less depressing. But in 2013, two psychologists, Gavin Ryan Shafron and Mitchell Karno, analyzed 551 college students in the LA area who listened to heavy metal/metalcore music. The students had “significantly higher levels of anxiety and depression...as compared with non-listeners.” The music, as well as not sounding good, simply isn’t good for you. Don’t be fooled by the heavy eye makeup and black clothing. This is no Green Day. This is no Marilyn Manson. This is nothing that will make a lasting effect on music. If anything, this is simply a fad for metal fans who wanted a break from Metallica.
Screamo. Probably the most underrated, misjudged genre in the expandingworld of music. Also known as metalcore, screamo is a subgenre combination of metal and emo that has been on the rise since the early 1990s. Since it first began, the infamous controversy is and will always be whether screamo has the right to be referred to as “music”. Well, if those redundant DJ Snake songs with less than 15 words and the prepubescent elevator hymns of One Direction can be considered music, so can this. Most listeners of this specific genre get a wide range of judgmental response from their friends who don’t share their music taste. “Turn that off!”, “You listen to this?”, “This is music?” and a personal favorite, “What are they even saying?!” First misconception: it’s not all screaming, there are words. Many, many words in fact, considering that they are actual songs and not recordings of different pieces of silverware in blenders. In many occasions actually, only the verses are screamed while the choruses are sung. And unlike those top-tens on the radio, the lyrics have more meaning than scoring chicks. And that ties in with the second misconception: it’s undeniably Satanic and always about death. Since screamo is a form of expression, it’s considered to be more meaningful and emotional than what time of day Calvin Harris can blame his decisions on. And to shatter the rumor once and for all, screamo isn’t Satanic. Some of the worldly famous bands are in fact Christian bands, such as The Devil Wears Prada and Blessthefall. Third misconception: it’s nothing special, anyone can scream. Please, amuse the screamo genre audience and attempt to give your best renowned Danny Worsnop growl, or a skin crawling Danny Filth screech. Without the right technique and constant practice, one is surely at risk of seriously damaging their throat and vocal chords. The first rule of screaming is that the noise comes from the diaphragm, not the throat. In an attempt to scream, place your hand on your neck. If you feel a vibration, you’re doing it wrong. One necessary point that must be mentioned is that just like every music genre out there, there are several bad screamo songs. There’s a wide range of songs that mimic Bring Me The Horizon’s album “Count Your Blessings” in the sense that even when you’re staring at the lyrics, it’s incomprehensible. One has to find the right band for them and choose the perfect song. If everyone formed their opinions on male singers based on Baby by Justin Bieber, there wouldn’t be a masculine voice on the radio. So, when you’re finally tired of listening to how hot Bruno Mars thinks he is, who Big Sean doesn’t f**k with, and what A$AP Rocky’s f*****g problem is, take a chance. Give yourself a little test. The next time you somehow happen to find yourself listening to a screamo song, attempt to open your ears and mind to make out some meaningful lyrics instead of laughing and convincing yourself that all you hear is “RAAAAWRDEATHRAAWR”.
Photo credits to: FLICKR ROBNASC VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Breakdown in communication: who’s talking? Jackson Prince co-editor-in-chief In order for things to get done at Beverly, a fragile and complicated, yet strong and simple, system must be maintained. The public, that is, the general student body, consisting of those students who speak loudly and those who are almost silent, must express to their elected representative voice, that is, ASB, that they desire change. It is then incumbent upon ASB to deliver this message to a higher authority, that is, administration and the BHUSD School Board, where an organized effort can be dedicated in order to improve the school in some fashion. But the system is broken. It has been broken, and will continue to be broken if it is not recognized. As of late, other than the incredible turn-outs at the boys varsity basketball games, the Norman Nation has suffered from apathy when it comes to improvement of campus life. There has been no great push behind a hot academic issue like A-G requirements or a social issue like the schedule conflict between Prom, Coachella and Passover. (Not that we could have reschedule the Jewish holiday or the festival,
but Prom should have been set to avoid either of those events.) There has been no demand from student leaders of almost any group to carry out change, and so
than a “have to”. However, a lack of student input, as well as several faults in communication with administration (mostly due to efforts from both sides being placed in
While it is not entirely their fault, these authoritative figures haven’t made the necessary efforts to seek this answer (perhaps due to the fact that they are extremely busy
ASB has no direction from the student body. ASB has attempted to put on several more “sexy” events, as well as opening up student discussion of school improvement, in hopes of making school a “want to”, rather
different directions), have impeded in ASB’s ability to do so. And administration and the school board, without much student action to work upon, can, at times, find themselves out of touch with what the students want.
people). Beverly Hills High School, compared to past times, is stagnant. In the grand scheme of things, it isn’t. Wonderful occurrences happen each and every day that make
Beverly one of the elite public high schools in the nation. Our school is improving all the time: with each basketball victory, each robotics trophy, each ACADECA ace, and, yes, each lesson learned in the classroom, our students and our campus are enriched. But we can’t settle. There is much that has to change, much that can be made better. And, as can be seen in the way that our communication relationship functions, we must begin with the general student body sharing their thoughts, ideas, concerns and qualms with ASB, whose responsibility it is to carry the student voice and lobby school officials to effect change. It could be as simple as a master calendar. Or a Google Doc. It could be a committee of non-ASB student leaders that alert ASB student leaders, administration or even the school board of public outcry. Something has to be said. Someone, or something, has to be the voice to effect change. But there isn’t much voice if no one’s talking.
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HIGHLIGHTS MARCH 13, 2015
Two For Two
HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS MARCH 13, 2015
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A Beverly alumnus’ road to two Super Bowl rings
Guy Ginsberg sports editor What do the New England Patriots, the Seattle Seahawks and Beverly Hills High School all have in common? If you’re thinking cornerback Brandon Browner, you’re close, but he went to Sylmar High in North LA. It’s offensive lineman Caylin Hauptmann, and at 23-years-old, he already is arguably the most successful athlete to ever attend Beverly. While attending Beverly Hills High School, Hauptmann starred on the offensive line at both center and tackle under former coach and current BHHS principal Carter Paysinger. He also threw shot put for the track and field team, where he broke a 30-year-old BHHS record, throwing a 60’10.5”. “To be his size and to be as agile as he was, and [to be] a little ahead of the curve in terms of his knowledge of the game, that made him an outstanding high school football player,” Paysinger said. After graduating high school, Hauptmann accepted a football scholarship to play left guard for the College of the Canyons. He played one year there before being recruited by Florida International University, where he excelled as a player and a leader, becoming captain of the offensive line in 2011. After graduating from Florida International, Caylin was signed as a undrafted free agent to the practice squad of the Cleveland Browns on April 30, 2013. After being signed to the Browns roster off the practice squad, he was waived to the practice squad once again. He was then signed for the 2013-14 season off the Browns practice squad to the Seattle Seahawks active roster. Hauptmann has only appreciation for the opportunity given to him by the Browns. “[I have nothing bad to say about
the Browns], if anything, I would like to say thank you to the Browns organization for allowing me the opportunity to show my talents in the NFL. They gave me my first chance, my first opportunity at every young [football player’s] dream. For that I am forever grateful,” Hauptmann said. While transitioning from one NFL team to another could be difficult, Hauptmann didn’t have much of a problem with the change. “Changing teams can be tough for some, but if there are no kids involved then it’s really not too bad,” he said. Hauptmann spent most of the 2013-14 season with the Seahawks inactive, and spent three games active, but did not play. The Seahawks had a tremendous season and won the Super Bowl in a blowout game against the Denver Broncos. Hauptmann described what went on in his mind after winning a Super Bowl ring in just his rookie season. “The first thing I thought to myself was, ‘God is great’. The second was, ‘Is this real?’ But once that settles in the next thing [I] thought about is, ‘How do I win another one?’ [I] always want more, as with anything,” Hauptmann said. After the 2013-14 season ended, Hauptmann had to start over. He was dropped by the Seahawks after he won his first Super Bowl, and was picked up by the New England Patriots. Hauptmann had only one thought when he heard the Patriots were going to sign him. “Thank God,” he said. Hauptmann spent the 2014-15 season with the Patriots practice squad. The team went on to have Super Bowl caliber season, facing off in the big game against none other than Hauptmann’s old team, the Seattle Seahawks. As many
know, the Patriots went on to win that game by a score of 28-24, and Hauptmann received his second ring. Hauptmann has had the most winningest career possible, winning two Super Bowls in just two years in the NFL. However, Hauptmann accredits his success to the coaches and players he has worked alongside. “Both head coaches [I played for] have completely different approaches to the game. Both coaches are great and have proven it consistently,” Hauptmann said. “I have been blessed enough to start out learning from guys like Joe Thomas and Alex Mack in Cleveland then going to Seattle and learning from Max Unger, Russell Okung and James Carpenter then finally getting to New England to learn from guys like Dan Connolly, Ryan Wendell, Nate Solder and Sebastian Vollmer. All of these players have had a tremendous effect on me since coming into the league. I have learned at least one thing from each of them.” Paysinger recounted the type of mentality that Hauptmann had in high school on the field. “Caylin was a fiery type of guy, and when things weren’t going well on the field he had no problem getting in the faces of some of his teammates. Like some of our other great football players, he would get emotional from time to time,” Paysinger said. Paysinger also recalled the single trait that he saw in Caylin which he believes caused him, and many other successful Beverly athletes, to stand out from the bunch. “I’ve had a number of players go on to play in college, and the one thing they all have in common is that they will work when no one else is out there. We call that the ‘grunt’ work. That’s the work they
do when the fans aren’t there, when the other players aren’t there. We have had a few players to go on to play college football and a few to play pro football, and they all had that trait,” Paysinger said. Paysinger also had a few words of wisdom for Hauptmann going forward in his career. “Stay in your lane, keep your head down. Focus in on what you have to do. The one thing that I truly believe is that life can throw curve balls at you, but you have got to be able to make the adjustment.
Caylin Hauptmann, satnding at 6-3, 300 lbs., is a human behemoth. Photo Courtesy of: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS/ DAVID SILVERMAN
Dear Coach Kelly, Guy Ginsberg sports editor Dear Coach Kelly, I have been a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles ever since I knew anything about the National Football League. It may have been due to those beautifully rich dark green jerseys, the fierce and undeniably majestic logo, or the pure fact that Philadelphia is the only NFL city that uses the letters “ph” to make the sound “f.” However, regardless of my eightyear-old self’s reasoning for picking the “Bleed Green Nation,” the team has been a huge part of my life since then. Chip, you joined the Eagle’s coaching staff in 2013, coming off an incredibly successful coaching campaign with a college football powerhouse in the Oregon Ducks, where you undeniably played a role in the school’s success. I, along with many other Eagles fans, was ecstatic that such a talented, successful, forward-thinking coach would be taking over the
reins from former play-caller and fan favorite Andy Reid. My feelings since then have swung a little like this: When you got the job in 2013, I was excited. When you dropped wide receiver Desean Jackson, after the 2013-14 season, the best season of his career (1,332 yards, 9 TD’s) because the Eagles were “going in a different direction”, I was annoyed, but still had faith. When you wasted our 2014-15 first round pick on a linebacker who has yet to see a minute of real NFL playing time, I was mad, but held onto my fading faith. Now, Chip, I am furious, and my faith in you is plummeting. Last Tuesday may go down as the most unfaithful days in the history of the Eagles franchise. Here’s what happened: You cut cornerback Cary Williams, you released pass-rusher Trent Cole and you traded running back Lesean McCoy to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for linebacker Kiko Alonso. Now let’s pick these
Chip Kelly’s nepotism towards his former Oregon Ducks has led him to oust some key Eagles from Philly. Cartoon by: VERONICA PAHOMOVA decisions apart one by one. Your decision to cut Cary Williams was just. He was an overpaid and overplayed corner with small arms and a big ego. He didn’t offer much to the Eagles secondary, and if anything, took away from it. However, your choice to release defensive end Trent Cole is both baffling and incredibly distasteful. The only argument one could make against Cole is his age, 32, may factor into his level of play. Although allow me to remind you that this old soul accounted 52 tackles, 6½ sacks and three forced fumbles last season; those aren’t grandpa num-
Things aren’t always what they seem, so you can’t be dismayed by that,” Paysinger said. Paysinger recalls one single memory of Caylin from high school that perfectly describes the type of player he was. “I remember this one time we were running the ball to his side quite a bit, and he was dominating his guy and he came back over to the sideline and said, ‘Coach just keep running it right up my back; I’ve got this boy, I’ve got it,’” Paysinger said.
bers. Not only is he still playing at a high level, Cole has come to be an institution for the Eagles franchise. Selected in the fifth round of the 2005 season, Cole has been playing in green and white for 10 seasons. In 2005, you were hanging around the University of New Hampshire, far and out of sight of the Bleed Green Nation. And that brings me to the Lesean McCoy-Kiko Alonso deal. This one breaks the heart, Chip. Not only is LeSean of the top running backs in the NFL, he has been my favorite NFL players since he entered the league in 2009. McCoy has argu-
ably been the most productive running back in the NFL over the past two seasons, rushing for 2,926 yards and 14 touchdowns, even winning the NFL rushing title in 2013. Though his output had declined this past season compared to the one before, he is still considered by many to be a top-10 back in the NFL. Drafted in 2013, the same year McCoy was already winning rushing titles, Kiko Alonso had a great first season for the Bills. Since then, he spent the entire 2014-15 season in rehab after suffering a torn ACL. Taking a look at his resume, he looks like an unproven young linebacker coming off a serious injury (he’s also only two years younger than McCoy). And that brings me to my final point, you probably already know what it’s going to be. You remember how great of a college career Alonso had, don’t you Chip? Of course you do, you watched him play every single day, at Oregon. Now that is some type of nepotism at it’s finest. So thanks Chip. Thanks for thrashing an NFL franchise. Thank you for turning “the city of brotherly love” into anything but.
HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS MARCH 13, 2015
12
Standing Tall:
Undersized varsity baseball players looked up to by team Marty Schnapp news editor Two starting varsity baseball players, left fielder Jackson Prince, standing at 5 feet 4 inches, and second baseman Mason Leib, standing at 5 feet 7 inches, are significantly shorter than most of their teammates and opponents. However, most of the other players feel that, although from a physical standpoint Prince and Leib do not stand as tall as the rest of the team, in no way do they fall short of talent or heart. “Our two shorter guys, Jackson and Mason, aren’t affected that much by their height,” varsity junior Jake Wolken said. Wolken also commented that
“It puts a chip on our shoulder, and we are so low to the ground it doesn’t break when it falls off our shoulder.” their height is an advantage in certain aspects of the game. “They have smaller strike zones, which force pitchers to be more accurate against them,” Wolken said. Leib feels that his height, if anything, has pushed him to become a better player.
“I try my hardest not to let my height affect any aspect of my life, but I think in baseball it elevates my game because I’m forced to work harder and have developed a better work ethic,” Leib said. Other players occasionally tease Prince and Leib about their height.
Lucas Harward, staff writer
Ibraaheem Agaba
Senior Ibraaheem Agaba, better known as Ibro, is a four-year varsity volleyball player and a cocaptain of this year’s squad. Agaba’s volleyball journey began with some encouragement from his older brother, Hamzat, who played volleyball for three years and was on varsity his senior year. “I believe the first time I ever touched a volleyball was when my brother made me try out for the team as a freshman. I’ve been playing volleyball ever since,” Agaba said. Agaba is very motivated to achieve success in his last year of high school volleyball. Marty Schnapp news editor
Shyra Costas
Senior Shyra Costas currently plays softball at Beverly, as well as on a club team year-round. Costas was granted an athletic scholarship to Tufts University for the Fall 2016 season, and she plans to accept the offer. “My best athletic moment was when the coach at Tufts wanted me to play softball at their school. I worked so hard my whole life and my dream school finally wanted me to play for them,” Costas said. Junior and varsity softball player Aleks Recupero believes that Costas motivates each player to work hard and give it her all. Jackson Prince co editor-in-chief Marty Schnapp news editor
Rigo Fernandez
Senior Rigo Fernandez is on varsity baseball for his fourth straight year, and he will play baseball in college. Fernandez, who plays pitcher, is called “the Cuban missile” by varsity junior Jacob Hankin, and is currently the varsity captain. He hopes to play professionally one day. “I’ve developed more of a sense of teamwork and cooperation with my peers. Being the captain has also helped me develop leadership skills. I constantly strive for perfection in games by practicing
Leib, standing at 5 feet 7 inches, looks measly when standing next to teammate senior Joe Maisterra, who is 6 feet 2 inches. Photo by: JOSH ROBERTS “We can’t make fun of them that much for their play, because they’re both good players. But when they can’t reach a ball because of their height, we don’t hesitate to make a few comments,” Wolken said. Varsity junior Jacob Hankin feels that the team’s height overall adds a layer of complexity to the team’s dynamic.
“It puts a chip on our shoulder, and we are so low to the ground it doesn’t break when it falls off our shoulder,” Hankin said. However, the players are not the only ones doing the teasing. “I’ve had a few umpires taunt me for my height, which is pretty hilarious,” Prince said.
“It’s kind of early in the season, but I think we can make a push for league champs. I only like winning and won’t settle for less; anyone on the team will back that up,” Agaba said. “I know our season will be a good one because we have a smart coach and some hard workers on this team who are hungry to win.” No one can better attest to Agaba’s growth as a volleyball player than fellow captain and senior Brian Masjedian, who has been alongside Agaba on varsity volleyball for all four years. “Ibro’s goals since freshman year were always to hit harder and jump higher, but at the same time be the leader he is today,” Masje-
dian said. “He’s learned to not only be a great captain, but be a great role model to the players younger than him.” Agaba’s aggressive and energetic style of play as middle hitter is clearly communicated in what he claims to be his favorite part of the game. “I love almost everything about the sport, but, come on, it has to be all about getting kills. I love celebrating and looking at my opponent’s reactions afterwards,” Agaba said. It is impossible to know what Agaba will be serving up this season, but it will no doubt be something worth watching.
“She is not only a great player, but also a great leader,” Recupero said. Costas also competed in a football contest called Punt, Pass and Kick, in which the contestant punts, passes and kicks a football as far as they can. “I advanced to nationals, where I won tickets to a football game. There, I represented the girl who can play football the best on the West Coast. Sadly, I was beaten by a 200-pound Samoan girl who could have easily went pro if she felt like it,” Costas said. Costas looks to her parents as athletic role models because they never stopped playing their sport.
“[My parents] still take the time and effort to stay involved [in their sports] by coaching and playing on their own co-ed teams. I can only wish that I keep up with my sport like they did,” Costas said. Costas is also a fan of performing arts, especially live theater. “I do live theater and improvisational performances at Groundlings in my free time,” Costas said. In the future, Costas hopes to be a film director, but she also has a career backup plan. “The film industry is hard to get into, so I might get a law background and get involved in the film industry another way,” Costas said.
day and night and studying different techniques to master multiple approaches to many aspects of the game,” Fernandez said. Varsity junior Jake Wolken feels that Fernandez aspires to become the best player that he can be. “Rigo draws a lot of inspiration from guys like Yasiel Puig and Matt Holliday, and he really respects the game,” Wolken said. Sophomore and JV player IJ Nizam commented on how Rigo’s work ethic and style of play have influenced him in his play. “I admire Rigo’s baseball skills because he is dedicated to the game and I wish to play like him some day,” Nizam said.
Junior baseball player Shiryu Mihara weighed in on what makes Fernandez so valuable. “He has a really strong arm, and he’s also a lefty which is really rare for a baseball player. It’s really rare to find a lefty ballplayer who can play this good at the high school level. For Fernandez, the baseball field acts as a “safe haven” of sorts, where he can escape the outside world. “The field is a place I find comfort in, knowing that I can forget everything and just focus on the game. I know that no matter what changes in my life, baseball will always be there,” Fernandez said.