Highlights Issue 11, Volume 87

highlights

March 28, 2014 Volume 87, Issue 11 Beverly Hills High School Beverly Hills, Calif. beverlyhighlights.com

SAT changes to 1600 scale, refocuses skills Jessica Lu news editor For the Class of 2017 (and beyond), the SAT is changing. On Thursday, March 6, the College Board announced its redesigned SAT, scheduled to come out in the spring of 2016. Its new features seek to focus on the “knowledge and skills that current research shows are most essential for college and career readiness,” according to the College Board website. In conjunction with this mission, the SAT has also shed a few layers. background

MICHELLE BANAYAN

Lions and Tigers and Smoke and Mirrors

“The Wiz,” playing through tomorrow, stars seniors Anthony Lofaso (pictured) as the Wiz and Brooke Teweles as Dorothy, among others. More on Page 8.

Mathematica to supplement math, science Juliette Deutsch social media director At the start of the 2014-2015 school year, Beverly will have acquired a state license for all math and science teachers to use Mathematica in addition to their daily lectures and to enhance their lesson plans.

Mathematica, created by Stephen Wolfram, is a computational software programming language that is designed for scientific, engineering, mathematical and computing fields.

Mathematica is considered to be a “state of the art” program in all aspects of math and science for some.

Math teacher Michel Paul is behind the initiation for getting the Mathematica license.

“The biggest reason for getting the Mathematica license is Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). These subjects collaborate in deep ways in our world, but not yet in our education and it needs to change...

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Racial tension real but muted Robert Katz web editor-in-chief Max Stahl comment editor Sixty years after the case of Brown v. Board of Education, racial issues continue to exist in American schools. Until last year, the Los Angeles Unified School District’s nowdiscontinued policy of suspending “willfully defiant” students had historically been applied disproportionately to black students. Also, according to a recent analysis from the US Department of Education, Latinos and blacks attend “intensely segregated schools.”

In an investigation of racial dynamics at Beverly, Highlights has found through a poll issued over the past month that there exist two schools of thought on the subject. One holds that racism is not a problem at Beverly; the other that, although it may not be explicit, a profound racial tension underlies many student interactions. Racism, according to a selection of students polled, may not be a significant issue

on campus, as the majority of students found Beverly to be “a comfortable and safe environment for all ethnicities and nationalities.”

However, as the results of a survey of 249 students indicate, there are certain racial problems, particularly regarding cultural boundaries.

Slightly more students believed that

dents last Halloween.

“I saw two boys dressed as stereotypical Mexican guys. They were walking around in ponchos and they were carrying a crate of oranges,” Marquez said. “I don’t know how to feel about that...I know that’s the stereotypical thing. I dont know if for me that would be the equivalent of dressing up in hip-hop clothing or some other stereotypical styles. I wasn’t offended, but I know certain people saw [the costume] they probably would have taken offense to it.”

Black Student Union president Brandon Davis believes this problem will be worse in the future.

“I don’t see any particular racism [on campus]. I do see signs that may arise to [create] worse situations, like black people with reference to chicken and watermelon and Kool Aid and that kind of stuff,” Davis said. “It hasn’t come up as much, but it might arise heavier in the soon-to-be years for the classmen.”

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“...although it may not be explicit, profound racial tension underlies many student interactions [at Beverly].” racial tension exists at Beverly than did not, and the largest portion of students students claimed that Iranians are affected the most by racial insensitivity.

For those interviewed, racial stereotyping seems to be an issue.

English teacher JC Marquez was bothered by the attire of two stu-

news

culture

To Russia With Goler

comment

Rebuilding Building A The Board of Education has endorsed an agreement for a brand new design of Building A that is mean to allow students “better access to updated technology.”

English teacher Julie Goler is spending the next two weeks in Moscow and Siberia to teach at English schools, conference with peers.

“Marijuana is legal for medical purposes in 20 states and Washington, D.C., so there is no valid reason why it shouldn’t be treated as another prescription drug.”

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This will be the SAT’s second revamp in the 21st century. The first occurred in 2005 with the addition of an 800-point Writing portion of the exam, which included a 25-minute essay component. With the College Board’s more recent overhaul, the top score returns to 1600 points.

The SAT is designed to assess college readiness, and is also linked with undergraduate college admissions. The alternative to the SAT is the ACT, which originally stood for American College Testing. Both are accepted by all institutions, and officially neither is preferred over the other. The ACT was founded in 1959, 58 years after the SAT’s first administration.

In 2012 for the first time, the ACT boasted more test-takers than the SAT in the United States, according to the New York Times. Twelve states now require and pay for all public high school juniors to take the ACT. Some students nationwide take and submit both tests when applying to college. the changes

The College Board website has identified eight key changes to the test, which consists of three portions: Evidenced-Based Reading and Writing, Math and the Essay. The Essay section, similar to the ACT Writing component, will be optional and is predicted to add 50 minutes to the three-hour test, though the exact timing is yet to be finalized.

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Marijuana Advertising

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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS MARCH 28, 2014

SAT-isfying demand

SAT overhaul aims to better prepare Class of 2017 “After taking both SAT and ACT diagnostic tests, I found out that Continued from Page 1 my raw score for the ACT was 1. Relevant words in context: higher because I’m more of a huThe redesigned SAT will now manities person, so I decided to test on “relevant words,” meanstick with one test to achieve my ing their definition relies on the maximum score,” Massachi said. context of their usage. The site Junior Josh Louis chose the SAT believes flashcards used to “memnot for its content but for its fororized obscure words” will no lonmat. ger be necessary to knowing the “After a few practice tests and vocabulary on the test. research, I knew the SAT was bet2. Command of Evidence: Stuter for me because I had more time dents will be asked to “interpret, and because of the science section synthesize and use evidence” on the ACT, which is too hard,” from “informational graphics and Louis said. multi-paragraph passages.” FolSome students, such as sopholowing every passage, a question more Mishelle Arakelian, have or two will ask for a quotation to Present Day already began thinking about the support student responses. StuFor test-takers in the springs of SAT and the ACT in preparation dents must also be able to analyze 2014 and 2015, the SAT will be ad- for the following year. paragraphs to make sure they are ministered in the same way. The “I looked at what the SAT and “correct, grammatically and sub- College Board also announced its ACT focus on and I chose which stantively.” partnership with the Khan Acad- [one] I liked more,” she said. “I’m 3. Essay Analyzing a Source: emy to provide more free instruc- just more oriented toward the The new Essay will require stu- tion and practice resources, which [SAT] topics.” dents to read a passage and ex- will be available on the SAT webFreshman Sidney Steinberg felt plore the author’s that the change ability to build an came somewhat argument. Though unexpectedly Head Counselor Diane Hale: the Essay is optionfor him, beal, the website says cause standard“I am happy to see these changes but I will be even some school disized tests have happier when all standardized tests are discontinued tricts and colleges yet to cross his will require it. mind. and students are considered for admissions to highly 4. Math Focused “I know I’m selective colleges based on their academic achieveon Three Key Argoing to take ment in a challenging course of study and their eas: These areas are either the SAT personal accomplishments and unique qualities.”

Problem Solving or ACT, but I and Data Analysis, haven’t really the Heart of Allooked into the gebra and Passport to Advanced site. differences,” he said. “But because Math. The research the College of this recent change, I’ll definitely Board cites indicates that top- Beverly Connection have to take a closer look into the ics falling under these categories For Head Counselor Diane pros and cons of taking either (such as ratios, percentages and Hale, these changes to the SAT test.” linear equations) will reappear did not come without reason.

Ultimately, Hale wishes that “disproportionately” in many ma“I am not surprised by the standardized testing were not a jors and careers. changes in the SAT because it has part of the equation at all.

5. Problems Grounded in Real- never been based on what high “I have never liked the fact that World Contexts: Somewhat like school students actually learn,” some students have the advantage the Science section of the ACT, she said. “The ACT has always of taking test preparation classes the new SAT will include more been a more curriculum-directed while disadvantaged students cangraphs, charts and scientific pas- test and has definitely increased not afford that luxury,” she said. sages that ask students for analy- in popularity over the years.”

“Furthermore, I feel there is an unsis and improvements. These For senior Alex Massachi, the healthy obsession with taking the questions will be found both in ACT matched his learning style test numerous times to get a highthe Evidence-Based Reading and more than the SAT, and so he only er score when it is only one factor Writing and Math sections. took the ACT. in the admissions process.”

Jessica Lu news editor

6. Analysis in Science and Social Studies: More texts and graphics will relate to these issues in both sections of the SAT. 7. Founding Documents and Great Global Conversation: Every SAT will include an excerpt from a “Founding Document” or an “ongoing Global Conversation.” For instance, pieces of the Declaration of Independence or Constitution or texts about freedom and justice may appear of the SAT. 8. No Penalty for Wrong Answers: Like the ACT, there will no longer be penalties for wrong answers.

Graphics editor Michelle Banayan compiles the SAT updates in an infographic found at beverlyhighlights.com.

MAR. 29

APRIL 1

APRIL 3

ACT Bootcamp

Blood Drive

Open House

Admissions officers weigh in:

“Until we get more information and our faculty committee (Board of Admissions and Relations with Schools) has had time to review and analyze the new test, students should continue to prepare as usual.”

–University of California Application Center

“The SAT exam may change its format and high schools may offer more rigorous courses, but at the end of the day it’s up to the student to make the most of his or her high school career.”

–University of Southern California Admission

“The new SAT ultimately won’t change how we view applications very much. We hope the new SAT will more closely test skills necessary to succeed at the college level.”

–Indiana University at Bloomington

“We are just learning about the new SAT changes and we are not yet ready to make comments on how it will impact our admission decisions.”

–New York University “There is no need to add to the stress of students and their parents by focusing attention on standardized test scores because the most important part of a student’s application is their secondary school transcript showing rigorous course work and solid achievement over several years.”

–Boston University

“Cal State Fullerton has not required the written portion of the SAT, so for our purposes, 1600 has always been the maximum score a student could receive. Our academic index should not change.”

–Cal State Fullerton

Image sources include: x4.nsls.bnl.gov/, www.in.gov, www.ibt. lbl.gov, www.conx.state.gov, www.nasa.gov, www.niehs.gov

APRIL 7 College Connections Fair

APRIL 9 Career Day

HIGHLIGHTS NEWS MARCH 28, 2014

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Mayor Bosse installed at Annenberg School renovation plans approved by board of ed.

Jessica Lu news editor

Former Vice Mayor Lili Bosse was installed as the Mayor of Beverly Hills on March 25, 2014, at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. Bosse was first elected to the Beverly Hills City Council in 2011 and has been serving as an active member since.

In previous years, she worked on the city’s Planning Commission and the Traffic and Parking Commission.

Actor Sidney Poitier, the first African American recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actor, swore in Bosse.

“Words cannot express my gratitude and how honored I am to be sworn in as Mayor of Beverly Hills by the amazing Sidney Poitier,” Bosse said at the installment.

Like Poitier, Bosse is a longtime resident of Beverly Hills. She grew up on South Maple Drive. and attended Beverly Vista and Beverly Hills High School. During her speech, she said that part of what drew her to remain in Beverly Hills as an adult was the diversity it promoted. When considering which clergy member to invite for the traditional invocation, she decided to invite several spiritual leaders as a reflection of this diversity.

“As I thought about this ceremony and its meaning, I realized that the invocation had to reflect the richness and diversity that we all value so much in our community,” Bosse said.

After expressing gratitude for her family, friends and fellow Council members, Bosse focused on the women that have shaped Beverly Hills’ history, including the eight previous female mayors and fellow Council member Nancy Krasne. She also recognized several young women student leaders from the four K-8 schools and the high schools that were present at the ceremony.

“We need more women at all levels of leadership. I’m not afraid of the ‘B-word,’” she said. “I’m here tonight to tell you that I’m Bosse and I’m proud!”

Bosse also e m p h a sized the importance of staying healthy. Her new “Walk with the Mayor” program invites everyone to meet weekly on Monday mornings in front of City Hall to walk around the city. In addition, the Beverly Hills app will carry a pedometer to help track walkers’ progress.

“I’ve been healthy and I’ve been not so healthy,” she said. “Trust me, healthy is better.”

Bosse also spoke of a “longawaited” dog park in the city and “Lunch and Learn” sessions, which would bring in local experts in medicine, exercise and healthy living.

She then transitioned to the economy, which she feels could be boosted by local businesses.

“We are fortunate right now that our economy is doing well,” she said, “but we can always do more to grow our economy.”

At every City Council meeting, to recognize these businesses, there will be a “Sixty-second Shout-out” that features one local business.

Bosse chose Gearys as the first of many businesses to highlight.

“They are heart, generosity and integrity,” she said.

She invites people to let the City Council know of local businesses that deserve recognition.

Lastly, Bosse spoke of the civic life in Beverly Hills.

“We have an active civic life in Beverly Hills,” she said. “There are many options available to participate and contribute to a healthy government. But we need

Juliette Deutsch social media dir.

In January, the Board of Education endorsed a new design of the high school. Various board member requests ask that the main renovations will be in Building A, known as the main building. The renovations include a fully enclosed atrium, a partially enclosed student collaboration area and open air courtyard.

With the new renovations, the school hopes that students will have better access to technology.

“With the remodel, students will have access to up to date technology and cleaner and more modern buildings. These new features will Courtesy of ALYSSA POBLADOR

to do more.”

She plans to launch the the Healthy City Initiative to encourage citizen participation through better communication. The City has launched a phone number, Text BH, which can be reached via text message at 310-596-5265.

“Texting is now the most important communication tool,” she said. “It is easy and something we always have within our fingertips!”

Bosse is also proposing a series of Town Hall meetings for residents and businesses. “[The purpose is] to hear ideas, listen to concerns, answer questions and, hopefully, get people to participate,” she said.

Bosse ended the speech with one final emphasis on getting healthy, asking for the audience to “get up and get moving.”

The BOSSE plan on her site, electlilibosse.com, also covers other goals Bosse has for the city.

Under E for education, Bosse stresses optimizing resident use of school facilities and programs, and plans to start two new Student Mentor Programs that will work with local businesses and senior citizens.

make for a more positive learning environment,” PTSA member Jennifer Terell said.

Since the building plans have been released the question that remains is when the renovation plans be implemented.

“This depends on the funds available; however the district is pushing for it to occur within the next two years,” Terell said.

The plans were originally proposed by a committee that studied the school’s current architecture and designs potential alterations on Feb 11-14. The new designs that have been released are modifications made from the first proposed blueprint.

Culinary Arts prepares for Career Day Marguerite Alberts spotlight editor As per tradition, students of both Introduction to Cooking and Advanced Cooking will be in charge of making breakfast and organizing the luncheon for the guest speakers, administration and staff on Career Day, which is on April 9.

Chef Rick Leece has worked with over 20 students to design a menu for the breakfast and midday meals to prepare for the event.

“We have to do a breakfast for them, which will be really simple,” Leece said. “It will probably be some chopped fruit and stuff like that.”

The luncheon will be much more complex. Leece considers the lunch to be the “big highlight of the day.”

Lunch will consist of multiple stations including a salad station, a pasta station, fruit and cheese station, desserts station, a seafood station and a drinks station. “[The pasta station] will have alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, pes-

to, cheese ravioli, penne pasta, fettuccine and it’s pretty much build your own pasta,” Leece said.

There will also be a hot food items available, like short ribs and mac ‘n’ cheese.

“It’s a lot of food. That’s why it is so important to have so many students signed up for it,” Leece said.

Leece delegated tasks to student volunteers such as sophomore Joel Gabai.

“I just wanted to help out my class as much as I could,” Gabai said.

When brainstorming ideas for the event, Gabai suggested a carving station, where top sirloin, turkey breast, different gravies and mashed potatoes will be available to attendees.

Overall, the students feel confident in their abilities to provide a satisfying meal.

“I am not nervous. I know our skills,” senior Evan Carl, who will be in charge of searing tuna at the seafood station, said. “I just always stay calm, relax and have fun.”

Mathematica license aims to enhance math, science classes Continued from Page 1 STEM is the union of these disciplines, and Mathematica is a state of the art tool for that.

Mathematica, the Wolfram language, was designed as a language for expressing inter-disciplinary computational knowledge, and it is recognized as being the state of the art,” Paul said.

Not only can Mathematica be implemented as simply a tool for STEM, but also the program can be used in other additional areas of science and math study.

“I am going to use Mathematica in all my math classes. It has scientific and cultural knowledge built into it and can be used right away. There are many lessons that teachers already have that they will discover Mathematica can enhance, and these could be science lessons, history lessons, economics lessons,” Paul said.

Mathematica is a great tool to

solve problems in advanced level science classes according science teacher Kevin Bowers.

“Mathematica is a way to solve problems using logical statements,” Bowers said. “So just like we solve problems on paper it can solve problems on the screen.

You still have to understand what you are doing, it isn’t a magical box that spits out answers by just inputting values. Students will have to be able to tell it what they want it to solve and give it the necessary rules and inputs to solve what they are searching for.

Many, many science classes in college use Mathematica to model complex problems that would be very tedious by hand. Getting students started early on learning the methods would be a big benefit in college.”

Bowers plans to implement Mathematica in his lab sections, which he holds weekly.

“I would be interested in using Mathematica in some of my labs that we do, not so much in my daily lecture. As students in lower grades learn Mathematica and work their way up to physics in their junior or senior year, I can imagine in the future using the computer instead of or along the side of the traditional whiteboard to solve problems. We could also use the computer labs to do some experimental problems that can not be modeled in a traditional high school classroom, like planetary motion or atomic interactions,” Bowers said.

According to Paul, there are benefits to accessing a program such as Mathematica for students and teachers alike.

“I wanted to create a class that would fuse programming and mathematical reasoning. Computer Science at its core is a kind of mathematical reasoning, es-

pecially in the form of functional programming. The way you have to think in creating certain kinds of programs is how you have to think when you do proofs. Mathematica opens the door of computational reasoning to more people,” Paul said.

Since Mathematica is first being introduced to students next year, it will take time to adjust to the language and learn how to utilize all of its benefits according to Paul.

“Functional programming is mathematics, because a program written in a purely functional form is essentially a proof. Mathematica at its core is a functional programming language,” Paul said.

In addition to Mathematica being a immense resource for students, comprehension of the program can be used in other aspects.

“Being able to use the program at an advanced level is a accomplishment amongst serious math students. All of the top college math departments use it and competency in it can be used on resumes. Currently the top 200 universities, fortune 500 companies and countless government agencies all use Mathematica. I believe easy to access computational languages will become an important resource and a new kind of literacy in the future,” Paul said.

The Mathematica programming language will provide students with a deeper understanding of math and science, as well as other areas of study.

“Really understanding what this programming language means constitutes a new kind of literacy that we need to make part of the education of all,” Paul said.

Image from biowulf.nih.gov

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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS MARCH 28, 2014

Team 1515 takes 15th Long Beach, advance Las Vegas Zoe Kenealy staff writer Team 1515, the school’s robotics team, competed in the regional FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition (FRC) in Long Beach, where it placed 15th out of 66 teams. The competition took place over the weekend of March 20-22.

For 1515, the FRC competition was a chance to present itself as a team of professional integrity, according to junior 1515 member Gabriella Shofet. 1515 also looked forward to the opportunity of spreading the word about engineering and the power it can play in one’s community.

“We really were looking forward to this competition because it is a well known competition and therefore a way for us to get our name out there as a team and to be taken seriously in the robotics world,” 1515 member senior Justin Kim said. “By placing in the competition we’re hoping to bring a good name for 1515 back to the school so that we could spread the word about robotics to people who haven’t ever paid attention to it.”

The game played at the Los Angeles Regional this year was called Aerial Assist, in which every match was a three-on-three competition. For example, a team would be paired with two robots and randomly placed against three others. Aerial Assist involved the teams throwing exercise balls over barriers, and every

time a team’s robot caught a ball, a point was earned.

Based off the win-loss record, 24 robots (eight teams of three robots each) advanced to the elimination matches. It was here in the quarterfinals, that 1515 was eliminated.

“I am proud of where we made it to in the competition,” 1515 member senior Michael Simozar said.

“We know that there was a lot of stiff competition and 66 total competing teams so to place as far as we did makes me proud of the hard work we put in.”

In terms of the team’s overall performance, Simozar recalls an impressive execution of the challenges in the Los Angeles Regional and spoke of the robot’s satisfactory outcome.

“The competition was really solid. The drivers didn’t make any mistakes and our robot did not have any fundamental problems,” Simozar said. “Most of our losses were due to poor play by the robots we were randomly paired with.”

The game ended with a close call of a 57-56 final score, in 1515’s favor. It was not until Simozar pointed out a technical error in the scoring of the teams’ points that 1515 was eligible for a rematch in which the 57-56 score was reached. With 10 seconds left and 1515 down by nine points, the team, having practiced with Simozar during training for this specific skill, was able to score a ten-pointer under the pressure of seconds left.

From April 3-5, 1515 will be competing in the Las Vegas Regionals. Upon placing in this competition, the team may advance onto to nationals in St. Louis, Mo. Because the team placed 15th in Los Angeles, 1515 is confident in its ability to go far in Las Vegas.

“I have high hopes for Vegas for a mechanical award because even though we didn’t do as well as we thought we would in Long Beach because of weak alliances, we were able to work on out game strategy,” Kim said. “So as a team we know what to do in Los Angeles and look forward to bringing 1515 a better name.”

1515 hopes that its robot, Doohickey, will Courtesy of MATTHEW SATER and HANS TERCEK make it to nation- Top: Team 1515 poses at the regional FIRST Robotics Competition in Long Beach. Bottom: Juniors Shayna Eshmoili and Richa Vejayvergiya converse with FIRST Staff President Don Rossi. als through its tion to honing the skills the team be the main focus of the preparaperformance in picked up on in Los Angeles will tion leading up to Las Vegas.

Las Vegas. Paying special atten-

NAHS presents “Then and Now”

Audrey Park staff writer National Art Honors Society (NAHS) recently put up their “Then and Now” art show to showcase works created by students in both the eighth and twelfth grades.

The theme intends to create a connection between the incoming freshmen and graduating seniors.

“The art show is designed to introduce the incoming freshman to the high school and remember the work from outgoing seniors,” senior AJ Parry, who showcased an editorial cartoon on smoking, said. “The show allows us to compare the artworks while giving it a homey connection between the high school students and new incoming freshman.”

In addition to welcoming the incoming freshmen to the high school, the art show, according to NAHS secretary Jennifer

Zhang, also allows seniors “to reflect among themselves, and to be pleased with how far they have come.”

“The NAHS committee chose the theme of ‘Then and Now’ because it provokes the graduating seniors to reminisce [about] their wonderful high school experiences,” Zhang said.

After collecting submissions, the NAHS committee matted, framed and organized the projects.

“NAHS organizes one senior and eighth grade gallery each year and this year’s theme provided virtually limitless possibilities for student artists to show their creativity and passion for visual art,” NAHS president Eric Fram said.

“We collected projects and put them on the floor gallery wall.”

Parry believes that the art show is a great opportunity for students and will encourage those interested in submitting an art piece to a

AUDREY PARK

future gallery.

“I think it’s a great idea and a great way to showcase not just work from art classes, but also work from those who want to get involved artistically, but doesn’t have the time to register in classes,” she said.

NAHS sponsor and Graphic Designer teacher Deb Joseph is proud of the students’ ability to put together a “great gallery.”

“I think it’s amazing and wonderful. We started the NAHS two years ago and its student driven with myself and Mr. Federman as the sponsors,” Joseph said.

“Then and now is a way to involve our seniors and eighth graders in the district. We want the art gallery to showcase what the art program can do for the incoming students.”

Students can find the art show on the first floor of the main building behind the stairway in front of the entrance to the auditorium.

in the headlines INTERNATIONAL On March 23, French satellites found debris spread over an area of 400 square miles that could possibly be from Flight 370, a missing plane. However, with the rainy weather and high winds circulating the south Indian Ocean region, the debris’s link to Flight 370 is yet to be confirmed. Data also showed that the plane went down between 8:10 and 9:15 a.m. Malaysia time. The disappearance of the plane has caused both concern and conspiracy theories to rise.

NATIONAL Hobby Lobby is suing the federal government for a provision under the Affordable Care Act, which mandates that employers cover the cost of contraceptives in insurance plans. The Supreme Court heard the case this week and is expected to bring forth a decision in the summer.

LOCAL The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has submitted a 26-page report to Congress with 14 recommendations proposing improved employee training and upgraded technology. The report comes in response to the November shooting at the Los Angeles International Airport.

News sources include: ABC News, www.npr.org and Marina Del Rey Patch.

Image sources include: edsitement.neh.gov, opm.gov, apod.nasa.gov.

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HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE MARCH 28, 2014

Children’s Book World

caters to high school students, authors Audrey James-Anenih staff writer Children’s Book World, on Pico Boulevard, is looking for high school students to join The Teen Readers Council, a program that gives teens the opportunity to participate in and influence the teen programming at the bookstore.

Children’s Book World is one of the few remaining book stores in Los Angeles that caters to the educational needs of students in grades from preschool to college.

High school students interested in literature who would enjoy be-

ing able to read and recommend book purchases for the store, write reviews of books and feature stories and opinion pieces for the council’s blog. As well as assist with teen author store events meet authors and create teen book displays should apply. The position is open to students ages 13-18 who must be willing and able to commit to at least six months, as well as attend a monthly meeting at the bookstore.

Aside from the hour-long meeting on the first Monday of every month, reading at least one book and writing one review due by the

end of each month, the rest of the time will be left up to the member and how much they want to participate in extra blog posts, author events and any other T.R.C (Teen Readers Council) events.

Members will have the opportunity to read advance reader copies of yet to be released books and will be able to interact with their peers in helping to make Children’s Book World a great resource for teens.

If you have any questions or want to apply, you can contact Angie by phone 310-559-2665 or by email cbw.angie@gmail.com.

Turning pages: Children’s Book World’s recent events Staff members of the bookstore take part in a promotional event alongside actress Julie Andrews.

Teens participate in a Laurie Halse Anderson book event at the Children’s Book World.

As seen on beverlyhighlights.com

Young adult author Sara Wilson Etienne during a book signing a few years ago for her debut book, Harbinger.

The Los Angeles Times Bestseller List Week of March 23, 2014 Hardcover Fiction

Hardcover Nonfiction

Paperback Fiction

Paperback Nonfiction

1. The Goldfinch - Donna Tartt 2. Words of Radiance Brandon Sanderson 3. Bark- Lorrie Moore 4. The Fault in Our StarsJohn Green

1. The Future of the MindMichio Kaku 2. Showtime- Jeff Pearlman 3. Uganda Be Kidding MeChelsea Handler 4. Five Came Back- Mark Harris

1. Divergent- Veronica Roth 2. Where’d You Go, Bernadette - Maria Semple 3. Cockroaches- Jo Nesbo 4. Dear Life- Alice Munro

1. The Monuments Men- Robert M.Edsel 2. 12 Years a Slave- Solomon Northrup 3. My Beloved World- Sonia Sotomayor 4. The Unwinding- George Packer

Courtesy of ANGIE MCDOWELL

Meet the Teachers

Julie Goler travels to Russia to collaborate with educators

DANNY LICHT

“[Siberia] will be really beautiful. It’s right next to a mountain range. I think it’s

[near] the deepest lake in the world and the oldest lake in the world. It’s a really cool, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Danny Licht editor-in-chief When English teacher Julie Goler first learned that she was going to be sent to Siberia, she “got a little teary.”

“Wasn’t Siberia where they sent criminals?” she said. “How could I possibly be going there?”

She applied last year for a program with IREX, an international nonprofit organization that supports educators, journalists and community leaders, and along with 71 other teachers from across the country, she was accepted.

Cumulatively, the teachers are going to six countries for two weeks each, some during the school year and some during the summer.

In total, 12 teachers will be going to Russia and starting in Moscow.

“In Moscow we’ll meet with ministers of education, visit schools, just kind of calibrate what we’re doing in the country, and then they divide us up all over the whole country, and some people are flying 12 hours to the eastern side of Russia, which is really close to China,” she said. “I’m going to be in central Siberia, close

to Kazakhstan and Mongolia, and I’ll be looking at schools and doing some teaching, meeting some teachers, learning the culture.”

And even for a frequent “deepend” traveler, a term she likes to use, the preconceptions of Siberia (whiteness, barrenness, Gulags) were daunting.

“But then I started reading about the area,” she said. “It’s beautiful. It’ll be really beautiful. It’s right next to a mountain range. I think it’s [near] the deepest lake in the world and the oldest lake in the world. They’re tak-

ing us to the mountains for the one weekend that we’re there. They’re taking us to villages where we’ll have meals….It’s a really cool, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Goler was asked to bring gifts for the schools she’ll be visiting, and the Beverly community has been helping her out.

“Jarvis Turner gave me a bunch of basketball jerseys, Marla Weiss gave me volleyball stuff, BHEF gave me some really good T-shirts.

I wanted to bring things that said Beverly Hills High School on them,” she said. “I thought it would be cool, although my Russian kids are saying no, they don’t want stuff like that, but I’m gonna go with my instinct.”

On the trip, she’s most interested in learning about Russia’s education culture and comparing it with our own.

“My understanding is that Russia was the country that originated the idea of cooperative group work...so I’m kind of excited to see if they’re still doing that,” she said.

“They were into collaboration and group stuff, which makes sense if you know your history. They were doing it much before we were, so we’ll see what that looks like. I’m going to be in an English-speaking school; I’ll be teaching classes, and we’ll be meeting with English teachers. I have one meeting where I sit down with the leaders of my school and we discuss the differences in our educational styles, what we’re doing in our schools versus what they’re doing in their schools. One thing that I know for sure is their schools

go from kindergarten to high school, all in one building, so it might a small school, 500 kids in one building, from ages six to 18.

That’ll be interesting to see, how the seniors are interacting with the little ones.”

In addition, she’ll be keeping in touch with her students while she’s away.

“Part of the requirements of the program is that I have to blog,” she said. “The program has been awesome about giving us technology tools. One of the things they want us to walk away with is collaborating with other schools in other countries once we get back here, actually using Skype in our teaching, or I can be teaching ‘Hamlet’ and a teacher in Russia can be teaching ‘Hamlet’ and then we can have collaborative classes. We’re not quite ready for that [at Beverly], but we’re close. I think we can do it within the next couple of years, and I have the tools to do it now.”

In addition to teaching and learning, Goler is hoping to gather ideas for a future class on foreign literature.

“I used to teach ethnic literature and I was interested in global literature, so I’m interested in bringing back a program like that to the high school, and hopefully next year I will.”

She understands the culture shock may be jarring, but she feels prepared.

“I think it’s going to be a great shot in the arm in every way.”

You can follow her blog at beyondbordersblackboard.blogspot.com.

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HIGHLIGHTS SPOTLIGHT MARCH 28, 2014

Racial Interplay and Student Culture Race on campus not a black-and-white matter Continued from Page 1 In response to a question about race divisions among friend groups, the majority of those polled responded that racial lines do, to some capacity, define those groups.

Davis believed that on campus social segregation among races arises not out of racial opposition, but out of cultural preference.

“I feel we have no hatred from other groups of race,” Davis said. “I do feel that this school is segregated, however. There are groups at lunch — we see the white groups, the Persian groups, the black groups — but I feel that’s more of a personal problem. We [group ourselves] because we feel more comfortable that way.”

However, some at Beverly, such as social studies teacher Roel Hinojosa, have noticed little to no tension among races.

“In a classroom, I suspect students are probably on their best behavior because they don’t want to get in trouble. Honestly, even in the classroom and outside I’ve never noticed anything,” Hinojosa said.

Hinojosa favorably compared what he has seen at Beverly to his experience teaching in New York.

“Obviously New York is a very diverse city and I find Beverly Hills to be just as diverse. When I came here I was surprised to see how diverse [Beverly is]. My experiences in New York are generally similar to my [positive] experiences here,” he said.

Marquez believes Southern California

has progressed socially in recent decades.

“I think now, especially in Southern California, you grow up surrounded by all this difference. LGBT, different ethnicities, different religion, it’s just common even from grade school so by the time [students] hit middle school, high school, it’s like nothing’s different,” Marquez said. “Growing up it was a lot worse. Growing up you’d hear the N-word all the time, you’d hear slurs toward Mexicans all the time. It just improved. Over time, someone turned a switch on and [prejudice] just deteriorated over the last 15 years big time. I’m glad, [social norms are] going in the right direction. [The racial tension is] not extinguished in any sense of the word but the problem is not as rampant as it once was.”

Marquez, who has taught at schools in California for eight years, has been especially impressed by Beverly’s social environment.

“I think this is the school where I’ve seen the least amount of racial, ethnic or religious tension. I don’t see it,” Marquez said. “If [tension] is happening I’ve been really blind to it because I’ve been bragging to my other teacher friends about how chill it is here.”

Some students actively work toward promoting healthy racial identities and relations on campus. A prominent group devoted to that goal is the Black Student Union.

According to Davis, “BSU’s goal is to spread the rituals and traditions of black

heritage” and to express the positive role black students have at Beverly.

“We like to express the brighter ideas of the black heritage, like where jazz originated from in the Harlem Renaissance days,” Davis said. “So basically we like to squash the bad things [people believe about black heritage] and bring up the good things and project that to the students.”

Despite purported tension among ethnicities, Intervention Counselor Ali Norman-Franks noted that few students appear at the Norman-Aid center regarding race.

“I don’t get that many students coming in. In the course of a year we maybe have four or five students come in to talk about racism,” she said.

However, she has found a trend among those students.

“I notice it more with students that are new here,” Norman-Franks said, “and maybe it’s because they don’t have their group at first, so people feel more comfortable being racist against them because they seem alone and it’ll be easier for them to make negative comments.”

Norman-Franks called student racism “not acceptable,” and stressed Beverly’s staff’s role in helping students cope with adversity.

“I think, overall, the students know that if they’re not treated fairly there are places and adults they can turn to help them,” Norman-Franks said. “I think there are many ways that students can stick up for

each other. It doesn’t have to be direct in the moment like, ‘stop doing that, that’s rude.’ If they know the person that’s [bullying another student], they can tell an administrator or any teacher.”

Some students, such as sophomore Sophia De Mornay-O’Neal, think greater steps should be taken by the administration to limit racial insensitivity.

“I have not seen evidence that there is a zero tolerance policy [against discrimination of any kind] at Beverly Hills High School,” De Mornay-O’Neal said. “But I believe it would be the best way to help the situation, because students will definitely feel more comfortable and more ready to learn if they know that others are not allowed to discriminate against them without it having severe consequences.”

The administration did not give a stance on the issue of racism on campus, although Assistant Principal Toni Staser outlined the school’s approach to student conduct.

“Our job as teachers and administrators is to educate our students to be mindful and respectful of others,” Staser said.

“When students make serious mistakes, whether through their actions or words, again our job is to deal with each situation individually.”

Highlights welcomes any readers who would like to offer their own perspectives or insights on the topic of race at Beverly to speak out with a letter to the editor, a tweet at us or a post on our Facebook page.

Do you believe racial tension exists in Beverly?

NICOLE LEIBMAN

Overall, do you believe Beverly is a comfortable and safe environement for all ethnicities and nationalities?

*251 students were polled.

DE-FENSE(ive): Observations on high school hurrah Arman Zadeh sports editor The cheer: a cornerstone of sideline semantics. The epitome of mob mentality in our high school gyms.

The classic means of communication from the fans from the safety of the sidelines to an unlucky team that says “Hey, our team is undoubtedly better than yours” without having need of proof or supporting evidence.

We have all seen and heard cheers before. I’d even go as far as to that you, the reader, have participated in a cheer at some point in your high school career. Whether its been yelling “SCOREBOARD” from the stands of the Swim Gym or joining in on a “F-S-G-M” chant on Nickoll Field, we’ve all shared our Norman pride through cheer in one way or another.

In my career as a sports journalist for Highlights, I’ve hardly ever noticed cheers since they had never done any harm to me. This year, however, I specifically remember one away game at Samo which stuck with me as a student of Iranian descent. That night I heard cheers of “shave your uni-brows!” accompanied by a poster with a drawing of a Gillette razor blade directed not toward the team, but the students of Beverly.

Don’t get me wrong, I am all for new and creative cheers. After all, there is only a certain number of times you can yell, “I believe that we can win” before it gets old (that number is zero). But this cheer just happened to sit uncomfortably with me more than any other.

I’ve noticed this year that cheers at high school games have become increasingly insulting, more so than I can ever remember. The primary motive of

cheering students now seems to be to inflict emotional pain upon their opponents by oftentimes attacking their race; they are no longer shouts of joy or praise, but are instead snide remarks that are directed toward specific people or groups of people. This, I believe, is a movement away from the true spirit of the game: high school sports venues should not be breeding grounds for insensitivity to race and borderline bullying, but a place for fans to show pride in their school and support their teams.

However, the behavior just mentioned is nowadays accepted and, in many cases, even encouraged in competitions against rival high school teams.

According to senior Yaniv Sadka, a regular at Norman sports events and athlete himself, insulting cheers are just a tactic for students to gain an advantage over their opponents in a game.

“I think cheers begin becoming more insulting when two rivals play each other,” Sadka said. “The teams know a lot about each other and look for any little way to get under each others’ skin.”

Though attacking other cultures and people through cheers at sporting events seems to be the social norm, that doesn’t make it okay. I’ve seen this attack used as a last resort—when one team’s loss is inevitable and students from the losing school attempt to keep their pride intact by trying to lower their victor’s morale--and honestly, it’s pretty embarrassing. As a Norman, I’m proud to say that I have hardly, if ever, seen a student chant a cheer attacking something as personal as race. We, the students, have risen above the insensitivity of racist cheers and have learned to let our athlete’s performances speak for themselves. To that I say, go Normans.

NICOLE LEIBMAN

Students weigh in: Is racism a prevalent issue at school?

“I personally have been affected because I’m a Muslim, and when I first came here people always said that ‘you’re like a terrorist because you’re a Muslim,’ and that personally really affected me.” - Ali Damavandi, freshman

“I’m not so sure if [racism is] a big problem in Beverly Hills, but I’m pretty sure in other schools I’ve visited, it is quite present and [creates] a pretty much homogenous group.” -Andrew Park, sophomore

“I haven’t noticed racism on campus. I know little jokes people make but I really don’t take [them] personally. I know some people take [them] seriously.”

- Lauryn Norman, junior

“I don’t notice [racism]. I guess there are definitely cliques and groups but it hasn’t been a part of my experience at Beverly.”

- Chloe Ticknor, senior

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HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE MARCH 28, 2014

The Musical Cast members met in the Little Theater before, during and after school to rehearse their lines and choreography. The Wiz was first performed on Broadway in 1975 starring Stephanie Mills who played a young teacher who chased her dog during a snowstorm in New York City and was swept by a cyclone and ends up in the urban version of land in the Wizard of Oz. The musical won public accolades for its creative excellence, including several Tony Awards for Best Musical and Best

Score.

Amanda Deutsch, cast manager for Beverly’s production, recognized what made the Broadway production unique during the 70s. “’The Wiz’ stood out from the rest during that [time] because it was one of the first shows to be performed with an all AfricanAmerican cast. The production is set up to base off of the original ‘Wizard of Oz’, but it entails creative plot adaptations,” Deutsch said.

The original production cast Ralph Wilcox, Andre DeShields and Dee Dee Bridgewater, in the music and film industry at the time.

The Actors Junior Yassi Noubahar, who plays Evillene the Wicked Witch, and sophomore Tristan McIntyre, who plays the role of the Monkey, had to find a way to get into their characters during their pre-show preparation. Noubahar had to channel her inner mean girl to really connect with Evillene.

“I channelled Evillene with a lot of help from Mr. Hall and a lot of mental support from my cast.

The role of Evillene is really mean and rough, I was constantly having to go back and recall all of the times when I was behaving pretty tough,” Noubahar said, “I usually just go over what I’m about to do out loud so I can ensure myself that I can do it in my sleep. Once I feel confident enough to do it in my sleep, I’m ready to perform.”

McIntyre found that exercise made a significant difference in how he carried out his performance.

“Before I go on stage I do a ton of stretching. Most of the scenes I’m in require a weight on the dancing and movements of my character, so the less tense my body is, the easier it is to execute all of the unhinged movements without injuring myself,” McIntyre said. “As the Monkey, it’s fun channeling my character while performing. I put my mindset into that of what a monkey would think and then the acting and movements come naturally from there.” McIntyre said .

With the extensive amount of time the actors invested in delivering an excellent performance, Noubahar and McIntyre found that they have learned to love their characters.

“I have formed strong connections with my different characters.

I connect with the Yellow Brick Road, Tornado, Quadling, Emerald City Citizen in the sense that they are all performers who want to put on a good show. The monkey however, I have the strongest tie to. He’s a tough guy with a lot of confidence, so getting to play the opposite of myself strengthens different characteristics that I can play as an actor,” McIntyre said.

Noubahar was able to form a connection between her life inside and outside the theater.

“You find that no matter what, you’re gonna love your character because she or he is a part of you now. Well I’m playing a villain whom everyone is supposed to hate but because I get to play her and I went through studying her real objectives. I can’t hate her. I have to resonate with her so I can believably portray her,” Noubahar said.

While the cast members found that they all have individual techniques to help them with their performance, both Noubahar and McIntyre shared similar expectations for the audience’s experience watching the musical.

“I hope the audience understands the real theme of the show is that there’s no place like home,” Noubahar said. “I’m hoping people will leave with a newfound respect for home and also a newfound respect for the Theatre Department!”

McIntyre added, “The theme of home, friends, and tolerating the differences of others in comparison to yourself should resonate with the audience throughout the play. Hopefully the audience finds that they can relate to this so they can enjoy their trip to Oz to the fullest extent.”

Buy presale tickets online at shopbhhs.com. The last showing of the musical will be on March 29 at 7:30 in the auditorium.

“I’m looking forward to dancing my butt off and wearing an awesome costume and having a lot of fun. I hope my voice gets better so that I could sing as well as possible.”

Deven Martin, Lion

“It’s been a great experience and I’m really honored to be a part of Hall’s last show and his whole legacy.

I’m really looking forward to opening with such a great cast and crew.”

Yassi Noubahar, Evillene

“What I enjoyed most was the way I got to spend hours with people I love doing something that we all love to do together. We really make a family and get to sculpt it into a storyline that’s incredible.”

Arielle Harris, Aunt Em

““It’s been a great experience and I’m really honored to be a part of Hall’s last show and his whole legacy. I’m really looking forward to opening with such a great cast and crew.”

Ashley Beadle, Addaperle

"I really love being a part of such a warm and close-knit cast, and I am thrilled to be portraying such an iconic role."

Brooke Tewles, Dorothy

“Definitely the best thing was probably hanging out with all my friends because we’ve been together since freshman year doing shows and it’s just a great way to end my senior year.”

Roman Zaragoza, Scarecrow

Audrey James-Anenih staff writer Audrey Park staff writer Courtesy of the THEATER DEPARTMENT

The Audtion Auditions for the Wiz, which were held after winter break, consisted of reciting a monologue, singing a musical piece and performing a dance piece. The auditions were open to the entire school and students already in performing arts were allowed to audition during their respective classes.

“The students were given a list of monologues and music, and they had to pick one from each and perform it,” musical director Herb Hall said. “They also had a dance training session with a choreographer where they learned a dance combination that they had to do at the audition.”

While the monologues and musical pieces were performed separately, students were placed in groups of six for the dance audition.

“Auditions were nerve-racking, but everyone around me was really comforting so we all got through it together,” junior Yassi Noubahar, who will be playing Evillene, said.

After everyone auditioned, certain students were called back to perform different songs in order to decide who to cast.

“The cast is good,” Herb said.

“My goal is for everybody to love the performance and sing and dance along. I also want everybody to have a good time.”

MICHELLE BANAYAN and AUDREY PARK

HIGHLIGHTS COMMENT MARCH 28, 2014

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SAT adopts ACT-esque format while disguising flaws Michelle Banayan graphics editor The SAT. To most students, the threeletter pseudo-acronym represents the age-old admissions test. The one that requires hours spent sifting through vocabulary flash cards and taking practice tests for that ultimate goal of a 2400. However, to those taking the exam in spring of 2016 and forward, the SAT will take on a completely new meaning.

According to David Coleman, president of the College Board, both the SAT and ACT have “become disconnected from the work of our high schools.” Yet, despite this comment, it appears that the remodeled test is merely a way for the SAT to move closer to the format of its rival, the ACT, to which it is los-

ing business.

Soon after data showed that in September 2012, for the first time more students had taken the ACT than the SAT (a trend that continued in 2013), Coleman, who had been talking of revisions to the exam ever since the introduction of the required essay in 2005, announced plans to revise the SAT in February 2013. The testing company recently implemented these changes, reverting the SAT back to a 1600-point scale.

Quite similarly to the ACT, the SAT will no longer include obscure vocabulary, will have an optional essay, will not penalize students for incorrect answers and will place greater emphasis on textual evidence for reading comprehension. At this point, students opting to take the SAT may as well be taking the ACT

due to their extreme similarities.

Since the new exam will be relatively easier than the current one, more students will be convinced to take the SAT in hopes of getting higher scores.

However, this move of lowering the test’s standards in order to gain business has the potential to create a poor precedent for the admission test process as a whole. Soon enough, the ACT will likely alter its exam to an easier version to remain competitive with its SAT rival, ultimately lowering the country’s standards for students who are graduating to higher levels of education.

In addition, the College Board claims that the changes were also put into place in order to prevent the trend of extensive test preparation that puts those

who cannot afford that kind of training at an unfair disadvantage. However, the new SAT does not prove to reverse that pattern. While it may help those who are unable to afford as much test preparation because of its more relatable content, it will not prohibit competition. It is inevitable that there will always be those who are willing to pay a large sum of money for their children to receive top-notch test preparation for admissions exams; as the college admissions process grows increasingly competitive, students’ desires to achieve a higher SAT/ACT score will be proportional.

Ultimately, the College Board’s exam alterations, though marketed as a means of creating an exam with more familiar material, along with fostering equal test-preparation practices, may

actually be a move designed to increase the company’s competitiveness with other testing agencies while inadvertently lowering the standards expected of college-bound students. Perhaps the SAT’s decision to revise its format reflects a larger flaw in the nation’s overall education system. Rather than pushing students to achieve in more advanced settings, testing agencies are actually promoting easier, less advanced exams since students are likelier to take the latter in order to be more competitive in the college admission process. Therefore, rather than pointing a finger at those who design these tests in such a way to appeal to the overall desire of their consumers, we should focus our attention on the admissions processes of higher-education institutions.

Social media posts don’t mirror personal interactions Marguerite Alberts spotlight editor Abraham Lincoln once said that it is “better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.” We are taught to apply this old adage when interacting with others. However, it appears that we forget this lesson when communicating on a cyber platform.

As the use of social media increases, we are frequently encouraged to think before pressing “enter” by friends, schools, parents; we even had an entire assembly dedicated to the cor-

rect standards of our presence online.

Our face-to-face interactions, though, require significantly less scrutiny. When most people have conversations with others, they don’t need to consciously think about what they say. There are certain things that we would never tell others to their face because we fear the reactions that we would receive. Yet, we seem to have no compunction about spilling any thought that comes to mind onto social media sites.

No matter the purpose for using sites like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, be it for busi-

ness or pleasure, social media is a conversation. We don’t post solely for our own enjoyment. If we didn’t want everyone to see the things we do or have opinions about our actions, then we would have a personal diary that no one could find. When we are passionate about something, whether that something is political, professional or personal, an inherent part of our human nature wants to share it with the world. We post to gain attention from “friends” with the intention of sparking discourse.

However, there is a clear difference between the conversa-

tions that occur in person and the conversations that happen online. The computer serves as a barrier, preventing and protecting us from the sometimes unfavorable reactions of others.

The little filter in our brain that would normally stop us from saying clearly stupid things stops working when there is a screen in front of us.

Furthermore, we forget that our tone is not always correctly perceived over the Internet.

Even if we think we are simply joking around with our friends, tone is not always clearly communicated. Remember, it’s not only the intended receiver who

reads the things we post. Because the posts are generally public, our other friends, family and acquaintances, as well as their other friends, family and acquaintances (depending on the privacy settings) can all read what may have been directed at one person.

So, to repeat what has quickly become a mantra for this technologically adept generation, turn that filter in your brain back on when in front of a computer, smart phone, tablet or anything else that has access to the internet and consider the implications of what you are posting before you press enter.

EDITORIAL

In event of crisis, we do not feel safe When the armed campus security guards first showed up, in January, there was loud, brief community outcry. Some thought them unnecessary, and others went further, calling them potentially dangerous; after all, they have scary guns and scary cars and they showed up unannounced. But now, a couple months in, we’re mostly used to them (they seem nice enough) and for a while, they made us feel at least somewhat safer from the possibility of predators — that is, until the lockdown on Thursday, March 6.

Because on that day, at 2:45 p.m., when a person claiming to be a 16-year-old male Beverly student being held hostage in the auditorium called the police, the school sounded the lockdown alarm, but according two sources who were in the main building at the time, the alarm rang at “around 3:00,” and it did so in only some classrooms.

On this particular Thursday, Period 7 ended at 2:51, four minutes after the person contacted the police. The alarm did not sound inside the library, where students were studying. It did not ring in the science building, the library or the second-floor patio, which is to say, of course, that it did not ring everywhere — students and teachers kept calm and carried on without knowing that they probably should have been terrified — and even where it did ring, according to a teacher who asked to remain anonymous, it took around 15 minutes from the time the alleged victim called to ring. And after it did ring, some students walked off campus, easily and unquestioned.

Additionally, we are dismayed by the administration’s handling of the aftermath of the situation.

When it was dissatisfied with the API score, an emergency assembly was called. When it didn’t like what we were tweeting, it import-

ed a cast of B-list celebrities. But when half the school spent two hours locked in classrooms and the library and the auditorium, literally and legitimately scared for their lives, wondering if the footsteps outside were his, wondering whether any of it — the tests, “The Wiz,” the water-polo tournament — even mattered anymore, wondering where the hell those multi-million-dollar security guards were, wondering if the rumor was true, that this was all a hoax, when the school was more shaken than it’s been in recent memory, the administration said nothing. No assembly.

No email. (To be clear, an email did come a week after the fact, which addressed the issue of security, but coldly and dryly; i.e., only by entirely avoiding discussion of the specific situation and our consequential feelings.) Over the past four years, the current administration has been working hard on Norman nationalism, on

increasing school spirit to help us love this place where we spend huge amounts of time, so its silence on this issue, and its inability to facilitate group comforting (ask any history teacher: this is the root of nationalism), was not only disappointing; it’s embarrassing and it’s inexcusable.

For these reasons, we are naturally skeptical of our administration’s and school board’s vowed commitment to our safety. It’s one thing to pay a few people to walk around with guns; it’s another thing entirely to truly care about our safety. Why didn’t all the alarms go off, and why did they take so long? Why hasn’t any sort of authority figure spoken up? What is being done to not only restore us with a feeling of security, but also, this time, to make us truly safe? We’re sorry to be so impertinent — or, more accurately, we’re sorry we feel required to be so impertinent — but we have to ask: do you even care?

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HIGHLIGHTS COMMENT MARCH 28, 2014

Daylight Saving Time: A Modern Scourge Dan Moroaica guest writer As spring approaches, many Americans look forward to our annual tradition of Daylight Saving Time. “Spring forward, fall backward” is the mantra that enables us to have more daylight in the latter part of the day. I, however, have been fighting an uphill battle to abolish this outdated practice for years.

My name is Dan Moroaica, and this is the story of my struggle against time-change.

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is an archaic practice that needs to be abolished. I feel so strongly about this, that I started my own petition on whitehouse.gov

This petition will most likely never pass, but my goal is not immediate change, but rather educating the public. First, I would like to address a popular misconception that DST was created to help farmers have more sunlight during “productive hours.” This idea was attributed to Benjamin Franklin. While Franklin did write about DST, he was in fact, writing a satire about the French, and never actually meant it to be used in government. In fact, time zones as we know it were created by railroad companies to regulate deliveries, not by our government.

Modern DST comes for the 1966 Uniform Time Act, and it was actually done to help Americans use less electricity and thus save mon-

ey. You see, 60 years ago, Americans used more electricity at night than in the day (light bulbs, televisions, etc). As such, with more daylight during productive hours, there was less demand for electricity. However, the times have changed, as have Americans’ electrical habits. Today, there is almost no difference in the amount of electricity used during daytime vs. nighttime hours. With sprinkler systems, computers, cable TV, answering machines, and other conveniences; our electrical use has remained constant day to night. Thus, shifting to DST would NOT save money for the vast majority of Americans.

So, DST does not benefit in the ways that we supposed or expect-

ed. So, what does DST do? It kills.

There are more car accidents and heart attacks the day after DST (due to sleep deprivation) than any other day of the year (heart attack risks increase 10-15% alone!). In addition, worker productivity goes down, and it is estimated that American companies lose approximately $1.7 billion a year, due to lethargic employees.

In addition, some states and territories (such as Arizona, Guam, etc), do not use DST, so similar time zones have conflicting times, which again, causes inefficiency.

I understand that MANY people love having sunlight during dinner, but nothing has ever prevented them from eating earlier, or waking up earlier. Time changes

hurt our bodies, our economies, and our overall well-being! I understand that sticking to standard time all year long is not liked by everyone (who doesn’t love sunlight later in the day?) There is another solution. Some countries (such as France, Spain, Russia), have permanent DST. Thus, no time change, no negative health effects, no loss to the economy, and you STILL get your sunlight.

In conclusion, we must educate ourselves, and perhaps…one day…DST will come to an end! We can live happier, healthier lives.

At the very least, perhaps people can learn how to pronounce it… it’s DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME, not SAVINGS…it’s time, not a bank account people.

Highlights Mabel Kabani and Danny Licht editors-in-chief

Jessica Lu news editor

Max Stahl

comment editor

Dami Kim

culture editor

Marguerite Alberts spotlight editor

Arman Zadeh and Jackson Prince sports editors

Michelle Banayan graphics editor

Robert Katz and Dani Klemes web editors-in-chief

Juliette Deutsch social media director AJ PARRY

Marijuana commercial unfairly criticized Dani Klemes web editor-in-chief A marijuana commercial that recently aired in New Jersey sparked a controversy among cable watchers. The commercial, which advertises MarijuanaDoctors.com and its medical marijuana services, is set to air on select Comcast cable stations including Fox, ESPN and CNN between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

The minute-long advertisement features a suspiciouslooking man selling second-rate sushi, setting up a comparison between medical drug acquisition and shady alley deals. A voice in the commercial asks “You wouldn’t buy sushi from this guy, so why would you buy your marijuana from him?”

The ad’s purpose is to advise legal drug users to be wary of how they obtain their weed and to emphasize the importance of receiving marijuana from a licensed physician.

In no way is the advertisement encouraging marijuana use as a recreational activity. The use and distribution of marijuana, whether it be for legal, medi-

cal purposes or recreational intent, is inevitable. There is no certainty that people will adhere to laws regarding the drug, and therefore, the existence of a black market is definite.

Which is why Jason Draizin, the CEO of MarijuanaDoctors.com, chose to commercialize his legal doctor-patient online portal.

In an interview with New York Daily News, Draizin stated that “it would be absurd to purchase [marijuana] on the black market without consulting a physician, especially if you have a terminal or debilitating disease.”

The commercial is an advertisement for legal drug use.

Marijuana is legal for medical purposes in 20 states and Washington, D.C., so there is no valid reason why it shouldn’t be treated as another prescription drug.

It’s even a bit ironic that people are so fervently against the marijuana commercial considering the fact that they’re comfortable with the endorsement of other prescription drugs, many of which are abused.

A lot of the buzz came from apprehensive viewers who were worried about the commercial’s effect on young, impression-

able audiences. Their reasoning seems a bit irrational seeing that the commercial’s airtime is past the bedtimes of most minors.

The commercial is promoting safety. It is encouraging smart choices. Draizin’s intent was not to target stoners looking for an easier access to drugs, but rather to display the legally sound options that medical users have available to them.

Draizin’s site operates as an interceder that pairs users with prescribers. The company screens both patients and doctors before they can utilize the service and informs users of their legal rights in the states that allow medical marijuana use. MarijuanaDoctors.com is, essentially, an Internet-based dispensary and, like any other brick-and-mortar dispensary (that is practicing under a license), there is a strict security protocol.

Although Comcast has agreed to air the commercial, sites including Google and Facebook have refused to run the advertisements of the for-profit company.

Google’s advertising rules in-

clude a ban on “the promotion of illegal drugs, legal or synthetic highs, herbal drugs and chemicals and compounds with psychoactive effects.”

Likewise, according to Facebook spokesman Tim Rathschmidt in an interview with GigaOM, the risk of altering the current policies “to allow ads promoting [marijuana] in certain states or countries where it is legal is too high for [Facebook] to consider at this time.”

Most of the controversy surrounding the commercial is based on the style of the advertisement. It may have been a shock for some viewers to see marijuana, the drug that has been “demonized by our government for decades,”* tossed around so casually. But like anything that has been frowned upon in the past, we must accept it.

As with any contentious issue, there is discomfort and insecurity and stubbornness. Marijuana commercialization may be a difficult thing to embrace. It may trigger “a knee-jerk negative reaction.”* But at one point, someone is going to have to take the high road.

*These quotes are from Mason Tvert, the communications director for the Marijuana Policy Project, in his interview with Time.com

Braden Bochner, Audrey James-Anenih, Zoe Kenealy, Eunice Kim, Brenda Mehdian and Audrey Park staff writers

Nicole Leibman, Audrey Park, Sasha Park and AJ Parry cartoonists

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 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.

Ads are not endorsed by BHUSD. Beverly Highlights is sponsored by PTSA and BHEF.

CORRECTION In our article “Model UN competes in UC Berkeley competition,” published on beverlyhighlights.com on March 14, freshman Cathy Lee was identified as a junior.

11

HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS MARCH 28, 2014

It’s time for fantasy baseball Jackson Prince sports editor Fantasy baseball is back. The most taxing, most knowledge-requiring, most rewarding of all fantasy sports has made its long-awaited return.

An offseason of massive signings and noise-making prospects has many hoping that this season will be the best yet.

Unlike those in other fantasy realms, fantasy baseball team owners must be committed for over eight months, from the end of March to the beginning of October, to setting lineups each and every day. They’re up at the crack of dawn, ensuring that their pitchers are taking the mound that day and their lefty hitters are facing righthanded pitchers. They’re perusing the waiver wire for prospects soonto-be called up to the major leagues and constantly adding hitters on hot streaks and dropping players who have gone stale.

It is this daily struggle and attention to detail that has earned my utmost respect for fantasy baseballers.

This year, I’d like to be another voice in the nosebleed section of fantasy baseball “experts” that may help you in your chase of the trophy.

Hey, sometimes, even Matthew Berry gets a little tiring. Try me.

PLAYERS YOU MUST HAVE Wilson Ramos, Washington Nationals In 2013, Ramos had 16 homers and 59 RBIs. In only 77 games. This year, the backstop entered training camp fully healthy and, as he is expected to win out the starting job, will only ride the bench once a week. A wall behind the plate, Ramos has something to prove this season. If he remains healthy, Ramos could near 25 home runs and

80 RBIs. Pretty good for the 10th ranked catcher by ESPN. Brandon Moss, Oakland A’s Did you know that this guy hit 30 home runs last year? Five more than Prince Fielder? And yet, his average draft position (ADP) is 131st in 2014. In other words, Brandon Moss is a quiet stud. While he crushes right-handers and struggles against southpaws, Moss is a trusty output for RBIs and homers at an extremely cheap cost relative to his fellow power-hitters.

Martin Prado, Arizona Diamondbacks Prado is the ideal guy to own here for a cheap price. He’s eligible at second base, third base and outfield, and he’s slotted to hit cleanup in the D-backs’ lineup. Currently, he’s the ninth or tenth second baseman off of the board, which is simply insane. Prado hit 282 last year with 82 RBIs and 70 runs scored.

Moreover, he was hot this spring, going 19-40 and scoring 10 times. If that, plus his flexibility in the field, is not worthy of being a top-five second baseman, I don’t know what to tell you.

Adrian Beltre, Texas Rangers As a bitter Dodger fan, I hate to love Adrian Beltre. I mean, it probably wasn’t a very wise front office move to release him after hitting 48 home runs in 2004. Frank McCourt might’ve seen that year as his prime, and predicted that he would break down in a few years. Well, unsurprisingly, he was wrong. Beltre has improved with age, like a fine wine.

In fact, Beltre had 199 hits last year, one less hit than his magical 2004 season. Beltre should be the second third baseman taken off of the board, after Mr. Miguel Cabrera.

If you want to own a consistentlyperforming beast at the hot corner, Beltre’s your guy.

Curtis Granderson, New York Mets Last year, it became cool to own a Met, because Matt Harvey was awesome. This year, however, Harvey’s out. And the only Met I will own in 2014 is Curtis Granderson. He only played 61 games last year due to two injuries. However, both incidents were caused by hit-by-pitches. In other words, Granderson is not “injury-prone.” Don’t forget, in the 2012 season (in which he was as healthy as he is now), Granderson launched 43 bombs, scoring 102 runs and recording 106 RBIs. While only missing two games. It’s a simple fact: when Curtis Granderson is healthy, he’s a beast. And he’ll begin the 2014 season…healthy.

Hyun-Jin Ryu, Los Angeles Dodgers Hey look! A Dodger! Ryu is ranked 28th among starting pitchers by ESPN, but some Dodger fans might be overly-cautious in approaching him, as he did show flashes of unreliability in his rookie season. But don’t be afraid of the Korean southpaw. He’s a horse, as he started in 30 games and averaged over six innings per start.

While he is a pitch-to-contact guy, Ryu gets outs and was able to keep his ERA from rising above 3.00 in 2013. This year, I see the deceptive lefty earning 16 wins with a juggernaut of an offense behind him, and perhaps adding a few more strikeouts to his statbook, all while keeping his ERA below 3.25.

PLAYERS YOU MUST AVOID Russell Martin, Pittsburgh Pirates To be honest, you can’t really go wrong at catcher this year. There are enough hitting catchers in 2014 that each one of you should end up

with a sufficient starter and perhaps a solid backup. Just don’t wind up with Russell Martin. He hit .226 last year with only 15 home runs as a Pirate, and he’s supposedly a “powerhitting catcher.” Expect his power numbers to fall further as he ages.

Jose Abreu, Chicago White Sox I can never flat-out tell you to avoid a prospect with potential.

This is more of a message to be wise and not jump early to grab him. He’s projected to hit over 20 homers and hover around 80 RBIs, which sounds pretty sweet. Well...I have two problems. First, he has been compared to Pedro Alvarez: big power, low batting average. In a fantasy baseball league that rewards batting average, you might want to look elsewhere, like toward Adam Lind or Brandon Belt, before choosing Abreu. And Abreu’s a rookie, which means that he has yet to prove that he can hit a Major League fastball or a curveball that drops a foot. Just be wary, please.

Jean Segura, Milwaukee Brewers Here’s some irony: in Spanish, “seguro” means “secure.” However, Jean Segura is, by no means, a “secure” pick. I’m calling a fluke. Big time fluke. Sure, his 2013 stats are sexy, as he batted .294 with 74 runs and 44 stolen bases. But Segura is coming off of a terrible second half of the season, only hitting one home run and sporting a .241 batting average. He’s not a power hitter, as he hit 11 taters in the first half of 2013, and only added one home run in the second part of the season. He’s obviously inconsistent. Segura will secure some steals and runs again in 2014, but don’t reach for him. He’s outside of my top-ten shortstops.

(Hint: if you’re looking for cheap steals, look no further than Houston Astros’ shortstop Jonathan Vil-

lar. He manages to get on first base a lot and he is very, very fast.)

Yoenis Cespedes, Oakland A’s Give me the when and where to witness Cespedes’ coming-out party. But, I’m afraid he might be doomed to continue to let us down.

Cespedes followed up a studly 2012 performance with a dud. While hitting 26 home runs is nice, he allowed his stats in all other categories to slip, excluding his strikeouts.

I believe that Cespedes has all of the tools to be a top outfielder in the American League. But he has to show some more consistency for me to buy in. With such a class of outfielders in 2014, there are other, more safe options around, including Allen Craig, Matt Holliday and Hunter Pence.

Cliff Lee, Philadelphia Phillies I’m biased because I hate the Phillies. But Cliff Lee is 35 years old. He’s the third-ranked pitcher

by ESPN, and he’s 35 years old. I won’t lie and tell you that he sucks.

Lee is a strikeout machine, and doesn’t give up a lot of runs at all.

But, the Phillies aren’t going to give him much more run-support than they did in 2013, meaning that he won’t win more than 14 games this year. I see a digression this year in his pitching abilities, too, as he’s not getting any younger, and I don’t believe in the Phillies organization enough for an increase in wins. Lee is a bottom-end top-ten pitcher, but make sure you own another ace to pair with him.

Thank you for reading, and I advise you to act on what you have just learned. Good luck with your respective seasons.

Boys golf team feat. Lydia Choi, compete at S. Hills Audrey Park staff writer Varsity golf competed in and placed third in the West Covina Bulldog Invitational on Monday, March 24 at the Southern Hills Country Club. Approximately 20 schools, with 120 athletes, competed in the tournament.

Before the tournament began, senior Lydia Choi was “a little nervous because she was the only girl on the field.” This year marked the first year in the history of Beverly where a girl has been placed on the boys golf team.

“I kept assuring myself that I was prepared and capable of shooting a good score,” Choi said. “The boys hit their ball a lot longer than I do. I was around 50 yards behind them on every hole. It was a disadvantage for me, but I kept telling myself that distance difference was not a big deal, and that my short game will make up for it. I had to keep myself feeling confident the whole round.”

Coach Jason Newman decided to put Choi on the boys team because there weren’t enough girls to form a self-standing girls golf team.

“According to CIF rules, Lydia was able to compete in the individual

tournament involved with girls golf, but in terms of the team she’s able to participate with the boys,” Newman said.

The boys golf team plays in courses 500 to 600 yards longer than girls’ golf courses. Therefore, according to Choi, she had to “practice more on her longer clubs and her short games.” She ended up finishing third individually by shooting 73 points.

“It was a huge accomplishment for me and it felt great. I know now that I am capable of competing with boys that hit it so much further than I do,” Choi said. “There were many holes that I couldn’t reach, so it was important to have my short game in top top shape in order to save pars.”

During the game, sophomore Carson Mandic was “frustrated” because he and a couple of the teammates “didn’t play to their own expectations.” However, he was proud of the team’s achievement.

“When the team does well and you’re not at your best you really feel as though you didn’t contribute,” Mandic said. “[However] it’s great to see Beverly winning again. Last year was upsetting but our team is coming around and coming in with such

a high finish.”

The team also competed in a match against Torrance on Tuesday, March 25.

However, they lost by one stroke.

“It was very frustrating because we had at least one shot, chip or putt that we could have done better,” Choi said. “We learned that every shot counts.

All of us made mistakes during the round today. Losing by one was very heartbreaking, but it was a good experience for us.”

Before the match Photo courtesy of LYDIA CHOI began, Carson “felt a Members of the varsity golf team share their recently acquired accolades after placing third as a team at the West Covina Bulldog Invitational on March 24. little anxious” because he didn’t “perform his best at the should practice more to contribute said. “Goals are based on day to day experience, work and what goes into tournament on Monday.” However, as much as he could for the team.” he believes that overall the “team Newman believes that success the preparation for being a good performed great and is showing can’t be based on record, but on player. The right path to success is when athletes work as hard as they signs of a good year to come.” “learning what it takes to excel.”

The match proved to be a “learn“Goals are not so much wins, loss- can, and even use weekends for ing experience for many of the team es or how we ultimately do. Wins preparation.”

The team will next participate members,” according to junior and losses will take care of themJosh Masjedi. He believes that he selves and are secondary to the life in a match against Torrance at Los “learned a lot from Lydia and that he lessons learned through sports,” he Verdes on Thursday, March 27.

12

HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS MARCH 28, 2014

Four teams seek dodgeball glory in 2014 tourney Team Wetball Brenda Mehdian staff writer Team Wetball’s story begins in 2012, when seven freshmen decided to put together a dodgeball team to rival the veterans of the tournament. Comprised of students from El Rodeo and Beverly Vista who have known each other since elementary school, Team Wetball has hung in with the upperclassmen’s teams in past years, but is looking to fulfill their “destiny” as “dodgeball gods,” according to junior Justin Shegerian.

This teams consists of juniors Shegerian, Mason Leib, Dominic Perlman, Jackson Prince, Josh Schenk, Trevor Bergher and Harry Green.

The team sees an advantage in their chemistry, as the boys grew up together and competed with and against each other in elementary school.

“What makes our team unique is the bond that we have with each other due to our years of friendship and our familiarity with one another’s dodgeball techniques,” Leib said.

Team Wetball is so-called because of the “wetball” shot in basketball which Perlman, a former Norman basketball player, coined.

Team Wetball has had considerable success in past dodgeball tournaments; in their debut, they were among the top eight teams, and last year they made it to the final four.

According to Prince, the team “just goes out there and has a good time,” although each member carries with them specific responsibilities.

“Each guy has a job to do on the dodgeball pitch. We have guys who throw heat, as well as catching-specialists and survivalists who stubbornly remain in the game,” he said.

Though the team takes dodge-

ball seriously, the junior boys use the event as another bonding experience in what is a long-lasting friendship.

“We text each other about strategies, although usually it’s just joking around. We are all really close friends and that translates to the game. We’re all competitive with each other in seeing who performs best, but it’s for the love of the game,” Schenk said.

Team Wetball was able to put its best foot forward so far, as it knocked off its first-round opponent, the McFlurry’s, and will look to continue their success against The Bandits.

#TeamUSA Brenda Mehdian staff writer The members of #TeamUSA have known each other for about five years now, but this will be their debut in the tournament. Senior Brandon Davis, juniors Brandon Kerrick, Michael Massie, Derrick Armstrong, Cameron Forbes, Ibro Agaba and sophomore Jihad McDougal decided to form a team this year due to the popularity of the dodgeball tournament in past years.

The team is unlike any other

COMETHRU Brenda Mehdian staff writer COMETHRU will look to cap their dodgeball careers at Beverly with a championship. These seniors, Josh Nierob, Adam Steinberg, Maxwell Martin, Siavash Yektafar, Dominic Nora, Chris Johnson and Aaron Wolfe, have known each other since freshman year, and formed this team out of the hope of bringing home the grand prize. Although each team member has individually participated in the annual dodgeball tournaments in past years, this is the first time that all seven members will unite as one team.

“We’re the best of the best,” Steinberg said. “So we thought, ‘Why not make one all-star team?’”

COMETHRU, named after the Drake song, came through in its first matchup against Team Freshman during lunch on March 24. The team has not done anything in particular to prepare, but according to Martin, they believe that their strength is the chemistry between team members and athleticism, which will bring success.

“Most of the team is involved in sports or other activities that involve a tremendous load of arm strength, so I definitely think that gives us an upper hand,” he said. “ In addition, we are all seniors, so we have had three years of experience on our side.”

The boys believe that they possess all of the tools necessary to win the tournament. Ac-

in the tournament, as they represent a certain sector of the Norman student body.

“Our team is unique because we are a representation of the black male population at our school,” Davis said.

According to Kerrick, “skin color” sets #TeamUSA apart from the other dodgeball teams.

It is an all-African-American team that had joined forces with other dodgeballers in the past, but were defeated during the early rounds of the tournament.

However, this year, #TeamUSA is “not going to stand losing and are willing to put in their best effort,” according to Kerrick.

All of the players that make up #TeamUSA are athletes ranging from defensive linemen, safeties and point guards to runners, outfielders and volleyballers. Davis is the selfproclaimed team captain due to his seniority among his fellow teammates and his general reliability.

The name of the team was a last-minute decision and because the team was organized soon after the winter Olympics ended, members decided to go with #TeamUSA. “A lot of the other ideas were a little inappropriate so we decided that this was a clever yet appropriate name,” Davis said. #TeamUSA brought down the Dodgefathers and will take on La Flame in the second round.

(TOP) Juniors Elliot Eghbali, Navid Simanian, Brian Masjedian, Leor Massachi and members of Pach-amaloss pose before their loss to the Brown Coats on w 24.

(BOTTOM LEFT) Daniel Popovsky stands alone against a rival team. (BOTTOM RIGHT) Team COMETHRU races to the center of the field in its victory against Team Freshman on March 24.

(BOTTOM) ASB’s Dodgeball 2014 Bracket accurate as of March 26.

BRENDA MEHDIAN

Final Four

Championship Game Scheduled for April 8

cording to Steinberg, the team has a winning mentality, which he believes will greatly benefit them.

For COMETHRU, it’s now or never for their Norman dodgeball careers. They will face Catching Balls next.

Championship Game Scheduled for April 8

Final Four

MatzahBall Men Brenda Mehdian staff writer The members of MatzahBall Men have finger-painted together, played Little League against

each other and even helped each other through puberty. The creation of this dodgeball team is simply a continuation of their journey as friends. The team is comprised solely of underclassmen, including five sophomores, Blake Ackerman, Davis

Freeman, Isaac Rabbanian, Max Walder, Eric Ross and Matt Reskin, and one freshman, Grant Gaon. The six sophomores were on the same team together last year, and Gaon was added on this year upon his arrival at Beverly.

“I like being the only freshman on the team. I take it as a challenge that I am willing to accept,” he said.

So far, the MatzahBall Men, named for its Jewish team members, have remained unscathed in the tournament, defeating the ASBeats. According to Gaon, the team is looking for more than just one victory.

“We want to make a statement that even though we are one of the younger teams, we are a force to be reckoned with,” he said.

According to Ackerman, the team’s secret weapons are the arms of Gaon and Reskin. However, the team doesn’t rely on one star, as “each member steps up when they are needed.”

MatzahBall Men will take on the Brown Coats in their second game of the tournament.