January 2013

INSIDE

GUN CONTROL DEBATE After the recent shootings, should there be more laws regulating gun use?

THE TEACHING DUOS

MOVIES OF THE WINTER SEASON

PAGE 8-9

With the love in the air, check out these cute staff couples on campus!

PAGE4 EDITORIAL

BOX OFFICE OF LOVE Take a look at these chick flicks that create the perfect mood for Valentine’s Day! PAGE10 A & E

PAGE7 FEATURE

DIAMOND BAR HIGH SCHOOL

STUDENT NEWSPAPER

The Bull’s Eye WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30, 2013

NEWS ANALYSIS

State fails education requirements StudentsFirst releases a report card that encourages states to improve education.

BY GLORIA KIM ASST. EDITORIAL EDITOR

Earlier this month, StudentsFirst, an organization advocating education reform, released an A-F grading scale State Policy Report Card to gauge education laws and policies of each state. According to its report, California “failed” to meet their requirements of having strong student-centered education policies.

The ratings were based on the twenty-four policies listed in the group’s agenda that were centered on three main categories: elevating teaching, empowering parents, and improving school governance and

See EDUCATION| pg 2

Volume XXXI, Issue IV | ONLINE at bullseye.dbhs.org | Published Monthly

Union and district reach agreement Two furlough days will be implemented into the remainder of this school year.

BY HOLLY LIU NEWS EDITOR

After several months of struggle, which caused teachers to temporarily drop clubs and activities outside of instructional time, the teachers and district have finally reached a tentative agreement.

The settlement between the Walnut Valley Educator’s Association and the Walnut Valley Unified School District officials settles the long-running contract dispute.

The proposals described in this provisional agreement were agreed during mediation. It includes two furlough days in this current school year, four in the next, and four in the 2014-2015 school year. If site D, a district-owned piece of land which is currently in escrow, sells, there is also the possibility that two furlough days from the next school year and four furlough days for the 2014-2015 will be removed. Other specific details are still in the process of being discussed.

These terms will go through a fi-

XING YEN QUEK

STAFF STANDS STRONG - Teachers and staff members meet during lunch to receive updates on negotiations. nal voting process by the union in the near future and by the district on Feb. 6 at a school board meeting.

However, negotiations could be reopened as soon as Dec. 10.

Due to the district being in impasse, both parties had to participate in several mediations with the state mediator, Loretta van der Pol. The district, which was not willing to negotiate before declaring impasse, reconsidered the budget status due to the release of the Governor’s Proposed Budget Summary, which indicates that there

MORE ON TEACHER DISPUTE SEE EDITORIAL, PAGE 4 will be more money available for education and will be specified in the May Revise.

Prior to the involvement of the mediator, the district, requiring six furlough days this year and nine the next two years, refused to compromise. As an act of protest, teachers temporarily stopped club activity, suspended outside

Two students participate in the Miss California Teen Pageant Branks and Mejia ‘wow’ at the 2013 Miss California Teen Pageant.

BY SARAH CHO FEATURE EDITOR

Pasadena had the honor of hosting the annual Miss California Teen Pageant this year, and DBHS’

seniors Annemarie Branks and Nadia Mejia participated in the pageant, the latter going on to place in the Top 5 as the fourth runner up.

Branks represented Phillips Ranch, while Mejia represented Beverly Hills at the competition which took place over a full weekend, spanning from January 12 to January 13.

The Miss California Teen Pageant was Branks’ first Pageant experience. “Other than doing some plays when I was younger, I had absolutely no on stage experience,”

Branks explained. She chose to participate in the pageant mostly due to her interest in the potential scholarship prize. Contestants in the pageant stand to win several thousands of dollars in scholarships and Branks had become aware of the opportunity through DBHS. “At the beginning of senior year, Patterson gave me a scholarship packet and the Miss California Teen pageant was one of the schol-

See GOWNS| pg 2

See COMPROMISE| pg 3

Cords and sashes policy is clarified

COURTESY OF GAIL BOWMAN

TEENS IN TIARAS - Nadia Mejia (far left) poses with the other top five finalists in the teen category.

of class extra help, and refused to write teacher recommendations.

“We are trying to bring awareness to what teachers do that they do not get paid for as a way to for us to make a point. Teachers do an incredible amount of additional work that [they] are not paid for. If they are paid to do a job, they still have to contractually do that job,” Salli Collins, a WVEA negotiator, commented. Teachers still taught

COURTESY OF ANDY LEUNG

SMILING WITH SASHES - Alumni Michael Cheng and Andy Leung (from left to right) stand with their sashes and cords after the 2012 graduation ceremony.

Clubs that do not receive cords and sashes can apply for club pins.

BY EMILY HWANG STAFF WRITER

Recently, Girl’s League requested for club sashes; however, the advisor, Lisa Pacheco, was told that Girl’s League would not be able to receive sashes or cords but could instead receive club pins.

“I’ve been told that the reason

why certain clubs cannot receive sashes is because only athletics and clubs that were grandfathered into the set list are able to wear sashes and cords,” Lisa Pacheco said.

Chelsea Grunseth, USB Activities Director, told Pacheco that there was already a set list of certain groups that had previously been able to have sashes and cords for graduation.

The set list was formed by a previous DBHS Activities Director. At that time, the Activities Director and administrators designated the clubs that could obtain graduation

See GRADUATION| pg 2

2 NEWS

School construction is on its way to completion this year The new math building will hold 20 classrooms with state-of-the-art technology.

BY KATLYN LEE ASST. NEWS EDITOR

With the ongoing construction of the past several months, the long awaited math building and Denis R. Paul Aquatic Center are expected to be completed and ready for use by the beginning of the next school year.

The $10.7 million aquatic center will be open for use in December.

The aquatic center features an energy-efficient, 12-lane pool which contains piping for solar heating, and locker rooms as well as fitness classrooms.

Constructed with white roofs for energy conservation, the $4 million math building next to the aquatic

EDUCATION from pg 1

States have mixed reactions towards the results released early January. spending. Although some states had already implemented laws that StudentsFirst favored, most states were far from meeting its tough conditions. Only two states managed to receive a B-, while the majority averaged around a D, and 12 states, including California, failed.

In response to the report that stated Calfornia is “stagnant,” California chief deputy superintendent Richard Zeiger, commented that he received the F rating as a

center will hold 20 classrooms and several offices completed by the fall of 2013. Each classroom will have a LCD projector with an amplified sound system for a more enhanced classroom environment. The upper floor rooms will also have the benefit of having skylights.

“We’re going from classrooms that were built in the 1990’s to classrooms that are modern and advanced. The new building is going to allow teachers to have access to state-of-the art technology in their classrooms. They’re going to be able to do things that we’ve never been able to do before,” Instructional Dean David Hong shared.

The construction project was first officially approved by the Walnut Valley Unified School District on Oct. 19, 2011 and its groundbreaking ceremony was held after school a few months later on Jan. 18, 2012.

Because the new two-story building with improved storage is designated specifically for math teachers, all math teachers will be

able to work together in one building, rather than being scattered throughout the school in the C and J buildings. “For the first time since this school was built, all the math teachers will be in the same building. We’ve never been to have our math department all together, so for working with one another, coordinating the curriculum, it would be a lot more convenient for the math teachers with this new building,” Hong said.

Once the math department moves to the new building, the school plans to modernize other parts of the school campus such as extending the LINC and adding a multi-purpose room. Furthermore, other school departments will make use of the lower level classrooms. “With its future modernization projects, DBHS is going to see [that] the next 30 years [will be] as bright as the first 30 years…but…[provide] its teachers a new environment and new tools to teach with,” district Operations Manager Jeff Bloedorn said.

“badge of honor.” Zeiger told New York Times that “this is an organization that frankly makes its living by asserting that schools are failing…I would have been surprised if we had gotten anything else.”

Reasons that California failed include the low amount of money expended per student and the complicated and varied formulas that are used to govern schools. “[StudentsFirsts’] findings don’t surprise me because they were specifically looking for areas that needed improvement, so it makes sense that they would score us low,” Julian Rodriguez, instructional dean at Diamond Bar High School, stated.

Some critics lauded the organization for its efforts toward bringing change to education, that as

a nation that ranks 26th in the world for mathematics and science, change is neccessary. Others have claimed that StudentsFirst’s theology is “lofty idealism.”

Despite the state’s poor evaluation, DBHS still ranks among the leading schools in the nation, placing 135th in Newsweek’s 1000 best high schools in the nation 2012. “[The state’s low ranking in contrast to Diamond Bar’s] points out exactly what we know about Diamond Bar High School and about the teachers here. We do the best.

Regardless of what outside agencies say, Diamond Bar High School is one of the top schools in the nation and that is a testimony to what we do here every single day in the classrooms,” Rodriguez said.

THE BULL’S EYE

Diamond Bar High School Student Newspaper

STAFF

Lea Chang, Justin Park

Editors-in-Chief

Holly Liu, Jennifer Wang Joy Chow, Katlyn Lee

News Editors Asst. News Editors

Colene Eng Gloria Kim

Editorial Editor Asst. Editorial Editor

Sarah Cho, Angie Zhang

Feature Editors

Austin Kong Claire Huang

A&E Editor Asst. A&E Editor

Vivian Tang, Hanna Yi

Feature Theme Editors

Winston Cho Andrew Choi, Joseph Park

Sports Editor Asst. Sports Editors

Xing Yen Quek

Photo Editor

GOWNS from pg 1

The pageant consists of three rounds— Interview, Swimsuit, and Evening gown. arship options,” Branks said. In order to prepare for the Pageant, Branks had a three hour session with two Pageant trainers, Tara and Christina, from Sashes and Crowns in Santa Monica. Branks also elaborated that she practiced distance running in order to keep in shape, but confesses that she did little in terms of dieting. Unlike Branks, Mejia had previously participated in several pageants. Over the last few years, she has competed in countless competitions all

ONTARGET * IOC Meeting: Feb. 5 * House of Reps Meeting: Feb. 6 * KAPLAN PSAT: Feb. 9 * Late Start: Feb. 12 * All Club Food Fair: Feb. 13 * Valentine’s Day: Feb. 14 * End of 6 Week Grading Period: Feb. 15 * Presidents Day: Feb. 18 * No School: Feb. 18 GRADUATION from pg 1

embellishments and then closed the list.

Students from different clubs and organizations at Diamond Bar High School that tried to request for cords and sashes were informed that they were not allowed to wear sashes and cords. “I wish that all clubs could get sashes and cords because we have all worked hard in the clubs and deserve recognition for them. It honestly upsets me and other senior members of Key Club that we can’t wear sashes or cords,” Vice President of Key Club, senior Jocelyn Hsu stated.

Organizations not on the list have the choice to request pins.

In order to receive pins for this year’s graduation, clubs will have to make a request to Grunseth that includes their criteria and standards for how members earn their

pins. Clubs that are not allowed to wear club sashes and cords were told that they are allowed to sign up for club pins toward the end of the year.

Some of the clubs and groups that are enlisted on the list are Brahma Tech Academy, California Scholarship Federation, Class Committee, IB Students, Pathways Academy, Performing Arts Academy, and United Student Body Honor Guard. These groups will be able to wear their cords, medals, or sashes during graduation at the end of the year.

Over the years, some clubs have ordered their own sashes and cords without requesting them from the Activities Director. During the graduation ceremony, these club members would wear their own graduation embellishments without knowing that they are not allowed to. “There is a common misconception that any club was always able to get cords and sashes.

It is not that it has been taken away from anybody. It is just that all the groups are already set,” Grunseth stated.

over California and internationally, her first Pageant being the Miss Hispanidad International in 2012 in which she placed as the first runner up. She then competed in the Miss California Teen pageant last year and placed in the Top 20 out of 120 competitors. “[It was a] huge accomplishment especially since I didn’t know what the heck I was doing!” Mejia explained. Then, in the Miss Santa Monica Teen pageant she placed as the second runner up.

A few months ago, she competed in the Miss Beverly Hills Teen pageant which she won. “I never gave up and was blessed to finally win the most elite regional pageant,” Mejia stated. This year, with her new experience, she returned to the Miss California Teen pageant.

“After all of my hard training, I

competed in Miss California Teen again but this time really knowing what I was doing and representing the beautiful city of Beverly Hills,” Mejia said. She placed as the fourth runner up, a huge honor. “I was so blessed to have made the top 5 and be announced fourth runner up against girls who were bred and raised in pageantry,” Mejia stated.

One-hundred-and-fifty girls from all over the state came to compete and it is the most prestigious Pageant in the area.

Branks plans on competing in the upcoming Miss Diamond Bar Pageant while Mejia plans to return to the Miss California Teen competition next year, the last year she will be eligible for the competition, in hopes of finally becoming Miss California Teen USA 2014.

Clubs that cannot receive cords or sashes may order pins through Grunseth.

Winter Snow Fest

Michelle Lee Katlyn Lee

Business Manager Asst. Business Manager

Rose Kim

Web Editor Staff Writers

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

THE BULL’S EYE

Emily Hwang, Hanna Kang, Rose Kim

Advisor

Doug List

CONTACT

Diamond Bar High School, Room 250 21400 Pathfinder Road Diamond Bar, CA 91765 Phone: (909) 594-1405 x33250 Email: eye.editors@gmail.com Business Inquiries: dbhs_business@yahoo.com

EDITORIAL POLICY

The Bull’s Eye is a public forum that welcomes the views of our readers. Letters to the Editor and Op-Ed pieces will be accepted only if they are signed. The author, may, however, request anonymity. The staff reserves the right to edit letters without changing content. You may forward letters to Room 250, or submit them via e-mail.

ANGIE ZHANG

DOWN THE SLIPPERY SLOPE - A child and her guardian enjoy their snowy experience at the annual Winter Snow Fest, which was held at Pantera Park on Jan. 19. The event included stands selling cotton candy, lemonade, various kinds of popcorn, and hot dogs. Entertainment was also provided on a performing stage next to all the game booths.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

NEWS

THE BULL’S EYE

3

Senior Mi So Kwak performs in the Rose Parade Flutist Kwak went through an extensive process to march with the Bands of America.

BY HANNA KANG STAFF WRITER

Not many high school students are given the privilege of being accepted into the Tournament of the Rose parade. However, Diamond Bar High School marching band member, senior Mi So Kwak, accomplished this feat.

Kwak was recently featured on NBC News for securing a spot in the prestigious Rose parade. After a week of practice, Kwak, participating with the Bands of America Honor band, played “Reflections of Earth,” “Firework” by Katy Perry, and “Stars and Stripes Forever,” while marching a 5.5-mile route.

“I have been to numerous parades but the Rose Parade was unlike any other. There were so many people cheering for the band throughout the route. I felt connected to them, especially when they sang Katy Perry’s Firework to our music. Initially, the 5.5 miles

route seemed very long, but when we were done, I had tears [in my eyes] not because I was tired, but [because] I felt overwhelmingly emotional. I was sad that it was over, but happy that my dream of marching [in] the Rose Parade became a memory,” she said.

The senior flutist first encountered information about the Rose Parade auditions on the Bands of America feed through her Twitter account. With the encouragement of Steve Acciani, DBHS music director, Kwak auditioned.

“I was surprised that I made it in, because I knew it was a nationwide audition process. I felt really happy that I got in, and knowing that it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience is just amazing. It is really special,” Kwak stated. During the application process however, Kwak went through technical difficulties; the audition recordings that had to be submitted through Smart Music Software were not compatible with the screen reader program she uses, a software for visually impaired people. Kwak wanted to halt the process altogether, but Acciani pushed her to complete the audition. After learning about her acceptance, Kwak started learning and memorizing the three pieces for the parade that was themed “Oh, the Places You’ll Go.”

COURTESY OF BANDS OF AMERICA

BAND IN LINE - MI So Kwak, with the help of Casey Bindl, DBHS marching instructor, practices for the Rose Parade.

Kwak sends her thanks to the numerous individuals who have assisted her during the parade and throughout her years in marching band, notably DBHS marching instructor, Casey Bindl. “Casey is our marching band instructor, but for the parade, he was my guide. I really appreciate what he did for me because without him, it would

Temporary lock down calls for security reinforcement After an actual lockdown procedure, there has been two drills.

BY SYDNEY PUN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Prior to the beginning of the school day on Jan. 22, the staff participated in an emergency drill in preparation for an event of an armed intruder. Sheriffs’ vehicles were stationed at the front of the school and students who arrived early were redirected to the amphitheater until the staff drill was complete. During the drill, there was an enactment of what police officers would do during an oncampus shooting. After, the staff members went to the theater for a presentation on dealing with an on-campus shooter.

As the incident in Connecticut remains prevalent in the minds of Diamond Bar High School Administrators, safety precautions are

being reinforced. “I [would] say the incident has caused us to reflect on our past practices and prompted us to remind our students and staff of what those practices is,” Principal Catherine Real commented.

In December, an occurrence caused the officials of DBHS to immediately undergo lockdown procedure. It was the Monday after the incident in Connecticut when a suspicious individual dressed in a bullet proof vest, camouflage pants, and carrying a duffel bag was spotted observing students on the playground of Evergreen Elementary.

The sheriff’s department notified Diamond Bar High School officials of the questionable individual and the school quickly was in lockdown mode. After the sheriff’s department took the man into custody, deputies confirmed that the man was a resident of the area and not a threat. Immediately after the temporary lockdown, the school reopened and students returned to their normal bell schedule.

To further reinforce student safety on the campus, a shelterin-place drill (lockdown drill) took place on Jan. 10. “Within 45-60 sec-

onds, you couldn’t even tell we had school that day—3200 people were behind locked doors, away from windows with the lights off. Sheriff’s deputies, custodians, GLCs, Mr. Terry and I walked around knocking on doors, pulling on door handles, and looking in windows to simulate an armed intruder situation,” Real recalled.

After each drill, Real along with Assistant Principal John Terry debriefs the sheriff’s department.

The GLC and administrators are allowed input on ways to improve the drills.

“I have confidence in our staff’s reaction and cooperation with our drills, their response during actual lockdown events and their dedication to student safety,” Real commented.

The sheriff’s department visited each campus in the district to establish communication with each site’s principal. “We are fortunate to have a great working relationship with the [sheriff’s] department,” Real said. To improve the school’s protocol, the Sheriff’s department often takes part in drills to ensure the safety of students and staff members.

have been impossible for me to march in the parade. I’m beyond grateful. I’m also thankful towards the many friends who have supported me throughout my involvement in marching band. Participating in the Rose Parade was an incredible blessing. I would like to thank DBHS staff and students for the huge support,” Kwak stated.

COMPROMISE from pg 1

The district became involved with club activity due to the complaints of parents. during instructional time but were not required by the contract to participate in any other activities. “We are not here to hurt students. We just want to get to normalcy which includes doing all those additional activities,” Collins said.

Upset with the interruption of club activities, members of the Chinese American Parent Association expressed their concern and

w Last Monday in Montana, a masked man with a note that demanded money entered a Papa John’s pizza restaurant. However, just as the employee began to hand the money over, the man began crying and professed that he needed the money for his wife and child. The employee spoke with the man for a little while and then decided to give the man some complementary pizza, wings, and soda to bring back to his family.

w In Waterlooville, England, a hen named Rosie surprised her owner Sean Wilson by laying a huge egg weighing up to almost half a pound. Weighing about 181 grams, the egg was double the size of Rosie’s previous eggs. When owner Sean Wilson cracked the egg into a frying pan, he laughed in surprise when another eggshell emerged. Rosie had hatched an egg within an egg.

VIVIAN TANG

CLOWNING AROUND - Freshman President Donald Douglas speaks at the circus themed Freshman Remix, an event hosted by Link Crew last Thursday. Clubs that were present in the gym publicized their individual organizations by setting up a variety of games, urging the incoming freshman to join.

demanded district involvement. In response, the district appointed Diamond Bar High School Principal Catherine Real as a temporary advisor to the clubs without one. This was done in an effort to allow clubs to meet so they can stay active. “[This event] affected the school a lot. I know that it has stressed out every part of this community.

I think relations have been damaged which is harder to fix than a couple of furlough days. These furlough days were preventable. If the district continues to deficit spend and they come to us to balance their budget, [the situation] will be worse,” Angela Jensvold, the head representative of WVEA, said.

NEWSBITS

w In Las Vegas, a new “Dinner in the Sky” restaurant is currently in construction. The restaurant transports diners 180 feet into the air to eat their gourmet cuisines. Diners get to enjoy a $290 three-course meal along with dessert. Customers are lifted into the air and they are able to dine with beautiful sceneries surrounding them.

Freshmen Remix

The DBHS senior was also recently selected for the Southern California State Honor Band and will perform in February. “Music is very important to me. Through music, I met awesome people and made new friends who really help me reach my goals. Being in marching band is something so special that nothing can replace it,” she said.

w Sixty-three-year-old Wanda Denhalter was awakened when a boulder struck her bedroom at 3 a.m. The boulder was approximately twelve feet long, nine feet

high, and nine feet wide. It broke Denhalter’s jaw and sternum and also left a huge gash on her leg.

Somehow Denhalter managed to call for help and was immediately transported to the hospital. The police were not able to discover exactly where the boulder came from, so city spokesman Sergeant Marc Mortensen described it as a “natural occurrence.” w Forty-four-year-old Calvin Edward Butler from Florida is facing charges for illegally posing as a doctor. He injected silicone sealed with “Krazy Glue” into a patients’ buttocks at a motel room. One of his victims, a woman, received injections four times, being charged $200 for every session. The woman soon began to suffer from several open and oozing wounds. She is now diagnosed with Lymphdentitis, swelling of the lymphs nodes because of bacterial infections, chronic pain, and chronic cough. w A dare led to a new puppy for a family living in Boston. When a man’s two daughters asked for a puppy, their dad proposed a challenge. He challenged them to get at least one million likes on Facebook before he would consider adopting a dog. Excited, the girls created a new page on Facebook posting, “Hi World. We want a puppy! Our dad said we could get one if we get one million likes!

He doesn’t think we can do it! So ‘LIKE’ this!” Within four days, the Facebook post had more than 1.6 million “likes” and the two sisters’ wish came true.

4 EDITORIAL

THE BULL’S EYE

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Eye of the Editors

STUDENTS | How has the teacher/district dispute affected you, your club, or organization?

“Having 24 furlough days for the next three years was unacceptable to me.

Since I am a AP student, I don’t think I could afford to lose half a month of learning before the AP tests in May.”

“Our four advisors are not active at the moment, so we are currently runnning solely on students.”

—Grace Chang (12)

TEACHER ACTION | Unionized teachers cut out-of-class activities in contract dispute with school district officials.

“Several clubs I am involved in such as GXF, JSA, and Orphanage Club, couldn’t hold events or practices for competitions.

This put many club members who paid club fees to participate, at a great loss.”

—Joseph Chou (11)

—Sam Chun (11)

TEACHERS | What message do you want to give the students about

the contract negotiations?

“When we have a labor dispute, it’s about us trying to do our jobs and be the best teachers we can be and to best prepare them.

It is not trying to get more for ourselves. As an AP teacher, furlough days are my worst nightmare because I have less time to prepare my students.”

—Emily Clark

“I think students need to remember that there are two important elements in this public education: students and teachers-this is what it’s all about.

Nobody pays to see the administrators or superintendent. It’s like a ball game. We don’t pay to see the managers or the owners; we came to see the players. And we’re the players.”

“I feel that [the 10 furlough days] is a fair agreement. It’s a good compromise. The district [originally] wanted a total of 24 furlough days.

We are excited about this agreement but we understand that this is the best compromise.”

—Angela Jensvold

—Joe Moran

Early last week, Walnut Valley Unified School District finally found even ground with the Teachers’ Union by using a third party arbitrator. This news was received with both joy and relief by the student body, who had previously been under immense pressure as prior to the conclusion of the arbitration, the difficulties with the District led the Teachers’ Union to urge the teachers of Diamond Bar High School to cease all voluntary actions including club advising, teacher recommendations, tutoring, and other such activities.

Though not all teachers followed through with this instruction, and the teachers who did cease such voluntary action did so in varying degrees, the teachers’ actions had an imminent and apparent effect on the student body. While this effect was largely negative and sparked a displeased, even outright angry, reaction from certain portions of the school, it seems reasonable—to an extent—that the teachers simply couldn’t have been expected to do more work when facing such large cuts to salaries and benefits.

It is understandable that the teachers would take such drastic action when their ability to support themselves, and for many, their families, is at risk. The proposed furlough days and other such cuts obviously was not received well by the teachers—teachers who are underpaid and underappreciated as it is. Creating a situation where they could continue to educate the youth while still conveying an important point seems not only a logical decision, but also an astute one.

This is especially true in light of the fact that teachers are not paid for advising clubs or doing other voluntary work—a fact most students are not familiar with or simply take for granted.

Considering that club advising often takes hours of work and that teacher recommendations can cause an overwhelming burden for teachers, this

“charity work” was already an often underappreciated gift to students.

However, while it is reasonable that teachers terminated their work in these extra-curricular activities or cease writing new teacher recommendations, it seems cruel for teachers to renege on previously made commitments to write recommendation letters and preplanned club activities like the Blood Drive. This occurred with only a few of the teacher participants, but it affected a good number of students. It may seem like a clever way to make a “bigger splash” and thus achieve their means more quickly, but it flushes months and months of students’ hard work down the drain and leaves others in a hopeless state with little they can do to improve their current situations.

If anything, this sort of action simply undermines the entire Union and the teachers’ stance in their dispute with the district. Though this reneging of previously made commitments only applies to very few, it is enough to turn many students and their parents against the teachers. These sorts of actions could have transformed the teachers into the villains in this debacle, causing many students who previously supported the teachers to view them as the “bad guys.”

It is unfortunate that the teachers were forced into such a dire and desperate position where they felt it necessary to take such drastic actions in order to make a point. And, for the most part, their actions were understandable. Teachers simply cannot be expected to do so much when given so little. But, at the same time, some took it a step too far and had, as a result, regrettably turned many students and parents away from their cause. While we hope that such a dispute between the District and the teachers will be avoided in the future, in the case that it does, hopefully drastic actions such as defaulting on promised commitments will be avoided.

Eye of the Editors is an editorial piece of The Bull’s Eye. Statements and opinions expressed in the article herein are strictly those of the editors of The Bull’s Eye. The view of the editors does not necessarily reflect that of the entire staff.

Neverending Debate on Gun Control In light of the recent tragic shootings, the always controversial topic of gun control has once again taken center stage.

BY YUSHENG XIA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

PRO|Once again, debates regarding gun

control have developed following the tragic mass shootings at both the Century Aurora movie theater in Colorado and Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. Realistically, stricter rules and regulations would be created in response to the heartbreaking events. Still, for some bizarre reason, our country has delayed taking greater measures to implement such laws because opponents of gun control continuously fall back on the same excuse as to why our country shouldn’t have rules regulating guns—the Second Amendment.

The United States is a civilized country and should know when to make exceptions to the Bill of Rights, especially if it involves the public’s safety. Our freedom of speech doesn’t give one the right to yell “fire” in a movie theater, so why should the Second Amendment give the common man the right to own a killing machine? About 16,000 murders were committed in the United States during 2008 with about 11,000 of them involving firearms. With 68% of crimes involving guns, the U.S. must immediately start implementing stricter gun control laws in an effort to rectify such an appalling statistic.

The Second Amendment states that “A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” Many consider this to mean that an individual has the right to obtain a weapon. What we have to consider,

though, is that times have changed since the amendment was written. Back then, we didn’t have an efficient police force to protect us. Communication was poor and it was very difficult for individuals to reach out for help in times of danger. Today, technology has allowed us to contact the police almost immediately during a crime.

A key argument against stricter gun control is that it gives an individual selfprotection against criminals or other dangers. What many leave out is the fact that gun owners are unqualified to own one.

Instead of giving someone extra protection, having a gun causes others more harm than good. Not only is the risk of hurting others intensified, but having a weapon would also increase the chance of a petty criminal striking out in self-defense when faced by a gun-owning individual.

Probably the most ridiculous argument is that banning firearms from individuals will change our government from democracy to dictatorship. It’s hard to believe owning weapons that belong on a battlefield protects the rights of common citizens from government control. Over 60% of homicides have been committed with a stolen firearm, giving us an idea of how dangerous it is to own a gun.

The tragedies that have resulted due to guns have haunted many people throughout our history. Innocent lives have been lost and the feeling of security in our country has been shattered. We can’t erase the past but we can correct our mistakes so that future generations don’t experience the horrors that we have faced. With stricter gun regulations, we can create a safer world by reducing the violence and fulfilling the true intent of the Second Amendment of keeping America safe.

BY EMILY WONG CONTRIBUTING WRITER

CON|The past year has been tarnished

by tragedy-ridden events, such as the Century Aurora movie theater shooting in Aurora, CO, and the heartbreaking massacre of kindergarteners and teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newton, CT. Such senseless shootings have revived a massive issue: gun control.

Although implementing regulations enforcing gun control may seem justifiable due to these tragic events, these restrictions will not prevent future gun-related crimes.

In a country with over 80 million gun owners, it is absurd to think that these firearms will disappear altogether.

I am in no way trying to undermine the impact of the killing of innocent children or citizens; however, implementing gun restrictions would only leave law abiding civilians defenseless against criminals who will somehow acquire firearms, through legal means or otherwise. Citizens should have the right to possess firearms for their own safety. The culprit is not guns, because guns don’t kill people—people kill people.

The right to bear arms was granted by our founding fathers to ensure citizens’ protection from a tyrannical government.

Limiting the distribution of guns will be the first step toward unconstitutionally eliminating guns.

By overexposing the Sandy Hook shooting and other gun-related massacres, the media has contributed to the numerous copycat killers who have emerged across the nation.

Lunatics seize the opportunity to receive

their “fifteen minutes of fame.” Even though the press focuses on casualties caused by firearms, there have been many instances where the use of guns had saved lives. For example, on Dec. 8, 2012 in Memphis, TN, a robber with a history of criminal record died from a gunshot wound when the two victims shot him in self-defense after he fired at them. While the wounded victims may have survived, it is probable that there would have been a much more tragic ending if they had not legally possessed a firearm.

In Switzerland, where guns are present in almost every household, gun crime is practically nonexistent with 0.5 gun homicides per 100,000 inhabitants each year.

According to political commentator John Lott, with the exception of the incident involving Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, every public shooting in the U.S. where more than three individuals have been killed has occurred in areas where citizens are prohibited to carry firearms.

Prior to the tragic Newtown massacre, the three worst school shootings had taken place in Britain and Germany, both countries with exceptionally strict gun-control laws.

These facts ascertain that horrific shootings can occur anywhere regardless of enforced gun restrictions.

Unfortunately, situations like the Connecticut school massacre will sporadically occur in our society. However, prohibiting the use of guns is ineffective in protecting civilians. Perhaps education on the proper use of firearms should be imposed or mental healthcare should be emphasized in light of the recent incidents caused by deranged individuals. Whatever precautions lawmakers take to prevent these horrendous shootings, limiting guns is a futile way to rectify the problem.

EDITORIAL

THE BULL’S EYE

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

5

You Can’t Indian Rape Puts Focus on Female Oppression The New Delhi incident underscores patriarchal Flip Off societies’ need for new reforms to ensure greater rights for women.

Free Speech

BY GLORIA KIM ASST. EDITORIAL EDITOR

Despite a person’s protected right to express anger toward police officers, such lewd acts should not be committed as it is childish and disrespectful.

BY JOSEPH PARK ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

T

here are certain ways the Constitution allows people such as John Swartz and Robert Bell to get away with disrespectful actions. Expressing intolerable anger under the freedom of expression and the use of profanity under the freedom of speech are such examples. Although flipping off a police officer does not violate any laws, people should not take advantage of the Constitution to express offensive actions to the point where it becomes overused.

In May 2006, Swartz, while driving through the streets of St. Johnsville, New York, was angered by the sight of a cop using a gun radar to catch speeders and extended his middle finger at the police officer.

Disturbed by the gesture, the officer followed his car and eventually arrested him for disorderly conduct. Although both immature and uncalled for, Swartz’s flipping the bird was perfectly legal. It certainly isn’t the best idea to signal rude gestures towards a police officer who is just doing his job. The freedom of expression should not be abused to an extent in which people flip off a police officer every time they see one. Even though it may be legal, not everything permissible is beneficial.

While the Constitution may protect a person’s rights, authorities still deserve their due respect. The police officer was only doing his job by catching speeders on the road for the safety of all drivers. This should be something to respect, not something to complain about.

In August 2011, Bell also expressed his anger in a similar fashion as Swartz’s. Bell was arrested at the spot immediately for his offensive behavior. Luckily, Bell was off the hook because the police did not show up in court, meaning the case was dismissed. Bell would have been let off either way even if the cop showed up because the law protects him. Soon after he was let off, Bell and the New York Civil Liberties Union charged the New York Police Department for violating the Constitution and for false arrest. Both Bell and Swartz are childish in the sense that they express their anger in a juvenile way.

Despite this rude act, they were exonerated as the law kept them out of prison.

Certain people such as Swartz and Bell have taken their rights for granted. The rights of American citizens is a privilege and if it is going to be continously misused, there will be many more egregious situations.

Expressing anger every now and then is completely fine when considering the fact that we are all humans who have committed worse deeds than flipping the bird. Even if the law protects the childish act of flipping off a police officer, it should not be encouraged nor allowed as it is disrespectful, rude, and offensive.

T

he gruesome New Delhi medical student rape incident that occurred last December has sparked tremendous international attention. Learning of the horrendous details that entailed a young woman being severely beaten with a metal rod, raped multiple times, then mutilated, left many in utter disgust and indignant for the level of atrocity committed against an innocent civilian. It was pitiful that the life of a 23-year-old medical student, just barely beginning that path to an enriching life only a small portion of Indian women are privileged to experience, was

stopped short by an unexpected calamity.

Tragically, in India, as well as in numerous other nations around the world, incidents of females being victimized are far from unusual. Women are still treated as significantly lesser beings, and their rights are rarely protected.

Because of a culture that displays a preference for sons, the abortion of female fetuses, neglect of girls, rape and kidnapping of women run rampant. In 2011, the number of women raped in India rose by 9.2 percent and kidnapping and abduction of women increased 19.4 percent.

The sexually harassed women and girls, deserving of sympathy and further protection, are not only ignored by the majority of India’s court system and police

force, but even by their own family members who pressure them not to press charges. In a normal course, a girl’s rape case to be taken up by the court can take up to 10, 12, even 14 years.

As one who has grown up breathing liberty and having American rights drilled into my head in the course of my upbringings, I found it difficult to comprehend that male-dominated society to this degree could still persist in the 21st century. That such injustice could run completely unchecked was frustrating.

It is clear India must come to realization that times have certainly changed and their anachronistic ideals must be put aside in order for the nation to progress socially and ethically. This also calls for a modification in their justice system, so that victims of rape and other sexual offenses can quickly receive trial and offenders are punished at appropriate measures, not unjustly shielded by the corrupt male-dominant system. It is simply

irrational to oppress females, who account for virtually half of the world’s population.

As for us, living in one of the privileged countries on earth, we must realize we are not only citizens of our local town, the state, or even the nation, but that we are also part of the international community, which gives us the burden to make right the injustices that prevail.

Thanks to modern day technology and our ability to immediately connect with the world at a global scale using social networking, news in obscure parts of the world, once hidden from the public eye, is gaining rapid notice. Therefore, we could join in the arduous fight for combatting such unimaginable wrongdoings, simply by using what we are most familiar with—the Internet and social network. If more people publicize this issue regarding female repression, we can pressure nations such as India to follow our steps and hopefully, grant greater rights for women.

CARTOON BY GLORIA KIM

Blazing Trails of Satire

BY LEA CHANG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

T

here have always been certain dedicated fans who would do just about anything for certain celebrities.

From buying Scarlett Johansson’s used tissue for $2,075 to swimming across the Biscayne Bay to Anna Kournikova’s home, countless admirable and socially acceptable displays of affection have been shown through the generations by the common man. More recently, however, a group of mature young women have gone above and beyond the call of duty in order to protect its beloved Justin Bieber.

“It hurts, but I do it for my Justin #cuttingforbieber.” What inspiring words. What courage it must have taken for this true Belieber and a few others to be so self-sacrificing as to cut herself to make Bieber stop smoking marijuana. These girls have gone above and beyond the call of fan girl duty and set a simple guideline for fans everywhere to follow—when you care about someone else but need them to change their ways, hurt yourself.

After the release of pictures of Justin Bieber holding a joint, a few of his most ardent and loyal followers decided that they would keep him out of harm’s way by harming themselves. To protect him from the horrors of dizziness, dry mouth, and in some cases even hunger, these proactive women cut their own wrists to let their favorite pop star know that what he was doing to himself was hurting them as well. “You stop using drugs and we’ll stop cutting. You make this world meaningless and we’ve lost hope,” was one moving tweet aimed to stop Bieber from ruining his life through the countless side effects that come with weed, like forgetfulness and sleepiness.

Although some shake their heads at the hopelessness of the Beliebers’ cause, I do not think their plight is going unnoticed.

Since I expect that Bieber diligently goes over the thousands of tweets he is tagged in every day, he must have seen how his poor choices are affecting those he loves the most. In fact, I expect that he is reading all of them at this very moment and reflecting upon his exceedingly irresponsible actions.

Justin Bieber is only 18 years old and clearly has no idea what he is doing. His body belongs to his

CARTOON BY ANGIE ZHANG

supporters. They have every right to dictate what goes into it because they are the only reason his career has gotten this far anyway. He also needs to start recognizing that weed is lethal—if he were to smoke just 800 joints in a row, he could die from carbon monoxide poisoning.

I must once again laud my peers for taking such an effective course of action and suggest that we consider bringing their method of

thinking into all aspects of our own lives. Is your little brother refusing to eat his vegetables again? Cut yourself. Your best friend skipped first period? Cut yourself. Mom is driving a little too fast on the freeway? Cut yourself. It’s simple, really. If things that you don’t like are happening, just show everyone how quickly you can drain your veins. I guarantee people will start acting differently around you.

6 FEATURE

THE BULL’S EYE

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

r... u o ’s e r e H , e lu b e r a ts le Roses are red, Vio

E U S S I Y A V-D make your day me ways you can

Red Hot Date Spots

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Another Perspective:

By Emily Leung

the male and female take on Valentine’s Day...

by Bill Kwai and Claire Huang

“Oh jeez, Valentine’s Day is in a month. I should probably start planning!” “...soon” Valentine’s day is a great holiday, for girls anyway. As this day rapidly approaches, the girls await with anticipation.

They think, “I can’t wait to see how he dazzles me this year.” Meanwhile, the boys are working around the clock, trying to come up with elaborate ideas to meet these high expectations. As for me, I’ve decided to plan early to ensure adequate time and minimal disappointment.

After countless minutes of “yelping” (the website, not the disgruntled noises), Claire and I have decided to go to Orea Taverna and Wine Bar next month. My game plan goes as follows: 1. Pick her up and drive to the restaurant, 2. Have a romantic meal at Orea Taverna, 3. Go out for a second round of dessert, 4. Go for a walk in the park (it’s not only romantic, but Claire is very sensitive to sugar and I don’t want her “spazzing” out in my car), and 5. Drop her off after a juicy goodbye smooch.

Regarding my Valentine’s Day outfit, I am not what most people call “fashionable,” so I will just be wearing a collared shirt, a blazer, and a pair of khaki jeans that are slightly rolled up at the bottom (because that automatically makes it look nicer).

Despite all the planning that has to go into Valentine’s Day, I know that it will be completely worth it. I mean, it’s not every day that we get to spend a special day with the person we love. Oh, and Claire, there are of course some surprises that aren’t in the “game plan.”

1.

1. You’re free to flirt with other people

Obviously, when you’re in a monogamous relationship, there are unspoken rules that each person needs to comply with. It’s completely inappropriate, and not to mention disrespectful, to flirt with others if you have someone to call a “significant other.” However, if you’re single, there are absolutely no rules! See a cute guy? Go over there and talk to him! See a cute girl? Go get her number! You can truly talk to any person you want and not feel one ounce of guilt.

2. More time to focus on yourself

The Drive-In Duo

Growing up, I have always adored Valentine’s Day. The chocolate Kisses passed around during elementary school, the lacey red and white cards, and the bouquets of flowers never cease to excite me. However, beneath all the glitz and glamour of this highly commercialized holiday comes the true meaning of Valentine’s Day – appreciation for friends, family, and loved ones.

This year, Bill and I are planning to go to Orea Taverna and Wine Bar in Placentia, a restaurant we found when looking at ideal date spots. I am especially excited since we picked out this restaurant together and I love trying new things with him. I looked over the menu of the odd, unique Greek restaurant and all I can say is that I hope he doesn’t order the frog leg for me. After our meal, we are planning to get our second helping of dessert, since he knows how much I love sweets.

The first thing that comes to mind when planning for a date night, as most other girls, is what I’m going to wear. Since it is a nicer restaurant than the usual Bruxie’s or Chipotle that we always go to for everyday dates, I am planning to wear a casual, animal print Forever 21 dress, spray some perfume, and put my hair up. Of course, I can’t forget Bill’s Valentine’s Day present!

Despite all the planning and preparation, I am aware that time spent with a loved one shouldn’t only occur on a specific day when extravagant gifts are emphasized; it doesn’t even have to include these things. The idea that one special day is set aside to celebrate a spouse, girlfriend, or boyfriend is good enough.

Located in the City of Industry, this date option will accommodate any couple who wants to spend a cozy evening in the comfort of their own car. For $9, the Pacific Theaters Vineland Drive-in charges about the same as a regular movie theater; however, you get to watch two movies instead of one. The movie selection consists of eight recent movies, most of which are playing in theaters. You won’t have to worry about sound because this drive-in movie theater provides Dolby Stereo Sound through the FM radio in your car. Just make sure that your car battery is fully charged! The theater opens at 7 p.m., but get there early to get a good spot.

The Sushi Set

Most couples can agree that an intimate dinner makes for a romantic evening. However, finding new places to eat is difficult. Honda-Ya, also located in the City of Industry, is a Japanese restaurant with a unique feature: a tatami room. For those unfamiliar with tatami rooms, these seating areas are furnished with low tables and cushions so you can sit on the floor.

Locals highly recommend their Yakitori selection for its wide variety. You and your significant other can experience the joys of eating at a whole new level.

The Three-Pointer Twosome

For sporty couples, watching a basketball game on Valentine’s Day would be the perfect date idea. The Lakers vs.

Clippers game at the Staples Center falls on Valentine’s Day, so you can watch the game and celebrate Valentine’s Day simultaneously. You can purchase tickets anywhere from the Lakers’ official website to stubhub. com. If you’re lucky, you may even get a chance to share your exciting day with the entire arena on the kiss cam!

Top 5 Reasons to be Single

By Colene Eng

With the holiday season just behind us and Valentine’s Day coming up, it’s easy to start feeling as if everyone but you has a significant other. While being in a relationship is undoubtedly fun, there’s no reason to feel lonely and depressed if you’re single. Don’t get me wrong: at the end of the day, I’m still a hopeless romantic who believes in fairytale endings. However, this doesn’t mean that we need a boyfriend or girlfriend to be happy. Here are some top reasons why being single rocks:

2.

Many times, people get so wrapped up in relationships that they’re unable to take time away just to focus on themselves. Whether it be taking care of the other when he/she is sick or even washing their dishes, it’s hard to take even a couple minutes to truly relax. So, enjoy your singleness and feel free to sit in a bubble bath for half the night while your in-a-relationship friends are busy with their partners. Go ahead and curl up in bed with a good book and your dog’s head on your lap while your friends are stumbling home after a long night. Trust me. Just taking a couple hours each week to focus solely on yourself is one of the best perks of being single.

3.

extra special!

3. No family approval

Many partners in relationships constantly wonder the same thing: “Are we moving too fast? Too slow?” With men generally being much more physical than women, it’s often times hard to find the balance between the desires of the two partners. While one may feel comfortable going further, the other may balk at the prospect of more than a mere peck on the lips. This, unfortunately, is one of the leading reasons for break-ups among couples. It’s refreshing and liberating to not have to worry about someone forcing you to do something you don’t want to do.

4.

4. No forced physicality

Arguably one of the most daunting milestones in a relationship is meeting the family. Guys spend hours agonizing over what kind of flowers to bring their girlfriend’s Mom while girls spend days straining over the perfect, classy-yet-flattering outfit. Thankfully for us single people, we don’t have to go through such stress. No need to worry about Dad interrogating your boyfriend over his dreams and aspirations and Mom unsuccessfully trying to make the girl feel more at home.

5. More $$$ to spend on yourself

5.

Birthdays, anniversaries, and surprise presents all come with a relationship. While it may be all fine and dandy to be getting fresh flowers or that new Michael Kors watch, think about all the money you could save if you were single. Instead of having to go out and buy the new Black Ops game for your boyfriend, go ahead and pamper yourself with a facial or a shopping trip. Instead of dropping $100 on a lavish steak dinner for your girlfriend, go get that new computer game you’ve been dying to get.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

FEATURE

THE BULL’S EYE

7

Student Picks: Dating Pet Peeves Valentine’s Day is a time of chocolates, flowers, hearts, and love. This special day, however, only comes once a year, so making sure it’s perfect is a must! Here is the inside scoop from a few random students on campus on what they believe their significant others or potential significant others can improve on; prepare to avoid these blunders on February 14:

“I hate it when girls put on too much perfume or lotion.

When it’s too overwhelmingly strong, the smell hurts my nose.”

-Senior Jonathan Seun

“I dislike it when guys talk to you with their mouths full of food. It’s disturbing when they chew really loudly and incessantly; you can see every single food particle in their mouths.”

-Junior Savannah Tan

“I hate it when guys come to school looking like they just woke up.

Coming to school with dirty clothes, messy hair, smelly breath is very unappealing. I mean, guys should at least put in a little effort in their appearance so they don’t end up looking like a slob.”

-Freshman Krista Hsu

Recipe for Love You will need: • 1/4 cup heavy cream • 7 oz fine-quality bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped in a food processor • 1 1/2 tablespoons framboise (raspberry eau-de-vie) or brandy • 6 oz fresh raspberries (1 cup) • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

BY LEA CHANG & ANGIE ZHANG

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with your own homemade raspberry truffles? This simple recipe will yield around 50 delicious truffles that will stimulate your taste buds with sweet chocolate and a juicy raspberry core. There’s enough to wrap as a gift and indulge yourself too!

Directions: 1. Let the cream simmer in a pot, adding the chopped chocolate when the cream is hot enough to melt it.

2. Add your raspberry brandy.

Take the pot off the stove and stir the ganache slowly until there are no lumps left.

3. Throw in your raspberries (about four to five at a time depending on the size of pot) and fold the chocolate over them.

4. Pick each berry up using two forks, shifting it back and forth between the utensils to let the extra chocolate drip off and to create a round shape.

5. Continue this process until you’ve gotten through all your

raspberries, placing each one on your tray as you go.

6. When you’re done, let your truffles chill for at least one hour.

Optional: Shake some cocoa powder over the truffles for some added flavor and aesthetics.

When heating the cream, if some of it seems to stick to the pot, a little more can be added to compensate.

If you choose to use a knife to chop up the chocolate, the chocolate should be no thicker than the handle on a fork. The framboise, a type of raspberry flavored alcohol, can be substituted with either raspberry juice or another type of fruity food flavoring, although for this batch we used vanilla extract (it still turned out pretty well). Since the raspberries were not in season, the truffles turned out a little on the sour side so another variant of berry can be used if desired. Also, truffles can be re-dipped if you prefer a thicker coat of chocolate.

Since we had a lot of leftover chocolate, we started covering other food items, like nuts, with the ganache. We ended up with chocolate covered macadamia nuts and a kind of cranberry chocolate bark (I’m not sure how to word this), both of which were delicious—so go ahead and experiment with whatever you happen to have!

Every month, we will bring you some of the most ridiculous, hilarious, flat-out idiotic, and sometimes insightful things we hear around campus. So beware—we’ll be listening.

Teacher: Students, make sure you have your BS radar on when you watch the news.

Girl: Is USC an Ivy League school?

Girl 1: That can’t be true!

Girl 2: Yeah it is, I saw it in a Korean Drama.

Girl: Hey what sport are you in?

Boy: Varsity Walking to Class.

Boy 1: *hiccups* Boy 2: One day, you’re going to cough on your hiccups and die.

Cute Campus Couples

Married and Engaged Couples at DBHS

By: Emily Hwang & Xing Yen Quek What was your first impression of each other?

Miss Maine: I’d say that he’s goofy.

Mr. Brummett: Of course I thought she was beautiful. After getting to know her, it was clear to me that we had values that matched up and a lot of things in common.

What was the most humorous gift you have received?

Ms. M: One time, he gave me slippers for Christmas and they were so comfortable I wore them everywhere I went except for work. It’s funny because they are going to have a hole in them even though they are only less than a month old.

Mr. B: We don’t really give funny gifts to each other, but we enjoy messing with other people. We would sometimes go through drivethrus and order in funny voices to see people’s reactions.

The Sorensens

Brummett-Maine

What was your first impression of him?

Mrs. Sorensen: I saw Mr. Sorensen from far away at a church service at the park and he was wearing a bow tie and suspenders. He looked kind of cute because he had wild red hair.

What was the best gift you have received?

Mrs. S: He’s always a really kind, gentle, and patient person. I wouldn’t say it is a physical gift, it’s an intangible gift but I would say that’s probably the best gift he has given me.

What were the best memories you guys had with each other?

Mr. S: When I turned 40, she had a big surprise party for me, which I did not expect at all. My parents from Texas were there as well as some people from out of town. It was crazy. I was totally confused.

Mrs. S: He makes me laugh every day.

What were your first impressions of each other?

Mrs. Marquez: I thought he was a very friendly and positive guy. He talks alot in conversations and to other people. On the first day we met, he tried to pick me up with his pick up line, “If you need any paper for your classroom, I have lots of paper.”

Mr. Marquez: I thought she was really cute. Talking to her, I felt that she was very confident and sure of herself. She is very smart, and she challenges me intellectually.

What were the best memories you had with each other?

Mrs. M: I try not to make Valentine’s Day a huge deal because he has been very generous and I’d be rather treated well the other 364 days a year than the one Valentine’s Day. Mr. M: When we were teaching at Diamond Ranch High school, we would go on Europe trips. We went on four trips together; I also proposed to her in Paris.

Mrs. M: And I said every time we’re in Paris, I expect diamonds and since then, every time we went to Paris he got me diamonds.

The Marquezes

8 FEATURE THEME

THE BULL’S EYE

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

9

DESIGNED BY VIVIAN TANG & HANNA YI

10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

THE BULL’S EYE

Rose’s Box of Chocolate

BY ROSE KIM STAFF WRITER

Someone once said, “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” This Valentine’s Day, I’ve made life a little easier. You know exactly what you’re going to get: five delectable romantic movies that will fit every taste bud. Pick any or pick them all; you’ll love every one.

Despite different renditions of a modern take on Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew,” none do it better than the original movie, which stars the perfectly cast Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger. The clever script engages the viewer through a journey filled with memorable moments, a great dose of humor, and a classic—perfectly timed—soundtrack. The ending is less than shocking, as are the endings of most other teen romcoms, but when the credits begin to roll, you will realize it’s the only ending that would’ve sufficed.

Eleven people, intricately intertwined in each other’s lives, attempt to navigate their way through the troublesome murkiness of love. The movie features a stellar line up of talented actors who nail their roles impeccably. The believable plotline draws the viewer in to root for them, and to become emotionally invested in the well-being of these 11 lives. There is something for everyone in this multi-dimensional movie that provides a refreshing escape from the often all too familiar one-couple-one-movie archetype.

Couples will enjoy the electric chemistry between stars Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt that takes this action-packed romcom to a whole new level, taking a hackneyed spy plotline and adding a seductive twist. Their explosive performance will have any viewer engaged from beginning to end.

Released more recently is the movie that puts a modern face on the story of two starcrossed lovers. Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum play a couple catapulted into a world of heart-wrenching loss and heart-warming rediscovery after an ill-fated accident one snowy night. Both characters struggle with questions of identity and second chances, giving the movie an extra level of depth that couples looking for more than just romance will appreciate.

From Mandy Moore’s breathtaking solo of “Only Hope” to the visible transformation of bad boy Landon Carter, played by Shane West, this is one of the classic romantic movies for our generation.

Though the “bad boy good girl” set-up has been tried time and time again, no movie manages to move its audience so effectively as does “A Walk to Remember.” The development of the relationship is crucial when it comes to these romance dramas and here it is natural despite the initial “meet cute.” But the real gem of the movie lies in the purity, strength, and simultaneous vulnerability of Moore’s Jamie Sullivan that captures the heart of all.

Two Talented Tutters

BY CLAIRE HUANG ASST. A&E EDITOR

It’s no secret that Diamond Bar High is the home of many successful Brahmas, including current students as well as alumni. A year ago, two graduated Brahmas made their way to the top by starring in two viral French Samsung Galaxy ads. As former Freestylerz club presidents, Julian and Joseph Daniels continue to incorporate dance into their lives as they receive global recognition for their “finger-tutting,” in which dancers make geometric shapes with their fingers and hands.

Julian Daniels, otherwise known as JayFunk, graduated in 2008, and stars in a Galaxy S III commercial called “Unleash Your Fingers,” in which he is seen tutting. This particular commercial, made in 2011 by the French ad agency, Heaven in Paris, became known as the

most viral cellphone ad ever and was spread worldwide with 8.2 million views. The video is also widely known for having the most shares through the web. JayFunk also works as a disc jockey, as well as a producer.

In the summer of 2012, a second Galaxy commercial was released featuring Julian’s brother, Joseph Daniels. Joseph, otherwise known as JayDay, graduated with the class of 2010. In the second commercial, the camera is fixed on Julian as he tuts, similar to the first commercial. However, after a few seconds, the camera zooms out and includes Joseph, where the duo continues to tut with the accompaniment of graphics, sending the same message to “Unleash Your Fingers.”

The commercials are undoubtedly entertaining and their tutting skills are so remarkable that the replay button will certainly come in handy. Hopefully, Diamond Bar students will be able to catch the tutting duo featured in many other places, commercials or otherwise.

PHOTO COURTESY of themill.com

THE TUTTING SIBLINGS show their dance skills to the world.

enjoy the film, it’ll be a difficult movie to re-watch. You won’t ever find me on a lazy Sunday afternoon casually deciding to watch the film “just to pass the time”—the movie is dark, heavy, and takes some menAfter some text explaining tal concentration in order to follow how the film is based off of actual the slightly confusing plot. And it’s firsthand accounts, the movie benot without its faults. While Maya gins with a bombardment of 9/11 is a remarkable character, the rest phone recordings that play over a of the cast is too transient and play black screen for quite some time. too small a role to be appreciated. It As the tension begins to drags on and is painrise and the emotional fully slow at times. content becomes overThe chief probwhelming, the movie lem is the sheer cuts to a distressingly length of the movie. graphic depiction of a At two hours and 37 horrifically brutal inminutes, it’s hard to terrogation/torture of a get through; worse, helpless, yet undeniably it feels even longer questionable, character than it actually is. conducted by the CIA While this movie in Pakistan. From the could, in no way, get go, you know that have been a short this is going to be an movie due to its exintense movie. Directed tensive content, it

by Kathryn Bigelow, was longer than it the critically acclaimed PHOTO COURTESY of nbcbayarea.com had to have been. director of “The Hurt CIA OPERATIVE Maya struggles in the hunt for Osama Bin Laden. And while stylistiLocker,” “Zero Dark cally it does mirror Thirty” proves it is worthy of the uncomfortable, reluctant green the mood of the actual man hunt five Academy Award nominations horn and then transitions to befor Osama Bin Laden, the length it earned. come an operative who seems just seems to detract from the good The film starts off a little hard to a tad too at ease with the torture points of the movie. follow, but it really finds its rhythm and interrogations involved in her Regardless of its shortcomings, about half way through the plot. occupation. Following a brief mothis movie is more than a solid The sets become richer, the charac- ment of disillusionment and heartmovie—it is an incredible one. It ters begin to develop, and the movie break, she eventually becomes a deals with a very sensitive, scarily just gets much more exciting. stunningly determined and belligcurrent subject matter excellently, But it’s not the fire fights that erently aggressive woman we can’t portraying the truth of what hapmake the movie good; there are help but root on. pened in a matter of fact way. “Zero no epic gun fights to be found anyThat being said, this movie is not Dark Thirty” is sure to do very well where in the film. It’s not the explo- for everyone. Even for those who at the upcoming Academy Awards.

BY SARAH CHO FEATURE EDITOR

sions that make the movie good; though there are a couple, they’re scattered sparsely throughout the movie. It’s not the action at all; there’s little of that. To be honest, it’s Jessica Chastain’s amazing acting and her character’s, Maya, character development.

We see Maya completely transform as we follow her on her eight year quest to take down Osama Bin Laden. She begins as a painfully

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE BULL’S EYE

11

oscar nominations Up Close and Personal

BY JOY CHOW ASST. NEWS EDITOR

Every year, people all over the world look forward to The Oscars. These Academy Awards are reward for excellence of cinematic events; basically, the best of the best. Here are three of the major categories in which Diamond Bar High School students predict who should win: Best Picture Nominees: “Armour,” “Argo,” “Beasts of the Southern Wild,” “Django Unchained,” “Les Miserables,” “Life of Pi,” “Lincoln,” “Silver Linings Playbook,” and “Zero Dark Thirty” “I think Life of Pi should definitely win Best Picture because the plot is so simple, and yet the move’s energy makes every scene extremely vivid and emotional. It’s a beautiful film that embodies the human spirit and soul.” –Stephanie Zacher, junior Actor in a Leading Role Nominees: Bradley Cooper in “Silver Linings Playbook,” Daniel Day-Lewis in “Lincoln,” Denzel Washington in “Flight,” Hugh Jackson in “Les Miserables,” and Joaquin Phoenix in “The Master” “I believe Hugh Jackson from Les Miserables should win Best Actor because of his believable way of acting. He depicts his character in a way that makes me feel as if I was a part of the movie. In addition, the sound of his voice in the movie is really heartwarming.” –Ting Yu Hsieh, sophomore Actress in a Leading Role Nomiees: Emmanuelle Riva in “Ar-

mour,” Jennifer Lawrence in “Silver Linings Playbook,” Jessica Chastain in “Zero Dark Thirty,” Naomi Watts in “The Impossible,” and Quvenzhane Wallis in “Beasts of Southern Wild”

“I think Naomi Watts should win Best Actress because The Impossible is a great movie. Watts played her character really genuinely and I loved how she portrayed her parts because I felt like I could feel the emotions that she was feeling throughout the entire movie.” –Sharon Ly, sophomore

Tune in to ABC on February 24, 2013 at 5:30 p.m. for the 85th Academy Awards. See if your favorite nominees win!

Living in California, we are located near many recordings for reality TV shows. With free tickets available to a variety of popular TV shows, the options are endless.

BY HANNA YI FEATURE THEME EDITOR

With dozens of upcoming tests and projects, you might be driven to the point of losing your mind.

However, what better solution is there than to relieve your stress by sitting in your favorite television show’s live audience?

With her stunning ability to capture an audience’s attention, Ellen DeGeneres won her 13th People’s Choice award this year. From inviting celebrities of all kinds to exciting activities, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” features a wide and unpredictable range of entertainment. Ellen continues to be a comical figure in the world of show biz and above all is worth acquiring a ticket to her show. The audience is able to relax from work and school through the laughs and thoughtful conversations in the show. To attend, you must be at least 14 years old but minors must have identification and be accompanied by a parent. To receive a ticket, go to www.ellentv.com and see your favorite celebrity up close and personal. The show tapes at Warner Bros. in Burbank and is also aired on the KNBC channel in the afternoon. It takes approximately 45

minutes to drive to Burbank from Diamond Bar. “The Voice” is another phenomenal show filled with shock and suspense that exposes talented people to the world. People from all over the world come to compete in this program and to be recognized as the winner of a distinguished music competition. The contestants come with big hopes and dreams and to wow the judges and the audience. The judge’s panel is composed of Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Christina Aguilera, and Ceelo Green. This program is appropriate for all ages and fortunately, “The Voice” airs on NBC on March 3 marking the beginning of season four for the anticipating viewers of the show. It is also taped in Burbank and on Shelton’s website, there is a sweepstake for fans to get the chance to sit in a live audience. The NBC website also provides “The Voice” tickets; however, tickets sell out fast so it is best to purchase them as soon as possible.

Last but not least, “American Idol” has upgraded their program by getting two entirely new judges and contestants with much promise. Two new additions to the existing judges are Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban both of whom are successful in the music industry. The audience has a great time watching people perform and whooping or booing the judges’ judgments.

Many people are anticipating the return of “American Idol” in next month. The show is offering priority tickets to those who win a lottery by joining a waiting list on www. facebook.com/OnCameraAudiences. The appropriate age group is 14 years old and older and airs on the television on FOX at 8 p.m. “American Idol” is filmed in Hollywood but tickets are not yet available.

Kong’s Korner

A monthly review or rant on games, shows, movies, and other forms of entertainment

My Miserable Misjudgment

BY AUSTIN KONG A&E EDITOR This winter break I watched “Les Miserables,” the movie musical, in the theatres. I grudgingly walked into the theatre and sat down in my seat, preparing myself for two hours and thirty minutes of singing. I had never watched a movie musical in theatres before and I did not plan on it…that was until my family dragged me along on to the theatres on Christmas Day. After the first ten minutes of the film, I was delighted by the fact that I had to use the restroom—an excuse to leave my seat. However, something inside me wanted to stay. It might have been the fast paced plot or the intriguing melodies of Hugh Jackman’s character, Jean Valjean, but I sat in my seat for the entire two hours and thirty minutes holding in my human urges.

“Les Miserables” was a brave endeavor for director Tom Hooper

who is best known for his movie “The King’s Speech.” Movie musicals are pretty commonplace yet have usually done well in the eyes of critics (Sound of Music, Chicago, etc.), but “Les Miserables” has a different quality to it that sets it apart from the rest in its genre.

Hooper asked his cast to sing their lines and their solos live—in front of the camera—in front of the world. This idea is what allowed the cast to convey inner emotions in their words and voices, rather than having them mouth the words as they play a studio recorded version in their ears.

Tom Hooper’s cast was loaded with talent and has been favored in the eyes of critics as well. “Les Miserables” was nominated for eight Academy Awards and won three Golden Globe awards. Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway, who plays Fantine, were nominated for an Academy Award for best actor and best supporting actress, respectively. Amanda Seyfried, who plays Cosette, is no newcomer to

movie musicals, having starred as Sophie in the film adaptation of “Mama Mia.” Aaron Tveit, who plays Enjolras, and Samantha Bark, who plays Eponine, are both household names on Broadway as well. Other notable talents include Eddie Redmayne, Russell Crowe, and Colm Wilkinson.

So you may ask me, “Why is this movie so special in your eyes?” The answer is simple. I have never experienced so many emotions within two hours and thirty minutes of my life. From laughing to feeling downright depressed, “Les Miserables” took me on a hectic emotional roller coaster that I am honestly grateful for. Jean Valjean’s journey through life made me think to myself, “Who in the world, could be so inherently kind and virtuous?”

Valjean suffered 19 years in prison and slavery after stealing a loaf of bread to feed a starving child, he adopted the child of a prostitute and raised her as his own, and he carried a man through the sewers to save his life—a man he had nev-

PHOTO COURTESY of washingtonpost.com

HUGH JACKMAN takes us on the journey of Jean Valjean. er met. It was this amazing journey capped off with some of the best music I have ever heard in my life, which had me fall in love with this movie.

“Les Miserables” had been out since Christmas so it is only go-

ing to be playing in theatres for a few more weeks. If you are brave enough to trust me (and have three hours to spare), buy a ticket and watch this movie. Call me crazy… borderline insane…“Les Miserables” is my pick for 2012’s best film.

12 ADVERTISEMENTS

THE BULL’S EYE

Wednesday, January 30, 2012

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

SPORTS COLUMN

Har-Bowl Predictions

THE BULL’S EYE

SPORTS

13

The Brahmas do not disappoint against the Mustangs on Senior Night

BY AUSTIN KONG A&E EDITOR

If you told me, at the beginning of this season, that head coaches Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers and John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens were going to compete against each other in the Super Bowl, I would have been skeptical. The idea of a “Har-Bowl” was in the back of everybody’s minds as a dream-like scenario, but everyone had their doubts. However, the gripping reality that the HarBowl will actually take place has sent the football world into a frenzy. On February 3, 2013, Super Bowl XLVII will host the two Harbaugh brothers and many other stories as these teams square off for football’s ultimate prize.

Nobody can deny that both coaches have been vital in their teams’ successes. Jim Harbaugh, the more outspoken of the two, began coaching the 49ers after the 2010-2011 NFL season. He would become the catalyst for a complete revival of the team’s franchise. In his first year as the 49ers head coach, Jim Harbaugh managed to take his team to the NFC Championship game where they fell short to the New York Giants (who would go on to win the Super Bowl). John Harbaugh has been with the Baltimore Ravens since the 2008-2009 season and since then, he has taken his Ravens to the AFC Championship game twice and has yet to miss the playoffs.

The Harbaughs have stolen much of the limelight since their respective teams won their divisional championship match.

However, there are many other storylines that people have widely overlooked.

Colin Kaepernick, a first year starter for the 49ers, was handed his starting quarterback position in the middle of the regular season after their former starting quarterback, Alex Smith, had suffered a concussion. Kaepernick has managed to lead his team to a Super Bowl in only his second year in the NFL. Ed Reed of the Baltimore Ravens has never won a Super Bowl as well. This might be Reed’s last chance at winning a ring before the end of his hallof-fame career. And finally, Super Bowl XLVII will be the very last game that Ray Lewis will ever play in—a storybook ending, to a storybook career.

Despite all the hype and excitement behind this year’s Super Bowl, we still have to realize that only one of the teams will be able to hoist the Lombardi trophy in front of the entire world. Experts and analysts say that the 49ers are the clear favorite to win. With one of the best defenses in the league lead

by Aldon Smith and Patrick Willis, and also an offense that has been revived by Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco looks almost flawless.

Nevertheless, I have to make my prediction and I am going to pick the Baltimore Ravens to win this game. It would be unwise to think that Ray Lewis would want to end his career with a loss. He promised the Ravens another Super Bowl title after his first in 2000, so I personally want him to fulfill his promise. However, I am not putting any money on it since I would be, in fact, betting against the 49ers.

GETTING READY TO CRADDLE - Senior Jungsoo Chang prepares to break down his opponent to get the Brahmas back on track.

ANDREW CHOI

WRESTLING | After a heartwarming celebration by the senior , the heavyweight wrestlers carried the team on their back against the Walnut Mustangs.

BY ANDREW CHOI ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

On senior night, the Diamond Bar wrestling team defeated its district rival, the Walnut Mustangs on Jan. 15. The Brahmas dominated the mat winning 9 of the 14 matches and bringing their overall record to 10-4. “It has been a really great season for us,” Coach Scott Usher said.

The Mustangs got on the scoreboard first by winning the 113-pound weight class. However, the Brahmas responded back by winning the 120-pound division.

Junior Jeremy Foo got the first pin of the night in the first period, giving DB an early 6-3 lead. “It felt pretty amazing pinning him in the

first period,” Foo commented.

Following Foo’s match, senior Jungsoo Chang won his match 6-3 in the 126-pound bracket, giving the Brahmas a 9-3 lead. However, the Mustangs would make a comeback by winning the 132, 138, and 145 pound division, increasing the score 9-13. Mustangs senior Michael Sill, the fifth best wrestler in the state, led the comeback by beating DB’s captain Brian Chao.

Juniors Alex Jimenez and Aaron Oh both won their matches in the 152-pound and 160-pound weight class respectively giving the Brahmas a 15-13 lead. Oh, with the crowd cheering his name, was able to hold on winning 3-2. However, the Mustangs answered back by pinning senior Uli Wong in the 170-pound weight class, giving the Mustangs the lead heading into the 182-pound bracket. “The key

moment was how tough our lower weight wrestlers wrestled and by the time the heavy weights came it, we went away with it.” Usher said.

Senior co-captain Nathan Rodriguez contributed six free points for the Brahmas by default, as there was no wrestler in his division from Walnut. After the forfeit, the Brahmas were up 21-19.

With the Brahmas only winning by two points, senior co-captain Matt Carrillo knew he had to increase the lead and pinned his opponent in the 195-pound weight class match. “I did okay, [but] I could have done better,” Carrillo stated. The night would soon get out of control for the Mustangs.

Juniors Keandre Johnson and Carlos Delgado both pinned their opponents in 26 and 24 seconds respectively. DB would end it with junior Joseph Rodriguez pinning his

opponent in the 106-weight class.

The Brahmas won the match 45-19.

“I am really proud of them. They wrestled their hearts out,” Usher commented.

Prior to the season, the team had a lot of expectations. Last year, 12 wrestlers competed in CIF with graduate Nathan Pike advancing to the State tournament. “We are doing really well in the year and our wrestlers are doing great,” Usher expressed.

Even though the Brahmas dominated the night, they still have room for improvement. “I got a lot of work to do like making my grip tighter,” Johnson commented.

With the season coming to an end, the Brahmas would be focusing on the Hacienda League finals. “We still have to wrestle with intensity and now prepare for the league finals,” Usher said.

INFOGRAPHIC BY WINSTON CHO

14 SPORTS

Wednesday, January 13, 2013

THE BULL’S EYE

YEWANDE ALABI ATHLETE OF THE MONTH In complete control on and off the court

BY KATLYN LEE ASST. NEWS EDITOR

A leader of two school clubs and the co-captain of varsity girls basketball, senior Yewande Alabi is no ordinary athlete. Although her involvement in various activities on campus may seem overwhelming, her diligent and determined character always paves her way to success.

Alabi is currently the vice president of both Link Crew and We the People. We the People is a club that aims to aware students about the US Government and politics.

Moreover, Alabi takes challenging courses such as AP Psychology and AP Government, and still maintains a cumulative 3.89 GPA. “It’s hard juggling my studies and basketball, but I actually enjoy being busy, so the more activities I am involved in, the merrier,” Alabi said.

Influenced by her brother, who also played basketball for Diamond Bar, Alabi first started playing basketball in sixth grade. Seeing that

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he thoroughly enjoyed the sport, she gave it a try. Now with seven years of experience, she is the leader of the team with esteemed athletic achievements such as First Team All-Hacienda League and Academic All-League. Also chosen as the Offensive Player of the Year last year, Alabi proudly holds the school record for the most rebounds in a game as she grabbed 28 boards against the Los Altos conquerors.

As the team captain, Alabi supports her team members by getting them into their game spirit. Despite the long hours of practice and hard work, she believes that the friends and memories she makes are invaluable.

Also before every game, Alabi prepares herself with a unique ritual of eating rice pudding, and most importantly, makes sure she is in a calm and focused mindset.

Alabi’s practice of maintaining her composure and confident attitude definitely benefits her athletic performance. “In my sophomore year, we were playing against Los Altos High School. At first we were down by 14 points with two min-

Diamond Bar’s team effort blows out the Mustangs GIRLS BASKETBALL | Girls basketball won 58-39 against rival the Mustangs as the team continues to improve throughout the season.

BY ANDREW CHOI ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

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utes left in the fourth quarter, but we were able to pull through and eventually win by two points,” she commented, recalling one of her most memorable basketball moments.

In addition to her unwavering prowess as a team player, another great athletic advantage Alabi has is her height. Her 6’ 1” figure is often the tallest on the court, allowing her to dominate games by scoring over people and getting rebounds. In order to further strengthen her physical ability, she trains her body through vigorous workout techniques. “I think suicides, [a form of a basketball drill], are the best way to get in shape.

Weights and running also get me in shape,” she shared.

After graduating high school, Alabi aspires to continue playing basketball in college. Her goal is to attend Boston University, Wellesley College, or UC Berkeley and study pre-med.

“I think this has been one of the best seasons so far. We have beaten so many tough teams, and we have real chance at the Hacienda League title,” she said.

After losing the last two games against Ayala and Diamond Ranch, Diamond Bar girls basketball got back on track with a much needed victory against the Walnut Mustangs. The anticipated game, held on Jan. 15, ended with a score of 58-39.

The Lady Brahmas started out consistent, leading 10-6 by the end of the first quarter. The team’s size advantage allowed the players to quickly overpower the Mustangs by dominating the boards. DB collected many second chances from offensive rebounds and held the Mustangs’ offense to one possession.

Senior co-captain center Yewande Alabi led the way and established her dominance and prowess on the court with 18 points and 19 rebounds. Prior to this game, Alabi broke the school record for most rebounds in a game with 28 against Los Altos. “Yewande is having a great senior season and always plays well,” Coach Tony McCabe said.

Near the end of the second quarter, junior point guard Natalie Wong made two three pointers to give all the momentum to Diamond Bar’s side. Wong would finish the game with 12 points, all of them being three pointers. The impressive offensive showing along with outstanding defense quickly made this a one-sided affair. By halftime, the Brahmas were leading 34-15.

With great production from the entire team, the game was soon out of reach for the Mustangs. Four players on the team scored in double figures.

In the third quarter, DB continued its hot performance, putting on a shooting clinic. When the Mustang defenders double teamed Alabi on the block, she passed it out to one of her teammates for an open three. With the Brahmas dominating the inside-outside game, the Mustangs had no chance of coming

back. By the end of the third quarter, the Brahmas were destroying the Mustangs 45-24.

Going into the final quarter, the Lady Brahmas greatly benefited from the play of junior guard Norah Wu. She anchored the team by strategically distributing the ball to her teammates, making open shots, grabbing rebounds, and playing solid defense.

Last year, the team reached the second round of CIF and finished the season third in the Hacienda League with a strong overall record of 18-11. Although the team lost most of its core players from

last year, the Lady Brahmas are in third place determined to catch up to the Bonita Bearcats, who are currently ranked first. “When you play for the league title, you have to play each game like it’s a championship game,” McCabe commented.

As the season winds down, the team looks forward to progressively improving its skills and strategy.

“The team is shooting in the 55-65 percent range in free throws,” McCabe commented. “With the team being healthy, this team can play together well and have a chance to win the league,” McCabe said.

XING YEN QUEK

GETTING INSIDE- Junior Natalie Wong looks to find an open teammate.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

SPORTS

THE BULL’S EYE

15

Evan York denies the Walnut Mustangs BOYS BASKETBALL| Brahmas’ center York comes up with key defensive plays down the stretch to secure the victory 59-57 for fourth

straight league win.

BY WINSTON CHO SPORTS EDITOR

After four suspenseful quarters of action, Diamond Bar boys basketball defeated cross-town rival Walnut 59-57 on Jan. 16 thanks to a game saving steal by sophomore Kenneth Thai and three game-saving blocks by senior center Evan York .

DB applied a full court press the majority of the first half allowing for the Brahmas to get in the open court and score easy buckets. However, DB could not clear a defensive rebound with the Mustangs attacking the boards. Even when a Brahma came down with a rebound, he was immediately surrounded by a herd of ponies, which allowed for Walnut to get layups.

Despite the obvious advantage on the glass, the Brahmas were able to stay in the game and even took the lead by the end of the first with remarkable production from junior co-captain Christian Manalo. He played nearly the entire first half and took on the offensive burden when it seemed as if the Brahmas could not score.

The second quarter was, however, not kind to the Brahmas. DB went through stretches where they were unable to make a bucket or get to the free throw line. Meanwhile, the Mustangs were forcing turnovers and getting fast breaks.

The Brahmas were taking long jumpers which allowed for Walnut to run the break. DB was fortunate to be down by only three by the end of the first half.

ANDREW CHOI

FINDING THE OPEN LANE - Junior Leo Li penetrates the swarming Walnut Mustangs defense in the fourth quarter to get the Brahmas back into the game.

The Brahmas came out with a new sense of purpose to start the second half attacking the basket, allowing for kickouts to open shooters. DB started the half off with three three-pointers by seniors Marcus Favela and Sam Ting and junior Daniel Thai. However, the Brahmas’ rebounding troubles persisted allowing for the Mustangs to stay in the game. The two teams were essentially trading baskets, ending the third quarter 46-47.

The fourth quarter was for the taking. Neither team allowed a basket with stellar defense, refusing to

lose arguably one of the most significant games of the year. With a little less than a minute to go in the game, Thai picked the bal while the Mustangs were trying to push the ball up the court on a fastbreak to give the Brahmas the lead 59-57. “It was just crazy because I’ve never done that in my life. Just to win it on a Walnut game is amazing,” Thai commented.

With time for only one possession, the Brahmas had to get a stop to win the game. On the out-ofbounds play by the Mustangs, York proceeded to block the ball twice on

layup attempts. However, the Brahmas would then turn the ball over with 1.3 seconds left on the clock while trying to inbound the ball.

On the catch-and-shoot for Walnut, York blocked a jumper to end the game 59-57. “I just had to have my team’s back. I wasn’t going to let them win or tie. I just wanted the game to be over,” York admitted.

Diamond Bar trampled the Mustangs in last year’s game at home 50-30. This year, however, was a totally different story. “It was great.

There was a lot of hype and excitement and we came over a lot of ad-

versity to win. [We] had a couple plays to secure the victory,” Coach Ty Watkins said.

With a 6-2 league record, Diamond Bar is in a prime position to play for the league championship.

Despite losing key players and contributors, Diamond Bar has found its stride utilizing teamwork and unity as a catalyst. “We’re hoping to play the last game of the season at home against Bonita. By the time Feb. 8 rolls around, we hope the gym will be packed because we’ll be playing for a league championship,” Watkins commented.

The Lady Brahmas escape with a tie in overtime GIRLS SOCCER | In a long-awaited rivalry match, Diamond Bar seemed to have the upper hand scoring the first two goals in the

first half but could not finish as they ended the game with a tie.

BY JOSEPH PARK ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

The Diamond Bar Brahmas tied their long-time rivals, the Walnut Mustangs in a heated overtime match, 3-3 on Jan. 15. DBHS seemed like the only team on the

field in the first, but Walnut came into existence in the second half to send the game into overtime.

The Lady Brahmas had no problems getting past Walnut’s defense with sophomore Mia Truggerro scoring the first goal of the match. From the start, DB played outstandingly on both ends of the floor, scoring with ease and not allowing any goals for the opposing

team. Building on the team’s momentum, sophomore Angie Puerta scored the second goal, increasing the lead to 2-0. DB had complete control of the game throughout the first half. Walnut struggled to get past DB’s strong line of defense, finishing the half scoreless, 2-0. “First half went really well.

We were in complete control of the game, scored early. We set the tone,

KEEP THE BALL AWAY- Sophomore Summer Rodriguez holds a Mustang back to protect the ball and attain field position.

and we were cruising,” Coach Matthew Brummett said.

However, the team was not consistent. Although DB came out scoring two goals with stellar defense that kept the Mustangs scoreless, things did not go their way in the second half.

Walnut was a completely different team coming out of halftime.

The Lady Brahmas defense fell

JUSTIN PARK

asleep and Walnut took advantage of it, scoring two consecutive goals tying the game 2-2. “Second half, we kind of lost the game in a sense.

We gave up an early goal, changed momentum a little bit. A bad call from the referee put as in a bad position in the second goal which swung the momentum in their favor,” Brummett commented.

However, the game was not yet over as the Lady Brahmas stayed resilient. After an unfavorable start to the second half, senior captain Tatum Lockett scored the third goal to give the Lady Brahmas the lead. “What really helped us out were winning 50/50 balls in the mid-field and being aggressive up top,” Tatum Lockett commented. However, defense still remained a problem in the second half as DB uncharacteristically gave up a goal with five minutes left in the game.

With was score 3-3, and the final whistle blew, sending the game headed into overtime.

In overtime, the Lady Brahma’s defense seemed to be back on track as Walnut had zero shot attempts at goal. On the other end of the field, DB failed to convert despite three or four decent shot attempts on goal. Overtime remained scoreless and the game finished in a tie.

Lockett, Trugerro, and ophomore Helena Kisor had notable performances in this match against Walnut. Kisor controlled the game in mid-field during overtime. “Overall we played alright, we didn’t play great and we didn’t play bad. It was a team we should have beaten and the game didn’t go our way,” Brummett said.

SPORTS

THE BULL’S EYE

SPORTS

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

16

Walnut Mustangs end Diamond Bar’s seven game winning streak BOYS SOCCER| The Brahmas could not take advantage of their opportunities and get things going offensively as the Mustangs

scored the only goal of the game to win 1-0.

BY BROOKE MILLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

In one of the biggest games of the season, the boys soccer team lost to the Walnut Mustangs 1-0 in a league match on Jan. 15 ending Diamond Bar’s seven-game winning streak.

The first half started out slowly, but the Brahma’s defense held out, causing several missed goal attempts by the Mustangs. DB goalies, senior Sean Maddex and junior Emmanuel Perez, were active and did not allow any goals to keep Diamond Bar in the game.

Both teams had difficulty with each other’s dynamic defense, ending the first half dead even at zero goals apiece.

With the start of the second half came stronger offense from Walnut. After a couple of failed goal attempts by DB, Walnut scored first to take the lead 1-0.

The Brahmas fought back by aggressively pushing the ball up field into Mustangs’ territory.

With one chance left to a tie senior co-captain Kase Vollebregt took it upon himself to keep the team’s league undefeated record.

Unfortunately, his anticipated shot missed high, right off the goal post. “We had scouted them right, and had people in the right spots. We just missed too many opportunities,” Coach Kemp Wells said.

Walnut’s aggressive and very physical style of play met head-tohead against DB’s more strategybased approach. The clash of the teams’ contrasting characteristics only added to the intensity of the game. Throughout the match, several yellow cards were given to both sides due to the physicality of the players. At one point junior Rees Vollebregt was asked to leave the field due to injuries that needed attention before returning to play. ”We matched up well against a team that is known for being very physical. We may have been the little guys, but we gave a good fight,” Vollebregt said.

“We can beat any team, we just have to go out there giving 100 percent and capitalizing on more opportunities.”

—Senior co-captain Gabe Brown Both sides had missed many goal opportunities due to the strong defenses by both teams.

In the end, Walnut scored in the

last fifteen minutes of the game, securing their victory. “We had our opportunities out there today, we just didn’t capitalize on them like

we usually do,” senior co-captain Gabe Brown said.

Needless to say, this was a very tough loss for the Brahmas. Losing to a district rival, in addition to stepping down from its top position in league, is not easy to swallow.

The team is confident, however, that it will return stronger for the next upcoming match against Walnut, which will take place before the season comes to an end.

“We need to practice hard so next time, we will be ready for Walnut,” K. Vollebregt shared.

This match is only a beginning to many challenges that await DB in the remainder of this season.

Despite the loss against the

Mustangs, the Brahmas are more than ready to advance in their league, especially after beating the number one team in the division, La Cañada, earlier this season.

“We can beat any team, we just have to go out there giving 100 percent and capitalizing on more opportunities,” Brown said.

After an outstanding start to the season, Walnut ended the seven game winning. However, this was not enough to discourage the Brahmas as they turned things around and went on to win backto-back games. Even though the Brahmas cannot go undefeated like last year, they are still likely to play for the league title.

PROTECT FIELD POSITION- Senior forward Will Lee clears the ball out of DB’s territory to put the Brahmas in position to score.

XING YEN QUEK

WINTER SCOREBOARD BOYS

GIRLS

Basketball

Basketball

1/2 @ Los Altos 71-53

J A N U A R Y

BOYS

GIRLS

Soccer

Soccer

Wrestling

1/2 @ Los Altos 58-33

1/2 vs Los Altos 1-0

1/2 vs Los Altos 1-0

1/10 vs Rowland 27-37

1/4 vs W. Covina 7946

1/4 vs W. Covina 54-43

1/4 @ W. Covina 3-1

1/4 @ West Covina 5-0

1/15 vs Walnut 45-19

1/9 vs D. Ranch 52-48

1/9 D. Ranch 32-37

1/8 @ D. Ranch 2-1

1/8 @ D. Ranch 4-0

1/17 vs Bonita 30-34

1/16 @ Walnut 59-57

1/16 @ Walnut 58-39

1/15@ Walnut 0-1

1/15 vs Walnut 3-3

1/24 @ W. Covina 53-18

1/17 @ Rowland 6-2

1/17 @ Rowland 5-1

1/21 vs Bonita 2-0

1/21 vs Bonita 1-0

1/24 vs Los Altos 60-46 1/24 vs Los Altos 47-61

1/22 @ Los Altos1-2

1/22 @ Los Altos 1-0

1/25 vs W. Covina 60-43 1/25 vs W. Covina 45-47

1/24 vs West Covina 2-1

1/24 vs West Covina 3-0

1/ 18 vs Rowland 51-56 1/18 vs Rowland 62-21 1/21 @ Bonita 46-51

1/21 @ Bonita 33-32