March 2014

HOLLYWOOD HIGH • HOME OF THE SHEIKS

THE CRIMSON CHRONICLE 1521 N. HIGHLAND AVE, HOLLYWOOD, CA 90028

VOLUME XI ISSUE IV MARCH 2014

Former English teacher murdered in Hollywood Ex-convict awaits trial for the death of Harry Major who taught from 1956 to 1984 AZNIV DERDZAKYAN

CHRONICLE REPORTER

A prison parolee is awaiting trial for the murder of Harry Major, a former Hollywood High English teacher.

Major, 82, was found dead on Feb. 12 in his apartment in the 1400 block of North Vista Street.

Major’s credit cards were found missing and there was blunt trauma to his head, reported the Los Angeles Times.

“On Tuesday, February 18, 2014, members of the FBI/ LAPD Fugitive Task Force located and arrested 44 year-old Scott Kratlian, also known as Scott Porter. On February 20th the District Attorney filed murder charges against the suspect,” said the Los Angeles Police Department in a press release. Kratlian and Major

were “General Hospital” fan club pen pals when he served time in New York State Prison.

The Times reported Kratlian was convicted of first degree manslaughter in 1993. He was freed a few months ago and moved to Los Angeles on Feb. 1.

Major began teaching in 1956 and retired in 1984. According to a 1982 People Magazine article,”I want out,” said Major, who was reportedly John Ritter’s favorite instructor. “I don’t see a future for Hollywood High, and I don’t want to be here as it continues downward.”

“He was a good teacher but wasn’t much of a social person,” said administrative assistant Mariam Gasparian, who has worked at

the school since that time.

Doc Kurland, athletic assistant for the campus at the time agreed,“He was a good, strict English teacher.”

He was a teacher who was either liked or disliked by the students.“It was very sad to hear about Harry Major. His class was demanding, but he was the first teacher to teach me how to think as an adult,” wrote Patricia Lamkie Schwanbeck on the Hollywood High School alumni website.

“What I learned in his class has lasted a lifetime.”

Harry Major in the 1963 Hollywood yearbook

SAT changes makes less stress for students BEATRIZ SISON

CHRONICLE REPORTER

From left:Keion Rodriguez, Mabel Moran, Kevin Osorio interview Cinematographer Bill Pope (The Matrix) last Thursday.

Photo Courtesy: Lloyd EA

NMA juniors learn on the job Gigniks prepares students to interview professionals Lauren kim

CHRONICLE REPORTER

The New Media Academy partnered up with Gigniks, a non-profit organization, to give juniors an internship opportunity to learn to make career videos of different occupations in the entertainment industry.

USC graduates, filmmakers and camera operators will lead and train the students in making videos about different careers and all videos will be posted on Sony Motion Picture Arts Human Resource Recruiting website.

“The main pull for these students to be a part of the program is the opportunity to apply for an

internship at Sony upon completion of the program,” said video production teacher Antonio Manriquez.

Simon Maskell, the coordinator of Gigniks, collaborates with students every Tuesday and Thursday. He brings in professionals to help students engage and learn more about cinemarelated techniques and skills. “I like hanging out with teenagers and kids who are smart,” he said.

One of the reasons why Gigniks is offered is because they want to provide job opportunities for high schoolers who have failed to graduate high

school. Working with Gigniks may give high school students great opportunities to internships and jobs.

“It’s fun. I do a lot of things, learning a lot by interacting with kids and learning how to control the lighting when you’re doing an interview,” said Kevin Osorio, NMA junior. “Interviewing people has always been interesting.”

NMA students hope this would give them an opportunity to work for a major movie studio.

Starting April 2016, stupaper. dents who will take the SAT The SAT college admission will encounter major changes. exam is intended to figure out The SAT will be redesigned, the student’s readiness for and there will be three seccollege. According to College tions: evidence-based readBoard President David Coleing and writing, math, and an man, the test has become optional essay. The scoring “far too disconnected from will be on a the work 400-1600 “It’s a good thing that of our high point scale, schools,” they are making these and the evithey are dence-based changes because it gives stressful for reading students, students a better chance and aren’t and writto score higher and a ing section necessarand math better chance of getting ily creating section will more college accepted by colleges,” be scored ready stu200-800. dents.

The optional Many stuessay will be dents seem scored and reported sepato approve of the changes. rately.

“It’s a good thing that they The new SAT will no longer are making these changes bepenalize wrong answers, and cause it gives students a better test-takers will only get points chance to score higher and a if they answer the questions better chance of getting accorrectly. Also, the test will cepted by colleges,” said MET focus more on relevant words, senior Jessica Alvarado. meaning they will eliminate To prepare for the redemore obscure words. signed SAT, College Board In the math section, test-takwill collaborate with Khan ers will not be allowed to used Academy for the first time to their calculators. provide free test preparation Furthermore, the new SAT materials. Since there has been will be three hours long and a criticism about wealthier additional 50 minute for the students doing better on SAT optional essay. Also, the testbecause they can afford expentakers will have the option of sive test preparations. taking the test on a computer,

opposed to the current test which is only available on

Index 2 qop/ed 4 qnews 6 qfeatures 8 qentertainment 10qSports Visit us online at www.Thecrimsonchronicle.com

2 MARCH 2014 Staff Editorial:

New test, less stress

For a long time, high school students all over the country would take the SAT exam to test their knowledge acquired over the course of their twelve years of education.

The way things are run in the testing environment are all about to change now, as well as how the scores will be determined.

The College Board recently

announced that the SAT’s conduction will be re-evaluated and that the test will be made more accessible to a larger variety of students who, in the past, were unable to take it for whatever reason.

The total possible score will go back to 1600 instead of the current 2400, which will hopefully make students feel less pressured and able to focus

on aiming towards a more realistic goal. There will also be no more penalties for wrong answers, bringing the concept of “educated guessing” back into action. This policy was established due to many feeling extreme pressure and doing poorly as a result.

The vocabulary words that students are tested on, vocabulary words that are hardly

College on the cranium

College has been on everybody’s mind since the very first day of elementary school, when mothers would tell their young ones that goVanessa Garcia ing to college EDITOR-IN-CHIEF would be their ticket for a successful and wealthy lifestyle.

Recently, the discussion of college plans has been more hectic than what myself and others have in mind. Concerns from the tuition cost to the supplies has discouraged others from wanting to continue with their education. The media lately has sent the message that

regardless if one has a college degree, they will still be hustling to make ends meet. Popular internet memes have generated these images showing that working at a McDonald’s or a local retail store is good enough.

There were more assemblies about fundraising than there were about college this year. Although the school college center is very active in promoting the benefits of going to college, some students still feel excluded because of their SLC. To some students college is not even part of their plans and look upon working at a regular everyday job.

Here on campus there are many other classes one can take their senior year to show colleges that they are the hardworking students that deserves to be admitted ,but instead many go home an hour early.

OPINION/EDITORIAL

ever heard anymore, will also be updated. The reason for this is to accommodate for low-income or international students whose environment or any other condition would impede upon their understanding of the “old” style of speech.

Most everybody is excited to see how these changes and more will play out. The test

will be modified to cater to their needs, to better display their skills and strengths, rather than exploit their weaknesses. Surely, students experiencing stress in high school will have one less thing to overthink about.

the Crimson Chronicle Staff

College should never be an option.

Rather, it should be a priority. Working at minimum wage positions such as cashier, cook, driver at a fast food joint or local shop should remain a part-time job, never a career. Regardless of the economy’s condition, is never a cut on one’s college education because there are many alternatives and scholarships Editor-in-Chief that one can sign up for.

VANESSA Nely GARCIA There is a seat for everyone at the tableMangaging Editor it is just in the hands of the person Holly San nicolas whether or not they will work to get there.

Copy EDITOR As for after college, the issue of finding Ray REYES a job that fits one is possible because Opinion Editor there are hundreds of jobs out there.

Erika Salazar One must never forget that a door does not open unless there is someone who Entertainment Editor knocked.

Susan Cifuentes

PDA: What happened to cooties?

Every day, students encounter obstacles while rushing to class, the most unsavory being couples making out in the middle AZNIV DERDZAKYAN of the path you Chronicle Reporter have unluckily chosen to take to class. As if that weren’t creepy enough, they seem to follow you as you try to get your books from your locker, because there they are- making out in front of your locker.

It’s hard not to look if it’s in your

way, teenage tongues darting in and out of the air like some demented gila monsters in the midst of a mating ritual.

I have no problem with couples expressing affection, but please, keep it to yourselves. Society does not need to see people shoving their tongues down each other's throats. What if children attended our school and witnessed this horror show?!

I think it is fine for couples to kiss in public, but there is no need for us to view the next step. There is nothing wrong with displays of affection, but taking it too far is unbecoming of respectable couples (it’s gross.)

I have seen administrators tell

couples they need to stop, but it still continues. Students attend school to learn, not spend most of their time making out. Making out is considered a pastime to most teens across the nation, but should it?

Everybody needs to maintain a good image of themselves to display to the world. Making out distorts this image as well as the school’s image. If this were to occur at a working environment, the employee would be fired.

If a couple wants to show their affection for one another there are appropriate alternatives, or just keep out of the way in the halls.

There isn’t a weekend that goes by in which I haven’t spent an afternoon at Downtown LA’s Central Library, sitting down to read a good, Steven Montoya Chronicle Reporter long novel or to finish homework. It is the perfect place to just relax and escape from the stress, drama, and distraction from home and everyday life. It is a place where everything and everyone is at peace. For most book lovers, libraries have become a sort of second home.

Everytime I come to visit, I find dozens of people like to do the same thing.

For many decades, libraries have been known as “the poor man’s university,” a place where astonishing amounts of knowledge and wisdom are made available for the public to enjoy. One can only look at a Dewey Decimal System brochure to find just how much information a library can

hold. Not only that, but there are also hundreds of thousands of fiction titles that range from thrillers, to romances, and to mystery. It is hard for book lovers to walk into a library and be able to exit the library without carrying such a heavy load. The best and most important part about all of this is that all of these materials are available for a fourteen-digit code that does not cost a single penny out of pocket.

When reading, readers cannot help but feel relaxed by the smoothness of the paper, the shapes the ink makes on the paper, and the uniqueness of the hard (or soft) cover. Many public libraries, however, have also provided users with twenty-first century technology with digital e-books as well as music and video downloads. By using the same library card, users can also borrow digital versions of books, music, and videos. In the case of the Los Angeles Public Library, one can even own up to five song downloads a week. This is perfect for those that own a smartphone or a tablet computer, for all they have to do is download their

materials at home and enjoy them on the go, wherever they please. Not only that, but all LA public libraries supply users with free Wi-Fi. Libraries have definitely not ignored tech-lovers.

Public libraries are not just the place to read a book or get some peace and quiet. They are places where a lot of needed services are offered. Again, here is where the mighty library card comes into play again. The Los Angeles Public Library also offers library card users a whole variety of online classes, including foreign languages. What with the national healthcare law going into effect, many Los Angeles libraries are holding workshops to get more information about the healthcare they need. Recently, the Los Angeles Public Library even held various PSAT, SAT, ACT workshops as well as those that educate finances.

It is important that these people take as much advantage of their library as possible—it is called public for a reason.

Checking out the public library

Features Editor Gaby Cordova

Chronicle reporters

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William Guevara Angel Hernandez Jenny Jeong Drake Johnson Lauren Kim Karla Lopez Hovhannes Maghakyan Joanna Martinez Erick Mejia Chelyah Miller Steve Montoya Andrea Perez Josue Perez Beatriz Sison Jasion THOMAS Desarae zendejas

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@HHSchronicle ADVISERs: Karen Cusolito & Antonio manriquez THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER. THE CRIMSON CHRONICLE, OF HOLLYWOOD HIGH SCHOOL IS A PUBLIC FORUM, WITH ITS STUDENT EDITORIAL BOARD MAKING ALL DECISIONS CONCERNING ITS CONTENTS. the newspaper operates under california education code 48907 whiCH guaranteE free expression for students. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE WELCOMe AND WILL BE PUBLISHED AS SPACE ALLOWS. OPINIONS IN LETTERS ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE STAFF, NOR SHOuLD ANY OPINION ExPRESSED IN A PUBLIC FORUM BE CONSTRUED AS THE OPINIION OR POLiCY OF THE ADMINISTRATION, UNLESS SO ATTRIBUTED

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OPINION/EDITORIAL

Man On The Street:

March 2014

Are you going to prom?

If so, how much are you planning or willing to spend?

“I am not going to our school’s prom. I will be going to Armenian prom. Turn up! My friends and I have been organizing this for a long time. So good luck to those who are going to try to come. “ -Harout Mikaelian SAS Senior

“Yes, because its my senior year and I guess it’s part tradition. It does not matter, whatever it takes” - Marcela Pasillas MET 12th

“Yes, because it’s a once-in-a -liifetime experience. I’m only planning on spending about $120.”

-Alma Martinez TCA Senior “This will be the last dance we go as high school students and I want to be able to enjoy a night with my friends. I have not gone prom dress shopping so I do not know how much I will spend. “

-Barrina Thompson SAS Senior

Interview By: Daron Gomez, Drake Johnson, Vanessa Garcia and Desarae Zendejas

Teach citizenship, not test-taking Open the doors already!

ERICK BARRON Chronicle Contributor

(The following is edited from a response to an AP English Language writing prompt asking to what extent John Dewey’s vision is being taught in schools. Dewey (1859-1952) was an American philosopher and educational reformer who emphasized pragmatism in learning, the idea that children learn best through ‘doing.’)

To what extent is Dewey’s vision being taught in high school? To tell the truth, it is not; they do not teach us to be great citizens. All they teach us in school is mathematics, reading, and writing. The only opportunity we had to learn to be good citizens was life skills class, but it was cut.

The only things schools care about is the money and scores.

This is shown through the fact

that most teachers teach us primarily about how to get the highest score in a test that happens at the end of every school year. If we get good scores, guess what, the school gets money. That is all that schools intend to be done with us.

Dewey’s vision is for us to be good citizens along with being good in reading, writing, and arithmetic. Schools today do not care if we are good citizens, they only care about the money we bring in. Hollywood High School has a great number of intellectual students. We have AP classes, but all they ever teach us is how to get good scores on tests. They could care less about us being citizens.

Another way in which Dewey’s vision is not being realized is that the teachers do not care about us; they just teach us what the district thinks should be thought. One of the things that is not on the standards is how to become good citizens.

They cut the lifestyle program to save themselves some dollars and then the money goes into other programs we do not even need.

The United States has one of the lowest scores compared to other

countries.

If we were taught to be good citizens, our world would be a lot better than it is now. But to my sadness, they do not teach us this; they would rather teach us how to get good scores on a test that happens at the end of the school year. They think we are better off learning this than how to become a model citizen.

My thought on this is, yes, we will be intelligent, but we will be horrible citizens that will make our society even more horrible. A famous Norman Rockwell illustration, it shows an American boy holding a book and a torch. Behind him is his smiling mother, but the boy is not smiling. He is not smiling because he is unhappy because all he is taught is how to be smarter, not to be a citizen.

My final thought is that Dewey’s vision is not being realized. It is just ignored by the people that think smarts and money are more important than being a good citizen. As a student, the possibility of Dewey’s vision actually coming into reality is very low. It takes time for these things to happen.

BEATRIZ SISON Chronicle rEPORTER

You may have noticed that the building doors are always closed during nutrition and lunch, and students can’t go inside unless they have an acceptable reason. This occurrence has been going on and most people have bad things to say about it and I completely agree with their comments. Administrators should not close the doors during students’ break time.

I disapprove of doors being closed during nutrition and lunch because students are given lockers to help them store all their items they need in class, but what’s the purpose of the lockers when we cannot access them during free time? Besides not being able to access lockers, students are also denied

to go inside the building to talk to a teacher or make up a test.

Students should have the right to go inside the buildings during nutrition and lunch because when it comes to making up work, getting or storing something from lockers, or using the facilities, teachers always tell the students “take care of that on your own time” or “come back during nutrition or lunch” and the only time students have during school hours is nutrition and lunch.

Also, regarding the facilities or accessing the lockers might be that students only have five minutes during passing periods and five minutes is not enough to go the restroom or lockers especially when the bathrooms are packed or when the student’s locker is in another building.

4 MARCH 2014

NEWS

LAUSD crowns JROTC queens and kings at the ball

Elosia Garcia

CHRONICLE REPORTER

The JROTC Military Ball was held on March 1st at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel where they congratulated several students for their achievements. Different high schools from all of LAUSD attended the event.

The ceremony was conducted

by Lieutenant Colonel Ted A. McDonald who kept the ceremony organized and running on schedule.

The program began at 6 pm with the color guard presentation and the National Anthem awards.

Guest speakers such as Senior Deputy Superintendent of LAUSD, Mrs. Michelle King , and VIP guests such as Ms. Toni Schuman member of The Association of the United States Army, and Commander Wayne Yee from the

American Legion Department were then announced along with a few veteran guests. Manual Arts High School then performed in front of guests with their armed and unarmed drill to perform for the ceremony’s entertainment.

King and queen, seniors Ronald Moreno Jr. and Silvia Duarte along with their royal court SAS senior Erick Avila, Maritza Botello MET senior , TCA junior Eddy Jimenez, PAM junior Jam De los Reyes , TCA sophmore Angel Rodriguez, TCA Maureen Felix, Jason Yu TCA sophomore and Amalia Garcia MET freshmen represented the Sheiks at this formal event. The king and queen of each school were then announced and prepared to take part of the royal court dance, where they owned the dance floor and danced to a slow tune.

“When I was King it was pretty

interesting and I had fun just being a king and dancing with the queen, it was least expecting,” said TCA Senior Ronald Moreno, a member of JROTC, who enjoyed the experience of being crowned king.

Not only was this formal event organized to commemorate veterans and award JROTC for their achievement and training but it gave students and guests an opportunity to enjoy, have fun and dance until midnight. “It was my first time coming, but it was a good experience, especially because I had friends with me and I had fun…I might come again next year,” said Melissa Fonseca a TCA junior and a member of JROTC.

Silvia Duarte and Ronald Moreno Jr were crowned King and Queen that night PHOTO CREDIT: Kris Baloyot

Camp San Luis Obispo cancelled due to lack of funding KEVIN FLORES

CHRONICLE REPORTER

Eddy Jimenez at last year’s camp. Jimenez was completing one of the courses.

PHOTO CREDIT: Eddy Jimenez

Camp San Luis Obispo as known as SLO, an annual event for JROTC, has been cancelled this year due to lack of funds.

Camp SLO is a JROTC encampment where 15 selected cadets get sent to the California national guard base in San Luis Obispo.

Cadets participate in many activities such as obstacle courses, rappelling, and learning skills such as map reading and first aid.

The event was cancelled when the government released its annual budget after the government shutdown. There was little to no money provided for JROTC programs. Consequentially, they were not able to afford the $100,000 needed to reserve it.

“I honestly thought it was a disappointment because Camp SLO is a great opportunity where cadets can meet with other fellow cadets and get to experience camp together,” said Battle Commander Eddy Jimenez.

10 students complete the LA Marathon SARA GARCIA

CHRONICLE REPORTER

More than 10 students completed the Los Angeles Marathon beating the high heated weather on March 9.

The Los Angeles marathon, a 26-mile running event, is the biggest event for track stars, including students from the Students Run LA program. Running through famous Los Angeles landmarks from the Dodger Stadium to the Santa Monica Pier.

This year, 10 students trained and ran several races in preparing themselves for the long run. Geoffrey Buck, SAS math teacher and Manuel Alas, TCA biology teacher both help the students train for six months in preparation. Alas has ran the marathon 23 times in the past, making this year his 24th.

“The first time you finish a marathon you swear to yourself that you won’t do it again,” said Alas. “You feel pain, you feel much healthier and

active,” he said Ileana Lemus, SAS sophomore and SRLA member, ran the marathon for the second time. On her experience, she said, “When you run, you feel like you are going to die, but I love that feeling.”

On the other hand, SAS sophomore Franklin Franco, who ran for the fourth consecutive time said, “When I run, I feel clear minded, clear headed.”

Many schools have a program for running called Students Run Los Angeles to prepare students into completely this long run, both physically and mentally.

“SRLA is a goal setting organization and it is open for anyone who wants to challenge themselves.” said Buck. Every sunday the team would train at Griffin Park changing the mileage every other week. “When you finish a marathon for the first time, you have a feeling you can’t describe.’’

“The first time you finish a marathon you swear to yourself that you won’t do it again,”

While there will be no funding this year, the government is scheduled to fund JROTC programs within the next few years.

Despite this, many cadets think it still a moderate loss since it will not allow new hardworking cadets to have the experience.

“For me, it is always a good experience, so I was hoping for the newer cadets to be able to experience it. They were pretty disappointed when they learned that they were not able to go this year,” said Cadet Command Sergeant Major Erick Avila.

According to Erick, JROTC is still receiving money from other various organizations totalling more than $300,000 just from last year.

Sophomores tackle the exit exam JENNY JEONG

CHRONICLE REPORTER

The CAHSEE is a California High School Exit Exam for 10th grade students.

The main purpose for this test is to make sure that the students who graduate from high school can demonstrate all the possible academic standards they have learned during middle school and high school like reading, writing, and mathematics.

“Tenth grade teachers have done a excellent job of preparing students with content knowledge, the goal of the academy is to provide specific test taking tricks and strategies,” said Carolyn Fagan, NMA English teacher.

The CAHSEE Prep Academy is a free afterschool program that will benefit many students for the CAHSEE. The CAHSEE Prep Academy is for two weeks, Monday- Friday, at 3:15.

The class is one hour long.

This will take place in Room 508 and 509.

The guidelines for the Academy is to arrive on time, remain on task, respect other students and teachers, and attend all dates for the two week period. The first week will focus on preparing students for the English Language Arts CAHSEE test. The second week will focus on preparing the students for the Mathematics CAHSEE test, according to a school memo.

Not only there is a an academy to prepare students for the exam, there is a also a CAHSEE Boot Camp. The CAHSEE Boot Camp is targeted toward 10th graders who are taking it for the first time. “First time takers have a higher percentage rate passing the CAHSEE,” said Graciela Quintanilla, ELC Coordinator.

The students are pulled out of their P.E. class for four days, March 12-17, to attend the Boot Camp. The material on the CAHSEE is

7th and 8th grade standards; therefore, the Bootcamp helps students review the previous lessons learned in middle school.

There are about 119 people pulled out for the Math Bootcamp and 71 people pulled out for the English Bootcamp.

The difference between the CAHSEE Bootcamp and the CAHSEE Prep Academy is that students are specifically hand picked that had scored below basic in English or Math on their previous CST. Students can take the CAHSEE once in their sophomore year, twice junior year, and up to four times senior year. Each student needs to pass the CAHSEE requirements, as well as the A-G requirements, to receive their high school diploma.

NEWS

MARCH 2014

Voices of Hollywood sing into Spring

5

Concert choir featuring H2O holds free concert for school

ray reyes

COPY EDITOR

The curtain has fallen on the Spring Concert, which had been rehearsed throughout the month of February. The show’s selection included Stevie Wonder’s My Cherie Amour, John Lennon’s Imagine, and Lauryn Hill’s Joyful Joyful. The show went well, and was very well received.

“It was really good, they did a really good job. I’m very happy that people are still encouraged to perform in the magnet,” said PAM junior Gabby Mainea.

Though the show was successful, it was the first time singing in front of an audience for some of the performers.

“I’m scared, very scared. This’ll be my first experience,” said PAM sopho-

more and singer Mayra Rodriguez.

In the music room, last minute practice and preparations were hectic, but the cast was determined to make it a good show.

“Honestly, I don’t know, but I have faith. I think I’ll do well, because we’ve been rehearsing for a while,” said Mayra.

The cast came together and made it a fantastic night, not just for the audience, but for each other.

“This whole experience is amazing. We’re with people, all of us together, we’re like one voice,” said PAM sophomore and singer Melissa Navarro. “There’s so much energy, it’s a rush,” she said.

“This whole experience is amazing.

We’re with people, all of us together, we’re like one voice,”

Jasmine Chavez PAM sophomore sings at the concert that night PHOTO CREDIT: RAY REYES

Students can’t ‘C’ their way out any longer Rocio Flores

CHRONICLE REPORTER

The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium is a test that 11th grade students will take in English classes. The California legislature passed Assembly Bill 484 in 2013, which ended the California Standards Test, so now students are required to take this new test.

These tests were first established when people pointed out math in Massachusetts is the same as math in Maryland. This led to the idea that students should take the same tests so they learn the same things, so that if they move states their transition would be smooth. The goal is for students to leave high school prepared for college.

Students will take the test from Apr. 22 to May 1 and it will be split up into three parts. Each part will be taken two days apart. The three parts of the test will be include a multiple choice session, a classroom activity, and the End Performance Task.

The new test is different from the CST, because it is conducted on a computer program that helps determine a student’s progress. The test is designed in a way that if a student gets many wrong answers, it will switch to

easier questions.

If a students gets all the easy questions correct, the test will become more difficult. This method of testing will compute a student’s precise level of subject understanding. It will test students on critical thinking skills, unlike the CST which was meant to test students on what they learned throughout the school year.

“Students will be very surprised to see how differ-

ent the Smarter Balanced Assessments are from the old CST. The strategy of choosing ‘C’ won’t work anymore,” said the head of the math department, Geoffrey Buck.

The first test will not be recognized, making students relieved. Since it is a trial run, students will not have to worry about getting an advanced or proficient score because the scores will not be published. Assistant Principal Dr. Travis Brandy said that the scores do “count” but they will not generate an API score.

“I am actually happy that this is a field test because it’s going to help prepare the students and teachers next year when the scores actually count, but we still want the students to try their best,” said Graciela Quintanilla, Title 1 coordinator.

Mathletes to compete at Los Angeles City College

ADRIANA BENITEZ

CHRONICLE REPORTER

Approximately 10 of the school’s mathletes will participate in the Los Angeles City College 29th consecutive annual mathematics competition on March 22, where they will be competing for cash and scholarships. During this contest, middle school and high school students from all over the state can expect to be challenged on math skills up to algebra 2.

The LACC Mathematics Department will offer cash prizes of $100, $200, $300, and $500

for the top four students.

Also, this year $1,000 scholarships to attend LACC part-time and $4,000 scholarships to attend LACC full-time will be awarded as well.

“It will be a good learning experience to see where I’m at and what I need to learn,” said Sergio Espejo, SAS junior.

The event will take place in the morning from 8:00 to 12:00.

Mike Raugh, the 1956 math winner, will give a mathematics talk. Teachers, parents, and students are welcomed to attend.

Aside from enjoying the exciting competition, refreshments will be served before and after the contest.

This is the first competition that Hollywood will be participating once more.

“We have a partnership with Los Angeles City College that we are trying to get our students prepared when they leave Hollywood High School to go to LACC and be successful” said Geoffrey Buck, SAS Math teacher.

Students donate shoes for charitable cause GABY CORDOVA

FEATURES EDITOR

SAS sophomores took a step back in time to the old world of beauty and expression at the Getty Villa in Malibu, on Feb. 25. From gardens to gods and everything in between they were introduced to a world that existed before their time.

From left to right Movses Ashimyan, Marlon Straker, David Rothenberg, Batin Brown, Carlos Lemus, Marvin Lopez and David Mkrtchyan photo credit: James Carmicle

The Students Run LA Shoe Drive, which is part of SRLA Cares, ended yesterday. The shoes will be going to the organization Soles for Life, which is a non-profit organization that collects shoes and sells them to an exporter.

The money will go to repair and install water wells around the world. As of now, they are focusing on fixing 50,000 wells in Monrovia, Liberia. Part of the

money earned will also go to SRLA to create scholarships for high school seniors.

Geoffrey Buck, who is in charge of SRLA in the school said, “SRLA is trying to get into the Guinness Book of World Records by wanting to earn 26,200 shoes, like the length of the marathon.”

However, their main goal is 25,000 shoes. Leadership’s service committee is in charge of the shoe drive and have already

put a box at the main entrance where students can leave their donated shoes in.

Chelsea Nava, who is part of Leadership Service said, “I’m really proud of my service committee because our main job is to reach out to our school community and receive charitable donations. Our drives wouldn’t be successful if it wasn’t for our other committees as well whom design posters and for every student who do donate.”

“Party At Gatsby’s”

Prom Proposals

After running 26.2 miles Irvin Anzora asked his girlfriend Vada Morales to be his prom date.

Chris Gamez asked his girlfriend Diana Lopez to be his Valentines and Jonathan Lopez asked Marina Sangit to prom by making her cheesecake with “Prom or Nah” Date to Prom written on it.

Photo Courtesy: Crimson Staff

Party like it’s 1924 Gerardo chan

CHRONICLE REPORTER

Prom is eagerly awaited as it approaches April 25.

The venue Noor Sofia, located in Pasadena, is expected to fit the theme of “Party at Gatsby’s” perfectly making one feel as if they were living in the 1920’s.

Many students are already preparing for the event.

Prom began as something that nobody would attend, but as ticket sales began it has shown that people count the day left for prom.

“I’m sure prom will be the highlight of my life,” said SAS senior, Jeffrey Puebla.

Approximately 150 tickets had been sold through senior packets and only about 15 remain after the first week of sales. Students are choosing their seats and are rapidly

filling all tables. Tickets will be given out next week to students who have paid their dues.

Invitations have already been chosen after the voting by the senior class and will be handed out soon as well.

There are high expectations for this years prom. Elizabeth Payne, senior class sponsor, “expects it to be a complete success.”

Prom is on Friday and may make things difficult, but students will be able to manage their time to get ready and make it to prom with enough time to have fun.

From 7 pm to midnight, attendants of prom will be enjoying themselves at Gatsby’s party. It will be “a fun night for everyone who attends,” said Payne.

Prom Tips: For the Ladies and Gentlemen 1.Choose your outfit well in advance. Look into checking out Downtown shops, as they have many locations where you can find elegant attire for almost any occasion. There are a bunch of sales before prom at the local malls. Search around to find that awesome dress that works for you without completely breaking your budget.

2.Wear the shoes you plan to use, especially if they are not the most comfortable.

Get used to walking in them and break them in before prom, so that you will not have to deal with blisters and bloody, aching feet on the night of prom.

Make an appointment in advance with a hairdresser and/or makeup artist. This is especially important if your school is a big one or if many schools are having prom on the same weekend, because around prom season, they are often dealing with a pile-up of heavy work. Alternatively, you can look into getting your hair and makeup done by students at a beauty school for free or very cheap (at your own risk.) Or you could simply do it yourself if you are good enough.

3.Pack a small bag with things you might need later on during the night. Make sure you have your ticket, photo ID, some money, lip balm and anything else you think you might need.

4.Consider getting ready with a bunch of friends. You can help each other with hair and makeup – it’s lots of fun and will take much less time than if you tried to do it all yourself. You can even turn up before.

5.Get parents or friends to drive you to the prom. Make sure you have arrangements to get home safely, and take caution not to get into cars with anyone who might be under the influence. Not only would your reputation risk injury, but you, physically, would, too.

6.When you enter, make sure to be positive with your friends and classmates.

Remember, just stay safe and have fun!

vanessa garcia

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

1.Guys, please make sure to rent a tuxedo in advance. This will ensure that your tux rental shop will still have the appropriate size and fit for you. Consider asking your date about the color of his or her outfit so that you can match, but black goes with anything.

Check that you have money in your wallet and your ticket in a safe place.

2.Pick up a corsage from your local flower shop. You should order it early so that you can ensure that the shop does not sell out. Local markets and flower shops have them for around $10- $20.

Take a shower and shave before getting dressed. Spray on a light mist of cologne.

Don’t over-do it! Make sure that the smell is not overpowering.

3.Style your hair. Apply some sort of product- gel, mousse, hair clay, serum, pomade- to make it look shiny and soft. Again, don’t over-do it, too much will make it look greasy. A dime-sized amount should be more than enough.

Brush and floss your teeth. After you've brushed your teeth, put the toothbrush on your tongue and gently scrape it. Then floss around every tooth. This is especially important if you have braces - you don't want your date noticing any food stuck in your mouth when you pick her up. Finish with mouthwash.

4.Be a gentleman at prom. Treat your date with respect and courtesy and still have a great time. When you are at the dance, escort her into the building.

5.Go take pictures as soon as you get there; to avoid long lines and to get it out of the way. After that you can take your jacket off.

6.Make sure you treat your date with respect while dancing. No grinding. You are a gentleman and should remain that way. If you can't dance practice at home.

Make sure you walk her to her doorstep. Do what you would normally do, and go home.

8 MARCH 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Get your flower power on it’s spring fashion Susan Cifuentes Gaby Cordova ENTERTAINMENT AND FEATURES EDITOR

Spring is coming, so naturally it is out with the old and in with the new.

That means updating your wardrobe for this upcoming season. Here are some tips on how to look fashionable and impress that special someone.

The first thing to know is that pastel colors are in. It is very flattering to the complexion and it can be matched with any contrasting colors such as black or dark purple. This look can be for any event. It can be casual or it can be used for a more sophisticated outfit.

Like always, flower patterns are in because it gives the illusion that you are a flower in spring. But the new flower pattern is the island print. It gives it a casual breezy look. It used to be a summer print but now it has become a spring trend.

Now if you are going somewhere fancy dandy like a dinner party then pick up some lace clothing pieces. Lace

is so in and always looks trendy with whatever you wear. Put on a lace shirt with a tea length skirt and you will look fabulous for that date with your sweetie pie or your family while still looking gorgeous.

Black and white may not scream spring but this season it has become a huge trend. It just looks classy over all and you can never go wrong with black and white. Double jean though is a whole different story. Who would have thought wearing jeans and a shirt would look cool? It does give a twist to the jean look.

Guys, don’t think you have been forgotten. Shorts with fun colors are great to wear during the spring. Button down shirts are so in. The shirt can be a pastel colored or island print. It gives the vibe of a fashionable casual and the ladies would love it.

So remember when shopping for your new spring clothes it is not just

about what’s in. It is about feeling comfortable and adding your own personal touch. After all, it is the final touches that will make the outfit pop.

But follow these tips when you need help in planning an outfit. If you take any of our tips your outfit for sure will always scream spring!

Meet the new freshman in town

Alessandro Morales Q: What do you enjoy about being a student here?

A: Yeah Hollywood High has a welcoming community and I like how there are many opportunities to improve in my academics.

Q: What do you want to do before you graduate?

A: When I’m a senior I would really want to take my batman suit as my outfit for my outside portraits.

Q: What are you afraid will happen in high school?

A: Something I’m afraid of high school is having to manage my classes and grades. I’m scared that I will stop caring and let my procrastination get in the way. That and dropping the soap.

A: The people here are very nice and that I get to meet many new Q: What is the weirdest people everyday and I thing you have seen on get to know new things about them. campus?

A: I think the weirdest thing I have seen is this Q: How do you describe yourself?

A: One of a kind. Funny, smart,weird, and a great friend. I give great couple having intense advice for the ladies.

PDA moments.

Campus hiding spots Holly SAN NICOLAS MANAGING EDITOR

Recently, students who have called the stairs by the 200 building their home-away-from-home have witnessed a mass eviction. Staff and faculty members have been kicking the students out of this general area for security issues, claiming they want to make for a safer, cleaner learning environment.

But are they being thorough in their spring cleaning?

Whether or not the authority is aware of it, the stairs by the 200 building is not the only place that students seek solitude. In fact, there are many more places they wouldn’t have given a second glance to beforehand.

When drastic times call for drastic measures, students get creative.

Like adolescent spectres, they glide stealthily out of their classrooms and into the wild frontier of the quad, where they very narrowly avoid the eyes of the ever-looming security guards. From there, the students proceed further.

The Zen Buddhists say “if you seek it, you shall not find it,” and this is true.

To find the rat, you must think like the rat.

Next time you’re walking by the Big Gym, near the pool, keep walking straight down and make a left turn down the hall. You will most definitely find a damp, windowless room

Q: What do you like about the environment here?

that opens up to what used to be our football field. This spot is ideal for connoisseurs of illegal substances, as there is little to no ventilation in this room.

It’s also great for exchanging bodily fluids- because nothing quite sets the mood like a cold, fluorescent-lit, stony bastion.

Other students are more upwardbound. Literally. Near the cafeteria sits the auditorium, and atop the auditorium, on the balcony facing the field, are perched several students who are just a few feet below the enlightenment they are apparently trying to achieve.

Then, there is the legendary “twelfth step” cubicle near the construction lot, by the Orange Gate. Students allegedly climb over a slight obstacle to their temporary escape from the reality of the classroom environment.

In contrast to all of these obscure hiding places are the most obvious spots you would normally never give a second glance. The stairs by the library, the bench by the entrance near the parking lot, and any given stairway- all are inhabited, and all are in plain sight.

So, my fellow students, the next time you need a break, you now know where to look. All you need to pull it off is an excuse to use “the restroom” and a mentality devoid of morality and second thoughts. Good luck!

Exclusive video footage online at www.thecrimsonchronicle.com

interview by:Vanessa Garcia

ENTERTAINMENT

MARCH 2014

9

Another book heroine takes the big screen The #1 best-selling book, Divergent, hits theaters this Friday night

Gaby Cordova ABRIL CHUVAC FEATURES EDITOR CHRONICLE REPORTER

Before it was adapted to a movie, Divergent was a number-one best-selling book and has been seen as the next Hunger Games.

Author Veronica Roth creates an intense dystopian world consisting of five factions: Abnegation, meant for the selfless; Amity, meant for the peaceful; Candor, meant for the honest; Dauntless, meant for the brave; and Erudite, meant for the knowledgeable.

Tris, who comes from the faction Abnegation, goes to take the test to determine which faction would suit her best.

The trailer shows Tris drinking the blue liquid so she can fall asleep and take the test, but it doesn’t show the scenes that are part of taking the test. It keeps the readers wondering how they will create those scenes in the film.

After taking the test she discovers that she is not like the rest. She is special. She is Divergent. She is not meant for one specific faction but many, which makes her uncommon, but also a threat to society.

Since the society is built from the separation of the faction, everything is divided. There is a scene in the trailer that gives a hint how the separation is going to be shown.

Tris is warned not to share who she really is for the sake of her life and go into a faction where they will not figure out her secret.

She chooses Dauntless, where fear should not exist. There she meets Four, someone she could trust. The one that makes her blood boil and makes butterflies flutter in her stomach.

This action-packed roller coaster will have you breezing through the pages wanting to know what

happens next. Roth creates a world that leaves the reader guessing. No wonder this book is being adapted into a film; it just makes you speculate what great excitements the film will bring.

The film’s trailer shows one of the most exciting scenes: Four throwing knifes at Tris’ ear. It’s a thrill to watch a scene you’ve read come to life.

If the book made you jump on your feet, then the film will too.

There are questions to be asked, like, will Shailene Woodley and Theo James portray Tris and Four as the readers hope? Will the fans think the movie did the book justice, or will it be another book to movie adaptation disaster?

Find out on Friday, when the movie finally comes to the big screen.

Raving about Rant RAY REYES

COPY EDITOR

Chuck Palahniuk’s novel Rant is a fantastic, wild, at times surreal tale of the eponymous protagonist Rant Casey. Buster “Rant” Casey, farm boy-turned-folk-hero, is dead. The story is written in the form of an oral biography, a life-story told in many sometimes conflicting personal accounts.

Young Rant’s escapades vary from acting as his town’s tooth fairy with real antique gold coins, causing gross inflation in the process; holding a haunted house in the community grange hall, which he decorated with animal viscera; and deliberately exposing himself to venomous insects and rabid animals for thrills.

Rant leaves his backwater hometown to an unnamed big city, urban areas now segregated by time, people being either daytimers or nighttimers. Many nighttimers— the new lower-class segregated to the night, comprised mainly of social outcasts, whores, addicts, and pleasure-seekers— engage in a practise called party crashing: the deliberate ramming of one’s car into another’s and playing up the accident for kicks.

Rant, trouble maker and insect venom junkie to boot, fits right in.

Palahniuk’s novel is an explosively exciting, raw, hobo spider bite to the jugular, a perfect choice for those who enjoy the finer things in life.

If you feel that your selection of reading has become dry and cliché, that your literary life is limited to your English class or your age group, you should read Rant.

Among Palahniuk’s other works are Choke, Damned, and Fight Club, which was made into a highly acclaimed cult film.

Better off Friends by Elizabeth Eulberg is a 276 page-long young adult novel with a certain personality. When approaching this book one has to keep in mind that it’s not for everyone, and while it’s a nice book the audience really is limited.

This romantic fiction novel delves into the life of Macallan, a young girl who is just starting the 8th grade and it’s evident from the start that she’s a strong character. Macallan, having just recently lost her mom, is nervous about the new school year and tired of people taking pity on her.

Macallan knows who she is and what she likes, she always stands up for her friends and is loyal to the end. When a new kid named Levi moves from Los Angeles to Macallan’s small town she is put in charge of showing him around school but she really couldn’t care less.

However, they soon hit it off and become best friends. Since Levi isn’t from Macallan’s close-minded little football town he isn’t aware that Macallan’s mom recently passed away, but is still super nice and considerate to Macallan which is why she decides to open up and give him a chance.

Drake JOHNSON

CHRONICLE REPORTER

If you want to listen to some music that gets the blood flowing, to kick start the adrenaline pumping through your heart and rocking out to an awesome Rock N’ Roll tune, then you will probably will need some Fuel.

On March 4, Fuel released their fifth studio album title Puppet Strings. This has been their first studio album effort since their 2003’s album Natural Selection featuring Brett Scallions and the first Fuel album not to feature original songwriter/guitarist, Carl Bell and bassist Jeff Abercrombie.

The main focus of the story is Macallan’s and The album consists of 10 tracks.Throughout the alLevi’s relationship; from the awkward first bum, the songs such as “Soul impression to being inseparable; the author takes you through the ups and downs of being to Preach To” and “ Puppet in love with your best friend.

Though not filled with a thrilling plotline and even though you know that Macallan and GABY CORDOVA Levi get together in the end you’ll find yourself FEATURES EDITOR interested because sometimes it’s not about Will Grayson, Will Grayson is some great philosophical message that the a coming of age book about two author feels the need to get across to his auditeenage boys both named Will ence or about the thrilling fight between good Grayson.

One Will Grayson has and evil. a best friend named Tiny Cooper Sometimes it’s about reading a nice book who is creating a musical play that tells the kind story of how it is the main for their school, while the second characters got to where they are.

Will Grayson hates everyone and Better off Friends captures the simplicity of hates life in general. The second friendship, it’s not an exciting tale, it doesn’t is gay and struggling to find who make you think about the vastness of the he is as a person. world, and it isn’t set in an awesome fictional One night, both Will Graysons world. meet, and something spectacular What this book does do is warm your heart happens. Instead of meeting the and make you smile, smile because you can reboy he was supposed to meet, he late, smile from the joy of rooting for the good ends up meeting the other Will guy, or simply because it’s just a sweet book.

Grayson and Tiny Cooper. Both

Friendzoned with benefits ANA AMADOR CHRONICLE REPORTER

Some “Fuel” for your soul Strings” carry an alternative heavy-rock edginess that’s not overwhelming to listen to and enjoyable.

Even though it’s been 11 years, they still manage to stick to their rock n’ roll roots and display that catchy tune that make’s you wanna groove or head-bang. What I like about this album mostly is that it’s an album made for quality and acknowledges the determination and creative effort that people really listen to and look forward to.

I give this album a 9 out of 10 because it’s just an album that is enjoyable. Wow I’m tired, I need to listen to this band again to re-fuel myself.

Music and laughs in a book

Will Graysons are faced with problems that they each have to solve by themselves. They find love, and for the second Will, the happiness he sought.

John Green, the author of The Fault of Our Stars, and David Levithan of Every Day create a wonderful book that will make you laugh out loud and maybe even shed a tear or two. There are musical outbursts that will make you smile and sing out loud with the characters’ words.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson honestly can relate to anyone, and that is the beauty of this book.

10 MARCH 2014

entertainment

Crimson Chronicle goes behind the scenes at the Oscars ERIKA SALAZAR OP/ED EDITOR

There is more than meets the eye to the Oscars. Many seem to view it as just an award show, but it’s more than that.

Every year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences honors its nominees with week-long events that are open to the public. These are known as the Oscar Week Events at the Academy.

My fellow Crimson Chronicle reporter, Azniv Derdzkyan, and I were given the opportunity to attend two of these events, thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Cohen, who aside from being an MET English teacher, is also an Academy member.

It was the day before the Oscars and not even the rain could wash away the excitement. The first event was the foreign language films, which was started off with a speech from Gavin Hood, who won the Academy Award for the South

African film Tsoti in 2006. He heightened the excitement with hilarious anecdotes, and presented the host, Academy governor Mark Johnson.

Shortly after that, the audience was shown short clips of the five nominated foreign films: The Broken Circle Breakdown, from Belgium; The Missing Picture, from Cambodia; The Hunt, from Denmark; The Great Beauty, from Italy; and Omar, from Palestine.

Surely, the audience was satisfied when all the directors went on stage to discuss their films with Johnson.

Felix Van Groeningen (The Broken Circle Breakdown) explained how his heart wrenching film was about the death of a couple’s child with the incorporation of American bluegrass music.

Rithy Panh (The Missing Picture) retells his difficult experience of the Erika meets Oscar during her visit before and after the Cambodian War Photo Credit: Azniv Derdzkyan Beauty of Italy) is about a six-five year against Communism with only using old, who intends to rediscover himself immobile clay figurines. with the grandeur of Rome.

Thomas Vinterberg (The Hunt) shows Hany Abu-Assad (Omar), whom wrote the life of a Danish teacher whose life gets the script in four days, tells the story of a turned upside down because of a little love-struck young man who is a freedom girl’s innocent lie. fighter fighting all obversity in Palestine.

Paolo Sorrentino’s film (The Great

The next event was the make-up and hairstyling. Many do not appreciate the painstaking work of the make-up artists and hair stylists, but if it weren’t for them, movies wouldn’t have that realistic touch which makes them authentic.

The nominees were Stephen Prouty for Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa, Joel Harlow and Gloria Pasqua-Cansy for The Lone Ranger, and Adruitha Lee and Robin Mathews for Dallas Buyers Club.

Stephen Prouty transformed Johnny Knoxville into the Bad Grandpa character through meticulous work that was strong enough to withstand the crazy stunts.

Joel Harlow and Gloria Pasqua were the masterminds behind the prosthetics and hair-styling in Disney’s The Lone Ranger.

They transformed Johnny Depp into his Indian character through long hours of work.

It was Adruitha Lee and Robin Mathews’ subtle make-up and hair that made the characters look sick or healthy, and in The Dallas Buyers Club looks were of great important to show the suffering of two men with HIV. Even more remarkable: they worked on a $250 budget.

Stars graced the red carpet at the Academy Awards ERIKA SALAZAR OP/ED EDITOR

The 86th annual Academy Awards, also known as The Oscars, was nothing short of spectacular, especially with its hero-theme. It started off like usual, the stars gracing the red carpet with their fashionable outfits.

When all these cinematic stars entered the Dolby Theater, real magic started and film history was made. The host, Ellen DeGeneres, started off the show and delighted the audience with her comedic presence and elegant and outrageous outfits. During the live program, she showed her hospitality by giving Big

Mama's and Papa’s pizza to all those in the audience, but the guests had to pitch in to pay for it. She even broke a record on twitter for the most retweets of a star-studded photograph.

There were incredible live music performances from many artists, most songs were from movies. Pharrell Williams performed “Happy” from Despicable Me 2, Karen O performed “The Moon Song” from Her, U2 performed “Ordinary Love” from Mandela, Pink sang “Over the Rainbow” as a tribute to Judy Garland, and Idina Menzel performed

“Let It Go” from Frozen.

There was a heart-touching tribute to film stars who passed away, including Paul Walker, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Shirley Temple with a song from Bette Midler.

It was a tough race for all the nominees, and there was only one who came out victorious. Jared Leto won for Best Supporting Actor in Dallas Buyers Club, while Lupita Nyoung’o won for Best Supporting Actress in 12 Years a Slave.

The animated film Frozen won two Oscars for Best Animated Feature and Best

Original Song, “Let It Go.” The futuristic Los Angeles-based movie Her won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

Of course, the big winner of the night was Alfonso Cuaron’s captivating space thriller, Gravity. It won seven Oscars including Best Achievement in Cinematography, Best Achievement in Directing, Best Achievement in Film Editing, Best Original Score, Best Achievement in Sound Editing, Best Achievement in Sound Mixing, and Best Achievement in Visual Effects.

The Oscar for Best Actress

Donkey Kong returns to the gaming scene Hovhannes Maghakyan Josue Perez

CHRONICLE REPORTER

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze was released on Feb. 21, exclusively for the Wii U. It has improvements from the previous game, Donkey Kong Country Returns, for the Wii. Some mechanics have been removed from this game such as blowing flowers in order for bananas or banana coins to appear. Other than that, everything else from the previous game is still there.

Since this game uses the Wii U Gamepad, you don’t need to shake the controller in order to ground-pound like the one on Wii. DKC:TF starts out with Donkey Kong surrounded

by Diddy, Dixie and Cranky having a party with banana cake. It then pans out to show Snowmads coming to the island to freeze it whole, exiling DK to a far away island where the new adventure begins.

The adventure begins with you inside of an airplane with you button-mashing in order to break free from the inside.

After he breaks free, he

needs to start making his way back home going through six islands each with its own boss. Throughout each level, there are collectibles that need to be found in order to unlock cool pictures, figures, and dioramas. The collectibles include puzzle pieces (ranging from 5 to 9 pieces per level), four KONG letters, bananas, banana coins, and balloons.

For those unfamiliar with the series, here is a quick guide as to what each collectible does. Balloons give extra lives, banana coins are in-game currency to buy necessary items from the shop. Bananas are collected for extra lives as well (100 bananas = 1 extra life), KONG letters are for a completion bonus, and puzzle pieces are for pictures.

Something has to be stated before anything: the game is extremely hard. Rageinducingly hard. You will want to take breaks frequently.

Time Attack will probably unleash the inner demon in you,

and getting gold is extremely difficult. Trying to get a high position on the online leaderboards will require much patience and many tries.

We strongly advise against co-op! Although co-op sounds fun and seems like it may help on a difficult level, it will only make things harder. You’ll probably ruin your friendship and waste all your lives in the process. If you are up to the challenge, go ahead, get a friend, grab an extra controller, and game on.

As you progress, there will be different kinds of levels.

Some will be just walking and running while other levels let you take control of a mine cart, a barrel rocket, or even Rambi the rhino.

Although the game may be hard, it is a lot fun to play, and if you’re up for a challenge, this is the game is perfect for you. We recommend this game to everyone who loves Donkey Kong and likes challenging games.

went to Cate Blanchett for her performance in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine. Unfortunately for Leonardo DiCaprio, Matthew McConaughey snubbed the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in Dallas Buyers Club.

The most prized Oscar for Best Motion Picture of the Year went to 12 Years a Slave, which won a total of three Oscars that night.

This years Oscars was an unforgettable award show that truly celebrated the triumphs of movies in 2013, and will continue to do that in years that follow.

SPORTS

11

MARCH 2014

Athletes of the month “Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.”-Michael Jordan

Abril Chuvac Leslie Flores CHRONICLE REPORTER

CC: How do you feel being Athlete of the Month?

MM: Well, I feel surprised I got it again, but I feel honored.

CC: Why do you think you were chosen?

MM: I guess because I spend most of my time in the gym and I’m really dedicated to basketball.

CC: How long have you been playing basketball?

MM: For a long time, ever since I was a little girl.

CC: What do you like about playing basketball?

MM: I like how I feel when I play, I just like playing it in general, its just fun.

CC: Who do you admire? Why? MM: Derek Fisher because on the court he’s very smart, he knows when to pass the ball, and he’s a team player.

CC: How do you feel being Athlete of the Month?

KH: It feels good to be athlete of the month again, surprised.

CC: Why do you think you were chosen?

KH: I don’t know, probably because I did good.

CC: How long have you been playing basketball?

KH: Since I was like five.

CC: What do you like about playing basketball?

KH: Everything I like passing, rebounding, and playing with my teammates.

CC:Who do you admire? Why? KH: It has to be Michael Jordan or Lebron James because they’re my favorite basketball players.

Swim team went in for the dive, beating Marquez High

The team expects to keep on winning for their next meet on March 26 ANDREA Perez

CHRONICLE REPORTER

The swim team won its first two meets this month against the Marquez High Gladiators on March 12 and against the Belmont High Sentinels on March 5.

The swim team won because Marquez did not have many swimmers.

Varsity boys swam the medley relay and lost the 50 meter backstroke event because there weren’t enough boys to compete with. Varsity girls competed in the 200 meter relay and the 200 meter freestyle. Some events weren’t filled up, such as the 200 meter freestyle because some swimmers did not show up.

Christy backstrokes during the meet against Marquez High.

“This is my first scrimmage Photo Courtesy: Azniv Derdzakyan and I am very nervous right uncontested. now,” said Paola Lopez, SAS Events included the 200 meter relay sophomore, right before she went on to and the 20 laps race. There weren’t offiswim the 50 meter freestyle event. cial scores though, since it was a scrimThe swim team won their first meet mage, mostly practice for future matches. against Belmont on March 5. It was a This game was just a preview of what the scrimmage, meaning that it was an inforteam has in store for the season. Christian mal competition. Belmont does not have Sanchez, MET freshman, said the team a JV boys team, so the JV boys swam

Phuangthong, SAS sophomore.

Many newcomers were tense since it was their first match against another school.

In the end they fought their nerves and swam their way through it.

Everybody has their personal goals they want to overachieve. “My personal goal this season is to swim faster for my 100 meter freestyle. My time for the first pre season was 1:37 and I hope to get 1:28,” said Mild.

“Everybody swims very well. We practice very much,” said Coach Vladimir Lando.

The next scheduled meet will take place on March 26.

did “awesome.” Everybody was highly supportive of each other. When a member wasn’t cheering for the person swimming, another member would remind them to do so.

“I’m expecting varsity to win a lot this season because we have many talented swimmers competing,” said Mild

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