HOLLYWOOD HIGH • HOME OF THE SHEIKS
THE CRIMSON CHRONICLE 1521 N. HIGHLAND AVE, HOLLYWOOD, CA 90028
VOLUME XI ISSUE II NOVEMBER 2013
Will seniors meet goal to Hollywood Bowl? Current fundraiser is not going as planned, putting the venue on hold until December Kevin Flores Marcos Arellano CHRONICLE REPORTERS
Despite facing many difficulties, seniors are still trying to sell all their snack boxes to fundraise enough money to graduate at the Hollywood Bowl. A few weeks ago, seniors were forced to see the reality of how close they were to lose the right to graduate the at the Bowl. The costs to rent out the Bowl is an estimated $22,000 including the crew and equipment. They were given options about the actions they could take, which were to fundraise, pay out of their own pocket, or host the graduation ceremony in the school’s auditorium. Many students were angered when they were told the news. Most seniors who chose to fundraise have now chosen to pick up their boxes. About half of the boxes picked up have been sold so far. “We have had 132 boxes checked out, but right now only half of that has been paid,” PAM counselor Elizabeth Payne said. According to Payne, seniors have raised a total of $4,500 by selling the boxes. Only 24 students have continued not to pick up their boxes despite saying that they were going to fundraise. “They should take initiative, if they signed up to sell the boxes, they
have to take responsibility,” said Jose Cruz, SAS senior. “It is for the Bowl, and everyone is depending on them, and they will be letting many people down if they don’t.” Many seniors have been trying to consider optional ways to fundraise the money, but there is currently no other way. “Unfortunately since we ordered the boxes, we are responsible for paying for them,” Payne said, “At this point, I do not see anything else. Dr. Brandy and I are trying to see if there are any other options, but we are still responsible for the bills of these boxes which are $12,000.” The decision to sell healthy snacks rather than chocolates boxes was a way for seniors to fundraise not only for the Bowl but to promote healthy living. Since the school has a healthy fundraising requirement on campus altogether, the items selected for the snack box were items on the approved list by the district. However, many seniors think that this is one of the biggest problems when it comes to selling the items. “I think the reason why is because these items aren't ‘junk food,’ and like it or not, most people are not willing to buy healthy snacks when you can get a better deal (and junk food) at the nearest 7-Eleven,”
said SAS senior Jessica Torres. Fortunately, seniors who have been worried about selling their boxes by the November deadline should be relieved to learn the deadline has been extended to Dec. 20 to give seniors more time to sell all the boxes they need left. “I think that the school did a good decision by extending the deadline. A lot of students are having problems selling their boxes, and giving them more time will greatly help,” Jose said. Despite all the difficulties in the fund-raising there is still belief from the faculty that the seniors can pull of this major goal. “I sincerely do believe in the class, and I sincerely believe that it is a possible thing, however it requires the student to start mobilize to fundraise,” Payne said. Even fellow seniors think that raising the $22,000 is still a reachable goal. “I believe that we can raise enough money for the Dec. 20 deadline I have faith that in the very near future that class of 2014 will stop talking and start working on fundraising and putting their grain of rice into upholding this tradition,” Jessica said.
Class of 2014 has so far raised $6,500 for the cost for the Bowl. Photo Credit: Samantha Clavel
Adios, Arrivederci, Au Revoir to upper level classes?
Students are worried they will be squeezed out of third year foreign language Chelyah Miller Walter Carrero CHRONICLE REPORTERS
The Classes of 2015, 2016, and beyond should learn how to say “goodbye” in French, Italian, and Spanish as there may soon be a major competition for space in higher level classes, according to foreign language teachers. Future freshmen, sophomores, and juniors must take two to three years of a foreign language as part of their A-G requirements. All students in the second year of their foreign languages may not be able to advance to the next level, because there are more level one and level two classes and only one level three. More students are also being put into the classes, making it hard for them to learn what they need because of the student to teacher ratio. Three consecutive years of a language are needed to qualify but because students in the second year classes might not be able to move on to the third year, they may not qualify for a UC. Many of the foreign language teachers think that if we hire more teachers, this prob-
lem will be resolved. being able to take their The teachers realize third year of the foreign that if this keeps up, language they are takit will be difficult not ing. only for them, but for The Quality Eduthe students as well. cation Investment Act “We need to hire (QEIA), a grant that Holanother foreign lywood High school gets language teacher every year, provides to depopulate the money as long as the amount of students requirements are met. per class,” said AlonThere can be no so Rolland-Estrada, more than 27 students French teacher. for each social studCurrently, all fories, math, science, and eign languages have English class. As long 30-50 students not as these requirements only for their first are met, the school can level classes but for continue to buy books, their second level computers, etc. classes as well. However, the money This makes it can’t be used to hire hard not just for teachers for non-core the teachers to help classes or the money everyone but for the will be taken from the students to learn the school. Non-core classes material correctly. include PE, and elecUpper-level foreign language classes will not have as much "If you're a student open space as last year. tives, such as foreign Photo Credit: Samantha Clavel who struggles with language. deserve,” said Emily Taron, foreign language and you're "I support the QEIA fundItalian teacher. in a class with 40 or more ing: however, the money does Also, with such amount students, then it's going to be not go to the foreign language of students, only 25% of the harder for not just the student classes,” said Ana Estangui, student in the second level will but for the teacher as well to head of the foreign language advance to the next level. We help you acquire the help you department. "Not only does it are looking at 60 students not
not affect the foreign language classes, but also for non-academic classes." The only way the school can afford to hire more foreign language teachers would be to cut a teacher from another elective class or a physical education class. The general funds only gives enough money to hire 36 teachers and the money from QEIA makes it able for the school to hire the rest. When the school had complete Title 1 funding, hiring more teachers was possible but now that the school’s Title 1 budget is only $300,000, firing a teacher is the only way a foreign language teacher can be hired. “I cannot cut any academic classes because the QEIA fund won’t let me, and if I do, we will lose the QEIA funds,” said Principal Alejandra Sanchez. “If I wanted to add another foreign language teacher, I have to eliminate a teacher. The hardest part is which teacher should I eliminate?”
Index 2 qop/ed 4 qnews 6 qfeatures 8 qentertainment 10qSports Visit us online at www.Thecrimsonchronicle.com
2 NOVEMBER 2013 Staff Editorial:
OPINION/EDITORIAL
Is LAUSD playing favorites?
A month ago, two teachers from the Performing Arts Magnet Program resigned and went to Ramón C. Cortines High School for an offer that was too sweet to refuse. With Stormy Sacks and Katherine Morrison’s decision to leave Hollywood High, the magnet program is pleased to welcome back Paul Itkin as coordinator and Robert Sexton as the new music director. Although the magnet program has filled the empty slots, the loss of two of its teachers raises questions of fairness. People classify high schools according to what they do best whether they exceed in music, law or business. Cortines High was not known for its
programs, but rather for its expensive architecture. School officials wanted to change that and establish an excellent performing arts program that would rival the La Guardia High School of Music and Performing Arts in New York City. Since Hollywood High is known for its Performing Arts Magnet, administrators from Cortines offered to pay Sacks for the extra hours they put into productions, something that Hollywood High did not have the funds to provide. But even if Cortines High had the money to hire more teachers, an advantage that most schools do not have, it was wrong that they offered them to teachers that already had jobs and “steal” them from
other schools. Especially when the year was barely beginning and productions were already going to start. The magnet program also suffered a greater loss when over 12 students decided to join them at Cortines. The magnet program was on the verge of no longer existing because if more students checked out the required number of students needed was not going to be met. Not only did it delay shows, but it also delayed classes for numerous of days. Students in stage production class have not had an official teacher for the past month, but rather a number of different substitutes. Cortines High has this reputation to be the most
expensive school ever built, it had to live up to be the greatest in every way possible. By having a lavish structure, equipment, Cortines wanted most importantly to have the best teachers and students. Although, they feel as if they need to have the very best it does not mean they have the right to hire away any teacher. If LAUSD wanted to make a name for itself for being able to provide the best public education they should not favor some schools more than others. Hollywood High does not have a lavish structure, but it is a historic landmark and it is located in the heart of Hollywood. If one dreams of stardom or fame, Hollywood
Taking Ambassadors of Compassion with a grain of salt
Chelyah Miller CHRONICLE REPORTER
The Ambassadors of Compassion had their first live broadcast with us as their audience in an assembly that was held on Oct. 18. A handful of celebrities came and talked about how their failures made them into the successes they are today and how the Ambassadors of Compassion (AOC) helped them achieve their goals, and take control of their lives. Upon going to the assembly I was originally excited and wanted to see what the assembly was about. However, when I listened to some of the stories about the Ambassadors’ journeys and what they
went through, I didn’t believe a lot of the things they said. When Trinity Wallace-Ellis spoke about her father abusing her for years, I felt terrible that anyone would have to go through a traumatizing thing like that. Then she talked about how her mother abandoned her and left her to take care of her sisters and brothers by herself and I started to question where her father was and what happened to him. I hoped I misunderstood and that she really had survived this experience and came out on the other side. Then another speaker talked about how negative energy can stay with you and impact your body. He talked about his bad experience with a teacher in elementary school and how it stopped him from being able to read for thirty years. After joining the AOC and forgiving him, he was able to read so much better than before. Yet doubt started to creep in when he talked about a girl who had a heart transplant. After she got the transplant, she allegedly started having nightmares about
a man trying to strangle her to death. Apparently, the heart belonged to a girl who was strangled to death and the girl who received the transplant went with her parents to the police station and turned the man in. I don’t believe this happened, not because it is impossible, but because it seemed like they said it only to help their cause. Since this was not an optional assembly, I think that the school could’ve done a better job of screening the AOC and finding out if they were truthful. I think it’s wrong of the AOC to tell us anything if only just to make themselves and their cause look better. Had they been completely truthful, I think they would have made much more of an impact on the students. I also think it was wrong of the school to make us go the assembly not knowing exactly what would be said and how truthful it was. Overall, the assembly wasn’t the best idea on both parts and had it been truthful it would’ve gone over a lot better with the students.
across so we can have an idea of what we will learn when we study them. Throughout our day we all socialize with teachers, classmates and friends but with today’s technology we do it in a different way. Derek Smith, writer of “The Unsettled World of Today’s Youth: How Technology is Affecting our Society” sees that, “Teens are no longer spending time talking to each other in person, they are hanging in their living room with friends just sitting, texting or watching each other talk online.” We all see it, teens talking to each other in the same room via text or any social network. Even in a crowd of friends you see all of them glued to their phones or mobile device not communicating with those around them. Are teens so stuck on texting that they can’t communicate in person? Teens just don’t see the value of going out and having quality time with friends anymore. They’re so hooked on their phones they don’t see the beauty of just putting them away and experiencing life with their own perspective. Most of us go to school to actually learn and expand our knowledge on subjects we enjoy. Did you know all the knowledge known to man is in your hand? Search up facts and information on a topic and you can learn anything you want. Instead of expanding our knowledge we waste our time on the internet trying to catch up on what’s happening
the Crimson Chronicle Staff
Editor-in-Chief VANESSA GARCIA Mangaging Editor Holly San nicolas Photo Editor Amber Cordero Chronicle Reporters
Ana Amador Natalie Angel Levon Arakaleyan Marcos Arellano Jose Beltran Adriana Benitez Kimberly Cardenas Walter carRero Gerardo Chan at a party, with celebrities and sports. We Abril Chuvac Susan Cifuentes try to kill time until we can get back to Samantha Clavel our regular day. Why not learn something Julie Contreras new, something you’ve wondered about Maricela Cordova since you were little or catch up on what Azniv Derdzakyan you’ve missed since the beginning of Kevin Flores time. Countless people seek for answers Leslie Flores around the world and here we are looking Rocio Flores Smirna Galindo up what is trending online. People of all ages have at least once Elosia Garcia used a calculator when they could have Daron Gomez John Guanzon done it in their heads, texting someone Valerie Gudino close by instead of getting up and talkWilliam Guevara ing in person. What is technology doing Elena Gutierrez to us? It’s making us lazy by giving us Nemesis Gutirrez countless help to the point that we are Troy Hazelton
Technology is making us stupid and lazy Have you ever caught yourself taking out your phone to do a simple task? Some might take it out to do math calculations or just to take a picture of something Jonathan Lopez CHRONICLE CONTRIBUTOR they can write down. No matter what they use their phones for, it is all the same. We’ve become incapable of doing common tasks throughout our day. Since technology has become a major part of our lives, we can’t live without it because of the help we can instantly get. During class we all take out our phone regardless of the rules. Sometimes just to take a picture of work. Our teachers tell us to write down the homework or take notes of the lesson, but we just snap a picture and forget about it. Yes, the picture can be clear and get all the notes down for you but do you really learn anything? We can read them through scanning for information we could possible need, but that doesn’t mean we understand the whole lesson. Same as a book, we can’t scan through it reading only the parts we find interesting and say we understand the story. When we write down a lesson we read through it, helping us get a little point
is the place to be. If LAUSD had the money to pay teachers extra money for after school production why did they not hand it to Hollywood High when Hollywood High has given a good reputation to LAUSD by being the best. From a variety of shows and singers like Best Musical of the Year and H2O, Hollywood did very well and these teachers were not getting paid for the extra hours that they put in. Why couldn’t Cortines do their own research in finding their own staff instead stealing ours and leaving a mess for Hollywood High?
incapable of doing that simple task. Our devices help us throughout the day with countless options to make our lives easier, but when your device is taken away, can you go through the day without it? Most can’t; they need it to be comfortable and confident by having help and information right at their fingertips. Technology isn’t a bad thing; we all embrace it, so we can thrive, but think about how it’s affecting you. Are you so attached to your device that you can’t do a simple task? Test it out yourself; see how countless hours with your devices have really affected you in the long run. Most will be ashamed to see what struggle they have to live without the help technology provides us.
Angel Hernandez Valerie Herrera Nevi Ivana Jenny Jeong Drake Johnson Lauren Kim Christian Lehnig Karla Lopez Hovhannes Maghakyan Dulce Mandujano Joanna Martinez Erick Mejia Chelyah Miller Steve Montoya Keith Neal Andrea Perez Josue Perez Ray Reyes Kevin Rodas Gabriel Rodriguez Erika Salazar Jacob Sasson Beatriz Sison
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THECRIMSONCHRONICLE.COM 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
OPINION/EDITORIAL
NOVEMBER 2013
3
Man On The Street:
What is the CRAZIEST thing you have seen on Black Friday? McKenzie Guy MET 11 “ I was at the mall… this old lady came up to me and snatched a sweater from me, I went to get it back and she just slapped me.”
Paola Lopez SAS 10 “I saw my fourth grade teacher shopping for bras and underwear and she just looked up and said hi.”
Cheyenne Daniel TCA 12 “When I was at Best Buy I was standing in line and a homeless man started asking for money and then started taking off his clothes in front of everybody.”
Evelyn Ramirez SAS 12 “I saw one of my male middle school teachers buying inappropriate clothing.” Eric Gavilanez TCA 12 “While I was at Wal-Mart I saw a guy rush in and smash the video game (glass) window and started taking all the video games and ran away.”
Revise the hat policy
The school has an unnecessarily low tolerance for hats. The school’s policy states that students are allowed to wear hats as long as it’s Kevin Rodas plain and one CHRONICLE REPORTER solid color or else they would be confiscated. I believe this rule to be bizarre and unjustified because the reason for it is to prevent “gang related violence.” The school says that certain hats may be gang-related and stir up issues amongst certain students, but I cannot recall the last time anything like that has ever happened. There are students who walk around with gang-related tattoos and attire, yet no one says anything. However, if someone decides to wear a simple sports hat, they act as if it might cause a riot. Hats are mainly used to fight off weather conditions, especially now with winter on the horizon. If someone wants to wear their favorite Lakers beanie, they can’t, because of
the fear of confiscation over a small logo that hurts no one. There are still a few students around campus who violate this hat policy, but there have been little to no reports of violent incidents involving hats. The only issue I see with them is the supervisors confiscating them and then losing them later. Why take away a hat if you are not prepared to pay for it if it is damaged or lost? Hats serve many purposes and can be very important part of a person’s personality. You can tell a lot from a person by the kind of hat they wear, whether it promotes their favorite team, their rebellious attitude by wearing it backwards, or just their dislike of a haircut. The hat policy needs to be removed or at least revised for the sake of the students having a much more comfortable learning environment.
Interview by : Azniv Derdzakyan and Elosia Garcia
Work hard for a cord Azniv Derdzakyan beatriz sison CHRONICLE REPORTERS
Does each student in all SLCs deserve a graduation cord when they graduate? Students should only get graduation cords if they have high academic grades, are active in particular clubs and are in special classes such as Leadership and JROTC, because the cords represent the students’ hard work and commitment. Not every student deserves a graduation cord if they didn’t work hard throughout their four years in high school. Each student deserves a cord if they have achieved high GPAs. There should not be a different graduation cord based on one’s SLC. It is unfair because it separates students and might make a certain distinction between SLCs. Instead of cords, people in clubs should have pins if they were active in the club for two years. They deserve it because it proves students put effort into participat-
ing in a group to achieve something. They do not have to take that step to be in clubs, they want to take that step. Leadership and JROTC are classes that are of major significance and need a cord. They serve the school by organizing events, telling the news regarding students, and provide security. Leadership (minimum 2 years) and JROTC (minimum 3 years) students have traditionally received a cord for their graduation. As for other students who are graduating after the year of 2014, they can see this as a motivator to achieve high academic grades in order to get their own graduation cords. Azniv Derdzakyan is a 10th grade SAS student and Beatriz Sison is a MET senior
4 November 2013
NEWS
NMA juniors get a shot at fame
Students will premiere their trailers at the Egyptian Theater on Dec. 9 in front of a panel of judges Vanessa Garcia Susan Cifuentes EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND CHRONICLE REPORTER
NMA juniors are getting ready to premiere their trailers for their Junior Project at Egyptian Theater in front of a panel of judges on Dec. 9. Their projects are a combination of history, English, and video production on whether a united experience exists. Each student was assigned an American demographic subject and were asked to make a documentary trailer to examine the aspect of each group. “This project is meant for the students to get a an idea of how the Senior Project feels like. After the trailers are done they will available for students to see for enjoyment and future references,” said Carolyn Fagan MET/NMA English teacher. All NMA students are given a semester-long project: one for fall and the other for spring. Each grade is given a different assignment such as creating a trailer, website or movie. “This project is designed to integrate the core content with their career technical classes and demonstrate their learn-
NMA Students edit their trailers last saturday for their Junior project
ing through an authentic project,” said Ali Nezu, special education teacher. For the past three years, students have presented their projects to a panel
Photo Credit: Vanessa Garcia
of judges who are professionals in the media industry. They include producers, directors, instructors,and LAUSD coordinators.
Besides the fact that this assignment counts for 30% of their final grade, Joceline Valera said,”I am more excited to see my trailer being presented at the Egyptian Theater because I can show that unified women are able to accomplish anything.” Subjects range from being Native American, a woman and being gay will be screen that night. “This project has many benefits besides that I am going to see my work on the big screen,” said Jason Ortiz. “I got to see and feel what a director does and the pressure that comes along with it. The work you put into it is hard and it made me realize we take the movie industry for granted because they do the impossible for our enjoyment.”
Students late to class no longer need to stand in line The new tardy policy allows students who are late get to class quicker Elosia Garcia Troy Hazelton CHRONICLE REPORTERS
Under the school’s new tardy policy, students are able to go to class after the tardy bell. As the tardy policy has changed, assistant principal Dr. Travis Brandy stated that “that students who are late to class less than 10 minutes late should be admitted to class by their teachers should still be marked tardy, how ever they are no longer to go to room 408 to get a tardy pass.” However, if they are more than 10 minutes late, they must go to room 408 to get a tardy pass. Students who do not go to room 408 and their teacher mark them tardy will still get detention if they get more than three tardies. Jorge Maldonado, math teacher, thinks is a great idea for the students and for the teachers to have this change of policy.
“I like it because before you see many people have classes here in the 200 building so if they were one minute late the teacher would send them back to get a tardy pass and it takes five minutes to get there plus the line they had to wait for then they had to go back which took them another five min. By the time they get back they already miss half the lecture and now with this policy they can go straight to class within those 10 mins.” This idea of the change in the tardy policy was brought by Brandy himself thinking the same way Maldonado was thinking knowing that if doing all that trouble for the students they would have wasted some valuable time from class and not knowing what was the lesson. This benefits students who come late to school because the bus came late. The tardy policy is very straightfor-
ward to everyone knowing the change and what the change has become to the students and teachers. Brandy has sent an email to every teacher on Oct. 9 which tells them that the effect of this policy will be on Oct. 14. This tells them what was the change and what they should do if the student has come tardy more than three times. In the school website there shows the policy that is in the school. It is called “School-Wide Positive Behavior Support and Discipline Plan” which is being revisited. There is a committee of school based management who are working together to revise some of the policies, Brandy said. One of the big issues is use of cell phones and electronics on campus is being discussed. With the weather turning cold, students may want to bring a hat to warm their heads. Hollywood policy states that
Hollywood hats or plain caps may be worn but cannot be worn indoors or with any profanity. It also states that any staff member who feels that a student is in violation of this dress code will refer the student to his or her counselor. It is up for the teachers whether or not they allow hats in their classroom. If the teacher does not allow hast they are to keep it and send it to the counselor. The SLC Administrator or designee will be responsible for contacting the student’s parent or guardian: this contact will include the particulars of the alleged violation and will inform the parent or guardian of their rights to appeal the matter to the Hollywood High School Base Management (SBM) Council if they desire.
Sexton replaces Sacks, Itkin returns as coordinator Erick mEJIA Nevi Ivana CHronicle reporters
The performance magnet program was nearly lost due to over a dozen students moving to other schools, most of them to Cortines High. If a few more students would have left, Hollywood High would not have a magnet program anymore. Luckily, that was not the case. The school received two new teachers: Paul Itkin, the new magnet coordinator, and Robert Sexton, the new choir teacher. “This is such a great school,” Sexton said. He added that he was impressed with how well the students cooperate. “Most of them are soon-tobe stars,” he said. Thanks to the newly developed recording studio that the school received, Sexton plans on using it to record the students. “I plan on using the newly-built recording studio that we have been gifted with soon,” said Sexton, “It’ll be very soon, I hope.”
Itkin According to worked at Sexton, the school Hollywood will have the annual High School Christmas show this since 1991 year. H20 and PAM and was well students who volunknown as teered to be in the a passionshow have been workate, dediing hard practicing cated teacher to perfect their parts. toward his They are rehearsing students. All I Want for ChristItkin said he mas, Under the Christreturned for mas Tree, and Santa the same Claus is Coming to reason he Town. There are a lot Paul Ikin returns to lead the magnet program. Photo Credit: Nevi Ivana left. “ There more songs than listed, Rihanna and Chris Brown. were some so don’t worry! They’ll “He’s pretty chill,” said stustudents who were showing up have a lot of song varieties. dent Victor Lee, a PAM junior. in the classrooms but not necesSexton had been a teacher After two years of retirement, sarily to learn.” at a few schools before comformer Drama/English teacher Although he retired two years ing to work at Hollywood. He Paul Itkin has returned to ago, Itkin was still active with owns his own home recording the Hollywood High drama studio and he has also been his Hollywood High School as Magnet coordinator. With community. Earlier this year, own producer. Before receivStormy Sacks gone, there is sometime in May, PAM students ing the job here, Sexton was some continuity in having a performed the musical In The a songwriter with a few other previous PAM teacher return. Heights, with his assistance. songwriters for such stars as
With his return, students are eager to see the expertise brought by a man with his reputation. Itkin expressed joy and felt anticipation for this upcoming year and students especially “the younger students because they have so much energy.” Itkin feels that ”this is training ground; it’s all about work; it’s all about collaboration and cooperation.” He expressed all of his sentiments in a sincere manner and seemed to have a clear plan as to how he would execute his changes in the school’s magnet program to bring his vision into fruition. With all of these changes, the future for the magnet program does not seem too stable, but it is now left in the more than capable hands of Itkin, who brings with him a good old- fashioned sense of how a classroom should be run.
NEWS
News 2013
5
Diego Rivera expert educates students on arts and life
Gregorio Luke presents to the art and foreign language classes on the artist’s life and career
Amber cordero
PHOTO EDITOR
Gregorio Luke, the director of the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach, spoke to the foreign language and art classes about Diego Rivera in the school’s auditorium on Monday, Nov. 4. Luke, an expert in Mexican and Latin American art and culture, gave a speech on Diego Rivera and his life. “ Diego Rivera Barrientos and Maria Barrientos had tried many times to have a child. When they finally did, they had twins. The younger twin died and the older one lived to become the great artist we know now as Diego Rivera,” said Luke. Luke spoke about Diego Rivera’s life and how his sur-
rounding influenced his art. Like presented many paintings and how they transformed as the years went by. Students were captivated by Diego
teachers were invited to take their classes. “I personally found it interesting when he spoke about Diego Rivera and his life and his career as a painter,” “I want to continue said Spanish teacher Miguel coming to high schools Martinez-Lafuente. Luke enjoyed speaking in to teach young students front of a young audience and about the Mexican educating them on Mexican American culture, art and Latin-American art. “I want to continue comand tradition,” ing to high schools to teach young students about the Rivera’s paintings. Mexican American culture, art “Looking at Diego Rivera’s and tradition,” said Luke. forbidden painting was amaz ing,” said SAS senior Marvin Renoj. Foreign language and art
Luke presented on Nov. 4 to inform the students on Diego Rivera’s art career Photo Credit: Amber Cordero
Will HHS ‘cut the cord’ for graduation ? Holly san Nicolas Managing Editor
There is yet more turmoil for the graduating class of 2014, only this time it is the debate over who can receive what cords and why. Traditionally, only students with academic honors and involvement with programs like leadership and JROTC, and association with certain clubs are awarded specific cords to wear with their gowns during the graduation ceremony. Teachers and administrators met to discuss the issue and came to no agreement. Kelly Bender, Lead TCA teacher, believes that after three years of work and dedication to TCA, students should automatically receive a cord in recognition of said efforts.
This led to different opinions as to what kinds of students should be rewarded. They met again in October to further discuss the issue and attempt to put it to rest, some believing that more cords spoil the formal tone of the event “All the different colors out there make it look like a party. That, to me, is potentially confusing. Partying comes later, this is graduation we’re talking about here,” said Craig Alessi, assistant principal. Others disagree. “It is a celebration, and it is a party. I think it will be a joy for parents and family to see a burst of color showing the students’ four years of hard
work,” said Judith Bridges, English and drama teacher. But the issue is not just limited to formality. “Cords should be reserved for students who go above and beyond in academics and community service,” said assistant principal Dr. Travis Brandy. “If everyone gets a cord, it loses its honor.” Students themselves, however think that all accomplishments should be recognized equally. “I think every official club should have a cord, because it defines who that graduate is. It’s what makes that graduate unique,” said PAM senior and Thespian Club president Cody Gallegos. “Parents will look up and see kids with
an academic honors cord, a Thespian cord, a key club cord and know that they’re actors, volunteers, and scholars.” But the staff wants to make it clear that students’ achievements are not being belittled. “JROTC kids work hard. Leadership works hard. They all work hard for the community and earn their cords,” said Brandy. “Either everyone does it or we just stick to academics.”
Previous graduates wore different cords for their academic performance. Photo Credit: Class of 2012
Juniors step up to the plate-barely
Class of 2015 is having trouble getting past electing officers and starting fundraising susan cifuentes Julie Contreras Daron Gomez Chronicle Reporters
Juniors early start to fundraise backfired when the council was initially unable to elect its officers. Since Seniors have had a tough time selling with their healthy snacks, the Juniors decided to start their fundraising this year. Unfortunately, juniors have yet to start any fundraising this year because they want to establish all council positions. The decision whether who is elected has been a controversy. Since SAS started the club, many Juniors from other SLCs feel they are not involved enough . “I find it unfair that students from other SLCs besides SAS are not reminded when are meetings. When there
is a varieties of way to announce and remind juniors,” said Daphne Hernandez TCA Junior. The requirements to run for a position discouraged many juniors. When the council only received one application from both the president and vice-president. SAS Samantha Englander was elected president and SAS Laura Moreno for vice-president both by default. The position of treasurer and secretary remain undecided since both have two students running and many juniors
agree it is fair to hold a ballot. Last week’s meeting only had seven students attending and the voting was postponed. “I think of myself more of a representative than a president. We all need to work together and when that happens, we’ll be able to fundraise past the goals we have,” said Samantha. Juniors want to raise money this year, but many can not agree on who is represented. “What the council needs
“I find it unfair that students from other SLCs besides SAS are not reminded when are meetings...”
is serious people with the legitimate credentials and reliability to get things done,” said Nick Kostetsky, MET Junior. Juniors plans to begin their senior fundraiser remains at a halt while they continue to decide who will hold a position in the council. This year’s class sponsor is Dr. Robert Keislar, who decided to take on the job and have the juniors meet every Friday rather than every other week as previous years. They meet on every Friday on room 504.
The Fellow She Tiffany Parker: On the path to stardom Abril Chuvac
CHRONICLE REPORTER
Tiffany Parker is a TCA student who soon will be the class of 2014. The accomplishment she is most proud of is her 3.5 GPA. Although she said that she did not know what her teachers would be surprised to discover about her, she gave the thought some consideration before saying, “I’m a big donor except for blood.” When asked why not blood, her response was “Hell no,” because she had a bad experience in which a nurse took out her blood. Tiffany seems to be a down to earth person, so it is fitting that the fictional character she would like to meet is Cinderella. Her simple answer as to why was because “she is fierce.” Though she does try to turn in all of her homework on time, she, like many, occasionally slacks off. She stated that she does not have a favorite excuse for not turning in homework, that it is all “just a bunch of excuses combined together.” When she does have free time, she likes to spend it by watching movies and singing all day. Since she is a senior, she does have
Fabian Barron: Mr. Unforgettable Fabian Barron is unforgettable. He has the award from the senior reception to prove it. Most people describe the SAS senior as a funny, fabulous and nice person because of his great personality and humor. Fabian has been given many nicknames by his friends, family and teachers such as Ginger, Nosul, Ron Weasely, and Fabulous Fabian. Fabian is a runner and the accomplishment he is most proud of is making it to City Prelims for Cross Country which is the sport he loves. City Prelims is every runners dream that’s why Fabian is proud of that and especially since this is his last year doing Cross Country in high school. In fact, his biggest regret as a student is not joining Cross country when he was a freshman. “I am unconventional, odd and
interesting,” says Fabian as he describes himself. There is only one thing that he would want to change about himself and that is his math skills. According to him math is not his strongest subject but he has always gotten good grades at school. When he was little he saw himself as lawyer, someone fighting for rights, taking part in protests and just making the world a better place. He believes that most adults don’t seem to understand that kids could make a difference because we are all equal.
regrets about high school, inc ing teachers her information conflicts. Tiffany believes tha adults don’t seem to underst is that there are some things can’t live up to, that if they pu expectations on a teen, it can failing those expectations. Three words that she thinks best are glamorous, confiden When asked why a diva, she r everyone calls her diva and t know why. Tiffany believes it started younger. She used to imagine like so many superstars, and former. She hopes to be a gre day like her idols, some of th ers of all times.. One of the biggest changes sh to make about herself is to do her best ability, so she can ac
Valerie herrera CHRONICLE REPORTER
Richard Reyes: He loves turtles
Nemesis Gutierrez CHRONICLE REPORTER
Richard Reyes is a senior in the SAS program and is best described by the phrase “I like turtles,” simply because, he likes turtles. That does not mean he moves slowly, however. One of his proudest accomplishments was getting his first medal in cross country which is one important thing for runners. His favorite excuse for not turning in homework is, “I didn’t feel like it.” This may be his excuse because he feels that most teachers do not know that “kids have their own problems too.” One of his biggest regrets in high school was not spending enough time with his friends during sophomore year. He admits to “being a hermit;” however, he now spends his free time with his friends. Another activity he spends his free time on is running. He has been in cross country for three years and has even trained with his older brother Juan Reyes. "I've been in cross country since 10th grade, but I started
training for it in 9th grade with Ju The fictional character he like to meet would be Sonic the H because he is a blue hedgehog tha Also when he was a child he used ine himself as a firefighter. "My im tion used to revolve around the id superhero. I wasn't completely stu knew that superheroes don't exist. thought that a firefighter would be best thing for someone who can h in need." Although Richard has a f regrets, he feels that he does not h big changes he wishes to make in himself. “I wouldn’t like to chang thing because I’m awesome.”
eiks you want to meet Aaron Ramirez: The astronaut crocodile wrestler
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Dulce Mandujano CHRONICLE REPORTER
Aaron Dean Ramirez is an 11th grade PAM student who is likes to be called Dean. When he was younger, he used to imagine himself something extraordinary, "I used to imagine myself as an astronaut crocodile wrestler, Indian mariache, biologist, MMA fighter from Jupiter." He describes himself a tired and lazy person. The biggest change he would like to make himself is to be able to grow a mustache. He would like to meet Katniss Everdeen from the Hunger Games to ask her why she didn't marry Gale. His biggest regret about high school is not telling the teachers his true feelings about them. Most of his teacher would be suprised to know that he is European. While he does his homework which is not that hard for him and does
not have to bring an excuse, he spend his free time watching his dad sleep. What most adults don't understand about kid is that they are fat and they want to be left alone. It took him a while to state one last question that he brought to the end and says, "the accomplishments I am most proud of is helping Dulce with her interview and obtaining my drivers permit." He is to describes himself as a happy person as well.
Angie Quintanilla: She’s the undiscovered artist erika Salazar CHRONICLE REPORTER
Every person has something unique that makes them who they are, especially SAS junior Angie Quintanilla. She says that the biggest change she would like to make in herself is “to be less shy with people.” Once I started to talk to her, it was noticeable that she wasn’t as timid as she claimed to be, she was actually very interesting to talk to. As she started comfortably talking to me she even admitted that she would love to meet the fictional character Harley Quinn “simply because she’s a badass, clever and gorgeous.” When asked what accomplishment she was most proud of, she cheerfully exclaimed that it was “winning the English plaque for best student in eighth grade.” When it comes to school, Angie is a dedicated student hoping to achieve the honorable. At times, she admits school can be overwhelming and sometimes she forgets to do her homework. When that happens, she confessed that she uses one of the most common excuses, “I forgot it at home.” She then said that adults just don’t seem to understand “the stress of homework.”
When she isn’t worrying about homework, Angie likes to spend her free time “listening to music and painting her heart out.” In ninth grade, when she had more free time on her hands, she was a member of Drumline, but had to quit to focus on her schoolwork. She called quitting drumline one of her “biggest regrets about high school.” Angie is able to fill that hole of regret with her passion for painting. In fact, when she was younger, she said she imagined herself as “an artist.” She acknowledges that because of her timidness, most of her teachers are surprised to find out that she is “very creative.” When I asked her to describe herself in three words she replied “artsy, independent and amicable.” In those three words, she described herself perfectly. I was glad to have met such a wonderful person like Angie.
ollywood Sheiks... Photo Credit: Crimson Chronicle Staff
8 NOVEMBER 2013
ENTERTAINMENT
The Beginning of a New Assassin Assassin’s creed IV the game to own
Josue Perez Hovhannes Maghakyan CHRONICLE REPORTERS
Assassin’s Creed IV: However, the Black Flag, the next chapexclusivity of Uplay ter to Ubisoft Entertainbrought about many ment’s award winning complaints from series Assassin’s Creed, players over the need was released Oct. 29. to buy the passport However, this chapter is when the game is very different from previalready so pricey. In a ous games in the series. smart move, Ubisoft In the past the player decided to release has played on the side the passport for free of the Assassins, but due and players who to events in the previous wish to use Uplay can game, Assassin’s Creed 3, either download one the player is now playfrom the Xbox Live or ing as an Abstergo Agent, PlayStation Network. or better known as a AC IV will be the last Templar. game to have Uplay To recap what has as Ubisoft will be happened over the course discontinuing it with of the series, a secret future games. war has been waging The new game In the new Assassin’s Creed 3, the player is now playing as an Abstergo Agent, or better known as a Templar. over centuries between runs for around $65 Photo Credit: GAMESTOP the freedom-driven Assasand about $60 when been implemented into the cruise to La Havana with a maps they play on, what abilisins and the power-seeking used, depending on where you game that has never been used sea shanty from your crew or ties sets can be used, how long Templars. Since the beginning buy it. Exclusive content also before. A player can smoothly for a bit of privateering. The game sessions are, and many of the series the main characvaries between which store transition from a rugged weather system has become more things. ter, Desmond Miles, has been a jungle terrain to a beautiful the game is bought at. Stores even more intense than before. Like many modern games, present-day runaway assassin. cove to your ship without a such as GameStop, Best Buy, Before, a rogue wind or wave AC IV has an app tied to it that Desmond was put into a Walmart, or Amazon have difload screen in between each would throw you off course allows you to hook up your machine called the Animus other. a little, but now it is better game to your Apple or Android ferent exclusive content that to relive the memories of his Environments in the game to stay away from storms. device and access all your stats the game comes with. PlayStaancestors Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, tion users also have a treat have also had a huge change Maelstroms, waterspouts, and and items from your tablet Ezio Auditore da Firenze, and in-store for them because they to them. Jungle, sea, and city harsh rains have created an or phone. So now, instead of Ratonhnhakéton or Connor receive 60 minutes more of have all been improved and an all new obstacle that could seconstantly pausing the game Kenway, using his DNA. In gameplay. underwater environment has verely damage you, your crew, to view certain items, you can each of his ancestors’ memoAssassin’s Creed has been also been added allowing you and your ship. look at your tablet or phone ries the player has learned a an amazing series filled with to go down and plunder for The story mode is not the and fluidly play your game. little more about this secret mystery, excitement, betrayal, treasure. Many new animals only one to receive an overThe items it lets you look at war and their role in it. But action, and suspense. AC IV have been also added to the haul, multiplayer has also been are treasure maps, a progresDesmond’s time has ended does not seem like it will fall land, air, and water. revamped. New characters, sion tracker for your game, an and a Templar has taken over short of its predecessors. UbiThose who have ever abilities, weapons, maps, and Animus database, and Kenhis position and is reliving soft has created another award played Assassin’s Creed 3 and game modes have been added way’s fleet. Desmond’s memories. winning game that any true AC sailed out into the Atlantic along with a new feature, A recent change done to In AC IV there have been fan will be proud to own. Ocean you know how the GameLab. GameLab gives the the game is the exclusion of many new changes ranging weather system and navigaplayer the power to create the Uplay Passport that alfrom the new main character tion is on the high seas, but their own game types by letlowed players access to Uplay, to his surroundings and from ACIV pushes this feature to ting them create their own a service that held exclusive the combat system to the new levels. You are now able settings and rules to already information and content for weather system. to take your ship out whenexisting game modes. Players their games. A new transition system has ever you want either for a nice will be able to decided what
Eli Roth’s The Green Inferno thrills audiences with a bone-chilling experience This year AFI fest shocked audiences from around the world with their midnight screening of The Green Inferno
Vanessa garcia
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The American Film Institute’s 27th annual festival ended Thursday night wrapping up their eight-day movie celebration. The AFI fest was held right in Hollywood's famous movie theaters free for all the moviegoers to enjoy the works of many filmmakers. The AFI is an institute that helps preserve the history of the motion picture industry by screening works of art and honoring the masterminds behind them. In their eight-day celebration, they screened a selection of foreign, American, independent, experimental, short and documentary films. One interesting screening was Eli Roth's latest film The Green Inferno. The Green Inferno was an absolutely top notch gruesome film that had me on my edge of my seat all throughout. The movie was inspired by Ruggero Deodato's Cannibal Holocaust film, both being head-to-head for their bone-chilling masterpiece. The Green Inferno is about a group of college students that traveled to the Amazon jungle to protest their environmental concerns. Things take a turn when
Eli Roth’s The Green Inferno was screened at the AFI fest last week at the Chinese Theater. Photo Credit: IMDB
the student's plane crashes on their way back and they fall into the hands and menu of a native tribe that still practice cannibalism. The performances by cast Lorenza Izzo, Ariel Levy, Daryl Sabara, Kirby Bliss Blanton, Sky Ferreira, Magda Apanowicz, Aaron Burns, Ignacia Alla-
mand, and Magdalena Apanowicz all made the movie feel so real. It was great that Roth gave an introduction for all of the characters, because I began to care about them and although they aren't "real," knowing their fate in the movie really left a mark on me. So as
I watched this movie, I began to read and hear all the troubles, and the risk the cast went through really made me appreciate their wanting to really put on a show for the enjoyment of their viewers. Roth outdid himself with such a successful work of art. His movies such as Hostel and Cabin Fever were both terrifyingly good, but he definitely upped the ante of modern horror with The Green Inferno. From the music to the images, The Green Inferno satisfies those who are up for a good classic horror film. It will shock anyone with its gruesome graphics and horrify one with the intense chilling music. The Green Inferno sure made a mark in the cannibal cinema and for those who are fans of his films they will really enjoy it and for those who have never seen his movies or are not fans are up for a big surprise. So horror moviegoers, prepare yourself for the ride of your life when The Green Inferno hits theaters.
ENTERTAINMENT
It is finally over Ana Amador
The Hunger meets the End in the game A comparsion of how the movie differs from the book in several ways erika Salazar CHRONICLE REPORTER
Ender’s Game
The Book Ender’s Game is an enticing military science fiction novel written by Orson Scott Card and published in 1985. The novel is set in a time where humanity begins to further explore space with interplanetary space flight, along the way encountering some intergalactic problems with aliens. These aliens are known as “Buggers” whom Earth has confronted twice in war, because Earth established a forward base in the asteroid Eros. In order to confront this alien race, three opposing ruling parties (the Hegemon, Polemarch, and Strategos) form a peace between each other and establish the International Fleet to fight against the Buggers. Fortunately, they were successful in those two wars, but they take precautionary measures to be ready for a third invasion from the buggers. One of the precautionary measures the International Fleet takes is the set up of the Battle School, a specialized program to subject children with the best skillful minds to rigorous training. One of their students is none other than Andrew “Ender” Wiggin the protagonist of this novel. Ender is already dubbed as the outcast for being the third child under Earth’s twochild policy. Of course, he is a very emotionally challenged character, yet at the same time he is so strong that he doesn’t even notice it. International Fleet Colonel Hryum Graff notices Ender’s callous yet sympathetic persona and encourages him to stay in Battle School. At just 10 years old, Ender is promoted to Command School and is mentored by former war hero Mazer Rackham. Ender undergoes simulations of fights with buggers. Soon discovering that his final simulation was the real deal, wiping out almost an entire bugger nation, also finding out that he killed two of his bullies, Bonzo and Stilson. Upon the realization of this, Ender is devastated. As repayment for the destruction he has caused Ender promises the Queen of the buggers to reinstate their alien race in another planet. The Movie It has taken twenty eight years for Ender’s Game to finally make it’s big-screen debut on November 1, 2013. Directed by Gavin Hood and one of the producers is the book’s author, Orson Scott Card. It also also includes a star-studded cast of Asa Butterfield as Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, Academy Award Nominee’s Harrison Ford as Colonel Hryum Graff, Abigail Breslin as Valentine Wiggin,Viola Davis as Major Gwen Anderson, and Hailee Steinfeld as Petra Arkanian. There are many key differences between the movie and the book. One of the most obvious one is Ender’s age; in the book he is ten years old, whereas in the movie he looks older. Another difference is the name of the alien race,while in the book they are called “Buggers,” in the movie they are referred to as “Formics.” Also, one pivotal discrepancy is the lack to often mention two fundamental characters, Valentine Wiggin and Peter Wiggin. Overall, Ender’s Game conveys the main ideas of the book and sticks to its theme of the concept of games, ruthlessness and humanity. Plus, with its realistic special effects and visuals it is a spectacular movie.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
The Book Catching Fire is the second book in the Hunger Games Trilogy written by Suzanne Collins. Since its 2009 publication it has been a popular novel amongst young adults. The book picks up where the last one leaves off, where Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark have returned to District 12 after controversially winning the 74th annual Hunger Games. Katniss and Peeta haven’t really spoken to each other after the Hunger Games. As per tradition the victors must go on a Victory Tour to be presented to all the Districts, entitling Katniss and Peeta to fake a smile every time they are present among the districts. The 75th Hunger Games comes around with a special twist, that happens every twenty-five years known as the “Quarter Quell.” All the past victors of each district will be the only ones eligible to enter the random drawing of the tributes. Katniss and Peeta are once again entered into the Hunger Games. These Hunger Games involve tributes of all ages and the arena has an ocean-type setting. In the games, Katniss and Peeta develop unexpected friendships most notably with 24-year old Finnick Odair and 80-year old Mags both from District 4. They endure a tactical, violent Hunger Games and in the end there’s an unexpected outcome. From there on, a rebellion has commenced against the Capital and all the planning is occurring in the thought-to-be-destroyed District 13. The Movie The second installment of the Hunger Games trilogy is expected to equal or exceed the success of the first movie. The director of the first movie, Gary Ross, did not return to directed the second movie; Francis Lawrence replaced him. All the main characters will return to portray their roles like Best Actress Academy Award Winner Jennifer Lawrence (Katniss Everdeen). Of course, some new and beloved characters will be introduced like Finnick Odair portrayed by Sam Claflin. The first movie has received generally positive reviews from both critics and audiences alike, so their are high hopes lying on this movie. Since there is so much hype surrounding Catching Fire, the tickets have been on pre-sale since Oct. 1 for its release on Nov. 22. Do you prefer the movie or the book? Are you among those who have pre-ordered their tickets for Catching Fire?
NOVEMBER 2013
9
CHRONICLE REPORTER
Allegiant by Veronica Roth is a young adult novel that has got as much science fiction as romance. This third installment to the Divergent book series, whose movie adaptation is on its way to movie theaters, is 526 pages of action, romance, and an ending that had me so shocked I had to put the book down for a while and make sure I wasn’t dreaming, or having a nightmare. Unlike the 1st, & 2nd books this one jumps back & forth from the point of view of the heroine Beatrice Prior, or Tris, to the heroines boyfriends point of view Tobias Eaton, also known as four. In this “world” these people are all aware that theres more to the world than their little piece of land, they have a border that separates them from what they call the “outside.” In the second book we see th Once Tris and Tobias make it to the outside they learn many new things that shake their beliefs and make them feel worthless and small, they learn things like where their city started, why, and Tris also learns a lot about her dead mother’s’ life and how she came to be who she was. Tobias learns some shocking news and the more Tris, Tobias, and their friends learn about what’s going on outside their city the faster they start to realize that the world outside doesn’t exactly need their help but more of a reality check. The people outside the city are prejudiced against GDs--genetically damaged people
Gaby Cordova CHRONICLE REPORTER
Mara Dyer is a seventeen year old girl who moves to Florida after a terrible incident that changes her life. Now she has a new fresh start at a new life. However, memories of the incident still haunt her. She keeps seeing things that make no sense. It makes her think that she is mentally unstable. Her parents do not believe her and it makes her feel more insane. Worst of all she thinks that she can kill people by just imagining their deaths. She does not know what she is capable of and is scared by her own self. Good thing British boy, Noah Shaw, helps her on the path of self discovery as he discovers his own gift as well. In this captivating psychological thriller it will keep you wondering who is Mara Dyer exactly? Mara Dyer is a girl who believes she is losing her sanity,
and our Heroes are confused and distraught because they can’t seem to figure out which side is wrong and which side is right since they’re close close with people from both sides of the argument and even stand at different sides of the argument at one point in the book. This book plays around with the idea that maybe your opinions aren’t always the right ones, and asks questions like how do you know if you should you stand down, or fight back?, how do you know you’re on the right side of a war? The main idea of these books, though sometimes hidden, is knowing where you come from and the fact that sometimes finding a place to fit in once you’re an individual can be very hard, or very easy. This epic, preposterous, & extremely shocking conclusion to the three-part series is full of thought, feeling, romance and violence, which is always wars greatest companion.
she is lost within herself. She is confused and horrified of what she is. She is a girl that wants her normal life back but she knows that will never happen with the power she believes is a curse. Most of all, she is a girl who is finding herself. She is unbecoming. She knows she is not normal because she has a newfound power. She is slowly creating who she wants to be. She is revolutionizing. You will get lost in the world of Mara Dyer and not want to put the book down. You will want to reread the book over and over again trying to understand Mara Dyer. Even though she is special she is like most teens, lost and confused. She can be a relatable character to some readers and her snarky comments will make you smile. It is a wonderful, beautifully told story that cannot be missed by anyone.
10 November 2013
SPORTS
athletes of the month Josie Medrano Grade : 12th SLC : SAS CC: How do you feel being Athlete of the Month? JM: I’m kinda shocked and happy.
one watches how you run. It’s just you.
CC: Why do you think you were chosen for Athlete of the Month? JM: I honestly don’t know; it’s a huge shocker. CC: How long have you been running X Country? JM: For two years this is my second year.
CC: What do you like most about X Country? JM: Everything, I love X Country, I like it better than track to be honest. We go out on a three miles run, you’re around nature, and no
CC: Who is your athletic hero? Why? JM: It would have to be my coaches, Coach Adolfo Carcano and Assistant Coach Fernando Jauregu Well, my assistant coach because he has the same injury that I have and because he’s being helpful. And my coach because he’s been through a lot and he still supports us. CC: Do you see yourself playing X Country in the future? Why or Why not? JM: I‘m actually thinking about it, hopefully I do.
Kevin Castaneda Grade : 12th SLC : TCA
CC: How do you feel being Athlete of the Month? KC: I feel surprised.
CC: Why do you think you were chosen for Athlete of the Month? KC: I have no clue at all. I’ve been working hard. CC: How long have you been playing X Country? KC: For two years, this is my second year.
Tiaja McKnight Grade : 11th SLC : PAM CC: How do you feel being Athlete of the Month? TM: I feel happy, excited, and surprised. I appreciate that I was picked out of everyone else.
CC: Why do you think you were chosen for Athlete of the Month? TM: I think because I put my “all” into the game. I love my team and I bring my “A” game. CC: How long have you been playing volleyball? TM: For about three to four years.
CC: What do you like most about volleyball?
TM: I like that’s fun, it takes a toll on me and it feels better after playing.
CC: Who is your athletic hero? Why? TM: Destinee Hooker is my athletic hero because she is a Olympic volleyball player.
CC: Do you see yourself playing volleyball in the future? Why or why not? TM: At the moment yes, in college, but not sure after that. I have two scouts looking at me right now and it feels amazing that they are looking at me! Although yeah, I’m not sure about after college.
Interview by : Josue Perez and Abril chuvac
CC: What do you like most about X Country? KC: That it takes a lot of hard work to accomplish your goals. CC: Who is your athletic hero? Why? KC: Galen Rupp, he’s an Olympic runner for the USA. I like that he doesn’t show any weakness and doesn’t give up.
CC: Do you see yourself playing X Country in the future? Why or Why not? KC: I’m not sure yet if I’m going to play X Country in the future.
news/ sports
november 2013
11
Aca-Deca needs motivated students to take test William Guevara CHRONICLE REPORTER
The advent of the 2013 school year brings with it a new series of problems for the Academic Decathlon team. The team will be representing Hollywood’s students at competitions and been rigorously preparing for this November. Lee Tuomala, the team coach and physics and chemistry teacher said, “It has been a little more challenging because the class was cancelled.” The team is doing the best it can to keep up with the pace
of the events without having the luxury of class to practice anymore, and are feeling the effects of this, but staying focused on the task. With season coming up the team is staying optimistic about the competitions. The subject of this Academic Decathlon will be World War I, a broad subject therefore the students will be paying close attention in their history classes. Tuomala said that “since the program is not doing as well as it could” he is making the stu-
Students gets their hands dirty For the good of the environment Gerardo Chan CHRONICLE REPORTER
Josie Medrano, SAS senior, used for the garden, as well as has started The Environmental fundraising, if successful. ComClub to promote the care of the post promotes a healthy garden, environment. The club meets in and many people desire it for room 209 on their own Tuesdays dur“I plan on putting recy- gardens. ing lunch. It would cling bins and compost be sold Josie wishes to aid the around the bins inside the school, environment maintaining our school’s communithroughout the ty directly garden, informing stucommunity to people, as well as the dents on their impact on or maybe school. a farmer’s the environment,” “I plan on market. putting recyJosie’s cling bins and plans also compost bins include inside the school, maintaining taking field trips, and cleaning our school’s garden, informing up around the area. She plans students on their impact on the to do beach clean ups first and environment,” she said. then attempting bigger projects The compost bins would be in the future.
dents start meeting after school, and start studying more on their own. Since this last school year has had more unprecedented changes, the students are trying to challenge themselves more to meet the higher standards of the Decathlon and show a higher caliber of thinking. Tuomala invites new and eager students to join this program and contact him in room 406. The program now only has eight active members to participate in
the Nov. 16 scrimmage. There is still plenty of time for the team and any aspiring members to join. To join a student must have at least a C average and be willing to be part of a team for mutual growth. This month has been very active for members trying to accommodate for these new changes and look forward to seeing new faces. The competition is scheduled for the last Saturday of January and the first Saturday of February. The team is representing
the intellectual integrity of the whole school so anyone students who believes that we can achieve more should be eager to join this team. The team is “challenging but worth it, and it pays off in the end,” said team member Vanessa Huerta, senior.
do.” SAS NEWS Get excited because SAS is restarting its SAS Brigade club where it will help plan activities and think about new electives . The new electives will be offered to the students next year. Also, the club will design shirts for SAS. The club’s president is Erin Gannett, vice president isKeitty Calderon, secretary is Amber Sanchez and the treasure is Diego Tamayo. The club will meet every other Wednesday starting from November 6. A parent group has also been created to support SAS. Lee Rossi one of the parents involved in the parent group said that she joined the group because, “I want to support SAS and I love the school.” Also, she wants to learn how the parent group and SAS can work
together and communicate with one another to get what SAS needs. Lately, the parent group has donated school supplies, like notebooks, paper and ink. The next meeting will be on Dec. 4 and parents will discuss homework policies. One of the parents also recommended for teachers to create an Amazon wishlist. Karen Cusolito, English teacher and lead teacher of SAS, said teachers got a cordless vacuum because of the Amazon wishlist. The cordless vacuum will help make cleaning the floors much easier because the custodians sometimes do not sweep up the floors. So, tell your parents to come the next parent meeting to stay involve in what is happening in SAS.
Keeping up with NMA and SAS
Christian lehnig Gaby Cordova CHRONICLE REPORTERS
This semester the New Media Academy has had many field trips and has had extraordinary opportunities of training. MET has been on numerous field trips including going to the legendary Grauman’s Chinese Theater, Columbia Film School, and Woodbury University. From learning film in class, to experiencing the real live action, New Media Academy has been offering many hands on experience in the real world. “It is different from all of the other SLC’s, we are granted advanced learning from numerous professionals that really impact our futures,” said Lloyd Ea, a junior in the New Media Academy. “I hope we are continuously allowed to get a higher level education from people that are really passionate about what they
Crossing the line as champs SMIRNA GALINDO CHRONICLE REPORTER
The Cross Country team made it to the league finals, with Josie Medrano taking first place for the JV girls team. Josie Medrano made it to city finals and will compete in a few weeks at Pierce College. “I am very proud of our girls team, said teammate Ashley Carillo, a senior. “We are very small but worked together to bring home the title of league champions.” Many of the girls from the varsity team made it in the top ten, adding points for the overall team. Surrounded by well equipped teams, the
Sheiks seemed nervous. “My team has this and whether we lose or not they are great runners,” said coach Adolfo Carcano. The JV boys made it in the top ten winners. “Don’t think about the negatives just the positives about this race,” said Carcano. The Cross Country team sets record for being this year’s league champions.
The Cross Country team sets record for being this year’s league champions. Photo Credit: Smirna Galindo
Better luck next year Sheik football Andrea Perez Joanna martinez CHRONICLE REPORTER
Sheiks lost their first and last playoff game 42 to 7 against Polytechnic High School last Friday night. This brought football season to an end with a record of 3-8. Sheiks made the playoffs after their win against Roybal 15-14 in the last game of their season. “This year was a difficult for us, we had to commute to different schools to practice and we were not able to take all the equipment and we had little to work with,” said Coach Frank Galvan. Erick Merida score the 7-point touchdown that night. While the JV team ended their season early after the homecoming game against Belmont High after more than half the team were grade cut. The JV team did not have the number of players needed, forcing them to forfeit to against Bernstein. Football season is officially over with a win of 3 out of 11 games. Photo Credit: Nemesis Gutierrez