Sept issue 2015 by Hollywood High

HOLLYWOOD HIGH • HOME OF THE SHEIKS

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

VOLUME XIII ISSUE I SEPTEMBER 2015

Beloved basketball assistant dies at 41 FRANKLIN fRANCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Yancy Carter, assistant to the girls’ basketball coach, died Sept. 13 of a stroke. He was 41 years old. A memorial service will be held for him at Poinsettia Park tomorrow, Sept. 26. Carter volunteered to assist with the girls’ basketball team and last year; he also helped coach the softball team during their season last spring. Coach Lou Herron said that he was always a man of great conversations who “always told you how he felt” and always volunteered to help Herron in what he needed. “One thing I am going to remember is his giving. He gave of himself a lot. Also [I will remember] going out to have dinner with him after a basketball game or a softball game to discuss strategy,” said Herron on Carter’s dedication

to what he did. Herron said he was like his eyes and ears, always following what was going on in the games to not only talk about strategy later on but to find where the girls needed that extra motivation to succeed in the games. During most of his volunteering, Carter would lend a hand in the conditioning of the girls’ basketball team, winning the trust and respect of many of the girls there. A few girls currently on the team said he had willingness to help them improve when Yancy Carter volunteered to help the girls’ he saw they were stuck. basketball and softball teams. “He would help us when we were stuck with something would show us the right way to do it,” said Leah Sutherland, or [when we] couldn’t figure something out [and] needed to PAM junior. “That’s how he do something the right way, he helped all of us.”

SAS senior Tania Mateo said she is the type of player she is because of him. “He taught me everything I know,” she said. When she started out playing basketball her sophomore year, Carter took the time to teach her certain skills that she could use out on the court. This was his way of pushing her to improve during games and she said it is something she is grateful for. As a person, Carter was said to be seen as someone who always had something to say and always liked to have long conversations with both Harron and the girls. His charismatic attitude even caused some of the players’ family members to become fond of him. “He was [personally] a part of my family [and] he was so popular. Everybody [in my

family] knows Yancy,” said Jossie Hernandez, PAM junior. Mateo also said that Carter was more of a friend as well because he always took notice when something was bothering the girls and wanted to be there for them and always managed to find the right words to say so that they felt better. “He harbored himself and tried to help you in any way he could. [He] wasn’t worried about what he was getting paid for or if he got recognition. He was a giving person,” said Herron. Carter, known simply as coach Yancy, was a generous individual whose charisma and dedication to his work earned him respect from those who interacted with him. It is clear that he will be missed by his team.

Melting fields causes huge problem for Fairfax Lions practice in Sheik territory during renovations of their field vanessa centeno SPORTS EDITOR

Friday night lights are back! With games every week on the field, Fairfax High plays on Sheik territory during the renovation of their melting field. The summer’s heat began to melt the rubber infills that make up the Fairfax field. The football team was affected drastically, with players’ cleats

sticking to the ground, the field soon became a safety hazard. The field was stripped down and is being replaced, but during the time it is being renovated Fairfax is using the Hollywood High field. According to Athletic Director, Raul Grijalva, the field will be used by Fairfax for one more more

week or until the field is completely fixed. “[We are receiving] proceeds from the ticket sales and concession stands,” said Principal Alejandra Sanchez. Fairfax has been repaying the use of the field by giving a certain percentage of profits gained at every game to Hollywood. It was not asked from

Fairfax to provide funds for allowing the use of the field, but as “good neighbors,” according to Sanchez, Fairfax generously offered to repay the favor. “[Fairfax] let us use their fields and we weren’t charged,” said Sanchez. When the Hollywood field was being redone, the football team used the Fairfax field without having to pay

anything in return. “We are very grateful for Hollywood allowing us to use the field,” said Fairfax football coach Juan Solorio. The field will be occupied for the next week by the Fairfax football team until further notice.

AP results show room for improvement New plans to improve scores and develop self-confidence in students FRANKLIN fRANCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Advanced Placement scores were released in July, and out of 618 exams administered at Hollywood High, only 148 received a passing score of a three or above, with most of the passing scores coming from the AP Spanish Language and Culture, AP English Language, and AP English Literature exams. Results showed an improvement, particularly in both English exams, where about 20% of the students from each exam managed to receive a qualifying score. As for the other subjects, the scores fluctuated between the different subjects. “There was an improvement

in English. Spanish has always been very stable,” said Principal Alejandra Sanchez. She also noted that AP Calculus also had an improvement in both AB and BC exams. New strategies will be used to try and get students more comfortable with the curriculum and exam so that pass rates can gradually rise as years go by.

2 qSports: Battle for Sunset Preview

for it from the colleges of their choice. This year, about 27% of the student population at school is enrolled in the Advanced Placement program. Getting students to join the program is not an issue, but what is being worked on is the rigor of the COLLEGE BOARD courses. Sanchez said that the main “Rigor is not more work or goal is to allow all students to more difficult. It is not about have access to these courses giving more handouts. It is just so that they too can have an more cognitively challenging attempt at passing these tests tasks. Also to provide differand possibly receiving credit

entiation for students,” said Sanchez. The point of working on how rigorous the AP program is so that both staff and students approach these tests using new strategies that will ultimately help them feel more confident in taking the exams in May. One approach is trying to get students more involved in the AP Readiness program at UCLA. “The school is paying for a bus for this month. We are trying to have people sign up so we get maybe 60 kids to go. UCLA offers the bus and so we have to get enough students who need transportation. We are making some investments.”

3 qOp/Ed: Council meetings a waste? 5 qFeatures: Sheik of the month 6 qNews: Library receives grant

Visit us online at www.TheCrimsonChronicle.com

2 SEPTEMBER 2015

SPORTS

Athletes of the month

tyree moore, TCA sENIOR, fOOTBALL Crimson Chronicle: How did you start playing football? Tyree Moore: I started playing football because I was introduced to it by friends in the fifth grade and I really wanted to play football so I joined. Crimson Chronicle: How does it feel being Athlete of the Month? Tyree Moore: It makes me feel good, makes me feel accomplished that I’ve been

doing my job right. Crimson Chronicle: Is there any athlete you look up to? Tyree Moore: I would say I look up to Adrian Peterson. He’s a good running back. That’s why I try to play like him. Crimson Chronicle: What would you say to any athlete considering playing football? Tyree Moore: If you do it just give it your best, give it your

Nicole savluk, SAS SENIOR, volleyball

Crimson Chronicle: How did you start playing volleyball? Nicole Savluk: I always had a love for the sport and when [I] entered high school I already knew that I wanted to play volleyball. I just had to try out and I ended up loving the sport more than I thought I did. Crimson Chronicle: How does it feel being Athlete of the

Month? Nicole Savluk: I wasn’t expecting it. I am really happy I was chosen for it. Crimson Chronicle: Is there any athlete you look up to? Nicole Savluk: Matt Anderson. He’s a great overall player. Crimson Chronicle: What would you say to any athlete considering playing volleyball? Nicole Savluk: It’s definitely a

mental game and it’s all about your mentality. If you don’t have the right attitude or idea about the sport then it just won’t be your type of sport. It won’t be your type of game. Crimson Chronicle: Was there a struggle you had to overcome pertaining to volleyball? Nicole Savluk:Definitely keeping up a good attitude because

Barristers on Sept.18 brought old memories, because it was the game that ended their

game on Barrister grounds 4335, and keeping their winning streak.

all, 100% every rep. Crimson Chronicle: Was there a struggle you had to overcome pertaining to football/volleyball? Tyree Moore: Grades, always. I had to make sure I had the grades to play not just before football season even during football season so I could continue, I can’t let my team down.

you cannot play well unless you have a good mentality with the game. If you throw out bad energy you’re going to receive bad energy during the game.

INTERVIEW AND PHOTO CREDIT: MORGAN MARTIN & SILAS SAMAYOA

Battle for Sunset begins tonight vanessa centeno

SPORTS EDITOR

The Battle for Sunset Boulevard is tonight, with the boys currently holding the title and an undefeated streak this season, they will defend the paddle against the Bernstein Dragons. The Battle for Sunset has been a tradition between the two football teams, who play to win the paddle. The Sheiks won the paddle last year making it the fifth time they took the title from the Dragons who have won it for four years. The series will continue today, but for the first time in two years the game will be played on Hollywood territory, where the Bernstein boys will attempt to redeem themselves from a humiliating loss last year of 32-13. Facing the Marshall High

Quarterback David Rothenberg scores a touchdown. Photo Credits: VANESSA CENTENO

undefeated streak last season. The varsity boys changed their fate this year winning the

Their game against Wilson High on Sept.11 ended in a final score of 33-12, with two

who knows? We might be the hardest to beat.” Duran also said that the team has “a lot of new members” who are “dedicated and

record. In the Sotomayor game on Sept. 24, they had a bit of competition, still winning, but with 25-23 in the first set and 25-17 in the second.

touchdowns by quarterback David Rothenberg, two by wide receiver Surmier Cunningham, and one by defensive back Deonte Clayton. On Sept. 3 the boys played their first game away from their home field against View Park on Dorsey’s field, due to difficulties with View Park’s field. It was the first game this year that successfully brought home a win, with a final score of 41-22. The first game of the season against Hoover High on Aug. 28, started the season off with a game that blew the Tornadoes back home with the cleanest win of the season, 44-0. “I’m very excited about how the kids play, they’re young but came through with flying

colors, so I’m proud,” said varsity coach Frank Galvan. The JV boys have had a rougher start this season, not yet being able to win a game. The boys began their season against the Hoover Tornadoes on Aug. 28 losing 16-6, followed by a tied game against the Wilson Mules on Sept.11, the closest score of their season 14-14. On Sept. 17 the boys faced the Barristers, losing 33-14, but hope to grow as a team and get their first victory against the Dragons later today. The red storm is stronger than ever and the countdown has started to reveal this year’s winners of the Battle for Sunset.

Lady Sheiks face Cobras Tuesday MORGAN MARTIN

CHRONICLE REPORTER

The Lady Sheiks have a record of 3-0 and will take on Contreras on Sept. 29. The girls defeated the Sotomayor Wolves on Sept. 24, ruling the court the first set ending in 25-15, the second 25-18, and third 25-20. The girls destroyed the Hawkins’ Hawks on Sept. 18, winning all three sets first 25-7, second 25-9, and third 25-12. They played East Valley on Sept. 16 and defeated the Falcons in each set 25-15. Jasmine Duran, PAM Senior and team co-captain, feels really good going into this year’s season. She said, “Ronald F. Kennedy High may be their toughest team to beat, but a lot of schools lost their seniors who were there for four years so,

Nicole Savluk prepares to bump the ball. Photo Credits: MORGAN MARTIN

focused.” Duran feels cool and confident charging into volleyball season saying “she is very proud of her team this year.” The JV girls have a 3-0

The Sheiks came out strong against Hawkins conquering the Hawks in the first two sets, ultimately winning

the game. They commanded the court in the two starting sets against the East Valley Falcons, starting off their season with a bang. Leydy Sosa, TCA Senior and JV Captain, wants her team to work on “their hustles, calling the balls, and being committed.” Many of the JV girls this year are brand new, but “they’re learning and they [have become] so strong.” JV feels strong as a team and Leydy said she feels a connection to her team. “JV works really hard and they are really committed and that makes them really special,” she said. To Leydy, it is important for her team to have confidence and “know they’re going to win” so that they can

“get those wins.” The girls held try-outs at the end of the last school year and practiced over the summer in order to prepare for a grueling season. This year, the team added many new players to accommodate for the loss of seniors last year. Some players had never played volleyball prior to try-outs and fell in love with the sport over the summer while practicing. The team coach, Scott LeWinter, is also proud of his team and said that he is “looking forward to this season a lot.” He also mentioned the new players on the team, referring to them as “amazing talent” and “very inspiring.”

OPINION/EDITORIAL

September 2015

Staff Editorial: Seeking truth one issue at a time The Crimson Chronicle is a student-run publication and has the responsibility of providing Sheiks with the truth about the news on campus and “exercise[s the] freedom of speech and of the press including, but not limited to, the use of bulletin boards, the distribution of printed materials or petitions, the wearing of buttons, badges, and other insignia” as it is stated in the California Education Code Section 48907. This year, the Crimson Chronicle staff will continue to provide truths to the student body that are supported by reliable sources and will never

print rumors in our publications. Following Education Code 48907, our staff will assign editors who will “be responsible for assigning and editing the news, editorial, and feature content of [our] publications subject to the limitations of this section.” All material written will be revised and rewritten until it can be professionally presented in our publication to establish our credibility. There is always something to report on campus whether it’s on sporting events or numerous yearly performances. As we continue

to cover these events, we will also turn attention to the academic achievement of the school to report on and recognize all kinds of students.

Centered in the heart of Hollywood, Chronicle reporters will search for the stories that hide both within our halls and beyond our walls. Reporters will safely explore the local area, hunt for stories and ask people in the area about their own stories, giving our publication a sense of originality. Our goal is to provide students with new and fresh stories that will draw them into a new world, complete with truth and a little adventure. The Crimson Chronicle will continue to be funded through advertisements sold to local businesses by the

We will work to find original stories We will work to explore the student body and conduct interviews with students to find out more about our fellow Sheiks as a way to draw readers in with interesting stories that can add a sense of individuality to our campus.

ERIKA BUOT PHOTO EDITOR

Senior year has finally arrived for the Class of 2016 with big events and big decisions. This is the year where everything is happening at the same time and a year with many events to look forward to like prom. The question is: how much of the decisions are truly ours? What is the point of having a student council if the choices we make do not come into full effect? Prom was a big issue during the student council meetings for the Class of 2016. There was espe-

decisions, but when we try, things are chosen for us. Last year’s cabinet tried to be a voice for us, but no cabinet member was aware of this “administrative act” over the summer.

Assistant Principal Samuel Dovlatian said that our opinion was considered, but then why weren’t we at least made aware of what happened over the summer? No cabinet member received a message about this action. So it makes us wonder if our meetings were

a waste and if we are taken seriously enough as students. Announcements have been made regarding elections for senior class officers. So now we are back at the beginning trying to hold meetings, but now are they even worth it? Based on last year’s experience can we believe that decisions will be made by the senior class president or will we face more administrative decisions? It is understandable that administrators will not always agree with the students, but in cases like this “prom issue” it is obviously best to discuss a solution together as adults rather than making unannounced actions over a break. A majority of students voted for a Saturday, but even that didn’t happen.

the Crimson Chronicle Staff

members of our staff so that we can continue to provide our printed publication to the student body free of charge. This year we will be meeting in Room 300 Editor-in-Chief during sixth period evFranklin franco ery day. We will encourCOPY EDITOR age Sheiks to submit EStefania Valencia a letter to the editor OPINION EDITOR of about 150 words to Clemencia Solis our email: hhsthecrimfeatures editor sonchronicle@gmail. AMAAny Ruiz com. All letters submitSports editor ted must be signed but Vanessa centeno names can be withheld Photo Editors from print issues upon Erika Buot & Jun Lee the student’s request. Finance Manager We are looking forward Silas SAmayoa to continue being a voice for the students, by the Chronicle reporterS students. aNGELINE ANGULO mERISANDA FINELY kATEHRINE GARCIA ANTONIO GOMEZLIMA A compromise could haveALEXIS GONZALEZ been having prom on a MARLENI LOPEZ Saturday even if it was a MORGAN MARTIN

Was junior class council a waste of time? cially a lot of talk about the location and the day. The cabinet went as far as taking surveys on what kind of location they wanted and what day of the week they wanted prom to be on. Finally the majority voted for prom to be on a Saturday. The next step was to find the venue.After scouting different venues, the cabinet presented them during a meeting and nearly 100 students came to an agreement on one. Now it is the new year, and we find out that through an “administrative decision” prom will be held at a different venue on a Friday. Now it brings into question if our opinion was really considered. The issue is not so much about the venue, but how it was handled. We are told that for senior year, we have to grow up and make

MARY PARONYAN LORENA ROBELO DIANA RYABCHIKOVA JOSINE TORRES DESTINY WILEYYANCY jU HYUN YEO ESMERALDA ZAMBARNO

different venue. Data from the polls proves the preferences of the students for prom. THECRIMSONCHRONICLE. Now if we compare COM the preferences to the For exclusive stories and reality, how fair does it videos look? Time was taken to gather this information, so administration should ADVISER: at least look at what we Karen Cusolito want. This decision on the prom venue and date may be final, but it shouldTHE STUDENT NEWSPAPER. THE CRIMSON CHRONICLE, OF HOLLYhave been handled differ- WOOD HIGH SCHOOL IS A PUBLIC ently. Next time admin- FORUM, WITH ITS STUDENT EDITOistrators tells us that it RIAL BOARD MAKING ALL DECISIONS is our responsibility to CONCERNING ITS CONTENTS. the newspaper operates under calimake our own decisions, fornia education code 48907 they should live up to whiCH guaranteE free expresthat word as well and let sion for students. LETTERS TO us make senior year the THE EDITOR ARE WELCOMe AND WILL BE PUBLISHED AS SPACE ALyear we want it to be. LOWS. OPINIONS IN LETTERS ARE

VISIT US AT

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

Man On The Street: Why do you think we’re called “the sheiks”?

“Sheiks represent leadership, so we’re as a whole community where we respect each other.” Natalia Nunez 9th SAS

“Hollywood High has the original mascot unlike other schools with generic mascots. I guess we want to stand out.” Sandra Bautista 10th NMA

“Although I don’t know much about the Sheiks, I think they’re cool because they represent layback, chill leaders.” Darius Maxey 11th PAM

INTERVIEWS AND PHOTO CREDIT: DIANA RYABCHIKOVA & JU HYUN YEO (CHRONICLE REPORTERS)

“Since Hollywood High is more at a movie side, it relates to the movie “The Sheik.” Jenecie Huante 12th TCA

Hollywood Wellness Center Providing convenient, free and confidential health and wellness services for students. Call (323) 993-2355 on campus at Hollywood High School at 1530 Orange Drive

Wellness Center is a partnership of these agencies, committed to helping students create a healthy life at school and at home.

FEATURES

september 2015

Dancing at the neon “lit” Homecoming Angeline Angulo Chronicle Reporter

he time of year has come! That time of year when students are excited about football season, ready for a new school year’s challenge, and of course pumped for the first dance of the year: Homecoming. This year, leadership voted that the theme of the Homecoming dance will be ‘Glow in the Dark.’ Now many may ask themselves, “And what exactly am I supposed to wear to this dance?” That is when the suggestions and ideas for girls and boys come in so that everyone can pick the perfect outfit. Since the dance’s theme is ‘Glow in the Dark,’ it is not necessarily a formal dance theme. It would be a good idea to let go and be creative.Glow sticks and neon colors are taking over the dance; therefore, bold, solid colors would make a great fit. A long patterned dress and a tuxedo would be what not to wear. For the girls, a tight black or white dress sounds great. It

may sound boring but remember you can transform into the theme of the dance when you walk in. These two colors (black and white) look amazing when covered in glow-in-thedark accessories. Of course your sassy tight white or black dress may be accompanied by flaming red heels. For the boys, picking an outfit is a lot less stressful than it is for girls. Boys should wear a very eye-catching color buttonup shirt. A black or white button up shirt does grow old for boys, but fortunately, boys can buy stunning colors such as pink or yellow or even stud royal blue shirts. However, if a boy does decide to wear a plain white or black button-up, a neon bow tie or tie will look great. Once you have found the color of a shirt, a pair of black pants or dressing pants can make the cut. And of course, let the shoe game soar during the Homecoming dance. So in case you’re feeling like maybe Homecoming isn’t your thing because it’s “too formal”, remember that this is the time

to be creative, have fun, and boogie down under the neon “lit” lights.

ILLUSTRATION BY: RENZO BALUYUT

Singing through every lyric one day at a time merisanda finely chronicle reporter

eovany Fritz, has an outstanding passion and devotion to music. The NMA senior has a growing reputation for singing songs and rapping lyrics that he wrote himself. His dedication and hard work towards what he loves makes Fritz stand out of the crowd at Hollywood High School. Fritz was humbly shocked when asked to get interviewed for Sheik of The Month and PHOTO CREDIT: MERISANDA expressed his gratitude for FINELY being chosen. His passion for music began when he was only a child and ever since then the growing artist has been completely dedicated. Fritz reminisced those

childhood times and said, “I was 9 years old and I wrote [my first song] about the prettiest girl in my neighborhood at the time. I even sang it to her. The name of the song is “Till The Sun Don’t Shine.’” According to him, he has not yet written his favorite song for he is still on the road of improvement. “My favorite song that I’ve made has never been made. I am my own biggest critic. With everything I do I recognize how much room there is for improvement. I am still growing with every lyric. I honestly hate my music,” said Fritz. “ I listen to it over and over and instead of seeing what is good in it, I recognize all its faults. That is not to say that I’m not growing and that my music isn’t evolving. I’ve

come a long way but there is still a long way to go.” When writing a song, Fritz finds inspiration through his emotions and finds the motive to keep writing about the people who believe in him. “My inspiration is my people. Those around me who tell me to keep working, that greatness is within my abilities. When I begin writing a song, there are countless variables behind the construction. When I write words, I’ve always identified the lyrics as colors...it’s strange even to me. There have been times where I was writing a song and became angry, even cried. Sometimes I write out of anger, love, etc.” Music is clearly his biggest passion and a dream that he will continue to pursue.

As for any new musical projects in the making, Fritz said, “I’m working on a new song, it’s called “Take Me Away” and it’s dope. Everyone needs to peep it once I drop it, that’ll be sometime this month so keep a close ear!” Anyone can listen to his music on his soundcloud page through the link: m.soundloud.com/jeosworld. Fritz makes music because it brings him extreme joy and it is what he loves. Money and attention is that important to him. He said that he’d continue to make music with or without it. His passion and devotion towards music will allow him to keep growing as an artist through each lyric.

dark decorations. Students will be able to experience the spectacular night with a diverse arrangement of music blasting into their ears. “We are going to have [songs] ranging from Spanish music to English music,” said Paola Lopez, chairman of fundraising. “Hip-hop, merengue,

cumbia, bachata all of those [songs] that anyone can dance to.” Students will be given glow sticks to add to the fun of the night and as a prop to match the theme. Students should not miss the one-time spectacular event this year. It will give

them a chance to enjoy an original theme and dance while being surrounded in the dim glow of decorations. Tickets were $18 pre-sale and are $20 at the door.

Homecoming dance will glow in the dark Jun lee Chronicle Reporter

The Homecoming dance will kick off tomorrow from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. with a new distinct “Glow in the Dark” theme. Students will be able to experience the glowing lights on the basketball courts while dancing under the night sky. This theme was inspired by

Morgan Martin, Vice President of ASB, who suggested it to ASB when her friends were pitching their idea. Decorations will mostly consist of glow-in-the-dark designs. Leadership students will be decorating the event location with glow-in-the dark paint and glow-in-the-

6 september 2015 (Continued from page 1) said Sanchez. AP Readiness is meant to give students a chance to learn more about certain topics covered on the exam. “It was a lot of fun, especially the experience of being at UCLA [and] it seems like an actual class at UCLA. I learned a lot from it.” said Anna Mamatyuk, TCA senior. Another way that administration plans to help improve scores is to offer “in house” workshops that will be tailored in a similar way so that

NEWS more topics are covered. Sanchez also said that by having different teachers teach AP classes, it would give everyone on staff the chance to “share in the wealth” and also take the challenge of teaching an AP course just as the students are taking the challenge of taking the class and then tackle the exams. Students will be prepared to feel confident the day of the test. Sanchez said that the whole point is to put students in the mindset that they can have a chance at passing those

tests and with some self confidence, they won’t have to be afraid of failure. “You’re going to go in there and be confident. At the end, whether you get a qualifying score or not, the most important thing was the process, what that obviously did for your self esteem as a person. I think these strategies are also to support that self confidence when taking AP,” said Sanchez.

Library cashes in on $5,000 grant lorena robelos

chronicle reporter

Hollywood High School for the visit to deliver the check. James The school library will receive grant. B. Carmicle, English teacher, an upgrade with the $5,000 “It comes at a time when it took his honors 10th grade check presented by Assemblyclass for a Q&A with the member Richard Bloom Assemblymember so he on Sep. 18. Bloom came to may interact with children Hollywood High School to and see how beneficial present Sherri Whitham, the check will be for the the school librarian, a school and its students. check to enhance our After Carmicle’s stulibrary. dents spoke to Bloom Every year, the Barona about his contribution to Band of Mission Indians the state, he had to leave awards one school in California a $5,000 grant PHOTO CREDIT: FRANKLIN FRANCOdue to his busy schedule. From the previous to purchase much needed Assemblymember Richard Bloom talks to tenth grant, Whitham purchased supplies and materials. graders about his polotical agenda. the printer and books. In order to be eligible for is much needed,” said Whitham Now with the new money, the grant, the school must be about the grant. Hollywood Whitham is planning on buying sponsored by a state legislaHigh School has won the grant a new chromebook cart and 11 tor. Whitham heard about the three years in a row. chromebooks. grant through one of her book For the latest grant win, vendors and immediately got in touch with Bloom to sponsor Bloom paid the school library a

Durant Library reaches out to teen students destiny wiley-yancy chronicle reporter

Offering students free access to printing and school supplies, along with opportunities to win prizes, the Durant Library will launch an all new student-geared program this coming fall. Students will have access to the internet and word processing software and receive “free printing and access to school supplies for school related assignments everyday after school and all day Saturdays,” said Hillary St. George, Durant YA Librarian. With Sept. 27 being the start of Banned Books Week, the Durant Library plans to

celebrate all things wrong, highlighting the right to read uncensored books. Students will have the opportunity to win prizes for participation in Durant’s Teen Books Survey. This is one of many studenttargeted events at Durant Library, with many more exciting activities and programs to come. Located just west of La Brea Avenue, Durant has posters plastered around the vicinity of the building announcing the month’s up-and-coming Teen Happenings. With one’s first visit to the library, students can be surprised to

find a range of books lined up. Titles with familiar names-from John Green’s young adult novel, “An Abundance of Katherines” to Charles Dickens’ literary classic “Great Expectations”--sit opposite of posters advertising Banned Books Week. Led directly to the back of the front wall, students can soon find themselves absorbed within of a world of fiction. So whether you’re a book aficionado or in the search for a quiet place with good air-conditioning, the Durant Library’s Student Zone offers something for you.

Prom hunting ends, decision finalized

josine torres

Chronicle Reporter

Prom is officially on Friday, okay with the location. “As May 13, 2016 at the Millennilong as prom happens, then um Biltmore Hotel in DownI am definitely okay with the town Los Angeles. Senior venue,” Gutierrez said. sponsor Elizabeth Payne said According to Payne, prom that it was the only venue capable of holding 375 seniors at the time, with the deposit being paid for over the summer. Many seniors are outraged with the idea of prom being held in on a PHOTO: MILLENNIUMHOTELS.COM weekday. “It’s upsetting The Biltmore Hotel, Crystal Room. that the decision was venues are always chosen made without us,” PAM senior Chantal Hernandez said. “Why junior year due to scheduling couldn’t the decision be made conflicts with weddings and at a senior meeting?” other proms. Unfortunately, Some seniors, such as TCA when Payne visited these senior Maria Gutierrez, are meetings not a lot of juniors

were present, leaving about 30 students with the venue choice which administrators had a final decision on. Payne has ensured that the date is final and no changes can or will be made. The only thing the senior class has to do now is pay their dues and come up with a theme. “Hopefully with any other decisions dealing with senior events, the administration will take some of our thoughts and ideas into consideration so this divide doesn’t happen again,” said SAS senior Karen Eustaquio. Senior meetings will be held Wednesdays at lunch in Room 503.

PHOTO COURTESY: NMA Former students, Kevin Osorio and Lloyd Ea, filming a video for NMA.

NMA recruits new students Antonio gomez Chronicle Reporter

New Media Academy, NMA, is now becoming a magnet in order to survive and to expand its popularity in the school district. Ali Nezu, NMA coordinator, and Carolyn Fagan, NMA English teacher, as well as student ambassadors are helping to recruit new students for the magnet. They are going to 15 middle schools to talk about NMA and the fun, exciting things the program focuses on while student ambassadors are helping out with filming and editing the recruitment video. “It is exciting to know New Media Academy is expanding to greater ways,” said Yareli Henriquez, NMA senior. Hollywood is losing enrollment every year because there are so many options, said Nezu. By becoming a magnet, Hollywood can reach out to other students, she said. “In the New Media Academy at Hollywood High School, we believe all students deserve equal access to a high quality personalized educa-

tion,” Nezu said in the video. NMA Magnet students will be provided transportation to and from school just like the Performing Arts Magnet students and other magnet programs in the district. Students will be able to chose between video production and digital design. A new teacher will be hired to teach digital design, said Nezu. NMA started with about 60 students and has grown to more than 200, said Fagan. Interested 8th graders can take a field trip to come visit NMA, she added. “We believe that children learn best when they are challenged, supportive, and given the tools and technology needed for creative and academic pursuit,” said Nezu. “As an LAUSD magnet center, the New Media Academy has opened it’s doors to students across Los Angeles who are excited about working in a creative and academically rigorous environment.”

Club fever hits new high erika buot

photo editor

New school year brings in new clubs that challenges students’ intellect. Book club, Debate club, and Poetry club have been added to the batch of clubs already existing. The Debate Club, sponsored by English teacher James Carmicle, allows students to bring in a current event and have a discussion about it. They pick their own perspective of the piece and have to defend it using the skills they learned in the club. This club meets on Mondays at lunchtime in Room 422. “Debate is [as you] know argument. I taught [students] last year how to argue effectively. Argument is so important when serving in society, right? When you go off to college, you will always be asked to defend your position, to defend your thesis,” said Carmicle. Sponsored by English teacher Laurie Tobenkin, Book Club

is where students read classic books and analyze the texts and discuss topics about them. It will help enhance their comprehension skills and be more familiar with the type of writing. Meetings are on Wednesdays during lunch in Room 420. “Well [the club is] really [meant] to get students involved in classic literature because lots aren’t really comfortable with it.” Aurora Massari, SAS sophomore. “They will be more verse in classic literature and they will do better in their English class.” A new club, will let students work with poetry and poets to help them improve their own skills. The Poetry Club has students read, write, and recite their own poetry and others as well. It is sponsored by Patricia Furnare and meetings are on Tuesdays in Room 421 during lunch.

Add us on SnapChat for instant news crimson_sheik

NEWS

september 2015

Meet the newest additions to the Sheik staff

estefania valencia COPY EDITOR

With the various changes this year came the need for new staff members. LORI GAMBERO

Lori Gambero, our newest assistant principal, comes with much experience under her belt. She received her bachelor’s degree in English from California State University, Fresno and then pursued her master’s degree in educational counseling. Gambero said she got into radio and marketing after college, following in the footsteps of her family, and she enjoyed meeting new people and creating commercials, but she said that it didn’t fulfill her as a person despite the good money that she earned. Her father encouraged her to go back to school and go into teaching. After obtaining her teaching credentials, she worked her way up from being a high school English teacher to becoming the director of a Performing Arts Magnet in Fresno. “I absolutely loved being the director of the Performing Arts Magnet and helping to build and grow that program in Fresno,” she said. “I strive to reflect daily want to help grow any aspect of my own life as well as professional life—we only live once and we must take advantage of all opportunities personally and professionally that come in our direction.” Her new assignment at this school includes overseeing the Gifted and Talented program, working with administra-

tion to “help facilitate rigor, relevance, and differentiation of instruction” in order for all students to be a part of the AP program. She said she would like for all students to take an AP class because it will help prepare them for the work in college and allow them to be successful in their chosen college. Gambero said she hopes to encourage students to grow as a person and pursue higher education. “One thing no one can ever take away from another person ever is one’s education, and education brings economic, personal and professional independence,” she said. Being part of this school has her feeling “blessed and honored” and she said that Hollywood has definitely become her next educational journey. patty aycock

nally decided to go into teaching, her experience helped her decide that she wanted to teach individuals with special needs. “I’m very excited about [joining],” she said about working at the school. “I’ve always wanted to work at Hollywood High and I was actually offered this job about 14 or 15 years ago but I wasn’t able to take it, so I’m very excited about it.” Aside from teaching her students, Aycock also wants to let them know that “they are loved” and are accepted for who they are. She said she likes to create a sense of family in her class to make sure that they are comfortable and happy. Her overall concern with the well-being of her students is fueled by her love of seeing children learn. adam dehmoseni

Another addition to the school is Patty Aycock, who teaches a small class of Special Education students. Aycock teaches Community Based Instruction, or CBI, which is a special education program that is meant to teach its students to become independent individuals. The program teaches them skills such as cooking and money management, qualities that will allow them to adapt to the community. Aycock was inspired to pursue this career after working in a board and care facility for adults with mental disabilities many years ago. When she fi-

The announcement of a Mandarin class was news, but recently a second class has been added, taught by Adam Dehmoseni whose SLC is the Teaching Career Academy. Dehmoseni grew up in the Los Angeles community but he spent six years in China where he earned his Master’s degree. He has “always appreciated the school environment” which is what pushed him to become a teacher in the first place, but he said that he believes it is a great way to help students envision their future goals. Dehmoseni said that he is passionate about ancient Chinese culture and believes

SAS is thinking of the future CLEMENCIA SOLIS OPINION EDITOR

“Think Like An Expert, Become An Expert” is a new program that hopes to help SAS students find what they love through their academic classes. After the accreditation visit last semester, one of the WASC suggestions was to strengthen the identity of the School for Advanced Studies. This is why SAS is going to put into effect a new program called, “Think Like An Expert, Become An Expert.” This program is modeled after Dr. Sandra Kaplan’s “Think Like A Disciplinarian” which encourages talented or gifted students to see things through the eyes of a professional. SAS is not looking to focus on one pathway, but give students a choice. “We in SAS didn’t want to push kids into a particular

pathway. Some are gifted at math, others are political or big readers or talented at science.... we wanted to let students discover their own interests and pursue them,” said Stephen Lange, SAS lead teacher. According to Principal Alejandra Sanchez, this program is “teacher-led.” She said she expects the program to be consistent and produce satisfactory results. The program will run for a few months then students will be surveyed to see if the program is producing results for them. This program will run through a student’s entire high school career and each year the students will accomplish certain requirements. Starting in the ninth grade students will research careers and majors because they will

be expected to declare a “major” or “specialty” by the end of the year. Freshmen will also be expected to come up with a four-year plan to ensure their success throughout their high school careers. In the years following the ninth grade, students will be encouraged to do various things to strengthen their specialties including joining clubs, participating in competitions, and looking up colleges and careers. This program suggests moving up senior projects to junior year. These three years of preparation would help seniors with their senior projects because they will have acquired skills that will be helpful in delivering a powerful presentation and defending their thesis.

that China offers a fantastic opportunity for Americans to experience a society which appears to be different but has many similarities to our own. Furthermore, he hopes to instill in his students the “value of perseverance” and he said that he is pleased to expose his students to a dynamic culture and usually not available for students to experience.

siliency” because things “will always challenge [them].” With dexterity, students will have the “mental tools to figure out a solution”, being resourceful will “speak to them” so they can “go out and [seek]....whatever job [needs to be] done”, and resiliency gives them that “never give up attitude.” victor dixon

ernesto villareal

Ernesto Villareal is another member of the New Media Academy teaching English this year and supporting the Special Education program. He was previously a social science teacher and is “learning to love [English].” During his previous years he felt like he taught his former students “the principles of reading, writing and comprehension through history.” Villareal found teaching to be his first advocation, realizing that teaching was something he wanted to do because of his experience in the community college he attended. Whenever he had the opportunity in study groups, he would help out his classmates and felt “ a charge” that grew because of his contribution to others. He realized how much he loved helping people and knew “education was the place for [him].” He is impressed with the school because of the safe and welcoming environment that students feel. He said he wants his students to “ develop dexterity, resourcefulness, and re-

Stay on guard, Officer Victor Dixon is one of our newest officers on campus. He has been devoted to his career for about 16 years and spent his previous years working at Fairfax and Crenshaw high schools. He witnessed a lot of events which allowed him to explore his career further. “ I always wanted to be a cop!” said Dixon. Dixon finds his career interesting because he gets to explore moral and civil rights violation and asks himself “to what extent are [one’s] rights violated?” The best thing, however, of what [he] does is that he gets to talk to [students] and get interviewed because it gives off the idea that one is generally interested in his career. “ Some kids don’t care or even like us!” he said. He is here to take care of the students on campus and believes one should always be aware of their surroundings.

For entertainment stories and sports videos, please visit our website thecrimsonchronicle. com

(across from Hollywood High)

ACROSS FROM HOLLYWOOD HIGH

Squeeeezed To Order

HAND CRAFTED ESPRESSOS ON TAP

KOMBUCHA & ORGANIC ICED TEA FRESHLY MADE SANDWICHES AND SALADS ICY COLD S’BLENDIDS

Made to order Smoothie Blends and Juices Incredible Açaí Bowls Patio Seating

FREE

Small Cup of Coffee (12oz cup of Drip Coffee/not including Reserve blend) Not valid with any other offer. No cash value. EXP. 12/31/15

1.00 off

any Vintage Blend

Not valid with any other offer. No cash value. EXP. 12/31/15