INSIDE
Where are the black authors? p. 3 Lines from The Hangover p. 5 Tahoe on a budget p.8
Valentine’s Day history explored p. 9
The Highlander Carlmont High School Newspaper Volume I, Issue v - February 2010
Carlmont start time to be pushed back
New Board policy forces Carlmont and other schools to begin a half hour later By Theo Yeh
Photo by Dylan Coyne
Staff Writer
Carlmont Students hurry to class each morning. Will another half an hour make them better students? A Stanford study and the school board suggest that it will.
On January 20th, the Sequoia Union High School District Board approved later start times for all schools starting Fall 2010. This means school would start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. each day at Carlmont. Bettylu Smith, the public information officer for the Sequoia High School District, reported, “As stated in the policy, schools are expected to implement the new bell schedules by Fall 2010. However, the superintendent may grant a delay if requested in writing by the school(s). To date, the superintendent has not received any requests for a delay.” The reason the board made this decision is so students can get more sleep. According to Smith, “Research indicates that teens require nine hours of sleep daily to increase achievement, productivity and engagement. Award-winning research
conducted in collaboration with Stanford University at MenloAtherton High School produced similar findings.” Carlmont’s Principal, Mr. Raul Zamora, plans to request a delay for implementing the schedule change. Regarding how to accommodate the later start when it does occur, he stated, “Once I get specific details, I will talk to all stake holders to receive input.” Sleep has many health benefits, just like exercise and a good diet. According to TalkAboutSleep.com, most teenagers need about nine hours of sleep. Sleeping is very beneficial to a healthy, proactive teenager. It helps you concentrate, improves your memory, makes you more alert, and can even prevent the common cold. According to Medical University of South Carolina Hospital Health, “Sleep is a time when the cells of the body produce proteins that restore and repair damage that occurs from stress, u-v light exposure, exercise,
pollutants and a host of other things that we encounter when we are awake.” A good night’s sleep is also connected to maintaining a better weight control because people who are tired want more carbohydrates and other fattening foods. When Carlmont’s Vice Principal, Mr. Robert Fishtrom was asked about his feelings toward the new proposal, he replied, “I think that if the data shows that a later start increases student achievement, I would be in favor of a later start because I am in favor of anything that helps students.” When asked how this would affect him and the school he replied, “For me it would be a challenge, because I have my own children. I think it will affect athletics because when
students are involved in athletics, they often get out of school early, so if we have a late release, they will miss more school. I think there
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Carlmont students break up a sexual assault Prop 8
Debate
By Jenna Chambers Carlmont juniors Kevin Burleigh and Vlad Vinarskiy, are being called heroes after they saved a potential sexual assault victim in Redwood City on Saturday night. Burleigh and Vinarskiy were returning to their car when they heard loud screams coming from a suspiciously parked vehicle with darkly tinted windows. “We heard screams and there was banging on the windows. Someone was obviously trying to get out,” said Burleigh. Startled by the unexpected distressed screams, Burleigh and Vinarskiy quickly made their way to their car. “Our first intention was to run and get help” com-
mented Vinarskiy. They then proceeded to drive their car behind the suspicious vehicle flashing their headlights in the back window attempting to give the troubled individual hope that help was on the way. “When I flashed the headlights, I definitely saw a head pop up and then saw someone yank the head down,” stated Vinarskiy, “someone was obviously trying to hide something.” Upon flashing the headlights, Burleigh and Vinarskiy discovered that there were at least three men in the mysterious van, one driver and two or more men in the back with a girl. After the students drove behind the car, they parked their car about a block away and called 911. “We stayed at a close, but
2010 Repeal Effort By Ashley Dierolf Staff Writer Photo by Ashley Dierolf
Staff Writer
The heroes show off for a photo after the incident safe distance from the vesaid Burleigh. When the police arrived, hicle,” said Burleigh. the heroic pair left the scene. “I was ready to follow the “We wanted to get out of car if it tried to get away,” there as quickly as possible,” added Vinarskiy. After calling the police, the said Burleigh. No other information about courageous students waited this possible sexual assault for the police car to make has been released at this their way to the scene. “We time. However, both Burknew something sketch was leigh and Vinarskiy wish the going on and wanted to wait best to the victim. to make sure that the police got there and checked it out,”
Proposition 8 is one of the most controversial state laws California citizens have had to vote on. When it passed in 2008, the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, questioning) community’s right to same sex marriage was taken from them. However, this important proposition may have the chance to be put back on the ballots in 2010. The right for same-sex couples to marry has been given and taken back many times over the short course of eight years. In 2000, Proposition 22 passed, stating that marriage between a man and woman will be the only kind valid or recognized in California. In
Continued on Page 9
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February 2010
News & Opinions
Segregation and the Educational System It’s not what you think By Arik Schoessow Staff Writer
What does advanced civilization thrive on? Education. Imparting knowledge has and always will be the easiest and best way for a society to flourish intellectually. Unfortunately, the educational agenda that is in place in our country is not helping to advance whole generations in intelligence. Can the system ever be optimized to educate all equally? The answer is no. Because of things like advanced-placement classes and utilitarian standards, education is undemocratic. Introduce human nature and the system becomes infected with greed. If not directed properly, the very institution that educates our country could oppress popular insight and intellect. To begin, advanced-level classes are a catalyst to segregation within schools. AP classes are a failure at improving education but a success at segregating it. They are based completely on judgment and selectivity, and they only separate further what is naturally separated in schools: the high and low priority students. Before advanced classes, the most capable stu- AP classes dents achieved a 4.0 grade point average, making them flawless. Assume that the average student has are a failure a 3.2 grade point average. With the introduction at improving of advanced classes the students who already have 4.0s enroll with the motive to raise their GPAs to education but above four points, while the regular student stays a success at at the average 3.2. AP classes only widen the gap between high and low priority students, segregat- segregating it. ing on the basis of importance. This gives AP students a boost and further raises them as an elite group, while the average student is put through the educational system’s default formula. Advanced material should always be offered, but not as extra credits. If a student feels that an advanced English class is more appropriate for him/her, let that student take the advanced class. The problem is the “Social Darwinism” of education. Many students take AP classes, even the classes they have no interest in whatsoever, simply for the credits. Once enough people start doing this, a special clique is created consisting of people who take the most AP classes possible, and that group ascends above the majority to fill up all the seats at the high-paying desks, so that in the future they can maintain their social thrones. Another problem with education is standards. The standards in our schools are designed to make the average citizen just useful enough to survive in the system of governing that is in place. Curriculums are crafted to make the citizen a tool, a gear in a mechanical movement, whose only purpose is to maintain a constant, not one of progress but one of survival. The standards of high schools are neither designed to encourage social thought and individualism, nor make education democratic. They are not designed to promote critical and revolutionary thinking but rather to ignore them and produce students who continue to be as much of a stepping stone in life as they were in school. The select few who greatly succeed today are placed in highly bureaucratic positions, destined to manage the herded populace. This immense inequality is what prevents social evolution and mass enlightenment from occurring. It places the few people who are educated enough to change society in a position that gives them no inspiration to institute any change at all. Because they are already more powerful than the majority, they need not equalize the standards to create more competition, more realization, and more change. Unfortunately for humanity, the Utopian educational curriculum can never become a reality due to the existence of human nature. People will not change if they do not possess the insight and interest to challenge the elite. Educators harness the power of the default population, the true nature of people, which only creates an educational system that doesn’t advance the majority, but instead a specially cultivated assembly of future shepherds. That kind of system only inhibits the capabilities of entire generations, a greedy mistake that could lead to the downfall of our credibility and authority on the world stage.
Black History Month
We dedicate an entire month to its history, yet is it recognized? By Jenna Chambers Staff Writer
February is most well known for Valentine’s Day, a day people spend tying to prove their love to someone through rich chocolate heart shaped candies and thoughtfully written love poems. In the midst of the Valentine’s Day frenzy, it is easy to forget that the month in which we are in fact celebrating love and blissful happiness, also happens to be the month dedicated to black history. February is Black History Month and it is celebrated to recognize the achievements and great accomplishments made by African Americans throughout history. Americans have recognized black history since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later expanded to “Black History Month”. We owe this annual celebration to Dr. Carter G. Woodson, also known as the “Father of Black History”, who is the founder of Negro History Week. Born to parents of former slaves, Woodson spent his childhood working in mines until he entered high school at age twenty. After graduating in only two years, he later went on to receive his PhD from Harvard. The scholar was disturbed to find black history absent from his textbooks being that black Americans made significant contributions to American history. So Woodson decided to take on the challenge of writing black history into our nation’s history, thus establishing the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History along with a publication company, the Journal of Negro History, with the intent to bring attention to the largely ignored accomplishments made by black people in America. Often times civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr.’s accomplishments are the focus of Black History Month and while he is very important to history, black history month encompasses various other aspects of
black history. Woodson initially chose the second week of February to celebrate Negro History Week because it marks the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two men who greatly influenced black Americans. February is also the month in which blacks were granted the right to vote in 1870 as well as the month when the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) was established in 1909. However, February has more to show for its black history than just the birthdays of Douglas and Lincoln. The notable black poet Langston Hughes’s birthday is in February as well as the death of poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar. Paul Laurence Dunbar was one of the first African American poets to gain recognition through his writing all the while influencing another great up and coming poet, Langston Hughes. Langston Hughes is best known for his work during the Harlem Renaissance and for his poetry. He also wrote many short stories, novels and plays. One of his most famous plays includes “Mulatto: A Play of the Deep South,” which was Hughes’s first full length play which takes place on a plantation in the south. Langston Hughes’s selection of plays also include “Mule Bone, a romantic comedy and “Soul Gone Home,” a tragic-comedy. These plays written by Hughes share some similarities with world renown playwright Shakespeare. Though these plays’ content may not be the same, upon hearing the descriptions romantic and tragic comedy, the play Romeo and Juliet come to mind. So with an entire month dedicated to black history, how much of it do we actually recognize and celebrate?
News & Opinions
Where Are the Black Authors?
Editor-in-Chief Dylan Coyne
Staff Writer
Entertainment Editor Sarah Biklen
News Editor Christina Belasco
textbooks, those too are optional and often not seen as a primary focus. As a result, Black literature is often given no real class time. Perhaps a reading of one of James Baldwin’s works or a poem by black poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar, would inspire students to expand their knowledge of American literature whether it be black or white.
RE*Generation- Lady Gaga Gives Back By Laney McGrew Staff Writer
Each year, two million youth between the ages of 12 and 24 experience some form of homelessness. Many are kicked out of their homes, and others come from families living in poverty; unable to afford a place to stay. These kids are not fortunate enough to afford adequate schooling and are generally turned down from jobs, especially in the present state of the economy. Some of the homeless youth move in with friends or family members after a short time. However, this is not the case for much of America. There will be approximately 50,000 kids living on the streets for six or more months. Even worse, there is only room in shelters for 4,000. Whether it be donating clothing or volunteering at a homeless shelter, there are ways to help the youth in need. Virgin Mobile has created a program called RE*Generation, which helps to raise awareness, funding, and volunteerism for homeless youth. Furthermore, Lady Gaga has teamed up with Virgin Mobile and planned an entire tour devoted to promoting RE*Generation. Thousands of Gaga fans have already received free concert tickets by volunteering at homeless shelters. And the best part? Gaga will match every dollar donated to RE*Generation, up to $25,000. “It’s about change, and it’s about giving something and being involved in an organization that wants to make a difference,” stated Gaga. It’s also urgent that the homeless youth be helped right away. Many of them are being unfairly banned from their homes due to being gay. “One of every five homeless in the community identify themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered youth, making homophobia a top cause of domestic violence,” explained Gaga. “And you all know that that makes me very angry.” Not every teen is fortunate enough to have a roof over their head. Donations are needed to help get youth off the streets and into new homes and shelters. “We’re part of a movement,” declared Gaga. “It’s time for us to fight back.”
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Highlander Staff
By Jenna Chambers
If we dedicate an entire month to black history then, why not read some of its literature. Most students at Carlmont can recall reading the tragic tale of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” in their freshman English class — the introduction of many more Shakespeare plays to come. Throughout many Carlmont student’s high school career, one would read more Shakespeare than all other black authors combined. In the CHS English Department’s Curriculum, only one African-American author is required to be taught while the other novels are optional. While there are a few black works of literature to read in the literature
February 2010
Scots Scoop Editor Savannah Jack Features Editor Nicci Betteo Sports Editor Dana Bloom
Staff Writers Hannah Abney Amber Brode Jenna Chambers Joseline Diaz Ashley Dierolf Lexi Friis Han Li Laney McGrew Noele Pennington Daniel Rubinstein Arik Schoessow Theo Yeh Graphics Design Daniel Rubinstein
Faculty Advisor Mr. Justin Raisner
Want your name in the staff box? Sign up for Journalism next year. Drop into A14 at lunch for more details.
Staff Blogs, Photos, and More Become a fan of Carlmont Highlander on Facebook and browse to carlmonthighlander.ning.com
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Want College Now? ? ? Start college next semester! Early college for juniors and seniors. Talk to your guidance counselor or attend an information meeting on March 18th or 25th at 7 pm at the SUHSD office 480 James Ave in Redwood City Please call 650/306-3120 for more information or check out our website www.canadacollege.edu/middlecollege
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Entertainment Facebook Fatigue Horoscopes By Daniel Rubinstein February 2010
What’s your destiny?
Aquarius: This month confidence is your new best friend. Try to experience and try new things and you’ll find that you will like the new you. Pisces: Love is definitely in the air..for everyone except you. Scorpio: Looks like someone won’t be single this Valentine’s day...a secret admirer is just waiting to take you out on a date. Aries: Try not to reject potential Valentines, you never know what could happen if you give somebody the chance.
ness to your day even if there is no boy/ girl that you’re involved with. Gemini: Hershey’s chocolate kisses and real kisses will make this month a great one! Sagittarius: If you want real good luck this Valentine’s day season...put 21 dollars in an unmarked manila envelope and leave it between page 42 and page 43 inside a paperback copy of “The Catcher in the Rye” located in the fiction section of the Belmont library on February thirteenth. Leo: If all you receive is a single rose on the 14th, be happy with what you got because that person is someone special.
Virgo: Go out with some friends and you may find that they give better advice than you had thought. Libra: Someone you love will act completely moronic and unlike themselves, but try to let them realize what they are doing on their own. Taurus: A mix CD or play list of your all time favorite songs will bring happi-
Cancer: Valentines day is coming up and may just be the perfect time to win him/her over. Capricorn: You’re the type of person who always wants a relationship...but there’s a reason you are single.
Staff Writer
Associated Press reports that a hacker attack briefly shut down Twitter on Thursday, January 7, 2010. Millions of twitterers were forced to talk to each other the old fashioned way… through Facebook. It seems as though Facebook is now being used primarily for joining pointless (though hilarious) groups and playing ridiculous time-consuming games that post annoying updates on your behalf. I recently came across a group titled “If I get 500,000 members in this group, I will name my newborn son Eric Cartman”. Carlmont even has it’s own personal favorite (that I may or may not be a member of) titled “ID Lanyards are the dumbest things to ever happen to Carlmont…ever.” Even if most groups are harmless, when I see offensive groups such as “Don’t forget kick a ginger day” and “Hilary Clinton, stop running for president and make me a sandwich” have over 200,000 members each, I start to question the validity of mindlessly clicking the join button. I do however, understand why many have recently chosen to interact with each other on Twitter. Twitter has a 140-character limit per “tweet” which can keep things orga-
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nized and to the point. Tweeting in German must be impossible though. “I just got back with Hans and Heinrich from the Gunterschlasselhabensgrubenschwag...” I also recently read that many students across the country have decided to give up Facebook, Myspace, Twitter and other social networks for lent or to limit their use as a new year’s resolution. The changes haven’t been easy for most students, and it’s been even harder on pedophiles. As for myself, I have been meaning to cut down on my Facebook use as well. Social networking has been cutting into the 13 hours a day that I normally spend playing Call Of Duty and I’m beginning to see the detrimental impact it is having on my kill ratio. I can promise one thing though: If I get another goddamn Farmville request, I will personally start a group called “I will burn your effing crops and kill your effing animals.”
Entertainment
February 2010
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Event Calendar By Ashley Dierolf Staff Writer
Hangover Lines
Compiled By Savannah Jack And Sarah Biklen
Editors
By now I’m sure the majority of our school has seen the popular film “The Hangover.” This breakthrough movie, released in 2009, features three young men running around Las Vegas looking for their lost companion Doug after a wild bachelor party the night before. With a stolen cop car, a handful of clues, and no memory of the evenings events the three best friends that anyone could have embark on a wildly hilarious journey through sin city. In case you haven’t seen it yet or you just want to reminisce, here are some “classic” quotes from the movie that took a hangover to the next level. Alan:“Tigers love pepper. They hate cinnamon.” Alan:“Oh, you know what? Next week’s no good for me... The Jonas Brothers are in town. But any week after that, it’s totally fine.” Stu:“What are you talking about? Alan:”I’ve found a baby before.” Stu:“You found a baby before?” Where? Alan:“Coffee Bean.”’ Alan:“You probably get this a lot. This isn’t the real Caesar’s Palace is it?” Phil:‘“Who’s this?” Doug:“It’s Alan. Tracy’s brother.” Alan:“I met you like four times.”’ Alan:“Hey, you guys ready to let the dogs out?” Stu:“We’re in a stolen cop car with what is sure to be a missing child in the back. What part of this is cool?” Alan:“I think the cop car part’s pretty cool.”’ Officer Franklin:‘“Yeah! It was parked in the middle of Las Vegas Blvd. with a note that said “Couldn’t find a meter, so here’s $4.”’ Alan:“Plus it’s not a purse, it’s called a satchel. Indiana Jones wears one.” Mr. Chow:“I had 80 thousand dollars inside! And this one, nothing!” Alan:“Hey! There are skittles in there!” Alan:“It’s not gambling when you know you’re going to win.” Alan:“I’m not getting a sig on my beeper.” Phil:“Would you please put some pants on? I feel weird having to ask you twice.” Grandma:“What’s his name?” Phil:“Ben.” Alan:“Carlos.”
Alice In Chains 8:00 PM on Thursday, February 11th at the Fox Theater in Oakland
Tegan and Sara 8:00 PM on Friday, March 5th at the Fox Theater in Oakland
Billy Joel and Elton John 7:30 PM on Saturday, February 13th at the Oracle Arena in Oakland and 7:30 on Tuesday, February 16th at the HP Pavilion in San Jose.
Killswitch Engage 7:30 PM on Sunday, March 7th at The Warfield in San Francisco
Motion City Soundtrack 6:30 PM on Tuesday, February 16th at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco
New Found Glory 8:00 PM on Saturday, March 13th at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco
Alkaline Trio 8:00 PM on Thursday, February 18th at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco We the Kings 6:30 PM on Monday, February 22nd at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco Bon Jovi 7:30 PM on Monday, February 22nd at the HP Pavilion in San Jose 311 8:00 PM on Thursday, February 25th at the Fox Theater in Oakland
I the Mighty Album Released:
March 16th
Mariah Carey 8:00 PM on Friday, February 26th at the Oracle Arena in Oakland
50s Sock Hop!
Friday and Saturday February 19th and 20th at 7:00 p.m. Carlmont High School Student Union Tickets $15 for adults, $12 for students Tickets must be purchased in advanced. For tickets please please visit: www. carlmontperformingarts.com
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February 2010
Scot Scoop
Test psychology or test psych out?
By Dana Bloom Sports Editor
It is common to get a test; it is uncommon when all the answers line up. Students tend to change right answers to wrong to avoid a pattern. Test psychology has a major influence on students and their ability to take tests and get the correct answers. Many people believe that when in doubt on a multiple choice test you should always choose the letter “C,” and studies have proven that 28% of the time the letter is indeed “C”. When these “C’s” line up on tests, students agonize over whether they should change their answers or keep them the same. When sophomore Malak El-Khatib was asked why patterns annoy her she responded,” I feel as if all my answers are wrong and that they are not supposed to be that way. I get paranoid.” In multiple choice tests, the author of the test usually puts in distracters, or misconceptions of the idea you are studying. These distracters are known to disrupt the developmental process when taking a test. The distracters are a major step in conquering a multiple choice test. This also causes strong psychometric properties within a students mind allowing the effects of guessing on tests. According to Jerard Kehoe from the Practical Assessment of Research and Evaluation team. Getting paranoid when patterns occur can lead to changing answers on tests, and for some students the urge to change answers leads to bad test grades. Aimee Lucchesi, a sophomore mentioned, “I feel like I need to change answers because they are all the same.” To see if patterns really did have an effect on the way students answered questions a test was given to three AS
English I classes, each test including a different pattern. The test was given with no scantron, possibly having a different effect on the psychology of the student’s minds. One had answers of all “A”, one had answers “A-B-A-B” throughout the test, and the last test had answers “A-B-C” for all nine questions. After the tests were given the students were asked if the patterns bothered them. The class that had all “A” as answers was the only class that was annoyed and became frustrated throughout the test. Students in other classes said they didn’t even realize the patterns because they couldn’t notice them without a scantron. Freshman Jackie Li believes patterns on scantrons are more annoying than just circling answers on tests, she added, “ It’s easier to see the patterns on scantrons.” Ella Stoney, a freshman who took the same test as Li commented, “ I second guess myself.” She later added that she changed a few answers on the test. While watching freshmen Kayla Wright take her all “A” test, signs of confusion and curiousness crossed her face. Once she was done taking the test an observation was made that the last question was not circled “A”. When asked why she did not put “A”, her response was, “ I thought it was A, but I changed it because I thought it couldn’t be all “A’s.” Tests play with the minds of students, and somehow we always second guess ourselves and change answers. Even though test psychology has an influence on students and their ability to take tests, people need to learn how to get past the patterns and just focus on the correct answers on tests.
To AP or not to AP By Lexi Friis Staff Writer
AP classes — the most difficult in high school. Students who take these classes gain an extra point for their GPA, but is the complication worth it for college? Many students debate taking a normal college prep class, an AS class, or an AP class. A common question is “should I take a normal class and get an A, or an AS or AP and possibly get a lower grade?” AP classes are college level classes with excessive homework and a fast work pace. AP classes are not for all students. You have to be motivated and willing to work hard all year. Mr. Turkis, an AP English teacher comments, “It depends on the student, but not all students are eligible to take AP classes.” Senior Kathryn Tabacek said, “Yes, AP classes are worth it depending on the college you want to go to. That is the only reason high school students take them.” AP classes are hard work and on top of those classes, exams, and finals, you also have AP testing. This takes place in May and it is a national test. According to
Carlmont’s college adviser, Ms. Connie Dominguez, it costs about $80 for each test, but it can be worth it if you do well. If you get a fair grade, you can get scholarships for college as well as college credits. So is it worth it? Check into the colleges that you want to apply to early, in order to see if it’s better to get a B or C in an AP class, rather than an A in an easier class. It all depends on the college, so do your research early.
Did You Know...? By Lexi Friis *73 percent of Valentine’s Day flower buyers are male. * New York City is made up of 50 islands. * You can use a hair dryer to remove crayon marks. * The color of the plastic tag tells you what day a loaf of bread was baked. * Rinsing bacon under cold water before frying it reduces the amount it shrinks by 50%. * Replacing your car’s air filter can increase the gas mileage by 10% * Polar bear fur is transparent, not white. * Beavers have orange teeth. * There are 118 ridges on a dime. *After Christmas, Valentine’s Day is the single largest seasonal card sending occasion.
Scot Scoop How To: Love Valentine’s Day By Sarah Biklen
Entertainment Editor Valentine’s Day is undoubtedly a Hallmark holiday. The company cleverly decided to dedicate 24 hours to romance on the day of February 14th in order to sell a ridiculous amount of cards, flowers, candies, stuffed animals, and any other cheesy representation of love. Hallmark, of course, didn’t advertise it this way. Rather, Valentine’s Day became an occasion to celebrate both budding and already blooming love between two people. Sure, Valentine’s Day can be a wonderful occasion for those who have a special someone to spend it with. It is an opportunity for those lucky few to display (and I don’t just mean privately) their love for one another by showering each other with gifts and spending quality time together. But for the many who spend Valentine’s Day alone, the question may arise, “Why does this holiday even exist?” There are some practical ways to deal with this unsettling question. The first is to try to avoid the sudden outburst of love around you all together. You can do this by choosing to stay at home and watch movies (preferably not pertaining to romance) or by inviting a group of your single friends over to discuss how great it is to be single, whether you believe it or not. Some topic starters could be: you aren’t tied down, you can meet tons of great singles online, you don’t have to
dedicate most of your time to one person, and it gives you more time to hang out with your bff’s. Another solution is to insult couples that you believe are “too in love to be real.” You can publicly display your disgust by yelling or you can choose the classy route and discuss it privately with your fellow single peers. As you have probably noticed, finding other single people is a great comfort. As they say, strength is in numbers. The more single people the better. A third even more discreet option is to make some kind of group, whether it be on Facebook or Twitter, which is titled something along the lines of, “Valentine’s Day is Lame” or the more original, “Valentine-less.” Some give in to the pressure of the holiday and desperately try to find someone to spend a romantic evening with. I recommend Ben and Jerry. Their qualities include sugar and cream and they come in a variety of flavors. Valentine’s Day seems to be a lot more kid-friendly. In elementary school we always handed out candy grams with fun cartoons and special messages inside like, “Be my valentine” and “You’re so sweet!”. If you were one of the more fortunate ones you might even get a secret valentine admirer, which I
February 2010
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Quad Shot of the Month “The Situation” comes to Carlmont During the week of January 25th -29th Carlmont students dressed up for spirit days, including college day, neon day, superhero day, “Jersey Shore” day and white out day. Stephen Schultz (right) showed his school spirit, and his six pack by dressing up as “The Situation” from MTV’s nationally acclaimed series “Jersey Shore”. Also during this post- Formal week students participated in a Mini Madness tournament( a basketball version of Powder Puff), and beat the staff in the student vs. staff game. This week proved to be a funfilled and spirited week!! Photo by Laney McGrew
think most students can agree was to know what love is or what it feels an exciting notion at the time. How- like. Relationships are fun but the ever frivolous the gesture may have reality is that they are usually only been, the point was that everyone felt temporary at this age, and they can special. We didn’t take the holiday often take a lot of work. With all as seriously as we of the other presdo now and there sures that arise Another solution is was no pressure a society to insult couples that from to ask someone based largely on out or utter those you believe are “too in appearances, there difficult words, “I is enough to worry love you.” Partly love to be real.” about in high because it was school without written on the tiny having to add on paper card in front of everyone and experiencing love. partly because love wasn’t someIn retrospect, Valentine’s Day thing we worried about. can also be used to honor friends As we grow older, however, the and family whom you love. For the pressure surrounding this holiday majority of people who are not in also grows. We start to consider any sort of relationship, perhaps this what love is and feel compelled to February 14th can be used to show find someone who we think we can support for the loved ones you know fall in love with. Valentine’s Day who have already found their soul only encourages this notion by glori- mate, or you can curse the fates for fying the idea of a relationship. But your misfortune. in high school we are not expected
Talk Back
What is your opinion of high school relationships? “Some are good but most relationships in High School are bad.” Waniya Bryant ‘11
“They’re stupid you should just do other things instead.” Brady O’Conell ‘12
“They’re fun but they end really quickly.” Kaitlin Adams ‘12
“It’s fake. It’s not like any of them are actually going to last.” Derek Kaptonaglu ‘12
“I LOVE them” Tori Lehr ‘11
“ I enjoy being in a relationship because you always have someone there for you.” Milo Martinez ‘10 By Savannah Jack and Sarah Biklen
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February 2010
Cheap Snow
Features
Boarding on a budget By Christina Belasco news editor
Every year, thousands of people migrate from the Bay Area to hit the slopes of Tahoe, including many Carlmont students. But many of them don’t realize how costly the trips are, and in these economic times, not everyone can afford to go up as much as they used to. However, if they follow some simple guidelines they might find their wallets a bit bigger, and in the snow more often. Shop around for lift tickets. If sacrificing “the best powder on earth” for one day means saving a lot of cash and maybe even going up at all, then believe me it’s worth it, there is always more powder. For example smaller mountains like Boreal and Bear Valley usually have cheaper tickets. Boreal offers a $47 teen lift ticket deal during the holidays and Bear Valley has a teen lift ticket price of $49. Bigger resorts such as Heavenly have prices all the way up to $70 for one day teen. If you are a person who goes to the snow a lot, then buying a season pass may be an even better option. Try to find a package or special deal for kids, etc. Don’t stay at the mountain lodges. Although they are very nice, most are overpriced. It is much more cash efficient to stay at a Motel 8 or somewhere cheap than to blow precious gear/lift ticket money on lodging. At the lodge at Squaw Valley, a two queen bed and sleeper sofa room starts at $195 a night. Better yet, try to share a room with friends or if they have a cabin, stay there.
Pack a lunch Much like Great America or somewhere similar, the management decides to overprice the food because after a long day on the slopes people will pay anything for that special bread bowl with chili. Even the basics like a waterbottle can run up as high as three or four dollars. Packing a lunch will eliminate the accumulation of large unwanted food bills. Also, try to bring a Camelback or other water storing device for when you get thirsty on the mountain so you don’t have to stop at the lodge for a drink all the time. Take the train The California Zephyr train goes from San Francisco and makes stops all across California, not the least of which include Truckee. Tickets are around $40. Taking the train eliminates the cost of gas, snow chains, and snow tires (if needed). In addition to the train, the bus is also another option for a quick trip up.For $105, a teen can get a ride up to Tahoe and back for a day, continental breakfast, and the lift ticket. Sounds like a pretty good deal to me, not to mention a great time. So this winter, try to remember that you don’t need to spend a fortune to have fun at the slopes. Happy skiing/boarding everyone.
I Don’t Wanna Grow Up By Dylan Coyne Editor in Chief
As a second semester senior, I have recently come to the sudden realization that I will have to grow up sometime soon. It hit me while I was filling out my college applications. As I was wishing for the grueling application process to be over and hoping that the months would flash before my eyes, I began to imagine where I would be a year from now. It was the first time that I had thought about the fact that next year instead of returning to my house in Belmont every day, I will be calling a small dorm room home. It occurred to me that dinner will no longer be a home made meal from mom every night and that when I run out of shampoo I will not be able to beg my dad to make a quick trip to the store before he goes to sleep. The prospect of losing the comforts of home momentarily made me wish that I never had to grow up. However, the benefits of growing up have decidedly outweighed my fears. Becoming an adult comes with a sense of freedom and a refreshing change of pace from the life that I have lived for the past 18 years. But then it hit me: does moving out and starting a new stage in my life really make me grown up? Being a legal adult and being a grown up are two very different things and I’m not entirely sure that as an adult you are automatically classified as a grown up. At different stages in life, people develop varying opinions about what qualifies as adult behavior. To some, the ability to buy and drink alcohol is the epitome of adulthood. To others, raising a family and taking responsibility for others physically and financially separates the immature from the mature. And still others believe that the long awaited eighteenth birthday is the official welcome into grown up life. So this begs some questions: when is someone officially grown up and does it always correlate with age? Kelly McClain, whose daughter is a senior said, “absolutely, some people who are young can show great maturity but when someone takes responsibility for himself, whether it’s paying the bills, taking responsibility for a mistake or taking care of somebody else, that is acting like an adult.” At 18, I know that I won’t be ready to pay the bills or take care of someone else full time, but unfortunately, there are kids who are thrown into adulthood before they’re ready. However, for the majority of
graduating seniors, college provides just the right balance of adulthood without most of the responsibilities that come with being an adult. Senior Rachel Dallal said, “I’ll miss the comfort of [childhood] like not having to share my room with a stranger, and always having food in the fridge. My mom still does my laundry and I’ll miss lazy days. I’m always going to have responsibilities from now on.” Although the idea of growing up and taking on more responsibility in life is a scary realization, there is so much to look forward to after high school. When asked what part of adulthood he’s looking forward to senior Cody Karlin said, “Everything. I’m looking forward to waking up each day and being able to control what I do with my time.” Karlin nailed it on the head. What adulthood represents for most adolescents is freedom and the ability to do what you want, when you want. It is true that eventually every child will have to transform into an adult, but I believe that college will be an extension of my childhood. It will be a time for me and every other college freshman to explore, learn and develop as people and members of society. There is so much about college to be excited for. “I’m most looking forward to the first couple of months of everyone living on their own because the experiences that come out of those situations are hysterical,” said Karlin. Well, there are still a few months left to prepare for life on our own and I must admit that leaving home will be a little bittersweet. “Growing up makes me kind of sad because I’m going to miss being a kid and having my parents take care of me but at the same time I’m excited for it,” said Dallal.
Features
February 2010
Page 9
Proposition 8 Interesting facts about the
Valentine’s Day History Hallmark Holiday
Continued from Front Page
2008, the California Supreme Court ruled Proposition 22 as unconstitutional, and granted same-sex couples the right to marriage. Just months after, Proposition 8 passed with 52 percent of the voters in favor of eliminating same-sex marriage. With California having the highest population of gay citizens out of all the states in America, many were devastated with the results of Proposition 8. With broad support and protests happening every where, it seemed as though there could be a breakthrough for the rights of the LGBTQ community. “It was shocking to me to realize that people I considered friends could have very well voted for Prop 8,” replied Mr. Hill, an openly gay English teacher. “I don’t think civil rights should ever be left up to majority vote.” “Homosexuals are not an issue, they are people. When you make people an issue, you’re replicating systems of oppression without even meaning to,” said Mr. Hill. Having a separation of church and state is a concept that divides America from many other countries. With churches and religious groups contributing the most money towards the support for Proposition 8, it seems as though gay marriage has become more of a religious issue than political. “The war for the rights of sexual minorities is a war for the separation of church and state,” replied Mr. Hill. In a poll taken of the opinion of Carlmont students regarding Proposition 8, only 12 percent were against gay marriage verses the 52 percent that voted for Proposition 8. Could there be a difference of opinion and beliefs when it comes to generations? “Kids now are around homosexuals more than adults were when they were our age,” said Camryn Jones, ‘12, “but being the age we are, we can’t vote or make as big of a difference as we’d like to.” Carlmont High School has been taking their own steps towards supporting those part of the LGBTQ community and their acceptance at school. The Gay Straight Alliance, or GSA, helps bring together both students of the LGBTQ
By Joseline Diaz Staff Writer
community and straight students. Coming Out Week also brought forth a sense of support for homosexual, bisexual, and questioning students. Each staff member and student who sported a rainbow ribbon during that week represented a person who could be consulted. The Respect Policy is enforced as much as possible, and any discriminating comments directed at homosexual students are taken seriously. “Getting the Respect Policy at Carlmont was a beginning for homosexuals, not an end,” replied Mr. Hill. A repeal of Proposition 8 may appear on the up and coming ballots for 2010. “Love, Honor, Cherish” is an organization built to fight for the rights of same-sex marriage. On September 24, 2009, John Henning, the founder of “Love, Honor, Cherish” is requesting to propose an amendment he is calling the “Marriage Equality Act”. In the “Marriage Equality Act”, there will be two sections. The first will protect religious freedom, and the second will go against the restriction of marriage under any circumstances such as race, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, or religion. On top of trying to gather one thousand signatures of those who support gay marriage by April of 2010, “Love, Honor, Cherish” also plans on educating the public on gay civil rights and the importance of marriage equality for same-sex couples. “Oppression is oppression, justice is justice, and injustice is injustice,” said Mr. Hill, “You have to fight for other people’s rights, or you don’t deserve your own.”
Every year on the fourteenth of February, Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world, but how did Valentine’s Day come to be? What’s the importance of this day? When asked, senior Stephanie O’Brien said, “I think it’s some sort of religious belief that goes back 300 years but it’s celebrated differently now with Valentine’s cards and stuff.” O’Brien is correct about a religious aspect but Valentine’s Day goes back further than 300 years. The legend goes that a man named Valentine refused to abide by the law under Roman Emperor Claudius II that men must remain single. The emperor believed single men made for better soldiers. Valentine secretly preformed marriages for young men and when the emperor heard word of this, he sent Valentine to jail. Legend goes on to say that the day Valentine was to be executed he wrote a note to who was believed to be his beloved, which was signed, “From your Valentine.” He died on February 14th and that day was celebrated in honor of him. Other’s claim that Valentine’s Day originated from different celebrations such as the Lupercalia which was celebrated in ancient Rome. Lupercalia was a day to celebrate fertility after the Roman Goddess Juno. In 1797, a British publisher suggested to give a sentimental message
Students Enjoy Winter Masquerade By Noele Pennington Staff Writer
The dance floor bounced as people enjoyed Carlmont’s winter formal on January 23 at the San Mateo Marriot. The event featured a Masquerade theme and nearly sold out as 647 of the 700 available tickets were purchased including guest passes. The dance started at 8 o’clock and ended at midnight. The doors were closed at 9 p.m. and re opened for students to leave at 11 p.m.. Many students left at 11 p.m. when the doors opened but still many people stayed until the end.
At the dance, professional pictures were available which many people took advantage of. The DJ’s were very outgoing and allowed students to turn tables, play with the lights, request music, and dance on their stage. Junior Kayla Gordon thought that this year’s location was much better than last year’s at the Hiller Aviation Museum. This event raised hopes that this year’s prom will be better and have better decorations. Kayla Gordon complained about the formal, “There are many unnecessary decorations, random colors would be fine.”
The dance floor was located in the center of the room and a stage up front with the DJ’s. When everyone jumped and bounced around, the floor was moving like it would if you were on a trampoline. There were a great amount of people on the dance floor and many had dates; there were also several groups that went as friends. Everyone looked like they were having fun.
to your beloved to give on Valentine’s Day. Cards became extremely popular in England during the 1800s and factories began mass producing them. Valentine’s Day cards were decorated with lace and ribbon on embossed paper. Paper valentines didn’t start selling in the United States until 1847 when Esther Howland received an English valentine and brought it to the U.S. There are many tales of how Valentine’s Day came to be. Valentine’s Day goes back thousands of years and it is celebrated slightly differently now than it was then. We don’t have fancy, lace Valentine’s Day cards but the purpose is still the same. Nothing says I love you like a Valentine’s Day card and a box of chocolates for your loved one.
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February 2010
Late Start
Extras
Continued From Front Page
will also be traffic problems.” that we can make better use of our Another consideration is that time after school than before, like parents who have to maintain work hanging out.” schedules, who have to drop students “It’ll be good,” countered Deshawn off or pick up their kids need plenty Watson, a junior, “because I’m tired of notice of this change. in the morning, so its better towards This year, Woodside switched to the end of the day.” a later schedule, with Jesse Gifford, 60 percent of students “When the students’ a freshman, comstarting class at 9:05 first class is at 9:05, mented, “It would a.m. and getting out at suck, because it cuts they’re on time, 3:10 instead 2:10. my afternoon “When the stuthey’re coming ready into activities.” dents’ first class is at However, sopho9:05, they’re on time, to work.” more Jessica May they’re coming ready stated, “I will be to work,” Principal David Reilly happy because I would be able to said in an article for the Daily News. sleep in longer, but I really wouldn’t “They’re not sitting there with a cup mind getting out later because I alof coffee, with their heads down, half ready have 7 classes.” asleep.” Some say that a late start for school Supporters say that later bell times would be good for the students, would increase the probability of stuwhile others are not as excited about dents being able to juggle extra curit. As of right now, the administration ricular activities, homework, sports, is not sure of what the schedule will social lives, and getting nine to ten look like when the change is implehours of sleep every night. However, mented. students are split. But since it is unlikely that any Matthew Lee, a senior, was asked changes will be made in time for how he would feel about this new next school year, students shouldn’t proposal. He responded, “No, I don’t lose any sleep over it. like it because, I personally think
CARLMONT’S SCHOLARSHIP BULLETIN
For more information visit the college and career center Google’s Anita Borg Scholarship Amount: $10,000 Deadline: Feb. 15 ETS & Shell Oil Company Scholarship Amount: $2500 & $5000 Deadline: Feb 16 Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship Amount: $500 - $4000 Deadline: Feb 16 Mahatma (Univision) Amount: $2000 Deadline: Feb 16 e-Quality Scholarship Amount: $5000 (10) Deadline: Feb 16
Amount: Up to $10,000 Deadline: Feb 24 SVCF’s Bobette Bibo Gugliotta Scholarship Amount: $1000 Deadline: Feb 24 Kaiser Permanente Asian Scholarship Amount: $2000 Deadline: Feb 26 Mills-Peninsula Health Services Amount: $varies Deadline: Feb 28 Japanese American Citizens League Amount: Up to $2000 Deadline: Mar 1 Soroptimist Int’l of Burlingame Amount: $1000 Deadline: Mar 1
Ronald McDonald House Charities Amount: Varies Deadline: Feb 16
PG&E Black Employees Scholarship Amount: $1000 to $5000 Deadline: Mar 1
Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Award Amount: $36,000 Deadline: Feb 19 SVCF’s Hazel Reed Baumeister Scholarship Amount: Up to $5000 Deadline: Feb 24
PG&E IspirAsian Scholarship Amount: $2000 Deadline: Mar 1
SVCF’s Crain Educational Grant Program Amount: Up to $5000 Deadline: Feb 24 SVCF’s Curry Awards for Young Women Amount: Up to $1000 Deadline: Feb 24 SVCF’s Eustace-Kwan Family Scholarship Amount: Up to $5000 Deadline: Feb 24 SVCF’s Rupert Ed Grant (Late Bloomers) Amount: Up to $5000 Deadline: Feb 24 SVCF’s San Hill Scholars Program
PG&E Latino Employees Scholarship Amount: $500 to $1500 Deadline: Mar 1 PG&E Samahan (Filipino) Employee Scholarship Amount: $2000 Deadline: Mar 1 PG&E Women’s Network Scholarship Amount: $1000 to $1500 Deadline: Mar 1 Grand Lodge of CA Order Sons of Italy Amount: $Varies Deadline: Mar 1 Tzu Chi Scholarship Amount: $1000 Deadline: Mar 12 Foothill-DeAnza’s Foundation Scholarship Amount: $2000 Deadline: Mar 12
Sports
February 2010
Page 11
Why do female athletes get hurt so much? Research Shows Females are More Prone to Injuries FEATURES EDITOR
A majority of the students have seen people with injuries wandering about the campus. Is it noticeable that most of these injuries happen to be on girls? Many athletes at Carlmont get hurt at least once during their season. Whether it’s a minor injury such as a twisted ankle, or a very serious injury like a torn ACL, athletes at Carlmont are getting beat up. How many people notice the difference in numbers of hurt male athletes and hurt female athletes? Junior Anna Betteo notices that most of the injuries occurring at Carlmont are on girls. “It’s because the boys are at a higher aggression level than the girls. The more aggressive you are going into a tackle, the less likely it is that you’re going to get hurt.” Earlier this soccer season, Betteo tore both her MCL and ACL in her right knee playing soccer. She further explains, “I think I hurt myself because I was intimidated by the opposing player going into a tackle.” Although Betteo might think that it’s because of the female athletes’ lack of aggression that is hurting them, others say it is scientific. Scientific medical research shows that because teenage boys have a higher level of testosterone, they gain more muscle and get considerably stronger without much effort. Teenage girls, on the other hand, are getting an increasing
amount of estrogen which causes to add Ben Hoffman said, “It’s just because more fat to girls’ bodies than muscle. boys are tougher than girls and it’s the According to medical studies, teenage way that our body works. Nobody can girls do not have a sufficient amount of help that.” Although it may seem like a muscle to keep their joints in safe posisexist remark, scientific medical studies tions. have proved this Varsity softball statement to be player, Kelly Robtrue. According inson said, “My to the N.C.A.A. doctor told me that statistics, “it it’s because girls takes less force to go through puberty cause a concusmore slowly than sion in girls and boys do, so the young women, bones aren’t perhaps because fully developed they have smaller yet. The ligaheads and weaker ments are really necks.” loose, so they’re Whatever the more likely to reasons people get injured.” think, it is certain Studies show that girls are that girls are more injury more likely to go Freshman Gabriele Peek hobbles to prone than boys. class on crutches due to a broken foot through chronic Science has knee pain, shins proven this fact splints, stress fractures, ankle sprains, as a true statement. Female athletes and hip and back pain. need to be more cautious and be careful A study in 2007 stated that “highwith their bodies while playing sports. school girls who play basketball suffer Whether it is that girls need more proconcussions at three times the rate of tective equipment, shorter schedules, boys, and that the rate for high-school or more medical attention, they need to girls who play soccer is about one and a understand that playing sports has serihalf times the rate [than] for boys.” ous risks. So have fun, but be safe and Some also think that girls are more take the necessary precautions in order fragile than boys in general and they are to protect your body from harm. not as tough. Sophomore soccer player, Photo by Dana Bloom
By Nicci Betteo
An intense new workout for a new decade Ladies find a new way to burn calories
Although 360 Pilates (recently re-named) in Redwood City would be a much closer location to attend a class, I decided to sign myself up for Sheila Kelley’s S Factor level one class in San Francisco ( I enjoy the schlep across the bay that brings me Staff Writer in closer proximity to my beloved Christian Louboutin shoes). The ‘80s had jazzercize and now The women at S Factor are all in the new millennium, along with friendly and fabulous; it’s an exthe re-acceptance of ‘80s fashions, tremely welcoming environment -American culture has begun to emwithin minutes we were all acquaintbrace a new form of ‘80s exercise as ed and chatting. But I must admit that well --- pole dancing. although I was thrilled to be attending This new phenomenon of aerobic a class, I had my misgivings: What activity was first brought to my atif I look really bad? What if I fall on tention a few years ago through the my touches? What if my legs and the many commercials for at home dance pole make a farting noise and evvideos such as Carmen Electra’s lap eryone thinks it’s me? Luckily these dance lessons and the infamous Flirty fears were all removed by the dimly Girl Fitness. Although it had always lit room -- which has no mirrors and sparked my interest, the idea of the the warm, accepting environment. class on a cassette and installation of The two hour class at S Factor (one a pole in my living room seemed far hour at 360 Pilates) is separated into too Georgette of the Jungle for me to a warm-up designed to strengthen the bear. body as well as bring women in-tune It was not until winter break, when with their body; and time spent on the I heard friends enthusiastic about at- pole. Upon my mentioning of particitending a class as well as raves from pating in a pole dancing class, many my co-worker about pole dancing people looked at me funny...assuming as an extremely challenging and fun that I was preparing for a career as a form of exercise, did my interest restripper. ignite. I decided to try a class. “It’s stripper dance,”said Ms. Ame
By Hannah Abney
Secrist, “I’m sure it would take a lot of strength, but I feel it is not an appropriate form of dance for myself, nor for my students.” Secrist’s take is similar to that of many, however it’s about much more than just dancing on the pole. “The pole is only part of the experience. I believe that Sheila Kelley, through S Factor, found a way to use pole dance and sensual movement to empower all women, regardless of age or shape,” said Lydia Linker, personal trainer and teacher at S Factor. “While pole dancing for money in a club can hurt a woman’s self esteem, at S Factor we reinforce that this movement is for you and you alone. One thing S Factor gives you is time to yourself, for yourself and on yourself. We also create a non-judgmental environment by focusing on the things you like about yourself and trying to change your perspective on the things you might not like about yourself.” And in a room without mirrors, which can promote self-judgment such as my previous misgivings of what if I look bad?, the women become each other’s mirrors and cheer for each other every step of the way. It was an extremely freeing and enjoyable experience. Not
to mention we’ll be getting to wear six inch stilettos in class...which of course allows me to indulge in my shoe addiction. As far as a form of exercise...pole dancing is top notch. “Pole dancing, as well as any other form of dance, requires a lot of stamina, stability and strength. For S Factor, the focus is on slow movement, which increases all of these aspects of dance and makes it a very good core workout. Pole dancing requires a lot of strength. You need the upper body strength and the hand strength to hold onto the pole or pull yourself up the pole. You also need serious core strength to maneuver yourself through combinations of pole tricks. It’s a full body workout,” explained Linker. So is pole dancing here to stay.. or will it die like disco? Well from the looks of it, and the experience, I’d say it’s no old “one-two step,” but a new and exciting routine that’s sure to keep your body grooving. Now gentlemen don’t feel left out, although pole dance isn’t a man’s sport...there’s still football, and even S Factor shirts for men; and if all that fails to indulge you, then a career as a firefighter might be your next best bet.
Photo by Dana Bloom
Photo by Nick Long
Sophomore Sophie Jackman receives the ball and looks for teammates to complete the pass.
During the first quad game, senior Nolan Richins maneuvers to get an open shot.
Photo by Dana Bloom
Photo by Nick Long
Sophomore Lily Anderson dribbles around a Terra Nova player and goes up for a layup.
Photo by Nick Long
Sports
February 2010
Photo by Nick Long
Page 12
Freshman Lauren Denney prepares to pass the ball to her teammate.
After a victory at the senior game, the team and parents lined up for another memorable moment at Carlmont.
Empty Bleachers By Han Li
STAFF WRITER
Photo by Han Li
It’s a perfect day for soccer: sunny, 60 degrees, late in the afternoon, with the Carlmont Varsity boys facing one of their biggest rivals: Woodside. It’s a 1-1 tie and the clock is winding down, when out of nowhere, Senior Mike Rosenberg unleashes a vicious volley from 30 yards out, and the ball sails perfectly into the upper left-hand corner of the goal. The referee blows the whistle to end the game and the team storms the field, jumping up and down with joy. There’s only one thing wrong with this picture: the only people celebrating are the players and their parents. No students. Why don’t
Junior Alexandra Corvello fights off her defender and goes up for the shot.
Where are all the fans?
students go watch the Carlmont soccer teams play? Carlmont is consistently one of the best teams in the league, a fact supported by JV boys midfielder Ben Hoffman, “We’re amazing, number one in the league, and the top dog.” Even against some of our biggest rivals, Woodside, Sequoia, and Burlingame, there are rarely more than five students in the bleachers. Out of the over 2,100 students that go here, you’d think we would be able to put more than five students in the stands. Many of these people played soc-
cer when they were little. They felt the joy of running around on the field, the exhilaration of scoring a goal and the pride that comes with knowing that you and your teammates played better than the other team. As most of these players get older, they start to gradually drift away from the game and settle into other sports. Their interest in playing and watching the beautiful game disappears. The most common excuse for not watching soccer is the belief that there is no action, no goals, and nothing really happens. One person who clearly disagrees with this belief is Nickola Milkovski, a winger on the boys JV team, “It’s non-stop action for ninety minutes, no pauses, no breaks.” Ninety minutes of two teams battling it out for the right to say that they are better than the other. Ninety minutes of twenty-two players leaving their hearts out on the field. Ninety minutes of hard-fought playing, tactically strategic coaching,
and lovably questionable refereeing. That’s the amount of time it takes for us to sit through two class periods. Ninety minutes without timeouts, huddles, or breaks in the action. In a recent study done by the Wall Street Journal, in an average NFL game, there are only eleven minutes of live action; even if those minutes are unbelievably intense, it’s only eleven minutes. Soccer is the most watched sport in the world; this is an often repeated and annoying saying, but that doesn’t mean it’s not true. Two years ago, a record 97.5 million people watched Super Bowl XLII, but that number pales in comparison to the 715 million people who watched the 2006 FIFA World Cup final. These people love it because it’s so unpredictable, on any given play, an incredible event can take place, something that could blow your mind. Natalia Manzanares, a member of the girls JV team loves soccer because “it’s intense and breathtaking.” Hopefully more people will come and experience it for themselves.