February 2013 by MavLife

Students Create Rugby Club

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New rules and changes in test date cause steep drop in exam participation. News Page 5

Sport creates a new physical outlet for athletes on campus. Sports

February 2013

ASVAB Sign-Ups Drop

Page 13

MavLife

The Healthy Maverick MavLife selects the most tasty greens in town. Entertainment Page 15

La Costa Canyon High School, One Maverick Way, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Volume 7 Issue 4

Cold Weather Affects Market Turn Out Despite early enthusiasm, local farmer’s market is not drawing large crowds T

Yasmeen Halim News Editor

he farmer’s market on campus, which opened this past fall, is held every Saturday from 10-2. Upon its grand opening, the market was highly anticipated by vendors, parents, and students alike. The market sells a variety of products, including Tupperware, socks made from bamboo, organic tea, honey, olive oil, croissants, and of course, fresh produce. Half of all profits from the market, which is organized by the LCC

(Top) Local residents at the farmer’s market on February 2, 2013. (Right) Ginny Gebhard (left) of the Best Bamboo Socks displays her product to customers.The socks are made from odorless bamboo viscose fibers.

Photos by Ellen Reidy

Foundation, go toward supporting the The school has advertised the market Visual and Performing Arts programs. by placing various signs throughout At the market on Saturday, February Carlsbad and Encinitas, displaying the 2, vendors commented that they were details of the farmers market, including pleased with cordiality of customers. time, location, and date. The signs are “The atmosphere here is very nice,” what drew local resident Amanda Alger Ginny Gebhard of Best Bamboo Socks to the market that Saturday. said. “The people that come here are “I saw the big sign down on El super friendly.” Camino,” Alger said. For Gebhard, the market has The signs are a vital key to the improved her business. market’s success, but vendors are not “I have customers that come back seeing overflowing crowds of customers every week to see rushing to their booths me,” Gebhard said. “It used to be double this to make a purchase, as But not all they would hope. vendors are seeing size. About 25 vendors Although several their profits grow. have left.” vendors are unhappy Attendance at with the recent Ginny Gebhard turnout, customers are the market, which thrived in its first grateful for the market few weeks, began to fall as winter and the convenience of its location. approached. “It used to be double “I think it’s a good location,” Alger this size,” Gebhard said. “About 25 said. “It’s kind of central.” vendors have left.” The vendors who remain hope that As a result of decreasing more attention can be brought to the customers, several vendors have had market. to leave, as they could not afford to “[We should] tell people that they rent the space anymore with such low need to get the word out,” said Gebhard. profits. “There’s no communication.”

Construction Begins on Shopping Center La Costa Town Square to bring stores and restaurant in summer 2014

Chase McAllister

Senior Jack Revell displays his tattoo.

Tattoos Hinder Blood Donors Students’ tattoos must be a year old to donate blood

Emily Schact Staff Writer

he number of students eligible to donate blood on February 13 was reduced due to an American Red Cross requirement that individuals with tattoos wait 12 months after getting their tattoo before giving blood. “I have no idea why they would make that rule,” junior Tristan Alvarado said. “It’s not like the ink is in my blood or anything.” According to redcrossblood.org, policies are intact because of concerns of spreading diseases like HIV and hepatitis and testing reveals that “blood that came from people with tattoos is not usable.” “I was planning on giving blood, so it’s a bit disappointing,” Alvarado said. While some students don’t approve of these policies, others can understand their importance. “Ink could have anything in it--it’s not worth risking it” senior Jack Revell said. “I myself watched the needle I got my tattoo with being sterilized. But diseases can still be spread.”

Meghan Lumsden Asst. Design Editor

any people who commute to school by passing through the intersection of Rancho Santa Fe and La Costa Avenue are sure to notice the drastic changes in the next few months. Early in January, construction began on what is destined to become the La Costa Town Square. The shopping center is set to offer a mix of residential housing and retail shopping that is believed to mirror the atmosphere of The Forum. Preliminary openings of some of the stores and regions of the shopping center are slated to begin in July 2014. Until then, construction will be underway over the 83-acre span of land. “I think because this area is mainly residential areas, it will be beneficial for shopping and benefit the locals,” sophomore Brennan Anzil said. “Depending on what they are building, I also think it will be beneficial for seniors to go off campus.” Having more options to go off campus for lunch has been a desire of senior students so they will not have to travel as far away from school. However, a more commercial shopping center can potentially lead to more people in the area, which might lead to other issues. “The amount of traffic and cars going

Construction begins on the new shopping center on La Costa Avenue.

Meghan Lumsden

to and from school and other people going seat walls and a clock tower to create the through the area might increase,” junior atmosphere of a public gathering area. Zoé Randolph said. “It just seems like “A place where people could go hang there are a lot of people going through out, a more social area,” Randolph said. there already.” “Definitely something that is easier for Other plans have been set for the teenagers.” development such as providing a variety of Originally introduced in 2009, the places to shop that idea to build in the are currently not “It would be nice if more stores that area was initially as close by as many were at the mall were closer. We already stalled by concerns would like. Students from local residents have high hopes for have a lot of food options so more retail who worried about the center. ov e r - f r a n c h i s e d stores would be cool.” “I’d like to see Ashley Mangold c o m p a n i e s something like a dominating the Forever 21,” freshman Ashley Mangold region. After coming to terms in 2011, the said. “It would be nice if more stores that design was reconsidered and is now being were at the mall were closer. We already put into action. have a lot of food options so more retail “This is going to impact our school stores would be cool.” a significant deal,” Principal Kyle Ruggles Even more could potentially be offered said. “I think it is going to benefit by the shopping center which will contain everybody.”

Opinion

2 MavLife 2012-2013 Staff Editor-In-Chief: Megan Mineiro Managing Editor: Rebecca Zilberman News Editor: Yasmeen Halim Sports Editor: Anthony Fregoso Opinion Editors: Rachel Hutchison & McKenna Stonhaus Entertainment Editors: Jennie Barnes Alex Visser Photography Editor: Ellen Reidy Head Photographer: Chase McAllister Web Editor: Kaylee Daly Rodriguez Assistant Editors: Ana Diaz & Claudia Mathews Assistant Design Editor: Meghan Lumsden Staff Writers: L.J. Bradford, Emily Brown, Cosy Burnett, Juliette Cardinale, Belen Castillejos, Jacob Castrejon, Jackson Cowart, Cassandra Cyphers, Natalie Engel, Sydney Francis, Jayson Gacad, Cooper Gee, Kara Gibson, Kiki Gibson, Rhett Goodson, Alex Hummel, Ingrid Kim, Hunter Klawans, Meghan Lumsden, Riley Medina, Molly Mineiro, Sandy Mueller, Kota Nishiguchi, Emily Schacht, Reilly Tiglio, Dani Tomassetti, Devon Whitlam, Jessica Woods, and Allison Zimmerman Business Managers: Kiki Gibson Riley Medina Adviser: Suzi Van Steenbergen

avLife is the student newspaper of La Costa Canyon High School. LCCHS student media products are public forums for student expression. Students are responsible for their work in print publications, online content and video broadcasts, as well as in other products, none of which are subject to administrative approval. Students make all final content decisions. Media programs follow Scholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association, and Student Press Law Center standards. In addition, student media programs work to follow all copyright laws and avoid libel, slander, and infringing upon the rights of others. Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the editorial board, while opinion columns represent the writer’s perspective. Advertisements do not necessarily represent the newspaper’s views.

February

Editorial: Online Negativity Has No Place In Our Community

Students should focus on building each other up, not tearing each other down

et’s face it. Every high school deals to be a clichéd phenomenon which we with the same drama, the same tenoften hear about on the news. But it’s no sion, the same longing for unity to bring laughing matter. us all together. But each school deals with The “LCC Insults” page was taken these things differently, and that’s what down after a brief while, but was then makes it a different experience at every restarted again the first day of winter school. Some students may deal with their break with the welcoming post of “Happy problems physically, battling it out in holidays everyone. Let the insults begin.” their student center.Yet others deal with Its content includes posts such as “Dear problems by emotionally abusing one LCC:Your logo is a bull, and your school another online, with is sh*t. See where access for the whole going with this?” Students should build each I’m student community Though this comment to see, comment, and other up and find strength was not concealed post their own upsetby anonymity, most through one another as we of the insults (before ting opinions. Sound familiar? “LCC Insults” struggle with the pressures the Sadly, members page was taken down) of the Maverick and obstacles of high school did in fact remain student community anonymous. This together. have found an awful allowed people to get outlet for their stress. out of hand with rude Many students opinions without an who use Facebook are already aware of identity being attached to the statement. the “LCC Insults” and “LCC Shenanigans” With luxury of anonymity, students seem pages. They are social media accounts to attack individual students in particular. specifically dedicated to insult and Clearly, this insults page is absurd. It ridicule the students who go to our is rude and it is infuriating that students school without expressing such opinions feel the need to express opinions online face-to-face. “Cyber-bullying” has made without talking to the victim specifically. its way onto our campus. This term seems More importantly, it is disappointing that

some students make more of an effort to criticize one another than to be unified with one another at this school. However, there has been a recent effort to counteract these terrible online pages. A new Facebook page was created, called the “LCC Compliments” page. The page, which is moderated, currently has approximately 670 likes, but more students should get more involved in order to encourage one another throughout the struggles of high school, which we all encounter on a day-to-day basis. Reassuring words of comfort are now being posted by some of our peers on the encouraging pages. “Everyone good luck on finals! Relax and take it slow. You’ll do great!” read one post. Some even recognize their friends specifically. One such post complimented a student on the being the “Most sincere, loving and genuine person [they] know.” It’s uplifting to see how students are making an effort to turn around the negativity set off by the hurtful Twitter and Facebook activity. Students should build each other up and find strength through one another as we struggle with the pressures and obstacles of high school together.

Safe Space Stickers Welcome All Students

Students should follow teachers’ lead by creating a safe and welcoming campus

LCC Gay Straight Alliance

her sexual identity. She didn’t feel safe or comfortable coming out to her parents or anyone at home and she had never talked about issues like this with her friends at school. And what was she hearing every day at school? What disgusting phrases taunted her every day? “That’s so gay,” “You’re so gay,” and “Don’t be such a fag.” For most people, these slurs mean nothing. But someone like Sarah, who hears hatred and shame at school, it’s hard to find a place to feel safe. Sarah didn’t know who to talk with this about and couldn’t approach anyone because she feared that she wouldn’t be accepted by some of her best friends. What if people she opened up to rejected her or told others about her sexual orientation? I’m certain many friends could have really helped her, but only if they had made themselves easily approachable. It is our duty, as friends and peers, to make people like Sarah feel safe. Even though we may have the best intentions and fully support our peers, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity, these intentions are not known unless they are vocalized. If a student had stopped people from saying “that’s so gay,” for example, then Sarah would have instantly recognized that person as a trusted ally. For it is one thing to be an ally for people like Sarah, and another thing entirely to make this compassion obvious. Allies cannot be determined by what they wear or what they look like or something visual. Allies must make themselves visible. Many teachers have recently made an effort to be visible allies with a new

www.facebook.com/lccnews

www.mavlifenews.com

Laila Al-Shamma Guest Writer

elepathy is impossible—believe me, I’ve tried. Just by looking at a peer I cannot see into his experiences, thought processes, joys and sorrows, or his successes and struggles. If a person tries hard enough, she can lock up her feelings behind a superficial smile—a lock that cannot be opened even by those closest to her. If there’s one thing I know it’s that I can never be sure who is really struggling and may be pushed too far by one unintentionally nasty comment. My friend Sarah (a pseudonym) didn’t have anyone to trust. Sarah had a simple secret silently tucked in the back of her mind. Sarah was a questioning teen, meaning that she, in addition to all of the normal teen angst, was realizing

this is a safe space

tool: the Safe Space sticker. This sticker, depicting a Maverick head in front of a rainbow, can be found in windows and on classroom whiteboards. This sticker shows that the teacher who put it up is an ally and holds a safe space for all students. This sticker speaks to students like Sarah who are searching for a safe space. Now that our teachers have shown their support, we must follow their lead. I implore every student to become a visible ally by speaking out against negative slurs. Make it known that you hold a safe space for all of your friends, no matter their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion or physical capabilities. Like I said before, no one is telepathic; you can never know who is listening to you and what they may be going through. Change things in your life—even just little everyday things like stopping people from using anti-gay slurs—and show people like Sarah that you care and that you can be trusted and that they shouldn’t be afraid when coming to you for help. We are weak when we remain quiet. We are strong when we confidently protect. We are supportive when we are visible. Visibility creates security and security creates a safe space.

Junior Laila Al-Shamma is President of the Gay-Straight Alliance, which works to create a safe place on campus for all teens. Meetings are held every Tuesday in either the Band room or Room 1301.

@MavLife

Opinion

February

Mending a Broken Heart

The key to being single this Valentine’s Day

Cooper Gee

70%: The percent of singles who would go on a blind date. 15%: The percent of women who will send themselves flowers. $367 million: The amount spent on gifts for their pets each year. Facts from www.Newsfeed.Time.com

Tuning Into Your Mood Choosing the right music to fit your mood is key

Kota Nishiguchi Staff Writer always see people blasting music in their cars, singing, and dancing. There is no doubt that music has a psychological effect on people. But when people are choosing to play happy music, are they happy because of the music or are they playing the music because they’re happy? I believe people choose to listen to certain songs, artists, or genres to match the way they feel. Last weekend, I woke up tired and sleepy. I had nowhere to be so I plugged my iPod into my speakers. This is something I usually do: lie in bed and enjoy music. But I didn’t play pop music or hip-hop because those genres of music would’ve contrasted my mood. I listened to calm folk music in order to match my peaceful mood. Listening to Flo Rida or Big Sean that morning would have irritated me. I wouldn’t have been irritated because I dislike Flo Rida nor Big Sean (I often listen to their songs). I’d be irritated because I don’t want to listen to Flo Rida talk about “hittin’ up clubs” when I’m just waking up. In my opinion, music amplifies moods rather than changes moods. I think moods can be hidden. People can be only a little happy, kind of peaceful, almost excited, or feeling the smallest degree of a mood. Music drives these feelings to greater levels. Listeners

ou begin to feel an intense rush of emotions as you finally gain the courage to ask your crush, “Will you be my Valentine?”Your darling crush contemplates this response and, with hesitation, rejects you. This sad scenario is played out among the masses of teenagers and adults alike on Valentine’s Day. On the ever so infamous day of February 14th, many people turn to their one last option of self justification, calling it “Singles Appreciation Day,” taking an obvious stance against the common sadness found in the broken hearts of the rejected. What can you do to avoid falling under the category of the “Lonely Single?” It’s quite simple, actually. Let loose and accept your mom’s desperate plea to become your Valentine. Too embarrassed?

How to Keep a Healthy Mindset Positive ways to relieve second semester stress

Kota Nishiguchi

choose certain types of music in order to complement a mood rather than turn it around. Music pushes moods rather than pulls them. Suppose your friend (who is a girl) has just gotten dumped. Would you force her to listen to Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe?” Sure, it’s a bubbly song and your friend has told you that she “knows every word to the song.” But, I think your friend would not only still be crying, but your friend would also be annoyed that you played “Call Me Maybe” while she’s crying her eyes out. If you want to help your crying friend, try slowly moving her mood from sad to happy, instead of trying to “turn her frown upside down.” I would give her peaceful, calm music in order to settle her intense sadness (ex: Fleet Foxes).Then, I would give her something uplifting, like R&B music (ex: John Legend). From there, you can finally have her listen to “Call Me Maybe.” However, I’d advise some bubbly, yet cool music (ex: Vampire Weekend).

Cooper Gee Staff Writer

Well, there are many other solutions that can prevent your Valentine’s Day from being one to mope on. Did you ever find yourself going crazy at one of those “$1 movie” sales, but never knew when to watch them? Well here’s a step-by-step method. Invite over your sister, friend, or even cousin, put on some cozy pajamas, scavenge your cabinets for chocolate or gummies, and start the movie. Bam! Your Valentine’s Day is instantly ten times better. Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a day for dating. Even when you’re not in the arms of your crush, it can become a time for making an effort to see how much you have to be thankful for and strengthen the bond between your family and friends. Now, I know this all sounds very cliché, but if you can find something to hold onto, whether it be a supportive family member, or a close friend, you might just be able to avoid the sinking depression that can plague one who is lonely or insecure. With a chocolate-covered face, and a stomach full of buttery popcorn, you have just successfully avoided the chaos of Valentine’s Day, and maybe gained a pound or two along the way.

Juliette Cardinale Staff Writer

taying stress free during the school year is very important to students’ health. The build-up of homework, projects, extracurricular activities and family time can overwhelm a person. However, there are ways to deal with these scenarios. As a teenager I have dealt with stress before, and therapists have told me that you need to eat a healthy breakfast, sleep at least seven to eight hours each night, participate in exercise at least 30 minutes a day, and express your feelings in ways such as journaling or painting. In my experience, the coping skill that works best for me is to talk to my friends. Before you unload all your problems on one of your friends, choose a trustworthy one. Good friends can help you with stress mostly because they can relate, but also because they can make you laugh and distract you from those stressful feelings. Not only can you talk to friends or family in person, but you can call them, too. Sometimes when I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed I call up a friend and just a few moments on the phone with one of them can entirely change my mood. All of a sudden, I’m laughing and smiling and I feel much better. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a friend, don’t stress. Talk to a favorite teacher of yours and ask for some advice. Don’t let those minor situations overwhelm you to a point where your life feels overwhelming. Deal with challenges as they show up instead of putting them off and letting them pile up. Try to stay positive. Life is beautiful when you let it be.

Remember to... 1. Exercise and take in the fresh air. 2. Drink more water—it cleanses the body and soul. 3. BREATHE. Juliette Cardinale

News February Students Visit Local Middle Schools

Diegueño and Oak Crest host lunch events to introduce prospective Mavericks to all that LCC has to offer Megan Mineiro Editor-in-Chief

Photos by Megan Mineiro

Juniors Zach Lax (left) and Hayden McDougall (right) of the Comedy Sportz club serve as emcees at Diegueño Middle School on Monday, February 4.

Seventh grader Sean Powers (center) of Diegueño Middle School reaches out to grab candy being thrown by LCC ASB representatives.

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Principal Kyle Ruggles greets Diegueño Middle School students.

News

February

ASVAB Participation Drops Nearly 100%

Change in test date and advertising policies credited with fewer sign-ups

Yasmeen Halim News Editor

handful students appeared in Room 1307 on Monday, January 28, at precisely 9 a.m. to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, also known as the ASVAB, a standardized test unlike most exams that students take in high school. The ASVAB, administered by the Department of Defense, is primarily aimed toward students who wish to enlist in the military. According to the official ASVAB website (official-asvab.com), the exam “measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.” Over 14,000 schools nationwide participate in the test annually. The turnout for the ASVAB exam this year, only three students, is way down from over 400 students last year. Numerous factors likely contributed to the steep drop in sign-ups. For example, in response to confusion that surrounded the exam last year, the administration has attempted to clarify policies regarding how the exam’s purpose is communicated to students. Previously, not all students were aware of what type of exam they were taking until it was handed out to them by military personnel on test day. “The administration is on board and is making it very clear,” Social Sciences Department Chair Paul Giuliano said. “We set up very specific guidelines.” Each year, civilians not dressed in uniform but who work for the military visit social classes to promote the exam Megan science Mineiro and sign up students. They typically spend no more than five minutes explaining the test’s purpose. It is their job to promote student involvement in the exam, but they are not allowed to persuade or force students into taking it. Teachers must also take care not to force students into taking the exam. “Part of our job is to stay neutral,” said Giuliano. Despite the new policies, however, a

MavLife investigation found that ASVAB Although the majority of the speakers representatives are still not playing by the concealed or minimized the test’s main rules. The recruiters were instructed by purpose, a few explained the military the administration to explain the ASVAB’s association. purpose and testing details, but not all of “He briefly mentioned its [purpose], them did so. but he said it’s not solely based The speaker in sophomore on the military,” junior Emily Andrews’ class said nothing Orla Putnam said. Each branch of the about the military or the true Another change military requires a purpose of the exam. the administration differenct ASVAB score. “He came in and he made this year wasn’t in an Army or Navy involved the uniform,” Andrews said. timing of the “He basically told us in test. Last year, a really optimistic mood the ASVAB was that we all need to take held during this or at least should students’ first because it’s a great and third period opportunity to classes. This year, maybe choose the administration a career path decided to hold the based on the exam on one of the teacher survey,” said prep days (January 28) when Andrews. students were not in school. Once Teacher concerns students in prompted the change in test Andrews’ date. First, they weren’t class learned happy with the number of the true of students who purpose of the instruction. As of 2008, missed exam, few wanted Second, teachers to sign up. worried that “Nobody signed some students up in the whole class,” in the past might Andrews said. “I think have signed up for of new Army recruits did almost everyone was the exam just so not have a high school going to and I was the they could get out diploma. first student to sign up.” of class. Usmilitary.about.com. After her teacher clarified “The test is on a the purpose of the exam, non-school day because “everyone just erased their names.” the staff wanted it that way Some officers did not even explain the from here on,” Assistant Principal acronym “ASVAB,” which would at least Doug Kamon said. hint to students that it is a military-based Although changing the testing day exam. may be viewed by some students as “He was a very energetic speaker,” inconvenient, for those determined to said sophomore Kyle Brandon. “But I enlist in the military or who want to take was confused. My teacher explained it the exam without missing class, the new [purpose] to us after.” test day is helpful.

The highest possible score is

99 Minimum Scores:

Coast Guard-40 Air Force-36 Marine Corps-32 Army-31 Navy-31

17%

GSA Club Reaches Out O

Jayson Gacad Staff Writer

n a large high school campus, it can be hard for some students to find a home, a place where they feel safe, comfortable, and accepted. For gay and lesbian teens, it can be even tougher. However, there is such a place on campus that many students might not know exists. The Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) is a club on campus that offers a safe environment for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning (LGBTQ) teens and those who support them. The GSA, which has chapters in schools nationwide, seeks to create a community where everyone who enters can instantly make new friends and feel accepted for who they are. ”I think it really supports people,” sophomore Chet Przybysz said. “I think it’s a good place for people to go to feel safe.” The GSA encourages people to come together to join in on the activities that help build group support and acquire new friends. ”We do bonding activities where we kind of build the support of community at our meetings,” junior and president of the GSA club Laila Al-Shamma said. “We play icebreaker games that are focused

more on introspective concepts and try to inspire some discussion with your friends on what’s important with you.” To prepare for each meeting, a group of leaders, including Al-Shamma, juniors Grace Halvorson and Collin Kirkwood, and adviser Carissa Mattison, meet during the week and discuss plans regarding the next meeting. “We brainstorm things to do for the next meeting and over the weekend we draft an agenda so it’s really structured and organized,” Al-Shamma said. The club’s goal is to show tolerance for everyone and give all of its members a feeling of equality. “I think it’s gotten the word out about tolerance,” Principal Kyle Ruggles said. “I think that the GSA club has done a Chet Przybysz nice job of getting the word out about tolerance and our beliefs about each other.” The GSA has impacted its members in their social lives and their education on what the club teaches about the LGBTQ community. ”Well I think it helped me make more friends and meet people and it also has educated me on the LGBT community,” freshman Isabella Carr said. “I like to learn about LGBT teens and also it’s just a really good atmosphere.”

“It’s a good place for people to go to feel safe.”

“I don’t really like missing class,” Putnam said. “I signed up last year and didn’t take it because I don’t like missing class.” Despite the administration’s attempts to clear up confusion regarding the exam, students and teachers are still unsure as to why the military appears to be trying to conceal the purpose of the exam. But ASVAB representative John W. Stine downplays concerns students might have about how the ASVAB results will be used. “A lot of people think that you take the ASVAB and a bus pulls up and we’re going take you to boot camp,” said Stine. “The only thing that the guys in the military are doing there is to make sure that the test goes smoothly.” ASVAB representatives realize that students might decide to opt out of taking the ASVAB once they uncover it’s true purpose, but they must attempt to stay neutral. “In the world of the military that we live in today, there’s all types of ways to get people to consider the military,” Stein said. “The ASVAB is one more tool for the military’s toolbox” While the main purpose of the exam is to assess potential military enlistees, it can provide other valuable information for students. “It’s main purpose is for students or for young people that are going to go into the service to get kind of pre-tested as to what would be their best occupation or job in the military,” Kamon said.“However, it is one of the most excellent vocational aptitude tests there are.” Whether or not students have an idea of their potential career path, they may still benefit from taking the ASVAB, but only if they desire to. “It really matches up your strengths with the types of jobs,” Kamon said. “Other students can take it, too and it really gives them an insight as to what kind of careers they can be successful at. It’s not just about jobs in the military.”

The Gay Straight Alliance club hosts supportive group meetings every Tuesday

Jayson Gacad

From left to right: Junior Gabriel Aldaz, junior Esperanza Barba, freshman Ian Rowe, and junior Francesca Carr participate in a bonding activity that required some students to close their eyes at a GSA Club meeting in the band room on January 8, 2013.

The activities performed are designed to allow students to get to know each other. ”I know that one time we went around the room and we just walked around and when the music stopped playing, the first person you make eye contact with, you would give them a hug or say hi to them,” Przybysz said. The club isn’t the only safe place on campus for LGBTQ students. The GSA has asked teachers to put up stickers that indicate that the classroom is a place for all

students to feel comfortable. For students looking to make new friends, feel comfortable about themselves, or learn about the LGBT community, every Tuesday at lunch students can visit the Gay Straight Alliance club in the band room on even days and in room 1301 on odd days. The club usually has an average of 30 people attending weekly. ”I feel like it’s a really good place and it is really helpful for other people,” Carr said. “I hope that more people join so it gets more attention.”

News

Speech and Debate Team Welcomes Students Who Love to Learn

February

Program enrolls a variety of students with different interests and talents Jacob Castrejon Staff Writer

he campus Speech and Debate team a lot and to argue. And I think that’s why represents our school’s thriving aca- most people do it, as well.” demics department, and the members of The students also participate in the Speech and Debate have been leading the fundraising and running one of the largest team up to a successful season this year. tournaments in San Diego County. The Speech and Debate adviser, “Winter Classic is the tournament Margaret Dubel, carries the weight of the we hold every December, and it’s open team on her shoulders, but her abilities as to pretty much everyone in the country,” adviser do not come from previous Speech Dubel said. “We usually have about a 1,000 and Debate positions. competitors from 50 different schools, “I’ve never done Speech and Debate and usually through four different states, before, but like so it’s a very I said, I had big regional experience in other “It’s my nature to talk a lot tournament. types of academic And our kids c o m p e t i t i o n s ,” and to argue. And I think that’s don’t compete Dubel said. “So it’s why most people do [speech].” at it, they help similar applications run it. But it’s in working with our biggest students and fundraiser.” Kelsea Critin traveling with The perks students.” of being a member of Speech and Debate Despite having no previous experience are numerous. in Speech and Debate, Dubel’s talent in “You get a cool sweatshirt with your her role as adviser is evident in the amount name on it,” Critin said. “And, you get of responsibility she holds. to be friends with people you probably “I love it [the job],” Dubel said. “It’s a wouldn’t be friends with otherwise. And, crazy job. It never ends. But it’s a lot of fun, you get to go places and tour colleges for and the kids are awesome, which makes it free.” that much better.” Above all, it does seem that the aspect Personalities are usually the key of meeting new people and making new factors in bringing people to the team. friends is the greatest part of being a “I’ve always been a talker, I guess,” member of Speech and Debate. sophomore Kelsea Critin said. “My dad “I like the actual activity, but I think encouraged it strongly, so I decided to the people you meet are the best part,” come, just because it’s my nature to talk Critin said. “Not even just the people in

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Junior Nathan Park practices his speech at Mission Vista on Saturday, February 2, 2013. Park placed sixth place in the Original Oratory event.

the LCC Speech and Debate program, but you get to meet people from around the world and the country, and that’s really cool because they’re all really cool.” While some may think that Speech and Debate is for the outspoken and advanced, this program does hold a piece of action for every person, regardless of what they prefer. “There are different levels, and the cool thing is that kids can be as involved or not involved as they want,” Dubel said. “So they can just do league tournaments, if that’s what they’re interested in. Or they

can try and go to Nationals if they want to. It’s totally up to every kid who has the ability to compete at whatever level they feel comfortable at competing at.” The members of Speech and Debate can make the transition from competitor to tournament host quickly. But not all these students are the same. Some are quiet, some are loud. Some are advanced, some are novice. So whether a student has been around for years, or is just looking into it, Speech and Debate always has open doors for the pursuers of knowledge.

February

Feature

BODY&MIND:

On the same track Program teaches students ‘READI’ to Make a Change about the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol T

Devon Whitlam Staff Writer

he READI program, also known as the Recovery Education and Alcohol/ Drug Instruction, is housed at La Costa Canyon High School and entails a two day program meant to educate students on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. When students are caught in possession or under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the San Dieguito Unified High School District (SDUHSD) they have the choice between attending READI or serving a suspension. While most students attend the program after being caught, some elect to attend voluntarily. This year between 100 and 210 students will likely attend READI by the year’s end, with 25% of attendees coming voluntarily or through parent referral. Joe Olesky and Tiffany Findell, both district employees working in the READI program, try to help students determine why they began using harmful substances in the first place. “A lot of kids know about the program and a lot of kids are struggling out there,” Olesky said. “Tiffany and I want to extend the olive branch to any student who wants to come into the program, we highly encourage it. It’s not a negative thing.” Students from every school in the district, including the middle schools, attend the program at La Costa Canyon. Making the transition from middle school to high school is hard and over the last few years more students have been turning to drugs and alcohol for support, rather than family, friends, or counselors. “Some years we see more freshmen making the harsh transition from middle school,” Olesky said. “This year we are seeing a lot more middle schoolers [in the program].”

The first step of the program is a The program provides students meeting with Findell and Olesky where with the information necessary to make they speak with the student and his or her educated decisions about drug and alcohol parents in order to make them all aware use. of the program and to educate parents “By being in the program, I learned about what they can do to help their all the facts,” a male student* who has children. attended the READI program said. “The “A lot of parents think it’s just pot videos that they showed and people that and alcohol, but they talked there’s a lot more about, that was TEEN DRUG AND going on in our really shocking.” ALCOHOL USE school district,” Following Olesky said. “So the two day we work very seminar, students closely with must complete the parents to ten hours of 1 Increased odds cultivate that community relationship. Then 2 Keeping clean service, receive we work very five hours of Starting young 1 closely with the recovery support, 3 Juvenile student.” complete a offenders The first time 2 READI relapse Students then attend a prevention Addiction two-day drug and booklet, and 3 alcohol education attend six weeks program from of a post-READI 8:00 a.m. to support group 2:30 p.m., on where they meet DRUGS Wednesdays and with Findell to Thursdays. see how they are Teens who smoke cigarettes 1 ALCOHOL are five times more likely to “A lot of doing. drink and 13 more likely to 1 Those who begin drinking students think Once use marijuana. between the ages of 11 and the information students have 14 have a greater chance of abusing alcohol or they’re going to learned more 2 At the age of 21, children who have never smoked, drank, or depending on alcohol. get in here is the about drug and used other drugs are more same information alcohol use, it likely to never do so than Over 13,000 children and 2 they’re going is up to them to students who have. teens take their first drink each day. to get in health decide if they will 3 Of the juvenile offenders who class,” Olesky take the lessons are drug tested, 92% test 3 Traits of alcohol addiction said. “But it’s a they learned positive for marijuana and are found in 25.9 % of 14.4% test positive for underage drinkers. lot more in depth within the cocaine. and it’s based on READI program Meghan Lumsden research.” and apply them Facts and statistics from the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University.

Bullying GoesViral

Student-created social media pages both insult and support

Natalie Engel Staff Writer

hroughout first semester, several Junior Sophie Graves was one of accounts that post either positive or the many unfortunate students to be negative comments about students have mentioned on one of the negative pages. attracted attention. The sites, known as Graves “froze” when she found out about “LCC Rumors” and “LCC Shenanigans” the post from a friend. on Twitter, and “LCC Compliments” and “I was so beyond offended, “LCC Insults” on Facebook, raise quesembarrassed and hurt,” Graves said. “I tions about the impact social media can don’t think anyone would be stoked to have on students. hear or see themselves posted on a page “I don’t think other people realize like that.” how the little comments on these social The post doesn’t need to remain media pages affect the person that’s being live for very long to cause hurt and bagged on,” junior embarrassment for Carly Clark said. the targeted student. “LCC Rumors” “The page was was the first only made last week,” negative page to be Graves said. “Within anonymously created that same hour the on Twitter. Once page was made, a students caught wind Kendra Stienmetz picture had been of the attention it posted of me then was getting, the taken down really “LCC Shenanigans” account appeared. fast after.” The account has since been Both pages contained rude comments deleted, much to Graves’ relief. on student relationships and crude or In order to counteract the negativity insulting comments about students who of such accounts, junior Kendra Stienmetz attend LCC. Both accounts have since created the “LCC Compliments” page on been removed. Facebook.

“This page makes everyone look past each others’ differences.”

to their lives. “Second semester I improved my grades a lot, especially in history,” said the male student. READI does not just focus on getting students off drugs and alcohol. It focuses on why the students began using harmful substances in the first place and what might have triggered it. “Every student’s case is looked at as unique because everyone uses for different reasons,” Olesky said. “We have kids who have been in group for a year. They like the connectedness of the READI program. It’s about cultivating relationships.” Findell and Olesky have worked to create an environment where students within the program feel safe and supported. “When you talk to Ms. Findell she’s the nicest person, she’s super, super supportive and helpful,” a female student who has attended the READI program said. “If I have any problems at all I can go and ask them for help at any time. They’re super supportive and trustworthy.” Having READI located on campus (in room 1304) not only benefits the students here but also the teachers and assistant principals. It makes it easier for students and teachers to contact Findell and Olesky if they have a question or need to talk about a problem. “I love having Joe and Tiffany on campus,” Assistant Principal Bjorn Paige said. “We can all learn a lot from them.” Olesky and Findell are on campus Mondays through Thursdays for any students or staff members who wish to seek their advice.

* MavLife has withheld students’ names to protect their privacy.

10:33 PM

Verizon 3G @LCCshenanigans

“It’s difficult at such a big school for everyone to kind of come together,” Stienmetz said. “This page makes everyone look past each others’ differences and focus on seeing the good in others.” Students had a better reaction to the compliments pages on Twitter and Facebook, reaching out to classmates in a positive and encouraging manner. Senior Nicole Scepanovic was moved to tears when an anonymous friend posted a comment about her on the “LCC Compliments” Facebook page, saying “[Nicole] is so caring, smart and fun to be with.You’re going to go far places in your life! I know you’ll get into Chapman!” “I teared up a little bit,” Scepanovic said. “I was having a rough day, and it made me feel a lot better. The post was long and kind of personal so I knew it had to have been a close friend of mine.” The “LCC Insults” page on Facebook currently has no activity. However, the “LCC Compliments” page on Facebook remains busy. With approximately 670 “Likes,” the page helps to unite students in a way never before seen on campus.

52%

Tweets 3m

LCCshenanigans @LCCshenan...

student name will be a pedophile when he grows up. no need to go to college for that career. #you’re welcome

LCCshenanigans @LCCshenan... so who hasnt hooked up with student name

LCCshenanigans @LCCshenan... is proud that she weighs under 100 pounds

student name

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does this mean that you

are a slut

LCCshenanigans @LCCshenan... student name student name

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Megan Mineiro

This graphic recreates actual tweets posted on the LCCshenanigans Twitter Feed. Students’ names have been removed.

Feature

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Information from www.jambajuice.com.

February

Jamba Juice is Healthy...Right? Popular smoothies not as beneficial as they seem Meghan Lumsden Staff Writer

amba Juice a popular choice among teenagers that are looking for a tasty drink on-the-go. After school or sports practice or weekend get-to-together, the refreshing smoothies can be what seems like a great snack. However, the drink can qualify itself as its own meal. The “Classic” smoothies from Jamba Juice range from having 73 to 93 grams of sugar in the Original size. As expected, much of this sugar comes from the fruit that is in the smoothies. But what is not always known is that the amount of sugar in a Jamba Juice Classic Smoothie is comparable to that of a milkshake. “The word smoothie sounds more healthy, because when you think of a smoothie you think of fruit so you then think it’s a much healthier option,” sophomore Alan Pacheco said. “But since it has [so much] sugar it’s kind of surprising.” Many restaurants that offer what is deemed healthy food use the label “healthy” as a marketing advantage. The ability to strategically sell a product to people who believe they are getting better health benefits is becoming very popular in a societal craze to be fit. “People don’t want to go to McDonald’s or somewhere that is greasy and gross,” sophomore Devyn Helsing said. “The restaurants make people feel better about eating something healthy.” The companies that present these labels of healthy food have been primarily successful in convincing their audiences that what they say is true. The generally accepted notion of what is advertised as healthy has altered how

“[There is] the ‘All Fruit Menu.’ There’s no sherbert. It’s just the fruit and juice. So it’s probably the best thing you can get there.”

Eating Healthy On Campus Sandy Mueller Staff Writer

he San Dieguito Unified High School District (SDUHSD) Nutrition Services Department is responsible for feeding over 11,000 students in just a 30 minute lunch period each day of the school year. While this is a monumental task, for some students the food choices available fall short of their expectations, especially when it comes to the nutrition of the food. The Nutrition Services department offers several meals that are laden with fat and sodium, lacking in nutritional value. Some meals contain over 1,000 milligrams of sodium per serving, while the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends 2,400

milligrams for an entire day. Excluding the bean, rice, and cheese burrito and the hummus dish, all the meals contain 18% or less of the 25 to 35 grams of fiber that is recommended daily by doctors. Students trying to eat healthy, but have few choices available to them. “I try to get a salad when I can but if not, [I get] chicken or pizza,” junior Vincent Finch said. While the cafeteria staff claims that students have been responding well to the food on campus, students argue that the food

many people think about what they are eating. “In this day and age, there are plenty of health problems and people want to strive to be healthy,” Pacheco said. “When things they like, like Jamba Juice, taste good and have a healthy side to it, you feel healthy because you know you are getting in fruits and vegetables.” In order to please those who look for healthy yet satisfying smoothies, Jamba Juice, offers light versions of their popular items that cut out of the calories, carbs, and sugar. However, many people seem to choose the more popular Classic smoothies over the healthier options. “I feel like it depends on what it is, but I think a lot of times people just go for the regular,” Helsing said. “Some people even think that they taste different.” Along with the light Sierra Doucet versions of their smoothies, Jamba Juice also offers various versions of their menus that contain different nutritional values. Some of these choices are preferable if one is looking for something that is more healthy than their traditional items. “[There is] the ‘All Fruit Menu,’” junior and Jamba Juice employee Sierra Doucet said. “There’s no sherbert—it’s just the fruit and juice. So it’s probably the best thing you can get there.” While Jamba Juice claims its place as a healthier option among a world of fast foods, remembering that it is not always the best choice as a side or beverage to a meal can help consumers maintain an even healthier lifestyle.

is not very appetizing. “I think they could have healthier choices because all they really have every day is pizza, burgers, fries, and the same stuff,” Finch said. “A lot of the food tastes horrible, too.” LCC Food Supervisor Debbie Quebedeaux states that students have the choice to purchase the pizza, hamburgers or other less healthy options, and that the department does offer more nutritious choices if students want Vincent Finch them. “There are fresh fruits and

“I think they could have healthier choices because all they really have every day is pizza, burgers, fries, and the same stuff.”

A look at nutritional b vegetables,” Quebedeaux said. “I think the subs and salads are healthy. It is their choice to take the pizza.” Although the menus in the lunch lines do not post nutritional information, SDUHSD Nutrition Specialist Cindy Welch has created menus that do include facts such as calories, fat, and sugar counts for most of the food on campus. “The menus are available to students upon request,” Quebedeaux said. The food staff also says that food has improved since the appointment of the new director, Richard Mariam, who is investing in making healthier foods. “We have our own oven to make the foods fresh,” Quebedeaux said. “Everything is of good quality.” A new option for students looking for healthier meal options on campus is the “Calf,” the newly-opened cyber cafe.

Feature F AT WILL PE VEGETABLES OP ADDICTED SMI AT

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IS THIS HEALTHY?

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“I’m SO tired,” is a sentence heard every Homework assigned by six separate day on campus. These three words are classes can often times overwhelm uttered between yawns by students sufstudents. fering from too much time delegated to “If [teachers] know a big project is sports and school work and not enough [due] in another class it doesn’t seem like hours dedicated to sleep. they really take that into consideration,” One group on campus that finds it Cowart said. particularly difficult to obtain the eight Students believe that teachers are to nine hours of sleep recommended for aware of the work piled on by other students each night by the National Sleep teachers and knowingly overlook it. Foundation are athletes. “I think they care, they just don’t “I play water polo and we just realize how much homework you have,” finished our season but even [now with] freshman Jenna Kearney said. “They club team we don’t finish till eight or think that their class is more important nine at night,” sophomore Matt Conger that other ones and that the things said. “So even after [practice] you still they’re teaching are more beneficial to have homework you.” that keeps you up Each school “If you don’t get enough pretty late.” year brings with After practice, sleep it does change who you it horror stories some student of long term are the next day and into the projects. Such athletes find that they don’t have projects often week.” enough time to have a direct complete their to the Jackson Cowart relation assignments. They amount of sleep then sacrifice that students earn hours of the sleep in the morning to during the project. finish homework. The National Sleep “I feel like they’ll give you time Foundation Reports that only 15% of but they’ll give you assignments on students get eight and a half hours of top of [the project] every day, really sleep on school nights. encouraging you to do it at the last “I do homework two to three hours minute,” Cowart said. a night, but a lot of the times you have to The lack of sleep among high school get up early to do homework,” Conger students concern the parents of children said. “Especially with sports that go late.” who stay up past midnight to complete Some students decide to forgo assignments. sports in favor of weighted classes that “They do it nicely, but still nag me, aid their GPAs.Yet these students still if I’m staying up late doing homework,” find their hours of sleep cut short due to Cowart said. time spent on homework. Getting enough sleep is an integral “If you don’t get enough sleep then part of performing one’s best in school, you fall asleep after school, then you making it even more important for end up staying up late [to finish your students to get as much sleep as possible. homework] and it is just a vicious cycle “If you don’t get enough sleep it that can’t be broken,” junior Jackson does change who you are the next day Cowart said. and into the week,” Cowart said.

S G U

FOOD

Jennie Barnes Entertainment Co-Editor

TI RED

SUGARS

Students struggle to complete homework and get enough sleep

T? HA GT YIN SA EY TH

Counting Points or Counting Sheep?

Y A SU RE GA R

INSU L T

AM VIT I NS

February

FACEB

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Meghan Lumsden and Megan Mineiro

benefits of the food offered on campus “[The cafe] looks pretty cool,” sophomore Brandon Cornell said. “Hopefully, it will give a better variety.” There is also interest in the ability to not only eat at the “Calf,” but also enjoy the use of computers in the cafe. “I’m interested to see how it turns out,” Goates said. “It’s so hard to get on the computers at the library. It will be so nice to eat while on the computer too.” While being able to use the computer is a great tool, the food there is also different from what the cafeteria has been serving. “The ‘Calf’ can be what we want it to be,” Quebedeaux said. “We are going to offer more healthy choices there.” With the cafe tailored to La Costa Canyon, it broadens the food options that students have on campus. Most students will be able to use meal cards in The Calf, except those

students who participate in the Free and Reduced Lunch program. “Because of the variety of options in there, there won’t be the opportunity for free and reduced government sanction lunches,” Principal Kyle Ruggles said. Students in the program can still purchase meals with cash. The Calf, which is open at break and lunch, provides healthier foods that the student body may enjoy better than the food that is being served at the lunch lines. Such items include panini sandwiches, salads, yogurt, bagel and cream cheese, fruit cups, and hummus. There are also drinks including Smart Water, chocolate milk, Gatorade, slushes with 100% fruit, and a variety of Naked Juices. Snacks are also available. With so many options, The Calf may offer an answer to students who hope for healthier choices.

Calorie Counts for Popular Campus Food Items*

500

462 447

450 400 350 300

370

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330

Cheeseburger Cheese Pizza Breadsticks

Chicken Caesar Salad

Hummus, Vegetable and Pita *Calorie Counts from SDUHSD.net

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Sports

February

Wrestlers Face Tough New Foe

Team hopes to defeat top-ranked Poway and remain CIF champions A

Anthony Fregoso Sports Editor

fter winning the Division II CIF title last year, the wrestling team hopes for nothing short of hoisting the trophy in the air again this year. However, there has been a major barrier placed in the way of the team this year. The Poway Titans, who are currently ranked as the number 19 program in the nation, have been moved into the same division as the Mavericks. Prior to moving down to Division II this year, Poway won the Division I CIF wrestling title for the past 29 years in a row. With the powerhouse Titans moving down a division, members of the wrestling team know that they will have to put on an impressive performance if they hope to steal the title from the arguable favorites. “It will be a tough battle, and we will have to put in a lot of effort and reach our full potential to be able to beat Poway,” senior Connor Anderson said. With the challenge of breaking a three decade winning streak, the team continues to look to their leader to drive them.

“[Coach Dwayne Buth] makes sure that we are mentally and physically ready,” junior Ian Baker said. Despite the fact that keeping the CIF title may be a challenge, the team has had a strong season up to this point and managed to win a tournament that they hosted on December 7 and 8. “Our season has been going well,” Baker said. “We have grown a lot as a team.” The team believes that a major part of their success has been their moral support of one another. “[We have a] camaraderie, we all work together, and push everyone to get better,” Anderson said. Despite the odds leaning in the Titans’ favor, the team is optimistic and believe that they can recapture the title. “I think we have a good chance,” junior Drew Karson said. “Our coaches are pushing us hard and preparing us.” The team continues to work and prepare to meet up with Poway on February 13 at the CIF Championships.

Claudia Mathews

Freshman wrestler Alec Baker (right) faces off against an opponent in an attempt to pin him during a tournament on January 26, 2013.

Vying for Athletic Scholarships Comes at a Cost Athletes who play year-round sports are more prone to injury

Cosy Burnett Staff Writer

he college scholarship. This is what can consume an athlete’s mind. Goals are set, the best teams are researched, and money is spent to get the best coaching and exposure. Private lessons and tournaments across the country consume the athlete. But how much sport obsession is too much? When is the line crossed? Senior Bailey Conner knows what it’s like to endure the taxing schedule of the year-round athlete. “I have to privately practice pitching four to five times a week for at least an hour and then on the weekend I have five hour practices with my team if I’m not playing a game,” Conner said. Due to Conner’s hard work, she has earned a scholarship from Bethune University. But at what cost? As a result of all the strenuous practicing, Conner has severe shoulder pain. “After every game I have to ice my entire shoulder or else I can’t raise my arm past my head because I never get a

break,” Conner said. taken. She can’t take the recommended Dr. Hebert Crockett, orthopedic three months off because she doesn’t have surgeon at Hackensack University three months to take off. She simply has Medical Center in New Jersey, says that to deal with the pain. athletes who play the same sport year“I take Advil before and after every round with no time off are “begging to get practice,” Conner said. “My coach rubs hurt.” my shoulder out before games and I take a “The time people get hurt is when lacrosse ball and massage it against a wall.” they are tired,” Dr. Crockett said. “Once Softball players an athlete is fatigued are not the only ones it triples their who suffer from chances of injury.” injuries involving Fatigue can overuse. Any sport be the result of with a continual a long day at a overhead throwing tournament, or it motion such as can be the result of softball, baseball, a long season. volleyball, and “My advice is tennis are at high to cross train,” Dr. risk for serious Crockett said. “Play injuries, especially other sports and if the necessary play too many Dr. Herbert Crockett don’t precautions are not games in one day or

“My advice is to cross train, play other sports and don’t play too many games in one day or in one season. You can easily get fatigued and injure yourself.”

in one season.You can easily get fatigued and injure yourself.” Senior Kyle Sachrison plays more than one sport and has found that doing so has helped with his success not only on the basketball court but on the baseball field as well. He will take his baseball talents with him to New Mexico State University. Both sports are year-round for Sachrison, but he doesn’t complain. “Lots of my basketball training helps with baseball,” Sachrison said. Not only does the cross training help with staying conditioned, Sachrison has never suffered a serious overuse injury. “Playing both sports has kept me really active and without a lot of free time,” Sachrison said. According to stopsportsinjuries.org, over 1.7 million children under the age of 14 get injuries involving overuse each year. With the number of overuse injuries increasing each year, precautions should be taken to avoid serious long term injury.

Spring Athletes Prepare for Another CIF Run

Lacrosse, baseball and track and field teams all hope for repeat titles

Hunter Klawans Staff Writer

ollowing last year’s spring season, athletes are looking forward to getting back in shape for this year’s spring season. The lacrosse, track and field, and baseball teams all won CIF Championships last year. Hoping to repeat this year, players have been training and getting faster and stronger for this season. “I have been doing the workouts with the team and I have been working out on my own at home and at the YMCA,” varsity lacrosse goalie Brian Cooper said. “I have been training since the end of last season.” Not only has the lacrosse team been

championship or competing for a state working to improve during the offseason, title, the pressures have sunk into some of the players. other teams are working to defend their “The pressure hit as soon as we won,” CIF title. Cooper said. “I think it has made myself “I have increased my mileage,” track and the team work harder and our coach, runner Emma Abrahamson said. “I am at coach Foss, has about 40 miles and done a great job of I keep going up by 5 motivating us.” miles each week,” The track The consistency team’s past of training has led success has carried to the success of our through the years. spring program over “This is our the past several years. third year in a Whether it is Emma Abrahamson row winning CIF winning another

“The pressure has really increased my motivation. I have been training harder than ever.”

and individually it was my first year,” Abrahamson said. “The pressure has really increased my motivation. I have been training harder than ever.” Now that the spring season has almost arrived, the players are looking forward to another successful year. “I am looking forward to the travel meets this year, those are always the best part of the season,” Abrahamson said. With the hope of another successful spring season, student athletes have began training and working hard. Athletes prepare to try to bring home another CIF title to La Costa Canyon.

Sports

February

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Sports

February

Scrumming Into a New Sport

The introduction of a rugby club brings a physical sport to campus LJ Bradford Staff Writer

ryton Dempster and fellow juniors Sawyer Kilgore and Tanner Taguchi decided to bring rugby to LCC because of their interest in the game. “[I started playing because] it looked fun and is a unique sport,” Kilgore said, “I played on a local Encinitas team.” Often football is referred to as an extreme contact sport, but rugby can be much more dangerous due to the lack of pads and fast-paced style of play. The added physicality and the lack of pads drew Dempster and other players to rugby.

“I like that there are no pads and it’s physical,” Dempster said. Broken noses, bloodied faces, and bruised ribs are all common injuries that can occur within a game, but, rugby players have come to expect this level of physicality. “One game, I got kicked in the face and almost lost an eye,” Dempster said. For now, students are playing rugby as a club sport, as it is not school sponsored.

Rugby for Rookies

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Unlike in football, after a player is tackled in rugby, play continues. If the player is not held down by an opposing player, they can get up and continue to run. However if they are held down, the player can pitch the ball to a member of their own team. The ball can also be placed on the ground and a ruck will follow. A rugby ruck is one of the most violent and dangerous activities in the world of sports. Eight players from each team connect themselves together, and use all of their combined strength to push the other team out of the way and kick at the ball to retain possession. In rugby, players can advance the ball by kicking it or running with it. The ball can be passed to another player, but it can only be passed backwards. The ball is often passed with two hands on the ball, using a pitching motion. Photos by Chase McAllister

Now You Know: Gymnastics Lingo The sports-lover’s guide to sports terms Cosy Burnett Staff Writer

flat out yum(and fast).

Aerial: Cartwheel without using your hands to push off of the ground. Arabesque: Standing on one leg with the other leg raised at about 45 degrees. Back-to-back tumbling: Where a gymnast performs a series of skills across the mat, turns around, and performs another set of skills back across.

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Dismount: Used to get off of the bars or rings at the end of the routine, often done with a back flip. Flight Series: The performing of a series of acrobatic skills from one end of the beam to the other, and then turning around and going back.

Gainer: Performing a backwards somersault while moving forwards. Giant: Doing a single rotation around the bar with the body extended. Handspring: Done by springing off of the ground using the hands to push off, it can be done forward or backward and often links movements. Kip: Used on the uneven bars to get on the bar in a front support position or a handstand from a hanging position. Layout: Extending the body straight out during an aerial move. Pirouettes: Twisting in the handstand position that is used in order to

change direction. Round-off: Beings by pushing off of one leg, while swinging the legs upward in a fast cartwheel motion into a 90 degree turn. Stick: Executing a landing without stumbling or falling. Tuck: A position where the body is folded at the waist, and the knees are pulled to the chest. Whip Back: Doing a back handspring without letting the hands touch the floor. Wolf Jump: Jumping with the chest forward, with one leg straight and the other bent under the body.

Entertainment

February

A ‘Belieber’ and a ‘Directioner’ share their reasons for obsessing over these teen sensations

Allison Zimmerman Staff Writer

eniors Kendra Steinmetz and Sarah Hendee compete against each other in order to win the title of “biggest fan.” Steinmetz is a Justin Bieber fanatic and Hendee is a One Direction enthusiast. They try to prove themselves by answering multiple randomly selected trivia questions based on each of their teen star obsessions. Whoever answers the most questions correctly will be named the winner.

Which member came up with the band name One Direction? Sarah: I don’t know Answer: Harry

4) What was the name of Harry’s

Meghan Lumsden

One Direction band member Harry Styles.

1) Which member of One

Direction is the oldest? Sarah: Louis Answer: Louis

2) What is the name of Harry’s

cat?

Sarah: “He has a cat?” Answer: Dusty

1) What is Justin’s birthday? Kendra: March 1st Answer: March 1,1994

2) What is his mom’s name?

band before he was in One Direction?

Kendra: Pattie Mallette Answer: Pattie Mallette

Sarah: White Eskimo Answer: White Eskimo

What are the names of Justin’s two younger siblings?

Who is Louis’ current girlfriend?

Kendra: Jazzy and Jaxson Answer: Jaxson and Jazmyn (Jazzy)

Sarah: Eleanor Calder Answer: Eleanor Calder

How many Twitter followers does he have?

What is Niall’s natural hair color? Sarah: Brown Answer: Brown

Kendra: 33 million Answer: 33 million

5) Where was Justin born?

The race was close and the fans were devoted. But Steinmetz has proven to be more devoted to her musician. So it turns out Justin Bieber has the most fans on Twitter (33 million) as well as the most devoted fan on campus.

Justin Bieber.

Meghan Lumsden

Kendra: Stratford, Canada Answer: London, Ontario, Canada

How long did it take for Justin Bieber to sell out Madison Square Garden in 2012? Kendra: 30 seconds Answer: 30 seconds

February Horoscopes

Libra

Sep 23-Oct 22

Thinking about how you feel this month will be paramount.Your reactions to new experiences will help you know how you will feel in the coming months. Be sure to keep an open mind in addition to an eye on your heart. “Other Side Of The World” by KT Tunstall

“If It Hadn’t Been For Love” by Adele

Scorpio Energy flows out of you like light from a candle filling the room you enter. It is impossible not to be infected by your smile—that is a great gift. Know that everyone around you appreciates your warm and happy glow. “We Are Young” by Fun.

Your nerves are still shaken from finals week and you have set into overdrive. Chill out, and learn from last semester but don’t let it overwhelm you.You are a talented student, so slow down and let it show. “Peace Beneath The City” by Iron and Wine

Sagittarius

This month you make your own fate. Follow your dreams and the fates will be on your side.You tend to wait around for a sign to tell you to do things. Stop it! Go with your gut and you will never regret it. “Thistle and Weeds” by Mumford & Sons

Apr 20-May 20

Mar 21-Apr 19

Leo

You know yourself.You like yourself.You don’t mind if other people know that, too. But you should be careful of how you act in the coming month. People may mistake your confidence for arrogance.

“Spark” by Matthew Ryan

Virgo

You might have been feeling a little introverted this past month. But it is time to break out of your shell and into the world.Your energy demands company. Make new friends this month.

Aug 23-Sept 22

You, darling Cancer, are perfect.You are meticulous with your choice of clothing as well as with your homework. Cut loose a little this month. February is the month of love, so go for it!

“Fix You” by Coldplay

Taurus

“The Best Day Ever” by Spongebob Squarepants

Capricorn

This month you will find the balance you seek in books. Pick up a classic or test the waters in a new genre or writer you haven’t read before. Go bullfighting with Hemingway in “The Sun Also Rises” or go back to a classic. There is no wrong book.

Dec 22-Jan 19

“Hey Ho” by The Lumineers

Cancer

Being happy is something that has been eluding you recently.You may have been feeling down, but it doesn’t have to stay that way! Take this month as a wake up call to be kind to yourself.

Jul 23-Aug 22

May 21-Jun 20

You are always full of energy, buzzing like a bee around all of your friends. Stay that way; your friends love you the way that you are and never want you to change.

“No Ordinary Love” by The Civil Wars

Aries

Nov 22-Dec 21

Gemini

Feb 19-Mar 20

“Chances” by Athlete

The tides of your life are turning, as recently you have been going through changes in your life. Be sure to stay true to your positive self and these changes will only make you a better and stronger person.

Jun 21-July 22

This is it, what you have been waiting for. A new year, a new semester, and a new start. Take this chance to do something unexpected. This is your time to find out who you are.

Pisces

Oct 23-Nov 21

Jan 20-Feb 18

Aquarius

“There is A Light That Never Goes Out” by The Smiths

February

The

Entertainment

MavLife samples Caesar salads to find the tastiest one

eople whose favorite dish is salad are few and far between. But if you are turning over a new leaf, or just looking for an alternative from the everyday pizza and burrito, then this healthy option is a great choice for you. This month, MavLife staffers conducted a blind taste to determine which of three local eateries makes the best Caesar salad.

Panera’s salad won over MavLife staffers.

Panera

1935 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009

anera - Nestled in the The Forum shopping center this restaurant offers sandwiches and bagels, steaming coffee and tea, and of course breads and desserts. But hidden within these not so healthy options is MavLife’s favorite place to get a Caesar salad. The salad appeared “crisp and delicious” with a “thick and creamy” dressing, according to freshman Reilly Tiglio. The taste was “full of flavor and surprising taste” according to junior Meghan Lumsden.

Mav Jennie Barnes Entertainment Co-Editor

Ellen Reidy

Flippin’ Pizza

215 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024

lippin’ Pizza, known for thin crust and great flavor, has been holding out on customers who only know them for their pizza. Coming in second in our blind taste test, the Flippin’ salad “had a perfect little dash of dressing and croutons” according to freshman Cooper Gee. The salad also had “a nice mixture of tangy cheese [as well as a] nice crunch to the lettuce and flavorful croutons.”

Souplantation

109 N. El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024

ouplantation - Souplantation is famous for its salad bar, which greets customers at the door, making it impossible to avoid getting at least an eyeful of the leafy greens. Which is why it came as a surprise that Souplantation came in last in our blind taste test. “It’s light and fresh,” junior Devon Whitlam said. “[It] was really good until hair was found.” Unsurprisingly, after MavLife staffers found several pieces of hair in the Souplantation salad, they rather lost their appetites.

Know Your Enemy: 2013 Oscar Nominees

MavLife reviews several Best Picture contenders at this year’s Academy Awards

Jessica Woods Staff Writer

“Les Misérables,” based on a novel written by Victor Hugo, centers around the exploration of a prisoner on parole, Jean Valjean, who winds up adopting a young girl who has cruel foster parents and a struggling biological mother. The movie takes the audience on a voyage through the tragic hardships the French faced after the June Rebellion. The film can be explained in merely two words: pure genius. Viewers go through a whirlwind of emotions sudden happiness to sadness can be strongly felt, thanks to the enthralling cast.

Not only that, but all the songs are one hundred percent live—no lip syncing at all! Due to this, the raw talent of the actors and actresses is obvious. Viewers leave the theater grateful for what they have. Seeing what the majority of France had to endure is astonishing and unfortunate. Since the film portrays this in such an influential light, I believe this movie will be the one taking home the Oscar. Everyone should experience the great lessons “Les Misérables” teaches. C’est magnifique!

“Lincoln” is the iconic nonfiction reenactment of president Abraham Lincoln’s determination to get the House of Representatives to pass the thirteenth amendment, the law that abolished slavery, in order to end the Civil War. Daniel Day-Lewis, the man who plays Lincoln, suits the president amazingly through his powerful emotion in every word spoken. Admittedly, it’s not the most energetic of all films, but it is extremely engrossing. In history textbooks, it’s simply stated that Lincoln abolished slavery. However, this movie dives into the depths

of exactly how he did that. Even throughout the seriousness of the plot, humor is intermingled every now and then to get a chuckle or two out of the audience. The scenery is darker, consisting of lighting which sets up the serious tone and establishes the differences between this film and its competitors. Though the film could potentially be for any viewer above the age of 13 (seeing as it would be a tad confusing for some younger children), I’d highly recommend it to the history lovers.

“Silver Linings Playbook” is an empowering tale of two adults facing personal problems who subconsciously seek comfort in each other, making it an inspirational film. The director, David O. Russell, chose “The Hunger Games’” Jennifer Lawrence and “The Hangover’s” Bradley Cooper to portray the emotionally damaged characters in this dysfunctional yet romantic comedy. This film does not include the typical, adorable romance scenes that make audiences “aww” and cry; it instead displays how love can be found during dark

and confusing times. For that reason alone, I believe this movie deserves an award for its honesty and originality. There are no over-the-top visual effects; the focus remains solely on the characters, giving them a spotlight. Though quirky and humorous, it still maintains a serious tone to stress the importance of how specific mental disorders can affect someone’s life and ultimately one’s relationships. Both realistic and tragically beautiful, this movie is a definite recommendation for everyone.

“Life of Pi” is based on a novel which follows the journey of an Indian boy named Pi who is stranded at sea with only a tiger as his company. Though the movie is full of teary-eyed moments, it is thoughtprovoking and leaves viewers feeling transformed after leaving the theater. Imagining what it would be like to be lost at sea with a deadly animal, and seeing the great wildlife up close and personal, provides a new perspective on what to be thankful for and how beautiful life is.

As someone who did not read the book, I feel inspired to now do so. The visual effects are incredibly realistic, making viewers feel as if they are right there alongside Pi and Richard Parker, the accompanying tiger. The film’s emotional depth reaches out to people of any religion, race, age, faith, or region—a trait that today’s movies typically lack. “Life of Pi” is 120 minutes of inspirational realism that is definitely worthy of an Oscar. As for the other nominees, “Life of Pi” is an opponent to fear.

VS.

Alex Visser Entertainment Editor

February

Student

Couple

Teacher

Back Page

Meet The Contenders The Teachers

John and Kari Digiulio The Students

Megan Good and Nick Juskie

L Chase McAllister

John and Kari Digiulio represent the married teachers as “The Teacher Couple.”

1. If Mr. Digiulio had to pick one candy to describe your relationship what would it be and why? She guessed: Skittles His answer: Skittles because variety is the “spice of life” Correct (1) 2. If Mr. Digiulio had to pick the best date you’ve ever been on together what would it be? She guessed: Temecula when we got engaged His Answer:The Padres game we went to in the Spring of 2000 Incorrect (1) 3. What are Mr. Digiulio’s parents’ names? She guessed: Elizabeth and Albert His answer: Elizabeth and Al Correct (2) 4. If Mr. Digiulio had to have one thing while stranded on an island what would it be? She guessed: Knife His Answer: Just her [Mrs. D] Aww how cute! Incorrect (2) 5. What is Mr. Digiulio’s favorite book? She guessed: Some kind of racing book His Answer:“IronWar”- a book about the

ove is in the air. Couples of all grades and even teachers are making their final plans for how to spend Valentine’s Day. With couples on campus who have dated anywhere from 1 hour to who have been married for 20 years, we thought it would be interesting to see how well they know each other. So, we asked a teacher

1989 Iron Man We’ll give it to them. Correct (3) 6. What does Mr. Digiulio like on his pizza? She guessed: Veggies His answer: A lot of veggies Correct (4) 7. What is Mr. Digiulio’s favorite song? She guessed: “Walk on the Ocean” by Toad the Wet Sprocket His Answer:“Roll Out” by Ludacris Incorrect (4) 8. Who would Mr. Digiulio say is his role model? She guessed: His brothers His answer: My brothers Correct (5) 9. What would Mr. Digiulio say is his favorite sport? She guessed: Football His Answer: Multi-sport, like a triathlon Incorrect (5) 10. What would Mr. Digiulio say is “your song?” She guessed: “Bust a Move” by Young MC His Answer:“Milkshake” by Kelis Incorrect (5)

couple, John and Kari Digiulio, and a student couple, Megan Good and Nick Juskie, some questions to find out which girl knows the most about her man. Mr. and Mrs. D have been married for almost 10 years and Nick and Megan have been dating for about two years and three months. Let’s see which duo will prevail.

Chase McAllister

Seniors Megan Good and Nick Juskie represent the dating student body as “The Student Couple.”

1. If Nick had to pick one candy to describe your relationship what would it be and why? She guessed: Chocolate His Answer: Oreo- Black on the outside, white on the inside Incorrect (0)

Hallows” Incorrect (2) 6. What does Nick like on his pizza? She guessed: Canadian Bacon His Answer: Pepperoni, Cheese, and Spices Incorrect (2)

2. If Nick had to pick the best date you’ve ever been on together what would it be? She guessed: When we hiked to the top of the water tower for a picnic His answer: When we hiked to the water tower and had a picnic there Correct (1)

7. What is Nick’s favorite song? She guessed: “Novacane” by Frank Ocean His Answer:“Larry Csonka” by Action Bronson Incorrect (2)

3. What are Nick’s parents’ names? She guessed: Bob and Lori His answer: Lori and Bob Correct (2) 4. If Nick had to have one thing while stranded on an island what would it be? She guessed: His phone because he is obsessed with it His answer: A record player. It would make me happy. Incorrect (2) 5. What is Nick’s favorite book? She guessed: “Life of Pi” His Answer:“Harry Potter and the Deathly

8. Who would Nick say is his role model? She guessed: Action Bronson His Answer: Action Bronson Correct (3) 9. What would Nick say is his favorite sport? She guessed: Water Polo His Answer:Water Polo Correct (4) 10. What would Nick say is “your song?” She guessed: None His answer:We don’t have a song, sorry to disappoint Correct (5)

lthough most people would predict the married couple to be a Padre game or a hike to the water tower they will have a lot to the winner, it looks like this time we have a tie. Both couples talk about. At least Megan and Mrs. D now know a few new fun ended with a score of 5. Next time the cute couples take a trip to facts about their men!

Will You “Be Mine?” A brief history of the sweet heart candies that make V-Day special

Claudia Mathews

Jayson Gacad Staff Writer

s we all know, Sweethearts are those cute little candy hearts people often receive on Valentine’s Day from that special someone. These flavored candies come in a box and have a message carved into them such as “Be Mine,” “Call Me,” or “Kiss Me.” The candies were started in 1866 by a man named Daniel Chase who designed a machine to stamp candies with messages. At the time, they were mainly used for weddings and the messages weren’t the same as today’s messages. By 1901, the

actual Sweethearts brand was started. In the 1900’s, Necco vice president, Walter Marshall, decided to retire a few sayings like “Email Me” and “Fax Me.” The romantic messages are revised every year, and hundreds of suggestions are sent in. Some of the most unique sayings currently being printed are “Nature Lover,” “Wild Life,” “Get My Drift” and “Top Dog.” If you have any fabulous ideas, go online and send in a suggestion! Facts from www.necco.com.