Mavlife January 2009

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e r u t u f w e n a g n i d l i u b a feature on brick artist, nathan sawaya, and our on-site coverage of the inauguration pg. 8 & 23

la costa canyon high school

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1 maverick way, carlsbad, california, 92009

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volume 1 - issue 3

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january 2008


Cover Art: downloaded from brickartist.com.

contact us: 1 Maverick Way Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 436-6136 ext. 6020 email: mavlifenews@gmail.com

www.mavlife.com Mav Life is the student newspaper of La Costa Canyon High School. Its content, which is the responsibility of Mav Life staff, is not subject to administrative approval. Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the newspaper staff, while opinion columns represent the writer’s perspective. Advertisements do not necessarily represent the newspaper’s viewpoint. Mav Life, an open forum, welcomes signed letters on pertinent issues from the LCC community, which may be submitted to room 1304, via e-mail or to Christopher Greenslate’s mailbox in the administrative building. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

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Check out how you can score some free food.

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editor in chief DELANEY SIMMONS copy editor KATHERINE DWYER news JAKE PRUETT feature NICOLL MISCHEL opinion RACHEL SCEPANOVIC entertainment JORDYNN HARRIS sports JACKSON KELLER co-assistant editors ALESSIA MOSCATELLI & COURTNEY GULIHUR staff ADRIANA NINCI, ALEXA SIMPSON, ANTHONY BOYLAN, CAROLINA PALMER, GABRIELLE HAMMERSLEY, HEATHER DAIZA, HUNTER VURBEFF, KARL JOHNSON, KASEY FONTAINE, KAYNE FRIESEN, KOBI MELAMED, KRISTINE SCOTT, LEAH ARNOLD, LINDSAY OLSEN, RYAN KAY, SAMANTHA LOOS, SARA FRONDONI adviser CHRISTOPHER GREENSLATE

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“Gossip Girl” is a lot of people’s guilty pleasure, but we all know it’s only jealousy.

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staff:

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g n i n e p p ha

Two good friends deal with the pressure of being rivals when it comes to golf.

[february] CASHEE testing

3&4 10

four day weekend

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late start


{news}

Students Paying the Price A decrease in state funding has left CSU students providing the difference. By Kobi Melamed Staff Writer

Hepner Hall at SDSU. Photo by Kobi Melamed

education and instruction and more on administration. Had tuition costs been changed accordingly, they would have increased by just 2.5% in public research universities and decreased in both public master’s universities and community colleges. Private colleges have also increased tuition and decreased educational expenses, but not as dramatically. As a result, students are now cover-

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ing more of the cost of their education. In 2006, students at public research universities in California, such as San Diego State University and the University of California Los Angeles, paid around 39% of the cost of their education, an increase of 13% from 2002. Students at public master’s universities, such as California State University San Marcos, paid around 40% compared to 27% in 2002, and com-

“Students are paying more, and a greater share of the costs, but universities are arguably getting less,” said Jane Wellman.

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College tuition costs are increasing and students are paying more while colleges are spending less on educational expenses, according to a new study. “Students are paying more, and a greater share of the costs, but universities are arguably getting less,” Jane Wellman, the executive director of the Delta Project study said to the New York Times. The study focuses on post-secondary costs, productivity, and accountability, and shows that tuition costs increased an average of 29.8% in public research universities, 29.0% in public master’s universities and 18.1% in community colleges around the country. However, the study also points out that despite the increased revenue from tuition, many colleges, both private and public, are generally spending less on

munity college students paid around 13%, 5% more than they would have paid four years earlier. The study indicates that a decrease in the state funding is the primary cause for the tuition increases. State budgets are getting tighter, and as a result less money is available for educational funding. The Alliance for the CSU, a coalition which fights to protect funding for the California State University, states on its web site that the CSU system was cut by $368 million in 2008 and is expecting more cuts to come. Financial pressure has caused many colleges to reduce enrollment for next year and move up application deadlines. “There are several factors that can be attributed to higher costs of tuition,” said Margaret Lutz, Public Information Officer for the Office of Communications at CSUSM. “Certainly, in relation to public universities such as those in the CSU system, fees depend largely on the state budget and how the Governor/Legislature allocates money to the Cal State System (and UC system) to cover the cost of attendance for students.” Lutz said. Citing expensive instructional technology and the rising costs of energy, maintenance, and health care for faculty and staff as factors in the increase of tuition fees. According to the study, 92% of the revenues from student tuition increased from 2002 to 2006. Public research universities around the country were used to compensate for revenue losses from other sources, primarily state funding. In public masters universities and community colleges, 100% of the revenue was used to replace losses from other sources. As a result, little or none of the money earned from increased tuition could be used on new spending. “The schools have to survive,” Ryan Hunt senior, said. “But education is really important, not only for me, but for kids in urban areas who don’t have money for college.”

january 2009 | MavLife |

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g n i n e p p ha

Prescription Abuse is a Killer in South Africa

News Briefs

The smoking of AIDS medication is a new cause for alarm. Alexa Simpson Staff Writer

President Obama’s slip up during the inauguration was actually caused by Justice Roberts’ misquote of the oath of office. Obama waited for Roberts to repeat it correctly.

There will be a mock SAT exam on February 22, and a mock ACT exam on March 29. Cost is $20 each and goes from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

A flock of geese struck the engine of a US Airways Airbus A320 forcing a crash landing in the Hudson River in New York. Everyone lived!

Recent months have shown an in- only making their disease worse. Kasongo medicine. Kasongo affirms, “Not taking crease in the abuse of anti-retroviral drugs believes that there needs to be a strict the optimum dose as recommended will normally used to treat patients not suppress the virus and the of HIV and AIDS. Teenagers are CD4 count will be destroyed obtaining these prescription massively and that’s what we drugs through the black marare trying to prevent by giving ket and using them as narcotanti-retroviral medication.” ics., According to the BBC and The CD4 count is the white World Health Organization. blood cells in the immune sys“I don’t think our role as tem. When someone abuses doctors should be to just dish the medicine, he or she is slowout drugs. We have to make ly wiping out their immune sure that these drugs are taken system. When patients take as recommended,” Kas Kathe medicine properly the opsongo, an advisor on the antiposite effect occurs, boosting retroviral drug panel in South their immune system and thus Africa, said. prolonging life. Smoking anti-viral mediAIDS activist, Haru Mutasa, cine is a prime example of the travels to Uganda to speak misuse. It has been reported to people about their fight by BBC News in the article by against HIV/AIDS. His experiAlka Marwaha called “Getting ences have led him to believe High on HIV drugs in S Africa.” that most of the problems In it she details how the paoriginate from a lack of fundtients and health care staff are Prescription pills are crushed and smoked. Photo by Alexa Simpson ing. However, with teenagers selling the anti-retroviral mediabusing the drugs it is becomcine to teenagers and school ing more difficult to receive inchildren for money. School children were oversight on the distribution of anti-retro- ternational support. According to Avert, an seen crushing the pills into powder and viral medication of the drugs. international AIDS charity, world leaders smoking the medicine, sometimes mixA documentary film maker Tooli pledged, at the World Summit in 2005, that ing it with either marijuana or painkillers. Nhlapo said, “When I asked them why they they would try to get universal treatment Patients who even have HIV have been were doing it, they said it helps them relax by the year 2010. abusing the medicine in the same fashion and forget about their problems.” The drug phenomenon is now rapidly instead of taking it as prescribed. In all societies civilians have the oppor- spreading throughout South Africa to a AIDS and HIV patients who exploit the tunity to use drugs as an escape route. This younger generation. With all of South Afdrugs in this way are exposing themselves does not mean that by abusing these pre- rica ’s problems, the usage of prescribed to huge risks. By not taking the prescribed scribed medications their problems will medicine as a narcotic is one more thing medication properly, they develop a resis- magically disappear; in this case it will only this impoverished country must deal with. tance to similar medicines, sometimes a make them worse. resistance to the same medication. This is There are other dangers in abusing the

On January 2nd, 2009, a bomb threat was reported at the Stater Bros in the Target shopping center on El Camino Real and Leucadia Blvd. At around 4:45 PM the store manager received a call claiming that there was a bomb in the store. The store quickly called

Bomb Threat the law enforcement to investigate. Immediately following the call the store and a part of the parking lot were shut down. According to the report, no bomb was found and it appears as nothing more than a hoax. “It is against federal law to call a bomb threat. They are conducting investigation [for

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suspects] as we speak. We followed what law enforcement told us to do,” Jack H. Brown, manager of Stater Bros said. According to the North County Times, after everything was checked out the store and lot were reopened to shoppers. By Sara Frondoni Staff Writer


{news}

Get Your Drive On

Boosters fund new driving school program on campus. By Hunter Vurbeff Staff Writer

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A new driver gets behind the wheel and grips the wheel tight. Photo by Hunter Vurbeff

ence actually driving a vehicle. The student will be able to choose his or her desired dates, and can even request to be picked up and dropped off at his or her own home. “If I had to do it again I’d definitely consider doing it at this school,”

Students who are 15 and a half will also be able to take a behind the wheel course.

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Our school is teaming up with Mira Costa College to provide the Driver’s Training course and Behind The Wheel in the hopes of raising money and making driver’s training more accessible to students. “A big part of it is convenience,” said John W. Wadas, Executive Director of the Maverick Foundation. Other high schools in our district have had the privilege and convenience of in-school Driver’s Training programs for many years, our school is just now instating the driving school. Mira Costa College’s online Driver’s Training program is a much used site for students seeking a permit. Mira Costa agreed to work with this campus to ensure students will be able to earn their driving permit in the safe and convenient confines of their own public school. Students who are 15 and above will be able to begin a Driver Education Class on February 2 after school; it will occur twice a week for a three week period in order for them to obtain the required 30 hours of classroom education for a driving permit. “The classroom has more of an impact on the students when learning how to drive, mainly the communication with a teacher and definitely staying on schedule,” Wadas said. Students who are 15 and a half will also be able to take a behind the wheel course which only requires six hours of their time. In this course they will drive with a certified instructor to gain experi-

Katherine Dwyer Junior, said. While some students are jumping at the chance to fulfill their requirements at school, others believe the online courses are easier and more cost effective. “I’d just do it online; it really wasn’t fun at Mira Costa,” Daniel Nolend Senior, said. Although the program boasts a 28 dollar savings if done through the school, the over all price tag is no less expensive. The complete package would cost a student 355 dollars. The majority of this price is due to the 295 dollars behind the wheel course, and the 30 hour drivers training course costs 88 dollars. “The Maverick Boosters, which came up with this idea, was started just last year. The first thing we did was to start the SAT Program, now we’re trying out the driver’s program. We are always talking with the

parents and students. If it doesn’t work out, we’ll try something else,” Wadas said. A portion of the proceeds earned through the program will go to the newly formed Academic Boosters, the rest will be going to Mira Costa for their services. The Maverick Boosters help the school by setting up programs such as Driver’s Training and giving a portion of the proceeds back to the school to improve the overall quality of learning. With recent budget cuts to California schools, the arrival of Driver’s Training to our campus seems surprising as the school has cut back significantly in other areas. Students with a desire to enroll in the Driver’s Training can find out more information at the foundation office in the administration building.

january 2009 | MavLife |

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highlight MavLife’s How To: Score Free Food

By Nicoll Mischel Feature Editor

Examples of scoring free food. A local customer taking advantage of free samples at Costco (left and right). Example of a free sundae at Ruby’s Dinner on your birthday (above). Photos by Nicoll Mischel

Tips: 1. Crash hotels for breakfast or dinner time hors d’oeuvres. Many hotels have free breakfast, so look around and act like you are a guest. The employees wouldn’t care. If you think about it you’re eating on behalf of the other customers who didn’t take advantage of the breakfast or hors d’oeuvres included in their stay.

Do favors for people, often times they will repay you with food or money. Ask around and you’re bound to find many. Check local bulliten boards for stuff regarding free food or community jobs.

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If you want to get someIf you have a chunk of thing you absolutely love for free, about three hours to waste, go to write to the manufacturer and a time share meeting. They always tell them you loved it, mention have something free. Free gift you would like a free sample to cards, point towards something, try it again and some coupons to food, tickets, etc. After all, you are go with it. Also sign up or request only interested in buying it-that A lot of grocery stores or freebees and samples online at doesn’t mean you will. markets have free samples, give- food websites. aways, or cooking seminars; Costco with samples, or Jimbos with cookNetwork with your community. People who have large gardens ing seminars. Sometimes towards with growing fruits and veggies usually don’t know what to do with all the beginning of the day there is a the extra tomatoes or oranges. Whatever it is, let them know you are up greater selection, and not as many to pawn their goods. Help them with energizing their crops or even just people are around to think of any- small jobs and in turn you can get something. thing of it.

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6.

Take advantage of your birthday and sign up for birthday rewards club at restaurants. If you show them proof they are bound give you something free on you birthday. Or sign up for members’ clubs, the first time you submit your email or whatever it calls for, they give something away. Whether it’s a free scoop or a free entrée, or even buy one and get the second one free, they reward you for becoming a member.

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Open up a junk email account to have all the restaurants email you with free members’ stuff, that way it doesn’t clutter your inbox. For more photos regarding this topic, see www.mavlife.com.


{feature} How did you ask your man to formal?

New Dance Ticket Policyy Causes Problems Students on campus feel uncomfortable to sign up for the dress exchange due to the new policy. By Sara Frondoni Staff Writer exchange this year because it’s a matter of getting the students the tickets to go,” Van Steenbergen said. Last year, students that couldn’t afford prom and formal signed their names on a list to receive a discount for the dances and about 50 participated. There is a new policy this year that students who need help purchasing tickets must make an appointment with Principal Craig Lewis. The student must have a one-on-one discussion with Lewis about their situation. He will then consider and approve. So far, several students have requested an appointment with Lewis to get a free dance ticket. “People haven’t gone to Mr. Lewis because they don’t want him to feel sorry for them. They don’t want to make themselves feel bad,” a senior in Van Steenbergen’s after school class, said. The new dance policy is holding students back from going to formal simply because students do not feel comfortable confronting Lewis. “It is hard enough to go to a teacher. I think that administration is trying to make students advocate for themselves,” Van Steenbergen said. The free dance ticket policy is open to anyone who can’t afford to pay for a dance ticket. All one has to do is talk to Lewis. “The creation of the policy was a district wide decision. The purpose was to create a simple, straight streamline policy. [The district] tried to make [getting a free dance ticket] fair, accessible, and easy. I figure if a student comes to me, I am not going to say no.

It is a pretty easy process. We just have a causal conversation and I ask a few questions. We want to keep it private and be respectful of the students,” Principal Craig Lewis, said. Teachers and counselors assist the students that want to attend, but cannot pay the fees. In years past before a policy was enacted, teachers would sponsor students by giving them money to help pay for expenses. One year, a fund was created on campus and staff could donate to the fund to help out. Formal is a fun night that everyone should be able to remember. It is easy to get wrapped up in formal and not pay attention to the price tag that comes along with it. The limo, tickets, hair, nails, dress, tux, flowers, and shoes in total cost about $300-$400. It is hard to afford that much for one night even for middle class families. In hard economic times, students on campus need to be aware that others can’t go to formal due to financial reasons.

“My friends and I made a video, making fun of all of our guy friends, and in the end we all walked out of view of the camera and I had a sign taped to my butt that said, ‘Connor...formal?’ He replied back to me with a video, saying yes.’” Ally Anderson, Sophomore

“ I wrapped a big box with several other boxes in it, and once he got to the smallest one, it said, all I want for christmas is for you to go to formal with me?’” Emily Sacher, Sophomore Photos by Lindsay Olsen

With living in a wealthy community, expenses of tickets, dresses, tuxes, and limos don’t seem to be holding back students from attending Winter Formal. However not everyone can afford a $150 dress and for some it is difficult to buy a dance ticket. “A lot of students are comfortable with their lifestyle and don’t realize that there are kids that don’t have many of the same resources. A lot of these students can’t plan ahead [to save money for the next dance]. To these students, everyday is a matter of survival,” counselor Lisa Levario, said. A sophomore in Susie Van Steenbergen’s after school class said, “Some kids have really large families and have to work two jobs to pay rent.” In years past, staff members organized a dress exchange for girls who needed formal dresses. The teachers and councilors set up the exchange after school, where girls could pick their formal dresses to have for their special night. Girls that didn’t feel like buying dresses also participated in the dress exchange. Others would donate their dresses from past formals and proms. One teacher went out and bought dresses with her own money to contribute. It was a way for everyone to save money, clean out their closets, and have fun. “We love making connections with kids. We feel that it is our duty as instructors to advocate their best interests and help them out,” Angie Groseclose, who took part in the dress exchange a few years back, said. “We haven’t discussed having a dress

Photo by Sara Frondoni

“I made a poster that had shooting stars on it, it said, ‘I wish upon a shooting star,’ I had a balloon that he had to pop, with another note inside it, saying, ‘Cameron would go to formal with Kar?” Karlee Fuller, Freshman

Zombies are going to attack! Don’t worry, the Zombie Survival Club discusses everything one needs to know in the time of terror. “We’re all a bit nerdy at heart,” President Bryan Miller junior, said. The Club started out with a few friends, an idea, and the book The Zombie Survival Guide. “We are planning to have a manhunt Photo by Sara Frondoni

and a giant game of mall tag dressed up as zombies,” Miller said. The club collaborated with film club to create their own fictional zombie movie. They are currently looking for extras, and want to air the movie in the theatre when it is complete. It is still a work in progress. “It’s about people coming together over pop culture,”

club member Marvin Livange junior, said. The club has about 30 members and is trying to reach out to other students. Members feel that zombie safety is very important and everyone needs to be informed. By Sara Frondoni Staff Writer

january 2009 | MavLife |

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t h g i l h g i h

By Delaney Simmons Editor in Chief

®

LEGO Artist Success Story Talk about a dream job and the ultimate obsession, artist Nathan Sawaya got his lucky break as a LEGO Master Model Builder right here in Carlsbad. We know what you’re thinking, LEGO’s are for little kids, but not any more. In this feature, we sat down with the artist himself and talked about his lifelong dream that turned into a career. MavLife: So let’s start off by asking, why LEGO? You are obviously a talented artist, what made you choose this toy as your art medium? Nathan Sawaya: Playing with LEGO growing up let me build anything I wanted to build. It let my imagination control the playtime. If I wanted to be a rock star that day, I could build a guitar. If I wanted to be an astronaut, I could build a rocket. It was the perfect tool to lead me into my current life as an artist, where I get to cre-

ate whatever I want. M: You’ve said you have been building with LEGO since you were five years old. What was it like in high school and college when maybe your friends didn’t think playing with primary colored building blocks was cool? S: My friends were of course aware of my LEGO passion, but it wasn’t really a big deal. Even in college I had LEGO bricks in my dorm room. In fact, in my law school dorm room, I built an entire replica of the local law school neighborhood out of LEGO on my desk. I guess I was supposed to use the desk for studying. Oh well. M: How would you describe yourself in high school? S: I was awesome. Of course the question should be “how would my peers describe me in high school?” They would probably give you a different answer. M: What was your best subject in high school?

N: My best subject was LEGO Sculpting 101. Does your campus offer that? M: What was it like going from a fantasy lawyering job in Manhattan to working at LEGOLAND back in 2004? N: First of all, lawyering was not a fantasy job. There were long hours and tough days. When I left the law firm to play with bricks full time it was a chance for me to follow my

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passion. I was going from a sixfigure salary to playing with LEGO for $13 an hour, and I had no hesitation. The worst day as an artist is still better than the best day as a lawyer. M: What did you like best about the summer you lived in Carlsbad? S: I really enjoyed the people I met. I still come back to Carlsbad a lot to see friends. I also got inspired by the people and laidback attitude to try different things with my art. Having been in New York City for so long, it was a nice change of pace. M: What was your favorite place to eat locally? S: In-N-Out. M: What is the biggest difference between living in Carlsbad and living in New York City? S: No In-N-Out. M: What kind of money do you make being a LEGO artist? S: I am doing better now than I was as an attorney. M: What inspires you the most? S: Inspiration comes from many places and people. I can never point to just one thing and say that has been my inspiration. Sometimes I have been inspired by something but it will take years for the idea to develop and come to fruition before I actually start building it. M: Who is your most famous client? S: That would probably be Pete Wentz. Pete wanted to give his bride-to-be a unique wedding gift so he commissioned a giant bumble bee for Ashlee. Why a bumble bee? I can’t say exactly, but it was a romantic gift for a rock star home. I also did a sculpture for Donald Trump. He commissioned to me to build a sculpture which is to be placed in the lobby of his new hotel in Dubai. Is Donald Trump

more famous than Pete Wentz? M: What is the most rewarding part of your job as an artist? S: The most rewarding part of my job is being able to do what I love, and still sustain a life doing it. I get to set my own hours which is really great. As you may know, New York City lawyers work over 80 hours a week. These days I am working more hours, but I love it. M: What is the hardest part about being self-employed? S: You never know where your next paycheck is coming from. I always think that the next project might be my last. M: As someone who broke out of the cycle, what advice would you give to us high school students about following our dreams? S: As trite as it sounds, your education can save you. Because I was a lawyer, I can negotiate my own contracts. Because I am good at math, I can balance the finances of my company. There is no replacing a great education. For more information on Nathan and his touring museum show, check out his website www.brickartist.com and to see a slideshow of some of his most notable works check out our website at www.mavlife.com. Photo Credit: brickartist.com


{show me the money}

Elam’s Hallmark 1084 El Camino Real Target Center Encinitas, CA 92024 760.436.0456 ElamsHallmark.com

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Our generation is driven by the future leaders of the 21st century. The selected few have the potential to be the next Bill Gates, Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, or Albert Einstein. These remarkable figures lead us in the past, just as someone will guide us through the present, and into the future; someone who will tell us what’ s wrong from right, someone who will direct us when times turn tough and someone who will create a foundation that we can live and grow upon. The following features are the stories of the future leaders of our generation right here on campus.

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poverty activist

shanell rodriguez. > > The Tanzanian rain left the dirt red and moist underneath the bony feet of a Rift Valley orphan. Shanell Rodriguez, a senior, spent a month in the most peaceful region of Africa dedicating her time to educating, supporting, and loving children who live in extreme poverty. “They are all very well-behaved and respectful, but what impacts me most is their appreciation of education. It is their only means of survival,” Rodriguez said. Children who attend secondary school, with a price tag of $2,000, are among the most fortunate. In comparison, the average family makes approximately $40 per month. Unfortunately, since the government does not consistently pay teachers’ salaries, they often have no incentive to show up. In a system not set up to have children succeed, this orphanage stands among few. Initially, only 30% of the locals, attended the orphanage. When India, the founder of The Rift Valley Children’s community center, began supplying a daily lunch, this increased the attendance rate to 90%. The attendees who have food and clothes readily available to them are surrounded by those who have nothing. The orphanage has raised $2,500 thus far, but it is essential that more orphanages are built. Volunteers are necessary to alleviate the poverty and unravel the story of each child, who often needs comfort and encouragement. “The orphanage holds a biography of each child. One 18 month old had a mentally insane mother whom her brother had sold to some men,” Rodriguez said. Work or play, rain or shine, these children are never bored. In fact, there is no word for boredom in their language. When the children aren’t playing football (soccer), their other favorite pastime is education; it is their top priority. This includes not only simple sciences, English, and math (fact: they multiply backwards), but also sex education. Due to the lack of sexual awareness, this is their main focus. “They believe AIDS is cured by having sex with a virgin. It’s plain ignorance,” Rodriguez said. The rumor, at its rawest and most destructive state, was spread from the Burmas to the medicine men, to the Massai who are the last indigenous tribe, to an orphanage volunteer. With little resources and technology, their disconnection from the outside world is dev-

astating. They can only rely on word of mouth. While increasing education is essential, an increase in technology hasn’t proven beneficial in some situations. Solar paneling was recently added onto the orphanage in order to reduce the cost of electricity and to be more environmentally friendly. In turn, when the government provided the Massai with cell phones for tourism purposes, it corrupted their morals. They felt they had more power causing them to have three to six wives, sell their daughters, and allow their children to not attend school when they have the opportunity. “The biggest obstacle is letting people know our views of Africa are very biased. We should not fear, for the truth is, they are a very generous and loving people,” Rodriguez said. The media tends to dramatize the situation in Africa. After all, it is an entire continent, where most regions are not in war. This mentality decreases the number of volunteers who are needed to help Africa’s condition. Although Tanzanians may not have daily access to a TV or the internet, the information they receive has created a false image of the outside world. The minute Rodriguez stepped into the airport the people made her feel very welcome simply because of her skin color. Rodriguez was ap-

By Carolina Palmer Staff Writer proached with constant flattery and questioned for donations because it is a common belief that all white people are wealthy. “I feel like an ex-patriot, now that the culture runs in my blood. I intend on visiting again after college,” Rodriguez said. Rodriguez’s appreciation for education and everyday comforts, which her classmates consider necessities, are a new wonder for her. This experience has given her the opportunity to view Africa’s problems from the side of the victims. Listening to their stories has guided her to a path that has yet to be traveled. With this outlook, it is clear that there is nothing to fear. “Don’t fear what our media or society tells us to fear, go out and experience things, develop your own opinion and become less ignorant of the world and people of the world around you,” Rodriguez said. To cure malaria, AIDS, and illiteracy, it takes action from those who are more privileged and fortunate. The people outside of Africa must share their benefits with others. Please visit tanzanianchildrensfund.org and Rodriguez’s blog, shanellalexandra. blogspot.com, for more information.

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Rhythm and beat have always come naturally to Matt Goldman, senior, who has put countless hours into his in home studio which produces instrumental beats for every category of music. His main focus is on hip-hop, where he takes his inspiration from Dre, Focus, RZA and Pharell. “If you were to hear my beats on the radio you would think they flow as nice as legitimate hip hop,” Goldman, said. “I am highly above amateur level because of my experience with keyboards and what not.” By experimenting with different instruments and computer soft wares Goldman has created and remixed over 400 songs. Seventy-two of his beats are featured on his web site www. soundclick.com/flathouseproductions. Although most of his songs are original, he likes to play with the tunes and beats of many preexisting artists. His remixs include “Still Dre” by Dr. Dre and “Thug Mansion” by Tupac Shaker. The process of creating a beat in-

By Tony Boylan Staff Writer

graphic designer

Photo by Kristine Scott

kevin choi. >>

Since a very young age, Kevin Choi, senior, has had a passion for cars. He would watch his dad, who was an architect; delve into his love of art. “My sister told me that I was capable of greatness when I first started, and I’ve worked harder ever since,” Choi, said. Choi’s early interest in cars only grew; they fascinated him to the point that he was driven to draw them. Choi has spent the last three years putting together a portfolio that will ultimately determine the rest of his professional career. Choi will submit his portfolio to the Pasadena Art Center, a renowned art school, with high hopes that he will be accepted. Choi stands out from the crowd because he devotes a lot of his time and efforts to his art work and working towards his future. He is one of the few who has chosen his career and is working towards it. The majority of applicants that apply to the Pasadena Art Center, do so after two years of previous college, two years that Choi is choosing to skip. But with his mind set on an ambitious goal, Choi is willing to take that risk in order to be accepted as a freshman. After graduation, Choi plans to travel to Germany or Japan because they are both hot beds of all the greatest car company developers. Choi wants to make a car that revolutionizes the world, a car that is like no other. “I want people to be proud of their car.,” Choi said. His pride keeps his dream alive.

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volves the combination of recording live music and later adjusting it on the computer with other background beats and tempos. His beat producing tools include piano keyboards, turn tables, standard music software on Windows, an Apple iMac, condenser microphone and subwoofer. Goldman taught himself how to use and manipulate the equipment. “I’ve listened to rap music since I was young. It inspired me to begin practicing music instruments so I could someday create beats and be a producer,” Goldman said. Goldman plans to pursue his talents into college by enrolling in some recording programs to possibly start a career. His musical methods combining mellow jazz with hip-hop rhythm. “I definitely am going to pursue my talents into college, and possibly start a career. I know it is an overcrowded arena, but I have some new and original competition to bring. “ Since the 1980s hip-hop talent has always flourished and spread because of common popularity. Goldman is the new kid on the block, eager and ready to be the next big hip-hop beat master.

music producer

>> matt goldman.

By Gabby Hammersley Staff Writer

Photo by Kristine Scott


animal lover

kenya caines. >> Kenya Caines, freshman, walked onto an unfamiliar campus this year with a mission to help out endangered species. From her passion for animals to her support from her parents, Caines is determined to inspire others to help save innocent animals in danger of becoming extinct. Caines independently set up a website in order to teach people about endangered species. Caines website, www.Ndangered.com, was made as a project in a social justice class taught by Christopher Greenslate, but grew to serve a much greater purpose. “We had to think of something creative to do that we were passionate about in order to donate to the cause,” Caines said. “If you have a Mac, there’s an application called iWeb. You can put your own stuff on there and make your own blog.” Caines received help from her family but mostly her father, who works with a software company. “Without him I probably wouldn’t be able to do a lot of things on my website,” Caines said, “He’s pretty good with computers and he helped

By Kasey Fontaine Staff Writer

me a lot with the domain name and that’s a hard one.” Caines’ web site also has a “DONATE” button that with a simple click allows the viewer to donate money. By setting up a Paypal account, Caines is able to transfer the money over to the Wild Animal Park which specifically aids endangered species. “One of the things they could do is just learn about the animals. They can learn about one animal they like and can donate on my web site,” Caines said when explaining how someone could help out. Caines believes that she will continue her mission to help out endangered species by choosing a career involving animals. “I like zoology so I might want to get into that, or work with C.R.E.S. (Conservation and Research for Endangered Species) at the Wild Animal Park; they work with endangered species.” When asked what type of animal Caines thought needed the most help, she responded with the California Condor. According to Caines, the California Condor can be

visited in C.R.E.S. section of the Wild Animal Park. “Ever since kindergarten I’ve always wanted to be a vet. I started going to zoos and learning about animals on TV shows like Animal Planet,” Caines said. Although Caines’ dreams of saving the condor, her favorite animal is the cheetah. Help Caines accomplish her mission by donating to her website or just simply learning about endangered species.

Photo by Kristine Scott

By Karl Johnson Staff Writer

Photo by Kristine Scott

Smelly, dirty, and greasy. You probably wanted to say something to him, but how could you? He was raising money for homeless teens. On October 22, of 2008, Kai Gehlsen’s “Let Kai Shower” campaign began at our school in an effort to raise 1,000 dollars for homeless teens. Now Kai Gehlsen is working with the Invisible Children Book Drive at El Camino Creek Elementary. The Book Drive’s goal is to acquire around 250,000 books, with the aid of other schools in the district. They hope to raise enough money to buy new school books for Sacred Heart Secondary School in Uganda. “I am working with Ms. Holeva and Ms. Shannon’s classes, teaching them how to make a documentary of the Invisible Children Book Drive at their school”, Gehlsen said. On November 15, Gehlsen and fellow social justice students em-

humanitarian

>> kai gehlsen. barked on a full day adventure around Encinitas in which they lived a day in the life of a homeless teen. It started at 9 a.m. at Stagecoach Park with one dollar, something to sleep in, and cameras to document the journey. In the morning they walked to the Target Shopping center where they ate saltine crackers for lunch, read books at Barnes and Noble, and interviewed people asking them how they felt about homelessness. Overall the experience was unpleasant for all five of the teens. They could hardly stay asleep for more than an hour, and woke up at the crack of dawn. Once they were all awake they headed back to Stagecoach Park to complete their 24 hours of living homeless. “The conditions were quite uncomfortable but the experience was not something you’d do everyday, you had to think of what to eat, where to go to the bathroom, where to sleep even if you could go to sleep,” Gehlsen said. The documentary the five students made that day is now being put up on the school website for everyone to view This year Gehlsen joined the Social Justice class at school in hopes of learning how to help people who need it. He plans to continue his humanitarian efforts in the future. He says his next project will be to raise money and hair for cancer patients at the hospital his father works at.

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d u o l t u o talk

Fashion Victims

By Alessia Moscatelli Co-Assistant Editor

“Creativity with fashion is important and people need to follow their own style instead of copying the crowd,” Kathryn Cartaino, senior, said. “It can look tacky.” Like the fashion runways of Milan and Paris, our campus exhibits students modeling trends and fashions mixed with creativity everyday. While many of the girls create their own fashion trends and add their own individual touches to their outfits, an equal amount can’t stop wearing the same awful looks repetitively. Of course this is mainly addressed to the girls, considering most boys on this campus either go with the skater or “stez” look. Now we are going to break down some of the worst fashion crimes. Uggs and Skirts The combination of Ugg boots and mini skirts has always confused me. It seems as though the person wearing them couldn’t make up her mind. They didn’t know whether to dress for the cold or for the sun. They look ready to hit the beach, and then you look down and see thick, fluff trimmed boots instead of flip-flops. The body looks out of proportion because you see bare leg and then chunky boots, making one’s feet look bigger too. Rite Aid Flats Buying for less, is the motto for many thrifty shoppers. Vintage shops usually hold some individual finds when shopping on a budget. But when Rite Aid, the drug store, can’t keep enough canvas flats in stock, I wonder where people’s taste has gone. The Rite Aid shoes are probably the shoe preference of half the female population on campus. I guess they like shoes that look like slippers and smell after a while. The shoes are barely constructed and have no support in them. In the long term, they are hurting your ankles and shins. Spandex Articles of clothing made of spandex are great…if you are hitting the gym. Stretchy spandex shorts and skirts

Photos by Alessia Moscatelli

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{

are made of thin pieces of material, and odd if paired with a stylish top. Leggings can sometimes look tasteful, but they aren’t meant for all body types. A good fashionista knows how to dress for her body type. Simple black tights are flattering on everyone and will always be in style. Bras While bras are a necessary clothing item for girls, we don’t necessarily need to show them off. When bra straps are spotted sliding out from a tank top, it contradicts the reason why strapless bras were invented. If your bra shows at the neckline, pull the shirt up. If the back of the bra is revealed by your backless top, don’t wear that shirt to school. Dress like this outside of school if you please, but during school, show some respect. Short Shorts Shorts are a necessity to survive California’s hot weather. The styles range from long bermudas to high waisted. One of the most inappropriate styles for school is the short shorts. You shouldn’t dress for the beach if you are heading to class. Some are so short that the bottom of their butt is visible. A popular way to wear them among the younger girls is to pair with a long T-shirt so it gives the illusion of wearing nothing underneath. This school is thriving with students who are creative and diverse in every way, but instead all I see are flocks of students dressing the same. But along with dressing like clones, many don’t know how to dress suitably. It doesn’t matter if your style is rocker or sporty, hippie or sophisticated. You can bring aspects of your personality and character through your clothes with bright accessories or funky patterns. We are home of the Mavericks, but it is alright to break away from the stampede.

{

Some of the worst fashion crimes on campus and why they break all of the style laws.

“Creativity with fashion is important and people need to i follow their own style instead f of o copying the crowd,” Kathryn Cartaino, senior, said.


{opinion}

Shower Power We have tendencies to use more water than we need. We should conserve our natural resource by condensing our showers. By Gabrielle Hammersley Staff Writer

Water is an essential part of our world. So much so, that it actually keeps us alive. Literally. Our body is 70 percent water and the brain, 90 percent. While humans could live around a month without food, without water we may only last five to seven days. In the United States, we use a lot of water every day (for an average American its 60 to 160 gallons) whether it’s personal, like taking a shower (a 10-minute shower uses about 55 gallons), for our food (one gallon of water is needed to process a quarter pound of hamburger) or as a recreational activity like fishing (20 percent of our fresh water supply is found in The Great Lakes). Here in the western U.S. states, officials say we will see devastating droughts as global warming reduces the amount of mountain snow and causes the snow that

does fall to melt earlier in the year. Students on our campus may not realize that they can help conserve this precious resource, water. One quick and easy way is to take shorter showers. Your daily eight-minute shower uses about 20 gallons of water. Take a shower once a day and it adds up to 7,300 gallons per year. With that much water, a typical family of four could fill its own medium-size swimming pool, wash 4,152 loads of laundry, or make 166,115 pots of Campbell’s soup. Thankfully, you don’t have to sacrifice your hygiene to conserve water in the shower. A strategic showerhead is all it takes. Check out your local hardware store for a plethora of choices. Your shower may be reasonable now, but imagine taking just two minutes off your shower for those without a surplus

of water. You’d be saving 85 gallons of water. That reduced shower time is the equivalent of 340, 16 oz. water bottles according to convert-me.com. It might not sound like a big deal, though considering the world without water, life would resort to filth. Other general tips for saving water include: keep a water bottle in the fridge because cooling tap water is wasteful. Dispose of tissues, insects and other such waste in the trash rather than the toilet; it reduces the number of flushes. If we all simply did our part in conserving a precious resource, a lot of things could change and the change should start right here on campus. But when we all run out of water, you can be the one to explain to the people deprived of this resources that you had to fill your 10-foot pool.

We did a student survey to see how long the average shower is. 7% < 10 minute showers 41% take 10-20 minute showers 24% take 21-30 minute showers 14% take 31-40 minute showers 14% > 41 minute showers

*According to 357 students

Illustration by Steven Pepper

comic relief

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{enter tainment} Restaurant Review of the Month: Calypso Fish House Calypso Fish House gives a great vibe but serves up mediocre food. 3.5/5 Stars Attire: Casual Good for Groups: Yes

Takes Reservations: Yes Delivery: No Take-out: Yes

The aroma of seasoned-fish and sounds of laughter greeted me as I entered the Calypso Fish House located off the 101. Quaint, colorful, and dimly lit, the sushi bar was a delight just to look at, but what really caught my eye was the beautiful artwork; a marble mermaid and turtle above the stone fireplace. The hostess allowed me to choose my preferred seating because of the light crowd on the Thursday night. I wasn’t bored for a moment of my mere minute waiting for the waitress. There was a live band playing and a big screen TV by the bar. I ordered the Rain-

Carolina Palmer Staff Writer

bow Special, a sushi roll stuffed with crab, shrimp, tuna, salmon, and whitefish. It was $15 for about 6 rolls which was a bit overpriced because many of the rolls lacked the fish and other ingredients listed on the menu. It tasted fresh and rich, but was not worth the cost. The service was very good and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. I recommend coming here more for the ambiance than the sushi, which I found to be sub-par. 190 N Hwy 101 Leucadia, CA 92024

Photo by: Carolina Palmer

reviews Shugo Tokumaru “EXIT” Lil’ Chief Records P-Vine Records Almost Gold Recordings 10 out of 10 Shugo Tokumaru’s “EXIT” is a masterpiece. Tokumaru’s composition of eccentric acoustic arrangements combined with light, floating lyrics makes this album extremely refreshing compared to most modern day music. The flow that Tokumaru composes throughout “EXIT” combines musical influences such as pop, folk and electronic, which radiates a kind of joy every time you hear it.

Shlomi Shabat “Ani Shar Claich” Helicon Records NMC 8.5 out of 10

Rachael Yamagata “Elephants Teeth Sinking into Heart” RCA Victor Warner Bros. Records 9 out of 10

Justice “A Cross the Universe” Atlantic 8 out of 10

Ani Shar Claich is, for a westerner, quite unlike anything else one would be used to. This album is a pleasant surprise to anyone searching for an upbeat tune to bring morale up. The unique Mediterranean sound of the band is a marvelous experience sure to bring a smile to the face while playing. While most would not understand the lyrics, due to being in hebrew, the listener can sense the joy and happiness that Shabat portrays.

Rachael Yamagata returning with her second album, “Elephants Teeth Sinking into Heart” provides a calming powerful melody. A relaxing tone blankets her newly released album but underneath reveals her strong words and meaningful statements to her ex-lovers. Yamagata uses her heartbreaks to conjure her influential words. Her talent will continue to flourish with upcoming albums.

Justice’s newest live album, “A Cross the Universe,” remixes many of their recent songs plus incorporates several others, such as their versions of Metallica and Soulwax. This album, however, is in no way a repeat of any of their older compositions. Their heavy influences of metal and use of bass and other electronic beats truly show through.“A Cross the Universe” also comes with an extra DVD portion of their March 2008 North American tour.

Kayne Friesen

Alexa Simpson Hunter Vurbeff

Kayne Friesen

january 2009 | MavLife |

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y k n u f t ge Gossip Corner

“You Know You Love Them” We all secretly love Gossip Girl and all the drama, but the truth is we are really just jealous. By Delaney Simmons Editor in Chief

“Nate is the hottest one on the show. It’s very entertaining. It always has a different ending or a different twist. The show is really spicy!” Angie Winkler, freshman

“Everytime I hear the introduction of Gossip Girl I get this exciting feeling. I am the number one fan. I find myself being preppier the next day after watching the show the night before. I have tennis every Monday and Gossip Girl is all I can think about.” Tara Langager, freshman

“It’s kind of a girly thing. My cousin saw it and I was forced to watch it. Rich girls in New York would not act like that. It’s not related to real life. No one would ever act like that.” Sean Thompson, sophomore

Put on your leather boots, curl your hair, and don’t forget your New York attitude; it’s Monday night and you know what that means. It’s the night where girls (and maybe some guys) completely indulge in the scandalous lives of New York’s elite, fashionista goddesses. Based on the popular book series, the show Gossip Girl has taken off in the households of New Yorker wanna-bees across the country and here on campus. The high school “seniors” do all of the things we wish we could without the boundaries. Buying strip clubs with the family fortune, vacationing in the Hamptons, dating royalty; all while looking like they just walked off the runways from one of the fashion shows that grace Bryant Park once a year (fashion week for those too pop-culturally slow to pick up on that one.) Here we sit. With all our closest girl friends, waiting for the one hour of every week where we can completely escape into the dirty streets, the glammed up parties, and the dramatic antics of the people we wish we were, or wish we knew. Our motive for sitting here on this couch, with these people, wearing our best clothes, is simply jealousy. Laura Watt, senior, said,“Fashion tips and hotties, I’m so there every Monday with my girls.” There would be no other reason to watch about

someone else’s drama when it is so obvious we have enough right here at home. “I watch it because it motivates me to live out my dreams of being a sassy bitch,” Hannah Johnson, senior, said. The girls you know and the boys who secretly love it, have to own up to the fact that they wish they could walk down Lexington Avenue and get the looks of the lower-lives residing in the not-so-fancy locations in Manhattan. To get the stares of the younger generations holding up their copy of “Page 6.” We can briefly touch on the fact that the actors and actresses in the show, no matter how much we wish they were real, do not look like high school seniors.

Look at some of the seniors we have here on campus. Some of the boys have yet to reach their height potential and some of the girls act like they are fresh out of middle school. No one looks like that. Period. Although cheesy and sometime pretentious, we watch it like television ecstasy; it’s our drug. The clothes, the sex, and drinking, all appealing to the lives we wish we could live out and experience.

w lash Ne redit: Sp Photo C

s Online

BE THERE! Concerts Motley Crue with Hinder & Theory of a Deadman 6:30pm @ Cox Arena Febuary 2

NOFX 8:00pm @ House of Blues Febuary 3-4

Andrew Bird 7:00pm @ SOMA Febuary 15

Jimmy Eat World with No Knife 7:00pm @ House of Blues March 6

Katy Perry 6:30pm @ House of Blues Febuary 5

The Pretenders 8:00pm @ House of Blues March 5

G-Love and The Special Sauce 8:00pm @ House of Blues March 8

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{enter tainment}

Hippie Culture in La Costa Fragments of previous generations reside within the subcultures on campus, the sixties live on.

Kayne Friesen and Hunter Vurbeff Staff Writers

While many would think the era of the hippies has long since passed, hippie culture still remains in our own area. With the passing of the hippie generation, the entrepreneurial yuppie generation quickly dominated America, hastily hiding the embarrassing and laidback lifestyle of their parents. It seemed that the days of Woodstock and peace laden VW vans were long over. However, the descendants of the ‘flower children’ did not wilt and fade away as fast as anyone expected. Throughout America, hippie culture is spreading. New colonies are sprouting up everywhere. A perfect example of this is in our own Encinitas. While North County seems to be one of the fastest developing areas in The United States certain groups of people seem to have been frozen in the 60’s. While the generation has long passed by, a large group has begun to follow the care-free lifestyle that have succumbed to so many. “I think calling someone a hippie is somewhat stereotypical. You are who you are and that won’t change just because we’re in a new age,” Denai Adams, sophomore, said. The hippies of our time may not be the headband wearing drab-dressing nomads that used to exist, but much of the fundamentals still remain. Walking down the road in downtown Encinitas one would find that people are satisfied with a lifestyle that was created four decades ago. “I’ve seen this one guy in particular. He’s always there with a lot of birds. He’s homeless actually. But he said he loves the beach, and his birds. So he wants to “be in paradise” every day of his life. I think he’s found happiness even though he doesn’t have a lot to be happy for. It’s pretty inspiring,”Adams said

The hippie subculture of Encinitas grew throughout the 60’s and evolved through the “sexual revolution” and counterculture lifestyle into the hybrid it is today. Of course, most of the hippie elements still remain, such as the strive for peace, love and understanding. A good example of this shows in the amount of active citizens in our community who are out to make a change. “I think it is inside all of us somewhere, but only a select few choose to show it. Hippies are the ones who are active in society and never stop fighting for what they believe in. When it really comes down to it, I think everyone does that,” Lindsey Marshall sophomore, said. The abundance of hippie culture in our modern time is very noticeable through many new aspiring artists, a rise in allnatural stores and most prominently the green movement. Hippie culture may not represent the same exact rebellious lifestyle it once did but for the most part it has shown its worth in building onto the society we live in. “Hippies are rebels, often looked down upon, but they know what’s right in their hearts, and they go for it,” Adams, said. The hippie lifestyle is often put down and was openly oppressed by authorities in its time. However now in an era of economic crisis and war, the hippie lifestyle of peace and happiness doesn’t seem like a horrible idea to some. “I think hippies might be our only connection to peace in this world. They’re some of the few people that still believe that peace has a chance, at one point in time we might just have to rely on them to change our world. Like the old quote, “you have to be the change you want in the world,” Adams said. In a time where diversity

is generally accepted, cultures that were at one time cast away by America are reemerging and are in turn changing the world in a new way. “I think that the community is pretty much fine with it,” Elena Clemencon, junior, said, referring to hippies in our area. “It’s a big part of it; if they weren’t okay with them, then they’d have a problem.” T h e hippie c u l ture

may never really regain the popularity it once had. However the acceptance that it has attained is opening new opportunities for other new cultures in our community. From them our society can learn and perhaps advance faster than ever before. The age of diversity is upon us and one can only sit back and enjoy the ride.

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l a c i s y h get p

Golf Rivalry The complicated relationship of friends, teammates, and ultimate rivals.

Steven Kearney

Jordan Epstein “Well, Steven just recently finished paying his $10 debt to me, after a week of just beating him all the time,” Epstein, senior said. “He’s very bitter about losing to me.” The rivalry has always been strong between both seniors, but Epstein considers himself the stronger player. He views his rival as a great competitor, though he thinks Kearney was jealous of his game so that was why he switched over to his coach. “I like that it is an individual sport, and you don’t have anyone else to blame or congratulate,” he said. His dedication throughout the years has granted him many titles. Epstein received 26th in the 2008 Callaway Golf Junior World at Torrey Pines. He also won the Grayhawk Golf Opening in Arizona last year. Epstein accepted a golf scholarship to University of Nevada Las Vegas and is excited to participate on the school’s golf team. He recently returned from a trip to China, where he competed with the US junior national team in several small tournaments. “Golf is a mental test,” he said. “It tests your strategy skills.” Being in a tournament for up to five hours and eighteen holes; requires a lot of stamina. If you are physically tired, then you are mentally tired he added. Epstein trains three days a week doing cardio and abdominal work to build up stamina. “It’s all about keeping your focus, and I have that in the bag.”

Alessia Moscatelli Co-Assistant Editor

Epstein and Kearny are good friends now, but when it comes to golf they are very competitive. Photo by Alessia Moscatelli

Kearney thinks Epstein is just a hothead. “When he misses his shot, he’ll throw his club across the fairway. A lot like a crybaby.” Kearney, senior said. Kearney, who has been on the varsity golf team since freshman year, believes that his expert skills will take him to the top. Unlike Epstein, he feels his calm and confident attitude on the course, helps him to win his games. “I have been playing for so long that everything just feels natural to me,” he said. His golf career has been filled with many tournaments and wins. Kearney participated in the 2008 Callaway Golf Junior World Championship that involved 1,000 players worldwide, and placed 18th. He also played in China with the United States Golf Association. Kearney played in a lot of college prep golf tournaments before signing with Stanford. Over Thanksgiving break he participated in the Polo Golf Invitational in Orlando that consisted of the top thirty-five players in the country. “Some people find it boring but I really enjoy golf,” said Kearney. “Even just watching it on the TV.” He was five years old when his father bought him his first plastic set of golf clubs. After always hitting the balls around the house, he soon began to practice on the green his dad. Kearney hopes that one day he will turn pro.

Congratulations to the following Athletes... These are the seniors that have already committed to colleges and are ready to play at the national level. Jackie Candelaria (Lacrosse) - Stanford University Nikki Chu (Softball) - Princeton University Steven Kearney (Golf ) - Stanford University Jordan Epstein (Golf ) - University of Nevada Las Vegas Katie Fuller (Volleyball) - USC Lydia Rudnick (Volleyball) - Princeton University

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Spencer Peterson (Lacrosse) - Duke University T.C. Whaley (Lacrosse) - Queens Cameron Revere (Lacrosse) - Stevens Matty Gillan (Lacrosse) - Sonoma State Joey Van Buskirk (Lacrosse) - Lynchburg University


{sports}

Skating Under the Radar

Alessia Moscatelli Co-Assistant Editor

An unknown, and new team on campus is the official Roller Hockey team, read more about them and how this team got started.

What sports do you wish we had on campus?

“I wish we had “Ga-Ga” it’s a sport in Israel and it’s similar dodgeball. “ Blair Simmons, freshman

There are a variety of sports teams on campus that have gained recognition through their dedicated athletes and competitiveness. The school’s recently formed roller hockey team is hoping to raise their sport’s status to varsity level. “We are a tight and hard working team,” Brandon Voorhees, sophomore said. “And we only see ourselves improving.” Voorhees formed the team last year, with the help of his father and twin brother Shawn. The brothers were disappointed when they learned that the school did not have a roller hockey team, so they proposed the idea to Mr. Trocchio and were approved. The students who were on the team last year, were either approached or interested by the flyers around school asking for players. Former school graduate Derek Dunne coaches the team. Last year, they completed the season by winning 7-2 in their league, against competitors like Rancho Bernardo, Poway, and San Pasqual. All of the other schools had already established roller hockey teams. Our school was the last with the league to form a roller hockey team. The team’s goal for this year is to be recognized by the

school as a club sport, and gain publicity and awareness. They are currently in the process of getting the papers and a faculty member to represent the club. “Not many students know of our team,” sophomore Jack Manning said. “Once we become a club sport, maybe more kids will want to try out.” Along with getting approved by the school, becoming a varsity level sport requires the participation of enough students. If the team does not gain enough players they might be removed from the school’s sports. Roller hockey is a winter and spring sport, so tryouts will be approaching soon. The team typically participates in the spring season, because many players are unable to join until the March through June time. Any student who is interested in joining can speak to either one of the Voorhees brothers or go to the web site at www.lcchockey.com. Players with experience are preferred but they will accept anyone who is willing to improve and shows potential. Voorhees said,“I’m sure this year we will have another great team. We have so many talented students at this school.”

“Bad mitten would be sick! We would be the coolest campus around.” Rachel Provenzano, freshman

“Ice Hockey would be a super cool thing to have just because it’s violent.” Zach Beery, freshman

Preparing for the Super Bowl Ryan Kay Staff Writer

Proper Super Bowl etiquette is key to successful party. You must plan out “the perfect party” weeks ahead of time allowing a correct amount of time for preparation. Before the preparation starts, you must choose a team to root for, it doesn’t matter if you don’t like either of them, pick one. Also the proper TV accommodations are crucial, if you

don’t have HDTV find someone who does and help them with their party. Now we come to our most important factor, food. Food makes or breaks a Super Bowl party. A necessity is chips , salsa, dip ( guacamole, sour cream, queso dip, beans, sevenlayer dip etc..), Four - six two liter bottles of soda and i mean real soda, diet and juices are not ac-

cepted, this is a time to celebrate and let loose. But the most important, and i mean most important factor of all is pizza. Find a place where everyone loves and get a couple pizzas of good variety. This is how you do the Super Bowl.

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22 | MavLife | january 2009


{MavLife Exclusive}

At the Inauguration of Barack Obama MavLife Editor, Jordynn Harris, was at the inauguration. Here is what she saw from the front lines as history was made. By Jordynn Harris Entertainment Editor that the cold was not going to affect my experience. It would only add on to my experience. My friend Natalie and I were determined to find a perfect spot, close enough to where we could see Obama. The original plan was to get to the National Mall around 7:30 in the morning so we could get a decent spot to watch, but unfortunately, everyone else thought of that as well. People of all ages were climbing trees and sitting on the top of buses to try and get a view of the inauguration. American flags were being passed out and it seemed like almost everyone had at least two in their hands as they waved them in the frigid air. Covered in all the clothes you could possibly fit on your body, we stood in a spot that was the closest we could find. More and more people piled into the area waving their flags and chantJordynn holds up her new favorite t-shirt (left) and Barack Obama becomes the 44th Presiing, “Obama, Obama, Obama.” I saw hundreds dent (above). Photos by Jordynn Harris. exchange hugs to one another, even if they had Walking onto the bus layered with a variety of clothes to support no idea who they were, there was an immediate the harsh weather and a smile on my face, it would soon be time feeling of excitement and spirit that this incredibly historic day gave when Barack Obama would give his Oath of Office and address his to people. promises to our country. As I watched Obama put his hand up and say his oath, I got this Looking back on the months prior to my trip I was full of excite- feeling, it’s hard to explain. A feeling that is very rare. I couldn’t bement, counting down the days until my big trip to D.C. My friends lieve I was there, at the most historic days in history, a day that would that I had met last year at a similar conference were also going to be put into history books and always remembered. I looked at my be attending which also gave me much to look forward to. From the neighbor; an older man holding his young son on his shoulders bunconcert to the inaugural ball, I expected so much from this trip; it dled in blankets and fleece. His son had been on his father’s shoulwas overwhelming. I hoped to gain an experience of a lifetime, and ders for an hour and a half holding up the American flag to the sky, that is definitely what I got in the end. chanting Obama’s name. The day had come, and as I walked off the bus and onto PennThe inauguration day was so surreal. sylvania Ave towards the parading crowd, I got chills as It was a day that I will always rememthis was the day I had been looking forward to for ber. It was amazing to see people unite the past eight months. and come together. I have never I felt overwhelmed and absolutely seen so much happiness and love freezing because the temperature outfor each other as I did that day. It was side was in the high 30’s, not includestimated that over 4 million people ing wind chill. But I was hopeful attended, and I was one of them. It was an experience of a lifetime.

january 2009 | MavLife |

23


k n u r t e h t n i k n u j teacher vs. student

Lauren Taylor & Mr. Kamon 1. What is a gladiator armed with, in addition to a dagger and spear? Lauren Taylor: A shield. Doug Kamon: I think a net. Answer: A net. Kamon gets the first question right! The score starts off with 0 to 1. 2. How many miles away can a lion’s roar be heard from? T: Two miles. K: Oh five miles. Answer: Five miles. Kamon gets this one also keeping his lead 0 to 2. 3. How many hours do cats sleep on average every day? T: 18-20? K: I would think maybe 10. Answer: 16-20 hours. Taylor is correct raising her score 1 to 2. 4. What is the only animal with four knees? T: I’ll just say, umm, platypus? K: Only animal with four knees...ooh, a horse Answer: Elephant. Both incorrect score stays 1 to 2. 5. For how many days can a cockroach live with it’s head cut off? T: Two days. K: Haha wow, one. Answer: 9 days. Both are wrong again, the score stays 1 to 2. 6. From how far away can a skunk’s smell be detected by a human? T: One mile? K: Wow! That’s a good question, a mile? Answer: 1 mile. Both are correct raising both scores up 2 to 3. 7. What is the only letter that does not appear on the periodic table? T: L and T. K: X.

Answer: J. They both answer incorrectly keeping Kamon in the lead 2 to 3. 8. What color is a polar bears skin? T: Black. K: Pink. Answer: Black, a polar bears skin is black and its fur is clear Taylor comes in tying the score 3 to 3! 9. What is the average life span of a major league baseball? T: 52. K: Ooh, 12. Answer: 7 pitches. Both answer wrong once again leaving the score 3 to 3. 10. The average human eats how many spiders at night in their lifespan? T: Three. K: The average human...one. Answer: 8. Neither answered 8 and the score results in a tie! 3 to 3.

Complete the Sudoku puzzle so that each and every row, column, and region contains the numbers one through nine only once.


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