The Highlander

The Highlander Carlmont High School Newspaper Volume II, Issue 1 September 2010 See us online at http://scotscoop.com

Lacrosse: coming soon to Carlmont?

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Starting next month there will be multimedia slide shows of student events and sports games.

Be sure to check us out to stay updated on all the latest school news! And while you’re at it, “like” our facebook page for even easier access. Scan this icon with your smart phone for a direct link to the site.

of a problem, there are even coaches lined up to take the job.

However, the job offer has been sent out to any and all teachers at Carlmont who would be interested in the coaching job.

Once the job has been offered to all of the teachers and no one takes the job, then the offer will be open to the other out-of-school coaches eager to take the job.

Currently, there aren’t any measures being taken to host a girl’s lacrosse team at CHS. Any girls interested in starting their own program should talk to either Mr. Patrick Smith, or Mr. Ralph Crame.

The school system would not be able to fund or support any of the measures necessary towards building the team, so having things such as sponsors and field times lined up ahead of time would be a good idea.

If you or someone you know is interested in playing or lending a hand to the CHS lacrosse program, please contact Mr. Smith the athletic director at psmith@seq.org.

Students flock to In-N-Out in RWC

By Kendall Bishop Staff Writer In-N-Out was packed the first day when the much anticipated fast food restaurant officially opened on August 26, 2010, in Redwood City.

“The line was out the door and around the corner.

But it still delivered the great InN-Out food we all love,” junior Zane Rafi explained.

With an accommodating location, wasting time or gas won’t be an issue when students want their favorite burgers.

Andrew Durlofsky, a sophomore, stated, “It’s great not having to take the train all the way to Milbrae to get an amazing burger! Finally, an In-N-Out convenient for Belmont and San Carlos kids!”

Students may be taking regular trips to Redwood City in order to get a favorite fast food fix.

Some meals at In-N-Out may be from the secret menu.

This menu includes grilled cheese, as well as the choice of protein style; in which the burger is wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun and also animal style; where everything is put on the burger of your choice.

Junior Ryan Ahrling said, “My favorite thing to order is the number one, which is a double double with no onions and fries.

But I always have to have my chocolate milkshake. I’m glad it opened up so close to

“The line was out the door and around the corner. But it still delivered the great In-NOut food we all love.”

Continued on page 3

Carlmont wrists just got silly

By Sarah Biklen

Entertainment Editor

and Elizabeth Max Cartoonist

First, there were Livestrong bands. Then there were friendship, “I heart boobies,” and kandi bracelets. Now, there are the ever flexible and endlessly entertaining Silly Bandz.

You may be familiar with these bands, which bend and stretch but somehow always magically return to their original shape, but many of you may be wondering how this is possible.

Leave it to the Japanese to inadvertently invent wrist magic. Designed by a Japanese design team in 2002, these elastic marvels were merely intended to be a more environmentally-sustainable office supply.

Robert Croak, however, the same pioneer who brought us Livestrong bands, had a dif-

ferent vision for the function of these rubber bands; a vision which would change life as we know it. Croak decided to thicken and enlarge the bands and market them as a kids accessory.

In November 2008 the revolution began, as the first Silly Bandz were launched online.

Now, just 21 months later, Silly Bandz hawks its products in nearly 8,000 stores across the United States.

And these wrist ornaments have not just been a hit with kids. If you take a look around you will see anyone from 6 to 60 sporting these collectibles, all eager to show

you what shape it forms when taken off.

It seems our generation in particular has caught the Silly Bandz fever. If you take a moment to look at the wrists around you, you are likely to see at least one or two of these elastic wonders on just about every student.

So what is the future of Silly Bandz? Will they live on forever on our wrists and ankles, or just in our hearts?

Senior Nicole Caddow states, “I think Silly Bandz will eventually fade out, just like gaucho pants.” Perhaps

Continued on page 3

Photo By Gianna Dimick

This year, Carlmont may play host to the quickly growing sport of lacrosse.

Sophomore Connor Swanson got the ball rolling with a group on Facebook and from there developed what may turn into the official Carlmont High School team.

Once Swanson had enough followers in his group, he presented the idea to the school board, and over the summer Gary Swanson, Connor Swanson’s dad, along with other dedicated lacrosse parents, did what they could to make sure that lacrosse came to Carlmont. They went through processes such as organizing possible league games, preparing a budget for the team, meeting all district’s standards, and lining up gear for the team.

“I mean there are some obstacles such as practice time, and funding,” said Gary Swanson, “but this isn’t something we shouldn’t be able to do. Many other schools have been able to do it so, so can we.”

The kick-off meeting was held August 31 of this year and players were brought up to speed with the current status of the team’s progression.

The main problem at hand is the funding, over $15,000 is needed to support the team and there are no district or school funds to back the program.

Another obstacle in the

son

Staff Writer

way of the Lacrosse team’s finalization is the question of “where will we play?” With all of Carlmont’s sports fields under use by track, baseball and softball, it is hard to tell where exactly the team will play.

The field time variable to the whole equation is only relevant until daylight savings time is over, and the team would be able to have the field after five o’clock without having to turn in early due to lack of light.

It may seem like a large obstacle and a tall hurdle to overcome with the field time, but just around half a year ago questions about whether or not the lacrosse team would even be approved were still unknown, so who’s to say that the team won’t work it out?

“I think things look very good for lacrosse this year.

Last year we had only a few kids interested in playing. One year later we have 20-plus kids showing up to our introduction meeting.

Next year there will be many more, so I have confidence it will happen,” stated Gary Swanson.

The coaching for the lacrosse team is not too large Connor Swan

By Connor Moore

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News and Opinions

The current situation

By Matthew Ray Staff Writer

Since time as we know it began, every instance, every event has been recorded by and embedded into the universal knowledge of the cosmos; God, if you will.

It is in these archives of intelligence that we can explore and find what we know as history. And throughout the history of our civilization a nearly infinite amount of incidences have occurred which has forever altered the timeline of human development.

An intricate web has been spinning for far longer than perhaps we could fathom, and this web while constantly spinning, is also constantly being tangled. For every moment contains all moments; and every moment contains a boundless amount of possibilities.

Determinism argues that every event, including human decision and action, is the necessary consequence of previous states of affairs. Fatalism, in contrast, implies that everything is fated to happen; hence, human beings have no control over their future, and furthermore, have no freewill. I myself wonder if either theory is correct, I question the present moment’s credibility as anything but an abstract figment of my imagination. For all I know I am dead, confined in a coffin waiting for the electromagnetic impulses in my brain to cease and render me unconscious.

I dare to say even that deep within the elaborate structures of our mind lies the past, present, and future. However, time is non-existent; only an agreement on scientific evidence of the natural processes of the stars and the most of the meaning of time is derived from the setting and rising of our most beloved star.

It is then possible to argue that as our concept of time moves forward, opportunities wither away. Once an event occurs and an act is performed on the stage that is life itself, the chance of anything else happening at that moment is zero. While contingencies grow at a fascinating rate, they are declining exponentially. So I find that with each juncture in time, each brief flash frame brings about an entirety of ever extended quantum realities in which whole new time lines and time frames operate and new actualities are achieved. In quantum mechanics, a free particle has a wave-particle duality so it could operate as a wave and a solid particle simultaneously. Essentially, this particle can be in multiple places at once. These particles, in theory, could form mirror realities.

The Uncertainty Principle states that both the position and the momentum of the particle’s movement cannot simultaneously be measured with full precision at the same time. This brings into mind Schrödinger’s cat theory; is it dead or alive? Once a free particle is observed it is a solid particle and when it is not, it returns to a wave. That is to say then that when a moment in time is observed through simple consideration, a mere thought, it is stretched into a vast range of quantum probability. Knowing that all possibilities are possible at every instant, and seeing the potential in that, that is true knowledge.

But understanding the potential and acting upon that recognition, now that is true excellence. And that is the current situation.

A burnt car and remains of a house are seen near ground zero of the gas explosion in a view from Fairmont Drive and Concord Way in San Bruno, California, Friday, September 10, 2010.

Thirty-eight homes were destroyed after a gas line exploded in the residential Crestmoor neighborhood of San Bruno on September 9. (Jane Tyska/Oakland Tribune/MCT)

San Bruno fire devastates

By Niko Frazier Staff Writer

At approximately 6:25 pm, a huge explosion in the foothills of San Bruno left a 200 foot plume of fire and smoke. When Firefighters and Police arrive on the scene, they believe that a plane had crashed.

This hypothesis arose because of the location of the explosion and the flight patterns of planes arriving San Francisco International Airport.

Hours later, the FAA, Federal Aviation Administration, tells investigator that no planes crashed. Later, PG&E ruled that the explosion was caused by an unknown explosion in a main gas line.

Eye witness Demetrius told reporters that, “While I was waiting at a light, I suddenly felt the ground bubbling and then an 8-inch gap arose on the ground heading west bound.”

This explosion was caused by an unknown source, but has now been confirmed as a gas leak.

Driving though 280, a more than pungent smell can be found, along

with irritation of the throat. Doctors still do not know if this odor can cause medical problems, but they say the safer you are, the better you will be in the long run.

The Red Cross has also set up two shelters, along with two different numbers to find out if your relatives are safe.

This speedy race to stop this fire is another issue. Upon arriving on the scene, fire men were stopped by a huge “wall off flames,” preventing them from getting close to the fires to extinguish them.

Later, when they were able to be slowly inch towards the different fires, they encountered a major problem. When they tried to get water from the fire hydrants, they found out that the explosion had knock out the water main.

Upon realizing this, the Fire Commander called Cal Fire to get airborne support to extinguish the fires.

Although the fires have been extinguished, the anguish remains.

Belmont sign lady leaves legacy, empty corner

By Bridget Newman

this. She even put pins through her lips as a religious fast.

Her neighbors grew sick of this and eventually the police stepped in. They left her a note informing

When anyone on the peninsula says something referring to the Belmont “Sign Lady” we all automatically know exactly who that is. She occupied the corner of Ralston Ave and El Camino Real with her many signs.

The “Sign Lady,” Estrella Benavides is notorious throughout the Bay Area for her incoherent signs that speak of anything from Britney Spears to God. She has become a local icon, almost a landmark of Belmont.

However, not many people know how the sign lady came to be, what caused her to be so firm in her opinions or why she feels the need to protest.

According to the San Mateo Daily Journal, in 2006 she and her husband went through a divorce and Benavides lost custody of her son.

From that point on she began writing signs all over her house. Her signs spoke of numerous subjects ranging from Hitler to hurricane Katrina. Benavides believed that God had chosen her as his servant and he was the one that wanted her to do

Photo by Bridget Newman

Staff Writer

from her home and taken to court because of code enforcement violations.

After her hearing, she hit a deputy twice, kicked him in the shin and attempted to take off her microphone.

She was offered to go to the Pathways Mental Health Court which she refused and instead spent 38 days in jail.

Since being evicted, The corner of Ralston and El Camino is now empty without Benavides had occuthe sign lady and her messages. pied the corner of El her that her signs were violating the Camino and Ralston for over a year. city’s rules, they were too large and Everyday rain or shine she sat out there were far too many. there and attempted to send her mesIn 2008 Benavides was evicted sages out there into the world.

She “decorated” the corner in the same way she had once decorated her home.

In the last few months, she even began to dance with her signs.

“I don’t understand what her signs say or why she sits out there all day.

Its weird,” said Grant Collins, a Carlmont junior.

Benavides was arrested early Saturday August 16, 2010 for sleeping with her signs and belongings.

According to the Belmont Police Department she is currently at San Mateo County Jail in Redwood City and held with a bail on $65,000 and awaits her court date on September 20, 2010.

“I think she’s crazy and I think it’s a good idea they put her in jail at this point,” said Andrew Witt, a Carlmont sophomore.

On the contrary, Carlmont teacher Hai Nguyen disagreed, “I feel bad for her, poor lady in jail.”

Although Benavides is no longer at the corner of El Camino and Ralston, everyone will still remember her as a prominent “Sign Lady” and will remember where she once protested.

News and Opinions

Factions - a part of society

By Arik Schoessow STAFF WRITER

The most beautiful thing is educated decision among mankind. What is the point of society when matters are decided in any other way? We devalue ourselves to the brute level of beast by running blindly into the abyss of uninformed action, a habit that has, unfortunately, taken advantage of humans’ overcoming sense of laziness over the past three hundred years. What has happened in the course of human events has been tragic. People have taken sides. Republicans and Democrats, Conservatives and Liberals, these are all forms of ideological factions in which people place themselves. Unfortunately, many people place themselves in these factions without any sort of informed incentive, and rather a social expectation.

A good example is religion. Many Christians have never read the bible, or even a whole book within it. It is a good bet that if they did read it, they might find some things in there that went against their beliefs about what the religion stood for (especially the old testament). However, these people place themselves, by default, into a religious frame of mind, never questioning why or how their beliefs makes sense.

Even more evident are the factions of the political scene. Many of the people who make up the voting body of our country don’t care to watch any news, except in the case of something ground breaking like the stock market crash or the gulf oil spill. However, in the end of the day these people adamantly vote for a certain party, not a certain candidate, but a certain party, because they have been pressured somehow to resign their minds to one category.

There are people who will even have the ignorance to vote for candidates who openly propose plans that are detrimental to that person’s desires, whether economically or ideologically, only because the candidate is of a certain faction. This is disturbing and wrong. Would any of the founders have wanted us to become such uneducated decision-makers?

The plan for this nation was that a democracy would function based on the knowledge of those who vote. People express their concerns and think about the issues enough to build a stable viewpoint. Ideally, each person is his or her own philosopher, contemplating current events and politics to a level where decisions are made out of true opinion, rather than preordained. Today it is so easy to follow the news that it is a disgrace if people with access to computers don’t know what is going on in the world, or even in this country. So get off your Facebook and update your mind. You don’t need to be a scholar to form opinions about the world. All that is required are the facts, and if you have those at your fingertips you have the power to be a thinking individual and actually contemplate the things that matter instead of what pictures your friend posted after a party full of drama and bros. In the end, which will really matter?

Get off your Facebook and update your mind. You don’t need to be a scholar to form opinions about the world.

Silly Bandz

(continued from page 1) this latest wrist craze is doomed to a fate similar to that of gaucho pants Nicole, but perhaps not.

The appeal of Silly Bandz to teenagers is no mystery. They offer cheap (packs of 24 normally sell for only $5.00 and some are sold in packets of 12 for $2.00) and endless fun.

In addition, they can often act as a conversation starter and add an aire of mystery and maturity to your appearance.

This phenomenon in wrist accessorizing is also educational, providing anatomical information on many animals, including dinosaurs, and allowing kids the opportunity to learn the alphabet, as all 26 letters are sold. Fashionable and functional? No wonder these adornments have been selling like hot cakes.

It appears that, based on the success of these pliable miracles in the past two years, Silly Bandz will be around for at least for a few more years. But who knows, anything from scented shoelaces to socks that change color could become the next rage.

In-N-Out opens

(continued from page 1) us because now I can eat it whenever I want!”

Lauren Berggren a junior, agrees that her favorite burger is also the double double. “I like it animal style.”

She added, “I rarely have In-N-Out. It is the only fast food I eat because it’s so good. In-N-Out is definitely the cleanest fast food restaurant which makes me like it even more.”

The new fast food restaurant is on 949 Veterans Blvd, Redwood City.

This In-N-Out is now the third InN-Out Burger location in San Mateo County.

Another In-N-Out site is planned in San Carlos. This newly approved restaurant will be located on the intersection of Holly Street and Industrial Road.

Although the opening date of the San Carlos venue is not set, the anticipated time is around April or May 2011.

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Highlander Staff

Editor in chief Christina Belasco News and Opinions Christina Belasco Entertainment Editor Sarah Biklen Scot Scoop Editor Savanna Jack Features Editor Jenna Chambers Sports Editor Dana Bloom Photographers Gianna Dimick Curtis Fan

Staff Writers Emily Beiers Carly Bertolozzi Kendall Bishop Grace Chang Shannon Chang Jacob Cox Mary Farmar Joshua Faulkner Jorja Flynn Ivan Garin Sarah Levin Connor Moore Bridget Newman Reyna Ortiz Alexandra Porter Matthew Ray Jasmine Rishi Miranda Santana Steven Tsujisaka Erica Valbusa Annie Wesolek Anna Wheeler Noelani Zane

Cartoonist

Elizabeth Max

American sludge remains Effects of the BP oil spill still seen in the gulf

By Alex Porter Staff Writer

On July 15, 2010 the world’s largest oil leak was capped after 86 days of continuous flow. Three months later, strong opinions and controversy have swept America.

An oil drilling unit located off the Louisiana coast in the Gulf of Mexico being leased to the energy company, British Petroleum, exploded on April 10, 2010. Gas expanded onto the platform of the rig and ignited the whole unit, causing the site to sink leading to 11 workers deaths and the form of a large leakage of slick oil. This leak turned into a very serious issue, 162,000 barrels of crude oil, at worst case, were seeping out each day. People near the incident could clearly see the thick sludge washing up mixed in with the tide.

President Barack Obama got involved with the situation by stopping other offshore drilling without safe guards in its presence. BP tried, but failed, many attempts to cap the leak over the next 2 months. Finally, after about 3 months, the outflow has been contained.

Although the oil flow has ceased, about 160 to 180 millions of gallons of crude oil are exposed to the waters in the Gulf of Mexico. This causes huge ecological and economical issues.

One main concern on people’s minds are the issues surrounding marine wildlife. Over 400 animals are in danger because of the toxins in the oil and the thick sludge that cover their entire bodies. Senior Stephan Moreuil, expressed his concern for their well-being, “The money should be going towards the cause, not the military...many people and animals are being killed.”

Freshman, Bita Shahrvini, when asked her opinion, stated that “many fisherman lost their jobs... BP is not trying and is being inconsiderate.”

The estimates for the loss in the fishing industry is roughly $2.5 billion. BP has agreed to pay for cleanup fees issued by the U.S. government along with other remedial fees.

Mrs. Linda Garvey brought to attention the fact that “the situation was at first a big deal, but towards the end of summer the media drew people’s attention into other issues, causing people to ultiTILE COMPANY, INC. mately forget about the CERAMIC & TILE CONTRACTORS spill.” Although some people may not be as involved in the incident 1045 TERMINAL WAY Fax: 650.632.4006 anymore, this tragic SAN CARLOS, CA 94070 event will definitely go PHONE: 650.632.4000 info@djtile.com down in history.

Page 4

Entertainment

Fantasy fiction throw down Twilight vs. Harry Potter: the epic face-off

By Anna Wheeler Staff Writer

Currently there is chaos in the world: oil spills, hurricanes, and a face-off between wizards and vampires.

Competition picked up in America two years ago when the first movie of the Twilight Saga was released.

Twilight, the best-selling novel by Stephenie Meyer, is based off of a fictional romance between a vampire and an average girl living in a small town in Washington.

Harry Potter, by J.K. Rowling, revolves around the adventures of a young wizard named Harry Potter and his friends as they find themselves sucked into a world of magic.

Many students voice that Harry Potter is the better of the two.

“I liked the [first Harry Potter] book better than the first Twilight book… it just made me want to keep on reading. Twilight bored me in some parts,” freshman Valentina Alonso explained.

Twilight has been called on its tendency to repeat something more than a few times throughout the books and

its redundant plot line.

Similarly, Anna Chung, senior, agreed that the Harry Potter series is superior to the Twilight Saga. “I like Harry Potter more because it’s been a book I’ve followed most of my life.”

While Potter and his friends have been around to fill most “muggles’” magical cravings since 1997, Twilight has only been out since 2005.

Most who have kept up with all of Harry’s adventures believe that his stories are more worthwhile.

However, the few but proud Twilight lovers have a different opinion.

“Harry Potter’s too predictable…

In Twilight, there’s a romantic competition. Team Jacob or Team Edward? And to people who

haven’t read Twilight, it’s still a mystery!” Said Heather Payne, a junior.

Twilight provides two elements capable of keeping people occupied for

a long time: romance and mystery.

Quinn Haaga, a sophomore, is also

a Twilight fan. “I think Twilight is more relatable and I feel like the story is more focused. Harry Potter is all over the place.”

So what is the final verdict? Team Harry Potter or Team Twilight?

While the reader responses collected in this article are not conclusive enough to end the battle for once and for all, these appear to be the results: Although Twilight, with its repetitive narrative style, seems to bore some readers, it is clear that vampire romance stories are far from unpopular.

Harry Potter, however, a comforting reminder of the childhood world of imagination, seems to hold a special place in most reader’s hearts.

Jimi Hendrix 40 years later A guitar hero immortalized

By Miranda Santana Staff Writer

“Its Funny how most people love the dead, once you’re dead you’re made for life.” -Jimi Hendrix. It has been forty years since his lifeless body was found in a London hotel room on September 18th, 1970.

Hendrix was only 27 when he died, so no one knows how great he could have become if he had lived on, but he stills remains a guitar hero.

Hendrix was born into a poor family on November 27th, 1942 in Seattle, Washington. From an early age he was drawn to the guitar and played in a few small bands with friends.

He formed the band The Jimi Hendrix Experience and gave many hits from the album Are You Experienced? including “Purple Haze”, “Hey, Joe”, “The Wind Cries Mary”, “Fire” and “Foxey Lady”.

The song that shot Hendrix to fame was the song “Purple Haze,” a metaphor for the psychedelic cloud that hung over the sixties.

“Jimi Hendrix was a beautiful man, a master showman and a dedicated musician. I would scour the country to see him whenever he played because he really had everything any

rock-and-roll star should have; all the style and presence,” said the late Freddie Mercury (Queen).

In the sixties, the hippie and peace movement began to take place and Hendrix made sure he did his part to promote peace.

His style during this era reflected the hippie movement and his fascination with Bob Dylan.

In the summer of 1969, he was the closing act of the Three days of Peace and Music Woodstock Festival. Part of the hippie era was also drug and alcohol use, which ended up killing Hendrix in the end.

During the 1970 European tour, Hendrix was not eager to perform.

When he arrived back at his hotel he

took an overdose of sleeping pills and choked on the vomit from the large amount of wine he drank earlier and died in his sleep.

When police arrived on the scene he was already dead. Hendrix died at the age of twenty-seven along with musicians Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin and Kurt Cobain.

It has been forty years since Jimi Hendrix passed away, but his music continues to live on.

An album of some of his never before heard studio recordings, Valleys of Neptune, was just released in March 2010.

Jimi has influenced many guitarists such as Joe Perry, Slash, Brian May. Rolling Stone magazine named Hendrix number one out of a list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.

“I agree Hendrix should be ranked number one because playing the guitar with your teeth and behind your back takes talent.” Says sophomore Laura Bowker, who also plays guitar and has been inspired by Hendrix. It was a tragedy for Hendrix to have died so young, but he is still loved along with his music, and will be alive in our hearts forever.

Hendrix was truly the epitome of an artist. His passion and talent for music, even during his brief lifetime, have guaranteed him a spot in music history.

“When I die, just keep playing the records.”-Jimi Hendrix

Entertainment

Vampires Suck kind of sucked

By Annie Wesolek

filled with Twilight enthusiasts. The story line remains unchanged, apart Staff Writer from the addition of the feuding Since the Twilight movies and book Team Edward and Team Jacob fans.

The movie skips through Becca’s series were released, the vampire (Bella’s) life at a quick pace. craze has captured the focus of the One moment Becca is 16 and is just media and the public. Through books, arriving in Sporks, and then all of television, and movies, vampires have invaded both our conscious and a sudden she’s celebrating her 18th birthday at Edwards house. subconscious alike.

By trying to squeeze in the whole And where there’s a popular movie Twilight there’s always “To Twilight fans, this movie story, the someone who may be a mockery of their bewriters finds humor within the loved series, but to many others might have comprostory line, and Twilight is no the idea of Vampires Suck seems mised the movie. “It exception. like a breath of fresh air.” was too Vampires fast, and at times the humor was Suck recently came to theaters in an lacking,” said sophomore Natasha attempt to show just how funny this Stergiou. trend is. To Twilight fans, this movie Some moviegoers felt the film may be a mockery of their beloved didn’t live up to the hype created series, but to many others the idea of Vampires Suck seems like a breath of by it’s commercials. “ It could have been way better,” said Sarah Levin, fresh air.

The movie centers around an altered a sophomore “They put all the funny parts in the commercials.” There’s version of Bella whose name is always a risk with advertising comBecca. Like Bella, Becca also falls edies; the marketer needs to make the in love with a dashing and mysterious Edward. Also included in the cast movie appealing without giving away to much of the film. is Jacob who continues to fight for With the whole Twilight realm at Becca’s heart. their disposal, it is disappointing that The Movie takes place in a town the movie was not a bigger hit. called Sporks, which ironically is

Page 5

Horoscopes What’s your destiny?

Taurus (April 20 -May 20) Try to stay of Facebook this month and get out of the house. You might run into a friend you haven’t seen in a while, or meet a new lifelong friend.

Gemini (May 21 -June 20) Rethink the solution to a huge problem in your life. There are many ways in which you can solve a problem. But most importantly, don’t avoid the issue. It will end up causing you way more stress than you need.

Cancer (June 21 -July 22) 4th period is your living hell. You can barely get through class without checking the clock every five minutes. But if you get involved with your classmates you might find that it becomes your favorite class.

Leo (July 23 -August 22) Bored at lunch? Join a club at school that captivates your interests.

Virgo (August 23 -September 22) Trust your instincts this month. You may find that it is the easiest way to make big decisions.

Libra (September 23 -October 22) You will finally get the respect you deserve for a trait that up until now has gone unnoticed.

Scorpio (October 23 -November 21) Be an activist for something that you are passionate about! Society needs your help.

Sagittarius (November 22 -December 21) Something or someone from your childhood will enter your life and remind you of the happiness you once experienced as a child.

Capricorn (December 22- January 19) A new genre of music you never thought you would appreciate will suddenly soothe your musical craving this month.

Aquarius (January 20 -February 18) Try to stay away from electrical appliances after your shower. You don’t want to find out the hard way whether or not you dried off well enough.

Pisces (February 19 -March 20) Try to not eat other people/suck anyone’s blood this month.

Aries (March 21 -April 19) Curly hair isn’t really your style this fall.

Wear lots of bright colors to offset your wily locks.

Vampire craze hits TV

By Sarah Levin Staff Writer

Since the dawn of Twilight, vampire mania has been sweeping the nation like a sprightly plague. The timeless story of forbidden love has captivated thousands- and TV networks are taking the hint.

Suddenly, every other show on the air has something to do with a sensitive, sexy bloodsucker attempting to survive the biggest obstacle of their non-existent lives: true love.

One of the most popular shows of the Vampire genre is Vampire Diaries.

This show follows the life of Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev), a teenage girl with a typical teenage life. She deals with friends, school, and first love.

Oh, and being caught in the middle of a love triangle with vampire brothers Stefan (Paul Wesley) and Damon Salvatore (Ian Somerhalder).

Meanwhile, the writers at HBO have constructed an immortal romance of their own.

True Blood follows the interaction between the human and vampire inhabitants of Bon Temps, Alabama.

So, what exactly makes these shows so appealing?

Carol Painter, sophomore, has the answer. “I love watching Vampire Diaries because the plot is super sweet and romantic. Plus,” she laughed, “Paul Wesley is super yummy.”

Lauren Reiley, sophomore, added, “I think a lot more people watch the show than they let on. I think they’re afraid that people will make fun of them.”

Besides the cornucopia of handsome cast members, the major reason why these shows are so popular is that almost everyone can relate to some aspect of the story.

Practically everyone in high school is navigating the treacherous waters

of dating and relationships, so it’s nice to know that 500-year-old vampires are struggling through it too.

It also helps to put things in perspective.

Most people don’t have to worry about being tempted to eat their partner every time they kiss themlet alone worry about being eaten.

Teens whose dating life is controlled by their parents will likely appreciate the forbidden romance aspect of the story.

Boys with a love of violence will look forward to the inevitable bloodand-guts scenes. Another plus for guys is watching a vampire show makes you seem more sensitive and approachable to girls.

So, if all these vampire shows are so great, everyone loves them.

Right? Wrong.

The biggest argument against these shows is that the writers are falling into a rut.

Sophomore Hanna Koifman insists that all these vampire shows are a result of a lack of imagination. “All that stuff about vampires and humans falling in love, it’s unoriginal now.

The writers better get some new ideas fast, because they’re just undermining themselves.”

Sad to say, but the critics have a point.

How have these shows become so popular, so quickly?

It’s simple.

The writers are following the Twilight Formula: All-American Girl, plus Eye-Candy Vampire Boys, multiplied by Impending Doom equals Thousands of Love-struck Teens.

Unless a new concept, or at least new characters are thought up soon, television may become a collection of identical Twilight knockoffs. And to some, that would be perfectly fine.

“The new season of Vampire Diaries is starting soon,” said Painter. “I can’t wait!”

Scot Scoop

Page 6

Keep your eyes on the pom

Carlmont cheer takes a step up from previous years performances A new school year calls for many changes, like new school supplies, classrooms, and teachers. This year, it means a re-invented cheer leading squad. Now, fans can expect more advanced stunts, a closer-knit team, and a new coach.

Carlmont High School welcomes Coach Jelica Baker to motivate and inspire the cheerleaders this school year. “Coach Baker gives direction in a strict manner, but it’s better because she keeps us in line,” said Rachel Parker, sophomore.

This will help the girls throughout the season, because they are taking part in many new activities. “We are

Did you know?

By Gianna Dimick Photographer

* By law, everybody in Vermont must take at least one bath a week. * The tongue of a blue whale is as long as an elephant. * Mel Blanc, who played the voice of Bugs Bunny, was allergic to carrots. * Bats always turn left when exiting a cave. * TYPEWRITER is the longest word that can be made using the letters only on one row of the keyboard. * Months that begin on a Sunday will always have a “Friday the 13th.” * In Nebraska, a parent can be arrested if his or her child can’t hold back a burp during a church service.

Carlmont “security blotter”

A fictitious speculation of Carlmont crime and punishment since school has begun Staff Writer

8/10- Student gets suspended for a day due to not wearing their I.D. at Safe-

way in Belmont 8/14- On-site computer server crashes, nobody notices 8/16- Uproar about the loss of the I.D. lanyards, administration hugs students not wearing I.D.s 9/2- Trespassing deer caught on campus at 3:15 am - officer reports that they were looking for food, but caught in the headlights of the police vehicle.

9/4- 8 police officers seen on campus; coincidentally, Village People lookalike contest hosted

by ASB 9/6- 7 Silly bandz Students caught on their BEST behavior stolen from lockers, police baffled 9/10- 6 Silly bandz recovered, broken. Police hope the case will snap into shape soon.

TALK BACK

How Do You Feel About Wearing Your I.D. Around Campus?

“I think they are a wonderful invention.”

Camryn Jones ‘12

“I think they’re kind of stupid, but I guess they’re okay”. Kohlton Johnson ‘13

enjoyable.

Another positive difference that will be beneficial for the squad in the long run is that everyone is working much harder.

“Last year, it seemed like there was no effort,” stated Parker. “Already this year, people are working really hard.”

All of this hard work will pay off when the cheerleaders perform their routines at Carlmont events.

However, if you attend a Carlmont sporting event, you may not recognize the cheerleaders.

This is because they received new uniforms this year.

With all of their hard work and dedication, it is hoped that the cheerleaders will have a fabulous year.

By Niko Frazier

* It is illegal to walk down a street in Maine with your shoelaces untied

“They don’t really bother me.

I’m already used to them.”

Millie Khou ‘14

this year an improved one is the unity of the squad. “This year, we act more as a family,” stated Bolton.

The squad accomplishes this by bonding with their fellow teammates not only during but outside of practice.

Teammates Bolton and Parker can agree that with a closer group, the cheering experience is much more

Photo by Niko Frazier

Staff Writer

doing more pyramids and tumbling this year,” stated Ariana Bolton, junior.

In addition to new stunts, “The squad will also be going to competition this year,” remarked Parker.

With Coach Baker as their new leader, practices for the cheer squad are said to be busy, long, fun, and fastpaced.

A primary difference that will make

Photo by Emily Beiers

By Erica Valbusa

“They’re alright, I’m not trippin’ about it.” Ismael Torres ‘11

“I don’t really have a problem with them. I don’t enjoy them, but I’ve learned to accept them.” Kayla Tabari ‘13 Photos By Gianna Dimick

Scot Scoop

Page 7

Out of the Blue What’s happening?

Talented singers from out of the blue

By Niko Frazier Staff Writer

If talent and entertainment are things that you value than be prepared to be awed by the wonderful voices of the Carlmont choir group Out of the Blue.

Out of the blue was founded to create an a cappella choir group for the best junior and senior choir members, privately invited by Ms. Genevieve Tep, the choir teacher.

When created the members and Ms. Tep had an idea of singing mixed genres of music while achieving mutual harmony.

Out of the fifteen, Ms. Tep chose two singers per vocal chord and requires them to practice on their own time besides regularly meeting Thursday nights at 6:30 pm to 8:30 to practice their terrific melodies.

Last year, the group performed a va-

riety of songs, including the Beatles and the Spider Man theme song.

Some new changes to the group, other than additional members, are their brand new Out of the Blue jackets.

Last year, as a performance uniform, they wore all black, but their style is going to change as of this year.

Out of the Blue has decided to keep amazing their audiences with their impeccable talent.

The plan is to “sing a variety of tunes, including Disney songs,” mentioned junior Jessica May. Patience is required for their next debut, the winter concert.

Be prepared to have your ears treated to the sweet sound of tunes by the musical wonders of Out of the Blue.

The Monthly Quad Snapshot

Friday, September 21: Freshman class voting will take place in the quad for one day only. So freshman go and cast your vote for your class President, Vice President and Secretary.

October 18th: Homecoming Nominations will begin October 18. Seniors vote for King and Queen, juniors vote for Prince and Princess, sophomores vote for Duke and Duchess and freshman vote for Lord and Lady.

October 14-October 15: The annual Carlmont Choirs Pops Benefits concert, this year titled NYC, will pay tribute to New York City and Broadway. Concert tickets are $25 and all proceeds will benefit the Award Winning Carlmont High School Choral Program.

Check http://scotscoop.com for all the Carlmont events

Helping humanity

Originally posted on scotscoop.com

By Jasmine Rishi Staff Writer

This year, a few Carlmont seniors started their year by creating a club that would help benefit other students and the community.

From volunteering at beach cleanups to writing letters to soldiers stationed in Iraq, the “Helping Humanity” Club gave Carlmont students a chance to reach out and “help humanity,” as president of the club Chet Reyen puts it.

Last year, “Helping Humanity” included activities that ranged from picking up garbage from our beaches to writing letters to our service men and women serving in Iraq, as well as painted a mural on campus.

“We want to better the community and spread peace and happiness,” Reyen also states.

Some of the projects the club is planning for this year include beach cleanups, volunteering at soup kitchens, sending letters to soldiers in Iraq, volunteering at a cancer walk in San Francisco and organizing a fun run later in the year with proceeds going to a worthy cause.

All these activities give students a fun way to perform community service hours in the company of their friends.

An added bonus is the community service hours created or organized by the Humanity Club looks great on college applications.

The Helping Humanity Club meets every Wednesday at lunch in room A2.

“The more people who join the better,” treasurer Donald Heatherington says. “It’s a great way to have fun with your friends and better yourself as well the community.”

Photo By Gianna Dimick

“We want to better the community and spread peace and happiness”

The Carlmont cup had senior Taylor Phillips, on the dance team and senior Kenton Buckley, representing the foot ball team, face off in the “Elephant Trunk Game” in the quad on September 10th.

Carlmont Cup: get your fill of events

By Steven Tsujisaka Staff Writer

Paula Pearl said, “People should come and support it because they can get to cheer on a bunch of different groups at Carlmont and everyone is welcome to make a team and show the school what their team is made of!”

Carlmont Cup is every Friday in the quad, excluding school holidays and minimum days.

If you’re interested in participating, see Mr. Jim Kelly in the ASB room, located next to the quad, during lunch and show your Scot spirit. re ctu

Pi By iza

El th be ax

M

These days on Friday, lunch commences with a face-off between groups vying for the Carlmont Cup. The first competition featured Carlmont’s choir class and volleyball team.

One question that many students, such as junior Michael Yih, have asked is, “What is the Carlmont Cup?” Carlmont Cup was created by Carlmont ASB seniors Lauren Jung and Elodie Stephan.

Carlmont ASB’s mission is to encourage students to get involved with the Carlmont High School community and get involved in lunch activities with fellow classmates.

“The Carlmont Cup is a series of rallies that involves many differ ent groups who will be competing in a series of tasks trying to move onto the next round and ultimately win the

Carlmont Cup,” stated Paula Pear, senior ASB student.

On August 27th, Carlmont’s Volleyball team won by coming from behind.

The Choir Group won the first challenge, Water Balloon Head Butting Contest, but the Volleyball Team fought back and won that game by winning the last two challenges, the water balloon/ bucket head contest and the Clean-Your-Face with Super Soaker game.

Volleyball players Spencer Jenkins and Ashley Duba exclaimed that this was “a great start to the season” and they’ve “progressed to the next level.”

Kevin Carroll, a sophomore, suggested, “They should have a ping-pong and an egg drop competition.”

Features

Page 8

AP Biology takes classroom to Costa Rica

By Noelani Zane Staff Writer

In the summer of 2010, a few Carlmont teens spent their time off on a memorable trip volunteering in Costa Rica. From helping sea turtles to working with manatees, these students took the opportunity of a lifetime to serve the environment and community in a fun way.

The majority of the students on the trip belonged to AP biology, taught by Tina Doss.

As organizer of the program, Doss accompanied a total of 46 students on the trip.

Costa Rica is one of the most diverse places on the planet. There, the students studied different animals, learned about the Costa Rican culture, learned how to grow things organically, and also did fun sporting activi-

ties like white water rafting, zip-lining, and kayaking.

The group also went to Panama where they worked with tree frogs and helped baby sea turtles to shore.

“The hardest part of the trip was culture shock.

We had to throw away all our toilet paper and access to warm water was pretty rare. It made me really appreciate all the things we

have at home,” said senior Paula Pearl.

Animals weren’t the only thing the Carlmont kids

worked with. The highschoolers visited a local Costa Rican school where

they donated approximately 130 soccer uniforms and a ton of musical instruments.

“They wanted to start their own soccer program so we figured the least we could do is donate equipment,” said senior Karen Wright, who is also a member of the national Girl Scouts of the USA organization.

Trips like this not only give students a memorable experience, but it gives them the chance to meet and con-

nect with new people. “Interacting with people from Carlmont that I wouldn’t otherwise get the opportunity to talk to was the best part of the trip,” said senior Amanda Denney.

Pearl also commented on an exciting bonus to the trip, “The best part of the trip was seeing the leather-backs [sea turtles] because they were so cute.”

Volunteer work is a great opportunity to meet new people, apply real-life skills, and make a difference in your community. It seems to be a trend for high school students. Pearl additionally reported, “Not only does the trip look great on college apps, but helping the community leaves a warm fuzzy feeling because you know you made a difference.”

Dealing with sexual harassment

By Jasmine Rishi

Staff Writer When teens usually think of sexual harassment in this era, they think of their “personal bubble” being invaded. However, sexual harassment comes in many forms and unfortunately, many Carlmont students have experienced at least

one form of sexual harassment.

Junior Haley Bazzani commented about her own sexual harassment experiences.

“I hated the whole ‘scooping’ phase when random people would walk up to you and grab your boobs,” said Bazzani, “or if

someone just walks past you and students. grabs your [butt]; it’s degrading.”

What one person finds to be Bazanni also finds comments such uncomfortable and offensive, may as ‘damn girl’ or ‘I’d tap that’ to not be the same thing another be “degrading.” finds to be uncomfortable or ofThe most common forms of fensive. sexual harassment, especially Therefore, it is important to among teens, are unwanted flirtaunderstand that unlawful sexual tion, sexual comments or harassment can occur even when advances, sexual gesthe person making the comments tures, jokes with sexual or a joke intends to be funny but overtones, talking about the person who is listening is ofanother person’s (or your fended or made uncomfortable or own) sexual activities in feels threatened. public and “It’s important for kids to Sexual showing harassment report sexual harassment ... complaints sexual photos, stories, to make sure it doesn’t hap- are handled pen to other people” objects,

by Carlmont graffiti, etc.

SOS coordiSexual flirtation or nator Shelley Bustamante. “A lot advances are unwanted more people come to me about when they are not insexual harassment than people vited, are not consented think,” she said, “but there are to and or make somemany that don’t come to me who one uncomfortable, feel experience it.” threatened, unsafe or “It’s important for kids to report offend someone. sexual harassment for their emoLike Bazzani, other tional stability, physical safety, students at Carlmont and to make sure it doesn’t haphave experienced unpen to other people,” Bustamante wanted sexual advances adds, “sexual harassment usually and although many such starts small, but can easily lead to incidents are intended more serious incidences.” to be playful gestures, According to a study, 83% of under federal and state girls and 60% of boys in 9th laws unwanted sexual through 11th grades have reported advances are an unlawful sexual harassment though, many and a punishable form of offenders never get in trouble. sexual harassment.

“The important thing [about Another form of sexual sexual harassment] is identifying harassment commonly it early and ending it early,” said heard about on the Carl- Bustamante. mont campus is unwantIf you are being sexually haed sexual comments and rassed or have experienced it, reremarks made at other port it to Ms. Bustamante’s office.

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Features

Page 9

Creative Corner Crocodile runs for Aussie office

By Jorja Flynn Staff Writer

Australia’s famous World Cup predicting crocodile, Dirty Harry, has decided that he will run for Prime Minister next term.

Tired of being used for his psychic abilities he believes that it would be in the public’s best interest if there was a new face in office. “I just want to help my fellow Australians” explained Harry.

Before his decision, he was forced to predict all sorts of things by choosing the picture with a chicken on it of whoever would win.

He explicitly stated that “It wasn’t the quality of the chicken that made me want to quit, it was the aftertaste of the picture that was attached to it.”

Harry wants a fresh start

free of ink. He also said that when he is prime minister, along with many other changes, he will outlaw pictures because of their terrible taste.

His political opponents, the bats, believe that it is all a ruse to get more access to the crocodiles’ favorite meal.

“The crocodiles are just trying to lull everyone into a false sense of security so they can eat us” said a young bat who wished to remain anonymous, due to security reasons.

Even with all of the mudslinging, Harry still holds on to his lead for next term’s elections.

His lead is due largely in part to the fact that members of the bat party keep mysteriously ending up dead.

“I would make a great Prime Minister because I can predict the future”

Investigations are still pending on the deaths.

The feud has been going on for decades. “I just wish we could go back to the good old days when bats and crocodiles were united against humans,” said an owl, “The crocodiles just eat the bats now. I fear that after the bats are gone, the crocodiles will resort to eating us owls.”

Harry just hopes to move past all of the stereotypes that crocodiles are often subject to. “One crocodile bites off someone’s hand and suddenly we’re all criminally insane and violent,” complained Harry. He went on to explain how his sister once saved a

baby emu from drowning, by eating it.

Getting involved in the soccer World Cup this year has shown Harry what life is like outside of his usual watering hole. Seeing how crocodile children all over the world live made Harry realize that not every crocodile has the privilege of eating chicken off of pictures.

He hopes that someday every crocodile will have their own habitat with servants (humans) to tend to their

every need. He even hopes to create an elite group of crocodiles that would focus on enhancing their psychic abilities and using them for the greater good.

“I would make a great Prime Minister because I can predict the future” said Harry when asked how he would help Australia if elected.

Evidence of his powers is evident in his recent correct prediction that Julia Gillard would win prime minister again.

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Sports

NFL 2010 Season Predictions: The 2010 NFL season kicked off on Thursday, September 8. With the staggering amount of high-talent teams, it is tough to determine who will win their separate divisions, but one thing is for certain: There have never been more teams in contention for winning the super bowl championship in February.

NFC East: Winner: Jets In one of the toughest divisions in the league with powerhouse teams like the Patriots, the Jets have the strongest defense after they acquired star Antonio Cromartie in the offseason. The teams strength will be in it’s running game. However, improvements in quarterback Mark Sanchez will have to be made after a lackluster previous season.

AFC South: Winner: Colts It’d be no surprise If the Colts won yet another AFC division championship. Peyton Manning will connect with some of the most dangerous wide receivers in the whole league.

The Colts only weakness is their run game so expect running back Joseph Addai to run more plays this year.

AFC North: Winner: Ravens With overall strong teams like the Ravens, Steelers, and Bengals, the AFC North is a force to be reckoned with. Last years MVP candidate Ray Rice is the reason the Ravens will come out on top. His 2000+ yards last year have made him the powerhouse that will drive the team.

AFC West: Winner: Chargers

Senior Kieran Snaith sets up to make a shot during a practice game, preparing himself for the tough competition later this season.

By Jacob Cox and Josh Faulkner Staff Writers The Carlmont Scots girls volleyball team ended the 2009 season in heartbreaking fashion. After reaching the semifinals of the CCS playoffs, they bowed out in a hard fought five set loss to Salinas.

This loss capped a successful season for the Lady Scots, as they finished with a 10-4 record in the PAL Bay Division, and a 21-14 record overall.

But with a new coach and a new set of players, the Scots look to bounce back with an equally successful season.

Although the Lady Scots return six starters, captains Shannon Garrett, Alyson Lazzarotti, and Torika Ramulo all agreed that this year’s squad is less experienced than last years. Despite the inexperience, sophomores Josi Flynn and Amanda Morris are expected to help the Scots cause. “Josi and Amanda will have a big impact on our team’s success this year,” explained Alyson Lazzarotti.

Even after a successful year, the Lady Scots have much to improve upon. Senior Shannon Garrett expressed her bitterness towards last year’s playoffs, and her expectations for this year: “We should have gone further in CCS last year, and we expect to reach CCS once again this year.”

Junior Torika Ramulo also expressed a point of improvement for the 2010 Lady Scots: “We want to sweep Menlo-Atherton.

They beat us twice last year and we want revenge.”

Carlmont’s two losses to Menlo Atherton last season undoubtedly affected their chances of winning the PAL Bay Division.

The returning Lady Scots will have to adjust to first-year head coach Cindy Wolf, but this isn’t anything tt

Sports Columnist

With weaker teams like the Raiders, the Chargers should win their division fairly easily under the leadership of QB Phillip Rivers. Their strong running game will also greatly benefit them. Patrick Mooney ‘14 disagrees “The Broncos will win because they are my dad’s favorite team.”

NFC East: Winner: Redskins The strongest of all these teams will be the Redskins with several new players that will change the offense of the team. New QB Donovan McNabb will run the offense and new offensive coordinator Kyle Shannahan has a great understanding of the play-action passing game which will help the team’s talented wide receivers.

NFC South: Winner: Saints Last years Super Bowl champs will return under the lead of MVP QB Drew Brees. Last year the Saints threw a league best 34 touchdowns. The Saints only worry is their defense, which allowed a weak six yards per pass play last year.

NFC North: Winner: Packers Returning this year at QB for the packers is Aaron Rodgers, who perhaps might step out of Favre’s shadow this season. Last year he passed for 30 touchdowns while the embarrassing offensive line allowed a staggering 51 sacks. The success of the team depends on how well the offensive line will protect Rodgers this year.

NFC West: Winner: 49ers!?!?

This year the Seahawks bring in a new head coach, the Rams add a possible new franchise quarterback, and the Cardinals will lose a Hall of Fame worthy quarterback. The 49ers are expected to improve mostly in their passing game because of the improvements that QB Alex Smith has made this preseason.

What to expect from the volleyball team this season

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Ivan Garin

Serving up the heat

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Getchya head in the game

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Page 10

Water polo looks to dive in and go deeper in ‘10

new for Coach Wolf. Wolf has been a part of the Carlmont volleyball program for nine years, working as an assistant at the Junior Varsity and the Varsity level.

“Menlo-Atherton is our biggest competition this year. But our league is going to be very difficult all around,” stated Wolf. Coach Wolf also discussed some things to improve upon for the Lady Scots: “The girls need to transfer their motivation into positive energy on the court. And better passing wouldn’t hurt either,” added Coach Wolf.

To date, the Scots have played seven games this season and have shown plenty of promise.

They opened their season against Crystal Springs Uplands, and won convincingly (25-16, 25-17, 25-18.) They also participated in the Milpitas Spikefest I n Fa s tournati ur ment and yC b o ot placed eighth out h P of thirty-two teams.

The Scots had a disappointing performance against rivals Notre Dame on Wednesday. “Our serve receiving needs improvement.

It really hurt us against Notre

Dame,” explained Junior Torika Ramulo. The Lady Scots showed determination and desire in a competitive third game losing 27-25, which put them on the right foot going forward.

The Lady Scots kick off league action on Tuesday, September 21 against Woodside. Other notable games include Thursday, September 23 at the home of the defending PAL Bay champions, Burlingame. Carlmont looks for redemption against division rivals Menlo Atherton on Thursday, October 7 in Atherton, and in their home finale on Tuesday, November 2.

Senior Carly Reed keeps possession of the ball as junior Monika Skinner tries to steal it in a scrimmage preparing themselves for the season.

Sports

By Mary Farmer Staff Writer

After winning the PAL and CCS competitions last year, the cross country team is ready for more wins.

Many of the team members are looking forward to the season.

“I love the practices and I love to run,” said Priscilla Chan. There are many new members on the team this year. When asked about high school teams compared to middle school teams Lindsay Hendershott said, “The coaches are more understanding. I want to be on the team all four years.”

Members on the team are also pleased with the coach. “The coach tries to help you in any way possible,” said Shawn Geronimo.

Even with the CCS and PAL competition wins from last year, some feel that the cross country team is not given enough recognition.

“Cross country is not as big as football or volleyball, but I think it should be mentioned more often,” said Jessie Peterson.

Tennis balls of fury

The cross country team has had three meets so far this season. Their first meet was in Vacaville on September 4. On the girls varsity team, Peterson won first place with a time of 18.21.62. Sarah Schreck took fifth place with a time of 19.49.11.

On the boys frosh/soph team, Tim Layten won second place with a time of 11.45. Arthur James Schulte took third place with a time of 12.30.15.

The second meet was in Half Moon Bay on September 9. Peterson, on the girls varsity team, won first place again with a time of 13.54. Ben Bunk took first place in an open race that same day with a time of 14.11.

The last meet the cross country team has had was on September eleventh in Salinas.

Mei-Lin Okino won fifth place with a time of 19.21. Schulte also won fifth place with a time of 17.45. Their next meet will be on September eighteenth in Concord.

With new members on the team, an understanding coach and optimistic views on the season, the cross country team seems to be running towards success.

Girls tennis looks to dominate CCS

By Grace Chang Staff Writer

After getting second place in PAL and making it to CCS last year, the Carlmont girls tennis team is ready a brand-new season. With a confident team they are looking to do well.

This year the Carlmont tennis team has five new members with positive outlooks. Freshman Michelle Guan said, “I think we are going to win a lot, everyone on the team is very nice.

It is much better compared to middle school tennis.” Another new member Taylor Choye said, “We have a very strong team, I’m proud to be apart of it.”

Returning mem- Photo by bers believe that Curtis Fan they will have a good season. Varsity player Dana Lazaro said, “I expect us to go to CCS and PALS this year” They also love the game and are very passionate about it.

After being asked why she likes ten-

nis Mary Farmar says “It’s a great game that you can play throughout your entire life and not just for High School.” Dana Lazaro said, “ I like how we can work as both and team and individually.

Carlmont tennis team had a great starting of the season by bringing Notre Dame down.

The Varsity won 4-3 with victories

by Cori Sidell, Christine Tataru, Maria Protopopov with Tereza Dvorak, and Lisa Chin with Paulette Varelas.

Frosh/soph won 3-2. Wins were by Michelle Guan with Sarah Farbstein, Jackie Gabovich with Mary Farmar, and Tarilyn Won with Amanda So. Zoe Dubrow

Cross Country goes the distance and looks ahead

Page 11

Photo by Steven Tsujisaka

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Sports

Page 12

Football looking to kick off their season

By Emily Beiers and Reyna Ortiz Staff Writers

Scots football is looking forward to a successful season with the help of newcomer varsity coach, Jason Selli, and JV coach, Jesse Velez.

Junior varsity quarterback, Greg Hubbell, stated, “We’re going to do good this season.” The JV football team prepared for their season over summer by weight lifting, running, and practicing technique from 1:30 to 4:30 Monday through Friday.

Sophomore, Zach Diesh, commented, “The team works well together and mostly gets along.” Despite the team’s loss against Menlo High School last

year, they put up such a great fight that both JV players agreed that, “our comeback in the second half against Menlo was the highlight of our season last year.”

When asked about Coach Velez, Greg Hubbell replied, “We like the new coaches a lot.” Zach Diesh agreed saying, “He’s really cool and he knows what he’s talking about.”

Coach Selli previously coached at Burlingame High School for four years and South City High School where he attended and played football. “Coach Selli pushed us during practice in the summer, and hard work paid off for the first game,” said senior, Robert Johnson.

With the new season just beginning, star players are already on the rise. Varsity player, Sky Regan feels “receiver, Reuben Bereza, corner and receiver, Alex Smith, tight end and safety, Chris Green, and running back, Robert Johnson are only a few of the

“It’s a long season and we look at every team as being good, so we need to take it one week and one game at a time.”

many great leaders on our team.”

Sky Regan predicted that the team will make it to CCS this year. Coach Selli also has high hopes that they will make it, but “it’s a long season and we look at every team as being good, so we need to take it one week and one game at a time.”

Varsity football succeeded in their first game against Santa Cruz High School on Sept. 3, 2010. With six touchdowns and three interceptions, Carlmont won 44 to 22.

During the first quarter, the Scots were tied with the first touchdown scored by senior running back , Robert Johnson, running 86 yards to the end zone. Shortly after, Alex Smith took the first interception of the game.

In the second quarter, the Scots took the lead with the help of an interception by

Michael Lopiparo and another touchdown by quarterback, Jack Karasky.

Robert Johnson scored his second touchdown in the third quarter running another 80 yards, and defender, Michael Lopiparo, also had his second interception. The Scots took the game with three more touchdowns, two by Josh Brown, and the last touchdown of the night for the Scots

by Alex Smith.

Coach Selli “is excited to see what happens the rest of the season, and hopes that a lot of fans come to the game and support the team.”

All the players and coaches on varsity and JV are very optimistic about this season and the Scots students and faculty wish them the best of luck.