the
Mustang
10.12.2012
issue 1 volume 17
the
Mustang 12.21.2012
ISSUE
Here’s the deal
BEST OF
The Best Of Issue highlights the most popular aspects of 2012 as voted on by SDA students. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the Mustang Staff… except for the ones that say our opinions.
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Features
Health
Gym Buff Molly Kovacs moves to the beat, shedding calories at Jazzercise La Costa.
Facebook flattery 12:30 a.m... the moment SDA Compliments was born and immediately began to spread the love.
12:00
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Teacher Tidbits Which current SDA teacher was attacked by a pack of monkeys while visiting a sacred temple in India?
To find out, visit www.sdamustang.com
a.m.
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Today is the official date of the world’s end. Whether we all die today or wake up tomorrow, it’s been nice being your newspaper staff.
Features
Winter break to-do list Joleyne Lambert gives you the scoop on fun things to do in town over winter break.
Features
Jessi Goralski
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Centerspread
Backpage
Who are we?
Fur a good cause
After studying our best-of survey results, we created types of people you are likely to find around SDA’s campus.
Kelsey Navis follows SDA’s Animal Care Club and their dog wash for a good cause.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/NEWS EDITOR Laurel Sorenson
HEALTH EDITOR Austin Kasselmann
STAFF WRITERS
ARTS EDITOR Caroline Glass
BUSINESS MANAGER/CAF EDITOR Lily LeaVesseur
DESIGN EDITOR/STAFF ARTIST Avery Finden
ONLINE NEWS EDITOR Nicole Smith
OPINIONS EDITOR Molly Kovacs
ONLINE ARTS EDITOR Emily Hall
FEATURES EDITOR Kelsey Navis
ADVISOR Tim Roberts
Kira Elliott Nicole Greene Taylor Knudson Joleyne Lambert Max Lundberg Dana Shin Becca Von Zweck Andrew Walker Sam Winter
PHOTO EDITOR Tacy Manis
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It was nice seein’ ya, SDA!
The Mustang is the student newspaper of San Dieguito Academy. Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the newspaper. The Mustang is an open forum which welcomes letters. Letters can be submitted to room 98, emailed to sdamustang@gmail.com or mailed to the above address.
San Dieguito Academy / Room 98 / 800 Santa Fe Drive / Encinitas, CA 92024
Read more about our cover artst, Jessi Goralski, inside this issue.
the
news
Mustang
Off to the races 10.12.2012
03
Candidates for the San Dieguito Union High School District board of trustees talked to the Mustang about their campaigns, the competition between the two incumbents and the two challengers, and the changes they intend to make if elected. Story by Laurel Sorenson.
Joyce Dalessandro
is the current president of the SDUHSD board of trustees and was Redbook Magazines Volunteer of the Year in 1994. One of her intentions for the new term is to support technology, the arts, and academic programs.
Steven McDowell is the
former president of the Del Mar School Union School District. He is a financial analyst, and one of his main priorities is maintaining high academic achievement.
Beth Hergesheimer is
a member of the SDUHSD school board. She has been the PTA president for Flora Vista Elementary one of her top priorities for the school board is creating a partnership among the parents, teachers, and students.
Graham Ledger is a newsman for Wealth International News as well as an organizer for the 858 Tea Party. He is a parent of a student in the district, and one of his top priorities is no new taxes.
What qualifies you to be on the board of trustees?
What makes you different from your fellow candidates?
What changes would you make if you were elected?
How would you address the district’s budget concerns?
I have a bachelor’s degree in child development from Cornell University and a master’s from Columbia in curriculum development. Prior to my service on the board I had years of volunteer experience where I was on a founding board of the Torrey Pines High School Foundation and as vice president of business for the foundation met over a series of months with those interested in starting the foundation at the Academy. I was Volunteer of the Year of Redbook magazine one year. My service on the board certainly qualifies me for the position.
I do not have a political agenda. That’s very important to me. That’s a tenant of being a board trustee. The experience of one of the challengers is non-existent and at the other challenger’s last district two superintendents were dismissed over the course of two years and [the district] had to pay $300,000. [They’re] in court right now being sued by the second [superintendent] so the cost of that dismissal are still racking up. That all happened in one year. When he ran for re-election he came in 5th as the only incumbent in an election of 5. Now he wants to come to our district? [The non-incumbents] are not in it for the good of the kids and the education. It’s scary.
That’s a really tough one for me. I don’t know. It’s more of what will I continue to do, ever improving our closing the gap between our students who struggle more with their education, ever seeking new delivery methods for curriculum so that all kids can learn in the manner in which they learn best. In these incredible difficult district times, the district is massively fiscally conservative. Why would you fix it if it ain’t broke?
The district budget concerns are not how they are characterized by the opposition. That’s not to say we don’t have budget concerns and it’s something that drives so many of our decisions. The administration is always asking that we take a look at transportation. We have held very firm that that is a very important part of our stance on education because we know middle school kids have a hard time getting to school if their parents can’t help them with transportation.
I’ve already been on a school board, I have kids in the district and I have a background in finance so I have a good idea of how to read the financial situation.
When I make decisions I try and see what the long term impact will be. I do analysis, and with the financial stuff I look at it with more detail to make it cost less in the future. That’s what we did in Del Mar. (About Dalessandro’s comment: I didn’t work well with the first superintendent, and there was a separation with that but I had a great relationship with the second. Superintendents that don’t work well with the district have a big impact.)
I would ask more questions about if we were to [make a decision], what it would mean three or four years from now. I would ask questions to try and get [information] in the record so people would feel comfortable about why the district is making decisions. I would try to make new things instead of going with the same person every year because that’s what’s always been done.
A lot of what they can do is inch it up and refine things and not be afraid to raise the bar. Raising the bar is not being satisfied with today and pushing the standard [for the district] up.
First and foremost, the fact that I am a current school board member with 8 years of experience and I do know some of the district’s history and policies and I have a working relationship with the district’s staff; my volunteer work before being elected to the board, working as a legislative representative for the PTA and having some familiarity with school issues and just that I have been a community volunteer. It lead me to an awareness in this position and an interest in it.
The fact that I’m not affiliated with a political party I think makes me different from the other candidates. I have school board experience which differentiates me from the two challengers. I have a human resources background and I feel that’s a good background to have since the school district is primarily composed of people.
I think our district can continue to try to find every means to improve our student opportunities and their performance. I believe we’re doing a good job but we can always look for best practices and try to find a way to have continuous improvement. I actually feel that we have a good working relationship between our board and our community and our administration. Our students are high performing and our parents are very involved, but we could continue to try and give opportunities to work together and support each other.
Well I can say that I have spoken in some of our local legislator’s offices while they were in their budgeting practice. I think that our board and our administration have done very good work in trying to minimize how our budget cuts have affected our students. We try to keep our cuts away from the classrooms. As we continue into this next year, I think we could moderate future cuts. We’ve had some reserves in our budget and were fortunate enough not to make the cuts that our neighbors had to make.
I’m a parent who knows how to balance a checkbook. That’s all you need to be on a board. I’ve lived in this district a lot of years and I care about the schools.
I’m trying to return fiscal sanity back to the school board. They’ve spent money they don’t have. I want to return some economic responsibility to the board.
Work within our budget and work within some money that exists now. They’ve put a bond on the ballot. If this bond passes your neighbors will be paying for it. I don’t want to pay for improvements that may be obsolete in the future. By supporting the bond, this board is going to strap the district for years to come.
Fiscal discipline and a clearer vision. You need to keep up with technology and be good stewards to each individual school.
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Mustang 10.12.2012
Additions to SDA are in bold: 1. Ten New Math Classrooms, Six Science Classrooms and Four Science Labs 2. Ninteen Art, English, and Social Science Classrooms(Two-Story) 3. New Adult Education Center 4. New Gymnasium and Locker Room Complex 5. Exising Performing Art Center 6. Modernized Administration Buildings 7. Modernized Classroom Buildings 8. Modernized Mustang Center 9. Remodeled Industrial Arts Building
10. Existing Modlar Buildings 11.Existing Transportation Buildings 12. New Track and Field and New Bleachers 13.Existing Tennis Courts 14. New Basketball Courts 15. New Baseball and Softball Fields 16. New Mustand Plaza 17. New Arts Courtyard 18. Existing Media Art Building 19. New Fenced and Gated Entry 20. Existing Parking Lot 21. New Parking Lot 22. District Transport Center
Extreme Makeover: SDA Edition
Photo courtesy of the official SDUHSD website.
A $449 million bond on the Nov. 6 ballot could transform SDA’s campus.
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taylor knudson
n Nov. 6 voters will decide whether to pass a $449 million bond that would allocate about $76 million to rebuild most of SDA. If the bond is passed, it would cost the average homeowner about $150 dollars in taxes per year to pay it back. According to the SDUHSD official website, this bond is SDA’s only opportunity to modernize all at once, as no other comparable source of funding currently exists. “[If the bond didn’t pass] the SDA foundation would work on getting funding for projects on campus…. Just at a slower pace… with smaller projects,” said Tim Hornig, principal. According to the official SDUHSD website, if the bond passes major construction would take place over the course of eight years to rebuild classroom, science labs, technology and other school facilities. Starting next summer, renovation would occur in three phases, leaving the school open during construction. Sports facilities would also receive a substantial part of the bond. SDA would be given a new gym, an allweather track and a synthetic field. Enhancements would also be made to the baseball and softball fields.
If the bond passes, a new stadium could also be built in time for 2013 fall sport events. According to the SDUHSD official website, classrooms would also be transformed with installation of new technology and modernization of infrastructure. Classroom space would be increased by nearly 25 percent, engineering technology space would be increased by 25 percent, and science lab would be increased by 40 percent, with the campus expanding by approximately 20 percent. These expansions would include improvements to existing buildings along with the creation of several two-story buildings. Technological updates would include enhancements in science labs, air conditioning and bringing various buildings up to date. New “green” technology could be invested into as well. However, no money from the bond will be spent on hiring new employees or providing additional supplies like paper and textbooks. “The bond has a little bit of everything. But, textbooks and supplies will not be included…. The bond only pays for infrastructure, not supplies,” said Hornig.
What about the art?
While the bond may revitalize the infrastructure and technology on campus, several pieces of art will be taken down along with several outdated buildings. Many senior tiles and other pieces of art at SDA will be lost in the construction. However, art on the Mosaic, 40’s buildings, 10’s buildings and 70’s buildings will be salvaged. Students will be able to paint and decorate the campus much like the current structure. In order to create long lasting art, many movable pieces are being created on campus that will be able to endure construction.
Board candidates differ
On July 26 the school board voted 4-1 in proposition to put the bond on the Nov. 6 ballot. Board members, Beth Hergeshiemer, and Joyce Dalessandro, running for reelection this year, were in support of the bond. Two challengers to the bond program newsman for Wealth International News, Graham Ledger, and former president of the Del Mar School Union School District, Steve McDowell other bond.
Supporters say
“We haven’t had a bond for over 40 years and that was when Torrey Pines High School was constructed.... We are definitely lacking funding from the state.... Something needs to be done... The repairs [to the infrastructure] won’t happen... if we don’t pass the bond,” said Barbara Groth, Vice President of the SDUHSD board. According to the “Friends of San Dieguito Schools, Yes on Prop AA” official website, the bond is essential in creating safe and sustainable infrastructure. They also argue that now is the time to substantially modernize the large amount of outdated technology and buildings.
Opponents say
According to the official “Stop Taxing us” website, the bond will update schools with technology and infrastructure that will soon become outdated and that school officials “aren’t thinking of the future.” They argue that the school facilities are sufficient currently, and that the district has been allocated enough money to sustain itself. They also state that the bond would be too expensive and “cost approximately a $1 billion to repay, with fees and interest.”
Students speak up “I think it would really stimulate the school environment and help students learn and enjoy school and all of its improvements,” Nate Neumann, freshman “If I wanted sand colored, multiple story buildings I would go to CCA. The school will look like a concrete jungle and detract from the tolerant, quirky atmosphere we have here at SDA,” Johnny Menhennet, sophomore “Some of our sports are lacking in equipment and resources. Maybe implementing the bond would help revitalize and improve some of our sports programs,” Shannon O’Donnell, junior “We aren’t known as a sports school, we don’t spend a lot on sports, and, because of that we don’t have a very sports oriented atmosphere. If [the bond] were to happen, then it may be different,” Riley Murphy, sophomore
Mustang 10.12.2012
Stick it or ticket
Cracking down on the dress code
Administration begins parking enforcement. As of this month, students who park in the back lot without the school-administered parking stickers or in the front lot will face fines of at least $47.50. Between 20 and 25 tickets have been given to owners of stickerless cars within the first four days of the new parking lot enforcement, said Ryan Yee, assistant principal. Two students have already become double offenders, he said. Ticket fines are not cheap either; the lowest fine is $47.50 for not having a sticker or parking in the front lot, though fines can reach up to $450 for obstructing a parking place designated for the disabled. Most of the fine goes to the school—$30+—though $2 goes to the ticketing company and $12 to the state, Yee said. Yee clarified that the tickets are in fact real, and if tickets are not paid within 21 days, the fines increase by $18 after the first notice and by $28 after an additional notice. If tickets are still not paid after two notices, the company will send the ticket to the DMV for state involvement, eventually escalating to a warrant, Yee said. Although the strict ticketing policy was rumored to be a new way to raise money for the school, this year’s change in enforcement is due to complaints made last year from students who bought stickers, yet were still unable to find a spot due to excessive stickerless parkers, Yee said. The administration has made it clear that there will be three or four people patrolling for stickerless cars to ticket every day. -max lundberg
Superintendent goes quiet Back to School Night comments create controversy. Superintendent Ken Noah has stopped speaking about Prop. AA, the $460 million school modernization bond, at Back to School Nights after being accused of endorsing it. “We simply cannot advocate for the measure while we are acting in our official capacity as employees of the district. So an administrator, teacher or employee can provide factual information while at work, but cannot engage in advocacy,” said Noah. “While I thought the information I presented was appropriate, I simply did not want to create an unnecessary controversy, one that could potentially harm the potential success of the measure,” said Noah. -taylor knudson
The administration strips students of their clothing liberties. At a Forum meeting last year, several students said that many of their classmates weren’t dressing appropriately for school. Because of this, the administration has decided to enforce the dress code. Items on the dress code include that shoes must be worn at all times, clothing must not expose the wearer, and clothing cannot have designs that promote any types of drug, violence, or prejudice. “You don’t need a three-piece suit to learn, but there are certain ways to dress appropriately for school,” said Principal Tim Hornig. Some students questioned the rules. Senior Sarah Graciano said, “I felt at peace knowing there wasn’t a dress code so I didn’t have to worry.” Other students agreed with the dress code regulations. Junior Elisa Willes said, “[The dress code] makes sense; I can see why the rules are in place.” Sophomore Dylan Hendrickson agreed, “Most of it seems like common sense.” Junior Laura Breidenthal said, “I wish ladies could see that they can still be super stylish while following the pretty lenient dress code.” -tacy manis
Moonlight renovation The city has torn down the concession stand and restrooms to make room for a new building at Moonlight Beach, which is expected to be open in late May. The project will also expand the sand recreation area. The concession stand and restrooms will be combined into a single building, and the lifeguard tower will be turned into a larger garage for storage of lifeguarding equipment with the upper story open as a public overlook. The beach is still accessible during construction; however, picnic tables, fire pits, the concession stand and restrooms are unavailable. Students have varying opinions on the matter. Some, such as Kanan Schmid, freshman, acknowledge that “[Moonlight] is a tourist beach…better to [work on it] now than start construction in summer.” Others, like sophomore Jack Hagerty, disagreed: “It would have been better to start in winter, because the water would be colder…Right now, the weather’s pretty warm and if people want to go at nighttime, there’s no access to the fire pits.”
Pedestrian walkway
.25%
$6 billion
20,000
$2,400
5%
5,500
Amount of mid-year tuition increase for in-state UC students for next spring, with additional increases to be made in the coming years should Prop. 30 not pass.
Proposed new lifegaurd tower Photo from City of Encinitas
Rendering of new walkway Photo from City of Encinitas
School budgets once again put up to the voters.
Proposed raise in sales tax--from 7.25 percent to 7.5 percent. The proposition would also increase the effective tax rate for those making over $250,000 annually.
City News
Enforcement stirs conflicting feelings.
Prop 30: Why you should care On Nov. 6, Californians will vote on Prop. 30, proposed by Gov. Jerry Brown. The sales tax was intended to prevent budget cuts in education caused by California’s debt crisis. If it doesn’t pass, the budget cuts shouldn’t devastate SDA, Principal Tim Hornig said. “Does it mean that we’re going to go into classrooms midyear and start selling off computers? No. Does it mean that we’re going to lose electricity for our lights? No. Is it losing a teacher? No. But if [the cuts happen] we’re going to start seeing some of those smaller things that don’t directly affect students’ education go away.” -max lundberg
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news
Estimate of the amount of budget cuts — 89 percent to k-12 and 11 percent to community colleges — should Prop. 30 not pass.
Drop in the admittance of California residents to UC schools due to a new proposed cap of 20 percent for out-of-state students, should Prop. 30 not pass.
Number of qualified students who will no longer be accepted to UC schools if funding gets cut.
Projected UC class selections no longer offered if Prop. 30 does not pass.
Sources: California Voter Handbook, UC Board of Regents
Surfers and bikers won’t have to cross the train tracks anymore to get from Vulcan to Highway 101. The Encinitas City Council put aside $5.9 million to construct a tunnel under the train tracks at the end of Santa Fe Drive. Construction has begun, and is expected to be complete by the end of the year, according to the website for the city of Encinitas. The intention is that walkway will be seven feet wide and eight feet tall to allow for pedestrian and bicycle crossing beneath the tracks. Students are looking forward to the walkway’s opening: “I’m tired of crossing the railroad tracks,” said Alexandra Stofer, senior. “Climbing over the rocks and checking for trains” are things that people won’t have to do anymore. Freshman Maddie Campbell agreed: “[The pathway] is a good idea because it is useful for the community…and makes crossing the tracks safer.” -nicole greene
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Mustang 10.12.2012
Staff Editorial
Bond, school bond If the school reconstruction bond passes, The Mustang knows that change will be hard, but ultimately a good thing.
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he bond could create drastic changes for San Dieguito Academy in the next decade. The district would receive $460 million, $76 million of which would go to San Dieguito Academy. Over the span of eight years, the school would use the money to renovate the school: bigger classrooms, better plumbing, and a new field are a few things that are definitely on the agenda. This bond could have a very positive impact on the school and its future. We were immediately concerned about the uncertain fate of student artwork around the school. Losing students’ past work would be like losing a part of the creative cultural history of SDA. However, students and administrative staff have already talked about ways to preserve this artwork. As some people point out, there will always be new creative livelihood passing through the halls of SDA— and they would have many new buildings to decorate. Other issues include the inconveniences of construction, especially in regards to disrupting classroom environments. However, having endured the loud construction of the PAC and years of learning in classroom portables, we know the adjustments have not greatly impacted our academic
From Pikachu cuties to peek-a-boo boobies As shorts shrink and necklines plunge, the administration has revamped dress code enforcement. The Mustang questions how to fairly quantify when enough is enough.
I Looking at the state of this field, it is clear to see that SDA could use some improvements. Photo by Max Lundberg
success. In addition, because the construction is happening over the span of eight years, not all of the campus will feel the inconveniences at once. When it comes down to it, the bond measure should be passed because, even though the process of change might seem uncomfortable, the campus definitely needs a makeover. For example, having a new track and field would be invaluable to our athletic teams’ success. As it is now, track meets cannot be held at SDA because the track is so old and muddy. As all of our athletic programs burgeon, it is easy to see
that the school facilities need to grow to match their rising needs. Athletes are not the only ones who would benefit, though. Building new facilities would help out all sorts of extracurricular programs, much like the PAC did for music and theater. While the school may seem okay now, in 10 years, SDA could be feeling the negative repercussions of an outdated campus. So while the adjustment might be difficult—even extreme, some say—it will be overall beneficial for the future of our school. Should the bond be passed? Yes: 10 No: 4
n the past, SDA’s dress code has been loosely enforced, if enforced at all. The campus is known for its Steampunk attire, dinosaur costumes, and frequent Pikachu sightings. Lately, however, the fashion trends have dictated less and less clothing, making some people uncomfortable. While people should dress more appropriately, it should not be dealt with on an extreme administrative level. SDA has always been a place where freedom of expression reigns supreme. Enforcers must tread carefully, for there is a difference between dressing provocatively and having a promiscuous character. Female students have not unanimously become sluts just because the fashion trends have dictated lacy tops and colorful bandeaus. Furthermore, fashion gurus will always stand for their rights, arguing that it seems wrong to cover up students’ youthful good looks if this is their one chance to flaunt them. And exactly how distracting is a low cut top, or a pair of “booty” shorts in the classroom setting, anyway? Rights should not be infringed upon if there is no detriment. However, there is a point when a school’s collective rights overcome a
student’s individual rights. Revealing attire can incite sexual thoughts in the classroom. Teachers, especially those who are male, cannot address this issue without making things even more awkward. We can recognize that it is difficult to teach, and even to learn, with the overwhelming distractions of exposed butt cheeks and bellybuttons. So, in the end, we recognize that something should be done, but the administration should take a more relaxed approach. At a certain point, students should learn that it is considerate to dress in such a way that will not distract or offend classmates. You don’t have to expose 90 percent of your flesh to be fashionable. Is the administration right to be enforcing the school dress code? Yes: 8 No:5
Did you know? Staff editorials are the collective voice of the Mustang staff on a particular issue. After moderating a class-wide disscusion, the opinions editor holds a vote and articulates the staff’s dominant opinions.
In the eyes of a political junkie As the November election approaches, I ask you not to change the character of your opinions, but to use your character to make a change in America. max lundberg
S
o I’ll admit that I’m not exactly your average teenage guy. When friends invite me to their Super Bowl parties every year I’m the kid who watches the commercials and then gets up for a drink when the actual game is on. Every other November though, on the first Tuesday of the month, that is my time. Election day. That is something I can get excited about. With the lights off and snacks strategically placed to be on hand, my godfather and I huddle up in front of two large screens, Fox News on one and MSNBC on the other, eyes glued to the screens as the states turn red or blue. Much like football fans, we
each bet on our projections of who is going to win which states. Winner is crowned as this year’s political savant. This degree of dedication, of course, is a little extreme for most, if not all of you. I understand that politics is hard to get into. It’s a lot of talking, a lot of research, and generally a lot of work. It’s time consuming. Every minute I spend listening to NPR or reading the paper is a minute I could be exploring with friends or writing that college essay I should have started two weeks ago. Finding a balance is important, but so is your involvement in our political scene. I think many of us forget just how far we’ve come as a nation. Two hundred years ago being non-Christian
was punishable by death. Chances are, your great-grandmother couldn’t vote --and just 40 years ago schools were still segregated. What makes our system of government so great isn’t that we had perfection from the get-go. No, instead our greatness comes from the dedication to change the things that we saw as injustice. We’ve come a long way, but only because millions of people, many of them being students, all over the country stood up and made their voices heard. These were the students who dared to transcend the pages of their Econ books and tear down their comfort barriers. These were the students who stood up and joined their peers to fight for what they
believed in, volunteered for their cause, or drew attention to things they knew were important. These were the students who made today better. Change does not happen on its own. Progress requires a lot of hard work and sacrifice, but it’s worth it. Even for those of us, like myself, who can’t vote will make a difference. The knowledge gained from being an informed citizen and student helps bring context to our own lives. Being informed means knowing and protecting your rights as a student, it means showing outrage or compassion for the daily events happening all over the country and world, and that creates true power. We live in a nation where only 60 percent of
those who can vote do so, but we can change that. One day, it will be our peers running for those offices, in charge of our own businesses, and dictating our future. Our choice is whether or not we will be informed. The cliché is that knowledge is power. When you choose to fit in that five or six minutes to learn more about the decisions at hand you’ve taken that first step. When you voice your opinion it will be heard, and with time, patience, trial, and error progress will be made. As Ghandi said, we need to be the change that we want to see in the world. The decisions made today will decide your life tomorrow. Will you take a stand?
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Mustang 10.12.2012
Dear Mr. Romney...
Mittens, you messed up. Your 47 percent remark has angered more than a few. Lucky for you, our political expert has some ideas to save the campaign.
M
marisa pearce
y name is Marisa Pearce and I am a political science expert. I believe my outsider status renders me more open to the kind of innovative idea generation necessary to transform a hot mess of hair gel into an American God Emperor. And best of all, unlike campaign managers, I offer my services free of charge. If that isn’t the American Dream, then I must still be in the Soviet Bloc. Let’s start with your first catastrophic campaign error, which was acknowledging Obama’s existence. The mind reels at the thought of how many voters you’ve already alienated by admitting they have an alternative, but what’s done is done. Our key objective, will be to convince as many voters as possible that Obama isn’t real, but rather, a figment of their imagination, a collective delusion like alien abductions or acupuncture. Attribute the hallucinations to subliminal hypnosis by the liberal media in combination with vegan food laced with psychotropic chemicals. During debates, act as if it’s just another speaking engagement. Answer all questions, whether they’re directed at you or not. Even if they involve foreign policy. When *ahem* the air speaks, be sure to speak over him be-
cause no cares what he has to say, not because he doesn’t matter but because he’s not real. If the moderator references Obama, roll your eyes and say something dismissive like, “You want me to respond to Osama? O-SAM-A? What’s next? You want the Loch Ness Monster to state his position on prison reform? You want me to respond to Clint Eastwood’s empty chair? Where does this vortex of delusion and absurdity end, sir?” If all else fails just quote Clint: “When somebody doesn’t do the job, you’ve got to let them go,” and draw a finger across your throat. America will get what you mean; trust me. The audience will erupt into applause, and the moderator will balk, try to articulate another question, only to be dragged away screaming by mental health professionals. “We don’t tolerate schizophrenia in my America,” you’ll declare. “And we certainly don’t entertain their deranged fantasies. ROMNEY 2012!” Concerning your choice of running mate, we’re looking to energize the youth vote, to steal them away from that imaginary person to whom we shall not give credence by naming. Paul Ryan won’t get the job done, so just drop him now. I mean come on, he sounds like an adolescent. What’s this business about Ayn Rand and
DREAMIN
Edward Cullen’s views on gay marriage and premarital sex make him the perfect runningmate for our dear friend Mitt. Photo image done by Tacy Manis.
Rage Against the Machine. My thoughts are to nominate Edward Cullen. He’s young, handsome, popular with youth and women (always a lucrative choice in regards to gender gap), and he’s even Mormon, or at least, I’m pretty sure he’s Mormon. And let me be clear here: I did not say Robert Pattinson. I said Edward Cullen, and I meant Edward Cullen. Whisk him to the press release podium where he can talk about the economy and social issues in the bland
G BI
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An SDA student, who wishes to remain anonymous, brings a personal view of President Obama’s decision to allow undocumented immigrants to continue their education.
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he deferred action for childhood arrivals is a great opportunity that President Obama has offered many undocumented kids including myself, in the U.S who fear every day for deportation and leaving their loved ones. In my opinion, I think this is a great advantage I’m going to take. I will be able to study and focus on my education and not fear that I will get deported. This is a great opportunity not only for me but for other kids around the U.S who have the same
fear as well. Many of these young teenagers, including myself, will be able to study and not have the same fear. We will be able to apply for a work permit that will allow us to work and serve my community. I feel like this a great advantage that I’m learning from; I will be able to work and be a great role model to my family and to my community. In my opinion the deferred action for childhood arrival will help me and many other students become successful in life.
By denying me as a student, the right for a better life, for me to have an education, it would be denying a chance for me to benefit society. I want to be someone in life, and in my opinion, the deferred action for childhood arrival is a great way for me and more kids in the U.S who are in the same situation as I am, to be able to study and work and cause no harm to our society. Thanks to this action many undocumented kids can study and be a successful person.
Emo rhetoric to which he’s accustomed. He’ll say, “Marriage is a sacred bond between a man and a woman, and only after marriage is it appropriate for the man to get busy. Only after! At which point, they conceive an abomination half-vampire halfhuman, and the man gnaws open the woman’s chest cavity and brings forth the atrocity from the blood ruins of female anatomy. The man does not, however, kiss or have consensual butt sex with another man! That is appall-
ing! I will now take questions.” I hope this rough campaign blueprint has been of use to you, Mr. Romney. (may I call you Mittens?) and I want you to know I have many more ideas, most of them involving genetic engineering of chromosomes, some involving cryptobotany ( the study of mythical plants), and one of them involving an animatronic version of you who appears near the end of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland. You can contact me via messenger pigeons.
What is the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Act (DACA)?
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Have moved to the US before age 16 and before June 2007 Currently be age 30 or younger Have graduated from high school/ currently be in high school/ have passed the General Education Devel opment (GED) Test/ have been honorably discharged from the US Coast Guard or Armed Forces Have a clean criminal record (no felonies, significant misde meanors, or safety infractions)
DACA allows undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as a child to continue their work and education. The program, put into effect by President Obama in June, echoes the ideology behind the DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors)—however, because this act has been stuck in Congress since 2001, DACA was put into effect as a small solution to the larger issue.
•
What qualifies someone for DACA?
Now what?
Applicants must provide $465 dollars for the application, which requires an assortment of legal information (Social Security documents, proof of residence, etc.). Furthermore, applicants must:
•
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Once approved, the applicant will have a permit to work and be educated in the United States. This act has the potential to impact the lives of an estimated 20,000 people in San Diego County—including our guest writer. Source: uscis.gov
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molly kovacs
he room is quiet, filled with eyes concentrated downward, focused on the little shining screens of iPhone and Androids.. Suddenly, my friend breaks the silence with a snort—a snort that turns into a chuckle, then progresses into a fullblown giggle attack. I look over inquiringly, but she shakes her head, mouthing, “It’s nothing.” “No, really, what is it?” I whisper. “Nothing, nothing!” she claims. “Come on, really I want to know!” I say. “Seriously, it’s nothing,” she says, clearly annoyed. In a daydream, I rip the phone from her hand and feast my eyes on the source of her mysterious giggling. My eyes well up with hysterical laughter and I laugh until my abdomen is in pain from the convulsions. Then, wiping away my tears, I hand her back the phone and we smile before going back to our personal business. In reality, I angrily sigh and try to accept that I will not be let in on her secret. My curiosity will be hungry and wounded from the agony of an unanswered question. I just wanted to know.
The Right to Know
Yes, some might call me nosy, but I like to say I have a strong sense of curiosity. I need to know what is happening in my surroundings. I like reading the politics section of “Time” magazine, the mathematical parts of Physics textbooks, and even just the back of my Fruit Loops box. Maybe you are not the kind of person who does that sort of thing on a regular basis, and that is perfectly okay. And maybe you could care less about Fruit Loops and calculus, but I hope you can at least come to recognize the importance of what you put into your body. Faced with the prospect of genetically engineered food, I find myself inside Stater Bros. feeling a bit paranoid, as if my Rice Krispies aren’t snapcrackle-popping the whole story. And the curious creature inside of me really wants to know. Prop 37 would give me a chance to know—a chance to satisfy my aggressive inquisitiveness—by telling me what actually goes into the food I eat. In fact, it would give all consumers that chance; we all have a right to know.
The Price of Knowledge “Wouldn’t that cost a lot of money for the government?” you muse. Depending on how you look at it, yes. Financial analysts report that the state regulation of accurate labeling could cost approximately $1 million. That $1 million may sound like a lot, but not relative to California’s budget. If each
Food for thought Proposition 37 would require genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, in food to be labeled. Passing this proposition is an important step toward consumer knowledge. RELEVANCE? It is estimated that between 40 percent and 70 percent of food sold in grocery stores contains ingredients that have been genetically modified. Around the world, Japan, China, India, and most countries in Europe label these foods for their consumers.
GMO
?
BENEFITS? Food that resists more pesticides, looks better, tastes better, lasts longer, and grows faster. DANGERS? Unpredictable consequences for global agricultural trade, the environment, and the health of plants, animals, and consumers.
Which would you buy?
Organic, $2
GMO, $1 it’s pretty Support Proposition 37; the food is only prettier because scientists have injected genetic material into the food—you have a right to know this.
it’s cheap You should support Proposition 37; even if you don’t buy the more expensive non-GMO product, you have the right to make that choice for yourself.
Support Proposition 37; some of the foods you might have thought were “natural” might actually contain genetically modified ingredients.
it’s natural Support Proposition 37; depending on the food, the genetic modification could pose certain allergen or health risks—you should know.
GMO? Sounds scary
(Facts in this article collected from “California’s 2012 Ofifical Voter Information Guide”) Illustrations by Emily Hall person in California donated a nickel in the name of consumer rights, we would easily meet the quota—quite a bargain when you consider that your spare change initiated a communication revolution in California’s food industry.
“What about my grocery budget?” you say. Indeed, the main argument from Prop 37’s opposition is that the average Californian’s grocery bill would increase by hundreds of dollars a year. They claim that this is because the proposition “forces farmers and food
companies to implement costly new operations or switch to higher-priced, non-[genetically engineered] or organic ingredients.” (California voter’s general election information guide) The all-organic, liberal yogi in me sarcastically exclaims, “Oh no! Not or-
opinions ganic ingredients!” However, the more logical side of me starts to consider the detrimental implications of this cost increase. I would like to know why they made this assumption, however. Most scientists deem GMOs safe for human consumption—my main problem with GMOs involves ethical and environmental consequences. The spread of vegetarianism did not significantly impact prices in the meat industry, right? By the same token, just because some people don’t eat GMOs does not mean that all people will abstain. So long as GMOs don’t become taboo, Prop 37 will probably not force companies to change their ingredients, and consumers will not have to pay more money. Furthermore, if the prices somehow rise due to organic ingredient substitutions, the healthnut comes back and says, “Hoorah!” There are worse things that could happen. As SDA economics teacher Stephen Fisher said one morning in class, the more consumers know about their product, the better the economy. Our economic models are based off the assumption that consumers make safe and rational decisions when they shop. If we label GMO food, consumers are one step closer to knowing exactly what they are buying. In the end, economies will thrive for the same reasons marriages do, or even societies as a whole. Be it between husband and wife, mother and daughter, politician and voter, or buyer and seller, all relationships thrive from communication.
Now what? So why am I telling you all of this? Perhaps I should have started with a Bill Nye clip, where our favorite bowtie-wearing scientist says, “Consider the following!” Bill Nye knows as well as the science teacher who bought his videos that half the people watching his video will be doodling, daydreaming, or asleep. Likewise, in larger society, there will always be people who don’t care enough to pay attention. Take those who still believe that the earth is flat, or those who don’t know who our country’s first president was. See, if I say, “Consider the following!” I might catch even their attention for at least a couple of seconds. If I can help everyone consider this little ol’ proposition, and its momentous impact on the way Californians eat food, I will have provided the knowledge that we need to go out and make the right decision. It’s like “Inception” on the ballot; when you vote on Prop 37, you are choosing whether or not to be given a choice. And maybe I’m just a granolacrunching, barefoot hippie, but I think you have the right to this choice. You have a right to know.
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Serious Business
sdamustang.com
100¥
White House affair
Administration introduces new parking system
By Lily LeaVesseur
By Molly Kovacs
The political and media world has erupted with rumors of a political affair after the two candidates exchange during their first debate. “I’m sure this was the most romantic place you could imagine – here with me!” he said to the president in a statement that wasn’t taken out of context. Nobody really cared about any of the political issues, but soon Twitter was atwitter with tweeters tweeting tweets about a possible relationship between Romney and Obama. “It’s obvious Romney wants more than just the presidency; he wants the president! He practically confessed his love to Obama. OMG </3</3</3” said obomney5EVA. Vice President Joe Biden calls himself the chief supporter of the internet Obomney campaign. “Yeah I really ship them. I seriously think I’ve found my OTP (One True Pairing). I’ve started writing Obomney fanfictions. Most of them are rated M, like my most popular story, Job Creation – emphasis on ‘job’but you know, there’s some stuff for kids.” Internet users also picked up on shared looks between the
two politicians. “We all saw the face of Romney’s. You could tell he was covering something up. He could barely conceal a smile of endearment. And the president kept nodding along, but you could tell, the only thing he was listening to was the beat of his heart, saying, ‘Romney, Romney,”’ said the third person in the world who thinks Obama and Romney are canoodling. When asked to comment, the president said, “What?” confirming everyone’s suspicions that his twentieth anniversary with Michelle really is just a hoax, and that he actually does have a tattoo of Romney’s face on an undisclosed place on his body. “I think it’s cool. But iunno, it’s hard to know for sure if it’s like, the real deal. But there’s really not enough scandal in the White House, so this is pretty exciting,” said someone else without any political or intellectual authority as he poured over that one book about Monica Lewinsky, written by someone who is not Monica Lewinsky. You can see the Obomney/ Robama romance play out at the next presidential debate on Oct. 16. Obomney 2012.
In a board meeting held in early September 14th, school administrators made the decision to have a professional evaluate the school’s parking lots. Staff member retired digestive specialist John Stoole described the lot’s problem as one of “severe, yet preventable, constipation.” Frustrated students have united under Stoole’s leadership to form a group dedicated to abolishing these hindrances. They call themselves “Students against Parking Obstructions and Oblivious Parents,” or the Anti-P.O.O.P.s. The group’s first point of action will be to effectively relieve the parking lot’s slow movement patterns using a revolutionary training system. One of the major issues in San Dieguito Academy’s front parking lot seems to be the recurring permit-driverswitches-seats-with-parent-inthe-middle-of-the-parking-lot routine. The Anti-P.O.O.P.s
have suggested a more private place for the offenders to take care of their business. “I don’t like having to wait,” one student says. “It is slow, it is frustrating, and it stinks.” To prevent future obstructions, the Anti-P.O.O.P.s have announced the formation of the revolutionary Stoole Academy, which will open Monday, November 1st in the spacious room under the new bell tower. Stoole Academy’s goal is to train and reform P.O.O.P.s firm in their congestive ways. Here, according to Stoole, they will “learn how to do a drop-off efficiently so that the parking system can move along at a comfortable and regular pace.” Anti-P.O.O.P.s, treasurer Agatha Prunes, secretary Pip T. Bismollers, and vice president Flo B. Owls will dedicate their mornings to the eradication of stubborn P.O.O.P.s. By the end of October, students can expect to see these pink-shirted deputies out in the parking lots,
working to enforce smooth and timely movement. “I am not afraid to use aggressive tactics,” warns Owls. “If push comes to shove, I am ready to get my hands dirty in the sake of parking lot efficiency.” Punishments vary in severity, ranging anywhere from a mandatory weeklong course at Stoole Academy, a formal letter of apology to the school, and/or a monetary fine up to $100. A sigh of relief can be heard throughout the San Dieguito Academy student body. Stoole and the Anti-P.O.O.P.s hope that their persistence will lead to a better parking lot for all. In the words of Stoole, “The front lot is just our first issue. In the future, we plan to expand our domain to the student lots, and maybe even other schools in the district. My ultimate goal is to allow parking lot drivers in schools nationwide to enter and leave their parking lots without the strife associated with excessive P.O.O.P.s.”
What not to wear: Dress Down Doll To help keep in compliance with the new dress code, The Sentiniel is providing dress code violators with a gender-neutral cut-out doll with which they can relieve their dress code violating urges.
Uniforms required at SDA By Joleyne Lambert
SDA students will be forced to wear school uniforms starting January 2013 due to the recent rise in over-revealing attire. Starting Oct. 20 students will be called in to have their measurements taken. Uniforms will arrive in early January. All students will receive white collared shirts with the Mustang symbol on the breast pocket, navy blue pants or knee-length shorts, and an ankle-length skirt. All jewelry, piercings, and unnatural hair colors will be banned. The staff is excited to finally see an acceptably clothed student body. School officials feel that the outfits students wear reveal inappropriate amounts of skin that instigate sexual fantasies.
Their call for change has been spurred by apparel such as “booty shorts” that have less coverage than a Brazilian bathing suit, skimpy shirts that expose everything but the tip of the ta-tas and vulgar clothing filled with designs of naked people in pornographic scenes and drug references. Trends like these threaten to give San Dieguito a filthy and putrid reputation. SDA staff continues to warn the students with lectures, phone calls home, and clothing changes. However, students don’t seem to take the consequences seriously. School officials feel uniforms are the only way to create a schoolappropriate atmosphere.
Illustration by Emily Hall
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MAKING THE CHOICE 10.12.2012
features
A look into the reality of attending MiraCosta. Story by Kelsey Navis
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very year SDA sends many students to community college. In fact, the SDA counseling department reported that just last year 31 percent of the graduating class chose to go to community college; that’s up 7 percent from the year before. Despite these numbers, “People tend to look down on community college and see it as a ‘slacker school,’” said fourth year MiraCosta student Alicia Engel. “It’s actually a great alternative to immediately going to a four-year.” What is it really like to attend MiraCosta? The reason If it is seen as such a negative thing, why choose community college over a four-year university? We asked SDA graduates just that. The overwhelming response? You guessed it: money. According to respective websites, on average, it costs $1,200 per year at a community college like MiraCosta as opposed to around $20,000 to $30,000 for California State Universities and $30,000 for the Universities of California. Dylan Payne, a 2012 SDA grad and current MiraCosta student, said he “got into a nice private school but didn’t want to come out with student loans and lots of debt.” MiraCosta students have found community college to be a suitable alternative to attending a four-year university immediately after high school. In relatively small classes, students said the teachers prepared challenging course work and focused on each individual.
Programs for Transfer
Room 305 on MiraCosta San Elijo Campus. Photo by Kelsey Navis.
Technology Center on MiraCosta San Elijo Campus. Photo by Kelsey Navis
MiraCosta’s educational pamphlets. Photo by Kelsey Navis.
MiraCosta San Elijo Campus. Picture provided by MiraCosta.
The atmosphere felt, to some, similar to that of high school, while others found community college to be different from high school. Though a lack of the “college experience” was disappointing to some students, they felt it was outweighed by other features of MiraCosta. Transferring to a four-year university after two years is highly advertised by community colleges. Of the six MiraCosta students the Mustang interviewed, five of whom are SDA grads, all said they plan on transferring into four-year universities as a junior, a path that is supported and
greatly encouraged by MiraCosta’s Transfer Center. The Stigma “People see community college as a school where people who didn’t get good enough grades… would go,” said 2012 SDA grad and MiraCosta student Lauren Fidel. “I thought it was a death sentence, but now I’m really happy about the decision I made [to attend community college],” said Adrian Zirino, a current MiraCosta student. Cassie Sandefur, a current MiraCosta student and 2011 SDA grad, said, “There’s noth-
ing negative about going to a community college… People are there to learn and they actually care about the classes they are taking; it’s a very mature atmosphere.” Nestor Tadeo, 2012 SDA grad and MiraCosta student, has noticed that “community colleges have very bright people.” Cheryl Broom, interim director of public and governmental relations, marketing and communications at MiraCosta, told the Mustang that all MiraCosta teachers have a master’s degree and most have a doctorate. “The reason they’re here is because
they love to teach. The quality of education is better because you get people who love to be in the classroom,” explained Broom. Instead of lecture halls, MiraCosta reports that its average class sizes are 35 students, where in “[teachers] are very helpful outside of class unlike most universities,” said Taylor Hoff, a MiraCosta student and 2012 SDA grad. “It’s also incredibly challenging and you’re getting the same education you would at a four-year university… since the teachers work to prepare you for a four-year,” said Engel. Dr. Linda Fast teaches psychology, and after having taught at UC Riverside and a private liberal arts school, she returned to MiraCosta. She finds there is no difference in the level of intelligence between university students and the ones at community college. Dr. Fast felt that the big classes at universities were a problem: she “didn’t get to know students” and it was “difficult to gauge what was going on in students’ minds.” Kiran Semelsberger, a working mother who has already received a master’s degree from a four-year university, decided to go back to school at MiraCosta after a career change and has “been really impressed” by the community college education. For those who transfer from community college to a four-year university, said Broom, “on average they perform better,” earning higher GPAs then those who enrolled as freshmen. She believes that “as more people come, that stigma will go away.” (cont. pg11)
TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee)
Honors Scholar Program
TAP (Transfer Alliance Program)
TAG Schools: Davis, Irvine, Merced, Riverside, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz. Requirements: 1.General Education required for admission 2.Prep courses for your chosen major 3.60 units 4.Minimum GPA of 3.0 5.Steps outlined by each specific UC school
Objective: With more challenging classes, it hopes to transfer students to reputable schools. Requirements: 1.Minimum high school GPA of 3.25 2.Eligibility for ENGL 100 3.Application: application form, letter of interest, two letters of recommendation, unofficial transcripts, and signed Statement of Academic Integrity.
If you are enrolled in MiraCosta’s Honors Scholar Program and complete certain requirements, MiraCosta says, chances of receiving acceptance to UCLA are increased. For Fall 2012, 81 percent of applicants to UCLA with TAP were accepted compared to 24 percent of applicants without TAP.
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(cont. from pg 10) The Extracurriculars MiraCosta offers a range of opportunities outside of classes for those who seek them. “Anything you can get at a four-year, you can get at a community college. Except the dorms,” said Broom. Studying abroad is available in countries like England, Spain and Italy; free tutoring is given in every subject; internships are researched; and there are more than 60 clubs. Involvement around campus is encouraged by MiraCosta because “the more you do, the more likely you are to graduate,” said Broom, but you have to make the effort to join. The Class A visit to MiraCosta’s San Elijo Campus last month revealed a classroom with the same amenities as one at SDA: the desks, book (foot) rack and everything, a computer projector, and a green blackboard complete with chalk. The class was Intro to Psy-
nothing like high school except for sitting in a classroom with a teacher you can get to know.” “[MiraCosta] kinda reminds me of SDA, but quieter,” said 2011 SDA graduate and current MiraCosta student, Daniel Bocater. The Trade-offs Missing the “college experience” can be a strong deterrent for those considering community college. Due to its nature, a community college campus is subdued. According to Sandefur, “it doesn’t feel like college in my opinion… people just come and go and there’s not a lot of socializing unless it’s with people you already know.” Dorms, sporting events, Greek Life, leaving home, all are parts of attending a university, and all are absent from community college. For some, it is a trade-off. “Yes,” said Hoff, “it would have been a great experience to be in the college dorms, but I’m chillin’
The Stats
• 80% of students work at least part time • 29% graduation rate (year 2007) • 64% retention rate/returning students (year 2007) • 23.19% transferred to a UC, CSU, or another California com munity college • 19,679 students (class of fall 2012) • Average Age: 27 o Most students in one age group: 19 years old • 59% female chology taught by Dr. Linda Fast. Intimidating as it was to sit in on a college class, everyone was welcoming and Dr. Fast kind and energetic. It was a review day, with a question and answer lecture about the anatomy of the brain and nervous system. Dr. Fast was engaging and knowledgeable, navigating through the lesson . Upon observation of the students, all attention was focused on Dr. Fast and the lesson. And in a small class of about 30 students, Dr. Fast was focused, too, on her students, of whom she knew all names. The lesson was engrossing and engaging, and felt relaxing as time went on. Could this be the familiar feeling of high school in college, what some would call the 13th year of high school? “[Community college] kind of reminds me of high school,” said Hoff. Payne, though, said, “It is
here.” A culmination of reasons can be the deciding factor. “I decided to go to MiraCosta because it’s right down the street from me, the size of the school, to save money, and I wasn’t quite ready to leave home,” said Fidel. Besides extracurricular activities, the Los Angeles Times reported that community colleges across California are suffering from funding costs coupled with an increased amount of students. It can be seen by “students on long waiting lists, those who take years to graduate or transfer and others so frustrated they drop out,” The Times reported. “MiraCosta has been forced to trim down its operating budget over the past couple years because of declining property tax revenues. [It has] been able to maintain course sections, except in summer 2011, during which time [they] cut 10 percent of course offerings,” said Broom. “Unfortunately, [MiraCosta hasn’t]
been able to grow fast enough to meet all student demand because the resources aren’t available.” This is evident in cases like Hoff’s, who said “the only trouble [he’s run] into is waiting too long to sign up and [he] got put on the wait list.” To register for classes and
recieve priority enrollment, future students should participate in Matriculation Day, in March. The Choice Deciding between community college and a four-year university is a choice. A seemingly endless list of scholarships is provided by Naviance and guidance is given by SDA’s counselors and
teachers. “I chose MiraCosta because I hadn’t done well in high school., I was unsure of what to do with my life or where I wanted to go,” said Engel. Sandefur advises students to “talk to your parents about college and know where you stand on the topic.”
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BEHIND THE MASK Halloween is more than tricks, treats, and candy apples ― for the workers at Scream Zone, it’s all about the scare. Photos by Kirsten Walz. Story by Laurel Sorenson.
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here’s a full moon tonight boys,” yelled a particularly hairy actor. The rest of the cast howled in appreciation of the ambience and the opportunities for fear that a full moon would bring to Scream Zone this late September evening. The actors sat at picnic tables behind the trailers and booths kicking each other, warming up their voices, and laughing at somebody who had gotten a tattoo of a camel on his toe. As darkness settled over the Del Mar Fairgrounds, the actors trickled into the makeup trailers to be painted white, splattered with blood, and decorated with oozing sores. In preparation to scare the lovers of horror from all over San Diego County this Halloween, the actors did vocal warm ups and practiced their scare faces. They were determined to give Scream Zone patrons their money’s worth. Though many are experienced actors, the only job requirement is a love of horror. According to Kit Medina who plays the Jackal, people come to Scream Zone to get an adrenaline rush, but they might get more than they expect. “We’ve had two separate scares where people have defecated themselves,” he said. Elise Lewis, a skeleton from the Chamber, said she was responsible for one of those instances. “I hung like a marionette then jumped off a chair, and when I came back there was [excrement] on the floor,” said Lewis. Most of the actors said involuntary urination is
Clockwise from top: 1. Inessa Pabloff sitting behind the scenes 2. Kenny Shelton, Ringmaster of the Zombie Circus, practices his scare faces 3. Delanie Kish getting her Barbie Doll makeup done by Jack Robertson III.
also common at Scream Zone. The norms of Scream Zone are not like those of the ordinary workplace. In addition to the loss of bladder control, Inessa Pabloff, a petite girl who has been punched by a marine, said the actors must also be aware of the violence that accompanies fear. Pabloff, who plays the role of the psychotic blood spiller, takes fear very seriously. “If you paid for me to scare you and I scared you that bad then you got your money’s worth,” said Pabloff, even if it does result in violence. Although there is a “no touch” rule in place, clearly not all patrons are able to control themselves when fear strikes into their hearts, Medina said. “There was a big guy who I scared and he threw his little girlfriend across the room and took off running. Just threw her right at me,” said Medina, barely able to get the words out through his laughter. Despite the dangers that accompany working at Scream Zone, it’s something the actors look forward to all year. “It’s a stress reliever. Bang on the wall, scream your head off, and do things normal people don’t get to. A lot of people are here because we just love to mess with people,” said Lewis. Although scaring is something the actors do as part of their job, they still find it to be incredibly satisfying, according to Victoria Stephens who plays the clown. “I’m every child’s worst nightmare. Scaring people you no longer like is the best feeling. My ex-boyfriend is coming in and I’m going to scare the s—t out of him,” said Stephens.
Clockwise from top: 1. William Corley fresh from the make up trailer 2. Jaleesa Marie Thomas prepares her own make up as Eeka the Cannibal. 3. Senior Leena Gonzalez volunteering as a victim. “My highlight of working there was being able to make guys fall to the ground crying from getting scared,” said Gonzalez. 4. Cast members relaxing before the crowds come. 4. Center: Chad Hannah, gets his make up done before terrifying Scream Zone patrons with a chainsaw.
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Before school last year in Limoges, France, Marie Edland prepared for a long 9-hour day at Lycée Saint Jean. Earlier, Gabriel Cemaj would memorize his Friday poem for his French school in Mexico City. Still earlier in Yokohama City, Nagiko Noda would have slipped off her tennis shoes, placed them in her shoe bag, then changed into white rubber school shoes before entering the classroom. Many students dream of going to school abroad, especially when it’s time for college. Noda, Edland, and Cemaj, however, have already lived the dream. Story by Dana Shin.
Freshman Nagiko Noda running a relay during “Unn Dou Kai” - a whole-school sport event - at Mitakedai Elementary School.
MUSTANGS ABROAD
“I want to go back someday.” - NN
“It taught me how rewarding studying abroad can be.” - ME
In Japan.
F
rom 1 to 1:30 p.m. at Mitakedai Elementary School, young Japanese students dunk their mops into buckets of water and slide down wooden hallways to have a “mop-race.” Classes commence and students read aloud in unison. School gets out and for the majority of students, it’s cramschool time. “Elementary students have to take a test if they want to get into a private middle school, so they study after school at cram school,” said Nagiko Noda who was born in Japan and moved to the United States when she was in the fifth grade. She attended Mitakedai for five years. According to Noda, in Japan, the “group is more important than the individual.” “Students in Japan all do the same thing at the same time. For example, they have to read [aloud] in unison.” Unlike American schools, Japanese schools incorporate a nationalized education system. For Noda, however, there were little differences between her Japanese and American education. “My school in Japan was as difficult as my school here, except the [school’s main requirement] was to learn English and the [class] schedule changed every day,” Noda said.
“It made me the person I am today.” - GC
In France.
-In Japan, the school year is divided into three terms with breaks in between. The first term runs from April to July, the second from September to December, and the third from January to March. - There are few school buses in Japan – most school are within walking distance of students’ houses. - Before entering school, students must remove their shoes and change into indoor shoes called “wabaki.” - Most junior high/secondary schools do not host school dances. However, there are large sporting events such as “unn dou kai.” At Mitakedai, students were divided into red and white teams – the colors of the Japanese flag. - Students participate in “regional studies” – a system where students head to corporations, farms, etc. for real-life job experiences. - Each morning, students greet their teachers and bow in synch to show respect. - According to the New York Times, 18.6 percent of Japanese elementary students and 52.2 percent of junior high students go to cram schools, or “juku.”
A
fter completing her sophomore year at SDA with French IV, Marie Edland decided it was time to live la vie française. Edland spent her entire junior year in Limoges, France with a host family and attended the high school Lycée Saint Jean. At school, Edland took core classes such as English and math, but a French lit class as well. Compared to her American studies, Edland noted that the curriculum was strict. “[In France] students specialize in school early on. They have to choose between literature, science, or economy in 9th grade. “The academics are more rigorous – the tests are four-hour essays – but it is much less busy work,” said Edland. Edland added that when comparing a French and American education, a big difference is the students’ relationship with their teachers. “Here, we tend to be creative all the time with teaching approaches, but there it is very traditional. There was no personal relationship between students and teachers. Teachers didn’t tell us at all about their personal lives,” she said. Now a senior at SDA and fluent in French, Edland plans to enroll in AP French next semester.
In Mexico City.
- Most French secondary schools have longer hours, commencing at 8 a.m. and ending at 4 or 5 p.m. - There are two types of French secondary schools: Lycée Professionnel (for students training for specialized trades such as commerce) and Lycée Général et Téchnologique (a school of general studies). - High school seniors take the “Baccalauréat” (BEC) – the French college entrance exam. Unlike the SAT, students taking the BEC can choose one of three “series” (literary, sciences, or econ/social studies) to take and almost all questions are essay prompts. - Most secondary schools allow pupils to smoke on campus, despite the ban on public smoking. - Lunch usually lasts for two hours so that students can go home, sleep or get refreshed, and come back to stay until 5 p.m. - Some French secondary schools are closed on Wednesday afternoons, so that students have time to relax during the weekday and participate in activities such as sports. However, students attend school on Saturday morning instead.
B
orn in Mexico, Gabe Cemaj attended Liceo Franco Mexicano (LFM), the only French K-12 school in Mexico City, for nine years. “The academic level was very high compared to other schools and created a lot of fantastic students. It’s a big school, but I still have nightmares about its horrific architecture,” said Cemaj. Structured as a French school, the students at LFM speak French, study three hours of Spanish per week and are fluently bilingual. During their sixth year, students choose from English, Chinese, Latin, or German for a third language. Atypical from most schools, each class has two teachers – one French and one Spanish. “[Students] must adapt to the school, not the other way around. There is a lot of homework – every Friday we had to have one poem memorized and recite it in front of the class – and the teachers are strict. Whenever a teacher would come into the class we all had to stand up and in unison say, “Bonjour Madame.” Cemaj added, “[At SDA] there is possibility and freedom to think and do in any way. LFM [has] a fantastic education – one of the best in the country – but there are not a lot of opportunities to be creative.”
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Mustang 12.21.2012
Who are we? TODAY
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Loves Babel by Mumford and Sons and Imagine Dragons.
D ENDS
Cuffed jeanswearer who watches Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.
Loved 21 Jump Street and Red.
WORL
Would like American Idol to end, and loves Wild Ones.
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You never know who those strangers are that walk next to you in the hallway. That kid walking past in the beanie could be a closet “Honey Boo Boo” aficionado, and that girl in the crop top and the Jeffrey Campbells? She likely knows how to do ever combo move in “Assassin’s Creed”. In this centerspread, we’ve created an infographic that brings to light these and other startling revelations. Refer to the chart at the left for detailed combinations, and check out the graphics below for the most interesting results we discovered from the Best of 2012 Survey. illustrations by emily hall
Fan of the Hunger Games and Boyfriend. Fan of Miley Cyrus and Imagine Dragons.
Ships Justin and Selena and loves Moonrise Kingdom.
Likes Magic Mike and Call Me Maybe.
Loves Instagram and Black Ops 2.
Watcher of Moonrise Kingdom and The Walking Dead.
Wears high waisted shorts and loves Batman:The Dark Knight Rises.
Loves The New Normal and Instagram.
The math behind the map I know at first glance the circular web with dozens of lines connecting every which-way may look like a failed attempt at a needlepoint project, but please, let us explain. All around the circle are the winning responses for each category in this year’s Best of Survey. A green line between two items means that someone who voted for one of the connected responses was very likely to also vote for the other; blue means they often either voted for both or neither; and pink means if they voted for one, they rarely voted for the other. To read the web, simply pick any winning response and follow the lines jetting out of it; you can see what a person who voted for that response was likely to vote on the others. These lines create personality types: for instance, those of you who liked “Black Ops 2” tended to think “50 Shades of Grey” was the best book of the year, particularly enjoyed the “Sexy and I Know it m&m commercial,” and were big fans of the
“Dark Knight Rises.” People who were looking forward to “The Hobbit” premiere professed a secret love for “Honey Boo Boo,” and likely aren’t quite ready for the “Paranormal Activity” series to come to an end. To create the lines, we looked for a relationship between the responses using a statistical method called the chi-square test of association and independence (No, not chai tea, chi square. It’s less yummy, but at least twice as cool). Basically, for each person we compared each question to every other question - a total of 578 comparisons. We then looked to see how different the actual responses were from what the results would have been if each person had selected an answer at random. The bigger the difference, the more likely the responses were associated in some way. graphic by tacy manis
concept by sam winter and max lundberg
Loved Green Day’s “Uno!” and the Overly Attached Girlfriend meme.
Loves The Hobbit and Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.
Digs dipdyed hair and 50 Shades of Grey.
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Mustang 10.12.2012
Choosing Mr. Right... or is it Mr. Left? The facts about the 2012 presidential candidates, compiled by Molly Kovacs.
Barack Hussein Obama
Party: Democrat
Running Mate: Joe Biden Age: 51 Background: Senator of IL Religion: Christian Birthplace: Honolulu, Hawaii Education: Columbia University,
Harvard Law School Family: Michelle (Wife)
2 daughters Zodiac sign: Leo Illustration by Chloe Rock
Pro-choice
“[Roe v. Wade] protects women’s health and reproductive freedom, and affirms a fundamental principle: that government should not intrude on private family matters. I am committed to protecting this constitutional right.”
Supports Gay Rights
“The government has to treat all citizens equally. I am a strong supporter not of a weak version of civil unions, but of a strong version, in which the rights that are conferred at the federal level to persons who are part of the same-sex union are compatible.”
Protects the environment
"We have subsidized oil companies for a century. That's long enough. It's time to end the taxpayer giveaways to an industry that's rarely been more profitable, and double-down on a clean energy industry that's never been more promising."
“Fair share” taxes
“No household making more than $1 million each year should pay a smaller share of their income in taxes than a middle-class family pays.”
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Willard Mitt Romney Party: Republican Running Mate: Paul Ryan Age: 65 Background: Gov. of MA Religion: Mormon Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan Education: BYU, Harvard Law/
Business School Family: Ann (Wife)
5 sons Zodiac sign: Pisces Illustration by Chloe Rock
www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com www.sdamustang.com
Pro-life
“I am pro-life and believe that abortion should be limited to only instances of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother.”
Against Gay Marriage
“I’ve always opposed gay marriage. I believe that we should provide equal rights to people regardless of their sexual orientation but I do not believe that marriage should be between two people of the same gender.”
Resource Utilization
"I will pursue a course that designs regulation not to stifle energy production but instead to facilitate responsible use of all energy sources—from oil and coal and natural gas, to nuclear and hydropower and biofuels, to wind and solar."
Tax cuts
“To repair the nation’s tax code, marginal rates must be brought down to stimulate entrepreneurship, job creation, and investment, while still raising the revenue needed to fund a smaller, smarter, simpler government.”
Sources
http://2012.candidate-comparison.org/, http://mittromneycentral.com/, http://www.ontheissues.org/2012/Mitt_Romney, http://www.ontheissues.org/2012/Barack_Obama, http:// www.mittromney.com, http://www.barackobama.com, http://www.procon.org, http://www. biography.com
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Art ing: 10.12.2012
arts
the act of creating art
“I
caroline glass
’ve been doing art forever. Well, as long as I can
remember. I’ve always loved arting and drawing and painting in my spare time.” Sydney Busic loves art so much she has made up a new word to describe it. “Arting” is what she does, since she doesn’t like to limit her mediums to just paint or pencil. For a sophomore, Busic has come a long way in her art career. She is currently in AP studio art and working at a job most college-age art students would kill to have: interning at DC comics. “My neighbor works there and he called me up and said, ‘You like art, you wanna work at DC comics?’ And of course I said yes! I do the backgrounds, inking in all the little details.” This is a pretty perfect job for her, as she describes her style as being “super detailed, precise, and realistic.” She loves portraits and landscapes, but also enjoys more painting more abstract pictures, all the while maintaining that same realism. Although there is no concrete message she tries to send through her art, it is influenced by her emotions. “If I’m feeling something like depressed or really happy, I will try to send a happy or sad message through my pieces.” Sydney has two years left to share her art with SDA, and with the impressive resume she’s already built up, her career is just starting.
Sydney Busic describes her style as detailed and realistic, and we can see why. Photos by Caroline Glass.
arts Student Spotlight: Decibella
Decibella performs during the final round of SDA’s 2011 Battle of the Bands. Photo courtesy of Elly Oltersdorf.
The Mustang sat down (as well as a horse can sit down) with Elly Oltersdorf, lead singer SDA’s resident folk band Decibella, to delve deeper into their motivations, loves, and hopes as a band. Comprised of seniors Betty Huang (guitar and vocals), Marisa Mathis (drums) and Oltersdorf (guitar and lead vocals) and formed in 2009, the band has really come a long way – they can now be seen in local coffee shops and stages apart from their performances on SDA’s stage. What was your first live performance like? When we first played in public we were hilariously shy. It was outside of Seaside market and I think most people thought we were just practicing because we didn’t know how to act like performers. The funny thing is, now we’re so comfortable on stage together we often forget we’re supposed to be performing. Favorite song to play? My favorite song to play is an original called “Mourning”. It’s the first song we wrote together as a band. I really am spoiled; I don’t think writing music with other people usually goes this smoothly but making that song together and playing it always felt really natural. Optimal Decibella viewing locations? We generally play at Cafe Ipe on Saturdays and E Street Cafe on Tuesdays. Also Peet’s Coffee for music night once a month. Any students out there looking for fellow musicians should hit up E Street Cafe any night of the week, it’s littered with people who can teach you a thing or two. -emily hall
The Casual Vacancy
J.K. Rowling’s new novel is a step from the wizarding world to the real world.
Leaving the magic of Hogwarts behind and landing firmly in the real world of poverty, drugs, and sex, J.K. Rowling’s new book, “The Casual Vacancy,” is an extreme departure from the children’s books of which Rowling gained her fame. The story starts with the sudden death of a councilman in the town parish, and develops into a tale about the deception, hatred, and viciousness that lies under the surface of the idyllic town. None of the characters are likeable, and at times, feel somewhat contrived and over-exaggerated. Although the book is entertaining and well-written, it’s not groundbreaking. It’s not going to change the world, but the Rowling name alone is sure to guarantee a monumental success. -caroline glass
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Wallflowers
Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, and Ezra Miller prove that there are many perks to being a wallflower.
If the film “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” were a person, it would be anything but a wallflower. The movie, based on the cult-classic novel by Steven Chbosky, stars Logan Lerman, Ezra Miller, and Emma Watson (in her first post-Hermione role). It was surprisingly intense, and for once destroyed the stigma of “the book is always better than the movie.” Centered around a freshman boy named Charlie (Lerman) and his experiences with his new friends Patrick (Miller) and Sam (Watson), it was a beautiful, non-linear way of describing what it feels like to be in high school. The movie was full of those little quintessential high school moments that we all yearn for, such as Sam standing up in the back of Patrick’s truck as they speed through a tunnel at night, and the group’s trip to a showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, which also proved how well Ezra Miller can pull off wearing drag. Despite a few moments that might have been a little TOO clichéd-high-schoolexperience, such as a fight breaking out in the cafeteria between Patrick and the football star, the movie really captured what it feels like to find yourself. And if that doesn’t entice you enough, Emma Watson’s American accent was impeccable. -emily hall
Rumplestilskin, played by Junior Armon Ashtiani-Eisemann, right, takes center stage in the whimsical world of “Super Potato.”
Super Potato
Whether you say it potato or potahto, drama production’s latest play was a success. Although it’s hard to tell with a name like “Super Potato,” Drama Production’s first play of the year was more than just another school play—it was a nostalgic revisiting of childhood memories. An allegory on the importance of life beyond the screen, “Superpotato” was a great play for children of all ages, even the grown-up ones. The play, “Super Potato: The Secret Life of a Cartoon Junkie” opened October 5th, and ran for two nights. “Super Potato” followed the story of a child named Teri, played by Kaitlin Kay, senior, and her babysitter, Jamie, played by junior Peri Anderson, in their adventures as they are introduced to the world of cartoons through one of Teri’s favorite cartoon characters, Lloyd (freshman Jewels Weinberg). Lloyd introduces Teri and Jamie to the Fairy Tale Recycling Center, where they help in the re-telling of many beloved fairy tales such as The Boy Who Cried Wolf and Rumplestilskin. -nicole greene
Film Festivities San Diego’s annual film festival included lobster lovers, Christopher Walken, and tuxedos galore. The San Diego Film Festival is ‘Indie’, like San Diego’s equivalent of Sundance. The short films at the September event are one of a kind: over three days I watched love stories between a fisherman and a lobster, an office woman and a photocopier, and my favorite, a love Director Martin McDonagh answers a barrage of press questions before the screening of his new film story between two recently awak“Seven Psychopaths.” Photo by Andrew Walker. ened cadavers. Some were exceptionally touching and others, too abstract to enjoy. The latter was my biggest concern as I walked into the theatre’s double doors, flashing my press credentials like a big shot. Uncomfortably bizarre is the indie film stereotype, at least in my social circle. Romances between fishermen and lobster fit into that category no doubt about that, but the rest of the films I watched, especially the full-length ones, were impressive. I have a weakness for Hugh Laurie (A.K.A. House) and Christopher Walken and each of their newest movies premiered at the Gaslamp’s Reading theatre. While Hugh starred in a nice rom com titled “The Oranges,” Walken costarred in an action/comedy named “Seven Psychopaths” which I would recommend to any and all fans of a good ol’ dark comedy. The director of “Seven Psycopaths,” Martin McDonagh, made an appearance for a Q/A at the festival. He not only wrote this beauty of a film but also wrote and directed one of my favorites of the genre ,“In Bruges,” if that name rings any bells. Both “The Oranges” and “Seven Psychopaths” rose to the top of my “most enjoyable movie list” over the course of the festival; they were the cream of the crop. McDonagh said that the main character in the film was based on McDonagh himself, and that this dark, action comedy was actually satire for the way standard action movies are regularly portrayed. The movies in the festival, bizarre or not, turned out to be some surprising masterpieces. -andrew walker
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Small fish in a big pond
health
San Dieguito Academy has been entered into a new league with much bigger schools this year. austin kasselmann
T
his year, San Dieguito Academy has been entered into a new league, full of much larger D2 schools. The Avocado East League is comprised of San Dieguito, San Marcos, Mission Hills, Escondido, and San Pasqual. While entering the Avocado League with bigger D2 schools, SDA sports teams can expect tougher and sometimes easier competition.
About Conferences and leagues realign every two years. For the past two years, SDA has been in The Valley League (which was all either D3 schools or smaller D2 schools.) However, in doing the realignment, the district was looking to save money and cut costs: “The leagues were created, by trying to shorten the travel times for bus trips. This way the district could save money on buses and give the students more time in class,” said Athletic Director and Assistant Principle Ryan Yee. For example, Fallbrook was put into The Valley League with the league realignment. Fallbrook, Orange Glen,
and Valley Center (all schools in The Valley League) are around an hour bus ride from SDA. SDA is a D3 school, which means its enrollment is lower than 1600 students. All the other schools in this new league are D2 schools with enrollments ranging from 1600 to 2200 students. However, schools can go over the population limit and still remain in that category based on the strength of their sports programs. The other schools in The Avocado East League are D2 schools because of this clause.
Opinions All of these schools have around a thousand more students than SDA. This raises many concerns over the fairness of this new league and whether or not SDA will remain competitive. “The new league will be both harder and easier for SDA, it depends on the program,” said Yee. “As far as softball is concerned the overall league opponents will be stronger than the Valley League we were in last year. Last year we played all four opponents in the Avocado East league we are in this year. Our record was 2-2 against those teams last year,” said varsity softball coach Sam Corrao.
The new schools will have stronger teams in some sports, but will also be weaker in others. Some programs will see increased competition and face harder games; “The new league this year is a little bit harder than last year. All of the other teams have a lot more players than us and have more talent to choose from, since they are bigger schools,” said senior field hockey player Colleen Haynes. “In regards to volleyball, we really have no pros or cons to the new league. We are traveling about the same distance as we did last year and the teams are about as evenly distributed in terms of competitiveness” said varsity girls volleyball coach Becka Bailey.
Positives On the other hand, this new league will provide easier competition for some teams. For example, the boys and girls lacrosse teams are but two teams that will find easier competition. Formerly, these lacrosse teams had been in a league in which they played extremely large D2 and D1 schools; “To play TP, LCC, Carlsbad twice each was asking a lot. I can only speak in behalf of girls lax, but my players
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took it well and we always played our best against them. In the new league, the competition is closer to our level. Our team will be good this year and I feel we have a good chance to win The Avocado East League,” said varsity girls lacrosse coach Charles Kaczmarek. According to senior captain, Amanda Godfrey, volleyball has been and will face easier competition this year as well. “I feel that even though we have new competition against bigger schools we are doing a good job of holding our own against them. The teams this year aren’t quite as competitive as last year,
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but they’re still fun to play against. A lot of schools think of us as the underdogs, but I have a feeling we will go far in CIF this year.”
Overall Effect Most sports programs at SDA are expecting increased competition, however the real effect this new league will have is still unknown, as many sports haven’t started to play yet and those that have are just starting their league games. For some sports programs, it will be a challenge and for others, a reprieve.
ad here please don’t place anything below the blue line that’s up there
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Mustang 10.12.2012
Analytics: San Dieguito Park A profile of the SDA Cross Country Team’s challanging home course. The three-mile course at San Dieguito Park is feared by all, and for good reason. Traversing the 125-acre park, the race takes its runners over dirt, grass, asphalt, and even river stone. In addition, the course boasts over 235-feet of elevation gain, with a steepest point nearing a 15 percent grade. As the home course of the San Dieguito Academy Cross Country Team, the race is infamous for it’s testing of both physical and mental endurance. -Sam Winter -photos courtesy of Hong Van Le
Lower Loop
Goat Hill
Baseball Field The graph below plots the course’s elevation against the distance traveled along the route (pictured above). All elevations are given in feet, while distances are given in miles. Data was collected by walking the course with a GPS.
“My favorite race at San Dieguito Park was when our meet was hit by torrential rain. It was totally crazy running, or more like slipping, down those steep dirt hills that were quickly turning to mud.” -Sierra Zounes, junior
“[On} the downhill start, most all of the other schools... go faster than they should -only for them to realize half way to the baseball field that their legs are now dead and that the race isn’t even half way over.” -Clark Luckhardt, senior
“San Dieguito Park is really difficult because there is more uphill than down. Goat Hill will make your calves cry.” -Marin Callaway, junior
Baseball Field, Elevation 341 Ft Lower Loop, Elevation 129 Ft Start
Goat Hill, Elevation 243 Ft Finish
Miles
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22 Local Eats Recipes from our favorite local restuarants to your table!
10.12.2012
Busting the myth Is organic produce healthier than regular?
Sweet and Sour Chili Shrimp
East Asian Village Diner: 626 S Coast HWY 101 For Sauce: Sweet chili sauce (Maeploy is a good brand) x 1 bottle; Lemons x 2 (zested, minced and juiced); Ginger x 1 oz (peeled and minced finely);Cilantro x 1 oz (leaves chopped finely)
For main dish: Shrimp, fresh x 1 lbs (peeled and deveined); Green beans x 16 beans (cleaned and blanched); Red bell peppers x 1 (julienned/strips); Onion x 1/2 (julienned/strips); Zucchini x 1 (cut into half-moons); Cilantro sprigs x 4 (for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste; Canola oil or other non-flavored oil; Lemon x 1 (cut into wedges)Rice of your choice.
Sauce 1. Zest the skin of the lemons, yellow part only. 2. Juice the lemons. 3. Peel skin from ginger and mince finely. Tip - use a spoon to scrap off the skin of the ginger. 4. Wash cilantro and shake dry. Then remove leaves from stems and mince leaves finely. 5. Whisk all items (1-4) in a mixing bowl until incorporated. 6. Reserve sauce for later
Main dish 1. Prep shrimp and salt/pepper; prep vegetables for main dish as stated above. 2. Heat saute pan at high temp, and a little oil to pan - approx. 1 tablespoon. 3. When oil is shimmering, gently place shrimp on pan and let cook 1 min. 4. Add onions and turn shrimp, let cook approx. 1 min. 5. Add red bells and zucchini, mix all in pan - add salt and pepper to taste. 6. Drizzle in sweet and sour chili sauce, add enough to coat items in pan, but not so much to drown them! 7. Cook until shrimp is cooked to your taste; vegetables should still have some bite! 8. Plate with rice and garnish with cilantro and lemon wedge. ENJOY!
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Mustang
The Farmers Market and Whole Foods in Encinitas are populated by teens and adults who are part of a huge, healthy fad: buying organic food because they’re apparently “healthier” than regular produce. But according to a recent study by Stanford University’s School of Medicine, there is little evidence of health benefits from organic foods. According to Stanford’s School of Medicine website, senior Dena Bravata who led the research on nutrition levels in organic versus regular produce said, “There isn’t much difference between organic and conventional foods, if you’re an adult and making a decision based solely on your health.” There was scant evidence suggesting that there were fewer health risks in organic foods than in regular produce. The study found that organic foods have 30 percent less pesticides than do conventional produce. An instructor at Stanford’s School of Medicine, Crystal Smith-Spangler said, “Some believe that organic food is always healthier and more nutritious. We were a little surprised we didn’t find that.” Details of the study can be found at: http://med.stanford.edu/ism/2012/ september/organic.html -dana shin
An epidemic of happiness Mad at your mom? Fighting with your friends? Panicking about a test? Keeping up these forms of stress and hostility can lead to heart disease later in life. According to Harvard Health Publications, our nervous system responds to these negative feelings with raised blood pressure and tightened blood vessels. Over time these conditions damage the heart. A new kind of psychology, though, has emerged in order to decrease the number of these stress-related illnesses. Positive psychology focuses on human well-being and how one can achieve a positive emotional state. Pleasant feelings correlate with better health and longer lives; so scientists of positive psychology study ways to enhance our mental well-being, in order to live a healthier and happier life. Martin Seligman, director of the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania and the founder of positive psychology, has developed techniques to lift pessimistic feelings and build positive thoughts. Seligman’s “Three Blessings Exercise” can be used to feel more content with your life: at the end of each day, write or think about three things that went really well. They can be simple and ordinary such as having a pleasant conversation with your parents or admiring a flower. Then think of why this good thing happened to you. Seligman’s study showed partaking in this activity elevated moods over a six month period which continued to increase after. It works to boost optimism because it redirects emotions toward positivity. The positive psychology movement is doing a lot to improve the levels of happiness, health, and well-being of humans. For more exercises that boost mental health check out http://fh.ext.wvu.edu/r/download/116895. -joleyne lambert
Gym Buff Which workout will work out for you? Gym Buff will demo local gyms and exercise programs, exploring the good and bad of these special workouts, so YOU can decide.
Joleyne Lambert, senior, jumps onto a platform during strength training at CrossFit. Photo by Liam Nelligan. More photos can be found at SDAmustang.com
SEALFIT I awoke the morning after a brand new work out, throwing my arms up to stretch, I felt my aching muscles collapse as they begged to return to my sides. However painful this may sound, it was a feeling of accomplishment and a reward to my body. The day before, I arrived at US CrossFit/SEALFIT, the class greeted me as if they were welcoming a new puppy into their home. I watched the class in terror at first; they had muscles popping out of sleeves and long toned legs pumping back and forth on rowing machines. I wasn’t sure if I’d have the strength to participate or the stamina to keep up. However, the class encouraged me to jump into the activities with them, assuring me that I’d do well and have SEALFIT fun. • 849 Second Street in Encinitas • Created by retired Navy Seal, Commander We all worked Mark Divine out as a team. • Navy Seal practices combined with other When I struggled, workouts to create the SEALFIT routines somebody was • Classes: Yoga, tai-chi, Olympic weight liftthere to help. ing, cardio exercises, Buddy Carries (sprintWhen I was ing while carrying a friend!), CrossFit Light tired, someone (For beginners) • SEALFIT Motto: “...to embrace elite physical kept me motitraining and mental toughness in a team vated. CrossFit is environment, guided by character disciunique because pline...” they use teamwork to keep everyone going. When I wanted to give up I was encouraged “Keep going Joleyne! Only 10 more minutes, you’re looking so good!” Working out as a group also created more of a challenge; people would shout out “100 squat-presses, Wee-ooh!” and those around would start to sweat a little more as they tried to keep up with their competitors. The teamwork displayed at CrossFit creates a system of support as well as rivalry which is something that can’t be found in a normal gym habitat. At Crossfit, you have to be tough to withstand the workout and a team-player to get along with the bunch. Becoming SEALFIT is not only the choice of a gym, but the choice of a lifestyle. -joleyne lambert
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Surfer vs. skater Seniors surfer Hannah Van Veen and skater Justin Santana answer hard-hitting questions in the ghetto version of a presidential debate. Story by Lily LeaVesseur.
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Go to
www.sdamustang.com to get 500 theoretical points.
Photo courtesy of Kirsten Walz.
Is there another word for synonym? Surfer: Antonym. Skater: Cinnamon. Surfer, let me help you. You are incorrect, mistaken; you boofed it. These are synonyms for WRONG. However antonyms for wrong (which your answer is) are right, correct, A+, flawless, bingo! But you are none of those things; you are just confused. Minus five points for how many synonyms I came up with. Skater, don’t you blatantly ignore my question. The most you can amount to with that answer is someone who tries to takes a video of themselves doing the cinnamon challenge and throwing up, only to receive a measly 1,800 views. Minus 1,800 points. Do prostitutes call their private parts public parts? Surfer: That’s gross. I dunno. Skater: They’re not public parts until you pay the fee. Skater, you have an interesting take on anatomical economics. I see you as the prostitycoon of the future with that mindset. But we’re trying to step out of our own shoes and into the pinching high heels of a lady/gentlemen of the night. How does she refer to her nether-regions? I don’t know. That’s why I asked you. But with that answer, we may never know. Minus ten points for all the times I won’t know what to say when someone asks me that question at a dinner party. Surfer, it is difficult for me to respond to that question. What’s gross? What do you dunno? I dunno. But I do like your honest way of speaking. You say just what’s on your mind. You’re no phony, you’re goddamn Holden Caulfield. The Catcher in the Rye was a pretty good book, so here are eight symbolic points.
If you hate haters, are you a hater? Surfer: If you hate haters, you’re a hater. Skater: Don’t hate in the first place. Surfer, this isn’t an English 9 Honors reading response homework assignment. You don’t need to repeat the question in your answer and use full sentences. And if I were an English 9 Honors teacher I’d try to be nice and preface my next comment with something nice like “Your answer is clear and easy to decipher. I know where you stand on the hatin’.” But my job here is to make fun of your answers and reward you points for how much you don’t disappoint me. However, I see little to work with here, and am therefore disappointed by negative thirteen points. Skater, I like your message. Why hate, when you can appreciate? I appreciate you so much I’m awarding you with five points. If swearing is immature, why is it referred to as potty language? Surfer: I just call it potty language. Skater: Because adults are immature. Children don’t naturally swear. Skater, that is an interesting societal commentary on age stereotyping. Unfortunately this ain’t no Time magazine, yo, and I don’t have the mental capacity to analyze that poetic piece of poetry. So plus 100 points ‘cause you sound smart. Surfer, plus no points because I just realized this questions doesn’t make any sense, and that’s your fault.
Surfer: -10 points Skater: -1700 points Yay Surfer! You win nothing!
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Whose Toes are Those? Inspired by a collage at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, this collage puts the spotlight on our students from a whole new angle. From sneakers to strappy sandals, shoes are just another way our students flaunt their own style and personality. Design by Avery Finden. Photos by Avery Finden, Molly Kovacs, Joleyne Lambert, Nicole Greene, and Laurel Sorenson.