Laguna Blanca School - 4125 Paloma Drive - Santa Barbara - California - 93110- thefourthestate@lagunablanca.org
Volume XVI
November 19, 2010
Issue 2
Catch Me If You Can: Pascal Karam splashes water on Lauren McAlister.
PHOTOS: ELLIOT SERBIN Thirteen Years Later: (From the left) Senior students Austin Danson, Natalie Nomura, Lillie Hodges, Jeff Nelson, Austin Rusack, Jake Bartlein, Amanda Schulenberg, Julian Kent, Carolina Beltran, and Julian Messina embrace before beginning their last Laguna Jogathon.
Jogathon Brings Families Together By ANDREW MCCAFFERY
O
ctober is significant for the Laguna community in two ways. First off, waking up to go to school is no longer a shock: jam-packed days and sleepless nights become the norm. Secondly, October holds our annual fundraising event for Laguna athletics: the Jogathon. In the shadow of the newlyrenovated Merovick Gymnasium, on an uncharacteristically foggy fall afternoon, the entire Laguna community gathered together to kick off the new
school year. Kindergartners stood next to seniors during the performance of the national anthem by Middle School students Connor Curran and Hannah White. As the applause tapered off, Headmaster Mr. Paul Slocombe addressed the Laguna students, parents, and community members. After he said few words about the gym improvements and shared some goals for the 2011 school year, Mr. Slocombe of-
ficially started the Jogathon, sending students running, clad in Laguna-wear, towards the festively decorated football field. Students and faculty then jogged to their favorite songs, and listened to emcees Mr. Mike Biermann and Mr. Paul Chiment. This year’s Featured Runners were: Jake Bartlein, Carolina Beltran, Austin Danson, Lillie Hodges, Julia Kent, Julian Messina, Jeffrey Nelson, Natalie Nomura, Austin Rusack,
Making Memories: Seniors celebrate in Laguna spirit before the starting their run.
and Amanda Schulenberg: all lifers from the class of 2011. Soon enough, the joggers began to move from the track to the baseball field, where a delicious family barbecue was awaiting them. While they chomped on cornon-the-cob, the Laguna community was entertained by the Laguna Blanca Stage Band, and had a chance to explore
Fall Play Leaves Them Laughing By MONICA WATSON
A
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN Strategy & Design: Pascal Karam and Mr. Paul Chiment along with senior Jake Bartlein work out calculations on the board during a club meeting.
Engineering Club Improves Lives of the Physically Challenged By HELENA DAVILA This year, something new was added to the long line of clubs offered here at Laguna Blanca; Engineering Club. The Engineering Club, headed by Mr. Chiment, offers a new form of community service club, designed for students to use their strengths in math and science to help create devices to improve the lives of others. For their first project, the Engineering Club has been preparing to enter a national contest known as “The NEDC Experience.” The NEDC, or National Engineering Design Challenge, is a yearly contest challenging all interested students grades 9-12 to create an ‘assistive technology device’ to help improve the life of a person living with a disability. Students throughout the nation band together creating teams. They will then continue to compete amongst each other for a trip to Washington DC for the finals, $3,000 and a trip to NISH annual conference in Anaheim, CA. The contest consists of four rounds, each more difficult and involved than the previous. Each team is to select a disability, research it, and present detailed outlines for the final product. Each submission is judged on the design and construction, the extent of the research, the device’s marketability
and its construction. Throughout the following three rounds, the criteria for the submissions become more and more rigorous and the designs themselves more and more detailed. At the final round, each of the top five teams will be invited to give a twentyminute presentation to market their device to a panel of judges and live audience. This year’s Engineering Club members; Ryan Ortiz, Tabitha Bergerson, Alex Hawker, Dante Bozzini, Lauren McAlister, Jack Stegall, Jake Bartlein, Pascal, Kai Gamble, and Abby Reutzel eagerly await the coming competition. All have been brainstorming ideas, and have come up with innovative ideas such as a wheel-chair with the ability to go off of curbs without the use of a ramp. Engineering Club sets themselves apart by serving the community in a way many do not. In lieu of creating games and toys, the LBS engineering club has larger dreams of using their engineering strengths to serve the community in a new way. Mr. Chiment says of the club, “So much community service happens with our hands, and this really gives us the chance do something with our minds.”
s the fall season came closer, students began to anticipate seeing the first drama production of the year. The cast performed “All in the Timing.” The show was performed the weekend of November 5-7 at the Spaulding Auditorium. “All in the Timing” is “a collection of one-act plays that tackle the meaning of life, relationships, death, the absurd and overcoming obstacles, without taking anything too seriously,” says writer Carole Larson . Written by David Ives and published in 1995, “All in the Timing” is a collection of comedic short plays and is noted for its verbal ingenuity and unusual humor. The stories being acted by the cast are “Sure Thing” (romantic comedy), “Words, Words, Words” (imaginative fictional story), “The Universal Language” (love story) “The Philadelphia” (comedy), “Variations on the Death of Trotsky” (comedy), and “Philip Glass Buys a Loaf of Bread” (a musical vignette). “I chose ‘All in the Timing’ over other plays mostly because it’s a selection of short stories, and it is flexible because it calls for more characters and roles. This gives more opportunities for the students to perform,” said drama teacher Mr. Joe Beck.
a number of exciting carnival booths, set-up and run by the Upper School clubs. All in all, this year’s Jogathon was a big success: it raised over $70,000 for the athletics department. It was clear from the grins of kindergartners holding goldfish, that everyone had a lot of fun. As far as next year goes, one could only hope for a sunnier day.
All in the Timing Dante laments the eminent “Death of Trotsky,” Austin Rusack, as Ramon Mercadaer.
The cast delivering the show was Cameron Platt, Austin Rusack, Parker Lily, Ari Rodriguez, Zoe Serbin, and Dante Bozzini. They all eagerly awaited the first showing on November 5. When asked what he was most looking forward to in the play, Dante stated, “I am looking forward to the audience’s reaction. It will be good to hear their laughs.” Auditions took place in early October. Since then, the cast prepared for a considerable amount of time, practices typically running from six p.m. to ten p.m. Monday through Friday every week since auditions began. The actors and actresses were also excited to have so many different stories to perform. “I think it is good for the actors and actresses to perform more separate stories because it is a good way for them to get out of their comfort zone and find out what else they can do with their talent,” said Zoe Serbin. All in all, both the non-participants and participants of the play looked forward to the showings and are excited for the ones to come.
PHOTOS: ELLIOT SERBIN Group Hug: During ‘Philip Glass Buys a Loaf Of Bread,’ cast members Zoe Serbin, Cameron Platt, Parker Lily, and Dante Bozzini gather for a group embrace.
GRAPHIC: SEAN BURKE & JULIA KENT
A LOOK INSIDE Letter from the Editor Hello Everyone!
As a staff, we sincerely hope you enjoyed the first issue of The Fourth Estate. With winter approaching, we are all settling into the process of the school year. Many seniors have submitted their early applications, and are waiting for responses from their colleges of choice. Freshmen have acclimated to the routine of high school, weaving through campus comfortably. With this growing ease, clubs and students have begun to flourish on campus. Students are getting involved with new community service opportunities and personal achievements are being realized. In this season of gratitude, I think everyone should take a moment to appreciate how fortunate we are compared to most, especially as members of the Laguna Blanca Community. This year, with more and more people being laid off from their jobs, many do not have the means to celebrate this holiday season as plentifully as they have been accustomed to in the past. In times like these, it’s important to remember what is ultimately important: appreciating the people you love. So, beyond looking forward to corn bread and pumpkin pie, anticipate the time spent with your family and friends. Enjoy! Sincerely,
Carolina Beltran Editor-in-Chief
NEWS Visual Arts Faculty Show Opens Opera Santa Barbara Visits 4
3
PROFILE
Alum Elizabeth Baker Reports from Afghanistan Monark Takes Flight 5
THE OPINION
West Side Story: Growing Gang Threat 6 Four Lives Lost from Bullying 7
THE DOUBLE PAGE
The Beauty Revolution. Is the Cost too High?
STYLE
8&9
Fantastic Plastics-Become Flawless with Botox
HEALTH
The Cost of Choosing Healthy Foods
FEATURE
11
Where Are They Now? Catch-up with Teachers Who Have Left Laguna. 12 The College Grind-Essay Writing Experiences 13
SPORTS
CIF Round-up 14 Club vs. School Sports 15
BACK PAGE
Running a Marathon and Traveling in Ireland 16
he Fourth Estate is a public forum for student expression. It T is written and produced solely by the journalism students. The Fourth Estate welcomes guest articles and letters to the editor.
Letters must be signed and be no longer than 300 words. Drop letters off in the main office or e-mail them to thefourthestate@ lagunablanca.org. Editors reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and/or taste. Anonymous letters will not be published. The Fourth Estate accepts advertising. Contact Trish McHale, MJE. at thefourthestate@lagunablanca.org for more information. Subscriptions are also available.
5
Editor-in-Chief Carolina Beltran
Business Manager Olivia Berci
Senior Editors Lillie Hodges Jordan Shannon Arabella Watters
Online Manager Abby Reutzel
Photo Editor Elliot Serbin
Staff Anastasia Antonova Brandon Bickett Caitlin Connor Jess Davis Jessie Dusebout Daria Etezadi Jeffrey Nelson Fletcher Sipple Monica Watson
Copy Editors Helena Davila Andrew McCaffery Morgan Raith Zoe Serbin Artists Julia Kent Sean Burke
Faculty Advisor Patricia McHale, MJE
10
Club Updates By Anastasia Antonova
All around campus, people are shouting, “I have a meeting to go to,” or “A Dollar for a doughnut!” Make-A-Wish Club President Karinna Carrillo is currently getting people to volunteer at Anthony’s Christmas Trees to help sell paper ornaments for the Make-AWish tree. Interact Club “We are currently holding the annual canned food drive for the Unity Shoppe that ends on Nov. 19,” president Helena Davila said. The need for donations this year is the worst it’s been in 20 years according to a representative from the Unity Shoppe. The Students for Soldiers Club Members are writing letters to send to our troops all over the world.
Laguna Seniors Receive Gold Circle Awards for Journalism By Tara Broucqsault Congratulations to Elliot Serbin ‘11, Arabella Watters ‘11, and Fletcher Sipple ‘11 for winning Gold Circle Awards from Columbia Scholastic Press Association. There were 9,460 entries submitted from student journalists in high school and college. “This is the first time that Laguna student journalists have won the Gold Circle Award for individual works,” beamed Journalist Instructor and Newspaper Advisor Ms. Trish McHale. Elliot Serbin won for his Photography Portfolio; Arabella Watters won for her Op-Ed or News Analysis Page Design Portfolio; and Fletcher Sipple won for his Sports Page Design for the article, Laguna’s Five Top Athletes, which appeared in the Senior Issue of The Fourth Estate. Gold Circle Awards are offered to recognize superior work by individual student journalists and
sometimes as an entire staff working with either print or online media. These media are published in schools or colleges throughout the United States and in overseas schools following an American plan of education. Judges are experienced journalists and educators familiar with the context surrounding student journalism as produced in schools and colleges. In recent years, more than 13,000 entries have been submitted for this annual competition and about 1,000 awards were given in the various categories. Awards are announced and presented at the Association’s annual convention in March in New York City. Gold Circle Awards were first given in 1984, but follow a long tradition of CSPA awards for individual achievement by student editors.
Amnesty Club Amnesty is currently raising money for the homeless drive and possibly partnering with the Invisible Children Club. Invisible Children Club The biggest club on campus is fundraising to help rebuild schools in Uganda. Heal-the-Ocean Members are going to start doing beach clean ups with Healthe-Ocean clubs in other schools. Warhammer Club This club is for people to gather and do everything Warhammer—a fantasy tabletop game of war. The Debate Club Members are debating the topic of which country to remove US troops from. They are also planning their first competitive debate. Book Club Students meet in the library to share about the books she or he is reading at home. Creativity Club Members are focusing on start a book drive for a soon to be chosen local non-profit, while also picking themes to create a literary, visual, or musical artwork to share every week. Phelophepa Club “Arabella and I are extremely excited to go to the Friends of the Phelophepa Gala in December. We worked extremely hard to raise money last year. Transnet is currently in construction to create Phelophepa II and that’s exactly what we were hoping for,” club copresident Arabella Weston-Smith said. Bikes for the Holidays President Austin Rusack invited new members to join and asked students to donate old bikes which the club will restore and donate to the Unity Shoppe.
PHOTO: Tara Broucqsault
Gold Circle Award Winners Elliot Serbin, Arabella Watters, and Fletcher Sipple gather while reviewing an edition of the Fourth Estate.
PHOTO: Tara Broucqsault
Julian Messina and Ian Carradine get into the action along with Toby Branz, the mezzo soprano of the group.
The Opera Lab Visits By Abby Reutzel Not many people know a lot about opera and this is especially true among young people. However, Opera Santa Barbara’s new artistic director Jose Maria Condemi wants to change that. He has created a new opera group called The Opera Lab which is made up of four specially trained opera singers. The job of the Opera Lab is to teach young people about opera and to get them involved. On Oct. 28, the Opera Lab visited Laguna during D period and taught a few lucky classes about the intricacies of opera singing. The group is made up tenor Omar Crook, soprano Deborah Bertling,
mezzo soprano Toby Branz, and baritone Adam Meza. They were accompanied by pianist Margaret Halbig. All four of were specially trained in opera improvisation. They endured a week long intense course on improvisation and learned that “Improv doesn’t have to be good.” The performance at Laguna was only their fourth time performing together as a group. They’ve only known each other for about two weeks and this was their first time performing for older students. Although the program is mostly aimed at younger children, they were able to adapt it for high school students quite successfully. The lab was informa-
tive and fun. They taught the students about arias, recitatives, duets, overtures, trios, and quartets. After giving examples of each opera term, the singers allowed the students to design their own opera. Students decided that they wanted an opera about a lonely pie that longed for ice cream, but was tricked into thinking mayonnaise was ice cream. This experience scarred the cream and then the ice cream decided to go into therapy. Therapy was so successful that it became a motivational speaker for other emotionally damaged foods. The group returned to Laguna and successfully presented to Middle School students.
Visual Arts Faculty Show Opens By CAITLIN CONNOR
“I got inspiration during the faculty meetings spanning from 2003 till now. I have always loved doodling and drawing people. Especially the candidness of when they are not posing, I love to capture that. I thought ‘It’s a faculty art show, why not show the faculty.’”
F
or the past three years, the Emmons Art Center has been host to the vibrant collection of what is the annual Visual Arts Show. The show is always looked forward to by the Laguna community. Mr. Chris Johnson, Visual Arts Department Chair, said that despite it being a yearly showcase, the art show is always spontaneous. “It all just comes together,” said Mr. Johnson when asked about the art show, “We’re all teachers, but we’re also practicing artists!” Anyone can tell that the teachers are all proud of the diverse art show. “It really is a potpourri of all the different talents our faculty has,” quotes Mr. Dug Uyesaka, Visual Arts Instructor. The art show, which was up and open to the public on Oct. 18, will have a full month of showcase before being taken down on Nov. 19. Throughout this month of display, no one doubted the successfulness of the show as a whole. Ms. Delphine Louie, Visual Arts faculty member and Yearbook Adviser, says one of the greatest things about the show is that “it shows off what each teacher is best at doing. I am best at sketching; Mr. Uyesaka is amazing at assemblage; Mr. Johnson is great at ceramics; and Ms. O’Neill has great talent in landscapes.” Both Mr. Johnson and Mr. Uyesaka back up these claims with praise of the other teachers in the art show.
-Ms. Delphine Louie
“Much of my inspiration comes from the beautiful place in which we live; the classic landmarks, the architecture and my own memories of growing up on Santa Barbara’s beaches. “-Ms. Amber O’Neill “My paintings evolve from one to another, although I sometimes work in two differing directions. Shapes, angles, geometrics, movement, and color are important in my art. I like to work in different mediums (painting, ceramics, and photography) to keep the creative juices flowing. Painting is the most difficult of the three. It takes much more thought and effort to paint, but it is the most satisfying.” -Mr. Chris Johnson
“I made this piece at a monotype workshop this summer with money from a grant. I got to work with Ron Pokrasso, an internationally known printmaker from Santa Fe, New Mexico!” -Mr. Dug Uyesaka
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN
Students Attend New Noise Music Festival By ABBY REUTZEL
Celebrating their win: Grace Woolf and Autumn Van Diver smile together after the results of the elections were announced.
Meet the Freshman Class Leaders By JESSIE DUSEBOUT
A
t the start of each school year, the Laguna Blanca community welcomes a new freshman class. Every year students have the opportunity to vote for the leaders they feel will best represent their class. Unlike past years, there were no campaigns or speeches made by those running for the ninth grade leadership positions this year. Students running for a position in Student Council usually prepare speeches intended to win elections by persuading peers and claiming to be able to stock the student store, create school spirit, and to improve the school year ahead. The fact that the freshman class was unable to experience the “usual” way Laguna handles elections has created a variety of emotions within the class. This different way of electing freshman class leaders was, in fact, accidental. “The reason the freshman did not give speeches was because
of time constraints. We just needed to get them done,” explains Dean of Students Mr. Tyler Hodges. When asked if this technique was more beneficial than the routine of past years, Hodges replied, “I would prefer to do speeches because it is good for them (candidates) to think about why they want to run and give a speech in front of their classmates.” There were five candidates running for a Student Council position in the ninth grade class. Among the five runners, Grace Woolf was elected president and Autumn Van Diver vice president. “I thought it would be fun to be the voice for the freshman class. I wanted to be part of Student Council by helping out with the dances and the student store,” shares Grace. She says her first goal is “to get the freshman class more involved in the school, and to raise our class spirit up to the level of the seniors.”
“I want to maintain Laguna’s high standards and supportive environment. I will solve problems as they arise,” explains Autumn. Despite the change in elections this year, Grace and Autumn have been elected by their peers to make the year ahead the best they can for their class. Grace viewed the voting style this year to be “less nerve wracking” and also thought it “took the pressure out of running.” She also feels like she has a “pretty great class already” and is looking forward to a fun and productive year with them. In comparison, Autumn felt that the voting style this year was “annoying because I felt like the freshman class was not given enough information to properly vote.” Grace and Autumn are looking ahead and planning for their big year ahead. They are open to suggestions from their fellow freshmen about all things school related.
PHOTO: MARLENE GAMA
Inside Scoop on the Music Scene: New Noise brought together professionals in all areas of the music industry to participate in panel discussions. In only its second year the music conference and festival called New Noise was able to book some pretty impressive speakers. Among the highlights was Brian Felsen the creator of CD Baby, Eddie Numbskull of Numbskull Productions, Gary Tovar the founder of Goldenvoice, Bob Becker the founder of Fearless Records, and the keynote speech was given by the one and only Kevin Lyman, the man responsible for Warped Tour. The conference and music festival took place downtown in the Canary Hotel from Nov. 4-6. It was started two years ago by Matt Kettmann and Jeff Theimer. The conference’s main focus is to educate those in the music business and those trying to enter the music business. Panels discussions included the sustainability of touring, the “cloud,”
how to get your music licensed for movies and television, and how to use social networking as a tool to reach success. One of the cofounders, Matt Kettmann wanted to get more young people involved. As part of that mission he visited Laguna Blanca and offered four students free passes. Two students, myself and senior Marlene Gama, jumped at the opportunity because we both want to work in the music business someday. It was a great experience that allowed students to network and make valuable connections. “It was a really good learning experience and I got to meet some amazing people,” Marlene Gama said. They received pointers about how to break into the industry and what it takes to succeed.
New Noise is not just a music conference, but a music festival as well. The conference sponsored a variety of shows in Santa Barbara all throughout the weekend. The majority of the shows were twenty-one and over, but they got rave reviews from those who were able to attend. The panels were located in the Riviera Room. There was also an entertainment room where conference goers could test out all of the newest equipment. There was also a room dedicated to photography that focused on live shows. The audience was made up of people from all backgrounds, but what they all had in common was a desire to be a part of the music business or to better understand the business they were already a part of. The conference was extremely informative and a great time.
Classes On Hold, College Visits Have Started Trick or Treat: Halloween Celebrations on Campus
PHOTO: TARA BROUCQSAULT A representative shares information about school life at Middlebury College with Troy Ritter, Sean Burke, and Lillie Hodges in the living room of the headmaster’s house.
By JEFF NELSON College representatives from all over the country―and occasionally the world―have been stopping by Laguna to tell students about why their school is special and different from all of the other schools that seniors have been looking at over the last year. Traditionally, college information sessions are held in auditoriums and admission centers, but now, Laguna students are able to hear about colleges and universities from school representatives in a more intimate environment in the comfort of Headmaster Mr. Slocombe’s living room or Mr. Revells’ College Counseling office. “The college visits are a bit more specific than going to an information session at the school. You get more of a one on one feel with the representatives. It makes a big impact on your feeling towards the various schools. It definitely made a difference for me,” senior Lauren McAlister said. College representatives travel all around the country, speaking to students and answering their specific
questions about their schools in an attempt to attract admission candidates. They’ve come to Laguna from as close as UCSB, and as far as the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Juniors are able to get a heads start as they are invited to attend these meetings, specifically for those colleges that only come every few years, such as the University of Chicago, which packed Mr. Revells’ office with attendees. “Since certain schools only come every few years, it is very important to seize the opportunity to learn more about the school. As a junior, I feel these college visits help me shape what I’m looking for in selecting a school,” said junior Andrew McCaffery. College visits definitely have an impact on students. Senior Arabella Weston-Smith claims that the Brown University visit in Mr. Slocombe’s house made her decide to apply early. Now, as college visits are coming to an end, students are putting the final touches on their essays and anxiously awaiting an acceptance letter.
PHOTOS: ELLIOT SERBIN
Top left to right: Football player, Chase McAdams dons his jersey and adds finishing touches, Mackenzie Campbell went all the way creating her Avatar look, a smiling Carl’s Junior character, Ari Rodriguez, Ms. Bojana Hill, and Cameron Platt dressed to the nines, Logan Elder, Peter Sorensen, Kevin Drew, Marshall Alex, and Pascal Karam, Stewart Green as the Backstreet Boys.
Alum Elizabeth Baker Reports from Afghanistan By DARIA ETEZADI
After graduating Scripps College in 2006 as a Studio Art major, Elizabeth Baker fell in love with the Afghan culture. We had the opportunity to find out about her experiences in an interview with her via email. What inspired you to travel to Kabul? “I was living in Washington, D.C. and I began an internship at the Afghan Embassy. I started working with the ambassador’s wife on her foundation, The Ayenda Foundation. I fell in love with Afghan culture and history and asked the ambassador if there was any possibility of continuing my work in Afghanistan. Sure enough, I was soon given two weeks’ notice to pack my things and move to Kabul. [Beginning in June] I began work at the Independent Directorate of Local Governance, helping to organize the effort to build local governance in Afghanistan. [Elizabeth expects to remain in this position for] ‘at least one year’.” What is your job description? “I am part of the Ministry Outreach team at ISAF Joint Command. I work at Ministry of Education in Kabul and at IJC for more hours a week than I would like to count. I mainly assist with information sharing, civilian-military planning, implementation of plans, and capacity building.” What skills or experiences prepared you for your job? “Nothing can really prepare you for working here. With that said, I understand the culture from working at the Embassy for one year, and from my six months with IDLG. I have always traveled, which has probably helped with living in a foreign place and adjusting to new cultures.” What languages do you speak? “Languages, plural? Well, I took Spanish and Italian in college. I started to take Arabic and Dari- but life got in the way of that. I would strongly encourage students to master “critically needed” languages, as that can open many doors for you. I wish I could say I was fluent in another language, but I am still working on English.” What are some of the unique experiences you’ve had living in such a different country?
“It took me awhile to get used to working in male dominated environments; however the challenges I initially faced have made me more confident and decisive today. I have had the chance to work with some amazing individuals, both Afghan and internationals, both military and civilian. I greatly value the opportunity to have worked as both as an NGO worker and as an IJC representative; I appreciate both worlds and those in them. I never really understood the meaning of sacrifice until I started working with troops, and the meaning of passion until I worked with some of the NGO workers.” What are some of the things that you miss most and can’t get in Afghanistan? “I probably miss just being able to walk around and eat what I want, when I want. As you can imagine things on base are pretty structured, and the food isn’t terribly good. When I have free time I watch movies with friends, read a magazine, or try to go see friends. Staying in touch is difficult, however I do email family and friends often and I occasionally talk on the phone or Skype. I have a deal with my family that if something big happens (explosion, gun fire etc.) I will email them right away so they don’t turn on CNN and worry.” Would you recommend your position as a potential career choice to students at Laguna? “This is a great career field for some people. You get to travel, work with people of all backgrounds, and not only serve your own nation, but also serve others as well. There are many programs through the State Department and other government agencies that would be interesting and helpful for high school and college students interested in International Relations and related fields. I was put in this position by luck and being willing to work hard for a long time with hardly any pay- I know parents don’t want to hear that, but today experience is just as or more valuable as lots of fancy degrees, although at some point it doesn’t hurt to have at least one. When I was in high school and in college, I always had an internship in the summers and each experience was built on the last one. My suggestion for Laguna graduates is when you get to college, take as many
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ELIZABETH BAKER Elizabeth standing at the site of a new girl’s school being built in the oldest part of Kabul. Elizabeth was instrumental in getting contracts signed for all educational books for upper schools in Afghanistan. This sets a curriculum for students to become teachers themselves when they complete the program. Now the books are being printed in India. (Right) Taken on a hill overlooking Kabul, Afghans enjoying a Friday near a left over Russian tank.
different classes as you can and keep an open mind- you might surprise yourself. Keep in mind that a well rounded person will be much more successful in this world than one that only has a few skills to offer. Also, if you can’t get a job at your dream company, offer to intern- it might turn into more if you work hard and make yourself noticed. I never thought I would be sitting Kabul trying to buy millions of textbooks today, but here I am. If you live your life with curiosity, and passion, and if you’re willing to work hard, you will have all the opportunities in the world. I would like to add that if people want to contribute to an amazing organization, where 100 percent of your money gets here donate to ayendafoundation. org. I want LBS students to realize that they are very lucky kids, and with the education they get at Laguna comes the responsibility to make this world a little bit better than the way they found
it. It doesn’t matter what their interests are or what they end up doing in lifethey should help others that were not so lucky. During training and when I first got here, it was a little like “Private Benjamin” for me. I remember when I arrived in Kabul I was put in a tent with 15 other females, all around college age. Many of them have children and were here on their 2nd or 3rd tour. For most of them this was the only way they could afford to go to college or get on a steady career path. It made me think that wow... I had the choice of where I wanted to go to school, what I wanted to do in lifethese girls were given nothing and are working extremely hard in a dangerous place, away from their kids just to have the chance to go to college? Puts things in perspective.”
The Monark Takes Flight By JEFF NELSON Laguna Blanca’s DJ Duo, Monark, has been making a big name for themselves, playing shows all around the Santa Barbara area and getting attention all over the Internet on blogs. I recently had the opportunity to catch up with Matt Puzder to ask him a few questions about their recent exploits.
Who or what was your inspiration to start DJing?
What is the best show you have played? Why?
For both of us it was originally Justice. We were both struck by how cutting edge and unique it sounded. Plus, personally I really like the concept of Genesis and their continuous album. Then, we both became very immersed in Daft Punk, and then French House in general. I'd explain more but the names of the genres get stupid sounding. What we like now is very Discoesque. Basic principles of sampling, sound synthesis still apply. French House music made a baby child with Jamiroquai.
We played a show in Santa Ynez once with about 500 kids. That one would have to be my favorite. After most of them left, when they realized that I wasn't going to take the same stupid Pitbull request 10 times (no one likes Pitbull), it became a great party with a couple hundred really enthusiastic people. The energy was just really good that night, plus we had a great set. We had some pretty humorous encounters that night too. How have you attempted to market yourselves?
now though. Chewy and Han… Taking names.
Who are some of your favorite artists/bands?
We periodically send our music to blogs, and we have accounts on just about every website where people look to find music. We do pretty well in the ol' Blogosphere (favorite word). Here's a quote from “Quarterlifeparty” about us: "We normally don’t post mixes on here, but this is too damned good not to. The majority of this mix, from the Santa Barbara based DJ duo Monark, is filled with great electro/ disco/house gems―Can’t wait to play this on my drive home today: windows down, NOT 99 degrees outside, and daft punk mixed with Chromeo. Yes please." When I read that for the first time, I was struggling with a dirty French keyboard in a cybercafé in Africa. Good times. I also remember being angry that Julian sent them a picture of Chewbacca in sunglasses, instead of something that said 'Monark' on it. So a whole bunch of people were listening to it and associating it with Chewbacca instead of Monark. I kind of like it
Are you more into the performing or producing side of DJing? Why?
Right now, in this moment, Breakbot is coming out with some really fantastic music. “Make You Mine” is a great example of Breakbot at his best. It’s not really Rave material however. We both love Air; “Le Voyage De Penelope” is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard, right up there with Daft Punk's “Something About Us.” I listen to a lot of Ratatat: I love “Drugs” (the song, just to clarify). If you really want an example of the kind of music we adore, listen to our mix tape “Back to the Love.” It’s what we spent most of last year working on production wise. It’s on our Soundcloud; the rest of our sites are currently being updated with new material (Google Search: Monark Soundcloud). Free downloads are available. Incidentally, Julian and I both love Maroon 5. People usually don't expect that one.
PHOTOS: Elliot Serbin
STAYING IN TUNE: Julian Messina belts out a tune to fellow DJ Matt Puzder while on break.
Definitely the producing side. No one ever got famous playing other people’s music. Plus, at this level, all people want to hear is that terrible Pitbull stuff at 90 percent of paying jobs. That’s why we both really like Los Angeles; people are much more into this sort of music down there. Do you plan to continue music as a career? How? Absolutely. Julian is going to be a musician for the rest of his life. I'm going to be one until I find something more satisfying. There are very few things more satisfying than getting a positive reaction from people as a result of something you created, and if that's not my career, it will always be part of my life in some way or the other.
My goal is to NOT be one of the old men that says, 'Oh yeah... I used to be in a band.' When you start saying things like that you are old and no one cares about you anymore because all you do is reminisce, complain, and smell bad. I will never smell bad. Neither will Julian. Mark my words. My goal is to produce as much original material as possible and to get the best reactions from as many people as possible. Live shows are fun too. I love lasers. Plus, I want to have a big Deadmau5 scale show in my early twenties. Julian really just likes music A LOT. I don't know if he has goals, he just kind of takes it for granted that it is and always will be the most important part of his life. How do you plan to accomplish a music career? By staying committed to a very high musical standard, and by always trying to improve our musical skills, from guitar playing to side-chain compression techniques. It really is all about the music.
Bashing and Outspending Your Opponent By FLETCHER SIPPLE
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN
Members of the Milpas Community Association lead a march for public safety on State Street.
The Westside Story
The Community Is Coming Together in the Face of Escalating Gang Presence By SEAN BURKE & JESS DAVIS
D
espite Santa Barbara’s stereotyped image of being wealthy and white, 37 percent of the general population and 5 percent of the children are ethnic, primarily Latino, our average income is 6.3 percent less than the state average. In the last decade neighborhoods whose characteristics emulate those of more typically urban settings have emerged: heavily immigrant and minority, multinational and multilingual, and rental tenure rather than ownerbased. While its urban neighbors were experiencing an increase in gang violence, South Santa Barbara County remained largely unscathed until 1991. In fact, Santa Barbara had no gang-related homicides from 1980 to 1991. Gangs were not present on the school campuses, and expulsions were negligible. Over the last five years, however, South Santa Barbara County has experienced an explosion in gang-related violence. Gang-related arrests have increased by 466 percent, and gang members account for an astonishing 44 percent of all arrests for serious violent crime. School expulsions have soared by 253 percent and on-campus weapon possession has increased by 600 percent. Long-held neighbor-
hood allegiances have now become violent territorial disputes between warring gangs. Today, there are 26 established gangs with 450 members in the city of Santa Barbara. The city has been carved in half by Eastside and Westside gangs defending their turf. Some students are so intimidated that they are afraid to ride the bus from one side of town to the other. On Mar. 14, 2007, Luis Linares was stabbed during a gang brawl that engulfed much of State Street. This tragic incident was a wake up call. In recent years Santa Barbara has faced more gang-related violence than ever before. In the face of escalating gang presence where nearly 2,000 young people in Santa Barbara are considered at-risk to join a gang and the average age kids enter a gang is 14, the community is searching for solutions. Law enforcement officials have concluded that 3-6pm on school days are the peak times for youth violence and experimentation with drugs. Our community has recognized that there is a fierce urgency to mentor these youth by providing positive outlets and “safe spaces” for self-expression. Nov. 5 marked the grand opening of the Twelve35 Teen Center under the direction of the
To Credit, Or Not To Credit? BY ZOE SERBIN
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN
Performing Arts students Dante Bozzini and Austin Rusack debate the question. Spectators find their seats in the dimly-lit theater, the low hum of commentary buzzing before the show begins. Suddenly the curtain opens and light floods onto the empty stage. Voices fill every corner of the theater. Feet shuffle as dancers glide across the floor. The audience sits,
stunned as the actors, well, act. If that isn’t a performing art, what is? The Upper School performs two theatre productions a year —a play in the fall, and a musical in the spring. In order to graduate, students are required to complete one semester of Performing Arts. So
Police Activities League. This center was brainstormed by Babatunde Folayemi, former City Council member and Director of the Pro-Youth Coalition, who envisions it becoming a place where teens can hangout, do homework, and engage in structured programming while surrounded by positive mentors. The center is complete with a computer lab, recording center, and dance room. Under the leadership of Magda Arroyo, the West Side Boys and Girls Club, which was once considered a safe haven for gang members, has reclaimed Santa Barbara with the mission “The positive place for kids!” Laguna students are also actively involved in finding solutions. Senior Kelly Furukawa and junior Olivia Berci are involved in a youth-run non-profit called Everybody Dance Now! that provides free, weekly, hip-hop programming to youth who would otherwise not have access to dance classes. The mission of Everybody Dance Now! is to guide youth to use dance as an alternative to violence, drugs, and other dangerous behaviors. EDN! partners with other organizations in the community that share their vision of a community. EDN! believes that positive mentoring from an early age is a key part of the solution to the dangerous reality of gang
violence. “From working with our students, I have learned that many of them lack a positive mentor at home. We fill this need by mobilizing highly qualified dance teachers that not only challenge their students with choreography, but are also positive role models and mentors for their students,” Olivia Berci said. “A lot of kids I know at school don’t have a place to go like I do. They don’t have the freedom to dance and get all of their emotions out. Lot’s of those kids are not doing well in school, joining gangs, and doing drugs. My EDN! teachers have inspired me to work my hardest in dance class, which I have also learned to do in my academic classes. Dance has given me a purpose,” EDN! student, Pablo Gatica, said. It is clear that in order for this problem to end, many people in our community need to change their perspectives. We should not look at the “at-risk” kids in our community as future gang members, we should be searching for ways to mentor them to see their own potential. “As the African proverb says, ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ and we need to embody this as our community continues to search for solutions to youth gang involvement,” Babatunde Folayemi concludes.
why not kill two birds with one stone? Do a school production and fulfill the requirement at the same time. Unfortunately, with Laguna’s policy, this isn’t an option. Students who participate in school productions do not get credit towards meeting their graduation requirements. In order to meet the Performing Art requirement, students have to take a class. To me, this seems ridiculous. After all, nothing epitomizes ‘performing arts’ more than literally performing an art. “I think it doesn’t really make sense because people put a lot more work doing an actual show and you learn more from doing a show than a class,” junior Ari Rodriguez said. “It’s unfair, since we spend as much time on it as others spend on athletics. We spend three hours a night two-three nights a week working to make the show great and we get nothing for it,” se-
nior Dante Bozzini said. Students participating in productions spend about 9-12 hours a week for about a month and a half to prepare for the show. The week before performance, the cast is rehearsing four to five hours every day, from 6pm to 10pm. It’s not the fact that we get nothing for it – we do get the fun and excitement of being on stage and performing. At least I do. It’s really more of an inconvenience. For students who take electives all the way through their high school education—yearbook, journalism, for example, have one elective spot open to meet the visual and performing art requirements. This means that instead of taking a class that we would prefer to take, we are forced to fill the requirement first. Forcing a student to take an elective seems rather contradictory. “It would be nice to get a wider pool. I do wish more people who did
No single candidate in the history of a political race has ever spent as much as Meg Whitman did this year, as she threw $141 million of her own money into her campaign. Her opponent Jerry Brown raised $32 million, a feeble number in comparison. The Republicans have won back the House cleanly and almost tied things up in the Senate. Perhaps for good reason, people wanted change, and they voted for it. The American people don’t think we’ve made much progress. They are right, we haven’t, even the most superficial observer of American politics and policy can see. Perhaps Meg Whitman’s advisors overlooked the necessity to have political background in order to appear serious when running for governor. Whitman began campaigning far before most of California saw Jerry Brown’s face in public. She jumped right in and hit the ground running. For most of the race if not all of it, she ran a more professional, sometimes even a much stronger campaign, than Brown. She took very little flak from the Brown contingent, but at the same time bombarded Brown with attack ads, especially at the end, which failed to hit the point which perhaps could have driven the stake into Brown’s efforts; the fact that Brown’s ties to the Public Employee Unions are strong to the point that he is arguably owned by them. Rather, Meg shot herself in the foot. She spent, spent and spent. She campaigned, campaigned
and campaigned. Arguably spinning herself into oblivion. Two things came out, which helped put the nail in the coffin and added fire to the question of why Whitman was running in the first place. One, she hadn’t voted in years, if ever, and two, the “Maid-Gate” controversy. However, over scrutinized these two factors were they sent a message to the public which was clear, but perhaps not entirely accurate. In the mind of the voters who had asked the question “why” a billionaire from California was running for governor of her state, the answer was clear: power and position. It said to the voters that her interest in politics came, not from a genuine interest of respect for politics and public policy, but from Whitman’s drive for power and position. Perhaps this could have been countered if Whitman had taken the Arnold route of setting up political interests and striving a few years before actually campaigning for office. The doubt seeded by these actions took Whitman off course, and she never fully regained her momentum. This can be seen as both noteworthy and inspiring. It proves that extreme exposure, money and out campaigning won’t win an election. It shows that voters still see the deeper issues and true intentions. It proves wrong those who claim politics to be a game of the rich. Jerry Brown won not because of economic might or campaign supremacy but because of his politics.
DRAWING: JULIA KENT
plays were in the class. I want to keep the fact that the class doesn’t include public performance though,” said theatre teacher and production director Mr. Joseph Beck. He is an advocate for theater production participants to receive performing art credit. Through his research he has discovered that there is a clear divide between public and private schools when it comes to crediting productions. “All the public high schools give credit. At Bishop, if you’re in the class, you’re in the play. At Cate, there is a class you have to take, but you get no credit for the play,” said Mr. Beck. Giving students performing art credit also leads to the chance of a higher turn-out for the productions. With only six students participating in the fall play, it would be nice to see more people come out for the play—especially since Laguna is such a small school. “I think absolutely [there would be more people coming out
for the show if they were credited], but the people who care about theatre and care about the show are going to do it regardless,” said Dante. “There could be the opposite effect, where people do the play and don’t take the classes, I don’t want that either,” Mr. Beck said. So what’s a possible solution? In order to get people to take the classes and do productions, offer incentives for both options. Since there are two play productions a year, each show should be worth half of a class. If a student was to participate in two productions, they would fulfill their Performing Art requirement for graduation. This would potentially boost the number of people participating in the show. For students who aren’t on stage, the classes should be offered. This ensures that people in the productions feel as if they are getting rewarded for their work, and people taking the class still get credit.
Four Lost Lives: A Lack of Tolerance Causes Brutal Consequences BY ARABELLA WATTERS President Barack Obama’s election in 2009 should have taught America a lesson of tolerance. President Obama is biracial, as the entire country knows, the first president to be elected with that background. However, it is necessary to give a reminder to society: we are a country of tolerance and acceptance. Sometimes, the morals which America was built on hundreds of years ago seem to have become muddled and lost. The most disturbing example of this is the four teenagers who have taken their own lives in the last two months. All four of them were prosecuted, harassed, or abused for being gay. Has our society not grown at all? The idea that people would attack teenagers based on their sexuality, to the point where they feel like they have no way out is both unbearable and unevolved. Homosexuality no longer carries the stigmas it used to; it can no longer be qualified as a disease or illness and it is no longer known as the sole carrier for the HIV virus. There are hundreds of extremely successful and brilliant people widely known in society who happen to be gay as well. Take politician Harvey Milk, tennis legend Billy Jean King, canonized author Willa Cather, and musician Elton John. None of these people have been hindered by their sexuality; their lives were lucrative and their success monstrous. Anybody who argues that homosexuality is hindrance is narrowminded and bigoted. Homosexuals, both closeted and not have thrived just as much and
This entire situation is horrifying. Clementi’s death came at an anachronistic time; he was just eighteen years old, barely an adult. What is more horrifying is that Clementi’s roommate and the other two students who were involved in his suicide will only face charges up to five years in prison. The charges are based on invasion of privacy and “using a camera to transmit and view live images”. Those charges seem entirely too light. A young man lost Homosexuality is his life, the ability to neither a disease one day have a stimunor a plague, and lating career and a being gay does not family he loves, and only thing that his make someone less the antagonizes are being of a person, or does charged for is invasion not scratch away at of privacy? A lack of tolerance their humanity in should be a crime in itany way. self, one which the U.S. government should offer strict and binding punishment for. America appears to be The case of Tyler Clementi, and eighteen year in an uproar about the old freshman at Rutgers recent influx in suicides. However, it is just like University was particuany other sensational larly disturbing. The same age as many journalism, quickly inof the seniors here at La- terest will fade and peoguna Blanca, Clementi ple will forget that four must have gone off to young teenagers took college with simple goals their own lives. America in mind: to meet new will move on to the next friends, take interesting big and tragic thing. That is not acceptable. classes, and escape the In order for homophorein of parents at last. Instead, when he at- bia to be eradicated comtempted to live his true pletely, people need to life as a gay man, he realize a few things. Homosexuality is was attacked by his new neither a disease nor a roommate. After his roommate plague, and being gay found out that he was in does not make someone fact gay, he filmed an in- less of a person or scratch timidate encounter Cle- away at their humanity menti was having with in anyway. Tyler Clementi died another man and posted because someone raised it all over the internet. Both depressed and their child to think that ashamed at having his homosexuality is a masexuality broadcast to lignancy; eliminate that all members of his social train of thought, and circle, Clementi took his maybe, sometime in the own life by jumping off far off future, America the George Washington will remember how to be tolerant again. Bridge. maybe even more so than any heterosexual person of the same caliber. To return back to the five suicides which have occurred, it is heartbreaking that the bullies who catalyzed these deaths could find it in them to be such bitter homophobes at such a young age. It is even sadder for those bullies that they will have a death on their hands that they most likely will remember for the rest of their lives.
ARTIST: SEAN BURKE
“IT” Doesn’t Happen Here By OLIVIA BERCI
“That doesn’t happen here, why would I go,” was the response I received when encouraging my peers to join me to attend a play promoting and educating about domestic violence. “Here.” Here meaning high school? Here meaning Laguna Blanca High school? Here meaning a private school? Here meaning a family that doesn’t struggle economically? The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence (NRCDV) affirms that 1 in 4 women will be subjected to domestic abuse in her lifetime. NRCDV says that 1.3 million women are vic-
tims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year, and that most cases of domestic violence are never reported to the police. According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, females ages 16-24 are more vulnerable to intimate partner violence than any other age group—at a rate almost triple the national average. The American Meca Association confirms that 1 in 5 female high school students report being physically and/ or sexually abused by a dating partner, and up to 60 percent of perpetrators of intimate partner violence also abuse children in the household. These statistics run across race, gender, geographic, and socio-
economic lines—these statistics are nondiscriminatory. “It doesn’t affect me or anyone I know, so it doesn’t make sense for me to go,” was another response I got. I was taken aback by the ignorance of these statements. “I guess domestic violence is often looked at as an issue that primarily affects families in positions of lower economic standing,” an LBS student said. Domestic Violence Solutions (DVS) serves our greater community with a mission of “working to end the inter-generational cycle of domestic violence by providing prevention and intervention services and by challenging society’s attitudes, beliefs and be-
Silent Tears: Memorials for the four teens who took their own lives, Tyler Clementi, Seth Walsh, Billy Lucas, and Asher Brown have popped up across the country. None of the four teenagers were over eighteen years old.
PHOTOS: ZOE SERBIN
haviors to effect social change.” This was a cause I wanted to support. Domestic violence is an issue that I find hugely frightening. Yet, my classmates, my peers—seemed so uninterested. They tuned out to what I was saying. What I learned attending this play—this internationally acclaimed play that I got to see for free and was only about a two hour commitment—was that domestic abuse and dating abuse can take on a range of forms that may be subtle at first, even normal—a bump in the road, a relationship problem. More often than not the victim blames him or herself. But DVS attests to the fact that “a person using power and control over another is entirely responsible for his or her behavior and the outcome.” “Teen dating violence may seem like something you only see in movies or on TV because it is often kept hidden. However, it crosses all racial, economic, and social lines and has in fact affected some Laguna Blanca students in the past,” former school counselor and instructor Dr. Lee Weiser said. “It is important for teens to learn the early warning signs.” Domestic violence
GRAPHIC: OLIVIA BERCI
plagues all communities. We cannot compartmentalize it—put in a box labeled charity. When the opportunity to educate ourselves about a cause became local—real, people withdrew. This is personal. A daughter, an aunt, a family friend— everyone is connected to this issue. “We are not an isolated people. Every child that witnesses violence, every woman that is beaten affects all of us. I would even venture to say that everyone you know knows somebody who has been a victim of domestic violence. You may not feel it personally, but it affects you. It affects our society. It is so far reaching,” Marsha Marcoe, the Associate Executive Director of Domestic Violence Solutions for
Santa Barbara said. The response “That doesn’t happen here,” threw me. DVS’s vision is that “Community beliefs and attitudes that support domestic violence will be changed and all people will see themselves as a part of the solution.” I have all the confidence in the world that my peers care. Food for thought: domestic violence thrives off of silence— the silence of the victim, the perpetrator, the family, the friend, the neighbor, the community, the classmate. Domestic abuse is the “it” no one talks about—the dark secret that no one wants to accept exists. No one wants to ask about what goes on behind tightly closed doors. But “it” happens everywhere.
PHOTOS: ELLIOT SERBIN
What’s In a Dollar? The Price of Beauty for the American Teen Living in one of the wealthiest communities in the country has its price. Privilege and wealth, while huge advantages, can skew the self image of teenagers beyond repair. By ARABELLA WATTERS “Sometimes it’s hard to catch up with all the purchasing that’s going on campus. Everyone is constantly updating their clothes, their shoes, or car. I feel the pressure to keep up, 100 percent of the time,” a senior who wishes to remain anonymous remarks. At Laguna, status symbols are simply a way of life, and the majority of the student body is engaged in a constant arms race to keep up. Self image is a funny thing. There are a myriad of ways for a person to measure themselves, but, unfortunately, many teenagers end up measuring their self-worth based on others around them. This being said, it is impossible not to be affected by the world in
which a person grows up. At Laguna Blanca and Santa Barbara as a whole, the feeling which saturates the air in most situations is one of wealth and affluence. To say that students at Laguna Blanca live in a bubble is an understatement. This is not meant in a derogatory way, it is simply the truth. The standard of living for most students is exponentially higher than the majority of teenagers in the United States. The question is, what toll does this take on the self image of teenagers, particularly girls? It is hard to ignore the implications of such standards. If you garner the most praise by having the most exclusive “things,” does that make you more attractive? Do
you have to be wealthy in order to be considered beautiful? When wealth is so prevalent, it is hard not to define oneself worth as having all the “right” clothes or toys. In this small counter If you garner the most praise by having the most exclusive “things,” does that make you more attractive? Do you have to be wealthy in order to be considered beautiful? culture of wealth, toys don’t mean a new iPhone. A toy for a typical high school senior is a new Mercedes C-class, the MacBook Pro, or a pair of jets skis to be used on weekend trips out to Catalina or the Santa
Barbara Channel. Again, this is not meant to be a condemnation of the privileged students who attend Laguna Blanca, it is simply an observation. Though this may seem stereotyped, the high class boarding schools and private academies of the East Coast are no different, except instead of jet skis, they have a new pair of Rossingal skis and or an Armani suit. Teenagers, especially in America, have been fluent in the language of materialism. Like the New York Stock Exchange, it seems that teenagers everywhere are constantly buying, selling, and trading in order to come up on top. For students living in a world of wealth, nothing elicits more of an adrena-
line rush than having the newest pair of jeans or a luxurious bag. There is no place to put guilt; our generation has simply been brought up in a community where wealth is commonplace and kids have learned how to adapt. What must be examined, is not the privilege of teenage royalty, but the effect that trying to keep up with these ridiculously high standards has on student’s morale. The high standard of wealth at Laguna sets an example which is incredibly hard to live up to. By setting a person’s value by the amount of money they have, the car they drive, the clothes they wear, are we essentially setting up an entire generation to live their lives based on how much they have?
Surprising Self-Image Statistics:
1 2 3
American Women had 11 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures in the last year.
More than half of teenage girls are, or think they should be, on diets.
About 5 million Americans suffer from some type of eating disorder, such as anorexia, bulimia or binge eating.
4
The Medical Journal of Psychiatry conducted a general population study on men with eating disorders and found that 2% of men compared to 4.8% of women, have anorexia or bulimia.
5
The average American woman is 5’4” tall and weighs 140 pounds, while the average American model is 5’11” tall and weighs 117 pounds.
6 7 8
Most fashion models are thinner than 98% of American women.
9 10 11
42% of high school girls desire to be thinner.
81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat.
80% of American women are dissatisfied with their appearance.
80% of women say that the images of women on television and in movies, fashion magazines, and advertising makes them feel insecure.
Has quantity become the new quality? Its not only Laguna that is caught up in this constant search to get more, be at the top, garner the most attention. It seems that teenagers everywhere are stuck in a rut where they believe that to be worthy of popularity or any sort of positive praise, they must have excel in the game of buying. It is a challenge to get oneself out of the cycle of bartering and trading to “success,” but life will be far more fulfilling if one does. Taking a look in the mirror without the surplus of clothes, bags, shoes, cars, and the other extraneous material which clutters our self image will be at the very least, extremely refreshing.
The average woman spends 2 1/2 years of her life washing, styling, cutting, coloring, and straightening her hair at home and in the salon.
Source: www.media-awareness.com
Media and the Mind By LILLIE HODGES
As media becomes accessible in every aspect of our lives, are there any drawbacks? Do the ads themselves influence people in subtle ways?
GR
AP
HI
C:
JU
LI
AK
EN
T
The answer is yes. The drawbacks do not necessarily outweigh the benefits, however, they do exist. Ads are designed to capture the attention of the voyeur, and in doing so they affect people even when they don’t know it. Ads are beautiful, intriguing, compelling, and influential. Screen time, the amount of time spent in front of a screen — TV, computer, or video game — has become a part of everyday life for most youth and adults. While TV, the Internet, and video games can be wonderful forms of entertainment and education, concerns are being raised about excessive screen time, and how it is affecting children and adolescents.
The New Norm When natural good looks become unrecognizable due to media’s distorted idea of beauty By CAROLINA BELTRAN It can be said that almost everyone cares about their physical appearance to a certain degree. Throughout history beauty has been valued as a desirable characteristic—so it’s only natural that most people try to look their best. And for the most part, by simply taking care of oneself, acquiring a pleasing appearance can be easy. That is, looking nice hasn’t always been, and shouldn’t be, a struggle. However, it seems as though in recent years, looking good is becoming progressively harder. This is not because the human race is uglier—our physical appearance is not becoming disfigured with time; however, our idea of “looking good” has, in fact, become disfigured. Looking normal used to be simple, but now striving to meet altered
standards of “normal” entails a series of complicated tasks. Today, people tuck, lift, wax, straighten, and dye themselves to perfection because it seems reasonable—people want to fit in. And while it’s unfortunately understandable that people want to look the same as everyone around them, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to do so. Since when did looking “the same” become some all-consuming schedule of hair appointments, gym sessions, manicures, shopping spree’s, and anti-oxidant rich meals? Surrounded by a busy slurry of advertisements, television shows, movies, and magazines made up of beautiful, thin women and men, people are thinking beyond “I wish I looked like that,” and starting to believe “this is what everyone looks like, this is what I am supposed to look like.”
So, while everyone is becoming seemingly more beautiful—because they are essentially being told to be by thousands of varied media outlets— one can only hope to keep up with their peers.
Today, people tuck, lift, wax, straighten, and dye themselves to perfection because it seems reasonable. In AP Economics, we learned that when you levy a tax on a product, the equilibrium price will increase. You can apply a similar logic to the worldwide struggle to be beautiful. If more people are aiming for an elevated standard of beauty, said standard (or “equilibrium”) will rise. Today’s “average” looking person is beautiful, while the old “average” is today’s ugly. It sounds so harsh, but it’s true. As a teenager, I hear people complaining about the width
of their nose, the size of their forehead, the fat around the top of their arms. These are ridiculous complaints. Since when is the top of an arm a judging point on someone’s beauty? “In this generation, teens are really heavily influenced by the media and most girls try to replicate how size zero, six foot models look,” senior Boo Goldmuntz said. “Because of this, we find flaws in people who are still pretty, but not models. We can’t look ridiculously well put together 24/7.” While beauty expectations rise, self esteem plummets. How is any normal person supposed to feel comfortable with the way they look if they think they’re supposed to look like super models.
Teens cannot avoid being affected by the television and movies watched and the computer games played. They help shape how one perceives the world and how one responds to family members, friends, parents and others. According to a Yale University study, the average child in the United States sees between 20,000 and 40,000 television advertisements per year. They are bombarded with images about how they should look and what they should own. Sexual references in ads and television increase awareness of sexual activities at younger and younger ages. It is known that teens are becoming sexually active at younger ages. Another problem with ad campaigns is the construed picture of the normal person. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on women’s thinness and men’s muscles. The overweight woman or flabby man is an anomaly. Yet, it is almost impossible for most people in the real world to achieve and maintain such a physical appearance. Despairing teens will starve themselves in an unrealistic attempt to mirror their beautiful media role models. The issue is not only applicable to girls, as boys and men often struggle to obtain the picture perfect bodies as well. Males may take steroids. The real world is not filled with women who fit into size zero and men with unbelievably muscular bodies. In fact, the percent of overweight and obese people in America combines to a staggering 66.7 percent. This leaves only a third of the American population who are of a normal weight, let alone
model thin and muscular. When considering television, there is also the issue of the commercials. Viewers are constantly being sold something. Teens may well be enticed to purchase the latest clothing or sports equipment—even if their closets already contain more than a sufficient amount of items and family finances are limited. Manufacturers spend a huge amount of money on commercials. Yes, they want more people to learn about their products, but their primary goal is to sell. Commercials that appeal to teens appear on the programs that advertisers know teens watch. It is not a problem to want to follow an occasional trend, the problem arises when someone’s self image is based upon having the coolest clothing, best accessories, and most flawless features. Companies have started to change, picking up on public opinion, using more realistically sized people in ad campaigns. When Dove’s “Campaign for Real Beauty” started incorporating women of all shapes and sizes in 2005, many applauded the appearance of fullbodied ladies posing in their skivvies. Following in Dove’s footsteps, magazines such as Glamour and companies like British lingerie retailer Bravissimo, also started featuring women with a little extra meat on their bones. In the twentieth century, the impact of media and popular culture has become increasingly more powerful, and expectations about physical perfection have increased so that people, often teens, have come to define themselves by their possessions and appearances.
Fantastic Plastics? By Helena Davila
P
lastics. In the past, the word has referred to trash and recyclables. However, throughout the past few years, the word has taken on a completely different meaning; plastic surgery. As the technology hit the mass market, many were quick to jump at the opportunity to preserve their youth forever Plastic surgery was first created as a way to help re-construct the faces of victims of severe facial injuries. Gradually, the practice grew to encompass a few select cosmetic clients. Eventually, the word of “anti-aging surgeries” escaped its cloisters and turned viral. Suddenly plastic surgery, Botox and the word “anti-aging” became omnipresent. In the seemingly rushed process of massive expansion, the target market swung from necessity to frivolity and vanity. The ads for plastics claiming everything from eternal youth to impeccable skin are everywhere; on television, in magazines, billboards, and the Internet. Each ad claiming to have created the perfect “wrinkle eraser,” each featuring a flawless woman free of facial lines or wrinkles. As the commercials and ads increasingly become more and more ubiquitous, a pattern begins to emerge: none of these are ever targeting men. Why is it purely women who are called forth to inject and pay their way to beauty? How is it that men have been exempt from the world of plastic surgery? How is it that it is socially acceptable for men to wear smile lines, while it is expected that women erase their own? Women throughout the media
are portrayed as flawless, as though sculpted from clay, and yet is that natural? Why is it that society feels so compelled to play the seemingly pointless game of chasing eternal youth, why not embrace age gracefully. The world of cosmetics has become skewed. As the ad for the famed suit maker, Hart Schaffner Marx in the Wall Street Journal states, “Wrinkles demonstrate character in a man’s face. But not in his suit.” Underlining once again, how the media and cosmetic industry have drastically altered the stereotypes of men and women. According to www.botoxguidance. com, only a mere 15 to 30 percent of men have had plastic surgery. The rest, are women. The social hierarchy and advertising industries have created an entire empire based on the vanity of women. “I don’t think plastic surgery should be referred to for correctional purposes, because women shouldn’t have such a bad body image that they are encouraged to completely reconstruct themselves,” sophomore Daria Etezadi said. She added, “In all honesty, it’s degrading especially with all this talk of ‘standing up for your rights’ and ‘being true to yourself.’ However, I think it’s acceptable if you were in an accident and needed, rather than wanted, plastic surgery in order to regain your original physical attributes.” Indeed, thousands of patients have been helped by the innovations of plastic surgery. As time progresses, the technology used for anti-aging will only improve, however it is up to the consumer to decide whether or not to continue pursuing the forever elusive fountain of youth.
Dishing Out “Epic” Food BY JULIA KENT
With the ever growing popularity of the nutritious and delicious Acai berry, “Acai Bowls” are becoming every health fanatic’s dream meal. An establishment dedicated to using only the finest ingredients, Epic Bowl offers some of Santa Barbara’s best variations of the beloved Acai Bowl.
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN
You Are What You Eat: Commonly referred to as the Amazonian “Super Food,” the acai berries found in Epic Bowl’s signature combinations are not only packed full of antioxidants, but also contain other healthy nutrients like fiber, phytosterols, and vitamins C and E.
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN
A Style Profile: Margaret and Lucie Hartmann By JESSIE DUSEBOUT Margaret Hartmann (Right) What She’s Wearing: Jack Rodgers flats, a Zara short pencil skirt, an Urban Outfitters blazer, and a Forever 21 v-neck. Where She Shops: “I shop all over, but I really like Forever 21, Zara, and the teen section at Saks Fifth Avenue. I also really like the brand Splendid.”
Lucie Hartmann (Left)
Inspiration: “I don’t really have any fashion icons or any certain people that I consistently look to for fashion ideas. I find styles I like all over.”
What she’s wearing: A Forever 21 sweater, Zara jeggings, and Nordstrom boots.
Closet Favorites: “I really love my new lace up high heel shoes.”
PHOTO: ELLIOT SERBIN
Where She Shops: “I mainly shop at Zara, Nordstrom, and Urban Outfitters. I love to splurge at Diani, her stuff is really cute.” Inspiration: “I get most of my style ideas from my older sister, Elizabeth.” Closet Favorites: “Right now I really love my lace dress from Diani.
I
n the heart of Paseo Nuevo Mall, new restaurant Epic Bowl has most certainly made a name for itself. With its organic ingredients and friendly staff, Epic Bowl offers a nutritious meal which also satisfies customers hunger. The restaurant itself is sleek with clean lines, dangling lights, and a curved wooden counter for people to order at. The earthy feel of the restaurant is accented with chrome touches that create an inviting yet modern feel. Customers can choose to sit inside our outside on small tables surrounding the area. Surrounded by neighboring restaurants and shops like Rudy’s and Nordstrom, Epic Bowl offers shoppers a healthy alternative to more common mall foods. As opposed to eating a big burrito or piece of pizza, Paseo Nuevo customers can enjoy a healthful and tasty Acai Bowl. Senior Sean Burke says Epic Bowl is “on par” with its Acai Bowl rival Backyard Bowl, but in a “better location.” Laguna Blanca parent David Schwartz and his business partner Gary Nardilla opened Epic Bowl downtown early in the school year. Schwartz and Nardilla got the idea of an Acai Bowl from Nardilla’s time working in Brazil. Epic Bowl’s menu includes an Acai Bowl packed with fresh fruit, a thick blend of Acai, sprinkled with granola, and drizzled in honey. “I really love Epic Bowl,” says junior Eva Davis. “The smoothie is always thick and cold, the fruit always tastes good, and they use the best honey! I also think the location is really convenient.” The Acai Bowl is by far the most popular item on the menu. There are eight different variations of the Acai Bowl. The Epic Bowl, for example, is made
Shared Opinions “ We mainly dress the same, but Lucie is more feminine and conservative. Both of us don’t really like the super trendy styles. There are no styles we really dislike, it’s all how people wear it.” “We don’t share our clothes, but we do borrow clothes from each other. Sometimes we even buy doubles of something we both love!”
with Organic Hemp Protein which consists of all twenty known amino acids, including those ten that are designated as essential for human health. Hemp also contains the essential fatty acids needed for good health.
“Epic Bowl is on par with its Acai Bowl rival Backyard Bowl, but in a better location.”
The menu also features smoothies which are made with coconut water, if customers are looking for a less-filling snack. Most of the ingredients are organic. Senior Kelsey Douglas adds, “The smoothies are also really good. Sometimes I don’t always want to eat all the granola and fruit so I get the smoothies. It’s nice to have the option of getting a bowl or a smoothie.” The menu has expanded to include some hot options, like an all new “Wild Mushroom Bowl.” According to Laguna Student and daughter of the owner, Kayla Schwartz, Epic Bowl will be opening locations on the east coast and in Brazil. She hopes that Epic Bowl “will become very involved with the Santa Barbara community, and will provide bowls and fundraising to ‘Epic’ causes and to people with ‘Epic’ stories of helping others within the community.” For those of you who are Acai connoisseurs, or have yet to try this delicious treat, be sure to check out Epic Bowl. With its varied menu, easy location, and great taste, you are soon to love this sure-to-be Santa Barbara hit.
PHOTO: ARABELLA WATTERS A High Price for Health: Low-calorie food prices are increasing far beyond the rate of inflation making a nutritious diet out of reach of some American consumers. Moreover, the average price of the lowest-calorie foods-- including green vegetables and fruits increased by almost 20 percent over two years a study by the University of Washington reports.
The Cost of Eating Healthy BY JORDAN SHANNON
Healthy eating really does cost more. That’s what University of Washington researchers found when they compared the prices of 370 foods sold at supermarkets in the Seattle area. Obesity experts say that the lousy economy threatens to worsen Americans’ already bulging waistlines because bad-for-you food happens to be the cheapest. But there are healthy foods to be found at a low cost, and new research aims to show how to eke the most nutrition out of every buck. Calorie for calorie, junk foods not only cost less than fruits and vegetables, but junk food prices also are less likely to rise as a result of inflation. The findings, reported in the current issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, may help explain why the highest rates of obesity are seen among people in lower-income groups. Scientists took an unusual approach, essentially comparing the price of a calorie in a junk food to one consumed
in a healthier meal. Although fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients, they also contain relatively few calories. Foods with high energy density, meaning they pack the most calories per gram, included candy, pastries, baked goods and snacks. The survey found that higher-calorie, energy-dense foods are the better bargain for cash-strapped shoppers. Energy-dense munchies cost on average $1.76 per 1,000 calories, compared with $18.16 per 1,000 calories for lowenergy but nutritious foods. The survey also showed that low-calorie foods were more likely to increase in price, surging 19.5 percent over the two-year study period. High-calorie foods remained a relative bargain, dropping in price by 1.8 percent. People don’t knowingly shop for calories per se, the data show that it’s easier for low-income people to sustain themselves on junk food rather than fruits and vegetables, says the study’s lead author Adam Drewnowski, director of
The Curse of the Apple BY ARABELLA WATTERS
Today dozens of unsuspecting students will reach into their bags for a mid-morning snack. It’s about C Period and stomachs are rumbling with the cravings that only a snack could satisfy. It seems that mom packed a round, plump, and crisp apple. Delicious? Yes. Satisfying? Unfortunately, not. The Curse of the Apple, has become an epidemic, plaguing seniors and freshmen alike, making people hungrier than they were before. Yes, nonbelievers, the curse does exist. There are no games to be played; witnesses will testify. The Curse of the Apple is relatively ubiquitous on campus. It seems improbable, mystical even, but there is a perfectly logical explanation for why chomping down on the Granny Smith from your back yard causes the rumblings for lunch only minutes after your snack. Apples, though sweet and delicious, are extremely high in natural sugars. One apple is over 95 percent carbohydrates. Research from U.S. Apple Association shows that while apples are naturally fat free, they are made up almost entirely of fructose.
As a result, when a student sits down to nosh on one as a snack ,the body gets a quick energy boost from the load of sugar, but quickly digests the carbohydrates, leaving students seemingly more hungry than they were before. Have no fear apple lovers, there is a quick and easy solution to this problem. I f you want to eat an apple without that horrible empty feeling in your stomach afterwards, simply reach for a little protein with y o u r snack. There is a reason why apples and peanut butter taste so delicious together. Peanut butter is a great source of natural proteins and fats which apples lack. Slathering a spoonful on apple slices will keep you full and happy until hunger strikes again a few hours later as lunch draws closer. Some other suggestions for fighting the curse are snacking on string cheese, almonds, or yogurt when you pull that apple out of the deepest depths of your backpack. Just remember, the Curse of the Apple is relentless, but there is always a cure. GRAPHIC: JULIA KENT
Tasty Snack Ideas for Eating Healthily and Staying Full Sweet
Savory
Apples and Peanut Butter Almonds and Cranberries Yogurt and Honey Bananas and Almond Butter
Carrots and Hummus Peanut Butter Pretzels Vegetable Chips and Guacamole Bell Peppers and Ranch Pita and Hummus
the Center for Public Health Nutrition at the University of Washington. Based on his findings, a 2,000-calorie diet would cost just $3.52 a day if it consisted of junk food, compared with $36.32 a day for a diet of low-energy dense foods. However, most people eat a mix of foods. The average American spends about $7 a day on food, although lowincome people spend about $4, according to the report. But it’s easier to overeat junk food, Dr. Drewnowski adds, both because it tastes good and because eaters often must consume a greater volume in order to feel satisfied. Still, even those who consume twice as much in junk food calories are still spending far less than healthy eaters. “If you have $3 to feed yourself, your choices gravitate toward foods which give you the most calories per dollar,’’ said Dr. Drewnowski. “Not only are the empty calories cheaper, but the healthy foods are becoming more and more expensive. Veg-
etables and fruits are rapidly becoming luxury goods.” Laguna students agree that eating healthier costs a lot more. Senior Arabella Weston-Smith, for example, shares her opinion on the expensive nature of healthy food. “I always try to be health conscious when choosing what kinds of food to eat, but some of the high prices at markets such as Whole Foods make it hard to buy foods that are healthy,” she said. These facts may better explain the popularity of calorie-dense foods in the food selection patterns among groups with limited economic resources. Although healthier, low calorie foods such as fruits and vegetables can cost a lot more than calorie rich fast food, it is still important to realize that you can always be able to find low cost alternatives. It may be easier to stop by the drive through and pick up an inexpensive burger than shopping your local produce aisle, but it’s crucial to realize the importance of healthy eating.
Healthy Recipe of the Month: Stir-Fried Noodles with Tofu and Peppers By MARTHA ROSE SHULMAN Published: Sept.28 NYT
This simple stir-fry is a dish to throw together when you want something like fried rice but don’t have any cooked rice at hand. Begin soaking the noodles before you begin to chop the vegetables, and they’ll be ready to stir-fry when the other prep is done.
Andrew Scrivani for The New York Times Nutritional information per serving: 386 calories; 13 grams fat; 2 grams saturated fat; 0 milligrams cholesterol; 52 grams carbohydrates; 5 grams dietary fiber. 163 milligrams sodium. 13 grams protein
Ingredients 7 to 8 ounces thin rice stick noodles 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon Shao Hsing rice wine or dry sherry 2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil 3/4 pound tofu, cut in 1/2-by-1inch dominoes and blotted dry 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon minced ginger 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or 1 to 2 teaspoon minced jalapeño 1 green bell pepper, cut in thin julienne 1 red bell pepper, cut in thin julienne 2 tablespoons peanut oil or canola oil 1 bunch scallions, trimmed and sliced very thin 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Preparation 1. Place the noodles in a large bowl, and cover with warm water. Soak for at least 20 minutes, until soft. Set aside, within reach of your wok or pan. Combine the broth, soy sauce, rice wine or sherry, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Combine the garlic, ginger and pepper flakes or minced jalapeño in another bowl. 2. Heat a 14-inch flat-bottomed wok or 12-inch steel skillet over high heat until a drop of water evaporates from the surface within a second or two. Add the tofu. Reduce the heat to medium-high, and stir-fry one to two minutes until the tofu begins to brown. Add the garlic, ginger and chili, and stir-fry for no more than 10 seconds. Add the peppers, and stirfry two minutes. Add the cilantro, and stir-fry another 30 seconds to a minute until well combined. Serve.
Where Are They Now? By ZOE SERBIN
Ms. Staci Richard “I’ve traded in my Birkenstocks for business suits and have traded my lovely little 10 minute Hope Ranch commute in for an hour Metro commute to Union Station and a quick walk to the Hart Senate Building. I am working on education policy in the office of Senator Joe Lieberman of Connecticut. I have been attending hearings, briefings, and talks to learn as much as possible about what is happening in education policy here in Washington, D.C.. I have been peripherally involved in some of the President’s education initiatives such as Race to the Top and Change the Equation. This year it is expected that Congress will pass the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) formally known as No Child Left Behind, so it will be an interesting time to be here. I have really enjoyed having access to all of the resources here in Washington, D.C.. The Fellowship has been fantastic, I am learning so much and making some excellent contacts. I am also gathering some great ideas and resources for my classes when I return to Laguna. The highlight, professionally, was hearing Michelle Rhee speak at my first Lieberman staff meeting. In case you don’t know, she is the outgoing and controversial Superintendent of the
DC Public Schools and was featured in the movie Waiting for Superman. She is my new “education hero.” I have been in a number of talks with the President’s education advisors as well as staff from the congressional education committees. It is really exciting to be right in the heart of what is happening in education policy. Simon and Gabriel are settling in very well. They like their new school and are making friends. We have been taking full advantage of being in DC-they attended the “Reclaim the Dream” march, have been to many of the monuments, museums, Mount Vernon, and are anticipating their White House tour in January. We, of course, are missing all of our Santa Barbara and Laguna friends and hope all of you are doing well. I will probably plan to visit in January. Oh and good Mexican Food!!”
I have been in five art shows and published three articles since January. Last month I won the coveted People’s Choice Award at the Santa Barbara Sculptor’s Guild fall show at the Faulkner Gallery. That was pretty exciting for me. I would love to come and visit and look forward to it.”
Ms. Cate Barrey
Magistra Hollie Haycock
Dr. Lee Weiser “I have more time to work on art projects and hike in the hills. I am teaching classes at Santa Barbara Graduate Institute to MA and PhD students. (I love teaching and will always want to teach at some level.) I miss all the students and faculty members a lot! Luckily, I have been able to stay in touch with many of my teaching buddies.
“The students here are less studious, but more involved in school life - and... well... more polite. I like my new job a lot. The school has great faculty members and students. Everyone looks out for each other. My biggest challenge is the size of my classes. I have classes with 28 kids in them. My job is more or less the same. The most exciting thing that has happened since leaving Laguna is definitely a tie between expecting our second baby (a girl, due in March) and buying our first house. Although I am enjoying life here in Phoenix I miss my friends, my discipuli, and Santa Barbara. I hope to visit soon, but I’m not sure when!”
Ms. Barrey was asked how her life was different after she left Laguna. “How is it not different?! I’m married now, living in a new city and new home, and working only part-time while I care for both of my elderly parents. Even my last name is different.” When asked if she missed teaching, Ms. Barrey said, “I do miss teaching and classroom interaction with students. However, I don’t miss the challenging schedule of a standard school day, and honestly, I don’t really miss the faculty meetings too much. I was a teacher for quite a long time, so it’s a big part of my identity. I am certainly open to the possibility of teaching in the future.” What does she miss the most? “Definitely, the people! I miss being part of a community of students, teachers and staff. I got married in August, and we had a lovely wedding celebration, which some of the Laguna faculty attended. It was the first time in 30 years that my entire family was together in one place, so that was very special.” I hope to make a visit between Thanksgiving and winter break, depending on how my parents are doing.”
The Joys of the Holiday Season. In Six Words By LILLIE HODGES
With the holiday season approaching, there is often not enough time to reflect upon the hidden joys of our lives. The challenge was set for the journalism class to creatively express what they are thankful for this year in six words. In the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, people are reminded of the small things in life they are thankful for. Whether it be the Thanksgiving cheer, food, or a school break, this holiday season is full of things to be grateful of.
The Final Stretch By JORDAN SHANNON Ah, the College Application process. A pivotal time in a high school senior’s life that may also be one of the most stressful. Applications to selective colleges and universities are reaching new heights this year, promising another season of high rejection rates and dashed hopes for many more students such as myself. Officials said the trend was a result of demographics, aggressive recruiting, the ease of online applications and more students applying to more colleges as a safety nets. The swelling population of 18-year-olds peaked in 2010, when the largest group of high school seniors in the nation’s history, 3.2 million, graduated. Such statistics like these make getting in to my top choice school seem almost impossible. This year, like years before, has brought several challenges for high school seniors. From my experience, I think that it is important to persevere and try your hardest to achieve success and gain admittance to your dream school. It’s important to accept the reality of the situation and acknowledge the fact that millions of high school seniors across the country are vying for the same spot as you are. My College application process started this summer. While juggling two internships and community service projects, I began the first drafts of my college application essays. I went through topic after topic, draft after draft, trying to figure out what would be the best way to capture the essence of myself in fewer than 1,000 words. The possibilities were endless, but, eventually, I found something to write about that was not only engaging, but still let me stay true to myself. I decided to not apply to any of my selected schools early because I never had my heart set on one particular school. I would be happy to be accepted to any one of the schools that I have selected, and I know that I will be content at the school that reflects my interests and offers a wide variety of opportunities to help me succeed. Before this year, all of my senior friends warned me. They cautioned me about senioritis, college
applications and all the other things that would take over my sane, organized life. I wasn’t too worried about it—until this year, when there were days I felt like I was running around looking for a way out of this mess. Like other seniors, I was stressing late at night typing college essays, and coming to school with very sleepy eyes. Sometimes I found myself wasting time because I couldn’t stand the thought of writing another essay. However, now that college applications are almost done and beneath the façade of rest and relaxation, second semester seniors will soon begin to face the reality of their impending departure. All those thoughts about leaving home, leaving friends, adjusti n g to a
small room and a new environment is quite overwhelming. Despite the hectic and stressful nature of senior year, I take comfort in the fact that this coming June, I will be ready to walk with my fellow Class-of-2011 Owls at graduation. At the end of that walk I will be handed my diploma. In my hands will be a symbol of four years of hard work and insight that I will be sure to use throughout my college experience and the years beyond.
An Obsession with My Mailbox By ARABELLA WATTERS At thirteen I was an incredibly deep sleeper. I could lie in my bed and sleep for ten hours easily. Now, I find that sleep tends to allude me more often than not. At 2 a.m. on any given night, I will lie awake, staring at the glow-inthe-dark stairs on my ceiling, thinking about college. However, it is not the joys of college: walks across a tree-lined campus or discussions with enlightened professors, that are on my mind. Instead, I find myself obsessing about the single most feared thought of any high school senior applying to college, rejection. Applying early especially, the possibility of rejection looms large and terrifying in the not so distant future. Every single day is another tick mark towards D-Day, Dec. 15, a day
which could bring either definitive joy or disappointment paired with another wave of vague personal essays asking me to “Describe an experience which defines me as a person.” or the even more obscure, “Find x”. College, didn’t become a priority in my life until this summer when individual university supplements starting rolling out around July 1. No, scratch that, I have had a certain college subtly hinted at me by a certain legacy member of my family for quite some time. I however, wanted to forge out on my own, trekking across each college campus and make my own evaluations. Over spring break, I embarked on a rock and roll college tour with my mom; we hit New York City, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Boston,
The College Grind: Four Seniors Reflect on the Application Process
GRAPHIC: JULIA KENT and everywhere else in between. I think I heard the same informational speech, lectures about campus safety, and statistics about diversity a billion times. The college tour was fun and hectic; I had my umbrella blow inside out at University of Pennsylvania, ate huge slices of buttery cinnamon toast in Boston, and had an incredibly hard time navigating the GPS in our tiny rental car while torrential downpour rained down onto the entire Eastern Seaboard. It was an experience to say the least, but I came away with a definite sense of perspective about what school I wanted. And needless to say, though the admission rates are incredibly steep and the competition cutthroat, getting into that school became my obsession. Yes, I realize that choosing one college to focus completely on may be unhealthy, but I can’t help myself. Even though I looked like a psycho, I found myself attacking the mailbox for brochures and leaflets
from the college. And now, I realize how much of a psycho I really am. I want to camp out by my mailbox and wait. I feel separation anxiety from my house because what if in the nine hours I’m away from my house at school, sports, working on the newspaper, my letter comes, and burns a hole in my mailbox. I think what defines the college process is that horrible and gut-wrenching feeling of being out of control. Sure, I put my best foot forward. I wrote essays that I hope will touch the readers, listed my accomplishments with a balance of humility and pride, and attempted to charm my interviewer, but once I hit that bright yellow “submit” button at the bottom of the Common App, there is nothing I can do, but wait. The waiting game, I have found, is not exactly fun. I know I’ll love college when I’m there, but this time, right now, waiting for an answer, feels like perfectly synonymous to medieval torture.
At War with the Blinking Cursor By LILLIE HODGES The words were pil- unable to sleep because ing up, fighting each of the stress my body other inside my brain, would not release. My and never quite break- alarm would sound every ing through to my hands, morning and the sound which were decisively re- would echo through my fusing to write anything. brain before I made any Writer’s block was my move to get up. I realized I was having biggest obstacle in the college writing process. problems sleeping when I was constantly think- I actually counted sheep ing about my topics, and one night to fall asleep. whenever an idea popped I imagined their white in my head I would run fluffy bodies propelling themselves through the to my computer. As soon as started writ- air. The whole experience ing the idea would self- became much more beardestruct in my frontal able when one Saturday, lobe, leaving only trace inspiration came to me. evidence of its former I had gone through hundreds of simple ideas and greatness. My original time line five sample essays before was brilliant. July was a settling on one. I was looking through brainstorming month, August was my main the fourteen thousand writing month, and pictures on my computer September was and kept returning to five. These five became for edits. Largely be- my inspiration. I churned out my main cause of my inability to personal essay in one write, this day, and I spent the folschedule lowing two weeks bouncw e n t ing it off people to edit. With this first essay out the w i n - almost done, my stress dow. was cut in half. Writing has always Aft e r been a joy and having t h e writer’s block was one of be- the most stressful experiences of my life. In looking back at the past three months of my life, I would have made a few changes to my schedule and mind set. I would also recommend taking a step back from moments when they become stressful and put them into a little bit of perspective. As Laguna students we have countless resources at our disposal during the application process. Use them well. Take advantage of your free time and the help the school offers you. Try to write without editing yourself; free writing often sparked ideas. Lastly, if you have a ginning of senior schedule to finish evyear, I discovered erything over summer, a new appreciation great, and if you don’t, for time. Time seemed to use your time well. Writer’s block may be slipping through my fingers. Juggling school, seem to be an insurcollege applications, vol- mountable obstacle, but leyball, and a social life it is not permanent. Inspiration will come was more than difficult. I found myself lying and your voice will blosawake during odd som into essays when hours of the night, you least expect it.
Decisions, Decisions By CAROLINA BELTRAN My college application process could be described through a series of arguments, tears, feelings of anxiety, elation, and revelation all dedicated to the ominous red X that marks Dec. 15 on the calendar. How is it that I can pour endless time and energy into an application that, in mere minutes, an office of admissions will decidedly accept or reject me without another thought? But these things must be done, so, on top of the slew of AP classes and extracurricular activities I’ve undertaken, I finally completed my first application. And while it’s time consuming and stressful, I’ve gotten to know myself better. I strongly suggest to all upcoming seniors to seek help from others, it’s important to know how a variety of people respond to your work.
In regards to the personal essay, I promise that your topic will come to you. I was washing my face before going to bed when I was hit with this glorious epiphany of what I should write my essay about. But in hindsight, I wish I had started working on my applications just a bit earlier. At the end of the day, I remind myself that every thing is going to be okay, even though it doesn’t always feel like it. I will get into a college, whether or not it’s my first choice. And while the process is stressful, it’s necessary, and ultimately worth it. My fingernails might be chewed off, but the endless support from the people around me, particularly my family, keeps me calm and reminds me that this is supposed to be fun and exciting. And that alone is something to be proud of.
2010-2011 NBA Western Conference Playoff Predictions By ELLIOT SERBIN
#1. LA Lakers – With Andrew Bynum hopefully able to play most of the season, the Lakers should be in good shape to repeat at the top of the Western Conference. Ultimately their success rides on the continued excellence of Kobe Bryant, who has logged a lot of mileage over the years but has not yet seen a noticeable decline in production. But with solid additions of Steve Blake, Matt Barnes, and Theo Ratliff, the Lakers bench just got that much deeper. #2. Oklahoma City – New sensation Kevin Durant should be able to lead this young team into a second place finish in the West. They are young, talented, and have the drive to get better. Durant’s humility and work ethic are unmatched, and point guard Russell Westbrook and forward Jeff Green can only get better by following his lead. The Thunder crackle with energy – what’s not to like about this team? #3. Portland – An incredibly talented team that has yet to realize their true potential (due to an onslaught of injuries the past two years), the Trailblazers seem poised to have a breakout season and move up in the Western Conference standings. Despite the fact that big man Greg Oden still on the sidelines, the continued improvement of role players like swingmen Nic Batum and Wesley Matthews should provide some support in the backcourt for Brandon Roy. The addition of over twenty pounds to forward LaMarcus Aldridge should help him bang in the post for rebounds against other big bodies.
#4. San Antonio – The Spurs boast superior depth to last year with the additions of athletic shooter James Anderson and touted Brazilian center Tiago Splitter. If Tim Duncan’s knees hold up, and Coach Popovich can manage the minutes of Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker by the time the playoffs roll around, then the Spurs should be in good position to make another title run. #5. Dallas – The Mavericks fell short last year in the first round to the seventh-seeded Spurs, and while they have not done much to revamp the team, the tweaks they have made were crucial. For example, the Mavericks have added center Tyson Chandler to round out their front court rotation, and hopefully more playing time for second year point guard Rodrigue Beaubois will help him continue to grow as a player. It remains to be seen, however, if the Mavericks have enough firepower to take them farther than they went last season. #6. Utah – Any Jerry Sloan coached team has the ability to compete with any team in the league, and despite losing Carlos Boozer in the offseason, the Jazz have added another solid post presence in Al Jefferson. Deron Williams, arguably the top point guard in the NBA, runs Coach Sloan’s offense with incredible efficiency. Look for the Jazz to make some noise this year. #7. Houston – The success of the Rockets lies ultimately with the health of Yao Ming. They have quite a few skilled scorers in Aaron Brooks, Kevin Martin, Luis Scola, and a budding talent in Chase Budinger. However, if Yao is not able to play, or is very limited in this ability to perform, the Rockets just don’t have enough firepower or height inside to contend with the top teams like the Lakers. #8. New Orleans – Chris Paul is coming back with a vengeance after his injury last season and the Hornets should be able to slide into the playoffs. Trevor Ariza was a good pickup to replace the dead weight of Peja Stojakovic. David West is a solid player and Emeka Okafor should fit into to the offense better with a second year under his belt. But it still seems that the Hornets lack a dominate wing scorer to take them deep into the playoffs.
Around Athletics: What to Expect from Winter Sports By FLETCHER SIPPLE
Laguna winter sports consistently field some of the school’s most talented squads. Boys and girls soccer as well as girls and boys basketball are fielded every year through Laguna’s athletic department. Girls soccer has been a powerhouse the past few years. They’ve reached the CIF finals three times, and have consistently excelled in post-season play. The problem, which is perhaps at the forefront of the soccer team’s mind, is the realization that Coach Greg Luna, who had an impeccable winning record, is no longer a member of the Laguna Blanca School faculty. Coaches Fernando Montes and Kevin Shertzer will be taking his place this year. Laguna also lost some impact players, most notably Erin Stone, who now plays for the NESCAC Champion Tufts Jumbos squad. Even though Laguna isn’t returning some strong players, there are plenty of other skilled and dangerous weapons on the team. Senior goalie and twoyear starter Arabella Watters returns, while three-year starter junior Becca Braly returns to the attack, senior captain and four-year starter Lauren McAlister also returns to take the field this winter. Even with the loss of a few great players from last year, the returning talent is well equipped to pick up any slack and to continue the winning tradition. The boys soccer team is
also entering this season with a new coach. Spanish instructor Travis Manach will be at the helm for the boys’ program this season. Coach Kevin Shertzer is now coaching the girls soccer team.
Poised and Ready: (Above) Senior captains Sean Burke and Lauren McAlister stand in front of the goal. (Below) Julia Kent and Brandon Bickett ready for some basketball. Photos: ELLIOT SERBIN
Laguna returns a few key players after loosing some stars from last season. Current Stanford and Laguna class of 2010 student, Seth Judson, is one player the team wishes they could have back this season.
A quiet leader Seth brought hustle and hard work to the team. Laguna also looses a player who was arguably one of Laguna’s top athletes. Ryan Richardson, who is now a senior at Santa Barbara High School, is gone after transferring this year. Ryan led the team in points as well as in raw talent. A standout player Ryan will be missed by the team as this season progresses. Even with the loss of a few standouts, Laguna returns veteran goalkeeper Pascal Karam, senior Sean Burke, and junior Kai Gamble all of whom saw lots of playing time in previous seasons. Pascal, a four-year starting goalie, will anchor the team’s defense along with Kai Gamble. Boys basketball remains in a competitive position this season as it gains big time freshman talent and retains experienced players. With only one major contributor gone, the team returns star juniors Brandon Bickett and Logan Elder as well as talented seniors Elliot Serbin, Spencer Dusebout, and Connor Gray. Girls basketball should also have a solid season ahead. After a successful season last year, the team returns starters Krysta Brown, Julia Kent, and Amanda Schulenberg. These seniors will provide a solid base for the numerous returning underclassmen. Success is in the equation for this team.
Featured Athletes By FLETCHER SIPPLE
Kevin Drew Senior Kevin Drew has hit the gridiron for Laguna since freshman year. In addition, he is also one of Laguna’s most talented three sport athletes. As for football, Kevin has been a starting wide receiver all four years as an Owl playing two years on junior varsity and two years on varsity. As a senior, Kevin has started every game, and has been an impact player both on offense and defense. Offensively, “Kevin can really be a difference maker,” says fellow teammate Jeff Nelson. Defensively, as a cornerback, Kevin provides shut down coverage and often times “brings the big hits” as Nelson puts it. Kevin leads the team in reception yards. In addition, he ranks among Laguna’s top point scorers. He is the only Laguna football player this season to block a field goal attempt. Although his accolades are impressive, Kevin earns his spot as a featured athlete this season due to the intensity he brings to the field. Fellow player Logan Elder comments, “Kevin plays really hard, he flies around, hits kids, and scores points. His intensity is what sets him apart. I’m glad he is on our team.”
PHOTOS: ARABELLA WESTON-SMITH
Amanda Harvey
Widely considered as one of the top volleyball prospects on the Central Coast, Amanda Harvey earns herself the title of featured athlete this season because of the impact she has made this season. Senior Hilary Williamson commented, “When Cate School heard Amanda wasn’t playing in our match against them, they all got really excited, they knew one of our best players wasn’t going to be there.” Amanda is also making an impact on the club level, she is a star on the widely respected Santa Barbara Volleyball club which competes nationally. Amanda is currently considering offers from a variety of college programs including some of the top NCAA Division One programs. Amanda has been a starter all four years for the Laguna team which has seen CIF every year of her career including a few trips to the semi-final and final games. She is one of the few freshmen in the history of Laguna varsity volleyball to see significant play time during her rookie season. A junior, Amanda will continue to produce as the team continues onto CIF this season.
GRAPHIC: SEAN BURKE
Club Sports vs. School Sports By ANDREW MCCAFFERY
I
n high schools across the United States, student-athletes often times are confronted with a difficult choice: whether to play school sports or club sports. Usually, it is not possible to play on both teams. This being said, students become torn between their options The more favored decision used to be to compete at the scholastic level. As a member of a high school sports team, a student-athlete feels like -- and is -a proud member of the school community, and has the opportunity to represent his or her school on the football field, basketball court, baseball diamond, and so on. However, since there is still a high priority on academic success, the level of competition suffers a blow, as compared to club sports. For members of a club team, some of the main reasons to participate are: to better one’s skills, to pursue one’s sport at a more competitive level, and to expose one’s talents to the outside world. Club athletes often market themselves to colleges, and even professional organizations, in hopes of being recruited and earning a scholarship. However, while club athletes are furthering their talents -- and possibly laying the groundwork for a collegiate or professional athletic career -- they sometimes suffer. For example, certain club organizations prohibit their players from competing on high school teams. This move is selfish, but also smart: coaches want to
ensure that their players are entirely committed to the club. They also don’t want to risk a player getting injured in a school game: this could threaten the player’s ability to play in club games and tournaments. Because of these restrictions, school teams lose potential stars, and sometimes become desperate for players. However, the school isn’t the only body that suffers; the club athlete does not have the same experience of a high school athlete. The club player doesn’t compete alongside peers and classmates, fighting together to bring respect and glory to the school. Instead, he or she is surrounded by a group of individuals who play for the same team, but have different individual goals and objectives. Fortunately, student-athletes at Laguna Blanca don’t have to worry about these restrictions: the school allows players to compete at the scholastic and club levels simultaneously. Take the example of Laguna freshman, Tiana Bonn. Over the years, she has grown used to balancing school sports, her school work and playing for the Santa Barbara Soccer Club. Although it makes managing her academic life more difficult, Tiana appreciates being able to play both club and school soccer: “Club soccer is where I go to improve my skills, but school soccer gives me the opportunity to practice with older and more advanced players.”
However, allowing students to compete at both levels can sometimes hurt school athletics; when club players miss practice or games due to club-level conflicts, the school team is hurt, no matter the player’s status on the school team. These conflicts became a reality on Oct. 2, when the Laguna Blanca football team had to take on the Dunn School without quarterback Troy Ritter. Ritter, who plays club soccer year round as well as Laguna sports, had an important soccer game in Orange County. “I didn’t want to miss either game, but since I want to play soccer in college, I put soccer first.” Although Ritter’s absence made an impact, the Owls were still able to pull through, and silence Dunn 50-20. This is largely due to the leadership of this year’s seniors, like co-captain Jeffrey Nelson. “Luckily, we have a lot of skilled players this year who are able to move around positions. We very successfully ran the ball, and even without Troy, we had a good passing game.” In this case, Ritter’s absence served as an eye-opener for Laguna’s sports teams. The school continues to support students in their athletic endeavors, club or school, but team captains have taken a greater responsibility for their players’ attendance and commitment. All in all, club sports are a great way for players to further their athletic abilities. As long as club players honor their school commitments, there won’t be too many conflicts like the Homecoming Game.
Three Teams Head to the CIF Tournament By BRANDON BICKETT
Without a doubt, LBS’s fall sports teams have basked in unprecedented glory this season. For the first time in five years, all the fall sports have competed voraciously: successfully making the cut in order to attend the CIF playoffs. Led by spirited team captains and backed up by skilled players, the Football, Volleyball and Cross Country squads continue to CIF play.
XC
This year’s Cross Country squad hit the ground running, and never stopped. After a successful season of exciting meets and competitions, the entire boys team qualified for the CIF postseason. Two members of the girls team, Nadia Belton and Marla Bonser, both qualified for CIF individually. Senior runner Parker Lilly is a top contender for the Mt. Sac CIF meet; after 4 years of speedy running, Lilly is heading to CIF with a calm, cool, and confident attitude. After an extremely successful senior season running for the Owls, Lilly is slated to have a top chance of winning it big this time around in CIF play. PHOTO: DAVID GOLDMUNTZ
FOOTBALL
Heading into the CIF tournament at 6-3 the football team is coming off a record-making season. On average, senior running back Austin Rusack averages 125 yards per and 17 points per game. Junior quarterback Troy Ritter, has had a breakout season averaging 180 yards passing per game. Laguna has dominated the Condor League loosing only to Thatcher, in a close match, and Cate in a lopsided defeat. Senior Kevin Drew and junior Logan Elder have produced for the offense as well. Laguna opens up CIF play for the first time in five years against Capistrano Valley Christian School.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF KELSEY DOUGLAS
VOLLEYBALL
Senior volleyball players pictured above at the senior game against Dunn have something to smile about. For the past several years, they have exceeded expectations: successfully making the CIF tournament and placing high in it each year. This season, led by four seniors Krysta Brown, Amanda Schulenberg, Hilary Williamson and Arabella WestonSmith, along with hard-hitting junior Amanda Harvey, they always win games. Finishing the 2010 season at 14-2, the team looks forward to the CIF playoff tournament. PHOTO: JOHN FANTE
PHOTOS: MORGAN RAITH AND FAMILY Left to right: Robert Raymond, Elizabeth, and Morgan Raith pose in front of a billboard at the Dublin Marathon Expo. The trio looks back to take a quick picture just past the start gate. Team Raith-Raymond pose after the race with their official Dublin Marathon medals. Morgan Raith poses with Moses Kangogo Kibet who placed first and broke the previous record for fastest time in the Dublin race. He held a steady pace of 4:53 for all 26.2 miles!
Ireland
Travels! By Morgan Raith
The Temple Bar is one of many exciting pubs and restaurants which fill Dublin’s famous Temple Bar area.
A flower vendor contributes to the colorful scenes of Grafton Street, Dublin’s equivalent to Madison Avenue.
Like many other Irish towns, Kenmare’s brightly colored storefronts line the narrow streets.
The Drombeg Stone Circle stands 13 stones around. It was built in 153 B.C. oriented towards the sun set of the winter solstice.
A crisp fall air greeted us as we stepped onto our bus outside the Dublin International Airport on Oct. 23. “Look right!” someone called as my mom and I started over the cross walk. The left sided streets of Dublin can be treacherous to the unsuspecting jet lagged American tourist. We made our way to the Conrad Hotel across the street from the National Concert Hall and just a stone’s throw from Trinity College. After we were greeted by my grandparents, we quickly checked into our room before heading off to the Dublin Marathon Expo. At the Expo, we received our race numbers and browsed through the different booths. Seeing the other runners who had come from all over the world provided a new level of excitement and a realization that I was actually going to do this. At 17, I was going to run a marathon. After the Expo, we found our way to a classic Irish pub and eagerly dove into our first of many plates of authentic fish-and-chips. I began to feel intimidated by the number of elite runners that were staying with us at the hotel. There were entrants in this marathon from 74 different countries. Like other American entrants, my grandfather coordinated our stay with the Marathon Tours program. Marathon Tours allows people to run in some of the world’s most exciting races including marathons in the Arctic Circle, The Great Wall of China, and The Australian Outback. At the same time, the program gives runners the opportunity to experience the culture of the race locations. They also negotiated my participation in the race. The minimum age required to compete in most full marathons is 18 because it is not good to put such huge strain on your body at an early age. The next day was my seventeenth birthday and we spent the day exploring some of the city and enjoying the local fare without overexerting ourselves because the race was the next day. We walked through the historic Trinity College, founded in the 1500s and Alma Mater to such famous literates as William Butler Yates, Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, and James Joyce. We had lunch in the Temple Bar area, best known for its nightlife, a variety of pubs and restaurants, and an array of street vendors and musicians. We also enjoyed shopping along Grafton Street, Dublin’s equivalent to Madison Avenue. The morning of the race we awoke for an early breakfast before a nine o’clock start time. With temperatures in the low 40s I made sure to dress in more than my usual tank top and shorts. Runners were positioned according to their estimated finish times and we found our place amongst the 13,500 participants of the 2010 Dublin Marathon who were also anxiously waiting for the start gun to go off. Here I was in this huge mob of people who had also, no doubt, spent months of preparation and training that would culminate into the next few hours of pounding the pavement from start to finish lines. The start gun went off and the elite runners took off at a steady never faltering pace of six minutes a mile or under. Moses Kangogo Kibet, the winner and now record holder for fastest time to finish the Dublin race, could have finished the race and come back and done it a second time with several minutes to spare before my mom, grandfather and I stepped over the
finish line. We kept at a pace of around 12 minute miles, which isn’t very fast but not too bad for the three of us together. The scenery was incredible as the course snaked through downtown Dublin, beautiful parks, past old churches and very encouraging cheering crowds. We finished with a time of five hours and seventeen minutes and my grandfather and I both took second place in our age groups. We were awarded with medals inside of the finish line and walked away in a lot of pain but smiles on our faces. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Kibet the morning after the race and he said that he missed his family and that he was excited for his next race in Dubai on January 21st. Running is his way of life apart from his wife and children who he lives with on his farm in Kenya. We left the bustling city of Dublin for the more tranquil setting of Ireland’s south west coast. My grandfather rented a car for the trip and did a fantastic job staying on the left side of the road and, maneuvering the narrow roads, and dodging other traffic. Our first night out of Dublin we made our way through the fishing port of Cork and found ourselves in the sleepy old fishing town of Kinsale. The next day we stopped at the Drombeg Stone Circle, where 13 vertically standing stones are arranged in the direction of the sun set on the winter solstice. The circle’s builders and purposes remain a mystery. We drove further to reach an old signal station at Mizzen Head, Ireland’s southern most point. The road there overlooked a landscape of wide sandy beaches and sharp black cliffs. We stopped for lunch in Bantry before making our final stop for the night in Kenmare. Our next destination was a peninsula known as The Ring of Kerry. Amidst the beautiful scenery scattered “ghost houses” are left in ruin after being abandoned by starving families during the Irish potato famine in the mid 1800s. We found a statue of the famous short filmmaker, Charlie Chaplain, as we passed through the town of Waterville. Chaplain apparently frequented the small town in his travels and was loved by the residents. A visit to the Ballinskellings Priory, a seaside churchyard dating back to the 15th century ended our journey through the Ring of Kerry. GRAPHIC: JULIA KENT We spent the night in Dingle, which is surprisingly placed smack dab in the middle of the Dingle Peninsula. Dingle is prized for its breathtaking views along Slea Head Drive, which winds around the tip of the peninsula. After stopping through Ireland’s most famous surfing town, Castlegregory, we made our final stretch up to Adare where we spent the night in the historic Adare Manor which was built in 1832 and has been converted into a luxury hotel and golf resort. On the plane ride home I looked through my pictures of the past week and was sad to leave the Emerald Isle. The marathon was over and now I didn’t know what I was going to do. I was so used to my training schedule that it felt strange being able to relax and take in all that I had accomplished. This experience was one of a kind and I feel incredibly lucky to have shared it with both my grandfather and my mom.
The Irish coastline is sprinkled with many charming fishing towns like this one.
Irish farmers splotch their sheep with color to identify ownership of different flocks.
Enclosed in the Ballinskellings Priory is a fifteenth century monastery and graveyard.
The outer edges of a farm stretch to the rocky coastline of Slea Head Drive.
The exterior of the Adare Manor is accented by expansive gardens and a world famous golf course.