Issue5

Tideline

Palisades Charter High School • Pacific Palisades, CA • November 13 - 27, 2008 • Volume XLIX, Issue 5 • www.tidelinenewspaper.com

STUDENTS TO CREATE ENERGY EFFICIENT SCHOOL

BY D ANIEL HARTONO Tideline Editor-in-Chief

The Pali Lights group hopes to save the environment one light bulb at a time.

In an effort to preserve the environment and reduce the consumption of energy on campus, the Pali Lights initiative, led by Senior Liane Dallalzadeh, plans to replace the incandescent light bulbs in the school hallways with more energy efficient CFL bulbs, which would save money and energy and reduce the school’s carbon footprint.

The Pali Lights project began just over one year ago as an idea put into action by students Alex Helmintoller and Liane Dallalzadeh. Since then, the group has worked with Mr. Jefferson, Dick Held, the Booster Club, and students in order to raise the necessary $1,050 in order to purchase the 400 new bulbs for the school.

“The booster club now sets aside funds for student projects and ideas, which is pretty cool because it’s nice to know that our collaboration with them will set the way for new projects to do as well,” said Dallalzadeh.

Currently, the project is nearing its completion, and is Continued on page 2

JOHN GREEN CAPTIVATES CROWD

BY ELANA JOFFE

Tideline Editor-in-Chief

MARY HOBBS Tideline

Author John Green stopped

by Pali High on his cross-country book tour, in order to promote his new novel, Paper Towns, on October 30, 2008.

Students and teachers alike were excited to have a renowned author speak to an audience in B101, especially his fans. Mrs. King, the librarian, has been circulating his novels throughout the school, so that students would be prepared for the event. Junior Vivien Huba said, “He’s possibly the best author ever.” Green was able to captivate students with a multitude of anecdotes and with promising words for aspiring writers. “He was really funny. He engaged himself with the crowd rather than having a set out speech,” said Huba.

During his speech, Green gave a brief synopsis of all his previous books, including Looking for Alaska and An Abundance of Katherines. He then read from the prologue and explained the two different covers of the novel Paper Towns. “There are two covers because [each cover] is an equally incorrect misconception about the character, Margot main Spigelman,” said Green. He also told the audience that the movie rights to his newest novel have just been sold to the same company that produced Juno and Harold and Kumar.

Green also gave extensive advice to hopeful writers. “There are two things that are important about writing. First, not writing for yourself. It doesn’t matter if you think your work is good, you’re writing for your audience,” said Green. His second point was “Read. It’s the only apprenticeship we have,” said Green. He also encouraged students to get into the writing profession and said, “Literature is not a cold, dead place.

It is still a vibrant culture in which we live.”

Mrs. King and Children’s Book World organized the event.

Mrs. King hopes to continue this coalition with Children’s Book World and have other authors come to speak with students. Mrs. King felt that the students were lucky to receive an author so in touch with their generation. “He’s a younger guy and a lot of the kids can really relate,” she said.

determined, students stepped up to the stage to compete for the most original costume. The winners of the category were Seniors Tyler Brewington, who dressed up as Michelle Obama, and Buck Traweek, who partially shaved his head. “I figured giving people something to laugh at was worth sacrificing my hair,” said Traweek.

Next, students with humorous costumes stepped on stage in hopes of winning the funniest costume category. Notable costumes included Juno from the 2007 comedy-drama film, circus characters, and a giant duck.

However, the winners of the funniest costume were Senior Bo Jacobson, as Lt. Dangle of Reno 911, and Freshman Dusty Renolds, as a 60s jogger. Bo Jacobson persisted with the comedy after winning and said, “I’m excited to win. It brings special excitement inside my pants and I want to thank everyone for cheering for me.”

Afterward, four contestants dressed up in scary attire participated in the creepiest costume category. The victor was Junior Wyatt Elliot, who dressed up as the Joker from the movie “The Continued on page 2

Britney S pears is Back Page 6

Homecoming Game Page 8

Students Dance the Night Away

MARY HOBBS TIDELINE

PALI RYTHM: Students celebrate the school’s Homecoming victory by shaking up the dance floor at the Homecoming Dance.

BY F IONA HANNIGAN Tideline News Editor

Students mingled, danced, and dined at the Westin Bonaventure on November 8 at the annual Homecoming Dance hosted by leadership, after the school’s victory against Uni at the Homecoming Game on November 7.

The elegant hall where the dance took place was decorated in purple, black, and silver to match the theme of the dance, Le Mystère Exotique or The Exotic Mystery. “I think the theme was cool but a lot of people didn't notice it, ” said Senior Ashley Saba. Dim lighting and colorful light effects on the dance floor enhanced the atmosphere.

A variety of food was served buffet-style, ranging from dumplings to miniature pizzas, with lemonade and water to drink.

There was also a table of cakes and an ice-cream sundae bar.

“Dessert was amazing! Ice cream sundaes!” said Senior Sarah Williams.

Students slowly trickled onto the dance floor, as DJ Nathan Javidzad spinned, until the rhythm of dancing permeated the entire room. “I don't think I've ever danced that long or that hard in my whole life. I had a blast!” said Senior Tyler Brewington.

As the dance came to a close, the nominees for the Homecoming Court gathered onto the dance floor to hear the results of the votes cast earlier in the evening. The Lord and Lady were declared to be Freshmen Nadia Biousad and David Mitchell.

Sophomores Ariana Melton and Kolmus Iheanacho won the title of Duke and Duchess, and the Prince and Princess were

announced as Juniors India Purnell and Carlos Bustamante.

Finally, after the rest of the court cleared the floor, and following a drum roll from the surrounding attendees, Joseph Blackwell and Summer Wheaton won the title of Homecoming Kind and Queen. "I was excited to win, I didn't think it would happen," said Blackwell.

The court couples shared their first dance, and the rest of the students returned to the dance floor.

After a few last songs, at 11:30 p. m. , Mr. Cohen, Leadership Advisor, announced the end of the dance, and everyone was rushed out with a cry of, “You don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here!”

Leadership viewed this year's homecoming as a success.

"Overall, people had more favorable opinions of it than last year," said ASB President Nick Morshed. "Most of the people we talked to had a pretty good time."

The Homecoming Dance is one of many more Leadership events to come. Morshed said, "We are actually planning on having a winter semi-formal."

Homecoming is particularly unique among school dances by the “fact that everyone can go,” said Saba, and “When we actually win the homecoming game, everyone is more hyped up.”

Pali Gets Pumped

KATIE MEYERS Photographer

DOLPHIN S PIRIT: Dorks show their school spirit.

BY JAMES BOURNE

Inspired Dolphins Dress to... Impress?

CREATIVE CREEPS : Students parade their creativity on the stage in the outragous costumes.

Students came to school in pajamas, in geeky glasses and even in drag to celebrate Spirit Week in anticipation of Homecoming Weekend. Leadership organized the weeklong event, which ended on Friday with a pep-rally and the Homecoming Game.

Starting with Pajama Day on Monday, followed by Trippy Tuesday, Dork Day on Wednesday, Gender Bender on Thursday, and Blue and White Friday, each Spirit Day was designed to be a fun way for students to show their school spirit, especially Friday, when students were encouraged to “do it right in blue and white.”

The spirit days were mostly a

success among students, but there was widespread confusion on the meaning of Trippy Tuesday. “I don’t even know what Tuesday was supposed to be, “ said Senior Lacey Carter. “No one was dressed up.”

Dork Day, Gender Bender Day, and Pajama Day all were noticeably participated in. “Pajama Day had the most participation. I think that’s because people didn’t really have to get dressed up. They just show up in pajamas,” said Associated Student Body Vice President Su Kang.

Friday’s pep-rally proved to be the climax of the week’s spirit days. Students cheered, waved at their friends, and danced to the music blaring from the stadium’s sound system.

Students dressed up for Leadership’s annual Halloween Costume Contest, on October 31, which aimed to promote school spirit and entertain the student body.

Commissioner of Communications Dexter O’Connell hosted the event.

Students crowded around the stage to see their fellow peers partake in the competition. There were five different categories: best teacher, most original, funniest, creepiest, and best group costume. The level of cheers received from the crowd

determined the winners and each victor received a chocolate bar and a five-dollar gift certificate to Pinkberry.

The costume contest began with the best teacher category. The winner of the best teacher category was a group consisting of Mr. King as John McCain, Ms. Saiza as Cindy McCain, Ms. Anderson as Sarah Palin, and Mr. Lee as a moose. Lee was thrilled about winning and said, “It’s good to see people use creativity productively.

The contest is a good way to emphasize the diversity at Pali. I love all the creativity and humor.”

After the best teachers were

Drama Festival Page 2

Halloween at Pali!

Page 3

Whining Students Page 4

President Obama Page 5

Tideline Editor-In-Chief

BY D ANIEL N IKNAM Tideline News Editor

Page 2

NEWS-IN-BRIEF

Tideline

Gi rl s Vol l eybal l Geared to Wi n a Champi ons hi p

NEWS

November 13 - November 27, 2008

SENIORS FILL OUT EARLY APPS

BY MELINA CHARIS

The Varsity Girls Volleyball team looks to win a second consecutive Volleyball Championship as they enter into the playoffs with a perfect league record. The girls have won their last two home games in a convincing manner and have assured home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. The girls will play on November 6 in the first round and hopefully continue to play into November 11 in the second round, November 13 in the quarterfinals, November 18 in the semi finals and on November 22 in the renowned City Championship.

- Kene Izuchukwu

Tideline Staff Writer

Refl ecti ons Competi ti on i s Back

The PTSA Reflections program is back for another run.

This time the theme is awe inspiring – literally “Wow.” Students can interpret this in any way they would like, through musical composition, literature, visual arts, photography, dance choreography, or film and video production.

Awards will be given at local, council, district, state, and national levels, and the entries will be showcased in the PTSA Reflections Program gallery. Students can have their artistic endeavors recognized by placing their submissions in the Pali PTSA Reflections Box in the main office by December 15.

- Jackie Rosen

S eni ors Fi l l Out UC Appl i cati ons

With application deadlines just around the corner, many seniors on campus are rushing to fill out the application for UC schools. The deadline for this application is November 30, and the application allows prospective freshmen to apply to as many as nine UC schools by simply checking their choices off. In addition, when a student submits an application, they are automatically applying for scholarships. The UC system has long been renowned by California students who wish to get a quality college experience for a cost that is relatively low compared to its private school counterparts.

- Katy Pool Gi rl s Tenni s Advances To Quarterfi nal s

The Varsity Girls Tennis Team won in the first round of City Section Playoffs to advance to the Quarterfinals of City Section Playoffs. The girls, who were not expected to make it past the first round at the beginning of the season, are looking forward to the next round and are hoping to continue all the way to the City Championships. The team, which lost eight seniors last year, was marked weak but is now enjoying its position as Western League Champions. The team is now planning and practicing explicitly for their next opponent, and is hoping to win again to go on to Semifinals and then Cities. They will play on November 12 in the quarterfinals.

- Justin Nam Journal i s m Heads to S t. Loui s for Competi ti on

On Thursday, November 13, members of the Tideline Staff will go to the Journalism Education Association Convention in St. Louis, Missouri. They will attend workshops and seminars that cover design, advertising, business operations, photography, broadcast, and writing that will help them become better journalists. They will also go to lectures led by some of the leaders in broadcasting, and compete in write-off contests that will place them against other high school writers from around the country.

- Elizabeth Pauly

Dramies Showcase Ta l e n t a t D TA S C F e s t i v a l

MARY HOBBS Tideline

S O NOT THE DRAMA: C Division Sailor Moon Cast Rehearses before Showcase Night.

BY NEGAR MAHMOODI and LAYLEE S ALEK Tideline Staff Writers

Beginning the year with a the Drama strong debut, Department made its mark at the 2008 Drama Teachers Association of Southern California (DTASC) C Division Fall Drama Festival.

Having prepared seven different five to eight minute acting scenes, ranging from a monologue to a musical category and one technical category, Ms. Kraus’s seventh period theater workshop class was ready to compete.

Revolving around the preparation of this annual festival on October 25, the seventh period class became overfilled with newcomers and veterans alike. This overpopulation was therefore accounted for by having four groups compete for a spot in the large-group comedy category.

Though all groups worked hard for this spot, Sailor Moon, directed by Natasha Milner and Suah Kang, became victorious.

“Natasha and I had been planning to direct Sailor Moon for a while, and when our scene was chosen to go to festival, we were really hon-

ored and super excited,” said Kang.

After showcasing their scenes to various classes during school and to parents at a nighttime performance, directors and actors were anxious for the Saturday competition.

Arriving at Calabasas High School on Saturday, October 25th, Ms. Kraus and her seventh period students did not know what to expect. Despite waking up early, the “dramies” were extremely anxious, as well as energetic to see what was in store for them.

The day began with two back-to-back rounds, where scenes went to a designated classroom and performed in front of their competitors and a panel of judges. “All of us were nervous.

The competition was crazy,” said Junior Mia Canter, co-director of Les Miserables, a scene for the Open Musical category.

Sophomore Maddie Packer also said, “I got there and thought, ‘Oh my God, there’s so much competition.”

As the announcements were made as to whom had advanced to the semi-finals, Pali was left in shock when the promising large group comedy scene, an adapta-

Pali Lights Goes Green, Competes for Prize Money

Continued from page 1 steps away from accomplishing the group’s initial goal. “We delivered the first box of 100 bulbs to Mr. Jefferson the other day and are waiting on the remaining 300 bulbs in the mail,” said Dallalzadeh.

If replaced, each CFL light bulb would be able to reduce the school’s carbon emissions by an average of 60 pounds on an annual basis. So if each of the 400 bulbs on campus hallways were replaced and running, the school would be able to potentially reduce carbon emissions by an average of 24,000 pounds a year.

The Pali Lights group has also recently entered a competition called Project 10 to the 100th, which is sponsored by Google in honor of its tenth birthday. Project 10 to the 100th asked individuals and groups for ideas that would be able to benefit and improve society and the world if they were eventually implemented. Submission categories included topics ranging from humanitarian causes and poverty to education and clean energy.

To compete, the group had to answer questions regarding their idea, explain how the people of the world would benefit, and state how the impact of their idea could be measured. The Pali Lights group also contributed an optional video segment explaining their project, which is available on

VAL KARUSKEVICH Photographer

MEAN GREEN: Alex Helmintoller, Liane Dallalzadeh, and Wylie Janousek bring light to Pali.

YouTube.

Five winners out of the over 100,000 competitors will be able to split $10 million in order to implement their project ideas that they contributed to the competition. “The winners are announced sometime in early February or March, but voting for finalists begins on January 27 and anyone who signs on to Google can vote, so we’re hoping to get chosen as one of the ideas you can vote on and then have the whole school vote numerously for us,”

Dallalzadeh said.

Despite the group’s progress, the project did have its share of difficulties. “When Alex and I first started, we thought we could finish the project in a month, two tops, but now it’s been over a year and we’re just starting to see the results. It’s been difficult having to keep on going and thinking of new, creative ways to make presentations and fundraisers, while getting the word out, but its also been really rewarding,” said Dallalzadeh.

About their project as a whole, Dallalzadeh said, “I think it’s a great idea in its simplicity and that if we all got involved in thinking of new ways to improve the school we spend so much time in, we would ultimately be benefitting ourselves. I like to know that I’m getting involved in helping reduce climate crisis and I hope others will be inspired to do their part too. If switching a simple light bulb could make such a difference, imagine what we could do with an even bigger idea.”

tion of Sailor Moon directed by Seniors Suah Kang and Natasha Milner, did not make it through the first eliminations. “I was literally shocked. I cried mostly because I felt bad for the seniors in my scene because it’s their last festival,” said Packer. In addition, the technical category was disqualified for lacking five requirements.

Finals elimination served as another slap to the face, when the large group serious scene titled Proof, directed by Seniors Hannah Kloomok and Lizzy Rich, did not make it to finals. By the end of the day’s festivities, Pali walked away with three Honorable Mentions plaques, a fourth place trophy, won in the small group serious category, and lastly another Honorable Mention in Sweepstakes.

Despite the many setbacks and shortcomings in the moments before festival, Ms. Kraus’s seventh period students feel confident in the next upcoming DTASC Shakespeare Festival in the spring. “We weren’t performing to our greatest abilities this time.

We can and will do so much better next year,” said Packer.

DOLPHINS ENJOY HALLOWEEN FESTIVITIES

Continued from page 1 Dark Knight.” Elliot was excited to win and said, “Being the Joker at school today was fun. People think I look crazy.”

The best group costumes were the last to compete and a group dressed up as cross-dressers prevailed. The group consisted of Seniors Rashaad Moore and Jonathan Moscot, and Junior Damon Ray. Moscot said, “Damon and I winged it at the last minute and we knew it was going to be hilarious. It was fun to win.

We just wanted to make people laugh.”

Students who watched their peers on stage were entertained by the event. Senior Bobby Saxton said, “The best teacher category was really funny, especially Mr. King. Go McCain.” Junior Roxanne Houman also watched the event and said, “It was entertaining, but Leadership might want to consider finding a more efficient way to determine winners. Juno got gypped.” Teachers also enjoyed watching their coworkers on stage. Mr. Klima, who dressed up as a Santa Monica Policeman said, “The Halloween

Though most college application deadlines are still months away, for seniors who have chosen to apply Early Decision or Early Action to the college of their choice, the earlyNovember deadlines have recently passed. Though applying Early Action or Early Decision requires the student to be months ahead in submitting the application, for students who are strongly leaning towards or completely sure that they want to attend one specific college, applying early ensures that the student will receive quicker results and might even have a slightly better chance at gaining admission.

When a student applies early, there are three plans offered: Early Action, Early Decision, or SingleChoice Early Action. Most colleges do not offer all three, and often offer just one early application plan, meaning that the options vary. Early Decision plans are only for students who are absolutely certain that they want to attend the college they are applying to, for this plan binds the student to the school for at least one year. A student applying Early Decision cannot apply to any other colleges or universities and, if accepted, must attend the school.

To those students who know exactly what college they would like to attend, Early Decision is both expedient and practical. Senior and Thespian President Lizzy Rich is one of the students utilizing this plan by applying Early Decision to New York University, or NYU. “I’m applying to NYU Tisch [School of the Arts]. I know it’s where I want to be, and I really like the program,” said Rich, “for most schools, you have a better chance at getting in [when you apply early], but not for NYU Tisch. The competition is harder because everyone applying early is very dedicated. It’s still what I want.” Most Early Decision applications are due in early November and students will be notified of acceptance by midDecember, months ahead of the standard spring notification date.

Those who would still like to apply early, but do not wish to bind themselves to a college or university, can apply either Early Action or Single-Choice (or Restrictive) Early Action. With Early Action, a student is still applying months early and will receive results earlier, but is not bound to the college that was applied to. A student can also apply Early Action to multiple colleges, expanding options while still being able to benefit from early notification. Some colleges prefer or only offer Single-Choice or Restrictive Early Action, meaning that a student is not bound by being accepted, but cannot apply early to any other school. For senior Ava Sun, applying Single-Choice Early Action was a practical, but difficult decision. “A lot of people told me that Early Action has a slightly higher acceptance rate, but [that] was one of the things I grappled with [because] the competition’s still harder. However, my personality fit Yale’s best.” For Yale, many students apply Early Action with the hopes of getting the entire process finished with sooner.

While there are both advantages and disadvantages to applying early, it has become a widely used tool for students across the nation.

Costume Contest is a great way to promote the Halloween spirit.”

Leadership students were pleased with the success of the Halloween Costume Contest.

“Everyone came together and brought different ideas. It was extremely entertaining. The students seemed to enjoy watching their peers dress up,” said Melody Javidzad, Senior Class President.

The host of the event, Dexter O’Connell, dressed up as Colonel Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, said, “The contest featured many impressive costumes and categories which everyone seemed to enjoy. I’m sorry they couldn’t all win, but those that did were truly impressive.”

Chess Club Checkmates Boredom

T

BY DEXTER N. O’C ONNELL Tideline Editor-in-Chief

hough club day is past, the ancient game of chess again finds its dedicated practitioners facing off in D104.

Under Club P resident Max Chou, groups of players of all different levels gather to test their skills in an encouraging and gentle atmosphere.

“The purpose of the club is to help teach strategy, learn how to play [and] understand the game better,” Chou said in a Facebook message. “I’ll be willing and happy to help everyone.”

A typical game of chess begins with a move by the player behind the white pieces, and continues with the players taking turns until one or the other player is unable to make a legal move with his king. Often, however, a game is played with a time limit, measured with specially designed clocks. Last year, members of the chess club generously endowed it with new clocks in order to perform this essential function.

Student members also purchased new boards and pieces last year so that members could play like professionals. “Unlike those old, compact and crumbling boards, which crushed my mathematically planned super[ior] strategy with their sight,” said club member Anton Serzhan, “the new boards are the production of ingenuity. A simple look at them flexes my mental muscles, adds adrenaline to my blood and encourages me to completely crush my opponent.”

In the club’s mission statement is a pledge to “teach chess to students.” Under that mandate, Chou said, “A past state champion is wiling to teach whoever wants to learn [at our meetings].” Campus aide Mr. Kumani also generously divides his time at meetings, teaching novice chess players in between annihilating some of the top players in the club.

The chess club meets at lunch on 1-3-5 days.

On October 31, Dolphins stormed school dressed up as everything from then-future presidents to drag queens, leading to a hilarious day of light-hearted fingerpointing. This year’s Halloween was a step above those in years pasrt, and included a wildly successful costume contest held by Leadership with m ore categories than the Gram m ys. Many m em orable faces were painted on, many costumes painstakingly assembled, and while S arah Palin and Michelle Obama may not regularly attend Pali High, they will be remembered.

- Diva Joshi

CAMPUS LIFE

Tideline Travis DeZarn Lives On Through Travis Foundation

November 13 - November 27, 2008

BY P AULINA F IROZI Tideline Staff Writer

The Travis Foundation pays tribute to the life of a Pali graduate killed in an accident one year ago.

O

ne year ago, Travis DeZarn, 18-year-old Pali graduate, was killed in a car accident on November 3, 2007. He was then a freshman at California State University Long Beach. Now, just after the one-year anniversary of the tragic accident, The Travis Foundation is working to commemorate Travis with the same positive light that he brought to the people around him. Friends say that he was an avid lacrosse

player, a great teammate and a great friend and now, The Travis Foundation aspires to continue his legacy.n The foundation was set up fairly recently, and the inspiration for it “came about while his dad [Tim DeZarn] was climbing some stairs in July,” said his mother, Janine DeZarn. When the idea for the foundation was introduced, the DeZarns received immediate support from Pali teacher, Mr. Lissauer, and many of Travis’ friends and their families, including Mike Light, Jesse Poller, Griffin Mekelbur, Jake Satz, and Hannah Cranston. The DeZarns decided it was important not only to honor their son’s life but also to help the many students and families who have experienced the

Students Receive Recognition at Awards Ceremony

teacher, organized a memorial on the Pali field where many spoke to remember their friend. The PPLA Lacrosse Booster Club raised $2200 for the DeZarn family in honor of Travis’ jersey number, 22. His jersey is now on display in the Pali Sports Department.

October 17, 2008 marked the first official event for the foundation, held on what would have been Travis’ 19th birthday. It was held at the “Santa Monica Stairs,” a place that Tim DeZarn says gives him meditation and a fraction of peace HANNAH MICHELLE Photographer in this tough time. “We Travis Foundation. Just after his added Tim’s age (56) to Travis’ death last November, Mr. (19) and Tim climbed 75 flights Lissauer, who had been his of the ‘Santa Monica Stairs’,” Economics and Government said Mrs. DeZarn. Jake Satz, a

Pali athlete, joined Travis’ father for 31 of those flights. Some of Mr. Lissauer’s students also pledged over $200 for the cause.

In addition, The DeZarns have created the Travis DeZarn Memorial Scholarship through the foundation for athletes and artists who possess the same academic drive and passionate spirit that they feel Travis had.

“To reach across the world and be of service in any way in Travis DeZarn’s name would barely equal the love and joy he brought to our lives,” said Mr. Dezarn. The foundation, however, is an attempt to turn the pain of Travis’ family and friends into positive actions to honor the truly missed individual. Through the foundation, its participants work to ensure that Travis DeZarn lives on in his family, friends, and on the surface of each of the 170 steps of the “Santa Monica Stairs.”

S

use of bins. “Trash around the school is excessive and the bins in and outside of the classrooms are being misused or neglected.

We plan to wash the bins due to improper use, and also to make them more appealing,” said Recycling Team member Haley Deece. The Recycling Team feels that these minor adjustments on campus are necessary to motivate students to do their part in serving the campus and ultimately the environment.

The EAST Team has shown a sincere first attempt to bring back the meaning and knowledge of recycling on campus, and perhaps the team’s diligent work ethic and determination to improve the environmental conditions will encourage their fellow peers to make pro-environmental decisions off campus as well.

tragedy of death.

Events and memorials for Travis had been held even before the establishment of the official

EAST Recycling Team Takes Initiative to Keep Environment Green

Students shuffled into Mercer Hall on October 31 to be recognized for their academic achievement. An estimated 800 students were awarded in total, an increase from previous years.

BY WILL ANDERSON

M

Tideline Staff Writer

s. Peaks organized the event, along with help from Ms. Davenport and the rest of the counseling department.

The awards were divided up into two categories: The Dean’s List and Principal’s List. Students with a 3.0 to a 3.49 were placed on the Dean’s List, while students with a 3.5 and above were awarded the exclusive Principal’s list. In addition, students with all E’s in work habits and cooperation were given the additional Citizenship Honor. Any grade below a “C” on the final report card automatically disqualified any student from receiving an award.

Names were projected onto the wall, in contrast to previous years of individual names being called. “It definitely felt like a smoother and faster ceremony than the previous years,” said

Junior Liz Pauly. Students then walked up to the stage, shook hands with Principle Griffin, and received a pin.

“Overall, I think it was a success,” said Ms. Peaks. “I think students enjoyed the new format and everybody had a good time.” Students also responded positively, enjoying the cookies and a break from class.

Pali High is nationally recognized for its academics.

Recently, Newsweek Magazine ranked Pali in the top 1 percent of American High Schools. “We are always right up on the top of the charts. It’s a recognition to the AP classes we offer and the degree to which our students score on the SAT and ACT,” said Mr. Snyder. Additionally, 93% of graduates from Pali go onto college.

Certificates were not printed for each award recipient this year.

Any students wishing to receive a certificate for their award may visit the counseling office.

Page 3

BY TATIANA C OLE Tideline Staff Writer

tudents enrolled in Mr. Engelmann’s EAST course are making efforts to keep the campus and the environment clean through the EAST Recycling Team. The project started out a few weeks ago as an assignment for the class and quickly evolved into a large-scale pro-environment effort.

As humanity strives to maintain suitable living conditions through pro-environment trends such as hybrid vehicles and moderate usage of chemicals, the EAST Recycling Team joins the effort to transform our environment directly from the school campus.

The EAST Recycling Team consists of students devoted to

restoring the knowledge and purpose of recycling. The students involved in the EAST Recycling Program are Nina Dallal, Haley Deece, Hannah Fagerbakke, Suah Kang, Caroline Ho, Tait Johnson and Alley Hardy. Their first method to improve recycling habits was to analyze the current trends and recycling beliefs of other students on campus. This was accomplished through student surveys. “We took surveys in random classes, and were shocked to find that students thought used tissue is recyclable,” said Dallal. The EAST Team then collected and organized the data in a pie chart. The pie chart consists of the student body’s initial perceptions of recycling.

The results from the student surveys illustrated insufficient knowledge of recyclable items and

Dolphins Go Crazy for Halloween

EDWIN POULDAR Photographer

MARY HOBBS Photographer

BONNIE WIRTH Photographer

McCain (Mike Jones) and Palin (Becca Ebert) pose for a picture

Condiments, Scooby, and Teletubbies, OH MY !

MARY HOBBS Photographer

Sarah Palin (Ms. Anderson) hunts down a moose (Mr. Lee)

MARY HOBBS Photographer

Fear the Joker! (Wyatt Elliot)

NATASHA MILNER Photographer

MARY HOBBS Photographer

Three hotties that are single and ready to mingle

Page 4

Tideline

OPINION

Novemeber 13 - November 27, 2008

For me, words are a form of action, capable of influencing change.

E D I T O R I A L S

The Tideline

Publishing Manager: Diva Joshi

Editors in Chief:

James Bourne, Daniel Hartono, Elana Joffe, Dexter O’Connell

Junior Editor: Jackie Rosen

Layout Editors:

Henry Conklin, Rex Kirshner

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Sports Editors:

Justin Nam, Alison White

Opinion Editors:

Alex Caan, Jackie Rosen

Entertainment Editors: Caroline Coster, Arya Davachi, Katy Pool

Campus Life Editors:

Melina Charis, Lexi Green

Photography Editor: Mary Hobbs

IT Manager:

Graham MacGillivray

Business Manager:

Edwin Amirianfar, Milana Kalimullova, Rex Kirshner

Faculty Advisor: Ms. Cappelli

TIDELINE POLICY S TATEMENT

Published twenty times a year, the student newspaper of Palisades High School (the Tideline) is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decisions concerning its contents.

Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board.

Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters must be signed, although the staff may withhold the name on request. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process, as are all contents of the paper.

Opinions in letters are not necessarily those of the staff, nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the administration, unless so attributed.

Student Poll Would you care for more foreign language classes at Pali?

(173 Polled) Yes: 64.2% No: 35.8% Do you feel that more comfortable chairs would help you to focus in class?

(176 Polled) Yes: 91.4% No: 8.6%

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Letters to the Editor

Dear Tideline,

A Reminder to Humanity

n November 4, 2008, at around 8:01 p.m., Barack Obama received enough votes to push him over the 270 mark.

Shortly afterwards, John McCain conceded and gave one final speech in which he endorsed the president-elect. Some shouted, some cried, some shrugged and some simply didn’t care about how this election turned out. Yet, despite our differences – both politically and socially – one thing is still for sure, and that is that we are all united as American citizens and as human beings.

Color does not matter. Red, blue, green and any other color you can think of: we all stand united. Race does not matter. Black, white and anything in between: we all stand united. Rich or poor, short or tall, old or young, liberal or conservative: we all stand united.

In a world that is changing in ways more drastic than ever before, unity plays a crucial role in our success not only as Americans, but as humans. Of course, we can’t always agree.

There are those who jumped for joy on November 4, 2008. There are those who slapped the “socialist” tag on the country and immediately made plans to move to Canada on November 4, 2008. Even so, none of this changes what has happened and none of this changes what will happen. We, the people, still represent all that this country stands for – Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike.

-Ingrid Bengis

This country certainly has come a long way since our founding fathers drafted the Constitution. For the first time in American history, a black man will take the oath of office. This is quite a big step for American society, but is it necessarily a major step for America as an entity? What has changed? Has Obama’s victory magically solved the oil crisis? Has it cured the economy? Has it ended war? All of these things, as natural and organic as life itself, still exist and will continue to exist in the years to come. Obama may make his mark, but America will not change. A country can alter its policies, but a country cannot alter its existence.

We exist not only as Americans, but as human beings. Get up and move to Canada if you’d like, but you’ll still be living on the same Earth as your American brother. You’ll still be living on the same planet that every living organism known to mankind resides on.

That is why we must stand united. We are in this existence together, regardless of party affiliation, ethnicity or religion. We are still America, and America is still a part of this planet.

There is no such thing as a red state. There is no such thing as a blue state. There are only these United States. Please remember that in the coming years.

As an African American, Obama’s presidency means a lot to me. This eliminates many people’s ideas that a black man could never be president. This election and win is mind-boggling. I believe that America can change.

This makes me wonder how Obama feels. He proved many people wrong. People did not believe in him at first, and I admit that I didn’t even believe in him at first. I am so glad I was proved wrong. I pray that nothing happens to him. There are many angry people that are crazy enough to do something to harm him. Hopefully they realize how intelligent he is, and how important he is to the better development of our country. Obama truly exemplifies great character, poise, and maturity. I believe he will make this country a better place.

Sincerely, Leslie Starks

Dear Tideline,

Obama’s presidency to me means hope not just for my race and me, but also for the other different ones as well. He proved that anything was and still is possible for anyone who tries to make a difference in the world. I do hope however that Obama

keeps the promises that he made unlike some of the previous presidents. Obama has the power now to change Bush’s mistakes and make our world better. In a way, he is like a fallen angel sent by God. Furthermore, Obama can fulfill the dreams that the immigrants had when they came to the US, that there is hope of a better life.

Sincerely, Jenny Melgar Dear Tideline,

Obama’s presidency means a lot to me because of the inspiration that he gave to not only the U.S but to the world. The fact that he is the first black president gives everyone hope that we can get past our differences and be united. His speech gave me goosebumps and ensured me that we are in good hands for the next four years. Only good can come from his presidency and I believe that the world will be a better place after all. I am extremely proud to have witnessed history in the making, and I will look back at this day and know that we as a people matured and were able to triumph.

Sincerely, Alexandra Sotelo

Would You Like Some Cheese With That Whine?

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BY SAM ANDERSON Tideline staff writer

ook around, and I’ll bet you’ll find someone complaining.

Really, look up, look down and look to each side of this article. My guess is that there are probably articles calling you to action or highlighting a problem on campus. It may be ironic for you to find an article about the pitfalls of complaining among them.

However, I am not writing this article to detract from the opinion page. It is the spirit in which our country founded to ask for a “redress of grievances” when our life does not meet our standards. I am writing this to suggest that all the whiney yet sedentary people out there stop attacking and start asking what they can do.

There comes a point when check-

Teachers Play the Blame Game IZABELLE NEW Cartoonist

BY JACKIE R OSEN

TIDELINE OPINION EDITOR

We as students are constantly reprimanded for our forgetfulness but the teachers that are doing the reprimanding should speak for themselves.

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handful of teachers on campus have the tendency to dump endless buckets of blame, for their own errors, on the heads of unsuspecting students. Whether this incompetence is a matter of forgetfulness, of disorganization, or of obliviousness, the students become victims of these teachers not coming to terms with their mistakes. Our instructors are responsible for making sure we do not have to deal with situations that are not our faults. This is just needless torment that piles on to our already existing stress.

A friend of mine was recently accused of not taking a math test that the entire class had seen her turn in. The teacher thought she deserved a zero for what had already been done, and of course shot down every one of the class’s protests.

After something is submitted, it is not the student’s job to constantly be aware of its whereabouts. The school should not have to install a tracker into every paper in order to make sure nothing goes wrong.

A performance on a specific assignment cannot be replaced. My friend had studied and crammed for that test in preparation for the particular day it was given and now must retake it. The information was fresh then and is moldy now. She might have gotten everything right on the test the first time around, but nobody will ever know.

We as students are constantly reprimanded for our forgetfulness but the teachers that are doing the reprimanding should speak for themselves. I, for one, cannot change to please people that do not carry the traits they wish for me to develop. It’s unsettling to know that they think every student should follow exactly what they say in order to become “better” when they do not match up to their own behavioral rubric in the first place.

What is truly admirable is the ability to admit to mistakes. It proves that the person is strong enough to realize that nobody is perfect, even himself. Ego gets in the way of education too often at our school. The math teacher that my friend must deal with for the entire year is obviously proof of that. She obviously likes to play “The Blame Game,” making Pre-calc more complicated and stressful than it already is. A struggle for truth is now stitched into those graphs of trigonometric functions, and it is impossible to weave it out.

ing becomes complaining. It is very easy to sit at your desk and decry your teacher. “What a b****,” said a young female scholar in one of my classes upon learning the teacher would NOT be collecting the homework. It is our generation’s tendency to throw a fit when things don’t go our way. Teachers and Administrators have become figureheads for us to inflict our angst upon. I believe these reactions come from a sense of entitlement, the sense we will settle for nothing less than the best.

Compromise is not in our vocabulary.

Throughout the day, I hear a constant drone of discontent. During a recent lunch period, the entire conversation was a laundry list of complaints: how hard the math test was, how dismally the five-week report card turned out, and many others. Rather than reflect on ourselves, we tend to take our

BY DEXTER O’CONNELL

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Tideline Editor-in-Chief

circumstances as unchangeable and out of our control. It is cool to be cynical.

Cynics say to the world, “I’m sad and I don’t care!” It oozes animosity and alienates people.

You may scoff and say, “But you’re complaining about people complaining! What a hypocrite.” But this is necessary, I say. Let’s stop this misplaced teen angst. Ask yourself if you could withstand the scrutiny you give out.

Have a little tolerance. No one is perfect, so respect people’s efforts even if they aren’t all you expect. Take the surrounding opinion articles and do something. Turn words into actions.

This is your daily dose of optimism, and you now may proceed to the rest of the opinion page, and all of its discontented glory.

A Discussion of Action

alisades is renewing its charter this year, though, as usual, administrators and community members are fighting vociferously against giving students any rights at all. This state of affairs is disappointingly familiar to anyone who has followed the pattern of entrenched disenfranchisement of students, the most important stakeholder group at the school. However, there is still time left to rectify past mistakes before the charter is submitted to the portion to the board.

The charter renewal group met every other Wednesday all last year in order to rewrite Pali’s founding document. I proposed that the Board of Directors include a student member endowed with a vote, to have representation for the stakeholder group that is both most numerous and most underrepresented. I stopped going after the following exchange. I was proposing reasons for the student to have voting privileges when I said, “The most important reason that the student should have a vote is that without students,

the school wouldn’t exist, and there would be no teachers, no community members, and no administrators.” John Riley, one of the most vocal advocates of student suppression, who had been parrying my points during the discussion, said, “Did you try that one on your mom first?” I stopped going to the meetings after that. When I was at the November Board of Directors meeting, board members complained that no students went to the Charter Renewal committee meetings anymore. In that atmosphere, what reasonable student would go?

Because of awful legal guidance from Pali’s less-thancompetent attorneys at Spector Middleton, the idea of a student on the board with voting privileges was scrapped early in the process. Spector Middleton, for the record, continues to give legal guidance that supports the disenfranchisement of students.

This is, of course, outrageous.

Pali often tries to model itself after Granada Hills Charter High School in terms of school governance. I know that references to Granada’s charter and governance are rampant in Pali’s meetings.

This is because the idea of

striking out bold new ground is alien to Pali’s previous administrators. There are already unfortunate rumblings of discontent with Pali’s new administrative team. Mr. Griffin, Mr. Claus, and Ms. Lategola seem to be disparaged for their openness to student ideas. Treating students as fellow humans with ideas worthy of respect seems to be anathema to others in the administration and some teachers and members of the allimportant “community member” demographic.

But complaining has gotten me and my fellow students nowhere. As this article goes to print, a petition for union recognition is currently circulating amongst students. When a sufficient number of students have signed the petition, an election will be held. And when students vote to have a union, the administrators will have to bargain with a group that has legal standing to negotiate collectively and to call out a strike if necessary. So maybe it would be a good idea to consider those concerns before ignoring students completely, as is pattern and practice at the most beautiful school in Los Angeles.

OPINION

Obama Wins Presidency: A Step Out of the Dark

November 13 - November 27, 2008

Tideline

How do you feel about Obama being the next president of the United States?

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Optimistic. Even though I might not agree with all of his policies, I think we definitely need some change in our nation.

Tait Johnson

The 44th President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, his wife, Michelle, and his two daughters Malia Ann and Natasha.

BY JULIAN SCOTT

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Tideline Staff Writer

enator Barack Obama’s sweeping victory on November 4, 2008 will go down in the annals of time as one of the most significant elections in the history of the United States. The recent elections have given me many things: a democratic president, a democratic majority in the House and Senate, and most importantly a hope for a brighter future.

Obama has given this nation a hope of a new future. A future with a desperately needed universal healthcare system, an economic policy that doesn’t make the rich richer and the poor poorer, and a foreign policy other than “Our way or the highway.”

The past eight years have been some of the darkest and most disgraceful times our nation has seen. Around the world,

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Left: Obama supporters on the night of the election. Ri g ht: Senator John McCain concedes the Presidential Race.

America was seen as hypocritical.

The past eight years destroyed America’s reputation abroad. The outside world saw us as saying one thing and doing another. This tradition has finally been broken. We have taken the fateful step from the dark of the past to the light of the future.

Unfortunately, Obama has not been handed the same surplus Bush was handed back in 2000.

We are at the edge of a dark and

terrible abyss. He has been elected president of a nation in the midst of catastrophe where any preventable damage has already been done. How well he will be able to prevent our seemingly inevitable spiral into depression will only be known with time.

No matter how dark our future seems, I have a deep faith in Obama and know that he will do everything in his power to repair the mistakes of the past eight

tic and mathematical needs of the future?

With the U.S. selling its soul to Asia, owing 994 billion dollars to Japan and China, it is high time that we begin studying an Asian language, since it will be one of the most important languages to come. Even Britain has over 400 schools offering Mandarin. Since one out of every six people on the planet is Chinese, not offering Chinese seems to show limited vision.

Today, with Middle Eastern countries controlling our gas prices, and with many of our troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, Arab countries are going to play a large part in our nation’s near future. After 9/11, the Bush administration put out an urgent request for more Arabic speakers and asked for people who could communicate with the Middle East. The lack of sufficient Arabic speakers is raising problems for the FBI. The U.S. Dept. of Justice released a report that said, “There has been a severe backlog of terrorism-related recordings and documents that have not been translated, at least in part because the FBI does not have enough qualified linguists.”

French President Nicolas Sarkozy said, “We must invest in the Arabic languages; to teach it symbolizes a moment of exchange, of openness, and of tolerance, [and it] brings with it one of the oldest and most prestigious civilizations of the world.” It is hoped that our school will see the wisdom in this as well. By taking a Middle Eastern or Asian language, communicating easily will be less of a problem and we will be more prepared for the future.

BY ALEXANDER HELMINTOLLER

No Hablo Languages

BY MARIEL REDLIN Tideline Staff Writer

s high school students, we pride ourselves on being able to speak two languages, or at least some smattering of another language. From the days of kindergarten, we have boasted about being able to count to “diez” and have gained high praise for making it to “veinte.” But with the languages of the future being Asian or Middle Eastern, why are we only given the options of French, Italian, or Spanish?

With our school pushing for top scores in all areas of testing, including the SAT, it’s atypical that they wouldn’t offer a wider variety of languages when a number of studies in bilingual education show that foreign language study can aid and even accelerate the cognitive development of the brain. We should be offered languages ranging from Latin or German to Arabic or Mandarin. It has been proven that Latin-learning students have improved in reading, writing, and speaking their own language; their vocabulary is enriched, and their grammar is sharpened. Considering 80% of the vocabulary of the Romance languages — French, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, and Spanish - come from Latin, it would naturally help students build a strong foundation for learning other languages. With several native speakers of Slavic languages on staff already, they could at least offer Russian.

Venice High School is a magnet school specializing in world languages, but their students have just as many math offerings as we do. Why don’t we expand our language program so that we can meet both the linguis-

years.

Obama has broken the 200 year precedent of a white man’s White House. He has shown the world the truth of the American dream, the son of a Kenyan immigrant has become the president of the United States of America. More importantly, the world has already recognized the significance and symbolism of Obama’s election, with global celebration and statements of support from leaders in Africa and Europe.

Never again will the American motto, “If you work hard enough, you reach any height,” be scoffed at. Never again should anyone claim, “It’s not possible, the odds are stacked against me.” Never has Thomas Jefferson’s fateful phrase, “All men are created equal,” been more true.

Adapt to the Future, Today

Tideline Staff Writer

S

REX KIRSHNER Tideline

louch. Not too much, but not too little. Exhausted, you place your head on the school desk. Your teacher tells you not to sleep in class, so you raise your tired head and lean back on your chair, only the chair doesn’t lean with you. It digs under your shoulder blades with the same fervor that John D. Rockefeller drilled for oil.

While the wooden desks used at Pali do not give us splinters, they are certainly a thorn in the paw of the student body. The desks were outdated ten years ago. The seatbacks of chairs are beginning to resemble the boys’ bathroom walls. I blame students entirely for scrawling graffiti and insignificant messages on school property, but there must be something that can be done to provide better chairs and desks that students will respect enough not to treat like bathroom walls.

It is not so much that the wooden chairs that we have now are unbearably uncomfortable, but that only select classes still use them, while others have springy plastic chairs. The new chairs are the equivalent of spongy couches, while the old ones are reminiscent of a stiff plywood bench. In fact, it would be a start if enough desks were provided for students (specifically in the crowded space that AP Environmental Science works with) Why is it that some classes have nicer chairs while others are left with wooden desks littered with profanity? It makes no sense that students taking Studio Art should have nicer desks than students of Math or English. They may have more funding because they require more materials such as pastels and drawing pads and special pencil sets with varying shades of grey, but the fact is, the students pay for those materials themselves.

Every department should have the same funding, and be able to afford the same classroom equipment. For some classes to have the majority of funds spent on their own materials and others to be left with the short end of the stick is unfair. Some teachers still use overhead projectors with light bulbs in them, while every teacher should have been provided with the projectors that can hook up to a computer. If the teachers are unwilling to adapt to newer technology or if they do not have sufficient funds for a computer to teach with, the problem remains. Pali’s resources are not being channeled equally into each department- and if they are, teachers are not making use of them. I do not see why the distribution of wealth is so lopsided. In a school where a Charter dictates rules, we should surely be able to fix this.

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JUNIOR

Parker Chenoweth JUNIOR

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Amazing. There are a million reasons. He's better than McCain.

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It's interesting. I want to see if he's really going to stick to his plan. Okay, you won, Obama. Now do what you said.

Chidera Izuchukwu S ENIOR

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It doesn't really affect me, because I turn eighteen in three years. It won't really do anything to me until then.

Marlee Galper

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S OPHOMORE

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Are you kidding me? I feel elated. Many of my people died before they got a chance to see this opportunity.

I'm excited for the future.

Virgil “T.C.” Sprowel

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S ECURITY

Do you think a student should have a vote on the Board of Directors?

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Yeah, why not?

Our students are getting smarter.

Ms. Tanita TEACHER

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Depends on what the issue is. If it has to do with the students, then sure.

Zoe Goldsmith

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S OPHOMORE

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Yes, because they make the decisions that affect our school.

We are students of the school, so we should have a vote.

Ryan Kim JUNIOR

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Yeah, because some things that go on around here are not particularly the way kids want them to be.

Eric Evans F RESHMAN

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Yeah, because we're a huge part of the school.

Bryce Alexander JUNIOR

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Tideline

CALENDAR

November 13 - November 27, 2008

The Pump House Gang Surges Forward

www.myspace.com/pumphousegang

PLAYING TO THE CROWD: The Pump House Gang preforming at the Troubadour.

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BY C AROLINE C OSTER

Tideline Entertainment Editor

any teenagers often have aspirations of becoming a rock-star, tabloid hog, or the next George Clooney, but once reality sets in, those dreams reluctantly start to fade. In Senior Daniel Allan’s case, there is no eye-rolling or “yeah rights” when he voices his dream to become well known in the music industry, rather, his dream is at his fingertips. Aside from taking part in his hobbies that include drawing, surfing, and being a Topangan, Allan has pursued life as a musician in his band, The Pump House Gang.

In The Pump House Gang, Allan sings, plays saxophone, harmonica and rhythm guitar along with

Enter The Circus With Britney

BY ARYA DAVACHI

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members Thomas Krane, lead guitarist, Garth Elson, bassist, and Bo Jacobson, backup vocalist and drummer. The Pump House Gang has played in several clubs, such as the Knitting Factory, Elray Theater and Troubador, and competed in various Battles of the Bands. They have also recorded a demo album with seven tracks.

Named after a group of surfers from La Jolla, California, The Pump House Gang has been official for a little over a year. The members have always been passionate about music, and used to play casually until they decided to dedicate an effort to become a successful band. They set aside every Friday after school for their practices, which are usually held at Bo Jacobson’s house, or at the 4th Street Recording Studio in Santa Monica. Their practices consist of

Tideline Entertainment Editor

ritney Spears is back and ready to release her fifth studio album, Circus on December 2, and with the success of the album’s first single, Womanizer, the album is promising to be Britney’s most successful yet. Womanizer, and the accompanying video, both skyrocketed to the top of their respective iTunes charts within hours of their releases, and Womanizer was Britney’s second number one single on the Billboard Hot 100, a feat only reached by her first single, Baby One More Time.

Circus, much like its predecessor Blackout, features productions from Bloodshy & Avant, the minds behind Toxic and Piece of Me, Nate ‘Danja’ Hills, responsible for Gimme More, and Max Martin, who has produced the vast majority of Spears’ early work.

Though only two album tracks have been confirmed, Womanizer and the title track, the hype for Circus is proving to be a force to be

song writing, composing and recording their finished songs, but the band doesn’t consider it burdensome work. “We are all buddies,” said Allen, who emphasized the strong relationship between the band members. The band often has a band bonding night, which consists of relaxing in Jacobson’s jacuzzi, or playing on the Palisades bluffs at night.

The band was offered a spot in a competition against other high school bands at the Temple Bar by an association that seeks out musically talented students who intend to broaden their passion into a career. They won first place, which allowed them to enter into the next round, which was held at the Musician Institute. They won second place for their second performance, which granted them each a scholarship for a weeklong session at the Musician

reckoned with. Spears has reportedly recorded over thirty tracks for Circus, which may be the reason Jive, Spears’ record company, is planning on releasing a two-disc Deluxe Edition of the record on December 2 as well. In addition, MTV is airing a 90-minute documentary on Spears titled For The Record on November 30, two days before the release of Circus.

With plans on touring the world in promotion of her two newest records, a number one single, no tabloid covers, and a promising new record, Britney Spears is definitely hot again.

Her new record might be the beginning of a second uprising, and the events of the past months have shown that Spears is back on her A-game. As Russell Brand, host of the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, said, “If there were a female Christ, it would be Britney Spears.” Thankfully, the second coming is not far.

BY ALEX TRAYLOR

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Tideline Staff Writer

Lost In The Snow

ith the long awaited release of their fifth album, A Hundred Million Suns, Snow Patrol once again does exactly what they do best: create a musical bridge to nowhere. Staying true to their roots, the Irish band that began over fourteen years ago returns with eleven new songs that are sure to please fans that have been following them from the beginning. However, the new album does little in gaining credibility with newcomers.

When one thinks of Snow Patrol they are most likely to reflect on the days of Chasing Cars, and Run, when their melodies were soft and harmonious but still managed to incorporate catchy, witty lyrics. Flash forward two years and the sold out Irishmen think that were

to manage to play the same three depressed chords and throw in some meaningless lyrics about how their lives are, “a flawed work of art,” then that somehow qualifies

them to be a band worth listening to. Though their new single, Take back the City has a catching quality to it the first time around, after listen-

ing a little closer, the song sounds like the other ten singles they have released in the past decade. From here it seemed the album could only go downhill, but it was a pleasant surprise to discover two songs, Engines, and Lifeboats, which helped to slightly fill the vast hole that Snow Patrol has dug for themselves. However, that hole was dug right back up with the song, The Lightening Strike, a sixteen minute odyssey, which, in true Snow Patrol fashion, leads right to the middle of nowhere.

For Snow Patrol’s devoted fans, A Hundred Million Suns will most likely fulfill expectations as another classic album. But for those who are considering crossing the bridge and heading for the snow, beware for there is nothing on the other side but slush.

John Green Creates Paper Towns

BY KATY P OOL

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Institute to further their skills and improve their music. The Pump House Gang became close to Robert, one of the central organizers of competitions, who has opened them up to life changing opportunities.

Although all the band members plan to attend college, possibilities lie ahead of them regarding their musical future. Their relationship with Robert has given them a strong push forward, and has promised them participation in further events. These fresh and exiting possibilities have made the band open to the possibility of deferring their college acceptances for a year, which would allow them to continue playing together in hopes of publishing a solid album.

Tideline Entertainment Editor

aper Towns, by John Green, is a modern-day adventure story told in the point-of-view of a particularly intelligent, if not socially awkward, high school senior named Quentin. John Green is well known for the Internet video series Brotherhood 2.0, and has been a commentator on National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered.” Paper Towns is Green’s third novel written for young adults.

To Quentin Jacobsen, childhood friend Margo Roth Spiegelman is everything he wants, and everything he isn’t. So when Margo tumbles through his window one night and tells him that this is going to be the best night of his life, how can he refuse? But after leading Quentin on an allnight adventure in which they enter (but never break into) famous Orlando landmarks and classmates’ houses, Margo disappears. Thus begins Quentin’s quest to find her, using the clues that he believes she has left for him. Along the way, Quentin discovers that no one is truly who he thinks they are, least of all the enigmatic Margo.

The story has suspense, romance, mystery and a particular brand of humor that John Green has come to be renowned for.

Paper Towns is set in Orlando Florida, amid omnipresent subdivisions and family-friendly theme parks. The setting of the story is richly detailed and is as much a part of the story as the characters are.

The book’s title comes from a real-life phenomenon in which mapmakers insert non-existent towns (socalled “paper towns”) into their maps as a copyright trap. Other esoteric concepts that figure prominently into the story are Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself” and a website called Omnictionary, Green’s fictional version of Wikipedia.

Though the book is slated for a young adult audience, the writing never comes across as juvenile or insipid. Instead, Green portrays the American teen in an honest, genuine way that is both refreshing and relatable. Each character is true to life, with quirks, flaws and virtues that make them come alive. While Margo is often too self-absorbed to be truly likable, and Quentin is frustrating in his meekness, they never fail to be dynamic, interesting characters. Along with a supporting cast made up of their friends Ben, Lacey, and Radar, Margo and Quentin create a story that is as unpredictable as it is entertaining. While most of the story is humorous and lighthearted, the serious moments mix in seamlessly. The book as a whole is poignant and introspective, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

November 13 - November 27, 2008

Tideline

CLASSIFIEDS

Page 7

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GIRLS GOLF FALLS ONE GIRL SHORT

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BY ALISON WHITE Tideline Sports Editor

he Girls Golf team has battled through another tough season led by Coach Stephanie Chew. The girls were severely disadvantaged from the start with only four of the five players necessary to compete in team competitions, but were still able to compete to the best of their abilities. After last Wednesday’s surprise placement in the City Finals, the team is excited about their improvement from years past.

This year the girls have received impressive play from individuals throughout the season. In previous years, the team struggled to place any individual in the top ten scores, but this year placed in the top ten in every match. “We were motivated this year because we have gotten better individually, and since there are only four of us, the team is a lot closer,” said Senior Elizabeth Yeh. The girls have surpassed expectations this season by placing individuals in the top ten every game despite the adversity they faced. Although the girls were technically a team, they competed individually throughout the League matches because of a lack of players. However, the girls individually were able to prove their strengths. Even in the City Finals, Sophomore Judy Borah captured the 9th best score.

But the team has reasons to be concerned about next year. Three of the four current team members are graduating seniors. The team has been struggling to stay together for years, but this year they face exceptionally dire straits.

Ideally, the team will continue with their upward trend towards greater and greater victory, but with diminishing participation, the possibilities look bleak. All of the girls hope, for the team’s sake, that divine intervention hands them a gift of at least four more girls. But if there is no influx of participation next year, the team will be faced with more disjointed and incomplete team competitions.

SPORTS Coliseum Dream Stays Alive

November 13 - November 27, 2008

Tideline

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Varsity Quarterback Conner Preston manuevers around University defensemen

BY KENE IZUCHUKWU Tideline Staff Writer

he Varsity Football team gave the Pali crowd an exciting Homecoming Game win as every possession proved to be important.

The Varsity Football team’s dream to play at the Los Angeles Coliseum in the City Finals stayed alive with a nailbiting victory over the University High Wildcats on November 7, Homecoming Night, in the Stadium by the Sea. On a warm, breezy night, the Homecoming atmosphere could not have been more perfect for the team to pull off a blowout win over the struggling Wildcats (1-7).

However, the players felt the pressure of this atmosphere, which was evident throughout the game.

The game started off slowly as both teams were scoreless in the first half.

Head Coach Kelly Loftus felt that the

Wildcats controlled the first half. “We couldn’t move the ball,” said Loftus.

“They controlled the line of scrimmage the entire first half, and that’s where things literally stuck.” The first half ended with an interception by Senior Cornerback Loren Artis, which began to awaken the crowd for the second half to come.

Leadership tried to pump up the Homecoming fans with an exciting halftime filled with activities like a fan field goal competition and performances by the marching band, cheerleaders, and song leaders. After, the players jogged back onto the field in hopes of changing the pace of the game and scoring first, but were surprised by the resilience of the Wildcats.

The Dolphins started the third quarter with an onside kick, but were unable to convert as the ball slipped through the hands of two Pali players and into the

WILL ANDERSON Tideline

grasp of a University lineman. The Wildcats received good field position and capitalized on Pali’s mistake as they marched down the field and scored the first touchdown of the game on a run with about 7:37 left in the third quarter.

University was unable to convert on the two-point conversion and took a 6-0 lead.

However, the touchdown seemed to wake the Dolphins up as Sophomore Quarterback Conner Preston and Senior Wide Receiver Joseph Hyman connected on three consecutive plays, with the third play ending in a touchdown for Pali and a 7-6 lead. The Wildcats responded again as they were able to score again with their run game, and converted the two-point conversion for a 14-7 University lead at the end of the third quarter.

Hyman felt that the Wildcats were not taken seriously enough beforehand

by anyone. “I underestimated them,” said Hyman. “I thought we were going to blow them out, but it was a close game.”

The fourth quarter seemed to speed up as the game carried on, and Pali was able to score with 5:38 left on the clock.

However, the Wildcats blocked the extra point and were able to keep a 14-13 lead.

The Wildcats gained possession of the ball and had a chance to put the game out of reach, but were unable to break through the Dolphin’s defense and were forced to punt with 3:38 left, giving Pali a chance to win.

After Pali received the punt, the very next play proved to be the clincher and the team’s “dream-saver,” as Senior Running Back Khalid Stevens broke through a huge hole and ran a 41-yard touchdown for a 19-14 Pali lead and a win. Preston thought that his team did well in front of their largest crowd yet.

“They caught us off guard,” said Preston.

“I was really proud of the way that we stepped up to adversity; it was really hard in the beginning, but we came out and we got the win, that’s what matters.”

The team has one more obstacle to overcome in order to gain a playoff berth and to maintain their dream of playing in the Coliseum. They challenge Hamilton (4-5) on the Yankees’ own field on November 14, 2008 in their final regular season game.

Loftus believes that the Dolphins will have to perform at a higher level to win. “We’re going to be hard-pressed. We have to play an exceptional game against Hamilton to get into the playoffs,” said Loftus. “And even if we win out, that doesn’t guarantee that we will get in.

But if we do I think it’s a tremendous win for the program, because we can get the opportunity to play that eleventh game and that’s really what we’ve been working for.”

G IRLS T ENNIS F INISHES O UT S EASON Cross Country Takes

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BY JUSTIN NAM

Tideline Sports Editor

he Girls Varsity Tennis Team finished their final home match of the regular season on Senior Day with a team win over the Hamilton Yankees 52.

The team (10-1) clinched another Western League championship and begins playoffs on November 10 with a bye because they are seeded third in the City.

The match was held at Palisades Park on October 30 in front of a small crowd comprised mainly of parents and players waiting for courts to open. The girls tried to have some fun because it was the last regular season home game, taking pictures and making various poses. As it was also Senior Day, Head Coach Sean Passan played every senior

and tried to get them to have fun and play well in preparation for City Playoffs. After warm-ups and introductions, the top-seeded Singles and Doubles matches took the courts.

Senior Captain Audrey Ashraf, who is also the number one Singles player, is sad to be done with the tennis team after this year but hopes to continue playing in the future. “My goal is to keep on playing, hopefully for a Division III team or at least club and intramural in college.

Although my personal record wasn’t perfect, it doesn’t matter to me as much as the team’s record, which ended up being really good.”

At the beginning of the year, rival coaches often said, “This is the year to beat Pali,” due to the fact that eight girls graduated last

year. However, the team was able to defy all expectations and have a great season, which they hope they can continue in the playoffs.

Coach Sean Passan is preparing his team for the playoffs and is basically going to do the same routines as during the regular season, with a few exceptions. “We were hoping to be seeded in the top four for Cities so that we can play at home during the postseason. We will have general practices except for a few teams, which we will prepare specifically for. My main worry is that they will exploit our main weakness, which is that we don’t have one star player, but rather our team is very well-rounded.

However, most teams have at least one star and I feel if we lose even one or two initial points we will lose the match. However,

since we weren’t expected to make it past the first round I think there is less pressure and so I think we can get further. The girls have really been working hard this season.”

Ashraf likewise feels that the team is looking good for the playoffs, but needs to buckle down and practice hard if it wants to go far. “A big part of our success is our level of competition. I’m sure a lot of other great schools have lost great players in the last year too so we’re going to prepare as best as we can for the unexpected.” The girls are going to begin the playoffs against the winner of Taft and Verdugo Hills on the 12th. They will prepare as best as they can for Cities and hopefully will try for a fourth consecutive City Championship.

Girls Volleyball Smashes West Adams

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BY EMMA C ARTER Tideline Staff Writer

he Varsity Girls Volleyball Team faced off against the West Adams High School Panthers in their first playoff game of the season. The girls were able to trounce their unprepared opponents 3-0 in a quick and decisive manner on their home court.

The game started off with a serve into the net by the West Adams team, who never really recovered from that initial misstep. Right from the beginning of the first game, the Pali girls showed the tenacity and drive to go right after their competition, which seemed to dishearten the other team as well.

The team was extremely pumped up in the beginning of the game, which contributed to a quick first win of 25-7. The game was characterized by a long string of ace serves by Junior Lauren Gustafson, and great kills by seniors Laura Goldsmith and Kelly Yazdi.

The girls continued to dominate in the second game and ended it with another decisive victory 25-9. Pali did not let up at all and shut down their opponents completely. The team on both offense and defense was working together extremely well. There

was no hesitation and the setters always seemed to know where their hitters were.

The team worked up to their highest potential and used their superior skills to their advantage. “We played incredible.

We kept up our lead throughout the entire game. We just didn’t let up,” said Senior Captain Outside Hitter Laura Goldsmith.

The consistency of their play greatly contributed to the team’s triumph.

The unrelenting Pali girls wrapped it up with another quick victory in the final third Mary Hobbs Tideline game 25-11. The West Adams team seemed Varisty Girl’s talk about their victory with Head Coach Chris Forrest Gustafson set the ball to expect to work hard and do our to hang onto some hope in the Freshman Opposite Hitter best, and if we do our best, we beginning but the momentum Meghan Middleton, who spiked it will win,” said Senior Middle that the Pali girls possessed over the net with no return from Blocker Kelly Yazdi. This posiallowed key defensive players like the other team. tive attitude and steadfast determiSenior Kelsey Keil and Junior The team hopes to carry this nation exhibited by the team is Hannah Faggerbakke to block a momentum into their next play- what they hope will help them to multitude of spikes. The game off game, which will most likely win the City Championship. ended when Junior Lauren be against a tougher team. “We

Off at League Finals

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BY ERIC LOPEZ

Tideline Staff Writer

he CrossC o u n t r y Western League Meet, which included schools like Hamilton, Fairfax, University, and Venice, was run at Pierce College with the Pali CrossCountry team keeping pace with their City Title predictions. The Boy’s Frosh/Soph team dominated the entire race, taking six of the top ten places.

Leading the team yet again was Freshman Grant Stromberg in a three-mile Western NILSTROM Photographer League-winning time Junior Carlos Bustamante runs en route to a personal-best of 17:22. In fact, Palisades swept the top five with 18:36. “It was a lot colder, but Stromberg in first, Sophomore the weather definitely helped and Danny Escalante with a 17:33 in now we are concentrating on the second, Freshman Daniel City Preliminaries,” said Senior Hernandez with an 18:24 in third, Michael Fujimoto. All sophoSophomore Eric Lopez with an mores led the Girls Frosh/Soph, 18:25 in fourth, and Sophomore as Karli Feder ran a 22:38, Wendy Ryan Bertwell with an 18:49 Gomez ran a 22:55, Amy rounding it off. Moulthrop ran a 23:08, and “The Frosh/Soph team overall, in Kaitlyn Kim ran a 24:04. These terms of everyone improving and girls led the team to a 2nd place getting personal records, did the finish and a City Prelims qualifibest today,” said Head Coach Ron cation. The Girls Varsity finished B r u m e l . in 3rd place overall with Junior Capturing the Western League Michelle Colato leading the way individual title for his first time with a 21:11. . “Some did not win was Junior Carlos Bustamante, who but everyone definitely improved ran a personal record 15:36. today, ” said Head Coach Ron “ I had a perfect day and a perfect Brumel.

The Boys Varsity and race, overall I feel like the team did Frosh/Soph have swept the really good,” said Junior Carlos Western League regular season in Bustamante. a repeat of last year’s CrossThe Boys Varsity team placed Country season.

The Girls Varsity 3rd overall at the meet but did not and Frosh/Soph, who both came qualify for City Prelims, losing up short only against University narrowly to Hamilton in the battle for second. Junior Carlos as the top runners were resting, Bustamante led the team with a have defeated every other team in 15:36, and Senior Michael the Western League. “Everyone Fujimoto also qualified for the did fantastic all season, and we all individual City Prelims with a just need to stay positive for next 16:34. Others running for the week [City Prelims],” said Boys Varsity were Senior Oliver Freshman Grant Stromberg. The Gard-Murray with a 17:48, Junior team will support the Frosh-Soph Malcolm Suhr with an 18:21, and Boys at Cities as well as their Senior Todd Bertwell with an three Varsity qualifiers and two Frosh-Soph girls.