Tiger Newspaper Vol. XCVIII, No. III

Board of Education elections

By Shyam Senthilkumar Staff Writer Two seats are up for election on the South Pasadena Board of Education. The candidates are Ben Figueroa and incumbents Joe Loo and Richard Sonner, and the official vote will take place November 8.

Figueroa is the only challenger this year, while Loo and Sonner are vying to return to their seats.

The candidates will face off at a forum next Friday at South Pasadena Middle School.

All candidates boast extensive credentials.

Figueroa is active in city life.

He served as vice president of the South Pasadena High School Tiger Booster Club and president of the Football Booster Club; he has also been involved in AYSO, Marengo PTA, and the Tournament of Roses.

Figueroa’s daughters, Samantha and Emily, are sophomores at SPHS. Figueroa said that he would look to generate more revenue for the city.

See “BOE elections” on Page 2

Matt Winkel

Candidate Ben Figueroa hopes to be elected to the school board.

Brown vetoes education bill

Homecoming venue off campus

By Marcy Kuo Staff Writer

By Michael Abelev Staff Writer For the first time in many years, the “Roaring Through the Decades” homecoming dance will be held off-campus. After years of unsatisfactory turnouts, the junior officers announced that this year’s dance at the Hilton Hotel in Pasadena on Saturday, November 5.

The changes in date and venue are intended to increase student attendance. Had the event been held after the Friday night homecoming game against San Marino, attendees would have had little more than an hour to dance. The junior officers also expected lower turnout to a Friday night dance because the November SAT is the next morning.

The ASB class expects these changes to increase student interest in the dance. The average attendance for the last three Homecomings was about 150 people.

“Basically, a dance on the Friday night before the SAT with only about an hour to dance, for that kind of price... it’s just not worth it,” said junior class advisor Mr. James Jontz.

The junior officers chose the Hilton for its proximity to South Pasadena, price, and last-minute availability. SPHS signed a contract on Wednesday with the Hilton to rent out its hall for the dance with a price tag of $6000. At least 300 students need to attend the dance in order for ASB to make a profit. That kind of attendance is not outside the realm of possibility; over 400 students attended the homecoming dance five years ago.

Ticket sales start next week.

Prices are currently $15 SAC, $20 non-SAC, and $30 for non-SPHS students.

Jennifer Kim

Juniors Ryan McCarthy, William Rygg and Ella Hardy scream for the Class of 2013 during the Color Day assembly roll call.

Color Day ignites campus

By Heather Vaughan Staff Writer This year’s Color Day engulfed the SPHS campus in a sea of orange and black. This marks the 73rd year that this tradition has united the school as Tigers.

The event falls on the day of the first league football game of the season, and has accumulated many traditions since its conception in 1938. For example, the annual mock battle between the various schools in the Rio Hondo league was presented in this year’s assembly with a “Willy Wonka” theme.

Commissioner of Assemblies Lee Miyauchi and Commis-

sioner of Spirit Ellen Na conducted the assembly, which featured performances by pep, drumline, the mascots, and various dance clubs.

This year’s costume contest winners and homecoming nominees were also announced.

Freshmen also got their first taste of the color day excitement.

Lea Connolly, who is currently in her first year in South Pasadena, was surprised to see such a large amount of participation and dedication.

“It was a day to remember,” said Connolly. “I loved how everybody dressed up and got so creative with their costumes; it made everything so exciting!”

California Governor Jerry Brown vetoed AB165 on October 6, a bill stating that public schools cannot require students to pay any fees for classes and extracurricular activities. The bill was a response to a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union targeting school districts that have allegedly violated the provision in the California Constitution guaranteeing the right to a free public education.

Although schools are not held to the language of the vetoed bill, some schools, including SPHS, had already begun to abide by the proposed law as a precaution. The high school plans to continue the efforts being made to make all SPHS activities cost-free.

The effects of these efforts are being felt by numerous high school organizations.

Commissioner of Spirit Ellen Na is concerned with the ongoing struggle to raise enough money to pay for Pep expenses. Under this new movement, the cheer squad can only ask for donations and fundraise and is struggling due to lack of required expenses.

Said Na, “We can no longer make members pay for their uniform, and not all of the payments were made. We are in debt.”

Pep squad manager senior Alexander Prescott expressed concern that some members are beginning to take advantage of the student fee policy by purchasing more than what they themselves can afford to “donate,” assuming that the Pep squad has the funds to cover the expenses.

“If you include all the extra sweatshirts and pants,” says Prescott, “it’s about a thousand dollars per member.”

See “Brown veto” on Page 2

New bike lanes for South Pasadena

By Harry Yadav Senior Staff Writer South Pasadena became the first city in the San Gabriel Valley to put a comprehensive bike plan into action with the creation of a new bike lane last Thursday on El Centro Street. New bike lanes will eventually cover 24 miles of the city.

In addition to lanes, the plan includes bicycle racks, street signs and markings to enhance visibility, and safety and awareness programs for the city’s youth.

This implementation is a result of the efforts of city council member David Sifuentes and mayor Mike Ten, who feel that

bike lanes will encourage students to use bikes to get to school.

“This bikeway system connects our neighborhood to the schools and public venues,” said Sifuentes, who added that the installation of a bike path would also promote a healthy lifestyle.

The city is aware that having bicycle lanes comes with other responsibilities. Bike lanes are expected to make the roads safer for both cyclists and drivers.

“We want to show bicyclists that they are part of our commitment to safe transportation. And we want motorists to understand that they have to be on the lookout for bicyclists. Bicycle lanes do that,” said Police Chief Joe

Payne.

To ensure that every child has a helmet, Payne and the police department will be offering free helmets to any one under 18 who cannot afford one.

The bike paths are not expected to be completed for twenty years. The project is being funded by both state and federal money and is projected to cost $5.7 million.

Some SPHS students are skeptical of the idea that bike lanes will prompt students to ride their bikes.

Says senior Siena Palm, “Kids are lazy; if they don’t ride [bikes] now they never will. I think this is a waste of a lot of

Rachael Garner

The bike lane on Marengo Avenue is an example of what will cover 24 miles in the city. The project will cost $5.7 million. money and time.”

But most kids, such as freshman Saamon Mohamadion, are happy about the installation.

“I ride my bike everywhere, to school, to practice,” he said.

“Bike lanes just make the streets safer.”

News 2

Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Shanghai principal visits district

By Rhian Moore Assoc. Feature Editor Ms Gao Ying has been visiting SPHS from the Shanghai province for the past month as part of a principal shadowing exchange program.

Ying is a high school vice principal in China, and will be here for another three weeks to visit classes, observe activities, and communicate with administrators about educational methods.

“This is an outstanding school,” said Ying, as translated by sophomore Jeffrey Xiong. “The principals and teachers are all very warm and friendly, and the students are lively.”

Ying, known by her English name, Pauline, is vice principal of Shanghai Shaoyun High School.

The process of being accepted into the American exchange program that brought her to South Pasadena is a rigorous one; as part of the application, Ying was required to take a test and research career education. She arrived in America on September 22.

In her first week, Ying visited local college and high school campuses. But for six weeks, she will focus exclusively on SPHS Ying is focusing on observing ROP classes, as they are most relevant to her career research. She believes that the ROP teaching methods encourage the students to learn by helping them cultivate creativity.

“In the environment here, as long as the students are self-motivated and have a dream about what they want to do in the future, America can help them succeed,” said Ying.

Said SPHS principal Ms Janet Anderson, “She has been a great guest, and it has been wonderful to have her.”

From “Brown veto” on Page 1 Pep is not alone in its troubles. Athletic Director Ralph Punaro is also concerned with the policy’s effects on students in sports.

“Without bingo and the Booster Club, we wouldn’t have sports, let alone all the helmets and safety gear,” said Punaro.

Buses to and from games cost eighty to ninety thousand dollars per year. Because of the lack of donations to the Booster Club this year, the number of away games may be reduced. Despite the effects of the policy, Coach Punaro says students are doing the best they can to raise money, for example by selling discount cards and Krispie Kream donuts to help their team.

Fundraisers like those of sports teams have proven to be successful in the Virtual Business program as well, and other SPHS groups continue to search for solutions to SPHS’s cost-free movement.

News

Around Campus

The SPHS Red Cross Club began pumpkin sales yesterday at lunch on the Tiger Patio. The money earned will be used to help pay for larger first aid kits for every classroom in the high school, as well as CPR classes, which the club will offer to the entire school. / Rhian Moore

League of Women Voters holds forum

By Madison Amido Staff Writer The nine candidates competing for a seat on the South Pasadena city council returned for a second candidate forum, held in the South Pasadena Chamber of Commerce on October 12. These candidates consist of seven challengers and two incumbents and are competing for three city council seats. City Treasurer Gary Pia appeared at the beginning of the forum along with two speakers discussing the benefits and drawbacks of the Utility Tax. Candidates faced questions regarding South Pasadena’s major issues, such as Measure UT, the Rialto Theatre, Community revitalization, and 710 strategies.

Candidates were asked what they would do if Measure UT did or did not pass.

Incumbent Mike Ten said, “If Measure UT doesn’t pass it won’t be dramatic right off the bat... but city staff and city managers will have to prepare themselves in draFrom “BOE elections” on Page 1 “There is a need to devise our own funding models that, while accounting for state dollars, don’t rely solely on those dollars. We need to set up a 10-20 year financial plan that incorporates our community in the funding mix of our schools along with the state dollars,” he said.

Loo has been a member of the SPUSD board since April 2002, and was re-elected in 2007. He has stated that he wants to use more technology in South Pas schools and move away from outdated inefficien-

matic reductions in staffing.”

When asked about the Rialto Theater’s current condition, Candidate Bob Joe said, “We need to save it, we need to restore, and we need to revitalize it.”

Candidate Alan Reynolds said the most important factors to keep in mind are funding and vision. Incumbent Richard Schneider and challenger Dr. Marina Khubesrian would like to include the Rialto in the revitalization project. Candidate David Margrave believes the downtown revitalization project is “nonsensical.”

Candidates unanimously agreed on opposing the 710 extensions, excluding Ten, who would oppose a tunnel extension “only after the environmental review.’

While community passion is evident, voter apathy is prevalent.

Council seats and measures are at stake. Most voters have a clear opinion on these issues. The difference in the election will be made by how many of these voters are concerned enough to go out and vote on November 8.

Matt Winkel

Protesters of many different backgrounds have come to downtown LA to protest what they see as corporate greed.

‘Occupy’ movement reaches Los Angeles

cies.

Sonner is looking to serve his third term on the board as well. Sonner has put in eight years of service, and hopes to continue his expertise into his next incumbency. He believes that the biggest issue in California education is the severe lack of funding.

He has two children at SPHS, sophomore Sofie and junior Bradley.

The forum this Friday will be an opportunity to form an accurate impression of the candidates. The forum is free and all are welcome.

By Max White Copy Editor Hundreds of nonviolent protestors have made camp outside Los Angeles City Hall as part of the Occupy L.A. movement. The demonstrations began October 1 as a protest against the “one percent” which controls Wall Street and the economy, but have since become a Mecca for discontent.

“It’s about time to wake up and say, ‘hey, we are the government, we need to distribute the wealth,’” said Juan Alcala, a protestor known online as “The Dollhouse Dude.”

Demonstrators like Amir Baigmoradi hope to achieve a range of social and political goals.

“This protest is for lasting peace and love for this country and the rest of the

world,” said Baigmoradi. “We want to destroy the militaryindustrial complex and get tax dollars to go towards making this nation a better place instead of putting bullet holes through other countries. It’s a new century and there’s got to be a new way.”

Drum circles and meditation tents have been set up throughout the area, and a communal laundry system has been established.

While there have been some issues involving vandalism, the Occupy L.A. demonstrations have been largely without incident.

“It’s very peaceful,” said a City Hall employee who spoke on condition of anonymity; they were instructed not to publicly express an opinion on the protests.

“I think I support it. I feel the same way.”

Ms Audrey Toth comes to English department

By Kelsey Hess Staff Writer

Theo Mandin-Lee

Toth, who transferred from the middle school in late September, teaches freshman and sophomore English.

The South Pasadena High School community warmly welcomed its newest addition to the English department, Ms Audrey Toth.

Toth transfered to the high school in late September from the South Pasadena Middle School.

She was added to the English department when three new sections of English were created. These additional classes were needed to address overcrowding issues. Toth currently teaches two freshman honors classes and one sophomore class.

“Teaching here is very different, and I really like my wide variety of students,” said Toth.

According to Toth, the middle and high schools harbor extremely different learning environments. She has a much deeper connection with students at the high school level.

“One important difference I

have found was that students at the high school understand the concept of sarcasm much better than students do at the middle school. This is nice because I can reference things other than Disney movies,” said Toth.

Toth feels that she is well-suited to teach at the high school level, and is excited by her work at SPHS. “I love teaching at the high school. Everyone in the English department is really nice, and I really like my classes and all of my students,” said Toth.

She graduated from college in 2009.

“I like Ms Toth a lot,” said freshman Lena Gavenas. “I’m happy in her class, and the fact that she’s young is great because she’s relatable, understands us better, and is knowledgeable when it comes to what she’s teaching about.”

Toth enjoys working with the students of SPHS and looks forward to continuing her position in the English department at the high school.

News

Friday, October 21, 2011 - Tiger

3

Profiling the Candidates - City Council Election 2011 Incumbent Mike Ten was born in South Pasadena in 1966, and attended local schools, including SPHS. Ten has been actively involved in South Pasadena, serving as a councilman for Mike Ten eight years, SPHS Booster Club President for two years, an SPHS tennis coach, and assisting with Tiger Bingo for thirteen years. Ten is running to “continue to prepare for the future.” He will oppose the 710 Freeway tunnel extension only when an environmental review is provided. Ten absolutely supports the downtown re-development project and Measure UT.

Challenger Art Salinas has resided in South Pasadena since 1994 with his wife and three sons.

He has been Art Salinas involved in local organizations as a member of the SPEF Executive Committee, the Holy Family Church, and as a referee in AYSO. Salinas said that the Fair Oaks construction demonstrated “a lack of leadership by the City Council. The public felt unaware and left out.” He is also in favor of bike lanes to improve traffic and cyclist safety.

Incumbent Richard Schneider has lived in South Pasadena since 1975 and is the current City Council liaison to the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission, the Library Board of Richard Trustees, and the PlanSchneider ning Commission. He is in favor of the City Utility Users Tax, and hopes to improve the city’s infrastructure. Schneider wishes to maintain a friendly city atmosphere, and said, “I believe that the vitality and strength of South Pasadena is the desire of citizens to participate in the life of the community.”

Bob Joe has been a p r o u d S o u t h Pasadena resident for over twenty years. He has Bob Joe worked with the Transportation Commission and Advisory Committees for the Farmer’s Market and Racquet Center. If elected, Joe would ensure a successful growth in local business districts, public safety and better infrastructure. “I will use my expertise in public works planning and working with federal and regional governments to seek increased revenues and grants,” said Joe.

David Margrave was elected twice to the City Council, serving as Mayor Pro Tem for both terms. Margrave has served in the Parks Commission, Natural Resources Com- David Margrave mission, and Transportation Commission. He opposes Measure UT, and said, “Granting city officials ten more years of an unknown amount of money for unknown expenses just seems wrong to me.”

Margrave would work to support existing merchants by creating parking structures instead of pursuing a downtown revitalization project.

Alan Reynolds has lived in South Pasadena for 27 years. He is involved in the South Pasadena Chamber of Alan Reynolds Commerce and the South Pasadena Kiwanis Club. He is on the Parks and Recreation Commission and owns Reynolds Sales & Consulting.

He opposes 710 extensions, and wants to repair South Pasadena’s infrastructure. “I want to promote local businesses to drive revenue for the city. It’s unfortunate that the Rialto was not involved in the plan,” said Reynolds.

Dr. Marina Khubesrian has lived in South Pasadena for fifteen years with her husband and children, who attend Arroyo Vista. Khubesrian delivered babies and worked as a faculty Marina physician/co-director at Khubresian Glendale Adventist Medical Center’s family physician training program. She supports the passage of Measure UT, and is in favor of a downtown revitalization project, saying, “There is real opportunity there to connect the commercial districts and add a plaza with more dining.”

Chris Glaeser has been passionately involved in the South Pasadena community in the five years he has Chris Glaeser lived here.

Glaeser said that he “supports a proactive approach that is inclusive of all the communities along the 710 corridor, from Long Beach to La Cañada and 210 East.” Regarding the Fair Oaks construction, he said that he would have “set up an advisory committee made up of South Pasadena citizens with engineering experience.”

Challenger Ernie Arnold was born and raised in South Pasadena.

He has served as chairman of the Ernie Transportation Arnold Commission, and is currently a member of the Community Redevelopment Commission and the Freeway and Transportation Commission. Arnold is director of Citizens United to Save South Pasadena. He favors local taxes for local uses and supports the Utilities Users Tax. Said Arnold, “I am committed to protecting our rights as a city.”

4

Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

News

High school students volunteer at Outdoor Science School

By Erin Chan Staff Writer Monterey Hills was the first of South Pasadena’s elementary schools to attend Los Angeles County Outdoor Science School this year.

The fifth-graders departed from Monterey Hills Elementary to the Malibu OSS site on the morning of Monday, October 10, and returned to the school the following Friday afternoon.

The children were accompanied by teachers Ms Frietas, Mr. Millar, and Mrs. Tull.

Fourteen SPHS student volunteers served as cabin leaders.

The week was spent at the Malibu Outdoor Science School site, which is owned by Camp Hess Kramer, a Jewish summer camp.

“The weather was beautiful the entire week. The sun was perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and our trips to the beach,” said cabin leader and senior Grace Giberson.

The high school students who gave up their Color Day to volunteer all agreed that the experience was well worth the sacrifice.

Those who went to OSS when they went to Monterey Hills as fifth graders found joy in returning as cabin leaders.

Senior Tori Kause said, “I remember loving my cabin leader in fifth grade. For me, seeing kids outside of their normal environment and witnessing that they respected and adored me right off the bat was mind-blowing.

That’s what made the week the most memorable.”

Marengo Elementary will be attending OSS from October 24 to the 28th, along with another group of dedicated high school volunteers.

For those who still want the opportunity to be cabin leaders, as well as gain 40+ hours of community service, Arroyo Vista is scheduled to attend OSS this spring.

Erin Chan

Fifth graders Jillian Godinez and Eleanor Imel present the insect that they discovered at Outdoor Science School.

SPHS hosts virtual business conference

By Rhian Moore Assoc. Feature Editor

Jennifer Kim

Senior Bennett Kopperud makes a presentation in a marketing workshop at the virtual business conference.

Virtual business teams from numerous high schools in Southern California attended the seventh annual Virtual Enterprise Student Leadership Training event at South Pasadena High School on October 6.

The event was a fundraiser for the Virtual Business class where students received advice for competitions and focused on the upcoming year.

The training began with a keynote presentation led by speaker Jimmy Benavides, the

ROP Director of Los Angeles County. SPUSD Assistant Superintendent Dr. Steven Seaford and SPHS Principal Ms Janet Anderson also addressed the audience.

The introduction was followed by three workshop sessions, which lasted one hour each and were hosted by businesspeople and lawyers.

Virtual Business students were allowed to pick the workshops pertaining to either their departments or their own interests.

“Throughout the day, I went to different workshops;

all of them were wonderful.

One workshop I attended, called International Business Relations, was especially intriguing,” said varsity Virtual Enterprise student Will Jones on the session.

Preparation for the event began as early as July. “Ms Mason organized most of it. Her hard work, effort, and coordination put it all together,” said Jones.

“I’m looking forward to getting to apply [what I learned] when we go to competition,” said varsity Vice President of Human Resources Yee-

Lum Mak. “Overall, I love this leadership training and I think it’s a great way to pick up new tips and to meet people from other schools.”

Varsity and both JV classes have decided on their products for this school year.

The varsity team’s company is Helios and will sell backpacks, while the first JV team will be selling umbrellas in the company in the company Mistery, and the second team headphones in DuBass.

The first competition for Virtual Enterprise will in Bakersfield in late November.

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H u r r y ! D i s c o u n t e n d s N o v e m b e r 1 8 t h 2 0 11

Good Girl Dinette Time: 5 minutes

Get off at the Highland Park station, take a twominute walk and you’ll arrive at this Vietnamese-American fusion comfort food joint.Think chicken-noodle pho and curry chicken pot pie.

Crème de la Crepe

The Smell time:

20 minutes

Take the Gold Line to the Little Tokyo stop.

Hoof north on East 1st St. two blocks, turn left and walk half a block on Main. There you will find The Smell, a local all-ages DIY venue home to some of L.A.’s best and worst bands.

For $5, get your hand stamped and feel free to cruise in and out of the venue and explore downtown. Make sure to catch Infinite Body and Dunes on November 5.

Right off the Chinatown Metro stop, the Homeboy Bakery is an organization that employs ex-convicts. A great cause and great food. Be sure not to miss this uniquely L.A. experience.

Gingko House Time: 19 minutes

Cheap tea and snacks await at the Gingko House. The ambiance is lacking, but it’s the perfect place to grab some boba and run.

The Huntington Botanical Gardens time: 20 minutes exactly

Take the Mission Station Metro to Memorial Park Station, and find the cute little creperie, nestled on the outskirts of Old Town Pasadena. Think nutella, nutella, nutella. Convinced?

Homeboy Bakery

Nucleus

Visit this Alhambra art gallery that exhibits the work of local artists. Peruse the store’s graphic t-shirt and book selection. Look out for clever exhibit openings, such as the recent Harry-Potter-themed gallery featuring a twelve-foot Voldemort bust.

Time: 16 minutes

Time: 14 minutes

Time: 12 minutes

time: 20 minutes exactly

Beautiful flowers, open space to do homework, and a perfect place for a tea party.

Highland Theater Time: 16 minutes

No Future Cafe

This PCC-adjacent coffee shop and restaurant doubles as a venue for local up-and-coming bands. Catch a live show in Pasadena, a rare treat.

by

BIKE

This theater boasts three-dollar Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Otherwise, bike here for a regular-priced six dollar steal.

Currently playing: Footloose, Real Steel, and The Thing.

Take a ride to this Highland Park taco and burrito joint for good food and a hip vibe.You can’t miss the muraled walls and outdoor seating.

T RAIN

Take advantage of the charming cultural experience that is the Norton Simon Museum. Visit to admire temporary exhibitions and an extensive collection of Degas paintings and statues.

La Estrella Restaurant Time: 14 minutes

by

5

time: 20 minutes exactly

Time: 19 minutes

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, shop, and visit the urban area’s plethora of eateries.

Friday, October 21, 2011 - Tiger

The Norton Simon Museum

Stop here for a delectable french-dip sandwich and a taste of historic Los Angeles. Expect crowds at the popular joint and go with friends.

Little Tokyo

Philippe’s

Time: 19 min

20 Minutes

Whether by train or by foot, by car or by bike, here are all the best places (for food, fun, and time with friends) just 20 minutes away from South Pasadena.

Echo Mountain Time: 19 minutes

FAMILY FAIR Time: 10 minutes

Cute trinkets and delicious candy await at this sweet little shop.

Stop by this authentic market and restaurant for a taste of French culture right here in South Pasadena. A Croque Monsieur sandwich and Salade de Chèvre Frais are among the delights of the quaint little shop. Bon appetite!

Papa Don’s Deli

Nestled just a block away from Arroyo Vista Elementary on Pasadena Avenue, Papa Don’s has a delicious sandwich menu, friendly service, and low prices. If you’re feeling ambitious, order the Godfather. A mess of salami, bologna, ham, provolone, pepperoncinis, onions, mortadella cheese, lettuce, and tomato, this sandwich is not for the faint of heart.

Paddle tennis, mini golf, soccer fields, and hiking trails await at the local Arroyo Seco.

Don’t let scarring memories of AYSO dissuade you from visiting the local center.

Play frisbee. Run and people-watch. Play tennis with friends. Relive your youth!

Vidéothèque

Rest your weary feet after a long stomp from SPHS at Happy Feet. Indulge in a thirty minute neck & shoulder massage for $30 or $25 hour-long reflexology session.

Time: 12 min

If it’s not on Netflix or at Blockbuster, you’ll find it at Vidéothèque. The eclectic movie rental store has nearly 20,000 titles available for your enjoyment, not to mention an assortment of funky t-shirts and classic posters. The place has a vibe worthy of the classic movies it rents out. Check it out for a cinematic experience that more commercial DVD places can’t provide. They also buy & sell used discs!

Page by Libby Rainey, Illustration by Daniel Willardson

by CAR

The Santa Anita Racetrack time: 20 minutes (if you speed)

Horse races, people-watching, and a lovely afternoon await at the racetrack, found at the end of a long drive down Huntington Boulevard. Eighteen-year -olds can place bets on horses and revel in the excitement of the races, but all ages can enjoy the excitement and tradition of the track’s events.

time:16 min

The Pantry Cafe

time: 20 minutes (walk fast)

Happy Feet Foot Massage

Explore local nature and trek hiking trails at Echo Mountain. Want to test your nerves? Check out the hotel ruins at the top of the mountain.

This famous Los Angeles eatery has never been closed.

Never. The 24-hour diner specializes in breakfast. Go for a 3 A.M. feast with friends or shell out $24.50 for the beef tenderloin. Remember, cash only.

The Arroyo Seco

by FOOT time: 7 minutes

Time: 8 minutes

A brisk walk from the high school, Buster’s is a South Pasadena classic. The coffee joint is a perfect place for a study session, a quick ice cream cone with a friend, or a grab-’n-go sandwich.

Time: 7 min

Time: 20 min

Buster’s Ice Cream & Coffee Stop

Nicole’s Gourmet Foods

Poo-Bah Record Shop Time: 15 minutes

Find the best experimental and hip hop music, paired with forty years’ worth of used jazz records. This friendly space has knowledgable staff and is a beacon of cool in an otherwise dreary strip of Colorado Blvd. Catch the occasional live show here as well!

Griffith Park

time: 20 minutes (no traffic) The Griffith Park Observatory is more than a center for astronomy and science fanatics. The beautiful Los Angeles landmark has some of the best views of the city, and is a perfect place for a picnic or calming run. Drive up for sunset and don’t leave until the stars and lights of the city come alive in front of you.

6 Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Opinion

Opinion B

Cast your metaphorical vote

ravo to the earthquake sounds over the PA system during yesterday’s disaster drill. The car alarms were a nice touch.

B

to the college workshops during late start.We’ve been getting far too much sleep lately. ravo

By Elizabeth Ford Rainey Editor-in-Chief

B

to Sarah Palin for staying out of the 2012 presidential race. We can’t understand politics unless it’s presented with metaphors involving guns or bears. oo

B

to all of the Occupy protests.

We’re planning on taking down the stronghold of financial power that is South Pasadena. PICKET THE FARMER’S MARKET! ravo

B

oo to the Rose Court for not including anyone from SPHS. We’re the prettiest school out of all the schools.

B

to Micky Abs for not inviting Tiger to his 18th birthday bash. We’re sad we missed out on pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey. oo

B

to the College Board for keeping us frantically refreshing our screens until 2 A.M. Real champions don’t need more than five hours of sleep, anyway.

Rachael Lee

Naviance: a useful tool if used properly

ravo

The Tiger Established 1913

CSPA Gold Medalist 2005 CSPA Gold Medalist 2006 CSPA Gold Medalist 2009 CSPA Gold Medalist 2010 CSPA Gold Medalist 2011 Editor-in-Chief Libby Rainey Managing Editor Jennifer Kim News Devin Mitchell, Editor Remeny White, Associate Opinion Carlton Lew, Editor Clair Fuller, Associate Feature Sofi Goode, Editor Rhian Moore, Associate Sports Jessica Moog, Editor Clem Witherall, Associate Copy Editors Alex Tranquada and Max White Photography Theo Mandin-Lee, Editor Kathryn Whitworth, Associate Photographers Rachael Garner, Siria Medina, Matthew Winkel Staff Writers Michael Abelev, Madison Amido, Jackson Atwater, Erin Chan, Matt DeFulgentiis, Kelsey Hess, Anne Kitchens, Marcy Kuo, Amber Laird, Natalie McLain, Christian Miyamae, Meghan Roche, Joshua Roquemore, Shyam Senthilkumar, Heather Vaughan Staff Illustrators Rachael Lee, Daniel Willardson Managers Alexander Prescott, Ads Angela Jang, Business Webmaster Makenna Sidle Faculty Advisor Mike Hogan

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by American/Foothill Publishing Co., Inc., Tujunga, CA. Signed articles appearing in Tiger represent the writer’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff, student body, faculty or administration of SPHS. Contact the publications office at (626) 441-5820 ext. 2615 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for advertising rates and subscriptions. Tiger welcomes articles, letters or rebuttals. All letters must be signed and verifiable, but names will be witheld upon request.

Staff Editorial Fans of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean franchise will be familiar with the Isla de Muerta from the first film, an island that can only be found by those who already know where it is.

South Pasadena students attempting to access information through Naviance often experience a similar level of inconvenience.

Entering South Pasadena’s section of Naviance requires a specific URL that cannot be found on either the main site of the high school or on the main site of Naviance.

The difficulty a student encounters in just getting onto the site is a symptom of a larger problem: Naviance is simply not emphasized enough, or even for the right reasons. It can be, and already is to some extent, an incredibly useful way for students to obtain and organize information about colleges. But is this how the site is presented to students in their sophomore year, in hours of presentations and lectures?

No. Instead, students’ time is wasted on personality and career tests with questionable results and no direct use. The site is then virtually abandoned until the final month of junior year, when students are abruptly expected to submit a swathe of personal information that will have a

profound impact on their college application process.

By this time, they have forgotten how to access the site and navigate its less-thanintuitive interface, and time must be taken out of English classes to relearn the relevant procedures.

College planning should not be undertaken in short, intense bursts. It should be a steady and consistent process that starts at the right time: in short, the precise opposite of what now constitutes Naviance.

The personality and career tests lend a voice to the increasingly expressed yet misinformed sentiment that students entering college must know exactly what they want to do in life, which only adds additional pressure to students who will inevitably feel that they haven’t done enough to prepare.

In its current iteration, Naviance amounts to little more than a recurring nuisance. However, if it were to be introduced at the beginning of junior year, when students are more inclined to begin seriously planning for college, it could be wholeheartedly adopted as a tool in the admissions process— as long as it is introduced and used in the right way, it can certainly live up to its potential.

Of the thousands of registered voters in South Pasadena, only a small percentage will vote in the upcoming local election on November 8. This means that only a portion of the community will choose public representatives that will make decisions on educational and citywide issues for the next few years.

Worse still, South Pasadena students are ignorant as to the direct effects these votes will have on education and citywide issues.

Balancing budgets, installing bicycle lanes around town, allocating remaining Measure M funds, and choosing the next steps for the historic Rialto Theater are among the many important decisions city officials face this year. These issues, both on the citywide and school board levels, influence the lives of SPHS students. To deny them adequate attention is to deny the needs of our community.

To be under the voting age is not to be insignificant.

Inability to vote is no reason to refrain from learning about the positions and agendas of both city council and school board candidates. Students should take responsibility for bettering education and effecting citywide change. They can frame opinions on the election and discuss these thoughts with parents, who can then take their input to the polls.

And if parents aren’t voting, their children should urge them to participate. Adults and their families have a dual responsibility to represent their interests on the ballot.

Student voice need not be limited to parental respresentation alone. Take notice of the election signs around town. Read Tiger’s profile of city council candidates. Decide who of Joe Loo, Benjamin Figueroa, and Richard Sonner will best represent you and your needs as a student on the school board.

If so inspired, openly support a candidate and add much needed student input to their campaign.

To the lucky few SPHS seniors who are of voting age, capitalize on this opportunity to directly affect the city. Don’t throw away your unique position as both a student and a voter.

You have two weeks. Casting a vote is not the only way to influence your community.

To the Rose Court: good riddance Erin Chan Staff Writer Stand up straight. Shoulders back. Smile. Wave. So begins the exterior duty of the Rose Queen and her six princesses as they attend over 100 media events, pose for hungry cameras, and bring grace to the parade and functions of the Tournament of Roses. The process of auditioning for the Royal Court is, simply, tradition. As years progress, however, a definite question arises: is this tradition more of an inconvenience than an honor?

Amidst the standard feminist-conflicting morals of the tra-

dition, impracticalities rise. The nature of the competition places strain on those who actually end up on the Court.

Finalist Chloe Acebo says, “you have to be really flexible with missing school and all the activities that you’re involved in.”

The multitude of extracurriculars that finalists are involved in, on top of the normal stresses of senior year, means the honor is much more than initially bargained for.

Finalist Evelyn Ashleigh elaborates on the contracts finalists were mandated to sign, with rules forbidding “sharing Rose Court clothing and only using

hair products assigned by the Rose Court beauticians.”

Finalist Miranda Gontz says that members’ social lives are also severely monitored.

The Court proprietors demand power over Facebook and other sources of social media, “making you delete anything that doesn’t maintain a clean image for the Court – like pictures of you in your bathing suit.”

Members of the Royal Court are known to only attend school a couple of hours a week due to Court duties. In addition to missing school, the girls are significantly absent from the extra-curriculars that made them

great candidates in the first place.

The six SPHS finalists should be happy that they weren’t chosen; their senior year would be absolutely crippled with the supposed honor.

As years pass, the Rose Court’s relevance steadily decreases. Added to the outdated process of judging girls primarily on beauty, it makes it even more apparent that outside opinions on the process are irrelevant. Hopeful girls will continue auditioning for the honor year after year after year – because it’s not a matter of morals or a matter of complete impracticality. It’s a matter of tradition.

Opinion

Longer classes, lighter loads

By Heather Vaughan Staff Writer Block scheduling is a significant part of all SPHS students’ lives. School days are defined as even or odd, and “all days” are a thing of the past that most of us haven’t experienced since our middle school days.

The block scheduling system allows students to dedicate more time to extracurricular activities. It also prevents students from being forced to sacrifice personal events, as there is always the flexibility of having two days to finish assignments.

“The block schedule’s nice because it gives us an extra day to get our work done,” said junior Aaron Huelsman.

Many upperclassmen, like Huelsman, also struggle to juggle multiple AP courses; block scheduling helps distribute such classes over the course of two days to relieve stress and help prevent the overwhelming feeling that challenging classes can often inspire. The absence of “all days” – days in which students attend every single one of their classes – also helps prevent the occurrence of having four or five tests on the same day, or multiple project due dates falling on one day.

“Having my three AP classes in one day would be the worst thing ever. Having all of your AP work due the next day equates to a massive load,” said Huelsman.

A longer class duration of 100 minutes also allows for a more productive class period, as opposed to a shorter class in which there would be much less time to complete a lecture or a test. This long period reduces the stress of rushing to finish a test, since the teacher can give the class

Friday, October 21, 2011 - Tiger

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Ending the endless periods

as long as they need, thanks to the surplus of time. In addition, on assembly days, the already abbreviated period would be cut even shorter, leaving virtually no time for learning.

While it may seem like the class period is too long to sit through, realistically, it prepares students for college classes, where they will be required to sit through periods as long as three hours on a regular basis. To students who are used to short

By Devin Mitchell News Editor

classes of an hour or less, this sudden shift to a much longer period could be difficult, almost unbearable, to adjust to.

No changes need to be made to the current block schedule system that SPHS uses. A 100-minute class period every other day allows for the right amount of instruction time, and two days between classes allows for an easily adjustable homework schedule. There is already an immense load of responsibility that high school students carry. A hectic “all day” schedule would only place unnecessary social and academic stress on these dedicated scholars whose futures will be determined by their education.

employs. With the exceptions of late start and assembly days, every class between 8:00 and 2:00 is 100 minutes long, an often interminable amount whether or not the lesson interests the student.

It is simply unrealistic to expect high school students to sit in a desk, focus on a single subject, and give their full attention to an instructor for an hour and forty minutes. No one lesson will interest every student, which results in either silent lack of participation or worse, active disruption.

This is exacerbated by a longer class period, as indifferent students grow more and more impatient.

You’re in class. Riveting as the teacher’s lecture might be, you turn around to glance at the clock in the back of the room. It’s 11:00.

There are still forty minutes left even though you have already endured what feels like the longest hour of your life.

Such is life in the block scheduling system that South Pasadena High School

The better teachers limit lecturing time and supplement their lesson with relevant videos and group activities to engage the class. Some give time for students to begin the homework assignment. They know that at some point, their voice ceases to be an asset.

Some of these additional techniques are often very effective. But they still don’t allow us to best take advantage of the relatively brief time we have each week in a room with a knowledgeable expert.

Fo r e x a m p l e, S a n Marino High School and La Cañada High School, both schools with notably higher scores on the Academic Performance Index, don’t employ the same system.

San Marino has a traditional schedule; students have each class every day. La Cañada takes a hybrid approach, scheduling all periods Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, but using block scheduling on Wednesdays and Thursdays. At La Cañada, this allows teachers to plan timeconsuming tests or labs during longer periods without every class requiring such a length.

An additional issue is that for subjects such as mathematics and foreign language, in which constant Rachael Lee repetition is essential, block scheduling is less effective. Students might see their teacher as few as two times a week, with up to four days separating each class meeting if there is weekday holiday or an absence.

Spanish teacher Josh Whitney said, “For certain subjects, we should examine the problem. Especially with language and math, [students] need constant exposure.”

There is no perfect way to construct the schedule, as every approach has benefits and drawbacks. But block scheduling as it is currently built has clear flaws, and a return to all classes every day or some sort of hybrid combination of the two is more than warranted.

Save women, not simply their “ta-tas”

By Clair Fuller Assoc. Opinion Editor October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the pink ribbons have been out in full force.

But alongside the benign pastels, a newer and more harmful “awareness booster” has cropped up.

Wristbands reading “I heart boobies,” posters and t-shirts emblazoned with “Save the ta-tas”, and an array of other breast-related slogans have become increasingly conspicuous. This advertising tactic, aiming only for the cheap laugh, wrongly represents a campaign that should be focused on saving lives—not further fetishizing the female anatomy.

Breast cancer has been reduced solely to the breasts themselves, and this is nothing short of a disservice to those that have been actually affected by the disease that will kill nearly 40,000 women in 2011. Cancer is an entirely non-sexy health condi-

tion, and the fact that an entire awareness and funding campaign has come to rest upon its sexualization is indicative of priorities that have become severely twisted.

Breast cancer affects women, not just their breasts; ignoring this fact implies that a woman’s life is only worth preserving because her “tatas” are.

And for those breast cancer survivors who have undergone aggressive, life-saving procedures that involve the loss of some or all of their breast tissue—where does this movement leave them? Women who have chosen to save their lives at the expense of their breasts find themselves neatly erased by a publicity stunt that cares only about cleavage.

Also ignored by such slogans are those with breast tissue, but not breasts. Men are susceptible to breast cancer as well, and around 1,000 cases are diagnosed each year in males. This phenomenon is widely unknown, how-

ever, and an “I heart boobies” campaign certainly doesn’t do anything to increase awareness for these patients who hardly receive any.

Still, there are those who argue that such tactics are just harmless jokes. But even if that is the case, is that what breast cancer should be considered? A joke? Are we really comfortable letting funding for cancer research depend on a campaign that boils down to a punch line, and a bad one at that?

“Ha ha, boobs” isn’t exactly the most compelling argument to find a cure for a disease that one in eight women will develop in their lifetime.

Breast cancer is the third leading cause of death among women. It is truly a brutal illness, and it is one without a cure. But a movement that either ignores or insults those it purports to represent utterly fails to convey any fraction of the disease’s tragic reality.

Daniel Willardson

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Opinion

Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Informing voters, one debate at a time

By Josh Roquemore Staff Writer Republicans have caused quite a stir recently with their conservative debates. Much of the media has portrayed the candidates’ tour for the 2012 election as a redundant one, as they travel from state-to-state arguing the finer points of politics.

However, the positive effects stemming from these debates far outweigh the negative.

There is only one thing more frightening than a presidential candidate who is extreme or controlling, and that is a candidate whom the public knows nothing about.

Most people would rather support a candidate who has disagreeable character as opposed to one who is unpredictable and vague. These debates rid the public of the worry that a candidate may be impulsive, passive, or even psychotic.

In addition to familiarizing the public with the people themselves, these debates also allow people to get to know the important positions of politicians. The candidates are

constantly presenting their views, and then being forced to defend them (ironically by their own party members). Being put on the spot like this lets voters know whether the candidate is someone who takes their candidacy seriously.

The debates are also a training

There is only one thing more frightening than a presidential candidate who is extreme or controlling...a candidate the public knows nothing about.

ground for the actual elections in 2012. The candidates earn the right to run against the current president by showing they know their politics and are sincere in their goals. This makes the process more strenuous for candidates, but ultimately worthwhile for the voters. Any weakness or doubt the candidates feel will most assuredly be

exposed by the end of these debates.

While the opinions of the Republican Party have been a tremendous help to voters in deciding their future leader, it would be equally helpful to hear more from President Obama, the presumptive Democratic nominee.

While he obviously cannot hold a series of debates against himself, the public would benefit from hearing his opinion of the points made by Republicans. Many argue he has already been through a series of debates during the 2008 election and that he demonstrates his opinions through legislature; however, there are new and pressing political matters which he has failed to address directly.

The whole idea of American government is built upon the action of electing satisfactory leaders to move our country forward. This cannot be done unless we know where potential leaders stand both politically and morally. If knowledge is power, the public stands only to benefit from knowing more about their potential president.

Daniel Willardson

Occupy Everything

By Joyce Alexander Contributing Writer The American Dream is dead. The system has failed us, and in the time for revolution, our revolutionaries have been notably absent. Our generation has been raised as indifferent to the social injustices that plague society, but as the slumping economy and grim political climate loom over the nation, now is the time for us to shake off our apathy and fight for what’s right.

In 2009, the average CEO was paid 263 times the salary of the average worker. In 2010, the salary of the average American executive went up 23%, while wages for the rest of us rose less than one percent. As jobs are cut and outsourced, 14 million people are currently unemployed in the United States, and 50 million are without health insurance. What’s being done? Our politicians are stuck in their partisan quarrels, refusing to compromise and unable to pass legislation that will benefit the average citizens of our nation.

What used to be the shining appeals of the United States – opportunity, equality, and the American Dream – have long been beaten down by the wealthiest 1%. The idea of an average citizen working hard and long enough to be part of that 1% is an illusion fed to us in order to perpetuate a system of greed and profits. The middle class is shrinking, and capitalism, as it is now, is fueling a growing and dangerous plutocracy.

With the government fumbling to solve pressing economic issues, the task of making change has fallen into the hands of the people. On September 17th, thousands of protestors flooded the financial district of New York City to voice their anger with the present day economic climate. There, peaceful protestors were maced in the face by the NYPD. Grandmothers were arrested for refusing to leave the sidewalk. Encampments of protestors have been occupying Wall Street for a month straight now.

Protests have sprung up in almost every major city in the United States, and even world wide, totaling around 900 different protests. War veterans in Boston were forcibly evicted from their encampments and arrested. Protestors in Rome were bombarded with tear gas and water cannons.

Nevertheless, police and government’s attempts to silence the people have met little success. In the face of injustice and unnecessary force, protestors refuse to yield.

A testament to the power of the people, Occupy is a call to arms for all of us who are sick of being second-class citizens to the corporations and bigwig executives. The Occupy movement is the start of a revolution. As a revolution by and for the people, it is our time to assert our strength as the 99% of the country that is getting undercut at every turn. It’s time to take back our country.

Giving artists a chance to Reflect

By Anne Kitchens Staff Writer Few are actually familiar with the inner workings of PTA’s “Reflections” art competition. Some that are, however, are quick to label the program as “unjust.” Their hasty judgments ignore the reality—the program has proven to be far from unfair. The PTA’s honorable intentions are reflected in its mission; the program was designed to “encourage millions of students across the nation and in American schools overseas to create works of art.”

All different types of art are accepted, including but not limited to dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and visual arts. In order to make sure competition is fair, “Reflections” divides up its participants into four grade divisions—primary, intermedi-

ate, middle/junior, and senior. This system allows every participant to have a fair shot at having their art recognized within their own medium, so as to get maximum feedback.

Every district has its own requirements and standards that must be fulfilled in order to enter the competition.

This policy allows every district to tend to the needs of a small group of kids, subsequently maximizing their success and personal feedback. “Reflections” provides an opportunity for growing artists to explore their artistic talents and receive positive recognition for their efforts, and provides attention to artists who truly do benefit from the help and support from seasoned professionals.

Select students and their parents complain about the lack of central decision-making within this organization, and that artists across the country are not getting equal opportunities, despite

the mission of this well-intentioned program. However, this concern is completely invalid considering the thought -out structure of the program. Due to the division of grades, it wouldn’t be possible for a middle school photographer to be competing against a high school photographer, no matter their skill set.

Another perk of this competition is that it is easily accessible.

“What is so great about the PTA Reflections is that it’s within your community, easy to apply, and you become more recognized for the PTA scholarships,” said Junior Paul Messana.

Messana went on to say that although this particular competition is not well-known, it is definitely a rewarding and valuable experience.

“It’s a completely harmless, simply way of starting to become recognized and showing off your talent,” he said.

Suspension is just one click away

By Natalie McLain Staff Writer What you post online can and will come back to haunt you. As per the school bulletin of a few weeks past, South Pasadena will be strictly enforcing a new and “improved” cyberbullying policy. Those caught engaging in bullying via any sort of technology will be subject to school disciplinary action.

The cyberbullying policy is an attempt to eliminate, or at least lessen, digital animosity between students. But how effective is it?

The policy could be compared, for simplicity’s sake, to an uninvolved stranger suddenly butting in on a private conversation. From the very limited information said intruder has managed to glean, they will make assumptions and judge a situation which, in actuality, they know very little about.

School administrators, in a similar fashion, are passing judgment based on a limited knowledge of a primarily online social sphere. While the policy in

and of itself is a noble idea, the actual application seems to be constantly affecting the wrong people.

One might argue that in order for the school to take action, said “cyberbullying” must first be brought to their attention. Subsequently, the issue would have to be student-recognized before the school took any sort of action. This alone should, in theory, narrow the situations dealt with to actual bullying issues as opposed to the so-called “joking around” so frequently found on online outlets. But this is very seldom the case.

Those who are under actual attack are often too afraid, or sometimes too naïve, to bring their issues before school authorities. Instead, the school is more commonly seen meddling in affairs which have little to do with actual bullying.

The fact is, those who are a real threat to any student’s mental and physical well one word being are not likely to be blatantly “cyberbullying” in the open. It is more often through pri-

vate means of communication such as texting, or allusions rather than blatant criticisms, that bullies get to their prey.

Therefore, the attack on status updates, angry “rants,” and even wall posts is often futile and counter-effective.

The cyberbullying policy is problematic for one key reason: misinterpretation. Just as recording and policing everyday student conversations would most likely result in unjust student punishment, trying to read too much into Facebook chats, text messages, and even blog posts seems to be constantly incriminating the wrong people.

While cyberbullying is a serious problem, the policy as of now is simply inadequate. A method of further investigation into an issue before action is taken, or even a lessening of the administration’s power in the online realm, might be helpful.

But whatever the eventual answer, it will be no easy task to establish, as the issue itself seems to be the result of the disconnect between two completely different worlds.

Friday, October 21, 2011 - Tiger

Opinion

By Mrs. Kimberly Kadletz 9th Grade English and 10th Grade English Honors How was your Color Day? Mine was fabulous, partly because I am enamored with the continuity of tradition at South Pasadena High School, but mainly because I love to see the excitement and anticipation on the faces of students as they participate in this joyous festival of high school life. It always makes me think of my own high school years as I wistfully look back at good times that will never be repeated in my adult years, except as a pensive yet appreciative spectator.

So this is what I want to tell South Pas students: You will only pass this way once. Yes, you have college and a career in your future, enticing you with the glamour and exhilaration of university life, and the heady professionalism of working with intelligent adults toward a common goal. But what you see and experience and do in high school is singular, exclusive, and inimitable. After high school you will never again see so many people every day

who live in your same community, have attended the same schools, and with whom you have a personal history. You will never again be a member of three clubs and feel the thrill of accomplishment when you raise $254. for homeless children in Uganda, or feel that first wonder when you serve dinner to a homeless man at Union Station who surprises you with his dignity and graciousness. You will never again attend a sporting event at which you know every person on the home team. You will never attend another event like Color Day, in which 1500 screaming classmates come together in a glorious explosion of drums and trumpets and orange and black.

So look around you at the Homecoming picnic, the first basketball game, the next time you are lying in the gym giving blood for the Blood Drive. This moment, if you are sitting in a classroom, look around and know that South Pasadena High School is in your blood, it has merged into your DNA. Do not reject the privilege of being an American teen-ager who attends school in the best of circumstances. South Pas is yours. Jump in.

A message from Mr. Paul Groves: AP Chemistry and Chemistry Strange as it may seem to some, I view the SPHS campus as my home. I like my home to be clean and neat. I hate to see trash left on the campus, especially after brunch and lunch. I get the feeling that some people feel that it is Mr. Underwood’s job to clean up after them. I disagree with that idea.

Some people feel that they should only pick up their own trash. I disagree with that, too. I

have a rule for myself: If I see a piece of trash and I also see a trash can up ahead, I pick up the trash and put it in the trash can. It is a simple habit to form and a good thing to do.

If others adopt my rule the campus will look better and each person will have done something useful. Think about my rule the next time you see a piece of trash and a trash can. Bend a little and do a good deed.

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Rachael Lee

Good riddance, Sarah

By Kelsey Hess Staff Writer For some reason, voters seemed surprised when Sarah Palin announced she would not be running for the Republican nomination in the upcoming presidential election. Her ambition is incomparable, but the small town over-achiever was way out of her league. It’s better to work your way up to presidency through dedication and support. After all, pulling an Elle Woods rarely works.

She’s obviously a fan of attention, but it’s questionable whether or not she truly enjoys being involved in politics.

Bristol Palin’s ex-boyfriend, Levi Johnston said, “I wasn’t surprised (that she stepped down as governor). ‘I hate this job,’ she used to say. ‘I could be making money, instead.’”

Since early 2008 when she was running for vice president under Republican nominee Sen. John McCain, Palin has been a hot topic for comedians looking for a bewildered face in politics. It’s hard to argue that Palin hasn’t had her

frazzled moments, but the prospect of her 2012 presidency ended (after collecting campaign donations) on October 5 when she announced she would not be trying for the nomination. After stepping down as Alaska’s governor in 2009 to do bigger and better things, she has since signed for an $11 million autobiography, partnered with the Washington Speakers Bureau, starred in her own reality show called Sarah Palin’s Alaska, and, of course, became a commentator for Fox News. After years of fame from doing essentially nothing, it was unlikely that she would ever seriously bother running for president.

Being president would be a job where she would have to work at, and be accountable for, all of the country’s decisions. Palin’s radiating stage presence has always been the only redemption for her lack of political insight, but 59% of U.S. voters didn’t feel that Palin was qualified for president. The United States just barely escaped the option of electing an unqualified and uncommitted candidate to represent the country. Then again, Michelle Bachmann might be her perfect replacement.

Tiger Newspaper Asks: The counselors frequently tout Naviance as an invaluable resource in the college admissions process.

Do you use Naviance often and find it to be useful? What would you do to increase its effectiveness?

Miranda Gontz, Grade 12

Jennifer Suh, Grade 12

Kaylee Anderson, Grade 12

Pauline Lai, Grade 11

I was using Naviance to find “college matches” based only on my major, GPA, and test scores. However, when I went to the colleges actual website, I found that almost none of them met my requirements. I ended up scrapping all but two colleges I found on Naviance, and that was because I had already done research on them. What would be really helpful is if Naviance was able to list example courses for some majors that the colleges offer, which is what I ended up doing on my own. Other than that, I found no use for Naviance as far as resume and anything else it may be “useful” for.

I go on Naviance all the time now, looking up colleges and seeing what schools I match up to. It’s really useful if you’re a senior because it lets you know about all the college visits and you can create your list of colleges there. Last year, I didn’t go on Naviance too much, but I wish I had because it’s a really useful and helpful tool to use during high school. I don’t know if other schools have things like Naviance, but we are really fortunate to have this and be able to access it whenever we want.

Naviance is super helpful for some things regarding college admissions, however not everything is reliable. It’s useful because it shows the averages of SAT, GPA, ACT, and extracurriculars for a particular college, however, some of the things it says are misleading.

I have come across mistakes pretty often, which is a shame because really, the idea of putting together all the quick information about colleges is really smart.

I use Naviance more often now than before because my counselor said that college reps would be coming to school and that I should go to these college visits. So now I spend a lot of time just looking at Naviance and the colleges’ websites. I think it’s really useful when I look at the college’s average GPA, SAT and ACT scores.

Danny Kwak, Grade 11

Mia Fernandez, Grade 10

Jenny Wang, Grade 10

I think [Naviance] is helpful, and that is the intention, but I don’t know anyone that goes on it besides the times that the counselors force us during class. I think it’s mainly useful during junior and senior year.

I’m a sophomore and have only used it once, which wasn’t that enlightening. I’d say it mainly helps students that have no idea what they’re going to do after high school or have no idea how life after high school works. If you understand the basic ideas of the PSAT, SAT, ACT, college essays, applications, GPA, etc. and jobs that interest you and colleges you’re interested in, then I don’t think we need to waste money on Naviance. It’s helpful, but we don’t need it.

The naviance program is very useful.

I am a junior this year and with the program, it shows me how well I’m doing so far. Also, the graphs that compare me to the people who were accepted into that college actually help show where I am at this point in school. It helps me show how much I have to try to help raise up my grades and SAT scores.

Naviance isn’t “invaluable” like the counselors suggest; however, it is a very helpful tool to start researching for college. Trying to go on Google and start a college search is a daunting task; Naviance helps narrow down potential colleges through a combination of price, majors, location, and difficulty of admission.

Once you’ve decided on a couple of colleges, you can then research them in more detail on each one’s respective website and decide whether the college is really a good match for you. All this research could be done without Naviance, but the website helps expedite the process. Most underclassmen and the majority of juniors probably won’t even glance at it except when they’re required to by the counselors. However, it becomes very useful in early senior year right before admissions.

I personally feel like Naviance isn’t useful to me, but that’s probably because I’m a sophomore and college is still decently far in the future for me.

There are times where I go online to check college visits and whatnot, but other than that, I don’t go on Naviance unless the counselors force me to. Why? I don’t feel the need to go on it on a daily basis. I already know the basic information on importance of tests like the PSAT and SAT, and my GPA. The program seems to attract more attention from upperclassmen than it does underclassman. If there’s a way to make Naviance more applicable to underclassmen, great.

Other than that, to me, Naviance isn’t effective at all.

Jenny Chan, Grade 11 The naviance program is very useful.

I am a junior this year and with the program, it shows me how well I’m doing so far. Also, the graphs that compare me to the people who were accepted into that college actually help show where I am at this point in school. It helps me show how much I have to try to help raise up my grades and SAT scores.

Haseeb Khan, Grade 12

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For one day in October, SPHS is taken over by a massive throng of orange and black. Color Day, in which students and faculty express their school spirit and creativity through elaborate costumes, has been a tradition for 73 years. The packed gym, band’s pounding rendition of ‘Eye of the Tiger’, and predictable win for the senior class in the banner competition are other trademarks of South Pasadena’s favorite spirit day—Commissioner of Assemblies Lee Miyauchi presided over an assembly that contained all three. Punk rocker social studies teachers and a scantily clad water polo team made up just a fraction of the crowd filling the campus.

Color Day 2011 lived up to tradition, teaching freshmen what Tiger pride is really about and giving older students a chance to reminisce. “I just thought to myself that this was going to be the last time I was going to see people dressed as orange and black flight attendants and houses and Charmander… I’m definitely going to miss this,” said senior Lilian Coie. ~Clair Fuller

12 Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Feature

Feature

Culture Music Art Books Movies Fashion

Colorguard and band score sixth

By Madison Amido Staff Writer The South Pasadena High School Tiger Marching Band and Colorguard participated in their first competition of the season last weekend. The Ayala Music in Motion competition was the group’s first scored performance. The event was held at Ayala High School on October 15.

Band earned an overall score of 65.10 out of 100, clinching sixth place in its division. Colorguard won the High Auxilliary Award, given to the highest scoring unit in its division.

“In past years, [we] didn’t perform well, especially during the first competition,” said colorguard captain junior Yvonna Barientos. “Our award was very surprising and I’m hoping we will do even better.”

The colorguard show, entitled “The Raven,” is based on Edgar Allen Poe’s dramatic poem. A starting score of 65.10 is almost five points higher than the group’s beginning scores in years past.

Despite this impressive beginning, colorguard and band still seek improvement for the future.

“There’s no doubt that the band still has room for improvement. A lot of room in fact,” senior drum captain Calvin Chan said. “The first competition is never a good indication of the true potential of the band.”

Colorguard and band will not remain satisfied with the competition’s results. Both look forward to improving, and will put in hours of meticulous practice to perfect the music or choreography required for performances.

“We still have room for visual effects, sound quality, and posture,” said co-drum major Christy Lee. “I have faith in this year especially because we can see the potential in the group, though sometimes it is a bit of a challenge to bring ir out.”

The show is still in production and new additions are being made. Colorguard costumes that turn guard members into ravens, paper birds flying over the field, and a decorated wall in front of the field were recently added to the show.

“We’ve started integrating props and visuals into our show in ways that we’ve never done before,” said Chan. “We’re doing stuff that’s never been seen before in SPHS history, and I think that’s definitely something to look forward to. Even though we have quite a young band, we have a lot of talent and dedication.”

Lee agreed that the band will improve.

“I have never seen a group so motivated and persevering,” she said.

Katie Whitworth

Commercial photography students Kimberlin Low, Charles Negrini, and Jeremy Reynoso pose with their work.

SPHS students entered over 100 photos in the Los Angeles County Fair and won awards in six different categories.

ROP students compete at LA County

By Heather Vaughan Staff Writer When you think of the Los Angeles County Fair, your mind probably goes to deep-fried twinkies and Ferris wheels. What you may not know is that the L.A. County Fair also features a prestigious art competition for students called “America’s Kids.”

Numerous SPHS students and alumni were praised for the artwork they submitted to the Los Angeles County Fair, which took place this fall. An array of categories was represented, ranging from silkscreen printing to furniture construction.

Many ROP students made the cut and placed in several categories.

Senior Kimi Low entered the county fair contest through her ROP photography class near the end of last school year.

“Last year I took photography, so we were entering competitions in class,” said Low. “It wasn’t manda-

tory, but I wanted to see what would happen if I entered. I was surprised with the results of this past year so I can’t wait to try this year. Between now and the next contest, I’ll be snapping photos frequently to have a wide selection to choose from by May.” Low was able to snag a first-place award and three secondplace awards in the categories she entered, all for photography.

Sophomore Jeremy Reynoso also submitted successful photos.

He learned of the Fair’s competition through his freshman journalism class.

“The application process was very simple; all I had to do was bring my photos to Mr. Hogan on a flash drive and he did the rest,” said Reynoso.

His photography placed first in several categories, including scenic and still-life.

Photography was not the only available category of competition;

the fair also has several technical categories. These included digital graphics and commercial design, areas in which senior Freddy Tsao competed.

“I did a catalog and a website design using Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign,” said Tsao.

Contestants were notified by mail of their winnings before the 2011 county fair, which took place throughout September and October.

Wilson Muller

Senior Wilson Muller’s still-life photo placed in the LA County Fair.

Personality Profile: August Mawn

By Clair Fuller Assoc. Opinion Editor There are few things more fascinating than watching someone come alive while talking about their true passion. This is exactly what happens when senior August Mawn begins to discuss what he describes as “easily his favorite subject:” history.

As anyone who has ever had a social studies class with him in his thirteen years in South Pasadena would know, Mawn has long had an affinity for history and global affairs.

“I was always very interested in world events. From a very young age, I would watch the news,” explained Mawn, admitting that he used to watch news programs instead of cartoons.

This interest followed him out of childhood, driving Mawn to take advanced history classes and stay up-to-date with world news. As a ju-

nior, Mawn excelled in AP U.S. History.

“August has a lovable, endearing quirkiness… you just love the guy! [People like him] are a breath of fresh air,” said Mr. Patrick Martin, Mawn’s APUSH teacher last year.

August is indeed every history teacher’s dream—he firmly believes that despite its “bad rap,” the subject remains quite relevant.

“When you learn about history, you learn about the world that you live in… History is a compilation of stories from all around the world that really shape what happens to us today,” said Mawn, dispelling the popular perception of history as dry and boring.

Aside from his fascination with the happenings of both the past and present, Mawn’s time is occupied with extracurriculars and hobbies.

Mawn has played clarinet for eight years, and spends as many as three to four hours a day during football season practicing with the school band. He also enjoys basketball, which

he began to play casually in his freshman year.

“I really like watching [basketball], I like playing with my friends… I’m not good enough for the team,” said Mawn good-naturedly.

Outside of the band room and basketball court, Mawn also spends much of his time volunteering. He has been going to the Mission Hospice & Home Care facility for about a year.

On Sundays he can be found at the Huntington Library, where he distributes audio guides.

Despite his multitude of activities and interests, Mawn says he doesn’t know what he wants to make of his career. Beyond hoping to major in business or economics, which he describes as “practical fields,” and attend UCLA like both of his parents, August’s future is uncertain.

“I’m still thinking about it,” he admitted, although he does anticipate that history and world affairs will remain part of his future.

“I’ll always be aware of history… what’s going on will always interest me,” he said.

Jennifer Kim

Senior August Mawn smiles with his clarinet. Mawn has been playing clarinet since he was nine years old.

Friday, October 21, 2011- Tiger

Feature

13

Ides of March: entertaining if unsatisfying 3.5/5

By Devin Mitchell News Editor

*Actual conversations overheard on campus. Overheard anything comical lately? Send it to tigernewspaper.com.

Illustrations by Amber Laird

Personality Profile Jasmine Li

By Heather Vaughan Staff Writer While most California teenagers take advantage of the nearly year-round sunny skies and pleasant weather to participate in a myriad of outdoor activities, some choose to confine themselves to the biting cold of the eternally winter sport that is ice skating. SPHS freshman Jasmine Li is one of them.

With fewer than three years of experience under her belt, Li already skates at the juvenile level, the fifth out of a total of eight ranks for amateur ice skaters. Li dedicates over ten hours a week to this demanding activity and spends countless weekends preparing for and participating in competitions.

Li began ice-skating at the Pas-

adena Ice Skating Center when she was a sixth grader. She was inspired

by Olympic skaters Evan Lysacek and Marai Nagasu. Captivated by the grace of the skaters she saw on TV, Li was eager to get involved in the sport as well.

“I had never really had a passion for any sport,” said Li, who wanted to participate in something unique.

Much of Li’s ten hours of practice each week includes repetition of her routines, to master her “jumps and spins” in preparation for competition. A routine is developed from various skills that she has accumulated through years of practice. Participating in only solo competitions, Li says that the most important component to success is “practice, practice, practice.” She also spends time ballet danc-

George Clooney had been fond of saying in the weeks leading up to the release of The Ides of March that he could not get the movie made before now because a cynical political film would not have played well in the era of optimism. The gridlock in Washington and the continuation of a stagnating economy apparently calmed those fears, as production began late last year.

But the story derives more from classic political films like The Candidate and Primary Colors than the current political climate. Actual issues in the movie are peripheral, little more than lines in a speech. Mike Morris, played by George Clooney, is the liberal governor of Pennsylvania and the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination for president. The only thing standing between him and the nomination is the important Ohio primary, where he is running even with Arkansas Senator Ted Pullman, virtually unseen outside of the first five minutes.

The film shifts its focus from the tale of the outcome of the race to the gradual corruption of Morris’s press secretary Stephen My-

ing to improve her dance element on the ice.

“When you’re competing, it makes you nervous, but it’s fun when it’s over,” said Li. “I practice my routine over and over again, but it’s still stressful.”

She cites “not falling down” as one of the biggest challenges during competition, along with the aesthetic component of “looking like you’re enjoying it.”

Li plans on continuing iceskating throughout high school, and although she doesn’t see herself as an Olympic athlete in her future like her idols, she is considering coaching as a career.

Outside of the rink, Li has been playing piano for seven years.

Said classmate and friend Stephanie Tsui, “[Jasmine] is always happy and she’s there to cheer you up...

That’s just her. She always tries her best on everything.”

ers, played by Ryan Gosling. Introduced as an idealistic believer in his boss’s campaign, he finds himself caught up in an ugly scandal after a seemingly innocent tryst with a campaign intern (Evan Rachel Wood).

After a promising start and good set-up, The Ides of March becomes a bit formulaic. The cynical take on the political process, the betrayal of one’s ideals, and the disturbing sex scandals are all elements seen before, and the deliberately ambiguous conclusion was predictable.

That said, in one of the weakest years for movies in a while, the film is entertaining and the acting is impeccable. Gosling and Clooney fit their roles well, and Paul Giamatti and Philip Seymour Hoffman excel as rival campaign managers. The atmosphere, with Morris posters that look eerily like the stylized Obama ones from three years ago, and participation from actual CNN and MSNBC anchors like John King, Rachel Maddow, and Chris Matthews, make it seem real. Political junkies will appreciate the attention to small details and with regards to an unapologetic examination of a flawed system.

However, considering the talent of those involved, one can’t help but be a bit disappointed that The Ides of March didn’t quite reach its potential.

Katie Whitworth

Freshman Jasmine Li shows off her ice skating talent. Li takes ballet to help with her dance scores.

A Day in the Life...Without Steve Jobs 2:00 A.M.

, letz Kad on s s rM k fo gry Bird r o w n e m gA g ho playin , 10 n i h like son inis ter f othing n Emer f A “ we e’s n ther Pad.” -O i my

onlineangrybirds.com

7:00 A.M.

“I h a my ve an i Hom alar m for S e teve . I wou hooked ldn’ Jobs up t t .” – Ves wake u o an iP ta Ja o p vah if it w d as eri, eren 11 ’t

calchan.com

The impact that Steve Jobs’ innovations have had on all of our lives goes beyond the obvious. More than MacBooks, iPods, iPhones, iPads, and the rest of the iProducts, Jobs’ revolutionary ideas about technology­ —from the mouse to combining phones with music, video, and apps— have completely changed the tech world, and all of our lives along with it. Here’s the effect Jobs’s life has had on a day in the life of an SPHS student. - Amber Laird

11:00 A.M.

I listen school, have a in d e w not allo break. I allowed ugh it’s ring class and o h has t n e “Ev ve Jobs st h du e c t u S o T d n d o a ue to my iP eed for music omitted by req n e t m n a a t N s con at.” – ulfill th me to f

3:00 P.M.

“Every da to searc y, I use Mr. Jo h bs work.” the Web and f ’s MacBook A ir inish m –Andre y home w Hon , 11 -

5:00 P.M.

“I us e nap i my iPod t n the o pla y out s a leepi fternoon music w hile I ng to s. Th o dee ’m ta a k ply.” t way, I c an na ing a –Dav p wit id Ya hng, 1 0

9:00 P.M. usic and m aring y h p a p e pre reogr r cho hen we’r o f k cBoo ub w uchi, 12 y Ma p-Hop Cl m iya e s i H ee M “I u n L i – s ” e . s os purp formance r e p for best_ipod_online.com

11:00 P.M. “When I’m in bed and don’t want to sleep, I watch videos on my iPhone.”

–Christina Yang, 12

14 Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Feature

ArtNight Pasadena opens local artwork to the community

By Rhian Moore Assoc. Feature Editor A person strolling into any one of fifteen cultural institutions in Pasadena last Friday at ArtNight would have experienced a free evening of art and entertainment. Numerous museums, schools, and creative centers throughout the city entertained visitors with four hours of art exhibits, dance and music performances, and historical displays.

Participating venues included the Armory Center for the Arts, Lineage Dance, One Colorado, and Side Street Projects. Free shuttles continuously transported visitors to other destinations, while food trucks like Pie ‘n Burger and Cool Haus took part in the ArtNight Giveback Program and donated 10% of sales to future ArtNight events.

At the ARC (A Room to Create) Pasadena, a facility created to support dance in Southern California, performances ran every ten minutes and focused on contemporary dances from various cultures.

Said John Pennington, the artistic director and founder of the Pennington Dance Group, “All of the dancers who performed here offered their services for free. We [ARC Pasadena] joined forces with ArtNight, and part of our mission as a dance company is to educate the community about dance,” said Pennington.

ArtNight not only encouraged awareness in the arts but also the history behind them. The Pasadena Museum of History displayed “Southern California’s Evolving Landscape: The Photography of Helen Lukens Gaut,” which portrayed the scenery and landscape of the 1920s.

Values of Korean society during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and the patron-artist relationship of the time were featured in “Auspicious Beauty: Korean Folk

Theo Mandin-Lee

Pasadena residents enjoy different exhibits and activities at the local ArtNight. These exhibits, displayed at the Art Center College of Design on Friday, October 14, were created by Art Center students.

Paintings” in the Pacific Asia Museum.

“I think that it [ArtNight] is a great experience for the community to celebrate art,” Elyse Jackson-Williams, a member of the Pasadena City Ambassadors, said enthusiastically.

The ArtWORKS teen center in East Pasadena, a collaboration between the LearningWorks Charter School, Flintridge Center, and the Armory Center for the Arts, offered hands-on art projects as well as live music performed by students.

Ruth Richardson, an art teacher at LearningWorks Charter School and ArtWORKS, teaches in an area of Pasadena where violence is common.

“Many of our schools no longer have an art presence. This school is a way to fill that void,” said Richardson.

“There are so many kids here who don’t have dreams or thoughts for the future; they wonder if they’ll be alive the next morning. Art is a way to keep our students off the streets and give them dreams,” she continued.

Typical By Daniel Willardson

A taste of The Golden State 4/5

By Theo Mandin-Lee Photo Editor Self-described as a “talent show for the best makers of food and drink in California,” The Golden State restaurant features the best Californian ingredients to pay homage to, well, the Golden State.

Located on Fairfax across from the famous Canter’s Deli, The Golden State could come across as just one of the many gourmet burger joints that have become popular in Los Angeles food culture. However, the classic flavors and California twist the menu provides set this restaurant apart from the norm.

Burgers and sandwiches fit this restaurant’s Californian casual attitude (you order at a counter), but the exquisite touch to the food hardly seems ordinary or commonplace. Rarely do a burger’s ingredients come together so nicely. No ingredient overwhelms another; each plays a supporting but important role.

It is quite bold for a restaurant to make a name for itself with a signature hamburger, but the subtle twist on ingredients – arugula instead of iceberg, curry-flavored ketchup – makes “The Burger” something else entirely.

“The Burger” is the most popular item on the menu, but it is hardly the only option. The Golden State Potato Salad is a solid dish, and becomes more than the classic American side dish with the addition of Vietnamese Sriracha sauce.

For dessert, choices include a float with one of the offered specialty sodas or a scoop of gelato. The gelato selection is prepared specially by Tai Kim, owner of L.A. gelato joint Scoops. Flavors change occasionally but are always fresh and unexpected and include exotic additions like apricot hefeweisen and brown bread.

The Golden State is a uniquely L.A. food experience.

Enjoy the delicacies of “The Golden State” at 426 North Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles.

Arrested Development movie in production

By Anne Kitchens Staff Writer “It’s true. We will do ten episodes and the movie.

Probably shoot them all together next summer for a release in early ’13. VERY excited!” an enthusiastic Jason Bateman wrote on Twitter on the evening of October 2. After a five-year hiatus from the original series and much hype surrounding the possibility of another set of episodes and a movie, fans can finally sit back and….wait for at least another year.

With characteristic ambiguity, creator Mitchell Hurwitz said, “It’s very much the next thing that’s going to happen; the hope has been that I could get a series going, and put all the pieces in place so that it can continue to be successful, and then have the means to take the year and make this movie. So that’s what I’m trying to do.”

The basic idea is that a ten-episode TV season would act as a prelude to the film. That way, Hurwitz explains, a more complex backstory can be told, which will significantly enrich the storyline. Though he claims to be about halfway done writing the screenplay, the real problems arise in the studio.

“The project requires studios to work together that don’t typically work together: film and TV,” reported Hurwitz.

After a practical joke went awry, fans went into a frenzy when they caught word of a possible conflict on the part of Michael Cera which would have prevented him from participating in the much-anticipated movie. However, once everyone was reassured that Cera was, in fact, going to play an active role in the upcoming movie, the usual hubbub resumed.

Just as everyone began to relax, Cera jokingly announced, “Actually, I do have a thing.”

Despite all the elusiveness surrounding this highly anticipated film, it seems to be in the early stages of production. It is safe to say that the movie will make its way to local theaters by spring 2013. It’s best not to jump to any conclusions though -- the project has been in production for over five years.

Theo Mandin-Lee

The Golden State on North Fairfax offers classic meals like “The Burger” and the Golden State Potato Salad.

Feature

Friday, October 21, 2011 - Tiger

15

Nothing but the Beat showcases classic talent with new backgrounds 3.5/5

By Josh Roquemore Staff Writer

celebcenter.us

Siria Medina

Hilary Swank Lillie Moffett

Iz, Short for Izz By Amber Laird

Subtle synths, booming bass, and perfectly produced vocals comprise David Guetta’s new album Nothing but the Beat. It perfectly embodies the common mixture of new-age pop and rap.

Guetta, a French DJ, has produced a modern masterpiece. The compilation headlines fifteen renowned artists, including Chris Brown, Usher, Jennifer Hudson, Lil’ Wayne, and Nicki Minaj. The colorful array of vocalists and rappers creates a diverse and intriguing album.

Guetta created the music and beats for the songs and produced the album.

With so many big names featured, it would have been easy for his work to fade into the background. However, the music has just as much personality and voice as the artists did.

Guetta’s music has an obvious flair to it that draws the listener in from the

start of the song. The bass and melody build up the song, setting the perfect stage for the featured artist’s entrance. Certain artists featured on the album that are known to have a specific personality or vibe sound completely different alongside Guetta’s music; it is almost as if he manipulates their very sound.

While the album is catchy, wellproduced, and overall quite enjoyable, it is not perfect. There are aspects of the featured artists’ lyrics which are less than memorable. While this makes the music great for driving in the car and enjoying good music, the lyrics do not connect on any deep level. They are average at best, often shallow and generic. However, the superior quality of the music overshaddows the mediocrity of the lyrics.

David Guetta stated that he had never worked as hard on an album as he did on Nothing but the Beat. This is tastefully obvious as one listens to the polished tracks. While some of the featured celebrity artists fell short on lyrical depth, listening to the album is a fun and memorable experience. Nothing but the Beat will definitely be blasting from car speakers and iPods around campus.

Like this comic? View it in full color at tigernewspaper.com.

housemusicessentials.com

16 Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

News

A HIGH SCHOOL HALLOWEEN Halloween isn’t as simple as it used to be. Dressing up as a witch or fireman and cutely running around town begging for candy doesn’t work past the age of ten, and SPHS students’ creative juices are running low so soon after the Color Day frenzy. So what are you to do on this upcoming night of frights and fun?

Here are a few ideas and quirks to make Halloween this year just as memorable as the years when trick-or-treating and being in bed by 9:00 PM was still cool.

You really are never too old to trick-or-treat, but if you’re laboring under this misapprehension, then there are still plenty of activities that can occupy your time on the 31st. While you may not be asking for free candy, you may be the one giving it out - in this case, join the group of people who play the trick before handing over the treat (creativity knows no bounds when it comes to an imaginative joke). The more daring souls can head over to one of many theme parks that join in the Halloween spirit with activities ranging from kid-friendly to horror-movie-esque. If you are looking for something just as frightening but without the expenses, then rent a scary movie from Blockbuster. Invite a few equally adventurous friends over, sit back on your couch under a mountain of blankets and Pillow Pets, and let the terror begin. ~ Rhian Moore

SCARY CINEMA...

Yummy Mummy Cupcakes 1) Starting with a plain frosted cupcake, use a pastry bag with a basketweave tip to pipe on white frosting “bandages”.

2) Pipe on red frosting for the mummy’s eyes.

3) Make two dots using black frosting for the pupils.

m Ki on ds r ar ife ill nn W Je iel n Da by by n io

www.bhg.com

ge rat Pa lust Il

SPOOKY SNACKS:

TOO OLD TO TRICK-OR-TREAT?

“spid-eos” Spider oreos

www.google.com/imghp

1) Make two dots in white detail frosting on a DoubleStuf Oreo.

2) Using two miniature chocolate chips as pupils, complete the eyes.

3) Cut individual Twizzlers into approximately 2-inch pieces and poke four pieces into each side of the Oreo.

Daniel patterson Q: Scariest Halloween memory?

A: My friends locked me in a basement with one of them and a mask.

Q: Most embarrassing memory?

A: I peed myself when I was thirteen because a guy popped out of a trash can.

SHINE CHO

Q: Best Halloween memory?

A: Back in first grade, my friend threw a Halloween party with this huge jumper and we jumped and ate candy all night.

That was awesome for a seven-year-old. Still awesome now.

THAT COSTUME IS SO 2006...

Clair Fuller

When it’s an hour before we have to leave the house Halloween night, we are all tempted to succumb to desperation. And whether we are seven or seventeen, we know that we have all surrendered to at least one of the most pathetic, overdone, and, regrettably, socially accepted, costumes. Tiger begs you to retain your dignity and refrain from hastily drawing on whiskers in black eyeliner, sticking a feather in your hair, picking up a tie-dyed shirt, or simply putting on the tightest spandex in the house. High school students as cats, superheroes, Native Americans, hippies, and witches end Halloween night with a pumpkin full of Tootsie Rolls, raisins, and toothbrushes. Get that creativity flowing and think of a unique costume! ~ Erin Chan

Sports

Friday, October 21, 2011 - Tiger

17

Girls golf sweeps league with ease The Tigers boast this year’s MVP and top 3 Montview League golfers after Wednesday’s performance

By Harry Yadav Senior Staff Writer Members of the South Pasadena girls golf team placed first, second, and third in the Montview League finals. The round was played Wednesday at Marshall Canyon Golf Course in La Verne.

Freshman Katie Rosenberg became the Montview League MVP after shooting a 125 over 27 holes. She was followed closely by senior Melody Sue, who shot a 127. Senior Victoria Carlos came in third with a 128 to complete the Tigers’ sweep.

Those three will head to Oxnard for the first round of CIF Individuals on Monday. The Tigers will also bring their top six girls to compete in Team CIF on Wednesday in Ojai.

The fact that the Tigers dominated should not come as a surprise. The girls went undefeated in league this year, beating their opposition by an average of more than twenty strokes per round.

In reality, Rosenberg, Sue and Carlos were so superior to the rest of the field that the real competition was between the three of them. Rosenberg’s accomplishment was especially impressive because this was her first experience at league finals while Sue and Carlos already had two years of experience under their belts.

“It was a real honor to play with Melody, who won MVP last year. I didn’t feel completely in control of my game so I was so happy when I finished the 18th hole,” said Rosenberg.

“Katie is destined to be really special. She showed so much maturity and composure,” added coach Richard Goto.

While this is just the beginning of what should be a great career here at SPHS for Rosenberg, this was the last

Siria Medina

Senior Victoria Pallares returns the Spartan serve as fellow varsity teammates look on.

Volleyball headed towards CIF

By Matt DeFulgentiis Staff Writer

Siria Medina

Senior Victoria Carlos watches her drive sail down the fairway. time seniors Sue, Carlos, Katie Whitworth, Samantha Ramos, and Laurel Kitada would compete at league finals.

“After the round we all went to In- n-Out and we just cried because we’re going to miss competing together and all the fun times we’ve had for the last four years,” said Carlos.

But the season is not over for the girls. The team CIF round will be played at Soule Park Golf Course in Ojai, where the Tigers will try to improve upon last year’s first-round exit.

Meanwhile, Coach Goto couldn’t be more proud of his girls.

“They just play the game the right way. Their attitudes are what impress me most,” said Goto.

With two weeks left in its season, the South Pasadena High School girls volleyball team is two wins away from qualifying for the CIF sectional tournament. Following yesterday’s 3-0 loss against La Cañada, their league record stands at 4 wins and 3 losses.

This was the second loss the team has suffered to La Cañada this season. The Tigers, however, showed some definite improvements since their last match against the Spartans.

“We played four times better than the first time we played LC,” said coach Ben Diaz.

La Cañada head coach Brock Turner stated, “They [South Pasadena] brought a lot of energy. We knew they were going to play well at home,

which forced us bring our level of play up.”

South Pas was determined to win, and held their ground throughout the match.

The Tigers came out with a strong defense in the first game, which ended with a score of 25-21 in La Cañada’s favor.

This was the highest point total that LC has given up this season. The girls seemed to lack in energy and communication in the second game, which ended in a 25-13 loss. South Pas showed a flash of liveliness early in the third game as they took a 7-5 lead against LC. Unfortunately, the Spartans took over control at that point and finished with a 25-13 victory.

10/13 Senior SPHS Malika Murphy said, “I think v. TC we improved 3-0 W from the last LC match. The last

two games we lost the intensity we had in the beginning.”

In their last seven matches, the girls have gone 4-3, with victories over Blair, Temple City, and Monrovia.

The two matches against Monrovia in particular have been some of the most tense and exciting that the Tigers have played this season, each ending with a 3-2 victory.

Looking towards the future, the Tigers are eager to defeat Blair and Temple City in their upcoming matches to get a chance to play in CIF. The girls have high hopes and are working hard to bring home a CIF title.

10/18 SPHS v. Monrovia

3-2 W

10/21 SPHS v. LC

3-0 L

18 Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Sports

The faces behind SPHS athletics With so much school spirit in the air, Tiger introduces four gamechangers who lead our teams to victory without ever taking the field.

SPORTS MEDICINE

We all know that football has the reputation of being a sport for “tough guys.” We also know it’s only a matter of time before some of these tough guys go down with an injury. When that happens, there’s a Sports Med student there and ready to go.

Sports Med students are taught how to assist any athlete that is injured or needs medical attention. If a football player sprains an ankle during practice or a game, the student is qualified to treat it.

Students who participate in the program volunteer to work games and accumulate hours.

One trusted Sports Med student that the athletes turn to is senior Steven Blackwell.

Blackwell is part of the SPHS Sports Medicine program, and you’ll see him on the sidelines during most of the South Pas football games.

According to Blackwell, the best part of his job is the ability to “just help the guys who

get hurt and need attention.” Steven’s motivation to join the program was to learn about anatomy for the EMT class he is taking outside of school.

Blackwell specializes in taping ankles, but the worst injury Steven has had to treat is a particularly painful foot fracture called the “Jones Fracture.”

Blackwell is friends with most of the players on the football team, which works to his advantage as trust plays a big part in the curative process of an injury.

Although being on the sidelines is great fun, being in the classroom plays a big role in the availability of a student to volunteer and participate in these big games. Sports Med has the reputation of being one of the hardest classes on campus, but students like Blackwell still jump at the opportunity to be a part of this practical and necessary program. ~Matt DeFulgentiis

Volleyball and basketball have a lot in common: they are played in a gym, they require excellent players, and they require excellent officials to keep things moving.

Alma Garcia is an example of one of these excellent officials. When she isn’t spending time with her husband and three children or teaching math at Ramona Convent Secondary School, she’s on the court doing what she loves.

Said Garcia, “It’s a great way to stay involved with the game that I love.

I really love doing it; that’s what keeps me coming back every day.”

Not only is she a dedicated referee who officiates an average of four games per week, her heart is truly in the game.

Her love for volleyball began when she started playing at South Pasadena High School, along with basketball, until she graduated in 1972.

Instead of letting her passion die out, she continued to play volleyball and basketball at Occidental College.

She again decided to continue with her involvement in the sport by starting to referee volleyball and basketball games.

Although she referees games regularly, not every game has stuck to the formula.

Garcia explained, “One time I was reffing a basketball game, and I made a decision that the coach of a team didn’t like, and instead of complaining, he just chased us off the court.

That was the craziest game I’ve ever officiated.”

From the games that are examples of sportsmanship to the ones where the coaches simply cannot contain themselves, Garcia loves them all, and her love of the game keeps her coming back, week after week.

~Jackson Atwater

REFEREES

Rachael Garner

Rachael Garner

MANAGEMENT

Siria Medina

MAINTENANCE STAFF SPHS has a wide array of both custodial and maintenance staff members, but when it comes to game time, there is one man who puts in hours of work to assure Tiger victory.

Du Wayne Reed is the maintenance staff member in charge of, simply put, all sports events at South Pasadena High School.

Although private events remain the responsibility of those paying for use of the fields, the athletic commodities most students take for granted are his responsibility. As Reed says, “From tennis to track. Football, soccer, baseball, softball. Games in the gym… all of it.”

Reed is on a rotating weekend schedule with fellow custodial staff members. But during the week, he works primarily on his own. Reed monitors the watering of the field and track, makes sure the lights and speakers are turned on for events, sets up sports equipment, and is generally in charge of making sure games go down without a hitch.

He has worked at South Pasadena for a little over 3 ½ years, and he keeps doing it

“for the school and for the kids.” Aside from his professional obligations as an employee, Reed finds a sort of sentimental satisfaction in his job as well. He goes to great lengths to ensure that students, from South Pasadena to Covina, are able to fully enjoy the athletic fields, which would be of little use without his help. On one occasion, Reed and some coworkers even had to pump the baseball field free of water after a particularly heavy storm in order to prepare for an important baseball game later that afternoon.

“You’re in the heat, you’re in the rain... there’s always something going on,” he says.

But the most rewarding part of such dedicated work? “Watching everything unfold the night of big games such as Homecoming,” said Reed. “Whether they win or whether they lose, it’s seeing the joy that comes out of it either way.” ~Natalie McClain

Rachael Garner

Sports managers at SPHS are the indispensable behind-the-scenes leaders that keep our teams running, especially, and literally, cross country. Senior Kimberly How, commonly known as Kimi, is one of the eight vital cross country managers.

“We help treat the athletes when they’re injured, run errands if we need to get ice for the team, and kind of just help out.” How said. “We work at the races, and hand out bibs to the athletes that identify their information.”

Although she originally tried out for the team, How finds herself just as busy as the athletes. According to How, the work as manager is spread out between all eight of the students. There is usually one manager dedicated to taking attendance, several helping injured athletes, and others finishing miscellaneous tasks to ensure that cross country runs without a hitch.

“Our managers are really helpful.

They help with timing at meets, giving massages to injured runners, and they take roll,” said junior Madeline Chin.

“They basically assist the coaches, but unlike other sports, managers are really part of the team,” she said.

Chin has been involved in cross country for three years, and understands the manager’s crucial position within the team.

“It’s great being a manager,” said How. “I love being involved in the team, and especially making new friends.”

Cross country coach Patrick McGrail values his managers highly.

“All of the different teams need attention,” said McGrail. “Their role is to take care of all of that stuff so that the coaches can actually coach.”

~ Kelsey Hess

Sports

Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

19

Pressure mounting for tennis

By Christian Miyamae Staff Writer

Kaylee Anderson

By Madison Amido Staff Writer Most people hate distance running. Senior Kaylee Anderson enjoys the average of 45 miles she runs per week. Anderson boasts the physique of the ideal distance runner. Not only does she look the part, but running has always been a major part of her life.

Anderson serves as the Commissioner of Athletics, a job that involves planning events such as the annual Tiger Run and rewarding SPHS athletes. As track and XC captain, she has applied early decision to Claremont McKenna and plans to pursue her running career in college.

Anderson isn’t limited to just track and field; she

Jorge Gomez

By Shyam Senthilkumar Staff Writer When senior Jorge Gomez transferred to SPHS his sophomore year, the South Pasadena football program added a dynamic and fundamental member to the squad. When he’s all geared up, Gomez provides vital contributions to the

is the only distance runner at SPHS who also participates in the high jump. Each event calls for its own unique pre-race ritual.

“For track, I listen to a playlist before I run at the paces I hope to run. 1600 is techno and has to be fast.

3200 is Taylor Swift and ‘Super Bass.’”

The pre-race habits don’t stop there. Before competing in XC, varsity girls “pray to ‘r unning gods’ for mental strength, determination, speed, physical strength, pain-free and motivation.” These rituals seem to be working in Anderson’s favor; her running success suggests she is popular with the “running gods” and she has memorized all the lyrics to Nicki Minaj’s hit single.

team and serves as a defensive anchor.

Gomez solidified his position on the varsity squad as a defensive tackle after playing his first year of football on JV. Gomez’s presence on the team’s defensive line is felt more than just physically; he also provides strong emotional support.

“Before every game I try to pump us all up or cheer us up when we’re down; I take it as my responsibility to keep the team upbeat,” said Gomez.

Katie Whitworth

Jorge Gomez says his small stature actually adds to his agility.

Rachael Garner

Anderson runs 45 miles per week.

The track captain’s personal record in the 1600 is 5:34, and her fastest 3200 time is 12:04. Her personal high jump record is an impressive 4’4.00”.

Her athletic prowess has gained Anderson the respect and confidence of her peers.

“Kaylee can definitely succeed in running after high school. She works really hard if she wants to hit a time or run faster and cares a lot about the team,” said teammate Anika Renken.

“He may not be very big, but he’s one of the hardest workers and best D-linemen,” said teammate junior Nick Fong.

Gomez goes through a strict pre-game ritual: he tapes up his right wrist and marks the letter J on top of it. The letter J is in honor of his uncle, John, who is fighting cancer.

Amongst countless broad and bulky players, Gomez’s smaller physique immediately draws attention.

“Whenever I step on the field, the opposing team singles me out. I always hear, ‘he’s too small’ or ‘he can’t guard his man.’ So I stay very low to the ground; it helps me hold myself down against bigger guys. I feel a lot more agile,” said Gomez.

He uses his smaller size to surprise the other team.

Gomez spends time off the field sharing his love for the game with his brothers. Gomez’s younger brother sophomore Heven Gomez is the starting fullback and linebacker for the junior varsity team.

Girls tennis is fighting for a CIF spot as it finds itself with a 2-5-1 record and just three matches left in regular season play.

San Marino is the Rio Hondo League powerhouse and La Cañada trails close behind, leaving South Pasadena to battle with Temple City for the third playoff spot.

The Tigers lost to La Cañada 13-5 in the team’s most recent match yesterday.

Senior Christina Yang and freshman Jordan Cruz both managed to win one set 6-2.

This loss means the Tigers will have to win against Temple City in order to make CIF. “I’m disappointed with today’s performance, but we hope to improve against Temple City. We want to make senior year memorable and make CIF,” said senior Chloe Acebo.

On October 18, the girls pulled off a 10-8 win against Monrovia. The Tigers doubles teams played a major role in the girls’ game.

Junior An Le and senior Taylor Levine paired up to win all three of their sets in the match. The doubles pair of seniors Mei Chung and Brianna Loo also won all three sets. They

10/9 SPHS

10/15 SPHS

v. El Rancho

v. La Cañada

12-6

Rachael Garner

Sophomore Tyler Gershman competes at the second Rio Hondo League meet.

The South Pasadena boys cross country squad kept up its impressive form as it dominated the second Rio Hondo League meet at Crescenta Valley Park last Wednesday afternoon.

The Tigers overcame the stifling heat and the loss of two of their strongest runners to beat their league rivals.

Junior Paul Messana and freshman Cullen Irvine, two members of the Tigers’ usual scoring five, were given the day off to rest. Juniors Will Jones and Josh Thomas filled the roles of the absentees.

The Tigers were led by sophomore Josh Wilson, who finished second overall with a swift 16:57.

Wilson was closely followed by se-

Jennifer Kim

Rebecca Bu serves the ball in yesterday’s match against La Cañada.

Girls cross country aims for first Tigers look to earn league title as finals approach

By Alex Tranquada and Jackson Atwater Tiger Staff The Tigers pitted themselves against teams from across the state on October 8, running at the Clovis Invitational at Woodward Park in Fresno.

Sophomore Helena Van Loan (19:07), junior Anika Renken (19:21), and senior Cece Zhu (20:02) all continued the 2011 team’s assault on the school record books, placing second, fourth, and seventh respectively on the SPHS top ten list for the 5K race.

As a team, SPHS placed third in the Divi-

Boys XC continues to impress

By Clem Witherall Assoc. Sports Editor

13-5

proved their stability by winning two of their sets 6-0.

The girls’ sole tie of the season was against Temple City on October 13 in a 9-9 match.

The doubles combination of seniors Chung and Loo stood out in the team’s nine wins. They swept their three sets.

“The girls will tell you we should have won. We lost two games through tiebreakers, and you just can’t have that,” said coach Jim Asher.

The Tigers will be pressured in their second-to-last match, a pivotal game against first-place San Marino next Thursday, October 27.

nior captain Alex Tranquada, who was timed at 17:21 and placed fourth.

Senior Max White and sophomore Tyler Gershman completed the race in 18:08 and 18:09, finishing tenth and twelfth respectively. Thomas, whose race marked only his second varsity appearance, rounded out the squad’s top five with a solid time of 18:19 and ended in fourteenth place.

Due to the extreme heat, the race was postponed for an hour, resulting in a combination of the boys and girls varsity races.

“The heat was a factor, but I’m happy with my time and hope to improve it in the coming weeks,” said Gershman.

Today, the boys squad will compete in the highly anticipated Mt. SAC Invitational in Walnut.

The invitational is a two-day meet, but the boys varsity squad will only

sion III girls varsity race and secured a tenth-place ranking in CIF’s Southern Section.

The second Rio Hondo League meet, held just three days later at Crescenta Valley Park, did not end as happily.

The Tigers fell just four points short of victory over the seventh-placeranked La Cañada Spartans, despite placing their top five runners in the top fifteen overall spots.

Van Loan outstripped the competition once again, finishing thirty seconds ahead of La Cañada’s number one runner with an SPHS girls course record of 19:11.

Although the team has suffered a lapse in its winning streak, it still has its sights set high.

Said team captain

Kaylee Anderson, “We usually don’t perform as strongly against La Canada at the CV course, so since we were so close there anyway, I think we have a very good shot at winning league finals.”

Rio Hondo League finals will be held at Lacy Park in San Marino on November 3. The Tigers must win there to secure the league title.

Looking ahead to its postseason, the team also aims to successfully compete in CIF Prelims and Finals, and ultimately qualify for the state meet.

Renken stated, “I think that we’ve been working hard for months and months, we have the mentality and we have the determination. I think that we can really go to state and be competitive this year.”

10/12 SPHS @ Crescenta Valley Park Girls Varsity: 2nd place Girls Junior Varsity: 2nd place be competing on Friday. Mt. SAC is infamous for its hilly and rigorous course.

The Tigers hope to improve upon last year’s eleventh-place finish out of the 24-team competition.

South Pasadena will conclude league action with the Rio Hondo League finals on November 3 at San Marino’s Lacy Park.

The top three teams will qualify for CIF, which will take place in late November.

10/12 SPHS @ Crescenta Valley Park 1st place 10/21 SPHS @ Mt. SAC Invitational

20 Tiger - Friday, October 21, 2011

Sports

Sports

Football - La Cañada @ home 7:00 p.m. tonight

XC - Mt. SAC Invitational @ Mt. SAC 10:00 a.m. today

Speaking of

Sports

Clem Witherall & Christian Miyamae

More respect for Pep

Katie Whitworth

The SPHS offensive line gave senior Yihai Han space to run the ball upfield during last Friday’s win against Temple City.

South Pas takes care of Temple City 28-6 Varsity starts off league with a decisive win against the Rams

By Michael Abelev Staff Writer Varsity football ended the first league game of the season with a 28-6 win over the Temple City Rams last Friday night, but not in the fashion it hoped for.

The Tiger offense was riddled with penalties throughout all four quarters, including illegal motions, personal fouls, delays of game and holding.

A total of sixteen penalties on the offense heavily affected the team, especially when senior

running back Telanto Harvey’s 40-yard touchdown was called back. Several times the offense had back-to-back false starts, creating first-and-thirty situations.

Despite these setbacks for South Pas, the Tigers still exhibited solid playing skills.

Junior running back Nathan Lee ran for 91 yards and scored two touchdowns; his success was largely due to exceptional blocking by the offensive line.

Sophomore quarterback Joey Harmon showed great poise, completing seven of nine pass-

es for 124 yards, one of which was a perfect spiral to junior wide receiver Hector Fernandez to pull the Tigers out of a third-and-thirty situation.

The Tiger defense had to face the Rams’ versatile wildcat offense. The Rams were able to gain many yards on the ground, but the brutality of the Tiger defense limited Temple City’s trips to the end

9/30 SPHS v. Alhambra 6-5 W

zone to one.

Junior safety Bertin Ngnibogha made his presence known on defense; he got an interception and recovered a fumble for a touchdown.

“We can’t be having so many penalties in one game, but give credit to our guys.

They held in there and pulled off a win,” said head coach Martin Konrad.

10/7 SPHS v. Maranatha 35-14 L

10/ 14 SPHS v. Temple City 28-6 W

Boys water polo successful in league play The Tigers boost their record to 5-1, now look forward to facing rival La Cañada The team’s main focus is now to beat La Cañada, whom it will face at home on November 1.

The boys water polo team Echeverria is deterhas started league with a record that far outshines its preseason mined to guide the team to play, going 5-1 and losing only a victory.

“We’re still not where to its longtime rivals, La Cañada. we want to be. We’re still South Pasadena crushed the young, and we’re still makSan Marino Titans 17-8 yesterday. ing little mental mistakes, This is the second Tiger win over the Titans; the team also beat San but we’re moving forward Marino 20-9 earlier in league play. in the right direction. For La Cañada, we’re going to Senior Mar tin Lis once Matt Winkel train harder. We’re doing again had an exceptional game against San Marino. He had seven Sophomore Adrian Suarez wins the jump ball in yesterday’s two practices a day, mornsteals in addition to seven goals victory against San Marino. The Tigers won 17-8 at home. ing and after noon, until scored. we play them again,” said water polo rivalry.

“We’ve had two alumni Echeverria.

Despite starting strong and keeping The Tigers’ next game will be at come back and help us out, and the improvement showed. I was happy with the score even in the first quarter of the Temple City High School on November 25. how effective I was able to be today, but game, South Pas was not able to overcome most of all I think our team did great as its competitors, and lost 15-6.

Coach Robert Echeverria attributes a unit,” said Lis after the game. the team’s success in league to the numer10/20 10/13 South Pas also breezed through its game against Monrovia on October 11, ous tournaments it participated in.

SPHS SPHS “The tournaments helped the guys triumphing over the Wildcats 21-11. v. SM v.

LC The Tigers’ only downfall this year build a bond with each other and I think that’s been the biggest thing,” said Ech17-8 W 15-6 L came against the La Cañada Spartans, with whom they have always had a strong everria.

By Heather Vaughan Staff Writer

Many welcome changes have arrived to South Pasadena’s football program in recent years. The team has grown more progressive due to changes in the coaching staff. Yet the unreasonable tradition of cheerleaders providing gifts for the football players before each game continues. Every game, cheerleaders are expected to supply the players with goodies such as Gatorade, cookies and other treats.

Isn’t it enough effort from the cheerleaders to attend games and support their team on Friday nights? Is it also reasonable to expect them to pay money every week to buy snacks?

Despite the fact that the gift-giving promotes a friendly relationship between the cheerleaders and the players, in reality it is very one-sided. The girls are given one to three players to provide treats for. Although the football players are supposed to return the favor, cheerleaders normally don’t receive anything. How is this fair? Does it not promote sexism?

“They are supposed to give us stuff but never do. It’s annoying because we spend a lot of money on their gifts,” said sophomore Natalie Crespo, a member of varsity Pep. Food and refreshments for two players may not seem like much, but try doing it for ten weeks in a row. On average, the cheerleaders spend 100 dollars per season on goodies. This is a large amount of money to spend on players who they may not even know. Cheerleaders also acknowledge that competition for the best snacks exists.

“I don’t mind providing the treats for the players, but I feel pressured to outdo other cheerleaders with our gifts,” said freshman cheerleader Kennedy Gordon.

Even though the practice of giftgiving is “voluntary,” most cheerleaders wouldn’t dare forgo the tradition and have to endure disappointment and unpleasant responses from the athletes.

It is disconcerting to see that football players feel entitled to these treats every week even though they are a privilege, not a right.

The players need to recognize the amount of time and effort the girls put into producing gifts. Other sports at the school don’t get special treatment from the cheerleaders, and either football players need to express their appreciation or the two involved programs should rethink their arrangement.

[inside] Read up on golf’s success.

page 17

Girls tennis on track to make CIF.

page 19