12.04.11

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Arrow

Page 2 Choir celebrates “One Magic Season.”

Page 3

Page 11

Art on campus: An in depth Q&A with ceramics students.

Varsity swimmers Savannah Miller and Haley Preston committed to swim for SDSU.

Westlake High School

FINAL STATEMENT

VOLUME XXXIV, ISSUE 4

100 N. LAKEVIEW CANYON ROAD, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362

December 14, 2011

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TONY PANZICA

REDEMPTION: Coach Jim Benkert and his #1 ranked team celebrate their victory over the Oaks Christian Lions last Friday. For the first time the Warriors will play in the California Bowl Open Division where they will face De La Salle for the State Championship. The game will be played at the Home Depot Center in Carson on Saturday at 8:00 p.m.

Warrior Team Goes to 1st Bowl Game

Lisa Battaglia Editor-in-chief

What a difference one year makes.

To avoid a replay of last year’s heartbreaking onepoint loss to Oaks Christian in the CIF championship game, the Warriors had one goal on their minds: redemption.

As fate would have it, the two teams met again to determine the Northern Division champion. This time, the Warriors would not be denied their rightful plaque.

Taming the Lions in the CIF-Southern Section Northern Division championship game, 49-42, at Oaks Christian last Friday, the undefeated Warriors proved that they were the only team that deserved a championship title. With outstanding performances by quarterback Justin Moore ‘13 and runningback/cornerback Dashon Hunt ‘13, the WHS team redoubled their efforts at every opportunity.

Trailing behind by two touchdowns in the second quarter, the Warriors were confident in their strategies to come back and stop the Lions. “We knew we had to bounce back and stop the big play,” said Moore in the postgame

interview with Fox Sports West.

In the Lions quarterback Brandon Dawkins’s third interception, linebacker David Ortiz ‘12 ran the ball to the 1-yard mark right after Moore’s 10-yard run. Hunt then scored to tie the game with 3:08 remaining in the half.

Hunt also stayed positive in the first half. “We kept telling each other stay calm, we’ll come back,” said Hunt in the postgame interview.

With kicker Alex Ball ‘12 injuring his left knee in the Continued on Page 12

Aca Deca Prepares for Imperialistic Challenge

PHOTO BY LAUREN CHIN

A STUDY IN STUDYING: Lily Wang, Wyatt Green, and Maegan Richards remain relaxed while preparing for the upcoming competitions.

Woody Chung Staff Writer

The 2011-2012 Academic Decathlon team has a stacked deck of work to do. This year’s topic, imperialism, will be divided into

subjects that include Art, Economics, Language and Literature, Mathematics, Music, Science, Super Quiz, Interview, and Speech.

For some students, the thought of Aca Deca invokes images of elite students warring on

the battleground of knowledge for the title of most knowledgeable team.

For some teams, this may be true, but the WHS Aca Deca team begs to differ.

“My favorite part of Aca Deca is that it’s a very collaborative learning environment,” said Maegan Richards ‘12.

The team is required by competition rules to have members of all GPA’s; therefore, anyone, regardless of grades, is encouraged to try out.

This requirement for academic diversity naturally creates a team with varied interests.

Wyatt Green ‘12, for example, enjoys studying the music.

“Music is my favorite subject.

You get to make a formal analysis of music, a unique task of Aca Deca,” said Green.

Lily Wang ’13, on the other

hand, enjoys art the most. “Art is one of humankind’s best tools to become sensitive to the world around us,” said Wang. “Aca Deca is great because there is a variety of subjects, and everyone has different strengths and weaknesses that allow them to shine in different subjects.”

The multitude of subjects may be a hefty workload for the team this year. Newcomers Lily Chen ‘13, Paul Kwon ‘13, Alexander Loh ‘14, Brian Ho ‘12, Caleb Stokols ‘13, Andrew Hill ‘13, Gaby Breiter ‘13, Connor Richards ‘15, Hannah Rios ‘13, Elliot Freedman ‘12, Daria Abrahamian ‘12, Aaron Jastoff ‘12, and Eric Kuecks ‘13 will provide a fresh perspective and skill set to bolster the team to a stronger level. Although new to the team, each member will have a prominent role.

“The environment in the class is great. Everyone can work together quite well and overall it is a really pleasant atmosphere,” according to Wang.

The entire Aca Deca squad will be divided into three different teams of nine members each (or two teams with alternates if there is not a diverse range of GPA’s).

“We have a lot of new people this year, but they are learning quickly. I’m excited to see them blow away our competition. All I ever expect of any of the students is to do their best,” said Advisor Joseph Nigro.

The team has begun scrimmaging and will be competing on both Jan. 7 and Feb. 4.

Hopes for the team this year run high. “The team is much stronger. I hope we can make it to state,” said Green.

News

2

In Brief ASL Goes Caroling This holiday season, to spread Christmas cheer, American Sign Language classes 1, 2, and 3 will go caroling on Dec. 14-15, a tradition in which they perform popular holiday songs through sign language.

“It was a tradition established before I was a teacher here at WHS. I have had the honor of carrying on the tradition,” said ASL teacher Tina Carlisle. ASL classes will perform for the classes whose teachers requested the visit.

Seniors register for AP Exams on Jan. 11 during Common Planning Time from 8-9 a.m. at the Student Store. Juniors register on Feb. 8; sophomores and freshmen register on March 7. If students cannot make their assigned date by grade level, they can sign up on either of the other two dates offered. To sign up, students must have their completed registration form, photo ID, and a check made payable to CVUSD. Student ID is required for registration.

Career Center Announces Scholarships As College and Career Counselor Cassie Sandifer prepares for maternity leave, she wants to remind students of scholarship opportunities after finishing college applications.

The FAFSA application will be available on Jan. 1 on www.fafsa. gov. The FAFSA application will be due on March 2. For those who have not yet turned in their CAL Grant application, you can turn it in until Feb. 27 into the College and Career Center. A substitute will take Sandifer’s place during her maternity leave and answer any questions.

WHS Scholarship Foundation application will be available sometime in January and will be due Feb. 15.

“One Magic Season” Lights Up the Stage wracking. It was my first WHS choir solo. It was fun to see how people WHS Choral Music enjoyed the second half.

Department, under the It took a lot of time to direction of Alan Rose, put together, many hours performed its holiday of rehearsal to make it show “One Magic happen. The end result Season” from Dec. 1-3. was amazing,” said The show opened Appleford. with the Freshmen A Class Act (ACA), Chorus, singing the performed last before Hannukah song Eight intermission. This elite Nights, Eight Nights, group of vocal singers, followed by three sang Three Jazzy Bell Christmas songs.

Carols, Run, Rudy, Run!, After the freshmen and Below The Mistletoe. performance, Mixed Megan Rittenhouse Chorale took the stage. ’12, ACA soloist, sang Mixed Chorale, a nonChristmas (Baby Please audition section of Come Home). choir, performed Sing After intermission, We of Hannukah, Deck Holiday Cheer: Frosty the Snowman dances with Vocal Ensemble and Women’s Chorale.

Vocal Ensemble and the Halls, and Hear the Women’s Chorale Winter Wind. A standout performed a high energy, Vocal Ensemble, the co-ed non- stage. of the Mixed Chorale performance audition choir group, sang With a However, Men’s Ensemble nearly non-stop dancing-andwas Dance of the Sugar Plum Ring and a Jingle and a Pop, I Will was not the only choir performance singing routine, choreographed Fairy, a musical arrangement Be With You Every Christmas, that included solos. Breanna by the groups themselves. performed vocally.

They performed songs such and Bugler’s Holiday.

Cuellar ‘12, Valerie Lawton ‘14, “Performing in the choir Men’s Ensemble, an and Courtney Appleford ‘14 as One Magic Christmas, Frosty show is like having everyone’s after school boys only group, performed individually during the Snowman, Jingle-Bell Rock, eyes only on you and this performed Santa Claus Is Comin’ Women’s Chorale, with Cuellar and I’ll Be Home For Christmas. overwhelming happiness to Town, Look-A That Star, and and Lawton singing during the While the choir show was overcomes you to make everyone Do You Hear What I Hear? song Yes, Virginia and Appleford undoubtedly high stress, Rose smile,” said Mixed Chorale During Look-A That Star, singing during Jing-a-Ling, Jing- could not be more proud about member Peter Brancato ‘14, the evening and his class’s soloists Raymond Sun ‘12 and a-Ling.

Shortly after, Mixed Chorale, Michael Mancuso ‘12 took the “[The solo] was nerve performance.

Orly Greenberg Feature Editor

Courtesy photo

AP Registration Set for Jan.

“Reflections” Winners Announced Hanyi Huang Staff Writer

Nine WHS students’ entries will compete on the countywide level of the Reflections Art contest. Nicolette Blatt ’14 won the dance category. Cheryl Lee ’13 and Amanda Zhou ’13 won for film production. In the literature category, Kevin Shi ’14 won. For musical composition, the winners were Sierra Drummond ’14 and

Jonathan Rifkind

Tuesday, Jan. 17 7:00 - 9:00 Period 1 Exam 9:07 - 9:51 Period 2 9:58 - 10:42 Period 3 10:49 - 11:33 Period 4 11:40 - 12:24 Period 5 12:24 - 1:04 Lunch 1:10 - 1:54 Period 6 2:01 - 2:45 Period 7 Wednesday, Jan. 18 8:00 - 10:00 Period 2 Exam 10:00 - 10:14 Break/Passing Time 10:20 - 12:20 Period 3 Exam 12:20 Dismissal Thursday, Jan. 19 8:00-10:00 Period 4 Exam 10:00-10:14 Break/Passing Time 10:20-12:20 Period 5 Exam 12:20 Dismissal Friday, Jan. 20 8:00-10:00 Period 6 Exam 10:00-10:14 Break/Passing Time 10:20-12:20 Period 7 Exam 12:20 Dismissal

Zhou. In the photography section, the winner was John Syfacunda ‘14. The winners for the visual arts section were Kritin Karkare ‘15, Quincy Morgan ’15, and Amanda Shi ’14.

Students all over the country from preschool to 12th grade expressed their creativity and ideas on the meaning of diversity in this year’s Reflections Art contest.

The annual contest was

Teens Face Charges for Local Student’s Death Staff Writer

Final Exam Schedule

December14,2011•TheArrow

Nine local teens were recently arrested for the death of TOHS football player Griffen Kramer, son of former NFL star, Erik Kramer. Police from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department stated that seven of these nine juveniles have been charged for illegal substance abuse and controlled substances. Two have been charged with involuntary manslaughter.

Although Kramer was originally thought to have died from alcohol poisoning, further investigations have shown that he died from a heroin overdose. Among the two teens who were charged with involuntary manslaughter was 19-year-old David Nernberg, one of Kramer’s friends from Agoura High School.

According to Sheriff’s Sgt. Barry Hall who spoke to CNN, Kramer passed out in Nernberg’s car after injecting himself with the heroin drug.

Police allege that Griffen, Nernberg and a juvenile met at Sumac Park in Agoura Hills on

Oct. 29 and drove to a nearby cul-de-sac, where Griffen injected narcotics, causing him to instantly become ill and unconscious.

According to Los Angeles Times reporter Rick Rojas, Nernberg drove around asking people if he could take a “passed out” Kramer to their houses. When no one agreed, Nernberg drove Kramer to his home in Agoura Hills and dragged Kramer out of the car into his room.

When Nernberg awoke the next morning, he called 911 after seeing that Kramer had not moved. Emergency teams later arrived on the scene.

“Nernberg is currently released in lieu of a $125,000 bail, but will be tried in court and will most likely be punished severely,” Hall explained at a press conference.

Kramer is believed to have been dead for several hours before Nernberg made the 911 call.

All teens except Nernberg are currently being held at Sylmar Juvenile Hall without bail. The other teen charged with involuntary manslaughter was also released on bail.

established more than 40 years ago to encourage students to appreciate and participate in the arts. The contest contains six categories: dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and visual arts.

According to Cheryl Landsberg, the Reflections chair, thirty-three entries made it onto the district level competition. A reception was held on Nov. 21 at

TOHS to “showcase the winners and distribute recognition certificates.” The top four entries of each category will move onto the county-wide level.

The winners are proud of their achievements and very hopeful that their entries will go further into the contest.

The winners of the countywide level will compete in the state level, followed by the national level.

School May Close Early If Budget Gets Cut Again Vallia Yu

Staff Writer Every student wishes for school to end earlier. After the economic report on California’s financial status, that wish may just come true. To save money, the district may close school early.

After Governor Jerry Brown’s cuts to his own office in January, the $7.4 billion cut to school finances in February, and again in March, California will likely receive another rude awakening.

If the Department of Education decides on a budget cut again this year, then the district expects to lose a large chunk of its funds once again.

In fact, according to The Sacramento Bee, the Department of Finance may be looking at a $2 billion budget cut that will lead to a huge impact on the public school system.

The Department of Finance’s 2011-12 California Budget website states in its enacted budget that kindergarten through 12th grade education takes up nearly $36.8 billion or about 27.6% of the entire agency’s budget. In fact, it has been proposed, yet again, that

schools are let out a week earlier for the sake of maintaining a steady source of funds.

Education Week stated on its site that California has cut nearly $18 billion from the spending budget from K-12 schools within the last five years; The Acorn reveals that $20 million alone came from our district. K-12 schools have done everything but increase the class size, CVUSD Superintendent Jeff Baarstad told The Acorn.

“Just because the state says it’s okay doesn’t mean we can do that,” continued Baarstad.

“Cutting a large number of school days is unlikely.”

Unified Association of Conejo Teachers President Colleen BrinerSchmidt is concerned about how the schools can survive another financial blow to the system.

“Our teachers have worked so hard. Year after year, despite cuts, they continue to deliver good test scores and good instruction,” Briner-Schmidt said to The Acorn.

“Now I don’t know how much thinner we can spread things out...We’ve cut all the easy stuff.

What are left are very difficult decisions.”

December 14, 2011 • The Arrow

Feature

3

ARTISTIC EXPRESSIONS

Michelle Noyes Feature Editor

Ceramics is the art of shaping, painting, and glazing, dabbled with the romantic feeling of getting your hands caked in cold clay.

“It is not as easy as it looks. It can be pretty difficult working with clay trying to make three-dimensional artwork,” said ceramics teacher Missy Zuckerman.

Students design projects like the sculpture at right by Yoon Hee Youm ‘12. The students’ goal is to have their artwork featured in the glass cabinet, which stands proudly in Building 2’s second story hallway.

Briana Tamayo ‘13 Q: Why did you choose to take ceramics?

A: I love to draw but I wanted to challenge myself and see how well I could do in ceramics.

Q: What is your opinion of the WHS art program?

A: The art program at Westlake is amazing.

There are many interesting classes that can connect with one’s talent.

Q: What do you like most about ceramics?

A: I like to meet the criteria in every assignment while expressing myself with my ideas.

PHOTO BY MICHELLE NOYES

Q: What is your favorite piece of work that you have made in ceramics so far?

A: My favorite piece of work would be my salt and pepper shakers. I made Jake and Beemo from the cartoon Adventure Time.

Compiled by Julia Shi

Rachel Park ‘12

Marissa Klein ‘12 Q: What is your favorite part of ceramics?

A: My favorite part is just being able to create something and having it turn out good. Even though I have to think and plan my projects, ceramics is still relaxing and fun. It’s a nice break during the day.

Q: What do you like about ceramics over other types of art?

A: For me, ceramics is easier to do than something like painting, because I am horrible at creating depth.

Ceramics is also more hands on and tangible.

Q: What piece of art that you’ve made is your favorite?

A: I really, really love the Greek vase I made last year with a carving of Dionysus on it.

Q: How did you first get interested in art?

A: I took a ceramics class on a cruise once, and my sister took ceramics, so I really just took it for fun.

Compiled by Orly Greenberg

MOCA EXHIBITS:

In May 1963, under the leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., hundreds of African-Americans marched in non-violent protest against segregation in Birmingham, Alabama. Police brutally retaliated with high-pressure water hoses and trained dogs.

“Theaster Gates: An Epitaph for Civil Rights,” located at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Los Angeles, showcases the tumultuous protests of the civil rights movement of 1955-1968 through striking artistic pieces, ranging from sculptures to tiny snippets of comics.

The exhibit will last until Jan. 16, 2012.

The main artist of the works, Theaster Gates, was born in 1973 and currently lives in Chicago.

When visitors first walk into the Theaster Gates gallery, they will see simple rectangular-like sculptures that appear to

Q: Why did you choose to take ceramics?

A: My friends said it was a fun class and I need an art credit.

Q: What are your biggest accomplishments?

A: I am really proud of all the projects I have made and I have made stuff I never thought I would be able to make Q: What do you want to improve in throughout the year in this class?

A: I want to be able to make more complex projects. More complex sculptures to challenge myself.

Compiled by Michelle Noyes

be made from concrete, metal and fabric.

As they venture further, they will discover interesting machines that look like they just arrived from the 1800s.

There are also pop-art-like comics below a small movie, showing people from all denominations protesting for topics ranging from women’s rights to the rights of “colored people.” The comics represent the essence of the civil rights movement.

In the third room of the gallery, visitors will find old magazine pictures and another movie consisting of music videos from the 60’s to the 80’s.

The last room has pictures that are very detailed but simple at the same time. The message conveyed through these pictures is to look deep inside oneself and discover who one really is.

The gallery was brilliantly put together in a shocking but beautiful manner.

Theaster Gates and the other artists who contributed to the exhibit have really outdone themselves.

MOCA is hosting the first West Coast solo museum exhibition of Hedi Slimane’s photography. The exhibit, titled “California Song,” portrays “urban youth culture and artistic communities” of California, and includes several photographic essays.

His photographs depict new musicians and aspiring artists in typical California settings such as Venice or Laguna Beach, “[creating] a new a fresh visual language for youth today,” said MOCA director Jeffrey Deitch. His exhibit will be available for viewing through Jan. 22 of the new year.

COURTESY PHOTOS

COURTESY PHOTO

Civil Rights Exhibit Attracts Views Staff Writer

Q: When did you start ceramics?

A: Just this year.

The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, showcases its last exhibits of the year with post 1950s Compiled by Skye Kriger works.

California Song

UNDER PRESSURE: Featured in the Theaster Gates Gallery, this piece is made entirely of decommissioned fire hoses and wood.

Kelsey Murphy

PHOTO BY SHANNON REIFFEN

Naked Hollywood

The featured photographer, known as Weegee, came to Los Angeles from New York City in 1947 to get away from the NYC crime scene and be in the growing Los Angeles art scene. “Now I could photograph the subjects I liked,” said Weegee. “I was free.” His photographs portray the birth of the L.A. art scene in the 1950s, and even include shots of famous figures such as Marilyn Monroe. This is the first museum exhibit dedicated to the work Weegee created in Southern California and will be open until Feb. 27, 2012.

Icons

This exhibit, open through Feb. 27, showcases the work of Kenneth Anger (b.

1927), who, according to the MOCA website, was ”one of the most original filmmakers of American cinema.” Anger uses unconventional lighting in his photographs to produce captivating images. The exhibit is a collection of Anger’s work over several decades, including pictures from as far back as the 1950s.

Opinion

4

December 14, 2011 • The Arrow

Gamers Learn by Hitting Keys, Not Books Yangzong Guo Staff Writer

A Dash of Sanity: The Wit of Twits

Dashiell Young-Saver Editor-in-chief ter.

Shakespeare would’ve loved Twit-

DRAGON MECHANICS: Video games such as Skyrim actually develop critical thinking skills.

to do and must form a plan to navigate the physics of the game. Furthermore, it takes creativity and trial and error to get through the game. Because of the complexity of the games, one must constantly reformulate and retest plans—the hallmark of critical thinking.

By virtue of the vast amount of freedom and number of possible ways to play a game, students who play games are self-motivated and self-directed learners.

They don’t have guides who walk them through every single level, so they have to rely on themselves to act and decisively attack an obstacle.

Furthermore, playing video games exercises memory and increases students’ memory retention. Cognitive science has discovered that memory is a residue of thought. Video games constantly force

Keep Politicians’ Private Lives Out of Public View Orly Greenberg Feature Editor

Former GOP candidate Herman Cain suspended his campaign for the presidency on Dec. 3, saying the accusation of sexual misconduct has cast a “cloud of doubt over [Cain] and this campaign,” according to Los Angeles Times.

Although Cain is the most recent victim of a talkative mistress and stealthy press, he is certainly not the first politician to be caught in a sexual scandal, and promptly punished for the impropriety. Numerous politicians have witnessed their entire careers disintegrate in mere days, usually due to a slip of tongue prompted by a hefty paycheck. And while America prides itself on maintaining a highly stringent code of ethics, to be followed by every elected officer, these unofficial rules make it nearly impossible to find an ideal politician.

Take Herman Cain. Up until sexual harassment allegations surfaced, Cain held a solid 66% approval rating among Republicans, which quickly deteriorated into a 57%, according to www.mediaite. com. Before the scandal, Cain was a fairly well-respected candidate with the potential to win the nomination.

If Cain had a sexual indiscretion, such behavior is inexcusable, especially by one who hoped to one day control the most powerful country in the world.

However, politicians have been shamed for far less serious transgressions. Arnold Schwarzenegger, former Governor of California, admitted to fathering an

illegitimate child with his housekeeper.

While cheating on his wife was probably not the best choice in terms of his marital status, his affair had no concrete effect on his ability to lead.

Politicians makes mistakes. Making mistakes is part of what forms their character; it is what defines them as leaders. And government officials, like other human beings, are allowed to make mistakes and learn from them. However, when these mistakes affect how they lead, their decisions then become the public’s concern.

So, the main problem with a politician’s indiscretions is that if those indiscretions are illegal, if their actions compromise their political position, or clearly violates another citizen’s rights, they appear incompetent to the public.

However, I would take a chaotic personal life over breaking into the opposing party’s headquarters and lying about it, a la Nixon, and definitely over Obama’s former drug use, both of which compromise the politicians’ ability to lead effectively.

Politicians are entitled to keep their personal lives private, to an extent. But when their choices interfere with their leadership skills, the decisions of leaders become the citizens’ business.

Skimming through our former leaders’ pasts, we will inevitably find minor improprieties. It is America’s job to sort through the mistakes, and decide which ones truly effect the leadership of our country.

Cartoon by Harry Bachrach

For those my age reading this who aren’t familiar with Shakespeare, he wrote plays on an island long ago. For those of you who do not know what a play is, it is like a TV show, but harder to understand. For those who do not know what a TV show is, it is an internet video that has a plot. And by plot, I mean a story, not a plot of land on Farmville.

Now, getting back to the point before I lose your short attention spans, Shakespeare would have loved Twitter because it forces the youth of the world to become more inventive and creative writers.

Shakespeare wrote poems and plays in structured formats. His sonnets had to have iambic pentameter, rhyme, and a certain length. The rigid structure seems confining, but it actually forced Shakespeare to be even more creative to work within the format and give meaning to his work. That is why old people like his stuff.

Twitter is even more structured than a Shakespearean sonnet or a play. Limited to 140 characters, Twitter would have ended this column after the first sentence. So, each tweet is almost as structured as Bruce Jenner’s face.

To fit any sort of meaning in the character-limit, twits (pun intended) have to be inventive and make up words, much like Shakespeare made up some of his.

LOL, ROTFL, FTW, IDK. Since Shakespeare’s time, there has never been so much significance in so few letters. The abbreviations and shortened words convey meanings both literal and figurative.

Well, figurative in that they may be talking about someone else’s body figure, as people often do on Twitter.

The Chinese were able to put years of significance and wisdom into single characters in their languages, and now they are taking over our economy, industry, and culture. American teenagers are now doing thousands of years of character condensing catch-up on Twitter with abbreviations. And they are succeeding.

Already so many abbreviations come from Shakespeare’s greatest works. His play Julius Caesar is JC or “just chillin” in youth speak. The play King John (KJ) is JK (just kidding) backwards.

The Tempest is TT, which also stands for “Big Tease.” And some of his most famous tragedies arranged in a certain order--Julius Caesar, Hamlet, Othello, and Macbeth can be abbreviated as JHOM or “just helping out my…”

As I see my peers use more of their own words and grammar, I can’t help but boast that we are the most creative and developed writing generation. Maybe one day, we can condense the many ideas and significances of words into a single character. At that point, our generation will have conquered, I mean mastered, the English language.

As Shakespeare once wrote in the play Henry VI Part II, “Yea, man and birds are fain of climbing high.” So shall the Twitter bird and the young man of today climb higher than ever before in the English language.

Academics (people who live in their own ideas) respect Shakespeare for his ability to question and express the essence of human nature. He asked the tough questions. But one question that would not have been tough for Shakespeare is “To tweet, or not to tweet.” He easily would have answered with a resounding “Tweet FTW (for the win).”

Learning is certainly no game at WHS. It requires toil, suffering, and every square inch of our brain capacity. Yet students who play video games, like Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, can cheerfully cast fireballs at dragons while learning at the same time.

A famous video game designer, Shigeru Miyamoto, known for creating the iconic games Mario and Donkey Kong, once asked, “Videogames are bad for you? That’s what they said about rock n’ roll.” Similar to rock n’ roll music, video games have been represented in a negative light.

Video gaming is stigmatized as nothing more than a time-killer, corrupting the minds and killing the brain cells of today’s generation. However, many schools are starting to realize the potential for video games to help students excel in school.

Video and online games are increasingly making the transition from extracurricular to educational activities.

Take, for example, a public high school in New York City that has utilized the video game as its model for teaching students.

Quest to Learn, namely, is a program that allows students to play video games or design them as part of their classes.

Teachers use games such as Angry Birds to teach physics to students and SimCity to show how systems interact.

Unlike regular school classes, video games do not require thousand page manuals to figure out what to do; they are quite intuitive. At the same time, playing a video game is a very cerebral process and it involves many complex cognitive processes.

“Gamification,” the idea of introducing gaming concepts to traditionally nongaming environments, can power up learning and provide training for many critical skills.

Video games promote critical thinking.

When one enters the virtual world of a game like the famous Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, he or she is left with only a vague idea of what

players to think, and those thoughts hold the potential to increase their memory retention. Being able to remember more can greatly help students excel in school.

Many video games allow players to slowly gauge their progress through short and long term goals. This process of tracking their own progress is what they do in the classroom. Playing video games can teach students to carefully monitor themselves and figure out what to improve on.

Video games work in very similar ways to a classroom. Exercising the skills required to succeed academically outside of the classroom is imperative, and video games can provide students with such training. Perhaps one day, society will place a greater value on video games as educational tools.

THE WESTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL

ARROW

100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 497-6711 ext. 4225 westlakearrow@yahoo.com

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Lisa Battaglia, Dashiell YoungSaver MANAGING EDITOR Brian Chang NEWS EDITORS Meini Cheng, Lauren Chin OPINION EDITOR Alexa Lucas FEATURE EDITORS: Nicolette Blatt, Orly Greenberg, Vivian Hu, Michelle Noyes, Shannon Reiffen, Victoria Wang SPORTS EDITORS Alex Farkas, Monica Huskins, Stephanie Kim STAFF WRITERS Katrina Brewer, Harry Chung, Woody Chung, Cameron Clark, Brian Danziger, Yangzong Guo, Hanyi Huang, Skye Kriger, Kelsey Murphy, Jonathan Rifkind, Julia Shi, Tara Spencer, Vivian Xu, Vallia Yu ADVISOR Caron Battaglia

The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School and is published monthly. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the Conejo Valley Unified School District, Westlake High School administration, faculty, or student body. We welcome feedback. Letters must be signed by the writer, though names can be withheld by request in the publication. Please send submissions to Mrs. Battaglia’s box in the main office or to Room 42E. For The Arrow online, visit www.conejo.k12.ca.us/whs and click on Activities menu.

Opinion

December 14, 2011 • The Arrow

The 99% is a Lost Cause Cameron Clark Staff Writer

For two months “the 99%” of the population have been occupying some of the nation’s leading financial cities. They have vandalized property, rioted, and bitten police officers.

This group is giving the real 99% a bad name. So why are they calling themselves the 99%? Are 99% of US citizens uncivilized animals who vandalize property because they are not as privileged or hard working as someone else?

Websites such as Occupytogether.org hope “to provide people with information about events that are organizing, ongoing, and building across the U.S. and world as the 99% take action against the greed and corruption of the 1%.”

This website also says that the bottom 40% owns 0.3% of the worlds total wealth. That’s a lot of money for the top 60%. According to sociology Professor G. William Domhoff from the University of Santa Cruz, the top 1% owned about one half of that 99.7% of wealth in 2007.

This is what “the 99%” base their platform on. It’s reasonable that as you go higher up the economic food chain, you see the percent of wealth go up, so the argument seems just ridiculous.

Wealth equals greed. Since the top 1% own more than 40% of the nations money, they must all be evil demons who use their influence on the economy to take over the world, right?

It’s this kind of assumption and simple thinking that leads to broken friendships, bad Disney Channel sitcoms, and in this case, a riot.

“The 99%” are angry over their lack of money. And how do you make money? You get a job. But according to the 99%, its nearly impossible to do so, which is a reason why the 99% are so angry.

But instead of looking for a job, they just complain about it. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current unemployment rate is 9%. If the 99% are so angry about this startling statistic, then why put their jobs on the line in the first place?

The reason they protest is that the top 1% will not share.

But we do not live in old Soviet Russia, communist China, fascist Germany, or socialist France. We live in America.

No one can make someone share the money he or she has earned. Giving away money is something admirable, but just because it is a good deed does not mean it is a requirement.

With hard work, they rose to the top, and their legacy has been continued through their families.

According to Professor Domhoff, the 1% probably are the biggest spenders, but they only have 5% of the nations debt.

So are the 1% greedy and selfish, or are they just more responsible and hard working than the 99%?

Either way, the top 1% are smarter with their money, and perhaps that 42% of wealth is in good hands.

5

Black Friday Darkens Holiday Spirit Monica Huskins Sports Editor

Thanksgiving is no longer solely about family and American nationalism. Today, American corporations have infiltrated the Thanksgiving table with attractive deals. Due to the bad economy, people have taken this Black Friday more seriously than in previous years.

According to the Wall Street Journal, there were an estimated 226 million shoppers over Black Friday weekend. Along with the large numbers of shoppers came pepper spray, stabbing, and even gun shots.

People are wondering, “How much more insane can bargainers get? Are the sales even worth it? How much are you really saving?”

There is a lot that goes into Black Friday shopping and the more motivated people have taken to camping out in front of stores. Those campers are missing work, and Thanksgiving.

“I felt like I was in a riot until I realized that I was just in a massive group of people looking for a sale,” said Elizabeth Matusov ‘12. “People are too commercially obsessed with the idea of Black Friday.”

While everyone loves a good deal, Black Friday shoppers may be going to the extreme to save

PRICE WARS: Black Friday customers pack heat for sales.

a few, while not knowing what dangers they could encounter.

At a Walmart around the Los

Angeles area, a woman pepper sprayed 20 other shoppers before the LAPD received a call. One

man was stabbed in Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento, and shots were fired in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Not only are these shoppers a threat to themselves but they are also a threat to their fellow Black Friday bargain hunters and the community.

“The violence is an offset of the weak economy. Therefore, in order to decrease violence and increase competition, we must better the economy,” said Rachel Philips ‘12.

This is adding to the image that America is based only on consumerism. The significance of a holiday celebration is overshadowed.

“Despite the importance of the economy in the American culture, Black Friday definitely takes it a step too far,” said Cydney Wain ‘12.

Although searching for a good deal is sometimes a fun way to save money, the violence that potentially accompanies Black Friday portrays America’s unrest with the current recession.

It is imperative that the economy improve in order to stop the violence as well as the increase in class warfare. When department stores advertise that they will open before people have had a chance to digest their Thanksgiving meals, the spirit of the holiday is lost.

Use of Taser Guns No Laughing Matter Katrina Brewer Staff Writer

Cops have a privilege to tase those who are not cooperative.

Non-contact, temporary, and with no lasting pain or injury, tasing is harmless (once it’s over) and effective. Controversy, however, has been a low-burning flame surrounding the concept of police officers holding the power to tase at their discretion.

People find tasing uncivil and almost barbaric, and do not trust cops’ judgements. Penny Vorissis ‘12 offered her opinion; “Cops should not be allowed to tase people, because they could

be punishing someone who is completely innocent and has done nothing wrong.”

This idea has been satirized in the popular comedy Meet the Fockers. In the film, a cop portrayed as dim-witted and abusive of his power tases a man and his father when there was no clear threat present. The scenario is mocked even more heavily in the hit comedy The Hangover, where reckless cops allow children who are touring the police office to tase the main characters for fun.

This type of situation seems less a laughing matter when it occurs in real life. NaturalNews. com reported a case in Ohio

that occurred over the summer, where two cops were sued for tasing a boy who had a speech impediment, which they allegedly misinterpreted as disrespect.

“I think cops should only be allowed to tase in certain circumstances, like if the criminal had a weapon or attempted to physically assault an officer,” said Billal Ahmed ‘12.

Another popular story of police handling a situation with questionable judgement is all over the internet in the form of a viral video: multiple police officers tase and club a Pittsburgh Pirates’ fan who was “disrupting the peace” and displaying “resistance.”

Though excuses can be made for the officers in both of these situations, the matter of whether or not tasing should be so easily at cops’ disposal remains unresolved.

Phil Kwon ‘12 summed up the issue, “Although it is not ethical, tasing is still a better solution than using a gun.”

Kwon said it all. Though tasing remains controversial, it is a better alternative to other damaging ways of subduing those who are uncooperative with the police force. Regulations should be placed that enumerate in exactly what situations cops are allowed to utilize tasing.

Teen Brains Responsible for Risky Behavior Woody Chung Staff Writer

The Conejo Valley was recently shocked by the death of Thousand Oaks High School senior Griffin Kramer. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, heroin was the cause of death.

Kramer’s case reflects a dangerous pattern in our society today: many teenagers enjoy using illegal drugs.

According to the Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, 75% of all high school students have used alcohol, tobacco, or either legal or illicit drugs and 20% of these individuals were addicted.

The most unusual part of this pattern is the massive effort taken to prevent it from happening. We’ve all been there: the countless hours in health class

nerves in our brain must make studying from a textbook about connections with each other. the detrimental effects of drugs.

These radical changes Yet, to the puzzlement of parents, allow the brain to fully mature. teachers, and adults in general, However, at the same time they teens continue to ignore these make the brain warnings. work differently The reason, from adult brains. lies in the teenage “75% of all high This difference brain.

A massive school students have affects many parts National Institutes used alcohol, tobacco, of teenage life, especially our risk of Health Project or either legal or il- taking. that studied In a recent over a hundred licit drugs and 20% of a d o l e s c e n t s of these individuals University Pittsburgh study, during the 1990s were addicted.” researchers showed evidence -Center on Addiction and studied the brain that the teenage Substance Abuse activity of teens brain undergoes and adults while a reorganization the subjects worked on a test that between years 12 and 15, relies on the subject’s ability to mainly in the frontal lobe, the avoid the temptation to look at a area responsible for mental suddenly flickering light. Teens processes including judgement tended to use the frontal lobe of and impulse control. In order to the brain less, whereas the adults relay information to and fro, the

seemed to use this region almost automatically.

In the words of Beatriz Luna, lead researcher of the Pittsburgh study, “It’s not that adolescents don’t understand risk. It’s just that they find it more rewarding to impress their peers.”

The still developing teenage brain uses this region less and is, instead, influenced more by a rewards system. The reward here is risk. Reinforcement, peer pressure and the rush of getting approval, show that teenage drug abuse derives largely from the risk teens perceive in experimenting with drugs.

Even with new insight into these tendencies of the teenage mind, the issue of reducing drug abuse remains a daunting task.

However, knowing what leads to drug abuse, perhaps teens can make a more conscientious effort to avoid risks leading to drugs.

Feat

WAR

ON

CHRISTMAS

6

A look into the reported secularism and materialism of the holiday season

Media Dreaming of a Secular Christmas Woody Chung Staff Writer

According to media hype over the last few years, there’s a reason why thousands of people around the country sing “you better watch out, you better not cry” during the holidays. The reason, some people argue, is not that a jolly old fat-man will come prancing down the chimney bearing wonderful gifts and goodies. In fact, according to these people, the reason why we hear this every year is quite simple. Every December, we are at war: a war on Christmas.

The phrase “War on Christmas” first appeared in the early 2000’s to describe the holiday season becoming a more secular time of year. Banners started reading “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” Consumers became more obsessed with getting deals at department stores rather than celebrating the family-oriented intentions of the holidays.

The changes may have seemed subtle to many, but conservative media analysts Sean Hannity and Bill O’Reilly zealously reported on the “War on Christmas” until it became a prominent issue.

“I think it’s all part of the secular progressive agenda...to get Christianity and spirituality out of the public square,” said O’Reilly in 2005.

Some accuse conservatives of over-hyping the issue when none really exists.

“The Christmas kulturkampf is a growth industry in a shrinking economy, providing an effective boost for conservative fundraising and a ratings bonanza for right-wing media,” commented journalist Max Blumenthal. According to some political experts, there exists a pattern of religious right-winged politicians using the War on Christmas to excessively fuel anger from a Christian community to criticize the usually leftwinged non-Christians and consequently garner support for themselves (and their fundraisers).

But, whether it is fought for legitimate causes or not, the conservative coverage of the supposed “war” has worked to strike fear in the majority of Americans.

Many now believe Christmas is being threatened. According to a 2006 Chicago Tribune poll, 68% of those interviewed claimed that there indeed existed a “War on Christmas.”

As a result, a movement among conservatives and Christian groups to reintroduce the religious side of Christmas back into American society has grown within the past few years.

For example, the Liberty Counsel, a Christian organization, maintains a “naughty or nice” list of retailers based on their decisions to feature Christmas (rather than exclude it) in their marketing strategies.

And the supposed “war” is nothing new. According to Time Magazine, as early as 1659, Puritan leaders of the Massachusetts Bay Colony declared that the celebrations of Christmas didn’t align with the more religious setting of the group.

Surprisingly, the first battle of this war was fought not for a more secular Christmas but to ban a too-secular Christmas.

Eventually, however, the effort to ban Christmas would fly under different banners.

Later on, during the 1920s, the Jewish community tried to secularize what it perceived to be a highly Christian celebration that had affected many aspects of its society. Unfortunately, this effort provided political fodder for Anti-Semites to accuse the Jewish community of suppressing Christianity.

During the Cold War, many used the lessening of the Christian spirit during the holiday season to blame the communists.

So the war has been fought many years, but is there a legitimate cause behind the “War on Christmas?” Over the years, the country has become more secular and tolerant of different religions and holidays, but has it gotten to a point where the core values of Christmas are truly threatened?

The answer is unclear. Studies have shown that the country has become less Christian over the last two decades. According to an America Religious Identification Survey from Trinity College done in 2009, 75% of Americans call themselves Christian. In 1990, that figure was at 86%.

The survey also illustrates how Christian Americans are not switching to other religions, but rather choosing to reject religion altogether.

On the other hand, The United States is much more religious than other comparably modern countries. According to The Atlantic, 90% of Americans believe in a God, whereas only 60% share the same belief in Britain, France, and Germany.

So, although the country is becoming more secular, the movement that sparked the “War on Christmas” may be viewed by some as an overreaction. Some even go so far as to label the movement as a conservative conspiracy.

“You have a dynamic here, where you have the Christian right hysterically over representing the problem, and then anecdotally you have some towns where lawyers restrict any kind of display or representation of religion, which is equally absurd,” said Chip Berlet, a senior analyst at Political Research Associates.

Whether its an unjustified overreaction to gain votes or a movement to fight for higher morals in a time of secular sin, there is a “war on Christmas,” and it is fought on every level and aspect of our society.

December Dictio Skye Kriger Staff Writer

‘Tis the season for holiday shopping, holiday flavors, and holiday decorations. Holiday special advertisements and catalogs flood mailboxes. Houses donned with red and green lights and candy canes line the streets, while people sip peppermint mochas from cups featuring white snowflakes on a festive red background.

The overwhelming red and green that colors our lives during this time of year points clearly towards a society that, for the most part, celebrates Christmas. So why bother labeling everything with the less specific adjective, “holiday”?

We understand that in America, the First Amendment requires that all religions be treated equally and no religion be left out. But by not creating blue and white Hanukkah cups or Hanukkah flavored drinks (although latke lattes may be rather revolting), aren’t we effectively excluding other religions anyway?

Not to say that we should actually include everyone. The whole idea of having red and green colored things is to get consumers into the festive spirit, hopefully inciting their shopping spirits. Everyone (or, most people) loves the jolly festivity of the season, and the green lights, red décor, and Christmas songs playing everywhere lifts up anyone’s spirits, regardless of what religion they claim to be.

The issue of the political correctness of “Christmas” is a heated one, stemming from the First Amendment’s guarantee that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” And with atheism in America on the rise, more people are complaining about Christmas being mentioned in the press.

To avoid controversy, Presidents Bush and Obama avoided explicitly mentioning Christmas in their official Christmas cards, instead replacing the traditional salutation “Merry Christmas” with a more religiously ambiguous greeting. Ironically, some card-recipients were still angry. According to ABC News, Catholic League president Bill Donohue, seeing the card, wondered why people had to “neuter” the holidays, and added that “perhaps people who are offended by the use of Christmas have ‘drunk too much from the multicultural well’ and are victims of ‘political correctness run amok.’”

In 2009, an moved a Christm called a “giving and replaced it w el, Chicago’s firs 55-foot decorate

Shop ‘til Harry Chung Staff Writer

Christmas? Or Christmustbuymore? For some, Christmas used to be a time to celebrate the sacred day on which Jesus was born. For others, Christmas was a time in which family members spent time bonding with one another. Whatever the reason for celebrating this holiday, Christmas was a magical time in which cheer and joy permeated the souls of even the Grinchiest Scrooges around.

Today, however, many people believe that the spirit of Christmas has been distorted by commercialization. They believe that Christmas has lost its former glory and believe it is now an empty, meaningless excuse for shopaholics to fulfill their commercial desires.

Statistics seem to support their beliefs. According to the American Research Group, in 2010, the average American adult spent $658 on Christmas gifts, a 58% increase from 2009 when the average was $417. Shockingly, this exorbitantly high number is actually low in comparison with other year’s numbers due to the recession; in fact, in 2004, Americans spent more than $1000. As stated by the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2010, retail sales by department stores alone in December 2009 were $27.4 billion. These numbers show that what was once a family-oriented, spiritual time of joy has formed into a time to accumulate tremendous credit card debt.

Commercialization seems to have seeped into the minds of Christmas shoppers. Take, for example, the horrors of Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving when customers line up at the crack of dawn to start their Christmas shopping and scour for deals. Our preoccupation with commercialism led one woman to attack 20 fellow shoppers with pepper spray in order to buy a discounted Xbox game, caused a Target employee to accidentally drive her car into a canal from all the holiday shopping exhaustion, and led to the trampling and death of numerous people at seemingly innocent stores such as Walmart and Toys “R” Us. “Black Friday demonstrates our obsession with consumption, as does our need to buy each other gifts on Christmas,” said Matt

McComb’ 13.

Businesses wit out of our Christm the Christmas tree u families bonded an Christmas. Now, co as Norm Thompso starting to raze this special tradition by selling instant pre-decorated Christmas trees.

In the 17th century, when Christmas spirit was flourishing, fa ing their own candy dycanefacts.com, co candy canes in the Hanukkah.

Holiday gift gi tradition in which p of gratitude and jo mas presents were now they are expen duced in factories. ping now a blood best deals rather th spread joy as it onc As Roy L. Smith once stated, “He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.”

ture

7

If you could change one thing about the holidays, what would it be?

on: Not Discriminatory

n Oregon elementary school principal remas tree from the school (which was already g tree” to skirt a political correctness issue) with two snowmen; this year, Rahn Emanust Jewish Mayor, chose to refer to the city’s ed spruce as a “holiday tree.”

“For everyone to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays: not presents but family and valuable things.”

While the issue of verbal neutrality might initially seem like something that only the politically significant need to worry about, even public high schools like ours have to be careful when treading through religiously connoted waters. The recent WHS Choir’s One Magic Season was, according to Jessica Evaristo ‘12, originally named One Magic Christmas before choir director Alan Rose changed it. “Mr. Rose tried to introduce Hanukkah and holiday themed songs rather than focusing on Christmas specifically. However, it’s pretty impossible to avoid singing a majority of Christmas songs,” Evaristo stated.

We’re not trying to avoid only Christian associations though. This school year, we had no school on September 29, a Thursday. We came back to school on Friday, and then went on to have a normal weekend. The seemingly random day off of school was officially labelled a “school holiday,” but the real reason was Rosh Hashanah, the new year, according to the Jewish calendar.

And while we’re all incredibly grateful for the one day break that Judaism bestows upon our otherwise monotonous school year, is it really that necessary to avoid mentioning anything related to religion?

It seems that the whole “include all religions” thing is applied only in word and not in action; since we’re not being all-inclusive anyway, would people actually get offended or feel excluded if we started saying “Christmas” instead of “holiday”?

“In my opinion, December just represents one of the happiest months of the year. To me, a word is just a word, and it wouldn’t matter to me whether we called it Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the holiday season,” added Evaristo.

Let’s be honest: were it not for Christianity, we would not have a winter break. Or a spring break, for that matter. So why try to cover up and avoid calling them the appropriate names--Christmas and Easter vacation. At Oaks Christian High School, the terms seem to be interchangeable, and, according to Alison Jennings ‘13, who transferred from La Reina High School this year, students and faculty both referred to the breaks by the holidays they celebrated.

While Oaks and La Reina, being privately funded educational institutions, can ignore the legal issues regarding religion in the classroom environment, it doesn’t seem like any of the non-Christian students attending these schools get offended.

Shauna Gutierrez ‘12

“I think we need to make Christmas a more ‘Christ-centered’ perspective rather than a commercial centered perspective.”

William Culpepper

“I want snow here.”

David Cheung ‘12 “Animosity towards other religions.”

Luke Hegeman ‘12

l You Gumdrop

“I wish to teach my students a Chinese Christmas song and bring a new meaning to their families.”

Julie Chung

th commercial interests leech the wonder mas traditions. For example, decorating used to be a special time in which nd reveled in the magic of ompanies such on are

“They should not decorate the stores with Christmas shadooby before Thanksgiving— it is offensive to other holidays.”

amilies enjoyed the experience of maky canes. Presently, according to canompanies will sell nearly two billion e four weeks before Christmas and

Lindsay Pincus ‘12

iving used to be a Christmas people could share feelings oy. Generations ago, Christe homemade and heartfelt; nsive and mass-proIs holiday shopdbath for the han a time to ce was?

“That WHS embrace the holiday season with more spirit. We need to make it feel like the holiday season.”

Megan Cuturan ‘13 COURTESY PHOTO

WALLED-OFF: Police closed off a Walmart after a woman pepper-sprayed other shoppers while fighting for deals on Black Friday.

8

Feature

December 14, 2011 • The Arrow

‘Tis the Season for Christmas Classics Winter break is a time for ABC Family’s 25 Days of

Christmas marathon, a chance to snuggle up, drink cocoa,

and watch A Christmas Story again. In preparation for those chilly nights in front of the fire, remember those holiday classics that continue to warm our hearts.

Grinch Steals Viewersʼ Hearts Woody Chung Staff Writer

leads us to laugh at his expense.

"We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup," said Buddy.

Although teenagers, we still remember the Christmas of our childhoods.

The gifts, endless amounts of candy, and sunny Southern California Christmas Eves are all memories we will never forget as we grow into SANTA’S COMING!: Will Ferrell, as Buddy the Elf, eats his favorite spaghetti with M&Ms. adulthood.

"Elf brings out the child in Michelle Noyes ements make for an unforgettable all of us, as well as puts everyone Feature Editor movie. Add Ferrell, and a classic in the holiday spirit. It is such a is born. "Sounds like somebody great movie," expressed Anica Everyone has a favorite holi- needs to sing a Christmas Carol," day movie and for many of us Elf said the always spirited Buddy. is at the top of our list. Buddy, Starring alongside him is played by the hilarious Will Fer- quirky Zooey Deschanel. rell, makes the craziest comments Elf has become part of the and talks about the most pointless yearly anticipated Christmas topics and will still get people to schedule for the child-at-heart laugh along. movie lovers.

Throughout the whole movie Rottentomatoes.com agrees, we cannot stop laughing, but why "Elf is a spirited, good-natured is that? How is the movie really family comedy, and it benefits that funny? Is it the script? Story- greatly from Will Ferrell's funny line? Cast? and charming performance." The How the Grinch Charlie Brown Home Alone Elf Stole Christmas Christmas Series A combination of all these el- cluelessness of Ferrell's character COURTESY PHOTO

How did the Grinch steal Christmas?

This Dr. Seuss classic story begins with the Scrooge-like Grinch, an embittered individual marred by a rough and rocky past with prominent citizens of Whoville. Initially a cheerful child delighted with the wonders of Christmas, the Grinch undergoes a selfimposed exile after a disastrous event. Years of anger and loneliness pass, and the Grinch finally decides to give life with the Whos another shot. Unfortunately, he ultimately deteriorates into a Christmas-destroying force after yet another disastrous event causes him to finally lose hope in the Whos and the spirit of Christmas.

Based on the children’s book, the Grinch provides a commentary about the often materialistic view people tend to take around the holidays. In the words of the Grinch himself, “That's what it's all about, isn't it? That's what it's always been about.

Gifts, gifts... gifts, gifts, gifts, gifts, gifts. The avarice never ends.”

Fortunately, by the end of the film, the Grinch reminds himself and the audience that Christmas truly is not about materials. Rather, Christmas boils down to a few ingredients; among these is the heart.

The Grinch remains a holiday classic that can provide a moral perspective of Christmas while remaining enjoyable for all audiences. “I enjoy how it teaches kids to be accepting of other people and I love that the movie is based on Dr. Seuss’ work since I learned how to read through his books,” said Miraj Patel ‘13 Thus, if you’re in the mood to watch some holiday classics over the winter break, don’t move an inch until you consider the Grinch.

Elf Continues to Delight Audiences Stemper '13.

Youthful laughter can make adults relax and take time to think like a child at the holidays. Holidays are known to be a stressful time due to hours of planning, remembering family, and taking stock of money issues.

"This movie showed me that adults can also have as much Christmas spirit as a child," said Denise Lopez '13.

Red and white twirled candy canes are a staple for Santa's holiday. The sugary treats remind us, after a year’s wait, that Christmas-time is finally here.

"Elf races by on a sugar rush fueled by Buddy's sweet tooth —he has a taste for maple syrup, candy canes, and 2-liter bottles of soda," commented film reviewer Sean O'Connell from filmcritic. com.

Buddy the Elf will always remain in our Christmas memories.

Eight years since the film was released, we continue to watch it over the holiday.

What is Your Favorite Christmas Movie?

A survey taken of 64 freshmen, sophomores and seniors revealed that Elf was the overwhelmingly favorite movie of the Christmas season.

A Christmas Story

5

December14,2011•TheArrow

Mix It Up During Those Eight Crazy Nights 6. Invite non-Jewish friends over Considering that the entire holiday focuses on foraging a nation after being torn apart by war, introducing non-Jewish friends to Hanukkah and its meaning is a major benefit to the religion. Simply showing gentile friends Hanukkah tradition promotes education about holiday’s meaning, as well as endorses religious acceptance.

Orly Greenberg Feature Editor

1. Traditional Hanukkah The first night of Hanukkah should be spent in the most traditional sense: with your family.

Invite over grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and enjoy Hanukkah in its most basic form. Fry up latkes (the very epitome of Hanukkah spirit: potato pancakes submerged in oil), and play the family in a friendly game of dreidel, and only HANUCRAZY: Traditional and non-traditional ways to celebrate the Festival of Lights. risk a competitive game if you dare. While the other seven physical abilities as their ability Night Live’s Hanukkah Harry nights may be spent in a more ex- to attract enemies, spending the sketch. And while he’s made no otic fashion, at the very least there night ice skating is a fun-filled so- movies directly related to the holishould be one spent in the classic lution to the excess of latke calo- day, any of Woody Allen’s movies Hanukkah spirit. ries consumed. Whether it is with contain enough neurosis and selfa group of friends or some of your deprecation to cover any and all 2. A Very Chinese Hanukkah more able bodied family mem- Jewish holidays.

Who says that Chinese food bers, taking a quick turn around is only for Christmas? Take the the rink is a way to get into the 5. Charity work immediate family for a dinner out winter spirit, without indulging While it makes up a sizable for Chinese food. The warm food in the greasy food. portion of the holiday, eating is is surprisingly cozy on a winnot the only part of Hanukkah. ter night, and going out for ex- 4. Holiday movie night Donating an hour of any day of otic food takes the pressure off of Every extended holiday de- Hanukkah to some sort of charity cooking for eight straight nights. serves at least one completely work not only benefits the comAnd, as we all know, Chinese lazy night. While Hanukkah has munity, but it gives one a good food saves fantastically, provid- no Charlie Brown special or token sense of what the holiday is truly ing a no-stress meal for Christmas animal to boast, there is in fact a about: survival against all odds. night. sizable collection of Hanukkah- Organizations such as Jewish based entertainment.

Adam Family Service of Los Angeles an 3. Go ice skating Sandler’s “Eight Crazy Nights” is d Jewish Big Brothers Big Sister While the Jewish people a must, along with the “Rugrats offer many opportunities to volaren’t known so much for their Hanukkah Special” and Saturday unteer.

7. Get a Hanukkah bush.

You deserve it.

Why do Christian holidays always get the most fun traditions? Decorating a Christmas tree is inexplicably entertaining, and Jewish families deserve the same kind of enjoyment. So go ahead, buy a bush and decorate it with Hanukkah lights (blue and white ones), ornaments, and chocolate coins.

8. Caroling Sure, Christmas carols are great. But everyone knows that the best holiday sounds are spawned from Hanukkah. Go from house to house and spread Hanukkah cheer by singing the holiday tunes. Deliver baked goods, such as kosher brownies and Star of David cookies to families around the neighborhood.

Christmas Stocking Stuffers:

If you’re having troubles with choosing the perfect present for your family and friends, consider these affordable options as easy stocking stuffers.

Nicolette Blatt Feature Editor

Stocking stuffers give shoppers a chance to find funny gag gifts as well as serious presents, but no one’s stocking will be empty this Christmas.

When getting gifts for stockings, keep in mind what type of person you are shopping for. Girls enjoy the hottest new nail trends.

For example, any metallic nail polish or Sally Hansen sticker nails are a fun stuffer. Then to show off the nails, they could use rings adorned with one of several adorable animals. Some of the best places to get playful rings are Noir, QVC, and Nasygal.com.

Many celebrities have dis-

covered that having a marketable scent is profitable. Signature perfumes, from Taylor Swift Wonderstruck, Justin Bieber Someday, and Britney Spears, Fantasy are popular. The travel-sized roller fits into the stocking nicely.

Another great stocking stuffer for a flirty girl is makeup.

Makeup companies now produce small, compact makeup cases that you can take on the go.

“My parents usually put makeup, money, Victoria’s Secret gift cards, and candy in my stocking,” commented Victoria Doder ‘14.

To transition into a uni-

sex stocking stuffer, comfortable socks are the way to go. Also, in the unisex category are hats and beanies. One of the hottest trends for winter is the slouchy beanie.

They are sold at Urban Outfitters, Tilly’s, Vans, and the brand Neff. Fun sunglasses also fit well. Knockoffs are always useful to have. At Forever 21, the sunglasses are at most $15. Although the winter season brings darker evenings, sunglasses are always necessary in Southern California.

If the stocking you are stuffing belongs to a jokester, search for gag gifts to incorporate their sense of humor. Gag gifts can be found at funslurp.com, as well as different novelty shops.

“Every year my mom puts delicious chewing gum, some nice fuzzy Christmas socks, and Christmas boxers. Nothing gets better than that,” noted Joey Ghiglieri ‘14.

While bigger presents are always anticipated on Christmas Day, it is the stocking stuffers that make the holiday memorable.

The weirdest gift I ever got from a student was . . . “ A girl went to China and brought me back a tassle I could hang on my door. I have it at home.”

- Chad Scott

“ Someone gave me a self portrait in a plastic frame. He told me it was the gift that ʻkeeps on giving,ʼ since it would be put up in my room for all to see. I still have it!

- Kari Ballard

“ A student, letʼs call her ʻLaura,ʼ gave me a stamp with the word ʻLauraʼ on it and expected me to stamp studentsʼ homework with said stamp. Needless to say, I have treasured it and constantly stamped my own papers with it.“ - Lisa Ryder

“ Gas mask.

A kid got it from Check Point Charlie. Iʼve used it to punish students. Also to reward them.”

- Doug Freed

Compiled by PUTNAMEHERE

Gift-buying Guide for Friends Monica Huskins Sports Editor

As the holidays approach, the pressure to find the perfect gift is building.

With so many options, the right choice is sometimes hard to find; but if you keep it simple and only buy for a small group of friends and family, the process can be easy and quite fun.

“Giving a gift can be tricky,” said Kristin Soucy ’12. “But if you make it meaningful, you can never go wrong.”

Many have turned to sweets and holiday foods for gift ideas. “They do say that the stomach speaks to the heart and I love baking for my friends over the holidays,” said Soucy. Baking is a fun and meaningful way to tell your friends that they are important to you. Also, it is a good way to keep a tight budget. Baked goods could range from anything like holiday shaped sugar cookies, to brownies, to cakes.

Other ideas would be winter gear like hats, scarves, beanies, and mittens. Everyone needs accessories for the cold, and these ideas are both unisex and versatile. Additionally, depending on where you purchase these items, they can be a unique and inexpensive alternative to more complicated gifts like clothing.

If the person is difficult to shop for, technological gifts are both useful and creative.

Colorful laptop, iPhone, and Blackberry cases offer a fun change to keep up with the ever evolving technology.

Of course, the easiest and most effective present to give either gender is a gift card. It gives the recipients the opportunity to choose their own presents, and avoids the embarrassment of receiving an unwelcome gift. Unisex stores such as Urban Outfitters, H&M, Forever 21, Pac Sun, and Lids are safe choices for a friend who is difficult to shop for.

However, one must be cautious when buying presents for friends. Avoid any obnoxiously bright colors, gifts that require the recipient’s clothing size, or something that appeals to a required taste.

Additionally, adding a personal touch can truly make a present go from standard to meaningful. A short note, a personalized card, or a handmade gift makes a Christmas or Hanukkah gift all the more personal.

“It depends on the person for finding the right gift.

It is always easier if they ask for something specific, but it is also good if the gift is funny like an inside joke,” said Erica Barrios ‘12. As long as it is from the heart, the spirit of gift-giving will live on.

Feature

December14,2011•TheArrow

5

Natural Foods New Restaurant Provides Wicked Food Make for Super Remedies Meini Cheng News Editor

PHOTO BY MICHELLE NOYES

TABLE FOR 2: A view of the seating from the inside of the Wicked Way Cafe

Michelle Noyes Feature Editor

Wicked Way Café located in Westlake Village opened its doors one month ago.

The location is in the shopping center on Village Glen off of Agoura Road. Domino’s Pizza was replaced by the café and was renovated into a whole new style. The cafe’s website is wickedwaycafe.com but no information has been uploaded onto it yet.

Inside the quaint restaurant is a television mounted on the wall and a few small tables with chairs. When you first walk in, the right wall is covered in

red, which is a color known to stimulate appetite. It is a very intimate setting in the small café. When looking in from the street or sidewalk, the decor looks very inviting.

The red is more noticeable from a farther distance than a boring white or neutral cream shade would be.

On the front page of the menu it states, “Specializing in tempting you. To let go & get wicked.” At first glance the menu is overwhelming. Once you see past all the creative names and read what the food actually contains, it is simple and will fill any appetite.

The breakfast menu for Wicked Way Café offers burritos and steak-n-eggs for

Coconut Water Becomes Health Drink Trend

Julia Shi

Staff Writer A recent surge in the popularity of alternative health and energy drinks has resulted in greater interest in beverages such as coconut water and aloe juice. Many drink companies, like Vita Coco and Zico, have been emphasizing the healthy, natural aspect of their products as increasingly health-conscious consumers shy away from artificial energy drinks and sugar-rich sodas.

The Zico website boasts that coconut water is “the only natural substance that can be safely injected into the human blood stream”, and espouses the variety of benefits coconut water offers. The beverage has developed a name for itself as “nature’s energy drink”.

While the target audience for coconut water companies once consisted primarily of yoga-loving women, the beverage (and its numerous health benefits) eventually piqued the interest of professional athletes such as baseball player Alex Rodriguez and basketball player Kevin Garnett, who endorses Zico.

Coconut water appeals to athletes because it is packed with potassium (as much potassium as 15 regular sports drinks, claims Zico) as well as additional electrolytes.

Just like the average sports drink, coconut water helps athletes rehydrate.

However, Liz Applegate, the director of sports nutrition at UC Davis, warns that due to its lack of sodium, coconut water is not well suited for those who will be participating in long, intensive periods of exercise.

Also, while fans of the beverage believe that the drink has additional

benefits, including both the promotion of anti-aging and help with kidney health, Applegate argues that there has not been any reputable scientific evidence to back such claims.

Coconut water has also begun to transcend the realm of sports, having caught the interest of celebrities like Madonna and Demi Moore.

It would appear that the coconut water industry is flourishing, and data provided

by Vita Coco reveals sharp increases in sales in recent years. The company had a sales volume of 20 million dollars in 2009 and sales of 40 million dollars in 2010. It is predicting sales of 100 million dollars in 2011.

However, some have resisted the coconut water revolution, citing its strange taste.

To combat such complaints, companies have developed a variety of flavored coconut waters. Zico has flavors ranging from Passion Fruit to Chocolate.

There are some who continue to doubt the true staying power of coconut water, deeming it the latest fad in the world of health drinks. Indeed, even as coconut water fights to make a place for itself in the pantry of the everyday consumer, new health drinks have already appeared on the market.

Pickle juice, for example, may soon be a possible contender against coconut water heavyweights.

In fact, Pickle Juice Sports reported that sales in 2010 were 102% more than those in 2009, and in 2010 to 2011 there was a 54% jump in sales.

Consumers of the beverage insist that it relieves activity-related cramping, and a study at Brigham Young University revealed that the cramps were lessened 85 seconds after the consumption of the pickle juice. This quality of pickle juice could make it the newest trend in the sports drink industry.

As new health drinks flood the market and vie for the top spot, consumers should take health benefit claims with a grain of salt. No new beverage will be a panacea, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with plenty of exercise and sensible eating habits will be more beneficial in the long run.

COURTESY PHOTO

A healthy inner body contributes to a healthy outer body. Various foods that are consumed can chemically affect the body’s system, causing different smells to emanate from the skin. Some foods are capable of concealing or removing undesirable body odors. Physiologically, the food that one consumes has a substantial effect on the body’s outward appearance—sight, feel, and even smell.

While gum and breath mints are easy, convenient methods for fresh breath, fresh herbs, like peppermint, spearmint, and parsley, are natural breath fresheners.

The compositions of these plants contain strong oils that can conceal bad breath.

“These herbs can act like a mouthwash to temporarily mask odors. Plus, they leave behind a pleasant aroma,” said Sally Cram, a periodontist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association. However, the odor may only be temporarily hidden.

Prolonged bad breath may be a symptom of periodontal disease, which should be treated by a doctor.

Drinking a glass of milk during a meal can also help to alleviate bad breath from eating strongly flavored foods, such as onion or garlic. “We found that drinking beverages with high water and some fat content, like milk, may help reduce garlic breath and mask the garlic odor during eating,” said researcher Sheryl Barringer, Ph.D. The more fat content found in the milk, the better the results. Whole milk works best, for fat is effective at alleviating odors.

For girls who love perfumes, body sprays, and scented lotions, there are healthier ways to smell nice naturally.

Lemons, oranges, and other citrus fruits can eradicate musky smells from the skin.

According to David Colbert, a dermatologist and internist in New York City and author of The High School Reunion Diet, “the acids in citrus fruits help flush water through your body. And because citrus also contains fiber, they move through your system slowly and flush out toxins that contribute to body odors.”

Because the conditions of the gastrointestinal tract are very closely related to the conditions of the skin, what one eats can affect the smell of one’s skin.

In fact, in a study conducted by scientists in Prague that was published in Chemical Senses, red meat was discovered to induce unwanted body odor.

“As the body breaks down the proteins in meat, your skin produces unpleasant odors. That doesn’t happen when you metabolize fish,” said Colbert, who recommends eating white fish instead.

A simple solution also exists for athletes with foot odor: apple cider vinegar. New York City podiatrist Johanna Youner said, “Apple cider vinegar kills bacteria and dries excess sweat, the two main causes of foot odor. It’s a really good, effective, and cheap cure.” The healing power comes from acetic acid and phenolics, highly acidic chemical compounds found in this type of vinegar when applied.

Cornstarch is also a substance capable of neutralizing foot odor. “It’s normal and natural for feet to perspire, but tight, unbreathable shoes trap sweat that eventually causes them to stink,” said Youner. Because of its ability to absorb excess moisture, cornstarch can remove the smell. Just by sprinkling a small amount of cornstarch into shoes, one can dissipate the odor by the next day.

All of these foods and substances can help reduce or eliminate unwanted body odors. Instead of using manufactured chemicals and products, give these natural remedies a try.

meat lovers. There is also a large selection of items for vegetarians. Meatless items include classic pancakes and cinnamon or sugar toast with oatmeal, waffles, and parfaits. Each entrée is served with fruit and whipped cream.

For a tasteful lunch there are many diverse entrées. Sandwiches, paninis, and wraps come with specific meats and cheeses to choose from. Four different meats are featured: ham, pastrami, prosciutto, and capocollo. Turkey and chicken are left off the menu completely. Quesadillas, soups, salads, and pastas can be ordered with many different toppings.

Wicked Way can fill a large appetite with its rich foods. It is not the place to go when seeking a light meal. The café is open seven days a week but the hours are short as they are open for only five to nine hours each day. Prices for the entrées vary but are around $6-10 with add-ons at about $1 each.

This is an ideal place for WHS students to visit. The new restaurant is close to school and is open during both common planning time and lunch.

Being one of the few breakfast restaurants left in Westlake Village after Jack’s Deli went out of business, Wicked Way Café will be sure to get the early morning customer crowd. The new café hopes, in the struggling economy, to earn loyal customers with its wide variety of food and thrive in the Westlake Village restaurant industry.

Cookies in a Jar Whip up Fun Gifts Cookies from scratch are always a great holiday gift for friends, teachers, neighbors, and family. Everyone loves chocolate chip cookies and the recipe for Cookies in a Jar is simple. From preparing all the ingredients, to taking the warm cookies out of the oven, it only takes 40 minutes.

Prep time: 20 minutes Ready In: 20 minutes Ingredients 1/2 cup white chocolate chips 1/2 cup crispy rice cereal 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup white sugar Directions 1. In a 1 quart jar, layer the ingredients in the order listed. Pack down firmly after each addition.

2. Attach a tag with the following instructions: Cookies in a Jar A. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

B. In a large bowl, cream 1/2 cup margarine until light and fluffy. Mix in 1 egg and 2 tablespoons water. Add the entire contents of the jar, and stir until well-blended. Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.

C. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in preheated oven. Remove from baking sheets to cool on wire racks.

Recipe courtesy of WHS Advanced Foods Class

Sports

December 14, 2011 • The Arrow

11

Girls Water Polo Retains Talent, Adds Two New Coaches Shannon Reiffen Feature Editor

COURTESY PHOTO

Girls water polo looks to start out stronger than ever. Led by unofficial captains Stephanie Barlev ‘12, Scarlett Lund-Sidi ‘13, Savannah Miller ‘12, Maddie Lyon ‘13 and Emily Kerchner ‘13, the team feels they are equipped with better players, better coaches, and a closer feeling of family.

“This year, the varsity squad has a pretty consistent level of talent, and there isn’t much of a difference between starters and second string, which is great. We also have a lot of multitalented players, and we can also play pretty much every position,” said Barlev.

In addition to the consistency of the players themselves, they’ve had a little help from the coaches.

Head coach Farhad Ghaemi brought in extra help this year with new assistant coaches Moriah and Sarah Van Norman.

Sarah currently plays water polo at USC, has gone to the NCAA National Championship with them, and has led Bishop High School to four straight CIF Championships.

Moriah also went to the NCAA

ON THE BALL: Veronika Weiss looks to pass during a game in the Mistletoe Classic Tournament.

National Championships with USC, has had multiple world championships and received a silver medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Ghaemi is optimistic about the team this year, saying that it is “extremely talented and looks great right now.” He added, “I am so thankful to have such an amazing coaching staff this year. We have one main goal: that is to do everything we can to be the best we can.”

Kerchner says, “Ghaemi is always a fantastic teacher, a friend, a big brother

and an inspiration to us all. The girls and I have also come to love Moriah and Sarah, and we can’t wait to start the season with them.”

This year the team looks to take down major rival Agoura High School, as the girls feel that this year their teams are equal in size and talent.

However, Barlev explained that they can’t forget about Royal, T.O., and Newbury Park, who in the past have “given us a definite run for our money.”

The team looks to further their sense

of family as well by promoting team unity.

“Our family is centered on our leaders and our coaches. We are a complete family here at Westlake, and our relationship with each other is the most important thing to all of us,” commented Kerchner.

In the Mistletoe Classic Tournament held on Dec. 2-3, the girls had two strong victories Friday. Saturday they started out rough, with a loss to Crescenta Valley.

However, they won the next game, and with a final loss to Ventura, finished the tournament in 6th place overall.

Wrestlers Pin Down the Competition Brian Danziger Staff Writer

COURTESY PHOTO

The much anticipated WHS wrestling season has returned with the bar set high for the upcoming year.

Coach John Cuccia stated that his goals for the team are to “win the League Championship, have seven C.I.F. placers, and three state qualifiers.”

In order to achieve its difficult goals, the team has to work and practice hard, especially with many competitive teams around the league.

“The mind-set for the team is to drill harder than they will have to wrestle in any match this season,” said Cuccia.

Trying to stay productive during the off-season, the team and coaching staff attended camps and competitions throughout the state.

“This off-season has been the most attended and rewarding one in past years,

thanks to the wrestlers and my coaching staff John Orsay, Bill Wilson and Ray Caldwell,” added Cuccia.

“The team wants a league championship more than ever. Certain members will only be satisfied with the State Competition,” said Cuccia.

Players such as Daniel Castillo ‘12, Michael Arnold ’13, John Loprieno ’13 and Austin Schultz ‘13 are some of the prime candidates to boost the Warriors to the State Championship.

“The goal for the team is having everyone want to return to the wrestling room to improve their skills and achieve the best high school wrestling memories possible,” said Cuccia.

The Warriors wrestled against TO at home on Dec. 8, leading to WHS victory, 40-35. The team also held a varsity six-way Dual Meet at home on Dec. 9.

Both varsity and JV play away against Simi Valley on Dec. 14.

STARE DOWN: Robert Flores prepares to set up a takedown during a match at NPHS.

Preston, Miller to Swim for San Diego State University Michelle Noyes Feature Editor

COURTESY PHOTO

FREE STYLING: Savannah Miller has opted to swim for Division I SDSU.

Although the spring season hasn’t started, seniors Savannah Miller and Haley Preston have already committed to a college for swim. Both girls are looking forward to attending San Diego State University on scholarship for swim next fall. SDSU is a part of NCAA Division 1 for their swim team.

Miller has set four school records in only the last three years. Two were individual and two were relays. She also is ranked number one in Ventura County for 50 and 100 sprint freestyle. She holds AllAmerican times for the two events.

Last spring at CIF Division 1, Miller placed third in the 50 sprint freestyle. The then junior also took third place in 100 sprint freestyle at CIF.

“My upcoming goals this season are to break my own records and place top 3 at CIF. I also want to swim different events just for the fun of it,” added Miller. “In college I hope to make NCAA’s and make it to Olympic trials.”

Last year Preston was voted All Ventura County Star for swim.

“My sophomore year I was Division 1 CIF champion in the 100 backstroke,” said Preston. She has qualified for multiple National and Junior National titles for various events.

Miller holds 50:82 in the 100 Free and 23:05 in the 50 Free. Preston holds 55:24 for the 100 Back, 2:01:02 in the 200 Back, and 1:50:05 in the 200 Free.

With new varsity coach Shannon Breese and these two standout athletes, WHS Girl’s Swim is sure have a strong team for the 2012 season.

Sports

12

December 14, 2011 • The Arrow

COMMENTARY

The Name Game

Lord Farquad (formerly known as Alex Farkas) Sports Editor

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TONY PANZICA

DANGEROUS DUO: Justin Moore (above) and Dashon Hunt (right) were unstoppable against Oaks Christian in the CIF Southern Section Northern Division Championship match-up leading the Warriors to a 49-42 victory.

Bowl-bound Warriors Stay Undefeated Continued from Front Page the second period on his fifth punt, the Warriors had to hammer back in the second half since the first half closed 21-21.

“We’re the comeback kids,” said Moore to the Ventura County Star.

Moore piled up 66 yards on the ground and two touchdowns.

Hunt racked up 101 yards out of 156 total rushing yards for the team.

“We put the ball in their hands and they knew what to do with it,” said victorious Coach Jim Benkert in the postgame interview with Fox Sports West.

With a season total of 83%

of Ball’s kicks going into the end zone, Jonathan Weilbacher ‘14 had large shoes to fill. Weilbacher stepped up to substitute for the outstanding Ball as Moore had done for former quarterback Nick Isham ‘11 in the 2009 championship game.

“You definitely know if you’re not on your A game, you can go out there and lose,” said Moore in the postgame interview with Fox Sports West.

The Warriors dominated the second half with four more touchdowns with only a minute and a half remaining in the game. The score at that point was 49-28.

But the two teams kept the

game a nail-biter as Oaks scored two touchdowns in the last minute and a half to keep only one touchdown between them.

Moore, however, recovered a second onside kick to keep the ball in Warrior possession for the last minute. As the clock ran for the last minute, the team and the fans stormed the field celebrating their redeeming victory.

When Fox Sports West asked Hunt how his body felt after such a demanding game, Hunt said, “If we would have lost it would have felt different but since we won it feels great.”

Westlake has now earned a fourth overall section title and an

undefeated record of 14-0.

The Warriors will now play for the State championship against De La Salle in their first state championship game at the Home Depot Center in Carson this Saturday.

“It’s unreal; Friday still feels like a dream,” said team co-captain Jose Muguerza ‘12.

De La Salle is ranked fifth in the state rankings according to maxpreps.com.

WHS is ranked first in state and fourth in nation.

“I don’t think we know how good we are and we will find out Saturday,” said Muguerza. “It’s a great way to end senior year.”

Football Alumni Now Coach Defense

brothers.

Rather than falling into a potentially awkward “While I was scenario, the coaches have playing for Westlake, become close with their I never really thought collegues. The transition that I’d be on the has brought a friendly other side,” said Jeff atmosphere and has Miller ‘06. Defensive evolved into a peer-to-peer coaches Jeff and relationship, compared to Jimmy Miller ‘04 the former coach-to-player never expected relationship. to come back to While looking back relive their WHS on their playing years, football memories— the brothers miss a lot. especially as coaches.

From running to hitting to After graduating catching the ball to blocking from WHS, the (and everything else that brothers departed to comes with the football rival schools: USC and sport), they will always UCLA respectively. have fond memories.

In spite of the Off-season work tremendous amount outs and training with of rivalry between BACK TO THE FUTURE: Jeff and Jimmy Miller are back to help lead the Warrior football team. teammates can never be the two schools, their replaced, but what they brotherly relationship was never we got to play together, and [we] that this coaching assignment miss the most is going out and affected. see kids go through the same keeps them close to the football playing under the lights with “It was never a big deal. USC thing that we went through so atmosphere, which is a satisfying friends (and the amount of was the best place for me and many years ago. It really is a lot of experience. competitiveness that comes along UCLA was the best fit for him. fun, and not many people can say “Once [college] football with the atmosphere).

People always wanted to make a that they got to play and coach ended and my playing days were Jeff concluded that, “being big deal of it; we just enjoyed the alongside their brother.” Agreeing over, I knew I couldn’t be away on a team and working towards a experience,” said Jimmy. upon what a unique opportunity from football, so coaching was common goal is something that is Not only do the brothers it is to coach together, they also something that really appealed to not very easily replicated.” coach together, but they also agree on the “X’s and O’s” of me and being able to do it at my They will never forget the work and live together. Their football strategy. brotherhood alma mater made it that much all-too-important appreciation for each other’s they maintained while playing While students at WHS, both more special,” reminisced Jeff. company has evolved over time.

Coaching alongside former for WHS. Now they help to guide brothers agreed that they never “When we coach together we imagined coaching at their former high school coaches was a great a similar brotherhood with the get to remember the times when high school. They also agree transition into coaching for the current players.

Tara Spencer Staff Writer

COURTESY PHOTO

I have decided to change my name to Lord Farquad. In an attempt to be remembered and stand out from the crowd, athletes have been changing their names, so I figured what the heck.

The name changing extravaganza has turned the sports world from a serious, intense competition to a game of Twister. Athletes have been trying to get on top of another person with a better, more creative name while trying not to fall from stature in the world of sports.

When the players first change their names, they receive a lot of attention by the media, but the hype usually fades and their performance on the field suffers. For example, Chad Ochocinco’s stats this year have been disgraceful. After being traded to the New England Patriots he has a grand total of zero touchdown catches in 2011. Maybe he should change his name to “Double Cero.”

Also, name changes, like Ochocinco’s, are just impractical.

For instance, the new names can be a burden to announcers. I am waiting for the day when Tom Brady, the Patriots Quarterback, drops back to pass and finds Chad (Johnson) Ochocinco downfield for an 85-yard touchdown pass. Or should the announcer say an Ochocincoyard touchdown pass?

And what if Chad Ochocinco gets traded to a team in which the number 85 is already used? He might have to switch his jersey to number 82, for example. Having the last name on the jersey as Ochocinco with the number 82 below it will just be confusing.

Most people would not know an athlete by the name of Eldrick Woods unless you are a golf fanatic. At the age of 21, Eldrick changed his name to Tiger. At first, his name was all over the news with his unstoppable run to surpass Jack Nicklaus with the most titles in golf. “Tiger” became synonymous with excellence and multiple sponsors.

However, his name now just provides fuel for others to mock his shameful actions uncovered in the past two years. The name allowed people to make jokes like, “Maybe he should change his name from Tiger to ‘Cheetah‘ because of his infidelity.”

The most recent name change is Ron Artest, a professional basketball player with the Los Angeles Lakers who changed his name to Metta World Peace earlier this year.

Metta means loving kindness and friendliness towards all.

It makes sense that a man named Mr. World Peace was once suspended by the NBA for climbing into the stands and getting into a fight with a spectator. I do not know a better way to show kindness towards all than punching a Pistons fan in the face.

So, athletes, you may want to think twice before changing your name. You never know what could happen and what fun others may have at your expense.