Dec 07

ARROW Westlake High School

THE VOLUME XXX, ISSUE 4

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

DECEMBER 20, 2007

Comedy Sportz Makes Long-awaited Return WYNN BURSON COPY EDITOR

PHOTO BY WYNN BURSON

TOGETHER AGAIN: The Comedy Sportz Club is back with its first match set for Thursday night, Dec. 20. Above, Presidents Lia Woodward and Chris Severn.

After a long-awaited and highly anticipated reunion, the WHS Comedy Sportz Club has re-assembled and organized its first event, a holiday match against Oak Park High School after a year-long hiatus. The match is on Thurs., Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the theater.

The club’s co-president, Lia Woodward ’08, reflected that the effort she put forth with her friend and co-president Chris Severn ’08 proved “very fulfilling.” Woodward believes the experience in bringing the club back together was a positive and meaningful one.

During Woodward’s freshman year, she was an active participant in Comedy Sportz, an after school improv group that always captivated her. Sadly, after the seniors of that year graduated, Woodward did not have the strength and support to maintain the group. However, the impressions of her older friends from the Class of 2005 Rob and David Moutrie, Dave Andersen, Bob Chen, and Robbie Evans kept her hoping that she could bring back the club.

Severn transferred his junior year from Oak Park HS, where he was an active member of their Comedy Sportz Club. When he got to WHS, he was upset that there was not a club anymore, but after he met Woodward, the two joined forces to bring a following back. Their collaboration yielded an organized club in two weeks this past September. Now the club meets regularly two hours a week after school at a permanent location at Calvary Community Church in Westlake Village.

Woodward is confident that she maintains a tightly-knit team, that responds well to each

other during games of improv—whether they include an exercise to come up with a pun or a game to test someone’s memory.

“Being funny is harder than people think.

You have to make your humor understandable to everyone—you can’t just rely on inside jokes.

Chris and I believe this is strictly a family show: what’s cool about this is that it takes creativity to make a clean show, instead of taking the easy way out and using profanity.” Woodward and Severn credit their assembly of 23 new members (bigger than ever at WHS) to a wider appeal and their collecting more attention. The team has students from all four grades. One of Woodward’s goals is to keep the team supportive of each other.

“The club does a good job of that. It is very risky to put a joke out there—you need to reward people for taking a chance,” she said. The match Thursday will have the two teams competing head-to-head with improvisation games, very similar to those on the TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway.

Oak Park HS has an established team with significant experience. During a match, the audience judges the teams, and the performers are awarded points by the amount of applause.

There is a referee to mediate the games and take suggestions from the audience, who may offer topics and ideas.

Woodward said, “I’m really glad that it’s back. I really missed it. It’s great just to be yourself. You’re on stage, and that’s really something to be said. You have an audience.” The former Comedy Sportz members were reason enough to keep her motivated to uphold the club itself; but more importantly, it was for the fun and experience.

FBL Challenges JSA to Dodgeball Showdown VIVIAN SHEN FEATURE EDITOR

Long gone are the days when dodgeball was shown on TV as a bullying tactic for personal enjoyment. In modern culture, this exciting game has evolved into a fair way of settling long, worn out quarrels.

Future Business Leaders made adequate use of this intense game and challenged Junior State of America to the first formal match on Thurs., Dec. 20, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

At WHS’ outdoor basketball courts, two of the largest clubs on campus will compete in the epic battle of dodgeball to earn the title of Best Club on Campus.

FBL is dedicated towards this victory.

All members on FBL’s team will be ready

IN THIS

against JSA, where it’s “all about winning” said Andrew Orr ‘08.

“Because we need to win, one team may be a little stacked so that we can ensure an FBL victory.”

They have had practices every Friday where a group of FBL members show up and they just play a few rounds.

Also suggested in the e-mail sent to all FBL members was to watch the movie Dodgeball in order to learn good technique in throwing and dodging.

They want everyone from their club there, even if they can’t play dodgeball, so they can intimidate by numbers. Even so, they emphasize the belief that victory is theirs.

“Not only is our team intellectually superior, but we have brilliant athletic abilities and extremely good looks,” said Ali Athar ‘08, vice president of FBL.

Though the referee is still undecided, the possible candidates include Adam Raudonis ‘10, or even James Azevedo, the adviser of JSA. FBL assures everyone that there is no need to worry about the adviser of JSA calling the shots; they’re that sure they’ll win.

“We don’t need luck, we’ve got our skills,” said Orr, “if they lose, Sidney Primas ’08, president of FBL, said he’ll never be able to look into a JSA member’s eyes again without feeling shameful of the defeat.

For those members of JSA who are also participants in FBL, there is a tough decision to make. Orr considers playing for JSA’s team as an act of treason, but he is confident that his fellow club members will faithfully play for FBL, just as JSA co-president Linda Peng ‘08 trusts her members to do the same for JSA. To

invoke spirit in the big game, they hope pride and passion for their club will prove successful.

JSA members will just arrive for the game and win “through casual domination,” said Peng. In contrast to FBL, JSA said that instead of focusing on winning, they will be more centered on having fun and using the experience as quality bonding time.

They’ve claimed that there’s no need for any practices in order to defeat FBL. “Just remember the five Ds of dodgeball: dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge!” said JSA Vice-president Adriane Lim ‘08.

To all FBL members, “Good luck because you’ll need it,” said Peng.

Both clubs strongly encourage spectators to attend the game and cheer for their favorite team.

ISSUE

NEWS...............................1-2 OPINION..........................4-5 FEATURE...............3, 6, 8-14 FASHION.............................7 ENTERTAINMENT.......15-17 SPORTS.......................18-20

Some students are using new advancements in technology during class.

See PAGE 3

WHS Boys Wrestling starts the holiday season off with a few wins.

See PAGE 19

December’s holiday dresses offer shimmer and shine.

See PAGE 7

2

NEWS

IN BRIEF

Binsley Receives National Merit Award for Music Erika Binsley ‘08 received the Merit Award in Instrumental Music from NFAA’s (National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts) Young Arts Competition. She will also receive $100.

Only a total of 323 students, the top 5% of all the applicants, receive Merit Awards.

Financial Aid Night Slated for Seniors Financial Aid Night is being held Thursday Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. in the library.

A financial aid counselor from California Lutheran University will be there to speak to parents, students, and teachers about FAFSA, loans, grants, and scholarships.

Sign up in the College and Career Center.

Seniors only.

Rotary Club Sponsors Essay Contest The Rotary Club of Westlake Village is having an essay contest, “The 4-Way Test and Me”. The purpose of the essay is to encourage students to think about the meaning of “The 4-Way Test.” Essays should be at least 250 words for grades 9-12. The deadline for all essays is Friday Feb. 22, 2008. For more information contact Stephanie Bell-Harbourne at stephaniebelleagle@e arthlink.net or at (805)371-7571.

Compiled by Alannah Bradley, Kelley Biggs, and Vicky Lou

Conejo Teachers Vote to Approve New Contract With many rumors circulating the teachers’ lounge about budget cuts, it’s no wonder teachers are celebrating their new three-year contract.

Months of extensive negotiations between the Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) and the Unified Association of Conejo Teachers (UACT), which consists of principals, administrators, and four teachers, ceased when both negotiation teams came to an accord on Mon. Nov. 26.

“The contract was very successful and cooperative between both the District and the Union,” explained Judy Morrow, UACT representative.

The new contract includes a 2.5 % salary increase along with other perks such as a one-time bonus of $2,000 to the first 10 teachers to receive National Board Certification, three release days a year to combination teachers, and a confidential list of students provided to the teachers 24 hours prior to the first day of school.

Preceding the negotiations, teachers were polled about specific issues and asked to submit suggestions regarding the contract. Even after the contract is finalized, issues such as salary increases and health care benefits will be debated each year. Although the new contract was very successful, changes to the health care plan starting next year may be subject for concern.

“We have to make cuts somewhere because less money is coming into the District,” said Morrow.

Together with health benefit cuts, two schools, most likely elementary schools, will be shut down as early as 2009. Committees are presently working to determine which schools will be closed.

NEWS FEATURE

MySpace Poses Threat for Kids ALESSANDRA CATANESE STAFF WRITER

Online harassment has become a growing public health issue. As many as one in ten kids reported online harassment in one study, and another study shows that one in three children have actually been threatened online.

On Monday, Dec. 3, 2007 the prosecutor decided not to charge Lori Drew with any criminal charges, or anyone else allegedly involved in the case of Megan Meier, who committed suicide after being harassed on MySpace.

Megan Meier was like any other 13-year-old teenage girl with a MySpace account, until she took her own life. Megan was a victim of online harassment from someone who she thought was a 16-yearold boy named Josh Evans.

Megan met Josh online through MySpace, and for a while they were friends. In early Oct. 2006 Josh abruptly ended the friendship, telling Megan, “I don’t know if I want to be friends with you any longer because I hear you’re not nice to your friends.”

Later that day several MySpace bulletins were posted saying, “Megan Meier is fat,” as well as other insults, according to the Associated Press. The last

devastating message Megan received from Josh read, “The world would be a better place without you.”

On Oct. 15, 2006 Megan Meier hanged herself in her bedroom closet. She died a day later and was discovered by her mother, Tina Meier.

Six weeks later, Ron and Tina Meier were informed by a neighbor that Josh Evans never existed, but was actually a false account created by their neighbor Lori Drew.

Drew had her 18-year-old employee create the MySpace account for her so she could find out what Megan was saying about her daughter online.

“That’s the biggest tragedy of this whole thing: An adult did it,” said Ron Meier, Megan’s father.

The Drew family and the Meier family knew each other well, and the Drews had previously asked the Meiers to store their foosball table. Upon hearing the Drews involvement in their daughter’s suicide, the Meiers destroyed the foosball table and put it in the Drews’ front lawn, “encouraging them to move.”

After the police had decided Lori Drew had committed no crime, the Meiers tried to file charges against her for online harassment. Prosecutors reviewed the case and determined that no one would be

charged with a crime.

During this prosecution period, an online blog was posted allegedly by Lori Drew on Blogger.com called “Megan Had it Coming.” The blog read, “It’s time I dropped the charade. Yes, I made this blog.

Yes, I’m Lori Drew,” and went on to deny Drew’s daughter’s involvement in the fictitious profile and further explain why Megan Meier “had it coming.”

Drew’s attorney, Jim Briscoe, denied Lori’s involvement in this blog stating, “I can categorically say that [Lori Drew] did not write it. She has not said anything on the Internet, on any blogs, or any Internet sites.”

Surprisingly, a spokesman from Google, Blogger’s parent company, told the press that they take the policy violations seriously and that “once we are notified about a blog that impersonates a person, we act quickly to remove it. We have not received an impersonation claim to date from the individual allegedly being impersonated.”

Although no charges were filed against Drew, a law was passed making online harassment a misdemeanor in Megan’s hometown, Dardenne Prairie, MO. Governor Matthew Blunt is also creating an Internet Harassment Task Force in hopes of lowering online harassment.

WHS Students to Hold Charity Event at Sunrise SOFIA TALARICO STAFF WRITER

Instead of being at home, awaiting gifts they have been hoping for, two generous freshmen are reaching out to support the community of elderly citizens for Christmas.

This year, a brand new charity has emerged for the senior citizens of Westlake Village at the Sunrise Assisted Living Center with Max Avruch ‘11 and Sarah Zou ‘11 at the reins. Their program is called Holidays For Families and this particular event is titled “A Snowy Sunrise.”

Although they have not participated in any charities before, Avruch and Zou are excited to start one. They feel that their charity will benefit the elderly citizens and their families because it will give the residents of the center a chance to get together, bond, and catch up with their relatives.

All of the families of the seniors that live at the center will be invited to enjoy a catered dinner and many forms of entertainment.

The entertainment includes story telling, poetry readings, music, dancing, and traditional holiday bingo.

Families will also be provided with assorted gift baskets as complimentary Christmas presents.

Avruch started this program because he and Zou “feel compassionate in helping the elderly and making their lives more

PHOTO BY SOFIA TALARICO

LINDSAY ADLER STAFF WRITER

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

MAIN EVENT: Max Avruch ’11 and Sarah Zou ’11 plan a charity event for the elderly.

valuable to live.”

They are happy to be able to give something back because they do not feel that there are enough charities helping out during Christmas time. They believe that people should be giving back more than they normally do so that everyone can have a Christmas to remember.

“I can’t wait to make their lives brighter with the Christmas cheer,” said Zou. These two freshmen will be dedicating

their entire Friday, their first day of Christmas vacation, to decorating, organizing, and putting the final touches on this event that will benefit the families and the senior citizens at the Sunrise Center. The volunteers at the center will be assisting Avruch and Zou the night of the event, so the two will not be on the job alone.

This event will be held at the Sunrise Assisted Living Center in Westlake Village, 3101 Townsgate Road. It will begin at 4:30 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 21.

WHS Teachers Plan European Travel with Students NATALYA SIVASHOV STAFF WRITER

Two WHS teachers are traveling internationally over the summer to educate their students.

Resource teacher Lucy Zazueta is taking up to 15 kids to Ireland and Scotland for two weeks. The tour is open to any interested high school students and their parents.

Neither trip is a CVUSD approved excursion.

The teachers and students plan to visit Edinburgh, the Barney Stones, Waterford Crystal, Dublin, and possibly the Loch Ness. They will be traveling by tour bus

throughout the country.

English teacher Lynne Kelsey is planning to visit England on June 13July 22. The students will experience the Shakespearean era while visiting Shakespeare’s home in Stratford.

“It is quite small. One would expect it to be dark and creepy, but it has the coziest atmosphere,” Kelsey said.

Kelsey’s students visited London last year and had “an outstanding experience.”

This year’s trip covers several cities, including London, Canterbury, and Dover.

“Many kids do not like the idea of their parents tagging along, yet it has not been a problem,” said Zazueta. It frequently becomes a bonding experience for kids and their parents.”

The teenagers are well supervised and many of them end up making lasting friendships. The overall cost of the trip includes hotel fees, breakfast and dinner, as well as tickets to the sites. Kelsey’s students will be assisted by Blue Medallion Guides (licensed English Tour Guides), who are like “walking encyclopedias.”

“They have great knowledge of British history and can recite any of Shakespeare’s sonnets on the spot,” said Kelsey. Zazueta and Kelsey are trying to take as many students as possible. Zazueta has already visited Australia, Europe, New Zealand, and even Egypt with students and fellow teachers.

Please stop by 42M or 42F for further information.

Cheating Taken to Technological Level JUSTIN EDWARDS STAFF WRITER

3

FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Academic dishonesty, or cheating, the slang term we students comprehend, is a touchy issue. Most likely, none of us would speak truthfully about the subject.

Whether you are the cheater or the enabler, or the person who asks someone for “a little help,” most of us have taken part in, or watched this immoral action occur.

“Of course I hate cheating.

Certain It makes it difficult to accuquestions arise: What type of rately assess student perforstudents cheat more?

Which mance.” gender most c o m m o n l y Lora Novak cheats?

Why English Teacher don’t teachers see or believe it?

Who is responsiproperly determine how much a ble? The ethical decision is wheth- student has learned. er or not to give into the temptaAlso, cheating doesn’t just tion of taking a glance over your occur at the high school level. neighbor’s shoulder.

“The university at the underA study performed by Da- graduate level sounds like a place vis in 1992 concluded that at where cheating comes almost as least 90% of students believe that naturally as breathing, where it’s cheating is wrong. The fact that an academic skill almost as imstudents understand cheating is portant as reading, writing, and incorrect, but still continue to do math,” said educator J. W. Mofit, introduces another question. fatt.

If students realize that cheating A study done by Daniel J. is wrong then why do they still Beadle from Missouri Western do it?

State University performed a Some students live by the test to determine if GPA, gender, philosophy “It’s OK as long as and academic status were reliable you don’t get caught.” Some just enough to predict whether a studon’t care whether or not they dent would cheat or not. cheat.

Beadle was unable to conCertain technological ad- clude that a specific trait would vancements such as calculators, lead to cheating, meaning everycell phones, Palm Pilots, and iP- one could possibly cheat. ods have enabled students to acSo, for a change do the math.

KAYLI MILETICH FEATURE EDITOR

Cell phones and iPods are appearing more often in classrooms as teachers are becoming increasingly lenient about the usage of electronics.

“I think cell phones are great.

They make class go faster and make planning where to go to lunch easy. I’d be lost without my Treo,” said Alanna Cowan ‘09.

The traditional note-passing and whispering during class have been upgraded to the much more paper-efficient and quicker form of texting. Whether its talking to a friend or listening to music on an iPod, teachers are worried that the skyrocketing use of electronics during class causes students to become distracted and disrupts the classroom.

“Texting is disrespectful to the teacher. I just don’t turn my phone on during class,” said Lisa Peng ‘11.

Teachers and administrators are worried that the mixture of technologically savvy teenagers with the latest gadgets enables many students to cheat and leads to academic dishonesty. With the capability of phones to be set on “silent” mode, students are able to text during exams and potentially share answers, unless a teacher can actually see their phones.

“My phone has gone off in class before, and teachers choose to just ignore it,” said Atousa Nainavaii ‘09.

“When a phone goes off, I usually just ask the student if they know what the word confiscation means, and they put it away,” said English teacher

iPods and other MP3 players are other electronics that pose threats in the classrooms. The small size of music-playing gadgets allows students to hide the electronic in pockets and to bury the tiny white headphones under sweatshirt hoods or long hair. The iPod does not enable classmates to communicate, but recordings with educational information are starttheir cell ing to be downloaded and transferred to the iPod in colleges nationwide.

The popularity of the iPod in the teenage market places them in the hands of many high school students.

When the cell phone was first introduced to the average American, it was not targeted at teenagers. As the quality increases, and the price decreases, cell phone industries are targeting all ages.

While kids are owning cell phones at younger ages, the electronic is not only raising issues in universities and high schools, but has also begun to affect middle schools. With capabilities to check your e-mail from anywhere in the world and to call people all over the globe, people are increasingly reliant on phones.

The addiction and obsession with cell phones bring this device into schools of all grades, and cause issues in classrooms all over our “technologically advanced” nation.

PHOTO BY CARINA WOLFF

cess more information.

Nowadays, students contact their friends with a simple press of a button on their cell phones.

Text messaging is such an easy way for students to obtain information and quite easy to avoid being caught... if you’re careful.

“Of course I hate cheating.

It makes it difficult to accurately assess student performance,” said English teacher Lora Novak.

With cheating, teachers cannot

Students Text for Tests— Electronics Crowd Classrooms

TEXTING IN CLASS: Students hide phones to avoid being caught.

Peggy Schlehner.

Schools are aware of this progressing issue, but teachers are not enforcing the cell phone usage rule strictly. The WHS handbook rules state that all cell phones must be turned off and be out of sight during class time, and states that an administrator has the right to confiscate a phone if the rules are not followed. Despite this rule, many teachers are desensitized to cell phones and instead of confiscating the phone, they simply tell the student to turn it off.

WHS administrators recently changed the school’s policy in hopes of preventing students from using these handheld devices during class time. Before, cell phone usage was restricted to before school, nutrition, lunch, and after school.

This year, the administration is allowing students to use their cell phones during passing periods.

4

OPINION

The High Cost of Christmas MAX AVRUCH STAFF WRITER

Why the Grinch Stole Christmas SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA NEWS EDITOR

In the Oxford American Dictionary, the word “holiday” is defined as a day of festivity or recreation when no work is done. But the holiday season, with the shopping and buying, has become a period of time when too much work is done.

Originally, during this season people exchanged words of festive cheer or small tokens of their affection, typically a sample of home cooking, or some other simple gesture.

Now, we live in an age in which presents are the center of the holiday .

Not only do we fequently receive more than one present, we want more than one present. In many households, as the holidays approach, glossy-papered boxes being to accumulate.

Kids start counting the presents with their names, as well as their siblings’ presents, in a competition for gift-getting.

They compare the sizes of their gifts, the number of their gifts, and the sound their gifts make when they shake them.

And not only do we eagerly embrace the presents people buy us, we try to get others, who weren’t planning on buying us anything at all, to get us something.

Here’s the strategy: a friend gives out her presents a week before everyone else does, to pressure the gift-receivers to get gifts for her. And if they hadn’t decided

carry and dragging on the floor. First, we buy presents for our good friends, who we eat lunch with or spend our free-time with. Then, we include every acquaintance ever made including people we sit next to in our classes, and friends of our friends.

Does this cost money? Of course.

But more importantly is costs our time. The hours of relentless searching for the perfect gift are often wasteful. Although some gifts are special, and we will treasure them for the years to come, several are not valued. Many gifts clutter our rooms, and most boxes of sweets go to waste. Some new-looking presents are even re-gifted.

F r e q u e n t l y, when people are at a loss of what to buy, someone wise will tell them to make something “from the heart.” But just as frequently, teens aren’t satisfied with receiving a lovingly made card, because they really do want material goods. So they stop giving thoughtful gifts because they are unsure if those kinds of gifts will be well received. But shouldn’t it be the thought that counts?

Essentially, a lot of this season is a mess. Can you blame the Grinch for hating it?

CARTOON BY VIVIAN SHI

whether or not to give this friend a present, they now feel compelled to. And not only must they now purchase a gift, they have to make sure the size of their gift equals the size of the gift they received from her. An eye for an eye becomes Sees candy for Sees candy.

When planning who to buy gifts for, our lists start to resemble the typical depiction of Santa’s List: too long to

‘Twas the Night of a Politically Correct Christmas PAMELA GUO STAFF WRITER

“Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!” bellows a jolly old man as a little girl jumps from his lap and runs to her parents with a gleeful smile.

With a shock of long white hair and an ivory beard to match, this rotund fellow has forever been known as the one and only father of Christmas, Santa Claus.

But will Santa be able to withstand the rapid evolvement of modern culture in the 21st century?

“It’s not in the beard and hair. It’s not in the suit...It’s not in the gloves, it’s not in the boots. It’s in the heart and mind. And kids will know,” says ‘Jewish Santa Claus,’ Ron Levine.

However, the kids will know. If Santa were to show up one day 50 lbs lighter, said the politically correct “Ha, ha, ha,” and kept his hands firmly in sight of on-looking adults, namely parents, kids will undoubtedly notice that something is amiss with jolly, old Saint Nicholas.

Sadly, this scenario lurks dangerously close on the horizon. With pressure from a number of authority figures, Santa might just reinvent himself.

Reported by the Boston Herald, the United States Surgeon General commented on a possible slimming of Santa Claus during an interview on obesity. “It is really important that the people who kids look up to as role models are in good shape, eating well and getting exercise. It is absolutely critical.” Which translates into something along the lines of better get to drinking

some of that Slim-Fast, Mr. Claus.

Much to the shame and embarrassment of the man in the cheerful red suit, Santa Claus background-checks are now commonplace and one of the determining factors in getting a job as Santa Claus. President of Employment Screening Resources in Novato, California, Les Rosen recalls requests for Santa Claus background-screenings began to come in 3 years ago. Rosen’s company searches through national databases and court records for arrest warrants, sexual Ha Ha Ha! offenses, and any other soiling marks Ho Ho Ho! on a potential Santa’s record.

Of course, Father Christmas has also joined the latest craze and “gone green,” as illustrated in the case of Levine, the Jewish Santa Claus who yet exactly how much of this percentage was directly or somewhat influenced by will be wearing a green suit this year to demonstrate his environmental-friendly Santa’s jelly belly?

Think of the online obesity polls side and simultaneously promote his new and surveys. Is there ever the choice “a) children’s book, When Santa Turned Green, Santa Claus and his penchant for snarfing which tells the tale of Santa’s sad discovery that the North Pole is leaking, quite cookies is the real cause of obesity.”

And don’t let Santa be caught for a possibly due to that impending issue that suspiciously absent hand in the family’s has gotten everyone’s socks all twisted up-global warming.

Christmas card photo.

No worries, though. Australia In a world where lawsuits are served like free candy and trust is merely is the only country that has officially a fragment of the past, Santa is being commanded Santa to say “Ha, ha, ha” introduced to a new set of rules. One that instead of the standard phrase as to not advises him to leave the think twice about scare the children or offend women.

Nonetheless, I like my Santa served picking up children and setting them on plump, jolly, with opening arms, and with his lap, apparently a duty that should be left to parents, as to avoid inappropriate a heart-warming dose of “Ho, ho, ho!” But that’s just me. touching.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, child obesity has steadily increased over the years, bringing up the national percent of obese children ages 6 -11 to 11%, and ages 12-19 to 17%,

WANTED?

GRAPHIC BY VIVIAN SHI

“Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way...” the sounds that enrapture a global audience into the tempting confines of holiday cheer.

Just a few words can motivate a person to go “all out” in the crazed holiday season known as Christmas shopping.

The modern depiction of Christmas nowadays is a time when families gather together to exchange gifts, eat dinner, and just “hang out.”

Before the holiday thrill and relaxation that will be enjoyed during Christmas time, the often intense task of arranging for the holiday is becoming a burden for many people.

Shopping for gifts, buying a Christmas tree, decorating the house, exchanging cards, etc., are only a fraction of the to-do list most people have for the holiday season.

Many individuals do not realize the total expenses that result from holiday shopping.

In a 2003 survey, retailers sold more than $330.5 billion in goods and services for the Christmas shopping season.

One high school Christmas shopper, Samantha Lux ‘11, for example, finds some time to easily shop without too much added pressure. With the Christmas season right around the corner and the stresses of school work mounting, Lux isn’t bothered. “Christmas isn’t hard. I shop for my friends because it’s fun to pick-up different items and I don’t fret too much,” said Lux when asked about the intensity of Christmas-time shopping.

When Lux goes to the mall to buy a few gifts, she likes to just “shop around” for a few presents and not immediately buy an item just for the sake of “getting a gift.”

In a time where the economy is pushing tough restraints on shoppers, Lux tries to watch her spending.

“The dollar is so soft and I want to keep in consideration the costs and values of spending,” said Lux. Lux is not alone with the struggle managing economic issues in the “buying season.” Millions of Americans give great effort in trying to avoid buying some exciting, yet expensive products, but the truth is most people will end up buying that “special” gift. Out of temptation or just a feeling of “needing” that gift, it may leave shoppers feeling guilty afterwards and sometimes financial problems blossom from this shopping-spree.

Christmas-time shopping is a thrilling experience for many people to just enjoy looking around and seeing different and unusual products.

If a shopping consumer knows control, and wants to just “look” around for a few gifts, then the financial stresses of Christmas time shopping can be instantly relieved.

By taking certain precautions when venturing into a mall to shop for the holiday season, one may “jingle all the way” home with bags full of gifts, but remember one thing; overspending can send one “all the way” straight into New Year’s debt.

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

5

OPINION

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

No Winter Recess for Nuclear Watchdog REBECCA SUSLIK STAFF WRITER

Is Iran making nuclear weapons?

Nooooo!

Of course not! hehehe...

CARTOON BY VIVIAN SHI

The nuclear Armageddon. It sounds like the basis of a dramatic novel or a dark movie. Except in this case, the danger isn’t confined to the theater.

A U.S. intelligence report, released on Dec. 3, contained the surprising news that Iran had shut down its nuclear weapons program in 2003, contradicting previous reports and statements issued by the White House.

The report states that while Iran continues to enrich uranium (for civilian energy purposes, according to the country), the nuclear weapon program has been on hiatus for several years. At its current production rate, it would take Iran until at least 2010 to amass enough uranium to build a bomb.

Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad described the report as “vindication” for his country and stated that, in light of the report, sanctions against Iran should be relaxed. “Today, the Iranian nation is victorious, but you [the United States] are empty-handed.” The world has expressed mixed reactions to the report; Britain and France have stated Iran continues to be a threat and should still be pressured over its nuclear

aspirations, while Russia and China are even less anxious than before to impose economic sanctions on Iran. Israel has expressed that it believes Iran is still intent on producing nuclear weapons.

The report deals a blow to the White House and its policy towards Iran, weakening the case against Iran’s nuclear programs significantly. Despite this, President

George W. Bush’s stance remains relatively unaffected. During a news conference on Dec. 4, he stated, “Iran was dangerous, Iran is dangerous and Iran will be dangerous if they have the knowledge necessary to make a nuclear weapon.” Reinforcing the president’s statements, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has expressed that diplomacy catalyzed the program’s ceas-

ing and that easing world pressure on Iran would be a “big mistake.”

The problem with Iran does not stem from its nuclear arsenal (or lack thereof). A number of nations possess nuclear weapons—India, the United Kingdom, France, and Israel, to name a few. Yet rarely, if ever, do you hear of the possibility of attack from these countries.

Yes, nuclear weapons are dangerous. But what amplifies their hazardousness to truly threatening levels are the groups that possess and control them. In the case of Iran, an extremist is in power and in the position to acquire the knowledge needed to construct lethal weapons.

This possibility is dangerous enough to require careful observation of Iran’s actions.

The concept of a relatively local (i.e.

Middle Eastern territory only) nuclear war is plausible only in theory. All the major players—powerful countries with imposing arsenals of their own—are involved, interested for a plethora of reasons, ranging from oil to influence to alliances.

If this potentially disastrous situation explodes, these countries—including the US—could easily be drawn into World War III—the Nuclear Armageddon. And if this occurs, the world’s entire population is in jeopardy. Ignoring even the slightest risk of Iran developing nuclear weapons would be a foolish, fatal mistake.

“Fun Police” Brands Sesame Street “Inappropriate” for Kids ELLIE FATEH ROSEANN ZHONG STAFF WRITERS

It seems impossible to imagine childhood without the Sesame Street gang. The cast has been noted of teaching children globally their ABCs and 123s, but the colorful residents of Sesame Street are the products of “bad guys gone good.”

The early episodes shot between 1969 and 1974, compressed into a classic DVD set, have been stamped with an “adults only” warning by the “fun police.” These episodes, featuring a world where an unsanitary, cantankerous puppet lived in a bin, Big Bird’s imaginary friend, and the beloved Cookie Monster on a road heading straight for diabetes and high blood pressure, have been deemed inappropriate for our preschoolers.

Such controversy has even led to a story featured on the homepage of Yahoo!

in early November. Virginia Heffernan of the New York Times Magazine states that these startling episodes are “not for the faint of heart and certainly not for softies born since 1998.”

Taking first place on the list of Sesame Street’s puppet villains, Cookie Monster has been stamped inappropriate for modern children with his fetish for devouring cookies and the occasional plate or two.

As obesity rates climb in the world of our youth, so does the moral responsibility of our government in micromanaging the intake in food, which seems distorted as a result of the Monster’s binge eating.

As his partner in crime, “Alistair Cookie”, host of the parody “MonsterPiece” Theatre, gave children the wrong impression by smoking a pipe and then consuming it, according to Sesame Street’s producer Carol-Lynne Parente.

In addition to bad habits portrayed through the infamous Cookie Monster and

Alistair Cookie, it has been declared that Big Bird’s once imaginary friend, Mr. Snuffleupagus, induced delusional behavior in children. Needless to say, memories from our childhood are marked with a solid Mr. Snuffleupagus.

Current episodes of Sesame Street lack the misanthropic attitude of Oscar the Grouch, recognizable by his trash canabode. This cynical resident of Sesame Street was said to encourage unwanted, reclusive behavior from children.

Parental comments on the existence of Oscar in the first Sesame Street episodes, claiming “We might not be able to create a character like Oscar now.”

With or without Oscar, Sesame Street aired on PBS in 1969, targeting “the 4-yearold inner city black youngster” but captivating the minds of 80 percent of households with children.

Nonetheless, due to the “PC police” of today’s television world, our toddlers will

Proposed Generator: “Not a Health Risk”?

ROBERT DILLON STAFF WRITER

“Not a significant health risk.” That is what the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is calling the proposed installation of a diesel generator at 112 North Lakeview Canyon Road, just feet from WHS. “I haven’t heard much about it other than that the district has sent a letter to parents,” said Principal Ron Lipari.

In the letter, the APCD said the generator is intended to be used during blackouts by the Verizon Telecommunications Center and up to 20 hours a year for other purposes.

Why is this a bad thing?

“The California Air Resources Board has declared diesel engine particulate matter as a carcinogen, and prolonged exposure may increase your risk of getting cancer.” This diesel engine will pollute the air in Westlake with such carcinogens.

When the generator is in use, the

dangerous chemicals will impact the air around WHS, making it especially difficult for athletes who must breathe in the toxic air during vigorous exercise. The cancercausing chemicals will undoubtedly distress everyone on campus. But the officials behind the proposal may not be informing the public as well as they should.

Other than the letter (required by law), little attention has been paid to the threatening diesel engine, by the media or otherwise. All community members need to be aware because this proposal will affect present and future Westlake High School students. Comments can be sent to 669 County Square Drive, Second Floor, Ventura, CA 93003.

There is already a growing amount of harmful chemicals every day. This is one more, and it is right in our backyard.

Said Lipari, “Is it really necessary to put more pollutants into the air? I don’t know, I don’t have the answer.” No matter the percentages or parts per million, we cannot afford to tolerate this.

What is most troubling is the truth of this proposal. The Verizon Corporation wants to use a cheap generator to power their facilities during a power outage not only to maintain communications, but to maintain their profits.

In essence, the diesel generator is how Verizon is trying to maximize their earnings – at the expense of our community.

Making money is not an excuse for endangering lives.

Verizon could likely power the facility with solar panels, making the energy clean renewable, and safe. The reality is they will not because this solution is more costly.

This event is an example of a larger, threatening trend. Corporate corruption and greed in America has led companies like Verizon to knock down barriers and do anything in their quest for wealth. Now they have dared to put the lives of students and other citizens at risk.

“Not a significant health risk.” That’s what they told Erin Brokovich.

no longer be exposed to the “harshness of existence” or Alistair’s tricks with his pipe.

Instead, Sesame Street episodes will aim to highlight the beauty of learning. Just make sure not to mention that to the kids.

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 James Jee, Ellen Wang MANAGING EDITOR Vicky Lou COPY EDITOR Wynn Burson NEWS EDITOR Soumya Karlamangla OPINION EDITOR Ally Ackourey FEATURE EDITORS Christina Cipriani, Jamie Hendry, Jessica Kuecks, Tiffany Loh, Kayli Miletich, Vivian Shen, Katelyn Smith, Brittany Weber, Carina Wolff CENTER DESIGNED BY Dena Gallucci, Jessica Kane ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Elyse Kaplan, Jimmy Moore, Vivian Shen SPORTS EDITORS Stephanie Nieves, Spencer Schloss, Nora Sobczak CARTOONIST Vivian Shi ADVERTISING MANAGER Sabrina Samedi ADVISOR Caron Battaglia STAFF WRITERS Max Avruch, Lindsay Adler, Teri Akahoshi, Kelley Biggs, Alannah Bradley, Alessandra Catanese, Guin Chan, Robert Dillon, Justin Edwards, Ellie Fateh, Nikki Fay, Lucy Gao, Pamela Guo, Kimberly Ha, Wayne Huang, Laura Nutter, Julianne Schramm, Philip Shao, Natalya Sivashov,Rebbecca Suslik, Sofia Talarico, Iris Yan, Roseann Zhong, Jenny Zhou The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students

of the beginning and advanced journalism 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.

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FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Soumya Story Reveals Family Drama Says...

SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA FEATURE EDITOR

It was formerly believed that multitasking was a skill. People were convinced that it helped with managing time, coping with stress, and improving cognitive skills.

However, moderation seems to be the key. Although multitasking is useful to an extent, teenagers have taken this “talent” to the extreme, making the ability to multitask a curse, instead of a blessing.

Are We Really Simultaneously?

Doing Things

Multitasking Taken to the Extreme

As teenagers, our obsession with being constantly “plugged in” with technology has taken multitasking to a new level.

A study by the Kaiser Family Foundation in 2005 showed that the average student uses electronic media for six and a half hours a day, but actually gets in eight and a half hours by multitasking with different electronic gadgets. Watching TV and listening to an iPod for two hours at the same time would actually amount to four hours of electronic usage.

With tons of homework to complete and social and family responsibilities to take care of, students believe multitasking is the only solution. Unfortunately, this does not help with mental development.

“Kids that are instant messaging while doing homework, playing games online and watching TV aren’t going to do well in the long run,” said Jordan Grafman of National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, in Time Magazine.

A study by Joshua Rubenstein, David E. Meyer and Jeffrey E. Evans, called “Executive Control of Cognitive Processes in Task,” shows that time is lost in changing tasks because two processes must take place—goal shifting and rule activation.

Goal shifting is telling yourself that it is time to change tasks, and rule activation is changing your mindset, and turning off the rules of one task, while turning on the rules of another task.

Each time you do either of these things, it takes about a tenth of a second.

After switching back and forth frequently, these switches start to add up to large amounts of time.

Memory

Atonement Compelling for Readers, Moviegoers between the two or how she has ultimately destroyed their future together. Unable to understand adult motives, she falls victim to her own imagination and obsession with With the recent release of the storytelling. motion picture and seven Golden Globe Shifting from France in 1935 to the nominations, Atonement has drawn much beginning of the war and the battle of deserved attention. Written in 2001 by Ian Dunkirk, McEwan writes of Turner’s McEwan, the plot is captivating and the tribulations and consequences of being characters disturbingly realistic. wrongfully accused years earlier.

Both Time magazine and The Observer With powerful language and named Atonement one of the 100 greatest disturbing but accurate scenes, McEwan novels ever written. Considered to be one truthfully relays the events of the time of McEwan’s best works, it was shortlisted period. The thought-provoking passages for the Booker Prize for Fiction in 2001. and emotional conflicts make it thoroughly “I really hope the movie can live up convincing and memorable.

It is not until later that Briony deals with depth and moral inquiry as she is forced to realize her actions and take the necessary steps to reconnect with her sister.

The process is long, but the consequences deserved, as she attempts to clear Turner of his guilty record and reconcile the two with her family and society.

“The description of the war and the nurses at the hospital was my favorite part. It really showed how Briony’s character matured and felt as she looked back on her actions,” said Sugeera Eckley ‘08.

Ending with a suspenseful confrontation as well as a look to the future lives of the characters, the novel leaves the reader hanging with anticipation until the last sentence.

“I loved the book. It reminded me of novels by Jane Austen, and now I’m really excited to go see the movie,” said Eckley.

IN THEATERS: Keira Knightley and James McAvoy play Cecilia Tallis and Robbie Turner in the movie.

STEPHANIE NIEVES SPORTS EDITOR

to the book because sometimes a motion picture doesn’t necessarily do a book justice,” said Rachel Wisuri ‘08.

Staged in 1935 until the end of the 20th century, the novel follows the life of 13-year-old Briony Tallis and her family through love, trivial times, and World War II. Witnessing an innocent flirtation between her sister, Cecilia Tallis, and a servant’s son, Robbie Turner, Briony delivers a testimony that forever changes her own life and ultimately affects everyone around her. She does not realize the true love and potential that exists

COURTESY PHOTO

In addition, it is difficult to remember anything that occurred while multitasking.

If two people were to talk to you at the same time, and expect you to remember everything they said, do you think you could? Probably not. Essentially, that is what occurs when multitasking; we cannot comprehend all the information coming in at once, and therefore cannot remember it.

Although it seems more productive to work on many things at once, it isn’t.

Concentrate on one task at a time, finish it, and then move on. Attempt to monitor your multitasking, to make sure you aren’t always performing tasks simultaneously.

Here’s a start: how many things were you doing while reading this article?

Kim Edwards’s first novel, The Memory Keeper’s Daughter, stems from the most deep-rooted, intrinsic emotions and experiences of the human soul.

Edwards unravels the plot and the major conflict of the novel in the beginning where the reader learns of a fate-twisting decision a doctor makes in order to prevent any future grief.

The novel begins in 1964 on a harsh winter night where Dr. David Henry must deliver his wife’s children with the help of a nurse, Caroline Gill.

After Henry delivers his firstborn boy, he finds that there is another twin girl.

However, the father immediately realizes that the girl is born with a defect and shows strong signs of Down syndrome.

Because of the small chance of survival with the defect in 1964, Henry hastily makes a decision to send his daughter away with Gill to a center for children with similar defects in Louisville, but she eventually chooses to adopt the girl herself. After the delivery, Henry lies to his wife about their daughter by saying that she was stillborn.

The decision that Henry makes at the time originates from good intentions to prevent further grief for his family; however, the seemingly simple decision causes more grief and harm than originally intended.

Though some may argue that Henry’s choice is unsympathetic, Edwards proves that Henry is still human and imperfect, and is prone to make mistakes, even if they can be devastating to others. Edwards’ secret to her mesmerizing novel is the ingenious plot that interweaves realistic human errors.

The Memory Keeper’s Daughter renews the deepest emotions of those readers who share similar grief of losing a loved one and who have endured much to live on even through painful memories of the past.

Other readers will be emotionally inspired by the challenges that each character in the novel must face; Henry endures the consequences of his intolerable lie, his wife copes with the loss of her daughter, and Gill struggles to prove her adopted child’s aptitude.

Edwards composes her novel in such a style that the reader instinctively sympathizes with the characters. Throughout the novel, Henry is captivated by photography and uses his camera by means of alleviating the grief and the unspeakable lie that he alone must painfully endure.

Through this symbolic attraction, Henry uses this outlet to capture the invaluable emotions of his family, the perception of his sad and lonely world, and the fleeting memories of life as they BREAKOUT NOVEL: The Memory Keeper’s Daughter is a New York Times Bestseller about a broken family. swiftly slip by.

The title, The Memory Keeper’s Daughter, appropriately describes Henry’s effect that parallels her character’s mood daughter, the child of a man who takes and overall thoughts.

She masterfully transforms the setting photos of memories that he seems to miss.

It is a mesmerizing novel written and ambiance into smooth prose of poetry through the eyes of two different sets of where the reader is engulfed in her detailed people unconsciously connected by the descriptions.

As the twins grow up in two very fate-changing decision of one man.

Throughout the fictional novel, different families, the reader sees how one Edwards prioritizes the environment of family grows together through a joyous, her characters’ surroundings by luridly healthy daughter as the other family grows describing the setting to create a mirroring apart from a past detrimental judgment.

COURTESY PHOTO

We may think that doing our homework while watching TV, or talking to friends on the phone while reading books for our English class is time efficient.

But performing tasks simultaneously does not save time, because we are not doing anything simultaneously at all. In reality, we are switching between the tasks very quickly. And this wastes time.

“Think of your brain like a funnel.

You can try to juggle as many things as you want, but in the end you can only process one activity at a time,” said Glenn Stebbins of Rush University Medical Center in an MSNBC article.

IRIS YAN STAFF WRITER

FASHION

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Shimmer and Shine for

Holiday Glam

Photographed by Matt Goldberg, Styled by Wynn Burson

T

his winter’s onslaught of contemporary cocktail dresses should make dressing easy for holiday social gatherings. To create dresses that stand out from the crowd, designers are turning up the bling, electrifying prints, and enriching textures. New dresses of lace, shiny silk, and bold patterns are sure to outshine a traditional little black dress.

Above, Sarah Miller ’08 wears Marc Jacobs’ gold lace dress form his fall Marc by Marc collection, a prime example of understated feminine elegance. A similar look is Betsey Johnson’s gold lace and black silk dress which has a classic cut with bolder accents, worn by Amanda Mays ’08 at left. If you are doubting florals for winter, think twice before disregarding Tory Burch’s long sleeve silk dress, on Brooke Andersen ‘08 above. Her logo is embedded in the flowers, and with a tie waist, the dress is both signature and versatile.

Lucky for us, some new trendy designers are still designing lines for Target, for very reasonable prices. Behnaz Sarafpour’s layered lace shift, seen above on Alisa Morrison ’08, was priced around $50 when it was available at the store. Currently at Target, the featured designer is Erin Fetherston, known for girly dresses. Hurry though, the clothes from the special lines tend to sell out quickly.

As trendy men’s clothes get narrower and narrower, affordable options do the same. Gap’s always reliable selection of blazers runs narrow, but for a very fitted silhouette, turn to the women’s collection.

Whatever look you go for this holiday season, be sure to consider other options besides the simple little black dress.

MY TRUE LOVE GAVE TO ME: Top: From left, Seniors Sarah Miller, Brooke Andersen, and Alisa Morrison.

On Miller: Dress, Marc by Marc Jacobs.

On Andersen: Dress, Tory Burch; wristlet and shoes, Coach; her own headband and Marc Jacobs bracelet.

On Morrison: Dress, Behnaz Sarafpour for Target; wristlet, Marc Jacobs; her own headband and shoes.

Above: Seniors Amanda Mays and Nolan Gordin.

On Mays: Dress, Betsey Johnson.

On Gordin: Blazer, Gap; pants, Banana Republic (both women’s collections); shirt courtesy of Matt Goldberg. Glasses, Gordin’s own.

In this story: Miller’s dress courtesy of Alex Imperato, Morrison’s dress courtesy of Madison Lane, Mays’ dress courtesy of Brooke Andersen. On the front page: Morrison’s fox coat courtesy of Sarrah Tolland. On Mays: Hairpiece, Marc Jacobs, courtesy of Brooke Andersen.

Fashion Assistants: Alannah Bradley, Dena Gallucci, and Jessica Kane.

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FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Do College Expectations Meet Reality?

After one semester, WHS alumni reveal an inside look at college life

JESSICA KUECKS KATELYN SMITH FEATURE EDITORS

Fifty juniors and 50 seniors (25 AP, 25 CP) were polled.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Seniors are frantically writing college admittance essays, juniors are doing SAT prep work, sophomores are recovering from their first PSAT and freshmen are just trying to make it through their first semester of high school alive. What is the reason for putting ourselves through such rigor? College.

But how do high school students determine which colleges to apply to, let alone get themselves admitted? What is college life really like?

Several WHS alumni recently revealed their strategies regarding college selections and their first semester impressions about what makes their colleges unique.

Choosing the right school can be a challenge; so many options are available that the choice proves to be overwhelming. Before deciding on her current school, Clemson University in South Carolina, alumna Kirstie Glass ’07 weighed out her options.

“I started with this type of book with the 361 best schools in the country; my mom said my college had to be in the book,” said Glass.

College freshman Kate Edwards ‘07 focused on “the academics, the size of the school/ classes, and the environment [both] on and off campus” when she decided to attend Rice University in Texas.

Every college, whether it is

an in-state college or university, Glass said. drugs or alcohol or any of that an out-of-state college, or an outErica Italiano ’06 enjoys her stuff. But now in college, I see of-country college, has features school for its diversity. alcohol everywhere. It’s in the that make it unique. A major fac“At my college (Chico State) dorms, in cars on campus in front tor for Jaime Li ’07 in deciding to the students come from all over of police officers at games. No one attend Oxford University in Eng- the place, some people grew up is bothered by underage drinking land was its tutorial program, with out electricity, others come or the drunken parties. So I guess only found at Oxford and Cam- from big farming towns, and in that respect my expectations bridge Universities, where the some come from big cities, but it’s weren’t met,” Glass stated. students receive tutoring in small g r o u p s from esteemed professors. “ I t a l w a y s makes me feel slightly smug to be sitting in one of (my tutor’s) lectures and to see all the law students from the entire university hanging onto his WORDS OF WISDOM FROM CLASS OF ‘07: (clockwise from left) Kate Edwards, Ben Markowitz, every word Kirstie Glass, Erica Italiano all offer insight about their first few months of college life. when I have an in-depth discussion with nice that there are differences in Some schools have reputahim every week, as a fresher! A people here,” said Italiano. tions like “party school” while fresher, by the way, is a freshSome aspects of college came others tend to yield more studiman,” Li revealed. as a shock to Westlake alumni. ous connotations; however, do Clemson University is Everyone has expectations going these labels hold up? known for one of its unique fea- into college; people hear rumors “Chico state is known as a tures, a bell tower called Tillman and tidbits about what their col- huge party school, but I have Hill that plays modern music. lege is like, but how many of their gone and visited other campuses “At the beginning of the expectations are met? and they hold pretty big parties school year she was playing a lot “I expected there to be drink- too. I mean UCSB is a zoo during of Disney songs but just today I ing and drugs and all of that but Halloween time, so I don’t underheard ‘American Pie’ and ‘Pret- I was in denial. Even at Westlake stand why they don’t have a bad ty Woman’ so that’s pretty cool,” I lived in a bubble: I never saw reputation like Chico State does

for partying,” stated Italiano.

While Oxford University has a slightly different reputation, “students are seen as ‘posh’ and elitist. On the whole, the stereotype holds true,” Li confided.

Sports also play an important role in college life, and prospective college students should take them into consideration when choosing a college. Schoolwide sports create a sense of unity and spirit among collegians.

Soccer player Edwards revealed that “we have an awesome baseball team, but an even better women’s soccer team.”

“There is no football team, and I didn’t realize until I got here that a football team can be a big part of a university,” admitted current UC Santa Cruz student, Ben Markowitz ’07.

Socially, college can be quite different from high school. Living on campus in a new environment away from family can come as a shock for some, and prove to be a thriving environment for others.

“I have not met many people because I play soccer and have not had a lot of time to, but after this season, I’m sure (that) will change,” said Edwards.

Glass feels that college is something to adapt to and can be intimidating at first.

“I have no safety net or at least I started with no safety net.

After six weeks everything falls into place. Six weeks is definitely the marker…if you can make it until then you’ll be okay. “ In the end, Markowitz advises that students should “apply to as many schools as possible then visit the ones you get into.”

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FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Power of Prestige LUCY GAO STAFF WRITER

Harvard, Princeton, Yale, and Stanford—just a few of the most exalted colleges in the U.S.—constantly flutter around in the dreams and aspirations of high school students. As teenagers make every effort to be considered against tens of thousands of other applicants, the possibility that all their work could have been a waste of time begins to menacingly take shape.

Dream colleges often seem too far off, or they are just reachable under extreme selfsacrifice. “[But] high school experience is just too precious to totally waste on studying,” said Karen Tsai '10.

Is the difference between going to UC Riverside and Stanford really that profound when considering the effect the school has on a person’s job prospects? One person may scoff,

thinking of rankings and school systems, but isn’t a person’s hard work what really counts on the blueprint for success?

“Well, colleges specialize in different areas, so the people you meet and the materials you have access to all can have an effect on future opportunities,” said Tsai when considering the question.

Specifically for a person’s first job, future employers do look at where the person went to school, according to the Admissions Guru on the MyCollegeGuide website.

However, work experience, references, and personality count even more towards potential employment later on.

Attending a prestigious college obviously has its benefits, but a student’s major, interviewing skills, internships, and experience are the criteria that employers ranked as most important, based on a CollegeGrad.com survey. These and other qualifications, such as

STUDENT FORUM:

“I don’t want college to be another year of high school.

I want something completely different.”

Kailynn von Kronemann ’08

first-rate communication skills, dedication, integrity, enthusiasm, creativity, and adaptability are the dream traits for possible workers everywhere. And these credentials can still develop strongly no matter what college a person goes to.

“College students shouldn’t be worried about whether they attended the right college or maintained perfect grades,” said Brian Krueger, President of CollegeGrad.com. In his opinion, passion is highest among the top priorities for hiring consideration.

In the end, some employers do notice and are usually swayed by the fact that an individual graduated from Princeton rather than some city college, as said by a WikiAnswers user. But as long as a not as well-known college still has some sort of regional accreditation, a person’s degree and course work are considered regardless of the college’s name.

“Grades are very important right now, and so is college.

This year is huge because our SAT and ACT scores determine where we might go.”

Nathan Ruff ’09

Unusual scholarships can help pay college expenses

Creativity, left-handedness, duck calling skills, and so many more unique abilities can earn you a scholarship for college.

Maybe you know an obscure language, can make a killer prom dress out of duct tape, or are just tall: these talents and abilities could earn you a scholarship.

If you are creative, apply for the David Letterman’s Top Ten List at Ball State University in Indiana. The first place winner gets $10,000 from various alumni.

Males that are 6’2’’ or taller and females 5’10’’ or taller can apply to join the Tall Club international scholarship by writing an article entitled “What Being Tall Means To Me.” Ladies, when you think of prom do you picture yourself decked out in duct tape? If so, check out the Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck On Prom Dress contest. The contest requires that you and your date

knows where he or she wants to go in life, he or she should try hard to reach that spot because in the end, it can be worth all the trouble. A WHS senior said, “I’ve learned that it’s not important where I go, but what I do [in college].” That means choosing a strong major, choosing professors carefully, getting involved in leadership activities, and getting to know professors, as said in a study reported in the American Economic Review.

Having no struggles is virtually unavoidable, since if a person doesn’t work diligently to try to get into a college, he or she has to try harder during college itself. Or take Jay Mathews’ advice: “Relax. Be happy at your chance to spend four years at any college, soaking up the wisdom of the world and deciding what kind of life you want. A few of you are destined to be heroes, and the qualities that will make you so are already in your possession.”

Juniors and seniors speak out about college aspirations and priorities.

Scholarships Available for the Weird and Wacky LAURA NUTTER STAFF WRITER

“Employers would usually prefer the Princeton graduate over the community college graduate,” said Joseph Sanchez '10, “but just because someone graduates a random city college doesn’t mean that they’re any less qualified, as long as they are passionate and hard-working towards the subject pertaining to the career.”

Jay Mathews, a Washington Post staff writer said, “No one is quite sure where greatness comes from. But I think we can agree that it does not have much to do with the name of the college on top of the person's diploma…

[Adolescents]… will eventually look back and realize the people who made the biggest impact on our lives were far more likely to go to a no-name school, or no school at all.”

In the end, the decision of whether or not to struggle for an Ivy League school rests in the individual’s hands. If a person

attend the prom wearing duct tape attire or accessories. The First place team and its school will receive $2,500.

If those options do not appeal to you, check out WHS’s financial aid night on Jan. 17, 2008 in the library to learn about paying for college and how to apply for grants, scholarships, and loans.

A helpful piece of advice for seniors is to apply for financial aid before being accepted to a college. That way, you can secure your future and will not miss out on money saving opportunities.

A great way to save money is to apply for Cal Grants which provide aid for students who plan to go to a California college. You must be a high school senior within one year of graduating or a community college transfer student to qualify for these grants.

More information on college financial aid and scholarships is available in the college and career center that periodically posts news about scholarships and aid.

“At first I wanted to go to a school that people would be jealous of; however, I realized that some of the best research and discoveries are done at small, unknown schools.”

Samantha Meyer ’08

“As senior year approaches I am realizing more and more that everything I do affects my future.”

Kyle Hayes ’09

THE

MOST

W

TIME OF

WITH THE HOLIDAYS QUICKLY APPROACHING, IT’S TIME FOR SOME LAST MINUTE SHOPPING SUGGESTIONS...

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FOR MOM...

(1) Cutting brownies has never been easier with Baker’s Edge ($32.00, bakersedge.com). You get the perfect square every time. Have a busy mom who’s in need of a break? (2) Fill up a mug of New York Serendipity’s Frozen Hot Chocolate ($30.00, fredflare.com) and cozy up with a Heated Travel Blanket ($39.95, cozywinters.com) for a night of relaxation. (3) Apple’s latest invention, the iPod Touch (8GB, $299.00, 16GB, $399.00) is a revolutionary way to listen to music, browse through your photos, and browse the internet using Wi-Fi technology. (4) Finally, for Verizon subscribers, the iPhone-like LG Voyager ($349.99, Verizon Wireless Stores) has been released, with touchscreen on the outside and keypad on the inside.

FOR DAD...

(5) For a subtle yet satisfying “out of the shower” scent, we recommend Armani Black Code Cologne ($49.50, Sephora). (6) Does your dad always seem uptight in the office? Just strap on the iNeed Lumbar Massager ($59.95, Brookstone) and watch the stress melt away. (7) In need of taking great holiday shots? The Canon PowerShot 7.1MP Digital ELPH Camera ($199.00, Best Buy) has garnered great reviews, and is currently on sale. (8) The Wild Fling!

Popcorn Bowl ($19.99, alwaysbrilliant.com) adds a new twist to any traditional popcorn and movie night, with the ability to catapult your popcorn kernels into a hoop or across the room.

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FOR BOY...

(9) Complete your DVD collections with the fifth installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the infamous comedy Superbad, and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. (10) Having trouble getting up early the farther into school we get? Clocky ($50.00, Urban Outfitters) is here to help you, by finding a hiding spot in the room, it screams until you finally get out of bed to retrieve it. (11) To lounge around your house this winter break, put on a pair of these comfy uni-sex moccasins ($16.00, Urban Outfitters). (12) To spice up any outfit, grab a pair of Risky Business Sunglasses ($10.00, Fred Flare) to add a funky twist to your outfit. (13) The most anticipated game of the holiday season, Guitar Hero III ($99.00, Target) is the perfect gift for anybody of any age.

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FOR GIRL...

(14) The Urban Decay Cashmere Eyeshadow ($17.00, Sephora) is practical for either a subtle look or a more dramatic style. If you have jewelry in mind, go with the (15) Peace Bracelet (assorted colors and prices, sergiolub.com), the (16) Charm Wishbone Necklace ($16.00, Urban Outfitters) or the (17) Gypsy Rose Locket ($28.00, Urban Outfitters) that will appeal to any girl’s taste. (18) This funky flat-iron, the Corioliss Ultra Slim C2 Straightener ($245.00, beautybay.com) won’t damage your hair and comes in many different designs. Have a closet full of clothes, but still don’t know what to wear? (19) To find your fashion fortune just ask the Juicy Couture Magic 8 Ball ($35.00, Neiman Marcus). (20) With holiday winds in full force and the number of chapped lips on the rise, don’t hesitate to grab Philosophy Exfoliant Lip Scrub ($15.00, Sephora) for relief.

A KISS IN TUNE TERI AKAHOSHI STAFF WRITER

Christmas carols with their traditional lyrics remind people of love and romance that the holiday season brings. Some favorites include I saw mommy kissing Santa Claus, underneath the mistletoe last night. A kiss under the mistletoe is the perfect ending to the holiday season of Christmas.

Christmas wishes for presents or for love always seem possible with faith in Santa Claus. Movies have inspired the holiday tradition of kissing under the mistletoe.

The tradition of mistletoe stemmed from the many stories and myths that fuel the spirit of Christmas. It is deemed that at Christmas time a young lady standing under a ball of mistletoe, brightly trimmed with evergreens, ribbons, and ornaments, cannot refuse to be kissed.

Such a kiss could mean deep romance or lasting friendship and goodwill. Whether we believe it or not, the tradition always makes for enjoyment and play at Christmas celebrations.

Please have snow and mistletoe, and presents on the tree. This small green shrub with small yellow flowers and poisonous, sticky berries is believed to hold sacred powers of healing, and contains the “soul” of the tree from which it was cut. It hangs in hallways and door entry ways, around the house to catch two who are caught sharing the holiday together.

For the most wonderful time of the year, the Christmas season brings together the tradition of Jolly old Saint Nicholas and Rudolph the red nosed reindeer, the white Christmas romance, and the love with family and friends.

So have yourself a merry little Christmas and be blessed with a kiss underneath the mistletoe with someone special to your heart, and so then through the years we all will be together.

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UNTRADITIONA KAYLI MILETICH CARINA WOLFF FEATURE EDITORS

In many American households, it’s a scene straight from a holiday card: children in matching sweaters, parents laughing, sipping on eggnog, young ones spinning the dreidels, cookies and milk laid out for Santa, the glow of the menorah in the window.

Want to spice up your holidays? Try roller-skating to church on Christmas Eve like the locals of Caracas, Venezuela.

Tired of your bland old Christmas tree? Replace it with a wooden pyramid filled with fruit, a custom of Italy.

For many, the standard holiday traditions remain year to year, so what about those whose traditions aren’t so “traditional”?

“We all have to sing before we open the prese cat ’11.

For Kylie Blaber ’09 mas presents is a little m “Well, on Christma the stairs on our bellies a ing.”

For some, Christmas rity and good feeling of t “We have a snow s said Natalie Sardonia ‘ scene when she was litt East Coast where they us Some traditions are Yugoslavia, children tie t chanting “‘Mother’s Da you pay to get away?”

They then receive p

WONDERFUL

THE

YEAR

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MUST-HAVES OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON

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Fly Fusion Pentop Computer: If you’re a lefty with slightly scribbly handwriting or you hate having to type up tons of notes from class, this is possibly the handiest creation yet. The FLY Fusion Pentop Computer transfers your written words to your computer in a snap. Everything you write on this special FLY paper is automatically scanned and digitized. The set comes complete with FLY paper, pen, pentop computer, and application installer. $80.00 at flyworld.com

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Bluetooth Hands-Free Device:

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With the upcoming July law that will soon prohibit all electronic devices for teens and cell phones for adults while driving, parents will find themselves in need of a Bluetooth Hands Free Device ($49.97, Verizon Wireless Stores). The Samsung Bluetooth Combo Package comes with headset, home charger, and car charger. This handy device will help keep drivers’ eyes on the road and their passengers safer without breaking the law.

6 Rock Band:

Guitar Hero times three, the new Rock Band ($159.99, Best Buy) rivals any musical video game in stores. Equipped with a ten-button guitar, drums with built-in joy pad and foot petal, and a microphone that not only rate pitch and rhythm but is also tap-sensitve for cowbell and tambourine notes. Featuring songs by Boston, Metallica, Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers and many more, this new breakthrough invention will keep all your friends entertained.

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All I Want For Christmas Is...

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“Sleep” -Aamir Iqbal ‘09 “To get into college” -Brendan Nahmias ‘08 “A new right hip to go with my new right knee” -Jim Azevedo “A successful basketball season for all levels” -JJ Koss ‘10 “For it to snow in Westlake” -Joel Kupfer ‘08 “Our brothers to come home from college” -Jenny Seltzer ‘11 and Taylor Kennedy ’11

AL TRADITIONS

g carols in front of the tree ents,” explained Andy Ma-

9, the passage to her Christmore extreme. as morning we slide down all at once, instead of walk-

s traditions evokes the secutheir past. scene made of Styrofoam,” ‘09. Her parents made the tle. “It reminds them of the sed to live.” less nostalgic for parents. In their mothers’ feet to a chair ay, Mother’s Day, what will

presents and repeat the cer-

emony one week later, only this time, victimizing their father.

In Portugal, families eat Christmas dinner and leave extra seats for the souls of the dead, offering them food and hoping for luck in the next year, and in Spain, the sounds of Christmas Carols may be heard throughout the month of August.

A different type of tradition is practiced in Scotland, where at the end of each January a Viking ship is dragged through the town and is burned on the beach.

In 1932, a tradition began in England when the existing monarch delivered a broadcast of a special Christmas message, heard by the people during Christmas dinner. To this day, Queen Elizabeth II continues to speak to millions of people on Christmas Day through the broadcast.

So even if roller-skating to church isn’t for you, you could always try skateboarding.

GRAPHIC BY VIVIAN SHI

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FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

WINTER 2007

BREAK How will students spend their vacation?

COURTESY PHOTO

SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS: (left to right) Seniors Kaitlyn Watase, Patrick Ready, Colin Campbell,and Sara Hagey visit Santa Claus at the Oaks Mall.

Traveling

Survey of 100 WHS students

Staying Home

TRAVELING ABROAD VIVIAN SHI STAFF WRITER

Winter break is fast approaching, sounding alarms to students to begin planning their two weeks of long sought freedom.

Some students decide to simply stay at home, relishing the time for relaxation or spending the time to catch up in class, while some other students enjoy the excitement of traveling with friends or family.

This is the case with many of the students at WHS. Among them is Gabriel Becerra ’09, bound for Plano, Texas. Becerra is going on a weeklong trip to

the eastern region of Texas to visit friends he had met over the summer at Idyllwild Art Camp.

“I want to confirm that everything is bigger in Texas. I’m excited to see the world’s largest frying pan,” said Becerra.

Lia Woodward ’08 is heading for Barstow in Fresno County.

She often travels there to visit the rest of her family.

“I am looking forward to spending time with my cousins and to the amazing Del Taco,” said the senior.

Woodward also plans to go college-touring elsewhere, in addition to arranging a piece for the WHS Orchestra.

Stephanie Yang ’11 will be

crossing the ocean to travel Europe. Throughout the course of winter break, Yang will be visiting London, England and Dublin, Ireland with her family.

“We’ll be visiting a number of major attractions, including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, museums, parks and monuments, well-known buildings, and more areas outside of the city,” said Yang, “I’m looking forward to experiencing the culture and taking a load of pictures.”

In addition, Rebecca Wagner ’10 is planning to spend her holidays over 7000 miles away in India.

“I see this as an opportuni-

ty to open my eyes and contrast how we’re living here in America with life in India,” said Wagner.

Wagner and her family are planning to spend the holidays with their tour, traveling to nine different cities including New Dehli, Agra, Jaipur, Jaisalmen, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittaugarh, Udaipur, and Bharatpur.

Riding elephants, shopping, and visiting cultural sites are only the tip of the iceberg on their travel itinerary.

Wagner admits she nervous about the diseases and such, but she is “looking forward to seeing the culture and the way people interact with each other.”

Spending your winter break

does not mean buying expensive plane tickets. Many appealing winter break destinations may be a couple hours drive away.

Although the forecast in Westlake Village remains in the mid-50s, ski resorts are among some of the most popular vacations spots during the winter. Big Bear and Mammoth Mountain, among other smaller resorts, are viable destinations of interest for those wishing to stay in California, though as of yet the variety of ski lifts open are not the most appealing.

Also, a day at Disneyland or Six Flags can also be a delightful alternative to making the most of the winter holidays.

found on foodnetwork.com.

Audrey Sievert ‘08 plans on “hanging out with [her] friends and sipping on hot chocolate by the fire.”

“I’m going to shows or staying home. I’m a man that cooks,” said Logan Marshall ‘09.

When hanging out with family, pop in a new holiday CD and sing some classic carols such as, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” “White Christmas,” or maybe “Dreidel Dreidel Dreidel,” to make holiday decorating a little more fun.

Can’t find a good gift idea?

Donate $25 to TreePeople for a newly planted tree in honor of a friend or family and they will receive a personalized holiday card explaining this thoughtful and environmentally beneficial gift.

Holiday arts and crafts are also available online. HGTV.com, for instance, provides internet users with directions to making cute new Christmas tree ornaments, or clever ways of wrapping the gift that seems impossible to wrap.

“I’ll be opening presents with my family, decorating the tree, and putting up Christmas lights,” said Lauren Yap ‘09.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS ALESSANDRA CATANESE STAFF WRITER

During this holiday season, many students plan to celebrate while staying on their home turf Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks. One problem students seem to have this year is finding something to do and finding out what everyone else is doing.

Seniors plan to be busy this Christmas break, filling out their many college applications. Most are due in January and February, with accepance letters arriving in the Spring. Also, WHS seniors are

hoping to spend precious moments with family and friends before their final high school year ends.

Many other events are taking place this month that students may enjoy attending with friends and or family.

The Glories of Christmas concert at CLU will be taking place Fri., Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m. and Sat., Dec. 16, at 3:30 p.m.

For those who want to brave the cold, an ice-skating rink set up for the holiday season at the Lakes in Thousand Oaks; and at the Promenade, families can take

a picture with Santa Claus.

When stuck at home with nothing to do, watch a classic holiday movie, such as Miracle on 34th Street, Home Alone, The Santa Claus, or Elf. The Kung Fu Corner in Westlake will be having a New Years Eve show with many local bands playing, such as Betrayal, The Linden Murder, Bear Claw, and Worth More Dead.

For those who enjoy baking, or maybe just eating, find a yummy holiday recipe such as gingerbread man cookies, and Brown Sugar Christmas Tree cookies

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FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Happy New Year, Westlake!

WHS students prepare for 2008 by setting their New Year’s resolutions, leaving

2007 in the dust.

A Winter Dream

By Philip Shao

I long to hear the beeping bell’s shrill voice.

Each bleating of the monotonic tones Will give me one more reason to rejoice And soak with sheer delight my weary bones.

This passing year that’s nearly out the door Has made its dent on both my flesh and mind.

I stare intently at the clock and door That soon enough some sweet relief I’ll find!

“I would like to get hired “To manage my time better, “Maintain a C average and by the Ventura Country and to balance schoolwork have fun throughout my and outside activities.”

Fire Control.” years at WHS.” Alanna Cowan ’09 Cameron Lewis ’08 Michael Italiano ’10

I’ll walk, I’ll run, I’ll trip upon the stairs The moment that the teacher lets my reins.

I’ll drink the nectar from that leafy pear, Which is my liberation from these chains!

As I would sprint the way up to my car I'd turn the key and slam the gear to drive.

The greening traffic light: a sure north star That keeps my gleeful winter dreams alive.

And seize the day? I’ll run it over flat.

With epic joy, I’ll court the biting wind Roll down the glass and toss aside my hat, I’ll scream until the wintry days rescind!

I’ll stare upon the So-cal winter sun That greets me, white, in place of wispy snow.

The skies of blue and endless hours of fun Will fertilize these seeds of bliss I sow.

“To get straight As and to “To make varsity boys wa- “To go from five Starbucks a week to one or two.” become famous one day!” ter polo by junior year.”

Nicole Funfar Jed Rodriguez ’09 Dane Van Tamlen ’11

The Best and Worst of 2007 Anna Nicole Smith’s abrupt death.

Dumbledore’s sexual orientation. O.J. Simpson’s failed robbery attempt. Marion Jones losing her Olympic medals. The year 2007 has been filled with a wide array of tragedies, embarrassments, and achievements.

• April 16 was a day of shock and sorrow after Virginia Tech student Seung-Hui Cho killed 32 teachers and fellow students in an all-out massacre, before turning the gun on himself.

Several months later, another shooting occurred on Dec. 6 at a mall in Omaha, Nebraska when Robert Hawkins shot nine people and later committed suicide.

• 12 lives were also taken in October as dozens of wild fires simultaneously took over Southern California and consumed over 500,000 acres and 1,500 homes.

• Global warming has become the main topic of not only environmentalists, but also celebrities and politicians. Live Earth, a series of concerts held around the world , generated increased environmental awareness.

Former U.S. Vice President Al Gore is deeply involved in preventing global warming, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize this year for his efforts.

• In early January, Nancy Pelosi was elected as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. She is the first woman to hold this position, placing her second in the line of presidential succession.

• This year also marked the first CNN-YouTube presidential debates.

“Power to the people” took on new meaning as voters from across the nation posed a variety of questions to both Democratic and Republican presidential candidates during two debates in July and November, respectively.

• June ushered in the fifth movie installment of the popular Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. July followed with the release of the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. More than 11 million copies were sold in the first 24 hours, breaking the record for fastest-selling book.

• The Soulja Boy “Crank Dat” dance craze swept the nation as his song reached #1 in the Billboard Hot 100 list in September.

• Nov. 30 marked the death of Evel Knievel, America’s notorious daredevil, who was famous for attempting to jump Snake River Canyon in Idaho.

• This year, Britney Spears has been through more highs and lows than any other celebrity. Between the release of her newest album, divorcing Kevin Federline, custodial issues over her children, and her attempted comeback performance at the VMA’s, only one phrase can sum it up, and it’s not likely to appear in this paper.

• In June, the highly-anticipated release of the Apple iPhone from AT&T took the nation by storm. An internet-enabled, touch-screen, multimedia cell phone combines all gadgets into one. It was recently dubbed the “Invention of the Year” by Time magazine.

• April brought about the investigation of quarterback Michael Vick on charges of dog-fighting.

Later in June, the double murder-suicide of professional wrestler Chris Benoit and his wife and children surpised fans nationwide. November brought the shooting of Sean Taylor, football free safety, and Major League baseball player Barry Bonds’ court plea for steroid use charges.

Written by Pamela Guo, Rebecca Suslik, and Jenny Zhou.

Upon the iceless waves I’ll show my cheer.

I'll drink some egg nog, as the winter flies Before my eyes, just like the passing year.

I’ll squeeze it clean before the next can rise.

So kind will be the beeping silver bell That lastly in December's wake does sound.

And heavily, I bid the year farewell.

Yet sure I am that better years abound!

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FEATURE

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Teachers Caught in Action Bowman Motivated by Thrill of Competition

COURTESY PHOTO

j u n k i e , ” Bowman loves to drive her Cobra clone on the more challenging course for the thrill.

“The cool thing about it,” she said, “is the academic setting.”

“To handle the course takes incredible concentration, skill as a driver, and the physical ability to control the car around tough turns.”

A f t e r 20 years of experience in Vintage Car Racing, she is still as excited LEAVING COMPETITORS IN THE DUST: Advanced Anatomy teacher Nancy Bowman races her Cobra in a competition. about it as when she first PHILIP SHAO started.

“It gives all of us a chance to play STAFF WRITER “We’re pretty much all Ford Mustang Ricky Racer,” she said.

Bowman is part of the Shelby Cobra and Cobra people... so our competitors are Nancy Bowman, with analyzing crime Car Club that participates in regular people like us,” she said. “They’re all so scenes in Forensics, discussing cell types competitions at the Willow Springs passionate about this.” in Physiology, and studiously dissecting International Even though their races are “not for Raceway.

Unlike the cadavers in Advanced Anatomy, might oval-shaped tracks used in NASCAR prizes or trophies,” she still has a great seem too busy for a personal hobby. competitions, Willow Springs is full of time.

But, in fact, she always finds time for numerous turns and straights.

“It’s the best thing in the world if her unique hobby of Vintage Car Racing.

A self-characterized “adrenaline you’re an adrenaline junkie like me.”

Coull�Competes�in�Triathlons� for�Athletic�Endurance VICKY LOU MANAGING EDITOR

COURTESY PHOTO

English teacher Greg Coull originally began running to improve his endurance as a tennis player at WHS 15 years ago.

He also began participating in triathlons when his wrestling coach told him that “I essentially had no athletic talent. It motivated me to do the exact opposite,” said Coull.

His favorite thing about running in marathons is the feeling when he finally finishes.

His main reason for competing in marathons is as RUNNING TOGETHER: Greg Coull and his wife Tiffany training for triathlons. both competed in San Diego’s Rock ‘n‘ Roll Marathon.

He has also competed in triathlons for 15 years and has competed in a total of about 50 triathlons. experience.”

He also runs in trail races, which are 15 to He enjoyed sharing the experience 20 kilometer races. with his colleagues and friends. They had He has competed in the Rock ‘n’ Roll trained together for nine months.

Marathon in San Diego in addition to two Coull trains seven days a week, and dozen half marathons. He plans to run in half an hour to two hours everyday. the Orange County Marathon this January.

“I like the ability to compete with Each marathon is 26.2 miles, and myself. I’m not on a team; I’m not there to Coull generally finishes them in about win money. I like the personal challenge four hours. He enjoys running because it is and the free T-shirts,” he said. relaxing and so he can have time away to His favorite experience was at the think, leaving stress behind.

Oceanside Triathlon, in March 2006 “when His favorite experience from running I finished my first half ironman [a 70.3 mile was “when friends from college came triathlon] because it was one of those days. down and we ran in the San Diego It didn’t matter how long it took; it was just marathon together. That was a neat an accomplishment to finish,” he said.

Erickson Pursues Music Through the Decades TIFFANY LOH FEATURE EDITOR

Whereas most people take up a musical instrument only to quit a few months later, WHS biology and chemistry teacher Darin Erickson has been playing since fifth grade.

When band was first offered as a class in his elementary school, Erickson decided to pick up the trombone and join just for the fun of it. But soon, he discovered his passion for the instrument.

“The enjoyment of being able to create music really inspired me,” said Erickson. “After starting in fifth grade, I have really enjoyed it, and I’ve been playing ever since.” Even when he went to college, Erickson took the trombone with him and practiced everyday.

Although now, as a teacher and father of two children, Erickson does not have as many opportunities to play the trombone, he still tries to find time to practice whenever he can.

“I still enjoy being able to learn a new song, work at it, and play it well,” said Erickson. Even with caring for his children and handling his teaching career, he finds an occasional practice extremely relaxing.

“I get a kick out of that,” he said.

With his love for music, Erickson also tries to inspire an appreciation of the arts in his children. Both of his boys play the piano, and the younger of the two is also in his second year of playing the trombone.

“Playing an instrument is extremely beneficial,” said Erickson. “The enjoyment of practicing, working hard, and rehearsing to perform a final product feels really good.”

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

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ENTERTAINMENT

Pause the Previews, Read the Reviews If the obligations of the past month have kept you too busy to enjoy television or the movies, you might check out the selections reviewed below to catch up on what’s been happening on the outside while you have been completing college applications and term papers or attending athletic practices and concert performances.

COURTESY PHOTO

ROBERT DILLON STAFF WRITER

Students who have read Beowulf may find a very different experience in theaters this fall. For the millions of dollars put into the making of the movie version of the epic poem, the end product is less than satisfying. The intensely refined visual effects (for which the movie sparked interest) can’t save this empty retelling of the classic tale.

The film loosely follows the plot of the epic poem from which it gets its name. Very loosely. Beowulf and his band of warriors come to the Danish kingdom to rid the people of the monster, Grendel, and his mother. Beyond that, the film changes essential details left and right.

In one scene, the viewer discovers a dramatic revelation about King Hrothgar’s relationship with Grendel’s mother. However, this plot twist is completely absent in the book. Fundamentally, this Beowulf is an alternate version of the story—and a poor one at that.

As far as characters go, the only resemblance between film and story is their names. For example, the heartless, blood-thirsty monster Grendel. Readers of the story will be surprised to find in his place a forsaken, overly hideous, Frankenstein-type creature deserving of pity. The

HWAET: In a new futuristic medium of storytelling, the new Beowulf movie attempts to captivate audiences with the famous epic.

great cast, with such stars as Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, and Anthony Hopkins, do their best at acting in their particular roles, but suffer from a poor script. Hopkins as Hrothgar can be somewhat entertaining, but the character is shoddily developed and thus confusing. Other characters are hard to even identify because their names are seldom or never mentioned.

The film’s writing is extremely lacking as well. For an action movie, the thrills seem sparse. The audience is often left with boring scenes of plot explanation and bad character drama, certainly not one of the film’s strengths, yet it’s abundant. The characters’ interaction seems forced and awkward, which is often how the audience feels during these long stretches of dialogue.

The filmmakers also make numerous errors in trying to modernize the tale for a new crowd. It is almost laughable when a frightened warrior shouts, “It’s the frickin’

monster,” during one of the serious scenes. The only humor is crude sexual jokes that are usually inappropriate in context. Also, the motif of religion, so prevalent in the poem, is nowhere to be found. It seems the filmmakers didn’t want to add a somber theistic element to a light action-drama. This, however, deprives the film of substance or interesting themes, leaving a shell of a story.

The special effects and 3-D are impressive, but are pretty much the only strong point. The film uses a relatively new technique of applying computer rendering over actors’ live movements. The imaging is highly realistic, especially in close up shots of the actors’ faces, but it can be regarded as unnecessary. On the other hand, the technique adds a surreal feeling though the effect backfires when audience suddenly feel as though they are watching Shrek.

The 3-D experience is exciting in itself, but that is more or less the only contribution Beowulf makes to cinema.

Disney’s Fairytale Not Quite Enchanted REBECCA SUSLIK STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

YOU KNOW YOU LOVE ME: Cast from the new hit series Gossip Girl on Wednesdays at 9 p.m.

Someone Knows a Secret CARINA WOLFF FEATURE EDITOR

For fans of the of the popular book series, Gossip Girl came as an exciting new guaranteed success for some viewers. Those who thrive on the flirtatious lives of wealthy Upper East Side teenagers in print anxiously awaited the premiere of these scandals on their televisions.

The show, narrated by the anonymous Gossip Girl (Kristen Bell), follows a group of socialite high school teens through parties, romance, and deceit.

The pilot episode proved worthy; the plot directly mirrored the book’s glamour, lies, betrayal, and drama.

Most of the main characters in the show look as they

are described in the series: Blair (Leighton Meester)as the vintagewearing, sultry brunette; Serena (Blake Lively), as the flighty blonde haired, blue-eyed beauty; and Nate (Chace Crawford) as the muscular shaggy-haired boy of godly looks.

Nevertheless, multiple crucial characters’ traits have been modified, which take away from their characters. Jenny (Taylor Momsen) is a wide-eyed young blonde in the television show, but was a curvier, curly-haired brunette in the book. With Vanessa (Jessica Szohr), she has undergone an appearance transformation. Originally gothic and with a shaved head, Vanessa is now trendy and conventionally beautiful. To die-hard fans of the book,

many are disappointed in the shifting plot lines and alternating characters. The scenes are becoming more promiscuous; however staying true to the original tone of the book a bit more. The show also manages to remain completely modern and up to date, referencing Britney Spears at the VMAs and including popular electronics like Guitar Hero and the Juke phone.

The show, although not following the exact direction of the books, proves to be an addictive, entertaining series for book readers and new fans alike. With its abundance in scandal and shock factor, Gossip Girl reigns the minds of teenagers who will follow the series as faithfully as they follow the books.

Enchantments only last for so long, and Disney’s Enchanted doesn’t do enough to sustain the magic. The live action and animation compilation details the adventures of musical Giselle (Oscar-nominated Amy Adams), an animated princess waiting for her prince to show up and bestow a true love’s kiss on her, before sweeping her off to marital bliss. True to cliché, Prince Edward (Hairspray’s James Marsden) struts in, saves Giselle, and proposes they wed the following morning. However, the prince’s shady stepmother—Queen Narissa (Susan Sarandon)—isn’t satisfied with the turn of events and proceeds to force Giselle into “a place where there is no happy ever after.” As Robert (Grey’s Anatomy’s Patrick Dempsey), the divorced divorce attorney who ‘rescues’ Giselle, sarcastically says, “Welcome to New York.”

The princess, complete with gaudy gown and twinkling tiara, climbs out of a manhole and is baffled, befuddled, bewildered, and bemused. She wanders aimlessly until Robert and his six-year-old-daughter, Morgan (Rachel Covey), take her in.

The movie takes flight from here, with crooked henchmen, chatty chipmunks, and valiant princes running amok in Manhattan.

In the beginning, the movie is promising, with a sweet, animated sequence, and later on, a comedic onslaught of tidying cockroaches. The musical number is charmingly satirical, reviving memories of The Little Mermaid as Disney pokes gentle fun

at itself.

Unfortunately, the latter half of the movie lacks the former’s cleverness. The computer-generated effects could be much better, and Queen Narissa’s live-action persona is disturbingly reminiscent of the evildoers in Power Rangers, extreme makeup and collared, shimmering cloak included.

The characters themselves are a concoction of peculiarity, wavering between preposterous and genuine. The chipmunk, Pip, woos the audience with his hilarious antics and delightful valor and is generally wiser than the prince (who, granted, has his moment of insight), while Robert’s girlfriend, Nancy (Idina Menzel), comes off as more than slightly bipolar mood-wise. And though the princess is endearing at times, it appears ludicrous at others.

In the end, the characters are the movie’s medium for displaying the discrepancies and similarities between actuality and make-believe. The movie sets out to demonstrate that love is more sincere in reality than in fables, twisting the conventional “knight in shining armor” into loser in the aluminum foil (and tights), and declares that you too can have your happy ever after, as long as you believe in it. Though the implementation fails to tap the concept’s true potential, the moral remains adamantly clear.

Enchanted takes on the task of proving that real life and real love are actually compatible, and Disney lovers and fairytale patrons alike will enjoy the references to the classics. Overall, the movie is a silly romantic comedy suited for everyone.

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ENTERTAINMENT

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

An Entertainment Year in Review:

Four Personal Favorites of 2007 With 2008 right around the corner, four WHS students look back at some of the movies and music they discovered this year.

Jenna Maranga ’09

John Condello ’08

Matt Ossentjuk ’10

Mark Freidman ’10

Favorite Movie: I don’t care what the

Favorite Movie: I thought the movie

Favorite Movie: Little Miss Sunshine.

Favorite Movies: Superbad. It was so

reviews and critics say, Across the Universe was a “psychedelic” representation of the revolution filled with Jim Sturgess’s amazing vocals.

Waitress was really good because it gave you that warm, fuzzy feeling but it still had an intelligent ending. It wasn’t your traditional Hollywood film. Also, I loved the acting, it was very realistic.

This movie is full of hysterically uncomfortable scenes, clever jokes, and priceless irony all wrapped up in an endearing black comedy.

lyrics and musicality together in an innovative way. Not only do I find the lyrics easy to relate to, but I’m amazed at how well the music complements the lyrics.

Favorite Artist: Modest Mouse be-

cause they are extremely innovative and one of the few interesting artists that are left out there.

Artist: Modest Mouse.

Unfailing creativity and deep layered sounds and Isaac Brock’s characteristic vocals make this band continually awe inspiring.

Evaline’s stage performance is truly unique. Imagine a dark intimate room with heart thumping bass and drums, electric cello, melodic keyboard, and any other device that produces an awkward yet perfectly fitting sound—and you have Evaline.

Favorite Song: “Bohemian Like You”

Favorite Album: Transatlanticism by

Favorite Artists: As Cities Burn molds

Sigur Rós, hailing from Iceland, never cease to amaze me with their incorporation of the beauty of all things natural and innocent. Listen to “Glósóli” if you want to know what I’m talking about.

Favorite Song: “Halcyon (Beautiful Days)” by Mono. Most beautiful song I’ve ever heard. HANDS DOWN.

by The Dandy Warhols because it’s the catchiest song ever! And it’s just so much fun.

Favorite Album: Arcade Fire’s Neon

Bible. Why? Because it’s brilliant. That’s all I can say.

Favorite Cover: The Killers’ cover of Joy Division’s “Shadowplay.” Joy Division was brilliant and started a movement, and the Killers totally added their own vibe to it, the song I mean, not the movement. That wouldn’t have made sense.

Release of Golden Compass Creates Religious Controversy JULIANE SCHRAMM STAFF WRITER

The family-oriented fantasy film The Golden Compass took the top spot at the box office during its opening week and brought a little magic to excited movie-goers everywhere. The Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, however, feels the negative messages hidden beneath the magic are cause for concern.

“There are definitely some controversies in the movie,” said Tom Holcomb, an active member of the Catholic Church. He and more than 11,000 people have joined a group boycotting the movie on Facebook.

The movie is based on Philip Pullman’s trilogy His Dark Materials. Pullman is a well known atheist, and many believe his books reflect his beliefs.

“The anti-Christian aspect of The Golden Compass does send unacceptable messages to younger viewers. It also encourages children to get involved in the occult,” said Rich Deem in his article ‘Why Christians should Boycott this Movie.’ “If you are Christian, this anti-God and antiChristian message should not be supported with your money.”

The story is a fantasy about a girl who leads a battle against an evil militaristic group that is trying to take control of the world. The group is called the ‘Magiste-

rium,’ which is a reference to the Roman Catholic Church. The Golden Compass is being advertised as the heir-apparent to the high grossing Lord of the Rings and Chronicles of Narnia series.

It is rumored that The Golden Compass was written to be a foil to the very pro-religion Narnia series; however, this illustrates how different the movies actually are.

Despite the accusations that Pullman is ultimately writing an anti-religious children’s book, the movie has already raked in $26 million.

“Those protests rarely have any effect,” said Jeff Bosk, analyst for Exhibitor Relations Co., a Hollywood firm that tracks movie attendance. “If they have any effect, it’s usually positive, because they call attention to the movie.”

“I don’t care what religion people are,” stated Pullman in an interview in November.

“The book and the corresponding movie are about the way people treat each other and not about overthrowing the church,” added Pullman.

Henry Forbes and John Mulderig of the Catholic News Service stated in their movie review, that “most moviegoers will scarcely be aware of religious connotations, and can approach the movie as a pure fantasy-adventure. This movie rates as intelligent and well-crafted entertainment.”

Favorite

funny and the characters are very relatable to the high school scene. I also loved The Bourne Ultimatum because it’s such an intense movie. I could actually see the seats shaking when I went to go see it...or maybe that was just me.

Favorite Artists: Kanye West. He’s revolutionizing the way we listen to music. He’s also better than 50 Cent because he wears dece glasses.

Death Cab For Cutie. It holds an important place in my heart. Well written pop songs sing next to beautiful atmospheric tracks, and the whole album flows together perfectly.

The Dropkick Murphys are also a favorite, especially their song “I’m Shipping Up to Boston,” which plays in the movie The Departed.

Favorite Song: “All My Friends” by

Linkin Park. I heard it on MTV HD. Also, “Stronger” by Kanye West because it plays every time Russell Martin [of the Dodgers] goes up to bat. When I play basketball I listen to it to pump me up.

LCD Soundsystem. It’s essentially perfect in every way, from its production, arrangement, context, track placement, delivery. This song is what every angsty songwriter should look to for inspiration.

It’s sad without being maudlin, desperate without being contrived, intense without being trite, and it’ll be stuck in your head for days.

Favorite Songs: “Bleed It Out” by

Favorite

Album: Graduation by Kanye West. I normally just like to listen to single songs, but on Graduation every song is good.

17

ENTERTAINMENT

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Bands in Review: Live Performances to Album Releases Cold War Kids Astound B a n d o f H o r s e s W r a p s U p Crowds in L.A. Promotional Tour in SoCal GUIN CHAN STAFF WRITER

rectly in front of the theater. The bandmates carried their equipment in through the side door.

Meanwhile, those stranded outside glanced at the enormous tour bus engraved delicately with the band name on the side; some even took a chance and approached the bus.

Learning that the band was well equipped with their very own bodyguard, the crowd modestly stepped aside, allowing the crew to unload in peace.

The show finally began about an hour later with the band’s new single “Is There a Ghost,” coming off of their newly released album, Cease to Begin.

Unfamiliar with the infancy of the song, the audience paused until the song was over to politely request “The Funeral,” a ballad off their first album Everything All the Time.

A LONG DREAM: Seattle-based Band of Horses took their live show to the Avalon The beauty of this song Theatre in Hollywood on Nov. 24, treating fans to an impressive set incorporating made the audience emotional, material from both their debut and their latest effort, Cease to Begin. even bringing tears to some fans’ eyes. Voices suppressed for a mere five minutes leaving all but ELLIE FATEH he felt the need to welcome his wellone silent as a spotlight fell on singer STAFF WRITER known friend and dedicate to him the Ben Bridwell. final song, “A Long Dream” off of his On an upbeat note, the show Oxygen was at a bare minimum first generated album, A Long Dream ended with “The General Specific,” a within the crimson walls of the AvaAbout Swimming Across the Sea. country inspired melody. lon Theatre in Hollywood. Before The show was completely sold Out of nowhere, Bridwell the show began, the flood of fans out the weekend the tickets were reached for a toy saw and rather than took laps around the historic theatre. released. conventionally using his tambourine.

Heads turned at the sight of familiar Stepping just outside of the He used the saw to create an equally faces of Los Angeles as folk singer venue, lines of desperate listeners creative sound for this track. His huTyler Ramsey, hailing from North formed in front of the theater apmor was recognized, listeners smiled, Carolina, opened for the already anproaching those who were lucky and in response he chuckled and conticipated Band of Horses. enough to purchase the tickets ahead versed with a woman in the first row.

For moral support, Grizzly Bear of time online.

Band of Horses recently finished vocalist Ed Droste mingled with It was a scene from a film; begtheir short tour in Pomona, CaliforBradford Cox, frontman for the expergars were frantic to experience this nia and seem to be in the process of imental band Deerhunter. As Ramsey southern rock group live and were promoting their album for the next composed himself for his last ballad, in a trance as the tour bus arrived dicouple months.

OneRepublic Finds Success with Help from Timbaland SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA FEATURE EDITOR

“They may have simple melodies, but our songs are about real life. It’s complexity wearing the mask of simplicity.”

The Receiving End of Sirens Sings Mi Fa Mi on Latest Album no place like home,” and is sung first in the main lyrics, and then echoed later on in in the background. The layering presents a main melody that is complemented by many harmonies, and The Receiving End of Sirens. It’s a very an intent listener will be fascinated throughout original name for a band that can only be the entire described as song, even original.

In after repeated their second listening. Mufull-length alsic lovers will bum The Earth be delighted Sings Mi Fa by the feeling Mi, the indie/ of calmness progressive and serenrock quintet ity maintained shows off throughout the their talent song. and progress.

In the With strikingly aptly named captivating “Stay Small,” riffs, intricate the song starts harmonies, on a profound and synconote by openpated beats, ing with the their music line “Son I’m delves into the sorry for this topic of human world, all the nature. ugly things The band she’ll do to named the you...”

The album after a album is filled Kepler book with memorawith the same ble lyrics, such name. The Mi as “Sticks and Fa Mi is a sym- EXPERIMENTAL BUT ACCESSIBLE: The Receiving End of stones, won’t bol for Misery, Sirens, based in Boston, incorporates many diverse genres break my Famine, and into their latest album, The Earth Sings Mi Fa Mi. bones, it’s the Misery again. branches and As depressing boulders I shoulder...” in “Pale Blue Dot.” as the words sound, the misery refers to emptiThe production is beautifully done, with ness, and famine actually relates to the materialeach instrument playing its equal part throughistic society today. out the song. In an age where the rock genre is A perfect example of TREOS’ progress is the dominated by metal and hardcore bands featurfinal song on the album, “Pale Blue Dot.” The ing overpowering double-bass drums, distorted name refers to the earth as a whole, with plenty riffs, and numerous breakdowns, The Receiving of imagery and catchy lyrics. Don’t be fooled; End of Sirens sets itself apart with a quieter, it’s over seven minutes long and only gets betmore melodic album that focuses more on the ter and better from the first second. A central music itself. theme in the song is Dorothy’s famous “there’s WAYNE HUANG STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

Last month, OneRepublic released its album, Dreaming Out Loud, with Interscope Records, accompanied by much publicity. But its path to popularity wasn’t too simple.

The song “Apologize” garnered attention for the alternative rock group OneRepublic in 2006, after being released on MySpace.

Although many fans were immediately entranced by the song, OneRepublic released a newer techno-version of “Apologize” on Timbaland’s Shock Value in 2007, in an attempt to gain more publicity.

OneRepublic’s plan worked. Like many other songs on Shock Value, such as “The Way I Are” and “Give it To Me,” “Apologize” received instant fame. Throughout late 2007, the remixed song reached number one on Billboard Pop 100, number two on Billboard Hot 100, and number one on U.S. Mainstream Top 40 radio. In fact, the popular song broke the record for most airplay of any song in Top 40 history, during the week of November 24.

“Apologize” was almost impossible to miss, with 10,240 radio plays in one week that reached over 70 million listeners, according to Nielson Broadcast Data Systems and music trackers at Radio & Records, as cited in a New York Times article by Jeff Leeds. OneRepublic finally had its long-awaited entrance.

“The toughest thing to do is write a hit song and the easiest thing to do is act like a rock band.

But we had a hit song before we had an album and we can’t pull off the ‘rock god’ thing. We do everything backwards,” commented Tedder.

But even though OneRepublic may still not know how to act like a rock band, they seem to

know how to create hit songs.

So once their hit single had captured everyone’s attention, OneRepublic was ready to release its debut CD, Dreaming Out Loud, on Nov. 20.

Unlike the version of “Apologize” on Shock Value, that has been crowding the airwaves, the tracks on Dreaming Out Loud return to OneRepublic’s original roots and away from Timbaland’s techno and synthesized sound.

The album also contains the older original version of “Apologize,” and several new hits such as “Say (All I Need),” “Stop and Stare” and “Mercy.”

The lyrics for the songs on Dreaming Out Loud are written mostly by lead singer, and guitar and piano player, Ryan Tedder.

“If I’m not getting goose-bumps when I write the chorus, then others aren’t going to either. I want that ‘hair standing on end’ Ryan Tedder feeling,” said Tedder.

Most of his songs speak eloquently of life and its experiences. Themes range from longing for lost love, as in “Come Home,” and change like in “All We Are” to perseverance in “All Fall Down.”

Tedder and his band are on a quest to perform songs that listeners can relate to and connect with on an intimate level.

Each track is infused with soft piano melodies and cello interludes, led by Tedder’s forceful but soothing voice, which sounds like a passionate plea to the listener.

The band’s members, Tedder, Zack Filkins, Drew Brown, Brent Kutzle, and Eddie Fisher, combine to create an eclectic sound, with Kutzle playing cello in many of the songs.

Tedder summarized the meaning of their songs: “They may have simple melodies but our songs are about real life. It’s complexity wearing the mask of simplicity.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Despite having to lose my gum to some surly security personnel in front, the concert night on Nov. 24 was far from a disappointment. The opening band, We Barbarians, an indie act from Long Beach, was excellent and reminiscent of a louder Radio Dept. However, more importantly, I had a front row seat in the Wiltern theater to see the night’s main attraction: Cold War Kids.

The backdrop of the stage was emblazoned with the lyrics from “God, Make Up Your Mind,” “100 Years of Solitude, and “Only 12 Years Old.” Eventually, the lights dimmed and the twangy strings of “Tell Me in the Morning” reverberated off the walls. Lead singer Nathan Willett sounded straight off their latest album Robbers and Cowards itself, but better, if possible. Notably, though, Willett’s live interpretation of the chorus was raspier and rawer.

The next song was sung in the dark with the band’s silhouettes.

Maybe the band felt a need to focus on the music rather than themselves—noble. Picking up the pace, guitarist Jonnie Russell shook a yellow maraca pronounced in several Cold War Kids songs. Russell also lent his falsetto voice to the benefit of several songs.

Throughout the set, the crowd saw how the band created unusual noises for the album: aforementioned maraca replaced a drumstick, cymbals thrown on the floor, indiscriminate pounding of the piano.

The discordant sounds were grander than on the recordings, yet surprisingly less harsh.

Their playful antics (i.e.

Russell’s impeccable dancing skills, bassist Matt Maust literally, but jokingly, kicking Russell’s butt, then Willett’s) entertained the crowd and made them feel like friends watching friends play and goof around in a garage. Except it was the Wiltern, and they were the Cold War Kids.

An interesting point of the night was when the band requested all lights to be turned off in the theater, mentioning a disregard for fire hazards.

Shining flashlights into the audience, the band wanted to see our faces, and did so while playing a flawless “Robbers.”

Despite some static problems, “God, Make Up Your Mind,”my least favorite track on the latest album, was surprisingly enjoyable. Willett lightly plinked away on the piano as his falsetto voice sang smoothly to a band with a jazzier sound.

The set had ended, but the house lights had not gone on; the audience demanded an encore.

Enter Willett on the upright and Russell on the acoustic guitar playing “Sermon v. the Gospel,” the hidden track off Robbers and Cowards.

Drummer Matt Aveiro and Maust entered near the end, lending depth to the usually acoustic song.

“Quiet, Please” from their first EP, Mulberry St., was played before what every Cold War Kids fan was waiting for: an incredible live “St. John.” Chaos ensued.

The opening band and others accompanied the Cold War Kids in quasi-trashing the stage. The stage was left with overturned piano chairs and rolling buckets that were once drums. And the fans left feeling every satisfaction for the show .

18

SPORTS

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

Seniors Lead Boys Basketball SPENCER SCHLOSS SPORTS EDITOR

“Our defense this year, as well our work ethic in practice, has been great,” said Svennefiord.

Mazarei, four-year varsity player, is the starting point-guard and has led the Warriors to a 6-3 start.

Olandt and Mazarei are a combo in the backcourt and even though Olandt has scored over 20 points in almost every game, it is Mazarei who gets him the ball by playing great defense.

“It was very disappointing losing to Mater Dei last year in the second round, but we knew we were big underdogs and we played very tough,” said Olandt.

WHS has had to fill big shoes this year after losing Allen Scott ‘07 last year.

“He was a big impact player last year and he will be missed, but we have a lot of players that have stepped up such as juniors Hess and Max Bard,” said Olandt.

WHS lost to Agoura 76-69 on Dec. 14 at Agoura High School.

Both teams went back and forth all game until the end when Agoura HS pulled away.

Mazarei finished with 25 points and Olandt and Hess each scored 11. Svennefiord also added ten points.

“This year we start league against Agoura HS and TOHS, so

PHOTO BY SPENCER SCHLOSS

In the past, WHS has been led by its young talent and key underclassmen performances.

This year is different though.

WHS is made up of nine seniors who have led WHS to a 6-3 start.

WHS has lost two games in tournament championships and recently to Agoura.

In the Saugus Shootout they lost to Saugus by three and in the Moorpark tournament they lost by four to Harvard-Westlake. Seniors Kyle Olandt, TJ Hennessy, Andreas Svennefiord, Adam Kolodney, and Matt Mazarei lead the starting line-up and have played together since freshman year.

In the game against Cresenta Valley, Olandt scored 25 points and got help inside from Svennefiord who grabbed eight rebounds.

“Andreas is a key factor inside because he is unstoppable down low. He is going to lead us to a championship,” said Alec Hess ‘09.

Svennefiord has played on varsity for two years and this year he feels that the team can be a contender.

“We are unified and we can count on each other if we need a big shot or big defensive play,”

said Hess.

In WHS’s only league loss this year, the team had great play from the point guard position when Olandt scored 20 points and Mazarei had 19 points with nine assists.

Olandt said the team has had a lot of success this season because of their three-point shooting, fastbreak offense, and fullcourt pressure defense.

“We have really shot the ball extremely well, we know we can play defense and if we can hit some three-pointers then we will be able to have a great chance at winning league,” said Olandt.

This year, WHS, Simi Valley High School and Thousand Oaks High School are projected to be atop the Marmonte League standings by the end of the season.

“Every team this season has worked hard in the off-season, but I feel that we have been pushed hard to be able to go 40 minutes a game,” said Olandt.

Svennefiord, starting center, is the tallest player on the team standing at 6’4”. Against Oxnard, Scennefiord had ten points and 12 rebounds. Against Chaminade, he pulled down ten rebounds.

Svennefiord has achieved everything a center should be and has averaged a double-double this season.

A 6-3 START: Defense has led to six wins for Westlake. TJ Hennessy, above, tries to stop Oxnard from scoring in a tournament game at MPHS.

everyone is going to need to step up in a big way, be cause both are big rivals and on the road,” said Olandt.

Westlake has a lot of bench help from seniors Ryan Porush, Bo Bliss, Matt Devine, Matt Reining, and Matt Seyhun.

Varsity will play their first

home game against Newbury Park High School on Dec. 20.

In the TOHS matchup last year WHS pulled off a 36-35 victory at TOHS, but TOHS narrowly beat WHS at Warrior’s home court. This year will be another year for bragging rights between rivals.

Girls Water Polo Begins Season KIMBERLY HA STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE NIEVES

CHARGING INTO LEAGUE PLAY: Ylauan gets ready for Westlake’s first couple league games of the year as key leaders have stepped up to play vital roles this season.

WHS Heads into League Play SPENCER SCHLOSS SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTO BY LINDSAY ADLER

This year has not started as boys soccer coach Bill Propster had planned. Injuries have plagued the team, but that hasn’t stopped the Warriors from winning games.

WHS has started the season 3-3, recently losing to Agoura 3-1 in the first league game.

“The team has struggled with injuries early, but younger players have stepped up in the first games,” said Blaine Prober ’08.

Naveed Afshar ’08 leads the teams in goals and has shown leadership.

“We seniors need to step up our work ethic in practice. Our ability to get better is why we have been so successful,” said Prober.

WHS has had injuries to seniors Max Susa and Jack Polson. WHS’s first win of the season came against Taft in the Ralph Brandt tournament.

“We need to play good defense each game, because we know we can score,” stated Prober. Westlake plays Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park this week to kick off Marmonte League.

First year goalie Andrew Singer ‘09 has stepped up in a big way as Susa is now out for the season with a torn meniscus.

“Injuries have hit us hard this year, but leaders have stepped up like Blaine Prober, Naveed Afshar, and Scott Rubenstein ‘08,” said Jordan Ylauan ‘09. WHS has a goal each year of making CIF playoffs, and for two straight years WHS has lost to Loyola.

“Our goal every year is to make playoffs and win Marmonte, but this year we owe it to our seniors to win the championship,” said Ylauan.

After losing key players from last year’s team including Taylor Dibble ‘07 and Robert Iezza ‘07, WHS has had to rely on young talent.

“This year is different from all the rest, because this year we have had a great work ethic. We have been watching a lot of film together and we feel the team has really came together,” said Ylauan.

Prober also agreed that the work ethic this year at practice has really paid off in games and he is excited to start playing league games.

“I’m really excited to start league because this is what we worked for all offseason, to win Marmonte,” said Prober.

The season has hardly begun, but girls water polo has already gotten plenty of play time in tournaments against nonleague teams Ventura and Pacifica, as well as some of the neighboring high schools, such as Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park.

In its first league game against Moorpark, the varsity team won but then a few days later lost against last year’s Marmonte League champion Agoura 12-0.

“Agoura’s one of the best teams in Division II in CIF,” said girls varsity coachBrian Alexander.

For preseason CIF rankings, Agoura is ranked sixth, Royal ninth, and Thousand Oaks right behind at tenth. With three of the seven schools which play in the Marmonte League ranked, WHS will have to work very hard to earn a spot in the top three.

“We’re probably going to be second or third in our league, competing against

Thousand Oaks, possibly Royal,” said JV coach and aquatics director Todd Irmas.

As for the JV level, WHS has a record of 5-3 going into league play as they face Newbury Park on Dec. 20.

Last year JV was 8-4 in league and won twice against rival Thousand Oaks. As a result of WHS’s loss on Dec. 15 against Agoura, the team will focus on offense and taking care of the ball.

“We have some areas to improve on.

We need to get the kinks out. Agoura was really good at capitalizing on our mistakes, and we made quite a few of them,” Irmas added.

“The girls also need to work on faster turnovers to prevent the opposing team’s counterattacks, which is how Agoura scored most of its goals,” according to Irmas.

Another emphasis will be swimming conditioning.

“We have to be ready to battle, the girls are not used to that yet, but they will be,” said Irmas WHS will play NPHS on Dec. 20.

TOUGH COMPETITION: Sasha Yan ’08 blocks a goal vs Agoura on Dec. 15.

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

19

SPORTS

Wrestling Shows Early Strength Girls BBall HARD TO PIN DOWN: (Left): Jeffrey Carr ’09 tries to make a move and capitalize upon his opponent’s weaknesses.

(Below): Dylan Weeks ’09 grabs hold of his Newbury Park competitor and tries to take him down.

NORA SOBCZAK SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTOS BY CARINA WOLFF

Continuing last year’s growing success, WHS boys wrestling has started their season off on the right foot. Already defeating Newbury Park by a score of 42-17, and losing to Agoura only by three points, 3942, the team has shown a steady and constant improvement from previous years.

Led by three senior team captains JT Huskins, Thomas Lang, and Jonathan LeFevre, who provide both experience and leadership to teammates, have also contributed greatly to the team.

“I just try to do my personal best and hopefully my teammates will feed off of my enthusiasm and try to do their best in their match,” said Huskins.

With a team goal to win league and continue onto CIF, the wrestlers have committed a lot of time and effort to make their team successful and more competitive.

From early morning workouts to drastic changes in their personal eating habits, the wrestlers must show perseverance, and dedication to succeed.

From week to week these wrestlers must weigh themselves to make sure that

they can compete in their weight division.

“One week I had to lose 12 pounds, and last week I had to lose eight to be able to compete in the 135 weight category,” said Huskins.

As the season progresses and the competition becomes more difficult, the boys will face tougher practices, preparing them for future matches.

The team expects the biggest challenge this season to come from Thousand Oaks High School, who has defeated WHS previous years.

Not only with the team relying on their team captains to carry the team onto a victorious season, but other important contributors this year will include Michael Spates ‘08 and Alex Stokes ’08. These

wrestlers will provide WHS with a strong base, allowing the team to be competitive throughout the league.

Their next match will be at Simi Valley High School on Thursday, Dec.20. JV will wrestle at 6 p.m. and varsity at 7:30 p.m.

Bounces in the Right Direction ALLY ACKOUREY OPINION EDITOR

WHS girls basketball is jumping to a good start for the 2007-2008 season. Already undefeated in league after their first victory of Agoura on Dec. 10, the team has its heart set on the playoffs.

“We are playing tough schools out of our league because those are the teams we will have to face if we go to playoffs,” said Rachel Borowski ‘08.

Going 2-2 in their first tournament in Nordoff the week of Dec. 3, the team hopes that the intense competition will bring up their game and help them to capture the Marmonte League title.

The team mostly runs a fast-break transition offense and a 2-3 zone defense where each player is vital. So far starters for the season on Varsity are Laurence Anderson ‘08, Mhiah Vickers ‘08, Taylor Ignoto ‘10, Lea Heyl ‘08, and Darcy Evelhoch ‘08. Of course their success has depended more on team chemistry than individual work.

“We feel confident in our teamwork and skills to do well in Marmonte. We always do our best when everyone is psyched to play,” said Borowski.

Having played together for four years—more for some of them—any onlooker will notice the phenomenal team chemistry which is evident by their performance on the court.

Their unity is even more pronounced by the word FAMILY, which appears on the back of each jersey rather than the girls’ last names. Coupled with new coach William Burr, the girls are excited to take on Thousand Oaks HS on Tuesday, December 18.

“The Warrior girls are ready to keep it poppin’ in their next 30 games,” said Burr.

Girls Soccer Begins Season After Extensive Tryouts TIFFANY LOH FEATURE EDITOR

rino feels that the team’s “good chemistry” and cohesiveness will enable them to succeed.

One of the team’s strongest points is the ability to move the ball well and to play

together. However, Marino also added that the main weakness is being able to score more goals in the games.

Last season, the Varsity team tied for second place in the Marmonte League along with Royal High School. Their overall league record was 7-1-6. In addition, the team also made the CIF playoffs but lost in the quarterfinals.

This year, Marino hopes to make the playoffs again and to “do as well as [they] can this season.” Some of WHS’s biggest rivals are Thousand Oaks High School, Moorpark High School, and Royal High School.

Even with the fierce competition in the Marmonte League, the WHS Varsity team is optimistic about their performance this year.

With their vigorous practices and determination, the girls soccer team will undoubtedly have a successful season.

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE NIEVES

After an intense tryout procedure, the 2007 WHS girls soccer team has finally been chosen. Practicing for hours after school, the team is ready for their competitive season.

This year, “many more girls tried out than in previous years,” said Coach Frank Marino.

Whereas last season, there were 70 girls, 85 tried out this year.

“It was extremely difficult to choose the players,” said Marino.

Some of the sports standouts on the Varsity team this year are Kirsten DiPippo ‘08 and Krystin Shanklin ‘08. In addition other contributors to the team include Lauren Iezza ’08, and new freshmen Lyndsey Preston, Bree Linares, and Chloe Wheeler.

Although freshmen and sophomores make up more than half of the team, Ma-

KICKING OFF THE SEASON: (Left): Alex Fiore ’08 dribbles downfield during practice.

(Below) Lauren Iezza ’08 and Teri Akahoshi ’08 battle for position and for control of the ball in practice.

20

SPORTS

Q&A

Senior captains Kirsten DiPippo and Krystin Shanklin, defensive center back and defensive center midfielder of WHS Girls Varsity Soccer

Q

What will you contribute to the success of the girls varsity soccer team this season?

A

KD: My leadership and knowledge of the game.

KS: My work ethic. Hopefully the other girls look up to me as their captain.

Q A

Q A

December 20, 2007 • THE ARROW

How do you expect the team to perform this season?

KD: I think the team should do well this season. We have some young talent which will be very helpful this year.

KS: I think other schools are underestimating our potential.There will be a lot of schools upset when the underdogs get the win.

As a student athlete, how do you manage to balance school and soccer?

KD: I play soccer all year round. There is never really a break. Soccer usually comes first to school, but I just have to pick and choose which is more important.

KS: Wow, it is very hard. Time management is key to balancing my life; and sleep. Without the amount of hours I sleep, I would probably be snoozing on the field.

is your most memorable experience Q What playing soccer at WHS?

A

KD: I was really close with last year’s team, especially the seniors. Also memorable was when we beat T.O. 4-0 and when I got my red card in the quarter finals of CIF. KS: I think my whole freshman year was memorable. My older sister was captain and Kirsten and I dressed up every game day. Freshman year was the life.

Q

What is your favorite aspect of playing soccer for WHS?

A

KD: The friends I have made on the team, the pasta parties before home games, and our dance parties before we warm up.

KS: It is completely different from club soccer. It is nice to have a change every once in a while. We also play against girls from our club teams so it’s nice seeing them as opponents.

Q

Do you have any plans to continue playing soccer after high school?

A

KD: I hope to play soccer at Boulder in Colorado, but if that doesn’t work out I will probably play soccer in California at whatever school I attend next year.

KS: It all depends on where I end up in college. If I need a scholarship, then yes, if I don’t, then probably not.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE NIEVES

20Dec

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12/18/07, 3:09 PM