12.15.15

Volume XXXVIII Issue 3 15 Dec 2015

theArrow 100 LAKEVIEW CANYON RD. WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362

www.westlakearrow.com

GRAPHIC BY ALLISON MENDOZA

2015: a year in review Allison Mendoza Feature Editor 2015 has marked many milestones.

The world has survived three years past the Mayan World apocalypse, there have been technological breakthroughs that seemed only conceivable “in a galaxy far, far away,” and–speaking of far away galaxies–the world has seen its first glimpse of Pluto.

From the never-ending Kardashian drama to Pope Francis speaking to Congress, 2015 has left more than a footprint; it has left a legacy.

During this past year, politics has managed to become almost as exciting and dramatic as Gossip Girl.

The U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in all 50 states on June 26, 2015. The news spread like wildfire through countless articles, tweets, Facebook posts and pride rallies across the country.

Pope Francis spoke to Congress in late September during his visit to America to encourage the government to “break out of its cycle of paralysis and use its power to heal the ‘open wounds’ of a planet torn by hatred, greed, poverty and pollution.”

Race conflicts flooded the media. Rachel Dolezal served as president of the Spokane chapter of the National Association of Advancement for Colored People (NAACP) until it was discovered she is actually white. Her caucasian parents saw her on the news and told the truth. In 2014, there were inner city riots about the Ferguson shooting and police brutality.

These issues collided in 2015 with multiple school and college shootings. On Oct. 1, The Washington Post published an

article titled “So far in 2015, we’ve had 274 days and 294 mass shootings.”

The attacks on Paris gave a new definition to “the shot heard ‘round the world.” Paris was attacked at three separate points by ISIS on Friday Nov. 13. The massacre left 130 innocent civilians dead and hundreds seriously wounded.

Three days after the attacks, ISIS released a video threatening other countries, including the U.S. The terrorists specifically mentioned Washington D.C. and a few days later, New York. The video mentions Times Square and suggests that a bomb would be strapped to a suicide bomber, hidden under his jacket.

ISIS invaded and took over Syria in September of 2014, prompting thousands of Syrians to take extreme measures to escape the terror. After the terrorist attacks in Paris, another dispute between Republicans and Democrats broke out over whether or not America should harbor refugees.

California entered its fifth year of serious drought, and Governor Jerry Brown issued an executive order for water conservation.

The technological revolution has continued making history with gadgets like the oh-so-popular Hoverboard. The board works like a Segway without the handle and allows the rider to seamlessly float across the floor.

Additionally, Apple came out with the new iPhone 6S, which features animated photography (no, not video; think Harry Potter).

Later in the year, NASA used a combination of seven different instruments to aid its New Horizon program to answer some of the many questions it had about Pluto. With this technology, NASA released the dwarf planet’s first pictures.

“I’m very impressed with the way people are able to conduct space travel in a way and in a context that they haven’t before,”

said Nate Young ‘16. “Both NASA and private companies have been doing very important and amazing things.”

In Boston, a new drug for AIDS is currently being researched and trials are being done on monkeys. Researchers hope that the drug’s effects will last longer and therefore overcome the major issue of AIDS patients not regularly taking their antiretroviral pills.

Americans were outraged when Mark Shrinkeli bought the rights to an AIDS drug and immediately raised the price from $13.50 to $750.00 per pill–a 5,500% markup.

The world of sports brought both triumphs and scandals.

The U.S. women’s soccer team made history during its match against Japan, which was “the most-watched soccer game in U.S. history,” according to ussoccer.com. The game started out with 16 million viewers and ended with a grand total of 23 million. The U.S. team also ended up taking home the cup.

“It’s a huge deal for our country and national pride,” said Hannah Sharts ‘17. “It’s boosting the popularity of soccer and inspiring players across the nation to play at that level.”

One of the biggest sports scandals this year was when the Patriots were caught using deflated footballs during games. Many Americans felt that the team’s Super Bowl win was unjust due to this violation.

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao boxed their long awaited fight on May 2, after Pacquiao agreed to the 60/40 split of the total money received from the match. Much controversy focused on whether or not Mayweather was better than Pacquiao prior to the fight. When Mayweather won, Pacquiao supporters suspected that Mayweather’s men had payed the Pacquiao team to lose so that Mayweather could maintain his undefeated record.

Mayweather kept his $180 million while Pacquiao donated $40 million of his $120 million to charity. [Continued on page 5]

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News

theArrow

Letter from the editor

COURTESY PHOTO

Pranav Kaygee Web Editor Happy Holidays, WHS! I’d like to welcome you all to Volume XXXVIII Issue Three of The Arrow newspaper. For those of you who can’t decipher Roman Numerals, that’s 38. (If you’re a student, the newspaper is more than twice your age... talk about history).

This issue is sugarcoated in more holiday spirit than last year’s holiday Starbucks coffee cups. Too soon? Too bad. As many of you may know, this newspaper is filled with fact as well as opinion containing enough facetious sarcasm to evoke an appreciative smirk on Mark Twain’s decaying face. So if any syllable of any word in this issue sounds unnaturally caustic and tongue-in-cheeklike, then take it with a grain of salt. The Arrow staff members crave opinion as much as Americans crave cancer-causing bacon.

Too soon? Too bad.

This year, The Arrow has extended its reach beyond the print world. This past September The Arrow launched its first official website. As the Web Editor, I’ve been working tirelessly updating the website to provide viewers with the latest content on anything and everything WHS. So seriously, check out: www.westlakearrow.com. Yes, the shameless plug is shameless (speaking of shameless plugs, follow us on Twitter: @ westlakearrow).

This year has been nothing short of revolutionary for The Arrow. From a brandnew layout to the newspaper’s debut in digital media, The Arrow is entering a renaissance of near perfection. And I am ecstatic to say that I work with the best staff in the world on the best newspaper in the world covering stories on the best high school in the world. Or at least, we’re getting there.

Pranav Kaygee Web Editor

‘TIS THE SEASON: Women’s Chorale raises the audience’s holiday spirit by singing and dancing to “Deck the Halls.”

Choir decks the halls with songs of the season Helen Shi Opinion Editor

Choir celebrated the holiday season with its annual winter concert on Dec. 3 at the Carpenter Theater. All five groups, Freshman Ensemble, Mixed Chorale, Men’s Ensemble, Women’s Ensemble and Vocal Ensemble, performed in the first half of the concert, featuring a classical choir performance.

“My favorite song would have to be ‘Sing We of Hanukkah’ because it is so beautiful,” said Loreley Estrada ‘17 of Mixed Chorale. “Even though I am not Jewish...it is beautiful to know we can all come together for the same purpose.”

Mixed Chorale, the non-audition group, performed four songs consisting of “Ring the

Rachel Finegold Sports Section Editor The dance team’s winter showcase drew large crowds to both its matinee and evening performances on Dec. 12.

The team performed a selection of its competition routines, individual solos and rally numbers.

The team danced to popular songs such as “Milkshake,” “Legit” and “Young and Beautiful” in its group dances.

concert on Dec. 11 and played pieces including “Moon Juice,” arranged by Paul Baker and “Angles We Have Heard on High,” arranged by Staff Writer Gordon Goodwin.

“Each song teaches something different to WHS Concert and Jazz Bands held their the students,” said Peter. “It’s not only something annual winter performances in the WHS Car- new for the audiences to listen to, but covers my curriculum and prepares them for the level of penter Family Theatre on Dec. 9 and 11.

Conducted by Brian Peter and Mike music played at Festival.”

Gamgemi, the Concert Band and Wind SymThe winter showcases are also very rewardphony played on Dec. 9 at 6 p.m., and the Sym- ing for the musicians participating in them.

“It’s fun to show the phonic Band and Wind parents how hard we work Ensemble followed at 7:30 rying your hard- and what’s happening at p.m. The bands played an est to be the best practice,” said trumpet assortment of pieces, ranging from clasmusician you can player Quinn Jones ‘17.

When it comes to persic Christmas tunes to the symphonic melo- be and putting on the best per- formances, the students formance possible is the most always look forward to bedies of West Side Story. “[West Side Story] is rewarding part of the concert. ing on the stage. really challenging because “Trying your hardest to be the best musician everyone has different -Alex Smith ‘16 you can be and putting on parts and they all have to go together,” said flutthe best performance posist Haylee Mencarelli ‘19. The piece alone is 28 sible is the most rewarding part of the concert,” minutes long, and it was the primary focus of said percussionist Alex Smith ‘16.

Wind Ensemble’s preparation.

The experience on stage is “magical,” said Jazz Band, comprised of Studio Jazz, Lab Peter. “[The musicians are] creating art in the Jazz and five separate jazz combos, held its moment.”

“T

Ensemble and Vocals performed. The musical presented was the Christmas medley “Forever Christmas.”

Dancing, singing, as well as a few speaking parts, the performers featured characters such as Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman. The music was accompanied by pianist Kathleen McKinley.

“My favorite part of the performance is getting to the second half, dressing up in a onesie and jumping around on stage,” said Estrada.

The weeks of work and collaboration between the different choir groups led to a two hour performance filled with bright Christmas spirit. The investment of hard work, time and energy paid off.

“We get to dress up and spread Christmas cheer,” said Brooke Wynalda ‘17. “Because we are nerds and love choir, we love to share this with everyone.”

All of the songs for the team’s rally numbers were replaced with classic holiday music such as “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Last Christmas,” “Mistletoe,” “Drummer Boy,” “Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree” and more, all fitting the winter showcase theme.

“It was a little challenging at first to find the right holiday song to work with each dance, but it was really worth it because the audience enjoyed how we tied in our winter theme while also showcasing some of our dances from earlier this season,” said Kelly Fobes ’16.

The solo performers for this showcase were the freshman and sophomores, including Sarah

Finegold ’18, Paige Higham ’18, Taylor Magon ’18, Brooke McClung ’19, Courtney Park ’18, Cassidy Petroccione ’18 and Dani Saputo ’18.

The juniors and seniors will perform their solos at the spring showcase.

The girls also performed a couple’s dance to “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Justin Bieber and Mariah Carey. Each girl invited a boy to be her partner, and the boys attended some extra rehearsals with the team to practice the number.

The dance was choreographed and taught by dance team captains Cassandra Bateman ’16, Fobes and Ava Mandell ’17.

A December to remember

Band hosts annual winter performance Lauryn Yarnall

Bells,” “African Alleluia,” “Sing We of Hanukkah” and “Blue Rondo A La Christmas,” which is a contemporary song about the stress of Christmas gift shopping.

“The first one, ‘Ring the Bells’ is my favorite one; it’s super pretty and the chord structures kind of make it sound like bells are ringing with a smile emoticon,” said Katherine Ho ‘17.

Women’s Ensemble performed “Hanukkah Menorah,” “Love is the Gift,” “Falala” and “Dinga-Dong.”

Vocals performed “Veni Veni Emmanuel,” “Canon,” “Sending You a Little Christmas” and “Silent Night.”

“I like ‘Veni Veni Emmanuel’ the best,” said Eric Zhong ‘17. “It is very dramatic; the harmonies are nicely paired.”

The second half of the performance was more similar to a musical. Only the Women’s

Orchestra tunes into season Jaisen Lim News Editor WHS Orchestra performed its winter concert on Dec. 8 at the Carpenter Theater.

Directed by Elizabeth Blake, the concert was the culmination of hours of tenuous practice and stress assembled into a one and a half hour performance consisting of over 100 students.

Orchestra prepared for the winter concert almost every day since the start of the school year.

“Mrs. Blake has really done a good job of making us practice outside of school,” said violinist Alana Rangitsch ‘17.

Rangitsch, a member of Chamber Orchestra, has played the violin for six years and was in the orchestra program at the middle and high school levels for six years.

She enjoys being involved in the program and was excited to showcase the orchestra’s ability and talent.

This year’s concert consisted of eight pieces performed by three orchestra levels: Strings, Concert and Chamber Orchestras.

Some of the pieces played were: “A Bach Fest” by J.S. Bach, “Sinfonia II in D” by Felix Mendelssohn, “Sinfonia in G major” by Antonio Vivaldi and Joshua Reznicow’s “A Hero’s Tale.”

Concert and Chamber Orchestra had a joint-performance on “A Christmas Carol”, by Tom Lehrer that was narrarated by Principal Jason Branham.

“We lost some good players who graduated last year, but at the same time a lot more talented people have joined Chamber from other levels of orchestra,” said violinist Ethan Lee ‘17. “I think we’re going to have another great year.”

Despite the absence of last year’s graduating seniors, Orchestra continues to perform exceptionally well, as indicated by the group dedication, talent and communication skills in the winter concert. “[The performance] was excellent, and I hope that all my students will continue enjoying what they are doing,” said Blake.

For the rest of the year, the orchestras will be preparing pieces for competitions and festivals, as well as pieces for full symphony performances with the band.

Orchestra will also be having an orchestra retreat in February to practice for the upcoming competitions.

News

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Editors-in-chief Michelle Choi, Alex Shi

Managing Editor Heidi Chiu

Web Editor Pranav Kaygee

News Editors Isra Din, Jaisen Lim, Kylie Wexler

Steven Huang, Kay Lim, Helen Shi, Amanda Yao

Feature Editors Dheekshi Arvind, Annanlee Chang, Clare Doyle, Kallyn Hobmann, Allison Mendoza

Sports Editors Rachel Finegold, Jake Kim, Andy Xia

Staff Writers Marc Choi, Katie Reul, Lauryn Yarnall

Adviser Karie Lynch

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

Contact us at: westlakearrow@gmail.com Find us at: www.westlakearrow.com

WHS bids farewell to two contributing Warriors Steven Huang Opinion Editor Counseling clerk Marilyn Maygren and campus supervisor Don Brunnel will be retiring from WHS at the end of December.

Maygren handles the Zangle pins, homework requests and general counseling information.

Brunell is a campus supervisor and patrols the school’s front loading zone after school.

“Maygren is the unsung hero of our office staff. The persona of the front office staff is so important to the environment and culture of our school,” said Assistant Principal Nicole Judd. “She’s been a tremendous asset greeting students and teachers with a smile.”

Maygren has worked for CVUSD since 1991, when she started as a health clerk at Aspen Elementary School. She then moved to Thou-

sand Oaks High School but ultimately found her home at WHS. “It’s been a dream come true working at WHS,” said Maygren. “I love all the fun times with the whole office staff. We’re like a family, super close.”

Don Brunell is a familiar face in the WHS parking lot, where he patrols the school’s front loading zone after school.

Additionally, Brunell watches over the campus both during and after school hours.

“Don is a great guy. Whether it’s waiting in the golf cart after school or helping at the ticket stands during football games, we can always count on him,” said Principal Jason Branham.

“We’re truly thankful for everything he’s done at WHS.” Brunell has worked at WHS for the past ten years. “I’ve really enjoyed the interactions with students and staff,” said Brunell. “Being able to connect with the students during their four years is truly something special.”

Hadek showcases abilities in The Nutcracker

Russia, the story has been a popular holiday tradition.

It is about a young girl named News Editor Clara who dreams that her favorite Christmas toy comes alive. She is Since 1892, the two-act balwhisked away to a magical kinglet production, The Nutcracker, has dom, and the toy eventually transbeen a holiday must see at local plaforms into a handsome prince. zas and theaters.

Not only did the extravagant WHS student Natalie Hadek production include highly trained ‘19 performed the lead role of Clara dancers, but it also included realin the production of The Nutcracker istic sets and detailed costumes. at the Civic Arts Plaza Kavli Theater “I have two different costumes; on Sunday, Dec. 13. the first one is for the party scene.

“I was excited [finding out I It is pink with lots of sparkle,” said got the part],” said Hadek. “I’ve been Hadek. “The second costume, for practicing since the beginning of when I’m in my dream, [is] a blue September.” nightgown with white lace.”

Hadek prepared for the show The cast of the Conejo Civic by practicing every day for the past Ballet Company, including other three months. “I’ve been dancing IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Hadek dances in the 2015 Conejo Civic Ballet Com- WHS students, worked tirelessly since I was four,” said Hadek. “My pany’s performance of The Nutcracker. to pull off a seamless performance. grandma and aunt were profession“I love the cast,” said Hadek. al dancers, so I was pretty influenced by them.” cracker and The King of Mice by E.T.A-Hoff man. “One of my best friends is also in the ballet, and The ballet is based on the story The Nut- Since its debut performance in St. Petersburg, we have a scene together.”

Kylie Wexler

Keynejad chosen as docent for Reagan Library Isra Din News Editor Arianna Keynejad ‘17 recently graduated from the Ronald Reagan Library docent program.

Docents are trained guides in the library who manage stations, as well as conduct tours for school and community groups. “[Docents are] a group of people who educate people that visit there by giving tours, working at stations and assisting visitors,” said Keynejad.

The Reagan Library relies on over 300 docent volunteers to fluidly guide people through the library exhibits.

To be a docent, there is an application and interview process, followed by a seven month training program.

“The interview was fine, but it was scary to give your first tour,” said Keynejad. “We had to read two autobiographies, a 400 page manual, follow six tours and lead six tours… It was a really long process.”

Docents help the public become more knowledgeable about President Reagan and the impacts he has made.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School. The opinions expressed in these 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. Please send submissions to westlakearrow@gmail. com or our website at www.westlakearrow.com

WARRIORS FOREVER: Maygren (far left) and Brunell (right) are recognized as their careers at WHS come to an end and they prepare for retirement with the close of the 2015 year.

COURTESY PHOTO

Opinion Editors

PHOTO BY DHEEKSHI ARVIND

Modolo was chosen for her involvement inside and outside the classroom, including extra curricular activities and teaching.

Opinion Editor “Honestly, when they said my name, I felt like a little kid. I just wanted to tell my mom, On Dec. 2, Spanish teacher and ASG ad- dad and husband about it,” said Modolo. “I also visor Jeniffer Modolo was awarded Teacher of felt so honored to be considered among those the Month for “her continued dedication to her who received this award. To be part of this colleagues and kids.” group, which includes my friend and mentor Modolo is one of ll the teachers we Diane Rudas, is truly 240 CVUSD teachers to have been recognized by honor are represen- an honor.” the Conejo Valley ChamModolo has taught tatives of the excel- at WHS ber of Commerce for for the past lence of our district. seven years and has their positive influence on their schools over the helped students learn last couple of decades. languages, differ-Ann Bonitatibus world “She is attuned with ent cultures and even students’ needs and rehow to show school fines practices for the spirit.

As the advisor of ASG for the past four students, and she reinforces a positive school culture in her department,” said CVUSD Super- years, she overlooks all of the school’s rallies, intendent Ann Bonitatibus. “All the teachers dances and special events. we honor are representatives of the excellence of “She uses her enthusiasm, creativity and our district. It’s an honor well deserved.” love for teaching to help kickstart events at our This honor is given to one teacher a month, school. She always gives us fun things to do in and Modolo was selected out of hundreds of and out of our class,” said Josh Garelick ‘18. teachers throughout CVUSD. “Also, she says I heart you.”

PHOTO BY MICHELLE CHOI

STAR TEACHER Modolo (left) happily receives her award for being teacher of the month.

Steven Huang

theArrow

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PHOTO BY MICHELLE CHOI

15 Dec 2015 Modolo awarded teacher of the month

MAKE A MARK: Keynejad prepares to lead a tour at the Reagan Library.

“You have to learn about one person’s life from birth to end, and it can get very confusing,” said current docent in training, Melaina Leung ‘17.

These individuals not only conduct tours, but also make the experience for others interactive and unique.

“It’s a lot about politics, his personality,

personal life versus public,” said Leung. Docents must be outgoing and willing to commit their time to providing valuable information to the public.

Out of the 40 people who applied to be in this program, only 20 people continued with the full training program. By the end of training, only three teens were accepted to become part of the docent program.

Keynejad hopes to stay with this program throughout high school. She finds many special benefits of being in this program, such as educating others while learning more about herself as well.

Docents may attend special occasions that take place at the library. These include speeches, book signings and presidential debates.

Additionally, the program enabled Keynejad to become exceptionally confident with public speaking and helped her overcome shyness.

Keynejad spends four to five hours each week giving tours, managing stands or working stations in the library.

With the experience gained as a docent, Keynejad hopes to pursue a career in education. “I really liked [the idea of] it,” said Keynejad, “because I want to be a teacher.”

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Feature

theArrow

DIY gift guide for the holiday season Sometimes the best type of gift is not purchased in a store. The holidays are a time for reflecting on the year and appreciating everyone and everything that has been a part of it. Finding the perfect present can be stressful and feel like a never-ending task, but this year, instead of searching for a gift in the stores, stay at home and make any of these items. They are sure to surprise and impress loved ones this season.

Compiled by Kallyn Hobmann

Spa in a jar

Supplies: • Mason jar • Small plastic containers (suggested: 4 oz) • 3/4 cup of sea salt, 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt, 2 tablespoons baking soda, a couple drops of lavender essential oil and a couple drops of blue food coloring.

• 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon maple extract The holiday season can be a stressful time of year, so this spa jar is a perfect way to remind someone, such as a mother or aunt, to take some time to sit back and relax.

A variety of jar sizes will work, but a suggested size is a Kerr wide mouth, quart size Mason jar.

Lavender is known for its soothing scent, and homemade lavender bath salts can provide the perfect setting to unwind.

First, mix all dry ingredients in a bowl. Add the lavender essential oil and, if desired, food coloring, and stir until evenly distributed. Use a funnel to put the salts into a small narrow bottle or a small plastic container.

A maple brown sugar scrub has an enticing scent and helps make skin feel brand new. To make this fun scrub, simply combine the sugar, oil and maple extract in a bowl, while adding the desired amounts of each ingredient as needed. Place the scrub in small 2-4 oz containers.

Other miscellaneous items can be included in the jar, such as a favorite moisturizer or nail files. For a special touch, accompany the handmade items with chocolates.

Reindeer root beer Supplies: • Bottled root beer • Ribbon • Small red pompoms • Brown pipe cleaners • Googly eyes • Glue

This fun unique gift, perfect for a sibling or friend, is ready in just four steps. Not only do they have that handmade charm, but these reindeer will get everyone in the holiday spirit.

This gift is also very customizable. Any type of bottled beverage works, whether it be a case of root beer or an assortment of holiday-themed sodas from a candy store such as Rocket Fizz.

To start off, glue the googly eyes onto the neck of the bottle, a quarter to a half inch apart. To give the reindeer its red nose, glue the pompom about half an inch centered below the googly eyes.

Using any type and any color, tie a ribbon around the bottom of the bottle’s neck and finish it off with a bow.

Wrap the brown pipe cleaner around the bottle’s cap and make sure the two end pieces are of equal length. Bend the pipe cleaners into the desired shape, so they represent antlers.

These bottles can be presented in a six pack case, as individual bottles, or in gift baskets paired with other items such as a gift card or a holiday-themed glass.

Tie clip

Supplies: • Blank tie clip • Hammer • Steel block • Metal stamping kit • Black acrylic paint • Paper towels

A personalized tie clip is not only unique, but also a very useful gift for a father, uncle or grandfather.

Any sized tie clip will work. Place the part of the tie clip to be personalized flat on top of the steel block.

Take the first desired letter to be stamped on the tie clip and place it in the preferred spot on the tie clip. Using a hammer, hit straight down on the top of the metal stamp, making sure to hold the stamp firmly while keeping it straight so the letters do not come out crooked or uneven.

Repeat with each letter until all desired letters are stamped onto the tie clip.

The stamps can be used to put the letter of a first or last name, initials or to spell out a short word.

Once the letters are done, put a small amount of the black acrylic paint onto the paper towel and then dab the paint onto the tie clip over the letters. Be sure to rub the paint in so it gets into all the crevices of the stamped out letters. Use a clean paper towel to wipe off the excess paint, leaving the letters darkened and noticeable.

Buffing the tie clip will give it a finished, shiny look, and it can be presented in a box or with a new holiday tie.

Note jar

Supplies: • Mason Jar (any size) • Colored paper (Three or more different colors) The holidays are a perfect time to show just how much a significant other is appreciated.

A note jar allows every aspect of that person to be recognized in a touching and personal way.

On one color of paper, write all your favorite characteristics the person posseses, from the obvious to the more minor quirks he or she has. Write as many or as few notes as desired and place them in the jar.

Using a different colored paper, write memories made with the person. Each note can touch on a favorite event or moment that he or she was a part of, and reading these notes will remind him or her of times shared together.

With the third colored paper, write any goals or memories you hope to make and achieve with the person in mind. These notes will show just how much you wish to keep him or her in your life. Place these notes in the jar as well, making sure the different colors are mixed.

On another piece of paper, make a key that explains what type of note each color of paper contains.

Decorate the jar or leave it on its own so the colored paper will show through the glass.

Photo box

Supplies: • Cardstock paper • Glue • Paperclips • Scrapbook paper • Ribbon • Photos

This gift is easy to make, easy to keep, and presents photos in a fun and different way. It has the perfect personal, homemade touch that shows people just how much they are appreciated. Not only is it unique and original, but it can also be customized in countless ways.

To make this exploding photo box, use cardstock paper to make three squares of different sizes: 9 x 9”, 8 ½ x 8 ½” and 8 ¼ x 8 ¼”. Score each square piece so that there are nine small squares in each big square. Cut out the squares at each of the corners of each big square. Fold along the creases and make the edges of the squares slightly round. Glue together the middle of each big square to the bottom of the others, the smallest square on top and the largest square on bottom.

For the lid, cut a 6 ¼ x 6 ¼” piece of cardstock. Make creases about 1 ½” away from each side. Make diagonal creases in each square at each corner. Fold the creases and paperclip each corner to hold the lid together.

Decorate the entire box with patterned scrapbook paper.

Once the patterned paper is glued down, glue a photo onto each flap. To close the box, hold up the flaps and place the lid over the top. Decorate the lid with ribbon or stickers.

Monogram mug

Supplies: • Glass mug • Adhesive scrapbook letter(s) • Sharpie art pens (preferred colors)

This gift is perfect for a teacher, host or employer. Not only will the personal, handmade touch to this mug give it a special look, but it is also a fun gift that will enhance the tea and coffee the gift receiver drinks.

Any blank mug will work as long as it is clean and made of glass. White mugs work well as the Sharpie colors will show the most on a plain white background.

To start, place the scrapbook letter in its desired place on the mug. Use one letter for the person’s first or last intials or multiple letters for his or her name.

After the letter is smoothly and neatly on the mug, use the Sharpies to dot the entire area around the letter. Silver and gold give the mug a festive look, although any type and number of colors will work.

Once satisfied with the dotted design, carefully peel off the letter sticker, leaving the letter’s shape in the middle of all the dots. Bake the mug in the oven for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Leave the mug to cool in the oven once it is turned off.

It is best to hand wash these mugs to preserve the bond between the Sharpie pen and the mug.

15 Dec 2015

Feature

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New Years around the globe

HISTORY New Year’s Day officially became a bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 1974, but before this, many countries and civilizations already celebrated the turning of the year. The Roman calendar designated March 1 as the start of a new year, and during the Middle Ages, a new year was celebrated on Dec. 25, March 1, March 25 (Feast of Annunciation) and Easter. The Gregorian calendar used Jan. 1, and this date was quickly adopted by Catholic countries and gradually adopted by Protestant countries. Until 1752, both the British Empire and its American colonies celebrated the new year in March.

Compiled by Annanlee Chang

CHINA

BERLIN

USA

New Year’s Eve “Happy New Year!”

Americans enjoy staying up as late as their tired brains will allow, seeing the old year leave and the new year come at midnight on Dec. 31. It is traditional to watch the Times Square Ball drop in New York City, make hard-tokeep resolutions and kiss at midnight.

RUSSIA

Chinese New Year Spring Festival “Xīn nián kuài lè!”

The Chinese lunar calendar celebrates the New Year around February. Each cycle of 12 years is represented by 12 different animals. It is traditional for people to carry lanterns and join in parades led by a silk dragon, the Chinese symbol of strength.

People also eat long noodles for longevity as well as give younger children red envelopes filled with money.

Silvester “Prosit Neujahr!”

Berlin celebrates the New Year on Jan. 1 with hazardous rockets shot from windows.

Another tradition that has been alive for decades is the Berliner Silvesterlauf—the pancake run!

AMSTERDAM

Oudejaarsavond “Gelukkig Nieuwjaar!”

Traditions of Amsterdam’s Jan. 1 New Year include drinking champagne, eating oliebollen (a greasy, deep-fried piece of dough stuffed with apple and raisins) and shooting fireworks. Everyone takes to the streets to celebrate.

Novyy god “с Новым Годом!”

Russia originally celebrated the New Year on Sept. 1, which ended the tax year. However, in an attempt to westernize the country, the date was moved to Jan. 1. At 11:55 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, a pre-recorded address by Russia’s president appears on TV listing the achievements of the past year.

At midnight, the Russian national anthem is nationally broadcasted on TV and people exchange gifts.

Traditions include decorating a fir tree and the visit of Grandfather Frost (the equivalent of Santa) with his granddaughter, Snegurochka (“The Snow Girl”).

BUDAPEST

MEXICO

Szilveszter “Boldog új évet!”

Budapest’s New Year is a three-day celebration from Dec. 30 to Jan. 1. A dish called kocsonya, made from parts of pig feet, is eaten the day following the 72-hour party.

Año Nuevo “Feliz Año Nuevo!”

Mexico celebrates the New Year on Jan. 1. Various rituals are used from many of the world’s cultures. Twelve grapes at the countdown represent 12 wishes, lentils around the door represent abundance, and sweeping towards the outside of the house drives away negativity accumulated from the previous year. Wearing red undergarments that night attracts love and yellow undergarments attract wealth.

STOCKHOLM

BRAZIL

Ano Novo “Feliz Ano Novo!”

Brazil celebrates the New Year on Jan. 1, and it is traditional to give Lemania, a popular goddess in Brazilian myths who has control over the waters, gifts as well as to eat pork and fish to signify moving forward.

Different colors are known to attract different kinds of luck— white is peace, green is good health, yellow is money, red is romance/passion and purple is inspiration. Choosing the right color undergarment is also very important.

Nyårsafton “Gott Nytt År!”

Stockholm has celebrated the New Year in Skansen since 1895, where a wellknown Swede usually reads Tennyson’s poem “Ring Out, Wild Bells” at midnight on Dec. 31.

JAPAN

THAILAND

Songkran Festival “Swạsdī pī hım!”

Thailand celebrates the New Year with a three-day water festival from April 13 to 15, called Songkran, the Buddhists’ celebration of the New Year.

Traditions include parades with giant Buddha statues that spray water on people and the release of fish into rivers as an act of kindness. Strings tied around each other’s wrists show respect and are meant to be kept on until they fall off naturally.

Shōgatsu “Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu!”

Japan celebrates the New Year on Jan. 1. Traditional pieces to a family meal include osechi ryori (traditional Japanese New Year foods), recognizable by their Jubako box, which is packed with several layers and is similar to a bentō box. Different kinds of dishes signify different types of luck— prawns for longevity and herring roe for fertility.

Like in China, families in Japan traditionally give younger children small envelopes of money.

2015: a year of progress, momentum and change

[Continued from page 1] In another kind of entertainment, the movie industry has been steadily growing. Fast and Furious continued its sequel with a seventh movie without Paul Walker. Because of Walker’s tragic and sudden death at the end of 2013, the actor was honored with the song “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa, featuring Charlie Puth on the movie’s soundtrack. The song was #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 for 12 weeks straight.

Controversy surrounding self-expression and individuality was tested when Guiliana Rancic of E’s Fashion Police made comments interpreted as racist about singer/actress Zendaya’s dreadlocks at the Oscars.

Soon after the racist comment, Mattel aimed to create a Barbie that replicated Zendaya’s exact appearance on the night of the Oscars.

“She’s a role model who is focused on standing up for yourself, your culture and for what you believe in,” said Michelle Chidoni, a Mattel spokesperson. “That’s very relevant for girls.”

Caitlyn Jenner debuted her new self on the cover of Vogue magazine. The sex change prompted even more KardashianJenner drama and was a huge step for the LGBTQ population.

A less positive event involving millions of Americans, the Ashley Madison scandal, blew up in September when a hacking group called The Impact Team released detailed user information from the site’s database. Americans suddenly became very aware

of how unfaithful their country’s marriages had become.

At WHS, both sports and other programs had a successful year. Mock Trial took 4th place at the Regional Mock Trial Competition.

“Countless hours spent analyzing fact patterns and Supreme Court rulings with attorney coaches have expanded our understanding of the legal system,” said Madhav Soni ‘16. “Ironically, Mock Trial has taught me not to be afraid of judgement.”

WHS alumni are thriving in the real world and Ben Hannel ‘15 earned a prestigious spot on the U.S. Physics Team. This year, only 400 out of the 4,400 who applied were accepted after the first exam, then after the second test, 20. The overall acceptance was 0.45%. Hannel will be a U.S. representative at the Physics Olympiad.

Also in the physics realm, physics teacher Scott Holloway received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. He was one of two teachers chosen from California and had the opportunity to meet the president.

In sports, former head football coach Jim Benkert announced he would be leaving WHS to coach for the school’s top rival, Oaks Christian High School on Jan. 14. Although the WHS team didn’t beat OCHS this year, the overall season was impressive and successful.

Theo Howard ‘16 accepted his jersey on Oct. 8 for the 2016

Semper Fidelis All American Bowl and will be playing for the West team.

The WHS swim team went undefeated in the Marmonte League, boy’s track and field were Marmonte League champions for the second consecutive year and boy’s golf took the title of Marmonte League Champions.

“We win because our team is made up of a group of talented, hardworking, fun-loving players and it’s an honor to be on a team with them,” said golf player Jerry Song ‘17.

In addition to sports, the 2015/2016 school year kicked off with a new principal, new administration and new teachers.

“They’re more relaxed about certain aspects of our school but still cracking down on more consistent rule violations like dress code,” said Breann Tobias ‘16. “Overall, I’ve noticed a much more positive and understanding vibe from the new administration.”

Overall, 2015 has been largely characterized by change, whether it’s a new coach, new administrators or new marriage laws. Technology and science have progressed to the point where imagination can become reality. Political happenings both locally and around the world have and will continue to lead the way the world reacts to religion, provides mercy and retaliates against hate.

2015 has changed everything and everyone in its path, and 2016 will determine whether that momentum carries, stagnates or intensifies.

6

Feature

The Force

In Star Wars I, Queen Padme Amidala of Naboo is the target of a devious coup d’etat.

The evil Sith forces barricade Naboo, and the Jedi dispatch Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi to resolve this issue.

When they arrive on Naboo, they are ambushed and are forced to seek help from the Gungan outcast Jar-Jar Binks. Jinn sees the power of the Force flowing within young Anakin Skywalker and requests that he join him to train as a Jedi.

However, Skywalker is enslaved to a master, but challenges him to a pod race for his freedom. He easily wins the race and returns to the Jedi base on Coruscant with the others.

Then Amidala, Jinn, Kenobi and Skywalker return to Naboo to neutralize the threat. During the battle with Sith Lord Darth Maul, Maul kills Jinn but Obi-Wan Kenobi avenges his master, promising Jinn to train Skywalker. The citizens of Naboo are victorious, and the Sith has been stopped for the time being.

The 1st chronological installment in the series was followed by Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones. 10 years after the events of Episode I, the Jedi encounter opposition in the form of Sith Lord Count Dooku. With the Sith now raising a mass droid army to fight the Jedi, the Jedi Council persuades the Senate to raise a mass army of its own.

Kenobi learns that the bounty hunter Jango Fett is the same man who is creating the Jedi’s army of clones. Meanwhile, Skywalker senses that his mother is in trouble and returns to his hometown Tatooine to check on her.

When he arrives, he finds his mother dead at the hand of the Sith. Skywalker returns in anger and joins the Jedi as they go to the planet Geonosis to invade the Sith droid army base.

In the ensuing mass battle, Jango Fett and the Jedi are victorious.

The Jedi restore balance, Skywalker marries Amidala and all is well.

Chancelor Palpatine of the Senate has been captured by the Sith Lord Count Dooku and his apprentice General Grevious.

Obi Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker are sent to rescue him, and they succeed while Count Dooku is killed, but Grevious escapes.

When they return to Coruscant, the base of the Jedi Council, Palpatine reveals himself to be the powerful Sith Lord Darth Sidious and persuades Skywalker to join the dark side of the force to satiate his thirst for power.

To complete Skywalker’s conversion to the dark side, Darth Sidious dubs his new pupil Darth Vader and then uses his alter-ego of the Chancellor of the Jedi Senate to take control of the clone army and exterminate all the Jedi.

Darth Sidious succeeds and the only remaining Jedi are Kenobi and Jedi Master Yoda.

Kenobi decides to confront Darth Vader, who has travelled to the lava planet Mustafar to eliminate Darth Sidious’ opposition.

Kenobi arrives with a pregnant Padme, concerned to confront Darth Vader. Vader and Kenobi duel, and in the ensuing battle, Padme is wounded by Vader. Vader falls into the lava of Mustafar, but is saved by Darth Sidious and repaired with robotic limbs.

Padme only lives long enough to give birth to a son and a daughter, Luke and Leia. Kenobi and Yoda pledge to look after the children, training them for the inevitable fight with the Sith.

Widely regarded as the best of the prequel movies, Revenge of the Sith was directed and written by George Lucas.

The movie starred many popular actors and actresses such as Natalie Portman, Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Lee. Often criticized for having a lack of plot and excitement, the Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones did not live up to the Star Wars hype and relatively disappointed fans.

However, Star Wars fans were compensated with a sentimental thriller that successfully connected the prequel to the original trilogy.

he e t f pir o m E ts Gif ctic Death la a G

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Star Wars IV: A New Hope (originally titled Star Wars) was the first entry ever released in the Star Wars saga by then emerging director, George Lucas.

This movie is iconic for being the first Star Wars ever released and its star-cast, most notably Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill.

Released in 1977, Star Wars IV serves as the foundation for the series and created a landmark in cinematography.

The grand visual effects, sci-fi plot and action sequences were far ahead of its time and set Lucas, Ford and Hamill into the upper echelons of American film.

The plot focuses on the Rebel Alliance under the rule of Princess Leia (portrayed by Carrie Fisher) and the attempt of the army to destroy the Death Star.

The movie introduces key characters, Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, who are inadvertently dragged into the battle between the Rebels and the Galactic Empire.

Unknowingly carrying a tracking device, the Millenium Falcon travels to a hidden Rebel base on planet Yavin IV. Once the Death Star discovers the Rebel’s location, the Galactic Empire plans an attack mission on Yavin IV. However, the mission ultimately backfires and Luke Skywalker uses the Force to destroy the Death Star, gaining a huge leap in his quest to become a Jedi and the quest to restore peace to the galaxy.

The 1977 release of Star Wars: A New Hope led the movie to become a cult hit before launching into the home studios of the mainstream audiences.

The revolutionary screenplay and ground breaking animations pioneered future scientific-fiction films and was extremely far ahead of its time.

Lucas went on to produce two more sequels to A New Hope to complete the trilogy: Star Wars V: Empire Strikes Back and Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi.

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7 Humans of Westlake Q: Who or what is your favorite Star Wars character?

Dylan jarvis

While neither V or VI surpassed IV in box office collections, the last two movies in the sequel received critical acclaim from fans and critics alike. Both sequels followed the saga of Skywalker, Kenobi, Leia and Solo, while also adding notable characters like Yoda and Jabba the Hutt.

Star Wars V: Empire Strikes back takes place after the events of A New Hope.

Three years after the end of A New Hope, the rebels have made their new base on planet Yavin IV. However, the Galactic Empire has found them and forced them to relocate to a new base on the ice-filled planet Hoth.

The Empire launches a full scale attack on the Rebel base, forcing the rebels to flee. The group flees in the Millennium Falcon, while Skywalker goes to Dagobah under Obi Wan’s instruction.

Unfortunately, the Millennium Falcon was tracked by a bounty hunter hired by the Galactic empire, Boba Fett, the son of Jango Fett.

The next movie, Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi, marked the end of the original trilogy. Princess Leia manages to free Han Solo from his carbonite imprisonment, but they both get captured.

Princess Leia is enslaved and Skywalker is captured and thrown into a gladiator pit where they fight to the death with an abominable monster known as the Rancor. Using the force and his Jedi Knight skills, Skywalker barely manages to escape.

However, with the help of Lando Clarrisian, who has disguised himself as one of Hutt’s body guards, the group manages to kill Boba Fett.

Princess Leia manages to strangle Jabba the Hutt, and the group escapes.

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Han Solo returns thirty years after defeating the Galactic Empire, facing a new threat from the evil Kylo Ren and his army of Stormtroopers. The continuation of the famous George Lucas saga releases on Dec. 18.

The first trailer sparked racial backlash. when prominent black British actor, John Boyega, was featured in the trailer. #BoycottStarWarsVII became a trending topic on social media as some commentators accused the film of promoting "white genocide."

This isn't the first Star Wars movie surrounded by racial controversy. The original Star Wars trilogy (1977-1983) was criticized for not being diverse enough. Actor Billy Dee Williams was the only lead character of color.

Although Samuel L. Jackson played the role of Mace Windu in the prequels (1999-2005), controversial CGI character Jar Jar Binks was viewed as an offensive stereotypical AfricanAmerican character from minstrel shows.

Casting Boyega, Oscar Issac (of Guatemalan and Cuban ancestry) and Lupita Nyong'o, director J.J. Abrams is trying to broaden diversity and appeal.

Complications were encountered during the shooting, involving leaked photos and plot details and Harrison Ford sustaining an injury aboard the Millennium Falcon.

Although J. J. Abrams initially declined directing Star Wars, he now serves as not only the director but also one as one of the co-writers.

With plenty of science-fiction experience (both Star Treks and Super 8), and being a life-long Star Wars fan, Abrams was chosen as the perfect man for the job.

Star Wars VII is the first of a new trilogy featuring Carrie Fisher reprising her role as Princess Leia, Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker and Harrison Ford as Han Solo.

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‘19

“Chewbacca, because of Chewbacca.”

jeffrey simpson

‘18

“Jar Jar Binks, because he’s really funny and he’s the best character ever.”

Danielle sanford

“Luke Skywalker.

That’s what we’re going to call my baby who is going to be born around May the Fourth.”

Emily Platt

‘17

“R2-D2, because I like to pretend I’m a robot.”

Marissa veis ‘16

“Darth Vader, because I am secretly evil.”

Compiled by Annanlee Chang

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8

Opinion

theArrow

Schooltide greeting Michelle Choi Co-Editor in Chief ‘Twas the night before finals, when all through the school, not a student was stirring, not even swim team in the pool; the textbooks were stacked on the desk with care, in hopes that with studying, exams would be fair.

The students were bleary eyed, caffeinated with dread, while visions of failing danced in their heads.

I, in my sweatpants with Netflix and snacks, decided to watch some Friends to relax.

When out in the group chat arose such a clatter, I sprung from my bed to see what was the matter.

With hundreds of thousands of messages or so, lighting my face up with a glow, when what to my wondering eyes did appear, a study guide from a most glorious peer.

And with fervor and anger my frustration came, as I studied and studied then I exclaimed: “Now, Oaks Christian and Oak Park and Beverly Hills too, before winter break bid first semester adieu!”

The very next day whilst sitting in the hall waiting for the door to open and fearing my grades’ fall, A moment of silence was held for the students as we all felt terribly hopeless and clueless.

After two weeks of winter break go by, then months of lessons are needed to apply.

For many students this exam makes or breaks, unfortunately this is not one you can fake.

So, for us students, please find mercy in your hearts and change the schedule like those of our counterparts.

All we ask for is two weeks of peace.

Think of your son and daughter and nephew and niece.

My teacher exclaimed as we prepped for our fight-“Happy First Semester to all and to all a good night!”

Comedic candidates Clare Doyle Feature Editor An undoubtedly vital part of the American presidential campaign process is the “appeal towards the public.” But does all the mocking and extravagant criticizing assure American citizens that their next president will be ready for his or her position...or for the next night of satire?

Television and social media exist as one of the most widespread outlets to reach the wide age range of the American public.

Unlike debates or public political conferences, comedy shows can remodel the complexity of a party runner and his or her beliefs into a simpler and more relatable honesty. In other words, it makes campaigners look more like your next door neighbor (just as human and flawed).

Every four year election has renewed this tradition of using comedy to spike ratings and attract voter’s attention.

Since the 1970s, everyone from Richard Nixon to Sarah Palin has appeared on screen. They have challenged, informed and even uninformed voters, causing them to speculate where their party loyalties truly lie.

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is at the forefront of political satire and campaign comedy sketches. In 1976, SNL began its trademark of political satire with the presidential election between Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter. Chevy Chase as Ford and Dan Aykroyd as Carter became the first of a long line of impressionists to paint a fault-finding view of each campaigner.

SNL has its share of prominent imitators. This includes

Larry David, known for his impersonation of Bernie Sanders and Taran Killam, known for his impersonation of Donald Trump.

Other comedy shows have joined the political trend by inviting candidates as guests. The show Ellen recently invited Hillary Clinton to make an appearance in the late fall of 2015.

As the music began playing, Clinton walked on stage waving excitedly to the crowd. After being seated, the candidate instantly tried to take a stab at humor by starting off the conversation with comments about rapper Kanye West’s shocking but unrealistic announcement of joining the 2020 campaign for the U.S. presidency. The lighthearted joke stirred favor with the crowd.

In contrast with Trumps catastrophic attempt at hosting SNL in November of 2015, tweets after Clinton’s debut on Ellen were positive. They praised Clinton’s open and fun attitude during her time on the show.

On the other hand, some comedy shows like The Colbert Report are commonly viewed as more “serious”, putting candidates in the “hot seat” instead of providing a laid back atmosphere.

Some sources criticize these shows for favoring one party over the other, pointing out a number of attitude changes between TV hosts and candidates.

“When a Democrat is the guest, Colbert is Barbara Walters.

When a Republican is on, he turns into Tim Russert,” was noted in a recent critique of Stephen Colbert and his preference for right wing conservatives. Democrats are criticized and Republicans are given a fair endorsement. Whether this bias is true is up to the individual to decide. However, these allegations further show that people have noticed a bias.

The way in which comedy shows can alter people’s views of presidential candidates will only continue with a technologycentered future. But the real question to consider is: Will the next political impersonating powerhouse hinder your vote?

Small businesses take a trip down the rabbit hole Helen Shi Amanda Yao Opinion Editors The Rabbit Hole Cafe in Agoura Hills closed on Nov. 25, 2015. For nearly four years, the “neighborhood cafe with a conscience” delighted customers with a unique variety of vegetarian and vegan foods.

But due to the cruel disadvantages of being a small, independent business in the capitalist American economy, the life of The Rabbit Hole came to a premature end.

Like many small business, not only will the Rabbit Hole Cafe’s absence go unnoticed, but also its legacy will be replaced so quickly that the community will forget it was ever there.

It’s not hard to imagine a Domino’s springing up on the grave of the deceased Rabbit Hole.

How shameful would it be for giant greasy pizzas to trample healthy vegan options?

This is only one example of an unfortunately common occurrence. Generally, small businesses are simply incapable of surviving long-term due to financial instability and competition with larger corporations.

According to Bloomberg, a major global

provider of financial information, about eight one in a million and only serve to prove that in ten small businesses fail within the first 18 there are only two options left in the market field: go big or go home. months.

80% of small businesses struggle to surThese greatly skewed chances of success vive in the American economy because they are make it impossible for the smaller stores to surcrushed by the competitive environment. Not vive the fight between the lions.

America’s economic ecosystem only breeds only is this quite depressing, but it also highly the strongest. People aim for the top of the food ironic.

What happened to chain, and as a result, they the so-called American throw away ingenuity and the feeling of community.

Dream? Why is it, that in Most of the stores a society that supposedly bout eight in ten around the local neighchampions individuality, small businesses millions of unique dreams borhood are chain stores. fail within the first The independent family are overrun by the mainstream ones?

18 months. run cafe or hole-in-theThe common crash wall novelty store is noto be seen. and burn of these busi-Bloomberg whereOne nesses reveals the inferby one these tile soil of the American small businesses are economy. weeded out by the intense Although America was once known as a competition, land hungry corporations and perland of opportunity and the haven for entrepre- haps most importantly, consumers who turn a neurs, the country has now become a battlefield blind eye to their efforts. where winner takes all.

People who frequent a small business usuSure, there are well known success stories ally have similar things to say about their exlike Steve Jobs and Bill Gates making a fortune perience: friendly and sincere staff, reasonable from almost nothing. However, these cases are prices, a strong sense of community and an ami-

“A

able atmosphere.

The genuine and personal connection felt within small businesses cannot be replicated in, say, a fast food chain or the mainstream supermarket.

A harsh reality is that all these positive aspects have little to no sway in the dealings of the consumer economy.

Steps should be taken to preserve small businesses. Anyone can contribute by participating in Small Business Saturday, which is an American shopping holiday scheduled on the day after Thanksgiving. Another option is simply getting to know the various small businesses in one’s community.

The value of small businesses seems to only be realized when it’s too late, and often the loss seems to be felt on a personal level.

The friendly hellos from the manager or the warm smiles and side chats from well known employees will exist no more.

We two journalists have a mutual feeling of sadness with the closing of The Rabbit Hole Cafe. We owed a WHS alumni from the class of ‘15 and a close friend of ours a trip down the rabbit hole, but the life of this small business ended too soon.

We’re sorry, Mara.

15 Dec 2015

Opinion

9

The not so happy holidays Kay Lim Opinion Editor

Five more minutes until school is out and the long awaited winter break will begin. Students sit at their desks imagining their day at home which would consist of sleeping until 11 a.m., lounging the day away in pajamas, staying up all night watching Netflix and most importantly, not doing homework.

Students’ eyes remain glued to the clock as they watch the last three minutes tick away.

Anticipation builds up within the students’ minds as they wonder why the clock is ticking so slowly. Their minds have already drifted into winter break heaven.

Bam. The teacher shatters their daydreams with last minute homework assignments and project, both due right after break. Silently, their once carefree souls are replaced with a heavy burden.

Every year one of the most anticipated breaks is ruined by the enormous amount of work.

Homework starts to pile up from multiple classes, with more than one teacher assigning detailed projects due at the end of the break. But we all know what happens when teachers assign work—procrastination.

Projects that are assigned tend to be the ones that are meant to be spread out over break.

So, if a student were to procrastinate until the last day, that would mean hours upon hours of work.

Unwilling to give up their leisure time, the students leave their work untouched until the last few days of winter break.

Students end up procrastinating until the last day or two before they go back to school

Face your fears Amanda Yao Opinion Section Editor

because they have more entertaining activities to do.

Additionally, some teachers see the break as an opportunity to allot plenty of assignments as a “review” in preparation for final exams.

Finals week is two weeks after winter break; the timing is very frustrating to many students.

The decision to place finals after the break creates problems for students.

The nature of students over break is to simply do nothing related to school. Because teachers know finals are so soon after the break, many of them see the break as an opportunity to catch up or review. This doesn’t make sense.

Students work diligently all first semester and are in need of a break by December. By the time break starts, they are exhausted and need the time to relax and refresh themselves after four strenuous months of school.

One effective solution to this problem would be to place finals before the break since students are still in the right mindset and there

has not been a lapse in learning.

On that note, students who travel encounter a bigger issue. How are they supposed to balance their school work with family time while they are away from home?

The struggle of bringing textbooks, notes and other study materials is an annoyance to those who travel on break.

Winter break is the time when students want to spend their days with family and friends. The purpose of the break is for relaxation (meaning no homework assignments, projects or studying for finals), hence the word “break.”

Some students choose to do their work before winter break begins but others prefer to do it while on vacation, which induces larger amounts of stress.

Moreover, finals should be placed before the two week long break. It would allow students to relax during the break, without have to worry about finals upon returning to school.

Say “yes” to Sadie Hawkins Steven Huang Opinion Editor There is only one thing I fear more than fear itself. It isn’t the childhood monsters hiding under my bed. It isn’t my editor Alex Shi on a good day.

It’s the double X chromosome creatures, beings bred from pure cooties, and aliens to my teenage self.

Girls have always been a paramount fear to my developing adolescence.

In fact, I’m self-diagnosed with PAMS, a disease far worse than any novelty cold. PAMS, or Passive Asian Male Syndrome, hits hard.

This disease strikes fear into the hearts of even the most valiant of Asian males, turning honorary Male Scouts into juvenile Boy Scouts.

Every holiday season brings dances, and every dance brings the inconceivable thought of asking a girl to that dance.

Speaking on behalf of all males, I know that we are fully capable of some extraordinary feats.

However, when it comes to asking that special someone to homecoming or prom, our mental fortitude seems to falter in our times of utmost need, leaving us nervous, anxious and speechless.

Every dance preseason turns me into a mess of writhing, indecisive male hormones.

I am plagued with questions such as: Will she say yes? Should I even do it? How will she react?

Is it okay to cry if she says no?

What kind of burnt offering should I offer to God to give me strength in this moment of pure fear? Unfortunately, the solution to these questions is no easy answer.

Thus, I realized we guys have to sometimes follow Shia Labeouf ’s paragon of manliness and, unfortunately, “Just do it”.

Progressing through my high school career, I happened upon something that could radically change my life for the better. I didn’t discover a

Her lack of physical attractiveness caused suitors to ignore her for 15 years, and no man ever wished to court her.

Her father set up a race to aid his unfortunate daughter, and the race would later be the basis for Sadie Hawkins Day. Whoever got caught by Sadie would eventually be her unlucky suitor.

When I heard about this dance, my heart longed for such a miracle.

But, it wasn’t a yearning born solely out of my nervous breakdowns. I still believe that asking that someone special to a dance is truly spectacular.

I love the idea of a Sadie Hawkins dance at WHS. There really is something special in all the preparations that go into that one pivotal moment.

GRAPHIC BY DHEEKSHI ARVIND Even all the pre-asking anxieties, the nervous breakdowns and the loss of cure for cancer, and I didn’t find a dollar on the words are trumped by the warm feeling of that floor; I discovered a girl named Sadie Hawkins. final “yes”.

She wasn’t my future wife nor was she a You get so much more out of the asking, mystical genie who granted me wishes. She, or that in a sense, you’re also the one receiving. rather it, was the name of a dance in which my It also gives a wonderful opportunity for greatest fear could be avoided. girls to express their creativity in the form of a Sadie Hawkins was the epitome of every- proposal. thing I always wanted in my high school social Every year, guys make memorable proposlife. als that take the school population by storm, To better understand this amazing cultural and countless students revel in the cuteness or phenomenon, we must first look at its humble puniness of such amazing proposals. origins.

The dance would also be a nice addition to Sadie Hawkins is the name of a dance in high school socials. Every year, dances seem to which the traditional rite of asking falls in the draw less and less people, and a Sadie Hawkins hands of the girls, a welcome break for many dance might help overturn these diminishing guys who have to bear the age old tradition of social turn outs. It would give a new rhyme and the men having to ask the dates to dances. reason to attend a dance.

The name “Sadie Hawkins” originated Countless high schools throughout the from an old story; it actually didn’t come from country have Sadie Hawkins dances. Moreover, a school dance. these dances are often met with much anticipaSadie Hawkins is the brainchild of car- tion. toonist Al Capp, and Hawkins unfortunately Thus I stand here today, in my current held the position of being one of the “homeliest nervousness, anxiety and speechlessness, to ask girls” in her town. By homeliest, he means a lack “Will you, WHS, go to a Sadie Hawkins with of certain bodily beauty. me?”

Vampires are real.

Or so my seven-year-old self so wholeheartedly believed.

The supernatural beings of my mind were not the sparkly teenagers of “Twilight.”

No, these were much, much worse. Bloodsucking fangs, black capes and deathly pale skin threatened to jump out at me every time I stepped into a dark room.

Of course, being the naive child that I was, I believed every conspiracy theory and random myth about an inherently mythical creature. And of course, I believed that my bedroom closet harbored this mythical creature.

At the time, my bed directly faced the closet. For nights on end I would stay up long past everyone had gone to bed, tense as a floorboard, eyes peeking out over the covers and fixed apprehensively on the closet doors that I was certain would slam open any second, and my worst fear would spring out at me.

My sanguivoriphobia became so bad that I forced my parents to keep the hallway light on until I fell asleep. Because vampires were on my mind as I, at long last, fell asleep each night. I recall several instances when I would wake up from a nightmare in cold sweat.

Every night when my mom tucked me into bed, I had her reassure me that the closet door was, indeed, completely closed.

Not one crack or else “the vampire is going to get out,” I told her.

Eventually, she became so exasperated with my ridiculous fear, that one night, she told me to open the closet. At first I was extremely unwilling, because obviously Mr. Vampire was going to snatch me away forever.

But at her insistence, I slowly climbed out of bed and crept toward the closet. I pried the door open a centimeter, then an inch, and stopped.

Where’s the vampire? Hm. I swung the door open, ready to meet my doom.

Nothing. It was just a dark mass of clothing carelessly discarded in the corner.

A sharp breath of relief escaped my lips.

From that night onward, I suppose you could say that my fear was eradicated. As soon as I saw that there was nothing in that dark closet, I was no longer afraid.

Of course, now my irrational fear of vampires seems silly and childish. I can look back on this memory and laugh at myself, even though my fear felt very real back then.

I think that we all have vampires in our closets- fears that exist, but are never confronted.

Maybe it’s that research paper that is due tomorrow, but hasn’t been touched.

Maybe it’s the upcoming exam in a difficult class. Maybe it’s that one guy/girl that you are physically incapable of talking to, but wish you could talk to.

What if you started that research paper? What if you sat down and studied for that test? What if you greeted that guy/ girl with a simple hello today? What if you opened the door, and realized that vampires don’t just casually chill in closets?

Though it sounds cliche, face your fears. Exterminating those monsters under your bed is extremely gratifying, because, then again, what is there to be afraid of anyway?

10

Arts & Entertainment

Rosti returns to Westlake Michelle Choi Co-Editor in Chief

Got game?: a look at e-sports Jake Kim Sports Editor There are 30 seconds on the clock. All the players are frenzying to get as many points as possible. It appears to be a state of pure mayhem.

Out of all the countless hours of constant practice and strain, it all comes down to this.

Video games.

Though they were originally invented as a leisurely way to kill time and have fun, in recent years they have transformed into an intense organization of competitions. It’s not just fun and games anymore.

Many high schoolers strive for similar quotas: pass high school, go through college, get married and get rich (not necessarily in this order).

Pro-gamers strive for another story: go big, burn out and retire young with all the spoils.

It is safe to say that video gaming can be taken as a career path. Coming from the basic idea of a couple flashing images on a screen, multi-million dollar industries and companies have risen out of nothing. Some famous

companies include Fnatic, Cloud9 and Liquid, where they are also represented by their own professional gaming team.

Technological innovations are made on a frequent basis, allowing gaming to become a more immersive experience. Ground breaking records of speed and mental acuity are acquired to expound the physical boundaries of the human condition.

But don’t get too excited. Competition on this side of the world is fierce.

Tournaments of a large variety

of games can reward millions of dollars at a time. There are thousands of tournaments for mainstream games, each rewarding millions of dollars at a time.

A number of tournaments include, but are not limited to, League Championship Series, Electronic Sports League, Major League Gaming, Blizzcon and The International.

Each of these tournaments focuses on a different game or series of different games created by the same company.

With fortune comes fame. Spon-

sors such as Red Bull and Sony strive to sponsor rising gamers, treating them as if they were professional athletes.

Gaming is not as easy as it may seem. Games such as League of Legends, CS:GO and Starcraft, require intricate strategy and coordination in order to achieve success in the field.

The average pro gamer plays about six to eight hours a day to maintain his or her skill. In the times of upcoming tournaments, some professional teams are known to practice up to 12 to 14 hours and only reserve a few hours for sleep.

Aside from the do-or-die tournaments, gamers acquire money by ad income from livestreams on websites such as Azubu TV and Twitch.

Depending on the amount of viewers, some gamers earn up to $2,000 a day just for playing video games on stream.

Professional gamers are known to gain thousands, even millions of followers on social media. Selling merchandise also works and some gamers average a six figure salary.

This method of leisure won’t be going away any time soon. Video games are only increasing in popularity and prestige.

Coming soon to theaters near you

COURTESY PHOTOS

My family and I had the opportunity to go to Rosti Tuscan Kitchen in Calabasas. The family friendly Italian restaurant had a location in the Westlake Promenade (where Farfalle is currently) but relocated a few years ago.

The service was impeccable; a friendly, amicable staff greeted guests at the door. The dining area was beautifully lit, with vintage lightbulbs, creating a hipster vibe.

The meal began with a complementary serving of bread: a classic, warm, and crusty french bread. Two small bottles with olive oil and balsamic vinegar were available, as well as butter.

We began with a flat bread appetizer with cherry tomatoes, crispy pancetta and basil. The serving was generous with eight large slices. The flat bread had a mild kick of red chili flakes, which enhanced the juiciness of the cherry tomatoes. A mild cheese was also abundant, but not excessive. I would highly recommend this as an appetizer to share with form people.

The next appetizer was a trio of meatball sliders. The meatball was served on a bed of arugula and flavorful tomato sauce with a thin shaving of parmesan cheese all sandwiched in a soft, sweet bread.

Personally, I wished the meatball were a little saltier. However, it was my brother’s favorite dish.

I ordered the spaghetti di mare, a classic Italian sea food spaghetti in a white wine sauce. The seafood was perfectly cooked. The sauce was perfectly seasoned and the spaghetti was a perfect al dente.

My mother ordered the shrimp avocado salad served on a pizza crust. All salads at Rosti are available to be served on a pizza crust. The pizza crust is a deliciously crispy bread with a soft texture.

My father ordered the seafood risotto with tomato sauce. The rice was a little undercooked, which lent a crunchy texture. The tomato sauce was the same as the meatball sliders, a deliciously seasoned marinara.

Lastly, my brother ordered the salmon bow tie pasta with alfredo sauce. The alfredo was a little subpar, but the salmon was incredibly fresh and well cooked.

The food was incredibly fresh and the portions were large as well.

We finished the meal with tiramisu. It was sweet with a discrete taste of coffee, but it was still delicious. The marscopone cream balanced out the sweetness.

A generous chocolate drizzle covered the entire cake.

Although Rosti Tuscan Kitchen is slightly on the pricier side, I would highly recommend going for a comforting Italian meal.

theArrow

Concussion is based on a true story of a neuropathologist who struggles to bring awareness and evidence to the fact that football players, especially those who are in the NFL, consistently suffer from head injuries and face life threatening traumas.

Directed by Peter Landesman, the movie includes two time Academy Award winner Will Smith as Dr. Bennet Omalu, Alec Baldwin as Dr. Julian Bailes and Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Prema Mutiso.

This two hour long movie describes in great detail the true events of the sports injury that became well known due to Dr. Bennet Omalu.

Concussion is rated PG-13 and hits theaters on Dec. 25.

Daddy’s Home is a comedy starring Will Farrell, Mark Wahlberg, Linda Cardellini, Thomas Haden Church and Hannibal Buress.

Directed by Sean Anders, Daddy’s Home follows a mild-mannered radio executive, played by Will Ferrell, who strives to become the best step-dad to his wife’s two children.

Complications ensue when the children’s freewheeling and freeloading biological father, played by Mark Wahlberg, makes an unexpected appearance, forcing the two dads to compete for the time and affection of the kids.

Daddy’s Home tells a funny story about family and the fathers’ efforts to gain the favor of their children.

Rated PG, Daddy’s Home is one and half hours long and arrives in theaters on Dec. 25.

Joy tells the story of an ambitious woman, Joy Mangnano, who through hard work becomes a successful entrepreneur.

Joy struggles in her job as a commerce industry agent, where she is underestimated by employers. Through the lies, deceit and rough patches she faces in life, Joy realizes that to be successful in the unforgiving and cut-throat world, no one can be trusted. Unfortunately, the ones who prevent her from success are the ones who are closest to her.

Directed by David O’Russell and starring Jennifer Lawrence as Joy Mangnano, Bradley Copper as Neil and Robert De Niro as Rudy Mangnano. The two hour movie tells a story about family, love and loyalty. Joy is rated PG-13 and arrives in theaters on Dec. 25.

Compiled by Dheekshi Arvind

15 Dec 2015 Sports 11 Nothing but net: girls basketball attempts Title IX aims to rebound into season to provide equal opportunity

Kallyn Hobmann Feature Section Editor

Rachel Finegold Sports Section Editor

PHOTO BY KYLIE WEXLER

The girls varsity basketball team is ready to score. Under the leadership of new head coach Harry Carbonati, the team has been practicing everyday after school in order to prepare for this year’s season.

The team’s goal this year is to work together and have a fun and exciting season. Despite the team’s difficult season last winter, the players’ continuous training and practice have conditioned them for success.

Although its his first year as a coach for WHS, former Villanova Preparatory School head coach Carbonati has been coaching for 30 years.

He has also worked with many different levels of players. Carbonati enjoys knowing that he can help improve players and their experiences with the sport he loves.

Carbonati took the job as the WHS basketball coach in October and is both enthusiastic and ready to help the team succeed. He already feels that the players have gained confidence in their shooting, defense and offense skills.

Abigail Christie ’16 is anticipating her last upcoming season. “I love having a family away from home and spending time with my teammates,” said Christie.

She hopes the season will be rewarding for the entire team, and believes the team will work well together.

Sofia Pergolizzi ’16 is also looking forward

CROSS COURT PLAY: Mettel dribbles the ball down the court in an attempt to put WHS on the offensive against La Reina.

to her final season. She is looking forward to the time she will get to spend with her teammates on the bus rides, at the games and on Senior Night as well.

“My favorite part of being on the team is bonding with all of the girls on and off of the court,” said Pergolizzi.

She hopes the team will play hard at every game, leaving a positive image when she graduates.

Rachel Mettel ’17 and Azalia Gil ’17 play

as forward and guard, respectively, alongside guard Jenna Schramm ’18. The three players help add to the team’s strength.

On Dec. 7, the team went up against La Reina High School, falling short with a close score of 55 to 57.

On Dec. 18, WHS will play an away game against El Camino Real High School at 7:30 p.m.

The team will begin its open league play on Jan. 12. at 6:30 p.m. against Newbury Park High School.

Athletes to watch for

PHOTO BY STEVEN HUANG

PHOTO BY STEVEN HUANG

PHOTO BY ANDY XIA

Hannah Sharts Sport: Girls Soccer Graduation Year: 2017 Position: Center Back

Hunter Gettings Sport: Boys Basketball Graduation Year: 2016 Position: Shooting Guard

Charlie Douille Sport: Boys Soccer Graduation Year: 2016 Position: Center Midfield

Team Goals: “Our team would like to win Marmonte League and CIF this year. We were not satisfied after losing in the CIF finals last year, and we hope to win it all this year.”

Personal Accomplishments: Sharts was the 2014-2015 Marmonte League Defensive MVP and made the 2014-2015 All-Ventura County First Team.

She committed to UCLA in August 2015 for soccer.

She also represented her club team on the Western Conference Regional Team.

Keys to Success: “To succeed, we need to just make our shots offensively and continue playing a good defense.”

Team Goals: “We want to win Marmonte League and CIF this year. We have never won CIF in all of WHS basketball history, so it would be nice to make this year its first.”

Personal Aspirations: Gettings has hopes to make the All Marmonte League First Team.

Team Goals: “I want to help my team win as many games as we can because I know we can be really good if we work together and work hard.”

Individual Goals: “This year, I just want to expand my range of skills. Coach wants me to play at a new position, so I hope this will be a fun experience that will let me learn and become better.”

Personal Accomplishments: Douille helped his team win the National Tournament in Florida. He also got the opportunity to practice with Real Madrid.

Compiled by Andy Xia

Support the WHS newspaper!

Take an ACT, new PSAT, or new SAT Diagnostics Test at C2 for $20 All proceeds will benefit The Arrow C2 Education - Thousand Oaks 3825 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Unit P Westlake Village, CA 91362 Tel: 805-379-2300 Email: thousand.oaks@c2educate.com Please e-mail or call to schedule a diagnostic test, and mention The Arrow.

Title IX, a portion of the 1972 U.S. education amendment, is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender in schools that receive federal funding. This affects school programs including athletics on campuses around the nation.

According to Title IX, a school must prove that it provides athletic participation opportunities proportionate to student enrollment, demonstrate a continual expansion of athletic opportunities for the underrepresented sex, or fully and effectively accommodate the interest and ability of the underrepresented gender.

When a school fails to comply with the Title IX requirements, the school could stop receiving federal funds. These institutions may also face lawsuits, be required to make changes in their programs, and pay damages to students for lack of opportunities.

A breakdown of WHS athletics shows that there are 9 girls teams with 21 levels of play offered, and 11 boys teams with 28 levels of play offered. With similar numbers, the girls to boys team ratio appears to be close; however, the number of girls involved in athletic programs is less compared to the number of boys.

Although WHS remains in compliance with Title IX, the school is experiencing some difficulties in drawing females to school sports teams.

Both dance team and cheer have a large number of female participants; however, they are not considered sports teams by the federal government.

Wrestling and football are theoretically co-ed athletic programs but have failed to draw female athlete participants for many years.

When schools are in jeopardy of getting their federal funds cut, they often add another girls sport and cut the number of male athletes down.

Wrestling is often the first boys sport targeted because it has little to no female participation. Additionally, it does not draw as much outside interest as football, the only other boys sport without a girls team program.

Generally, it seems that girls often start sports when they are young and play on club teams outside of school. Moreover, their coaches have relationships with the local high school coaches, and the players with the most experience are often funneled directly into high school teams.

Other female athletes choose not to participate in high school associated sports.

Common complaints that female athletes have are that their sport is too much of a time commitment or that the intensity of being on the team is too high.

“It really just wasn’t worth my time in the end,” said Margaret Dorhout ’16. “I wasn’t enjoying the sport enough for it to outweigh the consequence of having lower grades during season due to the huge time commitment.”

12

Sports

theArrow

Wrestling takes its intensity to the mats Marc Choi Katie Reul Staff Writers

PHOTO BY DHEEKSHI ARVIND

The WHS boys varsity wrestling team has had a positive outlook making for a strong start to its 2015-2016 winter season.

The wrestlers train from 3-5 p.m. Monday through Friday in preparation for competitions to learn essential cooperation skills. The season officially began on Dec. 5. The team had its first tournament, the Warrior Varsity Six Way Dual Meet, on Dec. 11 against Buena, Ventura, Valencia, El Camino and Alemany High Schools.

“Every person at each practice wants to be in that room,” said John Cuccia, coach of the WHS boys wrestling team. “I want to recognize all of the hard workers on the team.”

According to Cuccia, the kids understand their allegiance to the team as well as their academic responsibilities, no matter how physically exhausted they may be. Driven by an exuberant passion for the sport, the small team is committed to wrestling. The students work hard both inside and outside of the practice room.

“People might consider being a small team a weakness, but it also means we’re more tight knit,” said Noah Chess ’16. “We’re all friends.”

The boys wrestling team is looking to build up its team in order to maximize its competitive abilities. However, the limited number of players can also bring the team closer together and create an environment where members push each other to up their game, according to cocaptain Luke Rachels ‘16.

“It gives an opportunity for these guys to step up and show what they can do. Some of them are just waiting for a shot to prove themselves,” said Rachels. “I believe it’s giving people on our team the drive to be better than what they are expected to be.”

With a smaller group, Rachels sets his expectations high in order to maintain efficiency.

He plans on “working intensively” with members through conditioning and rigorous practices, as well as enforcing exercise outside of school.

“Everyone [at practice] wants to win,”

PRACTICE SCRIMMAGE: Fernando Lugo ‘17 lifts his teammate Rachels to try and earn the advantage to win.

said co-captain Chandler Greding ‘16. “With competition in the room, it just makes us better wrestlers overall.”

With the competitive attitude radiating in their practices, Greding wishes to capitalize on this element in order to ensure success against the team’s opponents.

According to Greding, the team aspires to place second or third overall in their league with four or five wrestlers going to CIF. However, he believes this can only be achieved through “pushing each other a lot harder since there are not many people.”

He plans on enforcing professional behavior to accomplish these goals by promoting leadership skills, administering responsibility and acting as a strong role model.

“My mind set to go out and win is my biggest strength,” said Greding. “I want to convey

to my teammates that if you set goals and you try to reach them, you can be successful.”

Incoming wrestler Joseph Thomas ‘19, is equally excited to dive into the new season. He expects the team to work diligently together and compete to the best of their ability, even as a small group.

“Nervous? No, I’m super hyped!” said Thomas. ”As long as the team does its job, we’ll succeed.”

Although individuals on the team set personal goals such as making the CIF team, they also establish goals for the team as a whole. This includes qualifying for the NHSCA National Tournament and completing the season without any wrestlers getting injured.

Former team member Ethan Thomas ’16 is unable to compete this season due to a torn ACL that developed over the past three years.

Regardless of his injury, Thomas is grateful for his time spent on the team and the impact it made on his high school years.

“It has just shaped my life for the better,” said Thomas.

The team’s hard work and dedication will be put to the test in its upcoming tournament on Dec. 11 and 12 where it aspires to take first place.

Students with a desire to push beyond their limits are encouraged to join the team.

Cuccia maintains the fun, competitive aspect of the sport throughout the season while also teaching his students the importance of commitment.

“I want to teach them that hard work can be fun,” said Cuccia. “And above all, I want to teach them to build character and be men of their word.”

Boys soccer shoots for championships Jaisen Lim News Editor PHOTO BY DHEEKSHI ARVIND

FAST PASS: Leah Sachs ‘17 looks across the pool to connect a pass with another teammate during practice.

Girls water polo strokes into the start of its season Dheekshi Arvind Feature Editor The girls varsity water polo team started its season on Nov. 9 and has a 5-2 record. Its main goal for the season is to advance to and win CIF. “Last season we lost CIF by one goal, so we are really motivated to win CIF this time around,” said co-captain Ally Sweet ’16.

The team is motivated to have a victorious season. It has practiced rigorously to learn new strategies and skills from its coach.

“If there is one thing we have to

work on, it would be to communicate with each other during the game,” said Sabrina Cherfane ’16.

The team’s only weakness is losing possession of the ball to opponents during the game. This adversely affects its momentum while playing.

“We have a very strong defense, and we should work more on offense and get more goals in,” said coach Gary O’Brien.

The girls’ biggest opponent is Agoura High School because its players practice together on a club team all year round, making them more experienced when it comes to working with each other.

“We know that Agoura has been

working on their skills during offseason and to win against them, we would have to get up to speed,” said co-captain Carson Horvatich ’16.

The team’s best skill is stealing the ball from the other team. This requires having a good vision of the pool at all times and strong communication among the players.

The girls won their first game of the season against Oxnard High School on Dec. 1, with a score of 107. The team then had multiple wins against its opponents: Paso Robles High School, Foothill Tech High School and Camarillo High School.

The team will play against Thousand Oaks High School on Dec. 14.

The WHS boys varsity soccer team consists of 14 new players who have replaced last year's graduating members.

The new team members have filled the empty shoes and intend to carry on the team’s legacy. The returning players have adjusted to the change by trying to ensure the highest possible amount of coordination and team work.

“We have a very talented team, but we are almost a totally different team from last year with only a few returning players,” said boys varsity coach William Propster. “We have a lot of potential and good attitudes.”

Many members of the team are determined to qualify for the 2015 playoffs and to improve from last year’s final record. Last year the team lost to Salesian High School during the bracket stage of season playoffs— a defeat the team is hoping will be avenged.

"We expect to make the playoffs this year, maybe not first place, but we're definitely going to make it," said goalkeeper and co-captain Patrick Mahon '16.

In the first game of the season on Dec. 3 against San Fernando High School, San Fernando man-

aged to score a goal during the first half while the WHS team was unable to maneuver around San Fernando's defenses, ultimately losing 0-1.

On Dec. 4, WHS managed to score a goal during the second half of the game in an attempt to get back into the lead against Saugus High School. Despite their efforts, WHS lost in a narrow 1-2 defeat.

Despite the unexpected 0-2 season opening, the team intends to turn the situation around so that every defeat yields greater experience and every win yields greater determination and effort.

“In comparison to last year, I feel that we play more as a team, and I think that we will do better because of the cooperation,” said Daniel Sanchez-Cruz ‘16.

The team expects Newbury Park High School to be this year’s biggest rival.

WHS hopes to climb up Division Three and Marmonte League standings in the upcoming game against Saugus High on Dec. 17 and Agoura High School on Jan. 8.

"I'm excited for the season and to hopefully get better results out this year," said Mahon.

Boys varsity continues to practice and drill in preparation for the next game. With tensions and hopes running high, the team is stepping up its game to make a comeback.