the VOLUME XXXII, ISSUE 5
arrow Westlake High School
100 N. LAKEVIEW CANYON ROAD, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362
January 19, 2010
PHOTO BY JARED ERMAN
Jared Erman News Editor
The top choir and band groups are joining efforts again in their annual concert called Celebration!, featuring A Class Act (ACA) and the WHS Studio Jazz Ensemble. The performance, to be held at Newbury Park High School Performing Arts Center on Jan. 28, 29, and 30, will include famous tunes from various eras. The major theme is disco, but the group is also preparing songs from Disney and Broadway musicals, as well as an A Cappella set featuring the Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby.” “This year’s ACA is vocally the
strongest it has ever been,” said Choir Director Alan Rose. He described them as positive and eager to perform. “They even worked together over winter break,” said Rose. ACA has been practicing for three weeks. By going to Idyllwild, located in the San Jacinto mountains from Jan. 8 to 10, ACA was able to work on their vocals and bond as a group. Additionally, they choreographed dances for each song. Rose looks forward to adding the Studio Jazz Ensemble to the mix. “The band just puts the music together and plays it very well,” said Rose. The band began preparations for the concert last week. “I think the concert will be awesome,”
PHOTO BY GEORGE HUTCHISON
Class Act To Join Studio Jazz Ensemble in Celebration
said trumpet player Sean Eckley ‘11. He and trombonist Eric Langlois ‘12 said that they “cannot wait to play Zip-A-DeeIN CELEBRATION!: Studio Jazz Ensemble, in rehearsal, Doo-Dah during the Disney (LEFT) will join members of A Class Act, Elise Loprieno set.” ‘10 and Eric Feinstein ‘10, who performed in the Decem“I’ve never done a ber holiday program (ABOVE), on January 28-30 at the Newbury Park High School Performing Arts Center. concert like this before, so it is really exciting for me,” completion in summer 2010. said Maddie Embrey ‘11. Commenting on the future Rose also explained that WHS is the only school in the country to combine the performance, Rose said, “There are always top choir group and the top jazz band for a surprises,” The cost is $10 per ticket, and tickets performance of this caliber. With the WHS theater still under can be reserved by calling (805) 497-6711 construction, shows will take place at the ext. 2111. For more information, students Newbury Park theater until the theater’s can visit the choir or band website.
Parking Changes Streamline School Traffic Sofia Talarico Feature Editor
PHOTO BY JARED ERMAN
SAFETY FIRST: Jim Marshall indicates the changes in the traffic.
Students returning from winter break were surprised to find that they were no longer able to park on the Via Merida hill parallel to the football field, because of the newly posted traffic signs. Parking was banned at this location for the safety of the students and the comfort of the residents. Since there is no curb on either side of the hill, the students are forced to walk near the oncoming cars that come quickly down the hill.
Student were also driving down the hill at speeds over the speed limit, according to Dean of Attendance Jim Marshall. This was not only a danger to them, but also to the other cars that were exiting the student parking lot. Since the city no longer paints the curbs red, flags were added to the signs to indicate the no-parking zones. The traffic issue at the pick-up location in the front of the school on Lakeview Canyon Road has been modified to ensure smoother transition during pick-up. Parking will no longer be allowed where the cars make u-turns.
WHS Stays 28 th in Newsweek’s State Ranking Jamie Mark Staff Writer
The Newsweek Rankings compare every school in the nation, including public, private, and specialized schools such as magnet and art high schools. Funfar said, “We’re being compared to schools that are not similar to us.” “There are only about ten to thirteen schools out of the twenty eight that are actually like us.” “We’re being ranked against schools that [have] 150 students, and they are private schools, and you have to apply. At Westlake, we take everyone, we have to educate everbody,” said Funfar.
Basketball Keeps Goals in Sight
Brennan Walker ‘11 (left) practices during half-time warm-ups in the game against Agoura.
PHOTO BY SAM WEXLER
WHS is ranked 28 in the state once again, according to Newsweek magazine. The school also earned the 257th spot in the nation. Rankings are competitive, and though WHS moved slightly down from last year, Nicole Funfar, Assistant Principal of Instruction said, ”I’m ecstatic with the rankings we have received. Obviously we are higher than Newbury Park and Thousand Oaks, which is always fantastic, but there are
always ways to improve.” Rankings are based on the number of AP and honors classes students are taking as well as standardized test scores such as the STAR test. WHS has created new AP classes such as AP Human geography. “When you add more AP classes, and more kids are passing the AP tests, it improves your rankings,” Funfar said. WHS is also creating intervention programs to help students that are struggling in their classes, such as mentor programs, and tutoring at lunch to raise grades.
The cars that parked there before made it difficult for parents to successfully make u-turns causing superfluous threepoint turns, which created more traffic. Parents can take additional measures to reduce the traffic situation at the front of the school. Marshall recommends that parents “delay pick-up or find an alternative pickup location.”He also advises parents not to pick up students in front of the school. Marshall’s recommendations also include avoiding double parking and arriving 15 minutes later to reduce the amount of traffic.
SEE PAGE 8
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NEWS
January 19, 2010 • THE ARROW
Winter Art Gallery Houses Student Artwork Project Kindle Julia Model Staff Writer
25 Receive Awards for Reflections Entries Twenty-five students who participated in the Reflections 20092010 program were recognized for their creative work in the categories of Visual Arts, Photography, Musical Composition, Dance Choreography, and Literature. Out of the 37 awards given, WHS students earned 25 of them in these five categories. The following students earned recognition: (E = Excellent, M = Merit, HC = Highly Commended)
Visual Arts:
Michael Chang: E; Amanda Feinberg: M; Phoebe Ng, Matt Gerken, Julia Comino, Grace Ng, Jamie Hill, Amanda Feinberg: all HC.
Photography:
Caleb Williamson, Brenna Weeks: both M; Haley Pearson, Bianca Riazi, Allison Zhong and Elizabeth Matusov: all HC.
Musical Composition:
Cory Smith, Saige Moloian: both M; Amanda Zhou: HC.
Dance Choreography: Ruby Gibson: E.
Literature:
Joyce Zhang, Jake Hollander: both M; Andrea Larch, Lily Wang, Zach Winters, Ashley Disney, Michael Chang: all HC.
*There were no entries from WHS in the Film category.
Compiled by Alex Biston
Ignites AIDS Awareness
Celine Flores Staff Writer
PHOTO BY SAM WEXLER
The Annual Winter Art Gallery is showcasing the paintings, drawings, digital art and photography of WHS students. The collection of student artwork is displayed on a clothesline in the WHS library. This event is unique in that every piece of artwork displays individuality and intricacy of detail, design, and color. This year, members of the Art Club Vivian Shi ‘10 and Lucy Gao ‘10, along with WHS art teacher John Farmer, spearheaded the event. “The Winter Art Gallery is a yearly opportunity that the Art Club coordinates,” Gao said. “This year, we received nearly 100 different art pieces, from photography to scratch art to sketches to paintings.” The gallery will be up in the WHS library for the first two weeks of January for students interested in admiring the creativity of their fellow classmates. “These types of galleries and shows
hosted by the Art Club are fairly new. That all the submissions are so impressive only adds to the event,” Shi said. The majority of participants are taking WHS art classes, and many of the art teachers offered extra credit for submitting a piece of artwork. “It was incredible seeing the variety in the pieces, and in the future we hope to even include ceramics and other 3dimensional art,” Gao said. According to Shi, the Art Club has one more show to coordinate during the spring in addition to the community service project. Every year the club organizes a face painting booth at a local fair. The Art Club hopes to keep the art gallery tradition in the years to come.
ART IMITATES LIFE: Lauren Hennessy’s painting of a peacock is one of the art pieces featured in the Winter Art Gallery.
Winter Rally Gives Students Chance to Showcase Talents Sofia Talarico Feature Editor The Winter Showcase Rally is scheduled for February and feature talented students from each class. The rally will have a 2010 Winter Olympics theme with each class representing a different sport. The decorations will consist of the traditional Olympic rings, posters made by each class hung above their section, and the MCs dressed in suits with winter apparel. ASG president Miranda Fang ‘10 hopes to incorporate teachers into the rally. Max Maddox ‘11 will create a winter theme video in which the school has frozen. Acts will include a performance by the ABCD club and a game that reflects the
Winter Olympics. The acts for each of the class are the following: Madison Olandt ‘13 and her “crew” will be performing a dance act for the freshman class, Courtney Allen ‘12 and Chris White ‘12 will be singing and playing the guitar for the sophomore class performance, Siara Behar ‘11 will perform and Luke Hubbard ‘11 will sing and rap for the junior class, and Kevin Kaproff ‘10 will sing and play the guitar for the senior class performance. It is still a close competition among the classes for spirit points—freshmen 95, sophomores 150, juniors 240, and seniors 275; however, “the seniors aren’t threatened by anyone,” said ASG member Megan Winer ‘10. The rally will take place on Feb. 19 between 4th and 5th period.
Scholarship Opportunities Offer Financial Assistance for Seniors Marika Price Staff Writer Because college is approaching shortly for many high school seniors, the weight of filling out applications is replaced with economic stress. The overwhelmingly high tuition - along with fees on books, food, and housing, receiving financial aid and scholarship money is a determining factor in the decision-making process. Scholarship opportunities are not offered only to students with admirably high GPA’s or stellar standardized scores, but scholarship providers are also looking for different types of students like athletes, artists, active community service volunteers, and students that excel in a particular field. Some scholarship providers even want to reward students for living in a certain city or state. Finding scholarships that match one’s unique student profile may be difficult, but the opportunity is always available. A reliable source for learning how to receive free money is located on the WHS campus. Cassandra Sandifer, of the College and Career Center, makes this campus center an ideal place to discover different scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Naviance also provides a
lengthy list of scholarships, ranging from writing contests to ethnic oriented awards. Sandifer explained, “There are a lot of organizations willing to help and by not filling out a form, you are not giving yourself a chance to receive any assistance.“ Also, the competition may not be as stiff as one may expect. Sandifer said, “Last year a student won a scholarship with only two other participants.” Students who are hesitant to apply for financial aid because of family income are also neglecting the opportunity to earn money. Stressing the importance of keeping all options open, Sandifer said, “Many students may be surprised at what assistance they can receive. Also, if in the next year something happens with your family, you would have already completed the form.” With scholarships and financial aid, a significant amount of money can be eliminated from the college expenses. Matt Sowers ‘10 says, “I refuse to let high tuition discourage me. Even though many colleges are expensive, there are always ways to earn free money.” By realizing there is an abundance of sources for economic assistance, more students will not be deterred from attending a school based on finances.
The Project Kindle Dance Marathon fund-raiser is in the works and is scheduled to take place at Agoura High School on Feb. 27. Project Kindle, a national HIV/ AIDS awareness and education organization, has been devoted to providing cost-free summer camps for more than a decade. It has grown and developed services in the past few years, giving year-round support to children, young adults, and families infected with or affected by the disease. In addition to a casual dance will be several activities, performances, and speeches by children involved with Camp Kindle on how the organization has personally impacted their lives. “We are very excited about this opportunity to raise money and awareness about Project Kindle and working with our fellow community high school,” commented Student Body President Miranda Fang ‘10. Entry to the dance requires a minimum of $20. A free official Dance Marathon t-shirt will be given to those who raise $30 or more. “This Dance Marathon is dedicated to these kids,” explained Fang, “and all money raised by it goes to Project Kindle.” Several universities around the country have held successful dance fund-raisers for Project Kindle, the most recent being Northwestern University and UCLA. Through the backing of schools and events over half a million dollars have been raised to go to the cause. With the help of students and promoters of Project Kindle’s mission, the organization hopes to expand their services further in the future. For more information about the event, contact the ASG.
1st Semester Final Exam Schedule Tuesday, January 19, 2010 6:54 Passing Bell 7:00 - 9:00 Period 1 Exam 9:07 - 9:51 Period 2 9:58 - 10:42 Period 3 10:49 - 11:33 Period 4 11:40 - 12:24 Period 5 12:24 - 1:04 Lunch 1:10 - 1:54 Period 6 2:01 - 2:45 Period 7 Wednesday, January 20, 2010 7:54 Passing Bell 8:00-10:00 Period 2 Exam 10:00 - 10:14 Break/Passing Time 10:20 - 12:20 Period 3 Exam 12:20 Dismissal Thursday, January 21, 2010 7:54 Passing Bell 8:00-10:00 Period 4 Exam 10:00 - 10:14 Break/Passing Time 10:20 - 12:20 Period 5 Exam 12:20 Dismissal Friday, January 22, 2010 7:54 Passing Bell 8:00-10:00 Period 6 Exam 10:00 - 10:14 Break/Passing Time 10:20 - 12:20 Period 7 Exam 12:20 Dismissal
January 19, 2010• THE ARROW
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Texting to Death
OPINION
January 19, 2010 • THE ARROW
Texting and other new technologies distract drivers at the wheel, generating new legislation Delaney West Staff Writer
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Texting while driving is a bigger risk than drunk driving. The Ventura County Star reported that driving while distracted, or DWD, as it has come to be known, is responsible for a significant portion of accidents. Not only do distracted drivers account for over half of all car crashes, but the number of related deaths have also far surpassed those involving alcohol. The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute performed a study that found that the collision risk of texting drivers is 23 times greater than that of focused drivers. Fourteen states, including California, have already outlawed texting while operating a vehicle. Several states have also begun placing lighter restrictions in hopes of reducing the number of yearly accidents. However, a 2006 report issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that 78% of crashes involved a distracted driver, cell phones were a factor in only 6% of wrecks and near misses. Due to lack of consistent data, some states do not believe a complete ban is necessary. Within the past decade, hundreds of improvements have paved the way for new technology, including the iPod and navigation systems. The navigation system’s seemingly constant evolution has proved useful
to many drivers as they have replaced fiddling with wide maps, but the safety of newer versions that feature 3D road representations and congratulatory sound effects have come into question. The radio today compared to earlier models is hardly recognizable, as the tape player has disappeared and has been swapped for an iPod outlet. Because only a small percentage of the crashes performed in NHTSA’s study directly involved cell phones, they are often overlooked as harmless. The popularity of texting has in more recent years grown throughout the world. The lengthy e-mails and phone calls that once conquered less convenient forms of correspondence have become uncommon. Communicating via written letters is almost extinct. When I was driving with some friends, someone in the car said, “I am really good at texting while driving.” My other companion in the car responded, “Oh! Me too, I’ve gotten so good at it, it’s easy.” I sat there with a perplexed smile on my face, because I am guilty as well. At times, I text while driving. However, I never thought that it would become a “skill” to brag about. In June 2007, five teenage girls died in a car crash in Fairport, NY after the driver had been text messaging. A 22-year-old woman in nearby Erie County, NY was distracted by her phone when she collided
DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION: The latest technology, including cell phones, shifts drivers’ attention away from the wheel.
with a truck and died. The state of New York is one of the states that take the most rigorous stand against texting. Their proactive legislation prohibits use of electronic devices while driving, with a fine of up to $150 on the first offense. New York’s laws should be used as a precedent for other states. Currently, national legislation requires states to ban texting while operating a moving vehicle. If they do not comply they will lose 25% of their annual federal highway funding. Banning texting is crucial to preventing more lives from being lost. Without laws and restrictions like the ones created and enforced by New York, few
California Rings in New Laws for 2010 suspicions of those individuals. Privacy is a The mark of the necessary right, new decade raises but those who controversy with have exposed a the institution of child undoubtedly new laws ranging deserve the loss from gay marriage of all of his or her recognition to rights and dignity. paparazzi photo Publishers will liabilities. California have to regulate the is showing a paparazzi with the trend of increased new law AB524, protection and which states that acceptance of new a publisher who laws which proves causes a paparazzo that the year 2010 is in pursuit of going to be a year photos or audible of change. Making recordings to bold decisions engage in behavior and ensuring safer that a reasonable lifestyles, these laws DEMONSTRATIONS FOR EQUALITY: UC Berkeley students march against Proposition 8, which person would outline the evolving banned same sex marriage. Harvey Milk Day on May 22 will recognize his efforts for equality. believe as offensive, values and priorities is liable for fines of Californians. the short period when California offered ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. This law Milk, an Oscar winning movie, gay marriage or they must have married has a heavy impact on publishers and will spread the story of the honorable before November 5, 2008 in a state that greatly alter the relationship between them member of the San Francisco Board of legalized same sex marriage. In addition, and their paparazzi piranhas. Celebrities Supervisors, Harvey Milk, and the causes any gay marriage that took place after have been overexposed and the mob scene he supported. However, it is shocking that date in a state that legally performs it created by the constant flashing of cameras that a man who battled for a wide range will be recognized. However there is one is dangerous and inappropriate. With the of social changes and paved the way for major difference—it will not legally be threat of losing their money, publishers improved treatment for homosexuals designated as a “marriage.” The label may will re-think their techniques of stalking is not recognized by California’s youth. seem insignificant, but, to many same sex those in the limelight. Harvey Milk Day is the provision that couples, it is a clear sign of discrimination Furthermore, faucets that contain encourages public schools to hold against minorities. The hopes for the more than 0.25% of lead are now illegal. commemorative exercises that familiarize recognition of legal gay marriage may Fittings and replacements will also be students with Milk’s accomplishments. finally be met in the decade to come. held to the same restriction. Until 2010 the This law is likely to cause a fire storm, In addition, sex offender privacy is legal limit was 8%, which means that it but its message reinforces the concept no longer protected because of Senate Bill will be virtually impossible for the public that acceptance and diversity are the keys 1187, which states that anyone convicted of to purchase replacement parts for their to a successful nation. May 22 is not only the felony of child pornography will soon current faucets. They will most likely have a day to celebrate Harvey Milk, but it is see his or her name, photograph, physical to spend more money on an entirely new also a day to recognize the decrease of description, address, and criminal history faucet. The provision is irritating, but in discrimination in California. on the California Megan’s Law web site. terms of health, is a sign of improvement Same sex marriage was further With the consequence of a public, life-long and growing interest in safer living. addressed with Senate Bill 54, which label of “sex offender,” this provision will Searching for solutions to diverse specifies that same sex marriage is hopefully contribute to a decrease in child problems and supporting controversial recognized if it meets one of two pornography. Having the ability to be causes, these laws prove that the qualifications. The couple must have aware of offenders nearby will improve government is working towards an either been legally recognized during the public’s awareness and raise necessary improved future for California. Marika Price Staff Writer
will ever take the ban seriously. It is crucial that the enacted laws are enforced. Even though most people attempt to abide by the law, the local government needs to keep a watchful eye on reckless drivers. However, the real duty is in the hands of the drivers, and it is vital that this problem be taken seriously.
Top Ten Driver Distractions
Top Nine Driver Distractions: 1. Things outside the car
2. Adjusting the radio, CD, etc. 3. Other occupants
4. Moving objects inside the car 5. Other objects in the car 6. Vehicle controls
7. Eating and/or Drinking 8. Cell phones 9. Smoking
According to The University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center
THE WESTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL
ARROW
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100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 497-6711 ext. 4225 whsarrow.webs.com westlakearrow@yahoo.com EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Tiffany Loh, Iris Yan COPY EDITORS Max Avruch, Annie Gerlach NEWS EDITORS Jared Erman, Katie Roughan OPINION EDITORS Celine Flores, Dashiell Young-Saver FEATURE EDITOR Sofia Talarico ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Jacob Cavanah SPORTS EDITOR Sam Wexler ADVERTISING MANAGER Rachel Bernstein ADVISOR Caron Battaglia STAFF WRITERS Alex Biston, Aaron Demsetz, Charlotte Gibson, Kayla Greenberg, Jamie Mark, Julia Model, Michelle Noyes, Marika Price, Haley Pearson, Becky Sadwick, Delaney West
The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School and is published monthly. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the Conejo Valley Unified School District, Westlake High School administration, faculty, or student body. We welcome feedback. Letters must be signed by the writer, though names can be withheld by request in the publication. Please send submissions to Mrs. Battaglia’s box in the main office or to Room 42E. For The Arrow online, visit whswarriors.com and click on Activities menu.
January 19, 2010 • THE ARROW
Cold Meets Comfort at the Ice Hotel
The Ice Hotel, located in Sweden, attracts thousands of visitors with its ice sculptures and unique lodging. Tiffany Loh
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Show at the Thousand Oaks Teen Center February 13
Featuring WHS Bands Little Antarctica and The Violet Hour Tickets available by pre-sale through the bands or at the door
Dubai Debuts Tallest Building in the World Alexandra Biston Staff Writer After a decade-long construction boom, Dubai welcomed the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, which stands at 2,716 feet high. The building now exceeds the height of the previous record holder, Taipei 101. The Burj Khalifa beats out the Taipei 101 by an overwhelming 319 meters. A glitzy firework-lit ceremony was held on Monday, January 4th to introduce the newest edition of the United Arab Emirates. The final cost of the massive building was a confirmed 1.5 billion dollars. With 5 million square feet of floor space, the Burj Khalifa includes five hotels, a shopping mall, at least 150 restaurants, and 1,200 shops. The skyscraper holds 1,044 luxury apartments and a seven star Armani-branded hotel, designed and furnished by the Italian fashion designer, Giorgio Armani. In addition, as if this mega structure isn’t lavish enough, Dubai has also produced many opulent structures in the past decade.
Such accomplishments include the world’s first manmade islands, an indoor skiing facility, and Dubailand, an amusement park twice the size of Disney World. Submerged 66 feet below the surface of the Persian Gulf, the Hydropolis Underwater Hotel and Resort opened in late 2006 and is the world’s first underwater luxury resort. Hydropolis offers a bubbleshaped dome that enables guests to see fish and other sea creatures during their stay. People may also buy vacation homes. The World Islands are a collection of islands shaped into the continents of the world. There are 300 artificial islands divided into four categories-private homes, estate homes, dream resorts, and community islands. The 1.8 billion dollar project opened in May 2003 but was delayed due to the global financial crisis. Dubai claimed to have an 80 billion-dollar debt; 60 billion is from Dubailand. Despite the debt, Dubai has blossomed into one of the fastest growing cities on earth due to its construction of these astounding structures.
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removed, and a structure of freeHeading standing to negative snow is left. two degree F o r w e a t h e r the rooms during winter and suites, break may ice blocks seem absurd. harvested But for guests d u r i n g staying at the the spring Ice Hotel in from Torne Jukkasjärvi, River are Sweden, it is transported an incredible to the hotel opportunity for artists to to witness a design. unique work A s of art. soon as one S i n c e section is 1992, Ice Hotel completed, has housed it is opened thousands of for visitors visitors from a n d all over the overnight world. As a IT’S COLD IN HERE: The famous Ice Hotel in Jukkasjarvi has been sucguests while t e m p o r a r y cessful in attracting guests with its unusual venue. the artists hotel made continue to from ice and snow, it has been rebuilt every Jukkasjärvi: a 60 square meter design the rest of the hotel. Once the hotel is winter from the ice formed on arched building where they hosted an art exhibition. completed, thousands of guests the nearby Torne River. “[At breakfast], we handed flood to Jukkasjärvi, and over Yngve Bergqvist, founder of the Ice Hotel, got the idea out diplomas as proof that the one hundred couples annually for building the hotel when he guests had survived a night in -5 visit the Ice Church to exchange noticed there was a significant degrees Celcius,” said Bergqvist. wedding vows. Although the temperature decrease in the number of “They were fascinated by the tourists in Jukkasjärvi during experience and their faces lit up of the town is typically -5 the winter, compared to the with joy. That’s how Ice Hotel degrees Celcius during the came about.” winter, guests at the Ice Hotel amount during summer. Now, almost 20 years since are able to avoid the cold by A common response among tourists was: “What’s its beginning, the makers of Ice sleeping in thermal sleeping there for us to do in all that cold Hotel have practically perfected bags and reindeer skins on beds their techniques in constructing made of ice and snow. and darkness?” In addition, they can enjoy After visiting the town of the building and providing a the unique art and design of the Sapporo in Japan, Bergqvist unique experience for guests. Around mid-November, hotel, as well as ice sculptures noticed that “we had the Torne builders, architects, in the art gallery. River [near Jukkasjärvi] full snow Though the hotel will of ice, but were not using it.” designers, and artists from around He realized that by using this the world travel to Jukkasjärvi to melt back into the Torne River ice, he could potentially attract create a new version of the Ice during spring, it will once again more tourists to the town Hotel along with the ICEHOTEL be rebuilt for more guests to Art and Design Group. enjoy. during winter. First, the snow from Torne “There are still many things He then invited two Japanese chefs and ice artists to River is sprayed onto gigantic left to do,” said Bergqvist. “Most teach him the craft of working in steel forms and allowed to freeze. is undone and many exciting ice, and in February 1990, they After a few days, when the snow challenges are waiting. We will built the first snow building in has frozen, the steel frame is dig where we stand.”
Editor-in-Chief
Valentine’s Day
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FEATURE
REVOLUTIONIZED NEW TOWN: Dubai’s newest building, which is now the tallest building in the world, has been opened for the past two weeks.
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ENTERTAINMENT
January 19, 2010 • THE ARROW
REALITY VS. TELEVISION:
Does TV Accurately Depict Life of Average Teenager? G
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ossip, parties, and show-stopping musical numbers—these after-school activities are just a sampling of the average life in a fictionalized high school of the TV screen. These days, if life at Westlake ever gets dull, one can simply escape into one of these three shows that highlight the less-than-academic world of a high school student. NYC Prep from Bravo, Gossip Girl from the CW, and Glee from Fox have all caught on to this interesting formula of television versus reality and have all easily kept teen audiences captivated from week to week.
Gossip Girl The half-dozen socialites on the CW show Gossip Girl are the luckiest kids alive: they treat New York City as their own personal playground; they throw the most exclusive parties; they wear clothes straight off the runway. But the greatest perk to being a member of this elite group is that no matter how much scandal occurs, no one faces serious consequences. And in the world of the Gossip Girl blog, scandal happens 24/7. In Season One, after a near-fatal accident at an after-hours pool party at school, the teens all face expulsion. Yet after a bribe to the headmistress from multi-millionaire Bart Bass, prime suspect Serena van der Woodsen gets off without a mark on her transcript. Clearly, in a world of fame and fortune, there just isn’t any time for punishment. Gossip Girl certainly warps reality. After all, the recent recession is never addressed on the show. Also, most teenagers in America are neither so independent nor so reckless as those in the series. Hardly any of us can afford to live the high life these teens take for granted. But maybe that’s the reason why viewers are so addicted: the blatant wealth and extravagance of Manhattan’s chosen ones present a nice break from homework, a convenient escape from reality. The complex web of lies and jealousy is so unlike everyday life that one can’t help but feel drawn in. It’s a world of exaggeration and excessiveness, but beneath the superficial surface the characters deal with problems similar to those that teenagers these days face. The show simply adds more pizzaz and one-liners to enhance each situation. So maybe Gossip Girl is unrealistic and over-dramatized. But if anything it is for this reason that people clamor for more.
Annie Gerlach
ANY WAY YOU WATCH IT: Many recent TV shows have begun to paint a caricature of the everyday life of teenagers. NYC Prep (above left) follows real-life teens as they navigate through New York City; Glee (above right) portrays a high school glee club on and off the stage; and Gossip Girl (below left) combines shocking drama with haute living in order to detail teenage life in Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
NYC Prep Public high schools have a different atmosphere than what is shown on television. Of course, every school has its fair share of drama, but not nearly as much as NYC Prep portrays. The Bravo “reality” show follows the lives of six teenagers in New York City and details the drama, charity events, shopping sprees, and friendship problems they face. Only two of the cast members attend the same school but all six seem to always be together, gallivanting around the city they call home. Sitting front-row at Olympus Fashion Week was one of many high profile events the cast attended. Most American teenagers do not have the opportunity to treat such an experience as an afternoon activity. Junior Kelli Tomashofa brags that she is in the top one percent of people in America. Camille Hughes, although facing the same academic challenges as many other girls at the Nightingale-Bamford School, still manages to party on a regular basis. Jessie Leavett and PC Peterson
Case Closed on ʻHolmesʼ Success Katie Roughan News Editor
Movie lovers flocked to the theaters Christmas weekend to see the world’s greatest detective Sherlock Holmes, played by Robert Downey Jr., accompanied by his trusted partner in crime Dr. Watson, played by Jude Law. Guy Richie is the mastermind behind the blockbuster film. Richie is best known for his work with “Lock, Stock & Two Smoking Barrels” and “Snatch.” Audiences were riveted as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson defeated the nefarious villain Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong). After stopping Blackwood’s murdering spree, Holmes and Dr. Watson jail the nemesis and solve the case. However, Blackwood is resurrected,
ever so fashionably whipping up some black magic and human sacrifice along the way. The film was based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s series of mystery novels. Audiences might be disappointed that Downey’s Holmes differs from the reserved, lanky Holmes of Doyle’s creation. Playing the infamous Victorian private eye is a daunting task, especially since the character has been played by over 70 actors in around 200 films. Although this film is entertaining, it is transparent, a victim of the Hollywood film industry and its big stars and fancy effects. It has little to do with the traditional story of Sherlock Holmes. Regardless, Sherlock Holmes is a high-energy action flick well worth the drive to the local movie theater.
attend The Dwight School on the Upper West Side. Blinded by the extravagance of his society, PC has no idea how people outside of Manhattan’s Golden Mile live. Taylor DiGiovannia, a sophomore at Stuyvesant High School, is involved in gymnastics and pre-professional dance. After-school activities keep Taylor the only down-to-earth one of the bunch. NYC Prep represents teens in the wrong way. Not every student in America has front row seats at fashion shows nor attends a prep school. The show is entertaining to watch, but it is not at all realistic.
Michelle Noyes
Glee Glee launched its pilot during the High School Musical heyday, so its quirky reliance on musical numbers is already a proven formula to success. Though the overall tone of the series remains satirical by touching on most high school stereotypes, there are also numerous much-welcomed glimpses into the real
heart behind Glee’s characters. The show begins right as star football quarterback Finn is sucked into scandal; joining the glee club is his only option if he wishes to keep his football scholarship. Glee portrays a politically correct cast while at the same time mocking each individuals’ reliance on social labels. Kurt, the gay fashionista, mimics the misconception of homosexuals as they are oftentimes portrayed on television. Puck is the school’s rebel, so he’s got a mohawk. Rachel is in love with performing almost as much as she is in love with herself. So is Glee mocking high school or mocking the media’s portrayal of high school? The basic arrangement of plot and characters allows audiences to recognize the show’s sarcastic foundation but also allows that same audience to fall in love with the characters which were created to be mocked. Glee exposes the problem for what it is, all the while creating music catchier than even Zac Efron could have imagined.
Haley Pearson
Clooney Flies High in ‘Air’ Haley Pearson Staff Writer
It’s lonely at the top. Up in the Air’s leading man, Ryan Bingham (played by George Clooney) spends the majority of this film trying to convince those around him—along with himself—that flying solo really isn’t so bad. In fact, Ryan is so accustomed to his solitary lifestyle that he can fit everything he needs in one compact carry-on backpack. As a corporate downsizer, it is Ryan’s his job to be as impersonal as possible. He travels around the country firing employees for a living. He also gives motivational speeches titled “What’s in Your Backpack?” in which he praises the simple life without relationships and emotional ties. Ryan’s life is the perfect
example of the perils of oblivious and steadily increasing isolationism. Ryan’s remedy to his lonely life is usually a random warm body next to him under those cold hotel sheets whilst dreaming about entering the 10 Million Frequent Flier Miles Club. Ryan’s whole purpose in life is fulfilled when he finally attains his black Frequent Fliers card, leaving only the faint engraving of his name shining back at him as a reminder of his goal. However, as he confesses, the reality failes to live up to the dream. This movie makes one pity the evolution of man and the preoccupation with status rather than relationships. Anybody can adapt to Ryan’s detached life, but only those brave enough to love can feel at home in the world.
7
ENTERTAINMENT
January 19, 2010 • THE ARROW
TOP 10 Artists of the Decade
The Arrow staff has complied a list of the elite artists of this past decade, and voted on their Top 10. The list is based on the artists’ popularity, album sales, awards won, and public opinion.
#1 JAY-Z
Jay-Z started off the decade with The Blueprint, and kept on creating anthems from 2000 to 2009. His hit songs “Dirt Off Your Shoulder” and “99 Problems” off of The Black Album, and “Run This Town,” with Rihanna and fellow Roc-A-Fella Records rapper Kanye West from The Blueprint 3, make him an iconic figure in the music industry. He ha the ability to memorize his lyrics without putting them on paper. Jay-Z has not slowed down since his debut album, Reasonable Doubt (1996), but has only gained in popularity and wealth. “Empire State Of Mind,” featuring Alicia Keys, is his current hit, also from The Blueprint 3, which is at the top of the billboard charts. The New York City anthem defines his success as a rapper.
#2 Justin Timberlake Justin Timberlake has certainly evolved as a solo artist since his days with N*Sync. In 2002, JT’s first solo album, Justified, introduced songs such as “Cry Me a River” and “Rock Your Body.” Timberlake’s album, Future Sex/Love Sounds (2006), produced the number one hits, “Sexyback,” “What Goes Around.../...Comes Around,” and “My Love,” featuring hip hop superstar T.I. The world has witnessed Timberlake’s drastic change from a typical “boy band” member to a suave ladies’ man. Even if he stops singing, JT will always be in the spotlight.
#3 Beyoncé
#4 Radiohead
#5 Coldplay
Since the debut of her former group Destiny’s Child in the late ‘90s, Beyoncé has been a force to be reckoned with. The decision to pursue a solo career has garnered a total of 10 Grammy Awards nominations for the pop superstar. “Crazy In Love” from her solo debut album, Dangerously In Love (2003), was a collaboration with her current superstar husband Jay-Z. Her 2008 single “Single Ladies” was ranked #1 on Rolling Stone’s list of the Best Singles of 2008 and featured a catchy hook tied and an impossibleto-duplicate music video.
Although currently described as one of the most influential groups of modern music, Radiohead initially was considered to be a “one-hit wonder” with the largely successful single “Creep.” While in the limelight, Radiohead continued to belt out hits and fan favorites such as “Paranoid Android” and “Karma Police.” Formed in 1985 in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, Radiohead churned out musical gems like the albums The Bends, OK Computer, and Kid A. Drawing on influences from the bands Queen, Sonic Youth, and Pink Floyd, Radiohead has proved to be one of the defining modern bands.
Coldplay has released smash album after smash album since its inception in 1998. With its debut album Parachutes in 2000, Coldplay seemed destined for success. The band’s sophomore effort, A Rush of Blood to the Head, gained phenomenal praise as readers of music magazine Rolling Stone selected Coldplay as the artist of the year for 2003. The third album, X&Y, was the best-selling album of 2005. Finally culminating in the masterpiece Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, the band achieved its peak with smash hits “Violet Hill,” “Viva la Vida,” and “Lovers in Japan.”
#6 Eminem
#7 Kelly Clarkson
When Eminem came onto the music scene in 1999 with his first album The Slim Shady LP, he immediately became one of the most controversial rappers in hip hop. His nasty lyrics, disturbing topics, and call-outs to other celebrities create a love-hate relationship with listeners. The profound meaning of his lyrics give the music great significance. With emotions from his rough past, songs like “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” from The Eminem Show (2002) display his vulnerable side; but his humorous songs always seem to stir up controversy, such as his latest hit single “We Made You.”
#8 Rihanna Pop sensation Rihanna has made a name for herself since the release of her first album, Music of the Sun (2006). The following album, A Girl Like Me, featured a long-haired, innocent Rihanna and party songs such as “SOS.” Good Girl Gone Bad peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 chart. The album was nominated for nine Grammy Awards and won Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for “Umbrella,” with Jay-Z. Her fourth album, Rated R, has again shown another side of the young pop icon with deep and almost disturbing new lyrics.
Kelly Clarkson, winner of American Idol’s first season in 2002, launched multiple platinum albums and eleven Top Twenty hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Clarkson is the highest-selling Idol alum. Her sophomore effort Breakaway (2004), which featured the unforgettable “Since U Been Gone,” went multi-platinum and won two Grammy Awards. All I Ever Wanted (2009) was nominated for “Best Pop Vocal Album” and has three successful singles: “My Life Would Suck Without You,” “I Do Not Hook Up,” and “Already Gone.”
#9 Kanye West
#10 Lil Wayne
The Grammy award winning rapper, producer, author, designer, and singer Kanye West released four strong albums in the decade, The College Dropout in 2004, Late Registration in 2005, Graduation in 2007, and 808s & Hearbreak in 2008. The four albums received tremendous acclaim and numerous awards, including 12 Grammys. 808s & Heartbreak became his third consecutive #1 album in the U.S. upon release. After three albums, West’s mascot and trademark is well known as “Dropout Bear”. His initial claim to fame began with songs like “Jesus Walks” while he earned his Best Rap Solo Performance for “Gold Digger.”
From breaking album sales records to breaking laws, hip hop artist Lil Wayne is constantly in the news. Wayne’s latest album from Tha Carter trilogy, Tha Carter III, won the Best Rap Album of the Year award at the 2009 Grammys. To kick off the new decade, Lil Wayne will be releasing Rebirth, a combination of rock and rap music. He also just released his debut album, We Are Young Money, with his new group Young Money. Appealing to mainstream listeners and devoted fans makes Lil Wayne the “cash money millionaire” he is today.
Compiled by Jacob Cavanah, Aaron Demsetz, Annie Gerlach, Sofia Talarico, Iris Yan.
8
SPORTS
January 19, 2010 • THE ARROW
PHOTOS BY SAM WEXLER
BASKETBALL KEEPS GOALS IN SIGHT Jacob Cavanah Entertainment Editor Warrior basketball with an 11-8 record and with their senior leaders and star players has set high expectations this year. “We have great leadership with our seniors and lots of experience,” said guard Ricky Davies ’11 about this season’s Warriors basketball team. The Warriors’ last win against Agoura, in which WHS was down by 17 at the start of the 4th quarter, was an impressive comeback. Joe Detwiler ‘10 scored 17 points, and Devon Silber’s ’10 three-point shooting led the Warriors to a victory over the Marmonte League rival. However, WHS’s game at Calabasas added one to the loss column. “We are all great friends,” Davies said. Despite the team’s struggle at playoffs last year, co-captain Jason Koss ‘10 is confident that the team’s chemistry and conditioning will help them win. Koss feels that their camaraderie and solidarity will be the driving force behind the team’s success. The boys are hard at work every day in the gym, pushing themselves so that they will be fully prepared for the league games and for CIF playoffs. Mark Friedman ‘10 says that their
plan for success is to “attack the basket,” incorporate a “quick style,” and shoot many three-point shots, which is shown in the team’s stats. Detwiler averaging 11.8 points per game, Silber with 11.6 ppg, and Kirk Jones ‘10 averaging 10.8 ppg lead the team in scoring thus far. Silber’s ability as a good three-point shooter has become a useful weapon for the offense this year and is recognized by his teammates. Friedman leads the team with 54 assists and averages about three every game. He also leads the team in rebounds per game, with 6.8 per game and a total of 115 thus far. Jones follows close behind in the rebound category. On the opposite side of the court, Friedman has the most blocks on the team, averaging almost two every night. His 18 steals of the year present a threat on the defensive side for the Warriors’ rivals. “We have a chance to go far this year,” Davies said about the team’s potential. If the boys continue this pattern of excellence, Davies’ prediction for boys basketball will most likely come true. Charlotte Gibson and Kayla Greenberg also contributed to this article
Fall Athletes Recognized Fall season resulted in wins not only for the teams but also for the individual players. The following students received All CIF, All-County, and Marmonte League Awards: FOOTBALL Nelson Spruce: Receiver Justin Solis: 1st-Team The Westlake High School of the Year, N. Division Defensive Lineman football staff was honored Offense Wide Receiver as the Varsity Staff of the Brad Cotner: Honored Year. Michael Lorenzo: 1st-Team as 2nd-Team Offensive Offensive Lineman, N. Lineman Jim Benkert: N. Division Division Offense Lineman Michael Tack: 2nd-Team Coach of the Year. Defensive Back Alex Ball: All-County Nick Isham: Offensive Kicker, N. Division Offense Tavior Mowry: 2nd-Team Back of the Year, MVP of Kicker Offensive Backfield Marmonte League, All-CIF TENNIS Southern Section Player Adrian Muguerza: Sivan Krems: Marmonte of the Year, N. Division 1st-Team Linebacker, League Singles Champion, Offensive Player of the N. Division Defense Marmonte League Girls’ Year. Linebacker Tennis Player of the Year Compiled by Sam Wexler
FASTBREAK: Jason Koss ‘10 (top left) goes for the shot during the 4th quarter of the Agoura Game. Brennan Walker ‘11 and Mark Friedman ‘10 (above) bring the ball down the court. Sam Greene ‘10 (left) practices before the game. Walker (below) looks to steal the ball.