05.29.09

ARROW

THE

VOLUME XXXI, ISSUE 9

Westlake High School

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

WHS Holds on to Distinguished Schools Award

Boys’ Golf qualified for SCGA Southern California Regionals to be held in

LISA BATTAGLIA NEWS EDITOR

A recalculation of test results that were posted early in the school year has led to five CVUSD schools losing their California Distinguished schools status. WHS is the only school that will retain the award.

In April six schools in the District, including WHS, TOHS, NPHS, Redwood, Colina, and Los Cerritos, received awards for California Distinguished Schools of 2009.

After recounting Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and Academic Performance Index (API) test scores, five of the six schools no longer qualified for California Distinguished School recognition.

As a winner of the 2009 California Distinguished School Award, WHS will receive special recognition for two of the school’s signature practices, its student support programs and its “collaborative environment,” said Mario Contini, Superintendent of Conejo Valley Unified School District in a District-wide email.

In addition, Contini said, “It is extremely disheartening and inexcusable.

Each of the six schools has proven their excellence in many ways,” and “has worked extremely hard and did amazing work on the application process.”

The validation process that the CDE goes through focused on two signature practices and did not look at revised scores.

Although one or two subgroups were not met by the five other schools, the difference was very small.

Although TOHS and NPHS have been disqualified as California Distinguished Schools, they do qualify for the Career and Technical Education awards. They will get special recognition for their School-toCareer program and strong alliances with industries.

Officials from the California Department of Education (CDE) have extended apologies for the embarrassment the errors have caused. They are open to suggestions as to how to avoid this problem in the future.

Schools are rewarded for creating programs that close the achievement gaps between highest performing and underperforming groups. Programs, such as the Common Planning Time, have provided evidence that such collaborations among teachers and departments benefit all students.

IN THIS

MAY 29, 2009

Murrieta next week.

(See full story page 15.)

SAT: Losing Its Influence ANNIE GERLACH STAFF WRITER

A quick test question for WHS students: True or false: The SAT is an optional component to applications at numerous colleges around the nation.

True. This new addition (or rather, omission) to school curriculum is part of an initiative sweeping through the admissions offices of many liberal arts colleges, including Wake Forest, Bennington, Sarah Lawrence, and Bates. Dubbed the “testoptional” movement, the program does not require the submission of SAT scores when applying to college; however, a student may offer his or her scores if he or she wishes.

Test-optional colleges are backed by national organizations such as the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC) and the National Center for Fair and Open Testing (also known as FairTest). FairTest recently reported that 24 of the top 100 liberal arts colleges, as ranked in U.S. News and World Report, are now SAT-optional.

It is a universal truth that the SAT is no walk in the park. Rather, the test is more commonly related to scaling the side of Mt. Everest or sinking into a nasty patch of quicksand: perilous, crazy, and downright life-threatening. As colleges become more selective and admissions rates rapidly drop, students face nonstop stress and anxiety about the future, barely managing to juggle superb grades and wholesome extracurricular activities. And once one factors in the hours of tutorial sessions, practice tests, and other dizzying amounts of preparation necessary for the SAT, the test that once epitomized academic achievement has quickly become yet an-

ISSUE

other overrated endeavor on a college application. It is less an important measure of success and more a mandatory, legal form of torture.

As Connie Sun `11 said, “I’m already stressed enough with school and extracurricular activities. I don’t need the added pressure that SATs inevitably bring.”

Oddly enough, despite continuing controversy surrounding the test, participation in the SAT has reached record highs, peaking at over 1.5 million students nationwide in 2008. The College Board even reported last year’s graduating class as the most diverse ever to take the SAT. However, even though this diversity is certainly a milestone, evidence clearly demonstrates an “achievement gap” of sorts between different ethnicities, classes, and even between the sexes: rich kids consistently score better than poor kids, and men score better than women. Despite the College Board’s best efforts to administer a test that offers equal opportunity for every student, statistics prove that there is an inherent bias in the SAT itself. Michelle Bonthius `11 thinks that “it’s really unfair that colleges place so much emphasis on SAT scores. What if someone just isn’t a good test-taker? That student shouldn’t be penalized.”

Nonetheless, College Board claims that the SAT is simply designed to measure “developed critical thinking and reasoning skills needed for success in college.”

At its core, the SAT is considered to be a test based, according to an article by Andrew Ferguson in The Weekly Standard, “on one’s capacity to learn rather than learning itself.” And when combined with a high school GPA, the test is one of the best indicators for the overall grades a student will receive his or her freshman year.

But SAT-optional colleges do not

make the SAT a voluntary submission because they believe the test is wholly redundant; rather, as Bennington dean of admissions Ken Himmelman states, a student’s score “doesn’t really tell you anything about them as a person or a student.”

Himmelman believes that the hysteria over an individual’s scores “becomes so crazy it’s almost a distraction.” Similarly, Wake Forest’s president, Nathan O. Hatch, wrote in the Washington Post that “by opening doors even wider to qualified students from all backgrounds and circumstances, we believe we are sending a powerful message of inclusion” and equality. Also, a test-optional admissions policy can even give a college a boost in national ranking; because those who score high are generally the only ones who submit scores, a school’s overall average suddenly rises.

However, the movement is still mainly confined to liberal arts schools, and it may take many years for other universities to join the trend.

But a few schools have proposed temporary resolutions to the situation. In fact, during a University of California Academic Senate in January 2008, a few of the UC’s proposed eliminating the SAT II Subject Exams from the admissions process, since the tests “add little predictive value to the current Eligibility Index.”

Nevertheless, the SAT continues to plague millions of students every year, burdening them further with difficult demands. With so much emphasis placed on an otherwise insignificant test, students quickly lose sight of ‘the big picture’ and delude themselves into exaggerating the power of the SAT. “It’s absurd that more colleges aren’t taking the SAT-optional route,” says Sam Rose `10. “Making the test optional just seems like a logical solution to an ongoing problem.”

NEWS............................1-3 OPINION.......................4-6 FEATURE.........7, 10-11,14 AROUND THE WORLD......8-9

ENTERTAINMENT.....12-13 SPORTS....................15-16

PJ Miller to retire after teaching for 37 years.

See PAGE 6

Juniors Courtney Koeritz and her twin brother Jake share similar interests.

See PAGE 7

Senior Jackie Brousseau placed first in CIF Finals for the 100meter breaststroke. See PAGE 15

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NEWS

In Brief Yu Awarded Prestigious Reagan Scholarship Carol Yu ‘09 was awarded an $8000 college scholarship from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation. Yu was one of four Ventura County High School students to receive a scholarship and was one of 82 students recognized. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation in total gave away $50,000 in college scholarships, shared among 15 students in amounts ranging from $1000 to $8000.

Pang Named Bank of America Finalist Tim Pang ‘09 earned a 3rd place recognition at the Bank of America Awards competition. A plaque winner in the Fine Arts category, he was the only WHS student chosen to compete.

Choir Holds Final Show

Senior Finishes L.A. Marathon Rafael Velazquez ‘09 participated in and finished the 24th Annual L.A. Marathon, running the 26.2 grueling miles throughout Downtown Los Angeles in 4:43:36, among thousands of others. He began training for the event in November, running up to four miles a day in preparation for the race. Velazquez fully enjoyed every moment of the marathon, and says the training gave him a lot of energy and discipline.

JSA Named Chapter of the Year at Spring State Convention BECKY SADWICK STAFF WRITER

The combination of fierce debates, lively night activities, and the chance to support members running for office was more than enough to entice 38 members of Junior State of America to attend the annual Spring State convention on April 24-26. JSA campaigned for two candidates and won the coveted Chapter of the Year of Southern California title.

Three candidates from Westlake ran for elected positions at the convention.

Chapter President Adam Raudonis ’10 won the position of Lieutenant REGIONAL LEADERS: fornia officer positions.

Governor, the second-highest position in the Southern California region.

Historian Jess Jia ’10 was elected regional Senator.

“I want to thank everyone who helped Adam’s and my campaigns. It was really a group effort,” she said. Slade Rheaume ’10 campaigned to be regional mayor and won a best-speaker award for his debate.

Advisor James Azevedo said, “It was really cool that after four years, Westlake stepped to a higher level in our region, even taking more leadership in the region.

It was really neat.”

Chapter of the Year is the most presti-

COURTESY PHOTO

In a final performance in the original WHS theater, Choir will present its end of year show “Song of America.” The Theater will undergo a makeover beginning next month. Tickets for the show went on sale in the choir room Tues. May 12. Dates for the shows are May 28-30.

May, 29, 2009• THE ARROW

In addition to winning Chapter of the Year, several JSA members were also elected to Southern Cali-

gious honor a school can receive. A selection committee evaluated each applying school on its community service, chapter involvement, originality and extra activities to declare a winner. “Winning Chapter of the Year was my happiest moment,” said Raudonis. “I’m humbled by the immense support all of SoCal JSA gave me,” he continued in reference to his election as Lieutenant Governor.

Although each student who attended reported a slightly different experience at Spring State, the opinion that it was “absolutely amazing” seemed to be a recurring motif. “I was really impressed by the en-

thusiasm and unity our chapter showed.

I was really proud of my candidates who won,” reported Danaka Reaney ’10. Alexis Rosenthal, ’09 found it “inspiring to be in a room debating with 500 kids as interested and aware as you are.”

Jesse Hu ’10 summarized the weekend experience: “We cheered. We laughed.

I think WHS showed our passionate spirit in everything from Slade’s talk on Russia to my expression of feminist ideals.” Connie Sun ‘11 agreed: “It was an amazing experience with fun debates. It was really awesome bonding as a chapter, and the nighttime activities were so much fun!”

Ride of Silence Honors Cyclists Alum Finds Humorous Side in College STELLA FANG STAFF WRITER

Cyclists around the world joined together at various locations on May 20 for the annual Ride of Silence, a silent bike ride to honor those who have been killed or injured while cycling.

Many of WHS’s faculty participated in the ride to honor Mike Maki, a former math teacher at WHS, who died in October 2008 in an accident while bicycling to school.

The Ride of Silence exists not only to honor those who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roads but also aims to raise awareness to motorists today of the legal rights pedestrians and cyclists have.

The first Ride of Silence was organized by Chris Phelan in White Rock Lake,

Texas on May 21, 2003 after Larry Schwartz was killed by a school bus mirror. The ride drew about 1,000 people through email communication and word of mouth over a short period of ten days.

Because the event was so popular other communities began to organize their own Ride of Silence. Today, with more than 300 locations in five continents and 18 locations in California, an estimated 22,500 riders participate annually.

The ride began at 7 p.m. in North America and traveled across the globe. The journey consisted of a silent 10 mile ride at 12 miles per hour while the cyclists remembered the deaths of more than 600 who die each year on public roads.

Every ride is completely non-profit with no registration fees. To find more information on how to participate or volunteer in the next Ride of Silence, visit www.rideofsilence.org.

Period 7: Tues., June 2 and Wed., June 3 Period 6: Fri., May 29 and Wed., June 3 Period 5: Fri., May 29 and Wed., June 3 Period 4: Mon., June 1 and Thurs., June 4 Period 3: Mon., June 1 and Thurs., June 4 Period 2: Tues., June 2 and Fri., June 5 Period 1: Tues., June 2 and Fri., June 5

Regular Schedule Tues., June 9, 2009 7:00 - 9:00 9:07 - 9:51 9:58 - 10:42 10:49 - 11:33 11:40 - 12:24 12:24 - 1:04 1:10- 1:54 2:01 - 2:45

Period 1 Exam Perod 2 Period 3 Period 4 Period 5 Lunch Period 6 Period 7

Wed.-Fri., June 10-June 12, 2009 8:00 - 10:00 10:00 - 10:14 10:20 - 12:20 12:20

Chris Severn, a Class of 2008 WHS alumnus, can be considered a master of improv comedy. After all, he has been gaining experience in the field ever since his freshman year of high school.

He and members of his improv group from University of California Berkeley will compete in the collegiate finals of a Standup competition. They are in contention to become America’s funniest college students.

Severn finds humor in the simplest of things. He says that he is “trying to come up with some new material by taking notes of things I think of throughout the day or things that make me laugh.” The method has been used by all sorts of top comics,

like Carlos Mencia.

Severn is both excited and nervous about the approaching competition.

“I’m gonna give it my best shot to keep advancing, so hopefully I have a chance,” said the Berkeley freshman.

Winning the competition would also be a huge step forward in a potential comedy career. Making a living off of entertainment and humor is one of his ideal goals.

While Severn attended WHS, he was the co-president of the Comedy Sportz club. When he arrived at WHS from Oak Park HS, he and alumnus Lia Woodward reinstated the previously absent Comedy Sportz club and led the club to a successful season against local high schools.

Severn believes that he has received the chance to be one step closer to his dream.

NHS Inducts 28 Juniors

Final Exam Schedule Senior Schedule:

AARON DEMSETZ STAFF WRITER

Period 2/4/6 Exam Passing Period Period 3/5/7 Exam Dismissal

JUSTIN EDWARDS SPORTS EDITOR

The National Honors Society (NHS) welcomed 28 juniors for the 2009-2010 school year.

The NHS requires its members to attend monthly meetings and to participate in five different community service projects throughout the year.

Josselyn Aguirre Kelsey Bartlett McAuley Cahill Stephanie Chinn Nikhil Crain Hannah Englander Miranda Fang Lucy Gao Sally Harrison

Abhishek Jairam Tony Jin Casey Levitt Tiffany Loh Emilie Maddison Shawn Mc Leod Adrian Muguerza Ibarra Katherine Carol Pincus Adam Raudonis

Rebecca Sadwick Hayley Sherman Vivian Shi Goldie Shih Nicole Stelmar Karen Tsai Rebecca Wagner Dillon Abe Wexler Megan Winer Iris Yan

NEWS

May 29, 2009• THE ARROW

WHS BIDS FOND FAREWELL TO 2 ORIGINALS It’s Miller’s Time ALEX NUTKIEWICZ STAFF WRITER

After 37 years of teaching, Special Education English teacher PJ Miller has decided to retire.

Miller is one of the few remaining teachers from the first year WHS opened. She has taught for 26 years here at WHS, three years at TOHS, and six years in Kansas City, Missouri.

Although she originally planned to be a psychiatrist, she is glad she made the decision to become a teacher instead.

Just recently she saw two of her previous students from her first year teaching here at WHS. “It’s thrilling to see old students come back and visit,” said Miller.

Her passion for teaching is obvious through her charisma and clear talent for teaching.

“The most rewarding thing about being a teacher is just seeing students when the lights go on in their heads when they understand,” said Miller.

Some of her most memorable moments included making a mosaic with her fellow staff for the football sta-

dium and receiving an honorary service award from the PTSA. She also recalled an event during Pearl Harbor Day, Dec. 7 when a former history teacher at WHS was “kidnapped” by fellow teachers and tied up to a pole because he was Japanese.

Other favorite moments include her trips she took to Europe with some of her students over previous spring breaks.

She fondly recollects a special memory at a basketball game she attended: Coach Gary Grayson’s daughter attended the game and saw her dad on the far side of the court. She ran through the court and ended up stopping the game to go see her dad.

After retiring, she plans to relocate to Kansas City, Missouri, where her son and grandchildren live. In addition, she’s planning a trip to the East Coast with another former WHS teacher, Sue Gordon.

Eventually, she hopes to take a Mediterranean cruise and possibly own a villa in Tuscany or a cottage in England.

But with all of her free time, she

ORIGINAL WARRIORS: PJ Miller (left) helped open the WHS campus in 1978. She plans to relocate to Kansas City, Missouri to be closer to her family. Marlene Rosselli (below) expects to travel.

Then 1978

Now 2009 she plans to use some of it watercoloring, going to the movies with friends, and spending more time with her family.

As a teacher she recognizes that

Au Revoir ‘Madame’ Rosselli ALLISON MONTROY FEATURE EDITOR

“Madame” Marlene Rosselli has been a Warrior since her high school years, and a WHS Warrior since 1978, when the school first opened. WHS will say goodbye to one of its original teachers, who will retire after more than 38 years of teaching experience.

Rosselli began her teaching career at Madrona Elementary School. It was not until eight years later, however, that she began teaching French and some Spanish.

During her years at WHS, Rosselli expanded the French program to Colina Middle School. Beginning in 1996, she began spending her afternoons at Colina teaching French I to eighth grade students. Rosselli not only taught language, but was also cheerleading advisor from 1986 to 1988. For her, it was interesting to interact with students in a different setting, away from the classroom.

For Rosselli, teaching was not solely about textbooks and tests; it was an experience for the students to discover another culture and expand

Then 1978 their interests.

“We’re here to teach academics, but also life skills,” she explained.

Rosselli fondly remembers a year where the students created their own replica of a French shopping center— complete with food, currency, and the opportunity to practice French as if they were walking the crowded streets of Paris, which Rosselli’s French classes actually had the opportunity to visit this past spring break.

The most rewarding part of teaching for Rosselli was seeing students

Now 2009 leave her classroom wanting to further their knowledge in French and “seeing the development in [her] students— from knowing no French to being able to express themselves in French,” Rosselli explained.

She hopes to leave WHS with “an attitude of openness towards other languages and other cultures.”

Rosselli will miss “[her] colleagues, their intelligence and support, and [her] students.”

Rosselli wishes WHS had more spirit, and wants “the students to rec-

after all these years of teaching, there is still the fascination of seeing her students excited to learn and energetic when they come to class. One thing she will not miss is the school bells.

ognize that what makes a school is [the students’] attitudes.” She hopes that future teachers will “look for the good in each student—because it’s there.”

In retirement, Rosselli plans to “go back to some of the hobbies [she] never had time for, like gardening, sewing, and taking painting classes.”

She also plans to travel a lot, but not just to sightsee.

Rosselli would like to go on short mission trips to “help somewhere, and do something where [she] can use [her] skills,” she explained, possibly traveling to impoverished Frenchspeaking countries.

As for spending over 30 years of her life with teenagers, Rosselli explained that “changing from elementary to secondary to French was the best change of [her] life. There’s a lot of good in teens that people don’t realize—[she’s] been trying to convince people for thirty years,” she explained.

Needless to say, Rosselli has loved her years at WHS and will be missed.

“I’ll miss being a Warrior,” Rosselli explained, her eyes full of tears. “I was destined to be a Warrior.”

Malter Decides 7 Years Is Enough MAKENZIE CARLSTON STAFF WRITER

This year WHS will say goodbye to JoAnn Malter. She has been a teacher for seven years total and spent four of those years here teaching history and government.

Malter always knew she wanted to be a teacher but didn’t get the chance until she was 50. It was then that she went to college to get a teaching degree and started her new career. Before she decided to be a teacher she sold real estate and owned a beauty parlor.

Her work previous to teaching

helped her a lot with interacting with students.

“Working at the hair salons helped me be a good teacher because I learned how to interact with all different types of people.”

High school is Malter’s favorite age category to teach because she loves to interact with the students.

“I think that the gap between middle school and high school is a big difference—the high school students have more life experience and are more fun to talk to.”

Malter’s favorite aspect about teaching is “the kids”. She loves

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how they keep her feeling young and updated with the world today.

In class she loves discussing the “today in history” and hearing what the students come up with.

After leaving WHS when the school year ends she plans on moving to Henderson, Nevada. “I am going to enjoy life, relax, and have fun!”

Malter will miss interacting with the students everyday, teasing them, and laughing with them at all the funny incidents that go on in class.

When asked what was the biggest reward she received from teaching, she answered, “Fun!”

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OPINION

May, 29, 2009• THE ARROW

How t ...This Summer stay in touch

be productive NIKKI FAY OPINION EDITOR

Many WHS students will be laying around this summer, relaxing in the sun, and wasting almost three precious months of free time.

While it is becoming more difficult to get into college, many students cannot afford to waste summer doing nothing when they could be doing things to benefit their chances of getting into their dream school.

It is well known that colleges do not only focus on grades but rather how “well-rounded” a student is.

What better time to become wellrounded than summer? There are many activities that students can become involved in that will not only improve their resumes and applications, but keep them busy during summer.

Staying involved in sports over summer is a good way to stay in shape and socialize. Also, staying committed to something that can be as challenging and demanding as a sport will prove to colleges that you are dedicated even when you have the choice to be sitting around doing nothing. Not only will a sport keep you active, it is a great way to meet new people from other schools or keep in contact with the friends you

would not see otherwise.

Summer is also a good time to study for tests coming up during the year, like SAT’s and ACT’s. These two scores are potentially the most important scores a student has when applying to colleges because they are what measures a student’s academic ability compared to the rest of the country. If students take the time to review the information over summer, studying will be less of a hassle and therefore more productive.

Jobs may be harder to find than usual, but many positions will open up as summer comes and people have more time to shop. Working over the summer is a great way for students to fill up their time while earning extra spending money for the year. Finding a summer job is also a great way to show future employers as well as colleges that a student is experienced and capable of maintaining a large amount of responsibility.

Traveling is another way to keep busy and impress college admissions.

Some applications ask for summer activities, and you may find a good story comes out to tell in your college essay.

It is important for students to keep themselves busy over summer and not waste valuable time that they could be spending on something productive.

get healthy

TORI SCOVILLE STAFF WRITER

Imagine Facebook statuses on speed and what do you get? Twitter.

Twitter, a new phenomenon, is a mass text messaging web site where people can send out “tweets,” or short 140-character updates to a group of people at one time.

If a person is interested in your life and daily activities, he can become your “followers” or fellow tweeters.

“Twitter is just another social network, I think it’s fun, a great way to keep in touch with friends, and it is extremely convenient to get people’s tweets on your cell phone,” said Zak Krevitt ’09.

There is a crucial difference between being a friend on Facebook or MySpace and being a follower on Twitter. The major distinction is that it is harder to tweet when you do not know whom you are tweeting to. This is not a private site; many random people can “follow” you.

The majority of your followers on Twitter are people you do not know, unlike Facebook. Stalkerish? In fact yes, it is a bit like stalking.

This broadcast system is a great way to people-watch, follow a person’s every move, and see what they are doing all the time. This site

have fun

NIKKI FAY OPINION EDITOR

SASHA LEWIS STAFF WRITER

Many people tend to crash diet just before summer so that they can look “swimsuit ready.” Not only is this unhealthy, but many just give up their dieting as soon as autumn comes and gain back the weight they lost. Just because summer comes does not mean they can throw away all their hard work.

Summer diets and exercise plans are difficult to maintain since school and after school activities can no longer keep you from eating all day or just laying around on the couch. It will take effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle when no one is forcing you to, but it will be beneficial when you will not be forced to crash diet every time the summer season comes around.

Getting in the habit of eating a well-balanced diet and maintaining an avid exercise routine will allow you to get healthy and fit for summer, and more importantly stay that way.

With summer comes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Eating fruits and vegetables can be fun by using them in a variety of ways. Putting fruit into smoothies, dipping them in Cool Whip, or making a fruit salad are some ways to get your daily supply of fruit in a delicious way. Vegetables can also be dipped in dressings, cut into healthy salads, or added to a meal as a side dish.

It is important that you are drinking plenty of water during the summer months to keep yourself hydrated in the intense heat. Water will also help to fill your stomach and keep you less hungry throughout the day.

Eating small meals throughout the day will keep you full, and if you are able to just munch on five or six small meals a day, you will feel keep the calories down without feeling hungry all day.

Other than diet, exercise is also a vital part of keeping up with a healthy lifestyle. With the sun out, you can exercise outside to end a monotonous gym routine. Playing volleyball or frisbee at the beach, getting a softball game going, or even going on a walk with a friend are great ways to have fun with friends while staying in shape.

It is important to wear and reapply sunscreen while outside.

The summer sun is strong and can cause serious damage such as skin cancer and premature aging.

Developing a healthy lifestyle for summer as well as for the rest of the year is easy, all it takes is a conscious effort. It will be worth it when you can put on a swimsuit without a second thought.

With close to three months off of no early alarms, homework, or tests, every student wants to have the best summer with no down time. In Ventura County though, having a good time is mainly limited to your age. Of course there is always tanning, or going to a BBQ, but that just ends up sounding like every other summer. Without going on vacation to get away a quick 45 minute to an hour drive can get you into a different scene: Malibu, Hollywood, and Los Angeles.

For students who are now 18 years old, the attraction of 18+ dance clubs come to life. Clubs such as DV8, hosted live by DJs from 102.7 KIIS FM in Hollywood, Boulevard 3 which is also located in Hollywood, and Arena ensure a fun night of dancing, friends and fun. All three clubs are 18+ on certain nights, and for certain events it is not open to 18-year-olds every night of the week.

If a club isn’t something you find amusing, you can now go to most concerts without a guardian at venues such as the House of Blues, and other smaller amphitheaters. These night clubs are strict when checking I.D. and like maintain their good reputations.

For those not yet 18, going to Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, is a great way to spend the day with friends if weather conditions permit. The area is attractive with an array of different people such as singers, acoustic guitar players, break dance crews, etc. who walk along the blocks and entertain the shopping pedestrians. It gives a friendly vibe and also really lets you feel like you are no longer in Westlake. The promenade is about a 3-block range and consists of tons of shops and restaurants. The stores carry a variety and it is a great place to go to when updating your closet. As well, with the pier just a short five-minute walk away it gives you plenty of options on how to spend your day.

Along with Third Street, The Grove in Los Angeles is a gorgeous outdoor mall/shopping center with enetertainment, retail stores, and restaurants. Although making sure your summer is the best it has been yet, taking spontaneous adventures is what it is all about. Throw caution to the wind, grab your friends and do something you have not done yet, of course while staying safe. So venture off and get ready for the best summer you have had and one to never forget.

is easily accessible; you do not have to give permission to follow others, and all you have to do is sign up and begin following.

There were people scouring Google for postings about the Hudson River airplane crash when it occurred; one of the first pictures of this accident was posted on Twitter. The general population of Twitter is adults because high school students are obsessed with MySpace and Facebook.

Many famous people have jumped on the Twitter bandwagon.

Some of the celebrities that have gone crazy for Twitter are Britney Spears, Rainn Wilson, Ashton Kutcher, Shaquille O’Neal, and Brad Pitt. Even President Barack Obama tweets. This is just another system where Obama can reach out to the public.

The main appeal of Twitter, other than following friends, is to promote yourself instead of just chatting with friends, like MySpace and Facebook limit you to.

Every time you tweet to others, you receive a surge of followers, so the more you “tweet,” the more followers you get. You do not exist on Twitter unless you subscribe to receive messages about what people are doing.

THE WESTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL

ARROW

100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 497-6711 ext. 4225 westlakearrow@yahoo.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jimmy Moore MANAGING EDITOR Soumya Karlamangla COPY EDITORS Jessica Kane, Carina Wolff ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR Tiffany Loh NEWS EDITORS Lisa Battaglia, Katelyn Smith OPINION EDITORS Nikki Fay, Kabir Nabarkatti, FEATURE EDITORS Alannah Bradley, Jacob Cavanah, Bianca DiGuiseppe, Kayli Miletich, Allison Montroy, Natalya Sivashov Sofia Talarico, Iris Yan CENTER Max Avruch ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Kelley Biggs, Wayne Huang SPORTS EDITORS Alessandra Catanese, Justin Edwards, Dena Gallucci, Conrad Wilton CARTOONIST Vivian Shi ADVERTISING MANAGER Rachel Bernstein ADVISOR Caron Battaglia STAFF WRITERS Jessica Aeck, Alexandra Biston, Makenzie Carlston, Ashley Chang, Ben Conlin, Aaron Demsetz, Robert Dillon Frank Duan, Jared Erman, Stella Fang, Annie Gerlach, Sasha Lewis, Alex Nutkiewicz, Travis Rice, Katie Roughan, Becky Sadwick, Tori Scoville, Sam Wexler, Dashiell Young-Saver The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School and is published monthly.

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the Conejo Valley Unified School District, Westlake High School administration, faculty, or student body.

We welcome feedback. Letters must be signed by the writer, though names can be withheld by request in the publication. Please send submissions to Mrs. Battaglia’s box in the main office or to Room 42E. For The Arrow online, visit www.whswarriors.com and click on Arrow under the Activites menu.

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

A Few Good Women BECKY SADWICK STAFF WRITER

The decision to serve one’s country at the cost of personal safety in the armed forces is one that several Westlake students have seriously considered. The sense that “the country does so much for me, this is my way of giving back,” as Ryan Leon ’09 said, seems to be a common thread between the motivations of each military-bound student.

Leon has already enlisted in the Marines and will enroll soon after high school graduation. He said that he has “no concerns about joining. I’ve known this is what I want to do from the start.”

Zach Stark ‘10 plans to attend a military university like the Naval Academy before enlisting. Stark and Leon plan on joining the marines, but for different reasons. Stark likes the “amphibious capabilities” of the marines serving on land and at sea and serving alongside “the best of the best.” Leon’s goal to be a pilot and belief that the Marines “give me the best chance to fly jets” fueled his decision to enlist.

I have all the respect in the world for the men and women in every branch of the military, but certain aspects of the militaristic culture raise some concern. Other Westlake students who considered joining the armed forces decided against it evidently had their concerns too, like Julie Miller ’09.

Miller considered the Naval Academy in Annapolis as a college option, but opted out “mostly due to the commitment of nine years” and “male-dominated life style.” Although the desire to serve her country was certainly prevalent, “the sacrifice of committing to a military lifestyle at the age of 18” was one she felt she could not make.

The sexual harassment of females is a far more disconcerting element to me, as I find it incredibly alarming that female soldiers today are more likely to be raped by a fellow male soldier than killed by enemy fire.

Naval Lieutenant Paula Coughlin recalled an episode to the Wall Street Journal in which “…200 disheveled airmen set upon her.” Just as alarming, however, was her boss Rear Admiral Jack Snyder’s reaction: “’He said that’s what you get when you go down a hallway full of drunken aviators’” according to Coughlin. After she sent a letter of complaint, Coughlin was reassigned from her position as a high-ranking officer to desk duty in Washington. This form of punishment should have been leveled against the men who assaulted her, not Coughlin herself as the victim.

When I announced I wanted to join the Coast Guard to my father last year, his very first reply was, “What about sexual harassment?” I was at a loss for words, as this rational concern was one for which I had not prepared a counter argument. If a question had been posed about the change in lifestyle or my safety, I could have easily responded that those small sacrifices were ones I owed my country. But sexual harassment is an unnecessary, unproductive and senseless aspect of the Armed Forces, and enduring it should be no means be a byproduct of service to one’s country.

We are all familiar with John F. Kennedy’s words, “Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country.” But what happens when “what you can do for your country” is compromised by the very men you serve alongside?

When military procedure does little to stop sexual harassment, I believe it is not only permissible, but essential, to ask what your country can do for you. Because in an era in which females in the military have need to fear sexual assault by comrades, not asking what the government can do further exacerbates the situation by doing nothing to curtail it.

Keep “Secret Life” Secret MAKENZIE CARLSTON STAFF WRITER

ABC Family, a network once built upon traditional family values, now faces criticism for a new lineup of programs focusing on controversial teen topics.

Teen pregnancy, casual sex, child molestation, and underage drinking are just a few of the storylines featured on the network’s shows, The Secret Life of the American Teenager, Greek, and Lincoln Heights.

While the network targets the coveted 18 to 34 demographic, in reality one-third of viewers are 12 to 17 years old, raising the question: if a network is named after “family” is the programming then expected to be appropriate for all ages?

The spotlight on this issue has grown with the recent popularity of ABC Family’s The Secret Life of the American Teenager, which opened its first episode with a 15year-old finding out she is pregnant.

The subject has startled many parents who feel that because the show comes from parent company Walt Disney, topics such as teen pregnancy are too mature for their perception of the network’s brand.

Michele McNeal, a mother of three, argued, “When you call something family it gives impression that it’s safe for all members of the family, even young children.”

Even some teenagers who enjoy watching shows like Secret Life agree that some of the topics covered are a bit mature for all audiences.

“I think the programming is great for kids our age but I wouldn’t want my younger siblings watching it,” Taylor Nelson ‘11 said.

Network executives said in order to drive viewership, there is a need to appeal to the present-day teenager by incorporating the real-life situations today’s teenagers are facing.

Anne Sweeney, president of Disney-

5

OPINION

ABC Television Group said, “We’ve continued to evolve our stories because we want to maintain a strong connection with our audience.” Sweeney’s strategy has thus far proven to be a success with The Secret Life drawing an average of 3.8 million viewers an episode, becoming one of the most popular shows on cable.

The CDC reports that 40% of American children were born out of wedlock in 2007 and 23% of those non-marital births were to teenagers. A 2003 Gallup Survey found that 64% of young adults thought having a baby out of wedlock was “morally acceptable.”

ABC Family’s decision to tackle such controversial topics came in part from an internal research study that found that viewers ages 12 to 30 crave strong relationships with their families and friends. With this new information, ABC Family management decided to re-brand the network as a “new kind of family.”

“We set out to make the modern family in all its passion and dysfunction, and reclaim that work for what it really is for our audience,” said ABC Family President Paul Lee. Lily Cardiner ‘11 said she appreciates that teen-oriented shows are incorporating storylines about the real issues facing today’s teenagers. “I think that having shows like Secret Life are good because they promote abstinence and bring up awkward conversations between parents and teens.”

Even network executives recognized the potential controversy the show would create and decided to tone down the original title “Sex Lives of the American Teenager.” Additionally, each episode concludes with an advisory to parents and their children to have discussions about the topics mentioned.

A Letter From the Editor In many ways, senior year is exactly as it’s portrayed in the movies. I have grown accustomed to the luxury cars full of rowdy, beach-bound teens that frequently clog JIMMY MOORE the student parking lot on Friday afternoons. I’ve heard EDITOR-IN-CHIEF enough tales of both the woes and triumphs of college admissions to fill a moderately-sized novel. I’ve witnessed (and often suffered firsthand) the devastating effects of “senioritis.”

However, when I look back on my time at Westlake High School, I doubt I’ll remember which colleges rejected whom, or which mysterious, early morning “doctor appointments” so often kept me from attending first period; instead I will recall the people and activities that made these last four years some of the best I could have asked for.

Graduation is two weeks away, and with AP tests now a thing of the past, many of my peers have officially checked out of high school. Nevertheless, as I sit in the journalism room—somewhat of a second home to me by now—typing this up while most people in their right minds are eating dinner, I realize that I owe this final service to The Arrow.

Such hours-long marathons in 42E, generally spent writing, editing, and designing well into the evening now allow me ample time to reflect on those aspects of WHS most valuable to me. The little things of which I’ve taken advantage in the last four years— breakfast at Corner Bakery every other Wednesday, walking with so-and-so in between classes, and yes, these afternoons (or evenings, rather) spent perfecting the paper—will be reduced to mere memories come June, as I begin the summer of my 18th year.

All the same, once these moments, along with those yet to come—prom, graduation, Grad Night, etc.—begin to fade, we must move on. Before next fall, I have orientations to attend, classes to consider, and tough farewells to make as the days grow shorter and we all leave home, bound for our respective schools. I need to get a job.

I’ve realized that there are some with whom I will inevitably lose touch. Daily conversations and evenings together will turn into a phone call here and there, regressing later to a cordial Facebook comment and eventually dwindling to a mere “poke” before vanishing altogether. In spite of this, I will remain loyal to the individual that I became throughout my years at WHS—to the teachers, friends, classes, and experiences that have influenced the person I am today, and the person I will one day become.

I like to think that I’m not an overly sentimental person, but when the time comes for me to say goodbye to Westlake High School, to my classmates, and to The Arrow, I will do so with a certain degree of sadness. My years here have provided experiences that I will one day consider only the fondest of memories, and though I’ve admittedly taken advantage of many (most, even), each will make a lasting impression on my constantly-evolving character.

So now, before I overstay my welcome, I would like express my gratitude to each and every one of you for making my work worthwhile. Thanks for reading.

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6

OPINION

National Security at Risk AARON DEMSETZ STAFF WRITER

TORTURE

The Easy Way or the Right Way DASHIELL YOUNG-SAVER STAFF WRITER

CARTOON BY KABIR NAGARKATTI

Over the past years, a paranoia has risen with the involvement of the United States in the Middle East and the “war on terror.” The latest chapter in the saga is the recent use of inappropriate torture techniques that have been employed by the CIA to obtain information from detainees at Guantanamo Bay. Many will argue that waterboarding, a torture technique that involves subjecting the victim to simulated effects of drowning, is a blatantly cruel and unnecessary action.

While waterboarding and other torture is definitely not to be promoted in any way, simply doing away with the concept of violently interrogating prisoners is a mistake that may have dire consequences.

The biggest problem that abolishing torture would cause is a reduced state of national security. To successfully negate all possible threats to the country, we are going to need some information that will give us the edge in combat.

Torture is one option that, while it may be distasteful, is also a reliable technique to obtain these highly valued secrets.

Without this information, planned terrorist attacks and malicious activities could easily be carried out unchecked.

Also, if this information was not available to our military, then we risk spending more time and money on winning the war itself, throwing soldiers’ lives and taxpayers’ money away, something neither side of the political spectrum wants to do.

The opposition to torture usually argues that by physically and mentally abusing prisoners, we deprive America of its good name, that we are a nation of good morals and must ensure that everyone is treated fairly.

To specify, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, a prisoner at Guantanamo Bay, was reported to have been waterboarded a total of 183 times in one month, clearly a cruel and unusual punishment for a prisoner.

But ghastly as this may seem, the waterboarding eventually resulted in the release of crucial information including alleged plots to attack the Sears Tower in Chicago, the NATO base in Europe, and various targets in Britain, including Big Ben and Heathrow Airport.

May 29, 2009• THE ARROW

The rights of one prisoner pale in comparison to the rights and lives of the countless innocents that would be impacted by a breach in their nation’s defenses.

Simply put, a million innocent lives are worth more than one guilty one. Consider for a moment that you were in charge of the United States government. Would you rather save the lives of a vast amount of respectable citizens, or a prisoner of war that has already proven to be a threat to these very innocents?

Putting the mental and physical stability of a Guantanamo Bay detainee at stake is worth ensuring that the stability of American citizens is safe. Waterboarding is opposed by a large amount of activists,

and with good reason. But if that means that we put thousands, even millions, of American lives in danger of attack, then we will have failed in our duty to maintain national security in the United States.

Obviously, torture is a complete violation of rights as many claim.

However, the same argument could be made for the concept of war itself, that it aimlessly destroys innocent lives because of some political ordeal that many citizens are not impacted by.

Abusing prisoners pointlessly and for the sake of amusement is not the argument that is to be supported. But taking the necessary precautions to minimize casualties and shorten this military conflict is invaluable.

Should Parks Be Greener?

FRANK DUAN STAFF WRITER

There is a debate on whether or not to improve California National Parks. Even though the nation is dramatically in debt, $11 million is being put aside to improve Californian parks.

During the recent economic slump, nation-wide changes are being made.

Creating a greener park is not only useless; it is a waste of money. California’s education system needs improvement and money, while the parks are being made greener.

This waste of time and money does not make logical sense because while the

parks could be greener, what prevents them from going back to being “nongreen?” There are many multiple productive alternatives to using money on parks, such as funding school-teachers.

“I don’t have a problem with the idea of parks being greener, I have a problem that the money that is going to make parks greener could be used for more eco-friendly projects.” said Wyatt Green ‘12.

Along with the problem of wasting money, most people do not mind if the parks are green or not, and during this economic state, a scarce amount of people en-

joy the park scenery.

There are only a few parks in California, and the only worthwhile investment is to improve national parks to make a profit off tourism. A bill that will support the improvement of parks should be irrevocably denied.

Although the idea of cleaning of the environment is a factor, many other more beneficial alternatives could also assist the environment. All in all, the idea of improving our parks is not practical and would not be profitable to the welfare of California.

The United States tortured its detainees for information on future terrorist attacks. Interrogators used water boarding, stress positions, sleep deprivation, and other techniques.

Some say that the practices revealed valuable information including an attack on the Los Angeles Library Tower. However, memos sent by the Defense and State department question whether this and other information could have been obtained through regular interrogation, without violating the American value of human rights.

Torture is a violation of the Geneva Convention and is illegal under American and International law. The past administration used the term “enhanced interrogation techniques” in order to get them passed.

This cover was needed to hide the severity of the techniques. No matter the name, torture is illegal and a violation of human rights.

Waterboarding, one of the more harsh methods, was used a total of 183 times on Khalid Shaikh Mohammed before he spoke.

Christopher Hitchens, according to Vanity Fair, went through water boarding and said, “You may have read by now the official lie about this treatment, which is that it “simulates” the feeling of drowning. This is not the case. You feel that you are drowning because you are drowning— or, rather, being drowned, albeit slowly and under controlled conditions and at the mercy (or otherwise) of those who are applying the pressure.”

Drowning has been described as one of the most terrifying and horrible ways to die. Simulating death is not humane and torture is not a technique.

Terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda and the Taliban justify their actions and beliefs by using these techniques as examples of the American government being evil. The groups are already enraged with our actions as a military and now have even more reason to hate us. More civilians will join the terrorists, making them stronger and continuing this seemingly never-ending conflict.

Some say that the people who carried out these methods should be tried.

However, they were just carrying out orders from their seniors. Even though they had the power to abstain from using them, commanders still gave the orders to use torture. In addition, the Justice Department was not “blind” and passed the techniques, not because they were legal, but because they feared another attack.

The United States was founded on human rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Now its commanders and justices have violated these rights by torturing.

The country’s reputation is tainted both nationally and internationally by these inhumane actions. During wartime, we use torture to get information from prisoners that we could have gotten from regular interrogation.

Even though it may be harder to get, we should have gotten the information without torture; instead, we compromised our values by taking “enhanced interrogation” shortcuts.

As president John F. Kennedy said about America, we do things “not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win…”

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

7

FEATURE

An Uncommon Bond Between Siblings A View into the World of Boy-Girl Twins

Double the Trouble or Double the Fun?

BECKY SADWICK ANNIE GERLACH STAFF WRITERS

ALLISON MONTROY FEATURE EDITOR

PHOTO BY ALLISON MONTROY

Twins: We hear that word and think The Parent Trap, matching freckles, identical color-coordinating clothes, and cloned personalities. Simultaneous thoughts. Boy twins, girl twins. More than 50% of the time, however, twins are boy-girl. Nevertheless, their relationship still bears the foundations of that quintessential twin stereotype.

As kids, many opposite-sex twins play sports and other activities together. “We both like going dirt bike riding, snowboarding and wakeboarding,” Courtney Koeritz ‘10 explained about her relationship with her twin brother. “We both like traveling and football.” They also run distance on the WHS Track and Field team.

Other twins only participate in sports together as young kids, like Katherine Elizarraz and her twin brother, who both used to play lacrosse.

Nevertheless, these twins still tend to think alike and value one another’s company (most of the time). Sean Rieger and twin sister Taylor Rieger ‘10 both expressed a genuine enjoyment of having a companion for life.

“My friends are her friends and her friends are my friends and we don’t have to do anything alone because we have each other,” Sean explained. Both also mentioned collecting bobble-heads together when they were younger.

For Koeritz and her twin brother, “sometimes we think alike, but most of the time we don’t.” In contrast, the Reigers both said that they “say the

Identical Twins:

SEEING DOUBLE: Twin siblings Sean and Taylor Rieger flash their similar smiles.

same thing at the same time all the time.” Elizarraz and her twin brother think both alike and differently, depending on the circumstances.

Koeritz likes the fact that she has a twin who “is like the opposite of me in a good way, and when we get along, we get along.” Many fraternal twins, although they share thoughts and hobbies, have decidedly different personalities.

“Sean and I have polar opposite personalities,” explained Taylor.

“Which I like. The difference makes us more individual.”

Even with some differences, Elizar-

Fraternal Twins Not So Different As They Appear question was very similar to Rebecca’s answer. “We are both on Westlake’s varsity cheer squad and have been for The term “fraternal twins” is very four years,” she said. We share almost deceiving to an outsider looking in. all of the same friends, so we spend a When people hear, “oh, they are lot of time together hanging out with fraternal twins,” most of them are gofriends on the weekends.” ing to think, “oh, they are different,” “On some levels, it is as if we have but in reality, there are so many simithe same exact same thoughts but then larities between fraternal twins that the there are some things that we are in conword “different” should not even be stant disagreement about. In general, we thought of when classifying them. think pretty similarly,” Haley said about There are lots of fraternal twins their state of minds. that play the “We think same sports, very much alike.

“We think very much alike. We can easily have the same hobbies, socialWe can easily pick up on pick up on what ize with the the other is feelwhat the other is feeling or ing or trying to same people, have the same say. We also can trying to say.” interests, study, make jokes that do other activiwe know only ties together all Rebecca Winter ’09 the other will the time, and get,” explained even end up beRebecca. ing best friends with each other.

This is an undisputable example of When a group of friends is seen how the mindset of fraternal twins are and one twin is in the group, it is goalike. ing to be pretty definite that his or her Of course the two have some diftwin brother or sister is going to be ferences, as Haley stated, but they way seen hanging out with that same group that their minds both work is undeniof people too, most likely because of ably similar. their closeness that radiates into their Likewise, celebrities Mary Kate Olsocial life. sen and Ashley Olsen are classified as “Haley and I do almost everyfraternal twins, yet posses many similar thing together,” Rebecca Winter ’09 characteristics. said about her twin sister Haley WinOf course there is going to be the arter. “Some specifics are cheerleading, gument, “well they do not look alike.”

SADD club, and just doing random If that is the only difference bestuff at home together.” tween fraternal twins, the similarities Haley’s response to that same between them far outnumber it.

raz fondly referred to her twin brother as her best friend growing up. “I guided him throughout our childhood,” she explained.

Twins are not just matching clothes and similar faces. Whether identical or fraternal, twins share an irreplaceable companion for life.

Boy-girl twins are closer than friends, closer than siblings, and different enough to be individual.

“Throughout my life I have never been alone, ever. From the womb until now, I have always had someone else right there next to me: my brother,” explained Taylor.

No, you don’t need a new contact prescription. You haven’t been seeing double. There are indeed more than a few sets of identical twins running around campus.

While some of the identical twins enjoy having a best friend who looks just like them, others believe it robs them of their identities.

“We are different people! I don’t compare you to that pencil there do I? I find it highly offensive when you or anyone else for that matter compares us,” said Amanda Collins ‘09.

Other identical twins relish in the perks of being identical twins. “My sister had a boyfriend she wanted to break up with, and she didn’t want to break up with him herself, so I called him and broke up with him for her because we sound the same,” said Nicole DiBene-Gorger ‘11.

Still, DiBene-Gorger admitted that although her twin sister and she think alike and enjoy some of the same activities, they act extremely different.

Sophomores Sean and Ross Eckley said that they think and act differently; however, their respective responses to questions were strikingly similar. They both mentioned how frequently they were confused for one another, and listed their shared hobbies in nearly identical words.

Ross contended, “We make it clear that we are two different people,” as Sean remarked that “[teachers] know just how different we are.”

Whether they are impossible to tell apart or impossible to compare, identical twins clearly stand out.

Opposites in Nearly Every Way

JACOB CAVANAH FEATURE EDITOR

PHOTO BY BECKY SADWICK

BROTHERLY LOVE: Sam and Dillon Wexler may be twins, but both are clearly individuals.

SAM WEXLER STAFF WRITER

When people think of twins, the stereotype of the two people identical in every way is the first thing that enters their minds, but only 8% of twins fit this profile.

The more common type of twin is fraternal, non-identical twins.

Being a fraternal twin, I get all disadvantages of twins with none of the advantages of being an identical twin (i.e. swapping places and tricking people).

One of the major disadvantages of being a twin is that people assume the two twins think and act alike. It’s this assumption that proves the laymen toward twins.

We are not one person. I have never met any twins, identical or fraternal, who have the same thoughts and feelings. When my brother Dillon Wexler ‘10 and I are grouped as one, I feel it takes away from our individuality.

Many people also assume that twins should not be separated. Even as frater-

nal twins, people assume that we should have the same friends, same teachers, same clothes and if one is invited somewhere the other has to be invited too.

However, twins are not one person. My brother and I aren’t even that close. When people see us they don’t think we’re related at all. It not only comes as a shock that we are brothers, but people assume that we are lying when we say we are twins.

I have three things in common with Dillon: our last name, age, and gender.

That’s it.

He’s a Republican. I’m a Democrat.

He’s tense. I’m relaxed. He thinks he’s funny. I know I am. He’s gotten straight A+’s since 4th Grade. I get A’s and B’s. The list goes on.

It’s not the fact that we are twins that make us special; it’s our differences that define us. Twins aren’t a package deal.

Once they are out of the womb they are separate beings, with separate thoughts and emotions. No twin is ever truly identical, regardless of looks.

8

FEAT

An Indian Immersion IRIS YAN FEATURE EDITOR

The Eastern values of India are ubiquitous in the various facets of its culture—in cuisine, religion, festivals, and much more.

“What I value most in my culture is discipline and devotion. Everyone is really hospitable and generous in India,” said Simha Sankar ‘11.

Sankar expresses that his culture respects kindness and the love for food.

“One thing that Indians may be unrecognized for is that even if one is rich or poor, they still maintain their cultures and values, no matter what,” said Sankar.

Sankar upholds his Indian heritage and hopes to spread the values to others,” as he is a member of the Indian club at WHS. The greatest cultural significance of Indian tradition originates from the unique clothing, language, food, architecture, and the peo-

ple that make up the country itself. For the traditional dress, Indian women wear a sari while men wear the dhoti kurta. Worn on a daily basis, the dhoti kurta has now become casual wear for men.

Unique to each region of India are the distinct dishes which incorporate unique cooking techniques and spices.

The ancient structures of India remain as direct examples of the history of India. India’s architecture has gone through implementation of intricate designs and art work.

The Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, is located in Agra, India. Built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this magnificent monument is considered one great example of Mughal architecture.

India’s unique culture and tradition continues though the country develops at a rapid economic pace.

Even though Indians have accepted modern means of living and improved their lifestyle, their values and beliefs still remain unchanged.

East Meets W

From China to Ital cultural traditions the lives of m

The Greek Experience

BUON G

MAX AVRUCH FEATURE EDITOR

The perception of the Greek family depicted in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, although exaggerated, is accurate for some families.

Christina Vasiliou and Elizabeth Whetstone, both sophomores, show off their Greek heritage as they share their culture’s love for food, family, and life.

“My grandparents help me preserve and understand my heritage better both when I speak to them and when I go to Greece,” said Whetstone.

Vasiliou and Whetstone both described how baklava is considered the most representative food item of their culture.

“When my family and I go back to see the rest of our family in Greece, we basically want to preserve the culture of intermarrying with other Greeks,” said Vasiliou.

Vasiliou says that the spouse must be baptized and be a convert to the Greek Orthodox Church in order “to marry,” a scene reminiscent of the famous Greek movie.

The Greek culture, especially the architecture and scholastic history, is revealed in hundreds of modern day ideas.

Distinctive foods (like pita bread and hummus) beautiful Mediterranean church domes (such as those in Santorini) characterize the Greek culture, which still stands as a represen-

MAX AVRUCH FEATURE EDITOR

PILLARS OF LIFE: The Parthenon in Athens stands as a breathtaking wonder of Greek architecture and the connection to the ancient past.

tation of learning, mythology, culinary cuisine, family life, architecture, and science.

Whetstone and Vasiliou note that Easter is the most celebrated holiday in the Greek culture. Yet, their Easter, a part of the Greek Orthodox celebrations, is different from the more commonly known Easter celebrated a week earlier.

“It’s basically a four-day celebration of food, dancing, food, church service, more food, and did I say food?” said Vasiliou when describing the holiday.

Spanakopita (a filo-dough dish filled with spinach and cheese), tsoureki, a typical Greek Easter bread, delicious lamb dish variations, and other feast items including wonderful desserts, like baklava—these food items are a core part of the Easter celebration and general family gatherings.

The Greek culture continues to thrive generations after generations.

“I hope to continue my family’s love of Greek culture as I get older, and I am proud of the many great aspects the Greek culture represents—including food,” said Whetstone.

From the Parthenon’s symbol of ancient Greek antiquity and mythology to the platters of sweet baklava, elements of this warm, rich culture continue to fascinate and delight all.

For Justin Moore ’11, hi from sports to school or to common interest: his Italian h An Italian citizen, Moo culture in all parts of his life. not speak Italian, his moth do, giving him “information Italian life and culture.”

“My family and my ed important influences my cul support and encouragement academic level possible in life a gift that should not be negle Moore about cultural and fam As he describes the value opens up about his fascinatin Despite a cliché of hea families, Italian culture spa of years of history, and it enc life, from family gatherings t events and to the exceptiona

COLOSSAL MONUMENT: Th one of the most remarkable hi world because of its use in ancie ing architecture, and its moder ture today.

9

TURE

Beyond the Great Wall

West at WHS

ly to India to Greece, remain important in many students.

GIORNO ITALIA

is entire life, whether his hobbies, shares a heritage. ore takes pride in his . Although Justin does her and grandmother n and influence about

ducation are the most lture has on me. The to achieve the highest e is vital. Education is ected or ignored,” said mily values. e of education, he also ng Italian culture. avy meals and large ans across thousands compasses all parts of to traditional national al cuisine that people

he Colosseum remains istoric landmarks in the ent Rome, its breathtakrn symbol of Italian cul-

spiciest dishes, Beijing, the Forbidden City and the Terracotta soldiers, Shanghai, the epitome of modern China.

In a sea of varying cultures in America, the Chinese art such as calligraphy, silk emorigins of China are one of the most ancient and broidery, painting, and decor of porcelain is deeply rooted. highly prized for the quality and talent of the Beginning with the first dynasty, Xia, of artists.

4,200 years ago to the present, China’s values In ancient China, the imperial court continue to thrive would hold a selecin its people. tive screening of the Chinese culmost talented artists ture is highly comthroughout China; plex but scholars therefore, the impeacross the world rial court was fully agree that despite embellished with the diversity of the greatest pieces Chinese communiof artwork in the ties, many shared country. characteristics perIn the most artsist. ful procession, the Sam Chen ’10, Chinese New Year raised in a Chiin February, and in nese family, said, the moon festivals, “Though people THE GREAT WALL: Winding around nearly 1000 miles, lantern festivals, who originate from the Great Wall of China remains one of the greatest won- dragon boat festival, China move apart, ders of the world. the distinct food and every family is still the symbolic artconnected by their inherent Chinese culture.” work provide an unparalleled experience.

The traditional values mainly derive from In ancient China, the various structures, Confucian philosophy and Taoism which en- initially built for defense mechanisms, now compass the core ideals of Chinese identity. stand as monuments mapping the advanceAmong these values are the importance of ment of technology and the incredible capacfamily, the hierarchical structure of social life, ity of mankind. the cultivation of morality and self-restraint, Today, China boasts unique aspects in and the emphasis on work and achievement. business, culture, travel, tourism, all which atThe most famous cities are those of the Si- tract visitors from around the world to see the chuan (Szechwan) province which offers the wonders “way beyond the Great Wall.”

IRIS YAN FEATURE EDITOR

around the world cherish in their very homes.

“In my opinion, the pizelle—which is a waffle cookie that comes from where my ancestors live— is most representative of my culture,” said Moore.

The specialty dishes in Italian cuisine make for an important part of culinary institution. Pizzas, pastas, pizelles, and panetone Milanese specialty bread, most commonly made during Christmas, all differ region by region throughout the Italian peninsula, but are featured throughout the world.

“The Feast of St. Robert, Christmas, and Easter are all the most celebrated and important holidays for my family and I. The Feast of St. Robert is celebrated where my extended family lives near Abruzzo,” said Moore.

The idea of family and food together is practiced throughout the holidays of Christmas, Easter, and in Justin’s case, the Feast of St. Robert.

Italians enjoy “togetherness, food, and laughter,” said Moore.

Like the Greek culture, Italian influence is seen in architecture, science, philosophy, food, cars, business, medicine, and law.

“Like I said before, my family values the beauty in learning and the highest academic achievement possible. The different ideas in life that are practiced throughout Italy are not taken lightly, but nurtured well,” said Moore.

Since Rome remains one of the most popular travel destinations, the city boasts of life from countless museums, historical landmarks, restaurants, universities, and innumerable shops.

“Italy contains so much life and history. All of the places and sites make it such a great place to travel and see,” said Moore.

Italy contains the “soul of the world,” as it is impossible to describe the grandeur and magnificence of the culture that lies just above the Mediterranean Sea. A platter of bucatini all’amatriciana can make a convert out of any non-Italian. Viva Italia.

A Taste of Rome— Dish by Dish

FRUITY DELIGHTS: Melon and prosciutto appetizer combines the sweet and fresh tastes of fruit and the salty flavors of prosciutto (an Italian ham) in this summer dish. With just two ingredients, this appetizer is perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet delight. Because it’s so light, healthy, and tasty, this appetizer remains popular for all. Roman citizens and visitors can be seen lounging at cafe shops and eating this summer dish.

BON APPETIT!: Bucatini all’amatriciana is an Italian favorite because of the dish’s distinct pork flavors and spicy-rich sauce. The dish, which originated in a small, rural town of Amatrice, has since traveled through Rome and into international culinary books. This dish is a classic favorite.

INSALATA CAPRESE: This salad remains a classic Italian appetizer, mainly because of its simplicity. Five ingredients—tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, fine olive oil, and balsamic vinegar—make up the caprese salad. This dish has many variations, in sandwiches, chopped salads, and paninis, but to make this dish classic, the tomatoes must be ripened.

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FEATURE

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

Polar Bears Threatened by Increased Methane Levels Contribute to Global Warming Increased Temperatures ter, and finally emit methane gas. This makes for a dangerous atmosphere.

With methane lying under the thawed Arctic soils, Walter said that 50 Scientists have located more evidence billion tons of deadly methane could be that global warming is occurring; it is takreleased if all the permafrost melts from ing its toll on regions of the Arctic Circle, the Siberian lakes alone. This would cause particularly the amount of the Siberian allakes.

“Methane release due to methane ready in the T h e y thawing permafrost in the Arctic atmosphere to have discovmultiply ten ered methane is a global warming wild card.” times. “It happockets that pened on a could change large scale in the outcome of United States Environmental Prothe past, and Earth’s climate gram it could hapdramatically. pen on a large With the inscale in the fucreasing levels ture,” she said. She concluded that “this of carbon dioxide, this new discovery only disaster is a time bomb.” History is refurthers the need to fight global warming peating itself yet again. in its entirety.

Scientists also believe that the air Katey Walter, researcher from the Unitemperature in the Arctic is likely to inversity of Alaska, leads this expedition to crease as much as six degrees Celsius by find the root of the cause. She describes the year 2100. Geophysicist Vladimir Rothese pockets as white orbs under the surmanovsky said that, “We are seeing thawface of the thick ice. When punctured, these ing down to five meters, and a third to a pockets release methane—a potent greenhalf of permafrost is already within a dehouse gas that can contribute to global gree and a half of thawing.” warming, one of civilization’s biggest probDespite scientists consistently relems to date. minding the community about the danThe United Nations Environmental gers of global warming, these increasing Program said, “Methane release due to methane levels have gone unnoticed by thawing permafrost in the Arctic is a global the public. warming wild card.”

Walters said that methane levels have So how does all this methane gas get dramatically increased due to human acinto the Arctic? As carbon dioxide and othtivities, contributing to about 70% of the er greenhouse gases are released into the methane within the Earth’s atmosphere. atmosphere, the sun’s heat is trapped in By cutting down on greenhouse gas emisthe Earth. sions, this critical crisis may hopefully be When this occurs, ice in the polar reavoided. gions start to melt and form lakes which are For more information on methane, filled with plant and animal remains that or to find out how you can cut down on originated from eroding shorelines. These your own methane emissions, please visit remains are food for the methane-produchttp://epa.gov/methane/ ing microbes. They digest the organic matKABIR NAGARKATTI OPINION EDITOR

SASHA LEWIS STAFF WRITER

With global warming drastically changing the temperature in the polar bears’ habitat, at the northernmost point of Alaska along the Beaufort Sea in a town called Kaktovik, polar bears are headed to extinction within the next 100 years.

Each year the ice which is normally a permanent trait of the North Pole is melting by 10% and the rate will soon increase as the white ice can no longer reflect the heat from the sun.

The bears use their body fat to survive when the temperatures plummet in the harshest part of their winter.

Polar bears need the ice in order to feed off seals. Without it, they cannot obtain food. “Swimming 100 miles is not a big deal for a polar bear, especially a fat one,” said Dr. Ian Stirling of the Canadian Wildlife Service.

“Although the magnificent creatures are well adapted to the water, and can swim scores of miles to solid land, the distance is getting ever greater as the Arctic ice diminishes” said Bill Mouland in his global warming article.

Since the summers often cause the bears to have to adapt to a smaller appetite due to less ice than winter, the ice melting

at this rate gives polar bears difficulties in maintaining a healthy weight.

Hunting seasons for the bears have been cut short, and they are being forced to travel more to areas that are more icy to get the food they need.

Mothers normally have two cubs when reproducing and the chance that they will survive is only 50%. Mother polar bears then do not reproduce again until three years later when the cub has grown up.

Dr. Stirling said that the phenomenon of a female giving birth to triplets is now part of history. Usually only single cubs are recorded. Soon, the species may be extinct.

Polar bears may have to adapt to different patterns. They may behave more like the brown bear and start to feed on fish such as salmon. With twenty different polar bear populations, only two populations in the Arctic regions of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway, and Russia have seemed to increase in population size.

Ways to help as noted by the National Wildlife Federation include the following: lawmakers must enforce reducing energy use by 2% per year, and the arctic areas should not be available for oil and gas development. With a reduction of 80% in global climate change and their habitats not being destroyed by human activity, polar bear extinction can be delayed.

May 29, 2009• THE ARROW

Sweeten Up Your World

SOFIA TALARICO FEATURE EDITOR

and each chocolate has a distinct and different characteristic. Upon tasting the chocolate from each place, I became consumed within the candy.

One particular chocolate that I t r i e d was a 40% milk chocolate truffle w i t h c r e m e brulee in the center.

It was one of the most amazing chocolates I have ever tasted.

Some of the chocolates consisted of combinations that I would never think to try, but I surprisingly enjoyed every single truffle I tasted, no matter how different the ingredients were.

One product to definitely try is the liquid warm chocolate. It is served in a small shot-like glass and a small dish of whipped cream on the side. After drinking peanut butter liquid chocolate, I realized that I will never be able to drink hot chocolate again. The flavor was creamy and delicious, and the fact that it was thick really added to the “wow” factor. This drink adds levels of serotonin to the brain which increases a person’s happiness level.

It will leave any person speechless.

I truly enjoyed my visit to Tifa; it embodied every aspect of chocolate I enjoyed, and it took me back to my Italian roots which reminded me of home. Just a short drive away from Westlake, Tifa is the ultimate chocolate shop to visit.

The Battle of the Burritos Sea Casa is known for being all organic and healthier than its competitors. Sea Casa is also more affordable for students, with their Chipotle has moved into Westlake, Facebook coupons for a meal consisting and the war of the burritos has begun. of a $6 burrito, chips, and drink.

WHS students have been eating at All three restaurants have plenty of Qdoba, getting their $5 student burrito seating, but parking is scarce at Qdoba, deals and loving it. which students can find as a deterrent With a new burrito place in town, during the they now lunch rush. have the Students c h o i c e who support a m o n g Sea Casa Chipotle, enjoy it for Qdoba, and “the quality Sea Casa. of service T h e and food, decision can especially be a hard since they one, since remember two of the your face and restaurants what you like offer customto order,” m a d e said Michael burritos, and Sadighian the other FROM EAR TO EAR: Matthew Cole ‘10 gets ready to enjoy ‘09. has them GRINNING a tasty burrito from his favorite restaurant, Chipotle.

A Qdoba as menu s u p p o r t e r, items. Other Jordan Sloan ‘10 said, “I love eating at differences, however, are apparent.

Qdoba. The chicken burrito makes my Qdoba is known for its queso (cheese) day.” sauce that the chain offers to its As the new restaurant in town, customers for their dipping pleasure.

Chipotle has a surprising number of Chipotle and Qdoba both offer healthy fans, including Lauren Noyes ‘10 who options. Sea Casa has a burrito bowl, said, “They give you a lot of food to and Qdoba has a “naked burrito”; both share with other people.” consist of the burrito without the tortilla.

All the Mexican restaurants serve Chipotle sells its chips separately in similar cuisine, so the choice is purely bags, which give its customers more up to the customer. chips and could sway customers.

KATELYN SMITH NEWS EDITOR

PHOTO BY SOFIA TALARICO

The haunting aroma of sweet chocolate and the elegance of the eloquently designed truffles reveal the local hotspot Tifa Chocolate and Gelato in Agoura Hills.

Tifa is a family owned shop which not only features an array of gelatos, an Italian-style ice cream, a variety of truffles imported from different places around the world, and decadent liquid chocolate, but also a section where one can browse among different chocolates and buy whatever he or she pleases.

Upon entering, newcomers have the pleasure of being able to discover which chocolate is best for them. The co-owner, Denise, is an expert at determining what chocolate is best for each individual person. She establishes a personal connection with her customers and focuses all of her attention towards the satisfaction of everyone who enters the shop. The family-centered atmosphere made me feel extremely comfortable even though I had never been there before.

She worked with me and let me sample different chocolates and had me try chocolates that brought out a plethora of diverse flavors.

The chocolates on display are from Brussels, Belgium, Paris, and Germany

11

FEATURE

FOR SALE Available for purchase June 29!

1968 Pontiac Firebird

— Red exterior — 4-speed manual transmission — More information may be requested by emailing millerduke@hotmail.com

12

ENTERTAINMENT

The Future Looks Bleak, But Terminator Doesn’t SAM WEXLER STAFF WRITER

Seek Angels in Heaven

COURTESY PHOTO

WHEN IN ROME: Langdon and Vetra are sent on a hunt for the path of the Illuminati.

MAX AVRUCH FEATURE EDITOR

The much-awaited film Angels and Demons, starring Tom Hanks as the revered Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon, effectively captures the spirit of the Dan Brown bestseller. Audiences are taken on a two and a half-hour thrill ride of intellect

and adventure.

The film opens with the Pope’s burial, showing the story’s main location at the Vatican. Even if audiences have not read the book, the movie makes it simple to follow without any previous knowledge necessary for character development or plot information.

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Terminator Salvation is an explosive thriller worthy of the Terminator title.

The film begins in 2003 with Marcus Wright (Sam Worthington), a death-row inmate who is seen donating his body to Cyberdyne representative Dr. Serena Kogan (Helena Bonham Carter) the day before his execution.

Flash-forward to the death-stricken world of 2018, where a Resistance attack on a Skynet outpost is taking place. In the midst of dead robots and high-octane explosions is John Connor (Christian Bale), prophesied leader of the humans, who begins his role by terminating a terminator.

Connor survives the attack but the rest of the team was killed either by terminators or the explosion in the prison cell that they were trying to liberate.

This is also where Marcus re-enters the film awakening in the middle of all the carnage from the resistance attack, hours after its failure. Stealing the clothes from a dead fighter, Marcus makes his way to a decimated Los Angeles, where he meets and teams up with Kyle Reese (Anton Yelchin), Connor’s soon-to-be father, and his mute accomplice Star.

As the trio makes their way to seek the help of the fabled John Connor, they are met with robots who are trying to kill Re-

ese, making for a really cool and well coordinated chase scene.

As the film progresses Connor and Marcus end up working together to try to take down Skynet’s main San Francisco headquarters and free all the human prisoners kept there.

The film does an excellent job creating the nuclear wasteland that is 2018, using CGI to create a burnt and tarnished Hollywood sign, the skeleton of downtown Los Angeles, and a barely standing Golden Gate Bridge.

Christian Bale is superb as the adult John Connor, and although he sometimes uses his “Batman voice” to emphasize the character’s anger, his overall performance really makes the viewer understand why Connor is man’s only hope.

Starring alongside Bale is Sam Worthington as the mysterious Marcus Wright. Worthington, like Bale, excels in showing the pain and confusion of his character, who is trying to figure out why and how he is in a future 15 years after his execution.

I enjoyed all of the allusions to the past Terminator films. For example when Reese first meets Marcus he says, “Come with me if you want to live.” Reese is also always seen carrying a sawed-off shotgun, his choice of weapon in the original Terminator, and Connor is seen listening to the tapes his mother is making for him at the

May 29, 2009• THE ARROW

I’LL BE BACK: Christian Bale, as hero John Connor, disposes of a Terminator.

end of that film.

Perhaps the greatest allusion to the other films is a cameo appearance by the T-800 (the model from the first Terminator) towards the end of the film. The movie uses CGI to put pre-Govenator Arny’s face on a body double to show the origin of the T800 model.

Overall this is an excellent film, filled with many twists and turns, and state-ofthe art special effects. In this critic’s filmobsessed opinion, the current order of Terminator films is T2: Judgment Day, followed

by Terminator Salvation, then in a close third Terminator, and in last place is T3: Rise of the Machines.

Going from the Vatican to Harvard University and then to Vittoria’s Amgenlike lab called CERN, the movie deals with capturing anti-matter, a potentially lethal and dangerous substance if handled with incorrectly. Yet, upon seeing Vittoria’s chin smeared with blood the audience quickly realizes that the anti-matter captured was part of an elaborate plan to destroy the Catholic Church, at the hands of the Illuminati.

Once Langdon and Vetra come to the Vatican, the real adventure starts up, as the two characters use their knowledge in symbolism, history, and science to decode the bewildering puzzle mystery set forth by the Illuminati secret society.

At this point, audiences can sit back and enjoy the film’s many twist and turns, enigmatic cliffhangers, exciting doublecrosses, and impressive visual-effects that all play out together for the next two hours.

Audiences who did not read the book may find the good guys and the bad guys hard to distinguish at first, but once the familiar “Illuminati” brand on various pope officials is seen several times, it becomes clear that the Illuminati seek their centuries

old vendetta against the Catholic Church in setting off a bomb in the Vatican.

Yet, the romance that was present in the novel is not present itself in the film, as the chemistry between the professor and the scientist lacks completely.

Between a near suffocation, a near death by gunfire and a near drowning, Robert Langdon is caught in a dangerous pursuit to find the killer and the bomb.

Meanwhile, back at the Vatican, a power struggle ensues between Ewan McGregor’s character and other higher-up Catholic bishops, who all want the title of Pope.

Without doubt, the movie successfully portrays the exciting twists, scholarly intrigue, and humorous wit that the novel captured back in 2000.

Angels and Demons is an exciting film for audiences in search of an intellectual thriller that still has adventurous storylines and incredible locations like Rome.

Minus the triple “burned at the stake” killings present throughout the movie, Angels and Demons is graphically spectacular as the color red plays important to the Catholic bishops, the fires, and blood spilt during the film.

Star Trek Boldly Goes Where No Film Has Gone Before

JARED ERMAN STAFF WRITER

The Star Trek phenomenon has dominated my house for as long as I can recall.

My dad grew up watching the original Star Trek series starring William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy. No doubt, he passed his love for the show on to my sister and me. When we first heard the idea of a new Star Trek movie featuring a young James T. Kirk (Chris Pine), we assumed that it could never live up to our expectations. However, the action-packed sci-fi movie managed to retain its old fan base while capturing a new one.

The film opens in the far reaches of the galaxy, where the Federation Star-Ship Kelvin encounters a Romulan ship with intense weapon capabilities. The ship opens fire on the Kelvin, which quickly suffers heavy casualties.

The moment I saw huge explosions and crewmen flying out into space, I knew this was going to live up to the high standards expected of all Star Trek movies. Throughout the heavy violence of the

scene, a baby is born. Of course, it is none other than James T. Kirk, the son of the Kelvin’s first officer George Kirk (Chris Hemsworth). The movie then skims over Kirk’s childhood in Iowa, with the Beastie Boys’ “Sabotage” well representing his renegade youth. Meanwhile, cutaways to the planet Vulcan present a young Spock (Zachary Quinto) as he struggles with his half-human, half-Vulcan identity.

In his early 20’s, Kirk is challenged by Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood), captain of the Enterprise, to enlist in Starfleet after a bar fight with a handful of Starfleet cadets including communications expert Uhura (Zoe Saldana). Of course, he accepts the challenge.

Kirk’s introduction to Starfleet Academy is accompanied by his first meeting with future good friend Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy (Karl Urban), and his progression through the Kobayashi Maru test, a no-win situation, made famous in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982).

In Kirk’s third year at the Academy, the plot takes a hairpin turn when the same Romulan ship that destroyed the Kelvin

25 years in the past appears over the planet Vulcan. The Enterprise crew, including Captain Pike, Spock, Uhura, “Bones,” pilot Hikaru Sulu (John Cho), navigator Pavel Chekhov (Anton Yelchin), and a stowaway Kirk, is called to fight off the Romulan invasion.

Pike is forced to leave the ship, placing Spock and Kirk in command. At this point, the two men must work together to stop the Romulan threat.

Appearances are also made by a young Montgomery Scott (Simon Pegg), better known as “Scotty,” as well as Spock from the future, played by Leonard Nimoy.

Despite major belief that the movie would scar Star Trek’s long history of excellence, Director J.J. Abrams succeeded in revitalizing the Star Trek franchise, as well as in recreating the characters we all know and love.

Zachary Quinto did an excellent job in his portrayal of the emotionally conflicted Spock. After various personal losses, the Vulcan reluctantly turns to his friends and his human emotions to guide him, while still retaining his ability to use logic to his

advantage.

Karl Urban shined in his role of the emotionally charged Dr. McCoy, using various lines reminiscent of the original series and never ceasing to find amusement in Spock’s inhuman nature.

Anton Yelchin brought a humorous flare to the part of the young Ensign Pavel Chekhov, with his incredible ability to recreate original series actor Walter Koenig’s Russian accent. His search for the “nuclear wessels” in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986), is now replaced by the Enterprise’s approach towards the planet “Wulcan.”

My only major criticism of the movie was that it did not have a memorable musical theme. However, the presence of the original series theme at the end eased that concern.

When my dad walked out of the theater, the first words out of his mouth were “that was a good movie.”

It takes an excellent performance for him to even consider saying such words, especially in relations to Star Trek. If he could manage to find more good than bad within the movie, I think that almost anyone can.

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

13

ENTERTAINMENT

Eminem Reclaims Hip-Hop rone With Relapse JACOB CAVANAH FEATURE EDITOR COURTESY PHOTO

RISING STARS: Throughout their new album, the members of Grizzly Bear piece together haunting melodies and elegant instrumentals for a mesmerizing effect.

Grizzly Bear’s Veckatimest Stuns Audiences TORI SCOVILLE STAFF WRITER

Idol Castoffs Still Find Success ALEX BISTON STAFF WRITER

“This...is American Idol!” Ryan Seacrest’s voice booms through millions of televisions across America while the distinct theme music is cued.

Viewed by millions each week, American Idol has now successfully com pleted its 8th season.

This season’s finale was between edgy rocker Adam Lambert and Arkansas native Kris Allen.

Both brought much to the table, yet after a record-breaking 100 million votes, Kris claimed the coveted title.

This season, the winner receives a contract with Idol creator Simon Fuller’s 19 Management, a 2010 Ford Fusion, the first ever Idol trophy, and, of course, the honor of being voted the best out of hundreds of thousands of hopeful contestants.

In the past seasons, many who were not even named the Idol, including Chris Daughtry, Jennifer Hudson, David Archuleta, Clay Aiken, and Kelly Pickler, have shot to stardom.

Many have even become major superstars, some even more popular than the winners.

Past contestants can testify that losing the title doesn’t necessarily condemn them to failure, nor does winning mean they are shoo-ins for superstardom.

Jennifer Hudson, Chris Daughtry, and Clay Aiken all achieved phenomenal success, despite being voted off from the show. Hudson went on to win a Grammy

and starred in the Academy Award winning movie Dream Girls.

Chris Daughtry has also become a huge international star, selling more than 4.5 million albums. He had a sold out tour in 2007 and 2008, and is releasing his new album, Leave This Town, on July 14.

The most successful American Idol castoff, in terms of record sales, is Season 2 runner-up Clay Aiken. Even without the American Idol experience, Aiken has sold more than 4.8 million records.

Country sweetheart Kellie Pickler is the 9th biggest-selling Idol contestant of all time—even though she placed sixth in competition, behind Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks.

David Archuleta, the Season 7 runner up, is currently on a world tour and has sold 700,000 albums thus far. His hit single “Crush” debuted at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 its first week out.

As for the “Idol” winners, the most successful stars to win the competiton were Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

They have become well-known celebrities and have broken music records along the way. Underwood is now one of the biggest selling stars in country music history. She has sold nearly 10 million albums.

Clarkson, nearly seven years after she won it all, is still topping the charts with her new album, All I Ever Wanted, which debuted at number one its first week out.

As for Kris, his smooth vocals and boy-next-door image will likely boost him, as well as runner-up Adam Lambert into celebrity status.

After his fourth studio album Encore, Eminem, a.k.a.

Marshall Mathers, said he was going to retire as a rapper to focus on producing artists on Aftermath and Shady Records.

However, abusing prescription drugs is mainly how the rap superstar had been spending his time off until he kicked his addictions, maintaining sobriety for the past year.

That year of HE’S BACK: Eminem traces his history of drug struggle and the addiction and newfound sobriety on Relapse. previous three years of popping pills is the story told on stepfather. his latest studio album, Relapse.

Being Eminem, of course he has to This album was made with his have songs like “Deja Vu” and his hit long time friend, producer, rapper, and single “We Made You.” His idiosyncratic Aftermath CEO Dr. Dre. These two offensive and comical antics are expressed musicians are classified as among the most in these two songs. prolific hip-hop duos in the history of the “Deja Vu” talks about another one of genre. his drug-related near-death experiences, Dre produced all of Relapse, and but contains a healthy amount of comic demonstrates his skills on the microphone relief. on “Crack a Bottle,” featuring 50 Cent, and On “Underground/Ken Kaniff,” he “Old Time’s Sake.” laments his three years of inactivity and His past albums have dealt with regrets not making music during this dark themes of the people in his past, and how period of addiction and apathy. they have affected him in a negative way The hip-hop world has doubtlessly for his whole life. Common targets have missed Eminem, and listeners around the included his ex-wife, Kim Mathers, and world are glad he is back. So is he.

COURTESY PHOTO

Before hitting the shelves, Grizzly Bear’s Veckatimest was hailed as one of the best albums of the year. Named after an uninhabited island off the coast of Massachusetts, Veckatimest combines beautiful vocal harmonies and attention-grabbing layered melodies, to become an instant classic.

Yet another victim of the internet leak, the album could be found online three months prior to its official release date, May 26.

Grizzly Bear’s songs instantly hypnotize anyone. The eloquent album is a huge step forward for this band.

The irresistible warmth the album encompasses has a more dynamic and elegant landscape of sound than in previous albums like the hushed “Yellow House” released in 2006.

With this new live-sounding approach, Veckatimest is still intimate with close harmonies that attract a wider range of people.

The album’s opener, “Southern Point” begins with a simple yet seductive guitar riff, and before long the gripping rhythm transforms into a textured climax, leaving

the song compelling throughout.

An obvious single, “Two Weeks,” kicks it up a notch for Grizzly Bear’s poppy-folk side. Probably the most accessible song on the album, the track uses a repetitive piano refrain to lift spirits into melodious vocal harmonies also sung by Beach House’s singer Victoria Legrand.

After the jubilant first two tracks, the third song, “All We Ask,” calms the album’s upbeat beginning. Throughout the middle of Veckatimest the tempo slows, creating a more mellow mood.

“While You Wait For Others” is one of the last songs and brings back the all-appealing pop hook, making potential for another great single.

Signed to Warp Records, Grizzly Bear has made it difficult for other bands to keep up with them. The genius band members consist of Daniel Rossen (who is also a member of the duo Department of Eagles), Edward Droste (who originally was an independent filmmaker), Chris Taylor, and finally Christopher Bear.

Grizzly Bear has previously toured with Feist, TV on the Radio, and Radiohead, and has performed with both the LA and Brooklyn Philharmonic Orchestras.

Overall, Veckatimest is one of this year’s must-have albums.

even his own mother, Debbie Mathers.

Relapse still drops a few names but mostly talks about how he himself, not his many enemies, is responsible for the Marshall Mathers of today.

On “Insane,” M a t h e r s chronicles his tough childhood and traumatic relationships with his mother and his stepfather.

His in-depth lyrics really paint a picture for his listeners of a disturbing experience he had with his

14

SPORTS

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

Westlake’s Athletic Legacy Thrives

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

HIGHWAY ROBBERY: Cutter Dykstra gets ready to sell out to catch a sinking line drive.

PATIENCE IN THE POCKET: Rudy Carpenter prepares to deliver a touchdown pass.

BEN CONLIN STAFF WRITER

WHS has produced countless star athletes throughout the last few decades; the last six years have been no exception.

Many have gone on to the bigger stages of collegiate level sports, while some have possessed the talents to compete at a professional level.

The following alumni are examples of how a high school sensation can transform into household names.

Although he only played for WHS his senior year after transferring from Newbury Park, this quarterback became arguably the best player in Warrior football history.

Rudy Carpenter ’04 helped lead the 2003 Westlake football team to an undefeated season at 14-0 and a CIF championship. After his only year at WHS, Carpenter accepted a scholarship to Arizona State where he excelled in his rookie season as a freshman, earning an honorable mention for the “Freshman of the Year” contest. He went on to dominate once again his sophomore and junior seasons, and set the Sun

Devil’s all-time career passer rating record.

Many scouts believed if he had entered the NFL draft after his junior season, he would have been a potential third round pick; however, Carpenter opted to stay his senior year to finish out his career at ASU. Unfortunately for Carpenter, a weak receiving core and an unreliable offensive line did not spell success for the emerging quarterback. Consequently, when he entered the draft he was not chosen in the first seven rounds. The gun-slinger was eventually signed as a free agent by the Dallas Cowboys one day after the draft.

Westlake’s athletic alumni consist far more than football prodigies; son of former standout major leaguer Lenny Dykstra, Cutter Dykstra ‘08 excelled during his four year varsity baseball career as WHS. In all four years, Dykstra earned an All-Marmonte League selection honors, making the first team All-Marmonte his sophomore through senior years. His senior year was by far his most accomplished one, hitting .473 with five home runs, 18 runs batted in, and a team-high 11 stolen bases.

The Milwaukee Brewers drafted Dyk-

stra in the second round with the 54th pick in the 2008 Major League draft. Dykstra already got a chance to show off his talent, smacking a double and stealing a base in a spring training game with the team in March. Although he remains in Rookie Ball at this time, Dykstra promises to make his name in the big leagues in the

Other Notable Alumni: Billy Miller ‘95 — Playing for the Houston Texans, he scored the first touchdown in franchise history. He is now the starting tight end for the New Orleans Saints.

Stephen Notaro ‘06 — Westlake’s starting catcher since his sophomore year finished with a team-best, .403 batting average with 29 hits in 72 at bats while starting for Western Carolina.

Cory Primm ‘07 — Sophomore at UCLA recently placed third in the 800 meter (1:50.36) Megan Ackerman ‘05 — The Loyola Marymount senior was honored as All-Pacific Coast conference and a second team selection in softball.

DeMello Takes it in Stride ROBERT DILLON STAFF WRITER

14Sports

2

PHOTO BY DAVID MILLER

At the CIF Track & Field Finals on May 23, Sam DeMello ‘10 closed the door on a satisfying season.

Unfortunately, the finals meet did not go as planned. “It was a disappointing race,” said DeMello, who placed 7th in Division II for the 800-meter run. Despite being shy of the mark necessary to move on to the CIF Masters Meet, DeMello was “pretty happy with this year.”

“I was very enthused going into this season,” said DeMello. Thanks in part to his positive outlook, he found that many of his high expectations were met.

In the 800-meter run, his main event, he was consistently able to win his races while posting fast times.

Outside of league competition, racing became more difficult. In the Arcadia Invitational, DeMello fell during his race, leaving him unable to finish. At the Ventura County Championships, DeMello felt confident he would be able to secure first place. Because of his high hopes, second place stung all the more sharply.

However, DeMello took all the setbacks in stride.

He was able to achieve his proudest accomplishment at the Marmonte League Finals, earning a personal record of 1:54 and becoming the league’s fastest 800 meter runner. From there, he went to CIF Prelims, qualifying for Finals with a time of 1:55.

“CIF was very competitive this year,” said DeMello.

What carries DeMello through the

near future.

Some other notable alumni include the New Orleans Saints’ tight end Billy Miller ‘95, Western Carolina’s slugging catcher Stephen Notaro ‘ 06, UCLA’s distance sensation Corey Primm ‘07, and the Loyola Marymount standout, Megan Ackerman ‘05.

KEEPING THE PACE: Sam DeMello maintains a steady stride in an 800 meter race at Royal.

track season is his love of the sport and, more specifically, his event.

“The 800 is great because it’s a combination of a sprint and an endurance race,” said DeMello.

But for this athlete, his success on the track can only be attributed to one thing.

Clichés aside, hard work is DeMello’s secret.

“Track is all about giving your best effort,” said DeMello. Seeing that effort pay off is what inspires and motivates DeMello.

DeMello hopes that his work ethic will pay off for next year’s track season.

“I want to drop my time even further and hopefully make it to State,” said DeMello.

5/28/09, 12:05 PM

Girls�Swim� Reclaims�CIF� Div�II�Title����� MAX AVRUCH FEATURE EDITOR

VOLLEYBALL SET FOR CIF FINALS JUSTIN EDWARDS SPORTS EDITOR

The boys volleyball team reached the finals of CIF after a stellar performance in the season and in the post season.

The final match is against league-rival Royal at Thousand Oaks High School on Saturday, May 30 at 7 p.m.

The WHS boys volleyball team dismantled the Hart Indians 3-0 in its first match of the CIF tournament, defeated Valley Christian 3-1 in the second round, and beat Costa Mesa 3-1 in the quarterfinal.

Last Wednesday they beat Thousand Oaks in the semifinal 3-0.

Against the Lancers, Scott Kevorken ‘09 led the team with 23 kills and Jake Kneller ‘09 with 13 kills. Paul Attkisson ‘09 finished with seven blocks and setter Travis Magorien ‘11 had 48 assists.

This leaves the Warriors only one game away from clinching a CIF Championship. “Our goal is to win CIF. We have done a good job of improving throughout the year and not peaking too early like other teams,” said Kneller.

On May 4 the CIF

PHOTO BY NATALYA SIVASHOV

REJECTION: Jake Kneller blocks and sends the ball into enemy territory as Paul Attkisson watches.

ranked WHS 2nd out of all the Division II high school boys volleyball teams.

The Warriors finished with a league record of 13-1 and an

overall record of 25-4-2.

Despite a mid-season league loss to Royal, the WHS boys volleyball team overcame and played

flawlessly the rest of the season.

“We had a tough loss to Royal, but our coach has done a good job of making sure we continue to improve,” said Kneller.

Kneller, a member of the U.S. Junior National volleyball team, has improved drastically from his younger years. Though Kneller was injured at the beginning of the season, he recovered and helped lead the team to a Marmonte League championship. Kneller will be playing volleyball next fall at Stanford University.

Six foot nine inch Kevorken leads the team in kills and aces, and will be playing collegiate volleyball at UC Irvine.

Kevorken was on the U.S. Junior National volleyball team the past two years.

Magorien has led the team in assists for the season and has proved to be a vital contributor for the team. In addition, Coach Magorien believes that outside hitter Keats Stanley ‘11 is one of the top tenth graders in the league. Nick Weaver ‘10 is the team’s libero and leads the team in digs. Attkisson is one of the team’s leading blockers and brings a “winning attitude” to the team, said Coach Doug Magorien.

After a successful season, the only expectations left for the boys volleyball team are to win the CIF title and bring home another championship banner for WHS.

Marmonte Champs Dominate Course Heights May 26.

Both Edwards and The WHS Seeger barely boys varsity missed the cut, golf team has each with a 74. demonstrated At the excellence with CIF Individual relative ease Finals, both throughout the Hagy and Katz 2009 regular performed well: season, with a Hagy came in flawless overall 2nd shooting record at 14-0.

68, and Katz Despite a few placed tied for bumps along the 6th with a score way, the Warriors of 72. have continued All of the along the path six members of success in the on the varsity postseason. team have been A f t e r instrumental defeating second in helping the ranked TOHS by team advance an impressive 86 in the playoffs; strokes in a fourSeeger, Hagy, day tournament, Edwards, and the team CONQUERORS OF THE COURSE: (From left to right) Chris Doyle, Marshall Colby, Brandon Hagy, Justin Katz, as well advanced to the Edwards, Cole Seeger, Jake Katz pose after a gut-wrenching round at San Marcos. as Marshall first round of the Colby ‘09 and CIF playoffs at Chris Doyle Soule Park in Ojai, ‘10, have all where each team member played a crucial sixth man’s score, the tiebreaker. consistently stood out among their peers, role in winning the Northern Divisional WHS and La Quinta both finished establishing WHS as a dominant force in with a score of 358 (two under par). Cole with a team total of 389, sending them to a California high school golf.

Seeger ‘09 turned in a stellar performance heated tie breaker. Thanks to Seeger’s 85, The team has been preparing for at the match scoring a low 69. the team defeated the opposition to snatch this moment, ever since they first came Two days later at the CIF Team Finals up the fourth and final playoff spot. together. in Rancho San Marcos, WHS faced what Justin Edwards ‘09 proved clutch in “We’ve been dreaming about winning seemed to be its first challenge.

Rancho San Marcos, leading the pack with state for four years,” said Hagy.

“We didn’t play as well as we could,” a 75 and helping secure his team a spot at Many will agree that this is the best said Coach David Costley, referring to his the SCGA Tournament in Temecula June 3. team WHS has ever seen. team’s fourth place finish, with an overall The following week, at the CIF “We have had a very talented team score of 389.

Northern Individuals, Brandon Hagy ‘09 and I’m glad I got the opportunity to play The match was a nail-bitter to say and Jake Katz ‘10 each shot a 73 to qualify and compete at the highest level,” said the least, for it took into consideration the for the CIF Individual Finals in Hacienda Hagy.

JIMMY MOORE EDITOR-IN- CHIEF

COURTESY PHOTO

The WHS girls swimming team succeeded at League Finals, at CIF Preliminaries, and completed the Masters championships, concluding this year’s season.

“They performed well to my expectations and fulfilled my goals this year,” said Coach Todd Irmas.

Beating out all the other teams by more than 100 points at League Finals, the WHS team “did superb,” said Irmas.

Nora Darago ‘10, Jacqueline Brousseau ‘09, Iris Yan ‘10, Megan Norling-Christensen ‘09, Savannah Miller ‘12, Marissa DeWames ‘09, and Abigail Puczkowski ‘11 all “accomplished record-breaking strokes,” according to Irmas. Darago won the first place 200-meter free-style race and also took second place in the 100-meter breaststroke.

Brousseau garnered a 1:05 time for the 100-meter race, just one second short from her record time of 1:04.

“The 200 meter race was great for both Brousseau and Norling-Christensen,” said Irmas. Both swimmers received impressive times.

WHS benefited most from strong individual performances. Darago’s play is an example.

“For the League Finals, the real competitor was racing the clock,” said Irmas.

Not all team members from the girls swimming team were present at CIF on May 16.

The top seven girls, including Miller, Yan, Darago, DeWames, Brousseau, Norling-Christensen, and Puczkowski performed at the finals that Saturday.

“I love the competition. You put me next to someone and I want to win.

My favorite swims have been the relays. The 200 free relay record (1:37.80 last year) was the highlight of my career. It’s my last CIF and I want to make my mark. Having three great years at CIF, I couldn’t ask for much more for my high school swimming career,” said Brousseau to the LA Daily News.

The Warriors won first place in 2007 and were runners-up last year in the CIF Preliminaries .

“The potential of this team was evident at the start of the season” said Irmas.

After the CIF Finals, the Girls Swim Masters was held May 19 and thus concluded the 2009 season.

“It was more individual success than overall team accomplishment,” said Irmas.

“We swim incredibly well under pressure and I know Jackie and Marissa will rise to any challenge. If it comes down to the 400 free relay, there’s no chance we’re going to let some other team beat us,” said Darago.

Because four seniors are leaving, the swimming team will be affected in their overall team talent.

“Although we are losing four amazing seniors, Jackie, Meagan, Marissa, and Alyse, we have a growing girls team and there’s a lot of talent on JV,” said Darago. The returning junior predicts a productive year ahead.

WHS’s success in future seasons depend on the performance of young athletes. Although infused with potential, the underclassmen will need to step up and swim strongly if the Warriors look to continue their impressive play.

15

SPORTS

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

14

SPORTS

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW

Westlake’s Athletic Legacy Thrives

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

HIGHWAY ROBBERY: Cutter Dykstra gets ready to sell out to catch a sinking line drive.

PATIENCE IN THE POCKET: Rudy Carpenter prepares to deliver a touchdown pass.

BEN CONLIN STAFF WRITER

WHS has produced countless star athletes throughout the last few decades; the last six years have been no exception.

Many have gone on to the bigger stages of collegiate level sports, while some have possessed the talents to compete at a professional level.

The following alumni are examples of how a high school sensation can transform into household names.

Although he only played for WHS his senior year after transferring from Newbury Park, this quarterback became arguably the best player in Warrior football history.

Rudy Carpenter ’04 helped lead the 2003 Westlake football team to an undefeated season at 14-0 and a CIF championship. After his only year at WHS, Carpenter accepted a scholarship to Arizona State where he excelled in his rookie season as a freshman, earning an honorable mention for the “Freshman of the Year” contest. He went on to dominate once again his sophomore and junior seasons, and set the Sun Devil’s all-time career passer rating record.

Many scouts believed if he had entered the NFL draft after his junior season, he would have been a potential third round pick; however, Carpenter opted to stay his senior year to finish out his career at ASU. Unfortunately for Carpenter, a weak receiving core and an unreliable offensive line did not spell success for the emerging quarterback. Consequently, when he entered the draft he was not chosen in the first seven rounds. The gun-slinger was eventually signed as a free agent by the Dallas Cowboys one day after the draft.

Westlake’s athletic alumni consist far more than football prodigies; son of former standout major leaguer Lenny Dykstra, Cutter Dykstra ‘08 excelled during his four year varsity baseball career as WHS. In all four years, Dykstra earned an All-Marmonte League selection honors, making the first team All-Marmonte his sophomore through senior years. His senior year was by far his most accomplished one, hitting .473 with five home runs, 18 runs batted in, and a team-high 11 stolen bases.

Word spread fast about this up-andcoming young sensation, and scouts took notice. The Milwaukee Brewers drafted

DeMello Takes it in Stride ROBERT DILLON STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY DAVID MILLER

At the CIF Track & Field Finals on May 23, Sam DeMello ‘10 closed the door on a satisfying season.

Unfortunately, the finals meet did not go as planned. “It was a disappointing race,” said DeMello, who placed 7th in Division II for the 800-meter run. Despite being shy of the mark necessary to move on to the CIF Masters Meet, DeMello was “pretty happy with this year.”

“I was very enthused going into this season,” said DeMello. Thanks in part to his positive outlook, he found that many of his high expectations were met.

In the 800-meter run, his main event, he was consistently able to win his races while posting fast times.

Outside of league competition, racing became more difficult. In the Arcadia Invitational, DeMello fell during his race, leaving him unable to finish. At the Ventura County Championships, DeMello felt confident he would be able to secure first place. Because of his high hopes, second place stung all the more sharply.

However, DeMello took all the setbacks in stride.

He was able to achieve his proudest accomplishment at the Marmonte League Finals, earning a personal record of 1:54 and becoming the league’s fastest 800 meter runner. From there, he went to CIF Prelims, qualifying for Finals with a time of 1:55.

“CIF was very competitive this year,” said DeMello.

What carries DeMello through the

KEEPING THE PACE: Sam DeMello maintains a steady stride in an 800 meter race at Royal.

track season is his love of the sport and, more specifically, his event.

“The 800 is great because it’s a combination of a sprint and an endurance race,” said DeMello.

But for this athlete, his success on the track can only be attributed to one thing.

Clichés aside, hard work is DeMello’s secret.

“Track is all about giving your best effort,” said DeMello. Seeing that effort pay off is what inspires and motivates DeMello.

DeMello hopes that his work ethic will pay off for next year’s track season.

“I want to drop my time even further and hopefully make it to State,” said DeMello.

Dykstra in the second round with the 54th pick in the 2008 Major League draft. Dykstra already got a chance to show off his talent, smacking a double and stealing a base in a spring training game with the team in March. Although he remains in Rookie Ball at this time, Dykstra promises to make his name in the big leagues in the near future.

Some other notable alumni include the New Orleans Saints’ tight end Billy Miller ‘95, Western Carolina’s slugging catcher Stephen Notaro ‘ 06, UCLA’s distance sensation Corey Primm ‘07, and the Loyola Marymount standout, Megan Ackerman ‘05.

Other Notable Alumni: Billy Miller ‘95 — Playing for the Houston Texans, he scored the first touchdown in franchise history. He is now the starting tight end for the New Orleans Saints.

Stephen Notaro ‘06 — Westlake’s starting catcher since his sophomore year finished with a team-best, .403 batting average with 29 hits in 72 at bats while starting for Western Carolina.

Cory Primm ‘07 — Sophomore at UCLA recently placed third in the 800 meter (1:50.36) Megan Ackerman ‘05 — The Loyola Marymount senior was honored as AllPacific Coast conference and a second team selection in softball.

16

SOFIA TALARICO FEATURE EDITOR

When the curtain rose and revealed the cast of the stellar musical, Grease, an audience remained speechless.

Immediately, when the first lines were delivered, the characters struck a bond with the audience. Not only did the actors show tremendous talent and discipline in the delivery of their lines, but they also incorporated a comedic feel that charmed everyone.

An incredibly impressive aspect of the play was the level of musical talent that all of the actors possessed. The two leads, Michael Mancuso ‘12 as Danny Zukko, and Lilli Babb ‘12 as Sandy Olsson, belted their musical numbers in a way that truly captivated.

Each scene began with an explosion of liveliness and each song was performed with vivacious energy and utter joy which made every viewer want to sing and dance along with them. Michael Peterson ‘09, who played Teen Angel, did a remarkable job in delivering the ever-popular song, “Beauty School Dropout” with sparkle and spirit.

Seeing Grease offered at WHS changed the dynamic of the dramatic tones of past plays, and provided an uplifting atmosphere for all to enjoy. It was magical to watch.

FEATURE

Greased Lightning: A Classic Performance

May 29, 2009 • THE ARROW