Nov 07

ARROW

THE

VOLUME XXX, ISSUE 3

Westlake High School

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

NOVEMBER 30, 2007

Mock Trial to Argue Murder One Case TIFFANY LOH NEWS EDITOR

IN THIS

PHOTO BY LINDSAY ADLER

Mock Trial has once again been handed a murder trial for its 2008 competition.

Every year, the Mock Trial program argues a court case in the Ventura County District Mock Trial competition. This year’s case is People vs. Palmer, a murder trial continuation from a story line that was performed two years ago.

“This was one of the best applicant pools for several years, especially from the freshmen class,” said Mock Trial coach Christina Harrison, of the rigorous selecion process of the team members.

Only two of the freshmen applicants were chosen: Max Avruch and Hannah Barrett.

Students who interviewed for the Mock Trial team completed an application and were interviewed by the coaches. They debated with Harrison and her assistant, Julia Snyder, on a topic of their choice.

The Mock Trial organization also gives students an opportunity to experience procedures in law and teaches members to remain calm and collected while arguing. “[It is] an exceptional experience that helps with the understanding of legal systems and communication skills,” said Aaron Alpert ’08.

With competition still three months away, the team has already begun its vigorous practice schedule: two hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week.

Last year, the WHS team earned 2nd place in the District, behind its long time rival, La Reina High School.

“It was a very close competition,” said Harrison.

For the past few years, WHS has met face-to-face with the La Reina Mock Trial team and has only beaten them once. This year, WHS is vying for the 1st place position in the District competition, which will take place on Feb. 25, 26, and 28.

“We expect them to be in the finals,” said Harrison. “They’re trained well enough, and they’re in the position to win, but in the end, it’s all up to them.”

IN FOR THE LONG RUN: WHS football loses to St. Bonaventure, but not without a fight. Spencer Christiansen ’09 is tugged to the ground.

Warriors Refuse to Go Without a Fight LINDSAY ADLER TERI AKAHOSHI STAFF WRITERS

A wave of orange and blue flooded the Larrabee Stadium last Fri., Nov. 23 as the Warrior fans anxiously awaited the arrival of their football team. Although the outcome of WHS’s Northern Division quarterfinal game was far from perfect, the team put up a good fight

against the number one ranked team, St. Bonaventure.

With the Seraphs leading the game 13-0, WHS’s quarterback Nick Owens ’08 passed to wide receiver Curtis Peterson ’08, giving the Warriors their first touchdown that put them back in the game.

St. Bonaventure delivered hard-hitting blows capitalizing on the Warriors’ chances for a comeback. The Seraphs

finished the game with 502 yards and 44 points. With disputable calls made by the referees, the WHS football team lost a touchdown made by Justin Lilley ’09, which allowed the Seraphs to take advantage of the game. The Warriors kept up a strong battle to stay in the match with Owens good for 199 yards and 18 completions out of 35 attempts and a continued on PAGE 15

JSA Attends Fall State Convention IRIS YAN NEWS EDITOR

Twenty-seven students, representing WHS, gathered at the LAX Marriott for a two-day weekend of Junior State of America Fall State convention on Nov. 10-11.

Over 650 students from the Southern California region met to debate a variety of topics, including current issues such as, “Should creationism be taught at schools?”

Students participated in thought talks, debates, and tag-team debates. A tag-team debate includes six people on each pro and

con side.

Co-President Nini Xie ‘08 led the thought talk of “Can world peace be achieved?” which commenced at the very beginning of the convention.

After an individual debate ended, the students voted pro or con for an issue to be resolved, and that information was then sent to a congressman and other politicians.

“Fall State is a way for students to express their ideas about current political issues,” said Adam Raudonis ’10, “I just love JSA because its political implications and the freedom of expression that any

student can exercise.”

Raudonis won a Best Speaker award, as he did in last year’s Fall State on The Patriot Act debate, as the pro speaker in the “Hate Speech is Free Speech.” Dominic Insogna ‘08 also won a Best Speaker award.

“It raises one’s self-esteem,” said JSA member Thomas Goehring ’08.

“It is another terrific response for the WHS chapter. We had a lot of new first time attendees and sounds like most want to do it again. Kudos to Raudonis and Insogna and the Co-Presidents Linda Peng ‘08 and Xie,” said the JSA adviser, James Azevedo.

ISSUE

NEWS...............................1-2 OPINION...........................3-4 FEATURES..................... 5-10 FASHION.............................11 ENTERTAINMENT.........12-13 SPORTS........................14-15 PHOTO MONTAGE............16

WHS students raise money for victims of Uganda’s civil war. See CENTER

Be brave in fearless fashion.

See PAGE 11

Girls volleyball ranks second.

See PAGE 14

2

NEWS

IN BRIEF ASG to Hold “Pint for a Pint!” Blood Drive in Gym ASG is hosting a blood drive in the gym mezzanine on Dec. 4 from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. All donors will receive a coupon for a pint of Baskin Robbins ice-cream. To donate blood, volunteers must weigh at least 110 pounds and be 17 old. To sign up, contact an ASG class member, email WestlakeASG@yahoo.com, or call (805) 497-6711 at ext. 3111.

Choir to Perform Holiday Family Portrait Show

PTSA To Collect Toys for Tots Coordinated by the Student PTSA, the WHS Toys for Tots drive is slated for Nov. 26-Dec. 7 with collection days on Fridays Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 during fifth period. Donations of unwrapped, unused toys can be dropped off in fifth period classes until the collection days.

Two Alumni Join Ranks of Staff ALESSANDRA CATANESE STAFF WRITER

Alumni Samantha Sontag ‘01 and Julie Speerstra ‘88 came back to WHS this year, this time not as students, but as teachers. Sontag is WHS’s new ASL teacher, and Speerstra is the new librarian.

Sontag was a student of the first American Sign Language class to join WHS’s list of accredited courses. It is not a coincidence that she ended up teaching ASL. “I never really knew what type of teacher I wanted to be, I just knew I wanted to teach,” said Sontag.

Sontag intends to go see at least one game for every sports team. She also hopes to be able to chaperone one this year.

Sontag believes WHS is different now from when she attended because, “I was nev- WELCOME BACK: Alumni Samantha Sontag (left) and Julie Speerstra (right) return to WHS as teachers. er aware how much the staff cared for and supported us as students. These amazing individuals will science too,” Sontag explained.

Speersta believes that students are bend over backwards to ensure that the Another alum to join the Warrior staff, different now than when she was in high students are receiving the best care and Speerstra is the recently appointed WHS school because “students push their limits teaching possible.” librarian. Ironically, Speerstra never ac- now, whereas back then they didn’t want Darin Erickson, biology and chemis- cessed the library as a student. to try to get in trouble.” try teacher, was Sontag’s favorite teacher Speerstra took the job as WHS’s librarHistory teacher Raymond Ballard in her high school years. ian because “I always have loved reading and English and journalism teacher Caron “He didn’t just care about coaching and teaching, so I thought it was a perfect Battaglia were two of Speerstra’s favorfootball, but he actually cared about the mix.” ites.

PHOTO BY JIMMY MOORE

The WHS Choral Music Department, under Director Alan Rose, will launch its annual Christmas performance from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the theater.

Tickets for “A Holiday Family Portrait” are on sale now for $7.00 each. For ticket information, call (805) 497-6711.

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Ventura County Native Becomes College and Career Center Tech

PHOTO BY ALANNAH BRADLEY

out of state.

U r springer has only had a couple of weeks of experience at the high school level, though she stated that she has worked with elementary schools and m i d d l e schools beGET YOUR SCHOLARSHIPS: College and Career Center Technician Cassie fore.

Urspringer is thrilled to be the newest member of the WHS faculty this year.

U r springer was born just down the grade in Ventura, CaliALANNAH BRADLEY fornia, and grew up in Camarillo.

STAFF WRITER In the couple of weeks that she has Cassie Urspringer has been hired as worked here, she has been organizing the the new College and Career Center techni- Career Center and making presentations cian to replace Jenica Polakow, who moved to classes.

“I love my job, especially working with high school students,” said Urspringer.

Urspringer likes working with teens because she likes their views and enjoys observing their developing personalities.

“I enjoy being able to sit down and have a conversation with high school students about their goals in life,” stated Urspringer.

“I really have enjoyed the Westlake faculty. The staff is amazing and really have helped me in getting my foot into the door.

The students are really welcoming and are searching to learn more about college and their futures,” added Urspringer.

In addition to feeling comfortable working with high school students and staff, Urspringer noted that the WHS campus looks like a college campus.

“I love the campus. I love how it has three levels. Those stairs are intense,” she said. She also added that “it is freezing” in the mornings.

The new technician is currently work-

AcaDeca Begins New Year with Civil War Theme RACHEL BERNSTEIN STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

This year, with the theme of the Civil War, the Academic Decathlon class has more students enrolled than ever before.

Because the content changes constantly, the students and Coach Joe Nigro have to start from square one each year.

The class prepares for the Decathlon by having public speakers and studying. Some- KEEP STUDYING: Karen Tsai ’10, Eric Schroer ‘09, Brent times they also make projects McCunney ‘08 work diligently on the AcaDeca material. or games out of some portions of the content. art, math, music and science, students sepEveryone in the class contributes arate into expert groups and demonstrate something valuable to the team. Nigro’s their own mastery of subject by breaking it area of expertise is the literature section. down and presenting it to the class.

History teacher Raymond Ballard has asAlthough AcaDeca is a very challengsisted AcaDeca with social science in the ing course, members also balance the conpast. For the other subjects like economics, tent with fun while learning at the same

time. “We have great team spirit and we learn cool stuff for the sake of learning, not grades. That is what makes being the coach so rewarding,” said Nigro.

The class is very demanding in terms of difficulty and time commitment. Many decathletes are also taking some of the most challenging courses in school, are presidents of a club, in Mock Trial, or participate in other after-school activities.

The decathletes ranked third in the initial competition, the scrimmage, on Sat., Nov. 17 against all of the other teams in Ventura County.

“The scrimmage went well. We have some very serious competitors at Westlake, however. We continue to improve every year. Tony Jin ‘10 received a perfect score in math, and Philip Shao ‘08 received a near-perfect score in math. Those two, along with seniors Ben Liu and Andrew Maleki stand out as great leaders; however, the entire WHS AcaDeca team is going to give the other teams a run for their money,” said Nigro.

ing on receiving her Master’s Degree in school counseling at California Lutheran University.

Urspringer continues to make the College and Career Center accessible and useful for the students. She is currently working on bringing a new program to WHS called Gabcast, which will allow students to access announcments from the Career Center at home and even download them onto their iPods.

“One of my goals this year is really to get to know the students of WHS,” stated Urspringer.

The new advisor is working with ASG to get the word out that the Career Center can offer students assistance to those in need of assistance with college applications or in need of tutoring.

“Hopefully in the next couple of months I will have some new additions to the Center,” she said.

Urspringer is currently meeting with seniors one-on-one to help them discover different colleges and scholarship opportunities.

2007-2008 Teams Team A Honors – Philip Shao, Tony Jin, Andrew Maleki Scholastic – Roy Hu, Brent McCunney, James Jee Varsity – Alex Oberg, Jason Oberg, Eric Schroer Team B Honors – Ben Liu, Nini Xie, Lynne Qiu Scholastic – Zheng Cao, Karen Tsai, Ali Athar Varsity – Austin Pincus, Will Smith, Sean Venkersammy Team C Honors – Adam Raudonis, Eric Lan, Jason Lee Scholastic – Yi Cao, Marshall Schurtz Alternate Honors – Ashton Sherer

3

OPINION

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

A Primetime Disagreement ALLY ACKOUREY OPINION EDITOR

ers t i Wr n o e! rik St

Where’s our money?!

Hollywood Executive deserve.

So why even argue to begin with? According to Jose Arroyo, a writer for Late Night with Conan O’Brien, this form of media is still “too new” to figure out a fair compensation plan.

Too new? Televesion shows have been available on the Inter-

Gore Scores for the Environment PHILIP SHAO FEATURE EDITOR

On Oct. 15, the Nobel Foundation announced that former Vice President Al Gore and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change were the dual recipients of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. This announcement was a step in the right direction for the global effort to stabilize the climate.

The foundation selected the two “for their efforts to build up and disseminate greater knowledge about man-made climate change, and to lay the foundations for the measures that are needed to counteract such change.”

Accepting the award, Gore rightfully took the recognition as “a chance to elevate global consciousness about the challenges that we face now. [Climate change] truly is a planetary emergency, and we have to respond quickly.”

This prize is a long-awaited recognition for a lifetime of environmental advocacy.

In 1989, after a horrific car accident nearly took his son’s life, Gore, a sitting senator from Tennessee, began his writing of Earth in the Balance. Published in 1992 shortly before he became the nation’s 45th vice president, it was a global call to action against the looming threat of global warming.

During his vice presidency, Gore created the GLOBE program that educated students across the nation about the environment.

Later on, he was also an instrumental advocate of the Kyoto Treaty, pushing stridently for its ratification during a congressio-

CARTOON BY PAMELA GUO

The film industry has once again been thrown into turmoil.

With the first writers’ strike in nearly 20 years catching the eyes of the public, many are concerned whether their favorite shows will be hurled into a flurry of reruns.

The cause of this strike is, of course, a disagreement—in this case a disagreement between Hollywood writers and their networks. So just what is the Writers Guild of America causing such a fuss about? It seems networks are denying writers payment for shows offered on the Internet.

Call me crazy, but this seems like an issue that should probably have been resolved in less than an hour. The only thing there is to argue about is the amount of money the writers should receive. This seems not to be the case, however.

Without the writers, networks would not even have a product to put on the Internet, let alone television. So why refuse payment now? Surely the networks are making enough money to spare some of the best writers in the country what they

nal hearing on climate change in December 1997.

Since 1989, Gore has given over a thousand talks on the topic of global warming. His speeches and his Keynote slide show spawned the 2006 documentary titled An Inconvenient Truth, winning two Oscars and exposing his cause to international attention.

Since then, Gore has been an active partner in many environmental movements, including SaveOurSelves, and organized the intercontinental LiveEarth concerts on July 7 that generated awareness of the problems posed by global warming.

Now, as a Nobel Laureate, Gore joins the ranks of Woodrow Wilson, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mother Theresa.

Meanwhile Stephan Faris of Slate magazine who opposes the Nobel Committee’s decision said “the prize for peace [has] gone green.”

The Nobel Committee, despite much criticism, believes that sudden shifts in global climate would result in widespread violence and panic as lowlands flood and forests become deserts.

“There may be increased danger of violent conflicts and wars, within and between states,” said Ole Danbolt Mjøs, chairman of the Nobel Committee.

The committee has, in fact, “gone green” before. Wangari Maathai, winner of the 2004 prize for her conservation efforts in Africa, defended the committee’s decisions.

To paraphrase her words, to protect the planet is to protect its residents from violence and turmoil. This, in accordance with the Nobel committee, is the ultimate act of peace.

net for years. And all this time the writers have been denied payment for their hard work? It definitely appears that their anger is justified. Hollywood is an explosive industry as it is, and shows are apt to be cancelled with little to no warning.

For this reason, explains Di-

ana Son, writer for “Law and Order: Criminal Intent,” “There’s no job security. Residuals are an important part of our income.

There’s no cushion.”

And she’s right. Think about it: how many shows watched by groups of friends who are constantly discussing them the day

Celebs Target Yet Another New Cause KATELYN SMITH STAFF WRITER

Is global warming actually happening or is it all a myth?

Does it really matter anymore in a world in which celebrities take the most upbeat cause and decide to stand for it? Anti-fur, safe sex, nonsmoking, AIDS — all fine causes, yet not the fad at the moment, so they’re lost and forgotten.

Even when celebrities stand for a cause, like stopping air pollution, they tend to be very hypocritical, flying their private jets, driving their limos and SUVs to premieres or just around town, and please tell me, who doesn’t use hairspray before walking down the red carpet?

The public completely believes that these celebrities are such good people because they have donated some money, posed for an ad campaign, or have driven a hybrid car around town.

People, the economy, and our scientific world are all things which definitely should not be considered a fad or “the next big thing.”

Bags, labels, cars—fine items to want to have, but adopting children from foreign countries, having eco-friendly lifestyles, or wanting to become a goodwill ambassador—what has our world come to?

Maybe you feel as if celebrities joining in on these “fights” and “battles” for certain causes can really bring attention to the problems, and even help solve them.

What I want to ask all of you feeling this way is—why can’t normal, non-celebrities solve a problem?

after, only to be cancelled in the middle of a season?

“Life as we Know It,” a popular show chronicling the lives of teenagers from their point of view, comes to mind. It was cancelled near the end of its first season, with little more than a mention in TV Guide.

Once cancelled, writers without other shows and jobs are out of work.

Are they given two weeks notice? Doubtfully. And they hardly receive compensation for their finished, unaired scripts either.

Many programs, mostly talk shows, were immediately sent into reruns, with cancellations scheduled for weeks to come. The good news for Prime-time viewers is that writers have already produced enough completed scripts to keep the shows running into the new year, according to Yahoo! News.

Perhaps the networks should play this argument a little more on the safe side and come up with a reasonable contract, or the entertainment industry may soon be doomed to seasons of repeats.

We outnumber them, and personally as a normal person, if I’m going to raise money for starving African children, I’m not going to take a picture for an ad campaign and ask if they could put my new movie or CDs name underneath the cause I’m standing for.

Can you imagine? “Teen saves children in Africa, and her new movie is coming to theaters soon.” How could that possibly raise awareness, if the last thought in anyone’s mind is to go see that person’s new movie?

As a normal person, I would go door to door collecting money, hold bake sales, and even have a car wash. Those simple solutions could be applied to global warming.

If we would all do something small as a collective group, we could help reverse the already occurring effects of global warming.

Instead of celebrities announcing their purchase of a new hybrid or new solar panels just installed in their 20-room mansion they could become a normal eco-activist.

I’m not telling celebrities to stop jetting around the world in their spare time, or to not play at Live Earth concerts when they arrive in stretch limos.

I’m just saying that we need to take a step back and realize who we are idolizing as “green” celebrities.

Nobody’s perfect, so let’s hope that next week the newest fad does not involve real world matters. People should not endorse issues which they know nothing about.

Go out and buy the hottest jeans and the newest handbag, but leave global warming to the scientists.

THE WESTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL

ARROW

100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 497-6711 ext. 4225 westlakearrow@yahoo.com EDITORS-IN-CHIEF James Jee, Ellen Wang MANAGING EDITOR Vicky Lou COPY EDITOR Wynn Burson NEWS EDITORS Tiffany Loh, Iris Yan OPINION EDITORS Ally Ackourey, Nora Sobczak FEATURE EDITORS Christina Cipriani, Jamie Hendry, Soumya Karlamangla, Philip Shao, Brittany Weber ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Elyse Kaplan, Jimmy Moore SPORTS EDITORS Stephanie Nieves, Spencer Schloss ADVERTISING MANAGER Sabrina Samedi ADVISOR Caron Battaglia STAFF WRITERS Max Avruch, Lindsay Adler, Teri Akahoshi, Rachel Bernstein, Alannah Bradley, Alessandra Catanese, Robert Dillon, Ellie Fateh, Nikki Fay, Pamela Guo, Kimberly Ha, Jessica Kuecks, Vivian Shi, Katelyn Smith, Mohammad Tadayon, Roseann Zhong The Arrow is written, designed and run

by the students of the beginning and advanced journalism classes at Westlake High School and is published monthly.

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the Conejo Valley Unified School District, Westlake High School administration, faculty, or student body. We welcome feedback. Letters must be signed by the writer, though names can be withheld by request in the publication.

Please send submissions to Mrs. Battaglia’s box in the main office or to Room 42E. For The Arrow online, visit www.WHSwarriors.com and click on Arrow under the Activites menu.

4

Teens in Stitches Cosmetic Surgery Rates Rise SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA FEATURE EDITOR

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Taking Shortcuts for Success ELYSE KAPLAN ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

CARTOON BY VIVIAN SHI

Many teens are sick of the stereotypical label that they do nothing but lazily lounge around complaining about parents and school while they have everything handed to them—usually in a designer brand.

Lately, however, there has been little evidence to support the contrary. It seems teenagers have been living up to the cliche.

In a generation fueled by instant gratification, many students are taking a cue from Staples and pressing the easy button multiple times to get through the day.

For example, take a typical English class. For some students, they cannot even remember the last time they actually read a required reading book, instead vying to cruise the familiar black and yellow covered Cliffnotes.

Classic novels full of vivid language and time honored characters mean nothing when night starts to creep into the late hours and six classes worth of homework starts to build up. Instead of gritting their teeth and getting through the book, they choose to grab a quick summary. Hey, it is easier.

Forget about all the characters one never gets to know, or all the vocabulary and themes they will miss; it doesn’t really matter because they were at least mentioned in Cliffs.

English class is not the only class where students are getting lazy though.

For many classes nightly homework assignments have turned into group projects. Except instead of everyone working together to complete the work, it is the ob-

TAKING THE EASY WAY OUT: Students are finding new ways to succeed in school.

noxious group where only one person actually does the work and the rest are hurriedly copying in the halls during the passing period to get credit for it.

Additionally, long-term homework assignments or major tests often turn into all night work sessions the night before they are due. Even though many know the test is coming up at the end of the week, they would rather watch TV or check Facebook even though they have some extra time.

Students try to qualify this with “You

have to live in the moment” but all that really means is “I have no time management skills and am using this cliche to qualify by doing nothing.”

This assessment may seem harsh; after all, teens have to figure out how to do well in school, get into a good college and decide what they want to do with the rest of their lives— all while dealing with the drama of high school on minimum sleep. But it all comes to an end in four years until it starts all over again—in college.

Holiday Season Put on the Backburner to get out of reading the book or any other homework over winter break for that matter.

Nov. 1 marks the start of the holiday In addition, if school-related assignseason—a season that is typically full of ments were not enough to take the joy joy and excitement, presents and family, out of the so-called vacation, why, when it and most importantly, rest and relaxation. comes time to buy presents for your close But in friends, you recent years, end up buythis once ing gifts for blissful seaevery friend son, has beyou have? come one A n d of the most these gifts restressful quire thought. times of the Gifts for close year. friends have With seto be heartniors submitfelt and ting final colmeaningful, lege applicawhich usualtions, juniors ly means that cramming they are gofor the SAT, ing to be exand freshmen pensive. For experiencunemployed ing their first high school high school students who finals, winter rely on their break is defiparents for nitely not one a weekly alof the most lowance, it is wonderful more difficult times of the to find acceptyear. able gifts on Usually a very tight during the budget. two weeks To be given for honest, there winter vaca- HOW THE HOMEWORK STOLE CHRISTMAS: The stress of homework overwhelms the holiday season. is no accepttion, kids just able way to want to sleep and hang out with friends. than spending time on school work? save the holiday season.

Teachers must not know that when But with school work and other issues to There will always be colleges to apworry about, these simple pleasures are they assign a book for their students to ply to and tests to take because it is high read over winter break, that mostly all of school. fading into mere desires.

The homework assignments given these students rush home to make sure The stress from school and the stress over winter break are not simple, easy as- that the book assigned is on Sparknotes. from being a teenager is normal, and if the And even if the book isn’t on holiday season suffers because of academsignments. But in actuality are long, dreadful, projects that require a lot of time and Sparknotes, students will find other ways ics, then so be it.

NORA SOBCZAK OPINION EDITOR

effort—the last thing students want to work on while they’re hitting the slopes or visiting family.

What’s the point for teachers to give out these tedious projects when they certainly know that students care more about going to the mall to buy presents for friends

CARTOON BY NORA SOBCZAK

The word “surgery” used to sound daunting. But when the word is paired with “plastic,” it transforms from a nightmare into a dream. And surprisingly, plastic surgery has become a dream of several teens.

Plastic surgery for anyone seems strange, but it seems ridiculous that a teenager would want to be “remade.”

But with the media pushing perfection, can you really blame them?

When shows like America’s Next Top Model, Beauty and the Geek, The Swan, and Extreme Makeover, emphasize physical beauty and degrade intelligence, priorities need to be reevaluated. Almost all of these programs are flooded with actresses whose waists are the same size as a normal arm and actors whose muscular arms are bigger than a normal waist.

So we sit in front of the TV, wondering how much we can be made over, until we become perfect. And we start to want it, desire it, and need it—plastic surgery.

But plastic surgery was usually reserved for the rich and famous, and for the old attempting to look young. But now, after watching people find flaws in others’ appearances on TV and in magazines, teenagers start to find countless flaws in their own appearances.

We want our “problems” fixed, until we all look the same and none of our features stand out. We want our big noses gone and our big ears shrunk. We are striving for the normal and ordinary.

“Four out of ten teens have considered plastic surgery,” said BBC News according to a survey in Bliss magazine. The same study shows that only eight percent of girls are happy with their physical appearance.

To see hundreds of identical Barbies twittering about their perfection is not part of our societal goals.

Now, plastic surgery should not be outlawed, and doctors should not be prohibited from operating, but can we at least have some moderation?

Teenagers, as well as their parents, need to exercise common sense: before opting for a major surgical procedure that will alter their appearances, they should consider that kids may eventually grow into their noses or will develop a little more.

Most teens are still growing, and with time certain disproportionate features might even out. Changing the body before the body can change itself doesn’t seem right.

In 2003, 255,000 kids under 18 underwent plastic surgery, compared to 60,000 kids in 1997, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. That’s 165,000 more kids getting plastic surgery after only six years.

More recently, in 2006, 47,000 nose jobs and 9,000 breast augmentations were performed on kids ages 13 to 19, according to American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

It seems unbelievable that students need plastic surgery to increase their selfesteem. When parents provide unqualified acceptance of their children, telling them that “beauty is only skin deep” and that “if you’re beautiful on the inside” it will shine through, they provide the foundation for a healthy self image. Confidence shouldn’t originate from physical appearance.

But advice, encouragement, and reasoning don’t seem able to stop these kids from getting what they want.

OPINION

5

FEATURE

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Shoppers, Start Your Engines!

The 2007 holiday season is approaching at full speed.

Eager shoppers, check out these gift suggestions to make holiday shopping easy and stress free.

Wish Necklace

iPod Sport Kit

Wish Charm Necklaces are the perfect, simple gift for a girl of any age. These tiny tokens of love and good fortune can be purchased at Planet Blue and Anthropologie stores for $40.

Just put it on, “make a wish,” and wait for it to fall off. Your wish should then come true. They come with different charms, such as stars, hearts, and angel wings. These necklaces can be worn for any occasion, whether it is a casual day at school or a night out with friends.

Ever need that extra energy to get you pumped up and ready to work out? Well, the new Nike Sport Kit is just the thing to do the trick. The Nike+ iPod Sport Kit is an excellent gift for any athlete.

For around $30 at Best Buy, this system allows the user to have a PowerSong for extra motivation whenever it is needed. The sensor, which is in the shoe, only works with special Nike+ shoes connected with an iPod nano, and even gives realtime exercise feedback during workouts.

COMPILED BY CHRISTINA CIPRIANI AND JAMIE HENDRY

Cell Phone Charger

Digital Keychain

Sephora Gift Card

iKaraoke for iPod

Always on the phone and running out of battery on that important phone call? Well, charge your cell phone or PDA with a single AA battery. Make and receive calls as soon as you plug it in. This charger comes with ten adapters and is compatible with all Motorola, RAZR, Samsung, Nokia, Sanyo, Sony Ericsson, Nextel and LG cell phones. The turbo charger even works with Blackberry and PDAs. This charger is perfect for those who travel or are always on the run. It is small enough to fit into a purse or a suitcase.

A mini digital photo keychain that captures the moment in brilliant color anywhere, anytime, is a thoughtful present for any teacher, parent, or grandparent. It gives people the opportunity to show off their family without opening their wallet.

It allows users to store and view photos on its clear, bright 1.5-inch LCD screen, which can be transferred directly from a PC or Mac. Images can be displayed individually or as a slide show. A pocket-sized picture viewer is available at Brookstone for $29.95, and at Sharper Image for $49.95.

The Sephora Fragrance Gift Certificate, is a nifty idea for any girlfriend, mother, or sister. This sniffable gift card includes eight samples of Sephora’s top selling women’s fragrances to try, and a gift voucher of equal value that can be redeemed at any Sephora, good for picking the scent of choice. Samples include: DKNY Be Delicious, Aquolina Pink Sugar, Marc Jacobs Perfume, and many more.

The price of $45 is sensible for any clueless boyfriend or friend looking for an easy holiday surprise.

Ever get the urge to just belt out the lyrics to your favorite song, but the words get in the way? Target offers the iKaraoke for iPod, which sends music from any iPod to a stereo without lead vocals. This can be given to a whole family as a single gift, because children and adults can step up to the microphone and jam the lead to their favorite tunes. iKaraoke makes it easy to pause the music, scan forward or backward, or temporarily add the vocals back.

For only $45, the iKaraoke can hook up to any stereo via line-in cable.

Gadgets of the Future Arrive for the Holidays CHRISTINA CIPRIANI FEATURE EDITOR

In the midst of the approaching holidays, stores are beginning to present their fancy, new gadgets for the winter season.

The Lumix LX1 Digital Camera, found at Best Buy and Circuit City, is made by the company that built every family room VCR. Panasonic’s Lumix LX1 is an eight-mega pixel camera with a 16:9 native aspect ratio. It includes a wide-screen format, and just about every other detail found in digital cameras. This new digital camera will give the most competition to other products being introduced around the same time.

Jealous that the iPhone is only for AT&T users? Ve-

rizon stores will soon issue the new Verizon Wireless Voyager. The Voyager comes with multimedia capabilities, including web browser, V Cast mobile TV, video, and music services, along with the ability to play MP3 and unprotected AAC files.

For every gamer out there, the Xbox 360 elite gaming system is just what they’ve been wishing for. Best Buy’s Xbox 360 console package includes a massive 120GB hard drive, a HDMI port and cable, and offers enough space for a wide library of Xbox LIVE arcade games. The Xbox 360 can store downloadable highdefinition TV shows, movies, music, and all other content available from the Xbox LIVE marketplace.

Have trouble getting out of bed in the morning? Sharp-

er Image offers the perfect gift: Clocky, the alarm clock that runs away and hides to force anyone to wake-up. If the user tries to cheat and stay in bed, Clocky will jump off the night stand, sound its alarm, and wheel around the room, searching for a place to hide.

Always getting lost and don’t know your way around? Well the Navigation GPS system is just the tool to help. Just tell it where you’re going, and it will suggest three routes complete with live information about what traffic is like on each route. The GPS system is found at Best Buy and Circuit City for under $250.

Coming back to school in January with the latest gadget gifts is the perfect way to end the 2007 holiday season, and start off 2008.

6

FEATURE

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

A Jump Above the Rest

ficult stunts, and inappropriate surfaces and equipment.” Also, since cheerleading is not considered by most schools to be a real sport, it is often overlooked and not taken seriously.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has taken note of this situation, and in response has taken action. Competing teams are now bound to a set of rules, including limits on pyramid heights and which tricks can be used during a basket toss.

In a recent online survey of 2,944 people, only 35% believed that cheerleading was be too dangerous, with 43% saying there is some danger involved.

WHS’ competition team has joined in the fight to reduce injury and enforce safety.

“We definitely stretch a lot before and after practice. This helps greatly to reduce pulling muscles. We also practice correct technique and safety procedures. We make sure the girls are fully aware of what they are doing and know the correct way to catch girls. Also, we condition three days a week to build the strength they need to make their tumbling and stunting skills strong and sturdy,” said Steele.

BRITTANY WEBER FEATURE EDITOR

PHOTO BY BRITTANY WEBER

Once considered just a popularity contest, cheerleading is now a legitimate high school sport. However, it is also the most dangerous female sport for high school level athletes, including WHS’s competition cheer squad.

WHS’s new Assistant Coach Jackie Steele was eager to share the many injuries she has witnessed in her experience with cheerleading: “I have seen broken arms, legs, ankles, and wrists. Broken noses are extremely common. I personally have accidentally knocked out a girl’s three front teeth while stunting and we were both rushed to the hospital. She now has fake teeth. Her teeth took a chunk out of my arm and I had to get stitches.”

According to Dr. Sally Harris, a sports medicine and pediatrics specialist with the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, “Over 50 percent of serious injuries that occur in female athletes are due to the sport of cheerleading.”

Recent statistics from All Star Cheer magazine show that over the past 13 years, more than 200,000 high school cheerleaders have been hospitalized and treated in the emergency room. Forty percent of these injuries are to the legs, ankles, and feet, whereas others are to the back, head, and arms.

Flyers, the cheerleaders who are thrown onto the air or placed on top of pyramids, are at the greatest risk.

With stunts and tosses elevating girls to heights of up to 20 feet, it is easy to see how cheerleading has earned its risky reputation.

“Cheer is an extremely intense sport.

You are throwing another human being in the air—it is a huge responsibility for the bases to keep that flyer safe. She must have all the trust in the world that those bases won’t drop her,” said Steele.

“Cheerleading has a reputation for

FLYING HIGH: Christina Cipriani ’08, Andrea Kemp ’11, and Heather Riley ’10, fly Alyssa Shrupp ’11 during Competition Cheer practice.

being easy, but it is very intense. We have only 12 people on our team so we’re constantly working through injuries for the benefit of our team,” said Sara Hagey ‘08.

What’s even more startling about this already devastating reality is that it is getting worse over time. In 1994 Harris reports there were 15,700 reported injuries.

In 2001, the numbers jumped to 25,000. In

2004, the numbers again rose to 28,400. It is clear to see that this matter should not be taken lightly.

So what is causing this increase in injuries? According to the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators, “Cheerleading injuries have been attributed to lack of experience, inadequate conditioning, insufficient supervision, dif-

2001 Sport-Related Injuries 1. Football: 418,260 2. Cheerleading: 200,150 3. Soccer: 174,686 4. Baseball: 155,898 5. Softball: 106,884 6. Swim/Dive: 82,354 7. Weightlifting: 65,716 8. Volleyball: 52,091 9. Golf: 47,360 10. Wrestling: 33,734 According to lifescience.com

7

FEATURE

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Skating with the Wizard on Ice

COURTESY PHOTO

ure Skating Association (USFSA) title of gold medalist skater and will soon be taking her senior test to become a USFSA double gold medalist skater.

This Simi Valley native is currently preparing for her performance in the rink’s (Iceo-plex) winter show, The Wizard of Oz on Ice, where she will be playing the role of Glinda the Good Witch.

I r o n i cally enough, Hertler, as a child, “was scared of it [The Wizard of Oz], and didn’t SKATING ON THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD: Chelsea want to watch Hertler ’09 will perform in the Wizard of Oz on ice. it”; however, JESSICA KUECKS she did finally STAFF WRITER see the classic the weekend she got the part.

Doubles, lay-backs, spirals, Hertler needed a light pink, combination spins and other ice- sparkly and flowy dress and a skating jargon are all part of the wand to complete her costume. everyday vocabulary Chelsea “My mom makes all my Hertler ‘09 uses. costumes. She’s good at designSkating since she was just ing and making them,” Hertler five years old, 16-year-old Hertler added. now holds the United States FigThe world of ice-skating;

however, is not entirely a “winter wonderland.” Hertler has sustained numerous minor injuries, such as bruises and blisters, but also has survived more serious ones.

“Once I hurt my hip and I was off and on [the ice] for three months,” Hertler said.

While the rink may seem chilly to some, “if you’re skating hard, it feels good. I don’t usually notice [the cold],” added the figure skater.

The dedicated skater practices on average two to three hours a day and attends group practice every Saturday for the show. Although 11 out of the 12 skaters to audition for solos in the play landed parts, there was still an audition.

“You had to do a program, and perform for the judges— that’s all,” recalled Hertler.

The director of skating Lauri Varvais and the President of the Tri-county Youth Corporation, Amanda Johnson, (the director of this year’s annual winter show at Simi Valley’s Ice-o-Plex, formerly known as Easy Street Arena), are in charge of the event. Hertler’s solo coach and choreographer is Briana Weissman.

Those interested in attending the show can watch the program Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. or Dec. 15 at 12 p.m. or 4:30 p.m.. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children and free for everyone four and under.

“If anyone wants to buy tickets, see me,” Hertler added, “It’s always fun to watch ice-skating and it’s a good show.”

Kolodney Always En Pointe

Soumya Says...

Our Over-praised Generation

SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA FEATURE EDITOR

Several decades ago, America decided that its children were not receiving enough praise, so educators and parents began trying to show their appreciation for children.

They employed ways to make the ordinary kids feel extraordinary, generously giving out gold stars, participation certificates, most-improved awards, and constant compliments.

Unfortunately, this plan backfired. Although our generation is praised, commended, and congratulated for everything we do, instead of boosting academic performance and self-esteem, those compliments are, in fact, doing us harm.

Are We An Egotistical Generation?

NIKKI FAY STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

Applause, screams, and congratulation are all things Amanda Kolodney ‘10 hears every time she steps on the stage. While most students only dream of wearing those pointy shoes or being able to move like an angel, Kolodney makes it an everyday reality.

Kolodney has been dancing since she was seven years old, and still finds time to make it the center of her attention, although she has four honors and AP classes.

“It takes up a lot of time, rehearsals can run really late, and I even have dance on Fridays and Saturdays,” Kolodney laughed. “And it destroys my feet.”

She is able to maintain all of her classes while still excelling in ballet.

When the question of quitting was thrown at her, Kolodney quickly said, BREAK A LEG: Amanda Kolodney ’10 will dance the part of the “I have never thought about quitting, maid in the upcoming production of The Nutcracker at the Civic Arts Plaza, Dec. 15 and 16.

I would get too depressed. I even get upset if I go on vacation for a couple of weeks and I can’t dance.”

“I’m nervous and excited for the show beWhile many students would be overwhelmed by cause I have to open, but I did get the part that I dancing six, and sometimes even seven, days a week, wanted,” said Kolodney.

Kolodney handles it like a pro. Her practices extend The ballet will be held at the Civic Arts Plaanywhere from one to three hours, and she dances with za at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on the Dec. 15, and 2 p.m. all her effort at every practice. and 6 p.m. on the Dec. 16. Tickets are selling for “I get to meet a lot of great people and it’s just fun,” $38, $28, and $24 on Ticketmaster or at the Civic she said. “I couldn’t imagine my life without it.”

Arts Plaza Box Office.

Kolodney will be performing in The Nutcracker on “It’s going to be a great show,” said Kolodthe weekend of Dec. 15 and 16, where she will be open- ney.“ There are a lot of beautiful dancers in it and ing the show as the maid.

I am really excited to participate.”

“Only six percent of Korean eighth graders considered themselves excellent math students, compared with 39 percent of American 8th graders,” said a Scholastic Inc. article, based on the Brookings Institution 2006 Brown Center Report on Education.

Even as school becomes more difficult and begins to require dedication, we give up studying and laboring at our schoolwork, because we believe, as Mom and Dad always said, we are “little geniuses.”

But in reality, most of us are not extraordinarily gifted, but because of this constant commendation, we think we deserve not to study, because of our natural talent.

“Countries in which families and schools emphasize selfesteem for students—America for example—lag behind other cultures that don’t focus on how students feel about themselves,” stated a Scholastic Inc. article, based on the same 2006 Brown Center Report.

With preschool graduation, 5th grade graduation, 8th grade graduation, and finally high school graduation, we are awarded for completion, instead of achievement.

Through this, our society is breeding an age of self-obsessed egomaniacs.

“Kids today are 30 percent more narcissistic than they were in 1982” according to MSNBC.com, based on a San Diego State University study of 16,475 college students.

“Seventy percent of American college freshmen reported their academic ability as above average,” added the Scholastic Inc. article, from the study by Jean Twenge.

The problem with egotistical kids is that when they are faced with challenges, they are afraid to fail, because they can’t bear criticism.

And if these students do fail, they end up giving up altogether, instead of trying harder. After years of thinking they are perfect and believing failure impossible, they have a tendency to surrender to demanding tasks instead of facing them.

Workplace Problems

And even after leaving school life, we face problems in the adult world.

The effect of years of praise, hubris becomes our closest comrade as we suffer in our first jobs.

“A lot of today’s young adults feel insecure if they’re not regularly complimented,” said Jeffrey Zaslow, of the Wall Street Journal.

In the workplace, several young workers feel unappreciated because no one is constantly patting them on the back.

Now, employers are forced to find ways to congratulate their employees so they don’t feel overlooked.

“The 1,000-employee Scooter Store Inc., a power-wheelchair and scooter firm in New Braunfels, Texas, has a staff “celebrations assistant” whose job it is to throw confetti -- 25 pounds a week -- at employees. She also passes out 100 to 500 celebratory helium balloons a week. The Container Store Inc. estimates that one of its 4,000 employees receives praise every 20 seconds,” reported an article in the San Diego Source.

“It’s not enough to give praise only when they’re exceptional, because for years they’ve been getting praise for just showing up,” said Bob Nelson to the Wall Street Journal.

Relationship Troubles

In relationships, the years of glorifying small achievements are taking a toll. Relationships start to become rocky, because spouses don’t believe each other’s compliments.

The normal “I love you” doesn’t suffice with our generation. We want bigger gestures, more compliments, and grander displays of affection.

And although spouses do exchange compliments, they frequently find each other’s commendations inadequate, compared with the constant admiration from their childhood. This disparity leads to husbands and wives feeling unacknowledged.

So in the higher levels of schooling, jobs, and relationships praised students encounter problems.

So maybe when your parents remind you that you are “a genius,” “drop-dead gorgeous” or the “next Michael Jordan” they’re in fact holding you back from being any of these things.

WARRIORS FIGHT FOR

HUMANITY Giving Visibility to Uganda’s Unseen

PHOTO BY WYNN BURSON

hospitals or bus parks—anywhere far away from rebel camps.

After witnessing the tragedy of Uganda, Russell, Bailey, and Poole started a related nonprofit organization, called Invisible Children Inc. By documenting the lives of those living in regions of conflict and injustice, the trio hopes to educate and inspire individuals in the Western world to use their unique voice for change.

“The people of Uganda are asking for a future beyond the conflict,” said Bailey.

WHS has joined in on this fight to help the victims of the conflict.

“I’ve always wanted to do something,” said Stephanie Lervold ’09, who founded the club this year with fellow junior Nicole Rothschild.

Now with over 50 members, they are fulfilling their vision. Through various fundraising activities, the club collects money to improve schools for children affected by the conflict. They are planning benefit concerts, screenings of the Invisible documentary, and a possible visit from one of the “Lost Boys.”

The club enthusiastically encourages member participation and input on every aspect – from monetary goals to t-shirt design.

In club meetings, scarcely a minute goes by DISCOVER THE UNSEEN: Members of The Invisible Children club from left, Juniors Kelley Biggs, Stephanie Lervold, without an issue being discussed or a vote talAbigail Wilkins, and Shane Hegeman work for victims of Uganda’s civil war. lied.

The chapter is one of many around the United States and the world that volunteers rape, abduction, and the use of child soldiers to for the non-profit organization Invisible Children ROBERT DILLON carry out a number of massacres.

BRITTANY WEBER Inc. The three filmmakers from Southern CaliforSTAFF WRITER The name of the organization is attributed to nia who discovered the forsaken children on a trip the relative obscurity of these people’s struggle.

FEATURE EDITOR in Africa created a movie of the same title and inThe club offers a way for passionate young citThe nationwide movement known as Invis- spired the ongoing charity movement. izens to come together and to focus their efforts on The trio’s resulting story focuses on the war’s creating a better future. ible Children started in 2003, when three college students, Jason Russell, Bobby Bailey, and Laren effects on children, particularly children who are Taking up the cause “opened my eyes to the Poole went to the Sudan to “find a story,” but end- forced to be soldiers. many problems going on” said Lervold.

Thousands of children flee their homes nighted up in northern Uganda where they found thouAs the club is in its early stages, all members sands of people affected by the insurgency of the ly in order to escape abduction by the LRA. have an active role in shaping its path.

The children who run from their homes walk Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).

The club meets Wednesdays at lunch in 43F The LRA is accused of mutilation, torture, miles, often to cities like Gulu, to find shelter in with adviser Lucy Zazueta.

Homeco MAX AVRUCH STAFF WRITER

Homecoming dance is a large number of well-po and lavished “to the nines. at Westlake, Homecoming too elaborate for her at all.

Charlotte Trent, a fr tough and rigorous acad Trent handles a variety o that she devotes herself to, Being an avid church tive participant in churc Trent boasts a unique talen hibits, charity work.

The 2007 WHS Hom special moment in Trent to do charity work. She, of about forty other churc dents, traveled to Tijuana, houses for the homeless a people in desperate need.

“I am really passio people who are less fortu helping people to rebuild Trent.

TJ Express, the missio juana was part of the char nior Luther League, and w help desperate families in with their lives.

The Ascension Luther the city lying on the borde Friday night. Saturday th day for everyone in the chu As Trent and her chu homeless community in Ti restart the life styles of ma viduals, the team will be from sunrise to sunset in d do to help the community “I’m just going to get ever I can do to help make meaningful and worthwhi Bringing smiles to the

Answ CHRISTINA CIPRIANI FEATURE EDITOR

While families in Am lavish Thanksgiving dinne ia try to find anything they Landlocked in the cen between Chile, Peru and B inated by the Andes Mou vast areas of the country in SOS Hermann Gmein Vocational Training Center ia to help counteract the hig the country. From 1964 unt country was affected by fre or coups. The result of all and social need. The peopl the weakest—the children.

Bolivia is one of the po America. Around 40% of t in rural areas and is em which suffers from antiqua equate transportation.

The infant mortality r in South America, with on before their fifth birthday. vive on a grossly deficient one way or another.

Even when infants do they lack a proper family. not a part of their children’ responsibility for their kid to cope the best they can, a to fend for themselves. T sleeping in the gutters and There are no hospitals Bolivia is in such a rural p charity began its work in SOS Children’s community chambamba. Today, there Villages providing familie 1000 children.

SOS Children’s Village

oming for the Homeless

s usually attended by olished girls dressed .” Yet for one girl here g weekend will not be

$260 Billion.

reshman, manages a demic schedule and of different activities , on and off school. h member, and an acch related missions, nt that she happily ex-

on to build homes in Tirity program named Sewas aimed to target and n need of true assistance

ran Church traveled into er of Tijuana, Mexico on hen became a labor-full urch team. urch group assisted the Tijuana build homes and any, once hopeless inditruly inspired to work doing whatever they can become a better place. t in there and do whate each person’s life more ile,” said Trent. e faces of different indi-

COURTESY PHOTO

mecoming marked a t’s inspiring passion along with a group ch members and stuMexico to help build and aid less fortunate

onate about helping unate, and especially their lifestyles,” said

Charitable contributions in America for 2005 totaled

Where that money went:

A REAL HOMECOMING: Trent is happy to help build homes for the homeless.

viduals living in the Tijuana area became a task completed by Trent and her other church members. Playing, singing, and dancing at random times with the children certainly made Trent feel, “just happy.”

After work on Saturday of that weekend, the church mission continued to help build homes on Sunday, and then after a hard day’s work, the church mission packed up for departure back into Westlake Village.

The bus ride home from Tijuana to Westlake was a fun filled trip packed with great memories and laughs, all the while remembering the different stories of the mission trip.

“The trip to Tijuana was so fulfilling…it made me feel so great and the people were kind and helpful to boost up their living conditions. I’m really glad I went there to help,” said Trent.

The weekend ended up to be an extraordinary one of kindness and love, dedicated in hope of bettering the lives of less privileged people.

6.2% 8.3% 2.5% 3.4% Religion

5.2%

Education Health Human Services

5.4%

Public Benefit Arts/Culture Environment International Affairs

9.7%

Foundations Other

wering an SOS

COURTESY PHOTO

merica prepared their ers, families in Bolivy can just to survive. nter of South America Brazil, Bolivia is domuntains, which make naccessible. ner Schools and SOS rs were built in Bolivgh rate of illiteracy in SOS ANSWERED: Children protected in an SOS village til the early 1980s, the equent military putsches l this was great poverty sists of 10 family houses, an SOS kindergarten, nule affected the most were merous SOS Youth Facilities, as well as an SOS Vo. cational Training Center with training for grocery oorest countries in South processing. the population still lives So far, about 500 emergency parcels have mployed in agriculture, been prepared including items such as milk, cereated methods and inad- als, canned food, kitchen utensils, candles, matches, tools, hygiene products, medicine and school rate is one of the highest books. ne in 10 children dying WHS has decided to take this matter into its Many of those who sur- own hands to help raise money for this organizadiet become disabled in tion. During Homecoming week, students walked around with cans and asked for money to donate o survive to adulthood, to the SOS Bolivia Organization along with many . Fathers are frequently other fundraising programs. ’s life, as they do not take This fundraiser involved students involved ds. Mothers are left alone and teach them about helping others and that they and the children are left can do anything they can to help children in need.

They take to the streets, It teaches students the troubles people go through d hollows in the ground. everyday. s or medical centers since Child sponsorship is one way to help children part of the country. The in need. Students can really make an impact on the Bolivia in 1968; the first lives of these children by donating to an SOS Vily was established in Co- lage. are nine SOS Children’s There are about 100 countries which SOS Chiles with homes for over dren works with. Becoming a sponsor can help provide a home and a new family for an orphan, e in Cochambamba con- and helps give a future to a child without hope.

35.8%

8.7%

14.8%

And where it came from: 6.7% 11.5% 5.3%

76.5% Individuals Corporations Foundations Bequests

SOURCE: GIVING USA 2006

10

FEATURE

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Seniors Garner Semifinalist Status

Wakeman Continues Equestrian Endeavors, Travels the World MOHAMMAD TADAYON STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

Most teens cannot claim to have traveled across Europe for their hobby, but Shelby Wakeman ’08 is among the few who can. Wakeman is a competitive equestrian, whose passion and dedication to her sport are clear.

Wakeman has been riding horses for ten years, saying her interest was sparked in the second grade.

“My friend and I watched her older sister compete at a horse show, so we decided to give it a try and we really liked it,” she said.

Since then, Wakeman has trained rigorously, practicing three to four hours a day during the week. This training involves running practice courses with her horses, as well as jogging to maintain her own physical condition.

Wakeman competes in horse shows, where riders are judged in three different categories, each based on different styles of riding.

They all involve an obstacle course of some kind. Jumper riders are judged on how quickly and carefully they can complete the course, which usually consists of multiple jumps, while equitation judges look for the riders form and control of the steed while clearing different obstacles.

Hunter riders are similar, but the judges look more for how well the horse performs, rather than the rider.

Horse shows are held all over Southern California, so while local shows require minimal transportation, Wakeman sometimes has to fly to some shows, which can be taxing, and especially disruptive to the normal school week.

Her studies are often affected. Major events that many teens live for, such as Homecoming, are tough for Wakeman to attend. She had to miss the event this year for an important show.

There are six national horse shows every year, most of which require riders to qualify to even participate. Earlier this year, Wakeman placed fifth out of 100 riders in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, as well as fourth out of 300 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and third out of 150 in Syracuse, New York.

In addition to competing, Wakeman also participates in catch riding. Catch riding is when a horse owner asks a rider to train and ride a horse in order to advertise it in the hopes that someone will become interested and buy it.

“I went to Europe to buy young horses, and then brought them back here to train them and sell them once MAKING THE LEAP: Wakeman and her horse San Francisco compete they were noticed at the Capital Challenge horse show in Maryland. and piqued some“A lot of my friends usually only have one’s interest,” said Wakeman.

As a result, Wakeman has been to one parent at a show, but both my parents countries such as Belgium, Germany, and try their hardest to be there, which is really great,” said Wakeman. the Netherlands, in her search for horses.

Highlighting her equestrian backDuring all of these practices and shows, her parents have remained a strong ground as an important part of her apsupport force. They pay for what she needs plication, Wakeman has sent applications to ride and compete, as well as watch her to colleges she hopes to attend, including Brown, Cornell and Stanford University. ride in shows.

VICKY LOU MANAGING EDITOR

Seniors Ben Liu and Philip Shao recently became National Semifinalists in the Siemens Science and Technology Competition, one of the most prestigious science competitions in the nation. The Siemens Foundation partnered with the College Board to prepare students for their futures as leaders in America’s economy.

Seniors developed research projects in science or mathematics. According to the College Board, the projects were judged on originality, creativity, and academic rigor.

Liu submitted his research project under astrophysics while Shao’s field was statistics. Both had worked on their projects for months.

Liu’s essay was about the black hole accretion process. He was helped by his adviser, Dr. Ran Sivron, and teammates Elliott Jin and Magnus Haw. He also attributes his success to his calculus teacher, Greg Korshavn, for providing him with a calculus background.

He feels “very excited and happy” about becoming a semifinalist. He plans to pursue the topic, continuing to improve his research and making it more comprehensive.

Shao studied climate change and researched data analysis and modeling. He asked many teachers for advice and suggestions during the course of his paper’s development.

Liu and Shao both gained confidence about their abilities through this experience. Liu also gained “an acquired interest for subsequent research” and “motivation to continue to pursue greater things.”

As National Semifinalists, they will receive recognition packages, their names in an advertisement in USA Today, a certificate of merit, and recognition from top universities.

Liu has aspirations for Harvard, Caltech, MIT, or Princeton University, and Shao hopes to attend Yale University.

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

FASHION

THE GOOD GIRL GONE BAD: Juniors Shayne Sherry and Max Miletich ready for an All-American fall, remixed with untraditional pieces to make a look pop.

Fearless Fashion be the brave one.

Photographed by P.J. Hunter, Styled by Wynn Burson

F

earless fashion should be a breakthrough from the norm of WHS hallways.

If ever you have felt shy about wearing a wild vest with a ladylike dress, or apprehensive about sporting high heels, take into consideration that with confidence, you can pull off anything.

It helps; however, to have good strong pieces in your closet to accent more sedate items.

Scrounge local thrift stores or swap meets to find untraditional and creative things to offset an easy pair of jeans or a t-shirt.

Madison Lane ’08 relies on the Rose Bowl Swap Meet for retro vests (seen above) in various colors to layer over random pieces. Mix the swap meet finds with a more traditional piece, as seen with Gwen Stefani’s wool plaid L.A.M.B skirt above. Layering a minidress over a skirt can be a creative and new style, if done with narrow pieces that are still loose fitting.

Michael Stars’ fall collection incorporates longsleeve tees in buttersoft jersey under loose dresses of the same material.

Models wear knit hats in the ads, a look that “will be big this season,” according to a vendor at the Fairfax High School Swap Meet who sells berets and other knit caps.

The Marc by Marc Jacobs store is selling inexpensive soft acrylic beanies, and the swap meet has its unpredictable selection. Meaning, the swap meet has its good days and bad, so be careful with your expectations.

For guys, retro accents nicely offset modern skater touches like skinny pants and ever-popular slip-on Vans. High-top sneakers from the likes of Reebok and Asics add a whimsical athletic ’80s feel to a contemporary outfit.

Check Urban Outfitters for fun shirts and colorful shoes. As seen above, puffer vests are good for colder weather, and can be a nice break from a generic sweatshirt.

Urban Outfitters’ latest collaborations with pop artists and Nylon magazine have garnered the attention of the young art crowd, offering lower priced limited edition goods.

This trend is popular in the artist Damien Hirst’s collection for Levi’s, but the most famous are Takashi Murakami’s bags for Louis Vuitton, now part of an exhibit at the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art. High heels are really the only way to make people appear taller, regardless of what stylists say about high-waisted and wide legged pants.

If you choose to wear high heels at school, invest in a sturdy, comfortable pair that is versatile and not too dressy. Skinny, strappy sandals look unstable, but a casual pump in a bootie style is flirty, yet mature, and very relevant to fall’s styles.

Look at Mary-Kate Olsen—walking into Starbucks in leggings and a T-shirt— but in super high Balenciaga platforms. If the shoes are in mainstream dark colors, you can work a wackier style. Too bold and untraditional will appear overdone and tacky.

When wearing eclectic pieces with those more subtle, the “opposites attract” look will always make them look twice.

by Wynn Burson On Miletich: Vintage vest over an American Apparel thermal shirt. Jeans by Levi’s. Marc Jacobs gloves, Gap (RED) bandana, sunglasses from Oriental Trading. Vans shoes.

On Sherry: Vintage vest. Ella Moss minidress over a L.A.M.B. plaid skirt. Coach scarf, vintage hat. Vintage bag by Fendi. Shoes by Jessica Simpson.

Fashion Assistants: Alannah Bradley and Carina Wolff.

11

12

ENTERTAINMENT

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Director Takes Unique Approach to Bob Dylan’s Life Todd Haynes’ unconventional biopic presents the artist in an entirely new light. thrilled when informed of their legendary producer.

“I don’t know that it does make sense,” said Cate Blanchett in an interview with The New York Times Magazine on her role of leading woman, “And I don’t know

viewers of all kind.

“This is not a Bob Dylan movie,” said the director, “I say this so that the true Earning an Oscar nomination for his Dylanheads won’t be disappointed.” work on the 2002 film Far From Heaven, There is no denial that the perfordirector Todd Haynes attempts to pormance has struck many through its adtray the abstract vertisements and lifestyle of one trailers—which of the most influhave leaked onto ential men in the the desktops of unconventional the generation via music industry, YouTube in recent Bob Dylan. days.

H a y n e s As well as wanted to avoid refining its genre, a straight narthe film is rather rative with I’m defining the deNot There, which lusion, and, in all was released in actuality, explaintheaters Nov. 21, ing what realism and instead cast stood for in his six distinctive acmind.

Dylan’s tors to play the apathetic morale musician in six inspired Haynes episodes spanin his earlier days ning his life and of production, as career.

Among the film took an these actors are NOT YOUR AVERAGE BIOPIC: I’m Not There, the unconventional and much anticipated Bob Dylan-inspired movie featuring Cate Blanchett and Heath astonishing seven Ledger, gets a limited release in America on Nov. 21, and is “not a Bob Dylan movie,” according to director Todd Haynes. an African-Ameryears to generate. ican boy and a “You have to woman. whether Dylan’s music makes sense. “ “This is the first dramatic film [Dylan] give up a certain amount of control,” said “Viewers should not get too bogged Of the first to break the scene is Mar- has permitted anyone to do on his life,” Haynes on the organization of the film. down in the literal connections to Dylan,” cus Carl Franklin. The 13-year-old conveys said Haynes, featuring a sense of honor However, the true beauty of I’m Not said Haynes in an interview with Spin Dylan’s childhood in rustic Minnesota. for the man.

There is that the audience has the freeMagazine, “Let it wash over you and sort Following the young boy’s performance, is The pressure seems at an all time high dom to perceive the film any which way of take you like a dream.” the ever anticipated Blanchett, “rock star” with Oscar season just around the bend, it pleases. I’m Not There hit four theatres The kaleidoscopic vibe received by Dylan. Among the prominently named but Haynes doesn’t seem agitated with the around the country on its opening day of audiences is not alien to the works of cast is Golden Globe winner Richard Gere, effect of the film on critics. Haynes some- Nov. 21 as decided by the film distributor, Haynes. Branded for his uncanny interpre- Ben Whishaw, Christian Bale, and Oscar how accepts and is continuously seeking Weinstein Company and less than 100 thetations and biopic works, the actors were nominee Heath Ledger. the message of the artistic impression on atres throughout the world.

ELLIE FATEH STAFF WRITER

The film alters eras as well as genres defining the Bob Dylan recognized by folk music listeners. Uncanny as it is, Dylan was fond of the idea and offered Haynes the greatest of all gifts: permission to incorporate his music into the film.

COURTESY PHOTO

Yeasayer’s Debut Breathes New Life into a Stale Genre

Britney Spears’ Comeback Album Receives Mixed Reviews

choruses and wistful vocal harmonies are propelled by catchy basslines and impassioned lyrics before dissolving into an Although Yeasayer hails from Brook- urgent chant complete with a children’s lyn, New York, the music on its debut choir. album All Hour Cymbals conjures images More highlights include Sunrise, in of the exotic and ritualistic Far East, with- which tribal drums and dreamy syntheout a doubt providing some of the most sizer accompany vocalist Anand Wilder’s unique indie soulful singrock of the ing to create year thus far. a predomiIn a nantly ‘80s genre that vibe, and is becoming Waiting for increasingly the Summer, confined to where sitar, stale and strings, and uninspired other ethnic imitations elements of Pavement combine or Modto produce est Mouse, what sounds Yeasayer has like a Middle managed to E a s t e r n encompass version of enough diAnimal Colverse influlective. ences and Cymbals inspiration is a mesmerto create izing effort, its own, NEXT BIG THING: With All Hour Cymbals,Yeasayer creates displaying d i s t i n c t i v e some of the year’s most unique indie rock. a level of sound that creativity combines eland musical ements from confidence TV On the Radio, Grizzly Bear, and The that is fairly uncharacteristic for a young Arcade Fire, to name a few. band. Hailed by many music blogs as The underground success of All Hour alternative music’s “next big thing,” YeaCymbals can be attributed to the band’s sayer will have an opportunity to promote popular two-song single, which appears their impressive debut as they tour small on the debut, and a promising perfor- clubs throughout England throughout mance at last year’s South by Southwest November. music festival in Austin, Texas.

While no official announcements of a Nearly every aspect of Yeasayer’s North American tour have been made, it is peculiar sound is expertly incorporated in expected that Yeasayer will announce one the album’s key song, 2080, where smooth soon, after All Our Cymbals’ recent success.

WYNN BURSON COPY EDITOR

JIMMY MOORE ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

COURTESY PHOTO

priate for nightclub decadence.

“Even though some songs are catchy, I think it’s a pretty mediocre album overall,” The media frenzy surrounding Brit- said Kylie Blaber ’09.

There are more than a few questionney Spears has been the only promotion for her mysterious new album, Blackout. able aspects to Blackout, in addition to her There were no advertisements, public ap- somber vocals. Unlike previous albums, pearances, or interviews involving Spears there is no thank you list, nor is Spears herself, but Blackout made it to number two credited with doing her own backup. Also, on Billboard’s Hot 100 List, second only to the inside photographs of her are not new; they are in fact stills from her music video the Eagles.

Despite her lack of promotion, being of Gimme More.

It seems as if the songs were thrown on the cover of Us Weekly and People all the together quickly time got her pubin a makeshift arlicity. It is probably rangement. smart public rela- “Even though some songs “It seemed so tions. low-budget,” said While some are catchy, I think it’s a pretty Dayna Stanley criticize Spears for mediocre album overall.” ’08 about the CD, being a terrible and particularly role model, they Kylie Blaber ’09 the Gimme More fail to remember video, where a that she is, in fact, tattooed Spears still a singer.

The latest effort is more electronica dances provocatively around a pole the than pop (some wonder how many ma- entire time. She shifts in and out of focus, chines they put her voice through now, changing colors.

The second single, Radar, was equally or if it is even her voice) as the songs all sound digitized, with mainly synthesizer tantalizing yet more electro-pop sounding.

Although a mediocre song, it is very sounds.

The infectious first single, later re- catchy as Spears delivers sexy lyrics rangmixed by T.I., made it to number three ing from an innocent “I got my eye on on Billboard’s Hot 100 Singles Chart and you” to a raunchier “think I can handle number one on iTunes after her infamous that/animal in the sack.”

Other songs like Piece of Me are not as performance at MTV’s Video Music Awards. Gimme More, as it is called, was impressive. Those like Ooh Ooh Baby, are Spears’ first song produced by Danja, a as terrible as their titles suggest.

Throughout the album, her pitch protégé of Timbaland. Danja’s mood is robotic and melancholy, while “bracingly shifts unnaturally and overlaps. The lyrunapologetic,” according to the New York ics we are sure she is singing are the ones where she speaks (a Britney trademark), Times.

This, of course, is a reference to her sly usually in the middle of the song—“I just come-ons and innuendos made through- want more,” “I can’t let you get away.”

These aspects of the album are not out all of her albums. Spears gave her fans what they wanted—exactly the unapolo- surprising, but at other times it seems very getic tone with in-your-face lyrics appro- unlike a Britney Spears album at all.

13

ENTERTAINMENT

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Rockin’ the House:

Hollywood’s Hottest Concert Venues The Arrow’s guide to four famous places to see great music close to home

by Elyse Kaplan and Jimmy Moore The Troubadour

The Avalon

In October of 1931, The Wiltern Theater opened its doors for the first time to the movie lovers of Los Angeles.

The Wiltern was named after a combination of Wilshire Boulevard and Western Avenue, the street intersection which it faces.

Although the theater is considered to be one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the United States, the large vertical neon signs are a reminder it is also one of the finest places to see exciting live performances.

F o r m e rly an all-seated venue, the wiltern removed 1,200 orchestra seats and is now able to accommodate a standing-room-only configuration. The balcony still offers a thousand permanent seats, however, and the flexible new arrangement allows for seats to be brought in to the floor section downstairs for more intimate performances. The venue’s new capacity is roughly 2,300, making The Wiltern theater one of the largest theaters in Los Angeles.

Today, it hosts a diverse range of performances from the Los Angeles Orchestra, the America Ballet Theatre and dozens of popular music groups from Jimmy Eat World, Modest Mouse, Queens of the Stone Age and Green Day to The Mars Volta, Pixies, Brand New and Coheed and Cambria.

Since its 1957 opening, The Troubadour has established itself as a cornerstone of West Hollywood’s music scene.

Having hosted legendary artists such as Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan, this charming venue has always been known for its intimate environment and energetic atmosphere.

Within the last five years, 1735 N. Vine Street in Hollywood, formerly known as The Palace, has undergone a dramatic transformation.

Once the host of the Beatles’ first ever concert on the West Coast, this venue was recently renovated into a contemporary hub of Hollywood nightlife, which makes it a perfect medium-sized venue for any band passing through Southern California.

A staple for both concert-goers and frequents of the club scene, The Avalon’s modern decor and architecture set it apart as one of the most distinctive clubs in Hollywood.

Between the spacious balconies, roomy floor space, and incredible acoustics, this venue promises an engaging and satisfying time.

COURTESY PHOTOS

The Wiltern Theater

One of Southern California’s oldest and most respected clubs, the Troubadour gives concertgoers the option of getting up close and personal with performers on the ground or venturing up to the balcony, which provides the fan with a bird’s-eye-view of the stage. Either way, one will be guaranteed an enjoyable show at the Troubadour.

Henry Fonda Theater Since 2002, The Henry Fonda Theater has been working to keep its promise to revive Hollywood and recreate it as a city for

Upcoming Shows to Catch The Wiltern: Shiny Toy Guns on Sat., Dec. 22.

The Troubadour: The Lemonheads with Racoon on Sat., Dec. 1.

Busdriver with Daedalus on Fri., Dec. 21.

The Avalon: Deerhoof, on Mon., Dec. 10.

Henry Fonda Theater: Voxtrot with Division Day, Sun., Dec. 2. great entertainment.

Originally opened in 1926, the theater would come alive with elaborate musical revues where theater-goers could enjoy smaller acts and dancing afterwards. It only had two main rooms, the upstairs and the downstairs.

Today, the theater has expanded into seven unique rooms including a main room, stage area, balcony, lounge and even rooftop access. This enables it to hold large scale concerts or small intimate gatherings.

Although there are no longer any elaborate musical revues, the Henry Fonda stays true to tradition by hosting classic burlesque acts every year.

It also stays up on the current trends by introducing new and upcoming indie bands. Some previous shows have included performances by Tori Amos, Adam Ant, Jane’s Addiction and the Spin Doctors.

Oscar Season Starts Early ELYSE KAPLAN ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Every year, one award show has the power to pick which movies will stand strong against the test of time and which ones will be left behind, destined to a dusty life on a shelf in Blockbusters.

The one award that takes lines like “You jump, I jump Jack” and “Leave the gun, take the cannoli,” and makes them instantly recognizable. It is the mother of all the award shows; it’s the Oscars.

Maybe that’s why the speculation about which films will be bestowed this high honor for the year 2008 has already begun, even for movies that have not hit theaters yet.

With so many promising actors and actresses and many new movies based on already critically acclaimed novels, choosing the nominees will not be an easy task.

The movie adaptation of The Kite Runner seems to be a frontrunner for Best Picture. The story revolves around a man who returns to his homeland in Afghanistan in order to help an old friend whose son is in

trouble.

Another film to watch out for is Atonement, which tells the story of a fledgling writer who, as a 13-year-old, irrevocably changes the course of several lives when she accuses her older sister’s lover of a crime he did not commit. If the movie has anywhere near the success the romance novel by Ian McEwan had, it could see many awards come its way.

Although it is based on a children’s novel about a parallel universe, where a young girl journeys to the far North to save her best friend and other kidnapped children from terrible experiments by a mysterious organization, The Golden Compass should not be discredited. The cast is led by prominent names of strong actors likes Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig.

This year, there is also another trend of smaller movies that have reduced budgets, lower profile actors and tiny, almost cult like followings. These small indie films, like last year’s Little Miss Sunshine, have proven they should not be discredited.

Following in those shoes, Into the Wild and Juno could have a nomination thrown

their way, even though only a minority have heard of them and even less will have seen them by Oscar night.

Of course, Hollywood has always been the industry that makes a living on surprising and thrilling the masses. Noth-

ing is certain, and nobody can be sure whose name or what movie title waits in the envelopes until Oscar night. So until then, all one can do is get an extra large popcorn, a box of candy and enjoy a night at the movies.

14

SPORTS

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

Boys Water Polo Makes 1st Round CIF STEPHANIE NIEVES SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTO BY JANN HENDRY

PUT YOUR GUARD UP: Melissa Johnson ‘10 spikes the ball against Millikan.

TIFFANNY LOH NEWS EDITOR

As typical with most sports, it takes dedication and practice to succeed. Even after school ends, the girls varsity volleyball team continues to practice for hours improving their game and technique.

With their firm commitment and effort, the team’s hard work paid off, culminating with a winning record. The Warriors finished their season second in league, a step up from last year’s third place ranking.

With a league record of 11-3 and 20-5 overall, “we performed very well this year,” said Coach Ernest Rittenhouse.

He added that some of the team’s strengths included defense, cohesiveness, setting, and serving, while the main weakness was blocking.

Although last year’s team

was more experienced and had more height, the girls “still managed the same record and finished second against an even stronger field of teams,” said Rittenhouse.

With many rivals throughout the league, especially from Thousand Oaks High School, the team “surprised many observers and other league coaches.”

This year, team standouts included co-captains Michelle Ketter ‘09 and Kaitlyn Watase ‘08, as well as Mimi Sander ‘08, and Dena Galluci ‘09.

In addition, the girls performed well in CIF. The Warriors won against Millikan High School from Long Beach but were defeated by Mira Costa High School, the number one ranked team in the country.

With their determination and dedication, the girls volleyball team has closed the fall with a successful season.

With an impressive 18 saves, goalie Andrew Turner ‘09 prevented Palos Verdes from dominating the game.

“We’ve never been a first quarter team, but we have always been a fighting team,” said Nahmias.

“It was an honor to be in CIF, even if we lost,” said Meyer.

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE NIEVES

Volleyball Team Maintains Record

This season was crucial for the varsity boys water polo players. After finishing last season with a record of 12-12, most games lost by a single goal or ending in overtime, they were determined to do better.

Starting out with wins against Newbury Park and Thousand Oaks High Schools, WHS proved to be a threat in the Marmonte League and a serious contender for CIF. “We did a lot better than we expected this season. We never lost hope,” said Matt Meyer ‘08.

Finishing third in Marmonte league, with only Agoura and Royal High Schools placing ahead of them, the team proved that hard work pays off.

Led by seniors Brent McCunney and Anson Harvey, the team was able to make a strong finish in league.

“We never gave up under any circumstances. That is what made us such a strong team this year,” said Brendan Nahmias ‘08.

B e a t ing Calabasas High School to give them their 12th loss, WHS fought through the game with an ending score of 15-8. Harvey and McCunney scored six goals each, aiding WHS to the win.

After the team played Calabasas, WHS had an overall record of 15-9 and a league record of 7-5.

“Before the season many people

assumed we would finish sixth in league as we typically do, but we proved everyone wrong. Finishing third in Marmonte is a huge success for us,” said Nahmias.

“In the end we did really well and our team was able to mesh together,” said Ali Athar ‘08.

Though the team only made it to the first round of CIF against Palos Verdes High School, they put up a strong fight losing by only two goals. The final score was 9-7.

W H S was down 40 during the first quarter but came back to lead 5-4 at the end of the second quarter.

IT ALL COMES TO AN END: Captain Brent McCunney and JK Lowry ’09 aid their team to a win in the final league game against Calabasas High School.

College-Bound Athletes

Ryan DeJesus

Anson Harvey

Aislinn Smalling

Nora Sobczak

“I’m excited to continue playing baseball at the next level.”

“I’m looking forward to a change in scenery as well as meeting new people.”

“I’m nervous to be going to the East Coast but happy to be attending such a prestigious school.”

“For all of the time and effort I have put into softball, I’m glad to know it has finally paid off.”

SFSU Baseball

Air Force Academy Water Polo

Princeton Swimming

Cal Poly SLO Softball

Just Short of a

Cinderella Story

Starting third-baseman Shane Kroker has already accepted a scholarship to Wake Forest University

PHOTO BY JANN HENDRY

Kroker has played on many All-star teams since he was young and now eagerly anticipates playing Division I baseball.

“Key players this year are going to be Ever since Shane Kroker ‘08 was little, people were always telling him that he Cutter Dykstra ‘08, Alex Gillingham ‘08, and Christian Yelich ‘10. They are going to had a special gift.

Kroker, the starting third-baseman, be a huge part of our team and if our pitching can come went on a visit to through for us Wake Forest Uniwith this lineup versity. then we should In early Sephave a good tember, he acshot at winning cepted a scholMarmonte,” said arship and will Kroker. head for WinWake Forest ston, North Caris one of the bigolina after gradgest schools on uating. the East Coast.

“The reaThey are known son I chose Wake for having one Forest was the of the most prescampus, playtigious programs ers, coaches. It in the country. is a great base“ S h a n e ball school,” said works really Kroker. hard, is a great Wake Forteammate, steps est is in the up as a leadACC Conference, er and you can which is one of count on him the biggest congetting a clutch ferences in Divi- STEP UP TO THE PLATE: Kroker looks to lead Westlake to a championship before he heads to hit or making a sion I. key defensive “All of my Wake Forest Unversity next year. play,” said Casey hard work has let me be the baseball player I am today,” Kro- Rhoades ‘08.

Kroker has been part of the varsiker stated.

This year WHS has a new coach, Zach ty team ever since mid-way through his sophomore year.

Miller.

“The best thing about Shane is his “We are pushed to our limits everyday and our team is better because we work so work ethic, he comes to practice everyday and is always trying to get better every hard.”

Kroker is looking forward to making day,” said Rhoades.

Kroker will have to work hard to implayoffs this year and taking his team to press major league scouts.

CIF Championships at Angel Stadium.

SPENCER SCHLOSS SPORTS EDITOR

Foosball has become a very competitive activity for WHS students outside of school. More than just a game, it has became a rivalry among friends.

GAME TIME: (from top to bottom) Foosball has been a leisure sport for many years, but now it has a competitive twist as seniors Jake Tracy and Bo Bliss concentrate while playing a game.

Ryan Porush ’08 has his game face on and hopes he can be the first to score ten goals. “People say baseball is America’s pastime, but I have to disagree and say foosball,” said Porush.

SPENCER SCHLOSS SPORTS EDITOR

from their respective sports.

Jake Tracy ‘08 (varsity volleyball) and Bliss are currently the Patriots of the National Foosball League, but with others like Tyler Henry ‘08 (varsity water polo) and Porush determined to take them down, their current winning streak could end soon. Admission into Lars Stadium is currently free with an ASB sticker, but when CIF comes, spectators will be forced to pay.

Commenting on the decision to raise prices to $5.00, Porush explained, “We are running low on food.”

Sadly, there is a dark cloud that has potential to send this sport spiraling downwards. Prosecutors are finally getting tough with the regulation of WD40 after Arshad Haider ‘08 (varsity soccer) was found juicing top goal scorer Tracy’s front line. Haider does not admit to having an accomplice but it is widely believed that he

Tennis Finishes 2nd in League ROSEANN ZHONG STAFF WRITER

PHOTOS BY SPENCER SCHLOSS

While sports like football and basketball still attract the most attention, foosball, an unlikely candidate, has become a popular sport among students at WHS. No one can say how or why foosball has transformed from a once leisurely activity into a competitive sport, but one thing is certain: foosball’s time at WHS has come.

When asked what it takes to be a foosball player, Polson said, “Let me answer with a question, ‘What does it take to be an Olympian?’“ said Jack Polson ‘08 (varsity soccer).

“Foosball can prepare you for anything; people don’t think it takes a lot of skill to play, but it is one of the more challenging games out there,” added Bo Bliss ‘08, (varsity basketball).

“Lars Stadium” is located in senior Ryan Porush’s (varsity basketball) garage, and is the most popular venue for local competition. Students of all ages come to test their skills against the best WHS has to offer: the varsity foosball team which consists of the top senior players. However, foosball here is not for beginners. Scott Salas ‘08 (baseball and soccer) hurt his knee trying to get too much leverage on his shot and is currently on crutches.

“I saw an opening in their back line, and I just got too excited,” admitted Salas, who is waiting for clearance from his doctor to start competing again.

Needless to say, WHS coaches are not happy that their players are distracted

Kroker Steps Up to Plate, Heads for Division I School

COURTESTY PHOTO

the game from behind, yet the Warriors made a dramatic comeback that initiated final touchdown. Running back Cooper their momentum for the win.

This season has not always been a Shockley ’08 rushed 95 yards with 17 carries, and Peterson ran 119 yards after five walk in the park for the Warriors. At catches ending with Westlake’s first touch- one point, thirteen players were standing on the sidelines, including two starting down.

WHS’s loss, 44-13, abruptly ended guards and two of their substitutes.

Coach the 2007 seaJim Benkert’s son, but it did main concern not taint their was keepMarmonte ing the playLeague vicers healthy. tories.

With It is no wona 6-1 league der the playrecord and ers are so an 8-4 record tired with a overall, the nine-week Warriors put season filled fire to their with “congames with stant battle” close plays and six pracand head-totices a weekhead combat Keeping the against team team’s motirivals Thouvation high sand Oaks was key. and Agoura “ T h e High Schools. players have Also, with to want to the strong win more Marmonte LEADING THE WAY: Shockley helped lead WHS to a tie than the othLeague finish, for the Marmonte League championship. er teams,” WHS became said Benkert. co-champion As the 2007 football season closes, 28 with Newbury Park High School.

On Fri., Nov. 16, in the first round of seniors who have called this team famCIF playoffs, the determination and heart ily (some for all four years) will graduate of the Warrior football team led them to a this year.

With many of WHS’s starting offen23-20 victory over Adolfo Camarillo High sive and defensive team leaving to perhaps School.

While making a name for itself, the continue playing their game elsewhere, juWHS team had a five-game consecutive nior Lilley will be expected to take a leadwinning streak to uphold. As they entered ership role on WHS varsity team for the the playoffs against Camarillo they started 2008 season. continued from PAGE 1

Goal!

15

SPORTS

November 30, 2007 • THE ARROW

is not the only user.

League commissioner senior TJ Hennessy (varsity basketball) is not concerned: “Arshad has been suspended and we are confident about moving this sport back in the right direction.”

With most high school sports teams, it takes dedication and motivation from all athletes and strenuous after-school practices in order to succeed. The WHS girls JV and varsity teams served to prove this point, JV ending the season undefeated and varsity finishing with a record of 11-3.

To close off the season, varsity competed against Tesoro High School at the CIF Division II playoffs, but fell short with a score of 6-12. However, the players were not disappointed with the results.

“It’s sad to end on a loss, but the kids pulled together and they aimed for second place and achieved that goal,” said Coach Connie Flanderka.

With three nationally ranked players, the Tesoro High School tennis team is “very competitive,” according to Flanderka.

Nonetheless, with seniors leaving for college, there are typical doubts concerning the future of the team. Seniors make up the core of the team and other team members often look up to them because of their leadership and high level of dedication.

“Although it is always hard to lose key players, WHS girls tennis will continue to improve,” said Flanderka.

Next season, the tennis team will continue to attract talent. Current juniors who are expected to return as senior varsity players are Lauren Schwartz and Rachel Bitter. Both singles players contributed to the team’s winning season and 2nd place league finish. The team hopes to bring a league title next year.

Autumn Has Its Music Too...

• Jillia Fongheiser ’08 and Alex Kreger ’08 perform in the Holiday Family Portrait choir show.

• Seniors Tommy Doupe, Cooper Shockley, Kyle Wood, and Brian Ranieri take a trip to the coin toss in their final game against St. Bonaventure.

• Homecoming King Jordan Mannisto ’08 and Queen Rachel Borowski ’08 walk the red carpet at the Nov. 2 football game.

• Jenna Becerra ’08, with her parents and Coach Lynn Baum looking on, signs her letter of intent to play softball at Stanford University.

PHOTO BY LINDSAY ADLER

PHOTO BY NORA SOBCZAK PHOTO BY JANN HENDRY

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE NIEVES

As fall ends and winter approaches, students, especially seniors, take important steps in their lives. Choir performs its annual holiday program, football closes its season in CIF quarterfinals, homecoming king and queen enjoy the moment, and college acceptances begin to arrive. With winter break around the corner, students try to balance school work while they anticipate the holidays.