10.01.08

ARROW

THE

VOLUME XXXI, ISSUE 1

Westlake High School

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

Relay For Life Brings Volunteers Together

OCTOBER 1, 2008

ANNIE GERLACH STAFF WRITER

AP Scores Rise Overall KAYLI MILETICH STAFF WRITER

The overall passing rate for students taking Advanced Placement exams at WHS rose this year. The increase of nearly 5% from 72.7% in 2007 to 77% in 2008 is one of the factors that will contribute to the school’s state and national rankings.

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IN THIS

PHOTO BY KAYLI MILETICH

The annual Conejo Valley Relay for Life will have teams from WHS once again to help in the fight against cancer this year.

The 24-hour event in which teams walk or run laps after earning donations will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 5 at Newbury Park High School.

This year’s Relay theme is “Fighting Cancer Around the World.”

English teacher Leslie Bird, who is organizing the teams, said that Westlake has at least 11 student teams and one teacher team. The teachers have chosen Mexico as their country and “Viva La Vida” as their team name.

Each team member is urged to set a goal of raising at least $100. “Our school goal is $50,000,” Bird said.

“Westlake always comes through big. The more people the better. Anybody can participate.” There is a $10 registration fee for each participant.

“Most people have either been affected or have known someone with cancer,” explained Bird. “The whole community is drawn together, and it feels like we live in a small town.”

Nik Crain ‘10 has a similar outlook. “Relay for Life is a good way to raise awareness among one another. You get to interact with survivors and hear their stories.”

“I love the Luminaria Ceremony at the end. It honors both the struggle of the survivors and the memory of those we’ve lost. The ceremony is such a beautiful way to emphasize hope for a cure,” said Becky Sadwick ‘10.

According to the American Cancer Society, one in three people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during his or her lifetime. Through the thousands of dollars raised every year, the American Cancer Society can fund new research and educate the public about cancer, its effects, and its prevention.

“First and foremost, the event is about raising awareness and money,” said Bird, “But it’s also about having a great time and coming together as a community.”

THE NEW RULERS OF THE SCHOOL:

Seniors follow tradition and arrive fashionably late wearing their

crowns to the Welcome Back Rally, held Sept. 12.

Extreme Makeover: WHS Edition As soon as students left for summer break, the construction workers and trucks arrived, so that the WHS campus could continue the refurbishing that had begun in 2007.

Because the campus is 30 years old, it was eligible for the California Modernization Program. This program allows schools to renovate and also make the school more accessible for the disabled.

With completion of the stairwells still in progress, students continue to make their way to their classes by avoiding makeshift fences, building materials, and equipment.

“The workers are doing a great job. They have met all the goals as planned and they continue to meet our expectations,” said Principal Ron Lipari.

Updates include new air conditioning in Buildings 2 and 3, improved underground utilities and pipes, new carpet in Building 1 on the second floor and in Building 4 on the third floor, and new interior doors and handles.

Many of the changes, such as railing on the stairs, blue painting on steps for cautionary purposes, and widening of the stairwells, allow the school to meet safety codes.

As construction around campus continues, more doors still need to be installed into many classrooms along with new air conditioning (see CENTER for details.)

There are future plans for modernizing the theatre.

Along with the rising scores came a rise in the number of students taking Advanced Placement tests. In 2008, WHS administered 1,580 tests to students with 1,217 passing, compared to the 1,406 tests given the previous year with 1,022 passing. College Board considers a score of three or better as passing.

“I wanted to congratulate everyone involved for all of their hard work and dedication,” said Assistant Principal of Instruction Stephen Lepire.

Of those 1,217 exams, 20% received a score of five, 30% earned a four, and 27% got a three. While many subjects noticed significantly higher passing rates, one AP test that increased by a large margin was Environmental Science.

The passing rate increased from 33.3% last year to 71.6% this year.

All of the 15 students who took the Spanish Literature exam passed; last year’s rate was 85.7%.

In the English department 254 out of the 273 students taking both the 11th grade Language and the 12th grade Literature tests received scores of three or better.

For Calculus AB and BC, 93.3% of the 90 students taking the two tests passed.

The History Advanced Placement tests also showed significant increases in 2008. For European History, the passing rate rose from 45.1% in 2007 to 66.5% in 2008, with 212 students taking the exam. The passing rate for U.S. History increased 10% from the 68% last year.

“We had the most students pass U.S. History this year, and it was the highest pass rate in the county. And we did it all without flashcards,” said Matthew Baldwin, Social Science teacher.

RACHEL BERNSTEIN ADVERTISING MANAGER

ISSUE

NEWS..................................1-3 OPINION.................................5 FEATURE............................6-9 CENTER..........................10-11 FEATURE........................12-15 ENTERTAINMENT...........16-17 SPORTS..........................18-19 FASHION..............................20

Freshman tennis player Chaya Boks joins varsity tennis. See PAGE 19

Fall fashion features all things plaid.

See BACK PAGE

Kendall (Smith) Madden got married over summer vacation. See PAGE 3

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Nine Named Merit Semifinalists At WHS, nine seniors have qualified as semifinalists in the 2009 Merit Scholarship Competition. These seniors, Jennifer Fang, Leo Hei, Jessica Kuecks, Svetlana Lyalina, Maxwell Miletich, Tim Pang, Lynne Qiu, Thomas Wong, and Carol Yu, are competing among 16,000 others nationwide for the National Merit Scholar Corporation scholarships and recognition. Finalists will be chosen to receive the Merit Scholarships.

Garage Sale Raises Money for Anatomy Advanced Anatomy raised $860 on Saturday, Sept. 27 with a garage sale. The money will be used to help pay for yearly expenses, which include medical supplies, transportation fees, and books. The fundraiser took place in Thousand Oaks on Rikkard Street during the local homeowners’ annual garage sale event.

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Three Are Born into the Westlake Family SOFIA TALARICO NEWS EDITOR

Three little bundles of joy have joined the families of teachers at WHS; for English teacher Leslie Bird, foreign language teachers Colleen Darden, and Bennett Wutkee the journey of raising their newborns has just begun.

Darden, the Spanish 3, Lit AP, and French 1 teacher welcomed baby boy Troy Edward Darden, seven pounds and one ounce, at 8:17 a.m. on July 11 at Los Robles Hospital.

This was an eventful day for the whole Darden family as Mr. and Mrs. Darden celebrated their fourth anniversary and it was Mrs. Darden’s father-in-law’s birthday.

This baby has been known to coo and smile a lot: “He has a really sweet and gentle disposition,” said Darden.

A personality trait that Darden has seen already in the baby is that, just like her husband, he is fascinated by the

computer. Life has changed due to sleep deprivation, but “in a good way,” said Darden. Even though she is up with Troy about two to three times a night, she enjoys the company of her son.

Troy’s initials spell TED, an acronym for his father, Ted Darden.

Bird welcomed Tyler Russell Kutsch, whose middle name comes from her grandfather, at 11:52 a.m. on May 12 at Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Woodland Hills. Little Tyler weighed in at six pounds, ten ounces.

He has started to make sounds and even laughs out loud. He even has his first tooth coming in at only four months old.

“It’s just a 24/7 responsibility,” said Bird, when asked how her life has changed since the arrival of her baby. Like Darden, Bird notices that sleep deprivation is the major change in her life, as she gets up with Tyler and checks on him frequently throughout the night even if he does not require attention.

She now works only part time from

8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. so she can be with the baby for the remainder of the day.

He spends the morning at KinderCare in Thousand Oaks and “loves it there.”

Jennifer and Bennett Wutkee welcomed their son, Luke Von Wutkee, with open arms on Sept. 10. The proud parents were ecstatic about the homecoming of their newborn, and their other two children were equally excited. Olivia and Noah could not be happier according to Wutkee.

“Noah says I want to to hold ‘Yuke.’

Olivia likes to kiss him.” For the first week after the baby was born, Wutkee spent time with his family helping take care of his wife.

“She is recovering really quickly, getting strong,” said Wutkee. When asked about this new addition, he smiled and said, “I would never have thought I would have three kids. It just feels like Christmas everyday.”

Katie Roughan and Marika Price also contributed to this story.

WOW! Theme for Reflections Contest

Essay Contest Available In Profiles in Courage, JFK described eight U.S. elected officials who demonstrated political courage. Now, interested students can write a new profile in courage. The JFK Library Foundation invites high school students around the country to write an original essay on the political courage of a U.S. elected official.

Students can find more information on the Profiles in Courage Award Program at www.jfklibrary.com. Deadline for submission is Jan. 10, 2009.

Scholarship Available for Performers Scholarships and Training in the Arts for High School Students is offering students at all levels of talent to participate in a program that will help them develop auditioning, performing and interviewing skills. Students can apply and schedule Performing Arts auditions online at www.musiccenter.org. They may only schedule the audition if they apply online.

Performing Arts applications are due Oct. 1, and Visual Arts applications are due Dec. 1. If you have any questions the hotline for the Music Center is (213) 972-3300.

Teacher To Visit Japan

Troy Edward Darden

Tyler Russell Kutsch

Luke Von Wutkee

Alumnus Invests in Future Leaders Adam Borelli ‘02 began a young leadership program after graduating from UC Berkeley. a small group in San Francisco. Only a few years later, NLC has expanded its program to Washington D.C., New York City, BosAdam Borelli, Class of 2002, is reachton, and Los Angeles. ing out to help future leaders with his new The NLC Institute is a 100% volunteer “Adopt a Fellow” program, which is a run organization. branch of the New Lead“It is a completely ers Council, a non-proffree program, accessible to it young leadership proanybody and everybody,” gram.

Borelli explained.

A graduate of UC “Adam simply alBerkeley, Borelli, who was ways wants to make a the class president for all difference for the better,” four years at WHS, is now said Wilson. a Google employee.

Admired for his high Through contact with integrity and dedication Counselor Susan Wilson, at WHS, accordhe is looking for help in ing to Wilson, Borelli was the form of monetary doa cross country and track nations to assist emerging athlete and top scholar. leaders.

“He really rallied the Donations can be dekids together,” remarked livered through Wilson in Wilson. the counseling office.

She recalls his presThe cost for each idency was geared toperson in the program is wards the betterment of $1,000. Any contribution, the school. “It was nevno matter how small, helps er a ‘me me me’ type of future leaders. thing.”

While he was still an In his high school undergraduate at Berkeley, graduation speech, Borelli Borelli created the New said “life is a long distance Leaders Council (NLC), race” with events “a matwhich is a program targetter of perspective.” He aded towards recent college vised his peers to use past graduates. experiences as preparaNLC actively recruits tion for their futures. people to train and mentor “Where we come from to be civic leaders both in so greatly shapes how we politics and in their comsee things. Westlake was a munities. great training ground for STILL IN THE LEAD: Adam Borelli ‘02 presently works for Google.

“There was always a me,” Borelli replied when lot of very good infrastrucasked about that speech ture on the right side of the spectrum,” exsix years later. plained Borelli. “We on the left wanted to For more information visit the website be progressive also.” NLC aims to “create at www.newleaderscouncil.org.

ALLISON MONTROY STAFF WRITER

that change.”

It is a five-month, eight-seminar program that covers topics from how to raise funds and prepare for interviews to how to be an effective manager.

The New Leaders Council began as

COURTESY PHOTO

Since 2005, teacher Lucy Zazueta has taken students to exciting destinations around the world. In August of 2009, that location will be The Land of the Rising Sun. Students interested in joining her on this trip to Japan, which is sponsored by EF Tours, will have the chance to shop in Tokyo’s Harajuko district, experience the bullet train on the way to Kyoto to enjoy the pagodas and Shinto Shrine, and visit Hiroshima where the world’s first atomic bomb was dropped.

The $2900 student cost includes airfare, two meals a day, and entrance to all attractions. Adults are welcome at slightly higher prices.

Contact Zazueta at Zazueta6@aol.com or stop by room 42F.

COURTESY PHOTOS

“WOW!” is the theme for the National Reflections Program. Students can submit their original pieces in Film Production, Dance Choreography, Visual Arts, Literature and Photography. Entry forms can be picked up at the school library. The deadline is Oct. 17. Questions should be directed to Joan Koss at (805) 529-8887.

NEWS

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Summer Love — Teachers Tie the Knot

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COURTESY PHOTO

This past summer three WHS teachers, Matthew Baldwin, Kari Ballard, and Kendall Madden were married.

Baldwin, Social Science teacher, tied the knot on Aug. 9 with his wife, Risela.

They met through mutual friends in January, and started dating in February. Risela is a teacher, like Baldwin, but she teaches autistic children.

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA MANAGING EDITOR

NEWLYWEDS EMBRACE: Matthew Baldwin, left, married wife Risela at the Knollwood Country Club. Above, Kendall Madden poses with her husband Jacob on their wedding day.

And Kari Ballard, right, married husband Jeff at the Westlake Village Inn.

Baldwin proposed in the beginning of May, and the happy couple were married in August at the Knollwood Country Club in Granada Hills, where they are members.

After Baldwin put an engagement announcement in the paper, he received emails from students saying that they were going to attend the wedding uninvited, but none of the students actually showed up.

Baldwin and his wife enjoyed their honeymoon in sunny Cancun, Mexico.

English teacher Ballard got married this summer as well. Ballard met her husband, Jeff, who works in the music industry, through his twin brother.

They had been dating for about four years and had been engaged since July 14, 2007. Her husband proposed at Ventura Beach where they had their first date, and their wedding was on Aug. 19 at the Westlake Village Inn. The couple spent their honeymoon at Playa del Carmen in Mexico.

Another teacher from the English department, Madden, formerly Kendall Smith, wed this summer. She and her husband Jacob met through a mutual friend three years ago. They had been engaged for a year, and were married on July 12 at Spanish Hills Country Club in Camarillo.

They honeymooned in Honduras.

“I can’t get used to my new last name, but marriage is definitely worth it,” said Madden.

Human Geography Added to AP Course Offerings

PHOTO BY KAYLI MILETICH

academic domains is the phrase that Social Science Dept. Chair Michael Lynch used to describe the new AP Human Geography course this year.

The elective is making its debut under Lynch’s instruction. A “hodge podge,” the class differs from other social sciences in that it includes the study of “English, science, math, and of course history.”

Comprised predominantly of seniors, the class has 34 students who decided to be the “guinea pigs” and embark on an unknown journey. The class purpose is to understand how geography of the world affects the population.

It is a “fun experience,” according to the instructor, that features the famous “Lynch lectures.” Lynch is teaching the class for the first time so it is a new experience for everyone. He is, however, familiar with the course because he once graded the AP Human STRAIGHT FROM AUSTRALIA: Michael Lynch shows off the only textbook Geography exam. available for the AP Human Geography class.

“The fact that I’ve graded the tests before presents a huge advantage for the students,” CONRAD WILTON said Lynch.

STAFF WRITER The class gives students the ability to analyze maps and the earth’s composition through the use of A “global class” that contains core material from all global tracking devices. Although the school purchased

textbooks for the course, they have not yet arrived.

“We do a lot more modern stuff than is in a textbook.

We get our material from current events. The topics can range from political agendas to environmental crises,” said Connor Burke ‘09, who chose to take the class, after taking AP Environmental Science. He likes that he can “import his study from last year’s course into this year’s and examine the more human element.”

“We have projects that will focus on current events, GEO, GIS, GPS, and even on the NFL,” said Lynch. The instructor expects the class will be both entertaining and educational—not to mention advantageous because of the AP credit.

Senior Matt Markowitz, who was attracted to Human Geography by its unique nature, said that he enjoys the class because “it encompasses everything from geography, sociology, economics, and demographics to politics, social sciences, and government.” The knowledge gained can be used in a variety of careers like “politicians, economists, chemographers, social occupations, and of course geographers,” said Markowitz.

“As far as government, this class doesn’t replace what you learn in your government class. It solely contributes to one’s further understanding of today’s most controversial topics,” said Markowitz.

“This class opens two doors: one to 12F and one to a view of the world as a whole,” Lynch said. “I believe that the class will definitely last.”

AP Calculus Accommodates Juniors SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA MANAGING EDITOR

Dropped. Although this word conjures up images of failing students, the juniors who had registered for AP Calculus were forced to switch to another class after just one day. This was not because they could not keep up, but because the two AP Calculus classes were too full.

According to Steve Lepire, WHS Assistant Principal of Instruction, contractually one teacher cannot teach more than one class of 42 students; therefore, both AP Calculus classes taught by teacher Greg Korshavn had to be reassigned. Four students had to be dropped from one of the classes, to bring a class size to 38 students.

Since there was no fair way to pick students to remove, because almost all the juniors were equally qualified to

take the class, the counselors and Lepire decided to drop all the juniors from Calculus.

They made sure that they offered AP Statistics or another AP for these students to take, so they still had an opportunity to take an AP class.

“At registration, I had tried to petition into AP English, but my petition wasn’t approved. But because they took me out of Calculus, they let me into English,” said Adam Li ‘10.

So after spending several years in classes with older students and taking the same courses as the seniors who are in Calculus now, the juniors who had enrolled in Calculus were dropped.

“The problem parents had was that the juniors will be applying to college next fall and they wanted to show they took AP Calculus in their junior year,” said Lepire.

To assure the parents that taking Statistics would be just as beneficial, Lepire called an admissions officer at MIT and asked if he considered taking AP Calculus in one’s junior year an advantage.

The admissions officer told Lepire that the courses were considered about the same, so the parents should have no reason to worry about their students taking either Calculus or Statistics junior year. The parents accepted this, even though most of them still wanted their kids to be in AP Calculus.

Now, the problem has been resolved. One senior dropped from Calculus and two of the juniors elected to stay in Statistics. This left enough spots in one of the classes for the juniors who still wanted to take AP Calculus.

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October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

OPINION

College Presidents Fight to Lower Drinking Age Will their persistent efforts change American youth’s drinking habits?

LEY

ALANNAH BRADFASHION EDITOR

CARTOON BY CARINA WOLFF

the safety of their college, or in a controlled, public place such as a restaurant.

“I understand why colleges are doing it, because it splits their students, and they like to treat them all alike rather than having to card some of them. It’s a nuisance to them,” said Henry Wechsler of the Harvard School of Public Health, according to USA Today.

On the other hand, research shows that after the drinking age was changed to 21 in 1984, the number of driving accidents fell.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Students Against Destructive Decisions oppose the Amethyst Initiative because they believe it will increase alcohol related deaths.

“People are more likely to become alcoholics earlier on,” said Yvan Bovard ‘09.

If the drinking age becomes 18, it would allow some high school students to legally drink, and this would increase the potential of older high school students purchasing alcohol for younger high school students.

“Lowering the drinking age does nothing to educate kids about healthy drinking,” said Ian Kaminsky, director of the university’s alcohol and drug program, in the Ventura County Star.

Colleges could consider an alternative for curbing underage drinking; they could

work out ways to deal with the problem on campus instead of discarding the issue and lowering the age.

Younger drivers are also more at risk to drive unsafely while under the influence.

Of the over 159 million alcohol-impaired driving trips estimated that Americans took in 2002, over ten percent (18 million trips) were made by 18-20 year olds.

“When you are 18, you are more irresponsible,” said Sami Saifan ‘09.

States are free to set their own drinking ages; however, the national standard became 21 when in 1984 the federal law began reducing highway funds for states that had a lower age limit.

The Amethyst Initiative is named after the ancient Greek gemstone that is believed to ward off drunkenness.

Whether or not the drinking age is altered, the problem of underage drinking will not just disappear. America has had its issues with both of the extremes: during the time of Prohibition, drinking went underground; if drinking is prohibited for 18-20 year olds, they will still participate, just in a less obvious, but potentially more dangerous way.

If the drinking age is lowered, there may be an increase in drinking and students may be continually out of control.

Colleges and the lawmakers need to find a middle ground to make underage drinking more controlled and a bit safer.

Exclusive Dorms Segregate College Students KAYLI MILETICH STAFF WRITER

With more diverse applicants applying each year, colleges and universities are offering more lifestyle options to students, personalizing their schooling experience.

Following the trend many Ivy League schools have set, campuses around the nation are now offering unique housing opportunities for students.

While housing varies on every campus, many schools have adopted specialinterest housing, in which a group of students who share a common interest live with each other.

At some colleges, the house might be focused on a certain major, or possibly a specific language, that residents must speak at all times. Although many of these housing options seem like good opportunities, the special-interest housing option has become too big of a deal across campuses.

School websites explain the options: a student at Boston College can choose to live in a Romance Language house while a

The Fight for Financial Aid ALANNAH BRADLEY FASHION EDITOR

CARINA WOLFF OPINION EDITOR

When it comes time for seniors to pick the college they are going to spend the next four years of their lives attending, many outside factors affect their decision: location, majors, tuition. Although these are the most obvious considerations, whether or not a school is a “party school” often plays an important role in what schools students choose.

Frequently, however, colleges are juggling between cracking down on the rules of drinking and acknowledging that students are drinking underage and handling the problem safely. Presidents of over 100 colleges are now recognizing this struggle and are fighting together to lower the drinking age to 18.

The Amethyst Initiative, which includes support from top schools such as Tufts, Dartmouth, Syracuse, Ohio State, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Occidental, Pomona, and Whittier, proposes to lower the legal drinking age in order to properly regulate the drinking that they know occurs regardless of its illegality. Schools who have not yet signed the initiative include UCLA and USC. According to the Los Angeles Times, John McCardell, founder of the Choose Responsibility organization emphasizes that “18-year-olds can vote, serve on juries and join the military but cannot legally drink beer.”

“If at age 18 you are legally recognized as an adult, can be drafted for war, pay bills, start and support your own family, why can’t you consume alcohol?” said Meryl Press ‘09.

Colleges believe that illegal drinking leads to unsafe practices that include binge drinking, but if the law passes, then they will be able to control the drinking that goes on inside their campuses without having to deal with it covertly.

“It’s very clear the 21-year-old drinking age will not be enforced at those campuses,” the national President of MADD, Laura Dean-Mooney said, according to the New York Sun. “It would lower the problems of faking ages to buy alcohol,” said Thomas Ziccardi ‘10. “It wouldn’t be such a new thing to drink when entering college.”

If the legal drinking age were lowered, colleges would be able to enforce the regulations equally and no longer have to worry about enforcing the rules of underage drinking in dorms.

Now, instead of underage college students drinking outside of their dorms in potentially unsafe areas, the students would be allowed to consume alcohol in

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student at the University of Pennsylvania can live in a house full of women interested in engineering and business.

For a vegetarian student attending the Univeristy of Southern California, the Honors house will cater to his or her strict diet. According to the Washington University in St. Louis website, foreign students attending the university can choose to live with other international students at a designated house on campus.

Before this type of housing was developed, students could live in dorm rooms, fraternities or sororities, and occasionally substance-free housing.

Although the special-interest housing attracts many students because they feel it allows them to network with friends quicker, these options are reversing many initiatives taken on campus to diversify its student body.

By living with people who share their interests, students become segregated by lifestyles and are less likely to branch out and meet people with different interests.

“I think special-interest housing re-

iterates the idea of discrimination, which is an idea I thought society was trying to move past,” said Jaanhvi Vaidya ‘09.

College should be a time for new people and experiences, but by isolating people by interest, many students are losing out on the chance to explore beyond their boundaries.

Special-interest housing also provides some students with an unfair advantage when applying for housing. Many universities offer upscale housing for these groups, and by confining the applicants to certain interests, those without common interests are limited to traditional options.

Because special-interest housing can have specific requirements, the students who are in charge of the house are allowed to be selective, giving certain applicants the upper hand when it comes to accepting applicants for housing.

Instead of offering special-interest housing, colleges should utilize other programs such as clubs and intramural sports as a way of networking friends.

A decade ago it seemed like a breeze both to get into college and to pay for it. Today, neither one of these comes easily.

According to the Barack Obama official campaign website, in the past five years, college costs have gone up nearly 40%. It is also said that between 2001 and 2010, two million educated students will not go to college because they simply cannot afford it.

This should scare the older generation into realizing that many of us cannot go to college because it is too expensive. It is outrageous to think that someone who is highly qualified and yearning for knowledge cannot satisfy his or her needs.

Most people graduate college almost $20,000 in debt. While financial aid is an option, many students are unaware of how to qualify. Applying can be a hassle.

With the November election approaching, people are looking to the candidates for support on the issues that matter to young adults.

Obama plans to help change college tuition. He promises to create a new American Opportunity Tax Credit, making college affordable for all Americans by offering a universal and fully refundable credit. It will also cover two-thirds of the tuition at the average public college and university and make community college tuition completely free for most.

Additionally, Obama is searching for ways to simplify the process for financial aid by eliminating the current federal financial aid application.

Hopefully, in the future, there will not be an eager student unable to go to college for financial reasons.

Instead, students will be able to pay for college with ease and help with financial aid from our government like they deserve.

THE WESTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL

ARROW

100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 497-6711 ext. 4225 westlakearrow@yahoo.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jimmy Moore MANAGING EDITOR Soumya Karlamangla NEWS EDITORS Max Avruch, Katelyn Smith, Sofia Talarico OPINION EDITOR Carina Wolff FEATURE EDITORS Dena Gallucci, Jessica Kane, Natalya Sivashov, Iris Yan ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Kylie Blaber, Wayne Huang SPORTS EDITORS Justin Edwards, Nikki Fay FASHION EDITORS Alannah Bradley, Sasha Lewis ADVERTISING MANAGER Rachel Bernstein ADVISOR Caron Battaglia STAFF WRITERS Lisa Battaglia, Kelley Biggs, Robert Dillon, Annie Gerlach, Tiffany Loh, Kayli Miletich, Allison Montroy, Marika Price, Katie Roughan, Becky Sadwick, Tori Scoville, Conrad Wilton The Arrow is written, designed and run by the students

of the Advanced Journalism and Journalism 1CP classes at Westlake High School and is published monthly.

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

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

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9th-Grade-Only Schools Ease Transition to High School

FEATURE

Seniors Weigh Options of Late Acceptance Many students have concerns about entering late because they fear “second-class citizenship on campus” and having “a stigma Seniors know that the process of fillthat the students are in a group with weaking out college applications is stressful, but er credentials,” said Gordon. once they submit their applications, it is Several students worry that other stuusually simple—either they are in or they dents will mock them because they could are out. But recently, colleges are starting not get in for fall. to complicate admission They are also afraid that processes by offering winter they will not make friends as admission. easily and will feel uncomfortThe applicant gets an able graduating a semester afacceptance letter, but inter their friends. stead of being accepted for “I would be happy that I the fall semester, the stuwas accepted because even if I dent starts in the spring secould not go to school for the mester. first semester, I would still be When students receive happy to go,” said Jonathan the long-awaited packet in Cheung ‘09 when asked if he the mail from their school of would attend his first-choice choice, they are expecting to school if it only offered him be simply rejected or acceptmidyear acceptance. ed, not to be accepted, but Although at Middlebury then not allowed to begin the midyear students are called until January or February.

“Febs,” most colleges say that Most students do not even worrying about being made know it is an option until it fun of is unnecessary and that is offered to them. sometimes “students are put in Schools offering this the spring pool because of their option UC Berkeley, UC majors or for geographic diverSan Diego, USC, Peppersity, not grades,” said Gordon. dine, University of MarySome students who start in land, American University, the spring semester take extra Middlebury College, Colby classes during the year, or take College, and Brandeis Uniclasses during the summer seversity, according to Larry mester to graduate at the same Gordon of the Los Angeles time as the students who startTimes. ed in the fall semester.

Colleges do this to have Schools like UC Berkeley a full campus year-round, so offer extension classes near they use the midyear stucampus so students can get dents to fill empty spots left THE HEART OF MANHATTAN: Michael Rigg ‘09 visits Columbia Univercredits without beingn officialby people who drop out or sity in New York City while on a college tour. ly enrolled in Berkeley yet. study abroad.

Alternately, if the school old, and if a student meets that level that The assistant vice chandoes not offer classes for them, cellor at USC said that since USC has means they are good enough for UCSD. the midyear students can take classes at a They decide to let all those people local community college or use the time to “such an incredibly strong pool of applicants,” they want “to provide an oppor- in without looking at the spots they have do community service, start an internship, tunity for a limited number of students in space for, and then the people who don’t fit work, or travel. in the spaces for fall admission are offered the winter.”

“I would feel a little bad starting late Critics say that several colleges have winter admission,” said Bhaskar Rao, engi- because [my friends] are off to college and started to offer winter admission to raise neering professor at UCSD I’m still at home, but it would not bother in without looking at the spots they me that much,” said Cheung. their rankings.

When websites like CollegeBoard’s re- have space for, and then the people who Gordon said that some students use port average SAT scores and GPA’s of the don’t fit in the spaces for fall admission are the time “to get a better sense of what they admitted class, they are usually averages offered winter admission,” said Bhaskar want to study and why,” and even “detaken from the students admitted in the Rao, engineering professor at UCSD.old, scribe it as an unexpected blessing.”

SOUMYA KARLAMANGLA MANAGING EDITOR

KATELYN SMITH NEWS EDITOR

fall semester.

So since the SAT scores and grades of the midyear students are usually slightly lower than those of the fall-semester-starters, the schools’ averages look higher, and their rankings go up.

“The reason UCSD lets in winter admits is that the school has a certain thresh-

COURTESY PHOTO

Although students may agree that junior year is the most important year of high school, they may not understand the importance of freshman year.

In Texas, educators have taken a stance to help the transition from middle school to high school by offering ninth-gradeonly schools.

The benefits of these schools are overwhelming, with smaller classes and smaller campuses of 700 instead of 2,000 at an average high school.

“I can see the advantages of more attention paid to ninth graders, protecting them a little, but I like the variety of teaching eleventh grade also,” said English teacher Hilary Waldinger.

At a traditional high school, a student’s classes in his or her freshman year count towards his or her GPA, and with the pressure of more school work and a new environment, it can be hard to get a good start.

Not only do these students struggle in their first year of high school, some even decide to drop out.

Juan Antonio Jasso, Superintendent of Southside Independent School District in San Antonio said, “ I think that most of us in the state have always been looking for ways of addressing the dropout issue and ... keeping our students engaged.”

One might ask why ninth grade has been pinpointed as the year many students dropout, but statistics showed that the number of ninth graders in the 2003-2004 school year dropped from 4.2 million nationwide to 3.7 million tenth graders.

“It’s the point where you can very clearly predict who’s eventually going to drop out,” said James Kemple of MDRC, a New York-based social policy research organization.

Furthermore, ninth grade is one of the biggest transition years between adolescence and adulthood.

“The whole philosophy behind it was to separate the younger kids from the older kids. To give an opportunity to work with them one more year, as opposed to cutting them loose in high school,” said Superintendent Wanda Bamberg.

The older crowds provide many distractions, including drugs, alcohol, and sex, and they can deter these preteens from achieving success in high school.

“Research shows ninth-graders have the largest failure rate and are at risk of dropping out when academic success is not experienced. Through individualization and learning teams, the failure and dropout rates are reduced,” said Jesse Smith, superintendent of Alief Independent School District.

The environment of ninth-grade-only schools tends to be nurturing, with more one-on-one work than a four-year high school.

Although ninth-grade-only high schools provide many advantages, there are still drawbacks to this innovative idea.

This school change could add just another transition that could be hard for adolescent students.

This new type of school may be a good fit for some students but could be a hindrance to others.

“I couldn’t teach at a school like that, but I definitely support it,” said Waldinger.

For the students who are helped by these schools, the extra attention and a year without the pressure of being a lowerclassman or an upperclassman, may be the key to their success.

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Class of ‘08 Shows No Improvement on SAT Scores KAYLI MILETICH STAFF WRITER

For the past two years, the SAT scores for high school seniors have hit the lowest averages in almost a decade.

Although the number of students taking the exam increased by two percent in 2008 from the previous year, the class of ‘08 failed to boost the scores.

With the same averages as 2007, high school students scored an average of 502 in critical reading, 515 in mathematics, and 494 in writing.

The all-time-low scores have generated questions about the consistency of teaching across the United States because many minority groups scored significantly lower.

While colleges are becoming more competitive, many experts believe that

the scores of 2007 and 2008 actually show positive improvements, attributing the low scores to the increase in students taking the college-entrance exams.

“A lot more kids are taking it for all kinds of different reasons,” said WHS counselor John Lisowski.

“Student interest and participation in the SAT have grown to historic levels, and our outreach into minority, low-income and other undeserved student groups’ are yielding tremendous results,” said Gaston Caperton, President of the CollegeBoard.

Out of the 1.52 million students from the Class of ‘08 who took the SAT exam, 40% of the test takers were from minority groups, increasing from a third in the past decade. The Class of ‘08 demonstrated record numbers of Asian-American, AfricanAmerican, and Hispanic students taking the test.

“I do know they have increased the level of math to include more algebra II, and even some pre-calculus,” said Lisowski.

The data has raised controversy on whether or not the teaching quality is equal throughout the country in all communities and whether students from wealthier areas are scoring higher because they are being provided with better education.

“Kids from higher income families uniformly do better than those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds,” said Richard Kahlenberg, who is a Senior Fellow at The Century Foundation.

Officials from College Board, a nonprofit organization that deals with the standardized tests, are looking past the lack of improvement in scores and believe that they result directly from the diversity of students taking the test this year.

7

FEATURE

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Convention Choreography

Election Tactics of 2008

ROBERT DILLON STAFF WRITER

“We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

Senator Barack Obama IRIS YAN FEATURE EDITOR

With the elections coming up on Nov. 4, the McCain and Obama campaigns are strengthening their tactics for that crucial increase of votes.

What Obama believes the nation needs is “change we can believe in” for all issues. That is, Obama emphasizes in every single speech the practical issues that he plans to accomplish and formulate for the overall well-being of the nation.

As for military strategies, Obama stated in front of the Kress Events Center audience, “When I am president of the United States, I won’t hesitate to strike against those who do us harm, but that means using our military wisely and the war in Iraq was unwise. It has caused us billions of dollars and thousands of lives. That is why I opposed the war in 2002 and why I will put an end to the war in 2009.”

According to Time magazine, McCain’s greatest characteristic of his campaign is “honor.” Having served in the Vietnam War at age 17, McCain favors the idea of “additional” support for the troops in Iraq for an undetermined amount of time.

“It could be next month; it could be three years from now. It could be, but I’m confident that we will have victory in Iraq,

“We must work very hard and creatively to build new foundations for a stable and enduring peace.”

Senator John McCain

but I’m certainly not putting a date on it,” he said.

Because of his family’s military background—his grandfather was a senior World War II admiral and a son of another admiral—McCain’s willingness to use American military power to enforce U.S. interests is only expected. During the Republican convention, McCain even placed his army uniform in one of the seats as a remembrance of his military background.

Also, the nomination of Sarah Palin greatly increased the media coverage of the Republican campaign. Through her nomination, McCain countered the “new, fresh look” of Obama’s campaign.

A few weeks ago the initial lead of Obama was lessening with only a 1% gap between Obama and McCain. The cause, according to fervent Obama supporter, Derek Kraus ’10, is that “Palin rallied the Republican base; therefore, there was a conspicuous bump in the polls.”

In Obama states like California, viewers saw various derogatory ads. The most effective ads were the “Britney Spears and Paris Hilton ad,” and the celebrity ad that highlighted Obama’s resemblance to Moses, which McCain is reportedly “proud” of.

A study developed by Nielsen IAG, a company that measures the effective-

ness of ads, showed that while 17% said the viewers had a lower opinion of Obama after seeing the celebrity ad, 22% said they would be more likely to vote for McCain, and 27% of the watchers said that they would be less likely to vote for McCain after seeing his negative ad.

In contrast to McCain, Obama has recently approved one ad that is filled with black-and-white family photographs and comments on Obama’s upbringing and his background. In other Obama ads, the commentators use rhetorical questions to target individual flaws in McCain’s political views.

According to comSore, a network that measures internet media, Obama averaged more than 90 million display ad impressions per month from January to June versus McCain’s average of 7.4 million.

Through incessant campaigning, the candidates battle for the very last bit of support, money, and media coverage. The amount of money raised is crucial to the success of the campaign because it is used for the payroll for non-volunteers, transportation for travel, campaign materials, and media advertisements.

McCain and Obama are running the last stretch of the race by using all their abilities both political and personal to gain that extra percentage in the polls.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Modern political conventions are compared to “infomercials” or even “coronations,” carefully orchestrated events that merely allow a chance to promote the party’s candidate and raise money.

This year’s conventions were mired in symbolism and propaganda, pomp and circumstance, in an elaborate attempt to impress and convince voters.

In Denver, the Democrats presented us with inspiring stories of humble beginnings. There was also the need to show party unity between loyal Obamists and disgruntled Clinton supporters.

Speeches from the Clintons helped reaffirm their support as well as a gesture from Hillary when she called for Obama to be nominated by acclamation, meaning he would immediately become the nominee because of the overwhelming support.

In St. Paul, the Republican stage was backed with an enormous television screen, periodically displaying images of American beauty or the flag. Simultaneously, Sarah Palin criticized the “Styrofoam Greek Columns” employed by the Obama campaign. Palin emphasized the importance and strength of her family to quell any notions that a mother of five cannot handle the duties of vice president. John McCain also tried to separate himself as much as he could from the Bush administration; President Bush delivered his endorsement via satellite from Washington D.C. and Dick Cheney spoke outside of prime time.

In short, the parties put on their best show to be scrutinized by the media and watched by the voters.

However, political conventions used to be very different.

Conventions as opposed to the primary elections and caucuses were once the grounds where the parties’ candidates were actually chosen. Delegates from all states voted for a multitude of candidates, sometimes requiring multiple ballots to choose a nominee. Parties also decided their platforms.

The first convention was held in 1832 in Baltimore by the Democratic Party. The first Republican convention was in 1856 in Philadelphia. Political drama accompanied early conventions.

In 1912, Theodore Roosevelt formed his own ticket after losing the Republican nomination to William Howard Taft. Both eventually lost to Woodrow Wilson. In 1920, it is rumored that Republican party elite eventually appointed Warren G. Harding as a compromise candidate behind-doors “in a smokefilled room” after no other verdict was reached by voting.

The 1968 Democratic convention was disrupted by violence from antiwar protesters. Protesters in St. Paul this year were suppressed with tear gas and pepper spray and some 500 were arrested over the course of the four days.

Democratic nominee George McGovern did not deliver his acceptance speech until 3 a.m. in 1972 because of a long roll call vote.

And a vital promise was broken when George H.W. Bush said at the 1988 Republican convention “Read my lips… no new taxes.” He went on to raise taxes and lose his re-election bid.

This year’s conventions have fewer surprises and less excitement as in years past, and more balloons, signs, and hats.

But now that the candidates have stated their promises and enjoyed the slight boost in poll numbers that come after every convention, it is up to the American people to decide who means what they say.

“Failure at some point in everyone’s life is inevitable, but giving up is unforgivable.”

Senator Joe Biden

“Sudden and relentless reform never sits well with entrenched interests and power brokers.”

Governor Sarah Palin

8

FEATURE

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Who’s New at Westlake?

Name: Doug Freed Subject: Social Science Years of Teaching: 2 Hobbies: Reading, music, travel College Attended: UC Santa Barbara Favorite Book: 1984 Fact: Builds a lot of his own furniture

Name: Kari Ballard Subject: English Hobbies: Reading, eating, spending time with her family and two dogs College Attended: Cal State Long Beach Favorite Food: Italian Fact: Has to eat dessert after dinner

Name: Roger Biersborn Subject: Art College Attended: Cal State Northridge, Cal Lutheran University Favorite Book: 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea Favorite Movie: Lord of the Rings Favorite Food: Pizza Fact: Raised by wolves

Name: Zach Miller Subject: Special Education Years of Teaching: 9 Hobbies: Sports College Attended: University of Nevada at Las Vegas Favorite Movie: The Breakfast Club Favorite Food: Salads Fact: Very competitive

Name: Tina Carlisle Subject: American Sign Language Hobbies: Knitting College Attended: Cal State Northridge Favorite Movie: My Big Fat Greek Wedding Favorite Food: fish and chips

Name: Danielle Mier Subject: English Hobbies: Playing soccer, reading, rock climbing College Attended: Cal Lutheran University Favorite Book: Pride and Prejudice Fact: “I love cheesy 80s movies”

Name: Megan Washburn Subject: Chemistry Hobbies: Tennis, rollerblading, snowboarding College Attended: Pepperdine University Fact: Lived in Germany for a year

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

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9

Building 1

BOL TRANSFOR

After 30 years, WHS was eligible for campus a modernized look and broug fice, in-house promotions have given as well.

New carpeting replaced the 30-year-old original carpet in Buildings 1 and 4.

Freshly-painted blue “spirit” doors have replaced the old crusty brown doors in almost all the classrooms.

Carpets line the outside entry to Building 2.

Building 4

Blue strips along the steps and railings now line the stairways.

RESPECT THE BLUE: Th

capped signs prompted the recon ALESSANDRA CATANESE FEATURE EDITOR

WHS went through multiple changes and improvements over the summer. From the reassignment of some administrators to the expansion of the staircase, much has changed in three months.

Four administrators have taken new positions. Stephen Lepire is the newest member of the WHS administration. Transferring from Newbury Park High School, Lepire has taken the Assistant Principal of Instruction position.

“My goal is to help keep the school moving in the same direction,” said Lepire.

Nicole Funfar, the former Dean of Activities is now Assistant Principal of Athletics.

“I want to do a little more promoting for our various sports teams. Everyone should

get involved,” explaine Formerly the Dean o Marshall laughs at th sition as Dean of Activ “Students are runn Marshall commented.

Seniors who had si Math expecting to ha as their teacher were, ed to learn that he ha Dean of Attendance.

“Mr. Marshall did a g to follow in his footste In 2003, the 25-y for the Modernization state. Five years later, gone through, and co underway throughout Steps on the stair with blue “safety strip pected to be finished

LD RMATIONS

r an overhaul. Changes have given the ght it up to code. Inside the main ofthe administrative offices a revamping

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL/ATHLETICS: NICOLE FUNFAR FORMERLY: Dean of Students QUALIFICATIONS: Two years as Dean of Activities “So far it’s been fantastic. I really enjoy working with our coaches.”

he need for additional handinstruction.

ed Funfar. of Attendance, James he irony of his new povities. ning to see me now!”

igned up for Discrete ave Jason Branham no doubt, disappointad been promoted to

great job, I really want eps,” Branham said. year-old WHS applied Grant, offered by the r, the grant has finally onstruction has been the campus. rwells were painted ps.” The stairs are exwith construction by

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL OF INSTRUCTION: STEPHEN LEPIRE FORMERLY: Assistant Principal of Instruction at Newbury Park High School QUALIFICATIONS: Previous Experience “My goal is to help keep the school moving in the same direction.”

Handicap access signs are visible across from the bridge and throughout the campus.

the end of this week.

Also, students with classes in Buildings 2 and 3 may have noticed a much cooler atmosphere since the air-conditioning was replaced.

Unfortunately, Spanish teacher Robert Hay no longer has his “stump yard” outside of 42U; it has been replaced with concrete, but still remains a place to pass time between classes.

“It’s just never going to be the same,” admitted Hay. Improvements to the elevators include blue wallpaper along the inside walls and directional buttons. New floors will be installed later.

Finally, the handicap-access signs, along with new blue railings, have been placed throughout the campus, including the entrance from the bridge and the walkway surrounding the Principal’s Rose Garden.

DEAN OF ACTIVITIES: JAMES MARSHALL FORMERLY: Dean of Attendance QUALIFICATIONS: Two years as Dean of Attendance “Students are running to see me now!”

DEAN OF ATTENDANCE: JASON BRANHAM FORMERLY: WHS Algebra II and Discrete Teacher QUALIFICATIONS: Masters in Education & Administrative Credentials “There are rules for a reason, and we have to follow them.”

12

FEATURE

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Burke Decides to Head for Cal Poly JUSTIN EDWARDS SPORTS EDITOR

COURTESY PHOTO

Connor Burke ‘09, leader of the WHS varsity soccer team for the last two years, has excelled in his sport on both a local and national level. He has played against the best teams and players in the world, including Spain, Brazil, Germany, and England.

“Soccer is not an individual sport.

You need teammates and the leadership of a coach to succeed and go far both nationally and internationally,” said Burke.

Burke will be attending California Poly in San Luis Obispo next fall and plans to major in Construction Management. He chose Cal Poly over Berkeley, Santa Clara, UC Davis, and Saint Mary’s because of Cal Poly’s reputation in the engineering field and Cal Poly’s seaside location. In addition, Cal Poly is ranked as one of the top 15 schools in the country for soccer.

Burke owes much of his success to his father, who was the reason he started playing the sport. Although his dad is “strict and assertive,” Burke felt motivated to pursue soccer at a collegiate and possible professional level. Even though his father trained him to play as a forward, he shift-

GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME: Burke jumps to head the ball for his team.

Ketter Commits to UCLA JESSICA KANE FEATURE EDITOR

COURTESY PHOTO

BUMP, SET, SPIKE: Ketter gets a kill in a club game.

Three year varsity starter and hitter, Michelle Ketter ‘09, has always aimed for success, and so it came as no surprise that she recently made a verbal commitment to attend UCLA in the fall of 2009.

Ketter, team captain and Varsity MVP in 2008, is excited to bring her volleyball skills and expertise to Los Angeles, where she plans to major in physiology or sports medicine.

“I want to stay involved with sports for a career, “ said Ketter about possibly studying sports medicine at UCLA and expects to get “a good education and strong leadership skills” from her school of choice.

Ketter suffered a knee injury and multiple broken fingers while playing volleyball. However, her hard work and dedication paid off after participating in the Junior Olympics this summer and placing 10th. Ketter claims that she has little time for many other activities because of her disciplined training schedule, but she finds time to fit in hanging out with friends, going to the beach, and playing other sports as often as possible.

“Although it takes up most of my time, it’s opened up a lot of opportuni-

ed positions to centerdefense recently.

“He pushed me for years and I didn’t always like it, but it worked out in the end. I just love to compete at the highest levels, and my dad pushed me to get there,” said Burke.

However, his path to success was not exactly as easy as scoring on an open net. Burke suffered several long-term injuries; he endured torn groins, calf muscles, an Achilles tendon, and a broken nose and jaw in the last four years.

Despite his physical complications, Burke excelled with his previous club team, F.C. Barcelona.

As captain of the team, he led them to

ties for me and I’ve made several valuable friendships through Westlake and club volleyball,” said Ketter.

An asset to WHS girls varsity volleyball, Ketter led last year’s team as outside hitter, with 337 kills, 47 aces, and 180 digs.

Her statistics outnumbered varsity’s previous outside hitter, Alex Johnson, who she also surpassed in digs and aces.

Though she will not be receiving a scholarship next year, Ketter will bring enthusiasm and a great deal of talent to the UCLA team. Ketter’s inspiration to play volleyball originated in eighth grade, when her friend, Dena Gallucci ‘09, and Ketter’s parents pushed her to pursue the sport.

Though it seems that UCLA was an easy decision, Ketter had many highly ranked schools to choose from, including UCSD, Bucknell, Princeton, Yale, University of San Francisco, and UCSB. “I chose UCLA because of the type of program they run, the coach, the academics, and the team,” said Ketter.

When asked if she plans to play professionally in the future, Ketter replied, “It’s just a thought right now.”

Even if she decides not to play for a living, volleyball will remain an important aspect of her life and she will continue to play the sport for fun.

COURTESY PHOTO

Brandon Hagy ‘09 was looking for the perfect combination of “high academics and competitive golf” in his college of choice; as a result, he recently made a verbal commitment to one of the best schools in California: UC Berkeley.

With nine years of practice, Hagy searched for a school that would foster his passion for golf and academics. It was almost inevitable that Hagy committed to Berkeley. His dedication to his school work kept his options unlimited when choosing between several elite schools, including Stanford, Notre Dame, USC, Pepperdine, and Princeton.

“My biggest achievements were competing in the Future Collegians World Tour and winning a national tournament. Next, I will soon be representing the United States in a competition in Japan in October,” Hagy said.

With plans to study business at Berkeley, Hagy admits that it was a difficult decision and that, “there were doubts” in committing himself to a certain school

before it was absolutely necessary and official. However, it is obvious that Hagy’s agreement with Berkeley will lead to many future accomplishments.

“The best thing about golf is that it’s all about you. If you do well, you get all the praise, but you can’t blame anyone else but yourself for your mistakes,” said Hagy.

Hagy began playing golf solely because of self-interest, and his intuition about the sport has led him a long way. He motivates himself by practicing daily at the Westlake Golf Course and often travels far distances to compete in tournaments and competitions that have improved his accuracy and have earned him a spot on the Berkeley men’s golf team.

Last season, Hagy won the Marmonte individual tournament and assisted the boy’s golf team to win both the Marmonte League Championship and the Northern Divisional Championship. His achievements led to the Ventura County Star declaring Hagy as Player of the Year, a well deserved title for his skill and dedication.

Though the Westlake boy’s golf team will miss his leadership next year, it is evident that Hagy will be Berkeley’s gain.

Quality and Quantity for U.S. in the Olympics

JUSTIN EDWARDS SPORTS EDITOR

Hagy to Play for Cal Berkeley in Fall JESSICA KANE OPINION EDITOR

five Surf Cup victories (the second largest tournament in the country). He now plays for the Real So Cal Academy team which plays across the nation. Burke is constantly occupied with soccer, whether it is his team or with a private trainer.

Unfortunately, Burke is unable to play for the WHS soccer team, because of the restrictions set by his club team, but he still practices with the high school team.

Hopefully, WHS soccer will improve through Burke’s presence in practice.

HOLE IN ONE: Hagy plays an iron shot in Marmonte League Tournament last year.

The Olympic games started with a vivid opening ceremony consisting of vibrant fireworks, synchronized dancing, and an overall collaboration by the Chinese people.

The United States concluded their performance with 110 medals, bringing home 38 gold, 36 silver, and 38 bronze medals, the most ever won at a non-boycotted Olympics. The games were historical and memorable for two standout performances: Michael Phelps for his record eight gold medals and Usain Bolt, who earned the crown as the world’s fastest man.

Michael Phelps surpassed all other athletes and even broke Mark Spitz’s historic record of seven gold medals. Of his eight victories, seven were world records and one was an Olympic record, all personal bests for Phelps.

In addition, Usain Bolt of Jamaica, raced his way to three gold medals, shattering all previous world records in his track and field events. After his first win in the 100 meter sprint, Bolt showcased his golden Puma shoes, which sold out in local shoe stores the next day after one hour.

To add to his athletic performance, he donated $50,000 to the Sichuan earthquake victims as an act of gratitude to China for its hospitality and to help those who suffered in the quake.

In addition, Nastia Liukin won the all-around gymnastics over her teammate Shawn Johnson. The United States Men’s Basketball team finally reclaimed gold against Spain, and the Women’s team won four straight Olympic gold medals. Brian Clay won the decathlon and claimed the title of the all-around Olympian.

On a more sullen note, both the U.s. Men’s and Women’s 4x100m relay teams dropped their batons in the preliminary round. Darvis Patton and Tyson Gay blundered on the final pass of the race; then, Torri Edwards and Lauryn Williams did the same for the women’s team. Lolo Jones stumbled on her ninth hurdle in the 100m hurdles, and gave up her commanding lead to her teammate Dawn Harper.

These Olympic games lived up to the incredible hype of the opening, and reached a triumphant conclusion as the legendary torch was passed to London, which will host the next games in 2012.

FEATURE

LIVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

13

The New Kind of Clean

NIKKI FAY FEATURE EDITOR

While the obesity problem in America continues to grow, health and fashion magazines continue to create new diets to make staying fit and healthy easier.

In the past, the most popular diets have consisted of eating miniscule amounts of food and over-exercising, just to obtain a certain weight or size.

With a larger problem of eating disorders becoming more prevalent, the most influential magazines are starting to get smarter with their dieting suggestions.

The current dieting fad, and perhaps the best yet, is the new way of “clean eating.” In contrast to most diets that involve drinking protein shakes or skipping certain meals, the clean diet approach is not

to limit how much the dieter is eating, but rather what the dieter is eating.

The clean eating diet includes eating unlimited amounts of fruits and vegetables and getting used to eating vegetables without heavy sauces or butter. This diet substitutes crackers, potato chips, and white bread with baked potatoes and whole grains instead.

Also, this diet encourages lean meat, focusing on chicken and fish instead of fatty steak and pork. It is okay to have sandwiches and to incorporate bread into the diet, as long as one makes sure that the meat on the sandwich is lean turkey or chicken. Do not forget to fill the sandwich with plenty of vegetables.

The diet also suggests staying away from condiments as well, because not only is mayonnaise high in fat content, but other sauces incorporate ingredients that are pro-

cessed and do not come from all natural sources.

It is also important to try to maintain a wealth of different foods in the diet and not to limit meals to only vegetables and fruit.

While it is a good idea to get the recommended amounts of nutrients, life should not center around obtaining all those amounts in one day. Instead the diet recommends consuming as much as the body needs, instead of trying to stuff one’s body with more food than comfortably fits.

This diet causes more of a lifestylechange than a strict set of dieting rules; however, that is not to say that having “cheat days” or having dessert is not allowed.

The point is to try to change eating

habits all together as opposed to changing them until the ideal amount of weight is lost. If the dieter goes back to the same eating habits that he or she had before the diet started, all the weight that was lost will quickly come back.

According to the Health Guidance web site, “the best plan is to simply choose eating clean as your primary eating style, and when you don’t, you don’t, but every meal stands alone. If you over ate at breakfast, you just eat your usual lunch.

You don’t try to make up for it by skimping on lunch.”

Contrary to what many think, the best type of dieting is not to starve the body, but rather to help it maintain the proper nutrients. This revolutionary diet focuses on permanent weight loss and the goal to a more fit and healthy lifestyle.

Fast Food Companies Forced to Get Healthy LISA BATTAGLIA STAFF WRITER

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER: A bill has been proposed that would require fast food restaurants to post nutritional information on their menu boards.

For a quick, convenient meal, many will drive through a fast food restaurant to pick up lunch, dinner, or a snack. A typical stop at McDonald’s might include French fries, a cheeseburger and then an Oreo McFlurry for dessert.

That quick stop for food can cost a total of 1220 calories. Consuming one of these meals uses up over half of the recommended daily intake for a

Global Warming Affects Health in All Areas of the Country IRIS YAN FEATURE EDITOR

“Obesity Promotes Global Warming,” “Global Warming-a Serious Threat,” “Future Looks Grim,” “Greenhouse gas must be capped, McCain Asserts.” With the increase in media coverage on human conditions, there is a greater awareness of the relationship between the environment and our generation’s health and security.

During September, Americans saw the harrowing scenes of Hurricanes Ike and Gustav that prove to be only steps farther down the “Global Warming” path. With the hurricanes and other severe weather changes increasing, we are discovering more direct links to health damage.

Flash floods and hurricanes around the globe pose immediate threats of exposure. Toxic contaminants and human excrement, contaminated water, an increase risk of the West Nile virus and other diseases are the most common threats.

Though people living in other states with seemingly safer topography and weather conditions may feel detached from these threats, they are also at risk

threatened by global warming in general. Primarily on the list of global warming threats is poor air quality. The poor air conditions are related not only to industrial and traffic input, but also to smog and carbon emissions.

Many of air pollution’s negative health effects, such as bronchitis, tightness in the chest, and wheezing, are acute or short term and can be reversed if air pollution exposures decline. Other effects appear to be chronic, such as lung cancer and cardiopulmonary disease.

According to World Resources Institute, in the United States, two long-term epidemiological studies representing some of the most significant recent research on air pollution effects documented an increase in the death rate of those chronically exposed to dirty air.

These studies, which compared death rates of many U.S. cities with widely varying pollution levels, found that mortality rates were 17 to 26% higher in cities with the dirtiest air compared with those with the cleanest air. Those with the dirtiest air had significantly higher rates of lung cancer and cardiopulmonary disease. These increased risks translate roughly to a one to two-year shorter life span for residents of the most polluted cities.

whole day.

Fast food restaurants, however, do not post the calorie content or other nutritional facts in a visible place. These restaurants instead post this information where no one can see it, just to hide the excessive number of calories in their foods.

If the nutritional information for fast food were posted on the menus, would people really change their eating habits?

Would the demand for fast food decline?

A bill proposed to the Senate by Alex Padilla (D-San Fernando Valley) would require fast food chains to post nutritional information on their menu boards and provide other nutritional information by request.

New York City has already passed a law stating that fast food companies must post the nutritional facts on their menu boards, making it easy for customers to focus on making the healthier choice and change their eating habits.

In a recent survey, 37% of fast food customers who read the nutritional facts claimed that it would change how often

they order fast food.

For those who need the legislative bill to tell them to choose healthier alternatives, the posted calorie and nutritional information will be helpful.

“People eat fast food for convenience.

The nutrition is overlooked and having the labels next to the prices will remind them of what they eat,” said Neha Kumar ‘12.

However, Eric Langlois ‘12 said “people are not going to care.”

Any student who has studied even the basics of the food pyramid or seen Morgan Spurlock’s Super Size Me knows that alternatives to fast food stops need only a bit of planning.

Instead of going for a quick run for unhealthy meals, decide to go home and make a healthy turkey sandwich with fresh strawberries on the side and a glass of juice or milk instead of Coca-Cola.

Even home-cooked French fries are healthier than the greasy, fatty take-out French fries. Substituting healthier choices for fast food or limiting fast food intake will help many Americans to start living a healthier lifestyle.

14

FEATURE

Harry Potter

JESSICA KANE FEATURE EDITOR

Millions of fans had been counting the days until Thanksgiving weekend when the sixth film adaptation of one of the most famous book series in history would be released. However, Warner Brothers recently decided to keep all the waiting and anticipation until the summer of 2009, and left the Harry, Ron and Hermione fans unsettled.

On Aug. 15, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Warner Brothers, Alan Horn, made the announcement that instead of releasing Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on its original date, Nov. 21, the installment will instead open on July 17, 2009.

“Our reasons for shifting Half-Blood Prince to summer are twofold: we know the summer season is an ideal window for a family tent pole release, as proven by the success of our last Harry Potter film…and we are still feeling the repercussions of the writers’ strike, which impacted the readiness of scripts for other films—changing

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

and the Revolt of the Muggles

the competitive landscape for 2009 and offering new windows of opportunity that we wanted to take advantage of. We agreed the best strategy was to move HalfBlood Prince to July, where it perfectly fills the gap for a major tent pole release for mid-summer,” said Horn.

This eight-month delay has started a chain reaction of strikes, rallies, petitions, and pure outrage that is sure to continue among the fans. A recent Facebook group called, “The Delay of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Has Ruined My Life” is currently circulating the Internet, and an online petition reportedly received 45,000 online signatures to protest and demand that the bosses rethink their decision.

Fans also complained about the recent trailer release, just three months before the movie was originally set to be released, which gave false hope to all those waiting to see the epic film.

“Every year, it has switched from November to July, and now my life is altered.

What are Harry Potter fans supposed to do now?” said Natalie Iscovich ‘09.

Summit Entertainment’s new movie,

Twilight, an adaptation of the also popular series by author Stephenie Meyer that has currently set off a lot of discussion, was bumped up two weeks from Dec. 12 to the release date previously occupied by Half-Blood Prince. Ironically, the movie will star former Hogwarts student, Robert Pattinson, also known as Cedric Diggory. He will be exchanging his wizard robes and wand to play the leading vampire, Edward Cullen.

“We by no means are trying to fill the shoes of the incredible Potter franchise for 2008; rather we are just looking to bring the fans of Stephenie Meyer’s incredible book series the film as soon as possible from a programming perspective,” said Rob Friedman, co-chairman and CEO of Summit Entertainment.

Though the recent change left the fans of the Twilight series elated, some Harry Potter fans are not as pleased.

“We would never do anything to hurt one of the movies or the series. We love our fans,” said Horn.

If you really loved us, you would give us the film in November.

bronze medal final in Taekwondo. Matos decided to kick the Swedish judge, Chakir Chelbat, after he ruled that Matos had exceeded the injury time limit of one minute.

Having been ahead 3-2 when he injured his foot, Matos was extremely angry, and began pushing a referee before striking the judge with his foot. The World Taekwondo Federation is currently recommending a lifetime ban for the fighter and his coach, Leudis Gonzalez.

But what can one say about a fighter unexpectedly lashing out when told he was disqualified? Is he not one of the world’s best fighters because of his aggressive nature, and can we really hold his outburst against him?

Another country that cannot seem

to keep its players in check is Spain, which released racially-charged ads of players using their fingers to make their eyes look more Chinese. The indecency and racist undertones in these ads were completely out of line and offensive to many. Although players tried to explain that it was simply a joke and not intended to be racist, it came across that way, and could possibly hurt the country who has put in a bid to hold the 2016 Olympics.

Although the Chinese were on the offense when it came to the last controversy, the newest one put them in the defense after the possibility that several women’s gymnasts ages may have been misrepresented. He Kexin, Yang Yilin, Jiang Yuyuan—half of the Chinese women’s gymnas-

Olympics Cause Controversy in China

KATELYN SMITH NEWS EDITOR

The 2008 Beijing Olympics caused much controversy in the two weeks that they spanned. Perhaps it was because they were held in one of the world’s largest nations, or that our world is so war torn today that even on the field, citizens of opposing countries cannot seem to keep it solely about the sport.

Whatever the reason, many things took place during these Olympics, especially one event: the horrendous killing of a U.S. Olympic men’s volleyball coach’s in-laws by a Chinese man, who stabbed them while they were visiting a Beijing tourist site on the first official day of the Olympics. After killing Todd Bachman, the father of former Olympian Elisabeth Bachman, who married men’s volleyball coach Hugh McCutcheon, the murderer jumped from a 130-foot-high balcony at the 13th-century Drum Tower, committing suicide.

Another controversial topic is the banning of Bibles at the Olympic games.

Four Americans were caught bringing three hundred plus Bibles into the country through an organization called Vision Beyond Borders. The Americans were forced to take only one each for their own personal use, but the rest were confiscated and kept by the airline. The Americans claimed that they were only trying to spread the Christian faith and were willing to hand out the Bibles and teaching materials for free to continue the faith in other countries.

Although Americans were not able to share their faith with the Chinese, the Cubans were able to share something at the Olympic games—a foot in the face.

Angel Valodia Matos of Cuba kicked a judge in the face during +80kg Olympic

tic team—are all under investigation for the fact that they may be younger than 16, the legal age to participate in the games.

Nastia Liukin, a well-known American gymnast, placed second after He Kexin, the Chinese gymnast, in the category of overall champion. The fact that the age of Kexin is still under investigation and that many reliable sources age her at 14 years old makes Luikin’s loss even more heartbreaking because it seems that she deserved to win in this situation, based on Kexin’s disqualification.

No matter how big or small the controversies were during the 2008 Olympics, they happened and shaped the way the world will remember how Beijing handled these games.

15

FASHION

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Urban-wear Takes to the Streets as Monk) and his graphic art friends to produce their own graphics as well. Later on they became a well-known brand that connected their designs to art, culture, and life within the city.

As we see today, urban-wear reflects graffiti art, hip-hop, and punk-rock and 80s style. Neon colors and vivid prints are amongst the many outfits we see daily.

This fashion style has become especially based on the shoes sold in local malls.

Many brands such as Nike, DC shoes, and Converse have broadened their horizons on our generations take on street-style.

Although many brands are beginning to see the need for evening wear and “smart casual wear,” the unique hints and individuality are still very much the main focal point.

This fad has altered through the years, yet the purpose of it is still just as strong as before. The constant need to make a statement in the world and stand out as an individual is by far the main aspect of this trend and the goal people strive for. With political shirts and Neon green converse, this fad continues to grow.

SASHA LEWIS FASHION EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SASHA LEWIS

In the late 1970s Rap and Punk rock became the new phenomenon in the music industry and would ultimately result in a new fashion statement. This fad would be the onset of what we call “urban-wear” and “street-wear.”

Since music plays quite a big role in the street-wear scene, many surfers and skateboarders have adopted a style that revolved around a “do-it-yourself” vibe.

Many rappers and bands were remixing songs and recording their own sample CDs to get a jump-start on their careers.

Skateboarders and surfers also expanded on this theme and began to make their own boards by putting their own unique style into them.

California was the first to follow this idea of cultural expression. Shawn Stussy was a major impact label to help donate to the trend in California. He was a local cult surfboard shaper who would stamp his tag onto shirts and surfboards and sell them.

Luckily for him, this was the start of his career within the fashion industry as his label expanded.

Japan was next to follow this fashion trend, yet its outlook on urban-wear differed. With California relying on music for inspiration, Japan took inspiration from anime, toys and gadgets, and street art such as graffiti. Harajuku, the area between Shinjuku and Shibuya, is the birthplace for what Americans call “Harajuku Girls.”

The back street, “Ura-Hara,” is the center of Japanese youth fashion. Sub cultures such as Gothic Lolita, Ganguro, and Kogal define the fashion being portrayed by manga and anime. Many youths hang around the Harajuku Station displaying their approach to anime. Although many of the stores along the streets within UraHara add to the Harajuku scene, brands such as A Bathing Ape and Undercover have store locations within that area as

well.

Europe was last to really develop this emergence of inspired individuality in the 1990s. One major brand that joined the D.I.Y. movement was IrieDaily (located in

Homecoming 2008!

Homecoming Rally: Friday, 10/24 Homecoming Football Game: Friday, 10/24 @ 7p.m.

Homecoming Dance: Saturday, 10/25, from 8-11 p.m.

TICKETS GO ON SALE 10/1

Buy them in the student store or online at www.whswarriors.com to avoid lines!

Ticket sales end Thursday, October 23 at 3 p.m.

Date

Price with ASB sticker

Without ASB sticker

October 1-12

$20

$25

October 13-19

$30

$35

October 20-23

$40

$40

Homecoming Rally Poster-making 9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade

10/13 10/14 10/15 10/16

3-5 p.m. in the ASG Room

Homecoming Dress-up Days 9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade

10/20 10/21 10/22 10/23

Alternative Jocks Nerds Preps

Berlin/Kreuzberg). This brand first started off with four friends wanting to share their ideas of street-wear to the rest of the world.

They started off by making their own shirts and using the art director Jaybo (known

IN THE PICTURE:

Bottom right: Kiani Ebuen ‘09 wearing dark washed skinny jeans, a white ribbed tank, a multi-colored scarf and mid high blazers in yellow, gray and white.

Middle: Jasmine Sells ‘09 wearing baggy cargo cut-offs, red and gray ribbed tank tops, and a white bandana.

Left: Justin Furuta ‘10 wearing a navy Ice Cream sweatshirt, dark washed True Religions, and black Vans.

16

ENTERTAINMENT

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

90210 Returns to Rock the Ratings A new cast and a fresh start bring on the premiere of an old favorite KYLIE BLABER ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

KELLEY BIGGS STAFF WRITER

COURTESTY PHOTO

America’s favorite zip code has finally returned.

In 1990, the young Fox Network needed a show to raise its viewership in the teenage age range in order to boost ratings. They decided to aim for this age group because they thought it would have the most success—and they were right.

The premise of the original “Beverly Hills, 90210” was based on the culture shock that twins Brandon (Jason Priestley) and Brenda Walsh (Shannen Doherty) experienced when they moved from Wayzata, Minnesota to Beverly Hills, California with their parents, Jim and Cindy. The show chronicles the relationships of a group of students at the fictitious West Beverly Hills High School. The show dealt with a whole slew of issues such as alcoholism, homosexuality, drug abuse, suicide, date rape, AIDS and teen pregnancy.

It has been eight years since television has seen the kids of West Beverly Hills, a show that many in our generation never saw, but parents and older siblings watched religiously. Rumors first began to circulate in the beginning of 2008 that a spin-off, including some of the original cast members, would premiere in the fall of 2008. It finally did on Sept. 2.

There was a lot of anticipation for the new 90210, centering on young Annie Wilson (Shenae Grimes) and her adopted brother Dixon (Tristan Wilds), who moved to Beverly Hills from Kansas to deal with their grandmother’s alcohol addiction.

Their father, Harry (Rob Estes), is the new school principal, and the Wilson children are immediately thrust into the drama and lifestyle of Beverly Hills.

The new 90210 had a tough act to follow. The original ended eight years ago and had a devoted fan-base. It went on for ten seasons and was loved by fans, so it is

Fall Movies to Catch

THE NEW CREW: 90210 welcomes a cast of fresh faces and frisky attitudes.

easy to imagine that the new 90210 was the most anticipated show of the season.

However, it had a tricky balancing act to master; it had to keep a similar concept from the original, but also integrate updated versions for the new generation.

The season premiere started solidly and continued for a rough two hours – albeit interesting, it tended to lag. Already, we are introduced to many new characters and several plot lines to follow. The only problem with this updated version of 90210 is with shows like “The O.C.,” the upscale teenage life has somehow become very repetitive.

90210 does not seem original based on the season premiere. However, one thing is certain: the show is already addicting and already drawing the viewers in to tune into next week.

Not only did some of the original characters return, pleasing the older fans, but they introduced many concepts similar to the original. Gorgeous, skinny teens,

designer clothes, drugs, expensive cars— all the ingredients needed for 90210. The premise is exactly like the old the series so the feel is the same. The filming is absurdly close to the original, all the way down to the opening credits.

90210 is also trying to add some diversity to the game. Dixon, Annie’s adopted brother, seems to be 90210’s attempt to integrate different races, as Dixon is African American. The previous 90210 was not very diverse, and now featuring different races is integral to the television show.

Overall, the first episode carries on with some reunions and showdowns, cheating and other exploitations of common teenage issues. The second episode becomes more interesting with the reunion of Brenda and Kelly. Hardly realistic, but at the same time appealing to the teenage psyche, 90210 seems to throw in the right mix of old and new, for both mother and daughter alike to enjoy as a new guilty pleasure.

After becoming a huge phenomenon, High School Musical is coming back one more time with High School Musical 3: Senior Year, which comes out October 24. In their last year, the Wildcats approach prom, a spring musical, and a championship basketball game.

Another sports related film will tell the story of the first black man to win the Heisman Trophy. In 1960, Ernie Davis won the national championship game for Syracuse University. Two years later, he was diagnosed with leukemia and died a year later. The Express, coming out on October 10, is the true story of his life.

Besides musicals and sports, there are mysteries coming out soon as well.

Max Payne, Quarantine, Saw V and The Haunting of Molly Hartley. Max Payne , premiering October 17, is about a series of murders in New York City dealing with a family who was slain by an assassin out to avenge her sister’s death.

Quarantine, October 10, is about a fire station receiving a call from an apartment building in response to bloodcurdling screams .

Saw V is ready to make yet another appearance on October 24. After having many officers injured, dead or missing, one detective also goes missing and starts the puzzle all over again.

In The Haunting of Molly Hartley, October 31, a 17-year-old girl struggles to fit in with the different cliques at her new private school, but she later becomes haunted by disturbing visions and voices that expose a dark secret from her past.

THE SECRET LIFE EXPOSED Pitt, Clooney Reunite for Raucous New summer drama becomes wildly popular with teens

Good Time in Burn After Reading

When it comes to television, we all love our fair share of drama, which is why shows like Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill, 90210, and the Hills exist: to fulfill our need to watch what our lives could, and should not, be. The Secret Life of the American Teenager, although abundant with drama and occasionally shocking plot lines, provides a little twist to the common teenage television show.

The show follows a fairly ordinary set of stereotypes: there is Amy (Shailene Woodley), a good girl band geek, her rebellious, middle school aged sister, Ashley (India Eisley) , and Amy’s “loving”, more like borderline obsessive , boyfriend Ben (Kenny Baumann). The series also focuses on Adrian (Francia Raisa), a promiscuous, fatherless majorette, her friend/boyfriend Ricky (Daren Kagasoff), the heartbreaker, and an extreme Christian girl appropriately named Grace (Megan Park) whose boyfriend cheats on her with the sultry Adrian.

What gives Secret Life a little kick is that little miss perfect Amy gets pregnant, and no, not with her boyfriend Ben, but with fellow band member Ricky, known for tempting girls into sleeping with him (and yes it did happen at band camp).

A large part of the plot deals with Amy and how she handles being a pregnant teenager, but in a very tasteful and serious way, and much less comedic than Juno.

The rest of the plot deals with multiple teen romances, adult romances, cheating, family, and of course, sex.

The famous Coen Brothers have done it again. Burn After Reading is an incredible piece of work that is not only humorous but also dark.

The ingenious script went from marital affairs to unexpected deaths, but still made these situations uniquely hilarious. Even though this film is only a short 90 minutes long, its wonderful comedy and suspense will keep the viewers wanting more.

Burn After Reading has its audience hysterically laughing at the storyline of two gym employees blackmailing a former CIA agent. Throughout the movie, all of the characters connect in different ways at a certain time. Each individual had some personal struggle.

The opening scene of the motion picture begins with Osborne Cox (John Malkovich) being fired from his job.

Osborne starts to have a temper tantrum as if he were a child.

When he arrives at home from work, he decides to lie to his wife, Katie (Tilda Swinton), and claims he “quit his job.”

Without knowing what was occurring behind Osborne’s back, he does not realize his wife is actually thinking about leaving him. This decision she made was mostly based on her affair with the infamous Harry Pfarrer (George Clooney).

In an unrelated scenario, the movie introduces Linda Litzke (Frances McDormand) as an unhappy woman who wants to alter her physical appearance with plastic surgery. Linda hopes by getting these multiple procedures, she may find

ANOTHER TEEN SHOW: The cast of Secret Life gets together to educate about teen pregnancy.

Teenage sex is a main topic of the show, but not in a raunchy, inappropriate way. The producers aim to educate teenagers and prevent them from ending up like Amy, validated by their little public service announcement at the end of each episode. This “education” the show is trying to provide often leads to completely unrealistic lines from characters who are supposed to be around 15 or 16, but instead sound as though they are reading word for word out of a sex education book. Secret Life is also greatly infused with a strong taste of religion, as one of the main characters, Grace, constantly bases all her decisions, with the help of her parents, on religion.

The show can be very thrilling with its quick paced plot and very dynamic characters. Although some scenes are too unrealistic, the show has a good storyline that teenagers like to watch. Even though it is much more appropiate than Gossip Girl, Secret Life provides a good source of enjoyment for Tuesday nights. Although the first season has ended, the show will return in January.

COURTESY PHOTO

TORI SCOVILLE STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

CARINA WOLFF OPINION EDITOR

AVERAGE JOE: Brad Pitt plays a gym employee in the newly released movie.

the man of her dreams. However, Linda does not have enough money to spend on the numerous surgeries she wants, which leads her to blackmail Cox in order to get the funds for her procedures.

Chad Feldheimer (Brad Pitt), an employee that works with Linda at the gym, adds most of the humor in this movie as he helps Linda through numerous tasks.

When a random worker at the gym finds a disk containing all of Osborne’s bank information and memoirs he wrote at the time he was fired, Linda and Chad blackmail Osborne for money.

The plot then diverges into several different paths where the characters experience unexpected occurrences and funny scenarios.

This satirical comedy takes the audience through numerous emotions as they figure out how all the characters in the movie are interconnected. Though it is slightly confusing in the beginning, it ties up in the end revealing the hilarious outcome of all the characters lives.

17

ENTERTAINMENT

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Legendary Led Zeppelin Returns to the Studio ROBERT DILLON STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

Celebrated ‘70s rock band Led Zeppelin is back in the studio possibly working on a future album.

Original members, guitarist Jimmy Page and bassist John Paul Jones, have been involved in unstructured recording sessions with Jason Bonham, the son of their late drummer John Bonham. Singer Robert Plant has not participated as of yet.

“At the moment, all I know is I have the great pleasure to go and jam with the two guys and start work on some material,” said Bonham in an interview with 94.7 WCSX, adding that a new album is still only in the realm of possibility.

But a new Zeppelin record would create quite some restlessness among its legions of fans. The musicians held a sold-out reunion show last December to rave reviews, which led to rumors of a full-on band revival, though it never came about.

However, local superfan Slade Rheaume ’10, does not want to hear a new album as much as one would suspect.

“The band vowed to never get back together after John Bonham died and now what they’re doing is breaking that vow,” said Rheaume. The split was in 1980 after the band fell victim to the punk movement and was affectd by the death of John Bonham.

Rheaume also disapproves of the band’s decision to release some of the rights to its songs, letting people use them in commercials and movies and making them available in online music stores. Led Zeppelin was notorious for keeping its music exclusive. But, said Rheaume, “that privacy is what made their legacy so great.”

Still, nothing could spoil Slade’s reverence for “the most perfect rock band of all time.” And if an album was

ROCK AND ROLL LIVES ON: After a 25 year absence and the loss of a drummer, Led Zeppelin is working on new material for a potentially upcoming studio album.

released, Rheaume said, “I would definitely buy it, but I wouldn’t like it.”

Interestingly enough, the band retains popularity even among young people like Rheaume who have often discovered the music through parents or relatives. They also attract those who are unimpressed by the current music scene.

“I didn’t really like rap, pop, or modern rock and that’s what led me, and probably a lot of other kids too, to listen to Led Zeppelin,” said Rheaume.

The band has a rich history reaching back to its first incarnation in the 1960s as The New Yardbirds. But after The Who’s drummer, Keith Moon, prophesied that the band would “go down like a lead zeppelin,” one of the twentieth century’s most influential bands was born.

Despite being dismissed by critics, the band’s first

few albums were devoured by fans and established the group’s prominence.

“Stairway to Heaven” was and remains the band’s most notable accomplishment and is the ultimate test of skill for budding guitarists.

In total, they released eight albums, a concert film, and became one of only four acts, (along with The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and Garth Brooks) selling over 100 million records. More importantly, however, they have left an enduring mark on rock and roll.

An album would be the first with new material in over 25 years and although it is debatable whether or not the rockers’ talent has been ravaged by age (at 63, Jimmy Page is already on the “Stairway to Heaven”) or whether their legend is even still pure, fans will wait with bated breath.

Local Band Waltz Reprise Splits in Two

TSoAF Goes Back to Basics With “The Ocean and the Sun”

WAYNE HUANG ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

One of the strangest bands in existence, The Sound of Animals Fighting released its third album, The Ocean and the Sun, on Sept. 9.

Controversially changing record labels from Equal Vision to Epitaph Records since their first release, TSoAF continues their established reputation as a highly progressive band.

The band began when Anthony Green (of Circa Survive) and Rich Balling, Chris Tsagakis, and Matt Embree (all either current or former members of Rx Bandits) began to create highly complex music under animal pseudonyms: The Nightingale, Walrus, Skunk, and Lynx. The original reason they came up with the nicknames and masks was to allow the listener to fully focus on the sound and creation of the music rather than the artists behind it.

Music website Purevolume calls them “a musician collective with a roster sprawling across the country,” who “have staked out a corner of the modern music landscape with their distinct style, shifting pool of guest artists and unique production methods.”

This newest release features “The Heraldic Beak of the Manufacturer’s Medallion,” which was available to the public prior to the album’s release.

The production on their new CD is less flashy than that of their previous releases, but still just as complex, and while there is much less focus on the vocals, the overall sound is better for it.

The idea was to place less emphasis on the words and bring it down to an equal level with the instruments.

Anthony Green and company say their main focus is “raw vastness of nature, the sun, the ocean, and how we fail to recognize its power and mystery.”

Another unique feature of their music is that it was recorded in pieces, and the band members rarely met in person during the process.

At different times both loud and fast as well as quiet and contemplative, the album is very deeply rooted in the spiritual aspect of music. The band has poured just about every emotion in the spectrum into what they call a “highly cathartic project,” and it shows.

Overall, The Ocean and the Sun is a comprehensive work that transcends the boundaries of many conventional genres to stay true to itself.

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

NATURE MAKES A COMEBACK: TSoAF’s new album features a wide variety of earthy music.

THE LAST SHOW: Waltz Reprise huddles close in preparation for their final concert.

JIMMY MOORE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In the muggy, midsummer heat, those milling about outside Camarillo’s Rock City Studios are exchanging disappointed glances or the occasional expression of grief. It is a perfectly pleasant July evening, yet the countless familiar faces outside the venue are undeniably sorrowful. Later, as local band Waltz Reprise takes the stage for what had previously been touted as its final show, the solemnity begins to mingle with the familiar sense of excitement among the many mainstays of Waltz concerts.

“It was definitely sad to see them go, but you couldn’t really help but enjoy yourself when they were on stage,” said Gerald Held ‘09 of the final show. An electrifying set comes to an emotional finale, as band members and fans alike exchange hugs, tears, and encouraging words. Considering that Waltz Reprise had been a band for not even two years before their surprising separation, the triumphant departure was a shockingly powerful event.

However, today, after the confusion and disappointment surrounding the breakup has all but subsided, fans are not left without hope; two brand new, promising projects have risen from Waltz’s ashes.

On Oct. 4, at The Cage in Agoura HIlls, these followers will see some familiar faces on stage as Juan Uribe ‘09, Travis Meador, and Ray Libby, all former members of Waltz Reprise, unite with Joey Anderson (of local band Full Switch Coma) and Michael Sadighian ‘09 to play their first show as Growing Feathers.

“Growing Feathers is more on the indie rock side. Think The Strokes mixed with Islands and The Most Serene Republic,” said Uribe, the band’s vocalist and guitarist.

For another post-Waltz option, fans can find Jenna Maranga, the former voice of Waltz Reprise, pursuing a stylistically different endeavor with Red & Purple, a two-piece band with Taylor Dexter of the local band Knife Jockeys that is equal parts Feist and Norah Jones. Conveniently, Red & Purple will be performing with Growing Feathers on Oct. 4. An open letter to fans written at the time of the breakup placed strong emphasis on future projects, and the importance of outside support in these efforts. However, the former members need not worry about support; with the musicianship, charisma, and determination that brought Waltz Reprise to the top of the local scene, both new bands clearly have a bright future ahead of them.

18

SPORTS

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Warriors Off to Hart-Pounding Start NIKKI FAY SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTO BY ALE CATANESE

BACKUP PLAN: Quarterback Nick Isham ‘11 takes over the offense after Ben Conlin’s ‘09 second quarter injury.

The Warrior 42-20 victory last Friday against Hart came with a heavy cost when quarterback Ben Conlin ‘09 suffered a shoulder injury. In relief, Nick Isham ‘11 took over and racked up 158 passing yards and 74 rushing yards. Isham threw three touchdown passes and ran for another touchdown.

The win against Hart showed off the underclassman’s talent. Isham took over and brought the Warriors to their victory. Sophomore Tavior Mowry also showed off his speed and agility with two touchdowns.

WHS defense gave the team momentum after Adrian Muguerza ‘10 intercepted a tipped pass from the Hart quarterback and returned it for 83 yards.

The interception led to a touchdown, and a scoring run for the Warriors.

According to the Ventura County Star, Coach Jim Benkert said, “You’ve got to make plays in this game. You go back to last week, and if you make one play, the game may change. I think you see that in a lot of games when two good teams play.

We were fortunate to make the play and capitalize on it.”

Both the players and the coaches of the varsity team are excited to repeat their success after last year’s notable season.

“We’re looking forward to this season.

We have a lot of returners and we are looking forward to playing everybody,” said Defensive Coach Bill Culpepper.

“We have a lot of skill and returning starters this year,” said linebacker and kicker, Chris Cisi ‘09. “We also have a lot more leadership than we did last year which will help us out.”

WHS started the season with a win against Paso Robles 36-14 and a nonleague loss against Saugus 40-42.

WHS spirit is high as they prepare for the upcoming season.

This Friday, Westlake will be playing Agoura at Agoura’s home field at 7:00 p.m.

Warrior Football Schedule Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7 Nov. 14

Agoura Calabasas Newbury Park Royal Simi Valley T.O. Moorpark

Girls Volleyball Fights for Spot in CIF Girls Golf After beating Oak Park and Royal, varsity begins season with promising 5-1 record. in our league might start taking us a little more seriously,” said Tuttle, acknowledging her team’s underdog status.

However, while WHS is in no shortage of detractors, many believe that their recent string of victories is a sign of things to come.

“I think without a doubt that Westlake’s going to go far this season. Everyone on the team is really talented and there’s no reason why we shouldn’t make it to CIF,” said Michael Sadighian ‘09, the team’s announcer.

The girls will attempt to rack up another victory when they play their next game on Thursday, Oct. 2 against Agoura.

COURTESY PHOTO

TEAM EFFORT: With a tougher Marmonte League and younger players, the girls have a higher standard to live up to.

JIMMY MOORE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The girls volleyball team is setting off. The girls started off the season with several scrimmages, facing off against various competitive squads from local high schools.

This year’s team certainly has an abundance of seniority; between seniors Haeley Moore, Jessica Kane, Megan Tuttle, Dena Gallucci, and Michelle Ketter, leadership, cooperation, and chemistry can be expected.

Captains Gallucci and Ketter have led their team to an impressive start, winning all of their first four games against San Marcos, Canyon, Beverly Hills, and Oak Park. This streak must continue if the team wishes to accomplish its goal of winning league and continuing on at the CIF level.

Despite the strong team, also including Hannah Schuett ‘11, Melissa Johnson ‘10, and Casey Levitt ‘10 as starters, the

Thousand Oaks Acorn recently ranked WHS fourth place in the Marmonte League, behind Harvard Westlake, Thousand Oaks, and Moorpark. While TOHS is

“I think without a doubt that Westlake’s going to go far this season.”

Michael Sadighian ’09 currently dominating its competition and ranking first among the local teams, the Acorn has chosen Moorpark as its favorite to win league.

“I’m a little frustrated that we aren’t really getting recognized yet, but I think based off our first few games, other teams

WHS Girls Volleyball Schedule Date

Opponent

Location

Time

10/2

Agoura

Away

4/5/6

10/6

Simi

Home

4/5/6

10/8

Moorpark

Home

3/4/5

10/14 Calabasas

Away

4/5/6

10/16

Royal

Home

4/5/6

10/21

T.O.

Away

4/5/6

10/23

Newbury

Away

4/5/6

10/28

Agoura

Home

4/5/6

10/30

Simi

Away

4/5/6

11/4

Moorpark

Away

4/5/6

11/6 Calabasas

Home

4/5/6

Undefeated JUSTIN EDWARDS SPORTS EDITOR

Hoping to continue its Marmonte League Championship streak, the WHS girls golf team teed off this year with no mercy.

The team has four Marmonte titles in a row and is on their way to their fifth.

The girls are undefeated for the season, 40 in non-league matches and 6-0 in league matches.

Westlake has all their players returning this year, and now has four seniors: Liz Cornelison, Kate Gatena, Tiffany Uichanco, and Kayla Picciano. In addition, Charlotte Gibson ’10 and Vivian Shi ’10 are also in the top six who have helped the team maintain its undefeated record.

“We have a solid five. Team depth is what makes for winning high school golf,” said coach Dave Costley.

As of right now, the standings for the team are Gibson, followed by Cornelison, Gatena, Uichanco, Picciano, and Shi. Consistency has been shown in Shi’s play, which is essential to better results. Costley believes that the rankings are interchangeable.

“Our team has broken down to number one and two being very close, a slight gap between number three and four, then a slightly bigger gap from number five and six,” said Costley.

“We have the same top six as last year, except now we’re even stronger. At any given time, each one of us can be the medalist,” said Uichanco.

In addition, Danielle Kang ‘10, transfer from Oak Park High School, will begin playing for the team, since she has not officially moved into the district. She is ranked 21 in the country for girls golf (Golfweek Rankings) and has played internationally against the world’s best.

Last year, Kang qualified for the Women’s United States Open, one of the few junior golfers to do so. While she remains active in individual competitive golf, it is evident that she will assist the team.

The girls team is sure to succeed and hopefully will bring home the CIF League title and many more championships to come.

19

SPORTS

October 1, 2008 • THE ARROW

Competitive League Challenges Girls Tennis DENA GALLUCCI FEATURE EDITOR

Boks’ Fresh Talent Earns Varsity Spot BECKY SADWICK STAFF WRITER

When freshman Chaya Boks, ‘12, showed up for tennis tryouts this summer, she had no idea she would make varsity.

“I was completely shocked, I was really stunned,” Boks said with a smile.

Although it is still early in the season, Boks has her eyes set on CIF this year. She wants not only to improve her game, but to make the team as a whole better.

Boks is the only freshman on the WHS varsity tennis team and has the talent to prove that she deserves this spot. Though “She is a very good she is younger than the othgirls on the varsity team, player and a great asset er Boks enjoys having many to the team.” upperclassmen as friends and teammates.

Boks’ teammate JohanConnie Flanderka na Lacoste, ‘09, laughs, “I beat this girl, but can’t anymore.” Boks has accumulated a large amount of skill and is now capable of beating players that she could not in the past.

Boks always knew she wanted to play high school tennis, and hopes to play in college at Cal Poly or UCLA. Even with all this talent, Boks insisted that she does not want to go pro because she would have to be home schooled and dedicate all her time to tennis, and though she loves the sport, it is important to her to be at school around friends and teammates.

Boks started playing tennis at age four after she saw people playing on a court outside her bedroom window. After falling in love with the sport, Boks dedicated a lot of time and effort to tennis. She now practices seven days a week and competes in tournaments.

Her parents enjoy the sport too, making it easy for her to be so successful and determined. Boks claimed her mom plays while her dad only “attempts.”

Teammates and coaches seem not only impressed with this young athlete, but appreciative of her talent as well.

“She is a very good player and a great asset to the team,” Coach Connie Flanderka explained.

Cross-country Commits to Going the Extra Mile CONRAD WILTON STAFF WRITER

Ranked eighth in the State in Division II, the cross-country team is keeping pace with league competition.

Scott McAfee ‘09 and Robert Dillon ‘10 have high expectations of the upcoming season.

“There is a lot of talent on the team this year. We have some very gifted incoming freshmen such as Matt Patterson that really provide depth in the roster,” said McAfee.

“We are looking good right now.

Coach Synder said that we are the best conditioned team. We are fulfilling the high expectations this year,” said Dillon.

Adrian Doan ‘09 is also pleased with what he has seen of this year’s team.

“We are better this year because the top guys are really performing to their full potential,” said Doan.

“Our best runners are doing very well now—three miles in about 16 minutes is an outstanding time. We always seem to get better as a whole every year,” said Sean Miller ‘10.

The team has competed in one meet and three invitationals so far.

“The boys team has performed well and has a shot at State Finals,” said Dillon.

The leading athletes on the team, including Garret Drogosch ‘09, Marcus Lam ‘10, and Tim Synder ‘11, are some of the big names on the varsity team that score in the meets. Cross-country is not scored

like baseball or football. It is a complicated system that distributes points by place to the top five scorers in each division. The lower the point total, the lower the places, and thus the lowest total wins. However, for the majority of the athletes on the team, Cross-country is not all about those five places.

“Cross-country is all about having fun out there. We love supporting each other and rooting for everyone on the team. Most of all, I personally love to set goals for myself and then take the journey to achieve them. It makes it all worth it when you achieve what your heart is set on,” said McAfee.

Dillon said that “making friends, a positive team atmosphere, and the thrill for doing your best,” attracts him most to the sport.

Cross-country athletes run miles during the summer, fighting the elements every day and dedicating immense amounts of time to their sport.

“We are challenged physically and challenged mentally,” said McAfee. Lessons of “teamwork and the supporting of others” are the life lessons that “make it all worth it.”

These are few of the reasons why the Cross-country runners decide to persevere through the pain.

“It is not all about that number one spot,” said McAfee, “it is about the people you meet and friendships you form. This is what makes Cross-country so much fun.”

PHOTO BY BECKY SADWICK

Opening with a 1-1- record, girls varsity tennis is sure to have a competitive season this year. After last year’s team ended with a Marmonte League record of 113, varsity finished in second place behind Calabasas High School while junior varsity completed its season undefeated. This year’s girls tennis team hopes to continue that tradition of success.

“I feel really confident about our team this year. We have some really good freshmen that just came on the team, but we still have the strong varsity and junior varsity teams from previous years,” said co-captain Daniela Koss ‘09.

Tiffany Loh ‘10, Chelsea Reynolds ‘09, and Lauren Schwartz ‘09 will lead t as the top three varsity singles players, while senior co-captains Rachel Bitter, Koss, and Schwartz will contribute their leadership and competitiveness to the team.

Calabasas High School, which has won six straight league titles since 2002, and Thousand Oaks High School are looking to win a title.

Also contending for a top spot will be Moorpark High School, which gained freshmen Kristina Eisenbrand, a ranked player in Southern California, and Simi Valley High School, which tied for third place last year and took matches from Westlake and Thousand Oaks.

Head coach Connie Flanderka believes her players have the talent to take her team to a league championship.

“We don’t have a really high ranked player, but we do have a well-rounded team. Our junior varsity team also beat Calabasas twice last year, so we’re looking pretty good,” she told the Acorn.

Having a team with a large amount of distributed talent should earn Westlake a top spot this year.

“I’m looking forward to starting senior year with a lot of victories”, said Alanna Cowan ‘09, voicing a popular opinion among her team.

TENNIS ROOKIE: Chaya Boks prepares for match against Hart.

A Plethora of

Photographed by Carina Wolff

Styled by Alannah Bradley

Plaid

STRANDED: Clockwise from left to right: Courtney Thomas ‘09 in a vintage plaid but-

ton-up, underneath a Jim Morrison vintage tee and her own shorts and L.A.M.B. gladiator sandals. Cole Gauthier ‘09 in a vintage plaid button-up, Calvin Klein white v-neck and his own jeans and shoes. Taylor Rieger ‘11 in L.A.M.B. plaid jumper and black jacket thrown over with L.A.M.B. black heels. Thomas in a L.A.M.B. skirt and shoes and vintage vest.

Gauthier in a GAP button-down shirt. Rieger in a Free People Buckled Up Menswear Dress, fedora hat and L.A.M.B. nude pumps. Fashion assistants: Dena Gallucci, Jessica Kane. Special thanks to Julie Miller. Layout by Jessica Kane.

Eye-popping patterns and lush textures are just as hot as the scorching sun

ALANNAH BRADLEY FASHION EDITOR

Autumn 2008 is all things plaid: we begin the new school year with many different fall fashions, all highlighted by this popular geometric pattern. Plaid is simple yet chic, and this season it is making another comeback, with designers like Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren who often feature it on the runways.

As seen NYC Fashion Week Fall 2008 Trends, different designers are experimenting with plaid by pairing it with leather boots, belts and

punk accessories.

Not only can plaid be found as an expensive L.A.M.B. jumper as seen on Taylor Rieger ‘11, but also as a laid-back simple button-up seen on Courtney Thomas ‘09.

Plaid has many versatile ways of being worn, whether it is thrown over a white tank or fashioned into a skirt. A plaid dress gives a romantic feel to an outfit.

Plaid originated in Scotland, where each clan was represented by a different pattern with the colors of the family’s choice.

Designers Jean-Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood are using

plaid in a more wild sense, while Hubert de Givenchy and Hermes tone it down by pairing plaid with softer elements.

According to The New York Times Style section, plaid is any combination of colors and square patterns. Plaid has its phases; it has been known as a common pattern worn in everyday life and is also displayed in the high-end fashion industry.

If you are on a budget, thrift stores are a prime location to discover inexpensive plaid garments.

Ralph Lauren claims that dressing with plaid is as simple as wearing an open button-up with a glamorous necklace and simple

tank top underneath.

Making its comeback more than ever, plaid is versatile from the grunge look of the 90s to the more classic, romantic look found today.

Plaid is now paired on the runways with chiffon and soft satins, new combinations that are creating a untradtitional feminine look.

Men can wear these shirts over a basic v-neck as seen on Cole Gauthier ‘09, pictured above. Plaid is a gender-neutral pattern that many stores are presently featuring.

Whatever look you are striving for, incorporating a plaid piece into your everyday style is sure to turn heads.