THE
Arrow
Westlake High School
VOLUME XXXV, ISSUE 1
Page 2
19 seniors qualify for scholarship consideration
Page 4
New classes added for new year
100 N. LAKEVIEW CANYON ROAD, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362
September 14, 2012
Warriors embrace seasonal Homecoming
Michelle Noyes Ethan Reul News Editors
PHOTO BY MICHELLE NOYES
A night of seasonal commemoration will highlight Saturday evening, as WHS celebrates its 2012 Homecoming Dance in the gym Sept. 15. The seasonal theme is a first for WHS, which in recent years has used themes such as the decades and television shows, which have distinctive looks and personalities. With the seasons, there is more room for creativity, according to representatives from ASG. "We chose the seasons because it allowed us to really branch out," said ASG President Arantxa Sanchez-Cruz ‘13. "Instead of being limited to a few select iconic figures, each class will be able to individualize a season to the fullest extent." With this in mind, the lunch rallies played on each class's unique interpretation of the seasons. Freshmen started out the week with their fall-themed lunch rally on Monday, bathing the amphitheater in a sea of red and brown. Then, the sophomores’ holiday spirit shone as they decorated the amphitheater for winter on Tuesday. Wednesday, the juniors bloomed into their spring spirit with flowers and showers, bringing a sing-song spirit to the campus with their rally. Seniors took a nostalgic look at summer for the last lunch rally of the week, with echoes of sunny beaches and scorching heat. The week’s pre-homecoming festivities culminate Friday with the year’s first rally in the gym. Warrior football will face La Serna football team, with a halftime presentation of Homecoming King and Queen. Nominees for King include seniors Andy DeMello, Matt Gordon, James Rodriquez, and Joey Rosinski. Nominated for Queen are seniors Sydney Bale, Alicia Christiansen, Alix Joubran, and Emily McBride. The Homecoming Dance will take place from 8-11 p.m. in the gym. Sanchez-Cruz commented that the DJ remains the same as last year and that new decorations this year will include several new light fixtures. The night will consist of dancing and hanging
WELL-SEASONED: Nominees for Homecoming King and Queen are pictured above: (from top left clockwise) Matt Gordon, James Rodriquez, Andy DeMello, Joey Rosinski, Emily McBride, Alix Jourbran, Alicia Christiansen, and Sydney Bale.
with friends, culminating in the announcement of the Homecoming Princes and Princesses. Junior nominees for Prince include Will Barrett, Jacob Faltemier, Lexi Isham, and Darius Pago. Lauren Chin, Kaitlyn Pitcher, Eva Pino and Sarah Weigel are nominated for Junior Princess. Sophomore Prince nominees are Timmy Burtzloff, Ryan Chen, Alec Minkow, and John Wise. Sophomore Princess nominees include Maddy Aplin, Riley
Hutchings, Maddy McClung, and Libby Wise. Freshman nominees include Vinny Corso, Christian Egurbide, Brandon Hall, and Ryan Osbourne for Prince. Princess nominees for Freshman are Alex Champion, Saleena Chappa, Rachel Finegold, and Keely Talbot. "When I received my nomination, I was so excited to represent [the] senior class," expressed Homecoming Queen nominee Christiansen. "I am so excited to celebrate my last year at WHS with [my] friends at the dance."
Football fundraiser draws thousands for veterans VALIANT VETERANS: The Battle of the Veterans Carnival included (from top to bottom) booths from the military, an Air-Force flyover, and a fundraiser for student clubs.
Vivian Hu Managing Editor
PHOTOS BY LAUREN CHIN
Many WHS students and parents participated on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 at WHS for the Battle of the Veterans event, an event that celebrated the veterans by hosting football games and donating the proceeds to the veterans. WHS hosted the Southern California portion of the Battle of the Veterans event. The event was held at the lower student parking lot, with booths from food vendors, such as Chick-fil-A, Hu’i Hu’i Shave Ice, and Robeks. School booths from Band/ Orchestra, FBLA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Water Polo, Wrestling, Lacrosse, Cheer, Dance, and Football also participated. Other schools that participated in the event were Del Oro, and Oaks Christian, 14 other schools played to help raise funds for the veterans. “We expect a turnout of about 8,000 to 10,000 people,” said Mardy Medders as she sold tickets to incoming guests. Medders was one of the organizers of the event and the sole organizer of the benefit dinner held for the veterans on Aug. 30. “Last year, [it seemed like] there were two stands. This year, you can really tell it expanded,” stated James, a Chick-fil-A employee. Besides the football games, the stands also helped sponsor the event with food, fun, and games. The lacrosse team rented a bouncing house, and the football team used a dunk tank. “I like this event. It’s my first time at one of these events, but I’m really enjoying it,” commented Sergeant Passerrelli as he shot hoops at one of the booths. Andi Lorch ‘13, Class of 2013 President, helped out. “This event is really exciting; it’s a really good idea that they’re putting on the football game for all the veterans. It’s getting a lot of people. It’s really fun and I’m enjoying it.”
News
2
September 14, 2012 • The Arrow
In Brief
19 nominated as
Instrumental Music Department holds Food Truck Block Party
Academic Decathlon to take on Russian history The Academic Decathlon team is preparing for the annual competitions once again. After last year’s first place win, the team members are fighting to repeat their victory by reading study guides, writing essays, and preparing for interviews. “We have skilled, dedicated people and I’ve found that goes a long way,“ said Aca Deca advisor Joe Nigro. This year’s topic is Russia. The students will focus on the time period between the rule of Czar Nicholas and the Revolution and Cold War. They will cover seven subjects: history, art, music, economics, math, science, literature, and language. To make studying more entertaining, the students play Jeopardy-like activities.
Anatomy runs garage sale for hospital Advanced Anatomy students will give others the chance to dissect— dissect the many offerings at the Annual Advanced Anatomy Garage Sale, that is. From 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. this garage sale will be held at 2497 Rikkard Drive, Thousand Oaks, a.k.a. the basketball court on the corner of Avenida de Los Arboles and Erbes Rd. Buyers will have the chance to look through the diverse items for sale and practice their haggling skills, while mingling with the Anatomy students. Proceeds will help fund the Advanced Anatomy class and the pediatric cardiac unit at Loma Linda.
Chamber Orchestra to hold “Musical Journey” concert The Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Elizabeth Blake, will hold its yearly children’s concert at the Carpenter Theatre on Oct. 7. The concert’s theme is “A Musical Journey,” and it is an opportunity for children in the community to enjoy classical music.
Westlake Village resident Zink runs for Senate Politician newcomer Todd Zink, a resident of Westlake Village, is running as a Republican for the State Senate. If elected, he will represent District 27, which includes Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Calabasas and Malibu. Zink’s issues center on the economy, education, and public safety. He plans to create jobs for fellow veterans, and create a commission on small businesses. He also promises to improve education by streamlining the teacher training process, removing unworthy teachers, and ensuring that English is a graduation requirement.
Photo by Brian Chang
The WHS Instrumental Music Food Truck Block Party will be held in the student parking lot on Sept. 23. Admission is $7 at the door or $5 if you buy a ticket now from a member of the Instrumental Music Department. There will be trucks serving food ranging from gelato to tacos. For a complete list of attending trucks, visit the WHS Band web site, whsband.org.
SIGNING IN: Kristi Konish settles into her new office, replacing Jim Marshall as Dean of Attendance. Marshall is at Sequoia Middle School as the Dean of Students.
Dean follows in grandfather’s footsteps Konish leaves the classroom to continue her career at WHS.
Liz Mossessian Staff Writer
The new school year brings fresh beginnings, higher goals, old friends, and a new dean. Dean of Attendance Kristi Konish, a UCSB graduate, made the move to WHS after teaching a mix of biology and marine science at Newbury Park High School. She has been teaching for seven years and decided to follow her grandfather’s footsteps to become a school administrator. With a big smile, Konish talks about her first impression of WHS. “At school registration this year. All the kids were so polite, so nice, and so respectful, and I think that was unexpected.” Students were very curious as to who she was exactly, yet very welcoming, introducing themselves and asking if she needed any help. At NPHS, she was always very involved in ASG and is looking forward to attending all the school rallies and spirited events at WHS. She does not fail to mention Principal Ron Lipari and praise him for his hard work around campus, keeping the campus clean. Konish goes even further to compliment the school as she compares WHS to the other high schools in the District, and how “this is the cleanest
campus by far that I have seen.” The bulletin board, which stands out among the other things in her office, is filled with random excuses parents wrote for their children from her grandfather’s time as Dean of Attendance. Her best memory is of a parent who claimed that the family’s snake was so sick that they had to urgently take him to the vet, so the child could not make it to school on time. Konish is definitely happy to be at WHS and is excited to meet more students and absorb all that she can. One goal she looks forward to is to become involved in the an intervention program, called Response to Intervention (RTI) which provides help to any students on the verge of failing. She is thinking about the success of each student at WHS and definitely communicates that through her eager and energetic attitude. Senior Class President, Andi Lorch ‘13, introduced herself to the new dean at Backto-School Night and warmly welcomed the newcomer. She said, “Ms. Konish was very sweet to me and I feel that because she is young, she understands her students well and is relatable.” Looking forward to a successful and eventful school year, students are definitely in good hands with Konish as a new school administrator.
National Merit Scholarship semifinalists Stacey Kane Staff Writer
Nineteen seniors this year qualified as semifinalists in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Seniors Brian Chang, Lily Chen, Lisa Cheng, Harry Chung, Woody Chung, Daniel Eaton, Yangzong Guo, Sam Hsu, Sherry Huang, Vasant Iyer, Eric Kuecks, Zak Kukoff, Paul Kwon, Nathan Noh, Hanson Shen, Julia Shi, Catherine Taylor, Ethan Walker, and Nick Whetstone are among the group of 16,000 qualifiers announced by National Merit Scholar Corporation, and are competing to win the $2500 scholarship. The National Merit Scholarship honors individual students who show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies, according to the National Merit Scholarship web site. Approximately 16,000 semifinalists will have the opportunity to continue in the competition for 8,300 scholarships worth more than $32 million. To qualify for this competition, 1.5 million juniors took the 2011 PSAT which served as the initial screening. The semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. In addition to the PSAT score, a Semifinalist must have a outstanding academic record, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. Participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, and honors and awards received are also considered. Every finalist will compete for one of 2,500 National Merit $2500 Scholarships. These names will be released beginning in April.
Revised health guidelines introduce fresher foods Liz Mossessian Staff Writer
In a majority of high schools, one doesn’t expect to hear students in the hallways planning to meet at the cafeteria during their lunch break. Instead, eligible students (seniors and juniors) take advantage of their off-campus privilege and eat somewhere close by, despite the press for time. Even so, the students who
are not yet “off-campus-ready,” almost all prefer to wait until after school to eat with friends, unless they are lucky enough to have parents make them a lunch everyday. However, this year the WHS cafeteria is experiencing a transformation and will be offering an enhanced and healthier menu. Because of new federal guidelines, requirements limiting the amounts of carbohydrates and sugar used in school lunches will be enforced. For instance, the
Cafeteria Menu* 1st & 3rd Monday Chef Salad & Turkey Sandwich
2nd & 4th Monday Chef Salad & Turkey Sub
1st & 3rd Tuesday Tostada Salad & Taco Ciabatta Beef Enchilada
2nd & 4th Tuesday Taco Salad & Taco Ciabatta Beef Enchilada
1st & 3rd Wednesday Antipasto Salad & Pastrami Sandwich
2nd & 4th Wednesday Chicken Caesar Salad & Meatball Sub
1st & 3rd Thursday Thai Noodle Salad & Turkey Sub
2nd & 4th Thursday Oriental Salad & Turkey Sub
1st & 3rd Friday Southwest Chicken Salad & Cold Cut Sub
2nd & 4th Friday BBQ Chicken Salad & BBQ Chicken Sandwich *The menu is subject to change.
infamous, yet calorie-packed cookies are still offered, but are now made with whole wheat. For those who enjoy a tasty salad, but feel that the only affordable and healthy option is the $7.00 salad from the grocery store, an alternative, well prepared, wellportioned antipasti salad or chicken taco salad is offered for only $3.50 right on campus. The edamame side order seems to be a popular side item, according to Brett Pfefferman ’14. “I wasn’t sure if they were going to be cooked the way I like them, but they were done perfectly and are small enough to snack on during class.” Overly salted chips and sugarcoated cakes are no longer offered, as a result of the new guidelines. Propel energy drinks will replace Gatorade because Propel has no sugar, no color, and ERB (electric replacement beverage). A wider variety of sandwiches is now available and made with warm slices of wheat flour ciabatta bread. Every day receives special attention with a new item—a new surprise—listed on the menu. In addition to the enhanced menu, WHS has also welcomed a new cafeteria manager, Kristy Lima, who worked at Colina Middle School before coming to WHS. She hopes to “try out new options and see what the kids like and don’t like.” Besides preparing great food, one of her goals this year is to make students excited to visit the cafeteria by creating a friendly and welcoming environment. “With all the new recipes and new personnel it has been pretty hectic, but besides that everybody has been so welcoming, including the kids,” said Lima.
September14,2012•TheArrow
Entertainment
3
“Some Nights” filled with fun. David Huang Staff Writer
COURTESY PHOTO
REWORKED ROMANCE: Jesse (Samberg) and Celeste (Jones) reconcile in a touching scene.
Humorous Celeste and Jesse offers original view of love Orly Greenberg Opinion Editor
Recent films like Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist and 500 Days of Summer have ushered in a new type of romance movie, offering quirky and offbeat views of love. Celeste and Jesse Forever is no exception. Written by and starring Rashida Jones, the film follows Celeste (Jones) and her struggle to sort through personal and romantic relationships, all the while managing a separation from her sweet but fickle husband Jesse (played by an endearing Andy Samberg). The movie opens with a clever montage quickly providing background on Celeste and Jesse’s marriage, rooted from a friendship in high school and now deteriorating. Based on the subsequent scenes, however, it is difficult to tell the two ever formally broke up. No longer together, the pair still remain best friends and maintain the closeness of a married couple. Later, Jesse’s sudden shift into adulthood shakes Celeste, and challenges her to revalue her decisions and priorities in a new light. The film considers, at its core, a theme of letting go in order to move on and grow up. It also touches on the impossibility of
a perfect love and the idea that true love need not necessarily triumph, but must also function with reality. Jones’s astute writing makes the viewer instantly root for Celeste, a woman who quickly realizes that her ideal breakup would not be as clean as it appears. Through her low points, the audience wants her to succeed. Conversely, it is easy to become frustrated with her oblivious tendencies and refusal to be honest with herself. Admittedly, the film is original. In fact, the film is all too aware of its originality. The unconventional humor and decidedly indie soundtrack constantly remind the viewers of how out of the box and genrebending the story is. However, what the film lacks in subtlety, it makes up with great performances. Elijah Wood provides a much needed voice of reason as Celeste’s boss. Andy Samberg plays somewhat of a cliché character, the offbeat artist who can’t seem to find his life’s purpose. Nevertheless, he comfortably embraces the role, oscillating seamlessly from emotionally fraught to delightfully charming. While the film sometimes tries too hard, Jones proves her longevity as a box office power with sharp humor and shrewd observations.
Books inspire fall movies Samantha Doctrow Staff Writer
Back to school means back to work. But when the weekend rolls in, a movie is the best way to relax. Here’s a preview of upcoming movies this fall:
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
The Perks of Being a Wallflower, based on Steven Chbosky’ best-selling novel, is a funny and touching coming-of-age tale filled with love, loss, and unforgettable friendships. Charlie (Logan Lerman), an introverted and naïve “wallflower,” enters his first year of high school friendless. However, he soon meets the flamboyant Patrick (Ezra Miller) and Patrick’s enigmatic sister Sam (Emma Watson) who take Charlie into a wild world of sex, drugs, and partying. Charlie struggles to discover his identity while falling in love with the unpredictable Sam. The engaging drama-comedy opens Sept. 21.
Taken 2
Hitting theaters the same day is the sequel to the 2008 thriller Taken, the fastpaced Taken 2. A year after heroically rescuing his teenage daughter, Kim (Maggie Grace), from kidnappers in Paris, retired CIA operative Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson) takes his wife, Lenore (Famke Janssen), and Kim on vacation to Istanbul. The trip soon turns sour when Lenore is kidnapped by gangsters who plan to avenge the deaths of the men Bryan killed while rescuing his daughter. With his wife held hostage and
his daughter on the run, Bryan must use his lethal skills to valiantly save his family.
Looper
The perplexing action-filled Looper hits theaters Sept. 28. In the not-so-distant future, a mob sends enemies 30 years back the past where a hired “looper” remains waiting to kill them. As a successful “looper,” Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), becomes wealthy. Unfortunately, the mob decides to “close the loop” and sends back Joe’s future self (Bruce Willis) to be killed by the past one. Confused yet?
Pitch Perfect
In the feisty rom-com, Pitch Perfect, an all girls a-cappella group takes on their biggest challenge yet: the boys. When Beca (Anna Kendrick) joins her school’s female singing group, The Bellas, she injects some much-needed energy in their repertoire. As the Bellas gain more popularity and awards, they attempt to make their way into the college a-cappella championship in order to beat the boys’ group. The uplifting sing-along comes to theaters Oct. 5.
Breaking Dawn: Part 2
Calling all twi-hards: the end is near. After much anticipation, the finale of the Twilight saga, Breaking Dawn: Part 2, comes to theaters Nov. 16. Following the birth of their half human-half vampire daughter, Renesmee, vampires Bella and Edward Cullen gather other vampire clans in order to protect Renesmee from the dangerous rulers, The Volturi.
“There are some nights I hold to every note I ever wrote.” So begins the album “Some Nights,” released early this year in February. It is the sophomoric effort of the band fun., stylized in lowercase with a period at the end. The band’s outlook, satisfyingly expressed in the album, is summarized with this stylization: sarcastic, yet uplifting, cynical, but also witty and polished. The band fun. is led by vocalist Nate Ruess (formerly of The Format) and backed by instrumentalists Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff. Aspects of breakup, relationships, inspiration and downright desperation are explored throughout “Some Nights.” Majorly indie pop, fun. is also heavily influenced by theater music, gospel, rock, and hip hop. The vocal harmonies, guitar, and piano soli all hark back to classic bands like Queen and Pink Floyd. In spite of the melting pot of genres, “Some Nights” still maintains an original integrity, and creatively incorporates several different types of instruments. For instance, “Some Nights (intro),” the first song on the album, pits sweeping string orchestra melodies against opera singers, and pairs a gospel choir with Nate Ruess’ incredible vocal prowess. Ruess’ combination of raw emotion and charisma
makes his vocal performance very touching and memorable. Another notable aspect of the band’s instrumentation is its use of autotune. The musicians actually manage to use the tool artfully. Although Ruess obviously has the vocal range and power to hit all the written notes, they sometimes employ autotune to create a unique sound (Some Nights, Stars). Several songs on the album can be very heavy lyric-wise (“Why Am I The One,” “All Alone”) but the rhythms and instrumentation create an atmosphere of inspiration and motivation. In spite of the tendency to be a bit melodramatic, the lyrics are effective, well written, and even poetic at times. Ruess, the main songwriter for the band, said in an interview for TDCmedia, that he
considers himself to be “a sort of pessimistic optimist.” At a recent fun. concert, Nate Ruess demonstrated that the vocals featured in the album were genuine, after all. With “Some Nights,” fun. is finally achieving the success it deserves.
Feature
4
Outside these four walls Students, armed with scalpels and scrubs, dissect and probe the reality of the medical world.
Managing Editor
PHOTO BY VIVIAN HU
THE HIP BONE’S CONNECTED TO THE...: Anatomy students study for one of their three major tests, the bone test.
A recipe for the future
dents in the future as well: “The kids who go through the program and go onto some pretty elite colleges always say studying doesn’t scare them. The volume of the information they have to know does not scare them. Pulling all-nighters does not scare them. They’re not intimidated by the vast knowledge they have to learn on their own,” Bowman pointed out. Hassan still seems undaunted. “Through the research we must pursue, the information we must memorize, and the essays we must prepare for the class throughout the year, we as a class have learned that procrastination is never a possibility when a subject as difficult as Advanced Anatomy is involved. This is surely a lesson and an experience that will guide me throughout my undergraduate and (hopefully) graduate years of study.”
d Scal n a pe , s e n Victoria Wang
Feature Editor
WHS has an incredibly diverse curriculum for students to choose from. There are more AP classes alone than the number of classes one student can possibly take within four years. The overachievers may try to bite off more than they can chew at first, but everyone eventually realizes the only way to come out of high school alive is to focus on your efforts. This is easy for the lucky few already dead set on one career. All they have to do is do some research, figure out which classes provide the best route to their planned future, and then devote their temporal lobes to those classes. But what about the vast majority of the teenage population—of the American population, for that matter—who simply aren’t sure? Even those who grew up determined to enter a particular field often become dissatisfied
ls
Scrubs, scalpels, and formaldehyde are all typical things 6th period students encounter in 43K. Advanced Anatomy, or the cadaver class, is taught by Nancy Bowman, the only remaining original WHS teacher. The class is well known for its real-cadaver dissection, but this experience is not all the class brings to the table. Although the students in the class have just started the class, they already have many experiences. “I firmly believe that my experience in Advanced Anatomy has prepared me for the real world through the application process, the sheer difficulty of the class, and the extracurricular aspects that it encompasses,” said Advanced Anatomy co-president Amir Hassan ‘13 . Bowman emphasizes that in all of America, there is no class like Advanced Anatomy. Modeled after a post-graduate first year medical school class, it has only three tests throughout the year, but there
are multiple projects dispersed between the three tests. The students work on two major projects that give the class definition: one in the fall and one in spring. After the students have memorized every bone and muscle, they start the fall project by using their knowledge. The students shadow a physical therapist and a patient (with the patient’s permission), recording their observations in a journal. They observe the exercises used to improve the patient’s conditions; they celebrate successes with the patient, whether success is full recovery or incremental improvements. ”Where else can you step out of the classroom? It’s not all classroom based learning; some of the learning has to come outside of these four walls,” Bowman said. The spring project is the controversial Bioethics Project. Students research different scenarios and debate whether to save a life, even when the person may be brain dead. “To deal with death and dying in the
spring, the culmination of the year, can enhance the maturity level of the individual,” said Bowman. At the end of each project, students write a summary about what they have learned and experienced, and the reports always please her. Bowman is always happy to see that the students reflect on the meaningful and enjoyable experiences. Although there are only three tests, these tests provide enough stress on students. “The immense amount of information that we as a class must be able to study, memorize, and apply to our dissections and tests has allowed me to understand a little bit more about the life a medical student lives,” said Hassan. Students must know extensive amounts of knowledge about every bone, muscle, and nerve in the body for their tests. Consequently, students rarely feel fully prepared. However, this intensive studying helps the stu-
Soups , Sc o
Vivian Hu
September 14, 2012• The Arrow
with their lives, experiencing the “mid-life crisis” cliché. Most people aren’t born with some kind of higher calling, and the childhood dreams change throughout their fast-paced lives. The classes you take today will play a role in your future, but this doesn’t mean you should put down all your chips on one bet. Extra knowledge could set you apart from the superspecialized crowd, advancing your career, or giving you a safety net in case your career of choice suddenly disappears. Whatever future you’re planning on, be it a career in biotechnology, medicine, or food, the best time to start preparing is now. But it is important to pursue a few other interests as well. These next two issues will explore some very special elective courses WHS offers.
Culinary connoisseurs enjoy a delicious experience by participating in Foods Opinion Editor
W
encourage my a place to fool class to try new around.” The stufoods, in the hope that they dents in Scirone’s class know will be more adventurous. Time manage- nothing better than that as they continue to ment is an important skill, especially in our work towards a successful culinary career 54 minute class periods!” in the future or just improve their culinary Students learn how to follow a task skills. through to completion. “You learn how to understand priorities, like cleaning up after yourself,” said Michael Lacey ‘13. Myles Shilling ‘13 added, “And our ServSafe tests allows us to be managers which takes a lot of responsibility.” Succeeding in Foods Class does not come easily for just any type of person. Students need to have “a true passion for food,” said Scirone. “They also [need] respect for [their] food and the recipe [they] are following. Cooking is labor intensive. You have to be serious and focused. COOKING AND CLEANING: Students clean up after preparing their The kitchen is not delicacies for the day. PHOTO BY LAUREN CHIN
understand it, and follow directions to complete a successful dish,” Scirone said. Through her culinary class, students acA student envisioning a professional quire experience following a set of direcfuture cannot help but be scared of what is tions precisely, working within a limited in store. When confronted with the ques- amount of time, and even participating in tion, “What do you want to be when you the real world to get a taste of the challenggrow up?” or “Which college do you want es and issues they will face as a chef. Recently, Scirone and her culinary arts to go to?” some students stammer or attempt to answer with false bravado, while class opened the Blue Arrow Cafe to cook others confidently state what they just meals for teachers. As chefs, students have know they are going to do once they attain hands on experience not only preparing the proper degree of food, but also dealeducation. Are any of ing with the busithese students really ness aspect of a cafe e all eat. It’s such as preparing prepared for the “Real something we World” though? for safety inspecdo everyday, The students in tions and applying Maria Scirone’s culifor a permit to sell three or more times a food. nary class are. “Nothday. This is a class that ing is more ‘Real “We are workstudents can use for a ing towards our World’ than eating. We lifetime. all eat. It’s something ServSafe manager we do everyday, three licenses, so we can -Maria Scirone, Culinary Arts Teacher or more times a day. be managers in the actual work front,” This is a class that students can use for a lifesaid Jillian Stern time,” said Scirone. ‘12. “Last year, “I have had former students tell me some of us got our ServSafe basic license they are the only ones who can cook at their that allows us to open a restaurant.” college apartments.” Students don’t just take away cooking Aside from being able to survive in skills from Scirone’s culinary class, they college with their cooking skills, students also face challenges that teach them valualso employ the valuable skills they learn able skills for life. from foods class throughout their lives. “Many skills are associated with Foods “It’s a skill they can take with them, to Class. Problem solving, thinking on your feed themselves and their future families. feet, working with group members, proThe goal for my students at the end of the ducing a successful foods lab even though semester is to be able to take any recipe, you don’t all get along,” said Scirone. “I
Lauren Chin
Feature
September 14, 2012 • The Arrow
5
First day of school—to a whole new level Hanyi Huang Feature Editor
As the school year begins, the WHS family would like to welcome 12 new teachers: Katherine Wooldridge, Karie Lynch, Linday Jones, Dan Horwitz, Ryan Burke, Andrea Sansing, Ashley Biller, Victoria Boden, Rickey Mulcahey, Mary Hauser, Lauren Iezza, and Janice Crawford. Wooldridge teaches World History CP and U.S. History CP. Horwitz joined the science department and teaches Biology H and CP.
Lynch and Jones both joined the English department. Lynch teaches English 9H and 11CPand she recently won the Charles Redd Center K-12 Teaching Western History Award for a mini unit she designed, called “Homesteaders of the Western Prairie.” Jones teaches English 9CP and 10CP. Last year, she debuted in WHS as a student teacher for English teacher Deborah Kolodney. “They’re going to be perfect and valuable additions to our department,” said English department chair Lora Novak. “We are thrilled to welcome both to our faculty.”
Welcome to a world of science
Burke brings in his math skills
David Huang
Frances Ling
Why did you choose this subject? I have always liked science, and I like learning about how the natural world around us works.
What was your favorite teaching experience ? My favorite teaching experience has been my first few days working at WHS. The students are very positive, motivated, and ask great questions.
Staff Writer
What was your favorite teaching experience? My favorite teaching experience was the day I brought medicinal leeches to class, and the students offered to get their blood sucked out. What kind of things do you do outside of school? Surfing is my number one activity. Otherwise, I’m teaching. That’s it. What advice do you have for your students? Putting in the extra effort right now pays off in the future.
What other teaching experience have you had? I used to teach on a research vessel and we used to take the students out into the water and we would collect all sorts of marine organisms.
Staff Writer
What kind of things do you do outside of school? I play in an adult basketball and softball league. I enjoy cooking, hiking, and going to the beach. What advice do you have for your students? There is a positive correlation between effort and outcome. The more work you put into something the more you will get out of it. At what point did you realize you wanted to be a teacher? The fall of 2007 when I was coaching WHS freshman boys basketball team. Because I had such a great rapport with the kids, I felt like I could be a great teacher.
literature
Michelle Noyes
Julia Shi
Why did you choose this subject? I have always loved reading and I think it is important to learn to be an independent critical thinker. I want to help students learn to express themselves in a thoughtful and logical manner.
What so far was your favorite experience teaching? My favorite experience teaching has been getting to know my students as individuals by listening to their opinions and interpretations of history.
What advice do you have for your students? Seek help when needed and communicate with your teachers. We are here to help you and want you to do the best work possible.
How do you prepare for class? I do a lot of background reading on the subject matter and then try to develop standards-based lesson plans that appeal to a variety of different learning styles.
How is it teaching at the same school as your husband? I love having the opportunity to see my husband throughout the day. He has been a great support as I transition into WHS. I’m so lucky!
Staff Writer
Why did you choose to teach history? I have always found the various social and political perspectives and developments in history fascinating. PHOTO BY JULIA SHI
PHOTO BY MICHELLE NOYES
WORLD OF WORDS: Karie Lynch has taught English at Moorpark High School and the Conejo Valley Adult School for over seven years.
What so far was your favorite experience teaching? I am enjoying getting to know each of my students and am excited by their willingness to get involved in classroom discussions. Their enthusiasm inspires me to be a better teacher.
BACK FOR MORE: Ryan Burke graduated from WHS in 2003. Before his return, he taught at two middle schools and Chaminade College Preparatory.
Make history with Wooldridge
Leap into a world of News Editor
PHOTO BY FRANCES LING
PHOTO BY DAVID HUANG
A LIFETIME OF SCIENCE: Dan Horwitz has previously taught a class involving hands-on scientific research. Now he teaches Biology CP and Honors.
WHS has four new math teachers this year: Burke, Sansing, Biller, and Boden. They teach Geometry CP and Algebra 2H, Algebra 1B and CP, Algebra 1 A and Geometry CP, and Algebra 2 CP, Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry, respectively. Mulcahey is a new PE teacher and water polo coach. Hauser teaches health. Iezza, a WHS alumna, and Crawford teach special education. “We are very impressed with all of the new teachers, as they make an excellent addition to our understanding, professional staff,” said Principal Ron Lipari.
What kind of things do you do outside of school? I spend most of my free time at the barn visiting my horse. What advice do you have for your students? Stay organized and do not be afraid to give your opinion. Each person has something meaningful to contribute to the classroom.
I WAS BORN FOR THIS: Katherine Wooldridge student taught for Social Science teachers Carly Dritz and Tom Petelin before joining the WHS faculty. “I have been passionate about the study of history since I was an elementary student,” said Wooldridge.
What other teaching experiences have you had? Last year, I had the opportunity to student teach here at WHS, which introduced me to the incredible work ethic and school pride students possess here at the school. I am very proud to be a part of this school.
6
Opinion
September 14, 2012• The Arrow
The race is over for Lance Armstrong
Victoria Wang Feature Editor
courtesy photo
So Lance Armstrong wasn’t so strong after all. Or at least, everyone besides Armstrong himself and his legions of fans say so. But that’s not important to Travis Tygart, the chief executive of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA)—the moment he began the vigorous investigation of whether or not Armstrong played dirty was the moment he became convinced of Armstrong’s guilt. The bitter legal battle over the famous bicyclist’s alleged illegal doping has been going on for over a decade. Even though the man had never tested positive for drugs, the supporting evidence is substantial. Several of his teammates have already admitted their own guilt, and even more were set to testify against Armstrong in court. Then, in late August, Armstrong finally decided to end it all—”[I am] finished with this nonsense,” as he put it—but not with any sense of closure.
Still insisting that the investigation was “an unconstitutional witch hunt,” he merely refused to speak any further about the matter, preventing any court procedures from shedding light on the whole affair. The USADA promptly stripped him of his seven straight Tour de France victories and banned him from competitive sports for life. It’s an old story. An athlete revered as possibly the greatest in history at his sport turns out to be a fraud, and his or her seemingly impossible achievements are revealed to be just that: impossible. More and more athletes from all sports are admitting to dishonest actions. A cynical, informed cycling fan would merely shake his head in disapproval after finding out Armstrong didn’t play fair. But as a man, Armstrong is incredible. After fighting and conquering cancer, he stood back up to create the greatest streak of wins cycling has ever seen. He established the Lance Armstrong Foundation, also known as LIVESTRONG, a nonprofit organization that lends a hand to cancer victims and hopes to inspire
Backed into a Corner: Lance Armstrong decides not to contest USADA’s allegations.
them with Armstrong’s legacy. And now that legacy is gradually being accepted as just a phony lie. We want to believe that the hope of a comeback for cancer patients has been true. We want to believe that the strength and beauty of all our greatest
Yes on Measure Q: David Huang Staff Writer
On Nov. 6, voters in Ventura County will have a chance to pass Measure Q, a parcel tax that would greatly help the school budget crisis. The Ventura Unified School District has cut $18 billion from the budget since 2008. Consequently, 127 school districts in California filed negative or qualified reports in 2012. A qualified report
means that the district may not meet their financial obligations of the 2012-2013 year. A negative report, however, means that the district will not be able to meet their financial obligations. So far, Ventura County has fared well, with only five out of the 20 school districts filing for a qualified report this year. The districts in Ventura County have been putting in their best effort to cope with declining resources: In order to com-
Passage of this ballot measure is necessary to raise funds for county schools.
pensate, VUSD has cut around 150 jobs, shortened the school year by ten days, increased class sizes, and reduced employees’ salary by about five percent. Some schools have eliminated summer school. To help refund the school budget, this year the Ventura Unified School District is presenting voters a choice to pay a parcel tax of $59 a year. This tax would produce approximately $2.7 million a year. All the funds will be spent on
neighborhood school funding, rather than administrative salaries. The $59 is a reasonable price for our students’ education, considering the parcel tax will only be in effect for four years. Moreover, state officials will not be able to take any funds away, as a council of citizens will manage the use of the money. Passing Measure Q would require two-thirds of the vote. Measure Q would help
Improve your education; exercise your right to vote Shane Bogan Staff Writer
Election season is right around the corner. Many people are closely watching the news to determine whom to vote for in the presidential election. That’s a very good thing; a well-informed public ensures that whatever the outcome, the people’s willpower shall triumph. However, all the excitement about what’s happening on the national stage threatens to distract from important concerns developing right here in California. We have a striking ten billion dollar deficit in our state budget, but must continue to fund state-controlled things such as the employment of those in the public service sector. Those who work in the public service sector include those who can list their occupation as a police officer, fireman, or teacher. For us, as high school students, it is the last profession in that group that has the most direct impact on our everyday lives. That’s why when the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) ranked California 30th in its 2011 edition of Report Card on American Education: K-12 State Performance, Progress, and Reform it was time to take notice. Something must change, and thankfully this year there are three ballot measures every eligible voter concerned with the issue of education in our state can look at and vote on: Proposition 30: If it passes, Prop 30 will increase the personal income tax
on annual earnings over $250,000 for seven years. It will distribute tax revenues, with 89% going to K-12 schools and 11% to community colleges. It prevents the use of funds for administrative costs, but provides local school boards the chance to decide in public meetings how funds are to be spent. Finally, it guarantees funding for public safety services realigned from state to local governments. California’s Legislative Analyst estimates that it would give the state an additional tax revenue of about six billion dollars annually from 2012-13 through 2016-17. Also, as a bonus, spending reductions of about six billion dollars in 2012-13, mainly to education programs, would not take effect. Proposition 32: It prohibits unions, corporations, and government contractors from using payroll-deducted funds for political purposes. It also prohibits them from contributing directly or indirectly to officers/candidates and officer/candidate-controlled committees. However, other political expenditures would remain unrestricted, including corporate expenditures from available resources not limited by payroll deduction prohibition. It would permit voluntary employee contributions to employer-sponsored committees or unions if authorized yearly. This means that the teachers union could not take hard-earned money out of a teacher’s paycheck and give it to fund, for example, a prounion legislator or governor, nor to fund a pro-union candidate running
athletes are possible without some hormonal edge. We want to believe that the human body is capable of miracles. But sometimes, blind faith just isn’t enough to salvage a man’s reputation.
for a government position. However, a teacher could donate the money to the union for them to give to a preferred candidate if he or she wanted to. Proposition 38: Over the next 12 years, it would increase personal income tax rates on annual earnings over $7,316 using a sliding scale from .4% for lowest individual earners to 2.2% for individuals earning over $2.5 million. During Prop 38’s first four years, it would give 60% of revenues to K-12 schools, 30% to repaying state debt, and ten percent to early childhood programs. After four years, it would give 85% of revenues to K-12 schools and 15% to early childhood programs. The funds would be on a school-specific, per-pupil basis, subject to local control, audits, and public input. It would also prohibit the state of California from directing any new funds. Our state Legislative Analyst says this would result in an increase in state personal income tax revenues from 2013 through 2024. The increase would be roughly ten billion in 201214, and half that amount in 2012-13. In each of the initial years, about six billion dollars would be used for schools, one billion dollars for child care and preschool, and three billion dollars for state savings on debt payments. They may be bureaucratic, but these three propositions would alter our school lifestyle, and for students and faculty members, that is important. So if you have an opinion, go out and vote. Make a difference!
maintain current academic programs and class sizes. Money would also go towards replacing old textbooks and bringing more technology to schools. In a time when teachers offer students extra credit to print out their own materials, voting yes on Measure Q is a beneficial choice. It would provide students with more opportunities, which will eventually lead to a brighter and more successful future.
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 Brian Chang NEWS EDITORS Ryan Cheng, Michelle Noyes, Ethan Reul, Vallia Yu OPINION EDITORS Lauren Chin, Orly Greenberg, Yangzong Guo FEATURE EDITORS Vivian Hu, Hanyi Huang, Victoria Wang, Vivian Xu ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Woody Chung SPORTS EDITOR Harry Chung STAFF WRITERS Shane Bogan, Christian Coates, Samantha Doctrow, David Huang, Stacey Kane, Frances Ling, Elizabeth Mossessian, Julia Shi
ADVISER Caron Battaglia
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. Please send submissions to Mrs. Battaglia’s box in the main office or to Room 42E.
Opinion
September 14, 2012 • The Arrow
7
Summer test prep: helpful or harmful? The Arrow weighs in on the benefits and drawbacks of studying for standardized tests over the summer
Woody Chung
Harry Chung
In a perfect world, the SAT would be fun, even easy. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world. Ignoring the debate of whether the SAT is even a fair qualifier for college admissions, students are faced with a predicament: how to study for this difficult test. There are the proud few go-getters who quietly study through the year on their own, waiting for the ripe time to strike and reap the spoils of a 2400. Many students, however, opt to sacrifice a summer or two before the test by enrolling in classes at test prep centers. Of course, these programs are no Costco samples. They don’t come for free. Some can cost up to thousands of dollars. Therefore, a natural question arises: are the summer test preps worth it? For some, unfortunately, the answer is no. An inherent flaw of the test prep class is, ironically, what appeals to many of its subscribers and their parents: the strict regiment. “People do test prep because they find it difficult to motivate themselves to study on their own,” said Jay Vira, ‘13. To “encourage” their students to constantly do better, many test prep centers employ a mandatory system of math practice sheets, vocabulary lists to memorize, and in some cases of unsatisfactory scores, detention. In theory, if the students are continually pressured through repetition to improve, they’ll improve, or constantly suffer detention. Unfortunately, it’s not so successful in practice. According to Denise Pope, senior lecturer at the Stanford University School of Education, self-motivation, not pressure from others, is the key to a great score. “We know from research that motivation plays a central role in engagement with learning and, subsequently, student achievement. If students are given choice and voice in the learning process they are more likely to want to learn the material and more likely to retain it.” It’s possible to be successful on the SAT without outside help. “Students would need good selfcontrol, but they can do that perfectly fine by themselves,” said Nancy Liu ’13.
As one spends the daylight hours of the precious summer day wasting away in the cold, windowless room of the SAT preparation class, one may wonder, is it really worth it? Indeed, many oppose the idea of spending big bucks and long hours when they could be enjoying a nice vacation or even studying the material themselves. Perhaps there are some who can study the material by themselves; perhaps there are some who do not need to study at all. For many others, however, SAT prep classes are an invaluable resource for getting the score that they want. SAT prep classes also help students retain material. In 1996, Dr. Harris Cooper’s famous study on summer learning loss revealed that most students lose about two months of mathematical skills over the summer. By assigning summer assignments to students, these prep classes succeeded in keeping their wits sharp until it is time for the SAT. Students drowning in a sea of distractions can find SAT prep classes a steady anchor to keep them focused and motivated. By providing students with professional educators who watch closely to keep them on track, they can be motivated to work harder. “I am pretty busy with activities like swimming over the summer. SAT prep classes helped me stay grounded,” said Michael Wen ‘13. Simply taking a class can boost one’s test-taking confidence. ”Taking an SAT prep class gave me the confidence to take the actual test with a clear mind. Knowing I had taken a multiplicity of tests and learned,basic strategies, I knew that the real test was not far from any practices I’ve taken,” said Kevin Yu ’13. Furthermore, while some may call these prep classes a waste of money, the classes can pay for themselves. Many colleges grant scholarships to National Merit finalists and students who score well on the exams. Ultimately, whether SAT prep classes can be helpful depends on the individual. When utilized correctly, however, these classes can be tremendously effective.
Sports Editor
Entertainment Editor
Oh, RealLY? Improving our learning environment? Orly Greenberg Opinion Editor
Recycling is super important to California. That’s why, in all of its generosity, the state gave the Conejo Valley School District $300,000 to encourage recycling among its schools, even hiring a so-called “trash auditor” to make sure the money is used properly. Sure, teachers are catering to overcrowded classrooms and students keep their textbooks together with staplers and tears, but recycling is nice too. Don’t get me wrong though; I get it. California bureaucracy designated a certain amount of money to go to recycling, and so to recycling that $300,000 goes. However, I’ve compiled a short list of projects I believe are equally justified in receiving the money, just as those bottles and cans have proved to be. 1. Although classes are packed in quite tightly, (California prefers to refer to it as “cozily,”) teachers still find students unresponsive and unwilling to volunteer in class. With the generous grant, we can donate portions of the money to students who in turn enthusiastically answer any question posed. Some might call this bribing; I’d like to think of it as positive affirmation. 2. While a grant of $300,000 to encourage recycling is questionable, I quite like the idea of “Recycling Police.” Although I don’t think they should only enforce recycling. Rather, these well-paid officers will patrol the campus, looking distinctly intimidating in custom made uniforms (note to the state of California: we probably need room in the budget for a designer). Police may cite students for unsavory behavior including, but not limited to, swearing, gum chewing, refusal to wear spirit colors on designated days, looking unhappy, looking too happy, congesting hallways, walking with a spring in your step and more. 3. Buy everyone in the district a puppy. We’ve got to go through the money somehow right? 4. Instead of using the grant money to benefit recycling, the district should instead use the money to hire actors to positively influence high schoolers. These actors, scattered around campus and disguised as students, are to engage in loud discussions about abstaining from drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure. At the very least, the project will give young actors the opportunity (and paycheck) they deserve. 5. But here’s my ultimate suggestion to the state of California: save the money. With the wrath you’re bound to face from teachers, students, and parents, you’re going to need it.
PREPARATION OVERDOSE: While some students find the practice necessary, others find standardized test lessons overwhelming and of little value.
Nathan Noh ’13, for exam- College Board released a report ple, studied without help from on the score differences between test prep institutes. those who were coached for the “I didn’t want to waste mon- SAT and those who weren’t. In ey. I wanted to conthe verbal section, trol what and how I which totals 800 didn’t want to would study,” said points, coached stuwaste money. I Noh. “This way, I dents improved by wanted to concould concentrate an average of eight on my own weak- trol what and how points. In math, I would study. nesses.” also out of 800, they Vasant Iyer improved by 18. In -Nathan Noh ‘13 ‘13, who notably 2009, the National received a perfect Association of Colscore, also self-studied. lege Admission Counseling reOf course, in an age of in- leased its own report. The vercreasingly difficult student com- bal section was improved by ten petition, what matters isn’t how points; the math section was imone can reach success. It’s wheth- proved by 20. er there are programs that can Test prep can be extremely provide it. Inarguably, SAT prep beneficial, and in some cases, can improve students’ scores. even necessary. For many stuUnfortunately, scores don’t dents, however, other (cheaper) improve by much. In the mid-90’s, options exist.
I
Assessing the back-to-school blues
Lauren Chin
Opinion Editor Jumping back into school after the long idyllic days of summer can be brutal. No, it IS brutal. Stress rapidly accumulates within the first few days from the massive load of homework paired with poor time management skills, as well as having to deal with the drama that restarts between friends, enemies, and “frenemies.” However, both of those hairtearing situations contribute to the most stressful part of coming back to school: the tests given within the first week of school. “Coming back from summer I thought the only homework I would have for the first week would just be getting parents’ signatures and writing letters about
myself,” said Chase Herman ‘14. This thinking, however, is drastically different from the grim realities of “back-to-school-testing,” especially for those classes with summer assignments. “We need to assess where the students’ strengths and weaknesses are, and the students themselves can use the essay they write in the beginning of the year as a comparison to their essay at the beginning of second semester to see if they have grown,” said English teacher Kari Ballard. With budget cuts shortening the school year more and more, teachers have no option but to jump straight into lessons in order to properly prepare students for APs or standard tests such as the STAR. In order to teach everyone what they need to know, teachers need to evaluate where
to start. By testing students within the first week of school, teachers are able to properly gauge what knowledge needs to be reviewed and what information does not need an in depth review so time is not wasted. Some teachers also find that the lesson plan they had methodically laid out to be followed precisely every day ruined because of extra days shaved off of the school year. By speeding up their schedule, teachers then need to start teaching their lessons on the first day of school in order to fit all the knowledge needed in before standardized testing. Along with the scramble to fit an entire school year’s plan into a shortened time frame, comes the influx of test dates that may have normally been a week later. How-
ever, the many tests within the first week of school, while stressful, may be exactly what students need to acclimate themselves properly to the change from a lazy summer to a fast paced school year. By forcing kids to study and pay attention from the first day of school, teachers give the students no choice but to readjust and start working hard or be left behind. The tests are akin to an electric shock to a student’s brain to get started thinking so that it will not be in its previous inactive state that it was over summer vacation. While tests within the first week of school may seem like a painful source of extreme stress for students, in reality it benefits students by preparing them for the grueling year ahead of each student.
SPORTS
8
September 14, 2012 • The Arrow
Warriors ready to charge into Marmonte play Restructured league provides excitement, disappointment Christian Coates Staff Writer
PHOTO BY KELLI DA RIN
The Warriors have opened up the 2012 season strongly with a 3-0 record through Sept. 5. It seems that Neil Uskali ‘13 has been solidified as the starting quarterback, giving stability to a position that was abruptly vacated last year by the departure of Justin Moore ‘13. The Warrior defense has been strong so far, allowing the team to grab a victory against Del Oro, when the offense stalled at some points. The special teams unit came up big against Crenshaw, making three fourth quarter field goals including a game-winner with no time remaining. WHS should be well tested coming into Marmonte league play after a matchup Crespi. Due to a 6-4 vote amongst the schools, the league has been split into a West division and an East division. Of the teams they played last year, WHS will now only face Simi Valley, Royal, Newbury Park, and Saint Bonaventure in the regular season. “It’s disappointing because we like to face our rivals on the other side, but hopefully we’ll face them in the championship” said receiver Alex Egurbide ‘14. The Warriors have to win the East division to create the possibility of renewing their rivalries against Thousand Oaks or crosstown foe Oaks Christian. Both the Lancers and Lions are expected to contend for the title in a weak division
A
NEW QUARTERBACK: Replacing Justin Moore, Neil Uskali passes the ball as his teammates defend him.
against Agoura, Calabasas, and Moorpark. In the East, WHS is the favorite to win the division, although they will be challenged by a very strong Saint Bonaventure Seraph squad, who had an impressive win over Corona Centennial. Royal may be on the rise after beating a young Golden Valley team 24-20, but the Highlanders have a lot more to prove before they are con-
sidered contenders to win the division. Simi Valley took down a weak Saugus squad 19-12 but is expected to struggle in league action. The Newbury Park Panthers could be a dark horse in the division after playing well against Thousand Oaks in a tough overtime loss. They will be relatively untested when they come to WHS on Oct. 12, so it will be
hard to tell if they are a legitimate threat. The Warriors will look to continue to spread the ball around on offense and their defense will most likely remain tough. After the homecoming game against La Serna, they will face the toughest part of their schedule beginning with Crespi. They start their Marmonte League conquest at home on Sept. 28 against St. Bonaventure.
Wutkee returns to direct athletics With the departure of former Assistant Principal of Athletics Jason Branham, the athletic department is now led by Bennett Wutkee. A former WHS Spanish teacher, Wutkee talks about his new assignment:
Water polo dives into action Coach hopes team can earn playoff spot
Michelle Noyes News Editor
Richard Mulcahey, a new WHS P.E. teacher this year, has taken over as the aquatic director and head coach of the boys water polo team. “Being the third coach in three years really means very little to me as the coaches who were here before me were good coaches and certainly contributed to the talent of this team,” said Coach Mulcahey. Most of the boys played together on an unofficial team during the summer. Now that the team is official, the boys have to start preparing for the season immediately. The team works out five days a week in the afternoon as well as three days in the morning before school. “This early in the season it is about improving both physically and mentally. Getting the boys to play as a team together and to properly anticipate the game as it unfolds is important,” said Coach Mulcahey. Currently, the boys are mainly focused
on playing well as a team in the pool during games. Mulcahey wants for his boys waterpolo team to win their way into securing a spot in Division II CIFs. Thomas Turner ’13 and R.J. Kashare ’13 are co-captains for their final season. “Both Thomas and R.J. are advanced players who have great strength in the water and in managing the defense and offense plays,” commented Mulcahey. “We have a strong group of returning varsity and new varsity players. All of them deserve to be on varsity this season, and I am happy to say that truly we have no weak links.” Returning varsity water polo players Devin Taylor ’13, Cole McClung ’13, and John Vigna ’14 will play a major role in helping their team win this year. The next game is away on Sept. 19 against Moorpark High School. . “I think it’s a great opportunity being captain because the team works so hard to succeed and it’s an honor to be able to say you are a part of something so special,” said Turner.
A: “Prior to working at Redwood as Dean of Students (for three years), I taught Spanish at WHS for seven years and coached varsity baseball for five years. Coming back to WHS has been awesome. It has been great to see old friends again and it’s an honor to work at the best school around.” Q: What goals and expectations do you have for the time you will spend here at WHS? A: “I am fortunate to work with an incredible administrative and counseling team and with such a successful and dedicated staff. My goal is to carry on the
Westlake Blvd.
PHOTO BY MICHELLE NOYES
IMMERSED IN HIS WORK: New WHS aquatic director and water polo coach also teaches P.E.
Q: You were previously the Dean of Students at Redwood Middle School. Can you please describe the transition you made and what has changed due to this transition?
tradition of WHS academic and cocurricular success .” Q: Describe your connections to sports and athletics? A: “I started playing soccer and basketball when I was five, baseball when I was seven, and football when I was ten. I played football, basketball, and baseball in high school (Camarillo High School) – two years of varsity football and three years of varsity baseball. I am huge Dodger fan, a Laker fan, and I love college football. I like all sports and I love outdoor activities.” Q: What do you look forward to most as Assistant Principal of Athletics? A: ”I look forward to watching our talented and dedicated student athletes perform at high levels with integrity and sportsmanship. I look forward to working with coaches and staff to help our students maximize their potential and to have a positive, memorable experience competing in high school athletics.” Compiled by Brian Chang
ei