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alabasas Courier Thursday, May 4, 2017 • Volume 33 • Issue 7 • chscourier.com

Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why romanticizes mental illness

By Gianna Dallman Staff Writer

Math and science classes at CHS draw fewer girls

www.telegraph.co.uk

By Laura Myerly Editor-in-Chief CHS is renowned for its excellent academic opportunities.

Undoubtedly, CHS has a lot to be proud of, offering 16 AP courses and 10 Honors courses. According to U.S. News’ Best High Schools, nearly 50 percent of the student body took Advanced Placement tests in 2016, and 87 percent of those students passed the tests with a score of three or higher. However, within the walls of CHS’s most advanced math and science classes rests a puzzling phenomenon: the number of girls in the highest-level courses is disproportionately low. While this pattern is quite distinct in classes such as AP Physics and AP Calculus BC, the same cannot be said for the advanced social science classes. This information begs the question of why so few girls are taking these courses, and what this says about American society today.

Traditionally, AP Calculus BC and AP Physics C: Mechanics are considered among the most advanced math and science courses offered at CHS. According to data from past and present school rosters, courtesy of Algebra I, Finite Math, Honors Calculus and AP Calculus BC teacher Andrea Camacho, the 2016 Calculus BC classes contain 38 boys and only seven girls. In 2015, the numbers were likewise

Inside this issue

unbalanced, with 29 boys to 15 girls. CP and AP Physics teacher Ryan Bergstrom’s AP classes have experienced a similar, if less pronounced, disproportionality: this year, the proportion of boys to girls in AP classes was 48 to 19, and in 2015 was 30 to 14. Interestingly, the high-level humanities courses have not experienced an equivalent phenomenon. According to AP U.S. History teacher Tyler Lee, the 2016 AP U.S. History classes contain 81 boys and 80 girls, and the 2015 classes contained 57 boys and 42 girls. From this data, it is clear that female students are less likely to enroll in upper level math or science classes, but not upper level history classes. However, the issue is not confined to CHS–this phenomenon has been observed both nationwide and abroad, and many theories attempt to explain it.

“I have noticed that in classes with larger amounts of boys, the girls tend to be quieter and less likely to ask questions,” said Bergstrom. “When you’re not comfortable asking questions, you don’t learn as much.”

According to a study done by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, female students lack confidence in math and science subjects. The study speculates that this may be due to societal convention, which tends to place higher expectations on boys to achieve success in subjects such as calculus and

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physics. Throughout history, women have been associated with nurturing and creativity, whereas men have far more often been the great pioneers of scientific theory. In fact, since 1901, only 2.3 percent of chemistry laureates and 5.3 percent of physiology laureates of the Nobel Prize have been women, according to the New York Times. While this imbalance has certainly improved in recent years, the last vestiges of a time in which women were not considered capable scientists or engineers still remain. Various arguments have postulated that women are simply innately more geared toward the humanities, whereas men are more biologically wired to excel in the sciences; however, this argument has been disproven multiple times. In fact, the OECD’s study found that in Shanghai, female students scored better on math and science tests than male students. This leads to the conclusion that girls’ seeming disinterest in math and science is a cultural, rather than biological, occurrence.

While this peculiarity in the education system has been noted across many nations, seeing it manifest in the microcosm of CHS is eye-opening. Twenty-first century society has a duty to break the barriers which discourage girls from pursuing their full potential in STEM courses and potential careers, and this encouragement starts right at home, at CHS. •

Epicenter begins microchipping employees • pg. 3

After being released on March 31, the Netflix original television show 13 Reasons Why took the Internet by storm. The Netflix original series was based off of the book Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, released in 2007. The show follows a high school junior named Hannah Baker and the people and events that, according to her, lead her to take her own life. She narrates the show via a series of recorded tapes, each one designed for a person who could have made the choice to be considerate but instead chose to infringe upon her happiness and neglect the consequences of his or her actions. Baker delegates that the tapes would pass through the 13 people in order of events, beginning with the first person she accuses of damaging her reputation in high school. Then, the person was to give the recordings to the subject of the following tape, who Baker believed was to likewise to blame for her suicide. The show has raised controversy because it touches on a variety of heavy subjects ranging from rape to bullying to suicide. In actuality, the show romanticizes teen suicide and mental illness, portraying these serious subjects as that of a guilt-trip disguised as a scavenger hunt.

If one looks beyond the show’s overarching message of being kind no matter the situation, the show greets viewers with an unnerving presence of a disoriented view on mental illness. It can be inferred that Baker suffers from depression and yet the show does not even brush upon the subject. According to Science Mag, depression rates in teens have almost tripled since 1993 in the U.S., the number one catalyst proven to be the normalization of intense subjects like the ones presented in the show. This provides factual evidence in proving 13 Reasons Why as a likely trigger for depression in teenage viewers.

Another pressing issue within the show is the fact that getting help from adults is portrayed as something with no worth. Baker sees her counselor before she makes her ultimate decision to take her own life and because she does not detect any signs of consideration from said counselor, she takes that as a final trigger of full-fledged hopelessness.

This depiction of reaching out does nothing more than inspire the closing off of oneself to potential help. Although there is no immediate help presented for Baker, her struggles may have reached a positive turn had she persisted and realized the importance of truly utilizing another person to prevent such a drastic and unfortunate outcome.

13 Reasons Why does not depict happiness or kindness, but rather an inaccurate string of horrors which does no more than plant dark thoughts into innocent minds as a result of the unnecessarily heavy subject matter. The importance of showing mental illness correctly, and even more importantly how to get help if one is experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts, are completely overlooked in the show. • If you or a friend are in need of help call (310)-855-4673 or text ‘TEEN’ to 839863 to speak with a specially trained youth representative from Teen Line suicide prevention and depression centers.

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Junior Sabrina Block helps bring back Careers in Education class • pg. 6

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Entertainment Cotton candy shop CottonHi satisfies sweet tooth • pg. 8

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2Local charities allow CHS students to fulfill their service learning hours

By Teal Hall Staff Writer A common struggle in every student’s life is how to get involved and give back to their community. While CHS gives students opportunities to get involved with organizations during the year by requiring students to participate in 15 hours of service learning, sometimes finding a place with a cause a student really believes in can be difficult.

However, there are several great organizations that are local to the Calabasas community that do extraordinary things.

Kevin Cordasco Foundation

A notable foundation that is local to Calabasas is the Kevin Cordasco Foundation: Something Yellow. Inspired by the battle fought by Kevin Cordasco, a CHS student who passed away from childhood cancer, Something Yellow aims to continue the activism Kevin took part it and raise awareness and funds for othwww.crowdrise.com er children who suffer from cancer. The Kevin Cordasco Foundation holds several events throughout the year in order to raise money for kids with cancer everywhere. CHS also works very closely with the foundation to put on events at school, like selling yellow Pack shirts at the Kevin Cordasco dodge ball game in April and several other similar fundraisers. The money raised by the foundation goes toward Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, among other organizations, to fund cancer research and to change the lives of teenage cancer patients. More information on Something Yellow and how to get involved in their events can be found at somethingyellow.org.

Relay For Life Another fundraiser that benefits cancer patients is Relay For Life. Relay For Life is an annual event that aims to commemorate loved ones lost from cancer while raising money for the American Cancer Society. This organization was started in 1985, when one man in Washington state ran around a track for twenty-four www.secure.acsevents.org hours raising money to help the American Cancer Society, and it still continues today. The Relay is designed to bring communities together by creating teams walking around a designated path, making sure to have at least one team member active through the entire event to symbolize that cancer never sleeps, and for one night the participants will not either in a valiant effort against cancer. Each event goes anywhere from six hours to twenty-four and has multiple stages, activities and parts that continue on all night. Every year, Calabasas joins in on being just one of the dozens of cities all over the world to participate in this life-changing event. To learn how to get involved in this year’s relay, look up the Calabasas Relay for Life group on Facebook.

Harold Robinson Foundation The next great foundation to support is the Harold Robinson Foundation. This organization was founded on the belief that all children should be given equal opportunity no matter their socioeconomic status. Their biggest fundraiser is called Pedal on the Pier, and aims to raise $1,000,000 for the organization’s Camp www.haroldrobinsonfoundation.org Ubuntu and companion camps.

Camp Ubuntu is a three day camp retreat that brings in kids from over 25 inner-city schools to give them the tools to achieve their goals while offering them multiple classes and a safe environment to grow in. This program helps to bring inner-city kids amazing opportunities and experiences that are not usually available to them because of their socioeconomic status. The Harold Robinson Foundation quests to break down that barrier and offer equal opportunities to children of all ages.

Many students do not know how easy it is to get involved with community service such as these organizations and other similar causes.

So many charities, fundraisers and organizations welcome volunteers with open arms and provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for students to make a positive impact on someone else’s life. There are organizations for every cause under the sun. By involving themselves with organizations that they are passionate about, students can both fulfill community service requirements and make a difference. •

www.occupycorporatism.com

Elon Musk prepares to colonize Mars in 2024

By Kaitlin Rasborn Staff Writer On Sept. 27, 2016, SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk announced the company’s ambitious plans to colonize Mars. Musk has been a long-time advocate for Mars discovery and exploration, wanting to build a greenhouse on the Red Planet, as well as a high-speed transportation system known as the Hyperloop that would run between major cities. He is also the founder of electric car company Tesla Motors and is the chair of a solar energy company called SolarCity. “[I am] an engineer and entrepreneur who builds and operates companies to solve environmental, social and economic challenges,” said Musk when asked to describe himself and his line of work.

Using the company’s proposed Interplanetary Transport System (ITS), which combines the most powerful rocket ever built with a sizable spaceship, SpaceX hopes to establish a permanent, self-sustaining city on Mars. American astrophysicist, cosmologist, author and science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson is willing to fly to Mars with SpaceX as long as Musk meets a few key requirements.

“I really like Earth,” wrote Tyson during a Reddit “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) session. “So any space trip I take, I am double-checking that there is sufficient funds for me to return. Also, I am not taking that trip until Elon Musk send[s] his mother and brings her back alive. Then I am good for it.”

As of right now, only 12 people have ever set foot on an astronomical body other than Earth, all 12 being the Apollo astronauts who walked on the moon. SpaceX hopes to change this fact with its revolutionary plans and technology. As of right now, the cost per seat on Musk’s flight to Mars is a whopping ten billion dollars, but the utilization of ITS should reduce this price to anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000.

Throughout the next 50 to 100 years, SpaceX plans on sending about one million people to Mars, the earliest of these trips beginning in the year 2024; however, this is only possible if everything goes perfectly. SpaceX will begin unmanned launches to the Red Planet as early as 2018 in order to form the ideal route in space from Earth to Mars and to work out any kinks in their designs. Because SpaceX wants to transport a large number of people to this unmanned territory, there would have to be a minimum of 1,000 flights to and from Mars. Each ship would carry a minimum of 100 passengers, meaning the colonization of Mars would require 10,000 flights in order to bring one million people to this planet. With time and better designs, these ships will most likely increase their capacity to 200 people. The average duration of a trip aboard the ITS ships is around 115 days. Depending on time of departure and other atmospheric factors, this trip could be minimized to 80 days and eventually 30 days.

Overall, the idea of colonizing Mars is still up in the air, but with time, financial aid and hard work, it just might be possible. Musk is bringing human beings closer to becoming an interplanetary species. •

President Donald Trump’s new internet policy jeopardizes the personal privacy of Americans

By Gianna Dallman Staff Writer

On April 4, 2017, President Trump signed the repeal of the Federal Communications Commission’s legislation pertaining to internet providers selling and sharing people’s browsing history. Previously, the Obama administration supported Congress’s decision not to pass this as a bill; however, the Trump administration believes the legislation will ensure economic prosperity. Through personalized advertisements as a result of internet provider’s ability to see one’s search history, internet browser companies are planning to cultivate an entirely customized world of advertisements on every computer, smartphone and television.

FCC chairman Ajit Pai developed the idea of removing security restrictions to benefit internet providers and the economy. Being in charge of the FCC and the fate of the five largest internet providers in America, Pai is dictating a sixth of all money generated in the American economy. According to a study conducted by economist Stephen Siwek, the internet industry was worth $996 billion in 2014. Pai has yet to discuss the projected amount of revenue that will be generated by the repeal of the legislation but has assured Congress it is a necessity The repeal itself entails many new and possibly concerning changes to the public’s security. A highly disputed aspect of the legislation is the ability for internet providers to see any person’s previous and current legal documents. This means that social security numbers, living payments, tax documents and other personal information are on display and have the potential to be traded and sold by internet companies.

The repeal itself has been in the works since June of 2015 when the Obama Administration repealed many smaller restrictions placed upon internet providers to boost the economy. President Obama’s original changes to internet privacy were detested by the American people but easily passed in Congress with both parties agreeing it would generate more money for the country. President Trump’s signing of the new repeal, which entails far less privacy for citizens, was surprisingly widely supported by citizens and caused more of a stir among Congress. Older demographics in the U.S. seem to be indifferent to the legislation while millennials seem to disagree with its passage.

“The repeal is very concerning to me,” said junior Sam Barnett. “While it’s hopefully going to be beneficial to the economy, it seems like a large sacrifice of privacy on behalf of Americans.”

President Trump’s approval of the FFC’s push to repeal privacy laws for internet providers has the potential to make large amounts of money for the country. While privacy is being minimized, the companies will supposedly be monitored in their selling and trading of private information by Congress. • Landon Ferris/ Photographer

News

3

Microchips redefine what it means to be an employee

By Dakota Gates Staff Writer

Technology is evolving, shaping society at an astounding rate. The innovation and technology company Epicenter, as well as many others, has introduced the use of microchip implants in workplaces around the world with the intent of creating cyborgs. As this technology advances, more and more employees are being injected with microchips to make everyday tasks more convenient. Epicenter workers are being used as experimental subjects and the majority agree it has positively benefited their work atmosphere.

Microchip implants make the lives of workers and business managers very efficient. Employers spend a significant amount of their work time monitoring their employees, making sure they stay on task. With the introduction of microchips, employers are able to divert their attention from observing www.wisegeek.org workers to other areas of importance. For instance, the microchips collect data regarding how many times an employee takes breaks or uses the restroom, relieving business managers of constantly surveying their workers’ whereabouts.

By simply inserting a microchip into the area between the thumb and index finger with a syringe, workers themselves no longer have to worry about many of their responsibilities. General tasks such as opening doors, operating printers and buying food have become much easier since everything is controlled by the implanted device. As employees perform their daily chores at work, they do not have to worry about keeping track of information or carrying extra accessories along with them, which is a major benefit.

“The biggest benefit I think is convenience,” said co-founder and CEO of Epicenter Patrick Mesterton. “It basically replaces a lot of things you have, like communication devices, whether it be credit cards or keys.”

Nonetheless, with great convenience comes potential danger, as the microchip also has the ability to transmit confidential information. Since the microchip is “passive,” other devices are able to obtain large amounts of personal and impersonal data constantly collected by the microchips; however, the microchip cannot access the information itself. This small piece of technology holds credit card information, as well as personal and health related information like the implantee’s sleep habits and whereabouts. Hackers can easily track and obtain all of this information, which is concerning for subjects of the experiment.

Creators are in the process of adjusting privacy and security features to make this device as simple and safe as possible.

“This is messed up,” said sophomore Nolan Kagan. “It is almost as if we are being transformed into robots.”

However, as uneasy as people are about microchips, carriers overlook the negative security aspect. With less responsibilities to worry about, most employees have grown fond of their new gadget.

Very few people who were tested upon regret their decision of inserting this new piece of technology.

Microchips are certainly a step forward in technology. With a lack of tasks present that employees have to burden themselves over, such as the typical crisis of forgetting their keys or wallet, people are able to focus on more important jobs. Although a seemingly modest change compared to the large scope of the universe, the use of microchips in a person’s everyday life has been a monumental adjustment. Over the next few years, this small gadget has the potential to expand to many different workforces and continue to www.wonderfulengineering.com advance. •

www.townhall.com

Starbucks starts conversation

By Isabel Ravenna Staff Writer

For politically opinionated coffee-drinkers, Starbucks is the go-to coffee shop. Starbucks is now offering customers a free cup of coffee as long as they drink it with somebody they disagree with. That is the premise behind the company’s collaboration with Harvard Business School’s ‘Hi from the Other Side,’ which matches up liberals and conservatives to spark healthy conversation regarding American politics.

Users can sign up for the app via Facebook and pair with someone locally who identifies with the opposing political party. Each user then receives half of the information necessary to unlock a Starbucks gift card. Once both participants meet, they can work together to unlock the gift cards and receive a complimentary cup of joe.

Starbucks has not been afraid to take part in political discourse lately. The company’s CEO, Howard Schultz, sent a message to employees the day after the election, stating he was stunned by its outcome, encouraging Starbucks workers to care for one another and their loved ones. He also promised to hire 10,000 refugees in response to President Trump’s executive order barring immigrants from seven predominantly Muslim countries. Schultz’s political passion is the reason for Starbucks’ movement. He figures that other Americans who have the power to make a positive difference will be empowered to help as well.

“This is news to me, but it’s a very good idea,” says sophomore Adi Ward. “With all of the protesting and controversy lately, it’s awesome that strangers get to civilly share their opinions while enjoying free coffee.” •

3D-printed skin will limit animal testing and benefit burn victims

By Ashley Rubens Staff Writer

www.abhmuseum.org

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Decades after desegregation laws swept America, a Mississippi school district will finally join society

By Teal Hall Staff Writer On May 17, 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the Brown v. Board of Education case deemed the segregation of white and black students in public schools unconstitutional.

While that was a major step in America’s battle of diffusing systematic racism, it was definitely not the last. As a nation, America has progressed over the past several decades to provide equality for citizens of all races and ethnicities. Legislature, as well as social movements, advocate for the liberty promised in the United States Constitution. However, some places have yet to take that first step.

In March, the small town of Cleveland, Mississippi settled on an initiative that will officially end the racial segregation of its local schools. For the past 52 years, Cleveland has upheld an all-white high school and an all-black high school, despite rigorous legal battles about the

segregation. The town has tried to implement programs over the years that would join the two schools together, but they overwhelmingly failed. Despite the lack of local order or district ruling requiring that the schools be divided by race, until recently, Cleveland High School remained a mostly all-white school. Contrarily, East Side High School remained an all-black school, with only one non-black student currently enrolled.

“We conclude that, in the field of public education, the doctrine of ‘separate but equal’ has no place,” said the U.S. Supreme Court in their ruling of Brown v.

Board of Education. “Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.”

However, with the ruling that happened in March, the two schools will merge into a single high school that will preside on Cleveland High’s campus; the East Side High campus will be used as a middle school for the town. In this southern community, where there are many other school districts who are still

invested in deep-rooted racial segregation, Cleveland is making strides for itself as a beacon of democratic hope and inspiration. While the decision was met with a range of emotions, generally the town is all for making the new plan work.

“I think it is a good idea,” said East Side High graduate Lataivian Wright. “It will give more kids the possibility to get to a better school. Kids can adapt to the adverse effects of multiculturalism.”

While the end of this racial segregation may seem obvious and outdated to many, this landmark is still celebrated by many.

Even in modern society, racial discrimination still exists, and every step to remove such injustice is a step toward a better society.

Cleveland reminds the world that there are problems that need to be fixed within communities, but that as a nation, the U.S. has the ability to band together and make a positive difference. The desegregation of the Cleveland school is generally viewed as a triumph for American democracy. •

Recently, scientists at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid have developed a technology that can print real human flesh. The human skin is printed with a bioprinter—which is very similar to a 3D printer—that uses bioinks made up of cellular components of skin such as plasma. Similar to how ink prints images, bioinks have the ability, when mixed in a certain way, to produce skin.

Bioprinters are currently capable of printing and forming two different types of skin tissue, both of which have endless opportunities to benefit the world. The first tissue is the basic skin of a human. Having the ability to print this tissue could completely end animal testing because companies could test products on printed skin instead of animal skin.

“The bioprinter has so many amazing uses, but I think it is truly amazing that it has the possibility to stop animal testing,” said junior Fiorella Quintana-Reyna.

The printer can also create skin for a specific individual using his or her own cells. This tissue can be utilized for burns and other therapeutic needs. The ability to print skin would help many patients suffering from serious skin injuries recover and heal their wounds.

“While the new technology will initially be applied to chronic wounds and burns, it likely will have cosmetic applications in the future in addressing aging skin,” said dermatologist Joshua Zeichner.

The scientists from the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid have furthered their research by creating blood vessels and synthetic ovaries for mice, and hope to eventually print functional organs for humans.

Printing human organs would be a huge step in the medical world and would save many lives. If organs could be printed, organ donors would no longer be needed and transplant patients would have an unlimited supply of organs. The ability to print organs is predicted to take place within the next six years, and will certainly continue to revolutionize society and the medical world for years to come. •

www.n3dprinting.com

Opinion

4

Schools need to better accommodate mentally ill students

Landon Ferris/Photographer

By Ariana Kalantari Staff Writer Students with mental illnesses are often overlooked in school systems.

These students are forgotten and forced to endure schools designed for neurotypical students, despite not having neurotypical brains. Students with ADHD, anxiety and depression are underrepresented, and need more accommodations to succeed in school. School should be a place where every student is offered an equal opportunity to be successful.

Students who suffer from ADHD struggle with more than just the standard inattentiveness and hyperactivity. They may suffer from different aspects of auditory and visual processing disorders as well. A student with an auditory learning disability may hear a sequence of instructions, but only perform the first task they hear, while a student with a visual learning disorder may read through a passage four times and still not retain any information. While it is a common misconception that kids with ADHD are all disruptive and have bad grades, because many students remain undiagnosed until later in high school or college, they often work extremely hard to compensate for their disability.

The grades of these students are good enough to pass by administration unnoticed, but at the cost of adequate sleep, free time and attention to health.

Anxiety is the body’s natural fight or flight response. It is normal for everyone to experience spells of anxiety in times of stress. However, as a disorder, anxiety disrupts the daily functions of the people who suffer from it.

Students plagued by anxiety may make themselves ill with worry over assign-

Humans should not mine the moon

By Teal Hall Staff Writer

Space has long been a mystery to humans. However, with the start of the Space Race in the 1960s and the subsequent Moon Landing in 1969, the world has advanced its knowledge of outer space and technology enough to begin exploring the outer edges of the galaxy. Now, the human race is thinking about colonizing and even mining certain extraterrestrial bodies, specifically the Moon. However, this jump forward into places unknown would set an unhealthy precedent for humankind’s lifestyle, because it would go against laws established about owning property in space, cause political tension and allow humans to continue to exhaust resources on Earth without repercussions.

Though there would be advantages to mining the Moon’s resources, such as an influx of new materials, a boost in the economy and a chance for humans to conserve natural resources available on Earth, mining the Moon would cause excessive trouble.

The situation would be complicated because of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which established that no government can claim any resource on the Moon or any other celestial body. If a country felt times were tough enough that resources needed to be mined on the Moon, they would have to appeal to this treaty before they could even start to move their plans into space. This would most likely cause tension among other countries and create a lot of pushback. Since the world is always in a state of some tension, adding more strain between nations for reasons involving space would be unwise.

More importantly, deciding to mine the Moon would encourage the misconception that resources are expendable. The Earth is currently suffering from decades of human abuse and a shortage of natural resources. Making the move to mine the Moon’s resources would send a message to both current and future generations that the damage they inflict on the Earth is consequence-free. This would set an unhealthy precedent in motion for the world and make it seem more acceptable for humans to continue to destroy their current, original home.

There are several private companies and organizations that aim to send out Moon probes as soon as possible. The most publicized example of this is the Moon Express, a private company that has recently been approved to be the first commercial space mission under the requirement of the Outer Space Treaty. Much of the interest about excavating the Moon centers around mining its Helium -3, which is an element thought to be able to provide a safer nuclear energy in order to power fusion reactors. However, even this argument is flawed, as Helium -3, like any resource, is expendable.

“It doesn’t make sense, the whole Helium-3 argument,” said planetary science and astrobiology professor Ian Crawford. “It’s a fossil fuel reserve. Like mining all the coal...once you’ve mined it … it’s gone.”

While these new ways to cultivate outside of Earth are becoming a fast-approaching reality, even just the concept has numerous implications, many of them just as bad as they are good. While no drastic developments with this project will come to fruition any time in the near future, a decision will have to be made in the coming years; this decision has the potential to dramatically change the way humans live. •

ments they receive, leading them to miss days of school, avoid class discussions or suffer from insomnia. Symptoms of anxiety often mimic those of ADHD; levels of hyperactivity and inattentiveness may be seen in either disorder. Additionally, people with anxiety sometimes suffer from panic attacks, which prevent them from properly functioning and leads to a lack of ability to properly balance both school and health.

Depression is the most misunderstood, and sometimes the hardest, mental illness to treat. Depression is not simply a feeling of sadness, but a prolonged feeling of numbness. People who suffer with depression become despondent; simple things such as eating or moving become a chore to them. Students suffering from depression may refrain from participating in any activity, become irritated easily and seem disinterested in having any social interactions. Depression results in an incredible loss of energy; students may sleep for 15 hours and still wake up exhausted. Often, students with depression struggle with fatigue in their daily lives, thus negatively impacting their relationships both in and outside of the classroom.

If school curriculums are changed to accommodate students with mental illnesses, more students will succeed in their classes. Everyone has a different way of learning. School is oftentimes designed for neurotypical students to succeed, but with more resources at their disposal, students who struggle with mental health are capable of performing in high school just as well as others. They may require more accommodations; however, those who want to succeed and believe they can handle the workload will put in the extra effort. The biggest help to a student suffering with mental illness is a teacher who understands. Oftentimes, students suffering from mental illness thrive in environments with attentive teachers. Teachers who provide simple adjustments such as extended time on tests, display empathy toward those who struggle to balance their education with their mental health and take an active interest in their students’ mental wellbeing are just a few minor accommodations that can make an immense difference.

Although some opponents argue that these students will have to face the same issues they face in high school in the real world, this argument fails to take into account the fact that high school only sets students with mental illness up for a lifetime of struggle.

While in school, these students are required to test a certain way, learn a certain way and work a certain way. Many are not diagnosed until much later in their lives, so they grow up thinking that they are incompetent just because they are not able to perform the same way as everyone else. In the real world, these students will have the liberty to do whatever works for them; they have the liberty of picking a job they enjoy and finding a pace that works for them. Even collegiate universities have proven to be more helpful in accommodating students, ensuring that students are better counseled and having schedules that better suit their needs. With the help of school administrators and teachers, the day will come where students with mental illness no longer need to suffer alone. •

Opinion

5

Society fails to hold celebrities accountable for unlawful actions

By Cami Klein Features Editor

www.gettyimages.com

Same-sex couples should be allowed to adopt kids

By Kaitlin Rasborn Staff Writer For many people, LGBT adoption is still a radical concept.

Because many believe that the “perfect” family is one with a mother and father of opposite sexes, many struggle with the concept of same-sex marriage and adoption. Despite the fact that LGBT adoption has become more widely accepted, onethird of adoption agencies reject gay and lesbian applicants because of religious beliefs, state laws or standard policy. Such discrimination is abhorring and should be changed immediately as same-sex couples have proven to be just as capable of good parenting as heterosexual couples in relation to personal, economical and overall health benefits.

As part of a wider child health program, researchers at the University of Melbourne organized the Australian Study of Child Health in Same-Sex Families (ACHESS). The study focused on data surrounding about 500 children with ages ranging from 0 to 17 years old. Of the 315 parents participating, 93% identified as being in a same-sex relationship.

“What the researchers found in this interim report is that when measuring same-sex parent households against heterosexual households on a number of key health indicators, such as self-esteem, emotional well-being and the amount of time spent with parents, gay and straight-parent families match up well,” said Care2 writer Williams.

Personality-wise, researchers found that children in a samesex parent household seemed more complacent and scored significantly higher on wellness measures when compared to kids from straight parent families. In regards to mental health, children of same-sex couples are more likely to be bullied in school. However, this situation causes same-sex parents to be more aware of their children’s well-being, and social issues are understood and addressed without a second thought.

Additionally, same-sex parents are regarded as more financially stable when they adopt a child which contributes to the economic benefits experienced by children of same-sex couples. Most likely, this is due to the discrimination and extra planning that the government forces same-sex couples to endure. Although this was not the intent, the outcome of this additional preparation is inevitably a more favorable environment for a child. Most same-sex parents have to wait to have children until they can prove their financial stability is intact and long-lasting and the relationship between the two parents is strong and reliable. As a result, family cohesion is naturally healthier in terms of general health and well-being.

“I do not really understand why same-sex parents cannot adopt children through the same easy steps that heterosexual parents use,” said sophomore Sivan Propper. “I think the adoption process should be the same no matter the gender, race, religion or sexual orientation of a person. After all, shouldn’t the whole point of adoption be to find a child a loving home?”

Many companies and adoption agencies are working to change the bigotry faced by same-sex couples. As America moves toward total equality and acceptance of people regardless of sexuality and other segregating factors, the adoption process should become more approachable and convenient for same-sex families, as it should have been from the beginning. •

For decades, the public has obsessively idealized celebrities. Countless media outlets, magazines and TV shows broadcast any news they can get their hands on. Whether scandals are true, alleged or even blatantly irrelevant, reports on A-list celebrities and “here-today, gone-tomorrow” sensations fill the eyes and ears of Americans. Every move of these famed men and women is documented and interpreted by critics and fans alike: the good, the bad and the ugly. Often, the negative actions and crimes of celebrities in the spotlight make front page news one day and are forgotten by the next, lost in a storm of headlines. After the initial shock of a celebrity scandal, society then tends to collectively forget the actions of beloved stars, as if star-power makes one invincible to the law. Similarly, celebrities that do face the brunt of public criticism often never face consequences for their actions in the public eye. Contrary to popular belief, society should take the actions and characters of artists into consideration when choosing to support their art.

“Chances are good that if we delved into the private lives of every single artist whose work we admire, surely we’d find plenty not to like, and even to be disgusted by,” said TIME journalist Peggy Drexler. “It’s possible we’d never see a movie, look at a work of art, or read a book again.”

The varying degrees of celebrity fame, as well as varying degrees of crimes committed, seem to affect the ways in which people treat famous actors, athletes and musicians who have broken the law. Filmmakers Woody Allen and Roman Polanski both have faced charges for unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Polanski has admitted to the drugging and rape of a 13-year-old girl, and Allen faces accusations from his adopted daughter of abuse from as early as age seven.

While the public criticizes these men and their actions, both continue to have successful careers—Allen’s 2011 and 2013 productions Midnight in Paris and Blue Jasmine received Academy Award nominations and wins respectively, and Allen himself was even honored with a “Best Director” nomination. While many boycott the films created by these men, their popularity remains intact, held together by the society’s dismissal of unlawful conduct and immorality in favor for entertainment. Comparatively, actor Mel Gibson--an admitted anti-semitic who is boycotted by some but respected by many--has managed to continue his successful career in light of public disapproval.

Likewise, musicians often receive the benefits of fame despite unlawful actions. Late pop icon Michael Jackson has been accused of sexual misconduct with minors. Searches of Jackson’s Santa Barbara “Neverland Ranch” revealed stashes of ‘paedophilic’ content including adult and child nudity, child torture and female bondage. The discovery of this collection occurred only after a young man accused the singer of sexual assault on multiple occasions. Despite the content revealed in the recent 2016 raid, fans across the country continue to honor Jackson’s legacy and dance along to the beats of his 80s anthems. Jackson’s representation in the media is a prime example of separation of criminal activity from the art created. After growing up with “Thriller” and “Dangerous,” longtime fans understandably find difficulty in turning against a man they once considered a hero. While the room for justification for supporting a pedophile is narrow, the longevity and significance of Jackson’s career surely adds some width.

That being said, similar support is offered to rapper Kodak Black, who recently rose to fame at the peak of the trap music era. Born Dieuson Octave, Black faces groping and assault allegations by a strip club employee, as well as rape charges by a former fan. According to the allegations, the female was sexually assaulted after one of Black’s February 2016 concerts in Florence, South Carolina. After being jailed on several occasions for the aforementioned assaults, possession of a weapon and armed robbery, Black was again jailed for violation of house arrest and probation. While behind bars for these crimes, Black’s fan base began a “Free Kodak” movement across various social media platforms, advocating for the release of the artist. Such fans seemingly had no regard for Black’s crimes or victims and hopped on board with the trend, rather than assessing the facts of his violations of the law.

“This movement is bigger than rap,” said the description of one ‘Free Kodak’ product available online. “This movement is bigger than t-shirts. This movement is to demonstrate the power of music, people and independent entrepreneurialism coming together to do something positive in an attempt of making an impact on a failed system.”

As Black waited behind bars, his crimes continued to have no effect on the popularity of his music. His single “Tunnel Vision” soared 19 spots on the Hot 100 list up to No. 6, earning him the first top 10 hit of his career. Also, Black’s debut album “Painting Pictures” was released on March 21, 2017 and peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.

Celebrities in all aspects of the arts have repeatedly been rewarded with public praise despite unlawful behavior and actions. Visual arts icons and heroic musicians stun with the revelation of their true characters, yet fans, east coast to west, seem to forgo consideration of such actions.

There is no correct way to respond to disappointment by an idolized celebrity, and interpretation of the relationship between an artist and his or her art is unique to the fan. However, it is ultimately a disservice to society to completely disregard morals of a celebrity—or any human— when hailing him or her as a hero. •

www.trapworldhiphop.com

Features

6

Junior Elijah Schwartz exemplifies dedication and passion for the community as a driven Boy Scout

By Kendall Gurian Staff Writer

Whether it be working with children and animals or volunteering for different organizations, everyone has a cause in which they believe. For junior Elijah Schwartz, helping his community is what drives him to be a role model for youth in not only Calabasas, but in the entire state of California.

He does so by participating in the Boy Scouts of America. Through his active involvement in the organization, Schwartz has received a variety of opportunities that make him unique among his peers.

Schwartz has always had a strong aptitude for public speaking. His natural comfort in front of crowds, along with his affiliation with the CalabaPhoto courtesy of Elijah Schwartz sas community, has led him to be recognized by the state government. Schwartz was flown all the way to the state capitol, Sacramento, to meet with government officials. While there, he communicated with highly distinguished individuals, including the General of the National Guard, Speaker of the Assembly, Governor, State Treasurer, State Attorney General and Superintendent of Public Education.

“What led me to this opportunity in the first place happened last November,” said Schwartz. “My volunteers and I successfully planted half a dozen trees with an appropriate eco-friendly irrigation system that in turn the student body can facilitate at CHS.” Schwartz’s successful irrigation techniques and his efforts in campus beautification provided him with a suitable topic to speak about. At his Boy Scouts award ceremony in February, he gave a speech addressing what community means to him and the world. The speech was recorded and sent along to state officials, who then offered him the chance to represent youth and Boy Scouts in a meeting with California’s government.

“In Sacramento, I was able to ask key questions on how California operates through the mediums of education, security and legislature,” said Schwartz.

Because of his speeches and subsequent meeting with the California government, Schwartz now has multiple internships in the works to maintain a connection with the officials he has met. He aims to ensure that the youth’s voices are well heard and represented at a state level.

“I was also granted the chance to emcee a national award ceremony sponsored by the BSA,” said Schwartz.

Throughout his entire experience, Schwartz has found his true passion. His involvement with the Boy Scouts of America has helped him to realize that being involved in a bunch of small endeavors is not nearly as rewarding as finding one purpose that is important and meaningful.

“It’s all about picking what is important to you and sticking with it,” said Schwartz. “And having no expectation in mind except promoting the morals you wish to spread to better set yourself and others around you.”

Schwartz is an example of how passion for helping the community can lead to accomplishments and opportunities like no other. Hopefully, his success inspires students to work hard and find their niche. •

Sabrina Stevens/Photographer

Junior Sabrina Bloch revives the Careers in Education class

By Ashley Rubens Staff Writer

When junior Sabrina Bloch was in second grade, a high school student volunteered in her classroom, assisting the teacher and students.

Bloch’s lifelong dream was to become a teacher, and she hoped to have a similar experience herself. The opportunity to volunteer in an elementary classroom was beloved by CHS students while it was offered. To Bloch’s dismay, Project Socrates was removed from the CHS curriculum years ago.

“When I found out that the class was not offered any more I decided to bring it back,” said Bloch. “This class means a lot to me personally because it puts me one step closer to my dream of becoming a teacher.”

Bloch has worked tirelessly with both Ms. Foss and Dr. Oleks to get the class reinstated for future students. Starting next year, the class will once again be offered at CHS. Careers in Education will most likely be offered as a fifth or sixth period class and will give hands on experience for future job opportunities. The class will help students explore possible teaching careers and may help open students to a new passion and future career working with kids.

The first 10 weeks of this class will be purely informational. Afterwards students will be placed in different classrooms off campus, at schools such as Chaparral, where they will act as a teacher’s aid. In this role, students will assist the teacher, play with the students, grade papers and help with projects or assignments in the classroom. Through this experience, students will gain exposure to child development, classroom management, study skills and lesson and unit planning. They will also be introduced to district, state and federal education.

Careers in Education is an active class that will give students a break from sitting in a classroom whiling encouraging them to make a difference in the community. Not only will this class supply students with amazing experiences, but students also have the opportunity to impact their futures and the futures of the students they assist. •

Jordy Roth entertains CHS with unique emails

By Jake Dodd Staff Writer

While Hillary Clinton’s emails made an impact earlier this year, another political figure has used his emails in a positive manner. Senior Jordy Roth has made quite the impact on his peers ever since he became ASB Treasurer. Roth’s transition from baseball star to Treasurer has not been easy. He has taken his hard work and dedication from the field to the classroom.

Roth has been a major contributor in ASB, but has also cemented his place with his hilarious emails. Roth continues to influence his peers as he did while on the baseball team. Roth has done so much for CHS and really cares about not only the school but the students as well.

Roth makes sure each student is accounted for and is up to date on every school event through the emails.

“These emails have reached a hundred kids,” said Roth. “They have gotten to the point where they have become very important and will only continue to grow.”

Photo courtesy of Jordy Roth

His charisma is limitless, and Photoshop is one of his many talents. He shows how much he supports people of all hair colors.

With his new contacts, Roth looks ready to hunt down anybody who is slacking off in the classroom.

Roth has been known to be hard worker, and this proves the point. Roth works so hard that it is as if there are two of him.

Roth takes his countless hours that he previously put on the baseball field and puts them into the computer and graphic skills.

From this picture, many could say that Roth had a very happy childhood. Roth has not forgotten where he has come from.

From Fisher Price to Chevrolet, Roth has come a long way. Roth will only continue to dazzle everyone he meets.

Handling money as treasurer of ASB is not Roth’s only passion. Roth is an avid sports fan. In particular, baseball is his cup of tea.

In fact, Roth dominated the field before he retired. Do not let the red hair fool you; he bleeds Dodger blue. •

Photo courtesy of Omer Fedi

Landon Ferris/Creative Director

Omer Fedi accomplishes big goals as a guitarist

By Chris Gillhaus Staff Writer

In a jam session at Machine Gun Kelly’s Los Angeles residence, a small group of musicians experiment and share ideas. In this room, each artist is immensely talented. One of these musicians happens to go to Calabasas High School. Junior Omer Fedi is emerging as a successful session guitarist and has been working with a number of notable names in the music business. However, it is Fedi’s own music career that is starting to take off.

Fedi’s career as a session guitarist is taking off, as he is being featured in an increasing number of demos with more famous artists. Fedi has played with some big names in music, including Machine Gun Kelly, Bibi Bourelly, Ty Dolla Sign and most recently, Kelly Clarkson. Enjoying the time he gets to spend with these artists, Fedi does not let his confidence drop when he is in the presence of famous artists whom he highly respects and looks to for inspiration.

“I do not really think about whether or not they are famous,” said Fedi. “For me, it is more like we are all just a group of artists trying to make good music together. Of course, when it is someone famous, the level of expectation does rise.”

As an experienced musician of over seven years, Fedi prefers to focus on the music rather than the company. In addition, he views himself as a peer of these artists, rather than being below them.

“The session with Machine Gun Kelly was awesome because it was at his home studio,” said Fedi. “We were all just hanging out together, and enjoying making music.”

The main reason Fedi fits in so well with a variety of artists is due to his wide range in taste. Fedi’s diverse influences allow him to play all kinds of music, but his favorites are rock, blues, R&B, hip hop and jazz. He is influenced heavily by Jimi Hendrix, John Mayer, Blake Mills, Kendrick Lamar, and Stevie Wonder. From rap to rock to jazz, Fedi can adapt to and appreciate any artist of any style.

“I think my ability to fit in with so many types of artists comes from the fact that I listen to such a variety of music,” said Fedi.

Fedi has been playing guitar since elementary school. Although he never learned to play any other instruments, Fedi’s focus on guitar has really seemed to pay off. Middle school years are generally a time when young musicians experiment with different instruments and musical styles to find their real talent, but Fedi seems to have known since he was little that he wants to be a guitar player.

As of now, Fedi seems to be living his dream. While many young musicians dream of collaborating with big names, Fedi is already doing so on a regular basis. Instead of eventually going solo, Fedi sees himself making a career as a session guitarist. In upcoming releases from multiple popular artists, the background music may very well come from one of CHS’s own. •

Features The Calabasas Courier

7

Gabe Klorman inspires engineers with his blog: Klorman Creations

By Ethan Shanfeld News Editor

2016-2017 Staff Adviser: Patti Harris Editors-in-Chief: Laura Myerly, Jackie Sedley News Editor: Ethan Shanfeld Opinion Editors: Katelyn Bautista, Reni De La Nuez Features Editors: Karina Aggarwal, Cami Klein Entertainment Editor: Danielle Klinenberg Sports Editors: Amanda Feenberg, Syra Taub Staff Writers: Gianna Dallman, Jake Dodd, Dakota Gates, Chris Gillhaus, Kendall Gurian, Teal Hall, Ariana Kalantari, Kaitlin Rasborn, Isabel Ravenna, Ashley Rubens Marketing Directors: Healy Cho, Isobel Grant, Lindsay Harris, Isabel Ravenna Photo Editor: Rachel Nebel Creative Director: Rockey Greenberg Photographers: Ben Elkayam, Harris Federman, Landon Ferris, Ava Ghasiri Chaya Gruber, Sabrina Stevens

For anyone in a math class who has ever wondered how advanced math is applicable to real life, junior Gabe Klorman has the answer. Klorman is an aspiring businessman in the field of engineering. He is not quite sure what he wants to do when he is older, but he knows it will be something relating to STEM–science, technology, engineering and math.

“STEM defines progress in society,” said Klorman. “In my opinion, it is the most important thing. Using engineering, you can solve any problem you encounter in your daily life. If something is broken in your house, you can use STEM to fix it.

Math has a lot of real-world applications, regardless of common perception.”

Currently, Klorman teaches two classes at Hexlab Makerspace in Chatsworth: one titled “Introduction to 3D Printing and Makerbot Machine Training” and another called “Intro to Laser Cutting and Machine Training.” The classes typically attract middle-aged adults, but anyone is welcome. Klorman spends 10-12 hours per week at Hexlab, working with his mentor, thinking about new projects and prototyping ideas. At home, he updates his blog and does research. His website, Klorman Ben Elkayam/Photographer Creations, was birthed out of an intense interest in engineering.

“For years I had been following lots of ‘makers’—people who create stuff out of pure enjoyment—and watched them build things online,” said Klorman. “Eventually, I got tired of watching other people. I wanted to create my own things, so I started Klorman Creations, a blog where I can display my successes and my failures. By showing my projects and what I have learned from them, I hope to entertain and help people.”

Once he became a maker, Klorman discovered that the 3D printing community is close-knit and supportive. Rather than an environment where creators aim to flex their intelligence, the maker community consists of collaborative minds who respect Klorman’s ideas, despite his age.

According to Klorman, his love of engineering was fostered at a young age by his father, an owner of a large construction company, and furthered by Dr. Christian, a professor at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) for whom Klorman served as an intern. With Dr. Christian, Klorman conducted research and calculations in the lab and observed planets and stars in the CSUN observatory. Besides his father, he cites his inspirations as Bill Nye, Neil deGrasse Tyson and Adam Savage, while listing Jimmy Diresta and Simone Giertz as his favorite makers.

While in the future Klorman hopes to expand to more fields of making, such as woodworking and programming, he generally works within the boundaries of laser cutting and 3D printing. While some of his other creations include a marquee and a sign for his mother’s hair salon, his favorite project so far is a bike he created called Pedal Power. By taking an ordinary bicycle and converting the kinetic energy from pedaling the bike into electrical energy, Klorman found a way to charge any USB device just by riding a bike. By providing riders the luxury of battery power, the idea could potentially help reduce traffic and pollution by encouraging people to commute via bicycle. While creating is one of his greatest joys, Klorman’s overarching mission is to popularize the STEM subjects and urge more students to involve themselves in classes such as robotics.

“In Calabasas, a lot of people focus on the arts or on business,” said Klorman. “Because I think STEM is so important, teaching classes and updating my blog is my way of encouraging others to participate and exposing the joys of STEM to as many people as possible.”

While he is aware that engineering does not appeal to everyone, Klorman completely rejects the stigma that STEM is “nerdy” or “boring.” He believes this stereotype to be wildly inaccurate and harmful to aspiring mathematicians and scientists.

“If someone were to step into the field and look at the people associated with it, he or she would see a field filled with really cool, like-minded people who enjoy solving problems and expanding human potential,” said Klorman. “No one should ever let anyone else discredit their passions.”

Klorman looks forward to furthering his engineering knowledge at the Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation program this summer. He plans to continue building Klorman Creations, whose Instagram account (@klorman.creations) already boasts over 1,100 followers. His gleaming fascination in engineering is evident in his progress and in the way he talks about STEM. Klorman’s unwavering passion proves that there is no doubt he will succeed in whatever he chooses to do.

“There is no end to engineering,” said Klorman. “It’s constantly expanding and pushing the limits of human knowledge and progress.” •

Calabasas campus staff goes above and beyond to make school better for students Fernando Orozco

Since starting work as a custodian in 1990, Fernando Orozco has always made CHS an enjoyable and beautiful environment. This past April, Orozco’s talents were recognized via his first employee of the month award. Orozco was awarded Employee of the Month based upon his diligent work on the CHS campus. It is beyond apparent that Orozco is adored at CHS; students and staff can both agree that his upbeat personality makes every day just a bit brighter.

“I love Fernando,” said junior Maggie Smith. “He is such a people person, every time I see him my day is just instantly better.”

Orozco is most notably seen perusing CHS on his speedy golf cart that is equipped with everything he needs to keep the campus in tip top shape. His signature bandana is always protecting his face from the sun, but he never seems bothered by a thing. Orozco’s happy and relaxed personality makes even the gloomiest day just a bit brighter. His sensational personality and wonderful work ethic is what allowed him to earn Employee of the Month. On top of this, Orozco is extremely humble about the

By Gianna Dallman Staff Writer

award, saying that he simply works hard just as all of the other staff members do at CHS. “I am so happy that the school gave me the Employee of the month award,” said Orozco. “Last month felt like the best month of my whole career at CHS.” Staff members like Orozco who are kind and hardworking are the epitome of a role model. While Orozco’s 27 years of work was celebrated especially last month, he is deserving of more constant praise.

“Every staff member of Calabasas High that works hard should be honored on a daily basis,” said junior Jordan Strasser.

“Fernando is one of the most diligent and dedicated people that work at this school.

Whether he is driving the golf cart, picking up trash around campus or talking to a student, he always has a huge smile on his face that radiates positivity and shows his compassion for children and his job.”

Orozco’s presence also offers an interesting opportunity for many students at CHS. Due to fluency in Spanish, he often converses with pupils in his native language in order to give them the opportunity to refine their language skills. All around, Orozco is a helpful, positive influence at CHS.

Rockey Greenberg/Creative Director

Al Vanhook

Since starting his job as a campus supervisor at CHS in November of 2015, Al “My Man” Vanhook has become quite popular among students and staff. Vanhook is far more than just a campus supervisor: he is a personal trainer, coach, intense athlete, professional at saying “my man” and a more than wonderful father. At CHS, Vanhook is responsible for supervising the morning traffic, monitoring students, delivering notices from the attendance and counseling offices and voluntarily helping the girls softball team with their conditioning.

Before Vanhook arrives at CHS at 7 AM on the dot, he begins his day with ESPN and a fresh cup of coffee. In the morning, Vanhook is keeping crazy CHS traffic in check, ensuring that parents do not pull any kind of funny business while dropping their kids off. Next, he makes sure students are in class on time. He says his process of making sure students are where they are supposed to be when they are supposed to be is all based on respect.

“I feel like if you give students respect, you will get it back,” said Vanhook. “I do not want to be seen as a bad guy or anything; I think it is really important to make kids comfortable here.”

One of Vanhook’s most notable feats is how he saves CHS students come lunch time. When the bell rings, students flock to the gate that goes down to the senior parking lot, only to find it padlocked. Students await his arrival each and every day before lunch with empty stomachs and a need for Gelson’s mac and cheese. The second Vanhook arrives to unlock the gate, chaos and cheers erupt—but have no fear, Vanhook always keeps the situation at bay.

After school, Vanhook begins his intense workout regimen. Vanhook describes himself as extremely competitive and “the biggest sore loser you will ever meet.”

Vanhook works out daily and is an avid softball and basketball player. Vanhook’s daughter plays softball for El Camino; he attends every game and is a self proclaimed “superfan.”

“Al is just the best,” said junior Nicole Naidrich. “Softball is always lit when he comes. It is always super hard too but he just makes it so much more fun.”

It is clear that Vanhook is most definitely a favorite at CHS. Whether it be his funny sayings or his persistent kindness to everyone, Vanhook makes sure to keep the school both a fun and safe environment. •

Entertainment Voodoo Doughnuts creates delicious artwork out of sweet treats

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By Ashley Rubens Staff Writer

Voodoo Doughnuts is an intriguing shop that is guaranteed to spark the interest of anyone with its vibrant colors and decor. Voodoo Doughnuts is an extremely unique company that has all of Los Angeles talking. Voodoo Doughnuts’ Los Angeles location opened in early March on Universal Citywalk. Although these doughnuts have only recently arrived in Los Angeles, they have quickly become wildly popular, being shared all over Instagram and other social media platforms.

Voodoo Doughnuts was created by friends and co-owners, Kenneth Pogson and Tres Shannon in Portland, Oregon. Pogson and Shannon had a colorful and creative vision for their doughnut store. Voodoo Doughnuts’ individuality and unheard of flavors made Voodoo Doughnuts an instant success.

“I love Voodoo Doughnuts,” said junior Emma Burke. “The hardest part is choosing what doughnut to get because they are all so amazing!”

Voodoo Doughnuts has an extensive menu, with over fifty completely different flavors. Some of Voodoo Doughnuts most popular doughnuts are the Bacon Maple Bar doughnut, the Voodoo Doll doughnut, the Dirty Snowballs doughnut, the Loop doughnut, the Voodoo Bubble Doughnut and the Arnold Palmer doughnut. Another unique characteristic of Voodoo Doughnuts’ menu is their vegan doughnuts, which are rarely found at other doughnut shops.

These doughnuts are not only delicious flavors, but they are also garnished with precise attention to detail. Some doughnuts are piped with frosting and garnished with candies to add a unique twist to the classic doughnuts. This doughnut shop is the perfect place to fulfill a sweet tooth and enjoy some of the best doughnuts worldwide. • 100 Universal City Plaza

Chaya Gruber/ Photographer

CottonHi combines two beloved desserts into a sugary masterpiece

By Dakota Gates Staff Writer

Ava Ghasiri/Photographer

Home to the only soft serve ice cream served with 100 percent organic cotton candy sold in Los Angeles is CottonHi. Located in the heart of Koreatown in Hollywood, CottonHi has been crowded with customers since opening in October 2013. Just like any regular ice cream store, buyers choose between select flavors and the employee puts together the marvelous and delicious creation, but CottonHi’s creations include an added twist of cotton candy.

CottonHi offers a multitude of flavors that are served with the cotton candy flavor of the customer’s choice. The store is most well known for its specialty combination called tiramisu which includes mascarpone cheese, coffee, real chocolate powder and a lady finger on top of any ice cream of choice. Although limited to five cotton candy flavors and three annual ice cream flavors, seasonal specials are added to the menu throughout the year. Regular milk is the most popular annual flavor of ice cream and strawberry is the most popular flavor of cotton candy.

Not only does CottonHi have customers filing in nonstop every weekend, the store is also open until 11 p.m. on weekdays. Located inside the store is also a sign for customers who wish to instagram a memorable photo with their ice cream. With flashy lights outlining each letter, customers cannot resist leaving the store without a picture.

“As tempting as it is, every time my friends and I go, we refrain from taking a single bite of our ice cream until we get a picture of it in front of the ‘#CottonHi’ sign,” said sophomore Natalie del Carmen.

Each heavenly cup is about $5. CottonHi opens at 11 a.m. every day and closes at 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. With such a unique concept and delicious flavors, this ice cream shop satisfies the sweet tooth of customers from all over Los Angeles. • 3825 W 6th St

LA’s pop-up Museum of Ice Cream allows people to experience their childhood dreams in real life

By Kaitlin Rasborn Staff Writer

First popping up in New York last year, the Museum of Ice Cream has recently relocated to Los Angeles for a short stay from April 22 through July 10. This hands-on ice cream experience allows visitors to venture through a world of delicious desserts. With a Pop Art gallery and a mind-blowing ice cream parlor, this museum is bound to satisfy the sweet-tooth of everyone within a hundred mile radius.

“Remember those crazy ideas you dreamed up as a kid?” said founder and Creative Director Maryellis Bunn on www.museumoficecream.com. “The museum of ice cream is the place where ideas are transformed into real life experiences. A place where flavors are mysteries, topping are toys and sprinkles make the world a better place. Our mission is to design environments that bring people together and provoke imagination.”

The rotating ice cream selection varies from McConnell’s and Salt & Straw to Coolhaus and CREAM; the selection also offers mochi from My/Mo Mochi. On top of these jaw-dropping flavors, the Museum of Ice Cream also has a melted popsicle jungle, a room filled with 10,000 “bananas” and the famous hundred-million-sprinkles pool. Guests are even given the chance to walk away with bottles of ice cream scented products, like a mint chocolate chip perfume that is bound to attract everybody in the neighborhood.

“I cannot stop looking at pictures online of this place,” said sophomore Veronica Barsoomian. “Everything about it looks amazing. I already bought my ticket and am going the second week of May with my friends and my cousin. I cannot wait to enjoy all the ice cream and swim in the sprinkle pool.”

The sprinkle pool, another entertaining attraction for customers, is just what it sounds like: a large impression in the ground filled with rainbow-colored sprinkles instead of water. With their purchased ticket, customers are guaranteed access to this endless pool of colors, although the Museum of Ice Cream does not recommend eating these delicious treats as many people enter and exit the pool on a daily basis. However, looking past this potential germ-causing factor, this element of the museum entices all customers from the East Coast to the West Coast.

Tickets are available at museumoficecream.com, offering prices at $29 for adults and $18 for children and seniors. These spots fill up very quickly, so buy tickets as soon as possible. The Museum of Ice Cream officially opened on April 22 in the Arts District and will run until July 10 with hours going from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. • www.museumoficecream.com 2018 E. 7th Place

www.cdn.mtlblog.com

Starbucks’ Unicorn Frappuccino grabs pop culture by the horns

By Amanda Feenberg Sports Editor At Starbucks locations across the nation, the Unicorn Frappuccino appeared on menus for a limited time only, from April 19-23. The new and unique drink created a social media uproar characterized by its colorful appearance, unicorn “dust” topping and changing flavor.

The iconic pink beverage has been called an “acquired taste” by those brave enough to sip their straws. According to those who have tasted the blended drink, the flavor closely resembles a cream base with vanilla, white mocha and mango accents. Layered on the sides of the cup is a sour and tart blue drizzle that gives the frappuccino its blue hue.

As customers take sip after sip, the sweet and sour merge to create a flavor combination that can only be classified as one-of-a-kind.

“When I first experienced the magic of the Unicorn Frappuccino, my mind was blown,” said junior Jordan Strasser. “The vibrant colors and explosion of flavor boggled my mind. I could not stop thinking about the fruity drink all day long. I’m not sure if I even liked it, but I would definitely try it again.”

Although customers are all for this drink, baristas nationwide have a different opinion of the fad. As people piled into locations around the country, the scene was hectic. Unicorn Frappuccino after Unicorn Frappuccino was demanded at the counter by anxious fans, leading to overwhelming baristas.

“My hands are completely sticky; I have unicorn dust all in my hair and on my nose,” said Starbucks barista Braden Burson. “I have never been so stressed out in my entire life.”

Although the Unicorn Frappuccino is now discontinued from the menu, the trend has influenced a storm of creativity amongst customers. They have even began to develop their own mystical drinks such as the “Dragon Frappuccino” and “Pegasus Frappuccino.” •

Entertainment

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Johnny Rockets 1998-2017

www.modernrestaurantmanagement.com

New Wingstop opens on Fallbrook

By Chris Gillhaus Staff Writer

By Gianna Dallman Staff Writer A somber cloud filled with dreams of greasy fries and ketchup smiley faces has enveloped the Calabasas community. At the beginning of April, Johnny Rockets, a beloved diner at the Calabasas Commons, was closed.

The intense heartbreak of Johnny Rockets’ sudden and unfortunate closure has affected every member of the Calabasas Community in a different way. People of all ages have mourned the loss of their famous shakes and burgers. Johnny Rockets was the home to couples sharing shakes for the first time, middle schoolers disrupting people just trying to eat, delicious burgers and beautiful cashiers with man buns. Seeing the diner go has inspired an uproar throughout the community, as many are not pleased with its upcoming replacement: yet another salad bar.

“I have never been so sad,” said junior Vasso Reed. “I can not believe I will be unable to make more memories at my most favorite restaurant, Johnny Rockets.”

Replacing the monumental Johnny Rockets will take some getting used to. However the memories made at the exceptional Calabasas staple will never be lost. Johnny Rockets provided numerous smiles and full bellies for everyone, and that will never be forgotten. The happy environment is one that can never be surpassed and will forever be remembered as a wonderful place to share some fries with friends and family. While the community of Calabasas must say goodbye, Johnny Rockets has made an impact one way or another on every person. Farewell Johnny Rockets, you will be dearly missed by all. •

Nature and art lovers find solace in the lively atmosphere of Barnsdall Art Park www.tombgen.appspot.com

The San Fernando Valley is constantly adding to its abundance of popular restaurants. With the recent change in ownership of the Fallbrook Center, a series of new stores and restaurants will be opening shortly, including the very popular food chain Wingstop.

Wingstop is a quick, casual restaurant that specializes in chicken wings. The interiors of every location are decorated in theme of 1930s and 1940s culture, with advertisements, news clippings and photographs taped on the walls and tables. Their chicken wings are a fan favorite, especially among CHS students.

“I love Wingstop,” said junior Ben Baker. “I go there at least twice a week, sometimes up to four times a week. My favorite flavor is Louisiana Rub with Lemon Pepper. It’s the bomb.”

As of right now, the closest Wingstop location is at the corner of Vanowen and De Soto, which is about a 20 minute drive for most CHS students. The new location in the Fallbrook Center will be located in the renovated building on Vanowen, near the Chuck-E-Cheese, making chicken wings even more convenient and accessible to valley kids.

“The food there is just great,” said junior Jace Pitcher. “I can’t remember how exactly we first got into it, but Wingstop is definitely the volleyball team’s favorite place to eat after games.”

Interestingly enough, Wingstop offers its individual locations for sale on its website. Miami rapper Rick Ross has used this feature to build up a small empire of Wingstop stores. Ross now owns nine locations in the Southeast, helping him expand his business ventures. According to Forbes, his ownership of these Wingstop location reels in over $1 million per year, not including his additional income from the music business.

The new Fallbrook Center location can expect a lot of future business from CHS students. For those who have not already tried it, Wingstop is definitely one of the most convenient and popular chicken wings places to eat in the San Fernando Valley. •

By Kendall Gurian Staff Writer Los Angeles is known to be the place for trendy and fun activities, but many of those hipster spots are now more widely known and have become less off-the-beaten-path and more well-known. However, there are still a few places scattered around the L.A. area that are fun and have not yet reached the point of becoming overrated. One of these places is the Barnsdall Art Park, a lively park that exhibits different types of artwork and provides people a place to come and enjoy nature.

The Barnsdall Art Park was originally owned by the Barnsdall family, who donated the park to the city of Los Angeles in 1927. Now it serves as a public park for anybody to come and enjoy. The options of what to do at the park are endless; there is something that will interest everybody. Not only do people sit on artistically crafted benches and take in the wonderful atmosphere and warm weather, but outdoor projected movies are available, along with family art workshops in which families can paint and draw together while enjoying the scenery.

Another feature of this wondrous park is its unique art gallery and center where visitors can stroll through and admire the artwork that is displayed. The gallery presents the art of emerging and established local artists, allowing visitors to appreciate the talent of people that live in Southern California.

The gallery hosts five to six large-scale exhibitions each year and is also the venue for the City of Los Angeles Individual Artist Fellowships exhibition, featuring the work of the city’s best mid-career artists. There is also an education program through the gallery that offers free group tours for adults and free tours and art lessons for visiting school groups.

“It was such an awesome experience when I went,” said sophomore Mya Bojarsky. “My friends and I thought it was cool, especially because it was different from any other museum we’ve been to.”

While there is an abundance of things to do around L.A., the Barnsdall Art Park offers an experience that other places do not. The art gallery that is settled in the middle of the park is only one of the features that sets apart this attraction. Being able to take in man-made artwork and nature at the same time is a breathtaking experience that Barnsdall Art Park provides for everybody to enjoy. • 4800 Hollywood Blvd.

Chaya Gruber/ Photographer

Claudine Artisan Kitchen and Bakeshop offers freshly baked goods daily

By Isabel Ravenna Staff Writer Claudine Artisan Kitchen & Bakeshop, the first restaurant from Valley natives Chef Anthony Jacquet and Pastry Chef Lea Newton, opened in Encino on May 14, 2016. Here, one can find breakfast, lunch and a variety of freshly baked and baked-to-order goods, and the neighborhood restaurant uses artisan ingredients that showcase the bounty of local and seasonal produce in California. LoRockey Greenberg/ Photo Director cated on Ventura Boulevard, the space features light blue-toned molding and paneling, contrasted with crisp white hand-cut subway tile. The restaurant has an open kitchen, allowing guests to watch Chef Newton create her visually satisfying creations all day long. Not to mention the bakeshop’s blackboard wall, which displays an ever-changing graphic narrative by local artist Christopher Linquata.

“I normally stop by during the day for a quick meal or dessert,” says sophomore Nira Amoona. “It’s just so cute inside and even more delicious.”

Offering both kitchen and bakery menus, Claudine Artisan Kitchen & Bakeshop serves breakfast and brunch items such as the Malted Milk Pancakes with Cinnamon-Berry Compote, Salted Honey Butter, Warm Maple Syrup and Bacon, and ‘Verve” Braised Short Rib Hash with Poached Eggs, Fresno Hot and Hollandaise Sauce. Lunch provides a diverse selection of salads, bowls, sandwiches, grill items and dishes from the hearth oven. • 16350 Ventura Blvd

Sports

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Five unexpectedly expensive sports found around the world

Sports star LeBron James creates shoes for disabled athletes

www.businessinsider.com

By Teal Hall Staff Writer www.snowbrains.com

www.xososports.com

By Gianna Dallman Staff Writer While most are under the impression that sports like football, baseball and basketball are the most financially draining, the real money suckers are the sports that are often overlooked in the public eye. While the general public may not be as attuned to these sports as some of the more popular ones, these expensive sports certainly do break the bank.

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Wingsuiting: Wingsuiting is a sport in which one uses an inflatable suit to glide through the air after jumping out of a plane at extreme heights. The suit itself costs roughly $2000 and the flights run about the same price as well.

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Modern Pentathlon: The modern pentathlon involves shooting, riding horses, fencing, running and swimming. It is typical for the sport to cost roughly $6000 per athlete.

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Formula 1 Karting: Formula 1 racing involves crazy fast go-karts competing against one another going at speeds close to 200 miles per hour. With the costs of the cars and maintenance included, the sport costs $190,000 per athlete.

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Crew: Team rowing, or crew, is an intense water sport that can cost roughly $400,000 per crew team.

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Bocce Ball: Bocce Ball, which originated in Italy, is a sport in which balls are thrown down a court in hopes of hitting a target. The balls themselves cost around $300 each and the court upkeep can range from $3000-4000 each game. •

While city Cavaliers player LeBron James is famous from his time in the NBA, one of the added perks to his stardom is his shoe line. In recent years, James has partnered with Nike to create his own line of basketball footwear.

He even signed a lifetime deal with the company in 2015, stating that they were going to continue working together to build the LeBron business. In March 2017, James announced the release of the LeBron Soldier 10 FlyEase, shoes that are focused on helping child athletes with disabilities.

“Sports should never be taken away from a kid,” said James. “They create fun. They create laughter. They create brotherhood or sisterhood. To be able to have shoes that are easy to get on and off gives kids another opportunity to live out their dreams.”

This shoe is designed after James’ signature basketball sneaker, but with more functionalities that allow kids to have an easier time putting on, wearing and taking off the shoes. This concept displays itself in multiple ways in the new shoes design, like how the shoe utilizes velcro straps and zippers over laces. James felt it was also important to make the shoe easy to put on and take off, as this can be a serious roadblock for children who struggle with motor movement.

“It’s about us empowering every kid and everybody to understand we are all athletes,” said James.

In March, James visited with the kids from the Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital for Rehabilitation to present them with the new easy entry shoe. As it was the first official unveiling of the shoe, this allowed the children to be one of the first groups of people to try it on. Kids of all ages and sizes were remarkably happy to find how easy the footwear was to put on, and immediately got up to play basketball with LeBron James and each other in the Cleveland Cavaliers practice facility. •

Junior Brendan “Brensanity” Byrne celebrates his March Madness triumph

By Chris Gillhaus Staff Writer

Landon Ferris/Photographer

Every year, a large group of students at CHS participates in the ESPN Tournament Challenge under the group name “CHS Madness Pool.” In recent years, the number of students competing, most of whom are currently juniors, has reached almost 70. However, this year, junior Brendan Byrne rose above the rest and won the entire group. Thanks to this spectacular feat, Byrne goes by the nickname “Brensanity.”

While the history of the CHS Madness Pool has shown that the brackets generally revolve around luck, Byrne proved this theory wrong. Last year’s winner, Daniel Edmond, watched zero minutes of college basketball prior to submitting his bracket. Byrne, however, watches college basketball on a daily basis, studying the players and teams.

“I think what it really came down to was knowledge of the teams and the players,” said Byrne. “I simply knew more about each team than my competitors.”

However, the most challenging part of the process took place between “Selection Sunday” and the following Thursday, when the games began. After initially filling out his bracket on Sunday, Byrne spent about 12 hours each day mulling it over and making changes. By the time the first game had started, Byrne had put in dozens of hours of work.

“From the beginning, I just felt that UNC was a winner,” said Byrne. “Experience and rebounding were two key factors, but most importantly I felt they had the easiest road to the Final Four compared to other regions. Winning the last two games was the easy part.”

From the first game day, however, Byrne’s bracket was not a runaway success. Seniors Jared Schore and Andrew Marvin were fighting for first place through the first two rounds, while Byrne’s bracket sat modestly ten spots below. However, Byrne was not worried, he knew that these brackets would eventually drop off.

“The turning point was the Duke loss,” said Byrne. “Name of the game is survival, and I had minimal impact from that loss.”

As the other brackets began to drop out of contention following the Duke, Villanova, UCLA, Kentucky and Kansas losses, Byrne’s bracket saw a meteoric rise to the top five. In the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight, Byrne began to assert himself as a top competitor. By the time the national championship game came around, Byrne had essentially locked down the win for the year.

“I think a number of things gave me an edge,” said Byrne. “But most important is being a college basketball junkie.”

At the end of the month, Byrne took home over $600 in winnings, making him the biggest winner in CHS Madness Pool history. Although Byrne has not decided how he will spend his money, he is certainly enjoying his newfound wealth. For now, Byrne will enjoy his riches and have time to relax in the offseason. But soon enough, Byrne will need to get back on the regular season grind and keep watching those games as he strives for a consecutive championship in 2018. No competitor has ever won back-to-back, but if anyone has the skill and dedication to change this, it is Byrne. •

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CHS dance program presents its spring concert “Under the Lights”

By Dakota Gates Staff Writer

On April 27 through April 29, the CHS Dance Program continued its tradition of hosting the annual spring concert, complete astounding colors and performances. Students and families watched the magnificent performances of all the CHS dancers. The show was full of incredible pieces that demonstrated the hard work of talented dancers of all CHS dance levels. This year’s Spring Dance Concert theme was “Under the Lights,” a name which was represented by an abundance of colors and impressive energy radiating through each dancer.

The concert began with a performance by the Dance Team performers. A favorite among many audience members was the piece “River” choreographed

by Courtni Gidish. The dancers captivated the audience, as dancers executed each move with immeasurable passion and powerful movement. Multiple Dance Team members also showcased their talent as they performed numbers that they choreographed themselves.

In honor of senior Bella Kaufman’s last spring dance concert, she and sophomores Maddie Landesberg and Maddy Lipschitz choreographed a contemporary piece called “Open Hands.” This dance portrays the special bond that will be kept among these teammates even though they will be separated. Their intensity and emotion radiated from the core of their bodies to each fingertip. Not only did the whole team perform an outstanding hip-hop piece that won them fourth place at Nationals, but they also performed a vampire-themed character piece that they won a national title for.

“I absolutely love the feeling of all of our hard work from the entire year paying off in our show,” said sophomore Madison Lipschitz. “Being able to communicate our emotions in a way that only dance can help us express for so many students and families is just such an amazing feeling.”

Dance III continued the recital, performing group numbers as well as student-choreographed rotations. One jazz number choreographed by guest choreographer Kelly Kerastas called “Black and Gold” stood out to audience members. It included unique lifts, technicality, and alluring facial expressions. The contemporary piece called “I Found Love” was tremendously loved by its performers. Especially passionate is the choreographer, sophomore Sophie Lascau, who made the piece as a way of expressing an angsty struggle with a relationship through the movement of her dancers.

“I am really proud of my rotation because I worked really hard on it and I think overall people performed it with a lot of passion onstage,” said Lascau.

The preceding level, Dance II, performed five high energy dances in total.

One piece was a hip hop dance by guest choreographer Ashley Mouw, another was a character dance by CHS Dance Coach Kirsten Furino and the last three were rotations choreographed by students. Each Dance I class also performed in the show, exhibiting what they had learned in the art of dance this past year.

The most special part of the Spring Dance Concert was the Saturday night show, which was dedicated to graduating seniors. There was a short slideshow of each senior dancer from over the years that touched each teammate and audience member’s heart. Although the seniors were sad that this was their last performance, the pictures brought back the wonderful memories from over the years in the dance program.

“It’s very bittersweet,” said senior Dance Team member Annie Margolis.

“I am very proud to call myself a member of the CHS Dance Team, The other seniors and I have been anxiously waiting for our final dance concert as dance team members, and it’s crazy that it’s actually here. This team has allowed me to meet my very best friends that I will have forever. I am forever grateful for Mrs. Furino for creating such a wonderful program.”

The seniors’ character pieces aroused great excitement among many audience members. Exceptionally outstanding was Dance Two’s senior-choreographed piece called “Disney Channel.” Each senior picked a Disney character who they loved or found most like themselves and performed onstage as that character.

The CHS Dance program is like one big, happy family of students who support each other along their journeys of dance. Students have the time of their lives taking the stage and performing their numbers to the best of their abilities with all their hearts and souls. The Spring Dance Concert is a great way to end the year with dancers who are very excited to showcase everything they have learned throughout this time. •

Chaya Gruber/Photographer

Ava Ghasiri/Photographer

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Sophomore track competitor Tierra Crockrell strives to reach her goal of competing in the Olympics

By Kendall Gurian Staff Writer While most sports are made up of many players that work as a team, track and field is one of a few sports that is considered individual. Track and field has always been an intense and fun sport to watch and participate in, especially when the competitors exhibit immense talent. The track and field team at CHS consists of numerous people who train throughout the year and compete in meets, and one of these people is Tierra Crockrell.

Currently a sophomore at CHS, Crockrell was three years old when she began track. As part of her training, Crockrell works 13 to 14 hours a week. While the main part of her training is running, she also participates in yoga and other fun fitness exercises in order to keep in shape. Apart from exercising on a regular basis, Crockrell makes sure to keep to a certain diet that she feels is an important role in her training.

“My favorite part about running is seeing all of my training come together in meets and just seeing overall progression,” said Crockrell.

While Crockrell is truly passionate about

track, she still has to work hard, including, practicing for long hours. The toughest event for Crockrell is the 800 meter because it is hard for her to focus for that long while running. On the other hand, the long jump has been her favorite event since she began.

“My goal is to first compete in the 2020 Olympics and however many Olympic teams that I’m able to make. It has been a dream of mine since I can remember,” said Crockrell.

“After track I want to get into either sports medicine or sports broadcasting.”

Track has been such an important part of Crockrell’s life for a very long time, and it will continue to be a part of her life as she trains to be in the Olympics and hopefully pursues a career in the sports field.

“Track has had the biggest impact on my life, it has taken me on trips to many places and brings many new friends into my life”, said Crockrell. “I absolutely love the new experiences.”

Crockrell’s passion for track shows through her hard work and dedication to the sport; her commitment and skill constantly impress everyone. She continuously does well in meets and will hopefully one day reach her goal and make it into the Olympics. •

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