February Final

The

Calabasas

Courier

Thursday, February 5, 2015 • Volume 30 • Issue 5 • chscourier.com

Mayor David J. Shapiro delivers the State of the City address at CHS

By Cydney Hayes Editor-in-Chief

Last night, Calabasas Mayor David Shapiro delivered the State of the City address at CHS. In light of the upcoming Valentine’s Day celebration, Shapiro’s speech focused on the motto, “Calabasas Has Heart.”

The speech was preceeded by an Unstrumental performance, a mash-up of Coldplay’s “Fix You” and David Guetta ft. Sia’s “Titanium,” led by senior Ali Hepps and junior Landen Starkman. After an introduction by ASB President Mitchell Rosenberg, Shapiro set the address’ comedic tone by screening a short video, titled “A Day in the Life of the Mayor.”

He also welcomed various politicians and staff members from Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Hidden Hills, the Las Virgenes Unifed School District and other surrounding areas.

Shapiro focused on six major topics during the address: safety, finances, education, environment, public works and community service. The entire address was accompanied by a slideshow that

outlined many of Calabasas’s recent accomplishments. According to Shapiro, Calabasas is ranked 13 out of the safest cities in California, and the crime rate has been reduced 22 percent in the past year. Additonally, the city’s Smart Irrigation Control System has reduced water usage by 25 percent since its implementation.

Periodically throughout the approximately hour-long event, Shapiro continued the Valentine’s Day theme by presenting four Chamber of the Heart awards to influential and inspiring members of the Calabasas community. The recipients included CHS’s Peer Support club, local BMW dealership owner Bob Smith, father and son José and Matthew Alvarez, the latter whom is currently fighting cancer and is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, and the Rotary Club of Calabasas, a local chapter of a national service organization that provides scholarships and other opportunities.

Shapiro also awarded Hen-

Dan Siman-Tov/Phtographer

STATE OF THE CITY (above): Calabasas Mayor David Shapiro in CHS’s Performing Arts and Education Center, giving the State of the City address to an audience that included distinguised local politicians, regular residents and everyone in between. The speech occurred on February 4, at 7 to 8 in the evening. ry Cespedes, former chairman of both the Tree Board in Calabasas and the CPHA landscape committee, with the Citizen of the Year award.

The address also referenced Shapiro’s “vision for the future” by listing multiple upcoming landmark events in Calabsas.

These include the Solar Seminar on Feb. 26, Law Day - a day in which Calabsas will provide free legal counsel to residents - on

May 21, the November elections and the new Adult Enrichment Center, a senior center that will be built behind the Calabsas library in the coming year. Shapiro also announced that Calabasas will host British participants of the 2015 Summer Special Olympics, which is evidently a subject about which he cares deeply.

“Our city is honored and priveleged to be a host town for the games this summer, “ said

Shapiro. “We’ll show [the athletes] the heart our city has.”

In his conclusion of the speech, he urged the audience to the find a program in Calabasas to which they can give their heart like he has to the Special Olympics.

“Find something that’s near and dear to your heart,” said Shapiro. “Give it all of your heart and you’ll get back more than you could ever possibly imagine.” •

New Link Crew class at CHS offers valuable skills for students

By Daria Gershkovitch and Ella Morner-Ritt Features Editor and Opinion Editor

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Starting next year, CHS will be offering a new class, called Link Crew, which welcomes incoming freshmen by helping them make the transition into high school. This yearlong class is built on the idea that students can help other students succeed. To achieve this, the program trains students ranging from the sophomore to senior class to be Link Leaders. Those mentors, along with Honors Physiology, College Preparatory Biology and Integrated Physical Science teacher Kirby Welsh, will promote academic success and character development through a carefully structured curriculum.

“We will be planning school events, mentoring skills directly to freshmen and building the community,” said Welsh. “This will be something to really help CHS.” Link Crew is an independent leadership program offered to the United States and Canada. This course is graded similar to other management classes in that participation points and volunteer hours play a major role in one’s final grade. Link Leaders involved with the program help freshmen by informing them about campus activities, time management skills, conflict resolutions, instructions to utilize school resources and other skills needed to succeed in high school. The ultimate goal of the program is to increase the freshmen’s overall achievements as measured by school attendance, academic accomplishment and discipline.

After transferring to CHS from Agoura High School, assistant principal Steve Scifres introduced the idea of initiating the Link Continued on page 3

Page 4

“The Interview” causes controversy at Sony Pictures

Inside this Issue Page 6

Senior Theo Buckwald directs the short film “Old Tricks”

Page 8

Photos courtesy of Google Images

Blu Jam restaurant offers a delicious local breakfast

News

2

New California laws will soon go into action Compiled by Paige Chestnut Staff Writer

Ban on all plastic shopping bags

Law SB-270: Starting in July, the use of single-use plastic bags will be prohibited from clothing stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies. Governor Jerry Brown approved this law on Sept. 30, 2014 and the law will be in motion on Jul. 1, 2015. This law has been implemented because some consider plastic bags to be a threat to the environment if they are not properly recycled. Plastic is harmful to Marine life because mammals may confuse the bag with prey, and sea creatures devour the plastic, which prevents them from digesting real food. Companies make plastic bags from petroleum products, meaning that they are nonrenewable. When the plastic supply is empty, the earth will take millions of years to create more crude oil for plastic. This new law will help in keeping the planet free from harmful waste and save plastic for more useful products. Instead of utilizing plastic bags, stores now distribute paper bags for a fee of 10 cents. While plastic bags for certain items are no longer allowed, people may use them for items such as vegetables, fruits or meats.

“I do not like this law,” said junior Gucci Mandela. “Let me do what I want and save the earth at the same time.” •

Public schools must have EpiPens

Law SB-1266: Public schools must have a stock of epinephrine injectors in case a student has a severe allergic reaction and needs immediate attention. The law will go into effect on January 1, 2015. In order to prevent long-term injuries or even death, this new law requires all public schools to have epinephrine injectors (EpiPens) in case a student has an allergic reaction. An EpiPen gives one an emergency shot of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, to stop a serious reaction. The chemical epinephrine narrows blood vessels and opens airways of the lungs to allow one to breathe properly.

This chemical can reverse low blood pressure, wheezing, severe skin itching, hives and other allergic reaction symptoms.

If a person has a critical reaction, manufacturers and doctors advise users to seek medical attention even after the dose is injected. The school nurse or trained personnel of a school is in charge of stocking the EpiPens and giving them to students.

School districts must distribute a note to staff once a year requesting volunteers to be trained to administer the epinephrine injection to students in need.

“I think this law will be beneficial,” said junior Veronica Piedrahita. “I would rather a school require EpiPens than let students die.” •

Toy weapons must be brightly colored

Law SB-199: Approved on September 30, 2014, law SB-199 requires manufacturers of toy weapons to make the toys brightly colored so that officers can differentiate them from actual firearms. To stop police from accidentally shooting citizens who possess toy weapons that resemble real weapons, all toys are now required to be brightly colored. The purpose of this law is to prevent the unwarranted death of young people. This law was propositioned in response to the police killing 12-year-old Tamir Rice, a young boy who was playing with an air gun in the park. Therefore, this law will attempt to prevent a situation like this from occurring again. Any toy gun purchased before 2016 will not be affected by this law.

If the toy guns are brightly colored, they will resemble a toy rather than a weapon.

“I like that toy manufacturers are not going to make the toy guns so life-like anymore,” said junior Isaiah Hayes. “Due to the fact that children are being shot, the toys should be made in more vibrant and bright colors instead of realistic black or silver.” •

Employers required to provide paid sick leave

Photos courtesy of Google Images

Law AB-1522: California employers are required to provide a minimum of three days paid sick leave to their employees. The Governor approved this law on September 10, and it will go into effect starting July 1, 2015. This law covers part-time and temporary employees. Employees must be employed for at least 90 days before taking sick leave, with each employee receiving one hour of paid time-off for working every 30 hours. Under the law an employee may take off work for his or her own physical or mental health condition or for a family member’s health condition. Sick leave may also be used if employees are victims of sexual violence, domestic assault or stalking. Employers must pay employees their regular hourly wage for each hour of sick leave. If this law is violated, offenders will face administrative fines. This law authorizes the Attorney General and Labor Commissioner to reinstate employees.

“If you’re sick you might need to buy medicine and pay for a doctors visit, so three paid sick days is really substantial and helpful,” said junior Tristan Bailey. •

Local police officers must now wear cameras while on duty

By Grace Papish Staff Writer On Dec. 16, Los Angeles, Calif. Mayor Eric Garcetti announced that the city is ordering 7,000 body cameras for Los Angeles Police Department officers. To avoid budget problems, the city of Los Angeles raised over $1,000,000 in private donations for the purchase of these cameras. After testing various camera models, LAPD officers decided to use the Taser Axon body camera. Officers can wear the Taser Axon on their chests, and the device will record both audio and video. In Jan., foot-patrol officers in Downtown Los Angeles began wearing these cameras to test their effectiveness. So far, these tests have been met with mixed reviews.

Advocates of the body cameras believe that they will promote general welfare and hope the cameras will lessen officer misconduct, as well as cases in which the officer is wrongly accused of a misdemeanor. President of the Police Commission Steve Soboroff believes that the implementation of the cameras may set a precedent for other law enforcement agencies across the country. On the other hand, protesters argue that officer access to the body cameras may cause officers to alter their police reports so that they match up with the footage. The American Civil Liberties Union has called for specific policies that will protect those interacting with officers so that the footage of the interactions will not be exploited.

Mayor Garcetti hopes that the body cameras will strengthen the trust between the officers and the community.

“These cameras will help law enforcement and the public alike find the truth, and truth is essential to the trust between the LAPD and the community,” said Mayor Garcetti in a recent press announcement. “Trust is built on transparency.”

This new policy is a direct response to the recent incidents in Ferguson and New York, in which white police officers were not indicted for the killings of two unarmed black men due to conflicting accounts of the assaults. According to Garcetti, the non-indictment of the officers has led to unrest throughout the country, including areas of Los Angeles.

“The fact that the LAPD has to use body cameras is definitely upsetting,” said senior Sabrina Silberman. “However, this new implementation is necessary because we cannot afford to lose anymore citizens to police-civilian violence.”

As the first major city utilizing body cameras, supporters believe that the LAPD‘s new policy marks a shift in the legal community. Los Angeles policy makers and the LAPD hope that these body cameras will create a stronger trust between the city and its protectors. •

News

3

Scientists reveal study that utilizes lab rats to help treat spinal injuries

By Laura Myerly Staff Writer Chelsea Argue/Photo Editor

CHS implements drill “Run, Hide, Fight”

By Danielle Klinenberg Staff Writer

On Wednesday, Dec. 10, all CHS students participated in an active shooter drill in their homeroom classes. Just two days earlier, the administration required teachers to show their fourth period classes a video that demonstrated how to handle an active shooter on campus.

The video taught students a technique called Run, Hide, Fight. This video instructed students and faculty to first try to evacuate the campus if safe. If evacuation is not possible, students must hide in the classroom away from windows and doors. Before hiding, the teacher and students must ensure that all doors are locked and the lights are off. As a last resort, if an armed person were to get into a classroom, students should fight back with whatever weapons available in the classroom.

The students saw this video after the CHS administration received training demonstrating the Run, Hide, Fight principle, and multiple students requested to have an active shooter drill. CHS practices fire drills throughout the year, although school fires rates have declined significantly since the 1950s according to Lauren Young, Assistant Principal of Athletics. Active shooters have become more common in recent years, but up until recently, CHS never had a drill for possible shooters.

“I think that students see a lot of violence through video games and movies, and this struck an emotional cord as [a school shooting] is something that could happen to them while they are on campus,” said Young. “I knew there would be some strong emotional reactions, which is why we had the counselors on call for students to talk about their feelings.”

Administration finds treating students like adults very important in serious situations such as the possibility of a school shooting. Faculty members believe that students need to know how to respond if an active shooter were to enter the school campus. Counselors supplied support for students who responded to the drill emotionally. After experiencing this drill, students also believe that they are becoming better prepared for this type of emergency.

“I hope that students are able to take away that [CHS] is here to make sure they are in a safe environment, and we practice drills to prepare them for [an active shooter on campus],” said Young. •

Recently, a successful study involving lab rats at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology may provide hope for those who have a spinal cord injury. In this experiment, as published in Science Translational Medicine, paralyzed rats are subjected to electrical stimulation of the spinal cord in an effort to mimic signals from the brain. The rats that underwent treatment were able to walk again, suggesting that this sort of therapy may be the future of effective treatment for spinal cord injuries in humans.

While this kind of technology has been around for several years, the recent breakthrough at SFIT allows paralyzed rats to walk longer, further and with greater control than previously possible. In this particular technique, researches surgically implant two electrodes into the spine, one above the site of injury and one below. By communicating directly with each other, the two electrodes are then able to effectively bypass the injured area. With the new technique, rats with completely severed spinal cords are given some basic training and then attached to a harness that lifts them onto their hind legs. The machine then transmits electrical signals varying in length, pulse and frequency to allow the rats to begin to walk and step up small steps.

The system’s frequency varied between 20 and 90 hertz, or cycles per second, in contrast to the traditional constant 40 hertz. Because this method mimics the natural firing of neurons, the rats’ nerves were able to respond to the signals for a much longer period of time. After comparing the number of steps taken by the rats using the traditional method versus the new method, researchers found that rats were able to walk 1,000 steps without collapsing under the new method, almost twice the amount taken before the trial.

“There has been so much focus in the past on trying to regenerate or repair damaged nerves using stem cells, and these researchers have bypassed the nerve altogether using artificial electrodes,” said Honors Physiology, Environmental Biology and Honors Biology teacher Megan Swanson. “While electrodes can be used to stimulate the nerves, the way currents are naturally transmitted from cell to cell using ion channels is quite unique.”

Damage to the spinal cord can occur due to anything from illness to accident, and in some cases, the hope of forever being able to walk again is highly improbable. The spinal cord acts as a line of communication between the brain and the rest of the body. The brain sends electrical signals through the spinal cord into the nerves that control muscles in one’s arms, legs and torso. Without the spinal cord to facilitate this transmission, a person cannot voluntarily move their own limbs and often cannot feel physical stimulation in any area from the waist down. Likewise, sensory nerve signals from muscles are interrupted on their way to the brain. In the case of the new treatment performed at SFIT, a machine is able to read the signals sent out by the brain and relay these signals to the body.

While epidural electrical stimulation has shown to be effective in humans, the study conducted at SFIT will allow for greater control of movement for extended periods of time. Human trials using this method are expected to begin as early as this summer. Scientists hope that with such promising results, paralysis victims may have a better quality of life in the future. •

CHS institutes a new process of turning in community service hours

By Jillian Punwar Staff Writer While yearly community service hours are necessary in order to graduate, 2015 marks the first year that the previous policy of entering hours through the online website Aeries has changed. Honors Physiology, Environmental Biology and Honors Biology teacher Megan Swanson is responsible for implementing the new turn-in process.

Starting this year, students will complete their logs on paper and attach a 150 word typed reflection to the back. Once completed, logs can be turned in to the attendance office, or to Swanson in room S-6. Logs are available for printing on the service learning website. Faculty and administration members hope this new process will be an easier and more effective method of inputting hours.

“We hope that by eliminating the scanning and uploading of forms, more students will submit their hours by this year’s due date,” said Swanson.

In addition to altering the turn-in process, the standard forms of community service have risen. The expectations of service learning are higher this year, and the administration would like students to participate in projects that appeal to their interests. CHS faculty urges students to participate in events that relate to their interests beyond academics such as music, film or sports.

A reflection essay will also be required starting this year in order to get credit for service learning hours.

This has been changed because the faculty believes that students should reflect on the work they have done and realize the difference their volunteering made in the world. Administration members believe this process is necessary because interaction with many different groups bolsters a person’s communication skills, making him or her have a successful career.

“A reflection essay may cause conflict with teachers and supervisors,” said junior Kimia Zargari. “A student may have an opinion on the work that the teacher does not agree with.”

CHS administration members believe serving the community can be a great way to find a career path and can help shape ones future choices as he or she moves to college. Seniors must turn in all community service forms for 2015 by May 1, and all other students must submit forms by June 1. •

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Crew program. Upon hearing about the course, Welsh offered to teach the new guidance class. She plans to base the course upon the idea of anti-bullying, prevention and intervention in the hopes that if a student is struggling, Link Leaders will accommodate the freshman’s needs and try to help. Link Crew will be working closely alongside ASB to host fundraisers and other campus-wide events that will help create a community for incoming students at CHS. “Link Crew is going to be an amazing program,” said sophomore Crystal Horowitz.“Not only will they be helping incoming freshmen, but overall helping the CHS community.”

Starting the week of Feb. 9th, teachers will be given forms to suggest students they see fit to become a Link Crew leader. Additionally, applications to join Link Crew will become available soon. Welsh plans on accepting up to 40 mentors help manage the class. She will also be considering Link Leaders who cannot be in the class due to scheduling issues. Those applicants will be expected to help orga-

Chelsea Argue/Photo Editor

LEARNING TO LEAD (above): CHS science teacher Kirby Welsh will help upperclassmen become Link Leaders to nurture freshmen.

nize school events, tours, Peer Support interventions and attend mandated support periods.

“We are looking for upperclassmen that reach all aspects of campus,” said Welsh. “Link Crew needs students who represent the CHS community and share a wide range of interests.”

The CHS administrators and teachers hope that Link Crew will usher in an easier transition to high school for incoming freshmen. A sense of community will ideally prosper under the Link Crew course. Students with leadership skills willing to spend time helping new students should keep an eye out for applications. •

Opinion

4

Decline in traditional dating is due to the increased usage of social media

By Reni De La Nuez Staff Writer Finding a high school student without at least one social media profile is incredibly rare. In fact, many teenagers have accounts on multiple sites, each one serving as a “connection” to others, though these Internet friendships ironically lack legitimate relations. The prevalence of social media amongst young people is changing the way they form relationships, ultimately resulting in the end of the genuine dating culture. Social media has created ridiculous expectations for couples, resulting in a population that is less focused on dating one person and more focused on appealing to many people.

Twenty years ago, the only friends a student likely had were those that he or she went to school with and saw on a daily basis. Today, however, one can search the name of a user anywhere in the world and instantly initiate a conversation. In a relative area, such as the west valley, almost everyone has seen everyone else’s media profile. Whether they have actually met each other in person or not, a conversation between two strangers via text is considered normal. Nevertheless, meeting a prospective partner online is completely different than meeting someone in person, and the reality is that online “friends” really do not know each other at all.

“People can be completely different over text than in real life,” said sophomore Rachel O’ Toole. “I do not feel more comfortable talking over social media because in person everything is more genuine.”

Even those who have successfully managed to establish relationships cannot escape the interference of the Internet in their daily lives. The tag “relationship goals” references extreme ideal dates or scenarios, such as camping under the stars, swimming in crystal clear waters on private beaches and excessive amounts of bouquets and jewelry, all of which are somewhat unrealistic for teenagers. This not only makes one partner feel pressure to please his or her significant other, but also puts pressure on him or her from the outside world, which expects proof of an ideal relationship. With the increased usage of social media, a relationship is no longer between two people, but rather between two partners and all of the followers they have to impress.

As there is now a lack of privacy surrounding relationships, there is no surprise that many young adults would rather avoid the commitment. Forming emotional bonds with people is a key aspect of growing up, and social media makes this almost impossible. Rather than relying on chemistry and developing feelings through personality, teenagers are more likely to judge someone based on their appearance in his or her online photos. Applications like Tinder base connections solely on photographs, and people often upload digitally edited photos that enhance their features but lack honesty.

Although couples boast of their happy relationships on social media sites, this is not always the case, and much of today’s youth find themselves disappointed when they realize a relationship is not simply posed pictures and romantic gestures. The interference of social media is the reason that strong, in-person connections, trust, privacy and commitment are losing importance, and this is to blame for the likely failure of modern relationships. •

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Terrorist threats hinder creative freedom of American filmmakers

By Jordan Van Vranken Staff Writer

At the mention of America, the first thing that comes to mind is freedom.

This is a country in which citizens are blessed with and protected by civil rights such as the freedom of speech and the freedom of press. However, North Korean terrorists infringed upon these rights when they threatened the United States prior to the release of the film “The Interview”, a political satire mocking Kim Jong-un’s regime and poking fun at assassinating him. The film was scheduled to enter theaters on Christmas Day but was pulled due to threats to the production company. Sony instead opted to offer the movie online, although a few theaters chose to release the film as planned. But Sony should not have given in to North Korea’s demands and should have gone ahead with the release of the film. Backing down due to threats is wrong; America has never negotiated with terrorists, and they should not start now.

The Interview is not Hollywood’s first attempt at this type of political satire. Charlie Chaplin’s “The Great Dictator” imitated Hitler, Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr. Strangelove” poked fun at the Cold War, Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” ridiculed Nazis and Sacha Baron Cohen’s “The Dictator” mocked Gaddafi. All of these films received scrutiny, but none were canceled. Due to the controversy over The Interview, a New Regency film entitled “Pyongyang” about a man’s experience working in North Korea has been canceled. The U.S. has therefore sacrificed its artistic freedom. On the bright side, an upcoming film from the director of “The Dictator,” entitled “Army of One”, will focus on a man who singlehandedly tries to find Osama bin Laden.

“The Interview should have had a nationwide release considering, as Americans, we’re allowed to distribute whatever product of film we truly want,” said senior Wesley Zimmerman. “Under the film industry, no country’s ruler should be so offended by a raunchy comedy joke that’s performed by two people playing idiots...it really shows how sensitive this world is.”

Not only did Kim Jong-un and North Korea threaten America, but personal information of Sony employees was also hacked and released. The United States is allowing this blatant attack on personal privacy and freedom to have an impact on future films. Creative expression and freedom of speech are two of America’s greatest liberties, and America allowed itself to be censored by another country. Entertainment companies should not have to consider the feelings of a foreign dictator when creating art.

The Sony hack and threats against America’s creative rights are just some of the current events that have attempted to infringe upon the freedom of democratic countries. A recent terrorist attack in France on the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo occurred after the magazine released political cartoons of Muhammad. The shooter killed 12 people. However, unlike Sony, the magazine has refused to back down. They will not sacrifice their freedom of speech and press, and other artists should not have to either. Hundreds of rallies subsequently ensued around the world in protest and solidarity against infringement of personal rights. This is how Sony and America should have responded to North Korea. By giving in to their demands, America also traded in its power and creative freedom. •

Medical reality shows exploit privacy of the dead Carly Berke/Opinion Editor

By Jackie Sedley Staff Writer

Many lives have been affected by a lack of medical privacy. Very often, tragic deaths have been exploited in the media without the consent of the deceased or their loved ones. In fact, the drama of real-life hospital patients in critical condition acts as the focal point for reality shows such as “NY Med” and “Trauma: Life in the E.R.” These invasions of privacy cannot technically be classified as “illegal,” because as long as the patient’s identity is protected, the law does not forbid trauma cases from being shown on television. Although the creators of these television shows argue otherwise, they clearly exploit patients’ pain and suf-

fering with the sole intent of increasing viewership. Additionally, the recovery process one must go through after the death of someone close to them becomes nearly impossible when reminded of a loved one’s passing.

For the most part, any television show that focuses on exploiting the personal lives of another is created for the purpose of acquiring fame or profit, despite the supposed intentions of the creators.

“NY Med” is a medical documentary series which follows the lives of medical staff and patients at various hospitals around New York. This show obviously takes advantage of the patients’ vulnerability and disrespects their privacy entirely. According to the Health Insurance Portability and Ac-

countability Act of 1996, the intimate details of a person’s health may be shared solely with the patient and whoever is entitled to know the information. These measures are enacted in an attempt to protect the confidentiality of healthcare information. Over time, these laws have been taken less seriously. Loopholes are exploited by attention-seeking television experts such as “NY Med” executive producer Terence Wrong, who has sacrificed his morals just for the “perfect shot.”

“You can be shut out of a critical moment that the case lacks emotional resonance without,” said Wrong to capitalnewyork.com. “[Such as] the ‘goodbye’ moment. If you don’t capture that moment, because a nurse shut the door

on your camera’s face, you kill that piece.”

To relive a traumatic episode is to bring those affected by the occurrence back to the mindset they were in when the event took place. Often, being forced to relive an agonizing experience leaves the inflicted with more misery than originally felt. Revisiting the past in this particularly cruel and invasive manner can spark unbearable and intolerable ramifications, re-opening wounds and leaving permanent scars.

For example, when New Yorker Anita Chanko lost her husband Mark Chanko in 2011 to a car accident, the last thing she expected to see 16 months later was her husband dying right before her very eyes on television. “NY Med” had filmed her husband’s surgery

and attempted to record the Chanko family’s initial reaction to their loss, but not one person had asked any member of her family permission to film.

“I see the doctor that treated my husband [on television],” said Anita Chanko to The New York Times. “And then I see, even with the blurred picture, you could tell it was [my husband]. I hear my husband say, ‘Does my wife know I’m here?”

Exploitation of the dead paired with a total disregard for medical privacy is a toxic match that must be broken apart permanently. A family cannot possibly be expected to trust a doctor to maintain the life of their loved one when they cannot be trusted to maintain confidentiality. •

Opinion

5

Society is steadily becoming more tolerant of the LGBTQ community

By Laura Myerly Staff Writer

As evident from the protests and rallies fighting for Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Queer rights, society has advanced to the point where LGBTQ people find more freedom and acceptance than ever before. Although discrimination still clearly exists, acceptance of the LGBTQ community is at an all-time high, and the general population embraces those outside of the sexual “norm” in a way that proves that society is changing for the better.

While acts of violence against LGBTQ people are still publicized, younger generations are leading the way toward a new era for those who identify as LGBTQ. The young people of today are taking a stand to prove that intolerance is not justifiable. In a YouTube video by the channel TheFineBros, the creators of the channel asked 13 children between the ages of 5 and 13 to discuss their thoughts on same-sex marriage. All of the children in the video were completely unfazed by the possibility of same-sex relationships. Almost all societal revolutions in the past have garnered the support of the newer generations, most notably demonstrated by the influx of support from teens and young adults for racial equality in the 1950s. Similarly, the rally for LGBTQ acceptance has gained momentum due to the support of today’s youth in the past few years.

“At some point in our lifetime, gay marriage won’t be an issue,” said actor George Clooney on Proposition 8 in a public statement. “Everyone who stood against this civil right will look as outdated as George Wallace standing on the school steps keeping James Hood from entering the University of Alabama because he was black.”

Homosexual characters in films and television shows today are becoming far more common as a drastic change from the minute diversity in films from 50 years ago. From “Modern Family” to “Orange is the New Black”, there is an increasing number of respectable and loved LGBTQ characters. In addition, many well-admired celebrities are openly homosexual or transgender, such as Ellen DeGeneres, Neil Patrick Harris, Anderson Cooper and Laverne Cox. Not long ago, coming out would have elicited outraged and uncomfortable reactions, but these celebrities’ unconditional fan bases reflect that a majority of today’s world is far more liberal in embracing people of all sexualities. These celebrities set a precedent for LGBTQ people still “in the closet” and ensure that one need not fear coming out any longer, as he or she will find acceptance in the world. Furthermore, at the 2015 Golden Globes, the television series “Transparent”, which centers around a transgender woman, won Best Televison Series: Musical or Comedy. This win indicates the growing acceptance by the public of transgender people.

In many ways, increasing acceptance of the LGBTQ community is founded on the existence of an open discussion among everyone about LGBTQ rights. For example, this issue of same-sex marriage would never have been addressed thirty years ago--society’s ability to rationally debate social issues allows for a greater freedom to question what is considered the norm. The discussion itself is an indicator of society’s more accepting views of gay and transgender people: no longer is homosexuality or transgenderism considered too taboo to be mentioned in general conversation.

There is a societal revolution finally upon us. Fighting to oppress those who are attracted to people of the same sex or those born the wrong gender is a losing battle--LGBTQ people and their activists have found a voice, and they are not willing to lose it. This revolution reflects a similar one not so long ago, in which people were discriminated against based on their race; sometime in the near future, one’s sexual orientation will matter just as little as the color of their skin. •

CHS students voice their thoughts on prevalent educational issues According to the New York Times, 1,666,017 students took the ACT in 2011 as opposed to the 1,664,479 students who took the SAT. Clearly, the students of America are divided on standardized testing. But which test is more beneficial? The Calabasas Courier received feedback from two students who already took them.

Google Classroom is a new application that CHS teachers are utilizing in the hopes of combining 21st century skills and technology with education. Students using the program provide opposite responses here.

SAT vs. ACT:

“One of the reasons that I liked the SAT more was because the essay was at the beginning, which meant you were fresh and ready to write. The ACT puts the essay at the end, so you hit it once you are essentially burned out,” said senior Zac Fischman.

“I like the ACT better because it’s more systematic and straightforward. As long as you get your timing down you will be successful. I was more focused on learning time management and peforming well under a time strain,” said senior Lindsay Feder.

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Google Classroom: “Google Classroom allows teachers to give assignments online and allows students to turn in assignments online, both of which are accomplished without paper. This really helps save the environment by using less paper,” said junior Jerry Goosenberg.

“Google Classroom makes it harder to absorb information. I also find it hard to focus if I’m taking a test on a computer; it’s easier for me to think, analyze and remember what I studied if I have a hard copy of a test in front of me,” said junior Kimia Zargari.

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Chelsea Argue/Photo Editor

Mad Hatter “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”

- T.S. Eliot

Madison Hatfield Director of Education

It is that time of year again when the girls are finally given the green light to ask out a guy: Vice. There is no longer the excuse of the outdated phrase “He is the boy, he is supposed to make the first move.” Now is the time for the girls to step out of the shadows and stop hiding behind old-fashioned social norms. However, it is not as easy as it might seem. I think that as girls, many of us do not realize all that goes into asking someone out. To many of us, it may just be a simple yes or no question. But when the roles are reversed, we can finally understand what really goes on behind the scenes.

It is way more than just a simple question that one asks without any thought. There are several things to take into consideration. When to ask, where to ask and, most importantly, how to ask. Asking someone out is no easy task in and of itself, but when you couple it with the necessity to be original and creative it becomes increasingly more difficult. It has to be cute but not cheesy, thoughtful but not over-the-top.

Asking someone out can be tricky. Though siting back and waiting may be difficult, I think that girls tend to take it for granted once they are the ones in the driving seat. I have to give the guys some credit; it takes some courage to put yourself out there like that.

Personally, I have never asked anyone to Vice before, so this feeling is truly unknown to me. I have always wanted to ask someone, but I either could not find anyone to ask or I completely chickened out. I have broken all the pacts I made with my best friend about how I would certainly ask the guy I was currently interested in once Vice rolled around. For some reason I could never bring myself to ask anyone. I never had the courage the boys always had whenever they asked anyone to Vice.

However, as my high school career is coming to an end, I am sitting here reflecting on my hesitation. Why not just do it? I mean, what is there to lose, really? It is not like I will be attending CHS much longer; what does it matter if I completely embarrass myself? I might as well just go for it.

With that being said, I am wondering if perhaps Josh Gellerman would like to go to Vice with me? •

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Varsity members of ComedySportz showcase their love for acting through improvisation

Lily Lester

Jared Menschel

Amanda Rose

By Noah Fortson Staff Writer

By Hannah Lederman Staff Writer

By Jordan Van Vranken Staff Writer

As a third year varisity member and team manager of CHS’ ComedySportz team, senior Lily Lester is one of the most experienced improvisers. By emulating her comedic role model Maya Rudolph, Lester strives to incorporate her theatrical background with her adoration for comedy in order to perform her best on stage.

“Being constantly on your toes is crucial,” said Lester. “Knowing when to add to the scene and when to go along with someone else is one of the most important skills.”

In addition to ComedySportz, Lester is part of the acappella group Unstrumental, the advanced women’s choir Vivace, the theater program, the Theater Arts Club and was recently cast as the lead role, in the spring musical “Funny Girl.”

“The variety of shows that our school presents, is a true testament to how well-rounded the program is,” said Lester. “I feel so lucky to be a part of it.”

Lester is definitely assembling a résumé that will lead her to a prestigious career in entertainment. She hopes to pursue theater in the future and intends to use her comedic skills to her advantage.

•

For some comedians, composing something witty to say while simultaneously trying to please the crowd is a challenging task. However, for junior Jared Menschel, this mission is effortless.

Although stepping onto the stage can be nerve-racking for some, Menschel’s background in drama prepares him for every experiences in ComedySportz.

“Making people laugh is one of the best feelings on earth,” said Menschel. “I would love to continue to do so everyday.”

Aside from performing in front of an audience, Menschel’s favorite aspect of ComedySportz is meeting, working and forming adhesive bonds with other team members involved in the program.

In the future, Menschel hopes to become a team manager. He wants to give others the opportunity of having the same direction and assertion he was given when he first joined the program. He intends to continue participating in ComedySportz throughout the rest of his high school career and maybe even in college. By putting himself out there and meeting new people, Menschel is able to let his true colors shine through. •

As she stands on the stage of the Performing Arts Education Center, senior Amanda Rose prepares to take on any character the audience may throw at her. Rose, as a Varsity ComedySportz member, loves improvisation and has a talent for making people laugh.

“My favorite thing about improv is working off of other people,” said Rose. “Especially with friends, scenes can be really fun for the players, not just the audience.”

Joining ComedySportz has helped Rose come out of her shell. Having a team to support her makes Rose feel more comfortable in her skin and allows her to embrace her goofy personality.

“Being a part of the team has helped me with performing and stage fright,” said Rose. “I love improv and really clever puns.”

In addition to being in ComedySportz, Rose is also a member of Bare Rhythm and is a part of the Academy of Media and Entertainment.

Rose will be attending New York University in the fall, where she will be studying film and television. She hopes to have a career in the production industry while incorporating her passion for comedy. •

Theo Buckwald finds joy working behind the scenes of his new production called “Old Tricks”

By Reni De La Nuez Staff Writer

Known for acting in Calabasas’ monthly KYOTV videos, senior Theo Buckwald has taken on a new role behind the camera as the writer, director and producer of his first original film “Old Tricks.” The short film is a story that follows an old man’s encounter with a young robber. Buckwald hopes this film will help jumpstart his career in the entertainment industry.

Since he was 9 years old, Buckwald has been captivated by the art of filmmaking. Growing up with a father in the film industry, he would often visit the sets and find himself inspired by the magic of the cinema. Although many of his peers only think of him as an actor, Buckwald is ecstatic about the fact that people will get a glimpse of what he can do off-screen.

“I prefer being behind the camera,” said Buckwald. “An actor does not have as much control of the entire project as the producer or director. I consider find myself somewhat of a perfectionist. Directing and producing lets me control my project and oversee every element of its creation.”

Buckwald’s perfectionism is evident in “Old Tricks.” Reliant completely on actions and free of dialogue, the film takes an abstract approach of portraying the there is “more than meets the eye” theme.

However, Buckwald does not intend for all of his films to be done in this style, and looks forward to developing a variety of different techniques.

“I want to take my audience to a new place in each film,” said

Photos by Harris Federman/ Photographer

Buckwald. “I never want to be known as a director who only does one kind of movie. I want to explore different stories and make my audiences feel and experience different things each time.”

Due to the fact that his films are so unique, Buckwald is well aware that he will receive both positive and negative feedback. However, he recognizes criticism as a struggle of being a young filmmaker and will not let the judgment of other’s change his passion for filmmaking.

Not only does Buckwald look forward to making more movies, he plans on managing the production company he recently started. He hopes Considerate-Man Productions will prosper for years to come.

With his perfect balance of original ideas and endless determination, there is no denying that Buckwald is headed for a picture-perfect career in the industry. •

Photos courtesy of Facebook

Barnes and Noble “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

-Ghandi

Sophie Barnes Editor

features

I have always lived in the same safe house in the same safe city.

Although safety has always been a guaranteed reality in my life, experiencing a place that was truly dangerous made me realize how sheltered I actually am. I had managed to step out of my little bubble occasionally, so I never realized what it felt like to live in fear that my safety might be taken away.

When I went to Israel this summer with NFTY Mitzvah Corps for a community service trip, my perspective on life completely shifted when the terrorist group, Hamas, started to fire rockets at the country from Gaza the second day I was in Israel. My trip was completely changed because of terrorist attacks, something I never would have imagined experiencing in a million years.

One day my group stopped at a gas station so that we could buy snacks for a drive to the Negev Desert. As I was about to go in line to buy a pack of gum, I suddenly heard a warning siren go off. I immediately ran into a bomb shelter with the other people at the gas station.

I had no clue how long I would have to stay in that bomb shelter or how close the rocket was to us.

Although I had only spent 10 minutes in the shelter, the reality that rockets were being shot at the country truly began to sink in.

As I started to have a deeper understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, I felt a mix of fear and guilt. I was afraid because I never had to worry about this in my life before and felt guilty because I only had to go in a bomb shelter once for ten minutes whereas Israelis are interrupted by the blaring sounds of sirens daily.

What I began to realize throughout my month in Israel was that even though the Israelis are living with this conflict, Israel is still a remarkable place and should not be thought of as anything less. After this experience, I’ve started to further question why there is so much hatred in the world we live in. Everyday, I hear more about the horrid things that are happening around the world and each day I question what I can do about it. Although I have not quite figured out the answer yet, I am determined to find it. I’ll get back to you in a couple months and let you know how it goes. •

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The Calabasas Courier 2014-2015 Staff Adviser: Patti Harris Editor-in-Chief: Cydney Hayes Director of Education: Madison Hatfield Copy Editor: Arezu Maghsoudi News Editors: Sami Delavari, Ambika Vartak Opinion Editors: Carly Berke, Ella Morner-Ritt Features Editors: Sophie Barnes, Daria Gershkovitch Entertainment Editors: Avery Columbus, Allison Lipschitz Marketing Directors: Sofie Agurrie, Sheera Nadjar, Austin Shakiban Online Editor: Danielle Padilla Photo Editor: Chelsea Argue Photographers: Harris Federman, Benny Goodman, Dan Siman-Tov Design Director: Carin Numa Assistant Design Director: Kamila Weiss Staff Writers: Paige Chestnut, Reni De La Nuez, Noah Fortson, Bailey Greenberg, Danielle Klinenberg, Hannah Lederman, Laura Myerly, Grace Papish, Jillian Punwar, Jackie Sedley, Syra Taub, Jordan Van Vranken, Madison Young

Harris Federman/ Photographer

Meet junior clothing designer Roman Williams

By Laura Myerly Staff Writer

Like any high-fashion clothing designer, junior Roman Williams is building a clothing brand out of a passion for fashion, and is slowly but surely working his way to success. From humble beginnings as a middle school student who learned to express his own style despite a strict dress code, Williams synthesizes edgy and modern elements with classic silhouettes to create his own original clothing line, titled Roman Williams Clothing. He describes his aesthetic as “street-wear,” and one day hopes his career is as successful as designers, such as Givenchy.

As he continues to develop his line, his interest in fashion grows alongside. In fact, Williams used the seemingly restricted measures of his middle school dress code to experiment with his style.

“I have been wanting to make clothes for years now, and now that I understand what I like, I have begun to design clothes,” said Williams.

“When I was in middle school I began to experiment with the fitting of clothes or doing something more bold, like wearing a tie over a hoodie.”

Williams’ targeted demographic is young adults aged 13 to 21 who have an appreciation for the street-wear vibe. He has an inherent understanding for the needs of contemporary fashion and his modern designs appeal to young people. Williams has a deep appreciation for simplicity and quality in design and is determined to work hard to gain success.

“I would describe my style as simple, quality materials with beautiful stitching and artistic design,” said Williams. “I don’t have the money to buy the clothes I want right now but that’s not going to stop me from starting from the bottom, which will make the reward that much sweeter.”

As Williams gains more and more recognition through social media, he is finally able to see some of his hard work come to fruition. Williams has recently found a manufacturer that has agreed to produce a prototype of his line. Getting to this point has not been easy, and his recent stroke of fortune is especially gratifying.

“I had to go through some obstacles in starting my brand,” said Williams. “I couldn’t find a manufacturer that would make one prototype for me, but recently I found a great manufacturer that is making a sample shirt I designed.”

As his buissness continues to florish, Williams is focusing on both short and long term goals to build up his brand and public identity. Like any other smart designer of the digital world, Williams is utilizing social media as his prime source for marketing to gain the attention of his targeted demographic. While fashion is a tough industry, Williams is not losing sight of what is important and is staying true to himself.

“My long term goal is to have as much fun as possible,” said Williams. “I love designing clothes and building connections with my customers.”

With such a positive and mature outlook on his future career as a fashion designer, Williams has everything in place to build up the brand recognition he needs to start manufacturing his designs on a larger scale. While today he is known as the ambitious high school designer with a vision, one day Williams’s designs may be walking down high fashion runways, forever immortalized. •

Junior Hanah Gershkowitz combines her love for dancing and working with children by volunteering for Ballet for All Kids

Photos by Dan Siman-Tov/ Photographer

By Jillian Punwar Staff Writer While most all people develop a hobby in life, not everyone has the pleasure of balancing their passion in their daily life. For junior Hanah Gershkowitz, by combining her love for dance and kids, she has been able to find joy in working for an organization called “Ballet for All Kids.” This association teaches ballet to students with disabilities and has become an important aspect of her life.

When Gershkowitz started dancing when she was two years old and quickly recognized that it was her passion. Several years later, her ballet teacher Bonnie Schlachte asked her if she would be interested in working with Ballet for All Kids. Immediately after starting her job, Gershkowitz fell in love with being an instructor. Ballet for All Kids is one of the only studios in the world that offers classical ballet training to all children despite their disabilities. She hopes that through this organization, the kids will get to enjoy the art of dance as much as she does.

“The goal of Ballet for All Kids is to create a safe place for kids with all kinds of disabilities to express themselves due to the fact that most of them cannot express what they feel through words,” said Gershkowitz. “The results are truly amazing.”

Gershkowitz teaches people from the age of 2 to 25 and plans fundraiser events for the organization. She works with children with different disorders, and has been able to watch them emulate their emotions through dance.

The students amaze Gershkowitz every day, always greeting her with a warm hug despite the harsh times they may be going through. Teaching these kids is not just a learning experience for them, but a learning experience for her as well.

“These kids have taught me that life isn’t easy or long for everyone,” said Gershkowitz. “Every moment truly counts and they make me a better person day by day.”

Working for Ballet for All Kids has opened Gershkowitz’s eyes to the harsh realities of life. The children suffering from disorders such as anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, Attention Defict Disorder, blindness and deafness strongly motivate her to live life to the fullest. Despite all the advantages of working for the organization, Gershkowitz believes the best reward is seeing the children she teaches grow as dancers. With the help of her mentor, Schlachte, Gershkowitz plans on keeping up with this organization and growing as a dance teacher herself.

“In the future I hope to take the organization with me to college,” said Gershkowitz. “I also hope to be able to teach kids of all disabilities how to dance for several years.”

Although jobs come and go, Gershkowitz believes that Ballet for All Kids will always be a dominant factor in her life. Seeing the smile on the kids’ faces as they learn new routines is truly an inspiration to Gershkowitz.

Aside from working in the studio, she has also taken Ballet for All Kids to CHS, creating a club with freshman Aria Terango, sophomore Dani Cohen, and senior Sophia Terango. This club offers information on getting involved with the organization and how students at CHS can help make a difference. Make sure to check out the club at CHS to be informed on Ballet for All Kids’ upcoming events. •

Entertainment

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Get a new appreciation for typical school lunches at A+-worthy Public School 805

By Jackie Sedley Staff Writer

Inspiration can be found in the oddest of places; but who would think that school could spark an idea for a restaurant? Upon first hearing the name Public School 805, most students would be understandably repulsed. After all, who wants to attend school all day only to later attend a restaurant bearing the same title? However, do not let the name of this unique restaurant and bar nudge you in the wrong direction. This trendy spot transports you as far away from the feeling of school as possible.

A unique spin on the average gourmet restaurant, their motto is “An Education in the Art of Food and Beer,” hence the name Public School 805. Their extensive lunch, brunch and dinner menus containing Bacon Cheddar Tots, PB&J Sliders and Brown Bag Fries entirely revamp the previously derogatory notion of “cafeteria food.”

Another interesting characteristic of this restaurant chain is the theme itself: school.

Each location is named a different area code depending on the city, such as Public School 310 in Culver City and Public School 805 in Thousand Oaks. The designers of this franchise went all out, with menus looking like composition books, napkins resembling lined paper and books and globes covering the walls, thus creating an environment that is bound to remind anyone of school. From the clever title of “Recess” as a substitute for “Happy Hour” and their “Honor Roll” membership program, the intricacy of every school-related detail ties this restaurant together to make dining at this eatery an exceptional experience.

“I think the idea of a school-themed restaurant is very unique- I’ve never seen anything like it before,” said freshman Sofia Sayabalian.

Using fresh ingredients from local Farmer’s Markets, Public School 805 puts all thoughts of day-old sandwiches out of your mind and teases your appetite with thoughts of crispy chicken, yummy brussel kale slaw, perfectly ripened tomatoes and sweet carrot habanero aioli. Perfect for any craving, enroll in a new kind of school that will undoubtedly educate your taste-buds on how food should be. • 120 N Promenade Way, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

Blu Jam Café joins Calabasas community

By Grace Papish Staff Writer Recently, the Calabasas community received a delicious boost to its dwindling brunch scene. Serving curious connoisseurs and hungry families alike, Blu Jam Café has ushered in a new era of bacon, eggs and french toast. Known for its all-day breakfast menu, Blu Jam is a popular spot among local residents.

Blu Jam Café is the result of a partnership between chefs Kamil Majer and David Fris, who wish to bring their European heritage and strong belief in the importance of breakfast to Los Angeles. With locations in Hollywood and Sherman Oaks, Blu Jam receives wide recognition as one of the best local breakfast spots in LA, with great reviews from top publications such as USA Today and the Zagat rating.

“Blu Jam is an amazing restaurant,” said junior Hanah Gershkowitz. “The food is wonderful quality and reasonably priced, and the service is great.”

The menu is mouth-watering and eclectic, displaying traditional dishes such as omelets and benedicts to entrées like the Brunch Burger, the Morning Hash and Rancheros.

Blu Jam also offers a large health and fitness menu, including vegan and vegetarian options. This menu highlights protein-filled tofu scrambles and muscle-building oatmeal.

Blu Jam’s signature dish is the Crunchy French Toast.

This meal consists of an egg brioche that has been dipped in batter, rolled in corn flakes and grilled. This delicacy is presented perfectly, served with a beautiful garnish of fruit and a vanilla bean sauce.

With wood paneling and folk-rock music playing on a loop, Blu Jam brings a rustic, cozy feel to Woodland Hills.

Blu Jam is the perfect place to grab a bite during lunch and still make it back before the late bell. This café has been an “eggcellent” addition to the Calabasas area, and has already become a local favorite. • 23311 Mulholland Dr., Woodland Hills, CA 91364

Find out which Disney couple you and your valentine sweetheart are with this enchantingly charming quiz

Photos courtesy of Dan Siman-Tov/Photographer and Google Images

By Avery Columbus and Allison Lipshitz Entertainment Editors

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Your date takes you to your favorite place: A) the beach, I love the feeling of sand between my toes B) the library, the best books are about far off places and daring sword fights C) the ice skating rink, I know my sweetheart will pick me up when I fall The average morning text from your valentine: A) I wish I could hear your amazing voice right now B) your gentleness reminds me of a character in a book I am reading C) so, what adrenaline-pumping activity are we going to do today?

You get excited when your honey gives you: A) awesome socks that keep my super cool feet cozy and warm B) flowers, any kind will do, but roses are my favorite C) chocolate, chocolate covered treats, well basically anything related to chocolate

Mostly A’s

You and your best mate are Ariel and Eric. The salt water summons you. Whether sailing the sea, kayaking, surfing or swimming in the mysterious fathoms below, you two can be found on the beach all summer long.

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What type of food do you get on a date?

A) anything that came from the ocean blue; sushi, sashimi and seaweed are all great B) French, Italian, Greek, anything European really C) we mostly go out for dessert, what can I say, we have sweet teeth The first thing you noticed about your darling: A) his/her beautiful eyes that can read me so well that we do not need words to communicate B) his/her social awkwardness made him/her stand out in the crowd and intrigued me C) his/her adventurous nature that made him/her the most unpredictable person I had ever met Your favorite part about being in a relationship: A) the way you can calm each other in the most stressful of times B) the way you see and understand each other like no one else can C) the crazy situations you get yourselves into and the kooky challenges you conquer together

Mostly B’s

You and your beloved are Belle and Beast. With strong personalities you two did not get along in the beginning, but when you opened you eyes and hearts a little wider, you saw behind each others’ masks and found love.

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What pet can you two agree is the best?

A) fish are absolutely the best because they are easy to take care of and come in so many colors B) birds are the most superior pet, they sing wonderful songs and sometimes perch on your hands C) any big animal that you can ride, like a reindeer or a horse What is your favorite season?

A) summer, the bright sun is good for splashing around in water or cooling down at a water park B) spring is perfect for lazing in a blooming garden and appreciating the outdoors C) winter is an incredible season, there is so much to do, like build a snowman and drink hot cocoa Your friends would describe you and your bae: A) as two people that are enamored with the unkown and always go looking for answers B) as a physical demonstration of the saying “opposites attract” C) as the last to leave any party due to your boundless energy and enthusiasm

Mostly C’s

You and your partner in crime are Anna and Kristoff.

You crave adventure, are fiercely loyal, always keep each other on your toes, and even though you are both fixer-uppers, you always succeed by working together.

Photos courtesy of Google Images

Entertainment

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The new food producing machine, Foodini, will change the amount of time and effort people spend cooking daily

Mad Lib: Will you marry me?

By Paige Chestnut Staff Writer Instead of clambering around the kitchen with heavy pots and pans, imagine the ability to create entire meals by a click of a button. The Foodini, a 3D printer which allows users to print meals with fresh and natural ingredients, is making this fantasy possible. Instead of spending hours slaving over a stove, Foodini can cook and print in a matter of minutes. The Foodini, created by the company Natural Machines, will be in limited production and not available to the public during the first half of 2015, and in mass production during the second half of the year. The Natural Machines website is already publicizing dozens of mouthwatering meals and snacks that Foodini will be able to create.

The Foodini is primarily an easy to use kitchen appliance that is connected to the Internet. This amazing machine is simply a box; the ingredients are inserted into the top half and the food comes out of the bottom half. A touch screen allows users to choose a recipe and Foodini takes it from there. The machine instructs itself on what to put in each capsule for preparation and the printing commences. This high-tech food processor will be sold for approximately $1,300 and can make just about anything, but specializes in snacks such as pretzels and breadsticks.

Currently, the Foodini is only exclusively sold online. However, when it is offically released, the makers plan on having suggested items for Foodini to cook. This will help users gain an understanding of how the process works before they experiment with new recipes.

The inventors hope that this new product will encourage people to eat healthier, fresher foods. Natural Machines workers plan on making the Foodini better and more complex in future years but until then, try out the basic model later this year from the comfort of your own kitchen. • Photo courtesy of Google Images

How do people around the world show their affection for loved ones on Valentine’s Day?

By Jordan Van Vranken Staff Writer Every year in America, Valentine’s Day is celebrated by lovers giving each other valentines, sweetheart candies, roses and chocolates, while singles celebrate by sitting in bed alone watching Netflix. But how is Valentine’s Day celebrated around the world?

Japan: In America and in most Western cultures, Valentine’s Day is all about men expressing their affection and love for their women. Japan’s culture reverses the roles. Japanese women are usually considered reserved and shy when it comes to expressing their love, but on Valentine’s Day, the women become upfront about the way they truly feel by presenting the men in their lives with chocolates to express their feelings.

The different varieties of chocolates given signify different types of relationships. “Honmei-choko,” which literally translates to “favorite or true feeling chocolate,” is for someone the woman truly loves, such a husband or a boyfriend. For the men in a woman’s life whom she is not romantically involved with, for example a boss or a classmate, a woman will give “giri-choko” which means “obligation chocolate.” Ouch.

But it gets even worse. “Cho-giri choko” means “ultra-obligatory” chocolate. It is the cheaper chocolate reserved for people the woman may not even like, but feels obligated to give something to. The next month, on March 15, the men reciprocate their feelings to the women who gave them chocolate on Valentine’s Day on what is known as “White Day.” They give jewelry, clothing and at least twice the amount of chocolate they received.

South Korea: South Korea takes Valentine’s Day to the extreme. In fact, they celebrate year-round, and the 14th day of almost every month is dedicated to an aspect of love. For example, January marks Candle Day, May contains Rose Day, June holds Kiss Day, October celebrates Wine Day and December has Hug Day. On Feb. 14, women give chocolate to men, and on March 14 (also called “White Day”), men give non-chocolate candy to women. The most popular White Day candy is “Chupa Chups,” or flavored lollipops. Anyone who does not receive anything on either day gets together on April 14, or “Black Day”, to celebrate being single and eats “jajangmyeon,” which are noodles covered in Chunjang black bean sauce. Now that is a party.

Denmark: Valentine’s Day, or as the Danes call the holiday, “Valentinsdag,” was not very widely celebrated until the 90s. They were inspired by the American custom, and their holiday is celebrated mainly by couples in love and adolescents. Even though the Danes were late to the game, they have managed to come up with their own unique traditions that locals have embraced. On Valentine’s Day, men write “Gaekkebrev,” which are cute and humorous poems or rhyming love notes that they send anonymously. The biggest hint they give about who they are is the number of letters in their name, by using dots to represent each letter. The women who receive the notes will then guess who sent their cards. If she guesses correctly she wins an Easter egg on Easter later that year. If a woman cannot figure out who her secret admirer is, she owes him an egg on Easter instead. People also give each other hearts made of chocolate, cake, flowers and even pasta.

Malaysia: Malaysia’s Valentine’s Day is a little different than other countries’ Valentine’s Days... and a little bit fruity. On Malaysia’s day of love, on the seventh day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar every year, women do not get chocolates or poems from their loved ones, or even give them. They give oranges.

Women write their phone numbers on oranges and throw them into the closest river, hoping that the man of their dreams might find it. Fruit vendors often collect the oranges, which are considered a lucky fruit, and then sell them at the market, phone numbers included. For the two-thirds of the Malaysian population that happen to be Muslim, the extreme Islam morality police have an anti-Valentine’s Day campaign that dates back to 2005. In 2011, the Islamic police carried out raids of hotel rooms on Valentine’s Day, and more than 80 Muslims were consequently arrested for “khalwat,” or close proximity, which is prohibited in an Islamic law that prevents Muslims from being alone with someone of the opposite sex if they are unmarried. •

Photos courtesy of Google Images

By Danielle Klinenberg Staff Writer

Valentine’s Day was a

day. First thing in the morning adjective and went to for a . They both male name female name place noun had a time. After they went to lunch at and spent the adjective place whole meal and . was in love participle participle Same male name with so he always wanted to make her . same female name emotion He decided to take her shopping for a new . While she shopped, object he looked for a ring he could use to propose to her.

Same male name found the perfect one; it was and . He knew she would color adjective love it. Next he told her to go home and get dressed in something . was a little but went along adjective Same female name emotion with his plan anyway. At 7 p.m. sharp, he at her doorpast tense verb step with in his hand. She had followed his instructions plural noun and was wearing a . They got in his car and went to a adjective noun restaurant. They their meal. When dessert adjective past tense verb came, looked into her eyes and told her all the things same male name he about her. Then he got down on one , past tense verb body part pulled out the ring he had bought earlier and asked her to adjective marry him. She was surprised and said to him. adverb yes or no

Photo courtesy of Google Images

“A very” quick thought “A person who loves you truly will never let you go whatever what the situation is” - Anonymous

Avery Columbus Entertainment Editor

About three weeks ago The Bachelor, one of my favorite shows, premiered its latest season. For the past few seasons I have enjoyed this guilty pleasure of mine, but I cannot help but feel sorry for the men and women on this show who seem a bit pathetic due to their acceptance to date someone who is seeing many people at once. Only a few of the relationships created on the show have actually worked out and I have come to my own conclusions as to why this usually does not occur. Each week the bachelor or bachelorette takes their companion on an extravagant, fairytale-like date; this includes helicopter rides, private concerts, and even trips to foreign countries. In reality, people do not go on dates like this on a daily bases or sometimes ever.

The couples get caught up in the magic and surprise of the events and although they may fall in love for all the right reasons, when they return home things dramatically change. After an engagement occurs, as shown on the finale of each season, the couple must part ways until after the show finishes airing. This rule is enacted so that paparazzi or anyone else interested cannot find out which “lucky” contestant was chosen. However, if they are truly in love, their time apart should not be able to hurt their relationship. Once the couple can eventually be together, they must come back for a reunion show where they rehash all the drama that happened throughout the season, putting an even larger strain on the duo’s relationship. Then they will inevitably sit through hours of the TV show as they watch the “love of their life” kiss dozens of other men or women. They must then face a reality check when they can finally be together. Alone. By themselves. No camera. The amazing dates and endless accepting of symbolic red roses come to an end leaving the newly engaged couple let down in disappointment.

It is almost as if The Bachelor puts people together only to tear them apart in the end. This happens season after season, yet people continue to aspire to be on the show. I cannot understand how someone could want to do this to themselves or meet the potential “love of their life” through a source of entertainment designed to cause captivating drama in order to get viewers to tune in every week for upcoming episodes. •

Sports

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Freshman Claudia Zimmerman thrives as the only girl varsity wrestler

Benny Goodman/Photographer

Photo courtesy of Google Images

New football stadium in L.A. poses many pressing issues for locals

By Noah Fortson Staff Writer Los Angeles sports fans have had plenty of professional sports teams to cheer for over the years. The Lakers, Kings, Galaxy, Clippers, Angels and Dodgers have generated a lot of excitement for locals, but there seems to be one sport that L.A. wants more than ever: football.

Exactly 20 years ago, the beloved L.A. Raiders packed up and headed to Oakland. When the Raiders won the Super Bowl in 1983 they united the city. Though the black and silver magic has faded from the memory of football in L.A., the idea still teases fans. Recently, Hollywood Park developers decided to build a $2 billion National Football League caliber arena in Inglewood regardless of whether an NFL team decides to transfer to the city or not. There is a rumor that the St. Louis Rams could make a return to L.A. Arguably the NFL’s worst team the Jacksonville Jaguars could be an intended target as well. While this might seem like a hopeful idea for most fans, the plan is risky and flawed.

Constructing a massive venue in the middle of the country’s second highest populated city would increase traffic congestion, waste millions of dollars and potentially let down the anxious L.A. locals.

Building a new multi billion-dollar stadium could waste money especially since professional football is the priciest of all sports in the United States. According to Forbes Magazine, 30 of the top 50 most expensive sports teams in the world are NFL teams. The only two football teams that are not on the list ironically are the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Oakland Raiders. The Saint Louis Rams are the fourth least expensive NFL team and are ranked 45 on the Forbes list. However, any professional sports organization in L.A. would instantly cost a fortune.

Regardless, organizers are insisting on building even without a team.

“We are not dependent on that commitment in advance,” said Chris Meany of Hollywood Park Land Co. in an interview with the L.A. Times. “We are prepared to start even if we haven’t finalized the details of what that team would be.”

An NFL arena in a heavily populated city would not only cost developers a fortune for construction but for city disruption as well. Road closures and construction grants would add to the overall price and anger busy civilians. If a team does not claim the stadium by the time it is built, organizers would have to pay even more to cover maintenance without accumulating profit.

Another issue with construction is the area in which the arena would be built. The location of the lot is inconvenient and would disturb locals during formation. Streets would become congested, as road closings would torment the 110,000 people living in Inglewood. The new stadium would stand beside the Staples Center, another major entertainment venue downtown. Inglewood does not have sufficient infrastructure to support its people as well as the arena. So much incoming traffic combined with the city’s high population and poor roads could make L.A. a nightmare on the weekends.

Perhaps the worst part of this football hysteria is the negative effect that it could potentially have on millions of hopeful fans. All cities hope for the best for their teams but L.A. fans expect the best. The sight of a grand and empty football stadium would crush anxious supporters.

L.A. deserves an NFL team. This generation of Los Angeles kids has never had a football team to support. Sure the San Francisco 49ers and San Diego Chargers are close, but they are nothing compared to having a hometown team to cheer for like the Raiders of the 80s.

While the city would like to believe in the notion that, “If we build it, they will come,” expecting too much could devastate L.A. Until an NFL team announces their transfer to L.A., plans to build a costly arena should be paused. •

By Laura Myerly Staff Writer As she prepares to enter the ring, freshman Claudia Zimmerman continues to defy the typical stereotype that wrestling is a male-exclusive sport. Zimmerman may only be in ninth grade, but she is already holding her own as the only girl on CHS’ varsity team. Zimmerman’s interest in wrestling was sparked from a passion for a different form of combative sport, and being the only girl to try out for the wrestling team took a leap of faith.

“I got involved with wrestling through a martial arts form called jiu jitsu,” said Zimmerman. “Initially I thought the two sports were quite similar, but I found out later that I was completely wrong.”

Despite being the only girl on the varsity team, Zimmerman

is thankful that she decided to stick with the wrestling program.

While initially unsure of how much she would enjoy the sport, wrestling is a passion for which Zimmerman is willing to fight.

“At first it was really awkward being on the team,” said Zimmerman. “But as the year progressed I got used to it, and I am so glad I am here.”

Zimmerman wishes to stress that wrestling is definitely an activity that girls can partake in, despite the fact that it has been traditionally considered a men’s sport. Being on the varsity team has helped Zimmerman build a sense of sportsmanship and unity with her fellow teammates. In addition, Zimmerman has learned not to make assumptions about what playing a sport is like based on what is seen on TV. She now fully understands that wrestling is certainly different from the typi-

cal treated broadcasts made for entertainment purposes.

“The wrestling you see on TV such as WWE is not real wrestling and is probably staged,” said Zimmerman. “Real wrestling is much different, quite spontaneous and really suspenseful to watch.”

Zimmerman also insists that being a girl does not put one at a disadvantage because success is more about technique and skill than how much one weighs.

Zimmerman herself is proof that wrestling is not just a male sport and that a woman can succeed in a match.

While Zimmerman is still unsure whether she will continue with wrestling after high school, she encourages any girl who is considering joining the team to try out. To Zimmerman being a part of such a close and supportive team has been an exceptionally rewarding experience. •

Sports 11 Sophomore Bre Smith and her horse leap for the Maclay Award

By Syra Taub Staff Writer

From the age of 6, sophomore Bre Smith has been passionate about horses. Nine years later, Smith is competing in horse shows for something she has wanted to win her whole life: the Maclay award.

The American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Maclay award is the highest award a high school student can receive for showing horses. Through the ASPCA, riders travel across the United States to show their horses and display their talent to ride. When Smith began riding, she started small performances with her horses and her barn, Major Motion Farms. After that, Smith’s trainer, Barrett Weller, brought her to more shows where she eventually decided she wanted to compete.

“I have always been very passionate about shows,” said Smith. “I love the energy in participating in them and the joy of just being on a horse.”

Smith plans on traveling throughout the United States in April and June to compete in the ASPCA Maclay Finals. This will give her the oppurtunity she has been waiting for to show her horse around the nation.

“Riding is a break from everything,” said Smith. “You get time to focus on your horse and give them all your attention. It’s a sense of freedom.”

Her enjoyment of horses comes from her inspirations. Smith is greatly inspired to ride and compete by athletes George Morris Dan Siman-Tov/Photographer and Reed Kessler. Morris, who is considered the “Founding Father” of Hunt Seat Equitation, created the basis of how Smith and others gather their horses in a ring to be judged. Kessler is the youngest competitor to ride for the U.S. Olympic team. Both have inspired Smith to show horses and compete with them in the excellent way she does today.

“I look up to Kessler so much,” said Smith. “Despite being a Grand Prix jumper, she still focuses on properly and effectively riding her horse.”

Smith hopes that in the future she can continue riding and showing horses. As she moves on through high school, Smith wants to be able to move into the higher level of jumping and work even closer with her horses. •

Find out what is happening in professional sports NBA

NHL: L.A. Kings

By Jordan Van Vranken Staff Writer

By Jackie Sedley Staff Writer

A lot has changed since last year’s the National Basketball Association’s playoffs.

LeBron James returned home to the Cleveland Cavaliers after the Miami Heat lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the Finals. The Atlanta Hawks have snuck into first place in the Eastern Conference. Underdogs like the Golden State Warriors, Portland Trailblazers and Memphis Grizzlies lead the West, ahead of traditionally dominant teams. The remainder of the season is bound to be full of surprises.

Kevin Durant, last year’s Most Valuable Player titleholder, missed several weeks at the beginning of the season due to injuries, but has adjusted and is almost back to the level he was playing at last season. LeBron James is playing consistently, but has been outshined by others in the MVP race thus far. Stephen Curry of the Warriors, Kyle Lowry of the Raptors, James Harden of the Rockets and Marc Gasol of the Grizzlies have all made great strides this year.

Similar to the MVP race, typically unassuming teams have been leading the way in both the Eastern and Western Conferences. The Hawks and the Raptors in the East have both built their success around athletic frontcourts. The Grizzlies and Warriors, in the always competitive Western Conference, are both serious contenders this year after reconstructing their game plans. The Warriors’ new coach, Steve Kerr, quickly became the first rookie head coach to win 21 out of his first 23 games. Center Marc Gasol and point guard Mike Conley have stepped up to lead Memphis past powerhouses like the Spurs.

But never disregard the Spurs, who somehow always seem to sneak into the top playoff seeds without anyone noticing.

The 2015 playoffs are sure to be exciting. Keep your eyes on the players in the running for MVP and the teams gunning for the championship as the NBA playoffs near. •

As the season reaches a halfway mark, the Los Angeles Kings will try to earn their third cup in four years. Winning the championships in both 2012 and in 2014, many L.A. Kings fanatics are hoping for another victory this year.

Although the team is currently holding 21st place out of 30 teams and 12th place in the west (21-17-12), they must claim a spot within the 8 playoff spots available in the West.

This might become even more of a challenge than in recent years, as two key players are out on disability. Left wi ng Tanner Pearson sustained a broken lower left leg against the Winnipeg Jets on Jan. 10 and Pearson’s linemate Tyler Toffoli acquired mononucleosis.

Since Pearson is one of the King’s top scorers with 12 goals in 50 games, many fans fear that the team might be out of luck.

“This is not like other years,” said freshman Danny Mizin. “I think that Pearson and Toffoli being out might be too much of a setback for the team to make the playoffs.”

Several public statements have been made by the general public mocking the Kings and their unlikeliness to win the cup this year. However, the team is still sticking to their usual tactics in the hopes that they will yet again prevail.

“We’re a physical team,” said defenseman Doughty to DailyNews.com. “That’s how we wear other teams down.”

With 38 points scored, center and alternate captain, Anze Kopitar holds the top rank within the team for most points scored, along with the record of 27 assists. Similarly, right winger and forward Marian Gaborik has scored the most goals for the L.A. Kings, 15. Additionally, goaltender Martin Jones averages an impressive goals on the season.

Regardless, the team is trying to not let the absences disrupt their hopeful attitude towards the upcoming playoffs. •

Photos courtesy of Google Images

Courtney Rauchman uses cheer to help special needs children

By Danielle Klinenberg Staff Writer

Benny Goodman/Photographer

Inspired by West Hills Champions, a program that allows children with special needs to play baseball, junior Courtney Rauchman figured out a way to combine helping disabled youth with cheerleading. Cheer Champions is a program that teaches disabled kids how to cheerlead. Through this opportunity, Rauchman has come to enjoy developing friendships and interacting with each member.

“I gained a lot of perspective on the types of struggles people face everyday,” said Rauchman. “I’ve gained a huge amount of respect for kids with disabilities and their unconditionally supportive families.”

Rauchman takes the Cheer Champions to West Hills Champions baseball games to support the players and show off what they have learned in the cheer workshops. Since the beginning of the program last year, Rauchman has included the CHS cheerleaders in Cheer Champions to help plan and teach routines for the their workshops. She has also encouraged the other cheerleaders to go to West Hills Champions games to cheer with her and to demonstrate the routines for the Cheer Champion participants.

“Some of the CHS cheerleaders volunteered to help me teach routines and run the workshops,” said Rauchman. “I couldn’t have done any of it without every CHS cheerleader that helped me.”

To Rauchman, the Cheer Champions program is more than just another opportunity to cheer; it is a chance to interact with and influence the lives of special needs children. Her patience and devotion to the program helps her overcome the various obstacles she faces. The relationships she forms with the Cheer Champions children drive her to continue to teach this program and work with the

kids.

“I have connected to a lot of the kids that I’ve taught,” said Rauchman. “One of them called me her best friend and hearing that made me sure that I would continue doing this for the rest of high school.”

This program has opened new doors for Rauchman’s future. She would love to continue working with children with special needs in the future. Rauchman hopes to continue this program until she finishes high school and hopes her fellow cheerleaders will continue it even after she graduates. •

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