Friday, January 30, 2009, East High Spotlight, Page 3
news...
D.P.S. Appoints New Superintendent O
n Saturday, January 3, 2009, Colorado Governor Bill Ritter made official his appointment of Denver Public Schools (DPS) Superintendent Michael Bennet to the Senate seat left vacant by Ken Salazar, who is slated to become President Barack Obama’s Secretary of the Interior. Ritter’s appointment came as a surprise to virtually everyone in the state; Bennet has never held an elected position and has been DPS Superintendent for three years. Bennet was chosen over more experienced colleagues such as Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, Representative Ed Perlmutter, and House Speaker Andrew Romanoff. Prior to his work with DPS, Bennet was an aide to U.S. Deputy Attorney General Jamie Gorelick, a member of investor Phil Anschutz’s investment team, and was Hickenlooper’s Chief of Staff from 2003 to 2005. According to Senate Minority Leader Josh Penry, “[Bennet is] a smart guy, but he’s also, in the political process, untested and unknown.” However, plenty of state Democrats feel fairly optimistic about the pick. “You have this new energy and this new idea of going to Washington and working outside of the beltway. And I think Michael brings that,” said state Senate President Peter Groff, according to The Denver Post.
Many are critical of Bennet’s accep- low the next superintendent to continue the tance of the Senate appointment, claiming work that Bennet began. “Mr. Bennet has that DPS still needs him. Throughout his been a strong leader in our district and our time as Superintendent, Bennet has had pos- city through his tenure as superintendent. itive results according to districtwide Colo- His strengths as a communicator, collaborarado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) tor and policy maker have strengthened our tests; on school district the DPS in ways that website, will continB e n n e t ’s ue to grow biography through the states that, years… We “from 2005 were lucky to 2008, to have him Denver stuaround to dents made help us grow strong imas a school provements district and in reading, I am cermath, writtain that ing and our country science. In will gain r e a d i n g , Tom Boasberg, the new D.P.S. Superintendent great value the district through his posted a 6.2% increase over the three years, leadership in the Senate,” says Principal more than four times the growth of the state. John Youngquist. Youngquist also added In math, Denver saw a 6% gain, more than that “the School Board has certainly made it twice the growth of the state. In the middle clear that they are interested in maintaining grades, Denver saw gains of 10% in read- the current course of the district as much as ing and 9% in math.” Bennet’s tenure in possible.” office has been extremely positive for DPS. It seems as though that goal should not Many are confident that the path that Ben- be too difficult. On Thursday, January 8, net has laid for DPS will be sufficient to al- the Denver School Board announced that photo courtesy of Google
by Abby Worthen
they had chosen DPS Chief Operating Officer (COO) Tom Boasberg to fill Bennet’s shoes. According to the DPS press release, Bennet said of Boasberg that, “[he] is not only an exceptional leader but also an individual who is uniquely capable of continuing the important work of the District. Tom is responsible for much of what we have accomplished in the past two years. He is a tireless public servant and dedicated to the cause of Denver’s students.” Boasberg also stated, “I will commit myself to working closely with the Denver community, teachers, school leaders, staff and the Board to continue, and indeed accelerate, the reforms we have undertaken under Michael’s leadership.” Boasberg’s biography explains that his current COO position in DPS entails that he is, “responsible for managing the operational departments of the district, including budget and finance, human resources, new school development, facilities, information technology, and transportation.” His resumé includes a wide variety of executive positions, including acting as legal adviser to the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and serving for three years as Chief of Staff for Lee ChuMing, Chairman of Hong Kong’s largest political party. Opinions differ about the futures of both Colorado’s Democratic representation and Denver Public Schools.
O b a m a ’s E d u c a t i o n S t a n c e by Kate Buss dential office. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are already making changes with their transition team. Among the main issues, education is a high priority for the new administration. Recently, Obama announced a nominee for the Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan. Duncan has hands-on experience in heading the nation’s third-largest school system in Chicago and will approach problems head on. Obama plans to reform the “No Child Left Behind” plan because he believes that “teachers should not be forced to spend the academic year preparing for standardized tests.” Obama feels as though new methods of testing should be adhered to so that student progress can be tracked and readiness for college can be measured. “I will provide funds for states to implement a broader range of assessments that can evaluate higher-order skills, including students’ abilities to use technology, conduct research, engage in scientific investigation, solve problems, present and defend their ideas,” Obama stated during a speech in Wyoming earlier this year. Students at East will feel this effect because Colorado State Assessment Program (CSAP) testing will be minimized and not be used as a primary template for funding in Colorado and other states. Another priority in education will be making college education affordable for all Americans. Obama is planning on creating a new American Opportunity Tax Credit. This
credit will be worth four thousand dollars and be available to eligible high school graduates in exchange for community service. The President also supports high quality schools and the creation of successful charter schools. Obama wants to bolster public schools, by focusing on improving programs, and making college accessible to everyone. Obama’s education plan includes making math and science a national priority. He plans on recruiting math and science degree graduates to the teaching profession and will support teachers wanting to learn from profesSeniors Alyssa Roberts and Olivia Rudeen were actively involved in Obama’s campaign and traveled to sionals in their field of teaching. Washington D.C. to witness the inauguration. Obama is working on ensuring that all children have access to a strong science curriculum lation to provide funding to school districts to invest in in all grade levels. intervention strategies in middle school. These strategies Another problem that Obama wants to address is the include personal academic plans, teaching teams, and indropout crisis. Colorado is one of the only states where creasing parental involvement. Mentoring intensive math it is still legal to drop out of school at sixteen, and with and reading instruction and extended learning time will Obama’s new policies, this will no longer be possible. play vital roles in the success of decreasing the dropout The dropout rate in Colorado is 8 percent of all students. rates. During this time of change, it is sure that East will Obama will decrease the dropout rate by passing legis- feel these educational improvements.
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photo courtesy of Alyssa Roberts
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Page 4, East High Spotlight, Friday, January 30, 2009
news...
44th Presidential Inauguration
by Katie Wiese
H
istory was made on January 20, 2009 as Barack Obama was sworn in as the first African-American president in the United States. Despite cold weather, approximately 1.8 million people from around the country gathered around the capitol building to watch the Inauguration of the forty-fourth President of America. The inauguration marked the transfer of power from former President George Bush to President Barack Obama. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. administered the oath of office to Obama. President Obama decided several months ago to be sworn in on the same Bible that was used by President Lincoln at his inauguration. Cheering and weeping was heard from the crowd as Obama recited, “I do so solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of the President of the United States, and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me God.” People of all backgrounds gathered to see the change in the country’s direction for the future. Millions of little flags waved as the crowd realized that the moment represented a new start for the country. Obama then gave his inaugural address, speaking to the nation and the world for the first time as the president of the United States. In reference to the turmoil the country is facing, President Obama stated, “The challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many… but know this America: they will be met.” After the speech, Obama and his wife Michelle Obama proceeded through the Inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, which was followed by numerous galas later that evening.
“The Change Began with the Dream” Martin Luther King Jr. Assembly by Marley Pierce
Ealey’s speech was incredibly fitting, considering she was recently selected to live in Washington, D.C. for the next year as a senatorial page. For anyone who knew Ealey personally, this prestigious opportunity does not come as a surprise; Ealey works hard at everything she tries, and is always able to light up a dark hallway with her encouraging smile. Most importantly, Ealey urged her fellow classmates to take advantage of what they are given, specifically the overwhelming diversity at East High School. Following Ealey, Dr. Wahab Carter took the stage and commenced to deliver an empowering declamation centered around rising above the circumstances, and becoming one’s best self. Not as energetic as Collier, he still had an important message to help any East Angel: work hard and dreams can become a reality. Ultimately, this theme is one that resonated throughout the entire assembly, Martin Luther King Jr. realized it, Barack Obama realizes it, all of the speakers realize it, and all East High students should realize it. Change starts with a dream, and reality is the result of dreams held together through hard work. The Gospel Choir sang “Hammer Rang,” a song originally sung by slaves working on plantations. The song was moving,and the Gospel Choir impressed all listeners. Happy Haynes concluded the speaking portion with a stirring message to endeavor to be what one wants to be, and work hard for your dreams.
photos by Katie Wiese, Lauren Antonoff, Google
O
n Friday morning, January 16, every classroom in East High School steadily emptied as students made their way down the halls to the auditorium in celebration of MLK holiday. The assembly students were preparing to attend would be one to remember, a demonstration of hard work, commitment, passion, and an everlasting dream. The annual Martin Luther King Jr. assembly, hosted by Black Student Alliance (BSA) was an impressive celebration of the diversity East is home to, thanks to the ideals Dr. King championed. This year’s theme was “The Change Began With the Dream,” an inspirational idea that animated the proceedings. Tamarah Rhone, sponsor of BSA, explains that the preparations for the assembly required hours upon hours of “blood, sweat, and tears.” This heroic effort was evident in the stellar quality of the program. The first speaker was David Collier, a hysterical comedian, who, within minutes, had the audience hanging onto his every word. Collier performed a hilarious routine mocking his own upbringing. Tri-president of BSA Kody Gauldin explains, “the assembly is a celebration, not a lecture.” Collier’s routine jumpstarted the assembly with a refreshing vibe of humor, the proper tone for a birthday celebration. Next up, the East High Honors Choir sang “Dry Your Tears Afrika.” The song originally appeared in the awe-inspiring movie Amistad and sounded chillingly beautiful. Despite the audience’s enthusiastic clapping at least three times before the song was fully finished. The choir carried on without missing a beat thanks to the direction of William Taylor, East High Choir Director. Once the choir filed off stage, Ain Ealey graced the crowd with an empowering excerpt from a Nelson Mandela speech.
Haynes was the original president of BSA at East High School, making it even more special that she, along with the two previous speakers, were all awarded Community Service Awards. Finally, a wonderful slideshow prepared by Kody Gauldin brought the assembly to a close. This year’s Martin Luther King assembly was entertaining, moving, and impressive. With Barack Obama becoming the first black president, Gauldin comments, “Be whatever you want to be seemed like a dream, not a reality. Now it is.” This message of dreams changing into reality is something all East students hopefully took away from the assembly.
Friday, January 30, 2009, East High Spotlight, Page 5
features...
Guide to Hallway Etiquette
Mark your calendar
morp
A Mardi Gras Masquerade
Show some respect.
photos by Zoe Leanza and Lauren Antonoff
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Acting rowdy in the hallways is not proper Angel behavior.
by Zoe Leanza
I
t is passing period and everyone in ingly large number of students who conthe school has five minutes to get to class. duct elaborate conversations in the middle Theoretically, it should be simple: the bell of the stairway. Do not instigate philosophrings, students walk to class, and no one ical discussions on your way to the second gets hurt. Unfortunately, high school is not floor; weekend gossip can wait until lunch. that easy. There are bathroom stops, unfin- The stairs are not the place to look for your ished homework, critical text messaging contact lens, criticize your physics teacher, conversations, and the kid who will not or practice Guitar Hero. Climb the stairs, budge from the side of the stairs. The key do not loiter. is to learn how to make the most of those Actually, you are not a super hero. three hundred seconds and navigate way You have only five minutes and you canthe halls with complete success. not do everything. It is physically imposKnow where you are going and get sible to get from a class on the fourth floor there. Establish a routine and get yourself to the first, stop at your locker in between, to your next class. It usually works well to respond to a text message, and find a functake the most direct route to your destina- tioning vending machine that will still action. Although it may seem cute to stalk cept your crumpled bills. Realize that those people outside three hunof their classdred seconds rooms when will ineviyours is at the tably speed opposite end by, and limit of the school, your passit is actually ing period exceedingly activities to creepy. Decide the absolute before you necessities. leave class if Av o i d you need to the awkuse the bathward. Evroom or get a eryone has drink and plan experienced a c c o r d i n g l y. the embarLeave the inderassing cisive and aimten-second less wandering dance of to next year’s confusion. freshmen. You are Freshabout to colmen, take the lide with a side stairs. It person comis not just for Public display of affection is a hallway don’t. ing the other safety. Simple way, and just acts like avoiding the main stairs dem- as you shift directions, the other person onstrate respect and encourage others to adjusts the same way. So you move the respond kindly to you. The more upper- other way, only to discover that the other classmen you befriend, the better off you person also chose to follow this logic. This are going to be. Everyone else did it and issue can easily cost you valuable time and no one wants you to get hurt. As a general dignity. Avoid uncomfortable hallway inrule, if you cannot drive, you cannot han- teractions by reverting back to elementary dle the main stairs. school etiquette: keep to your right. Now is not the time to reproduce. Pace yourself. You should be moving Contrary to popular belief, making out in consistently towards your destination at a the halls is not romantic. There are impa- speed that is acceptable to the rest of the tient teachers two yards away and a flurry world. That means you should be walkof agitated students who are late to class. ing faster than a procrastinating stroll to There is no magic in a scrambled exchange Room 128 but every passing period should of saliva forty seconds before the last bell. not have you sprinting like there is a hall Stop stair stalling. There is a surpris- sweep in sixty seconds.
8-11 PM Tickets go on sale January 29th. $8 for singles $10 for couples
Friday, January 30, 2009, East High Spotlight, Page 7
features... Oscar Preview
Milk
Slumdog Millionaire
by Danielle Bose
Relax, Take it EZzz Top Ten Songs that will put Anyone to Sleep
by Marley Pierce Has class taken its toll on you lately? Just not feeling this whole work, pay attention, do your homework thing? Just whip out the headphones and listen to these sleepy time songs to quickly doze off. 1.
“Casimir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens from Illinoise
2.
“Matinee” by Hurts to Purr from Hurts to Purr
3.
“If I Could” by Jack Johnson from In Between Dreams
4.
“Forever, Forever (Solo Piano)” by Keiko Matsui from White Owl
5.
“The Tower” by Frontier Ruckus from The Orion Songbook
6.
“Rugla” by Amiina from Kurr
7.
“Eyes on the Prize” by M. Ward from Post-War
8.
“Prisoner of Love” by Lena Horne from Billie, Ella, Lena, Sarah!
9.
“Forever” by Ben Harper from Welcome to the Cruel World
10. “Stable Song” by Death Cab for Cutie from Plans
photo courtesy of Google
M
ilk is a film that is worth every penny at the theater. The film is both moving and controversial, and proves to be just what the box office needs. Milk beats out almost every movie that is in theaters right now and is definitely a film to be remembered. Most of the movie is set in the Castro District of San Francisco during the 1970s. Harvey Milk (Sean Penn) moves to California when he is forty years old, looking for nothing but a change in scenery. He becomes a very influential part in Castro’s thriving gay community and after a few years starts the first of several campaigns for Castro District Supervisor. In 1977, Milk is rewarded as the first openly gay man to be elected to public office. Even after Milk’s assassination, his legacy for gay rights has remained prominent and will last for many years to come. The structure of the film is a series of audio tape recordings that Milk puts together in the event of his assasination. This makes the movie even more personal, as the movie is Milk’s narration of his life story. It is an inventive way to present the dramatic biopic. Sean Penn’s acting in the film is flawless. Penn shows the compassion and strength that Harvey Milk was known for throughout his campaign trail and time in office. Penn also embodies the personal side of Milk’s character. Milk had a strong affinity to help the weak and wounded, and often found himself in that position in personal relationships. Penn embraces Milk’s sympathetic and thoughtful outlook on life and understands the hardships of Milk’s real life struggle. One of the biggest issues Milk fought for was the ability for gay Americans to live in peace and freedom; he believed they should love and accept themselves as well as everyone else. The movie shows no person in a negative way. Even the “bad” guy, Dan White (played by Josh Brolin), can elicit some sympathy. White, who is homophobic, is on the opposite side of the spectrum from Milk. The mentally unstable e n White tries to show that gays are “sick.” At the end “O t of the film however, the only person who is truly s o em d h disgusting is White himself. The end of the film is t of nt an heartbreaking; the double-assassination of Harvey a vibr rtfelt Milk and Mayor George Moscone is shocking yet hea entary memorable. r um The fight for gay rights is still alive today, doc as eve and homosexuality is still not completely acdramade.” m cepted. Milk is a wake-up call to the many Americans who have not come very far in the last thirty years. This movie is one of the best in box office history, as well as one of the most vibrant and heartfelt biopics has made this year.
Patel and Pinto star in this Best Picture Oscar nominee.
by Abby Worthen
S
lumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle and starring Dev Patel, may very well be one of the best movies of the year. The uplifting and motivational film tells the story of Jamal Malik (Patel), a boy born in the horrific slums of Mumbai, and his journey from poverty to heartbreak to mediocrity and, finally, to success and true love. The acting and directing are both impeccable. The remarkable thing about this movie, however, is not the social commentary, nor the brilliant acting, nor the visual prowess displayed on the part of the director. Rather, this movie’s true accomplishment is the way it makes one ignore the social commentary and acting. One feels less and less as though one is watching a movie and more and more as though one is experiencing an entire lifetime of private little successes and failures. The film revolves around a period of torture and interrogation. Jamal has managed to get onto an Indian version of the television game show “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” and has inexplicably won a tremendous amount of money. Nobody believes that a “slumdog” could know all the answers, so the producers of the show hand him over to members of the police to be questioned. They hope to find out how the “slumdog” cheated. Instead, the policeman responsible for the interrogation finds himself exploring Jamal’s long and heartbreaking history as he investigates how Jamal came to know every single answer. The result is a colorful look into Mumbai’s slums and the meaning of love (both familial and romantic). This movie is able to educate without seeming educational. I n particular, aspects of American culture are sprinkled throughout (most notably in the use of the originally American game show) and this juxtaposition of Indian life with American culture offers a remarkably insightful peek into both. Slumdog is escapist theater at its finest. Visually stunning, insightful, and well-acted, it achieves the perfect balance between reality and fantasy, between seriousness and frivolity. A healthy dose of an idealistic and adorable love story doesn’t hurt either. Slumdog Millionaire is one of those rare movies that manages to make one think deeply and be happy simultaneously. While certainly not the best movie ever made, it is definitely the single most enjoyable film made in a long, long time.
Page 10, East High Spotlight, Friday, January 30, 2009
opinions...
by Julie Bennett
Palestine
“N
o two historians ever agree on what happened, and the damn thing is they both think they’re telling the truth.” - Harry S. Truman. Since Israel began the air and land assault on Gaza at least 1,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 2,300 wounded, many of them innocent civilians, including women and children. Thirteen Israelis have been killed. The siege on Gaza should end immediately and the US should back the cease fire resolution proposed by the United Nations Security Council. Israel, of course, has a right to be safe and secure, but the bombing of Gaza is a disproportionate reaction to the bombings by Hamas and is, in effect, collective punishment of a people in violation of the Geneva Conventions. It is true that Hamas has sent thousands of rockets since 2001. It is also true that in that time, about two dozen Israelis have been killed by the rockets. However, the rockets used by Hamas are not sufficient in accuracy or range to be a true military threat. Israel’s disproportionate response has damaged schools and United Nations locations where civilians have sought refuge. Israeli rockets containing phosphorous have caused victims to be badly burned. Israel has used the bombing as a punishment on civilians as well as terrorist targets. In addition, Israel has been uncooperative in allowing journalists access to areas where bombing is occurring to verify actions and fatalities. No one can deny the horror of the Holocaust and the legitimacy of the subsequent creation of Israel in the aftermath of the world’s worst genocide. When the nation of Israel was welcomed into the United Nations in 1948, the United States was the first to recognize the newly formed nation. Thus began the long history of Israel and the United States as staunch allies. What cannot be overlooked in the creation of Israel and the settlement of the land is the fact that the Palestinian people were displaced. This is at the heart of the unresolved historical and political problems that cause conflicts today. The creation of Israel on what was Palestinian land has been compared by many to the United States seizure of land from the Native Americans. Many Palestinians have lived in occupied territories since 1948 and some since the Six-Day War in 1967. Although Israel theoretically turned over control of Gaza to the Palestinians and “withdrew,” the Israelis control all imports and exports to the Gaza Strip, as well as the movement of people. In addition, Israel has enforced a stringent blockade on Gaza with the support of the United States and the European Union ever since Hamas won Palestinian Legislative Council elections in 2006. The blockade has increasingly reduced fuel, food, and electricity resulting in malnutrition, unemployment, and poverty. The living conditions in Gaza are absolutely desperate. The tunnels dug from Gaza to Egypt are not used just to smuggle weapons; they are used to bring in necessities to live. Negotiations are difficult and compli-
cated by the fact that there are interests on both sides that do not want to see an agreement and will always try to violate cease fire resolutions. Actions of a few, though, do not necessarily represent the views of the majority of the people. In order to protect itself, Israel has at various times attacked Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank. Presumably, Israel’s goal in attacking is the eradication of radical extremists and increased safety for Israel, but it seems to have the opposite results. Extremist groups have not been reduced and moderate countries such as Egypt are put in the awkw a r d position of defending Israel. Further, the Palestinian people are more resolved than ever to fight for what they perceive as justice. The timing of this most recent assault on Gaza is suspect because it is taking place soon before President Bush leaves office, as if Israel knew it could act with impunity. In recent news, National Public Radio confirmed that Israel has wanted to bomb Iran, as well as Gaza, and attempted to enlist the support of United States in its plan. Fortunately, the United States declined. As a good ally, the United States should tell Israel that its policies are harming its position and long term security, and Israel should abide by any cease-fire agreements.*
1,000
T P I
2,300
T P
13
VS.
F acts are
facts. While some s a y Israel is unjustified in its recent military actions against the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, others are convinced Israel has no rightful claim to the land it was given by the United Nations (UN) in 1947. Some claim Israel has broken several international laws. Others focus on Palestinian casualties. Still, facts are facts, and the facts support Israel. Israel has repeatedly tried to make peace with its Arab neighbors. In 1992, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin shook hands with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat after signing and agreeing to the terms set forth by the Oslo Accords. This historic document gave full control of the Gaza Strip and West Bank to the Palestinians in exchange for their acknowledgement of “the right of the State of Israel to exist in peace and security.” More than a decade later, another peace attempt led Israel to remove all 9,000 of its citizens from the Gaza Strip. In the name of peace, Israel spent about 1.7 billion dollars disengaging itself from Gaza. Since that time, approximately 2,586 rockets and mortars have been fired from Gaza into Israel. Even more staggering is that during the current Hamas reign, 233 rockets and mortars are fired into Israel every month—that is, on average, seven rock-
ets per day. This attack has been occurring every day for the past three years. In any other country, even one bombing would result in immediate war. Israel suffered through thousands of bombings but did not unleash a full-scale retaliation until December 24, 2008, when Hamas shot ninety rockets into Southern Israel—forty between 9:00 A.M. and 1:00 P.M. That is one rocket every six minutes. So, just how much should Israel be blamed for the death and damage that have resulted from its conflict with its Arab neighbors? Israel has never initiated or provoked a war. The tiny state has been attacked time and time again and has retaliated when necessary, and never without provocation. Furthermore, any notion that Israel has violated UN regulations is completely false. Most critics cite UN Security Council Resolution 242 as evidence of Israel’s promise to withdraw from the West Bank. What these critics fail to notice is the condition that Israel must be given the “right to live in peace within secure and recognized boundaries free from threats or acts of force.” Since this condition has never been upheld, Israel is under no obligation to follow through with its agreement to disengage the West Bank. Former Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir said it best in her famous quote, “We can forgive the Arabs for killing our children. We cannot forgive them for forcing us to kill their children.” It has never been Israel’s goal to kill Palestinian civilians. Although those who support Palestine attack the civilian casualties that the Israeli campaign has caused, these are simply a result of Palestine’s failure to take precautionary measures. Israel has fewer casualties because it is no longer allowing children to go to school. The Israeli government recognizes how dangerous a target a school can be, so it has done everything it can to protect its citizens. Hamas, on the other hand, has done no such thing. Rather than removing students from school, Hamas is encouraging children to attend class despite the danger of impending Israeli retaliation. What is worse is that, essentially, Hamas is hiding its weapons underneath its schools and mosques. Bombing a weapon storage place means bombing innocent civilians. In short, Hamas is using its citizens as human shields. It is impossible to change the mind of any anti-Israelite who is determined to believe that Israel is simply overreacting. Many critics have convinced themselves that Israel is not in real danger. To these people, I have no argument except the facts. Currently, Israel must deal with two different terrorist organizations as well as the threats of a strongly anti-Israeli Iran. Israel is surrounded by danger. Even the most ignorant of critics must admit a fact that has been confirmed by the United States government as well as the governments of several other influential countries. Hamas is a terrorist organization. And to say that terrorists are not dangerous is idiotic and ignorant.*
3,200
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photo courtesy of Alex Raynor
T I
ISRAEL
by Alex Raynor
An Israeli soldier and a Palestinian citizen.
*These opinions were written on January 23, 2009.
Friday, January 30, 2009, East High Spotlight, Page 13
sports... Spotlight on:
by Lauren Turner Ana Sousa-Sampaio transferred to East High School from Brazil. She had never played basketball as an organized Brazil native Sousa-Sampaio is an outstanding sport before, but is now the captain of the student and basketball player. girl’s varsity team. Coach Dwight Barry states, “Ana’s qualities have made her the team captain.” Teammates point to her team spirit and pride and say they all look to her for motivation. Sousa- Sampaio says, “The most exciting part of playing has to be the sportsmanship and the relationships that come from being part of a team.” She strives to achieve both on and off of the court. She continues, “One completes the other, you can’t succeed at one without the other.” SousaSampaio is praised by her teammates as a leader and hard worker. To stay in shape and ready for weekly games, Ana eats healthy food and loves to ride her bike. While most captains are stars on the offensive side of the ball, Ana is also an exceptionally strong defensive player. “Although this is her first time playing in an environment like this, her spirit and drive are what put her in the captain position she deserves,” says Barry, who spoke highly of his new defensive star.
February Sports Schedule 2/6: Girls Varsity Swim Meet, 4:15, Manual High School 2/7: Girls Varsity Swim Meet, 9:00, Thunderdome Girls Varsity Basketball vs. George, 1:00, Thunderdome Boys Varsity Basketball vs. George, 2:30, Thunderdome
2/10: Boys Varsity Basketball vs. TJ, 7:00, at TJ Girls Varsity Basketball vs. TJ, 7:00, at East
2/14: Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Montbello, 1:00, Thunderdome Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Montbello, 2:30, Thunderdome
2/17: Boys Varsity Basketball vs. North, 7:00, East Girls Varsity Basketball vs. North, 7:00, North
2/18: Boys Rugby vs. Boulder HS, 7:15, East Turf 2/20: Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Lincoln, 5:30, East Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Lincoln, 7:00, East
2/21: Boys Rugby vs. Fort Collins, 12:00, East Turf 2/25: Boys Rugby vs. Northside, 4:30, Northside
by Madeline Schroeder Wii Fit is perfect for those who are either too embarrassed to go to the gym or would rather work out at home. But that is about all that Wii Fit has to offer. The technology is impressive but ineffective for getting into shape. Wii Fit uses a balance board with four sensors that detect movement when weight and balance shift. It takes a while to get used to the board because it is very sensitive and overemphasizes any slight movement. On this board, the player can perform activities like yoga, soccer, skiing, and more. All of the activities focus on muscle strength and balance rather than cardio exercise, so losing weight is out of the question. With the little movement the oversensitive board requires, the player’s heart rate will be equivalent to what it would be sitting on the couch. A major downfall of Wii Fit is the selection of a workout program. The player is unable to design a personalized program to get in shape. Rather, an animated trainer designs a program when weight and age is entered at the beginning of the game. On top of this, many activities must be unlocked in order to be played. There are limited possibilities, making it difficult to have an extensive workout. Staying motivated to work out is not always easy. Wii Fit games are so boring, repetitive, and pointless that they kill any motivation to get in shape. While the animation and presentation are cute (for six-year olds), the Wii Fit is more talk than walk. At a whopping $200, the game system is not a smart buy. A much cheaper and effective alternative is the Wii Sports package, which includes tennis, golf, boxing, bowling, and baseball. These games come with a Wii and are played using a Wii remote, which is simple to use
photo by Alyssa Roberts
photo by Lauren Turner
Ana SousaSampaio
Wii Fit Is a Sham
Wii Fit offers no real exercise.
and not overly sensitive to motion. These games are entertaining and get players up and moving. The boxing requires so much air-punching even Mike Tyson would be winded after just one match. Wii Tennis can result in a sore arm the next day, a sign of a good workout. Multiple players can play at once, making it easy to work out with friends. Wii is not the only gaming system marketed for the apathetic. The gaming industry is abuzz with new games designed to whip new users into shape. Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) is a particularly hot choice. It combines fun and fitness by using hand-eye coordination to dance to pop music. There is a gaming option that counts how many calories are burned, which is helpful for anyone hoping to lose weight. DDR is absolutely addicting. It is expensive but worth every penny. If anyone is seriously thinking about getting into shape using Wii Fit, think again. DDR and the Wii Sports package are much smarter game choices for working out at home. Or just hop on a treadmill.
Page 14, East High Spotlight, Friday, January 30, 2009
sports...
is not enough qi. Someone getting over an illness, coming back from fatigue, you want to create blood, create energy – that is something else acupuncture can do – depending on where I put the needles in and what the intention is of my treatment.” Asked how Eastern medicine differs from Western medicine, Christian said, “Eastern medicine isn’t bossy. by Caitlin McGavran It doesn’t treat the body like it is wrong. Eastern medicine works with the body as it is and works towards balK. Christian is a local acu- chi), which circuance. Eastern medicine doesn’t have labels for what is puncturist. She studied at the Colorado lates via pathways wrong – it is all about being unbalanced.” School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the body. These Eastern medicine works with the body and focuses for three and half years before graduat- pathways are called There on support to help the body heal itself. The elements to ing in 1996. She passed her exit exams, meridians. Chinese diagnoses are the tongue, the pulse, listening, national exams, and the licensing exams are fourteen official and observing.” before beginning her private practice. ones, all but one run“There is a place for machines and tests, but there is She has been to China several times to ning lengthwise. “Life energy is no substitute for kindness, for caring,” said Christian. study with Chinese doctors. She first Today, acupuncture is covered by health insurance became interested in acupuncture when like a river that is plans like Blue Cross and Kaiser Permanente. Health she was referred by a friend. “I began supposed to be mov- An acupuncturist uses tiny, flexible needles to stimulate the flow of qi. practitioners are starting to use acupuncture in fertility going to the student clinic at the school. ing. It gets into real clinics and to help deal with nausea in recovery rooms or from chemotherapy treatments. I didn’t have a lot of money and I knew I trouble when it stagneeded help. I started taking treatments. nates. When it stagnates, you get things like Many athletes have acupuncturists as part of their physical health team. Acupuncture can Three to four treatments in, I knew depression or joint pain. The pain can be men- be used to treat insomnia, depression, pain from falls, and back injuries. Still, Christian something was changing. It was subtle tal, spiritual, or physical,” says Christian, “The cautions that acupuncture is not for everyone and is not a cure for all illnesses. but it was real. I was so interested, I de- point of acupuncture is to get the life energy to flow and decrease pain. Putting the needles cided I wanted to study it.” Acupuncture involves the circula- in is sort of like contact points to manipulate Acupuncture is a complex branch of ancient Chinese medicine, based on nature. It tion of energy called qi (pronounced the qi to continue to move. Sometimes there is a treatment option that is growing in popularity every year. The National Institute of Health website has a section on acupuncture that features the following information: During your first office visit, the practitioner may ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior. The practitioner will want to obtain a complete picture Match the terms with the correct sport! of your treatment needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. Inform the acupuncturist about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have. Volleyball Turkey Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncEncroachment ture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people Football feel energized by treatment, while others Arabian Bowling feel relaxed. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the Try Figure Skating needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment. This is why it is important to Pancake Rugby seek treatment from a qualified acupuncBookends Ultimate Frisbee ture practitioner. Treatment may take place over a period of several weeks or more. Check a practitioner’s credentials. Most states require a license to practice acupuncture; however, education and training standards as well as requirements for obtaining a license to practice vary from state to state. Although a license does not ensure quality of care, it does indicate that the practitioner meets certain standards regarding the knowledge and use of acu- Local acupuncturist M.K. Christian owns and operates a wellness facility. puncture.
Alternative Health:
photo courtesy of blogs.scienceforums.net
Acupuncture M.
What to Expect at an Eastern Medicine Clinic
Obscure Sports Slang
?
photo by Caitlin McGavran
Answers: Turkey=Bowling; Encroachment=Football; Arabian=Figure Skating; Try=Rugby; Pancake=Volleyball; Bookend=Ultimate Frisbee
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