#SocialMedia
Yo u’ re
no ta
lon e
Speak Up Ever been on the Receiving end of taunts or teasing? You aren’t alone. MavLife staffers update their statuses with their experiences.
How is social media affecting today’s world? Read on to learn more about cyberbullying, Wikipedia’s credibility, and LCC’s new tech policy.
Opinion Pages 4-5
Features Pages 10-11
December 2011
Best Pizza MavLife taste testers rank top local cheese and pepperoni pizzas. Read more to find out where you should head for lunch.
MavLife La Costa Canyon High School, One Maverick Way, Carlsbad, CA 92009
Entertainment Page 19
Volume 6 Issue 2
Mavs March Into the Spotlight
“This year, we won a Unanimous Superior for concert band. We marched in [the 2011 New Years Day] parade in London, and the Queen was there,” AlShamma said. Both the Marching Band and Color Guard participated. A “Unanimous Superior” is the highest award that bands can receive at tournaments. It is the title that they strive for at each tournament they attend. “Also, we recently had three tournaments with seven to eight schools and placed four out of 20 in the very final,” Al-Shamma said. The Maverick Brigade spends an Maddy Fitzgerald average of six hours a week rehearsing, although it can get up to ten hours Staff Writer or more when they have practices for competitions or games. “We spend so much time together Photo by Ana Diaz in rehearsal and at tournaments that Maverick Brigade members perform during halftime at the home football game on September 30. everyone gets to be really close,” junior Kamalia Freyling said. onsisting of over 70 members, the country. “I think people appreciate us but Maverick Brigade can be seen on the For the successful, award-winning nobody really understands how much we To read more, turn to page 6. field at halftime of every home football band that they are, many students claim practice,” junior Lalia Al-Shamma said. game, as well as at select away games and to have never even heard of the Maverick Their full rehearsal schedule earns them marching band competitions all over the Brigade. more and more recognition each day.
Maverick Brigade emerges as a musical powerhouse
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Bleeding Blue, Green, and Gold for a Good Cause Mavericks participate in ASB-sponsored blood drive
Photo by Kenya Caines
Junior Mckenzie Kastl (right) bandages up junior Nick Gruen after he donated at the November 30 blood drive.
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Samantha Stafford Guest Contributor
any students want to make a difference in the lives of others. As high school students, however, it’s hard to find time to complete such a daunting task. On November 30, the ASB hosted an on-campus blood drive in the band
room. That provided the opportunity for busy students to make a contribution. Many students donated, but the initial donor goal of 75 was not reached. Even though this goal was not met, the donations made at this blood drive were crucial, especially in the winter months when the amount of blood donated worldwide decreases.
Senior Derek Marion, who organized the event, was satisfied with the outcome. “I wanted to make a difference, and people need blood. It’s an easy way to help people in need,” Marion said. Many other students also felt the need to help others by donating at the blood drive. “My dad was in the hospital and needed blood, so I wanted to help others in his situation,” junior Jess Kraus said. While many people are intimidated by the thought of someone coming at them with a needle, most students found that donating blood was not nearly as bad as they thought it would be. “They definitely knew what they were doing, and it was really quick,” Kraus said. Although some were initially nervous while waiting in line, others welcomed the challenge with open arms. “I wasn’t nervous because I knew that I would be saving lives, and it turned out to be really easy anyways,” junior Nick Gruen said. “It didn’t take long at all. Plus I felt fine afterwards.” Continued on page 8
If You Really Knew LCC
Challenge Day to return thanks to Foundation funds
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Kelsea Critin Staff Writer
s current seniors may recall, a unique event called Challenge Day took place during the 2008-2009 school year. Since then, the event has not happened again; however, the administration is working hard to bring it back. “It will include all student groups,” Principal Kyle Ruggles said. “We want to break down barriers.” Seniors who participated three years ago have nothing but good things to say about the program. “It was amazing and something that should be done again,” senior Jill Margiotta said. “It would definitely make the school a better place.” In addition to improving the school, senior Ashley Daniel insists it helped her personally as well. Continued on page 8
Editorial
2 MavLife 2011-2012 Staff Editor-In-Chief: Brenna Lyles Managing Editor: Tara McQueen Features Editor: Hanna Beyer Opinion Editor: Raquel Zilberman News Editor: Kiana Jackson Sports Editor: Courtney Utsler Entertainment Editor: Cameron Gurley Photo Editor: Kenya Caines Design Editor: Will Jones Assistant Designer: Meg Shepro Web Editor: Nicole Walters Artist at Large: Kevin Yei Staff Writers: Lauren Anderson, Rikki Backus, Jenny Barnes,Tiffany Brock, John Mark Carlson, Alex Condos, Kelsea Critin, Ana Diaz, Gage DiRoberto, Savannah Dukes-Samala, Maddy Fitzgerald, Anthony Fregoso, Karlee Fuller, Ali Madurowicz, Claudia Mathews, Megan Mineiro, Julian Sanz, Shanoah Souza, Meg Shepro, Victoria Zamora, Rebecca Zilberman
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avLife is the student newspaper of La Costa Canyon High School. LCCHS student media products are public forums for student expression. Students are responsible for their work in print publications, online content and video broadcasts, as well as in other products, none of which are subject to administrative approval. Students make all final content decisions. Media programs follow Scholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association, and Student Press Law Center standards. In addition, student media programs work to follow all copyright laws and avoid libel, slander, and infringing upon the rights of others. Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the newspaper staff, while opinion columns represent the writer’s perspective. Advertisements do not necessarily represent the newspaper’s views.
Dec.
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“It’s FBO”... Our generation “in a relationship” with social media
Just added a new photo Is in a relationship
Likes Good Quotes and Freedom of Speech
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here’s no denying it now— we’re living in the WiFi generation. Today’s young people are so “plugged in” to their virtual lives they intentionally “tune out” the real world. Some pull out their laptops and access the Internet only to find their fingers involuntarily typing “www.facebook.c...” into the browser bar. They soon remember this was not the site they intended to visit. They tweet, post, text every waking hour of their lives, willingly disposing of any sense of privacy. The editorial staff of MavLife believes that America’s youngest thinkers, those of the Millennial generation, have been drastically altered by social media’s dominance in today’s society. Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, you name it, have managed to shape the way that we communicate, react, and ultimately exist in the physical world. Despite elders’ criticism of the way that social media has shaped our thinking and social interaction, these changes aren’t bad per say. They’re simply different from the generations before. These social networking sites have given teens and young adults the excuse to conjure up and share every last thought, expressing a wide variety of mild to extreme emotions. We camp before the soothing glow of an LCD monitor while hiding behind an attractive, yet quirky profile picture and memorable posts. It seems that no one is ever passive these days, as people fight to secure the “most memorable comment/post/tweet/ blog of the day” award. People nowadays have an opinion on every worldly or even
local issue, typically because of the vast quantity of information now available via the world wide web. MavLife feels that this access to seemingly unlimited information has been invaluable to today’s youth. Compared to our parents, we seem to know more people and hold a unique bond within our young community. Our ability to connect with someone at any point in the day has allowed for the making of new and sometimes unexpected friendships. Yet, there are some flaws in this access to information that social databases offer. Today, we all know of each other, we all know about each other, but do we really know each other? We hold the ability to type in just about any name into the Facebook search bar in order to figure out what someone looks like, where they go to school, or simply the name of their favorite artist. Despite how we will adamantly deny so-called “lurking,” each and every one of Facebook’s users are guilty of sifting through others’ photo albums and status updates. We no longer feel compelled to ask one another, “what’d you do this weekend?” because we already know. We share everything with everyone in just one click, making experiences and relationships less and less personal. Pictures recap every party. Tweets and check-ins reveal others’ exact locations at exact times. We are spending too much time trying to remember a moment, rather than living and feeling that moment. Maybe most extreme is that couples are no longer considered official until their Facebook reads “in a relationship
with [insert name here],” accompanied by a posed photograph. It’s got to be “FBO” (Facebook Official) for it to be real. Perhaps one of the greatest changes in youth is that each and every one of our actions (whether posting a comment, picture, or video) is permanent. Despite our ability to press a “delete” key, mistakes are only hidden and will be forever ingrained into that website. Whether we realize it or not, our young lives are becoming a part of history, making it crucial for us to weigh in on how we present ourselves on our accounts. And daunting questions linger: what will become of our profiles and blogs fifteen years from now? Will we still have the same Facebook with the same “friends” from high school and college and grad school? If so, Facebook sure is going to need to change that limit of only 5000 friends. Will we show our future children and spouses and in-laws our Facebook pages from when we were teens in place of physical photo albums? Does Facebook even have enough memory to hold fifteen years’ worth of posting from millions of people? Where is all this personal information going? The editors of MavLife cannot answer these questions; only time will tell. It’s up to you to reflect on the effects of social media on your life and generation. The editorial is a collaboration between all MavLife editors, and is not the opinion of the entire MavLife staff.
Letters to the
Editor Have an opinion about a new school policy? Have a bone to pick with something MavLife has published? Anything else on your mind? E-mail us at mavlifenews@gmail.com or write us a letter and drop it off in room 820.
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New Content Added to lccnews.com for December:
• Will Jones examines Renaissance • Battle of the Bands profiles • New Boyz interview and slideshow
Dec.
Opinion
Teachers Aren’t Playing Favorites
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One student’s thoughts about whether teachers favor certain students
Karlee Fuller Staff Writer
I
have come to the conclusion that there are two forms of favoritism: beneficial and social. While I feel neither is an extensive problem on campus, I do see that the latter is a defining symbol of the teacher-student relationship at our school. In my mind, when a student is given advantages in terms of grading or class privileges, it is beneficial favoritism. It involves putting a student on a pedestal that is raised higher than his or her classmates. From the teacher’s perspective, that person can do no wrong, and is thus deserving of the benefits that accompany that flawlessness. However, this is often simply the result of a teacher being so blinded by a student’s performance in some aspect of the class or by some attractive trait that the student possesses,
that the teacher is unable to see past the perfect exterior. The student then knows that he or she can manipulate the teacher to get that 86% in Aeries to show up as an A, and that the power has shifted into their hands. This form of complete idolizing a student is not common at LCC, and I will be the first to say that in my four years here my encounters with beneficial favoritism have been far and few. However, I see extensive examples of social favoritism taking place all over campus. While harmless and often disregarded, this form of favoritism takes place mainly in the development of the teacher-student relationship. Social favoritism includes the student who has personal conversations with the teacher in the middle of class or is the subject of any other display of fondness from the teacher. But I have noticed that it’s a certain type of student that is often the subject of this favoritism, and generally it’s either the jocks, the intellectually superior, or the person with that profusely bubbly personality. While few students who are the subject of this favoritism will say that they dislike the attention they receive, it is undeniable that it takes place.
Illustration by Meg Shepro
I must stress that social favoritism is not something to be angry about, for it often is just the result of a teacher having a particular interest in a student as a result of a similarity or unique trait. It is not any sort of preferential treatment, but more a teacher’s enjoyment in one student over another because that student goes in before school or does those recommended readings that only a few students actually do. So comes the question, does favoritism of students by teachers take place at LCC? My first reaction would be to say yes, and immediately thoughts of teachers conspiring against me come to mind.
Have A Holly Jolly Hanukkah A Jewish perspective on Christmas
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Rebecca Zilberman Staff Writer
s it really the “most wonderful time of the year?” This year, Hanukkah is from December 20 to December 28, which means that Christmas and Hanukkah overlap. While those who celebrate Christmas are opening presents and eating ham with the smell of pine in the air, I will be at a Chinese restaurant with my family. Going to a Chinese restaurant followed by the movie theater are common traditions among Jews because those are generally the only two places open on Christmas Day. In the days prior, instead of hurriedly wrapping presents and baking cookies for Santa, I will be eating Latki and spinning dreidels. Many people do not know much about Hannukah, except that it is sometimes around the same time as Christmas. It seems that most Jews feel the same way about the holidays. “I love being Jewish and Christmas time doesn’t bother me at all. I think the spirit is fun and I do my own traditions for the holidays,” junior Noah Lizerbram
Illustration by Meg Shepro
said. “I think that most of my friends know that I don’t celebrate Christmas, but I have no problem with explaining to other people why I don’t.” When I was younger, I would always feel awkward about telling people that I didn’t celebrate Christmas. When I was at the dentist or at a store and people told me to have a good Christmas, or asked me what I wanted from my parents for Christmas, I never knew if I should
just tell them I was Jewish or go along with what they were saying and pretend I celebrated Christmas. I have always been proud to be Jewish, but when I was younger I never wanted to point out that I was different from the other kids. I know every Christmas song, probably better than most Christians. One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is ABC Family’s “25 Days of Christmas.” I could spend days watching
But when I really think about it, the answer is truly no. Many students feel victimized by a bias that isn’t there, blaming favoritism for their own mistakes. A teacher connecting with one student possibly more than another does not constitute favoritism. I see no problem with this kind of student-teacher bonding, but once the relationship leads to the teacher allowing the student to have more benefits than their classmates, it becomes unethical. Thankfully, my experience at LCC has not shown any evidence of favoritism raging through campus, and for that I thank the teachers’ morality and desire for fair treatment of students.
the various classics, eating Christmas cookies and drinking one of the Starbucks seasonal lattes. For me, I actually really enjoy this time of the year. I feel that it is exciting and fun with all the unique celebrations. Something about the jingle bells, crazy shoppers, glittered ornaments, red and green Christmas lights, and pine trees are just so warming to the heart, even if you don’t celebrate Christmas. Even though I love this time, I would never have a Christmas tree and celebrate Christmas because I am very happy being Jewish and would never trade that for any of the Christmas festivities. It seems that a fellow “tribe member” would agree. “Even though I am Jewish, I really like this winter season and the Christmas music,” junior Elana Cates said. “The only thing I don’t like is all the advertisements for Christmas that start coming on television as early as before Thanksgiving. No one ever advertises Hanukkah.” Cates brings up a very relevant point that I certainly agree with. There are no Hanukkah songs or advertisements, ever. Maybe because of this, many people do not know too much about Jews and subsequently hold certain misconceptions about them. We are similar to many nonJews, but we just celebrate a few different holidays. No matter what different religions we practice, we are not all that different from each other.
Opinion
4
Students Overcome Unfair Judgment
Dec.
Writers share their experiences of overcoming challenges with bullying
Raquel Zilberman Opinion Editor
I
can remember being bullied ever since Kindergarten. Whatever the topic, I couldn’t escape the constant laughing in the classroom or on the playground. It was everywhere. Bullying does not always take the form that one would expect. Many people assume that if it isn’t violent, it isn’t bullying. But sending cruel messages to someone on Formspring or even gossiping are forms of bullying. What many people don’t realize is that the person they are saying mean things about could be hiding emotions under their thick skin. Words often hurt more than physical violence, and they linger in one’s memory. Things people say are never forgotten, and some of the people closest to you may end up hurting you the most. For example, I can clearly remember standing up to present in English class freshman year, watching the boys in the back of the room start to giggle at the way I spoke. Looking back now after working hard to overcome the speech impediment that drew uncomfortable laughter and teasing, it all seems so far in the past. But at the same time, it was one of the most difficult things I have gone through in my life. I became afraid to speak in class, or even defend myself against the harsh words directed toward me. Over the years, students have said such things to me as “You try too hard in school,” “You talk funny,” “How does it feel to know that everyone hates you?” These words taunt me, staying in my memory, as I reflect over my last couple years of high school. While painful and difficult, my experiences with bullying have changed me. I am a stronger individual, and I
NO B.A.D.
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ero tolerance is offered in some schools for drinking and drugs, but not all schools in America have the same
believe I can get through anything after overcoming my speech impediment. Going through speech therapy helped me grow into the person I have become: someone who is outspoken and not afraid to speak out for what I believe is right. I would be lying if I said that the harsh words don’t still bother me sometimes. But now, I’ve learned that the pain caused by those who have targeted me is in the past. I need to be strong, and show the people who have bullied me that I am happy. For students who are also going through the difficulties of bullying, standing up for what you believe in and being proud of who you are, are two of the most important things that will help get you through high school. While times can get hard with family problems, friend issues, and school troubles, the one person who will always be there for you is yourself. Believing in yourself, and realizing that you are better than bullying, better than torment, and better than harsh words, will keep you strong. Staying true to yourself will be well worth it. I say this coming from experience. I’ve seen both hard times and good times. I know how it feels to be made fun of for something that is not important, and something that won’t matter in twenty years. I’ve lost plenty of friends and have had my fair share of problems in high school, but in the end, believing in myself and finding friends who do stick by me have helped me get through any challenge I may face. For those of you who don’t see bullying as a problem or say that you’re just joking around when making negative comments, please stop.You are hurting more people than you think. People tend to bundle things up inside instead of opening up and showing how they really feel. There are plenty of high school kids suffering from depression and that one cruel word you say about them could tip them over the edge into doing something that cannot be undone. Make the choice to stand up against bullying— you will not be alone.
policy. No consistency, no leadership and no followers. Bullying has many levels of acceptance, and tolerance. Clearly we wait till lives are taken, families destroyed and cities remembered before we take one more step to eliminate the cause of
Illustration by Will Jones
ullying affects many kids’ lives and has greatly affected mine. Personally I have experienced harsh words that had no purpose as to why they were said. This form of bullying can be the most painful. Being called names or being made fun of is degrading and can really make a big impact on someone’s life. I guarantee that you and the people that you surround yourself with have been bullied to some degree at some point in their lives. The harsh reality to that statement is that bullying affects social circles, families, and it even takes lives. It is also the number one issue that educators deal with in America today. Bullying has made it extremely hard for me to be able to express myself and show people who I really am on the inside. Judging people based on what their clothing looks like or the car they drive shows absolutely nothing about who the person is or what they are going through. I have a story, just like you, but my path may be a little different. When I was 13, my mom was diagnosed with stage
three breast cancer. This experience made me realize how important it is to cherish each day with the people I love around me. I choose the people in my life very carefully because I value trust in a person more than anything. I have learned that if a person is bad mouthing someone to me, then they are definitely bad mouthing me to others. I am currently a junior, and have been harassed in the past years. I have been hurt by people who have never even met me, and friends that I thought I could trust. What I want you to know is that I am the most genuine person, and even though I have had hurtful things said to me, I have never retaliated towards those who have targeted me. The obstacles that I have had to overcome encouraged me to take a stand. I am currently running for Miss California Teen USA and I am representing North County. The campaign that I am most passionate about is my own organization, NO B.A.D. (No Bullying, Alcohol, and Drugs). What I have noticed over the past couple of years is that being bullied made me a stronger individual. This organization has helped me help others that are going through similar difficulties. Bottom line, words hurt people in ways you will never imagine. The next time you think about saying or doing something that could potentially hurt someone else, remember they have a story, too.
these issues. We watch YouTube videos of a boy snapping and striking his bully, and we cheer him on for finally saying “enough”. What if it would have been with a weapon or an act of suicide that he chose instead of striking back with
his fist. I can tell you first hand that educators see it, hear it and live it every day and never take a leadership role to stop it in its tracks. Check out more about NO B.A.D at www.tiffanybrock. com
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Tiffany Brock Staff Writer
Opinion
Dec.
5
f We All Have a Story MavLife writers open up about bullying
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Brenna Lyles “Your face is so red right now.” Ever since the fifth grade, friends, classmates, and even teachers have been pointing out this humiliating fact. Whenever I’m under pressure, in front of a larger audience, or embarrassed, I blush a deep red. While I often brush off others’ comments with a smile, I fight the sting of memories from when the teasing wasn’t quite so friendly. I specifically recall the day in 8th grade, as I stood before the science class, when one girl rallied the entire class to chant “tomato face” and “cherry cheeks.” I barely got through my presentation before finally erupting into tears and running back to my seat. I have even experienced teachers who intentionally embarrassed me just to see me blush. My insecurity even began to affect my education as I used to avoid raising my hand in class simply to avoid extra attention to my rosy face. In retrospect, I recognize people naturally make fun of what is out of the ordinary— usually out of discomfort. I’ve learned to love my cute quirk, accepting it is a genetic and inherited trait I cannot change. In fact, it is one of the things that makes me who I am. While I strongly oppose any form of bullying and its potential to create lasting insecurities, I fully believe each individual holds the capacity to rise above the demeaning words and actions of others.
10 minutes ago • Like
Cameron Gurley Middle school was where it began. I went to middle school coming from a different district so I didn’t know anyone at first. I had braces, acne, messy hair, and big feet that didn’t quite fit me yet. Middle school, for me, was sink or swim— either make fun or be made fun of. It bugged me that I couldn’t fit in no matter what I tried to do. My lunch was stolen from me almost every day at school by someone who brought his lunch but felt it would be funny to take mine. I was called “gay” or “faggot” on a regular basis. I’m more comfortable around girls than I am around guys, which might be why people questioned my sexual orientation. I’m secure enough in my heterosexuality and looking back, I think I was called those names because I’m just an outgoing person. I support gay rights, but in high school, that makes me gay by default. I admit it— I’m a dork, I’m outgoing, I openly make Star Wars references during class, and I’m a Boy Scout. Looking back on the teasing that I endured, I am proud that I have not allowed hurtful words be detrimental to my self-confidence. 8 minutes ago • Like
Will Jones As the new kid, my sixth grade self was a reserved child who spent recess sitting in solitude on a bench. My young mind was infused with a bitterness that would magnify the abuse I received. The burst of profanity sent in retaliation to my peers’ teasing merely made them laugh as I was sent to the Principal’s office. But this did not compare to the shame I felt when I saw the bruises upon my brother’s skull from when I beat him up for a mere rude remark. Entering middle school, I undertook a non-violent approach. I focused on finding things that I could take pride in, soon discovering my aptitude for running and computers. I found that my new-found self respect was the greatest weapon of resistance. I kept silent during our physical fitness test as I heard the rude interjections between counts of push ups being served by the boy who dubbed me “tighty-whitey boy.” It was not easy, but I found that to be at peace with the world, I first needed to be at peace with myself. 3 minutes ago • Like Write a comment...
You Are Not Alone
There are other people also struggling. You can get help.
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USA National Suicide Hotline Toll-free/ 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week. Call: 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-273-TALK
35 hours ago • Like
Teens Against Bullying Visit www.teensagainstbullying.org for stories and advice.
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Families for Depression Awareness A national nonprofit organization helping families recognize and cope with depressive disorders to get people well and prevent suicides. Visit www.familiesaware.com or call 1-781-890-0220. 2 hours ago • Like
The Trevor Project If you’re considering suicide, please call 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386) right now. There are people standing by ready to talk to you. The Trevor Project’s website also has many great resources that allow students to learn from the experiences of others and connect with other LGBT teens. Visit www.trevorproject.org. 36 minutes ago • Like
News 6 Dec. Mavericks Host Annual Winter Maverick Brigade Recognized continued from page 1 Classic Tournament Speech and Debate’s biggest fundraising event of the year draws hundreds
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Kelsea Critin and Megan Mineiro Staff Writers
undreds of smartly-dressed students lights and decorations.” from California, Arizona, Nevada, Parents accompanied the students and Washington arrived on campus the from the 52 visiting schools, the majority weekend of December 2nd to compete in of which were from outside San Diego the 41st annual San Diego Winter Classic County. The tournament provided Speech and Debate Tournament. LCC parents with the opportunity to see their debaters worked long hours to create children’s talents in action on a national an event that left a lasting impression on level. many visitors. “I’m excited to be a part of [the “Our tournament is very well known competition],” parent Marlene Pearce in the debate community and always said. “My son is a novice and this will be a meets expectations,” senior Hannah Oh great opportunity for him to participate said. with more experienced debaters.” Speech and Debate organizes the Pearce’s son attends Dessert Vista High Winter Classic Tournament annually, School in Chandler, Arizona. which Parents generates funds were both eager necessary and excited to “Our tournament is very well to cover witness their known in the debate community travel fees, children in and always meets expectations” action. tournament entries, “I think it equipment is fun to see Senior Hannah Oh the kids rise and supplies. This year alone to this type of the tournament raised approximately challenge,” LCC parent Laurel Hickok $30,000. said. “Our team relies on the profits to go Parents helped provide food for to tournaments all up the West Coast,” debaters and volunteer judges throughout junior Tyler Simpson said. the weekend and sold concessions to While LCC students did not visiting students. compete in the tournament, the event “I love to bake and cook and was made possible through the planning participate in school functions,” said and dedication of Speech and Debate parent Linda Abrams, who prepared students, coach Margaret Dubel and some of the dishes that filled tables in the numerous parent volunteers. library Friday night. While there were many different The Winter Classic proved to be trophies awarded during the competition, an challenging event to coordinate for Carlsbad High School won the Dubel, a veteran teacher who is new sweepstakes for receiving the highest to Speech and Debate, but she put on a placings in the most events. successful tournament despite being new “It was well deserved, and they had to the program. a lot of good entries,” Dubel said. “It was “The organization didn’t start today,” really competitive.” Vice Principal Bjorn Paige said. “Ms. Even before the bell rang Friday Dubel has been working on this for weeks afternoon, and weeks. There visiting students has been a lot of “The campus is pretty and had begun to hard work that clean. I love the atmosphere has gone into [it].” arrive from schools across But without with the lights and California. the hard work decorations.” Some were of the LCC impressed with students, Dubel’s the friendliness plans would have Mackenzie Orr from and hard work been to no avail. Claremont High School Debate students of LCC’s team. The students worked late into had displayed each night from holiday lights, snowflake balloons, and Friday through Sunday, sacrificing their signs across campus to make it more weekend for the team. welcoming. “Overall, students did well with “Everyone is really nice,” Claremont doing their jobs,” Dubel said. “Over the High School freshman Mackenzie Orr course of the weekend they were here said. “At some other tournaments people about 40 hours.” can be grumpy. The campus is pretty and While the tournament went off with clean. I love the atmosphere with the minimal glitches, there is still room for
“We’re like a family,” junior Students in marching band can Brianna Johnson said. “We encourage receive PE credit for their time, which each other. Some people also work is especially important if one is looking together for duets, which always end to free up a spot in his or her schedule up really pretty.” to take other classes required for The band members interviewed graduation. agree that the Brigade is not largely According to Band Director recognized by the school. Principal Carissa Mattison, in order to earn two Kyle Ruggles agrees. years of PE credit, band members must “I think show up to a few people, rehearsals “I am extremely proud of how all of though not after school, nearly enough, their hard work and practice pays attend all are finally off. There is definitely another side home football starting to games, and to LCC besides sports.” understand participate that we do in four Principal Kyle Ruggles in fact have competitions a top-notch during first band here semester. on our campus,” Dr. Ruggles said. In addition, students need to do “I am extremely proud of how all of four years of marching band to get their hard work and practice pays off. two years of PE credit. Students who There is definitely another side to LCC choose this path would have to fulfill besides sports.” the Health requirement on their own The bulk of activities and time. rehearsals for marching band take place Anyone who is looking to catch during the first semester, with students a glimpse of the Maverick Brigade’s meeting for band camp in August and performances can visit their YouTube ending the competition season in late channel under “TheMaverickBrigade” November. or “like” their page on Facebook.
Photo by Ana Diaz
Band members march at halftime during the football game on September 30.
improvement next year. “We would like to rework the schedule so that we can insure that the tournament runs 100% on time,” Dubel said. “Other than that I think it went really well.” Despite areas that need to be adjusted in the future, the tournament was completed successfully.
“It’s a marvelous tournament and people love coming here,” Paige said. The Speech and Debate team not only earned the funds they require to compete throughout the year, but ensured that the 41st annual San Diego Winter Classic Speech and Debate Tournament earned praise from students, coaches, and volunteers alike.
News
Dec.
Students Seek Solutions to School’s Litter Problem Club creates composting program on campus
Photo by John Mark Carlson
Despite the availability of numerous trash cans, students still litter on campus.
John Mark Carlson Staff Writer
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e all know the sight: trash covering the ground after another fun and delicious lunch period with friends. However, after lunch for custodians it isn’t so fun or delicious. “The main problem area is the parking lot,” head custodian Ambrose
Quebedeaux said. “Students throw their trash on the deck in the rush to get back to class.” Students eat and then leave to get to class. Due to budget cuts, the number of custodians has been significantly reduced. This means that the garbage piles up and the custodians are soon overwhelmed. “It takes us about two hours with three custodians to clean up the mess,”
Community Forum Sparsely Attended Despite ASB Efforts
Attendees discussed wide range of topics
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Karlee Fuller Staff Writer
SB hosted the first community Technology issues also featured prominently. Students discussed their forum of the year on December feelings about teachers connecting 6 in hopes of getting feedback from students and faculty on how to improve with students via Twitter and Facebook, while teachers expressed the school. Both students and teachers disappointment were in students’ given the decisions to opportunity spend time on to express social websites their in class. opinions and Aside come up with from students solutions for some of Photo by Karlee Fuller in ASB, school-wide Senior and ASB Commissioner Will Jones, leads Journalism, discussion during the community forum. Leadership, all issues. of whom were The sparsely attended forum lasted just over requested to attend, no more than an hour and covered a variety of topics, two or three other students made an appearance. including drug use on campus, the Students who missed the support athletics receives over visual opportunity can attend the next forum and performing arts, and students’ disappointment with Red Ribbon Week. in the spring.
"Guiding Your Path to Success!" James C. Lundgren II College Planning Solutions 4225 Executive Square, Suite 960 La Jolla, CA 92037 Office: 858 453-5136 Fax: 858 457-7522 Email: jim@collegeplanningsolutions.info
Quebedeaux. Cleaning up behind students takes away time that could be devoted elsewhere on campus such general maintenance and classroom improvements. Students likely don’t realize just how much trash is left. “[The amount of trash left] equals about 3 cubic yards of trash or one whole dumpster,” Quebedeaux said. Yet, not every student eats in or even near the parking lot and consequently that’s not the only problem area. “Another area is the student center, since so many kids hang out there,” Quebedeaux said. Some students on campus are seeking to become part of the solution. The club O2 For Life has set up a composting program behind the 600 quad, for example, but not all students know about it. “I didn’t know [that the school has a composting area],” senior Amber Williams said. “I’d like to help our school be more green, though.”
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While well hidden from the view of most students, the large composting area behind the 600 quad boasts eight large composting bins, and is well maintained by students like senior and club president Ashley Daniel. “Our main goal is to set up the program and to also get local elementary schools’ composting programs set up,” Daniel said. “Hopefully we will solve the issue soon.” Composting is a helpful way to reduce trash, since it enables students to dispose of their food items in an alternative way. Though composting is a more involved process than simply throwing trash away, the potential benefits might encourage students to do more. “I’d naturally be more inclined to make sure that my trash gets where it needs to be if I was more involved in composting,” sophomore Victor Perez said. For students looking to maintain a beautiful campus, composting is a viable alternative to littering.
The Doctor Is In Dr. Ruggles answers questions at monthly press conference Kiana Jackson News Writer ML: I understand that you have a “Principal fund” with the LCC Foundation that gives you money to spend in areas you think are important. What are a few things that you have decided to spend the money on for this school year? DR: The main item is Challenge Day. We’ve connected with the Challenge Day organization. There are three dates [we have] in mind in February. We’re always looking at ways to support students like food or special events all tied directly to students. ML: Do you feel that LCC’s reputation is primarily based on athletics rather than academics? DR:There’s a perception—that goes along with any school. There are things we can do as a school to change the perception. I follow athletics and academics—we do both. The perception is there, and we can do something about it. ML: At the last press conference, you mentioned that you hope to use Renaissance in the future to improve our API score. Has there been any progress in doing this since the last time we met with you? DR: Yes, Mr. Van Over and Ms. Wood’s leadership class are working on recognition events right away, like the breakfast for students [with a 4.0 or higher]. Several events are organized for this year—you will see benefits within the next month. ML: Do you think that teachers or administrators use favoritism at LCC? DR: I certainly hope we don’t—towards anybody. We want to promote each and every student to success, emphasis on each
and every. But again, it’s up to perception, but I hope that we as a school and staff are focusing on each student. I haven’t seen it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not going on. ML: Are we having Senior Burger Day this year? If not, why? Will anything be planned to replace this event? DR: [Burger day is] Absolutely not cancelled. I’d never want to cancel a tradition of students. Instructional minutes are crucial and I need to be supportive of not interrupting that time. It will be at another time that’s not instructional time—during STAR testing or senior week. We will have burger day even if I have to go out and get the burgers myself. ML: How do you plan on finding new coaches to replace the coaches that are leaving? Are there already teachers you have in mind to fill the positions? DR: We are required to post the position throughout the district to offer the job to people in our district first. The posting includes information about payment and what school it is and how to get more information about the job. It’s good to have experience but not always. We have twelve varsity coaches (out of 26) for whom it’s their first year here. ML: What is your opinion on the dancing that occurs at school dances? Do you feel that it’s appropriate? DR: Things change. The styles students are using I don’t think that everyone uses. I’ve chosen to deal with it individually with those students. Mr. Van Over has his bull horn. I meet with other principals and they have different ways of dealing with it. No, it’s not okay, I need to deal with it with those students.
News
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Los Coches Village Shopping Center Welcomes Crust Pizzeria
Dec.
Newest addition offers a twist on a favorite food Megan Mineiro Staff Writer
“
Amore” for Crust Pizzeria! - New Pizzeria Provides Variety to Community Cuisine. On October 23, the unveiling of Crust Pizzeria satisfied the public’s curiosity after weeks of wondering what lay behind the tarp-covered windows and construction noises. The restaurant, privately owned by Matt and Kimia Othick, is the newest addition to the Sprouts shopping center. Open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Crust is located less than half a mile from the school, so students can grab a bite to eat while hanging out with friends or before heading to a game. Plus, Crust now has a deal especially for Mavericks that they serve from 11 a.m. to 4
Blood Drive
p.m. daily. “Right now we have a special: a ten inch cheese or pepperoni with a drink to-go for seven dollars,” Othick said. Students who have eaten at Crust rave not only over the incredible food, but also the unique atmosphere. “There is an adult kind of atmosphere with the sports and the bar, but it’s still comfortable enough for teens to hang out,” junior Rachel Haiduck said. But there are some students who have not yet ventured inside the restaurant, finding the “adult atmosphere” to be too fancy. “It looks high end and expensive. I think it would have been cooler to have something more directed towards kids,” sophomore Nick Grieve said. While the decor is different from an average pizzeria, Othick made it clear that she
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during the school year is from Several students high school students, and it commented that the staff is so great that these students of the blood drive was well start donating young so they qualified and made things as become lifelong donors,” easy as possible. Despite a Forster said. long line at certain times, the The students who process on the whole seemed donated walked around with to work efficiently. the brightly colored gauze, “It was pretty easy, adorned with bows, that and everything was very showed sterile,” that “It is so great that these stusenior they had Bernando dents start donating young so donated Faraco they become lifelong donors” their said. blood in Sue Sue Forster from the San Diego the drive. Forster If you from the Blood Bank wish to San Diego claim your Blood own neon Bank who co-hosted the blood bandage, the next blood drive drive with ASB, was very appreciative to the people who will be in February 2012. Students must be 18 years donated. old to donate, or 17 years old “Around 25% of the with parent permission. blood collected each year
To find out more about how to donate blood, visit:
http://www.sandiegobloodbank.org/ donating-blood or call: 1-800-4MY-SDBB
Photo by Megan Mineiro
Chef Charlie Meola prepares a hand-tossed pizza.
and her husband were aiming to create a place were all ages feel welcome. “It’s supposed to be more modern than your typical pizzeria. We were trying to create something adult friendly, but also comfortable enough for teenagers to come in and enjoy,” said Othick. Crust pizzeria offers handcrafted New York style pizza made from a variety of ingredients. “Our sausage is from Kansas City and it’s made by a guy who, for sixty years, has been making sausage. It’s a unique product,” Othick said. “Everything we have put into [our pizza], all the dough, everything is handcrafted, so everything is fresh and high quality.” At Crust, customers can create their own pizzas, choosing from 24 toppings,
Challenge Day to Return to LCC “I realized a lot about myself,” Daniel said. “It was a
really good experience, especially as a freshman. I think it would be really helpful to the underclassmen of the school.” Challenge Day will happen over a period of three days, serving 300 students schoolwide. However, participants will be chosen selectively and cannot simply sign-up. “The Challenge Day people facilitate who is chosen, though teachers will be asked to participate in selection too,” Dr. Ruggles said. Designed to help improve intellectual flexibility, task leadership, emotional control, self confidence, and emotional competence, the program has been held in junior high and high schools since 1987. It has reached one million youth in four hundred cities, forty-five U.S. states, and five provinces of Canada. During the three days, the students will take part in games and activities presented by the program, which will include the “Notice, Choose & Act” workshop and the trademark “If You Really Knew Me” activity. These, along with other activities, bring the participants closer together.
“We want to help people
ranging from the typical mozzarella cheese and pepperoni, to more unusual ones such as sopraffina ricotta and wild arugula. The menu also offers artisan, whole wheat, and even gluten free crusts. “Ironically, my favorite part of the pizza was the crust,” Haiduck said. Although their signature items are their red and white pizzas, the Crust menu also contains a wide selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, wine, beer and deserts, as well as a kid’s menu. “When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore!” sang Dean Martin, nearly sixty years ago. With Crust open seven days a week and soon offering delivery, locals will be able to decide for themselves whether they are in “amore,” or “in love,” with Crust pizzeria.
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Additionally, there is a cut through the exterior things campus-wide separation that to get to the core and come to the administration hopes the the realization that we’re not all implementation of Challenge that different,” Dr. Ruggles said. Day will address. “I’ve spoken to some new students this year, and they feel that there are a lot of cliques. I don’t see it as a problem, but we can always do something to bring those people together,” Dr. Ruggles said. Challenge Day is expected to affect its many participants, but it is obvious that just three days cannot keep a feeling of unity for the rest of the year. “Be the Change will be a big part,” Dr. Ruggles said of the club on campus dedicated to reaching the Challenge Day outcome. “They’ll sustain the effects.” This club, run by senior Karlee Fuller, meets on Mondays in room 300. It is, however, open to all students, regardless of whether they participate in Challenge Day. In the end, Dr. Ruggles believes that bringing Challenge Day back will improve the school. “We’re all striving for the same goal,” Dr. Ruggles said. Challenge Day uses the sign language “We want our student and sign for “I love you” as a part of their school communities to be the program. best that they can be.”
Features Dec. Resolved: Speech and Debate Students Play to Win Nationally ranked team prepares its students for future success
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Rikki Backus Staff Writer
hey don’t hit, they don’t kick, they don’t throw, and they don’t swing. They present and debate. Believe it or not, Speech and Debate is considered a sport at La Costa Canyon, and comes with all the privileges and perks of participating on a sports team. For students seeking school involvement or possibly hoping to letter before graduation, athletics aren’t the only way to achieve achieve these goals. The same opportunities are available in Speech and Debate. “You can actually letter if you’re on varsity Speech and Debate,” sophomore Nathan Park said. Despite little on campus recognition, the Speech and Debate team has earned a nationally ranked title for the past several years. “We’re ranked in the top one hundred for the entire nation, and we’ve had multiple students go to nationals each year,” Speech and Debate adviser Margaret Dubel said. “We have done really well in local tournaments. We took first in Sweepstakes, and third at Novice Debate.” Successful tournaments reflect the great deal of time, effort, and hard work that students put in during class and on their own time. Speech and Debate is broken down into three different categories: Lincoln Douglas Debate, Speech, and Policy. Students have a choice when signing up to do any of the three. Lincoln Douglas (LD) is an individual debate that imposes all the pressure on one person, but is still linked to the other two categories for support and camaraderie. “LD is an ethics-based debate where we present a case using our value and value criterion,” junior Tyler Leigh said. “We work to achieve a system of ethics of which to provide for a system of action.”
San Diego Gets H ol id a ay
Photo by Rikki Backus
Sophomore Amanda Lowery (left) recites her speech for the upcoming tournament to junior Sarah Ostresh.
Throughout the year, there are multiple value criterions that serve as the foundation for Lincoln Douglass Debate. “An example of this year’s value criterion is morality or justice,” Dubel said. Speech does not contain the interaction that LD or Policy does, but for the more timid students that may be just perfect. Even though writing and performing a speech may be overwhelming at times, students agree that their dedication pays off in the end. “In the Speech category, you write speeches, some being ten minutes long, and present them at your tournaments,” Park said. Policy is the most interactive of all three styles of debate, keeping students on their toes and fired up. “Policy debate is an evidence-based activity where
Festive
you make arguments against your opponents,” freshman William Zhu said. “My favorite part regarding Policy is being able to shout at your opponent and declare their argument invalid.” “It’s like a second family. Everyone gets very close throughout the year,” Park said. Even though Speech and LD are individual sports, all three parts of Speech and Debate come together to form unity among its members. “You even have a partner to compete with in Policy,” Zhu said, which may help ease the pressure of competition. With 120 students enrolled in Speech and Debate classes, there is a lot of companionship. The team’s similarities bring them together, creating a special bond among the students. “We’re all so different, but we can always somehow relate to one another,” sophomore Molly Naudi said. Enrolling in Speech and Debate has more perks than just making friends and acquiring public speaking skills. “Speech and Debate looks very good on college applications,” Zhu said. Colleges appreciate a student who displays the school involvement, academic excellence, and leadership skills that participants in Speech and Debate must possess. “I recommend this class for anyone who is looking for a class to help provide a better future for themselves,” Park said. “Speech and Debate could potentially help shape your future, and get you ready for the upcoming years.”
“My favorite part regarding Policy is being able to shout at your opponent and declare their argument invalid.” Ashley Daniels
Holiday events and activities around the community Pa at rad
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Sa e G at ar H n of a t S o t D a d L l De of n ie Di id Date: Di en go ights l M Li a s e ne y s go o Dec. 11 Ba Date: Date: ar ghts yl Bo f L y an ta and 18 Nov.14 Nov. 24 - Jan. 1 Date: ni igh d ts ca Time: lG -January 8 Times: Dec. 8–23, ard 5:30 p.m.- 9 p.m. en s Times: Sun.-Thurs. 5:30 pm - 10 pm 26–30; fake Price: Mon.-Thurs. 10 am - 8 pm Fri. & Sat. 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm snow on Dec. 9 - 16 FREE! Fri. - Sun. 8 am - 12 pm Prices: and Dec. 26 - 30 Features Price(single admission: $14 per car (5 people or fewer) Time: See over 100 boats, all Adult: $80 $19 per vehicle (more than 5 5 pm to 9 pm decked out in lighted glory, Kid (ages 3 to 9): $74 people) Prices: and cruise a 7.5 mile route Features: Features: $6 for members; $12 for on San Diego Bay. This Firework shows, World This is the largest animated adults; $8 seniors, military year’s theme is “The Sounds of Color, hundreds of drive-through light show on the & students; $4 for children of Christmas.” Best vantage thousands of lights, and West Coast, with more than 400 (ages 3-12) points from the shore are even fake snow. twinkling, lively displays. Features along Seaport Village, 100,000 lights around Harbor Island and the garden, fake snow, Coronado. festive music, and carolers.
Internet
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A Whole New World District Opens Access to Social Media Teachers and students adapt to the change Maddy Fitzgerald and Courtney Utsler Staff Writer and Sports Editor
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tudents no longer need to sneak around or “break the rules” to get on their favorite social networking sites during school hours. The district has recognized the widespread use and convenience of social media and decided to take advantage of it. As of this year, Facebook, Twitter, MySpace,YouTube, and other social networking sites are now available for student use. So far, the feedback from students has been positive. “It’s nice because you can now use [Facebook] for school projects, like Statistics surveys,” senior Ashley Daniels said. The ASB class has been utilizing Facebook since the beginning of this school year, and with the new access, they are able
that is great to share ideas and post related videos. It is an open forum for non-teacher directed discussion that is open to everyone. Almost all my students
“It’s nice because you can now use [Facebook] for school projects, like Statistics surveys.” Ashley Daniels are using it,” teacher James Etheridge said. “[On the Facebook page] kids are directed from my website and can make comments to each other.” The district hopes teachers will utilize Facebook and other social networking sites as an academic tool in the near future. Some teachers have exercised this recent technological freedom by posting homework on social networking sites. However, if a teacher decides to implement the new technologies, they will have to check with Dr. Ruggles to make sure the use is approved. According to librarian Rosie Prine, who acknowledges developments in the technology landscape, the library is seeing
“We are starting to implement ways to integrate Facebook into our curriculum that will evolve the face of learning. ” Dr. Ruggles to spread the word about school functions more effectively. In addition, the AP Psychology class has also taken advantage of this new policy and has created a Facebook page. “The page is a neat place
more traffic from students who hope to access some of the new tools online. “The face of technology is changing,” Prine said. “By the time that our current freshmen are seniors, most all textbooks will be electronic.” With access to social media comes the potential for abuse, Dr. Ruggles acknowledged. “We want to try to separate what goes on at school and what goes on at home on these social sites,” Dr. Ruggles said. “Especially with teacher-student relationships, we don’t want to violate anyone’s privacy, and using these sites will not be a requirement for any class.” Dr. Ruggles is excited for the new policies, but maintains a cautious approach. He is working on finding a way to make a secure page where only students from that particular class can interact strictly for academic purposes. Dr. Ruggles believes that technology can be a great resource for the students as long as it is used appropriately. “We are starting to implement ways to integrate Facebook into our curriculum that will evolve the face of learning,” Dr. Ruggles said.
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hen doing research, students often find themselves surfing the web for hours at a time trying to find a credible source of information. However, it seems with an increased work load and less available time students are resorting to the less valid and easy to read source widely known as Wikipedia. Regardless of Wikipedia’s accessibility, to what extent is it appropriate to use it? Should the use of this source even be acceptable? Students and teachers offer differing viewpoints on the use of Wikipedia as an information resource. Larry Sanger and Jimmy Wales founded the website with the intent of making a publicly editable encyclopedia, but the idea of “the public” having the ability to edit any information on the site can lead to some contorted facts and misleading material. Plagiarism can become a huge risk when using other people’s
E
The dangers of u
information, especially if the source and its reliability are questiona “It’s hard sometime to differentiate which fa posted on the Wikipedia are valid,” senior Laura Gonzales said, “I don’t
“It’s hard som entiate which the Wikipedi
use Wikipedia on schoo projects because it is no a reliable source and the information may not be factual.” Although the schoo does not prohibit the us of Wikipedia, teachers, Mrs. Chadwick, confess that they “never encoura it.” The resource can be efficiently utilized to fin quick definition, fun fac or even a place to find a biography for a research project. “For a basic introductory it is a relia source,” teacher Ms. Lax
December
As cyberspace becomes increasingly central to students’ lives, new freedoms accompany important choices about how to complete schoolwork and how to interact with peers.
High-Tech Torment Get a Life! You’re such a poser.
using a potententially unreliable source Savannah Dukes-Samala Staff Writer
able. es acts a
said, “but not a preference for in-depth research.” Regardless if it is restricted or not though, the informational website is available and easily accessible by any student and can potentially lead to
metimes to differh facts posted on ia are valid.” Laura Gonzales
ol ot e e
ol se like s age
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more problems than one might expect. However, some students just may not be aware of the dangers that comes with using distorting and misguiding knowledge that appears on Wikipedia. “I don’t think students want to willfully deceive” teacher Ms. Lax said, “I think they just don’t know [of the dangers].” The fact that just any person has the ability to edit information directly on the source is a red flag to the possibility of generalizations and
inaccurate information. When someone posts their ideas and knowledge on a public website that allows people, like students, to take it into their own interpretation. Even though the information is found on an educational site, it still may not be entirely reliable, and plagiarising an anonymous editor’s work can become a huge risk. “I usually do not use it often unless I do not have any other choice. I do not trust it at all” freshman Stephen Jones said. “Someone may interpret the info in the wrong way and the information can be completely false.” Although the credibility of the information of Wikipedia will remain ambiguous to students and some teachers, the knowledge posted by the variety of editors on the website is left up to personal interpretation. All one can do is to use the resource cautiously.
Cyberbullying poses challenges for students and administrators Meg Shepro Staff Writer
No one likes you.
B : [Citation Needed]
MavLife
ullying no longer accounts for name-calling in the hallways, or pinning the freshman up against his locker. The cruelty has taken on a new face in an era where a large percentage of communication and interaction takes place on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Formspring.
of being anonymous, a quality that can give some the power to hide and be reassured that they will not be punished for their actions. “When it’s not to your face, I think people can be more mean to you because they are not as intimidated,” freshman Samantha Archinal said. “Being anonymous gives the bully power,” junior Allison Zimmerman said. The affects of bullying are present all over the news with stories of depression and even suicides. Some students, like senior Julian Todd-Borden, believe that the act of bullying breeds new bullies. “People lose friends or end up drinking or doing drugs to cope with the loss of selfesteem or they become bullies themselves,” Todd-Borden said. Principal Dr. Kyle Ruggles recognizes cyberbullying as a serious issue but explains that he has limited control over students’ online activity. “There are millions of things going on in cyberspace that I can’t have full authority over,” Dr. Ruggles said. “If the conflict that begins in cyberspace comes onto school grounds, I have full control and can deal with the disciplinary actions for those students.” Dr. Ruggles has been
“Being anonymous gives the bully power.” Allison Zimmerman Few teens are strangers to being either victims or perpetrators of such harmful comments. Whether on the giving or receiving end of similar insults, the hurtful effects of demeaning words have either been experienced or witnessed by most adolescents. When students were picked at random and asked to define bullying by MavLife, most recognized it as an act of aggression by people who were insecure themselves. “Bullying is when people think they have a higher status over someone else and they take out aggressive feelings towards [them] because they think they can make themselves feel better by putting someone else down,” senior Bronson Young said. Freshman Pierce Harrington believes that bullying is “wrong and mean” and there is simply “no need.” Similarly, Senior Luke Ashworth defined bullying as “degrading one’s self worth. However in this day, Cyberbullies have emerged. They maintain the advantage
faced with a district who does not have formal guidelines dealing with bullying via the Internet. They have put in place new policies that look at how teachers are using social media for instructional purposes and there is some language that addresses cyberbullying within that limited context. For example, in the policy for Social Media for both teachers and students it states, “District staff does not regularly monitor postings made by students...” and that “parents and students are responsible for all content shared.” However, Dr. Ruggles is trying to put in place new policies that do address the problem. “There is no reason that any student should ever be bullied for any reason, either in cyberspace or in person,” Dr. Ruggles said. Parents and schools as well as the media are commanding the attention of the masses to incidents of bullying in cyberspace. With cyberbullying out in the open and recognized as a form of cowardice, its
“People lose friends or end up drinking or doing drugs to cope with the loss of selfesteem or they become bullies themselves.” Julian Todd-Borden impact can be lessened. As Young states, “bullying is cowardly in the first place, but cyberbullying is just ridiculous.”
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Sports 13 Darren Fahy Speeds Past the Competition Dec.
Star RunnerWins Foot LockerWest Regional Cross Country Meet
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Brenna Lyles Editor in Chief
n a seemingly effortless sprint to the finish, senior Darren Fahy claimed the title as the Foot Locker West Regional Cross Country champion, clocking in at 15 minutes and 29 seconds on Mt. San Antonio College’s 5-kilometer course. However, Fahy’s victory wasn’t quite as painless as it may have appeared to spectators. “It was definitely my hardest race of the year,” Fahy said of the December 3rd race. “I took an early lead and held on at the end.” Fahy ran his first mile in 4 minutes and 48 seconds, a pace that he claims to be “pretty slow.” Despite taking the race out conservatively, “slower than last year,” Fahy managed to beat his 2010 Foot Locker West Regional time by an impressive 20 seconds. Both this and last years’ times have qualified him for Foot Locker Nationals, which are held at Morley Field in Balboa Park. Mt. San Antonio College, located in Walnut, California, a suburb of Los Angeles, is famous to runners throughout the West for its brutal hills. Fahy’s personal record on the course, 14 minutes and 41 seconds, was set at the Mt. SAC Invitational this October. Among several cleverly named hills throughout the course, Fahy’s favorite is the steepest of all, “Poop Out.” Located about halfway through the race, “Poop Out” is where he typically “makes his
move,” pulling away from the lead pack. “I like Mt. SAC. I run it a lot, so I guess I have to like it,” Fahy said. In fact, Fahy has been competing on the course since he started his running career at eight years old, at the time coached by his father. Due his with familiarity Mt. SAC, Fahy even turned down the opportunity to travel to Nike Cross Nationals (NXN) in Portland, Oregon in order to compete at Foot Locker. “I think the course is more genuine. Nike’s muddy course makes it hard to even run fast,” Fahy said. “I wanted to run in front of my home crowd.” Fahy credits a majority of this decision to the hospitality of the organizers at Foot Locker. “The whole experience was great last year, so I really wanted to do it again,” Fahy said. Fahy’s so far undefeated season, marked by first place victories at the Stanford Invitational, Mt. SAC Invitational, CIF San Diego Section meet, and CIF State meet, has not come easy. While the average high schooler lounged on the beach, Fahy dedicated his summer vacation to putting in necessary preseason miles. Around three times a week, during the early and middle parts of the season, Fahy wakes especially early in order to squeeze in a run before heading to class. Fahy attributes his success to his parents, both runners, who introduced
Photo by Brenna Lyles
Senior Darren Fahy breaks away from the lead pack at the Stanford Invitational on September 24.
him to the sport at an early age. “They’ve given me a lot of opportunities like taking me around the country to race,” Fahy said. “They’ve really helped me discover the enjoyment in racing.” He is also grateful for the support, dedication, and knowledge of his coaches, Bill Vice and Taylor Hindle. He also recognizes the benefits in having encouraging and talented teammates. “I feel that having this team has helped me improve. We always do workouts together and Eric [Causey] always pushes me in practice,” Fahy said. “We all do better together. It’s kind of cliche, but it’s true.”
While his days as a high school athlete are coming to a close, Fahy plans have a strong track season and continue his running career into college. He had to decide between attending two prestigious universities, Georgetown in Washington D.C. and Stanford in Palo Alto, California. On December 12th, Fahy committed to Georgetown to become a Hoya. As for Foot Locker Nationals on December 10th, Fahy crossed the finish in 15 minutes and 33 seconds on Morley Field’s 3.1 mile course. Placing 17th, an impressive 13 places higher than his 2010 Foot Locker Nationals time, closes Fahy’s altogether successful season.
Girls Kick it in Gear for Soccer Tryouts New coach brings new energy for upcoming season Shanoah Souza Staff Writer
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t takes a lot of motivation and perseverance to become part of the athletic program at La Costa Canyon. Soccer is one of the more challenging sports to join because of the extreme competition; it takes a lot of extra practice and dedication to be considered one of the best. While trying out for soccer, the senior athletes try to be optimistic. Even as part of the graduating class, senior girls do not have an automatic acceptance onto the team as they can still be cut. Therefore, they must continue to exceed expectations in order to make the team. Senior Hayley Wirth keeps an open mind for a great performance in front of the demanding coaches. “I always try to work hard and have positive thoughts running through my mind,” Wirth said. Alex Twombly steps on the field with the intentions to succeed and keep a positive attitude for each tryout, practice, and game. “I’m out here to have fun and work hard,” Twombly said.
Taylor Robichaud feels less worried about having fun, and instead focuses on making the best of her talent in soccer. “During tryouts I make sure I’m always on my A game,” Robichaud said. Captains Hayley Wirth and Neela Mohan will be leading the team this year and hope to focus on winning games and being the best team possible. They are looking forward to a great season with both returning and novice players in hopes of defeating their biggest rival, Torrey Pines. “During tryouts, it’s fun to see all of the new players,” Mohan said. “I am really excited about being captain this year because I am finally a senior and I like being looked up to by all of the younger players. Everyone looks up to me and Hayley for support and advice, and we lead the warm ups and part of practice.” Helping the captains lead practice is their new coach Eric Lona. Their previous coach, Mike Marvel, stepped down for time commitment purposes and left the girls in the hands of Lona. “The team seems to be getting along,” Wirth said. “Everyone laughs and loves team dinners. Nothing has really
Photo by Courtney Utsler
Sophomore Erika Arkans (right) waits for a pass from her teammate Pilar Torres (sophomore) during their game against Granite Hills on December 8, which ended in a 4-0 victory for the Mavs.
changed, there is no tension with coach Mike leaving.” It has been an easy transition for the girls this season with Lona stepping up to take on the role of coaching the Mavericks. He has coached many of the
girls when they played club soccer. The team’s overall record last year was 15-4-3. After their 4-0 win against Granite Hills High School to kick off their season, Maverick fans have a lot to look forward to this year.
Sports 14 Dec. Happ Shoots for Three: Calculus, Algebra and Boys Basketball New teacher Garrett Happ to assist varsity coaching staff
“They’re a hard working and fun group of boys to coach.” Garrett Happ
Photo Courtesy of Bogdan Madurowicz
Left to right: Coaches Tom Meeks, Garrett Happ,Taylor Hindle, and David Cassaw, along with senior players Erik Magnuson, Sam Lea and Justice Parman, watch the team play at home against Grossmont on December 5.
Ali Madurowicz Staff Writer
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he Varsity boys basketball team gained more than the juniors who moved up from JV this year. They also gained a new assistant coach, Garrett Happ. Students may know Happ as an Honors Pre-Calculus or Algebra I teacher, but his skills on the court may be just as valuable as his ability to find derivatives and limits in the classroom. Happ brings his own basketball experience to the
court. “I played basketball in high school and I wanted to be a part of the team here at LCC,” Happ said. “I was introduced to Coach Cassaw and told him I was interested in being an assistant coach. He said he would love to have me help out so I became an assistant.” Though it has only been a short period of time that the team has been practicing with the
addition of Happ, they seem to have a great deal of respect for his knowledge of the game.
and that he can be a significant piece in our title hopes,” senior David Travers said. With over 20 boys on the team and only three coaches to keep them focused, the addition of Happ has the possibility of improving their game and increasing the chances of reaching a CIF title again this year. “He has brought a lot of energy and enthusiasm to our practices and he has
“He has already proven to us that he understands the game and that he can be a significant piece in our title hopes.” Senior David Travers “He has already proven to us that he understands the game
corrected a lot of little things to improve our performance,” junior Jeff VanDyke said. Assistant coach Tom Meeks couldn’t agree more. “It is always good to have another set of eyes during practice to help evaluate our progress,” Meeks said. “We have such a large team. We need Coach Happ to give all players the attention they deserve.” Happ already feels part of the team. “I feel the team has responded well to my presence,” Happ said. “They have been very welcoming. They are a hardworking and fun group of boys to coach.” Happ hopes to contribute to the team by bringing a positive attitude to the table. “I’m just trying to help out in any way possible,” said Happ. The addition of Happ not only helps fix technical mistakes, but his presence on the court mends the age difference between the players and coaches. “The greatest benefit coach Happ brings is his age, allowing him to relate to high school players,” Meeks said. “I think it’s a great asset to the team to have another young coach,” Travers added. There are endless possibilities for what the the team can accomplish this upcoming basketball season. “We need to play team defense and move the ball on offense but I definitely believe we have a strong chance of repeating as CIF champs with the talent level we have,” VanDyke said. For his part, Happ is optimistic about the upcoming season. “I think we will have a solid year,” Happ said. “We have started off 4-0 and I hope that continues. The boys are working very hard and it’s paying off,” Happ said.
Dec.
Sports
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Academic and Aquatic Success Senior Jamey Lyon to swim at UC Berkeley baseball, basketball, soccer, and golf. Before he reached the age of seven, Lyon started up his swimming career. While on a recreational team, Lyon’s coach n incredible swimmer, student approached his mother and told her that and band member, senior Jamey she should look into having Lyon tryout Lyon is definitely someone to watch. for a club team. As one of the school’s most talented “My mom did just that and not athletes, Lyon brings a lot to the table. even a week later, I was swimming for He has consistently Silicon Valley Aquatics maintained a 4.15 Association up in San GPA, leaving him Jose, California,” Lyon to make a daunting said. “My family lived there at the time.” decision between Lyon has been four prestigious forced to make many schools. sacrifices in his life as Although swimming receives a high school student. He has had to miss little recognition spending time with on campus, it is one of the most friends and social challenging sports. events in order to Swimming requires practice and compete. the use of an “The summer immense amount of training schedule has muscles throughout me at the pool more the upper and lower often than I’m at home, Photo by Courtney Utsler body. and during the school Senior Jamey Lyon. Lyon, a year, I’m constantly four year Varsity declining invitations swimmer and a competitive club with friends to keep up with nine member at North Coast Aquatics, didn’t practices [two of them before school] a start off as just a swimmer. When Lyon week,” Lyon said. was younger, he was also involved in With Lyon being one of the best
Alex Condos Staff Writer
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swimmers in the county, he has received offers from highly ranked schools including University of California at Berkeley, University of Southern California, Purdue University, and Louisville University. For Lyon, the choice was obvious. “I chose Berkeley for a variety of reasons, with the two most obvious being the level of education I’ll receive there and the fact that they have the top men’s swimming program in the country,” Lyon said. “Once I was able to see how I fit in with the men’s team and on campus during my recruiting trip, choosing Cal was the easiest decision in the world.”
Lyon’s swimming career has also opened many other doors for him. “Because of how often I travel for swimming, I’ve gotten to know several members of the U.S. National and Open Water teams, former and current Olympians, as well as several kids my age that are striving to achieve the same goals as me,” Lyon said. “I know countless swimmers that I look up to due to their dedication and the example they set for others.” Lyon has excelled throughout high school with grades as well as swimming. He hopes to keep that spirit up when he attends Cal Berkeley.
Runners Set the Pace
Girls Cross Country is winning races and breaking records Karlee Fuller Staff Writer
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ome students find running to be tedious and boring, but for this year’s girls cross country team, it’s just the opposite. “Cross country is harder than other sports because it’s all running,” sophomore Emma Abrahamson, a second time varsity runner, said. “It’s some people’s least favorite thing to do, but I think it’s what makes the sport unique.” Often misconstrued as an individual sport, cross country is not simply running a few laps for a time. Each race contains seven runners per gender but only the fastest five of them have the ability to score. Every time a runner crosses the finish line, he or she is given a place. The places are then added up and the team with the lowest score wins. A “perfect score” in cross country is 15 points, meaning that the top five runners placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th. “It’s a physical sport, but also really mental,” sophomore Rebeka Bossler said. “You have to push yourself farther
than you think you can go.” This year the team has done exceptionally well, winning the Stanford Invitational, as well as the League and the CIF meets. “We got sixteen points total at the CIF race,” coach Bill Vice said. “It came down to our sixth runner, and it was almost a tie.” The score in the CIF finals broke records, and was the fastest in San Diego C.I.F. history. Coach Vice is proud of how his girls have done. “They are just really motivated kids,” said Vice. “They can do something that other people can’t.” Having just finished second in the Division II State finals, the girls traveled to Nike Cross Nationals in Portland, Oregon, a tournament for the best teams in the country. The team was fortunate to be offered this opportunity last year as well. “Last year we went and it was fun, but this year I think we are over the hoopla of qualifying and getting free stuff. This time we [went] with the purpose to win,” Vice said.
Photo courtesy of Megan Hill
Left to right: Junior Ellie Abrahamson, junior Kelly Lawson, senior Shanoah Souza, sophomore Emma Abrahamson, sophomore Rebekah Bosler, and sophomore Julie Steigerwald run their home course at San Dieguito Park in Rancho Santa Fe.
“ The quality
of education at MiraCosta College is on a level higher than most other community colleges in California. The programs available to students are plentiful, the
student activities
involving
and are pleasant, and the professors .� are
top-notch
Carlos Sandoval
2011 psychology/communication graduate, transferred to UCLA
Cardiff / Oceanside / Online www.miracosta.edu
facebook.com/miracostacc
760.757.2121
Entertainment
Dec.
The Joke is on You What you might not know about the four Comedy Sportz officers Anthony Fregoso
Staff Writer
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e all recognize the “funny guys” that we see on the stage once a month, but is there more to them hidden behind their jokes?
There is much more to what seems to be a simple group of hilarious guys who are great at improvisation. Comedy Sportz is a well-oiled machine consisting of a president, a vice president, an advertising agent, a treasurer, and a supporting cast. Senior Danny Birmingham is the man in charge of it all— el presidente, the head honcho— he watches over the entire operation and mentors others in improv. But do we really know Danny Birmingham? An interesting factoid about Birmingham is that he sleeps in a sleeping mask and wears ear plugs. He is a talented filmmaker and yodeler. When asked what he thinks makes him funny, he said that he “would leave that to the audience to answer.” Senior Brandon Nourse, Vice President, is equally as talented as his partner Birmingham. They run the
Photo by Kiana Jackson
The four officers of Comedy Sportz (left to right), Peter Norton, Cameron Gurley, Brandon Nourse, and Danny Birmingham, watch Canyon Crest’s players perform a scene on December 8.
Comedy program side by side and Sportz most “My special talent in for the surge teach other Comedy Sportz is rigging.” of energy students to venture into Brandon Nourse that he gets while the world of improv. on stage. Nourse believes what makes him funny Nourse said that the strangest thing about him is “his good looks” and that is his confidence. Senior Peter Norton, the his special talent is “rigging.” He enjoys
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program’s advertiser, has made Comedy Sportz a big hit. Norton claims that having the same haircut since fourth grade is the strangest thing about him. Norton taught himself how to play the banjo and has the ability to keep his eyes open for a few minutes without blinking. Norton also told MavLife that he does Comedy Sportz for the “babes.” Finally, senior Cameron Gurley is responsible for managing the program’s money. Gurley’s right eye is two different colors, which he believes to be the strangest thing about him. He also mentioned that he still gets Legos every Christmas. Gurley is especially proud of his ability to maintain a 1.47 Kill:Death Ratio in “Call of Duty:Modern Warfare 3.” His favorite part about Comedy Sportz is the friendships he has made. Gurley says he does Comedy Sportz because his mom makes him. He thinks that his funniest attribute is his feminine side. Cameron Gurley is the entertainment editor of MavLife and is also an officer of Comedy Sportz. He was not involved in the development of this story.
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Music Review
Entertainment
collaborate in real time even though they weren’t together in the same room. This program is similar to GoogleDocs and allows for edits to be made in the same file from different locations. The band was able to write a strong album, although most songs were written while Roberts and Morris were 519 miles apart from each other. They explain it was like, “a handful of surprises,” every time something had been updated. Their EP, “Something for Someone,” is a beautiful blend of folk and indie music, creating what the duo aptly refers to as “dream-folk.” And The Giraffe has managed to find a place in music that belongs solely to them. Each song on the album was created by its own unique process; some were pieced together over the Jenny Barnes course of months (such as “Still”), while others can be Staff Writer created in an hour (as in “Masquerade”). or those starved by savior—And The Giraffe, With gentle drifts of piano and soft sounds of the Lady Gaga, tired of a new band straight out of acoustic guitar, it is all too easy to get lost in the dreamy Taylor Swift, and waiting Florida. fog of melody that engrosses this album. desperately for more When the song “Still” closes Bon Iver, here it is.Your out the album, listeners hear the When Nick Roberts and line: “We are gonna be big stars Josh Morris, now best friends, some day.” If And The Giraffe keeps met at a college orientation in producing music like this, it is hard Florida, they never expected to to doubt them. be in a band together. However, Since And The Giraffe is a Roberts recalls that when new band, their music may not he and Morris began playing yet be labelled. However, some together, “it just all kind of fell comparisons may be easily drawn. If into place.” you are a fan of Iron & Wine or Bon As Blue Eyed Night Owl Iver, you will instantly fall in love reported, And The Giraffe came with And The Giraffe. However, for up with the idea for their name Courtesy of And The Giraffe people less schooled in the “indie when they were “just throwing And The Giraffe’s “Something for Someone” arts,” the sounds of And The Giraffe out ideas. Nick suggested album cover. connect to the feel of the “Juno” Giraffe as their band name. I soundtrack or any of the “Twilight” then thought we could name movies. ourselves ‘The Pelican and the Giraffe’ after the Roald You won’t find And The Giraffe’s music on iTunes, Dahl book,” Morris said. After deciding that was too but if you feel like getting lost in the fog of “Something long for a band name, they decided to shorten the name of Someone,” you can download it from their website and as a result, And The Giraffe was created. at www.andthegiraffe.com or www.andthegiraffe. “Some people think that our name is Giraffe when bandcamp.com for the “low, low price of free.” we get put at the end of a bill, but we love it all the Despite And The Giraffe’s many powerful influences, same,” Morris said. they have managed to create a sound that is completely The main musical conception happened through their own. Dropbox, a company founded in 2007 that allows “We are just two guys who love making music,” files to appear on any computer. Changes are saved Roberts said. automatically, allowing for Roberts and Morris to
“Something for Someone” MavLife chats with a new band that wants to get their name out
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Dec. It didn’t happen unless you saw it on Facebook Cameron Gurley Entertainment Editor & Humor Columnist
On April 6, 2009, Cameron Gurley was born.
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efore I came along, Cameron was a freshman in high school with one older brother and a mother, a father, and a dog. He had aunts, uncles, cousins, a girlfriend, friends, hobbies, and a life. He played basketball and loved all types of music. Once I came along, everything changed. His parents, who didn’t have Facebook, didn’t matter anymore. Cameron didn’t know any languages, wasn’t enrolled in any schools, didn’t have any hobbies, political views, or religions until I came along. Before Facebook, Cameron wasn’t a Justin Beiber fan, but once I suggested it to him, he liked the Justin Beiber fan page and now fills out prescriptions weekly for his Beiber fever. The virtual extent of my power has no firewalls. At the snap of my virtual fingers, I could make Cameron a Buddhist from North Korea who likes Justin Beiber. My plan has already begun... Cameron isn’t allowed to have a girlfriend unless I say so. I only let Cameron see the information I want him to see. Once, I put up an embarrassing photo of Cameron passed out at a party and he untagged it. Don’t tell him I told you, but I still have it, and I am waiting to post it in the top right of the news feed two years later randomly. Every time Cameron logs on, I ask him nonchalantly, “What’s on your mind?” I do this to access Cameron’s every thought. He might post something juicy enough to potentially use against him. Before me, Cameron didn’t know anyone and had very few friends. But then I suggested the people I wanted him to be friends with. Whether or not Cameron actually knows the person doesn’t matter. Does Cameron have over 1000 friends in real life? Of course not. Cameron probably knows about a tenth of the people he is friends with on Facebook. This false sense of security is part of my plan. Before he knows it, Cameron will soon be friends with Fidel Castro and Kim Jong-il. Cameron, previously a Republican, is now occupying Berkeley because of the pages I suggested him. Previously Catholic, Cameron has replaced his loaves and fishes with lattkes and gafiltes. Before Facebook, Cameron didn’t even exist. I made him who he is now. There are over 1000 photos of him and 1000 friends he hasn’t even met. Now he is somebody: a Liberal Jew with a place in this (virtual) world. What’s next? Whatever I want.
Entertainment
Dec.
The Hungry Maverick MavLife staffers review local pizzerias Cameron Gurley Entertainment Editor
&
Gage DiRoberto Staff Writer
¿Hai fame? The Hungry Maverick has left Mexico, crossed the Atlantic, and landed in Italy, allowing MavLife’s staffers to weigh in on the best local pizza place. Thirty MavLife staffers blind tested four different local pizzerias (Allen’s New York, East Coast, Flippin’, and Manhattan), sampling both cheese and pepperoni varieties. The results were surprising.
23% 53% 20%
1. East Coast Pizza
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ast Coast Pizza was the favorite of over half of the reviewers and stood out as the best pizzeria in the area. East Coast’s specialty is their use of spices and the its superior tasting cheese. Reviewers said there was little room for improvement and the pizza was a great indicator of what real pizza should taste like. MavLife staffers suggest that if you are in the mood for pizza, to try East Coast. In case you want to try out it out, an eighteen inch pizza is $18.00.
4. Allen’s Pizzeria
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19 2. Manhattan Pizza
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he second most popular restaurant in the taste test was Manhattan Pizza. A favorite of 23% of reviewers, Manhattan’s specialties were the cheese and the crust. Manhattan also had tasty sauce seasoned with oregano, which complemented the rest of the toppings. One critique was that there was too much sauce. Reviewers suggest that if you want cheesy pizza, Manhattan is the choice. Manhattan’s large twenty inch pizza is $20.00.
3. Flippin’ Pizza
3%
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lippin’ Pizza came in third among staffers. The pepperoni stood out as its specialty—the miniature spicy toppings were a hit. While staffers loved the pepperoni, they panned the sauce and found the pizza a bit greasy. Flippin’s large eighteen inch pizza is only 18.00 flippin’ dollars.
he least favorite among most staffers was Allen’s New York Pizza, which was said to taste, “just like microwave pizza.” While Allen’s did have some fans who favored its simplicity, nothing stellar stood out about Allen’s. If you even care to try out Allen’s pizza, its $19.00 for a sixteen inch pizza.
Order Up! Pizza Facts:
Americans eat 350 pieces of pizza each second and over 400 acres of pizza each day. There are approximately 65,000 pizzerias in the US alone and pizza is eaten regularly by 94% of Americans. Pizza is eaten all across the world and is the 5th most eaten food in the world. In Naples in the 16th and 17th centuries, flat breads were the main food of many of the poor and were sold on the streets. Ever since, the flat breads have evolved into a dish that today we call pizza. www.Pizza.com
Photo by Kenya Caines
Shanoah Souza records her opinions after tasting each of the four pizzas.
In-N-Out vs. Five Guys
MavLife explores the debate between two favorite burgers Gage DiRoberto Staff Writer
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here is one commonly asked question that have left millions clueless: Which has the better burger, Five Guys or In-N-Out? Both of the famous burgers have put their respected restaurants onto a path to glory. Each of these restaurants have specialties that are uniquely their own and flavors that make your taste buds scream for more. This question is more serious than life itself and should be answered with intense precision. Both restaurants have completely different backgrounds, yet both have
landed in the hall of fame of fast food burgers. Five Guys started out in 2002 as a small take-out shop in Arlington, Virginia. Founded by a young Jerry Murrell just outside the nation’s capital, Five Guys turned from a small take-out shop to a nationwide chain consisting of over 500 restaurants. The “Five Guys” in the name include Murrell, the owner, and his four sons. Five Guys has managed to obtain elite status in a relatively short amount of time. In fact, according to Politics Daily, after President Obama came in for a quick hamburger run, the sales more than doubled in the weeks to follow.
The west coast counterpart to Five Guys, In-N-Out Burger, was founded in 1948 by Harry and Esther Snyder at Baldwin Park, California. Harry had an idea of a restaurant which provided “drive-thru” services for its customers. As a result, In-NOut became the world’s first “drive-thru” restaurant. Harry’s idea of a “drive-thru” caught on rapidly and is seen in many fast food restaurants today. In-N-Out opened a second restaurant in 1951 and has since spread throughout California, Nevada and Arizona. It has become a common favorite for many local burger lovers. In-N-Out has, without a doubt, reserved itself a spot in the
burger hall of fame. MavLife conducted a survey of students to crack open this impossible question: Which has the better burger, In-N-Out or Five Guys? In-N-Out earned 35 more votes than Five Guys, which earned just 11 votes. In-N-Out was said by students as “100 times better than Five Guys” said Freshman Kaci Romley. “Five Guys and In-N-Out are good but Five guys does not compare to In-N-Out,” freshman Kaci Romley said. So what makes In-N-Out better than Five Guys? “The sauce, the price, the dank,” senior Collin Myers said. In-N-Out is also said to
have better fries then Five Guys along with the option to buy shakes. What makes Five Guys a contender to In-N-Out? “They have size and you can stack them with bacon,” freshman Andre Chan said. Five Guys also has more locations nationwide than InN-Out and offers huge sizes, as well as Cajun fries. It was clear that Five guys, a seemingly worthy contender, was blown out of the soda and got fried by its local competitor. It seems that MavLife discovered where the loyalties of La Costa Canyon’s students lie.
Back Page
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Dec.
Fall Right in to Winter Fashion Bundle up the right way this season with cozy scarves, hipster boots, and traditional hairstyles Ana Diaz Staff Writer
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s the chilly breeze rolls in, so does the winter fashion. This winter season has brought long skirts, dresses, scarves, boots, woven sweaters, as well as different styles of braided hair. This season, colorful, thick and woven sweaters are making a comeback. These cute, while still warm, sweaters will keep you cozy in cold weather. Boys and girls can be seen wearing these colorful sweaters around the campus; staying practical yet fashionable. Pair these sweaters with jeans, leggings, tights or even pencil skirts to match. This year’s scarves come in a variety of colors and designs to help accessorize and complete any outfit. In addition to normal scarves, the circle scarf has made a comeback this season. This fun addition to your look can be paired with boots. Whether suede, felt, leather, straight, crinkled, buckled, or fringed, this stylish footwear can liven up your day and your
Photo by Ana Diaz
Three hot, trendy colors of Cathy Jean winter combat boots.
appearance. While last year’s boots came in a variety of heights, this year’s most popular boot styles are most popular in either knee high or ankle boot styles. Long skirts and dresses are also a rising trend this season. This piece of comfortable attire will brighten your
winter days. The long dress by itself will flatter you without needing to pair it with anything too chaotic. Perhaps an accessory such as jewelry or a bright hair decoration would complement your look. The long skirt can be paired with a loose-cropped shirt or a colorful vested
blazer. Both the dress and skirt look great with flats or gladiator sandals. Since the mornings can be chilly, you can throw on a cardigan to finish your look with a bold statement. While the style of braiding hair has been around for centuries, it tends to go in and out of style. This season, braided hair is beginning to show up more frequently. Some of the styles include french, fishtail, waterfall, and dutch braids. This hairstyle is easy to do and keeps hair out of your face more fashionably than a ponytail. The winter season brings new trends that allow us to explore different ways to express ourselves. Take advantage of these winter styles before the new spring fashions arrive. If you are short on cash, layer your summer tops with a warmer coat or blazer to save money.Your summer flats and sandals can be worn year round in sunny San Diego; a chic money saver. Many of these fashions can be found in thrift stores or local department stores.
Winter Horoscopes
p s tc a g g a at c sl cv l s
SAGITTARIUS Capricorn Aquarius
I
Y
ARIES
TAURUS Gemini T C
Leo
Virgo I
t’s the most wonderful time of the year.Your bold attitude attracts an unexpected admirer. Now is not the time to chicken out. Change is coming your way. Be ready and be brave! You can do it!
D
on’t get to down on yourself. Not everything lasts forever. A new talent is being recognized that will keep your mind of whatever is bothering you. Be careful to not let it define who you truly are.
Y
our leader-of-the-pack personality can be scary to some people.You are definitely dependable, but tone down your loud confidence. Some may find you a little egotistical right now. Take a step back and let things simmer down for a while.
ou are not your usual self lately.Your quiet side seems to throw people off. Just be yourself and let go of whatever is holding you back.Your confidence is itching to get out. Go shine! Be a star!
ry not to stay invisible this season.You don’t always have to be bulletproof. A close friend sees your pain. Don’t be afraid to open up. Trust your instincts. Good luck, Taurus!
t is a stressful time for you right now.You are faced with a difficult decision. Don’t just take the easy way out. Carefully study what is best for everyone. The pressure is on. Good luck!
Y
ou will no longer be torn between pulling desires. Your confusion will disappear and you will feel relieved after making the right decision. Choose wisely and you won’t regret it.
alm down, Gem. Things are looking up from here. A slight rough patch helps you learn an important lesson.You are on the right path now. Keep looking ahead. Better things are heading your way.
LIBRA
S
top avoiding your problems. Expressing your true feelings is difficult, but it is time to move on and face your fears. Being cowardly will get you nowhere. You’ve taken 10 steps forward, don’t take 20 steps back.
Pisces
P
atience is a virtue. Don’t get too caught up with what lies ahead. Take a deep breath and find a good, new distraction. Relax and wait. Things can change in the blink of an eye.
CANCER
R
ep red this season.You will notice all eyes on you. Soak in the good attention, but don’t let it go to your head. This new confidence will rekindle an old flame. Don’t be afraid to follow your heart.
Scorpio
W
ay to go Scorpio! You just got your life back on track.You are so close to reaching your goals and friends and family are supporting you 100%. Congrats on a bright future.