Issue 2

SPARTAN

SCROLL FEATURES

6

Schurr High School

ENTERTAINMENT

Explore fashion trends as summer transitions into fall.

11

Visit Greenleaf Ave. to enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops.

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Volume XLII

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Issue 2 | Oct. 5, 2012

SPORTS

14

Join Ivana Velasquez as she teaches her Zumba classes at Jireh Fitness.

College events inform students

BY CONNIE CAI

Assistant News Editor During October College Month, AVID and the

A college and career fair will be held during lunch

Upcoming college speakers:

CINDY VUONG

TALKING THEM INTO THE FUTURE: Clera Jones, admissions

counselor from St. John’s University in New York, answers questions for students who are considering whether to apply.

Brown

Oct. 9 6th period

Yale

La Verne

Oct. 12 6th period

Oct. 11 5th period

Construction projects begin on campus

USC

Oct. 18 2nd period MICHELE WONG

BY THERESA NAKAMURA Reporter

BRANDON CHANG

A BETTER CAMPUS: Rene Rosales places a beam while

BRIEFLY

Latin Dance Team

Last auditions for the Latin Dance Team will be held Oct. 10 in the auditorium from 3:30 - 5 p.m. Boys are encouraged to attend.

constructing a new restroom with handicap access.

PSAT Exam

Registration ends today for the Oct. 20 PSAT. Students must bring receipts and ID’s to take 7:30-11:30 a.m. test.

SAT and ACT

The SAT exam will be given tomorrow and Nov. 3; ACT exams will be given Oct. 27.

CSF Tutoring

Tutoring is available after school Monday through Thursday in the library from 2:45 - 4:30 p.m.

2

STAFF

OPINIONS

EDITORIAL While it may feel as though the school year has just begun, it is crucial that we start taking steps to assess and prepare for our future.

For many of us, it seems distant and even or attending college is closer than it appears to be. As adults, we will face many more serious responsibilities and duties than we do in high school, but as long as we remain aware of our priorities and take obligations seriously, developing maturity will not be a problem and we can still enjoy our adolescent years.

To avoid this, communication with others is key to establishing a better understanding of building goals. Talking with counselors or family members about our goals can provide us with insight on our strengths and weaknesses so we will be better prepared to tackle the

obstacles that present themselves along the path to success.

Self-motivation is crucial to accomplishing any of this. Building an incentive for ourselves can be a huge asset to developing our ability to do things on time. We must be able to motivate ourselves, not only for school-based activities but also for other tasks in life, such as doing chores or giving aid to other people. steps towards it because we fear failure. Keep in mind that our failures can help us understand what we need to do to improve. If we believe in ourselves, we will not only develop more selfthrough diligence and dedication.

Whatever obstacles we may come across in our paths, we must keep in mind that our priorities and goals will prepare us for the future, and now is the time to take action.

SPARTAN

SCROLL Oct. 5, 2012

‘Jen’erally Speaking

BY JENNY LU Editor-in-Chief

College advice on all sides College.

It’s on Facebook, it’s on Twitter, it’s in the classrooms, it’s in day-to-day conversation, and it’s happening right now.

People everywhere are freaking out, me included. We’re all making our lists, attending SAT classes, spewing out secondhand (and probably misinformed) advice to any willing ear and hoarding extracurricular positions like they were Twinkies before an impending apocalypse.

Some parents battle the tempest head-on, hovering over their children’s shoulders, setting up schedules to meet with admission just wait out the storm, trusting their children will take care of everything and only being useful when there is a legal document wanting to help, but just sort of getting lost in all the chaos and confusion.

A culture and age gap has prevented my family from immersing

to overcome. Most, if not all, of what they understand about American universities are generalized exaggerations from the folks back home in a small coastal town in China. My father is under the impression that something around a 2400 on the SAT will get me bragging rights. The extent of their knowledge about higher education in America stops there.

So when I told my father that Jackie, my cousin, got into University of Pennsylvania, he gave me a quizzical look and asked, “Is that good?” I said, “Dad, it’s one of the Ivies.” To

GUEST

NATHAN PHAN

PERSPECTIVE IAN CHAN Director of Training Achievement Matters

school, during gatherings with old friends, or on TV. First of all, everyone’s entitled to their own opinions, so don’t get me wrong: for some, this statement couldn’t be truer. But let’s examine this statement in more depth:

have made decent livings, are happy, but have never been to college? Now, compare that number to how many people you can name who make decent livings, are happy, and have been to college. Well, there you go.

their abilities, their potential, and, most importantly, decide their own destinies to living a good life. Let’s look at some examples: Steve Jobs, who dropped out of college, started Apple, and co-founded Pixar, discovered his inspiration for simplicity while completing a course in Chinese Calligraphy in college. exploded and quickly became a billionaire at age 23, probably would not have started the popular social networking service if not for his experience of

hardworking, but directionless student, and I was lucky enough to be given scholarship opportunities to attend colleges overseas in both England and the United States.

I chose USC because of its seemingly inimitable blend of cultures, perspectives, and passions, and though I year of college, over time I discovered my passion as an educator and entrepreneur. My goal now is to open a

get into Ivy too, yes?”

To make up for the fact that they do not know what is considered “good,” my mother constantly compares me to my friends in an effort to see what is the norm. I would proudly exclaim that I got a B on a math test (my worst subject), to which she would reply, “But what did so-and-so get?” If the friends score was lower, she would was the same, I would get a quick, “Eh.” If the score was higher, she would look at me with one eyebrow raised, and a disapproving, “That’s not good, Jenny.”

All stereotypes aside though, my parents do not try to pretend so, although they wish the best for me, they usually try not to dictate my choices, leaving me and my academics alone for the most part.

My brother, on the other hand, went to UC Santa Barbara and constantly tries to give me advice about getting into college. about the admissions process is hazy, at best. For someone who has forgotten his sister’s birthday, grade level and age, he is

has, whether or not it is still accurate.

Unlike my parents, though, I could freely talk to him about college without the worry of stumbling on translation. And even though he would say things such as, “Jenny, you should just apply easy,” he still knows about which schools I am applying to (unlike

discovered my true and highest potential.

College provides a unique environment for determined students to challenge themselves in all facets of life, learn from other ambitious students, and live independently while learning about themselves, test

give it a good shot. Study hard. Learn always. Take hold truly makes you tick.

820 N. Wilcox Ave., Montebello, California, 90640

There will be no censorship of the Spartan Scroll. Decisions as to what will be printed will be left to the authority of the adviser, editors and staff members. Editorials without bylines are the opinions of the Spartan Scroll Editorial Board. Opinions, commentaries and features with bylines are the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily express the opinions of the Spartan Scroll staff, the school faculty or other students.

Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters must be signed and verifiable in order to be published, but names will be withheld upon request. Pseudonyms or initials will not be accepted. All letters are subject to condensation. Letters that demand a reply will be answered

by Spartan Scroll representatives or by the proper authorities. However, the Spartan Scroll cannot publish any materials which violate laws governing students publications. Letters should be sent to Room A-8 or placed in the adviser’s mailbox no later than one week after the previous issue.

The Spartan Scroll is published tri-weekly, except during vacations, by the Journalism 3-8 students of Schurr High School, 820 N. Wilcox Ave., Montebello, California, 90640. The telephone number is (323) 887-3090 ext. 6631. It is printed by the News Publisher’s Press.

the time.

Even if their view is somewhat limited, I am glad they look out for me.

Editor in Chief................................................................................................................................................................ Jenny Lu Managing Editors.............................................................................................................................Taylor Honda & Wendy Lam News Editors........................................................................................................................................Billy Chu & Melissa Lopez Assistant News Editor...................................................................................................................................................Connie Cai Opinions Editor & Columnist................................................................................................................................Alex Kanegawa Assistant Opinions Editor........................................................................................................................................Julie Shiozaki Features Editor.........................................................................................................................................................Katie Nishida Assistant Features Editor............................................................................................................Derrick Lieu & Mariea Sekijima Entertainment Editors .................................................................................................Tristan Brossy de Dios & Lalaine Dungca Sports Editors.................................................................................................................................Jimmy Chen & Joeson Chiang Assistant Sports Editor................................................................................................................................................ Mariah Lin Lead Copy Editor & Columnist..............................................................................................................................Sarai Jaramillo Copy Editors....................................................................................................................................... Edmund Liu & Sandy Tang Graphics Editor.......................................................................................................................................................Alexis Jimenez Graphics Staff.................................................................................................................................Jessica Hsu & Christine Taing Photo Editors... .................................................................................................................................Trevor Quan & Cherise Woo Business Manager................................................................................................................................................Brandon Serpas Advertising Manager..................................................................................................................Elmer Guardado & Mitchell Tran Circulation Manager.................................................................................................................................................Melissa Nuñez Photographer.................................................................................................................................Brandon Chang & Cindy Vuong Cartoonists................................................................................................................Emika Nishi, Nathan Phan & Michele Wong Adviser................................................................................................................................................................Lorraine Langevin Reporters...............................................Erik Alatorre, Jonathan Bahk, Jason Basulto, Esmeralda Cervantes, Taylor Fong, Juliana Guardado, Ncholas Hanashiro, Michelle Hernandez, Michael Le, Justin Lee, Kimberly Manriquez, Nicole Mesa, Kenichiro Oshima, Karen Pompa, Desiree Puga, Ammy Quinones, Karina Reynaga, Saskia Sani, Erica Suh, Ilse Tse, Irene Wong, Julie Ye, Wesley Yuen

SPARTAN

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OPINIONS

SCROLL Oct. 5, 2012

Stati s Read tics show on th ing score that the a e effor SAT, de is lower verage ts by than spite their e s scor tudents increase ver es. d to m axim ize

SCROLL POLL:

FALLING SCORES

NATHAN PHAN

SAT Reading scores reach all-time low nationwide

BY JULIE SHIOZAKI

Assitant Opinions Editor With every passing year, the race to get into college increasingly becomes more competitive, making it practically essential for today’s high school students to understand the SAT exam to get ahead.

Although more and more registrants are taking measures to maximize their scores, whether through classes, private tutors, or self-study, College Board, the administer of the exam, has noticed a dramatic decrease in average scores over the past few years, especially in the Critical Reading portion. Scores from the class of 2012 indicate that they are the lowest recorded in SAT history since 1972, with writing also decreasing. Math scores remain the highest.

According to mercurynews.com, California students scored an average of 495 in Critical Reading, 512 in Math and 496 in Writing on the 2012 crease in each subject, peaking the nationwide drop that has been occurring for the past seven years.

Although an average score decrease is expected because of the increasing number of students participating, each student is going in with the intention of doing his best, yet scores have been less than satisfactory. Studies College Board conducted based on previous years have shown that only 43 percent of senior-test takers are truly ready for college, while 57 percent are not.

Arguments against the use of SAT in college admissions have been surfacing for years. A correlation between family income and scores has been brought to the spotlight, as students who come from families with greater income have proved to score higher. It

MICHAEL KIM Independent Contractor for College board

can be argued that this is because they can afford private tutoring, have acess to more educational resources, and receive a more extensive education at private schools. Yet, the opposite can be argued as well. education group called FairTest, blames the No Child Left Behind Act and other federal education laws increasing pressure placed upon students that comes from opportunities being determined by a single test has changed the mentality of registered test takers. It is no longer acceptable to receive average scores, as students must score ever higher in order to be considered successful. The addition of the Writing section in 2005 has also negatively affected scores, making it sible overall score.

However, even though average scores have been decreasing, high score frequency has increased. More students are achieving scores within the 700 to 800 range in the Math portion, showing a 20 percent jump in the past few years.

Decreasing scores should not discourage students from thinking about registering for the SAT. Many resources are available to students, regardless of income, including practice exams with possible waived fees like the PSAT, borrowed books, and free or discounted classes. By taking advantage of available opportunities, mixed with ample self-motivation and determination, any student can perform well. Despite all the obstacles, such as ridiculously priced practice materials and increasing pressure to score high, students will hopefully be able to overcome these impediments and alter the growing trend of decreasing scores all around.

Due to declining SAT test scores over the past several years, some may question the relevancy and efficacy of the exam. I believe that those questions are moot. What the exam does is gauge the readiness of high school applicants in their ability to succeed in top- tier colleges and universities. It is one of several key factors that admissions officers use to determine this. The mission of the College Board, which constructs the exams, is to provide this information to institutions so that they can make this determination. Over the years, the SAT numbers has been re-normed, or re-calibrated, and the universities are aware of that fact and take it into consideration. Furthermore, the addition of the writing section several years ago significantly enhances the exam’s scope. The salient issue is that all students have access to this national exam, regardless of their socio-economic status, so that they can demonstrate to the universities that they are ready in some way to handle the rigors of a college-level curriculum.

Photo by CHERISE WOO

ALEXIS JIMENEZ Some figures may not add up to 100% due to incorrectly completed polls.

SOURCE: 314 students in grades 10-12 were polled Oct. 2.

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SPARTAN

NEWS

SCROLL Oct. 5, 2012

Speech, debate team prepares to compete

BY SASKIA SANI Reporter

After competing in the Titan Invitational Tournament at California State University, Fullerton Oct. 19-21, the Speech and Debate team will host their newly added Spartan Fall Classic tournament Oct. 27-28.

The inaugural Spartan Fall Classic will be the second tournament the team hosts during the season, added to the Spartan Aloha Classic. The tournament will feature debate and is expected see schools from as far away as Nevada compete.

“It will be a great opportunity to raise funds, but most importantly, it gives us the ability to host a great tournament and show that we are a class act here in southern California,” said Head Coach Tony Ugalde.

At the Jack Howe Invitational Sept.

29-30 at California State University, Long Beach, senior Matthew Kartanata placed Speaking and Open Original Oratory. Junior Morgan Kuwashima and senior Sahara respectively in Open Original Oratory.

Sophomore Cassandra Dinh placed fourth, Megan Kuwashima and Kimberly Sermeno placed second and sophomore

Javion Sun placed sixth in Open Expository, Open Original Advocacy, Open Oratorical Intepretation and Open Extemporaneous Speaking, respectively, while senior Chloe Dramatic Interpretation.

Overall, there were 17 breaks into participating in Open Dramatic Interpretation, Novice Student Congress, Open Humorous Interpretation and Open Student Congress.

The team took home the third place individual event sweepstakes trophy, as well.

“We had such a great success with Jack Howe, and we’ve progressed greatly since the beginning of this year’s season,” said Zamudio, co-lead captain. “We were able to test out our events because this means that we have a lot more work to be done and improvements to be made.”

Team members have been attending practices from 3-6 p.m. at least three times a week, working with coaches and captains to fully perfect their speeches.

Jack Howe marked the start of the speech season and is one of many tournaments in which the team plans to compete. New overnight trips have been

CINDY VUONG

A ONE MAN SHOW: Andy Sanchez, junior, practices his Dramatic Interpretation speech after school in preparation for the team’s upcoming tournament at CSUF. added, and members are expected to continue their successes there, as they do in local tournaments.

“With just one tournament, we were able to see the strengths and abilities our team is capable of. It’s only the beginning, and we have much to accomplish, but if

we continue to improve at the rate that we’re going, there’s no doubt that we’ll be a great force in the league and anywhere else we compete. Our No. 1 job is to give the silent a voice, and I believe we’re on a great start to do so,” said Lead Captain Kimberly Sermeno.

Leaked photos delay API scores Pool officially opens

BY KIMBERLY MANRIQUEZ

CST, taken by 9-11th graders, the California Alternate Performance Assessment (CAPA) and the California

Schools throughout California receive an API score, usually on August 30, but this year all schools will receive their scores in October.

An investigation is currently underway concerning the situation that happened last year.

“There was a breach in the security system. Some students uploaded pictures of the cover of the California Standard Tests (CST) on social networks, and the state wants to make sure the test is fair before scores are released,” said Academic Specialist Julia Morita. “The students were not from Schurr; they were students from schools all over California.”

As of now, the state has yet to uncover any problems, and the scores should be arriving in early October.

The API scores are used as a measurement for students, teachers and administrators of their academic achievement each year. The API scores are made up of subject area tests: the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE), taken by 10-12th graders, the

About 2,400 students in grades 9-11 were tested in May for the CST’s, which measures academic performance in California. At Schurr, students are required to take three to six subjects, depending on grade, on the CST’s, which are counted toward the API score. The API scores have been improving these past years; the 2011-12 school year score is tentative, since

Reporter

believed to show a positive gain.

Public Schools Accountability Act. The act was created to inform the state how schools are improving each year. The state calculates the Base API for each school to have a baseline for academic performance in the school, which sets a different target for growth in each school every year.

The API encourages schools to improve because this shows the public that schools are serving students.

If a school’s score does not improve, it must receive help immediately.

after ribbon cutting Who:

Board Members, Superintendents, Principals, Division Leaders and city leaders will attend, along with students and community members.

What:

City officials and speakers will gather at Schurr for the official ribbon- cutting ceremony for the opening of the pool.

BIG

When:

Clubs decorate campus with posters

Where:

Oct. 16, 5-6 p.m.

PICTURE

Schurr High School Aquatic Center

Why:

To celebrate the completion of the pool, which has been under consideration and construction for many years.

BRANDON CHANG

PAINTING SCHOOL SPIRIT: Eduardo Milian, junior, helps paint a poster representing the crosscountry team to be used for decorating buildings during Homecoming celebrations.

SPARTAN

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NEWS

SCROLL Oct. 5, 2012 Key

1

Sweetzer Ave.

Crescent Hghts

2

1

BY WESLEY YUEN Fairfax Ave.

Santa Monica Blvd.

Community service clubs participate in AIDS Walk

Sign In Start Finish Checkpoint 1 Checkpoint 2

and potato chips, offered to the participants.

Reporter

Taking one step forward at the 28th annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles Oct. 14, students will participate in funding for a cure.

The 10-kilometer (6.2 mile) walkathon event helps raise awareness along with

rtson

Melrose Ave. All money raised and donated through this walkathon goes towards the AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA), along with other AIDS service organizations throughout Los Angeles County. A total of $3,005,014 was raised by participants last year, thanks to the efforts of 30,000 participants.

Campus clubs, such as Interact, Key Club,

R obe

Oakwood Ave.

2 Beverly Blvd.

nte Vice

participate by donating money and walking the event for pledges from sponsors.

“Our school has a lot of participants because clubs inform us on what this walk

San

fundraising committee member.

CHRISTINE TAING

Mandarin Chinese class will offer elective credit

and refreshments, such as juice, ice cream

serving beverages, controlling crowds and cheering on walkers, as an alternative form of supporting.

Pre-registration ended Oct. 3. However, one may still register with a team after the deadline. Sign-ins will begin at 8:30 a.m., during which participants will turn in donations. Opening ceremonies begin at 9:15 a.m., where celebrity guests will make an appearance, giving short speeches. The walk begins at 10 a.m., starting and ending at Melrose Avenue. actually happening with the AIDS community.

Most people are oblivious to the AIDS environment,” said Jillian Sarao, Key Club senior representative.

To become a member of “The Star Walkers Club,” participants must raise a total of $1,000 or higher. Reaching this goal allows Star Walkers to win prizes and access the Walker Hospitality Breakfast. More information is available at aidswalk.net/losangeles.

“AIDS walk allows me to walk for something that actually matters in the world.

Not only that, but being surrounded with the same supporters makes the walk go even faster,” said Sarao.

Freshmen officers to lead class

BY EDMUND LIU Copy Editor

A Mandarin Chinese foreign language course offered through Adult Education is being added, providing an opportunity for students to learn and study the widely spoken language.

The class will start tentatively the week of Oct. 8 after school, meeting Monday throught Thursday, approximately 3-4:30 p.m.

The class will offer only elective credits and is only available education.To enroll in the course, students will see their guidance counselors. “[The administration] hope in the future to make the class a part of the foreign language curriculum, like Spanish, French and Japanese, just elective credits,” said Assistant Principal Constantino Duarte.

A teacher for the course has been set by the district, but the name of the teacher is not known at press time.

The class will most likely be held on site, according to Duarte.

Because of the logistics to get the class started, the course is suitable instructor and room, and consulting the district for support in building the program.

“I hope that we get enough interest to eventually offer [Mandarin] as a course during the school day,” said Principal Stacey Honda. “The their support.”

CINDY VUONG

WORKING TOGETHER: Treasurer Arthur Kozloyan, Secretary Diego Jones, Advisers Vanessa ChaconFavela and Michele Nakano, President Destinee Moya and Vice-President Bernadette Ortiz collaborate during a meeting. The new Class of 2016 officers will begin their tenure with Homecoming today.

President:

Destinee Moya

What are your goals for this year?

My goals for this year are to get good grades and to be a great vice president.

Why did you run for this position?

Because I was in ASB last year, and I liked it a lot.

I liked being involved, and a lot of people see me as a leader, so I decided to do it again.

Why did you run for this position?

I ran for this position because I love being involved with the United Student Body. I feel like it’s a great way to help the school.

What experience do you hope to gain from being a part of USB? Meeting new people and making sure we all feel part of the school.

What experiences do you hope to gain from being a part of USB? I hope to learn to be more responsible and to

Diego Jones

What are your goals for this year?

My goals for this year are to get really good grades and to make more friends.

Why did you run for this position?

I ran for this position because my dad is a secretary for a group for college, so I just wanted to be like him.

CINDY VUONG

Garfias, sophomore, show interest in the new foreign language class by signing up with counselors’ secretary Daisy Mendez.

Bernadette Ortiz

What are your goals for this year?

To make sure that the freshman class feels like they are a part of the school.

Secretary:

TRYING A NEW LANGUAGE: Alexis Chavez, senior, and Alexis

Vice President:

What experiences do you hope to gain from being a part of USB? The experience that I hope to gain from being a part of USB is to meet other people who have goals of being the top of their class and a part of USB.

Treasurer:

Arthur Kozloyan

What are your goals for this year?

My goals for this year are to make sure the freshman class of USB has good financial aid and supplies required.

Why did you run for this position?

I’m feel like I’m good in financial issues and I feel like I can do the best that I can.

What experience do you hope to gain from being a part of USB? I hope that I can learn better financial issues and to learn how to deal with common issues, because in this economy things like this are very common.

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SPARTAN

FEATURES

SCROLL

Oct. 5, 2012

Autumn brings fresh styles

Transition between seasons with contemporary fashions

BY SASKIA SANI

and lace add to the detail of fall fashion

Reporter

As the weather slowly transitions into a cool autumn breeze, one’s clothes and

weather a bit warm, it has taken much

-

rate summer clothes into warmer fall

loaf-

, -

-

trends, which include combat boots and

, the must-wear colors

Guys can stay warm yet stylish by and add accessories, such as a scarf or

Peter Pan collared shirts and sheer Modeled by MATTHEW MORENO & JOYCE KUNISHIMA

Shopping on a budget

Bohemian Maxi Skirt: $14 Kohls’ White blouse: $7 Charlotte Russe

Floral collared Shirt: $4 Good Will

High-waisted denim shorts: $15 Good Will

Royal blue windbreaker: $20 PacSun Grey collared shirt: $12 H&M Levi Jeans $30 PacSun Photos by BRANDON CHANG & TREVOR QUAN

EMIKA NISHI

7 App roximating phone locations

SPARTAN

FEATURES

SCROLL Oct. 5, 2012

Applications help maintain security

BY DERRICK LIEU

Assistant Features Editor Locating a missing cell phone will become button with the Find my iPhone or Where’s my Droid app.

The Find my iPhone app on the Apple

a secret word or phrase to the phone activates the which switches the phone from vibrate to ring and

product and protect it and its data.

-

in case of a lost or stolen phone. The three choices and remote wipe.

it play a sound even if it is in silent mode. This is a

be entered to Google Maps to get real-world locations.

Despite the fact that Find my iPhone and Where’s my Droid are free and the primary apps apps with different searching capabilities and

before it was stolen or lost. Remote wipe is the information from being stolen. It will completely reset the iPhone or device as if it came straight from the factory.

Android Lost is another Android app that al-

is a similar app that performs the same actions sophisticated as the

the phone after it has been stolen.

Where’s my Droid offers a decent amount of actions for lost phones.

Its two main functions include

downloadable after losing a phone. It automatically shows the location of the lost phone and up-

-

This free phone app provides a wide variety of nience of its owner.

FACTS

RECORD In the Sept. 14 issue, Elliott Codding’s and Ruth Munguia’s names were misspelled.

-

2. Android Lost Available for: Android Price: Free Description: An app that uses a features such as wiping phone data and reading sent and received messages.

FAST

FOR THE

Available applications

1. Find my Phone Available for: Android Price: 99 cents

-One in five children aged 8 to 16 has had their mobile phone stolen, often by another child or group of children.

-$7 million worth of smartphones are lost daily -113 cell phones are lost or stolen every minute in the U.S. plateautel.com

3. iHound Available for: Android & iPhone Price: $3.99/year Description: This app allows a free seven-day trial to test it out and 4. Plan B Available for: Android Price: Free Description: The only app that allows installation after a phone is nected computer.

-

Graphics by CHRISTINE TAING & JESSICA HSU

A ‘Taylor’ed Perspective

ever eating seafood. and countless other insults. But it wasn’t just because of my hatred of seafood that people called me this. I also do

wasn’t my own.

I also went through a phase where I wished I were half are happa

BY TAYLOR HONDA Managing Editor

‘Sea’ my culture

don’t want to be a doctor and have parents who aren’t

I admit that I am Americanized. As a fourth-generation search for my culture in college and throughout my future. of culture dwindled to almost nothing.

there are others in my position. It’s especially strange visit the respective countries to learn about their lifestyles as well. it that does not appeal to me.

I have this theory about the situation. When I was

8

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Stanford University: Private

BY JEANNY WANG

For students with parents who have a combined income below $100,000, the tuition cost is lowered by scholarships, grants and

Class of 2011

Budge

Though sometimes viewed as excessively expensive, private receive a valuable education.

Private schools tend to cost more than public colleges, but they often provide scholarships to help students pay the costs. At aid is available. For Stanford students with parents who have a combined income below $60,000 a year and typical assets associated with that income level, the parents do not have to contribute any money.

Private schools also offer more one-on-one time with the professors because there tend to be fewer students in the classes. At a larger private school like Stanford, however, the more popular classes, such as general chemistry or computer science, will still have hundreds of students in one lecture hall.

As for the applications, most private colleges require one main essay to be written along with shorter supplemental essays. Some schools also require an interview, but the overall process is similar to applying to a University of California campus.

UCLA: University of California

BY HARVEY PERALTA Class of 2011

process, especially now that the state of California is systematically de-funding public higher education.

Since the UC’s and California State Universities heavily rely on government assistance and state funding, students within these school systems, including

tuition rates by campus and increasing the number of out-ofstate students as a way to cut costs and raise revenue. This will not only affect current students through higher tuition rates, but also incoming state residents applying to these universities,

of having tuition raised ever since attending a UC. For myself and other students, working 20 hours per week to pay for tuition and other that tuition fees might increase at any time. In response to the various colleges’ tuition spikes, many of us students have taken part in the Occupy movement in the past year.

programs within UC’s, Cal States and community colleges.

$250,000 and increase sales taxes by a fourth of a cent for four years in order to fund public schools and universities. This tax increase will provide billions of dollars

education, California provides one of the best public higher educations in the country and probably some of the best educational experiences.

Students should be conscious and take action on the upcoming propositions and

$6 billion in cuts for the school year.

positives of having a public education.

CSU Fullerton: Cal State University

was going to be living on campus or commuting, but luckily the distance from home was negotiable for either option.

I decided to commute, since living in the dorms was too to it.

College is very different from high school; one becomes more independent. In high school the cafeteria provides us with a free or reduced meal, but in college, we are responsible for feeding ourselves by buying fairly priced meals from the

Class of 2010

attend the next four years after high school, the last place I saw myself was at a community college.

To this day, community college is portrayed in a negative way and is looked down upon when compared to four-year universities. For me, telling people I would be attending East Los Angeles College (ELAC) was not a fun task.

The application process is simple and requires only that the student register online with the campus and attend a short orientation, where they test for placement and receive a student I.D. number.

The atmosphere is very relaxed and feels like high school with more adults. There are students that show up to class completely unprepared and students who maintain a 4.0 grade point average.

Personally, I believe community college helped my transition from high school to college. It eased me into However, it also gave me a rude awakening.

University of California (UC)

inconvenient, but one gets used to it.

At all Cal States, there is a constant reminder of budget cuts as tuition prices are scheduled to increase every semester. Not only is tuition rising, but students are being limited in the number of units they are allowed to take.

classes, professors and resources available at school and making new friends. Commuting is not the best, but I cuts do not affect my years at Cal Sate Fullerton and I manage to graduate in four years.

ELAC: Community College

BY JESSICA ALVAREZ

California State University (CSU)

since registration is based on units completed. Usually, classes, and math and English are never either of them.

Community college, however, is inexpensive in comparison to four year schools. At ELAC, a student pays $46 per unit, which averages to less than $1,000 for 12 units.

Although community college is an inexpensive alternative to a four-year university, it makes graduating

Top 12.5% statewide are gu Top 4% within school guara

Education

Transitioning from high school to college is not easy.

It all starts with the application process for Cal States, which is not as rigorous as those of UC’s and Private schools since there is no need for a personal statement or letters of recommendation. Not all Cal States are easy to get into, but when I decided I wanted to go to a Cal State, I decided on Fullerton.

Legend

lunch from home.

A lot more freedom is given when it comes to classes in college. One picks the classes one wants to take, the schedule one wants to have and where one wants to take them. Homework is very different, since more technology

for Higher

Class of 2012

Master Plan

BY DIANA MORALES

UC’

are the prim supported a research ins

FOR THE

RECORD In the Sept. issue, Kimmie Ha was misidentified as Kimmie Ma. Constantino Duarte was misidentified as Antonio.

Ruth Munguia was misidentified as Ruth Munga Monica Nabor was omitted in identification of the 6th counselor.

In 2010, 28% of UC and 55% of CSU students transferred from a California community college.

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FOCUS

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et cuts to alter Master Plan The former goals for California’s Master Plan for Education are being threatened by budget cuts that will impose higher tuitions on community college, California State University and University of California students. Current enrollees are already feeling the pressures of financial obstacles, and seniors are facing admission cuts.

Guest Perspective:

Staggering statistics require proactive approach

BY AMI SZERENCSE

the revenue to support California students.” However, with the UC system almost

Teacher & Member of Cal-PASS*

percent), there are fewer openings for California residents. Additionally, there are spring system to provide affordable and quality education for California residents. new revenue sources and reducing services to meet their budgets, which have a direct impact on California students.

One of the biggest impacts on California students is increased tuition.

Both the University of California and California State University systems determining tuition increases; the CSU system plans to increase tuition by 9 percent and the UC system may face up to 20 percent tuition increase if the proposition doesn’t pass. students, as tuition costs have already more than tripled in the last decade. Tuition for the CSU system was $1,428 in the 2001-02 school year and increased

California universities are actively recruiting out-of-state students, since they pay higher fees than California residents. According to Elliot Hirschman, president of San Diego State University, admitting out-of-state residents allows the universities to “have

the growing number of students needing remediation, institutions have to offer more of these courses, reducing the number of regular courses offered. At community colleges, approximately 85 percent of students need remediation in math, and 70 percent need remediation in English. At the CSUs, approximately 60 percent of students need remediation in math, English or both.

In efforts to address the remediation, the CSUs have instituted the Early Assessment Program (EAP) to provide opportunities to satisfy the requirement in high school. In the summer of 2012, the CSUs also implemented the Early Start Remediation (ESR), requiring incoming students to begin the remediation process the summer before year of enrollment may be asked to leave the university to complete the remediation at a community college; they will need to re-apply to the CSU as transfer students once they meet the transfer student requirements.

All of these changes create a spiral effect. Rising tuition costs cause many students

ones. Only about 25 percent of degree-seeking students from community colleges actually transfer to a four-year university. The decreased course offerings, the high need for remediation classes and the increased competition for spots in classes cause many students to become frustrated at their lack of progress toward their transfer requirements and drop out.

These are staggering statistics, but high school students can be proactive. All students planning on attending post-secondary institutions should take a rigorous A-G curriculum to reduce their chances of needing remediation and to increase their eligibility for special programs. Juniors should prepare for the EAP so that they have an opportunity to meet college readiness requirements in high school.

Students attending community colleges who plan to transfer to a four-year university should enroll in a Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program or similar program that provides counseling for transfer requirements and often offer priority enrollment. Eligible students should enroll in the community college honors program as there is less competition for these classes. Community college students need to plan their coursework wisely to ensure they meet the transfer requirements. The ASSIST website assist.org, provides up-to-date information about transfer criteria. * The California Partnership for Achieving Student Success (Cal-Pass) is a system that collects data about student success and transition from every segment of education, K-16.

mary stateacademic stitution

a

causing some students to not get the courses they need to transfer or graduate in a timely manner.

CHRISTINE TAING

uaranteed acceptance to a UC anteed acceptance to a UC

’s

the fall.

Post-secondary institutions are also decreasing the number of course

N O W

Since 2008, course offerings available in California community colleges have dropped by a quarter.

23

campuses of the California State University System

T H E N

108

campuses of the California Community College System

Top 9% statewide are guaranteed acceptance to a UC Top 9% within school guaranteed acceptance to a UC Top 33.3% statewide were guaranteed acceptance to a Cal State University SOURCE: universityofcalifornia.edu & Los Angeles Tmes

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FEATURES

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Oct. 5, 2012

Disability Awareness Club promotes unity

BY MARIEA SEKIJIMA Assistant Features Editor

Since October marks Learning Disability Awareness Month, various ways to promote awareness and interacting opportunities connect special education students and general education students.

Disability Awareness Club was founded last year to promote awareness as well as provide opportunities for students to interact. “[We wanted] to help keep general education students aware and give them opportunities to interact and learn about kids with special needs,” said Desiree Galan, teacher and club adviser.

Students meet every Wednesday at lunch and plan various events, such as their own prom and the Special Olympics.

According to club member Alyssa Verdugo, “It feels great volunteering for the club because the kids like the interaction they get from us, and they loved the prom we held for them.”

Club members also promote Autism Week in April and Disability Awareness Week in October, schoolwide.

“It is important to remind us that those with disabilities are not only active members of society but are productive contributors,” said Assistant Principal Constantino Duarte. “Many misconceptions still exist after more than 20 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act. Therefore, reminding people that we all have the same basic right to an education and employment is everyone’s responsibility.”

According to eeoc.gov, The Americans with Disabilities Act of

1990 prohibits private governments, labor unions and employers from discriminating against those with disabilities. Yet, those with disabilities are sometimes shunned socially.

“A lot of Special Education students don’t get social interaction because they don’t have the same social opportunities. [The club] gives special education students more opportunities to meet people on campus. It also gives general education students an opportunity to realize how similar special education students are to us [non-disability persons] in their own ways,” said Galan.

The club applies Schurr’s motto “Believe, Achieve, Respect” to everyone, including special education students. “I think that if you were to ask our students with special needs, they would simply reply to not pity or target them and to not treat them any better or worse than anyone else,” Duarte said.

Other ways students can help or interact with special education students include eating lunch with them, or simply spending time with them, according to Galan.

Vanessa Rubalcava, club member, said, “I feel really happy [to have the other students participate] and I’m thankful that they’re there.”

Often times, general education students may be unaware of students or choose to ignore those with special needs. By taking time from their daily routine, such as attending the Disability Awareness Club meetings or even doing simple things such as talking with the students or eating with them, students can be part of spreading awareness and unity.

1

3

2

Photos by TREVOR QUAN

UNITED WE WORK 1. Member Genesis Tinoco steps up by leading the meeting and informing

the club of upcoming events. 2. Nery Quinonez advises members not to fall behind on hours and participation. 3. Senior Scott Takai signs up to run for the secretary position.

Keeping up with

the Spartans

Learning Disability Awareness Month: The Basic Facts -Designated as Learning Disability Awareness Month in 1985 by then-president Ronald Regan

Myles Kovacs Class of 1991

How did your time at Schurr influence what occupation you currently have?

“I was in the auto shop class during high school, and although I was already interested in automobiles, it helped with continuing my interest.”

What is your profession?

“I started a pubication called Dub Magazine in late 1999- early 2000; it is a magazine about automobiles and customizable vehicles. ” Why did you choose this profession?

“I had always had an interest in automobiles and I decided to continue my passion for cars through this magazine. At this time, there was a low-rider movement and I saw it progressing as well as a shift in the market place, so then I started Dub.” *Newsweek named Kovacs one of the nation’s “10 Big Thinkers for Big Business in the 21st century” and he has been featured as one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s Top 25 Young Millionaires. He was also featured on Fox’s “Secret Millionaire.”

-Also celebrated in Canada by the Disability Association of Canada -Major types of learning disabilities: -Developmental Speech and Language Disorders -articulation disorder -expressive language disorder -receptive language disorder -Academic Skills Disorders -reading disorder -writing disorder -arithmetic disorder -Attention Disorders SOURCE: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

BY THE

NUMBERS

2.9 million students have learning disabilities 5.4 million students are diagnosed with ADHD 17.1% increase of developmental disabilites in 1997-2008 students with learning disabilites drop out of high 35% ofschool SOURCE: US Department of Education, teenhelp.com, cdc.gov

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Whittier’s

boasts something for everyone

BY LALAINE DUNGCA

Books are both small, quiet establishments that present peaceful environments.

Lovell’s Records buys and sells records and

to many interests and personalities; however, Greenleaf Avenue in uptown Whittier does that and more.

Along Greenleaf lies a variety of shops and restaurants that attract people of all types. They are all located in the relative center of the city of Whittier and are within walking distance from each other.

One of the shops, Geeks, is perfect for comic book lovers. A painting area and snack counter welcome customers.

The store features items ranging from strategy board games and graphic novels to collectible knick-knacks. A section for customers invites sitting and playing a relaxing board game with friends. Running

a place to go if one is looking for sounds from the past, especially from the Peter, Paul and Mary Era.

Entertainment Editor

games in glass containers, giving the whole store an authentic feel. It is a place that allows one to step into the world of fantasy and superheroes.

The Wishing Well is a small, quirky toy store that includes vintage toys along with modern ones. Some retro items include jars of marbles and ’60s robots.

Also available are retro sodas, such as Frostie, Sioux City and Moxie.

However, children are not the only guests who would feel welcome; The makes anyone who steps in reminisce about a time when a new toy brightened smiles and lightened hearts.

Additionally, Uptown Whittier offers places that offer inexpensive music and books. Lovell’s Records and Half Off

Off Books, ranging from classics to modern books. It also offers many old volumes and collections from throughout the past century. A reading area with comfortable couches and an old rug carpet adds to the warm and welcoming environment.

Ambient music plays throughout the bookstore, but it is quiet enough to concentrate on reading. A children’s section is located near the back, along with The local movie theater, Whittier Village Cinemas, serves as an inexpensive yet fun source of entertainment. The vintage-looking exterior adds a lot to the environment of Whittier and complements many local clothing shops that offer older fashions that have become trendy again, such as Melrose Co.

Fenix 5-4 is a uniquely set up restaurant that has unusual, yet cool interior designs.

The theme is based on making the unusual seem usual. It offers tasty organic food, including healthy, creative shakes.

Expressions, an easygoing cupcake shop that offers delicious choices, such as Snickerdoodle, Good Ol’ Apple Pie and Minty Madness for $2.75.

Mini cupcakes are also available for $1.75.

Greenleaf Avenue truly has something for anyone who visits and is differing interests and contrasting personalities coalesce into one expansive center of entertainment for all.

CHERISE WOO

SAVING SOME ‘GREEN’ IN WHITTIER: Uptown Whittier’s Greenleaf Avenue is home to a variety of shops, from Half Off Books (bottom right) for the literary shopper, to The Wishing Well (middle right), a whimsical toy store for all ages. Cupcakes from Sugar Expressions (top right) can complete a day topped with an inexpensive movie at Whittier Village Cinemas (bottom left).

A B C D E F G H

Half Off Books 6708 Greenleaf Ave Lovell’s Records 6719 Greenleaf Ave Wishing Well 6723 Greenleaf Ave Melrose Co. 6727 Greenleaf Ave Sugar Expressions 6744 Greenleaf Ave Geeks 6747 Greenleaf Ave. Suite A Fenix 5-4 6754 Greenleaf Ave Whittier Village Cinemas 7038 Greenleaf Ave ALEXIS JIMENEZ

Que Sera, Sarai

BY SARAI JARAMILLO

Lead Copy Editor

Make It Musical Like most people in the world, my nephew likes to sing to himself.

Sometimes what he elects to sing is not the most appropriate.

A few weeks ago, I overheard him mumbling the chorus of Tyga’s “Make It Nasty,” a song too explicit for anyone to sing, let alone a 4-year-old who spends his free time watching calls “Godzilla.” The sudden comedy of the situation caught me by surprise and left me unsure of whether to scold him or laugh. I did both. Fighting back laughter, I tried to explain to him why he shouldn’t sing such a song, but his innocent “Because…it’s not a good song,” was my completely unsatisfactory response. “Only grown-ups should listen to

it.” When I was unable to elaborate more fully on the subject, my nephew left the room and returned to wandering about our house. A few minutes later, I heard him singing the song again. repeat “Make It Nasty” over and over again worried me.

As expected of a song about sex and ego, the lyrics are graphic to the point of ridiculousness. I don’t even know how he heard the song enough to learn the chorus, since nobody in our house likes that song or Tyga’s music, but I suspect that the song’s popularity on the radio station his mom listens to had a lot to do with it. Obviously my sister didn’t consider the possibility of her son learning the words to that song, or she wouldn’t have allowed it to play in his presence. It made me realize that the things surrounding Keeping with the example of music, some genres have a more positive effect on us. This can be manifested in movie “Mary & Max” deeply impacted me. The message was clear and the music serene; it inspired a sense of calm within me. The song was “Que Sera, Sera,” written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston and performed by Doris Day in Much.” Though I heard the song about a year and a half before I knew I was going to be a columnist for the Spartan Scroll, it nevertheless became the title for my column. I chose the song as the namesake for my column not only for its pun value, but also for the feeling it allowed to bloom

in my subconscious, a feeling of relaxed acceptance for whatever the world would throw at me.

Though introduced in 1934, “Que Sera, Sera” was played in an indie movie released in 2009, indicating the timelessness of the music. Will Tyga be playing on mainstream radio 75 years from now? I sincerely doubt it. Though I personally don’t like his music, I understand why others might. It is music of the now, appealing to the “you only live once” attitude of today’s audience. However, I think it’s important to branch out to all types of music knowledge of music, one can experience a myriad of on opening one’s mind.

In my nephew’s case, the rap and hip-hop music featured on the radio affected his subconscious without any of us even realizing it. Though it disturbed me to hear him sing such graphic lyrics, I’m glad it was just the one song and not a plethora of obscene music. If he had listened to something more positive, I’m sure the lyrics of Tyga’s highly inappropriate song would not be stuck in his head. That’s why I’m making it my mission to introduce him to other songs and genres different than those he is bombarded with on the radio. Since he is only 4, I can’t explain my reasoning in a way to make him understand why different music would be good for him, but I can expose him to things more age-appropriate. First on my list: the relaxed and blooming creativity of Disney

12

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Local actors head to Montebello AMC to ‘watch’ new film with fans

BY TRISTAN BROSSY DE DIOS

said Diamonique, whose role as the Curbside Locotes gangster Wicked left her inspired to

Not all in careers that take off return to the places that made them who they are,

The “bad side,” to which Diamonique referred, proved to be a lasting struggle among the actors, several of whom grew up among violence and economic and ethnic issues in the Los Angeles area. South Central Los Angeles, the setting of “End of Watch,” was home to Avery and her parents’ foster children, and played a major role in the development of her character Bonita. “She’s [Bonita] not respectful at all. I’m from South Central, and I know that kind of character well,” said Avery, recalling certain unstable, sometimes violent, foster children.

Avery was not alone when it came to the shock of portraying a character as inhuman as writer-director David Ayer’s idea of Bonita, a

Entertainment Editor

Watch,” many of whom have had nominal headed to Montebello’s AMC 10.

“Napoleon Dynamite” actress Shondrella Avery, rapper Diamonique, Sons of Anarchy’s “Flakiss” Garcia and television actor Zone, all born and raised in Southern California, made a special appearance at the theater to promote not only their movie, but the life and culture of a Latino-dominated state. “It of my culture, both the good and the bad,”

Taylor and Zavala.

Fernandez, a vicious thug in the movie, grappled with the daunting task of dehumanizing himself for the unthinkable had to dive deep into some dark layers of myself,” said Fernandez, concerning his character Spooky. “It’s not easy to dive into those violent natures, but I want to be true to any character I portray when that camera is on me.”

While the strife of the past might linger on some actor’s minds, several actors, whose roots were humble like those of Montebello residents in the audience, grew from what they were given,

BRANDON CHANG

MOVIE NIGHT: Yahira “Flakiss”Garcia (top left), one of the main antagonists, and David Fernandez Jr. (top right) speak to “End of Watch” fans Sept. 27. Shondrella Avery, Zone and Diamonique (bottom left) pose for fans outside the AMC 10.

their own initiative. Avery, who attended a performing arts school, and Fernandez, a theater actor since elementary school, both became rising stars in the performing arts, as thespians of Southern California.

“I only saw myself in roles like this [Bonita]. Comedy [“Napoleon Dynamite”] took me by surprise. Theater was more

thought-provoking in my mind,” said Avery.

“I got ‘Napoleon Dynamite,’ and that changed the trajectory of my career. David Ayer took a chance at uncovering the LaFawnduh everyone knows.”

Avery’s and Fernandez’s previous acting experiences might have eased the tension of felt the same. “I wasn’t expecting it [to get a role] at all. I was surprised,” said Garcia, whose acting career began with “End of Watch” when she auditioned and received her role as Lala, Like Garcia, “End of Watch” was not only her biggest milestones in life, an experience that left her humbled. “It was intimidating having all those professionals around you, but I feel like it’s something I can warm up pursue acting.”

Despite this step in their careers and an even larger step for some, each actor came across as level-headed, intent on improving not only his or her own life, but the lives of those around them; this is a help they know all too well many in Los Angeles communities need.

Review & Commentary

Mumford & Sons returns with familiar themes

BY SARAI JARAMILLO

Lead Copy Editor & Columnist Three years after their debut album, Mumford & Sons returns with a familiar sound in their second album, Babel.

Since the release of their EP Love Your Ground in 2008, Mumford & Sons have grown immensely in popularity but not much in musical depth. Tracks from Babel sound like continuations of songs from the debut album Sigh No More.

The hit single “I Will Wait” from Babel seems to follow the same general pattern as “Roll Away Your Stone” from Sigh No More. The rest of the songs also seem to be formulaic in structure; “Ghosts That We Knew” and “Reminder,” to name a few, recall to memory “White Blank Page” and “Awake My Soul.”

The most striking resemblance is “Broken Crown” and “To Darkness,” tracks with opening notes so similar that it is easy to confuse the two. Though “Broken Crown” is supposed to be a completely new rewrite of the latter, it still retains large sections from the original.

These similarities ensure that those who did not enjoy Sigh No More will probably not like Babel, due to the lack of musical variety. However, the reverse also seems to be true; fans of Sigh No More will certainly like Babel. Whether this was intentional to maintain popularity is uncertain, but it does seem to be effective; only a week after its release, Babel has already risen to the peak of iTunes’ Top Albums.

Also similar to all their previous works is Babel’s general motif. Like Sigh No More, many tracks on the follow-up album are about lost or unrequited love. However, Mumford & Sons do offer new interpretations of this motif, using Biblical allusions to their advantage. In the title track, lead vocalist Marcus Mumford describes a woman’s heart as a tower of intimidating walls, like the Biblical Tower of Babel, or conversely, the walls of Jericho, that he will attempt to bring “crumbling down.”

Additional references include Noah’s Ark in “Whispers in the Dark,” a vague allusion to what could be the Ten Commandments, and multiple lyrics that In the Sept. 14 issue, Two Door sound like prayers.

Cinema Club’s song “Next Year” The concentration of was misidentified as “New Year.”

Biblical themes in this album is probably due

FOR THE

RECORD

to Mumford & Son’s music genre; as a self-proclaimed folk band, they want to convey traditional morals and stories that may have become lost or disregarded over time.

Along with the similarities between the two albums comes the talent and skill for which Mumford & Sons is known. Mumford is a remarkably talented singer, able to invoke a myriad of emotions by simply changing the pitch of his voice. Ted Dwane (vocals, drums, guitar), Ben Lovett (vocals, keyboard, accordion, guitar) and “Country” Winston Marshall (vocals, banjo, guitar) are also extremely talented, and they use their skills on a wide array of instruments to create the distinctive sound of Mumford & Sons.

However, as talented as these men sound on the CD,

their Gentlemen of the Road concerts, performing in places that do not usually host big-name artists. They called these concerts “stopovers” that celebrated local food, art and traditions. The last stopover was in Monterey at the Monterey Park Fairgrounds, where the band treated the audience to performances of songs off the Babel album, though it had not yet A modest establishment used to host carnivals and equestrian competitions, the Fairgrounds were, ironically, the perfect complement to the band’s music.

The humility of the lyrics to songs such as “Lover’s Eyes” and “Ghosts That We Knew” matched the humility of the location, a small stage facing a dirt track. Furthermore, Mumford’s voice was more powerful when heard live than in studio recordings, and the rest of the band never missed a beat.

Concertgoers could really appreciate the bongos to create musical art.

While Babel does not have the power of the live performances, it still manages to appeal to fans of alternative rock/ folk bands. Though it might alienate new audiences, fans of Mumford & Son’s debut album are sure to enjoy Babel.

Behind the

CHERISE WOO

Scenes ‘Taken 2’

Bryan Mills, former CIA agent, was able to save his daughter from Albanian kidnappers. However, his skills are tested when a kidnapper’s father desires revenge by capturing his wife while she and Mills are on vacation in Instanbul. He must face the same threat, only 10 times larger and stronger due to their eagerness for retaliation.

Photo courtesy of UGO ENTERTAINMENT

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Counting the Combinations

Burgers wait to be en’counter’ed

Step 1: Choose a Burger:

BY MELISSA NUNEZ Circulation Manager

Step 2: Choose a cheese:

Restaurant creator Jeff Weinstein wanted

Step 3: Choose up to 4 toppings:

Step 4: Choose a Sauce

Step 5: Choose a Bun

JESSICA HSU

Fast

Facts to the array of cheeses and other deluxe

Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Food selections do not end with

Price range: one-third lb. burger, $8.95 two-thirds lb. burger, $11.25 1-lb. burger, $14.25

FOR THE

RECORD In the Sept. 14 issue, lead vocalist Damian Abraham’s name was misspelled.

All photos by CHERISE WOO

FOOD FOR A NEW AGE: The Counter offers 312,120 possible combinations; two of them are displayed above (left and right).

Local artist Jo Jo was hired by the Pasadena location to furbish one of the restaurant’s walls with his skateboard art.

Rambling Rhetoric

BY ALEX KANEGAWA

Opinions Editor

Developing a taste for life When I say I lived under the constant threat of death for

14

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Velasquez finds new passion in Zumba

BY JIMMY CHEN Sports Editor

Helping individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle through her love of dancing and working out, senior Ivana Velasquez Jireh Fitness Studio in East Los Angeles.

HANDS UP IN THE AIR: Senior Ivana Velasquez leads her participants in a workout at Jireh Fitness Studio, Oct. 2.

program that incorporates Latin music into exercise routines taught in classes in over 150 countries.

“Zumba is a form of working out involving dance,” said Velasquez. “I used to be a dancer, but I stopped because I wanted to do sports. I have always loved dancing and working out, so one of my favorite things about Zumba is how you can keep doing both at the same time.”

In order to become an instructor, Velasquez attended a Zumba instructor training class at the San Diego Fitness Convention July 5, which cost about $225.

“At the training class, I told myself that I wanted to do this,” she said. “It’s a potential job.”

After passing the class, Velasquez started teaching one-hour classes every day during the summer. She currently teaches Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 -9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 -10 a.m.

Velasquez’s routines involve not telling the clients what exercise follows another during the workout so the clients are alert and paying attention to the steps.

“The routines usually involve

History of Zumba In the mid ’90s, Alberto Perez, a fitness instructor in Cali, Colombia, improvised his own mix of salsa and merengue music when he forgot to bring his traditional aerobics music to class.

Perez had created a new, different kind of dancefitness that emphasized body movements that followed music.

In 2001, Perez teamed up with Alberto Perlman and Alberto Aghion in Miami, FL and created the business, Zumba Fitness. The word Zumba was trademarked.

Today, the Zumba program is worldwide and is taught in gyms and studios to millions of clients.

change them,” said Velasquez. “It can be easy, but it really does get you to work out.”

Even though the Zumba routines focus on Latin music, other genres of music can be part of workout, according to Velasquez. Latin genres include cumbia, merengue, reggaeton and salsa.

“My favorite routines involve merengue, but I play any type of music,” said Velasquez.

“What is most important to me though is attitude. You have to be energetic.”

In order to fundraise for and raise awareness of her cousin’s condition of duchenne muscular dystrophy, Velasquez held the

Dance for Cure event Sept. 29 at Jireh Fitness Studio. According to mda. org, duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness, primarily affecting boys, but in rare cases affecting girls. The event was held from about 1-4 p.m. and included a variety of food and a Zumba class during the event in which participants could enter and leave the exercise as they pleased.

Velasquez hopes that her clients will continue to gain endurance with workouts and get into shape by getting through entire classes.

“One of the highlights as an instructor so far is when one of my clients lost 15 pounds through my classes this summer,” she said. “When I heard about that, I realized I want to get into

Reggaeton Stomp: Single Single Double with

Merengue 6 count: Up and Out

want to continue to help people feel comfortable with themselves.”

Velasquez looks to integrate the experience she has earned as an instructor in the future, possibly becoming a professional “I’m going to continue with it,” she said. “I feel really proud of it, and right now I love being able to say, ‘I’m a Zumba instructor.’”

Cumbia Sleepy leg Olique or Hip Rotation

Salsa 2-Steps: Maracas

Photos by BRANDON CHANG

Harriers run strongly into league meets

BY BRANDON CHANG Photographer

were seniors S. Chaides, Cerda, Daniel Perez and Ivana

league meet, the harriers will compete at the Warren Stauffer Invitational in Hollydale Park tomorrow. varsity boys, JV boys, frosh/soph boys, JV Girls and placed second by a narrow margin of two points.

“Our strength lies in our veteran leadership,” said Head Coach Manuel Quintero. “But our weakness is our lack of runners in the lower levels.”

In the varsity boys race, senior Osvaldo Cerda placed second, junior Javier Rosas fourth, junior

Cano, O. Escamilla and Dana Navarrette.

“I feel we’re at where we should be for this time of the year,” said Quintero. “If we continue to work hard and improve, we have a good chance to win all six division championships, something that has never happened in school history.”

Before the

Game

seventh and senior Edson Escamilla eighth. For

Photos by BRANDON CHANG

‘CROSS’ING THE FINISH: Junior Ruby Gonzalez and senior David Del Valle sprint to the end during the league meet at Legg Lake Sept. 26.

FOR THE

RECORD In the Sept. issue, volleyball players Blanca Ramos and Nicole Rodriguez names were switched under the photos.

Sigala placed second, junior Cesar Garcia placed third, senior David Troncoso placed eighth and junior Eduardo Millian ninth. In the frosh/soph boys division, sophomores Thomas Browning and Nicholas

Philip Galicia Senior Water Polo

Sophomores John Chaides and Ricardo Cano were Escamilla placed sixth.

For the varsity girls race, senior Sarah Chaides placed fourth. The JV girls had junior Jocelyn Gasca

junior Ruby Gonzalez eighth. Of frosh/soph girls, sophomores Celeste Juarez and Fatima Patino tied

Usually before a big game, I’ll change and get into the pool and do a couple of slow laps on my own, just to get the feel for the day. Then, I’ll rest on the wall and think how I would like to go about that day’s game.

Veronica Castro placed fourth and sophomore Nicole CINDY VUONG

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H2O Polo looks for redemption Netters struggle

to gain momentum

BY CINDY VUONG Photographer

With a 6-9 league record, boys varsity water polo will compete against the Mark Keppel Aztecs Oct. 10.

On Oct. 3 the Spartans lost to the Bell Gardens Lancers.

“We have improved after all our preseason games. I feel that although we gained experience, there is still time to improve our physical and mental game,” said junior Jason Duong.

In their game against Pasadena High School Sept, 28, the Spartans lost. At the home game against EL Rancho Sept. 26, the Spartans suffered another loss.

“The team has been doing better this season, CINDY VUONG and it has made a tremendous improvement CLASHING FOR CONTROL: Sophomore Benjamin Loaiza from last year,” said Steve Lopez, varsity player. “In the beginning, the team had not battles his El Rancho opponent for possesion Sept. 26. done that well, but now I think we are doing better and I know everyone is putting their games, I can see their effort shown with only losing two maximum effort in [the game].” games out of seven,” said Uriel Villa, JV head coach.

The JV team beat the Bell Gardens Lancers The JV boys water polo team beat Cathedral High Oct. 3.

School Sept. 24, won another game against Baldwin On Sept.28, the JV water polo team lost by a close Park, Sept. 19 and against Pioneer Sept. 18. margin after making it into overtime twice against “With only six games left to play, I really believe that Pasadena High School. They also lost to El Rancho Sept. the JV team will [do well] this year,” said Alexis Morales, 26, making their record 2-8. sophomore. “With all the effort [the whole team] “It’s not how much I put in for the team but how much have put in, I truly believe that this year will be the they can give towards themselves, and throughout all the best year.”

Spikers remain strong throughout season

BY TAYLOR FONG Reporter

Seeking to gain another win, the spikers will face the Montebello Oilers Oct 9.

The spikers played Mark Keppel Aztecs yesterday, but scores were unavailable at press time.

“I think that a way we can prepare for games during practice is doing different drills instead of doing the same thing over and over each day.

I play club volleyball so it’s different for me because club practices are more challenging. It’s a transition for me because practices at school are not the same,” said freshman Blanca Ramos.

On Sept. 20, the spikers defeated the Pioneer Titans with set scores of 25-19, 25-11, and 31-29. In their game against Mountain View Sept.

21, the spikers swept all three sets with scores of 25-17, 25-12, and 2515. In their last game of preseason, the Spartans faced the Temple City Rams and lost with set scores of 25-22, 28-25, 25-19, 25-21 and 15the spikers defeated the Alhambra Moors, 3-1, with scores of 25-14, 25-21, 25-14 and 25-16. The spikers faced Bell Gardens but lost Oct 2.

“I feel like we play like a team and we aren’t worried or distracted by other things. We always focus on each other and keep each other going.

Team bonding helps us even more because we bonded a lot more this year and it really helps us to become closer,” said junior Misty Salazar.

Extending their winning streak, the spikers took on the Pioneer Titans defeating them 2-0, with set scores of 25-8 and 2522. The JV spikers defeated Mt. View with scores of 2513 and 25-21. Concluding their preseason games, the spikers defeated the Rams, winning both sets, 25-13 and 25-20. Adding to their winning streak, the Spartans beat the BRANDON CHANG Moors 2-1 Sept. 27 with UP TO STRIKE : Junior Alicia Valdivia jumps set scores of 25-23, 25to spike the ball against Moors, Sept 27.

20, and 15-8. Keeping up their record, the spikers freshmen added another win, beating beat the Bell Gardens the Moors, 25-14 and 25-14, Sept. 27.

Lancers, 2-0.

Concluding their preseason, the Keeping their sets close, they lost 2-1 Spartans beat the Titans, 2-0. The against Bell Gardens.

It’s a ‘Wendy’ful Life

BY WENDY LAM Managing Editor

Surpassing internal blocks We can experience a blocked pass, a blocked shot and writer’s block.

Since I am just a sports fan and I don’t actually play anything, unless it is a backyard game, I am facing writer’s block. Fortunately for me, writer’s block doesn’t require physical activity or have an opponent staring me down and charging at me. My opponent is a blank word document staring back at my equally blank face while we both inch closer and closer to the assignment’s deadline. But maybe I can tackle my blocker just as an athlete would his.

No, I don’t know what exactly players do to avoid a blocked shot or pass, and I’m sure it is different for every sport. I don’t know the technical terms to explain what they’re doing, and I can be completely wrong with my interpretation and what I am about to say. All I have to go off of is what I see when I watch a game, and I watch simply for enjoyment; I don’t know how to analyze every play.

As I understand it, once a player has the ball, he protects it, keeping it away from opponents. He takes a moment to survey what he is up against. In just a moment’s glance he matched up against whom and determines what would be the best course of action to take. When someone is really skilled and gifted with this talent, it looks effortless, just as the way the ability to write can be for some.

For writers, the ball is like any possible topic idea. I’m not secretive and don’t keep them from others, but when I to do. All the possible turns the article can take, and which topic would be the best, are taken into account. Following the decision of course of action comes the execution. document, always seems to be the most exciting. Players skillfully maneuver their way past one opponent, weave their way between two others and cut past another to score.

BY NICHOLAS HANASHIRO Reporter

Looking to improve their league standings the varsity netters will play the Montebello Oilers for the second time Oct. 9.

They faced the Mark Keppel Aztecs Oct. 4, but scores were not available at press time.

They defeated the Alhambra Moors Sept. 27 in a close 10-8 score with senior Jillian Sarao defeating the opposing singles No.3, 6-0 to win the game for the netters. Singles No.1, Anjela Picaso, won two of her sets, 7-6 (7-4) and 6-0, against the opposing No.1 and No.3 respectively. JV Singles gles No.3 Kellie Hirashima, won one set, 6-4.

Sandy Tang and Michele Wong, doubles No.1, swept all three sets, while Kristine Siangco and Ying Liu, doubles No.2, won two sets, 6-4 and 7-6 (12-10), and Mariea Sekijima and Annie Chen, doubles No.3, contributed one set to the overall team score.

“We have all the skill to be No. 1 in our league,” said Varsity Coach Andrew Lee. “We just need to use it when it counts, like against Alhambra. I hope they use the game as a stepping stone to more victories.”

They lost to the San Gabriel Matadors, 14-4, Sept. 25 but defeated the Oilers, 15-3, at the beginning of league Sept. 20. lowed me to stay calm and play every point,” said Liu. “And through this trust, we pushed each other harder, which eventually resulted in our win.”

The JV netters lost 12-6, 17-1 and 14-4 to the Moors, Matadors and Oilers, respectively. Improving every game, the Alhambra match was the closest the JV netters have come to a win so far.

Against Alhambra, singles No.1, Andrea Chotephanpong, won two sets. Singles No.2 and No.3, Stephanie Torosian and Sarah Hanashiro respectively, contributed one set each to the overall team score. Doubles No.1, Tiffany Ngo and Raquel Diaz, and doubles No.3, Cecilia Wu and Mar Diaz, each won a set.

“We have all the skill to be number one in our league,” said Varsity Coach Andrew Lee. “We just need to use it when it counts like against Alhambra. I hope they use the game as a stepping stone to more victories.”

CHERISE WOO

READY TO RETURN: Junior Annie Chen prepares to hit the ball back to her Moor opponent, Sept 27.

They fake a pass in one direction and pivot to the other. It looks like a cat and mouse game, displaying their mastered technique. Then something unexpected happens, and the player needs to improvise, charging forward and following a different strategy. They don’t always have a plan; they don’t always know what they are going to do. They just play. one another, some cutting between others, but in the end, coming together to form a single unit, just as individual players come together to form a team. Even when we don’t know what to write about, we take a simple idea and just write. We don’t know where the story is going or where we want it to end up, but the words form and the story begins to tell itself. If we hit a block, we spin another way. We adjust to the situation and shift past the blocker.

In a matter of seconds, the player has either scored or succeeded in helping a teammate score, and after a few more plays, a team emerges victorious. The overwhelming feeling of triumph warrants a team chest bump/ hug/ colliding mess. Sadly, I can’t experience the same joy by hugging my laptop, but I can chest-bump and collide with my bed in victory after completing my writing assignment.

Overcoming a writer’s block in a way that can almost rival Dwight Howard’s blocking ability is quite an accomplishment.

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Gridders overcome losses, continue to improve

BY MARIAH LIN

Assistant Sports Editor Eager to start off the season strong, the varsity gridders will face the San Gabriel Matadors for Homecoming tonight at 7 p.m.

In their game against the Matadors last year, the gridders were defeated 21-10. The Spartans and Matadors both currently have a preseason record of 1-4.

“Since we didn’t get a win last year, we’d like to beat them this year,” said Head Coach Marco Ramirez. “In order to do that, we need to make sure we don’t make a lot of mistakes during the game. I think we have a good chance in beating them [San Gabriel] because our performance has improved dramatically from the start of preseason.”

The gridders lost three consecutive preseason games before ending with a 10-6 win against the Whittier Cardinals Sept. 28, during Whitter’s homecoming.

“The kids played tough through all four quarters,” said Ramirez. “We moved the ball consistently. Defense played a good game. They made key stops at important times.” against the Cardinals, both teams had trouble scoring. Whittier had possession of the ball the majority of the time and pushed the Spartans into stepping up their defense. With a minute left in the quarter, the Cardinals attempted a after tough defense by the Spartans.

Quarterback Salvador Chavez ran for with a positive offensive play, although the score was tied, 0-0. Initially, it appeared to be a game in which the victor would be determined by effort and endurance.

After recovering a fumble by the Cardinals halfway into the second quarter, the gridders improved their defense and momentum immensely.

Junior Abel Troncoza scored on a 20and the Spartans led the Cardinals, 7-0, after the one-point conversion.

The Cardinals answered with a 50yard touchdown but could not tie the Spartans because they missed the one-point conversion, making the score 7-6.

Before halftime, the Spartans

PUMPED FOR LEAGUE: (TOP) Eric Perez, junior,

evades his Whitter opponnents, aiding the Spartans to a 10-6, win, Sept. 28. (Bottom) The Spartans express their emotions after the game.

goal from junior Rafael Negrete. By the Photos by TREVOR QUAN end of the second quarter, the Spartans TAKING CHARGE: Breaking a tackle, junior Salvador Chavez gains had committed no interceptions more yards for Schurr against the Cardinals Sept. 28. or fumbles. This improvement in execution from the previous preseason “We all played as a team,” said Co-Captain Jose Aguero. games helped the gridders maintain “We did what we needed to win. We still need to work on their lead for the rest of the game.

The gridders started the second half with strong our consistency on every single play. We just need to build defense, keeping the Cardinals from scoring. With three it up and score more.”

On Sept. 20, the gridders were defeated by the California minutes left in the quarter, Negrete attempted to score Condors, 27-7. They also suffered a loss against Diamond Continuing into the fourth quarter, the Spartans kept Bar Sept. 14, 23-6. up their defense, managing to prevent the Cardinals from scoring on numerous occasions when the opponents were We carry those same elements with us going against close to the end zone. The game ended with a Spartan San Gabriel and you an expect us to do our best,” said Chavez. victory, 10-6.

JV gridders emerge victorious, begin preparation for upcoming league play

BY JASON BASULTO Reporter

Hoping for another win, the JV gridders will face the Bell Gardens Lancers away Oct. 11.

Yesterday, the JV gridders played against the Azusa Aztecs, but scores were unavailable at press time.

On Sept. 27, the JV gridders battled against the Whittier Cardinals and managed to win, of many yards gained by junior runningback Derrick Lopez.

However, the Spartans did not score until the Cardinals fumbled the ball.

With the ball back in their possession, Ricardo Alcantara completed a pass to junior Dario Robinson, who ran 45 yards for a touchdown. Even though the JV gridders did not complete their PAT, they were still in the lead, 6-0.

FOR THE

“In preparation for this game, I worked on improving the chemistry between the quarterback and me, and so when he would pass the ball to me, I would be able to complete,” said junior wide receiver Robinson.

During the second and third quarter, the Cardinals successfully scored a touchdown while the The gridders were in the lead, 9-7, during the fourth quarter. able to pull farther away from the Cardinals with another 12-7. They then held off the league victory.

The Spartans were defeated by the California High Condors Sept.

20, 34-6, and the Diamond Ranch Panthers Sept. 13, 21-7.

Not as fortunate as their JV teammates, the freshmen suffered a loss against the Whittier Cardinals, 19-0. The Spartans will

play the Bell Gardens Lancers Oct. 11 away.

The gridders played the San Gabriel Matadors yesterday, but scores were unavailable at press time. They also played the California High Condors Sept.

20, suffering a 27-7 defeat. The Spartans battled against the Diamond Ranch Panthers Sept.

13 and were not successful, losing 37-0.

“We’ve been working harder by practicing our plays and adding even more plays we can use during our upcoming games. Also, the team has been studying other teams’ defense, and the games in the past that we have lost didn’t count because they were preseason games, so now is when it starts to count,” said Eddie Delgado freshman quarterback.

RECORD In the Sept. 14 issue, junior Abel Troncoza was misidentified as a senior.

SWIFT, SWERVING: Freshman Eddie Delgado dodges his Whittier opponent in the Spartans’ 19-0 loss Sept. 27.

Photos by CINDY VUONG

FOLLOW THE LEADER: Freshman Robert Sosa breaks away from the pack in an attempt to bring the Spartans closer to the end zone.