The Pearl Post April 19, 2018

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April 19, 2018

Volume 9 Issue 7

Below average AP scores worry students about college readiness Special Reports Page 11

THE

PEARL POST

Daniel Pearl Magnet High School 6649 Balboa Blvd., Lake Balboa, CA 91406

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News 2

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Photos by Alice Curran Students from across the nation have organized walkouts for gun reform since the school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on Feb. 14.

Nationwide walkout continues fight for our lives David Eskychian and Rudraj Koppikar Staff Writers

Students across the nation have planned another walkout for April 20, the 19th anniversary of the massacre at Columbine High School in Littleton, CO, to push for gun reform.

The National School Walkout has been planned by students at Ridgefield High School in Ridgefield, CT to protest months of inaction by Congress. This walkout follows the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on Feb. 14, which left 17 dead. The walkout is also to remember the 13 victims of the Columbine massacre which took place in 1999 and left 15 people, including the two shooters, dead.

Previous student-led demonstrations included the “March for Our Lives,” which brought hundreds of thousands of stu-

dents in Los Angeles, CA and Washington D.C. to march for more restrictive gun laws and a previous walkout where students walked out of their classrooms to remember the victims of the Parkland Shooting.

“Even though it’s an all day event, I think it would still be worth it to fight for stricter gun laws and regulations,” sophomore Lucianne Lejarde said. “Hopefully this walkout will be as impactful and successful as the previous one.”

Unlike the March For Our Lives walkout on March 13, The National School Walkout will be an all day event. Students across the nation will walk out of class at 10 a.m., but instead of returning to class, students will peacefully protest until the end of the school day.

On the day of the walkout, students are expected to wear price tags which reflect how how much NRA-bought politicians think students lives are worth.

Students in California are worth $0.01 according to these politicians, such as U.S. Representative Ken Calvert. This money is accepted in large sums from the NRA. While district officials were lenient in allowing students to participate in the 17-minute walkout on March 14, they are not supporting a full-day protest.

“It would depend on what students are doing but I can not authorize students should be missing school,” Principal Deb Smith said. “We have to provide supervision for students, so if students do walkout there will be supervision.”

While these demonstrations have inspired unprecedented activism from students, Congress as a whole has been largely silent on the issue even as individual members have voiced their opinions on the movement. Most demonstrations have not cited any specific political goals beyond more restrictive gun legislature

which could range from more comprehensive background checks to a complete repeal of the Second Amendment.

“I would definitely participate in the walkout in order to promote gun control,” junior Jason Silva said. “Action needs to be taken and I think this is a good way to do so and to promote awareness.”

The National School Walkout has a counterpart being led by the Network of Public Education, the National Day of Action. Students are going to walk out of their classes and will take 13 seconds of silence to remember the 13 victims of the Columbine massacre. but many say they support the protest.

“I feel like it’s a great cause and a good way to raise awareness for gun violence,” sophomore Esmeralda Martinez said.

Twitter: @dxvideskichyxn, @rudy_beckom

First ever junior-senior prom planned for Class of 2019 Angel Van Horn Staff Writer

The Class of 2019 will be the first ever senior class to share its prom with the junior class of 2020 in order to lower ticket prices and increase ticket sales.

“If we have more students, then we will have more money to spend on prom: a better location, decorations, desserts and better things,” Class of 2019 sponsor Leah Pevar said.

The decision was made to have future seniors and juniors share a prom next year because the graduating Class of 2019 can’t afford to spend over $15,000 on a prom for only 88 people. A mixed prom would benefit the future senior class by occupying a larger hall and lowering ticket prices so they don’t have to pay extra to compensate for the relative-

ly few people going, according to Pevar.

Many schools hold a junior-senior prom for their students. Schools like Gunn High School in Palo Alto, Damien High School in La Verne and City Honors High School have a junior-senior prom for the purpose of mixing their students to have a good time. In this case, a junior-senior prom for the class of 2019 is happening because the size of the two classes will be just about equivalent to a normal sized prom.

“I’m not too against it but prom is usually thought of as a senior thing,” junior delegate Remy De Leon said.

“With juniors going, people aren’t so happy with it so I can understand.”

Most of the class of 2019 were furious to hear about a split prom. If future juniors are invited to next year’s prom, they would have the opportunity to experience two proms including their own se-

Photo by Zachary Gephart-Canada Previous seniors class proms, including Class of 2017, was advertised as senior only. nior prom. Others were satisfied with the decisions since it would lower ticket prices “I do like the idea because we don’t have that many seniors, so at least if some juniors go it won’t look so lone-

ly,” junior Natalie Rendon said. “The juniors and seniors get along so it’s just something different, which is good.”

Instagram: @angul.muriee

April 19, 2018

The Pearl Post

News 3

Spark has been ignited once more for Get Lit team Mirabelle Chernick Staff Writer

The bell rings. While much of the school enjoys a leisurely lunch, four poets dash to Room 14 for yet another rehearsal. The poets chatter away sharing their newest ideas and inspiration while hands clench a pen and notebook, desperately aching to write it all down.

“Through writing I’ve found that students are connected to their lives in unique ways, learning about themselves,” sponsor and English teacher Ron Baer said. “They are growing as writers and as young adults, thinking about what they care about in this world and that’s a really special opportunity to be with students like that where I don’t get anywhere else.”

On April 26, Daniel Pearl Magnet High School’s annual Get Lit team will take the stage once again at the 7th Classic Slam. The quarter and semi finals will be held on April 26-27 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center. If successful, the team will then compete in the finals on April 28 at the Theatre at the Ace Hotel.

The Get Lit Words Ignite program aims to promote teen literacy in Los Angeles by providing an outlet for young people to share their stories, beliefs and hopes about the stark realities of everyday life. Through the Classic Slam, poets are provided a safe and accepting place to speak their minds while, at the same time, battling other poets in a competitive arena. Nearly 100 schools in Southern California compete for the championship title.

The students’ performances include a classic poem and an original response. Poems will often go through dozens of edits along with the choreographed gestures and movements.

The team initially began preparations

in late January with regular lunch meetings consisting of an improvisation warmup and performance rehearsals in which the poets critique one another and discuss how they can improve for the following meeting. As the Classic Slam rapidly approaches, the team is vigorously rehearsing every day after school for an hour and a half in addition to the daily lunch meetings.

“Get Lit has helped me to grow as a person, writer, performer and thinker,” junior Emely Felix said. ”It’s an experience I’ll always treasure.”

This year’s team is comprised of third year Get Lit veteran Felix as well first-time performers juniors Kirsten Cintigo, Justin Dumindin and Rudraj Koppikar. Most recently, sophomore Andi Mendoza volunteered to join the team on April 12, a mere two weeks before competition.

“Each poet has their individual strengths and, when put together, the group becomes one cohesive unit,” said Baer, who hopes the team makes it at least to the semi-finals.

While Felix is the heart of the team, its emotional core Cintigo excels at heeding critiques along with providing it to others. Dumindin stands out through his incredibly unique voice and through his spoken word poetry, brings sensitivity and grace to the team. Koppikar’s ingenuity lies within his understanding of language, of how words and the sounds of words can bring beauty to poetry.

“People are writing about things in their life that are really personal,” Baer said. “Finding a way for them to show their heart, their soul on stage isn’t easy for anyone and so my job to try to get them there is extremely challenging.”

Instagram: @chernick4340

Photo by Richard Mendiola Get Lit member junior Justin Dumindin recites a poem during Poetry Slam on April 12.

Annual Classic Slam April 26 & 27- Quarter and Semi Finals Los Angeles Theatre Center April 28- Finals Theatre at Ace Hotel

Creativity is inspiration for upcoming Spring Concert Anthony Freyre and Melissa Hernandez New Media Editor and Staff Writer

Since last semester’s performances at Daniel Pearl World Music Day, students have decided switch things up for this year’s Spring Concert on May 3 from 7-9 p.m.

“During the World Music Day performance, everything had to fit into the theme of World Music Day, which is fine,” music teacher Wes Hambright said. “As far as other concerts, I think it’s just if this makes it different than it is then it’s completely student-driven.”

Instead of having a traditional concert with songs that send a message, Hambright has given students an opportunity to self-run this year’s concert. Students participating in the performance came together and eventually voted on the idea of having a “Starry Night” theme.

The audience can expect to hear a wide variety of covers from late 60’s music by Frankie Valli to

present day music by Bruno Mars.

The students expect the concert to be fun, exciting and to hope that this becomes just as amazing and successful as previous concert performances.

“We have a Bruno Mars song, we have Adele, we have Panic at the Disco, we have a classic ‘Moon River’,” Hambright said. “It kind of runs the gambit.”

Past concerts have seen their share of setbacks. This year’s main issue tends to be the corporation between the singers and the students from the band. This is a minor set back but eventually the students put aside their differences to master their performances. Individuals also practice at home as the date approaches quickly.

“We’re practicing as a group every day during class,” junior Jared Medrano said, “In terms of my solos, I like to go home and practice them at home and try my best not to scream and annoy my parents.”

Instagram: @_tonyfreyre10 @artist_glaceon16

Photos by Richard Mendiola Students have collaborated and worked together to prepare for the first ever student-run Spring Concert on May 3, bringing in individuality and creativity to the stage.

Features 4

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

College Corner:

Alternatives for the Cal Grant Samantha Freyre

Staff Writer

Due to not meeting the Cal Grant qualifications, many students are tasked with the burden of having to look for other sources of money. Here is a list of alternatives that students can look into to provide them with additional money for college.

California College Promise Grant - The California College Promise Grant is available to those who are attending community colleges. This grant waives the per-unit enrollment fee and the qualifications include being enrolled in a community college and having financial need.

Federal Grants - Federal grants give students money that does not need to be paid back. These grants include Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants or Chafee Grants, but each grant contains a limited amount of money so it is recommended that students apply early.

Scholarships - There are various scholarships that students can apply for on their own. For example, students who are left-handed can apply for left-handed scholarships or students who do well in school can apply for academic scholarships. Scholarships come in every shape and size and it is important to do research to uncover them.

Student Loans - Student loans are loans given by the Federal Direct Student Loans Program, a program that gives money to students to pay for their college. However, student loans are expected to be paid back in a certain period of time. Students are typically more hesitant when taking out student loans because it may cause them to accumulate some debt as they make progress in paying the loans off.

Work Study - Some colleges offer work study programs, which give their students part-time jobs on campus while attending their classes. Some jobs can include being an assistant in a lab or working in a library.

Facebook: Samantha Freyre

Screenshot from Fastweb.com Fastweb.com is just one of the many scholarship websites available as an alternative for students who do not qualify for the Cal Grant.

Photo courtesy of Sangeeta Arst Senior Kaitlyn Arst accepts her award as the co-winner of the Senior Individual Exhibit category at National History Day on March 17.

Arst receives history, science awards Samantha Freyre

Staff Writer

Senior Kaitlyn Arst can still vividly picture the first time she won an award at the Los Angeles County Science and Engineering Fair in the sixth grade. Since then, her awards have continued to pile up.

“It’s crazy to know that the only reason I participated in this event was because it was mandatory when I was in middle school and now I love participating every year,” Arst said.

Arst has been competing in the Los Angeles County Science and Engineering Fair for over six years. This year, Arst won a total of four awards at the fair. Arst was awarded a second place category award in

Earth/Space Science along with a Women Award in Geoscience award. She also received an honorable mention regarding her entry for the Professional Engineers in California Government (PECG) award and first place in Paleontology.

She will go on to represent Daniel Pearl Magnet High School and Los Angeles County at the 68th annual California State Science and Engineering Fair on April 23.

Students from 6th to 12th grade and over 150 schools will be participating in this year’s event. Students will be judged on their investigative skills and creativity.

“Kaitlyn has done very well in these events in previous years and she shows a commitment to advance her own knowl-

edge beyond the classroom, it has been a pleasure getting to know her and her love for science,” science teacher Stephen Schaffter said.

Arst was also recognized as a co-winner in the category Senior Individual Exhibit at the National History Day (NHD) held in Los Angeles on March 17. She will go on to represent the Los Angeles County at the California State NHD in Rocklin, California, on May 5.

“This is a passion (physics) that I plan to pursue in the future because I like to help the environment but I’m not really sure what job I specifically want,” Arst said.

Facebook: Samantha Freyre

The sound of music pays off for Kim De Dios Angie Rumbo Staff Writer

Since she was a young child, sophomore Kimberly De Dios always held a passion for playing the piano. This year, De Dios’s passion paid off at the 31st Annual Tenth District PTSA Music Scholarship on March 10.

“I was really happy and surprised because I didn’t expect to win anything since it was my first time participating in a piano competition,” De Dios said.

To apply for the scholarship, students from 6th to 10th grade were asked to turn in an application and audition with any instrument or singing by Feb. 9. For the past 75 years, hundreds of students have entered and received PTSA scholarships for private music lessons.

For her audition, De Dios played the

piano for a chance to win $300 for any private lesson of her choice. Out of numerous other talented student musicians, De Dios was awarded an Honorable Mention.

“Even though I didn’t win, I still felt proud because I mostly play the guitar and piano isn’t what I always focus on,” De Dios said.

De Dios not only plays the piano, she also plays acoustic guitar, ukulele and does a little singing. De Dios is always striving to become a better musician and singer through continuous hard work and perseverance.

“I was proud of her. I wasn’t surprised she would win,” music teacher Wes Hambright said. “It was a given. I was really happy for her.”

Photo by Rachel Bullock Sophomore Kim De Dios received an Honorable Mention at the 31st Annual Tenth District PTSA Music Scholarship on March 10.

April 19, 2018

The Pearl Post

Club Corner:

Features 5

Interact Club: Interacting with the community

David Eskichyan

Staff Writer

From sending water pasteurization indicators (WAPIs) to developing countries to organizing blood drives and feeding elderly people on Thanksgiving, Interact Club focuses on various volunteer opportunities for youth.

“Club meetings usually consist of me telling members what service work is available to them,” club president and staff member of The Pearl Post Jade Ajileye said. “I just tell them the volunteer opportunities that either I found or Rotary Club is hosting.”

In the past, students in Interact Club have sent WAPIs to Mexico and Kenya to provide those countries with ways to test whether or not their water is safe to drink.

This year, the club plans to hold the event on May 19, the same day as Sparkle Saturday, a day where students help beautify the campus.

Interact Club is an international organization sponsored by the Rotary Club of Meriden and Rotary International where students between the ages of 12 and 18 are offered volunteer opportunities to not only better their schools, but also their communities.

Interact clubs are expected to participate in two service projects per year, one

that helps their school or community and another that shows international understanding.

Daniel Pearl Magnet High School has been hosting Interact Club since 2010, when it was first started by Rotary Advisor Todd Gurvis and his son, Avi Gurvis.

“I hope students have a commitment to service and to helping people whether it’s their local community or halfway across the world and I’m very proud that this Interact Club has always done international projects as well as projects here on campus and in the community,” Todd Gurvis said.

Interact Club meets every other Wednesday during lunch in Room 11 with Daniel Cramer as the school sponsor of the club and Gurvis as the rotarian adviser.

During each meeting, Ajileye shares new volunteer opportunities members can participate in from both the Rotary programs and ones Ajileye finds on her own.

“I joined my freshman year and I would say my favorite part is how they find so many different opportunities for the club to participate in,” junior Mariana Sifuentes said.

Many awards are also offered through the club, such as Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, or RYLA, to students who have

Photo by David Eskichyan Club President Jade Ajileye discusses different volunteer opportunities during an Interact Club meeting held in Room 11 during lunch. shown a significant amount of time and dedication to service projects. After graduating, high school students who choose to stay in Rotary have the option to join Rotaract clubs. These clubs, which also involve community service projects, are for

adults ages 18 to 30.

“I think that the leadership is strong and they’re going to pursue some really good projects this spring,” Cramer said.

Instagram: @dxvideskichyxn

Leaders unite for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards

Elizabeth Cortez

Staff Writer

Trust, teamwork, problem-solving and communication are just a few of the skills necessary to become a community leader.

After writing an essay describing why they want to participate, juniors Karina Mara, Hailee Kessler and Lauryn Uhlenberg were selected to receive scholarships to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA).

“I encouraged any student who might be interested in developing as a leader to apply to the program because everything that I’ve heard of has been really positive,” Board Member of Interact Club Daniel Cramer said. “Students coming back have said

Prom: April 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Sportsmen’s Lodge

that this has been really beneficial and that they’ve all enjoyed themselves and their leadership skills improved.”

RYLA is a three-day seminar organized by Rotary clubs beginning on April 27. At this event, participants will attend workshops led by various influential speakers and participate in team-building activities that will help build stronger leadership and communication skills. Former activities included puzzle-solving, group exercises and a RYLA Olympics where assigned teams compete in sports. Students are also invited to participate RYLA’s talent show.

“I’m soft spoken and afraid of stepping out of my comfort zone so I think that

Sunset Dinner/ Senior Awards: May 31 from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

this would be the perfect opportunity to expand my horizons,” Uhlenberg said.

According to the organization’s website, participants will build communication and problem-solving skills to further strengthen their leadership potential.

RYLA promotes the development of community leaders who will help shape the new tomorrow. The program unites students in hopes of creating long-lasting leadership skills and friendships.

“I’m hoping to learn more leadership skills and be able to take what I learn and implement it into the school and just my daily life,” Kessler said.

Instagram: @cortez_elizabeth_

Senior Breakfast: June 7 at 7:45 a.m. on campus Graduation: June 7 at Mulholland Middle School

Photo by David Eskichyan Junior Hailee Kessler receives a certificate for being selected to participate in RYLA.

Grad Night: June 9 and 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. at Disney California Adventure Park

Timeline by Daniela Dixon and Michelle Kaganovsky

Entertainment 6

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Women pull off the heist this time Karina Mara

Staff Writer

Photo by kaliuchis.com

Artist of the month:

Kali Uchis brings the storm Angie Rumbo Staff Writer

Karly-Marina Loaiza, better known by her stage name Kali Uchis, is a Colombian-American singer/songwriter, poet, music video editor and fashion designer who makes R&B soul music.

Uchis was born in Colombia but would always move back and forth between the U.S and Colombia as a child. Uchis was raised in Alexandria, Virginia and graduated from T.C. Williams High School. She was introduced to music production and video editing during her last years in high school and released her official debut mixtape “Drunken Babble” on Aug. 1, 2012.

Her music is described as a “genre-defying” piece of work by many. Her style of music is not based on just one type of sound. Her music encompasses everything from reggae, doo-wop, jazz and R&B. Uchis uses many styles of music and makes them all work and pulls it off, which is something many artists can’t do. Uchis’ incorporation of the Spanish language into her music pays homage to her Columbian upbringing and showcases what she considers a beautiful language.

In 2014, she began collaborating with Snoop Dogg on the song “On Edge.” A year later, Uchis released her first studio project, which was her first EP, titled “Por Vida” or “For Life.” She went on tour in Oct. 2015.

On May 22 last year, she released a single titled “Tyrant” and then on Aug. 25 she released another one titled “Nuestra Planeta.” Both these singles are both included in her debut studio album, “Isolation,” which she announced after performing on “The Tonight Show” on March 14. The album was released worldwide on April 6.

An indestructible crew of notable female actresses takes on a dangerous heist in director Gary Ross’s upcoming film “Ocean’s 8” premiering June 8.

The film is a spin-off of director Steven Soderbergh’s trilogy movie series “Ocean’s Eleven” that portrayed an all-male group.

Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bullock) is the sister of Danny Ocean, the protagonist in “Ocean’s Eleven” and she assembles a group to partake in her ludicrous plan to steal the 150 million dollar necklace of celebrity Daphne Kluger (Anne Hathaway.)

The team consists of Ocean’s partner-incrime Lou (Cate Blanchett), Rose (Helena Bonham Carter,) jewelry designer Amita (Mindy Kaling), a mother with a family Tammy (Sarah Paulson,) Constance (Awkwafina) talented in pickpocketing, and hacker Eight Ball (Rihanna.)

With only the publicized trailer to rely on, the whole story plot remains unclear but the heist is set in the annual Met Gala in New York, featuring several cameos of famous celebrities from famous singer Zayn Malik to professional women’s tennis player Serena Williams and many more.

Other guest stars include James Corden who plays a friend of Ocean, Damian Lewis who plays Ocean’s former lover and Richard Armitage who plays the art man-

Photo by oceans8movie.com The female crew of the film “Ocean’s 8” consisting of actresses Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Mindy Kaling, Awkwafina, Helena Bonham Carter, Anne Hathaway and Sarah Paulson sit on the New York subway. The movie is set to premiere on June 8. ager Claude Becker. Two cast members from the original trilogy, Matt Damon and Carl Reiner, will also appear in the upcoming movie.

As an action-packed, PG-13 rated movie with comedy in the mix, it doesn’t drift away from the style of the original

trilogy series. The all-female main cast presents moviegoers a new experience with female-power and action instead of the usual man-to-man battles.

Instagram: @karinaiv.m

Poet of the month:

Yesika Salgado creates ‘chingona fire’ Julissa Rangel Staff Writer

Through poems that recollect childhood abuse, heartbreak and hating her fat body, body-positive poet and activist Yesika Salgado is destigmatizing the presence of Latinx women in American literature.

First-generation Salvadoran, Salgado recalls growing up in a household witnessing the abuse from her alcoholic father alongside her two sisters, often mentioning it in her work. The poet says she thought abuse was simply a part of growing up, as she was raised in Los Angeles where she was surrounded by gang culture and strict Latinx household.

The 33-year old grew up in an environment that shamed her for not being conventionally skinny and for most of her life dealt with self hatred and body shaming from her own family. Through a period of self exploration following the fleet of a 10-year long abusive relationship, she embraced her body, stopped allowing the word “fat” to bother her, instead using it to describe herself as a “fat, fly, brown poet.”

Throughout her upbringing, she also recalls being shamed for being the only fat member of her family, writing, “my uncles

Photo by yesikasalgado.com Salvadoran body-positive poet and activist Yesika Salgado is on tour for her book “Corazón” or “heart.” used to say they needed longer arms to hug me, they would laugh, I would too,” in the poem “Fat Girl Wants Love.”

Salgado’s 2017 poetry book “Corazón” or “Heart,” describes her journey to self love, her battles with abusive relationships and newfound embrace of her sexuality. She’s been recognized by feminist publications, featured in Mitú’s web series

“Fierce” where she recites a classic piece from the book and explains its significance and co-founded Chingona Fire, a Latina poetry collective.

At a reading at Cal State University Channel Islands, she teased the release of another poetry book as well as a version of it in Spanish.

Instagram: @juliss.za

Go to www.thepearlpost.com for online only stories and check out our new Spotify playlist.

PearlCon 2018

April 19, 2018

The Pearl Post

PearlCon 7

Photo by Rachel Bullock PearlCon, being held May 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., is an annual school ogrnized event created to raise money and, most importantly, bring Daniel Pearl Magnet High School students and attendees exposure to the wonderful world of comics. PearlCon is going on its third year of operation

PearlCon brings comics to DPMHS Angel Van Horn and Karina Mara Staff Writer

For lovers of comics and everything cosplay, teachers James Morrison and Stephen Schaffter created PearlCon, an interactive graphic novel themed festival.

PearlCon makes its comeback for the third consecutive year on May 12 with new additions and improvements. Morrison and Schaffter used this past year to tie together the event with a costume museum and a car show alongside many booths and shows.

Some unsuccessful original features won’t return but old favorites will be included. Cosplay will be emphasized this year as the theme and students and guests are invited to dress up as their favorite characters.

“Comic con is designed to show off how cool our school is and allow our kids to have a really fun time,” Schaffter said.

Most schools have a significant activity they host once a year for their students. PearlCon was born when Morrison and Schaffter decided Daniel Pearl Magnet

High School needed an annual event that represented its students and accentuate the school’s identity and spirit. A cosplay convention was the closest thing to represent the comic book fans.

“We did it because our school was small and we couldn’t compete with major schools,” Morrison said. “But one thing we have here is a lot of fun, loving nerds.”

Learning from past complications, Morrison and Schaffter committed to using the whole school year working behind the scenes to set up this upcoming convention, even organizing the first car show in PearlCon history.

“We put the first comic con together in three months,” Morrison said. “That’s a big no-no. You’re not supposed to do that.

It was very successful so last time we used about five months and this time we’ve used the whole school year.”

This year’s event is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Everyone, whether they want to admit it or not, is a bit nerdy,” Morrison said.

Instagram: @angul.muriee, @karina.m

Photo by Richard Mendiola Science teachers Stephen Schaffter and James Morrison came together in 2015 to create PearlCon as a way to combine fundraising with the world of comics.

PearlCon is now an annual event that brings the whole school together. This year’s PearlCon will be on May 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and admission is $5.

Photos by Rachel Bullock Previous PearlCon events consisted of activities such as the 501st Legion and a book fair to give attendees more to do during the event.

PearlCon 8

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Artists to look for during PearlCon Rosa Lemus Staff Writer

PearlCon’s main focus is to allow guests to relive the fictional adventures they enjoyed as children whenever they read comic books. The nostalgia is brought back through the art that is still prevalent in the world of comics today and these are the artists are an example of that exception.

They combine creativity and advanced artistic ability to create wonderful works of art that captivates the world around them.

They will all be stationed in the MPR during the third annual PearlCon on May 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There they will be able to discuss with you their art, how they came about their career and any other questions that you might have for them.

Instagram: @rosalemus_

Photo from mikekunkeldesigns.com

Photo from dccomics.com

Mike Kunkel was born on Sept. 30 1969. His most popular works are “Billy Batson” and “The Magic of Shazam!”

Along with being nominated for four Ignatz Awards his comic series “Herobear and the Kid” has won two EISNER Awards.

Bernard Chang started his career in 1922 with the help of Bob Layton. After working with Valiant Entertainment, Chang would move to DC Comics and work on many well-known comics including “Wonder Woman,” “Superman,” “Supergirl,” “X-Men” and “Deadpool.”

Photo by Richard Mendiola Charity Price has also contributed to PearlCon by donating pins, button and stickers.

Price donates buttons and bags to be available at PearlCon Alice Curran Copy Editor

and comics are a part of this country’s culture. They are so iconic that people around the world know the brands, know these characters but our kids don’t.”

Due to an increase in donations from community members, students have plenty of new souvenirs and prizes to look forward to at the third annual PearlCon on May 12.

“I think the donors chose to help as a way of connecting to the community and making sure to support local students and schools,” substitute teacher Charity Price said.

After two successful years, PearlCon once again plans to bring everyone together for a memorable day of fun and entertainment. This year, due to the organization and help of Price, there will be even more fun items to take home, including pins, tote bags and car decals.

Among the donations are festive pins from well-known pop culture such as Marvel, DC Comics and Harry Potter, donated

by Jude Albright from AtaBoy Collectibles.

The tote bags, funded by donations, were designed by organizers Price, physical science teacher Stephen Shaffter and biology teacher James Morrison. All attendees have the chance to win prizes such as tickets to Medieval Times and the Aquarium of the Pacific and animated flip books.

Price also organized a presentation on special effects make-up by speakers Kelly O’Leary and Melissa Howland. In addition to the generous donations Price organized, she also plans on helping handle food distribution and helping PearlCon III run smoothly.

“When I’m there, I’m going to be in charge of food distribution and preparation,” Price said. “I’m also going to be in charge of helping to get the hospitality going and making sure our guests are comfortable.”

Twitter: @evaakaganovsky

Twitter: @aliicecurran

Screenshot from Twitter. @artofelaineho

Photo from sherocomics.com

Photo from Robert Roach

Elaine Ho originally practiced psychology. When she realized it wasn’t meant for her she tried art and entered the Art Center College of Design. Ho later became more involved as an artist for theme parks and virtual reality.

Shequeta Smith, CEO of Shero Comics, gives women the upper hand.

Smith lets the viewers know that in this universe women hold a higher position that they would usually hold in the mainstream comics. She wants to show that women can fight along with men.

Robert Roach has been involved in the ‘Comic’ business for over 15 years. Roach taught storyboarding at Columbia College of Hollywood and Otis College of Art and Design. He has also worked on series of comics called “The Roach” and “Menth.”

DJs Universal Comics PearlCon mission Eva Kaganovsky Copy Editor

DJ Universal Comics owner Catalin Jercan has provided students with the opportunity to be inspired by the adventures and excitement within comic books since the very first PearlCon. “I decided to participate in the PearlCon because of the environment that this school provided for my daughter and her education,” Jercan said. “I felt that I needed to give something back and this was the perfect opportunity.”

At PearlCon, Jercan is in charge of the comic book floor, which is located in the MPR. Along with science teachers Jim Morrison and Stephen Schaffter, Jercan helps to decide what vendors and talent will be included at the event.

He contacts those he personally knows or meets at conventions such as Stan Lee’s LA ComicCon and encour-

ages them to participate in PearlCon. In addition to his coordination duties, Jercan will have a booth where he will be selling comics and toys concerning current and trending storylines during the upcoming PearlCon. Comic book vendors like DJ Universal Comics are not only a significant aspect to the annual PearlCon, but to all comic conventions.

“Every comic convention has a Dealer’s Room,” Morrison said. “It gives people something to do and it is a place where you can connect with others and find specific games or comics.”

Although vendors have the opportunity to keep all profit made at Pearl Con, Jercan has participated and contributed for the past three years for a more significant reason.

“I don’t participate to benefit me, I do this because this will benefit the industry as a whole and the kids,” Jercan said. “They lose touch with culture

Photo from djsuniversalcomics.com DJ’s Universal Comics is a local comic book shop that helps find talent for PearlCon.

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

PearlCon 9

(Clockwise) Photos from mspoweruser.com, wccftech.com, cnet.com and wccftech.com From role-playing to action and racing, these student-chosen video games are sure to keep you busy with hours upon hours of storyline, characters, exploring and competition.

Looking deep into the video game spotlight glory Xenoblade Cult-crushing in Legend of Zelda: shooter Far Cry 5 Breath of the Wild Chronicles 2

Mario Kart still a classic fan favorite

Jonathan Spahr

Petra Vass

Parampreet Aulakh

Ian Ruelas

Contributing Writer

Contributing Writer

Contributing Writer

Contributing Writer

“Far Cry 5” is by far one of the best in the series since Far Cry 3.

“Far Cry 5” is a free roam first person shooter that takes place in rural America.

When I purchased this game, I believed it would be based on politics, but to my surprise, developer Ubisoft decided to make the game based on religion.

“Far Cry 5” is about a mainly militant Christian Cult taking over the fictional Hope County, Montana and turning it into a horrible place where citizens must abide by the rules or suffer.

The main leader of this insane cult is named Joseph Seed, who was quite a twist for me. Instead of the common and predictable leaders, Ubisoft decided to make the character show up only in the beginning and end.

This led to an unfulfilling ending because you never really see this boss interfere with your gameplay. Sadly, throughout the game you fight the Seed family of Jacob, John and the youngest, Faith.

The “Far Cry” series is known for its great free roam and storyline. The game never tends to get stale and that is what leads to a fantastic game.

In a gaming genre that has become overly saturated with repetitive game mechanics, open world games like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” are a fresh change of pace.

The biggest effect we see from “Breath of the Wild” is the sense of being able to do whatever you want from the moment you start the game.

The freedom also seeps its way into the main story, as you can do the missions in any order.

The large majority of the fun lies in just exploring the world and finding unique side quests along the way.

Classic Zelda dungeons have been replaced with divine beasts and shrines, bite-sized dungeons found in every corner of the map.

Though not boasting the best graphics in gaming, the crisp and vibrant colors found in this open world give it that unique edge lacking from many other games.

Its exclusivity to the Wii U and Nintendo Switch means only a select group of people will have access to it, but buying a Switch would be worth it just to play this game.

“Xenoblade Chronicles 2” is Monolith Soft’s newest game, regarded to be almost as great as “Xenoblade Chronicles” with spectacular scenery and music.

As the two games before, it’s still an RPG (Role Playing Game).

Although starting slow, you still have to think of what you have to do, as the battles are in real time so you’re not taking turns with your opponent.

Outside of battle, you explore the titans with the return of field skills from “Xenoblade Chronicles X” and various quests to keep you busy.

Characters in this game become memorable through sharing happy, emotional and funny scenes together.

Despite these great features, the game has its flaws. The voice acting, especially Rex, isn’t the best.

The minimap is horrendous. For example, there are multiple sections of one area without the skip travel telling you which area of the map the objective is in.

Despite its flaws, it’s still an enjoyable game with many things left to do after the main story. “Xenoblade Chronicles 2” isn’t for everyone, but will hook you if you let it.

The game “Mario Kart” is an exciting and competitive game that has been around for years and is still a kid favorite.

The first released in 1992 on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and later on the Nintendo 64 and GameCube.

In 2005, the game came out on the Nintendo DS. The most recent “Mario Kart” game is “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” on the Nintendo Switch in 2017.

I enjoy that every couple of years, new tracks and shiny graphics are added to the next game.

It is still the racing game that everybody is familiar with, just new and improved, which is why everyone loves this game and always has ever since the game first came out.

The point of the game is to win an 8-12 person race, so you have to compete with many players to get first place with a whole bunch of challenging obstacles in the way. The more races you win, the more characters and cars you unlock.

This game has a whole bunch of obstacles and challenges that will be so much fun to play with friends or family. “Mario Kart” is truly a game that will last forever.

PearlCon 10

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Destiny arrives April 27 in “Avengers: Infinity War” Steven Guzman New Media Editor

Photo from marvel.com “Avengers: Infinity War” has become a highly anticipated Marvel film because of its massive incorporation of every current Marvel movie storyline into this feature film.

With the Marvel Cinematic Universe reaching its 10-year anniversary, the Avengers will face off against the mad titan Thanos (Josh Brolin) in “Avengers: Infinity War.” The Marvel Cinematic Universe first started with “Iron Man,” which was released ten years ago followed by other films such as “Captain America: The First Avenger” and “Thor.” Destiny arrives on April 27.

The antagonist for “Avengers: Infinity War” is Thanos, as he quests to collect all six infinity stones to complete the Infinity Gauntlet, which allows the user to change the universe.

Thanos has been teased since the first Avengers film, appearing in a post-credits scene, a cameo in “Guardians of the Galaxy” and another post-credits scene in “Avengers: Age of Ultron.”

The Black Order, a group of powerful beings who are also known as the Children of Thanos, are set to be appearing as they aid him on his mission to retrieve all six stones.

The infinity stones all contain unbelievable power. Each one can control one aspect of the universe. There is the reality stone (red), soul stone (orange), mind stone (yellow), time stone (green), space stone (blue) and power stone (purple).

They’re so powerful that simply touching them can kill. Due to their immense strength, they were all contained in separate items.

The reality stone first appeared in ‘Thor: The Dark World’ and is currently with the Collector in the liquid form of Aether.

The mind stone was contained inside Loki (Tom Hiddleston)’s scepter which was given to him by Thanos. The scepter made its debut in the first Avengers film but it wasn’t known what was inside it until “Avengers: Age of Ultron” when Ultron planned to use it to create the human android Vision (Paul Bettany), who currently possesses it after being created by Thor (Chris Hemsworth).

The time stone appeared in “Doctor Strange” inside Dr. Stephen Strange (benedict Cumberbatch)’s necklace, the Eye of Agamotto, which still contains it.

The space stone appeared first in “Captain America: The First Avenger” inside the Tesseract and was placed under protection in Asgard until Loki stole it in “Thor: Ragnarok.”

The power stone appeared in “Guardians of the Galaxy” inside the Orb and is guarded by the Nova Corps at Nova HQ. The soul stone’s whereabouts remain unknown.

Stars such as Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, Tom Holland as Spider-Man, Chadwick Boseman as Black Panther and Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch are only a few of the important characters in the film.

New suits will be making an appearance such as Spider-Man’s, the Iron Spider, along with the new “Bleeding Edge” armor for Iron Man. “Avengers: Infinity War” is directed

by Anthony Russo and Joseph Russo, better known as the Russo Brothers who also directed “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” and “Captain America: Civil War.” Instagram: @strykemedown

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Special Reports 11

Low AP scores raise concern among students Jadesola Ajileye

A

Staff Writer

s Daniel Pearl Magnet High School’s (DPMHS) Advanced Placement (AP) exam passage rate remains under 60 percent for the fifth year in a row, students begin to wonder why.

“It’s kind of disappointing because we’re a magnet school,” senior Kevin Garcia said. “So normally you’re supposed to see people with excellent scores or above average scores.”

DPMHS’s scores are below both the national and California average of a 60 percent passage rate. Compared with the state’s pass rate, which stays between 62 and 64 percent and a national pass rate, which stays between 60 and 61 percent.

DPMHS experiences significant shifts: from 2016 to 2017, the pass rate dropped by 4.4 percent.

Some students attribute the school’s Photo by Richard Mendiola scores to feeling overloaded with informaStudents in history teacher Davy Mauermann’s first period Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics class vote for tion. a winner in the Supreme Court case debate.

The winner advances in the Supreme Court Case March Madness bracket.

“I don’t think it has to do with our teachers,” senior Ruzanna Manvelyan said. 2.5 most of the rest of the time,” math with mean scores of 2.53 and 2.71, respec- cause I’ve been doing some log training.

“We are given every resource to study, it’s teacher Leslie Hicks said. “I had an excep- tively.

Every year I do two trainings. I get a lot of just a lot of content to know.”

Social science exams had a higher ideas from other teachers and that’s helptional class that year. There was a large A passing score on the AP exams is a number of them I had for three classes in pass rate in 2017 than between 2014 and ful. I’ve changed a lot of the different ways 3. Howver, some universities require high- a row; that was back when we had 7 pe- 2016. Even United States Government and I review. So when I did a lot of those things er scores to grant credit for the class corr- riods. That year was a high year and last Politics, which tends to yield the lowest last year, there was a significant increase sponding witht the exam. in the student’s scores.”

In 2014, the total of AP AP exams begin May 7 this students within those parameyear and end May 18. ters was 55.3 percent with 114 “It’s kind of disappointing because we’re a magnet school,” For the 2014-2015 school students taking exams and 63 senior Kevin Garcia said. “So normally you’re supposed to year, DPMHS’s college readiness of those students passing. This see people with excellent scores or above average scores.” index was lower than 50%. The is followed by 2016 which saw index measures how prepared 115 exam taking students, 62 of students are for college level whom passed adding up to a 54 standards based on factors such percent pass rate. as participation on AP exams The average score for Calculus AB ex- year, they changed the format of the test mean score out of other history exams, and combined individual scores. ams when 19 students took it in 2013 was and I think it caught us off guard.” performed better last year than in the last “I don’t think that I feel prepared for 3.05. Last year, 22 students took the exam the exams yet, but I don’t think anyone As for English exams, the average three years. and the mean score was 1.64. There is a pass rate fluctuates throughout the years.

“I think my students work pretty ever feels prepared since we don’t really clear discrepancy.

However, both English Language and Com- hard,” said history teacher Davy Mauer- know what’s on it,” Manvelyan said.

“I think the year 2013-14 was a high, position and English Literature and Com- mann, who teaches AP U.S. History and and that they’ve (scores) kind of been at position’s highest pass rate was in 2014 AP Government. “It’s been increasing beInstagram: @jade.ajileye

See how DPMHS AP exam scores compare to nearby schools This is how Daniel Pearl Magnet High School did on the AP exams for the 2014-2015 school year in comparison to Birmingham Community Charter High School and Magnolia Science Academy 2.

Statistics compiled by staff writer Karina Mara. These were the most recent scores provided by www.usnews.com

Opinion 12

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Celebrities deserve privacy no matter their status Angel Van Horn

Staff Writer

As famous as they are, celebrities are the number one collection of people who deserve privacy just like anybody else.

Their privacy has been invaded for as long as T.V and movie stars were considered important. The paparazzi is the reason why celebrities lack the privacy they deserve, like every other person. Celebrities like Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian have been some of the main targets for the sake of their rising fame.

In 2017, Swift’s private relationship with boyfriend Joe Alwyn was revealed by paparazzi. A stalker-like photo taken by the media of Swift and her boyfriend was revealed to the public when the couple was spotted in a hotel room in Swift’s hometown, Nashville. Swift was clearly keeping her relationship a secret to avoid the gossip that would arise on social media. Of course, her secret romance was revealed by the press to stir up trouble.

Freedom of press is applicable to the paparazzi in cases like this, however they should be considerate enough to respect the boundaries celebrities set. Yet if a celebrity says no to pictures or questions, the paparazzi will purposely put themselves in harms way to cover their every move.

Celebrities also get violent sometimes because of this, which should warn paparazzi to keep their distance.

Being famous doesn’t mean you choose to have your privacy revoked; it

Cartoon by Christine Valenzuela Celebrities have no privacy due to the bombarding of paparazzi on their everyday lives. Taylor Swift’s secret relationship, for example, with Joe Alwyn was revealed after being spotted by the paparazzi on their secret date. doesn’t mean you are obligated to have your life publicized and it doesn’t mean your life is also the lives of thousands of fans. After being pushed past his limit in 2014, Bieber threw punches at the paparazzi in Paris after they had been after him for pictures with model Kendall Jenner during their dinner date. Bieber has had rough encounters with the paparazzi several times before, including a 2013

brawl where Bieber tackled a paparazzi.

It is obvious how annoying the paparazzi can get just by looking at celebrities faces while being asked random questions when they’re on their way to do normal tasks, like grabbing a sandwich. Paparazzi will pry and bug until the celebrity reaches the point where they feel the only way to stop the questions is by using force.

Privacy is a right that all people de-

serve no matter their social status. It‘s a worldwide necessity that any human would expect. The paparazzi does not understand that not all celebrities are open books and would rather not have their lives exploited. Whether or not they decide to share their business is their decision, not the paparazzi’s.

Twitter: @angulmurie

Negative community college stigmas avert high school graduates from affordable, possibly free college options Jade Ajileye Staff Writer

As states begin to offer cheaper or essentially free community college, it would seem that students would jump at the opportunity. But that is not the case.

“Community colleges have a lot of misnomers put on them because you can’t receive a bachelor’s degree,” counselor Martina Torres said. “But the credits you receive can cover half of a bachelor’s.”

Stigmas against community college are preventing students from fully exploring an option that may lead to a more financially stable and academically successful future. Phrases such as “grade thirteen” or “dropout factories” deter students and their families from seeing community college as a viable option. Although they may not have the prestige of a four-year university, they can offer just as many opportunities and students can get just as much out of them as a regular university.

Misconceptions typically center on ideas that community colleges offer a lower quality of education, or that people who attend community college weren’t capable of getting into a four-year university.

This is untrue as community colleges tend

to offer unique educational opportunities for niche groups of students compared to larger universities.

Also, many students take advantage of community college for financial reasons and as a way to explore careers and familiarize themselves with college life before attending a four year.

“Being more educated on different programs offered at community colleges will lessen the stigmas against them,” Torres said. “They offer programs not degree associated and students can benefit from those.”

As for the cost of college, community colleges may be the route families should consider taking. Public universities and private universities are ever-increasing the price of tuition for students which can be overwhelming for low-income and even middle-income students. Community college is the most affordable option for students who don’t want to end up with too much student debt.

With New York, Oregon, California, Tennessee and Philadelphia paving the way of free community college, students should take full advantage. Roads to higher education are becoming less exclusive

Photo by Wikimedia Commons Students avoid attending community college after high school due to common misconceptions, despite these colleges being more affordable. and there isn’t just one single path to gar“Students should consider it if it’s the nering a degree. However, letting judge- appropriate route for them,” Torres said. ments based off of a lack of understand- “According to availability, financial savings ing stop students from pursuing possible and if it’s a part of their goal, also for conlife-changing degrees, is ignorant. venience.”

Instagram: @jade.ajileye

April 19, 2018

The Pearl Post

Editorial:

Recent student walkouts stir up needed change for gun reform

M

ultiple heart-wrenching school massacres have taken place, but after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting on Feb. 14 students will no longer tolerate their safety being jeopardized by lawmakers.

In response to the Parkland Shooting, students organized nonviolent walkouts all over the country, from New York to California.

On March 14, students at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School participated in a nondisruptive walkout to the Los Angeles Unified School District district offices to voice their discontent on recent events. During the 17 minute walkout, students held signs that read “Are we next?” and “#NeverAgain” in an attempt to challenge current gun legislation endangering the safety of their schoolground.

Although each of the 17 school shootings this year have had individuals around the country offering their condolences

and honoring the victims, little has been done in regards to changing the policies that can prevent these disasters.

The “March For Our Lives” took place in Washington D.C. on March 24, seeking more restrictive gun legislations. 800 sibling marches took place the same day but since this date little has changed.

method of voicing teenage opinions. Although teens are able to use platforms such as social media to get their voices heard, a disgruntled post on Instagram complaining about the issues plaguing our society will not be seen by people who have the power to make a change.

Ranting on social media will almost never be as influential as a unified group of students looking for a change.

Students may not have the opportunity to be in front of a podium in a conference focused on the regulations of guns, but that does not mean they cannot be heard.

Through these nationwide marches, the powerful voices of the youth have initiated the change we desire to evade a bleak future. On April 20, everyone can take part in the nationwide school walkout in support of newer restrictions on gun ownership.

“Through these nationwide marches, the powerful voices of the youth have initiated the change we desire to evade a bleak future.”

The positions on the issue change, but the problem still prevails. However, the recent Parkland Shooting has surpassed the social media stage and teens are taking their vexation and redirecting it into a significant movement.

As an editorial staff, we believe that student marches are the most effective

Pearl Voice:

Is it better to go to community college first, rather than a four-year university?

“I think you should go to a four year university because I feel like you will get more opportunities there and you will grow,” sophomore Josh Pernillo said.

“I think it depends on every person,” junior Garrett Francisco said. “For some people it might be smarter to go to a junior college, especially if you don’t know what you want to do. If you do know what you want to do and you are certain, I think a four year college might be better because it’s more specialized.”

“I feel like community college is good for people that still want options,” senior Alana Cush said. “I think if you have a plan on what you want to do, everything sorted out and no more changing your mind, you should go to a four-year college.”

Photos and interviews by Jade Campbell

Opinion 13

The Pearl Post Print Editor-in-Chief Cristina Jercan Online Editor-in-Chief Jessica Salguero Managing Editor Nallely De Lara Features Editor Michelle Kaganovsky Opinion/Engagement Editor Kirsten Cintigo Entertainment Editor Amanda Jimenez Sports Editor Anthony Weatherspoon Tech Editor Sergio Payeras New Media Editor-in-Chief Maia Hito New Media Editors Anthony Freyre, Steven Guzman, Ani Kocharyan Photo Editors Rachel Bullock, Richard Mendiola Copy Editors Michael Chidbachian, Alice Curran, Zachary Gephart-Canada, Eva Kaganovsky, Angel Rivera Staff Writers/ Photographers Jadesola Ajileye, Jade Campbell, Mirabelle Chernick, Elizabeth Cortez, Daniela Dixon, David Eskichyan, Samantha Freyre, Melissa Hernandez, Rudraj Koppikar, Rosa Lemus, Karina Mara, Julissa Rangel, Maria Ruiz, Angie Rumbo, Christine Valenzuela, Angel Van Horn Adviser Adriana Chavira The Pearl Post is an open forum for student expression as allowed by California Education Codes 48907 and 48950, committed to excellence in reporting, writing and photography.

The newspaper strives to inform and educate students and faculty on events affecting Daniel Pearl Magnet High School.

The thought and opinions published in these pages are the work of journalism students and do not represent the position of DPMHS, its administrators or the Los Angeles Unified School District.

An unsigned editorial is the opinion of the Editorial Boards, which is comprised of the Editor-in-Chief and the editors. Signed opinions in the Pearl Post reflect the views of the authors. A signed cartoon reflects the view of the cartoonist.

The Pearl Post welcomes letters to the editor. They should be 250 words or less and may be edited for length. Letters with profanity and obscenity will not be printed.

Unsigned or anonymous letters will not be published. Letters may be submitted to Ms. Chavira’s mailbox in the main office, in Room 22 or emailed to thepearlpost@gmail.com.

The newspaper is published monthly and is the official campus newspaper of Daniel Pearl Magnet High School. The newspaper is also posted online at http://www. thepearlpost.com.

Free copies are distributed to magnet students, teachers and staff. The school is located at 6649 Balboa Blvd., Lake Balboa, CA 91604-5529.

Sports 14

The Pearl Post

April 19, 2018

Athlete of the Month:

Joshua Fleisher hits it home Rosa Lemus Staff Writer

Q: When did you start playing baseball?

A: I started to play organized baseball when I was six years old.

Q: What inspired you to start playing baseball?

A: I wanted to play baseball when I saw my brother playing.

Q: What position do you play?

A: I play second and third base.

Q: What is your biggest accomplishment?

A: My biggest accomplishments were being all league in the West Valley League last year and being the MVP of my team.

I also won a ring when my team won the city championship at Dodger Stadium.

Q: What do you feel you need to improve on?

A: I need to become a better hitter and I need to be smarter in certain counts at the plate.

Q: How do you manage your time?

A: I manage my time by making a schedule in my head of everything that I need to get done. I follow an everyday routine but I leave flexibility just in case something happens unexpectedly.”

Q: Do you plan on playing baseball in college?

A: I have a goal of playing college baseball. I want to make it to the highest level of baseball that is possible.”

Instagram: @rosalemus_

Photo by Christine Valenzuela Junior Varsity player Joshua Fleisher prepares to throw the baseball to a teammate during a prematch practice.

Photo by Mirabelle Chernick Sophomore Keona Paniagua approaches the finish line during a track meet at Birmingham Community Charter High School.

Track & field sprints for improvement Maria Ruiz

Staff Writer

The Patriots dash across the finish line, marking the beginning of the track and field season.

“This season the coaches are focusing on getting us to place higher as a school and gain more points,” freshman Cassia Ramelb said.

The Birmingham Community Charter High School varsity track and field team is off to an impressive start. Throughout preseason the team was able to maintain the rank of #1 in the valley.

“With great coaches we’re really getting a kick off into the season,” said Ramelb.

During the team’s meet on April 5 against Chatsworth Charter High School, sophomore Keona Paniagua was able to place in all her events. She won first place in the high jump, second in the 150 meter hurdle and third place in the 300 meter hurdle. Ramelb was able to secure wins in her events placing first in in the 300 meter hurdle, second in the 100 meter dash, and first in the 4x1 relay race.

The team’s main goal is to win the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) city championship. Members of the team train tirelessly everyday to sharpen their skills and work on perfecting their forms.

Their exercises range from 50 meter dashes to 400 meter sprints. They also work

on squats, jumping jacks and armbands to strengthen their strides.

“This year our team is on another level and I’m really looking forward to seeing what some of our freshmen, Cassia for example, will be able accomplish,” Paniagua said.

Ramelb dedicates extra hours after practice to become a better runner.

“I stay after practice for about an hour working on technique,” said Ramelb.

“I am striving to perfect my hurdle time and to clean up the action as I tackle the hurdle.”

Instagram: @tmvj.maria

Boys baseball swings into promising season Melissa Hernandez

Staff Writer

Bases loaded, the crowd and players alike are sitting on the edge of their seats.

One last home run keeps the Birmingham Patriot’s winning streak alive.

“We are a great team with an even better mindset,” second and third base player Joshua Fleisher said.

The team has won a total of 18 games, losing only eight. Each player is determined to maintain the teams passion for winning and to improve on their individual weaknesses. With only 10 games remaining in the season, the team still has the opportunity to reach the standard they set last year with their win against Chatsworth High School in the city championships.

Practice is a key aspect to a teams success. The reason behind the lack of participation is unknown but it is evident that it has been a large factor in the Patriot’s declining performance.

“We still have to work on a few things, probably just hitting-wise, none of us are really coming up to the plates strong,” third base, first base and right field player Leonel Serrano said. “It’s usually just a few

Photo by Christine Valenzuela Sophomore Joshua Fleisher fist bumps teammates before their upcoming game. players that are hitting.” strengths and just be prepared for whatevPlaying for the Birmingham Patriots, er they might try to do against us,” Coach Fleisher and Serrano’s junior varsity team Matt Mowry said. training consists of batting, fielding ground balls, covering bases and practicing basic Instagram: @ artist_glaceon16 routines. The team is also going to be reviewing their picks, rundowns, first and Editors Jessica Salguero and Anthony third defenses.

Weatherspoon contributed to this report.

“We gotta play our game and our

April 19, 2018

Sports 15

The Pearl Post

Athlete of the Month:

Nixia Bravo leaps from cross country to track and field Jade Ajileye Staff Writer

Q: How did you get an interest in running?

A: I got my interest in running ever since I was younger. My dad would take my sister and I to run and hike on the weekends.

Q: How did Cross country prepare you for track?

A: Cross country prepared me for track because it conditioned my legs and helped me get the endurance I need.

Photo by Karina Mara Defender Maria Ruiz out runs the two players from Crescenta Valley High School during a match on April 6. The Patriots won 11-10.

Lady Patriots take aim for playoffs Julissa Rangel Staff Writer

Long days of classes followed by hours of strenuous practice describe a typical day for girls on junior varsity lacrosse.

“This is a sport that requires a lot of practice,” coach Scott Silva said. “Not only at school during practice time but also at home on the weekends whenever they get free time.”

As the JV lacrosse season doesn’t begin until Spring, sophomores players Karen Ticas (attacker), Maria Ruiz (mid-field) and

Angie Rumbo (defender) could only watch varsity games and participate in daily conditioning for the entire fall semester.

The players agree that practice is laborious and draining, as they often run an average of two to three miles per day, not including core work or other activities.

“What the team is doing as of now is trying to be more communicative to help out (our) players who might be in any trouble,” Ticas said.

Out with an injured anterior cruciate ligament, varsity lacrosse player Lucy Ishkhanian is helping coach the JV team.

Silva agrees that by allowing her to assist the team, she becomes “better overall and gives her a chance to still be involved.”

Birmingham Community Charter High School’s Girls JV lacrosse team lost four to five in their first game on March 14 at Simi Valley High School. The team’s next game will be on April 20 against El Camino Real Charter High School.

Instagram: @juliss.za

Birmingham Patriots current sports scoreboard Girls Varsity Lacrosse: 9 wins - 6 loses Next game: April 20 Location: El Camino Real Charter High School

Boys Volleyball: 1 win - 8 loses Next game: April 20 Location: El Camino Real Charter High School

Varsity Softball: 6 wins - 10 loses Next game: April 20 Location: El Camino Real Charter High School

Photo by Karina Mara Sophomore Angie Rumbo prepares for defense against teammate after grabbing the ball during practice before a match.

Photo by Jadesola Ajileye Setting the ball for a practice serve, junior David Mallari works on his technique during varsity volleyball practice.

Photo by Jadesola Ajileye Junior Genevieve Avalos throws back the ball after a successful catch during an afterschool practice.

JV Baseball: 3 wins, 3 loses Next game: April 25 Location: Taft High School

Varsity Baseball: 15 wins, 8 loses Next game: April 20 Location: Birming Community Charter High School (home)

Girls Lacrosse: 9 wins, 6 loses Next game: April 20 Location: Birmingham Community Charter High School (home)

Go to Jostens.com to pre-order your copy of Prestige Yearbook for $75. Don’t be left without one when they arrive next month!

Q: What is your motivation to run?

A: My motivation is just to try my best and improve from the time before.

Q: What do you prefer, sprints or distance running?

A: Well, I can appreciate both but right now I prefer sprinting.

Q: What is your favorite event?

A: My favorite event right now is pole vault.

Q: Do you see yourself running in the future.

A: Yeah, I do. Definitely, it’s fun to me.

Q: What is the most challenging part of track?

A: When you actually go to the meets and you’re about to start. You get nervous, so that’s hard.

Instagram: @jade.ajileye

Photo by Jadesola Ajileye Senior Nixia Bravo prepares to leap over the high jump.

The Pearl Post

Tech 16

April 19, 2018

New challengers approaching to planned “Super Smash Bros.” release on the Nintendo Switch Steven Guzman New Media Editor

Photo from gamespot.com Inspired by “Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds,” “Fortnite” features a battle royale game mode where players must collect loot scattered around the map, fight and build their way to 1st place by eliminating all other players. The game is now available on iOS.

App of the month:

“Fortnite” craze drops on iOS with Android release in the near future Rudraj Koppikar Staff Writer

The popular battle royale mode from Epic Games’ “Fortnite” has made its way onto iOS, with an Android version a few months away.

“It’s fun fast gameplay that just so happens to also be free,” junior Adrian Contreras said. “They have a cross-platform feature that allows me to play with friends not using the same console and that really opens up my opportunities for teammates.”

“Fortnite,” which was announced in 2011, is still in development and was originally meant to be a cooperative game. It introduced a free-to-play battle royale mode in September 2017, inspired by “Player

Unknown’s Battlegrounds” (PUBG).

The new mode was an instant hit with streamers and YouTubers. The cooperative mode is still being developed and can be bought right now, though it will eventually be released for free.

While the game is conceptually similar to “PUBG,” the differences end in the battle royale concept. “Fortnite” doesn’t allow weapon customization, but allows players to destroy and build structures.

This crafting system adds depth to the game and forces players to adapt new strategies.

The Battle Royale mode allows players to play alone or in teams of two to four.

On PC and consoles, “Fortnite” is an alternative to players who want a battle royale game but don’t want to foot the $30 price

tag attached to “PUBG.” “I play it because it’s really entertaining and I can play with my friends on the phone,” junior Bella Feinstein said.

Players drop out of a plane into a map with nothing but a pickaxe and have to find weapons while on the ground.

The game gradually decreases the play area and forces players closer together via a gradually encroaching storm that damages players who linger in it.

The iOS version is also free-to-play and directly competes with “PUBG Mobile,” which is also free-to-play. Initially, users required an invitational code to play “Fortnite” on mobile, but the game was opened to the public on April 2.

Twitter: @rudy_beckom

Solving the Pokémysteries with Pikachu Elizabeth Cortez Staff Writer

Beloved Pokémon mascot Pikachu has returned to the gaming world in the new Nintendo 3DS game, “Detective Pikachu.”

New features include Pikachu’s characteristics. Pikachu no longer communicates with a high pitched squeal, but now speaks in a deep, insightful voice.

Tim Goodman plays the role of his partner in crime where they go on adventures and explore new quests.

The games starts off with the loss of

Pikachu’s memory. He later comes across Goodman, who is the only one that understands him.

The two meet and work together, looking for clues to solve the mystery of Goodman’s lost father and the rampaging Pokémon.

Added dimensions and wide selections of color differ from previous games, giving gamers a change in scenery.

It’s a whole new place where players get the chance to solve puzzles and chase after tedious suspects.

Instagram: @cortez_elizabeth_

Photo from polygon.com Team up with Pikachu to solve cases and puzzles in a never-before-seen experience.

Characters from Nintendo will brawl it out in the fifth installment of the “Super Smash Bros.” series.

The announcement came at the end of the March Nintendo Direct, an event where Nintendo releases information on new content such as games or consoles.

A clip was played uring the eventshowing the inklings from the third-person shooter game, “Splatoon.”

The inklings have been the only new characters confirmed for the new installment, although they appeared as a skin for the Mii Fighters in previous game, “Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS.” The “Super Smash Bros.” series started in 1999 with the first game releasing on the Nintendo 64 with twelve playable characters: Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Pikachu, Jigglypuff, Fox, Captain Falcon, Link, Kirby and Ness.

The second installment, “Super Smash Bros. Melee” released in 2001 on the Nintendo GameCube with more new fighters.

The third in the series, “Super Smash Bros. Brawl” released in 2008 for the Wii, and the fourth game, “Super Smash Bros for the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS,” released on the consoles of the same names. The series creator, Masahiro Sakurai, has confirmed that he will be working on the new title.

The untitled new “Super Smash Bros.” game has been planned to release this year on the Nintendo Switch.

Instagram: @strykemedown

Photo from techsite.io Prepare to face new fighters in the upcoming “Super Smash Bros.” for the Switch.