www.thepearlpost.com
May 19, 2017
Volume 8 Issue 8
Oh, the places they’ll go! Page 22
THE
PEARL POST
Daniel Pearl Magnet High School 6649 Balboa Blvd., Lake Balboa, CA 91406
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News 2
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
Photo by Eva Kaganovsky Senior Ana Monterroza sings while music teacher Wes Hambright plays the piano.
Springing into new musical production Michelle Kaganovsky
Staff Writer
The Spring Concert is springing into action May 25, with musical performances ranging from heartfelt solos to variation of rock songs performed by the school’s original band the Sardines. “There isn’t really an overall theme besides getting together, playing music and just having fun,” music teacher Hambright said. Since the last show held at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School was the holiday show back in December, many felt that another concert was long overdue. The spring concert was also created to give senior musicians a final chance to showcase their talents. To many upperclassmen, the concert marks a bitter-sweet end to the many accomplishments and memories accumulated over their high school years. “When I look back, I’ll definitely remember being the first band here at DPMHS and the memories we’ve made,” Sardines member Matthew Sarenana said.
Photo by Ani Kocharyan Senior Kyle Peraza and freshmen Elijah Longboy and Ethan Zinshteyn help carry soil and plants during May 13’s Sparkle Saturday.
Sparkle Saturday helps tidy campus Michael Chidbachian
Staff Writer
Students, parents and community members gathered on May 13 for the annual beautification event Sparkle Saturday. “I wanted to get our school clean and make it more presentable to everyone,” sophomore Judith Ntere said. “It makes our campus cleaner and makes students care for our school.”
For the past four years, Daniel Pearl Magnet High School has been hosting the event to make the campus a more inviting and safer place. Previously, the event was held before open house so that the school could stand out from others with its new look. This year, the timing changed to the week before PearlCon II. Volunteers pulled weeds, swept up leaves, cleaned up flower beds and accomplished countless other tasks. Some areas of main concern included the back
of the school, the entrance toward the main office and Danny’s garden. Sparkle Saturday was planned to be open from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. However, with the help of over 60 students and 20 parents, it ended around noon. “I enjoyed coming and helping our school,” freshman Rosa Lemus said. “It was a really fun experience helping out, especially with friends.” Instagram: @Michaelvchid
Instagram: @michelle.ella
School ranked second in valley Amanda Jimenez Staff Writer
Photo by Ani Kocharyan Since 2010, Daniel Pearl Magnet High School has been recognized by the U.S. News and World Report as one of the best schools in the San Fernando Valley.
At the end of her sophomore year, Kamryne Blake left Daniel Pearl Magnet High School (DPMHS), hoping to gain new experiences at her local high school. “At Birmingham, there were so many students,” Blake said. “It was hard to focus. It’s really important to the staff (of DPMHS) that we pass all our classes.” Blake came back second semester of her junior year, hoping for a more focused education. Blake is not alone in realizing the education potential at DPMHS, which is sometimes overlooked by the student body. This month the U.S. News and World Report ranked DPMHS as the second best
public magnet high school in the San Fernando Valley, right after Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies. Overall, DPMHS ranked 140 among high schools in California, 129 out of all magnet schools in the country and 837 among high schools across the nation. Every year, the U.S. News and World Report calculates high schools performances over the nation and ranks them according to graduation rate, college readiness and a few other categories including Advanced Placement (AP) exam scores. “In such a large community like Los Angeles, it is such a great accomplishment,” Magnet Coordinator Nicole Bootel said. “I’m very proud of that.” Intagram and Twitter: @TheGirlWithCrocs
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Restorative justice implemented in classrooms
News 3
Richard Mendiola Staff Writer
A restorative justice program is being implemented next fall at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School to establish greater communication and lighter disciplinary measures for students. The Los Angeles Unified School District approved the School Climate Bill of Rights in May 2013, and is adopting the restorative justice program in all schools by 2020 according to LAUSD’s restorative justice webpage. According to the Centre of Justice and Reconciliation, the restorative justice program is a system of criminal justice that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large. At DPMHS, students are expected to do the following: come together with others, compromise with each others’ conflicts, rebuild damaged relationships and unite. The restorative justice program will be implemented this fall. “I think that it’s always a good idea understanding how students make mistakes in their behavior,” Principal Deb Smith said. “It is important to see what they did wrong and how to fix it.” The restorative justice program was first introduced to five staff members of DPMHS during the fall of 2016. “The program was an interesting, stimulating and refreshing to take on,” science teacher Stephen Schaffter said. “It looked like something I wanted to do.” The program consists of students sitting around the classroom in a circle for-
Photo by Richard Mendiola Science teacher Stephen Schaffter leads students in his honors physics class in a group activity regarding restorative justice. mation. Afterwards a topic is presented toward the student and they have the option to speak out or not. “It was weird because I wasn’t used to this sort of activity,” sophomore Garrett Francisco said. “I don’t think anyone wanted to share their opinions. Everyone kept passing their turn to speak. Maybe if the program happens more consistently, people would be a lot more comfortable.” Since the implementation of restor-
ative justice, many of LAUSD’s schools suspension rates have dropped to 0.55 percent compared to 2007 to 2008’s 8 percent. Although the restorative justice program will occur throughout the following year, the idea of suspension is still in many of LAUSD’s schools. “I think it is an appropriate alternative to suspension but there are some actions that require suspension,” Smith said. Next year, it’s planned that restor-
Get lit team makes it to semifinals Julia Torres
Staff Writer
The Get Lit team huddled up in front of the Los Angeles Theatre preparing for everyone’s second year competing in the Get Lit Classic Slam. “I feel very proud that we made it so far in the competition and I hope next year’s team will continue to win,” senior Katarina Lashley said. Get Lit is a non-profit organization that works with over 100 schools throughout Southern California. The program curriculum promotes literacy in teens and “satisfies the elective requirement for University of California’s subject requirements for college admission,” according to an article by Executive Service Corps Southern California in 2015. On April 20, the DPMHS Get Lit team placed fourth in the semifinals, not advancing to the finals, but have high hopes for next year. “I felt elated, thinking finally after three years we made it,” Baer said. “When the host told me before he announced the winners that we won I grabbed him so hard and said, ‘Get outta here!’” Twitter: @julia.alinaa
ative justice will be implemented more frequently. During the duration of the school year only one restorative justice meeting was held in Room 2. “It’s going to be unusual at first, but I think that everyone will get the gist of things as the year goes by,” Francisco said. Twitter: @rsmendiola23
Finals Schedule June 6 Tuesday Period 1, 2 12:27 Dismissial
June 7 Wednesday Period 3, 4 12:27 Dismissial
June 8 Thursday Period 5, 6 12:27 Dismissial
June 9 Photo by Eva Kaganovsky David Palacios, Emely Felix and Katarina Lashley perform their group classic poem “Television” by Roald Dahl during the Get Lit competition held on April 20.
Friday 12:27 Dismissial
Features 4
The Pearl Post
Club Corners:
May 19, 2017
Fashionistas strut their stuff down runway Michael Chidbachian
Staff Writer
Sophomores Anais Weinstock and Alyssa Cancio find fashion trends important to share with students as fashion is a major form of self expression. “Alyssa and I love fashion, so we decided to create this club,” Weinstock said. “We also wanted others to learn how to make their own clothes and learn how to express themselves through what they wear.” President Weinstock and Vice President Cancio started Fashion Club to teach fellow students about fashion and how to create clothing. The main goal at the moment is to teach students how to sew, by hand and with a machine. Every Monday in Room 2, Cancio teaches club members about sewing and making clothing, while on Wednesdays Weinstock shows the club members how to piece together a fashionable outfit. “So basically, me and Vice President Alyssa are better at different things and we want to incorporate both of our skills into this club so each week we will be alternating,” Cancio said. Many of the needed materials come from club members and Cancio and Weinstock, who have had over three years of experience in fashion. Another component of the club is teaching members about different fashion trends, both old and modern. This part will be guided mainly by Weinstock as she is passionate about that aspect of fashion. “Teaching others about fashion can help boost confidence and reassure them that anyone can take up a style,” Cancio said. “We want people to not be afraid to express themselves.”
Photos by Steven Guzman and Michael Chidbachian (Clockwise)Sophomore David Mallari shows off his outfit during the Fashion Show, on Wednesday May 3, presenting the “Nature Lover” theme. Sophomore Adrian Contreras talks about his “Backyard Barbecue” clothing style. Sophomore Karina Mara explains the clothing choice of sophomores Christine Valenzuela and David Mallari during the Fashion Show.
Instagram: @Michaelvchid
Club reopens, brings faith to campus Daniela Guzman Staff Writer
After its first absence since the beginnings of Daniel Pearl Magnet High School, the Truth Be Told (TBT) Club has finally returned to campus. In previous years, the position of the president of the Christian-based TBT Club was usually passed on from a graduating senior to an incoming one. “Because the club is student led, no one picked it up last semester, so no one could continue it and I could not hold it in my classroom,” club sponsor Spanish
teacher Glenda Hurtado said. Juniors Ruzanna Manvelyan and Francheska Vicents remembered that the club existed when they were freshmen and spoke with Hurtado about bringing it back. “We thought it would be a good place for people who are interested in Christianity to come and learn more about it,” Manvelyan said. Bible-based topics are covered during their meetings by Los Angeles Church of Christ Youth Minister Gary Smith. Smith speaks passionately to the members about stories in the Bible and what lessons can be derived from them, along with reading scripture. “I found it interesting how we talked about Jesus as an actual person and that there is proof of it,” Vicents said. For returning members and new ones, the TBT club is a returned opportunity for students who wish to practice their faith while at school.
Photo by Daniela Guzman Truth Be Told Club sponsor Gary Smith emphasizes to the attending members the importance of abstaining from sin. “What draws me to the club is the fact that I am very religious and also the fact that I have never been to a school with a Bible club before,” sophomore John Sendin said.
The TBT club is currently hosted by sophomore Garrett Francisco. Meetings are held every other Wednesday during lunch in Room 4. Twitter: @ma33iai
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Features 5
College corner:
Form your dream dorm Liliya Miroshnychenko Staff Writer
With college right around the corner, here are some products that dorming seniors may want to consider getting.
Photos by Angel Rivera President Michael Chidbachian and Vice-President Karina Mara introduce the topic of the week, ISBN numbers to club members Julissa Rangel, Lauryn Uhlenberg, Kirsten Cintigo and Culyer Huffman.
Club Corners:
Fun multiplies, adds up in Math Club
Photo from Target.com Pink Medallion Comforter Set - Xhilaration™ for $35.99.
Angel Rivera
Bedding and Laundry With your college only providing a bed frame and a mattress, here are some other products you may need: Pillows, sheets and pillowcases (Check your college’s bed size) A set of towels Comforter or bedspread Clothes hangers Laundry basket, detergent and stain remover
Staff Writer
Math Club President Michael Chidbachian and Vice-President Karina Mara hope to share their love of math with fellow students by working collaboratively to explore more interesting concepts, not typically taught in math classes. Math Club began on April 11 when sophomores Chidbachian and Mara thought to create a club where the common feelings of hatred many students have for the subject could be changed. In each weekly meeting, students would be given the opportunity to work alongside their classmates and solve more interactive problems. “We wanted to start the math club because Michael and I both enjoy math,” Mara said. “We also saw how math was
a subject people would commonly dislike and easily give up on, so with the Math Club we hope to help people see the fun part of math.” Open to all, Math Club provides a unique way of getting students to reevaluate their feelings of dread toward the subject. Instead of focusing on boring textbook work, Chidbachian and Mara try to incorporate abstract and different materials that do not require intensive amounts of difficult math to keep their members intrigued. “By showing members this better side of math, I hope to get them more involved with things like this and perhaps even go into a STEM related career,” Chidbachian said. “But for now, I’m just trying to get them to see different things than what they’d normally see in math.”
Each weekly meeting focuses on a different topic and a different activity, giving students the opportunity to learn something new in math in a more exciting and unconventional way. “My favorite thing about math club is that it’s interactive and we learn something new every week,” said sophmore Lauryn Uhlenberg, a member of the club. The club meets every Tuesday at lunch in club sponsor WLeslie Hicks’ room. “Right now it’s just for fun, but next year we’re going to prepare for math competitions, like the AMC 10 or 12, and hopefully join up as a team and compete against others at different schools,” Chidbachian said. Instagram: @aangel_rivera
Photo from Target.com Cambridge® Limited 8 7/8 x 11 Black Hardbound Subject Notebook for $8.99.
Creating chess champs
Desk Supplies Prepare ahead for endless projects and sleepless nights by making sure you have all of the proper materials to do so. Some necessities are: Reading and/or desk lamp Your personal laptop Stapler and staples Printer Graphing calculator Stackable desk trays for organizing paper
Alyssa Cancio Contributing Writer
Students of all grades gather in room seven, where they indulge in the company of friends and friendly battles of chess. “We’re actually unofficial,” club supervisor Jennifer Pershes said. “We’re a small club, no funds, just a gathering.” Although meager in comparison to other clubs hosted in the school, the chess club possesses an air of lighthearted competition and humble intellect. The room is sparsely filled, with two or three sets of chess boards distributed. The sounds of crinkling plastic as kids eat their lunch and chatter among friends are strung through the room. There is no fighting or arguing here. Everyone is enjoying the pastime. “Not a lot of people like chess,” senior Adi Nagary said. “But chess is a very
Photo by Liliya Miroshnychenko Senior Tyler Loring intently watches sophomore David Mallari make his next move during a Chess Club meeting. smart sport. You have to strategize. It’s a way to have fun intellectually – after all, school is about learning.” The club began when Magnet Coordinator Nicole Bootel noticed an excess of unused chess board games lying around. Some of the sets were even donated. Bootel suggested Pershes start a club in order to gather students who would use the games.
“We’ll definitely see a chess club happen next year,” Nagary said. “It’s popular enough. Maybe a new student will continue it.” The chess club meets every Monday during lunch. If you’re looking for new acquaintances or perhaps some tranquility among the chaos of the crowd, then chess club is for you.
Instagram: @liliya.miro
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remembering history through art
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Special Reports 7
Sophomores prepare to curate art exhibit while learning about Holocaust Elsie Morales Yearbook Editor-in-Chief
Alishon Raymundo has been a curator-in-training for the past few months, preparing for an art exhibit made to honor a Holocaust survivor and artist. “I like that we try to imitate what he does because I feel like if we put ourselves in his shoes, maybe we would’ve done things differently,” Raymundo said. For the past few months, history teacher Brent Abelson’s fifth period class has been participating in the David Labkovski Project. They’ve studied the artist, David Labkovski’s work while writing their own poems and creating artwork to replicate his style. “We’ve been learning about his story,” Abelson said. “It’s been a big challenge for (students) but they’ve risen to the occasion.” Each week Stephanie Wolfson teaches Abelson’s class about Labkovski’s life along with Leora Raikin, Labkovski’s great-niece. Raikin tells Labkovski’s story from a more personal perspective. The volunteers have helped Abelson’s class every Thursday since they began in February but as the day of the exhibit approaches, the women visit frequently to teach the students how to curate their own exhibit, which will be held on June 1 at 6 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room (MPR). “David Labkovski always dreamed of a generation ready to study his artwork and bear witness to the historical context of his life,” Wolfson said. “We feel the weight of his dream and the importance of making it a reality.”
The class will have an exhibit in the MPR displaying the artwork and other assignments they’ve worked on these past few months. The students will also be giving tours throughout the exhibit. “We get to learn about a person who was alive during the war and who experienced first hand what was going on,” sophomore Alishon Raymundo said. For sophomore Hailee Kessler, the project allowed her and her fellow classmates a different way to learn about the Holocaust. Rather than just taking notes from a lecture, the project is interactive. “We’ve done a lot of reading and analyzing,” sophomore Hailee Kessler said. “Learning about not just him, but about the Holocaust.” According to Wolfson, the purpose of this project is to teach students the importance of bearing witness to history, understand the cruelties of totalitarian leaders of the 20th century and explore different roles in society. They also learned how to analyze primary and secondary sources for historical materials, understand each member’s role in a Democracy and that every voice matters. “This project has allowed me to understand why people do what they do or why they are the way they are,” Raymundo said. “It allows me to understand the history between these countries and understand how not everybody has it easy and some people have to work harder than others.” Twitter: @elsiegmorales
Volunteer Stephanie Wolfson works with sophomore Hailee Kessler in preparation of the student run exhibit. Photo by Daniela Guzman. Labkovski survived his imprisonment in the Siberian concentration camp by becoming an artisan in exchange for food. He returned to his town, Vilna, Lithuania, in 1954. Photo by Stephanie Wolfson. Labkovski displayed his time in concentration camps and his home town through his art. Photo by Juliette Tafoya. The Labkovski Project not only helps students learn history through a different aspect, it also keeps the memory of the tragedy that was the Holocaust alive. Photo by Stephanie Wolfson.
Opinion 8
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Cartoon by Andi Mendoza Summer body expectations take a toll on girls’ self confidence and many of these girls feel insecure about themselves since they can’t fit into these unrealistic expectations.
Summer body expectations are no longer in style Julissa Rangel
Contributing Writer
With the inevitable summer heat of California comes impossible expectations for young girls being able to fit into bikinis and failing to do so results in them being shamed for not having a “Summer body.” The ideal “Summer Body” isn’t something most are born with. So many suppositions are put on girls causing body-image issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, suicidal tendencies and over-exercising, all capable of damaging mental, emotional, and physical health. Girls today are encouraged to eat smaller, more “healthy” portions and expected
to exercise vigorously. We’d like to think that girls in their 20’s who can easily find help are the only victims, but a Common Sense Media study released in 2012 revealed that grade school aged children began dieting in attempts to resemble popular cartoon characters or toys. Although some might believe that the term may be motivation to get fit, “Summer Body” is nothing more than a societal scam. It drives people to thinking they need to change things about themselves to seem attractive and fit into clothing they’d otherwise never wear. Summer bodies are something we need to stop preaching about if we genuinely want children to love and appreciate themselves. It’s unre-
alistic to expect that girls don’t touch a single carb because they’ll immediately get obese, their metabolisms come to a halt, and they’ll immediately develop diabetes. They’re stereotypical traits, and not ones that necessarily describe all full-bodied people. Unless you’re a doctor who was asked for their professional advice or opinion, there is no reason for you to so rudely impose on people who didn’t ask for it. Having bought into so many fads that have influenced the way I live upsets me the most about the concept of being “Summer ready.” It’s just now that a plethora of inspirational, plus-sized, body positive women have gained popularity and have encouraged their fans to em-
brace their “flaws”, to love their body, and most importantly to love themselves. Everybody, including myself, has a summer body regardless of what anyone thinks. Although learning to love your body and yourself is a long process, it’s worth every minute of it. It’s past time to begin encouraging our girls and boys to believe the same. “I am still in the process of (learning to love) my body,” said freshman Angie Rumbo. “I think everyone still is because there will always be a little thing that will bother you about yourself, but I hope to get to that point in my life where I completely love my body.”
Pearl Voice: Editors’ Edition
What was your worst memory
Rebekah Spector Editor-in-Chief “When I first became the Tech Editor in second semester of 10th grade, I deleted a whole bunch of story assignments but I was somehow able to retrieve it.”
Tahra Hunter Online Editor-in-Chief “The most annoying thing would be having to fix other edior’s drafts that were online because they didn’t get put in correctly.”
Kyrah Hunter Managing Editor “I hated always being stressed out at deadlines and trying not to blow up at staff writers because I didn’t want to be rude.”
Winter Rawson Sports Editor “The worst thing is feeling guilty about going on Buzzfeed because you have nothing to do since none of your staff writers have turned in stories.”
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Editorial:
An editor-in-chief’s swan song The eighth year of The Pearl Post was anything but conventional. This year, we’ve successfully redesigned the newspaper by changing from a tabloid to magazine layout, increasing the number of pages published and making them more interactive. Our goal to publish every issue with little to no errors was easier said than done. Due to the redesign, it was difficult to keep elements that appeared on each page uniform. It wasn’t until we went to April’s Journalism Education Association/National Scholastic Press Association (JEA/NSPA) convention in Seattle that we learned about a shareable library that holds all the elements of a basic layout that will make uniform designs more possible. Another goal that was difficult to fulfill as editors was making our deadlines. Due to busy schedules that included sports
practices and college class commitments, having all the editors at one late day was a rarity. During my three years on staff, I’ve never been apart of a more quiet and shy group of student journalists. This was a problem at the beginning of the year, for it was difficult to gain much from classroom brainstorming discussions. I’m happy to say that now every journalist on The Pearl Post, no matter their position, has developed their own voice that’s unique to them. The difference between the stories they wrote for our first issue, compared to the ones published in this one, is impeccable. The same can be said about the photos taken this year. Each photographer was able to capture raw and authentic student life on campus that can’t be duplicated by any means. The hard work of our staff was rec-
ognized at the March 11 write-off competition at California State University of Northridge (CSUN) where the students competing won the first place sweepstakes. In addition to the sweepstake award, the paper won third place for best newspaper in Southern California Journalism Education Association’s California All Stars competition. This year, neither the print nor online publications were nominated for a Pacemaker award. However, I’m hoping that the work done this year helped lay the foundation that would make winning the title more likely. Although parting from the amazing staff of The Pearl Post is something that I’m not looking forward to, I have no doubt that the staff of the 2017-2018 school year will lead the publication to new heights and successes.
Online Editorial:
Enhancing our online presence
The online publication finished this year exceptionally well. The goal of uploading the website daily with good content and enticing photos was just one of the things we’ve achieved this year. The point of this year’s effort was to improve the website in all capacities and we achieved that. We were able to take another mile and were able to create quizzes and themed playlists which was another target for the publication. We were awarded first place in the California All-Stars contest by the Southern California Journalism Education in
March. On top of this generous award, the website also earned Multimedia and Excellence in Writing badges by School Newpaper Online (SNO). One of the expectations I had from our staff was for them to want to write for the online publication and to share their work. I wanted them to show pride for their work and promote it on social media because it would attract more people to the publication. In the end, it is something that we as a staff need to work on. Overall, I’m very proud of how the online publication was run this year. Of
in newspaper class?
Elsie Morales Prestige Yearbook Copy Editor “My worst memory was the final month before we turned in the yearbook because we had to finish around 15 pages and it was a lot of stress on, not just me, but the other editors.”
Juliette Tafoya Photo editor “Once in Journalism 1, Mrs. Chavira was absent and Big Sean took out green goo and slammed it on the ceiling.”
course, there were some setbacks and a plentiful amount of trial and error but it came up with a beautiful result. As Online Editor-In-Chief, I came into this year with high hopes and new ideas for the website. I wanted to uphold the good reputation of the website seeing as the website is not new to winning awards so I knew that coming in, I would have to hit the ground running. And we attained it. I’m very proud and honored to be able to participate in The Pearl Post publication.
Photos and interviews by Alice Curran Twitter: @aliicecurran
Brandon Tapia Assistant Photo editor “Ms. Chavira calling me out all the time or putting me on the spot.”
Opinion 9
The Pearl Post
Editor-in-Chief Rebekah Spector Online Editor-in-Chief Tahra Hunter Managing Editor Kyrah Hunter Opinion Editor Cristina Jercan Entertainment Editor Jessica Salguero Feature Editor Nallely Delara Tech Editor Anthony Weatherspoon Sport Editor Winter Rawson Social Media Editor Kirsten Cintigo New Media Editor Maia Hito Copy Editors Elsie Morales, Zachary Gephart-Canada Photo Editor Juliette Tafoya Assistant Photo Editor Brandon Tapia Staff Writers/Photographers Rachel Bullock, Michael Chidbachian, Alice Curran, Daniela Guzman, Steven Guzman, Amanda Jimenez, Eva Kaganovsky, Michelle Kaganovsky, Ani Kocharyan, Richard Mendiola, Liliya Miroshnychenko, Sergio Payeras, Angel Rivera and April Serrano Contributing Writers Jade Ajileye, Alyssa Cancio, Mirabelle Chernick, Melanie Damocles, Daniela Dixon, David Eskichyan, Joshua Fleisher, Anthony Freyre, Cuyler Huffman, Tylin Jarrett, Karina Mara, Andi Mendoza, Julissa Rangel, Maria Ruiz, Sam Torres, Lauryn Uhlenberg and Angel Van Horn 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 thoughts 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.
Opinion 10
The Pearl Post
Popular show does not glorify suicide
May 19, 2017
Angel Van Horn Contributing Writer
The popular show “13 Reasons Why” is the new binge-worthy show that teens across America are obsessing over. The show may contradict itself in a way that emphasizes the sensitive topic of teen suicide. “From watching this show, I feel that “13 Reasons Why” is an approach to helping any teens in need of help,” sophomore David Eskichyan said. The Netflix Original was originally published in book form in 2007, then released as a series in 2017. Trying to attract a younger audience, the author and producers, including Selena Gomez, used real life issues that take the lives of 500,000 to 1 million teenagers each year. The show demonstrates how some teens turn to suicide as their first option. The purpose of the show is to make it known how anything like bullying can lead a teen to end their life. “The show tries their best to inform people why suicide is not always the option,” freshman Lucianne Lejarde said. Considering how bluntly structured the show is, the focus is on drawing attention to how easy it is for a teen to feel out of place and mistreated to the point where they kill themselves. The show uplifts the topic in a way to make people aware on how serious suicide is. It gives the illusion that suicide is being promoted when in reality it’s being taught about. Suicide is never the way to end something you think is hurting you. It will only cause more problems. The show not only promotes the topic in a positive manner but informs viewers how drastic some reasons are for a teen ending their life. “13 Reasons Why” properly brought up the sensitive subject without glorifying it. “Sometimes we think it’s the fastest way to stop the pain when in reality, it’s just going to hurt everyone around us for years,” sophomore Julissa Rangel said.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons “13 Reasons Why” follows Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) as he listens to tapes left by Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford).
Photo by Daniela Guzman
Photo by Eva Kaganovsky Photo by Daniela Guzman Protesters gather to speak out and express their strong feelings toward any topic they’re passionate about or have concern towards including presidential elections and women’s rights.
Marches unite groups of people to work together for their purpose Eva Kaganovsky
Staff Writer
Earlier this year, I joined over 750,000 protesters of different ages, races, religions, cultures and sexual orientations all marching for the same cause: to have our voices heard. Directly after the march on Jan. 21, I was automatically criticised by those close to me for protesting in Downtown L.A. I was told that carrying signs and screaming out my grievances is a waste of time and that we were just “causing a scene.” “Marches show that what we have to say is important,” junior Kamryne Blake said. “I like to see all the support and positivity everyone has for each other. It’s sort of like a whole bunch of strangers you don’t know but you’re a giant family.” After Donald Trump was sworn into office on Jan. 20, Downtown L.A. exploded with protesters marching for the causes and rights that they feared are on the verge of being taken away. Just in the the past five months, there has been a multitude of marches taking place in Los Angeles including The Medicare for ALL March on Feb. 4, the Immigrants Make America Great March on Feb. 8 and the Tax March
on April 15. As thousands of participants show up for these marches an important question began to arise: are these marches effective? “I do not really think the marches that occurred has changed anything, they seem ineffective,” sophomore Clarissa Jimenez said. Many people label marches as useless because they usually are unable to produce any significant short-term results. It has been three months since the Women’s March and many of the demands placed by the organizers in their statement of principles were not met. The long overdue Equal Rights Amendment which fights for a guarantee of equal rights, regardless of gender was fought for passionately during the march, but there has been no immediate action. However, this does not mean that these marches have no long standing significance. According to “From the Outside In: Young Americans’ Views on Creating Political Change” published by The Harvard Political Review, over half of young adults believe that talking about political issues whether through marches or any other means is one of the top three most
effective ways to create political change. Those who believe that marches are pointless are saying that people are unable to make a difference by speaking their mind. Without protests and marches, there would never be any movements. For instance, the Civil Rights Movement exploded after over 200,000 people assembled in Washington D.C. for the March on Washington on Aug. 28, 1963. The speech that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered during the March on Washington directly led to an increase of participation in the Civil Rights Movement, as well as the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is unreasonable to believe that one single march will create change overnight; change is always a slow and tedious process. However, we are coming together and making connections. We are letting people know that they are not alone. “I went to the Women’s March and it was really amazing to see how women, men and non binary people were all in support of each other,” Blake said. “The March showed that what we were saying is important.” Twitter: @evaakaganovsky
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Pearl Con 11
‘Vader’s 501st’ cosplay strikes back Juliette Tafoya Contributing Writer
As Pearl Con II is right around the corner, the legendary “Star Wars” cosplay organization, “Vader’s 501st”, will welcome geeks galore into the comic book and gaming convention. The group is an organization that seeks to promote interest in all things “Star Wars.” “They are a reenactment group who dress up as imperial characters to help charities and donate time to benefit communities and hopefully make ‘Star Wars’ more interactive and fun,” science teacher Jim Morrison said. They are coming for this year’s Daniel Pearl Magnet High School comic and gaming convention due to the efforts of cohost Morrison. He reached out to the group initially with the intent of recruiting them for Pearl Con II. “We applied and they liked us,” Morrison said jokingly, “I was in contact with two volunteers who are involved with the organization. One said they would sponsor us and present our event to others who would be willing to come represent the 501st.”
Photo from Creative Commons 501st Star Wars bounty hunter costumes displayed for judgement at Star Wars Celebration V. The 501st is an all-volunteer organization consisting of costume enthusiasts spreading joy not only by being costume fans but by doing charity work and fundraising. Because the PTSA is considered to be a charitable organization, Vader’s 501st agreed to be a part of Pearl Con II by providing donations to benefit DPMHS. “Last year we raised over $3,000. This year we are expected to raise $5,000-$10,000,”
Photo from Nikita Opel Juniors Kaitlyn Arst (left) and Nikita Opel (right) dress up as anime characters and pose fighting over a teddy bear.
Morrison said. Alongside Vader’s allegiant, the Rebel allegiant will also be attending. The Rebels are considered the “good guys” of the Star Wars universe, whereas Vader’s group is the enemy. Characters representing Vader’s allegiant are stormtroopers and bounty hunters. 501st currently has eight members confirmed to make an appearance, however Morrison has claimed it is possible for
Photo from Paola Rivas Juniors Nikita Opel (left) and Paola Rivas (right) dress up in costume as maids to show their passion for cosplay on campus.
more to attend. “This year’s convention is going to be bigger than last years”, Morrison said, “Not only do we have more presenters and costume enthusiasts, but now we have more volunteers than we’ve had before, plus double the amount of turnout that is expected to show.” Twitter: @JukiCastro
Photo from Fairy Chotset Senior Fairy Chotset (left) poses next to her friend both dressed in anime costumes.
Creative students captivated by costumes Lauryn Uhlenberg Contributing Writer
Junior Nikita Opel is a professional when it comes to buying cosplay costumes online, but is now venturing into the task of handmaking costumes. Opel is planning on making a new costume of her own creation. She is hopeful the cost will be less than if she has purchased it online. The process of designing her costume will take around two months if all goes well. “Encompassing the character and interacting with other cosplayers is my favorite part because you get to fangirl over the game or anime together,” Opel said.
Junior Paola Rivas’ favorite part about cosplay is the sense of community and seeing other cosplayer creativity. She likes to cosplay as the character Levi from the anime “Attack on Titan” since he is her favorite character. Rivas prefers to buy her materials online from Amazon and eBay, despite the difficulty of finding all the pieces for her costume. Her Levi costume priced around $150, mainly due to the costume’s $80 boots, which are the exact same as the anime. In addition to the boots, Rivas searched the websites for pants, a shirt, and a jacket to match her costume.
Alongside golf and the violin, senior Fairy Chotset also enjoys cosplaying as her favorite characters from shows and video games. Chotset does not design her own costumes, however, she will occasionally create an accessory of her own, whether it be a bag or a pin. Chotset previously made a pin for her costume which took around two weeks to produce because of the tremendous amount of detail required. “Cosplay is a way to express yourself,” said Chotset. “Maybe sometimes you have something alike with a character and you can’t show it. So when you dress up, it makes you feel like you can show it.”
Learn more about Pearl Con II at ThePearlPost.com
PearlCon 12
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
Fan films coming to the big screen this year Jade Ajileye
Contributing Writer
Whether it’s saving the galaxy or saving the city, all these films have something in common: They all have heroes. Here’s the scoop on these action-packed movies coming to a theater near you this summer. Check them out. Thor: Ragnarok Rating: PG-13 Thor (Chris Hemsworth), God of Thunder, must save Asgard from the evil clutches of Hela (Cate Blanchett), while being imprisoned on the other side of the universe. Fellow Avenger and friend, the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), will make an appearance, as he and Thor battle it out in a gladiator themed contest. Thor must race against time to save the Asgardian civilization while dealing with numerous obstacles. With Hemsworth, Ruffalo, and Tom Hiddleston returning as Loki this movie is highly anticipated upon its release. This movie will be released November 3.
Wonder Woman Rating: PG-13 The origin story of the Amazonian princess, Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), unfolds. Trained to be a powerful warrior, Diana Prince, leaves her island paradise after meeting American pilot Steve Trevor (Chris Pine), who tells her of a conflict in the outside world that she can possibly stop. Leaving her home for the first time ever, Wonder Woman fights in a war to end all wars in this action packed summer movie. Gadot, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” stars alongside Chris Pine, “Star Trek,” and Robin Wright, “ Forrest Gump” in this superhero movie. This movie is set to premiere on June 2.
Photo from Warnerbros.com Diana Prince (Gal Gadot), fights alongeside Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) against invading forces. Transformers: The Last Knight Rating: PG-13 With the humans at war with the Transformers and peacekeeper, Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen), gone, it is up to Cade Yeager (Mark Wahlberg), Bumblebee, an Oxford Professor (Laura Haddock) and an English Lord (Anthony Hopkins) to rise to the occasion and save the world. With help of English Lord, Sir Edmond Burton, they must discover the history of Transformers on Earth and uncover hidden secrets of the past. Wahlberg “Transformers: Age of Extinction” reprises his role as Cade Yeager, alongside Cullen “Transformers”, Hopkins “Silence of the Lambs”, and Haddock “Captain America: The First Avenger”. Watch this alliance in action on June 21.
Spider-Man: Homecoming Rating: PG-13 Friendly neighborhood superhero, Spider-Man (Tom Holland), having just finished fighting side by side with the Avengers in “Captain America: Civil War,” heads home to Queens, New York. Trying to keep his crime-fighting and normal teenage life at bay, Iron Man, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.,) acts as his guide. Stark teaches 15-year-old Peter Parker to embrace his role as a defender of justice when Parker returns home to his Aunt May (Marisa Tomei). When the evil villain, the Vulture (Michael Keaton), plots to take away everything Parker holds dear, the web slinging superhero is put to the ultimate test. The movie will release on July 7.
Photo from Hollywoodreporter.com Thor (Chris Hemsworth) must face off against new villain, Hela (Cate Blanchett.)
Justice League Rating: PG-13 Reprising their roles and cameos in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” Batman (Ben Affleck) and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) round up a team of superheroes to defeat a new arising evil. Enlisting Cyborg (Ray Fisher), The Flash (Ezra Miller), and Aquaman (Jason Momoa), the heroes rush to save the world. Superman (Henry Cavill) is also said to be making a reappearance as a part of the team. Despite rumors going around that Darkseid will be the villain, it appears that Braniac will be the bad guy of this film. This movie will be in theatres November 17. Photo from ParamountPictures Everything changes when Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen) turns evil.
Photo from Marvel.com Peter Parker (Tom Holland) learns what it truly means to be a hero.
Photo from Justiceleaguethemovie.com DC heroes unite to protect the Earth from deadly threats.
Photo from StarWars.com Rey (Daisy Ridley) learns the way of the Force.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi Rating: PG-13 Taking place on the planet Ahch-to right where “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” leaves off, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) teaches protagonist Rey (Daisy Ridley) the ways of the Force. The galactic war continues as Rey, Poe (Oscar Isaac) and Finn (John Boyega) fight against The First Order. Talents such as Adam Driver “This is Where I Leave You” will be reprising his role of Kylo Ren alongside Ridley “The Force Awakens,” Boyega “Imperial Dreams,” Hamill “Empire Strikes Back”, and Isaac “X-Men: Apocalypse.” This will be the last film in the Star Wars series in which Carrie Fisher portrays Princess Leia due to her passing last December. It will be released at the end of the year on December 15.
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
4 must-have video games to play this summer Fall into gaming world of ‘Fallout 4’
Sam Torres Contributing Writer
Players in “Fallout 4” are awakened into a mysterious world that has devastated by a nuclear blast and must start their new lives in an alternate American future. “Fallout 4” follows the story of a mother or father trying to find their son Shaun who is abducted into a world where you must learn to survive 200 years after a nuclear war in a 1950s era-inspired United States. The character must leave Vault 111, a bunker which was made to withstand nuclear blasts. The Vaults have a dark history as they were usually used for social experiments. Once your character leaves the Vault, you go to your old house, meet up with
your robot companion Codsworth and find the player’s son who has been taken by a mysterious group known as The Institute. Bethesda, the creators of “Fallout” series, have put in maximum effort in creating this masterpiece RPG (role-playing game). With outstanding graphics and water physics, this game is unbelievable when it comes to the physical beauty of the game. The voice acting is so well done that you become emotionally attached with the characters themselves. “Fallout 4” has an incredible storyline with so much lore and amazing character creation. The score of the game is so moving and the theme is breathtaking. This may be one of Bethesda’s greatest creation yet. Price: $30-$60 Platform: Playstation 4, Xbox One, PC
PearlCon 13
‘Eldarya’ appeals to female gamers Melanie Damocles Contributing Writer
“Eldarya” is one of the best online otome, or female-dominated games created by Beemoov. The main character is a guardian, a young female adult, who steps into a circle of mushrooms and gets transported into the magical realm of Eldarya. With no way to go home, the guardian will have to find a way to survive in their new environment. Monthly competitions occur between the guards, a group of people called Shadow, Absynthe and Obsidian. You can play minigames to earn points which help your guard increase the overall points. Guards that receive the highest overall points win exclusive legendary items. Daily minigames allow players to win a bindle,
a mystery box that offers random clothing along with a multitude of other items. There are multiple companions that you can purchase or capture which bring back clothing items, food or bindle items after sending them out to explore areas. Several shops are available for your player to buy clothing, companion food or other necessities. There is also a marketplace to sell goods or buy things such as event items and companion eggs. With new lands to explore, fun events, interesting beings and adorable companions, it is impossible to get bored. Step into the circle of mushrooms, uncover the secrets and dive into your unique story. Price: Free Platform: PC
Screenshot from YouTube
Screenshot from YouTube “Eldarya” features mainly female characters that dominate the gaming application.
Screenshot from YouTube One game mode features a high quality version of a real Major League Baseball game.
Photo from titanfall.com Pilots in “Titanfall 2” battle each other while taking control over their titans.
‘MLB: The Show’ hits it out of ballpark
Graphics, story upgraded in ‘Titanfall 2’
“Fallout 4” highlights the eeriness of the post-nuclear blast.
Joshua Fleisher Contributing Writer
“MLB The Show 17” is the perfect game for baseball fans. It simulates a real baseball game with a great environment and realistic graphics. The best way to feel like you are a part of an actual Major League Baseball game is to play “MLB The Show 17.” One of the game’s features is called “Retro Mode,” which allows you to feel like you are playing a vintage baseball video game. The creators of “MLB The Show 17,” SIE San Diego Studio, learned from their mistakes in their previously released work. “MLB The Show 16” offered unreliable in-
ternet connections when playing with others online as the game tended to disconnect quite often, even near the very end of a game. The transition between game modes was also greatly improved in this new version. Mistakes were fixed to create the newest and best addition to the series. “MLB The Show 17” is the most entertaining game for baseball fans. It’s meant to be the best way for anyone to be able to feel like they are part of an actual baseball game. This version of “MLB: The Show” ranks the highest among all others. Price: $60 Platform: Playstation 4
Tylin Jarrett Contributing Writer
The release of “Titanfall 2” has been awaited by a multitude of video game enthusiasts. With countless additions made from the series’ previous game, the new addition is a must have. The game revolves around a pilot who has been disembarked from their titan, a large machine that is controlled by the player. The pilot and titan share an untouchable bond and compliment each other perfectly. The player is one of the best pilots around and many others are dedicated to stop you from reaching your titan and becoming the best of them all. Aside from this capturing and compel-
ling campaign mode, the game also includes a multiplayer mode that allows gamers to play with other people and friends online. In 2014, Respawn Entertainment released the first game in the series, “Titanfall.” After years of refinement, the developers have created the second and newest installment. This new edition contains a similar storyline, but has better graphics than the former and the gameplay runs much smoother than before. With such outstanding games, Respawn Entertainment is bound to become on of the brightest franchises in the gaming word. Price: $60 Platform: Playstation 4, Xbox One, PC
PearlCon 14
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
FRONT
Buy the DPMHS Comic Con t-shirts for $10
BACK
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Tech 15
Reposting ideas from other apps
Instagram copies dominant features from other apps
Karina Mara Contributing Writer
Instagram, one of the most popular social media apps, recently projected an identical feature derived from Snapchat in their recent update. “I think Instagram just wanted more people in their platform because Snapchat has been gaining popularity,” freshman Ashleigh Rawson said. Instagram was first released in 2010 with the simple features of sharing pictures online, adding fellow users, and liking and commenting on photos. As for Snapchat, it was relaunched in 2011, containing the feature of sending timed pictures and short-length videos to each other. Over the years both apps have released numerous features that increased their functions and appeal to the growing number of users. “You can stalk people without them knowing,” Rawson said. There are some newly added features on Instagram where it showed an obvious resemblance to Snapchat. In 2013, Snapchat revealed Snapchat Stories, where users can share their photos or videos in their story section, allowing all their friends to view them for 24 hours, instead of the one-to-one person. Eventually, Instagram released Instagram Stories in 2016, also enabling users to share photos or videos publicly or to friends for 24 hours. “I think it’s okay to get ideas based
Photo from therightcup.com
Different flavors in the palm of your hand Anthony Freyre
Contributing Writer
Screenshots from Snapchat and Instagram Instagram’s stories (right) show a distinct similarity to Snapchat’s (left) story feature of each other,” freshman Crystal Martinez said. “But it’s not okay to copy one another because sometimes you’re gonna have your own original ideas and if too many apps have the same features then it’s just going to be boring.” Despite Instagram’s evident imitation of Snapchat’s Stories, the social media platform still manages to excel in its
number of active users, reaching 200 million almost daily. This exceeds Snapchat’s 161 million active daily users. Instagram’s actions may have caused controversies but they still succeeded in taking advantage of the ideas coming from competitors.
App of the Month:
Aid for undocumented students Eva Kaganovsky Staff Writer
Every year, over 65,000 undocumented immigrants graduate from high school, many not believing they have the opportunity to seek a higher education. The app DREAMer’s RoadMap was designed to address this problem. “DREAMer’s Roadmap can help a lot of us financially in college,” junior Maria Danan said. As the school year draws to a close, many undocumented students are barred from applying for FAFSA in their senior year of high school because they are not considered documented citizens of the United States. For these reasons, Sarahi Espinoza Salamanca, an undocumented immigrant herself, created DREAMer’s RoadMap in April 2016. DREAMer’s RoadMap is a mobile app that provides undocumented students with access to hundreds of scholarship opportunities across the United States. From scholarships created for students
with leadership accomplishments and others for students with challenging backgrounds, DREAMer’s RoadMap offers an abundance of opportunities to motivate undocumented students to take the big leap into applying for college. Additionally, users can suggest a scholarship to peers, creating an interlocked community where undocumented students can come together. DREAMer’s Roadmap provides users with tips and information for applying for colleges and scholarships, as well as surviving as a first generation college students. In addition to significant information pertaining to college, DREAMer’s RoadMap links students to blogs written by other undocumented students. The topics on the blog range from the importance of loving yourself for who you are, as well as blogs about how students reached their dreams, despite the hardships they faced growing up undocumented. Through support and motivation, the creators of DREAMer’s Roadmap aim
Photo from dreamersroadmap.com to assist 10,000 students from across the United States to discover scholarships perfect for them in their first year. With a fivestar review rating, it is safe to say that the app DREAMer’s RoadMap is a beneficial resource, particularly in this time where undocumented students face growing disadvantages. “This app is helpful for undocumented immigrants because it gives us information of scholarships that some of us can’t get through FAFSA or Cal Grants,” junior Maria Danan said. Twitter: @evaakaganovsky
If you are addicted to sweet and fruity drinks, “The Right Cup” may be the revolutionary beverage holder to help you enjoy their flavors without the adverse health effects of excessive sugar. “The Right Cup” is an aromatic fruit flavored cup that tricks the user’s brain into thinking pure water tastes like flavored water. As soon as you put your lips on the cup, your nose is positioned right over the opening, picking up the fruit aroma that tricks your brain into thinking you are drinking flavored water, when in reality it is simple clear water. The cup is designed to better hydrate the user and lead them in the direction of a healthy lifestyle, by convincing them that they’re drinking a flavored sugary drink, when in reality, it’s plain H2O. Isaac Lavi, founder and CEO of The Right Cup, was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of thirty. His doctor gave him an order, advising him to keep away from sugary drinks. However, Lavi soon realized the difficulty of this task. With his expertise in scent marketing Lavi was able to turn his disdain for plain water into the product that works for him, the Right Cup. Levi realized that his invention could help many who have the same problem he had. Initially the cups were available in four different flavors: mixed berry, orange, apple and lemon-lime. However, the company says additional flavors including peach and cola are in the making. If all goes as planned, the product could potentially be a sweet, sweet success.
Sports 16
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
End of the road for track season Kirsten Cintigo Social Media Editor
Track season comes to a bittersweet end as the school year comes to a close. This season saw the dusty strides in the beginning due to new players Keona Paniagua and Chad Hayes, but also saw the return of the swiftly sweeping movements of senior Juliette Tafoya. “Since it was my last year, I really put all my effort into my running,” Tafoya said. The season last year ended with a steady score and left a smooth start to the beginning of the new season. Players trained hard with practice every day from 2:30 to 4:30 and managed to end their most recent season with an overall average of 1-0. “Overall, I love competing. I love winning and the team was really solid this year,” Paniagua said. The team hopes to improve by working on their core and upper body training which will help beat the competition next season. “(By focusing) on the races more that’s all (we) got to do,” Hayes said. “Don’t listen to the crowd.” This isn’t the end for Paniagua as she will continue to be part of the team even after joining other sports. “I do plan on doing track the next four years,” Paniagua said. Twitter: @kzizzlee
Photo by Raul Serrano The girls lacrosse team with their plaque after winning the L.os Angeles City Sections Championship for their fourth consecutive year.
Girls lacrosse are city champs again Amanda Jimenez Staff Writer
After 14 wins and six losses in the girls varsity lacrosse season, the team ended the season with its fourth consecutive L.A. City Sections Championship win on April 29. On the long bus ride to Palisades Charter High School for the championship game, sophomore JV player Alexis Lucy Ishkhanian belts out “Now or Never” from “High School Musical 3” with all her teammates. The energy intensified as they yelled, unaware that there would be 16 minutes on the clock as the game tied. When they won 6-5, the rush of adrenaline settled. Over nine months of training, five days a week from 2:30-5:30, prepared the
team for their victory. “Some people believe just because we won four years in a row that it comes easy to us,” varsity player Andrea Escamilla said. “It’s a hard earned win every time.” Out of the four Daniel Pearl Magnet High School players on the team, three are seniors. Goalie Tahra Hunter, attacker April Serrano and attacker Andrea Escamilla will not play in college. Leaving such a high title in their name puts pressure on Ishkhanian. “I feel that I’m obliged to do my best,” Ishkhanian said. “To be like them and better. I saw that the team was one. You didn’t have multiple players. You had one strong bond.” Instagram: @TheGirlWithCrocs
Girls Lacrosse Scoreboard 4/5: BCCHS vs Palisades 12-7 Win 4/7: BCCHS vs Crescenta Valley 12-7 Loss 4/17: BCCHS vs Hamilton 17-2 Win 4/19: BCCHS vs VAAS 21-0 Win 4/20: BCCHS vs Hamilton 16-4 Win 4/24: BCCHS vs Westchester 19-0 Win 4/29: BCCHS vs Palisades 6-5 Win 5/2: BCCHS vs Palos Verdes 15-11 Loss
Students pool their talents in swim team Cuyler Huffman and Daniela Dixon Contributing Writers
Photo by Rachel Bullock Freshman Keona Paniagua jumps over her first hurdle in her last event for the March 30 track meet against Taft High School.
Strength. Athleticism. Agility. These are all characteristics that successful swimmers possess. They are also descriptions of three swimmers who have made quite an impact on their swim teams. Gabriella Angos, for example, performed so well, she was moved up to varsity as a freshman for league play. While many would give Angos a perfect score when evaluating her performance in the pool, she thinks she still has much room for improvement. “Seven out of 10 because I’m a freshman, “ Angos said. Also on varsity is sophomore Ben Sanchez, who decided to pursue swimming in his freshman year of high school, but has been swimming for four years. He enjoys the competitive aspect of swimming, but also enjoys the fun parts.
Being a part of the varsity swim team requires continuous practice on strokes and techniques. “The 200 freestyle is my best stroke and the breaststroke is my worst,” Sanchez said. Sanchez also came in 5th place in the boys varsity 500 yard freestyle event at this year’s Los Angeles City Swim Finals with a time of 4:58:76. Even though it’s senior Joanne Taborda’s last year on the swim team, she has made every stroke count. Swim has been a part of Taborda’s life for seven years. Her next big splash will be in college and she already has an idea of what she will be doing. “I want to take some time off from swim, but still have it around me,” said Taborda. “I am majoring in interior design and one day would like to design a pool.”
Photo by April Serrano Sophomore Ben Sanchez handles the ball in a water polo game in the fall.
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Senior athletes open up about their highlights
Sports 17
Interviews and photos by Steven Guzman, Michelle Kaganovsky, Maria Ruiz and April Serrano
Evelyn DeDios Sports played: Soccer Years played: Four years “When we made it past the first round in playoffs in 2016.”
Jon Dumindin Sports played: Volleyball Years played: Three years “The highlight of my sports career happened during a game when the opponent set the ball at the corner and no one was there, but I dove and I got it up. We got the point because of that.”
Lissa Favela Sports played: Volleyball Years played: Two years “The best was getting to know the girls and getting to play something I loved.”
Kyrah Hunter Sports played: Water polo and swim Years played: Two years “The highlight of my sports career was being able to be on a team that won championships and being on a team that’s dedicated.”
Tahra Hunter Sports played: Lacrosse Years played: Three years “My highlight will probably be becoming the fifth best goalie in the nation, so that was pretty cool and then winning championships.”
Fairy Kankkorn Sports played: Years played: Four years “Golf seems easy but you have to calculate the wind and where the water and sand are. I enjoyed the focus and it was fun to see the end.”
Genesis Ocampo Sports played: Water polo Years played: One year “The bond I created with my teammates and friends.”
April Serrano Sports played: Lacrosse Years played: Four years “In one of my last games, I got six fouls in three minutes.”
Raul Serrano Sports played: Volleyball Years played: Four years “This year has been the highlight of my sports career because my vertical went up like six inches so now it’s almost at 30 and we’re a lot better as a team.”
Rebekah Spector Sports played: Tennis and swim Years played: Tennis- Four years Swim-Three years ‘I really enjoyed seeing my personal improvement along with the improvement of my teammates.”
Juliette Tafoya Sports played: Track and Cross Country Years played: Three years “The highlight was a 3rd place medal I won for an 800 meter race. I didn’t think that I could do it but I pushed myself so hard and I got it.”
For videos of more athletes, go to thepearlpost. com Instagram @Strykemedown @michelle.ella Twitter @lirpa_cs
Summer Features 18
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
Affordable places to go this summer Richard Mendiola Staff Writer
With the stress of school over, summer is the ideal time for relaxing and hanging out with friends. From lasertag to Japanese gardens, fight summer boredom with this list of enertaining places to explore.
Photo by Alice Curran The library is one of the many places students can volunteer over summer
Volunteer opportunities for summer Alice Curran Staff Writer
Summer. To most students this means a time of extended relaxation, but it is also the perfect time to get involved in your community. Volunteer opportunities are everywhere and can range from an afternoon at a food bank to weeks of reading to children at your local library. Here are a few local options to check out. Animal shelter- While there are hundreds of shelters to volunteer at, Best Friends Animal Society offers various opportunities. Simply make an account, create a volunteer profile, sign a few forms and once you receive a confirmation email, you can begin volunteering. YMCA- The YMCA offers opportunities for people of all ages to experience development and responsibility. People can help out with sports, the nursery, fitness, or tutoring. There is also a special section on their application for teen volunteers. Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL)You must be from ages 14 to 19 in order to volunteer at most branches of LAPL and commit to a minimum of 20 hours. The tasks available here range from suggesting reading material to planning teen programs. Beach clean-up- Beach clean-ups are often teenagers’ go-to place to volunteer, and for a good reason. If you attend one of Heal the Bay’s clean-ups, you can spend 2 hours picking up trash and the rest of the day relaxing at the beach. Food Bank- The L.A. Food Bank provides food to thousands of people every week. You must be at least 14 to volunteer. The L.A. Food Bank is looking for people who are willing to sort, clean and repackage delivered food.
Photo from skyzone.com
Photo from thejapanesegarden.com
Sky Zone Trampoline Park: 7741 Hayvenhurst Ave Van Nuys, CA 91406. Skyzone is an indoor trampoline park that features various activites such as trampoline dodgeball, dunking and a foam pit. The prices range from $11 to $26.
Japanese Garden: 6100 Woodley Ave Van Nuys, CA 91406 The Japanese Garden is a beautiful garden next to Balboa Park, an ideal place to spend time with friends and family. Admission rates are $5 for adults and $3 for children.
Photo from zonehead.com
Photo by Tony Hoffarth
Photo from skateland.net
Ultrazone Laser Tag: 14622 Ventura Blvd #208, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Ultrazone is a laser tag arena that also an arcade. The cost for lasertag depends on the amount of rounds you play, a single round costing $10 per person.
Winnetka Bowl: 20122 Vanowen St, Winnetka, CA 91306 Winnetka Bowl is a bowling alley along with a restaurant, billiards and an arcade. Prices range depending on the game or how long you play it.
Northridge Skateland: 18140 Parthenia St, Northridge, CA 91325 A roller-skating rink that features an arcade and a pizza place. The cost of skate rentals varies from $5 to $6.
Photo from laparks.org Sherman Oaks Castle Park: 4989 Sepulveda Blvd Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Sherman Oaks The Sherman Oaks Castle Park is a minigolf venue that features a batting cage, an arcade and food. The admission fee is $6.
Twitter: @rsmendiola23
Sunny ways to earn spending money Daniela Guzman
Staff Writer
Getting a summer job is a great opportunity for teens to develop skills and experience for the future. Here are some recommendations for finding a job to keep busy with and earn some money too.
Get a job permit The first step to getting a job this summer is getting your job permit. Talk to your counselor about getting one and fill out the necessary paperwork. Ask around your vicinity Local businesses often need help during Twitter: @aliicecurran the summer. Simply asking around your local grocery stores or small businesses if they are currently hiring could land you a
chance for an interview. Use the Internet to your advantage Several jobs that require little-to-no experience can be found simply through the press of your keyboard’s enter button. Many job finding sites also provide local business that may be hiring and could make your job searching for jobs easier. Sites like SnagAJob, Cool Works and SimplyHired have hundreds to thousands of jobs available, many suiting teens. Look right at home Do you have a family member that needs help with babysitting while they’re at work? Does your neighbor not have time to clean their house? Sometimes approaching those we know is enough to find a temporary job. Working for someone
familiar could make it easier to work out wages as well as get flexible hours.
Photo from Pixabay Filling out at an application form is one of the first steps to getting a job over summer. Twitter: @mazzalai
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Summer Tech 19
Top anticipated video games coming this summer Sergio Payeras Staff Writer
If you’re looking for an adventure to distant lands with superheroes and colorful squids, you can exprience it through a screen while playing video games. Here’s a list of new video games that can get you through the summer.
Photo from Flickr
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Injustice 2 The sequel to the hit 2013 “Injustice: Gods Among Us” features new characters and game mechanics while remaining loyal to the core gameplay style. Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Platform: Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One Release date: May 16 Type: Fighting
Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia The 15th installment of the Fire Emblem series, the game is a remake of 1992’s Fire Emblem Gaiden. It features improved 3D models and animated cutscenes as well as full-dialogue voice acting. Publisher: Nintendo Platform: Nintendo 3DS Release date: May 19 Type: Tactical Role-Play
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Tekken 7 The ninth installment of the Tekken series features 38 playable characters, 20 of which will be available on release. The game focuses on one-on-one battles with several new features and game mechanics. Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment Platform: Arcade, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One Release date: June 2 Type: Fighting
Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood (Expansion) This second expansion pack of Final Fantasy XIV includes new story gameplay and a new level cap. It will also mark the end of PlayStation 3 support for the game. Publisher: Square Enix Platform: macOS, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation3, PlayStation4 Release date: June 20 Type: MMORPG
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Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy Three remasters of the Crash Bandicoot series are included in this game, all with improved high definition graphics and audio. Publisher: Activision Platform: PlayStation 4 Release date: June 30 Type: Platform
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Splatoon 2 The sequel to 2015’s Splatoon features all-new weapon types, updated game modes and several more maps to play in. Publisher: Nintendo Platform:Nintendo Switch Release date: July 21 Type: Third-person shooter Twitter: @sergio22ap
Summer Entertainment 20
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
Retro films sure to make you cry with laughter Ani Kocharyan Staff Writer
Movies are a great way to spend time, whether you’re with your friends or by yourself. Here are some earlier comedies to watch this summer. “His Girl Friday” Rating: PG Genre: Drama/Comedy Released: 1940 Available on Youtube This classic movie follows the story of newspaper editor Walter Burns (Cary Grant) as he finds out that Hildy Johnson (Rosalind Russell), his ex-wife and top reporter, is planning to quit to get married. Burns finds every opportunity he can to stop her from leaving her job, including a case on Earl Williams (John Qualen), a man convicted of killing a policeman. “The Addams Family” Rating: PG-13 Genre: Fantasy/Comedy Released: 1991 Available on Hulu After years of absence, Fester (Jackie Coogan), a man claiming to be the brother of Gomez Addams (John Astin) shows up at the family’s home. Suspicions rise as the con artist’s foolproof plan starts to fall apart.
Wikimedia Commons “His Girl Friday” features a typical love story of a guy chasing girl.
Flickr.com “The Addams Family” tells the tale of a con artist’s plan to fool a family.
Screenshot “The Philadelphia Story” entales events leading up to the ultimate wedding crash.
Flickr.com “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” involves a principal attempting to expose a student.
“The Philadelphia Story “ Rating: NR Genre: Romance/Comedy Released: 1940 Available on Youtube ($2.99) Tracy Lord (Katharine Hepburn) is days away from her wedding with George Kittredge (John Howard) but things don’t work out the way she planned when her ex-husband, C.K. Dexter Haven (Cary Grant), finds out that a publisher of a magazine is planning to release a story on her father. Haven shows up to Lord’s house with writer Mike Connor (James Stewart) and photographer Elizabeth Imbrie (Ruth Hussey) and the wedding takes an unexpected turn. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” Rating: PG-13 Genre: Drama/Comedy Released: 1986 Available on Hulu Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) comes up with a sophisticated plan to take the day off from school. With his girlfriend and his best friend, Bueller borrows a Ferrari and goes to Chicago. While they explore the city, their obsessive school principal is determined to prove that he’s not who his parents think he is. Instagram: ani__kocharyan
Explore the world of upcoming indie films Mirabelle Chernick Contributing Writer
Set aside time this summer to check out these new indie films
Screenshot “I Love You Both” tells the love story of twin siblings persuing the same person.
Screenshot “City of Ghosts” features the life caused by ISIS in Syria
“I Love You Both” Release Date: June 9 Genre: Comedy, Drama Twin siblings Donny and Krystal Archibald are constantly struck with bad luck. The twins discover that much to their dismay, they happen to be dating the same man. Donny and Krystal anxiously await their lover’s decision as to who he will choose to date. “City of Ghosts” Release Date: July 7 Genre: Thriller/War The documentary features an opposition group in Syria called “Raqqa Is Being Slaughtered Silently.” Created by activists and journalists upon the destruction of their city by ISIS, the resistance members have devoted their lives to defeating evil. The film sheds light upon the stark realities of life in the RBSS coupled with the perpetual struggle to survive in a place that has no hope.
“Step” Release Date: Aug. 4 Genre: Documentary This profoundly inspirational film chronicles “The Lethal Ladies,” an all female high school dance team in the inner city of Baltimore. Amidst the protests, turmoil, and social unrest occurring in the city, these girls are relentlessly determined to attend college despite the overwhelming odds that are stacked against them. The girls struggle to overcome adversity, pressures in the home, beliefs of failure, and the fears of the unknown future. “Icarus” Release Date: TBA Genre: Documentary This extraordinarily profound film explores illegal doping in sports and the politics behind it. Bryan Fogel partners with the Russian scientist Grigory Rodchenkov, who is widely recognized and renowned for his organization that condemns performance-enhancing drugs. Amid a myriad of controversy and rumors, it is speculated that the Russian “anti-doping” activist is actually the head of Russia’s Olympic doping program. When the shocking truth is discovered, the pair becomes aware that this finding would ultimately reveal the greatest international sports scandal in history.
Screenshot “Step” details the life of a dance team struggling to make it in the world.
Screenshot “Icarus” portrays possibly the biggest scandal in olympic history.
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
7 must-see summer films
Summer Entertainment 21
Photo from WarnerBros.com “Everything, Everything” Rating: PG-13 Genre: Drama/Romance Based off a best selling novel by Nicole Yoon, 18-year-old Maddy (Amandla Stenberg) suffers from an illness where she is unable to leave the protection of the tightly enclosed environment within her house. After she is greeted by her first love, Olly, (Nick Robinson), they risk everything for a day with each other. “Everything, Everything” comes to theaters May 19.
Photo from WarnerBros.com “Dunkirk” Rating: PG-13 Genre: War/Drama/Action/Adventure Set during World War II, “Dunkirk” regards the evacuation of the French city, Dunkirk. Victimized by the German army, allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire, Canada and France are left with no choice but to escape and evacuate during the battle before Nazi forces can take hold. Dunkirk comes to theaters July 21.
Photo from WarnerBros.com “Annabelle: Creation” Rating: R Genre: Mystery/Thriller Twenty years after the death of their daughter, a dollmaker and his wife welcome a nun (Stephanie Sigman) and several girls from an orphanage into their home. The supernatural prequel tells the story of the beginning of the doll Annabelle. “Annabelle: Creation” hits theaters Aug. 11.
Photo from WarnerBros.com “It” Rating: R Genre:Drama/Horror/Thriller A bold group of seven children hunt down an evil clown, who has a history of murdering children in the 1960’s and 1990’s. These children face the haunting of a shapeshifting entity and must save themselves. Based on Stephen King’s novel “It”, this remake includes a different plot from the mini-series released in 1990, and will be released in theaters everywhere Sept. 8.
David Eskichyan Contributing Writer
Photo from MagnoliaPictures.com “Person to Person” Rating: not yet rated Genre: Drama Coming to theaters July 28, this film presents the lives of four characters through personal relationships, problems and unexpectancies around the city of New York. An investigative reporter, a curious feminist teenager, a love ill young man in search of his ex-girlfriend and a music lover partake in crazy adventures within the timeframe of one day.
Photo from Annapurna.com “Detroit” Rating: not yet rated Genre: Drama/History/Thriller “Detroit” commemorates the 50th year anniversary of the police raids which occurred in Detroit, Mich. on July 25, 1967, known as the 12th Street Riot. The saddening events show the deaths of three black men and the brutal beatings of nine people. Releasing on Aug. 4 the film focuses on one of the largest citizen uprisings in United States history.
Cheap, free summer concerts for your musical enjoyment April Serrano
Staff Writer
DIIV
Start summer early and see DIIV, The Paranoyds and Tashaki Miyaki on May 21 at the Regent Theater. Tickets are $22.50 so get them before it’s too late.
Photo from Diiv.net DIIV’s lead singer Zachary Cole Smith.
Wavves The upcoming rock band Wavves will be playing at the Teragram ballroom. With tickets start at $20, this concert is a nice way to stat of the summer right on June 2.
Ticket to Ride-Tribute to The Beatles Everyone loves The Beatles, So enjoy this free concert at Warner Park performed by a Tribute to the fab-four. This friendly event will be held on June 18.
Hushfest A silent party is coming to the Santa Monica Pier on Sat. July 15. Many gather to put on your headphones and jam out. Tickets sales range from $12- $45.
Dance Downtown/DJ Nights Every Friday night Grand Park is hosting free alternating events starting June 23. “Dance Downtown” is a free concert where anyone can learn dance moves to different genres. Starting June 30 is “DJ Nights.”
Twilight Concerts Can’t wait for Fridays, it’s okay we got something for Thursday. Twilight Concerts returns to the Santa Monica Pier on July 7 through Sept. 8. This free event has a new line up every week. Twitter: @lirpa_cs
Seniors 22
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
Class of 2017 Senior destinations after graduation Humoldt State University Tyler Loring
Sonoma State University Matthew Sarenana
University of California, Davis Daniela Guzman Cesar Trejo
University of San Francisco Jesse Cortes
San Francisco State University April Serrano
University of California, Berkeley Sergio Cardoso-Hernandez Elsie Morales
Oregon State University Ethan Coffee
University of California, Merced Aracely Ruiz
St. Mary’s University (England) Winter Rawson
United States Navy (Illinois) Jonas Acebes
Los Angeles Pierce College
College Of The Canyons
Glendale Community College
Ricardo Cardenas
Los Angeles Mission College Lissa Favela
University of California, Los Angeles Rebekah Spector
Los Angeles Valley College Evelyn De Dios Joselyn Pulido Brandon Tapia
University of California, Santa Barbara Crystal Betancourt
San Jose State University Floyd Brown
California State University, Fullerton Emily Rodriguez Ruby Rodriguez
California State University, Northridge Mallory Centeno Amit Cohanim Raquel Dubin Jon Dumindin Cheyenne Hill Kyrah Hunter-Singletary Tarah Hunter-Singletary Ryan Ilano Brandon Maldonado Matthew Martinez Alexis Matitu Sandy Medina Ana Monterroza Benitez Gregory Noorigian Evelyna Papoyan German Pimenov Billy Rodriguez Valeria Sanchez Danielle Valenzuela
Justin Houston Cameron Vega
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona Savannah Orrill
University of California, Riverside Yoseline Gutierrez De La Torre Katarina Lashley
University of California, Irvine Liliya Miroshnychenko
California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo Chester Castro Erica Mallari
Santa Monica College Ashley De Paz Da’quadjanay Lewis
Arianna Aguayo Eylon Borenstein Bryan Cabrera Reem Chaar Fairy Chotset Sara Cruz Jozsef Feher Ryan Fleisher Alexis Garcia Dyllon Goldenshtein Yulina Gonzalez Brianna Guerrero Jonathan Lanzillotta Elieja Legaspi Ryan Madrid Aaron Mejia Vachagan Movsisyan Aahad Nasir Nelly Nazarian Kyle Peraza Giselle Rizo Viviana Rodriguez Ricardo Rojas Raul Serrano Jaime Timsit Julia Torres Ivan Trejo Marilyn Vielma Karina Zamora
May 19, 2017
The Pearl Post
Seniors 23
Class of 2017 To Kyrah Hunter and Katie Lashley, You guys made our year. We love you and know you guys will do great things in this world. #SpanishSquad
To My Love, Thank you for being my everything. through thick and thin, for better or for worse, je t’aime <3 -Brandon Tapia
To Elsie, I’ll never forgive you for driving past me at the bus stop everyday. Then again, I wouldn’t want to give me a ride. -Amanda
To Juliette Tafoya, Thanks for buying me that one lotto ticket, even though it wasn’t a winner. RIP to our parkour video I acccidently deleted. -Amanda @TheGirlWithCrocs
To my cow, Elsoup, my favorite twins, Thanks for being there for me and making senior year worth it. Also, tell your dogs/cats/sisters/whatever I love them. -Your snowflake
Photo provided by EMELY FELIX Senior Katie Lashley, freshman Anige Rumbo, senior Kyrah Hunter, sophomore Emely Felix and freshman Keona Paniagua pose in Spanish class.
-Emely Felix, Angie Rumbo and Keona Paniagua
Senior Dedications To Brandon Tapia, Thanks for never getting mad at me for being absent all the time. #truelove -Julia Torres
To Mabel, Although we’re leaving this year, we hope you have a great senior year. You are such a hardworker and you deserve the best. YOU DA BEST HEHE... -Cindy, Sandy, Savannah, Elsie, Danielle, Raquel and Katie
To Val Sanchez, Even though you come to school at 3rd period, at least you come to school, right? Love you Valseline. -Julia Torres
To Danielle Valenzuela, Hello Danielle! Do well in college and reach your dreams. You’re pretty cool by the way, and chill. Keep it up! :) -Karina Mara
To Winter, Winter + London + all the dogs in the world = The happy life you deserve -Amanda
To Rebekah, Thanks for being so patient with me. I’ve learned a lot from you. =) -Steven Guzman
To Danielle, CHE
To Danielle, You made me do this.
-Elsie
-Steven Guzman
Class of 2017
Year in Review 24
The Pearl Post
May 19, 2017
August
September
October
Photo by Angel Rivera During the first Fiesta Friday of the new school year, English teacher Ron Baer distributes ice cream to members of the Hersey House.
Photo by Juliettte Tafoya Seniors Erica Mallari and Lissa Favela sit on top of the truck’s roof cheering to the crowd as they ride around the track during homecoming.
Photo by Daniela Guzman Music teacher Wes Hambright conducts the choir as they sing “Sailing” by Rod Stewart.
November
December
Photo by April Serrano Senior Janay Lewis and Emily Rodriguez look at a car that was totaled in an accident caused by texting while driving during In One Instant Teen Safe Driving Program.
Photo by Rachel Bullock The Winter Show finished with a shower of fake snow and confetti. After only a few rehearsals, the choir was able to pull off an amazing show.
January
February
Photo by Richard Mendiola DIAVOLO performers illustrating bizarre combinations of dance during a performance for Daniel Pearl Magnet High School students.
Photo by Richard Mendiola Science teacher Stephen Schaffter introduces his period three physics class to the restorative justice program that will be implemented at this school in the fall.
Photo by Eva Kaganovsky The girls water polo team huddles before the game.
March
April
May
Photo by Richard Mendiola Junior James Young’s Eagle Scout service project beautified one of the courtyards.
Photo by Daniela Guzman Junior David Palacios, sophomore Emely Felix and senior Katie Lashley recite the classic poem “Television” by Roald Dahl in the Get Lit Classic Slam.
Photo by Richard Mendiola The American Red Cross nurses checking up on multiple student donors.