Daniel Pearl Magnet High School 6649 Balboa Blvd., Lake Balboa, CA 91406
www.thepearlpost.com
Volume 11 Issue 1 Nov. 8, 2019
Vaping epidemic affects teens See page 8
@ThePearlPost
The Pearl Post
@ThePearlPost
@dpmhsmedia
The Pearl Post
Table of Contents
In this issue... 1 Cover
Design by Preet Aulakh and Itzel Luna
3-5 News News classes/ World Music Day
6-9 Special Reports
Vaping epidemic/ School safety
10-11 Opinion Vaping opinion/ Editorial
12-13 Features New Principal/ New staff
14-15 Entertainment
Best Thanksgiving television episodes/ Disney+
16-19 Sports
Fair Play to Pay Act/ Football Girls volleyball/ Boys water polo
20 Backcover
Letter from the Editor As we switch from a traditional newspaper to a bi-monthly magazine this school year, one of our staff’s goals is to provide more in-depth content. While brainstorming for the November issue, it was very clear to us that vaping wasn’t only a huge topic in the news but also in the halls of our school. Because of its importance, we decided to cover the vaping outbreak that has proven to be the cause of 33 deaths in 2019 alone. We decided to make vaping the focus of our cover as well. We attempted to tell this story from a variety of angles that includes a standard news story, an opinion piece, an infographic and a school-wide poll. We aimed to focus on student experience by conducting a poll that the
2
The Pearl Post
whole school had the opportunity to take. In total, our poll was answered by 240 students, which is around 75 percent of the entire school. By providing anonymity, we were also able to include the voices of students who have vaped before. We gave them the ability to speak freely on their experiences. Because of this, our vaping news story includes multiple perspectives, ranging from our principal to students who currently vape, have decided to quit, or have never tried it before. Our goal going forward is to select a main issue of focus for each issue where we could tell a complete story from multiple perspectives. -Parampreet Aulakh and Itzel Luna
THE PEARL POST Print Editor-in-Chief Parampreet Aulakh Online Editor-in-Chief Alondra Nuno Managing Editor Itzel Luna Features Editor Shannon Sullivan Opinion Editor Sam Torres Entertainment Editor Alliana Samonte Sports Editor Casey Wanatick Social Media Editor Daniela Rangel New Media Editor-in-Chief Maria Ruiz New Media Editors Harlow Frank, Christopher Sarenana, Jonathan Spahr Photo Editor Mahali Sanchez Copy Editors C.J Gorospe, Rosa Lemus, Cassia Ramelb, Matthew Spahr Staff Writers/ Photographers Shanna Aghasi, Maribella Ambrosio, Valery Barrera, Evan Gleason, Gabriela Gomez, Marjina Haque, Valeria Luquin, Sara Marquez Advisor 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 magazine 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 magazine is published monthly and is the official campus newspaper of Daniel Pearl Magnet High School. The magazine 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.
News
Photos by Maribella Ambrosio and Valery Barrera Students at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School are being offered various new classes in this school year. Among the classes being offered is a Mexian-American Studies class being taught by Spanish teacher Marta Rodriguez and an art class that is offered after school. College courses are offered during period one.
Students offered variety of new classes By Daniela Rangel
R
anging from topics such as ethnic studies and cybersecurity, students can now attend a variety of new classes that offer them a more well-rounded curriculum. “The class is very important because I have noticed that a lot of us, including myself, don’t know a lot about that part of history of the United States,” said Marta Rodriguez, teacher of the Mexican American Studies class. “It’s very important that they come to the realization that this country hasn’t always been made up of these ethnic groups.” This is the first year these classes are being provided. Rodriguez teaches sixth period Mexican-American Studies while Brenda Helfing teaches psychology. AP Calculus online is offered in math teachers’ Lori Seo and Tuan
“Duke” Huynh classrooms. Currently, a Pierce College communications class is offered in period one and next semester, theatre classes will be available in its place. Beyond the Bell and ARC offer a cybersecurity coding class, leadership, art and music classes after-school. “Understanding how people function and understanding what makes them do what they do, I think that’s important to understand how to treat people,” senior psychology student Ivan Moreno said. Pierce College’s Communications 101 class teaches students public speaking during its period one run. Students also learn about the different types of speeches, three types of speaking and how to be more eloquent overall. “We’re learning how to write
speeches and speak to a big group of people about certain things,” senior Rosalinda Nava said. “I think it’s important because as soon as we start in more serious careers, we’re going to have to learn how to talk more professionally.” The availability of classes like the ones offered by Pierce College, gives students an opportunity to get ahead on college credits and real-life skills. Additionally, classes like Mexican-American studies meet California’s new law requiring students to take an ethnic studies class. “It’s really interesting,” junior Krisia Vasquez, a student in Mexican-American Studies said. “We have history and in history we just learn about America but at some point we want to learn about other history. So in this class we can learn about our heritage.” Instagram: @dan1ela32
Nov. 8, 2019
3
News
Photos by Valery Barrera Senior Keona Paniague practices “1999” by Prince during the World Music Day rehearsal on Oct. 23. Senior Tylin Jarrett practices singing during the World Music Day rehearsal on Oct. 23. After four years of being a part of World Music Day, seniors felt confident and comfortable during their performances.
Seniors bow out after final performance By Sara Marquez and Valeria Luquin Stomachs turned with butterflies and last minute changes surrounded the musicians of Daniel Pearl World Music Day (DPWMD) during their dress rehearsal on Oct. 23. “Not only we celebrate it but, DPWMD is something practiced around the whole world,” senior Darren Reyes said. “I really like how that’s a connection between people.” During periods two through five, teachers were able to take their classes to get a sneak peek of the grand celebration. Initially, the event was meant to take place on Oct. 24, DPWMD was postponed to Monday, Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. due to an unexpected fires near the area. The musicians began the event by singing the “Star Spangled Banner.”
4
The Pearl Post
With a list of 15 songs to perform, they sang upbeat songs like “I Just Want To Celebrate,” “La Bamba,” “Dancing Queen,” “1999” and many more. Throughout the performance, a combination of the drums, keyboard, guitar and bass beautifully blended with the singers’ voices. As the performance went on, students could be seen singing and dancing along to the rhythm and beat of the music. “When I started, it was more about spreading peace, love and all that,” senior Jason Echeverría said. “Now, we’re starting to convert it more into partying and celebrating.” Many seniors have spent the past four years performing in DPWMD. Some felt shy and nervous performing their first year but over time, they’ve been able to grow comfortable with the colorful light illuminating their faces.
“It made me more confident in my singing and how I act because presenting and performing in front of people is very scary and nerve racking,” senior Katharina Hanna said. “Just performing can have that thrill and can boost your confidence.” Eventually the mics are unplugged and the seniors who have performed all four years of their high school career will take their final bow. With the room filled with nostalgia and applauds, the musicians look back on all their performances and friendships. These are bonds that many performers will cherish undoubtedly. “Unforgettable,” senior Andi Mendoza said.
Twitter: @saramrqz and @13_val_
News
Photos by Valery Barrera Senior Darrin Reyes prepares for the World Music Day rehearsal on Oct. 23. Senior Jason Echeverria pracices “Oje Mi Amor” by Mana during the World Music Day rehearsal on Oct. 23. Senior Kim De Dios practices “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli during the World Music Day rehearsal on Oct. 23.
Information by Alondra Nuno
Nov. 8, 2019
5
Special Reports
Police dog added to increase school safety By Evan Gleason
Photo by Valery Barrera A bright red notice was left in a locker after it was randomly checked by faculty on campus. This is a part of the LAUSD random search policy that occurs daily at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School.
N
The LAUSD Board of Educaew school safety measures LAUSD schools. The school also has have been implemented to Dan- the front entrance of our school un- tion voted on June 18 to eliminate the iel Pearl Magnet High School locked during school hours, along with random search policy because it was deemed ineffective and disruptive to (DPMHS) this school year, including a a back entrance next to the cafeteria. LAUSD random searches start- students’ instruction time. As a result of search dog that will come to DPMHS to potentially find paraphernalia on cam- ed in 1993, when a 16-year-old stu- this decision, there was an immediate dent at Fairfax High School was shot stop of the policy in 20 LAUSD schools. pus. In 2018, 113 people were killed or and killed, along with another death a Random searches in all other schools will formally come to an end by July injured in school shoot2020. LAUSD Superintendent Austin ings and an average of Beutner must also develop an alterone school shooting occurred every eight days. (The search dog) can help find things native plan to this policy by July 1, 2020. The random search policies in The Parkland shooting on Feb. 14 2018 that that sometimes random searches can’t 2016-2017 did also find 568 weapkilled 17 people, was find, especially now with the high in- ons including eight rifles/shotguns. However, according to Damona tragic moment which crease of young adults vaping... te, DPMHS will continue doing these started the movement for random checks. anti-guns and to improve “School should be a place of school safety. This year, Principal Pia Damonte safety and education,” Damonte said. there have been 21 mass school shootings so far, Instagram: @gleason_evan1115 one occurring every 15 month later on Feb. 22 at Reseda High days as of Oct. 1 “(The search dog) can help find School. In 2011, LAUSD made random things that sometimes random search- locker, backpack and metal detector es can’t find,” Principal Pia Damonte searches a mandatory daily policy for said. “Especially now with the high in- middle schools and high schools after crease of young adults vaping whether two kids were injured at Gardena High with nicotine or with tetrahydrocannab- School. With there being 485 incidents of gunshots on school grounds from inol (THC).” The new search dog, named 2013 until now, according to the EvNemo, is from the Los Angeles Unified eryTown For Gun Safety organization, School District (LAUSD) Police. The with 185 deaths including 33 suicides “It hasn’t really affected me as dog will come randomly throughout where no one else got hurt, and 371 inmuch and I don’t really mind the school year and go into classes to juries with six of them being self-harm. “I believe taking students away search students’ backpacks. as long as it keeps the school DPMHS has never had a school from lessons will make them behind,” safe,” freshman Delilah safety officer and wasn’t given a cam- sophomore William Myers said. “Now Brumer said. pus security officer after the Sandy they will have to catch up on their own Hook shooting, unlike many other time.”
“
“
Is new dog
6
The Pearl Post
Special Reports
Opinion
Random searches ensure school safety By Sam Torres
S
The Los Angeles Board of Education has wrongly voted to ban random searches by 2020 and agreed to decrease police on campuses. The board voted on June 18 to end the policy of randomly searching students with metal detectors during the school day. This came after mass backlash from Students not Suspects, a group sponsored by the Union of Teachers Los Angeles and American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Southern California. They have argued that the searches were biased, constantly targeting people of color. This is a small complaint that shouldn’t be the reason for stopping searches to jeopardize school safety. Our school doesn’t have a school security officer on campus, which may leave us vulnerable to potential threats. The random search policy has been used for decades in schools, since 1993. According to LAUSD, an alternative plan for school safety will be made by July 2020. The alternative to random searches must also include a decrease in police presence. Eliminating random searches is one thing. However, decreasing police
presence on campus can be detrimental to school safety. Banning random searches won’t do much, as students always have ways of sneaking things into campus and less police activity is just unsafe. LAUSD random searches have been proved to not find firearms but that doesn’t mean they don’t find other contraband. The most common contraband items found are sprays and markers. An analysis from ACLU showed that most items found in these searches were school items such as white-outs and sharpies, or personal hygiene products like body sprays or pain medicine. The searches should be kept, as there isn’t much else stopping or catching students from bringing hazards to school grounds. While most confiscated or found items are tools for vandalism, that doesn’t mean the searches prevent students from bringing weapons or drugs. Daniel Pearl Magnet High School has been bringing police dogs on campus to search classrooms for narcotics. By using police dogs, students won’t feel targeted in a search. This technique ultimately reassures students’ protection without randomly searching specific students.
Photo by Adriana Chavira The Los Angeles Unified School District police dog, Nemo vists campus for the first time on Sept.
There should be more done to deter narcotics and weapons in school and more ways of keeping watch on students, not less. Instagram: @torres.sam.jpg
necessary to increase school safety?
“I don’t think it is really doing anything,” sophomore Lauren Mills said. “Nothing has really changed.”
“I like it. I think it is very safe,” junior Christopher Tonthat-Lorio said. “It keeps students in check around the school. ”
“I don’t think it is something we need necessarily but it’s good to have,” senior Larry Chavez said. Photos and interviews by Mahali Sanchez
Nov. 8, 2019
7
Special Reports
Vaping outbreak worries students By Valery Barrera Inhale. Hold. Exhale. Youth vaping rates have been on the rise since 2017, with rates doubling in 2019, leaving parents concerned for their child’s health. “The impact on the students and communities we serve, totaling nearly 5 million people, is very real,” Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Superintendent Austin Beutner said in a news statement posted on Instagram on Sept. 10. ”Los Angeles Unified is taking action to inform students of the dangers and is looking at other options to better protect them against this health crisis.” According to Live Science, the recent vaping outbreak has led to 1,479 cases of severe breathing problems and lung damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Oct. 10 that 33 people have died, one of them being a 17-year-old, the youngest reported death so far. The California Department of Public Health also urges everyone to refrain from vaping until current investigations are complete. A Daniel Pearl Magnet High School junior, who has been vaping for the past three years, has decided to quit as a result of the recent outbreak. “It was a thing. Then I tried it. I got into it and I couldn’t stop,” the anonymous junior whose name is not being published to protect their identity said. “(Now) I feel like it’s unsafe, so I kind of quit.” JUUL vape pens are easily hidden because they resemble flash drives and can be charged using a USB port. When in use, the smell doesn’t linger, making it easy for students to use the product at school. In January, JUUL launched the “Make the Switch” campaign that aimed to advertise JUUL vaping products as a
safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. “‘(JUUL is) a smart, really well thought-out alternative to smoking.’ Make the switch,” A JUUL representative was reported saying at a “Make the Switch” campain presentation to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. On Sept. 9, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning letter stating that JUUL was marketing unauthorized information to teens through presentations at high schools. “We recognize that youth use of vapor products is a problem that requires an effective and appropriate response from industry and regulatory bodies,” Juul Labs spokesman Ted Kwong said. “We strongly support restrictions on social media marketing of
“
Photo by Valery Barrera A sign was posted on the fence outside of DPMHS warning students that tabacco and e-cigarette products aren’t allowed.
“Young adults are being affected by it, not realizing that they’re being affected,” Principal Pia Damonte said. “It’s still nicotine. It’s actually much worse than if you were to smoke a cigarette.” Concerned parents and reports of vaping related illnesses also led the Trump Administration to draft a plan to remove flavored e-cigarette products from the market. This plan’s intention is to reverse this epidemic of e-cigarette use that is impacting teens. As a precaution in September, LAUSD presented information about vaping at its principal meetings. After attending the meetings, Damonte informed DPMHS teachers about the health crisis. Assemblies will be held at DPMHS addressing nicotine and tetrahydrocannabinol in November. In attempts to further inform teenagers, Damonte is planning to have two people who work for the FDA and San Fernando City Council come in to help with the presentation. “Generally speaking, it (vaping) should be talked about at school, just to make sure people are aware that JUULing or vaping is not healthy,” senior Ivan Moreno said. On Oct. 8, Damonte hosted a workshop during Coffee with the
It was a thing. Then I tried it. I got into it and I couldn’t stop. (Now) I feel like it’s unsafe so I kind of quit.
The Pearl Post
“
8
Anonymous student vapor products.” In October, 240 DPMHS students took a survey on their vaping experience, with 29.1 percent of them reported having vaped before. “Every time someone offers (a vape pen), I’ll just go for it,” another DPMHS sophomore said. JUUL, an electronic cigarette company, is accused of marketing e-cigarettes as less harmful tobacco products toward teenagers. According to a warning letter from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These vape advertisements had teens convinced that using an e-cigarette is a better alternative than using tobacco products, which led teens to believe it was completely safe.
Special Reports Principal in regards to how parents should be vigilant about e-cigarettes. A canine, also known as Nemo, will randomly come to campus and will assist the random searches, which will help track paraphernalia. “(Vaping is) a real problem at school,” English teacher Ronald Baer said. “It’s not being kept out of school at all, so it does need to be addressed.” Though it is clear that vaping is a real problem and many think it should be talked about at school, some students think otherwise. “I feel like they’re (students) going to do it no matter what,” the anonymous sophomore said. “It doesn’t matter what the school says because you’re going to do it either way.” Instagram: @valeryobrien
When did you start?
29.17% 35.5% of DPMHS students have vaped before.
of students who vape are 10th graders.
Why do DPMHS students vape?
How often?
Nov. 8, 2019
9
Opinion
E-cigarettes have been on the rise and teens have been largely affeted by use of hese pens as well as other vape tools.
Photo by flickr.com and peakpx.com
Vaping brings deadly trends to teens
C
otton candy, birthday cake, blue raspberry. Some of the many flavors to choose from to damage your lungs. Vaping has become a normal teenage trend and it’s causing more harm than teens are aware of. Although the product may look colorful and curiosity might strike, this little USB-looking pen will ruin your lungs and it is NOT worth it. It’s hard to pinpoint when the vaping epidemic began but a 900% E-cigarette use increase was noted between 2011 and 2015, according to the U.S Surgeon General report. It has progressively increased as the years continued. This increase has led to a total of 26 deaths this year. This epidemic is ruining the lives of so many, including the teenagers whose lives are being cut short because of this dangerous trend. As generations go by, the addiction to smoking is bound to change. A study conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services found a decline in cigarette smoking toward the end of 2018. This led to the addiction of e-cigarettes as people sought alternatives to kick their cigarette habit. The spike in e-cigarette use was
10
The Pearl Post
also caused by the misconception that vaping is safer than traditional cigarettes. This false assumption was spread because vaping products contain aerosol smoke that is inhaled by the user, unlike regular cigarettes that take time to light and then inhale. Consumers preferred a faster method: vaping. In attempts to quit smoking, teen-
“
unfairly profiting from the youth’s innocence and vulnerability. After the release of Juul, vaping flavors like mango, cucumber and fruits became the most popular among teenagers. It caught their attention because of how “fun” and “tasty” it seemed. Their advertisements claimed to be safer than cigarettes and that shouldn’t go unnoticed. Juul should be careful where they advertise their products and make sure to warn heavily that their products is for adults only. The Center For Disease and Control Center (CDC) has released the statistics of this epidemic and the results will not seem shocking to most teenagers, who are constantly surrounded by the vaping environment. According to their research, 1,300 lung injuries due to e-cigarette use were recorded as of Oct. 1. To stop this epidemic from spreading, teenagers need to start focusing on the effects this trend can cause their bodies. It doesn’t matter what the “cool kids” are doing. Vaping will ruin your lungs. Treating that cotton candy USB like another trending topic isn’t worth it.
This company is unfairly profiting from the youth’s innocence and vulnerability.
“
By Sara Marquez
Sara Marquez agers ended up addicted to vaping. Companies like Juul are to blame for the downfall of the many teenagers that have found themselves in the grasp of their colorful marketing tactics. The packaging for these e-cigarettes are branded to be appealing to the teenage eye with its colorful packaging and fruity flavors. This company is
Instagram: @mrqzsara
Opinion
Photo by Valeria Luquin Print Editor-in-Chief Parampreet Aulakh and Online Editor-in-Chief Alondra Nuno hope to see improvements and better communication with their staff. The editors want to have a more effective work environment with the staff along with more stories based around student life and perspectives.
Editorial
Magazine brings change in new year
W
ith the start of a new school year, The Pearl Post staff hopes to build off of last year’s success while drastically changing our format. Starting this year, we will be shifting from our traditional monthly newspaper format to a full-fledged magazine. This means that we will come out with an issue about every two months since we are aiming to have higher quality page designs that are in color with more visual elements. Most of our content will be on our website and maintaining a consistent stream of content will be more important than ever. The most relevant and newsworthy content from that two-month time span will be featured in the magazine. Having most of the content published on the website first means everything has to be up to date. Our goal for the website is for it to be more visual and have more current information such as polls, sport scores, quizzes and the “Breaking News” ticker. These will make the website more interactive for people who visit it. Last year, we did a great job of covering various breaking news stories as they developed such as the LAUSD teacher strike and the Scott Silva case.
As more stories of this magnitude develop, we will continue to have on-time coverage for these events. All in all, we want our online and print coverage to have a student angle or perspective to have content that appeals to the students. Considering this year is the Year of Student Journalist we want to continue practicing our First Amendment rights and be able to publish as much content as we need to. In a year with such massive transitions, our new editors have made it a focal point to maintain constant communication with the rest of the staff. As a whole, last year the communication between editors and staff was good for the most part but at times it was lacking. We want to create an environment where staff members are never afraid to ask for help or guidance when they need it. Having effective communication with the rest of the staff produces better content as we learned last year. As a result, we won The Online Pacemaker award and “Best High School Newspaper” at the Los Angeles Press Club’s Southern California Journalism Awards. Our website was also received a first place Best of Show award at the National High School Journalism Con-
vention in Anaheim. We hope to continue on a similar path this year as well. We want our staff writers to become multifaceted student journalists as they should have experience in writing, recording, editing and taking photos by the end of the school year. Our emphasis this year is to get higher quality pictures from the entire staff in general since the magazine will be heavily reliant on visuals and there shouldn’t be a scramble to find photos for the yearbook at the end of the year. Most of our editors don’t have much experience with design and shifting formats on top of that will certainly make starting off a challenge. Our objective should be to make dramatic improvements with content, story ideas and design as the year goes along. With a new principal on campus, there have been many changes made to the school overall. As a publication, we want to make sure that there isn’t a lack of communication with Principal Damonte or any misunderstandings. As a publication, we will always take feedback and look for ways to improve as the year goes by. Our goal is to have the publications - both online and in print- be more visual and be more engaging.
Nov 8, 2019
11
Features
New principal aims to enrich education By Gabriela Gomez and Shannon Sullivan
I
n her 20 years of working with the Los Angeles Unified School District, Principal Pia Damonte has worn many hats. She has been a pre-kindergarten through 12th grade counseling coordinator at Local District Northwest since 2015, an assistant principal for Taft High School before that and in charge of the district’s Career Technical Education program. Damonte has also been a dean, a counselor, a coordinator, an instructional specialist, a Spanish teacher at Polytechnic High School and is now Daniel Pearl Magnet High School’s third principal. “My prior experience, like I’ve done operations, instructions, so you know to be able to run a school you need a variety of experiences,” Damonte said. “It’s not just you have to know one area well, you have to know all.” In the past, Damonte has typical-
Photo by Mahali Sanchez Juniors Bella Jimenez and Jair Sanchez share a smile with principal Pia Damonte during nutrition on Oct. 24.
ly worked at larger high schools. But since she started her position in July, she’s adjusting to working on a smaller campus with a small faculty and staff. “It’s interesting that people say that in smaller high schools there’s less challenges,” she said. “I think it’s actually the opposite. When it’s a smaller school, there’s a lot more challenges because you have fewer people to get to them. Maybe that’s the challenge.” As a principal, Damonte hopes to help the school thrive and give students more opportunities. One way she’s working toward that goal is by providing resources such as the college and after-school classes. “I like her new attitude and the things she’s bringing,” Student Body President Bianca Lam said. “Overall, she’s doing her best for a school who
loved our old principal a lot.” Damonte likes to spend her free time with her 12-year-old son, often going to the beach or hiking. She takes him to her spin class. He doesn’t like it but he goes with her. Damonte wants students to feel like they have somebody to talk to, whether it’s school or anything happening outside of school. She hopes that by giving students additional resources and the room to pursue their passions, school becomes a place where they’re excited to go. “If I see the school succeed, it’s a reflection on me that I am succeeding in my job,” Damonte said. “I think we’re moving in the right direction.” Instagram: @gxbyyyy_g and @sm.sullyvan
Thank you to The Pearl Post Patrons
Super Patrons The Spector Family John & Bette Goplen 12
The Pearl Post
Silver Patrons Dash Caloroso
BRONZE PATRONS Om Patel Teal Patrons Ann Frank Pri Patel
Features
Meet DPMHS’s newest staff members
Tuan Duke Huynh
Math Teacher Q: What made you want to become an educator? A: I like the impact I have on students who are from lower social and economic backgrounds. I grew up very poor so I think I can relate to a lot of them. I also like to teach students how to be good people, beyond just math. The reason I dress a certain way is because I want students to understand that everyone has a sense of style. I dress very differently from teachers. It’s to show that “don’t just be unique but be one of a kind.” That’s what BTS said. Q: What attracted you to Daniel Pearl Magnet High School initially? A: I love that Daniel Pearl is so small and I love that there is a journalism magnet. And the most important reason is that before I taught middle school. I really wanted to teach high school. Q: How are you liking DPMHS so far? A: I love my colleague, Lori Seo. She’s open. She is friendly. I really appreciate her. I appreciate all the teachers here. They’re really nice to me. I have to give it up to Mrs. Torres, Mrs. Pevar and Mrs. Damonte. Every time I needed something they have been right there. I also want to give a big shout out to the custodians Sal, Juan and Jesus. Those three men make this school happen. I really appreciate those men, those hard workers, even the lunch ladies and all the background people.
Mayada Hatamleh
Brenda Helfing
Chemistry Teacher Q: What made you want to teach at DPMHS? A: I really liked the small community and all the staff are very supportive. There’s a lot of collaboration between teachers and staff and everyone really cares about each other and helps each other and I really like that about this school.
History Teacher Q: How do you like it here at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School so far? A: I love it here so far. I find that the kids are very respectful here and they want to learn. They have all their supplies. They’re polite. I like working with Mr. Ortega again.
Q: When and where did you first started teaching? A: This is my first year! I just finished my student teaching last year at Santa Maria High School in Santa Maria, so not here. I’m from three hours away. So this is my first year teaching. Q: Is it hard to be a teacher so far? A: It’s been a learning curve. I’ve been adapting and it’s getting easier, like every week I get more in the hang of things. Q: What expectations do you have for your classes? A: I expect that students are willing to learn and grow in my class and willing to challenge themselves and to become better risk takers and know that a part of learning is a struggle. Q: How do you feel so far about the school’s environment? A: I think it’s great. I think that because it’s so small, I feel like it’s a family here, so I really like that and also the kids are nice kids.
Q: Which schools did you work with him at? A: At Northridge Academy High School and Teacher Prep Academy. Q: What made you want to teach at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School? A: I wanted to be closer to home and I wanted to work with Mr. Ortega again. I needed a change from my other school. Q: Where did you work previously? A: At TPA Chavez Learning Academy in Sylmar. It’s a small high school like this. There were like four different high schools on one site. Q: What expectations do you have for your classes this year? A: I want them to have fun while they’re learning history. We’re going to experience going to see “Hamilton,” all the eleventh graders and we’re going on a couple of field trips. We’re going to the Getty and the Ronald Reagan Library. Q: What college did you go to? A: I went to UMass Amherst (University of Massachusetts Amherst) and Califormia State University Northridge.
By Maria Ruiz, Maribella Ambrosio and Valeria Luquin Photos by Marjina Haque
Nov. 8, 2019
13
Entertainment
Thanksgiving special episodes to be grateful and thankful for
T
hanksgiving equals feast, breaks, the time to be thankful for friends and family but also to be grateful for Thanksgiving special episodes from all of our favorite shows. “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” “Thanksgiving Season 1, Episode 10 Amy has Thanksgiving dinner for the precinct but it is interrupted when Holt and Jake leave to investigate a robbery. “Fresh Off the Boat” “Huangsgiving” Season 2, Episode 8 Jessica plans to prepare an Americanized Thanksgiving dinner even better than her competitive sister. Several misfortunes force the dinner to not be as Louis and Jessica hoped but Eddie and his cousins find the power of technology. “Friends” “The One With the Football” Season 3, Episode 9 While waiting for thanksgiving dinner to be ready, the gang convinces Monica to play a game of touch football that quickly turns competitive. “The One With Chandler in a Box” Season 4, Episode 8 After Chandler kisses Joey’s girlfriend Kathy, Joey punishes Chandler by making him stay in a box during Thanksgiving dinner. “Gossip Girl” “Blair Waldorf Must Pie” Season 1, Episode 9 After a constant battle between Blair’s feelings for Chuck, Serena discovers a secret of their intimate relationship and is uninvited from the Waldorf Thanksgiving dinner. She celebrates with her own family and throughout all of this, there are constant flashbacks of “party girl” Serena and their Thanksgivings from the previous year.
14
The Pearl Post
Photos from Warner Bros., abc, Wikimedia Commons and Fox Sitcoms such as “Friends,” “Fresh Off The Boat,” “That 70s Show” and “New Girl ,” are a few of the many shows to watch during Thanksgiving time. Here are a few more Thanksgiving specials to watch.
“New Girl” “Thanksgiving” Season 1, Episode 6 Jess has her first Thanksgiving in the loft, preparing a classic stuffed turkey, which explodes, and the news of their silent neighbor. “The Office” “WUPHF.com” Season 7, Episode 9 Apart from Michael investing in Ryan’s company and Jim not earning money through commission, Dwight creates a hay festival on Thanksgiving Day in the Dunder Mifflin parking lot with mazes and hay king and queen.
“That’s 70 Show” “Thanksgiving” Season 1, Episode 9 Eric is finally allowed to sit at the adult’s table during Thanksgiving and attempts to capitalize on the moment by announcing his engagement with Donna, only to be ruined by Fes who tells everyone that Eric is failing math Compiled by Parampreet Aulakh, Christopher Gorospe, Itzel Luna, Sara Marquez and Alliana Samonte
Entertainment
Disney prepares launch of new streaming service By Valery Barrera
D
isney has announced its new streaming service Disney+ which is set to be released Nov. 12. Disney+ will cost seven dollars a month in the U.S, half the price of HBO and a big discount compared to Netflix. Disney also announced they will offer a bundle package of three streaming services including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for $12.99 a month starting Nov. 12. Blockbusters such as “Star Wars,” Marvel and Disney’s own movies Avengers: Infinity War, Antman, Cap-
Is Disney+ worth buying?
Photos and interview by Jonathan Spahr
Photo from digitaltrends Disney’s new upcoming streaming service, Disney+ is said to be released on Nov. 12. The service wilfeature many Disney originals and new live action remakes.
tain Marvel and many more will be included in Disney+. The streaming service will carry Disney original series such as three new live action Marvel shows based on the characters Ms. Marvel, Moon Knight and She-Hulk; and a Lizzie McGuire revival with Hilary Duff playing the same role. The bundle package provides three platforms on one streaming service, allowing payments to go under one subscription. Disney will have all of its family-friendly content, anything made for audiences up to a PG-13 rating. The other Disney owned streaming service, Hulu will stream more adult-ori-
ented material such as Deadpool since Disney owns Fox. Approximately 7,000 episodes of television series and 400 to 500 movies are expected to be available on the streaming service when it launches. Disney+ will be available on IOS, Apple TV (tvOS), Google Chromecast, Android, Android Tv, Playstation 4, Roku and Xbox one. Along with being able to watch some incredible movies, the service revealed to offer 4K resolution with high definition resolution (HDR) support and Dolby’s dynamic version of HDR. Instagram: @valeryobrien
“I think Disney+ is worth buying because everything that is on Netflix will go down and be put there,” freshman Cameron Cisneros said. “I also think it is worth it because it is more affordable compared to Netflix.”
“I think it is a good idea,” sophomore Audrina Murphy said. “It is a good idea because you get to see all the Marvel and Disney movies all you want and it is a good price.”
“Yes, Disney+ is worth buying due to all the things it provides and all the entertainment it gives,” junior Emily Rodas said. “I would recommend it to other people between the ages of eight to fourteen. I think that age group would best suit Disney+.”
“I think Disney+ is worth buying,” senior Ivan Moreno said. “It’s a reasonable price only if you are interested in Marvel, Disney or Star Wars.” Twitter: @SpahrJonathan
Nov. 8, 2019
15
Sports
Lady Patriots aim for second ring By Christopher Sarenana he defending champions Birmingham Community Charter High School girls volleyball team is ready to serve up back to back championships. This season, they are determined to make a statement and begin the process of winning another championship. With many new faces on the squad and returning players, this season will have its ups and downs. They know hard work and teamwork will help along the season. “I think season will go well as we have a good mix of returning players and new players on the team.” freshman Naamah Silcott said. The team’s last game was against Chatsworth Charter High School where they lost 3-0. They currently sit at a record of 2-18. Although not having won a game last season, they Lady Patriots were able to come out on top and win the Division III California Interscholastic Federation championship. They were able to make a deep playoff run while under head coach LeAnne-Riley Bennett. Their first regular season game was against Granada Hills Charter High School which ended in a loss but the team plans on working harder to reach their goal of winning the championship once again. They know teams won’t go easy on them and have a target on their backs. With the guidance from head coach LeAnne-Riley Bennett this season should go by smooth sailing. “Now teams expect us to be better and win more games,” said senior varsity player Cindy Ovalle said. “We have to get better now since we won a ring last year.”
T
Instagram: @cleanjumper
16
The Pearl Post
Sports
Patriots tackle their way into new season By Sara Marquez
A
s the school year continues, Friday night lights roll in and the Birmingham Community Charter High School (BCCHS) Patriots continue to play their best football. The team is currently 1-6, losing to Chatsworth Charter High School on Oct. 18. Their homecoming game will be held on Nov. 1 against Granada Hills Charter High School. The players are working to boost their positive attitude and determination for a win. “Our goal as a team is getting more physical and getting more into the game,” freshman junior varsity wide receiver Isaiah Herrera said. Unlike last year, the Patriots are now able to play on their field for home games again. Last year, due to turf renovations, the BCCHS Patriots had to hold their home games at Grover Cleveland Charter High School. The Patriots are playing this upcoming week at El Camino Real High School. Ending with a 5-4 record last season, the junior varsity team hopes to improve this season. The players are
1-6
Overall Record
Photo by Maribella Ambrosio Junior Varsity freshman player number 14 Isaiah Herrera rushes to the end zone during a game against St. Paul High School on Sept. 13.
optimistic about working to better the team. “What has helped is just staying positive and mentally understanding the plays,” sophomore JV quarterback Christian Tapia said. Though the numbers have not necessarily been in their favor, the coach works with the JV players to keep pushing. “We always do a prayer with the coach before any game and we listen to his speeches,” Tapia said. As the season continues and the
1-1
League Record
team keeps persisting, the Patriots are looking forward to new faces in the stands. “People should go to games to support the team and to see how the team worked throughout the summer,” Tapia said. Instagram: @mrqzsara
-135
Point differential
Statistics as of Oct. 25
Nov. 8, 2019
17
Sports
Patriots win with new players By Maribella Ambrosio
P
layers and coaches return to the pool for the fall season with new ideas and strategies to reach the
top.
With new players joining the team and last year’s seniors leaving, like every other sports team, it will take time for the boys varsity water polo team to adjust. “The people on the team are great and it makes the sport really fun to play,” freshman varsity player Ryan Nevsky said. “All of the other players are bigger and stronger, so it’s hard to compete with them.” The Patriots had their first game against Culver City High School on Sept. 3 and lost 8-5. Their last game was on Oct. 23 where beat El Camino Real Charter High School 17-8. Currently, they sit at a record of 9-8. “As soon as we get the chemistry better, we’re going to get a lot better,” sophomore varsity driver Yoni Zelig said. “Once we get each other and swimming back on defense, we are going to be able to keep them from scoring.” Returning players also have their own goals for this season, not only to help themselves but their team as well.
Photo by Sara Marquez Junior August DeFore aims and passes the ball at a fellow teammate during practice on Sept. 10.
“I want to improve my passes and make better shots,” varsity player August Defore said. “I want to keep going fast and of course, get stronger.” Last year, the Patriots reached the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Southern Section City Championship, competing against Palisades Charter High School but ended up los-
ing the game. The Patriots are eager to work hard throughout the season and finish off with a good prize. “Once the team gets to be a team, we can use each other,” Zelig said. “So slowly we’re going to get a lot better.” Instagram: @maribella.ag
Nevsky scores his way to varsity By Jonathan Spahr
F
reshman Ryan Nevsky has made a name for himself among his fellow athletes at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School. Nevsky has been swimming for six years and has been on the water polo team for seven months. “There was a waterpolo club where I practiced at and I got tired of being apart of the swim team and wanted to broaden my abilities,” Nevsky said. Currently, he is on Birmingham’s Community Charter High School varsity water polo team, not too many times has there been a player so exceptional their freshman year that they get an ex-
18
The Pearl Post
perience to be apart of the varsity team. “I love the team aspect of the game and it is really fun to play,” Nevsky said. Nevsky does have further plans to pursue water polo throughout his high school career and looks past the horizon to see his future goal of eventually becoming team captain but he intends to get to the city section championship this year and make even more of a name for himself. “I wish the team good luck and I hope as a team we all get the opportunity to get to the city section championship this year.” Nevsky said. Twitter: @SpahrJonathan
Photo by Valery Barrera Freshman Ryan Nevsky plays defense at Birmingham Community Charter Boys Water polo game against Taft Charter High School on Oct. 16.
Sports
Photo by Valery Barrera Student athletes, like freshman Naamah Silcott, will be able to make money from sponsors and endorsement deals while playing sports in college starting on Jan. 1, 2023, according to a new state law.
Information from Sports Illustrated and Forbes
New state law allows college athletes to get endorsements while playing sports By Evan Gleason
A
new state law will allow college athletes to cut endorsement deals, which could lead to problems with the rules in the National Collegiate Athletic Association(NCAA). “Collegiate student athletes put everything on the line — their physical health, future career prospects and years of their lives to compete,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in an NPR article on Sept. 30. On Oct. 1 Newsom passed the new bill to let California college athletes make money with endorsement deals starting on Jan. 1, 2023. The colleges will also have to pay
the athletes 15 percent of the earnings from ticket sales, which can go to athletes who may use sports to try to provide for their families, instead of having to get a part-time job while playing sports. Currently, college athletes aren’t paid and often struggle financially while in college due to so much time focused on sports. “If the bill becomes law and California’s 58 NCAA schools are compelled to allow an unrestricted name, image and likeness scheme, it would erase the critical distinction between college and professional athletics and, because it gives those schools an unfair recruiting advantage, would result
in them eventually being unable to compete in NCAA competitions,” the NCAA stated in a warning letter to Gov. Newson, according to a Sept. 11 Los Angeles Times article. Under this new bill, colleges will be prohibited from using college athlete student’s name or image without the student being compensated, which will cost the college’s money. “I think schools, if it is not well restricted, will have a better chance to get better athletes, which would be unfair,” varsity basketball/volleyball player Cuyler Huffman said. Instagram: @gleason_evan1115
Nov. 8, 2019
19
Student Photography Spotlight About the Photographer Maribella Ambrosio is a first year staff writer for The Pearl Post. She is always very picky with her photos so that the magazine can have more flair and capture the attention of more readers. Although she still wishes to improve her photography skills, her hard work has helped her stand out among the staff. She has been open to receiving a large work load and does the work with a smile on her face. She was the recipient of honorable mention in photography at CSUN Journalism Day.
Behind the Photo Freshmen junior varsity player number 14, Isaiah Herrera gets ready to throw the football at the Birmingham Community Charter High School (BCCHS) football game against St. Paul High School on Sept. 12. The final score of the game was 8-18 with BCCHS losing the game. It has been a tough season for the Patriots so far as they have a record of 1-6 as of Oct. 24. They are looking to close the season out strong and make drastic improvements after recently getting their first win of the season. Submit your best photos with a brief description to thepearlpost@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in the next issue of the The Pearl Post news magazine.