The Forge, Volume 99, Issue 6

THE

SBHS

FORGE

Volume 99, Issue 6

Email: forge.sbhs@gmail.com

March 8, 2013

One grant, one goal: Tibetan wishing banners

A grant has allowed Ms. Geremia’s students to create beautiful Tibetan wishing banners. Photo Credit: Ameliana Marshall

Beautiful Tibetan wishing banners currently adorn the once-barren walls of Ms. Geremia’s classroom. Formerly, the art class was only using the resources that meager school funds could buy for the special project, which included an assortment of fabrics and some dyes, but this year, the Student Art Fund chipped in and bought the class everything that they could possibly need.

Ed Kaplan Staff Reporter

“It was an amazing opportunity to have the resources that allowed us to have beautiful fabric dyes and silks scarves that we could paint and hang throughout our classrooms, school and eventually student’s home. We were truly grateful for this generous grant,” stated the appreciative Ms. Geremia.

Students enrolled in the art class eagerly welcomed the improvements to the project that the grant created.

“It was nice to get all this equipment

and art supplies for our flags. Instead of having regular cloth, we now have silk,” said sophomore Mathew Prado.

Tibetan prayer flags are rectangular pieces of colorful cloth that are created and strung up to promote morals, passion, peace, and wisdom. Once hung, the messages on the flags are said to be spread throughout the universe by the Lung Ta, otherwise known as the wind horse. Traditionally these flags were only used in Tibet and the surrounding

Asian countries, but recently they have become global phenomenon.

“The pictures are Tibetan auspicious signs, and they [symbolize] six signs which have different meanings,” explained sophomore Madison Hale.

Students appreciated the efforts to diversify the art program. “It is always good to see the school doing something more cultured and ethnic, rather than the normal painting or drawing,” freshman Trisha Hirsh stated.

Twenty Dons are finalists in local art contest Ed Kaplan Staff Reporter

Twenty budding artists from Santa Barbara High School have been chosen to display their work at the local Faulkner Gallery through April.

As part of a countywide contest, students from multiple grade levels and schools entered portraits of their grandparents to be judged and hopefully accepted into The 2013 Grandparent Portrait Exhibition. Judges included former local art teachers Sarah Carr and Anne Chesnut, and artists Diane Giles, Yessy Kim, Brennan Linnecke, and Ellen Yeomans. The finalists, including the students from SBHS, will be narrowed down even further to a single

winner, who will walk home with $500.

The top ten will receive a minimum prize of $150.

Students had the option to create their portraits through many mediums of art, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpting, photographing or any other form of digital arts. Students were allowed to mix multiple mediums if they so desired.

Of 383 total submissions, 134 will be featured at the exhibit. Twenty of these 134 students will proudly be representing the Dons, including Jocelyne Garcia, Yazmin Duarte, Carl Hutchinson, Karen Rodriguez, Breana Jimenez, Timothy Stickles, Abby Austin, Adriana Perez, Julianna Bordas,

David Pulido, Nina McCue, Mechele Perez, Phuntsok Gyaltsen, Mattea Kilstofte, Natalie Ochsner, Ana Moura, Ernesto Juarez, Camille Dupuis, Taryn Briggs, and Tarry Burkhardt.

“It is really remarkable that not only one, but [twenty] art students from SBHS are going to have their art up on display,” stated Francisco Zarate, an impressed sophomore.

One of the winners, freshman Julianna Bordas, excitedly proclaimed, “I actually had no idea I was a finalist, but I’m really excited because I spent a lot of time on it and tried my best to get it right.”

“The Grandparent Portrait project provided our student artists with the

What’s Inside? goodbye honors classes sbhs student wins film contest facial hair at sbhs

movies, music, sports, and more!

opportunity to look into the eyes of our grandparents and reflect on our rich heritage and diversity,” explained SBHS art teacher Hania Geremia. “[My grandma] has always been a huge part of my life, and to show some of my appreciation through something that I love is a great thing,” stated another finalist, freshman Abby Austin.

Congratulations to all the finalists, and thank you to Ms. Geremia, Ms. Van Der Kar, and Mr. Barnett for their ongoing dedication to Santa Barbara High School’s arts! Support your fellow Dons on April 4th at the Faulkner Gallery on 40 East Anapamu Street from 5:00 to 7:00pm!

Admission is free!

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March 8, 2013

Staff Editorials Editors

Emma Deardorff Matthew Wallock Editors-in-Chief Sandy Campbell Layout Editor Yvonne Murillo La Forja Editor Griffin Saxon Entertainment Editor Anthony Spann Sports Editor Adam Betters Website Editor

Staff Reporters Violet Cheverez Emma Cisek Shannon Comstock Muriel DeAragon Nicola Freeland Edoardo Kaplan Mian Laurain Ameliana Marshall Shannon Rogers Alida Siegel Theodore Smith James Sperlin Sky Ulep Courtney Werthman

Managing Consultant Micah Kilimann

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Stephanie Rivera

Business Manager Ashlen Weddington ads.forge.sbhs@gmail.com

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Where art thou, Honors classes?

Next year, Honors classes may not be an option for Santa Barbara High School students.

Eleventh-grade English, tenth-grade World History, eleventh-grade US History, and twelfth-grade Econ and Government will only be offered as College Prep and Advanced Placement classes next year. That’s right; the school will no longer be offering many of the Honors classes to which so many of us cling to bolster our academic resume.

You know what that means: no more weighted grades from Honors classes (that are almost indistinguishable in difficulty from College Prep classes) to boost your GPA. Abbey Guillen, a tenth-grader at SBHS, comments, “I think that’s ridiculous. It’s going to lower people’s GPA’s.” When it comes to the intensity of your classes next year you either go hard or go home.

The impending change has many students wondering what classes to take in the coming years. Tenth-grader Maddy Holroyd made her inner conflict clear when she exclaimed, “I’m not that bad at chemistry, but I’m also not a rocket scientist!”

Not to worry, you may not have to discard the only title you have differentiating you from the rest of us plebs. Principal John Becchio set the record straight, stating that “Our Social Studies department and eleventhgrade English [are] currently offering three levels of classes: College Prep, Honors, and Advanced Placement.

Everywhere else in our school has two levels: College Prep and Honors, or College Prep and Advanced Placement.

So what we’re going to do is bring our Social Studies department in line with [the rest of the school] and [only] offer College Prep courses and AP courses.

This is just for tenth-grade World History, eleventh-grade US History, twelfth-grade Econ and Government and eleventh-grade English. Everything else stays the same. So, ninth-graders have College Prep and Honors, and tenth-graders have College Prep and Honors like they do now, except for in Niki Freeland Staff Reporter

Next year Santa Barbara High School will only offer College Prep and Advanced Placement options for many core classes.

Photo Credit: Mian Laurain

World History. Math and science will stay the same.”

That being said, people continue to get heated over this catastrophic event. Sophomore Desmond Pelletier responds to the change saying, “that’s some stupid stuff.” William Belfiore, another sophomore, is not amused in the slightest, stating “that’s actually a terrible idea. How infuriating.”

Maddy Holroyd shared William’s fury.

“Madeline has no time for your stuff,” she declared in an angry third-person statement to The Forge.

Some students, however, think that the change could do some good for the students of Santa Barbara High School.

“I love learning, and I think that all my peers here at SBHS should be challenged to push themselves academically so that they can achieve everything that they are capable of. We are so lucky that we can come here for free every day, and I think that this is going to push some star students who aren’t shining as brightly as they could to reach new heights,” sophomore William Pritchard comments. Mali Brown agrees, “I take as many Advanced Placement classes

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as I can because although they are challenging, they help me to expand my education and learn more. Everyone else here should too, because working hard and challenging yourself in school is incredibly important. This will help distinguish the students who truly want to excel and give them that extra push.”

One student, Tajo Mcburnie, has a different outlook. “That whole system is stupid and inherently racist. There will always be segregated classes. No one’s less intelligent, there’s just [an] extreme imbalance of privilege that keeps getting worse.”

Do you think it’s fair that tenthgrade World History, eleventh-grade US History, twelfth-grade Econ and Government, and eleventh-grade English will only be offered in College Prep and Advanced Placement classes next year? Or is this change going to further exaggerate the disparities between students in the already hierarchical academic structure that is so prominent at Santa Barbara High School? Please respond at forge.sbhs@ gmail.com!

The views and opinions published in The Forge newspaper are not necessarily those of The Forge or any of its affiliated organizations, including Santa Barbara High School, advertisers, and so forth. Each editorial represents only the views of the specific reporter(s).

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March 8, 2013

Editorials Boy Scouts debate policy on gay membership Shannon Comstock Staff Reporter

A few weeks ago, the Boy Scouts of America announced that they are reconsidering the ban of openly gay people from participating in their organization. They will postpone a final decision until May because of controversy surrounding the topic and the strong feelings that most Americans harbor towards the subject.

In 2000, the United States Supreme Court deemed the national ban on gays within the Boy Scouts “legal free speech by a private organization.” The most recent proposal would allow local scouting units to make their own membership rules and decide for themselves whether or not to allow gay members. The hesitation around approving the proposal is inspired by two driving forces: the huge role played by churches in the sponsoring of local troops and the tradition of local control that has shaped many of the chapters.

Supporters of the proposal believe that including gays would be beneficial because it would prevent discrimination and increase membership. Supporters of the ban fear that the many conservative church-sponsored groups would cease to exist. Almost 70 percent of local scout units are backed by a religious organization. Some religiously-backed organizations are open to change, but most are not. This will present a large issue if the ban on gays is lifted by the Boy Scouts.

The question of how much power the local chapters should have when it comes to lifting the ban poses yet another problem. The Scout leaders who favor prohibiting discrimination in all branches

are skeptical since discrimination based on sexual orientation would still be allowed locally. Others are concerned that a split between conservative scout councils and liberal scout councils could build up walls within the organization.

The Boy Scouts have reported “an outpouring of feedback from the American public” regarding the proposed change. Opinions are very strong but also rapidly evolving, especially with the recent inclusion of females and openly gay people in the military. Santa Barbara High School senior Danielle Baeza commented, “if the Boy Scouts is an American organization similar to the army, shouldn’t it have the same rules?”

Santa Barbara High School seems to be mostly in favor of lifting the ban on gays, but there are some who will say otherwise.

There are also those who are in favor of the ban on gays, but will not come out and admit it since it seems to be the more controversial side of the argument. Senior Brendan Fay hesitated for a while when asked if he thought openly gay people should be allowed in the Boy Scouts. He finally responded with this statement: “I think the ban on gays is terrible because boys are boys, and all boys should be in Boy Scouts.” But is this his real opinion?

Most students believe that the ban should be lifted and are not afraid to say so. Senior Lilly Gately believes that the ban is not fair because “gays are boys too, and they should be allowed to participate in the Boy Scouts.”

Regardless of whether or not the proposal is approved, the topic is one that everyone needs to think about. In our increasingly tolerant society, one must continue to

The Santa Barbara Los Padres Council Boy Scouts of America.

Photo Credit: Mian Laurain ask oneself how much leniency is too much? Homosexuality is now socially acceptable in most areas of the US, but there are still questions surrounding gay marriage and participation in government organizations.

Change is hard to put into motion, but sometimes it helps to think of a similar situation in a different context. What if openly homosexual students were banned from public or private schools? Would we condone this? Probably not. In America we believe that everyone has the right to an education, so shouldn’t everyone

have the opportunity to participate in leadership organizations such as the Boy Scouts?

Our country should have moved past discrimination by now. Our country, which prides itself on its ethnic diversity, should feel the same about diversity surrounding sexual orientation. If we Americans wish to continue claiming that we are a nation who accepts everyone, then all boys should be allowed to participate in Boy Scouts regardless of their sexual orientation.

Does North Korea pose a threat to the United States?

Muriel DeAragon Staff Reporter

The mysteries of Pyongyang, North Korea’s capital, deepened when it’s ruler, Kim Jong-il, died of a heart attack during a train ride on December 17th. Kim Jong-un, the youngest and least known son of Kim Jong-il, was declared to be the country’s new leader. North Korea said Kim Jongun, or “the great successor” will follow in his father’s “songun” or “military first” policy, which has undoubtedly raised tension.

In his first couple of months as leader, Kim Jong-un quickly alienated the Obama administration. He did this when he set a plan for Korea to develop a nuclear warhead that would threaten to hit the United States in a few years. The threat became more pressing when, on October 2012, Mr. Kim claimed to already have missiles that could reach our American mainland.

So just how big of a threat is North Korea? Daniel Guerrero says, “North The Bronze Kim Il-sung statue stands Korea is not a huge threat to the U.S. in Pyongyang, North Korea. right now because if they started a war Photo Credit: josephreaney.com they would lose.”

Kim Jong-un may be doing his best

to threaten the United States, but he has problems closer to home that need immediate attention. Even though signs of hardship are evident in the capital, Pyongyang, North Korea’s poverty is wide spread as is evident in it’s numerous shuttered factories and skimpy harvests.

New York Times claims, “Residents, especially in northern provinces, report that child beggars haunt street markets, families scavenge hillsides for sprouts and mushrooms, and workers at state enterprises receive nominal salaries at best.” Though malnutrition has improved in the past ten years, one in three North Korean children are stunted and one in five are underweight, according to the World Food Program.

In Marley Quinn’s opinion, “North Korea needs to focus more on it’s citizens than it’s army.” North Korea is struggling with food shortages and the inflation of food prices, caused by economic underinvestment and mismanagement.

A reduction of food imports from China and poor weather also contribute to their extreme shortage of food.

Kim Jong-il was responsible for turning North Korea into a nuclear power,

as well as isolating the state and causing numerous families to starve and recurrent famines, while money continued to flow into the country’s military programs, but is son has done nothing to recover from his father’s actions. Currently, Kim Jong-un claims to have missiles that can certainly reach the United States. Of course, estimating the missile capabilities of a country as secret as North Korea is difficult at best. North Korea still has a long way to go before it can really threaten the West Coast of the United States with a nuclear-armed missile. They have yet to develop a nuclear warhead small enough to fit atop it’s missile, and they have not tested a vehicle that can withstand the heat of a re-entry into the atmosphere.

North Korea has provoked the Obama administration three times even though Kim Jong-un insists that they were just exercising their right to peaceful activity in space. North Korea is trying it’s hardest to intimidate and scare us but, rest assured, we have little to worry about yet. I don’t think North Korea is planning or prepared to start World War Three any time soon.

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March 8, 2013

Features Artist of the Month: Patrick Hall

Violet Cheverez Staff Reporter

Around noon on February 3rd, 2013, Santa Barbara High School sophomore Patrick Hall debuted his film “Told You” at the Lobero Theatre for the “10-10-10” student filmmaking competition held by the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. In the competition, ten filmmakers had to create ten-minute-long films in ten days.

Patrick had to complete this task between January 22nd and February 1st.

Because the film was only ten minutes long, the amount of time and effort put in to the project was enormous. “Those ten days were the most intensive days of my life so far. Buy there is no way I could have done it without my cast, crew, friends (who came out as extras), and a helpful family,” says the proud filmmaker.

He was given three days to shoot at Camino Real Cinemas, Santa Barbara High School, and Surf n’ Wears beach house. “Told You” features two of our

very own Dons, Julia Kupiec who plays “Becca,” and Gabe Reali, who plays “Bryce.” Santa Barbara native Nic Luken plays Zeke, a new high school heartthrob.

Most of the extras are Santa Barbara High School students as well.

“It was amazing working in the film with Patrick and the rest of the crew.

I was happy to have helped out,” says sophomore Sören Wilde. Everyone who participated and gave their time played an important role in Patrick’s success.

The film is about two high school students and best friends named Becca and Bryce, who are both eager to befriend (or more) the attractive new kid, Zeke.

Becca decides to ask Zeke out on a date.

However, Bryce tries to explain to her that Zeke is not interested in dating her—or any girl for that matter. Becca disregards Bryce’s assumption and decides to try anyways. Once Zeke agrees to go on a date with Becca, he cancels at the last minute, which leads to a not-so-shocking

Staff Spotlight: Sarinna Rodenas

Sarinna Rodenas works in the counseling office at SBHS. Photo Credit: Sarinna Rodenas

Sarinna Rodenas works in the counseling office at Santa Barbara High School, performing multiple jobs all packed into one!

She is in charge of printing and distributing transcripts, managing the counselors’ appointment calendars, answering any questions students or parents may have, and so on. Sarinna describes her work as “crazy and different every day, but fun and never dull.” Sarinna stays busy all through the week. In fact, during her interview with me she was still able to answer questions from parents, students, and counselors. Sarinna might work in a crazy environment, but she “keeps her James Sperlin Staff Reporter

cool” in most situations. Ms. Porter, one of the SBHS counselors, describes Sarinna as a very “personable. She is also helpful and makes everyone feel important.”

Sarinna is an active SBHS alumnus, having graduated in 1989. Sarinna has three children, two of whom are students at SBHS. Her son Elijah is currently a senior, and her daughter Jess is a junior. However, her kids don’t like her working at their school. “My kids can’t get away with anything because I know all of their teachers,” Sarinna says half-jokingly. She also has a twoyear-old son named Samuel.

Outside of school, Sarinna regularly runs and practices yoga. “I started running a little while back and I really love it,” Sarinna explains. She has ran two marathons, one of which was a few weeks ago near the Santa Monica Pier. Now she is training for a third!

“Running helps me keep my sanity.”

Many students can attest that Sarinna is a pleasure to work with. “She’s funny and she always has something to do, but it’s always fun to work with her. She’s one of my favorite staff members,” says Courtney Carlos, a junior. Freshman Fabio Rodriguez agrees, stating that “she’s very nice, and the way she talks to people is just fantastic.”

Sarinna Rodenas has worked hard to earn the recognition she has been given, and she never takes advantage of it. She plays an important role in making Santa Barbara High School function so well!

plot twist. Becca then sees her best friend Bryce holding hands with Zeke outside the movie theatre.

“Patrick’s film was a real slam dunk. It was grilling, riveting, and spellbinding. I believe Pat has a great chance at making it to Hollywood...or Bollywood,” admired SBHS senior Wesley Powell.

After Patrick waited eagerly through the screening of all the films, the suspense of finding out if he had won was killing him. Finally, Patrick’s name was called up to the stage to be presented with a check for $500 to Samy’s Camera. His film was played for the closing ceremony of the SBIFF at the Arlington Theatre.

Currently, Patrick is working part time, both filming and editing for clients. “[The] MAD Academy did influence me to enter into the competition, [and] now I am very happy that they convinced me to,” says Patrick. The rising star has a passion for filming and this has been an important step in pursuing his dream.

SBHS sophomore Patrick Hall won the SBIFF 10-10-10 Contest.

Photo Credit: Ted Smith

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March 8, 2013

Features Mr. Forster’s poem, “Max”

Santa Barbara High School English teacher Paul Forster received an Honorable Mention in the New Millennium Writings competition for his original poem, “Max.” His name will be included on the Awards page of the next issue of New Millennium Writings, and will appear at www.newmillenniumwritings.com, along with other winners of the 34th consecutive Awards. “The winners and runner-ups were selected from about 1000 total submissions.” Fortser’s poem is featured below, and we hope to publish it on the new Forge website shortly.

“Max”

Getting caught tossing Schlitz 40s in the liquor store dumpster I’m standing outside the Thai place Was the final straw and got Max mailed When my Brother’s girlfriend asks if I all the way back know Max To a ratty trailer in a forgotten corner of It takes a minute, then a big grin hits my Washington face I missed his howling happiness so much We blitzkrieged bumper cars I had holes in my heart Max’s broad freckled face bright red I draped around the high school halls like Under his howling mop of hair a ghost Sparks raining from the roof When the first day of summer split the Rock and roll blasting school open Metal slamming Like a ripe pomegranate A pair of screaming girls with too much I was the first red seed that hit the 101 make-up With a pocketful of burger joint money And too much hair I hitchhiked up to see him Busting into our cherry-red hotrod One youth-mad soul looking for another Every chance they got Our third night At sixteen Max bailed out on his drunken We were laughing like madmen old man Gorging on chips and beer and showed up on his brother’s doorstep When his old man Face red as a taillight We were the new kids in town Threw open the door He crushed cardboard behind the liquor Called Max dog crap store Threatened to beat the hell out of him I took the night shift at the burger joint And then told me to Get the hell back We’d work late, meet on the beach, get under whatever rock it was high I’d crawled out from under Eat beef jerky, talk about girls: He kicked the dog Max was in love with juicy-lipsYvonne And passed out in the yard

We slipped past his snoring corpse Tossed my ratty backpack in the truck bed And careened down miles of two-lane roads To the summer hotspot A thick green lazy river Where girls in cut-offs listened to Heart and The Boss And whip-thin boys took a last puff, flicked their butts into the blue And toppled from a soaring railroad trestle Like they’d been shot When the day dropped down to shadows Max cranked up the truck And dropped me on the dirty diesel edge of I-5 I got my pack out of the rusty bed And the interstate roared by my shoes Like a hot red river of melted chrome and smashed tail lights

Max’s fist shot out of the truck window And gave the world the finger He leaned farther out the window, hit my shoulder, hard, said, “Damn, dude, I love you!”

Then he tipped his head back, yelled, “Screw ‘em all!”

Wolf-howled out a last rebel yell Hit the gas And disappeared down a two lane hole When his grades started sliding When dawn bit the edges of the sky with Of hope, dust and torn-up twilight His brother threatened to kick him back ragged teeth to his old man Max snagged his old man’s keys I’m outside the Thai place

Old and beat to hell by all the usual suspects That plunder the starry vaults of youth And my Brother’s new honey won’t leave it alone I find out Max has been a plumber for twenty years His kid’s on drugs And then the girlfriend outdoes herself: I’m afraid I have some really bad news He’s paralyzed from a motorcycle accident I’m stuck in the cement of dirty parking lot Like an old brush stuck in a can of drying paint Broken words around my feet like spent bullets Way down under my dusty ribs My heart kick starts the Harley of hurt Hops on and goes hunting for the Max I knew My brother sees my face And drags his new honey away before she can do any more damage I sit there a long time A long time And then I remember a gap-toothed kid Who toppled off of railway trestle into rivers so green They hurt your eyes

Dear Dawn: The Forge’s new advice column Dear Dawn, I’m a sophomore and I have had my first boyfriend ever.

The last time a guy talked to me was in Jr. High and I fell in love with him right away and we weren’t even together, but I had a crush on him. A few weeks later after we started talking, everything just stopped and he acted like I didn’t even exist. I felt awful, the first guy who liked me walked away and I don’t even know why. Well now it’s been two years and I’m pretty over it. But now I’m in a new relationship-a real one-we have been together for three months now and I’m really starting to trust him, but I’m scared that he might just randomly walk away one day...

What should I do?

Trisha, 15

jerk that did you wrong in Jr. High. He’s nothing. Boys can be stupid, but don’t sell out your new guy for mistakes the old one made. Every guy is different. It’s been three months and chances are he won’t just walk away without a reason. If you are starting to trust him then test it by talking to him about how you feel. If he truly cares he’ll understand how you are feeling and maybe reassure you that he’s not going anywhere. If not, then he’s not worth the heartache. I hope this helps!

Dawn

anymore. Please, please help!

I want my turtle back too his normal self.

Jimmy, 13

again. She left back to SM this past semester and I miss her a lot. We never spend time together and we both have separate lives. She feels I have no time for her and I’m ignoring her, but it’s not true. What should I do? I really don’t want her upset with me. What would you do? Any advice?

Emily, 18

Dear Jimmy, I used to have a turtle named Khloè and sometimes she’d seem sad too. I decided she needed a new tank and a hot lamp for her to thrive and live. Sunlight, warm weather, and a big tank for a turtle are necessary for them to have a happy Dear Emma, healthy life and good mood. I hope Frank I’m sorry that you and your friends are gets better. Don’t worry too much. Just do what you can to make him feel happier. going through a hard time. I understand some of what you’re going through beDear Dawn, Good luck! cause I’ve been through similar situations I have a turtle named Frank Dawn like this. I suggest that you text her or and he’s going through a hard write her a letter about how you feel and time right now. I think he’s deabout how much your friendship means pressed and lonely when I’m Dear Dawn, at school. I have no idea what I have a friend whom I’ve to you. Maybe she will find a way to to do or how to make him feel known now for years. Over talk about it with you and you can work better. I’ve tried feeding him the years, our friendship has things out. Friendships come and go in lettuce, talking to him, and I changed constantly. About a high school but if you put in enough efeven took him on a special year ago, we became supper fort, I’m sure that you can make it work. date and bought him flow- close when she came to SBHS. Good luck!

Dear Trisha, ers but he’s still so sad. I just Dawn My best advice is to learn from that don’t know what else to do We were best friends all over

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March 8, 2013

“Why do I grow a beard? Because they are awesome! I get to shave less, look manly (older), and they cover my zits! Women have makeup, I’ve got a beard.”

Blake Parsons, Staff

Facial Hair

“I am too lazy to shave it off.”

Henry Richardson, Grade 12

?

“It really helps with the ladies, they like to snuggle in it.”

Adam Betters, Grade 12

“I wash it with shampoo in the shower.”

Wyatt Dale, Grade 11

“I wanted to do something different with my face.”

Pericles Spanos, Grade 10

“To stay warm in the winter.”

Will Pulice, Grade 10 “I grew it because my middle name is actually $.”

Nico Rivera, Grade 11

“My mustache is than yours Gabe Kaster, Gr

“I don’t have to shave.

I hate shaving.”

Charles Ortega, Staff

Carlos Williams, Staff

“It’s manly.”

Julio Rangel, Grade 12

“I forget to shav Jesus Torres, Grad

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March 8, 2013

“Sometimes it feels like it has a mind of its own.”

Donte Owens, Grade 11

r at SBHS

s better s.” rade 12

ve.” de 12

“El bigote de pancho villa!”

Armando Castillo (lil Ronnie), Grade 12

“I hate shaving, and I’m self conscious about my chin.”

Jose Caballero, Staff

AJ Henning, Staff

“Just lazy, haven’t shaved yet.”

Jason Wetzel, Staff

“If you buy me food, I’ll shave.”

Collin Fasth, Grade 12

John Becchio, Staff Griffin Saxon, Grade 12

“It’s to make up for this *points to bald head*” Mario Rodriguez, Staff

Rubin Gil, Staff

Tony Sandrich, Staff

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8 De Marzo del 2013

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SBHS

FORJA

Como encajar Yvonne Murillo La Forja Editor

Nuestra escuela está compuesta de una variedad de grupos sociales, haciendo que cada estudiante encuentre su propio lugar.

Cada uno de esos grupos consisten de: porristas, equipo de baile, y obviamente los mejores atletas de la escuela, etc. Para formar parte o ser aceptado por ciertos de esos grupos, los estudiantes tienen que contar con la personalidad adecuada, sentido del humor, incluso apariencia.

Los estudiantes en nuestra escuela ya no se separan a ellos mimos mediante a etnicidad como solía serlo, si no basados en que tan popular es cada uno.

Hay estudiantes que le caen bien a casi todas las personas por su buen sentido del humor y su buena vibra, mientras otros

tienen que buscar maneras para poder encajar.

El uso de drogas se ha convertido en uno de los métodos más comunes para llamar la atención. El hecho de poder conseguir drogas (lo cual no es algo difícil) hace que los jóvenes se sientan bien con ellos mismos y también de ganar un poco de fama. Estos jóvenes ya no son considerados drogadictos, sino como personas rudas o superiores.

La necesidad de identificarse como miembro de un grupo social es frecuentemente la necesidad de no sentirse solo. Hay estudiantes con la personalidad más agradable que sin embargo, pasan algo de su tiempo libre con amigos para consumir drogas. Lo que una vez los tenia por encima de todo, es

*Our usual Spanish editor was unavailable to edit the Spanish section of La Forja for this issue. We apologize for any errors due to this inconvenience.

lo mismo que los llevará a lo más hondo.

Aparte de compañía, ¿qué más buscan los jóvenes? Vamos a ver que dijeron algunos estudiantes de nuestra escuela mediante al tema.

Después de una entrevista con algunos estudiantes de quienes identidad permanecerá confidencial; uno de ellos mencionó: “estudiantes usan drogas por dos razones, realmente les gusta el efecto de lo que consumen, o lo hacen por ser vistos como rudos y superiores”.

Lo cual tiene sentido, ¿Por qué no le agradaría a un estudiante ser visto con superioridad? Otro estudiante admitió: “Todos me respetan y estoy rodeado por personas que me admiran, mientras en realidad soy una gallina, porque no hago nada por mi mismo”. ¿Quiere decir esto

que por dentro sienten constantemente una culpa? Generalmente, ¡SI! Uno de los estudiantes quiso dejarme saber: “En el momento que estoy usando drogas, me siento por encima de todos, cuando termina el efecto, siento que no soy nadie.

Después de todo ser popular no es de gran uso porque mis conocidos no estarán ahí para mí cuando los necesite, solo estará mi familia; quien nunca me dejara sólo”.

Después de todo el tener muchas amistades no siempre es de gran importancia. Lo que es de importancia es el saber escoger a las personas que queremos cerca de nosotros, quienes no nos van a inducir a “probar algo nuevo” no hay que recurrir a personas solo porque tan atractivos, populares, o atléticos sean.

Our school is made up of a variety of social groups where students find a place for themselves.

These groups consist of cheerleaders, the dance team, athletes, and more. To be part of one of these social groups, one must have personality, good humor, and even the right appearance. Students at SBHS no longer segregate themselves by ethnicity; instead, we segregate based on popularity.

Some students are accepted by almost anyone because of their good sense of humor and personality, while others need to look for alternative ways to “fit-in.”

The use of drugs has become one of the most common methods used by teens to be noticed. Having the ability to obtain drugs (which isn’t all that difficult) makes teenagers feel good about themselves while also allowing them to gain some social status. These teenagers aren’t considered drugs addicts anymore; instead they are considered the “tough ones.”

Teens feel the need to identify themselves as a member of a certain social group to not feel alone. There are students with wonderful personalities who spend their weekends consuming drugs with friends. What now makes them feel as if they are on top of the world will one day bring them down.

Besides company, what else are teenagers in search of? Let’s see what some of the students on our campus think: When interviewing multiple students whose identities are to remain confidential, one of them mentioned that “students use drugs for two reasons: they either love the effect of them, or they do it to be seen as rough guys.” This makes sense. Why wouldn’t a student like to be seen as superior? Another student admitted that “everyone respects me and

I’m also around people who look up to me, while in the inside I’m just a chicken, doing nothing for myself.” Does this mean that on the inside they feel some type of blame? Yes! Another student said, “at the moment I’m using drugs I feel above others, but once the effect is gone, I feel like I’m worth nothing. After all, being popular is of no use since my friends won’t be there for me when I need them, there will only be my family who would never leave me alone.”

Maybe the amount of friends a person has isn’t important. What is important is to choose the friends who you enjoy spending time with, who won’t pressure you to “try something new.” Let’s not choose our friends based on how attractive, popular, or athletic they are.

Let’s not use drugs to fit in or to maintain a false image.

Translated: How to “fit in” Yvonne Murillo La Forja Editor

Wanted La Forja reporters!

Can you speak and write Spanish?

Contact: Yvonne Murillo La Forja Editor murilloy95@yahoo.com

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March 8, 2013

Fun and Games Easy

Hard

Comic by Alida Seigel

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March 8, 2013

Entertainment Side Effects Review

Rooney Mara and Channing Tatum star in Side Effects.

Photo Credit: apnatimepass.com Emma Cisek Staff Reporter

Side Effects, directed by Steven Soderbergh, tells a twisted tale, full of lies and deceit. The story begins with Emily and Martin Taylor (Rooney Mara and Channing Tatum), a young couple living in New York. After serving a four-year sentence for insider trading, Martin is released from prison and quickly tries to rebuild the wealth he previously had.

Shortly after Martin’s release, Emily attempts suicide, and psychiatrist Jonathan Banks (Jude Law) is assigned by the state to her case. Dr. Banks agrees to release Emily from the hospital as long as she attends frequent sessions with him. After prescribing Emily a series of anti-depressants that fail to work, Dr. Banks meets with Emily’s previous psychiatrist, Dr. Victoria Siebert (Catherine ZetaJones), who suggests he give her Ablixa. Jonathan is hesitant about giving Emily the experimental drug until her second suicide attempt. Aside from severe sleepwalking episodes, the medication seems to work and Emily begins to reclaim her normal life with her husband. Dr. Banks continues to monitor Emily, and she seems to be recovered until a violent accident happens during a sleepwalking episode of hers.

After an investigation, Emily is put on trial and Jonathan Banks is blamed for misdiagnosing Emily’s condition. Emily agrees to an insanity plea deal in which she will be declared innocent as long as she stays in a mental institution until cleared by a psychiatrist. After Emily is put into the institution, Jonathan’s life begins to fall apart due to the bad publicity he received during the case. Starting an investigation of his own to prove he did nothing wrong, Jonathan becomes aware of some bizarre circumstances. This leads him to believe Dr. Victoria Siebert and Emily have been conspiring together.

Jonathan continues to investigate, trying to reach a conclusion in this peculiar turn of events.

Rolling Stone called Side Effects “a hell of a thriller” that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film was thoroughly intriguing and mind bending, and it was a real treat to see Channing Tatum break away from his usual cookiecutter roles and star in such an intense movie.

Although the ever-changing plot kept many intrigued, The Hollywood Reporter argues that “the filmmakers throw at least one plot-twist sucker-punch too many.”

So it may have been a bit overdone, but Side Effects is certainly a compelling film that will keep the viewers glued to the screen.

Beautiful Creatures Review Courtney Werthman Staff Reporter

Beautiful Creatures, a film by Richard LaGravenese, tells the tale of love between the supernatural and mortal kind. Ethan (Alden Ehrenreich) is a young man whose dreams have been haunted by a young girl. Amongst the small town in which he lives, it is rumored that the newly arrived family, the Duchannes, is a group of Satanists.

The Christian town targets the young Lena Duchannes (Alice Englert), who coincidentally is the girl who haunts Ethan’s dreams.

As the school year starts, Lena arrives to the high school as a new face in the small student body. As she gets acquainted with her new life, Lena discovers more about her family’s history in the town. Ethan meets Lena in class on the first day, and things quickly go awry. Lena faces constant bullying by the “popular” girls of the school, but Ethan, the popular “pretty-boy,” stands up for her. Their friendship quickly develops into something more, as they spend more time with one another.

Later, Lena confesses to Ethan that she

has supernatural powers. She faces dire consequences due to showing him her powers, leaving Ethan vulnerable to the evil witches, who could kill him. Their lives are torn apart by their opposing societies, facing a forbidden love, which puts both of them in harm’s way.

As the movie progresses, details are revealed about Lena and her family’s past. If you don’t pay attention, then some points might be hard to understand, and certain scenes might not make sense to you. In my opinion this film is a little boring at times, but junior Breana Jimenes felt differently; “[she] loved it!” SBHS junior Jazlyn Roman felt the film was “very suspenseful,” and sophomore Bella Soler felt that “it was sort of weird, but [she] thought it was like Twilight.”

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend seeing the movie. I felt that there was too little suspense to keep the film interesting, and that it’s almost a Twilight knock-off if anything. If you do choose to see Beautiful Creatures, stock up on popcorn and candy; you’ll need something to entertain you through this long and uneventful film.

Alden Ehrenreich and Alice Englert star in Beautiful Creatures.

Photo Credit: collider.com The Forge would like to apologize to the SBHS Theatre Department and Bowen Fredericks for publishing a review of Music of the Night that was not properly edited.

Multiple statements were not true. More importantly, we failed to include the name of the author, Colette Speer. We take full responsibility for our actions and would like you to know that we did not intend to hurt anybody, especially not a fellow Don. Forge Staff 2012-2013

Album Review: “Clash the Truth” by Beach Fossils The band Beach Fossils is known for their energetic live performances, and that energy that is showcased in the opening track of their new album Clash the Truth. This is the band’s second full-length studio album release, but only one of many compilations that this indie rock band has released in the form of vinyl records and EPs. Beach Fossils began as the solo project of Dustin Payseur, the band’s front man, songwriter, and lead musician. Payseur recorded the Beach Fossils’ self-titled album on his own, playing all of the instruments. In late 2009, the album Sky Ulep Staff Reporter

began to gain recognition through blog reviews and local shows in Brooklyn.

After getting signed to Captured Tracks, a record label, Beach Fossils was formed into a full band. They began to tour the United States with a scattered lineup that included twelve drummers and three guitarists. In March of 2011, Payseur worked with bassist John Peña in recording the EP What a Pleasure, which was well received.

Shortly after the release, the band went on an international tour through Europe and the U.S. Their latest album’s opening track “Clash the Truth” builds with an enthusiastic chant indicative of the

wide range of directions it will take.

The record changes its mood in the third track, “Sleep Apnea,” when it features an acoustic-guitar based sound, but soon picks up with the upbeat song “Careless.” The album consists of multiple instrumentals, and an overall upbeat sound.

The record includes a juxtaposition of styles that seem to contradict one another, yet somehow allow the album to flow with a relaxing, yet energetic vibe.

The use of both soothing instrumental pieces and lively electric guitar riffs help create a sound unlike anything else. “I like Beach Fossils because it is a unique kind of sound,” says Roy

Cannon-Berg, a junior at Santa Barbara High School. “It’s different and exotic,” junior Jill Rogers agrees. “I love Beach Fossils! Their music is great and they have a song for every situation.”

From a professional point of view, Paste Magazine states, “The success of Clash the Truth is easy to spot from its opening title-track, which sits comfortably between New Order’s post-punk and, well, New Order’s new wave.” If you’re interested, you can purchase Clash the Truth on iTunes.

If you’re looking for a unique way to listen to the record, Captured Tracks website is selling the album on vinyl and cassette tape.

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March 8, 2013

Sports Captain Interview: Sergio Palma Shannon Rogers Staff Reporter

Sergio Palma is the Color Guard captain at SBHS. Photo Credit: Ted Smith

Sergio Palma is the captain of Santa Barbara High School’s Color Guard team. However, Palma didn’t originally intend to be in Color Guard at all; he just wanted to dance. Palma was on a dance team, which happened to be combined with Color Guard and then converted to Color Guard.

The director of Color Guard, Charlie Ortega, says Palma is a responsible captain who sees to it that his teammates are not goofing around, and makes sure they are always following the routine. When asked about this year’s team with Palma at the lead, Ortega says “it’s different because they are new, none of them have any prior experience, so I’d say they are outstanding in that regard. They come in looking like a seasoned team that’s been around for a long time. That to me has something to do with Sergio and how he motivates [the team] to do their very best, just like he does.”

Many of Palma’s teammates agree with

Melanie Salazar, who describes him as a great captain: strict, but also very fun and easy to get along with.

Can you tell us a bit about Color Guard?

It’s very easy, but hard at the same time.

We have to use flags, sabers, and swords.

We throw them up in the air and have to catch them correctly. It’s pretty fun.

How long have you been working in Color Guard?

Since last summer so not very long.

What got you interested in Color Guard?

I was on a dance team, which was also Color Guard. I wanted to try something new and challenging.

What are your responsibilities as captain?

I have to make sure that the team is listening to me, not goofing around, no noise during class. I have to keep them in line and make sure they know what they are doing.

What are your thoughts on this year’s team?

It’s all very new to me, and the others.

We are good, but we are getting better every day.

How did you get the position as Captain?

The director [Charlie Ortega] was looking for someone responsible. I showed more responsibility than the others.

Ortega believes “that [Palma] would be successful at [Color Guard] because [Palma]’s got the right attitude and stage presence. I think he’d make a good career out of it if he were to pursue it, whether it was dance or entertainment, acting or singing in that regard.”

All in all, Sergio Palma says there is a very good chance he will keep participating in Color Guard, and he is currently trying to improve his techniques. His teammates look up to him and respect him, and Coach Charlie Ortega describes him as a spirited captain who has a good connection with other students without being demeaning.

Rising Athlete: Abby Guillen

Anthony Spann Sports Editor

Abby Guillen is one of several students who can balance strong academics with impressive athletic performances. As a rising star on Santa Barbara High School’s girl’s varsity soccer team, Abby has overcome position changes, ankle injuries, and much more to find herself a Channel League Champion.

This achievement has fulfilled a lifelong dream for Abby, who was introduced to the game at a very young age by her father. “[Soccer] would always be on our TV,” Guillen says with a smile, “so I started playing as soon as I could and kept playing ever since. I can’t see myself without it.”

Abby came to SBHS as a strong midfielder but was later forced to assume a new role as center back. It was an entirely new position for her and she wasn’t always sure that she could pull it off. “In club,” Abby notes, “I play defensive midfielder and look to pass the

ball to our forwards while helping the defense.”

“She was strong in the back and knew the game better than most,” said Coach Johnson. “We needed her to play center back more than anything.” And that is just what she did. As center back, Abby’s talents have found a new venue.

“I play defensively much more now than I did before,” Abby adds, “and I take responsibility for coaching my teammates in front of me in order to make sure we’re all on the same page.” Her position change has benefited the team as a whole, and after last year’s disappointing finish in CIF play, it was just what the team needed to elevate their game.

“I wasn’t sure that I could make the move,” Abby said, somewhat surprised.

“As a sophomore,” Abby continued, “my goal was to be a starter on a team that was already loaded with talent.” However, a position change could have made that goal impossible, but Abby didn’t let that get in her way. “When I was moved to

a new position,” Abby remarked, “it was very scary for me, but I overcame my fear and played hard all season and eventually got called up to be a starter.”

Clearly, this change had a dramatic impact. Last year, the Dons finished the season winless in league play and this year they came home as Channel League Champions. “Prior years did not compare to this year,” Abby notes. “This year we were more like a family--we truly connected and that was our key to success.” With the help of her teammates and her parents, who Abby calls “her greatest supporters,” this Rising Athlete has a promising future.

Abby, although only a sophomore, has high aspirations for her soccer career. She hopes to keep her team’s winning streak alive next season. “Winning League made me so thankful for being on this team,” Abby says as she runs she runs off to practice, “I couldn’t be more proud and I can’t to see what we put together next year.”

Congratulations to Santa Barbara High School’s recent Channel League Champions: Boys Basketball, Girls Soccer, and Girls Water Polo!

Abigail Guillen is a sophomore on the Girls Soccer team at SBHS. Photo Credit: Ted Smith

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March 8, 2013

Forge Vault

ASB Update Emma Deardorff Staff Relations Commissioner Hey guys! Summer is approaching and it’s crunch time for AP studying, Prom fundraising, and all things ASB. As always, here is a schedule of upcoming events: Saturday, March 9th: Senior Carwash. SBHS seniors are raising money for Prom by putting on a carwash at Mackenzie Market this Saturday. Tickets are on presale for $8 and are $10 at the event. The money that we raise will help lower ticket prices of Prom and Grad Night so come and pay us to do the work that you don’t want to do.

Thursday, March 14th: ASB elections will take place in your second period class. Your fellow classmates will be running for next year’s ASB President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Pep and Rally. Be sure to cast your ballot!

Friday, April 5th: Two things will be going down on April 5th; our second Pep Rally will take place before lunch so be there or be square. Also, that night, the junior class is putting on a double dollar dance for some cheap fun.

It’s the last dance of the year before Prom!

Finish the year strong! Help raise money for school events by coming to the car wash and the double dollar dance, and support our sports teams by attending the Pep Rally and other sporting events!

Enjoy this article about Santa Barbara High School chants in 1909!

How do these chants compare to current ones?

Forge Vault by Sky Ulep