JUNE 2009VOLUME VI, ISSUE IVA HOLLYWOOD HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT PUBLICATION

INSIDE THIS ISSUE...

Hollywood High School’s Media/Technology students will be entering their videos in a film festival held at the Egyptian Theatre on June 13, 2009. The festival is called Tripleplay and it will be showing narrative films submitted by students from Cleveland High School, Kennedy High School and Hollywood High School. One of the three films that is being submitted by some of our own students, seniors Joshua Marroquin and Jordon Sprouse, is about a kid named Daniel who has a dysfunctional home life and moves to a new school. At the new school he tries to make friends but is bullied by his peers and struggles with making it through school.

Marroquin directed the film, Sprouse wrote the script and the Media/Technology students worked on the film. The actors, Robert Halliwell, Jorge Perez, Paulo Cova Rosales, and Elizabeth Giron are from the Performing Arts Magnet. “Working with Josh [the director] was extremely difficult, making my job almost impossible,” said Jordon jokingly. The Egyptian Theatre made a special deal with Hollywood High so that any student who shows their student I.D. can get into any screening for free. This will be an official American Cinematheque event and is open to the public.

LESLIE OrOzCO

Hollywood High students participate in film festivalThe Media/Technology students creatively showcase their knowledge of digital video.

Senior Stephen Hernandez won a $50,000 scholarship after placing third place in the 2009 C-Cap competition finals at The Art Institute of Santa Monica May 29th. Hernandez was accepted to the New England Institute after being offered other scholarships like a $2000 scholarship to Los Angeles Trade Tech, a scholarship to the Art Institute in Atlanta, and a $9000 scholarship program to New England Culinary Institute. During the preliminary round, senior Byron Ruiz and junior Jonathan Sosa unfortunately did not have the opportunity to proceed to the finals. It is also unfortunate that the judges do not tell competitors what mistakes were made and what flaws, if any, their dishes had. Sosa was not able to proceed to the finals because that is as far as juniors go. Even though Sosa did not proceed, he said, “It was exactly what I expected because it was everything we practiced.” The preliminary round consisted of the knife cuts julienne, batonnet, tourney, small dice, and brunoise. Then competitors also had to cook a French omelet made of three eggs, salt, and pepper then whisked. It is then put to cook

and then folded like a three fold omelet. Ruiz said, “even though I did not make it, it was good to know how well I did under pressure. I also wish Stephen the best.” While on the other hand, Hernandez said he was pretty confident. Before the finals, Hernandez claimed that the thought of worrying did not come to his mind, and was going to wait to see how it went and “cook [his] heart out” and be happy with whatever the judges decided. During the final round, competitors had to finish a dish called Hunter’s Chicken and crepes with chocolate sauce and pastry cream. The Hunter’s Chicken consisted of a chicken breast that was seared until it had some brown then put into an oven. For the sauce, whatever was left, like burned bits, was put into the sauce. Then the crepes were made of flour, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Finally, the pastry cream and chocolate sauce came. Hernandez clamed that he was nervous during the finals because he had to finish four plates in two minutes. When the cooking was over, students had to wait for hours to be interviewed. Hernandez claimed that there were thirty-four students and Hernandez

was number thirty-one. He said that the interviewers asked who their biggest influence were, what were their future plans, and asked if parents gave permission for traveling. Hernandez expressed that his dream was to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Late in the weekend, NECI called Hernandez to ask if he talked to his parents and if he registered. The award ceremony became suspenseful for Hernandez. As the scholarships were called out smallest to highest quantity, Hernandez almost doubted whether he was going to get a scholarship. Hernandez’s name was finally called and he received his scholarship. The president of C-Cap, Richard Grausman, explained to Hernandez that he had one year to learn the basics at NECI, then later work paid internships around the world. Hernandez said, “I’m sort of nervous of leaving California and leaving home, but I’m leaving for the best, and I’m taking advantage of it. It’s only two years.” Hernandez felt very lucky to have won this scholarship, since ten judges picked him as their number one and fought for him to get this scholarship.

$50,000 AWARDED TO HERNANDEZELIzABETH MArqUEz

The longer lunch-time dilemma

...page 3

Guide to Summer...page 5

Retiring teachers...page 6

Prom...page 7

School play wows...page 8

We need more sports...page 9

Fashionable Sheiks

...page 10

Writing and art...page 12

PHOTO CrEDIT: DAVID PAPASTePhen heRnandez PoSeS with the dishes that earned him his scholarship: Hunter’s chicken and crepes.

PHOTO CrEDIT: UCHENNA MASHALIGhTS, CaMeRa, aCTIon! From left to right: students Paulo Cova Rosales, Archavanich “Archie” Kawmongkolsi, Alvaro “Gir” Rodarte, Jordan Sprouse, Edgar Jinenez, Joshua Marroquin, and Daniel Cho on the set of their film. Marroquin di-rected the movie, while Sprouse wrote the script for the film. It will be one of a handful of films submitted by Hollywood’s Media/Technology students. Movies from Cleveland High School and Kennedy High School will also debut.

HOLLYWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

The Crimson Chronicle

LUCY BLaGG...EDITOr-IN-CHIEFBoSTon aLBa...COPY EDITOr

SaGaR VoRa...BUSINESS MANAGEr

SRee BaTChUYenoRY ChaVeS

doRa ChaVezKIaRa hURTado

TIFFanY JohnSonanTonIo LoPez

eLIzaBeTh MaRQUezLeSLIe oRozCo

anThonY QUInoneSedUaRdo UMana

adRIeL VIoLa

KaRen CUSoLITo...ADVISER

CRIMSON CHRONICLE STAFF

2 JUne 2009

The all-new yearbook staff distributed the 2009 Yearbook at their very first Yearbook Distribution party. The party took place after school in the big gym. Everybody who purchased the yearbook was invited to attend, and those who did received the yearbook first. For the very first time, this signing party occurred as a way for students to receive their yearbook instead of waiting in the long lines at the student store. At the signing party, food and refreshments were given to the students, and also music was played for the students to dance and have fun to. The yearbook staff wanted to be remembered for giving such an event and breaking the old tradition and so, the party was the perfect way to demonstrate this. In contrast with the past years, the 2009 yearbook includes most type of events which

were covered, accommodates the entire student body, and has color. It is said that the yearbook will be entirely in color, the glossy and elegant pages which entirely different from the past styles. The cover is custom-made-- students worked together and combined their artwork to create the front cover. This upcoming yearbook has been the work of a new staff with an all new sponsor, Miss Potrovitza, and they have put even more emphasis on the “quality” of their product. The 2009 yearbook staff worked very hard and dedicated themselves to make a new change. It is said that this new yearbook is on top of all the rest for making it so unique and irreplaceable. Staff member Daisy Cruz wanted to remind everyone that “the yearbook is something that can be saved up and kept as a treasure.”

DORA CHAVEZ

neWS BRIeFSNEW SCHEDULE Next September Hollywood High students will be starting school five minutes earlier, at 7:55 a.m., and getting out five later, which mean that students will have to wait until 3:13 p.m. to go home. Those extra ten minutes will be added to lunch, meaning that instead of a thirty minute lunch, Hollywood High will now have a forty minute lunch time. Another change to the schedule is that on shortened Tuesdays, advisory will be excluded from the schedule. -- Eduardo Umana CHANGE A LIFE FOUNDATION Every year, in countless high schools across the nation, there are numerous graduates who with hard work and commitment are eligible for scholarships. These scholarships acknowledge students for various attributes, hardships, encouragement in a specific area of study, an event that has disadvantaged a student from attending college; due to a injury, illness, or catastrophe. This year, Hollywood High had three deserving graduates who were awarded with the $5,000 scholarship from the Change a Life Foundation. The students are: Zoljargal Badral,

who will be attending UC San Diego, Miguel Larios, UCLA, and Krystal Ramirez, UC Riverside. These students are a part of the School for Advanced Studies Program, and will be honored at an awards dinner on June 15. -- Tiffany Johnson LEADERSHIP APPLICATIONS This year, leadership received approximately 50 applications, few of which were not admitted. The majority of students, who turned in applications, recommendation letters and were eminent in their interviews, received red acceptance letters for the upcoming year. About 35 students were selected and are anticipating what is supposed to be “the best year yet.” A small number of students who were not accepted and received white letters; according to Mr. Hayes, all students who applied were “great people” and unfortunately leadership can only acquire so many students. In addition, the bulk of student applicants were from the School for Advanced Studies. Heavy on SAS, this year and next year will lack students from other Small Learning Communities. Could it be their lack of interest or perhaps student unawareness? Leadership wants a staff diverse in SLCs; they hope that next time other SLCs will be more

The current state of the economic crisis has affected both students and teachers as summer school is cut and numerous teachers are displaced from their jobs. On May 28th, Los Angeles School District officials announced that the summer and intersession programs have been canceled for elementary and middle school students “due to declining revenues and the current State budget deficit.” Summer school for high school students is limited for those students who need to make up fails, according to assistant principle Rosalina Cua

Go. According to the Los Angeles Times, community colleges also have announced that they have cancelled their summer school program. These summer school cancellations will save the district $34 million, although LAUSD officials need to cut about $97 million more before July. Teachers will also be affected. About six teachers received pink slips, which means they are being laid off according to UTLA chapter chair Carlos Garcia. Teachers with the least seniority must find another job in another school district. In

addition, about nine teachers will be displaced because of declining enrollment Garcia said. These teachers will lose their jobs here at Hollywood High, but will be placed at other schools in the District. The displacement of teachers would not affect the sizes of classes since the school receives money from the Quality Education Acts Investment (QEUI) funds. QEUI high schools receive $1,000 for each student. These funds are meant to reduce classroom size, improve teacher and principal training, and adding counselors to high schools.

Yearbook hosts release party

PHOTO CrEDIT: BOSTON ALBAChUG! ChUG! ChUG! Hollywood High’s annual All School Fair took place on last Friday, June 7. Students were treated to numerous attractions, as Hollywood’s various clubs set up booths along campus, hawking food and games. Here, members of the California Scholarship Federation cheer on participants of their club’s chugging contest. Another attraction popular with students was the Marriage Booth, where everyone from lovestruck couples to pranksters bought up vows for four dollars.

Budget cuts hit hardLAUSD and community colleges attempt to trim their financial debt by laying off teachers and cancelling summer school programs for students.ELIZABETH MARQUEZ

Teaching Academy seniors are planning a one-day trip to Catalina during the summer break due to social, ecologic, and educational reasons. Approximately 55 seniors, head teacher Kelly Bender, social studies teacher Ignacio Araujo, Spanish teacher Jess Dominguez, English teacher Lesley Harris, and former head teacher Juliana Glynn, plan to attend the Catalina Field trip, not only as their last social activity, but as an investigation of the ecological progress, since there was a fire about a year and a half ago. Students are to determine whether the community was doing okay, and if everything returned to its normal status. Originally, this trip was planned

for June 5th, but according to English teacher Carlos Garcia, there were some money issues. Garcia claims that the main purpose of this trip is for students to receive small lessons in science, English, and some math that were incorporated by their teachers. Students will take a bus to Long Beach where they will ride the Catalina Express Ferry. When students arrive, they plan to start out in the main boardwalk then venture toward the inner boardwalk. This was the first time the Teaching Academy has planned a field trip similar to the Catalina trip. The Catalina trip costs about four $4,ooo, which was funded by the California Community Foundation.

Teaching Academy’s seniors plan field tripELIZABETH MARQUEZ

OP/EDJUne 2009 3

Man on The STReeT

Question:

Recently, it has come to the attention of Hollywood High’s officials that our school has not been in compliance with a par-ticular LAUSD rule which stipu-lates that every student must have twenty full minutes to eat their own lunch. What this means is that, essentially, the very last kid in the lunch line should have twenty minutes to eat after he or she gets their lunch, which is currently not the case. Hollywood, then, needs to add ten minutes to our lunch time to ensure that every stu-dent is given an equal amount of time to enjoy their food. Currently, the school offi-cials have proposed remov-ing nutrition and adding those minutes to our lunch period. There have also been talks in-volving longer school days or starting school earlier. But, for whatever reason, school ad-ministrators have seemed to overlook the easiest and least controversial option: remov-ing ten minutes from advisory. Although advisory was estab-lished as a thirty-minute class to replace last year’s homeroom, it seems to serve no imperative educational benefit. The only perceivable objective it serves is to inform the students of school

news and updates, but thirty minutes seems a bit exces-sive for such a purpose. It suf-fices to say that there is a lack of consensus on how advisory should be run, as each teacher has their own curriculum -- or lack of curriculum. A class with an unstable curriculum has un-stable benefits. And make no mistake, it is a class -- advisory counts for exactly one credit per semester, though its hard to say why, unless theres some desper-ate seniors who urgently need those two credits to graduate. Most often, advisers allow their students to kick back in advi-sory, and the period ultimately amounts to nothing more than a half-hour social gathering. The unlucky students are stuck in advisories during which they have to turn in work -- even take-home work -- for an actual grade, loading on another item to the already wearisome jug-gling of homework, extra cur-riculars and AP classes. But it is not the teachers who assign the work that are to blame; it is the faulty concept behind advisory. After all, it is illegal to grade a student based simply on their attendance, and since advi-sory is worth credits, teachers face a legal imperative to grade

their students on some form of work. But the fact remains that the class is a burdensome time-waster, and unfair to boot: while most students are able to coast by with A’s, an unlucky few are subjected to B’s , C’s and even D’s for failing to complete their work. Those kind of marks can make a noticeable dent in your GPA, especially if you are gunning for a 4.0 or higher. We know that many students -- ourselves included -- enjoy being able to complete unfin-ished homework assignments during advisory, but its plainly unwise for the school to make a schedule decision with that fact in mind. It could even be said that advisory period promotes laziness and procrastination, as students dismiss assignments and plan to finish them in advi-sory. Homework is called home-work for a reason, and let’s face it -- would you give up nutri-tion, or even your time after school, for those extra fifteen minutes of procrastination? Rather than remove nutrition from our schedule or set a later dismissal, it would be much more logical for the ASB to eliminate fifteen minutes from an inefficient class period.

STaFF edIToRIaL

“Advisory...[it’s] useless; we do nothing in there.”

--Devante HarrisFreshman

LeTTeRS Digital Yearbook impresses students

Re “Digital Yearbook: a new tradition for Sheiks” I have attended Hollywood High School for the longevity of my educational experience. Throughout this period of time, HHS has undergone drastic changes, particularly in my senior year. With the development of Small Learning Communities, changes are occurring more frequently. One change that caught my eye was the announcement of the Digital Yearbook for 2009. The Media and Technology SLC has been putting together a new venture, never attempted in HHS history. This Digital Yearbook will be available to the entire school, which I consider a great gesture. HHS will have the traditional yearbook along with the digital yearbook for students to purchase, which gives students the opportunity to look back at their high school

experience. Students will be able to reminisce their high school moments not only in pictures but in video as well. Twenty years from now I will be able to look back at high school whether it be by flipping through pages or simply pressing play.

NOEL REyEs

Thank You Re “Hollywood students ‘take back the night for assault victims’ I am grateful that our Take Back the night event was covered in the front cover of the student newspaper, the Young Feminist Club is able to inform and let people know, not only the work that is being done in our community, but initiated at the Hollywood High School campus. Thank you for your time and effort that was put into writing about our club’s event. Sandy Merida, President of the

Young Feminist Club

“The school should open up more lunch lines. If they worry about staff...students from the Cooking Academy [can help out.]. It will be a valuable work experience.”

--Adam BrennerJunior

“We should get it from advisory.”

-- Juan RenaroSophomore

Longer lunches at a cost

Where should we get the ten minutes to add to lunch?

PHOTOS BY SrEE BACHUAND ANTHONY qUINONES

4 JUne 2009

ACOSTA ANA MA-rIA

ACUNA PEGGY

AGErKOP STEFFANIE

ALLEN-BOSCH NUrIA

ALVArEz DANIELA

ArCE DIANA

ArTHUr JESSICA

BANKS DEYONNA

BENNETT DEVE-ANN

BErrY DUrON

BrOWN FATINAH

CArDENAS CLAUDIA

CArNE ANDrE’

CASTELLANOS CINDY

CASTrO LEVY

CHACON ANNA

CHACON LESLIE

COOK FELICIA

COVA PAULO

CrUz DAISY

DAVIDSON CrISTINA

DELGADO LUz MArIA

FrEIrE ANTHONY

FULLEr ASHLEY

GAUCIN YANED

GIrON ELIzABETH

GONzALEz JENNIFEr

GONzALEz-AGUILAr EDGAr

HErNANDEz DIEGO

HErNANDEz JAzMIN

HErNANDEz SANDY

HICKS KrISTEN

HUEzO JAqUELINE

JIN XI JIN

JUArEz LESLIE

KAY AMBEr

KWAK SAMUEL

LEYVA JAMES

LINDAMOOD CAIT-LIN

LLANOS ABIGAIL

MAKSUDYAN TEr-EzA

MEDINA KArEN

MEzA JENNIFEr

MILLAGE DONISHA

NATHANSON rEBEC-CA

NEWTON SAMONE

NUNEz ALEXA

NWOrISA rICHArD

OrELLANA LAUrA

OSOrIO CLAUDIA

PAVLOVA YANA

PErEz JOrGE

PINA ALEXAN-DrA

POrTEr DErESHA

rANDALL EBONY

rEYES CAMILLE

rODrIGUEz JOSE

TAFOYA CATHE-rINE

TOBAr CArLOS

WILLIS JOI

zUNIGA DULCE CE-LENE

The Perform-ing Arts Mag-net would like to congratu-late the Class of 2009 Gradu-ates. Thank You for all your dedication and hard work. A special con-grats to our Co-Valedictorian Yana Pavlova!

JUne 2009 5

Best. Summer. Ever.SPeCIaL FeaTURe

We all love those lazy summer days spent sleeping in until noon, lounging around in our pajamas and generally being as unproductive as our hearts desire; but no one wants to spend their whole sum-

mer that way. Make sure you get the most out of your summer this year.

MOVIES

It’s difficult not to burn through cash quickly during summer vacation. The combination of free time and numerous attractions can lead to a rapidly de-creasing wallet size. Fortunately, Los Angeles is home to many cheap -- even free! -- ways to have fun, so you don’t end up totally broke by mid-summer.

CHEAP THRILLS

CONCERTS

The BeaChSo it’s an obvious one, but you cannot talk about summer without talking about the beach. California is one of only a handful of states in the United States that have real beaches, and let’s be honest -- the Atantic Ocean just doesn’t compare to our Pacific. The best part? A day at one of our public beaches is to-tally and completely free. Put on a bathing suit, slap on some sunscreen, pack a lunch and you’ve got a full day ahead of you. Santa Monica and Venice are the easiest to get to by bus, but if you have your driver’s license then a drive up to Malibu is worth it.

The SMeLLEach show at this well-known and well-loved venue is all-ages and only $5. Many of Los Angeles’ most talked-about under-ground bands got their start here, including No Age, Abe Vigoda and Mika Miko. 247 S. Main Street, Los Angeles CA 90012

The PaRKMost of us stopped play-ing at the park by the time we entered highschool, but these grassy expanses still have plenty to offer to the over-thirteen set. Whether you are headed to Griffith or Pan Pacific, pack a picnic, grab a group of friends, and enjoy a

game of Capture-the-Flag. And just because you’re a big kid now doesn’t mean you’re too old for the swings.

GRIFFITh oBSeRVaToRYGuys, take note: if you are looking to impress your date without dropping crazy amounts of money, the Griffith Observatory is the perfect place to take her. Its breathtaking views -- and free admis-sion -- make it one of Los Angeles’ most popular at-tractions. Take the bus or drive up to Griffith park, wait for it to get dark, and spend a romantic evening gazing at the stars.

-- LUCY BLaGG

eLeCTRIC daISY CaRnIVaL 6/26-27 – LoS anGeLeS MeMoRIaL CoLISeUM & exPoSITIon PaRKIt looks like the word of success got out, because this year’s Electric Daisy Carnival is going to be bigger than ever. Promoters of E.D.C. have expanded their show to be a two day affair (June 26-27), which will take place at the Memorial Coliseum and Exposition Park. Friday will vaunt Berlin’s Boys Noize (as a make up call for a last minute no show, last year), in addition to Paul Oakenfold, Eddie Halliwell and ATB. Despite this, Saturday looks the better of the two days with a lineup featuring Fatboy Slim, Paul van Dyk, David Guetta, Benny Benassi and Roger Sanchez. Promoters for the event have also confirmed Sander Van Doorn, Fedde Le Grand, Simian Mobile Disco, LTJ Bukem and Infected Mushroom for the festival.The event will be divided into five stages, with full sized carnival rides and an assortment of art work. Last year’s turn out stunned promoters with a number of 50,000 event goers, with fans traveling from as far away as Arizona to check the incredible light and music show.

deaTh CaB FoR CUTIe WITh The LoS anGeLeS PhILhaRMonIC, The neW PoRnoGRaPheRS and TeGan & SaRa 7/05 – hoLLYWood BoWL Death Cab for Cutie, with hits such as “Soul Meets Body” and “Title and Registration,” are going to be churning out their much-loved, pretty, and melancholy-tinged indie rock this July with the help of the Los Angles Philharmonic. With fellow hipster bands the New Pornographers and Tegan & Sara -- whose dedicated fan bases, respectively, only continue to grow -- opening for the

Seattle band, the evening is sure to be an amazing musical event.Tickers are on sale through Ticketmaster and the Hollywood Bowl.

haRd SUMMeR 8/08 – LoS anGeLeS FoRUMAugust 8 Hard Summer 2009 will take over the Los Angeles Forum, featuring the crème de la crème of electro, hip hop, and house artists. Last year Hard productions held a spectacular Summer Festival, holding names like N.E.R.D. and MSTRKRFT, but this year’s event by far will dwarf last year’s. Underworld is headlining the event with an epic live set along with Canadian electro-funk duo Chromeo, who will also start off the lineup. Paramount Italian superstars Bot and Phra better known as Crookers, Atari and 80’s influenced punk-electro group Crystal Castles, and Kanye West’s - DJ A-Trak, are also on the bill. Other artist currently slated to join them include, Tiga, The Bloody Beetroots, Sebastian, Busy P, Amanda Blank, Steve Aoki, Rye Rye, Skeet Skeet, Sinden, Jack Beats, Dan Oh, 12th Planet, and Destructo.

SUnSeT JUnCTIon STReeT FaIR, SUnSeT BLVd. - aUGUST 22 & 23 The Sunset Junction Street Fair is an event held annually in the Sunset Junction neighborhood of the Silver Lake community in Los Angeles, California. Over the years, many noted musicians and musical acts have performed, including Beck, Elliott Smith, Rilo Kiley, The Germs, Sleater-Kinney, X, Camper Van Beethoven, Redd Kross, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Eels, Chaka Khan, the Ladies of The Supremes, and Nick Name and the Normals among others. This year’s event will be the 29th annual street fair.

-- SaGaR VoRa

Going to a concert on a school night sucks. The constant ringing in your ears the next day? Defi-nitely not awesome during a Precalculus test. Sum-mer break is the best time to catch up with all your favorite bands -- and discover a few new ones. The hanGoVeR

Starring Bradley Cooper, Heather Graham and Zack GalifianakisIt would be ridiculous to miss out on watching what happens to these three guys that just can’t seem to handle Vegas. Reminder: the movie also features a hilarious cameo by Mike Tyson. What have you got to lose?In theaters June 5th

Land oF The LoSTStarring Will Ferrel, Danny McBride, and Anna FrielFinally bringing that old show with its lovably cheesy special effects to the big screen can’t possibly do anyone any harm. Also, keep in mind that practically anything Danny McBride (Pineapple Express, Hot Rod) touches turns to gold!In theaters June 5th

YeaR oneStarring: Jack Black and Michael CeraQuestion: What do you get when you cross Jack Black’s bold, daring comedy with Michael Cera’s shy, but smart wit?

Answer: Umm…Cavemen?Acquire yourself a history lesson this summer while laughing your head off all within the same couple of hours. In theaters June 19th

TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLENStarring Shia LaBeouf and Megan FoxThe first “Transformers” movie rocked the house. So who’s to say this one wont be even better? Keep a lookout for fast cars, government secrets, transforming alien robots, and more!In theaters June 24th

ICe aGe: daWn oF The dInoSaURSVoices of: Ray Romano, John Leguizamo and Denis LearyJoin Manny, Diego, and Sid on another epic journey, this time through the land of the dinos. If you enjoyed the first two “Ice Age” films, you probably wouldn’t want to miss out on this one. In theaters July 1st

PUBLIC eneMIeSStarring Johnny Depp and Christian BaleBe sure to catch this action-thriller about a notorious bank robber who was virtually unstoppable. See wild chases, crazy shootouts, and of course Johnny Depp…‘nuff said. In theaters July 1st

The UGLY TRUThStarring Katherine Heigl and Gerard ButlerThe plot is convincing. The chemistry is there. This movie is for you if you’re in the mood for a new kind of romantic comedy. In theaters July 24th

FUnnY PeoPLeStarring: Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen, and Leslie MannWith a cast this funny, it’s difficult to believe this movie is a “dramedy.” Expect major laughs as usual, but don’t be surprised if some of the tears running down your cheeks aren’t caused by laughter. In theaters July 31st

-- aLexa nUnez

When it’s so hot outside that you could literally fry an egg on the sidewalk , there’s nothing better than beating the heat in an air-conditioned movie the-ater. Summer blockbusters are the ultimate entertainment: action films abound with gravity-defying stunts, while comedies conjure up the big laughs.

6 JUne 2009

FEATURES

Not only is Hollywood High saying goodbye to the Class of 2009, we are also saying goodbye to three of our most memorable teachers: David Loera, Jeff Alpert, and Joseph Grande. These hard-working teachers took a few minutes out of their day to answer a few questions for the Crimson Chronicle. InTeRVIeWed BY YenoRY ChaVeS and TIFFanY JohnSon

How long have you been teaching? Coach Loera: I’ve been teaching for thirty-five years, and twenty years at Hollywood High. Mr. Alpert: Twenty years, and eight years at Hollywood.Mr. Grande: Thirty-two years.

What do you feel you have accomplished?Loera: Instilled the spirit of competition and success. I made students believe.Alpert: Made Hollywood from a joke to a league champion. I sent a couple hundred to college and saved another couple hundred from the street.

What do you hope for the future generation of students and teachers here at Hollywood?Loera: Continue the tradition and for students to know that they can accomplish anything.Alpert: Teachers need to understand that students are smarter than they think, maybe even smarter than they are.

Why did you decide to leave now?Loera: I’m finished. My job is done.Alpert: The district is giving me some financial help to retire.Grande: Go back to school; I want to be more of a student than a teacher. I still have a lot to learn and I hope to continue as long as I can.

What will you miss most about Hollywood High?Loera: Students, and their interaction in a family-like atmosphere.Alpert: The kids. So long Hollywood. It’s been good seeing you.Grande: The love of life that young people have, which has become a part of my daily life.

Hollywood says goodbye to Alpert, Grande, Loera

PHOTO CrEDIT: YENOrY CHAVESFRoM ToP To BoTToM: David Loera, Jeff Alpert and Joseph Grande are each retiring this year. They have taught thirty-five years, twenty years, and thirty-two years, respectively. Loera has taught twenty years at Hollywood, Alpert has taught eight, while Grande has spent his entire career as a Sheik.

JUne 2009 7PRoM nIGhT

The 2009 Senior class reveled in a long night of dancing, fancy dinner, and a vivacious partying at the classic Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles on May 23. This year’s theme was established as “Mystery Becomes the Night,” simply stating that the night would be a night where the possibilities were infinite. The event was held on May 23, 2009. The night’s banquet consisted of mixed California field green salads (with two types of dressings), herb roasted chicken breast, mashed potatoes with seasoned vegetables, assorted rolls, an appetizing raspberry cheese cake for desert. Drinks included brewed coffee, teas, and other soft beverages provided at the surrounding bars.

This year’ s prom fashions were quite diverse. Styles ranged from glamourous, modern and elegant cocktail dresses to ball gowns, glam and ballet-inspired evening wear to short and flirty little black party dresses, as well as countless other styles. Dresses revealing the back were a popular choice amongst the ladies. The guys were fond of colorful vests to match with their dates for the night. Popular colors among the prom ensembles were red, white, black, and beige. Downstairs from the ballroom, student could have their photos taken by White’s Studios before one of three backdrops. There was a heatwave of Hollywood Stars filling up the dance floor with non-stop dancing when the time came

to announce the Prom Court contenders. The prom’s sponsors -- Elizabeth Kono, Valerie Cornell, Kimberly Smith and Heather Brown -- crowned Quillermo Vanages as Prom Prince, Amber Kay as Prom Prirncess, James Leyva as Prom King and Alicia Vasquez as Prom Queen. When asked about the experience, Prom Queen Alicia Vasquez said, “I wasn’t expecting [the prom sponsors] to say [that I] was queen...it was a nice experience for all seniors.” After the crowning, the prom’s newly declared royalty strutted their dance skills. The crowd roared with astonishment. The remainder of the evening consisted of even more dancing.

SENiORS DANcE THE NigHT AWAYYENOrY CHAVES

PHOTO CrEDIT: SAGAr VOrA

ThIS IS MY JaM: The class of 2009 raise the roof at this year’s prom. The night consisted of dancing, fancy food and fabulous clothes. Below, three fashionable couples pose for the camera.

8 JUne 2009

FEATURES

As young children, the Lost Boys of Sudan strived for survival, endured some rather difficult obstacles and crossed hellish desert weather with death and fear in their shadows. Escaping their war-torn country, these kids did not give up one instant although they thought of it constantly, they just stayed motivated and never let go to quit. Of course, it was not easy for them, but they knew that if they did not try to get away from danger, they would end up just as those who did not get away and were casualties. On Friday April 24, 2009, three “Lost Boys” of Sudan visited Hollywood High. These of course, are not boys, but they were a few years ago. They go by the names of: Benson Deng, Alephonsion Deng, and Benjamin Ajak. They came to the United States a few years back as a way to escape the crisis at their home country. When they finally reached the United States, they realized just how different this world was. Here they were influenced with all sorts of technology that they had no clue existed. Just as a person from our country would feel that they were out of place in another country, they felt. When they arrived here, everything they came in contact with was a mysterious object. It actually took

them a few years to get accustomed to certain objects such as: cell phones, computers, telephones, cars, just to name a few. As they were introduced to certain appliances, they would ask, “What is that?” Nothing to them seemed like something that they would find back at home. This country was a totally different world to them, something out of the ordinary. Even when they got their first jobs, they were disappointed. As they received their checks, they thought that they were being ripped-off since they were simply given a paper with numbers instead of cash. They did not know that checks were just another form of currency and when they decided to stand up to their manager for that, they were explained just how the system worked. As they spoke to the school body at an invitational assembly, they allowed students to ask questions and even gave them a demonstration of their cultural music. As they spoke to the students, it was very noticeable how they were so attracted and pulled into the story telling. The faces showed to be curious, feel pity, and show appreciation and admiration. Their story was so heartwarming and it made one feel that people living here in the United States have much easier lives with plenty of

opportunities. After delivering their life story, they gave a demonstration of their music and four students from the school marching band joined them and put in their own beats. Two worlds came together, the modern and the less fortunate. The different instruments, whether luxurious or poorly made, came together, made one beat, and brought everyone together. The Lost Boys of Sudan also have a book out, which speaks of their journey and hardships. The title of the book is

They Poured Fire on Us From the Sky, by the three Lost Boys of Sudan and with help from Judy A. Bernstein. It was a nice experience to have people who have struggled throughout their life speak to high school students to broaden their awareness of issues that involve the less fortunate. These now-adults make visits to different places and speak to a wide range audiences. If you are interested in learning of them, you can visit their page at www.theypouredfire.com.

Lost Boys share experiences with Sheiks

Worth the moneyHollywood High’s most expen-sive production yet, Beauty and the Beast, wows its audiences with its soaring orchestra, luxurious costum-ing and amazing performances.

A cursed prince and a village girl sang and danced their way through The Performing Arts Magnet production of Beauty and the Beast. The musical enjoyed a successful two-week run in front of enthusiastic audiences May 29 through June 15. From the costumes, constructed by Suzi Quinn and supplied by Susan Halliwell, to the stage sets, by Frank Sele, everything was made to seem magical. The orchestra had a variety of instruments ranging from a xylophone to a harp, giving the music an enchanting touch. Miranda Chandler played the role of Belle outstandingly and James Leyva was amazing as the Beast. Miranda previously

appeared in The Who’s Tommy as Sally Simpson, A Chorus Line as Judy Turner and Sugar Bean Sisters as Vidella Sparks. James, who was crowned this year’s prom king, was believable as the mean and hopeless cursed prince. Jorge Perez played the role of the arrogant and masculine Gaston suitably. Robert Halliwell stood out as Cogsworth with his strikingly believable accent. Daniela Alvarez played Babette’s flirty attitude exceptionally. The cast performed a multitude of songs in which the singing was extraordinary. The production cost about $30,000. Lisa Goldschein choreographed the dancing extremely well and the dancers were in synch throughout the entire musical.

KIArA HUrTADO AND LESLIE OrOzCO

DOrA CHAVEz

PHOTO CrEDIT: BOSTON ALBABUSTInG oUT The BeaST: Performing Arts Magnet students Edgar Garcia, Daniela Aguilar, and Robert Halliwell sent the crowd into uproarious laughter as Lumiere, Babette and Cogsworth. The play’s ornate costumes were designed and con-structed by Suzie Quinn and supplied by Susan Halliwell, Robert Halliwell’s mother. “You could tell a lot of money went into the costumes,” said one Hollywood High student. “It was money well-spent.”

SPORTSJUne 2009 9

On May 27, 2009 the Sheik swimmers made their way to the Coliseum to compete in City Finals; for the first time in over five years, the Sheiks managed to get past League Finals. Seniors Josue Martinez and Cezar Elizaga, sophomore Ozzy I and freshman Alex Moshensky brought home 10th place in City in the 200 yard Free Relay. Alex Moshensky brought in 3rd place in the 100 yard backstroke and 10th in the 200 yard individual medley where swimmers performed their butterfly, back stroke, breast stroke and freestyle, 50 yards each. After placing in City Finals, the HHS Swim Team proudly and successfully closes their 2009 season with it being their best in the past four years. With most of the swimmers being 2009 graduates who have swam their whole high school career, they now hand down the torch, or in this case the swim suits, to the incoming students. The swimmers would like to thank Coach Rolland and Coach Vladimir for their encouragement and training. Without them, the team would not have made it as far as they did. For the new Sheik swimmers, best of luck!

LArISSA ALVArEzContributor

The First Annual Golf Classic will take place on Thursday, July 2nd 2009 at the California Country Club Whittier. The golf tournament is a fundraiser for the Hollywood High School Sports Program. According to assistant principal Marco Tolj, the Hollywood High athletes “are in desperate need of new uniforms and equipment.” Everybody is welcomed to join the golf tournament for an entry fee of $130. Food, drinks, golf clubs and golf carts will be provided. For anyone who makes a hole-in-one will win the grand prize of $25,000.

According to Tolj, the school bought a $500 insurance policy in the event someone makes a hole-in-one. If not interested of participating as a golfer, dinner and an opportunity to enter some raffles will be available for a fee of $50. This idea was originated due to the shortage of budget for the sports program. According to Tolj, they are expecting to raise $5,000 to $7,000 for new equipment and other supplies needed for the following year. Anyone who is interested should contact Tolj or call Hollywood High.

Have you ever wondered why Hollywood High has tennis courts, but no tennis team? Or have you ever wondered why we do not have a water polo team in the fall when swimming is not in season? Some of you may say the school has no money to fund these sports that Hollywood has yet to include. Some of you may say that these sports do not exist in this school because it is unpopular. If you guessed between these two, then you are incorrect. The main reason why we do not have such sports as tennis, water polo, wrestling or golf is because students do not show much interest in wanting to play these sports. Yeah that’s right, students here at Hollywood have not even tried to bring about a team for these sports throughout the years because they are not fond of them. Some of you may be saying right now “hey I am interested and I have

always wanted to play tennis.” Well it takes more than one to make it possible. It takes a whole group that is determined to play the sport. According to Mr. Marco Tolj, assistant principal in charge of athletics, if enough students bring attention to add another sport to the Hollywood High’s Sport program, then they would do so. Mr. Tolj also said that the LAUSD helps along to fund the money needed to make the sport. So Hollywood High if you are reading this and you may want to create teams for Tennis, Wrestling, Water Polo or Golf, then ask Mr. Tolj and have a list of names of those interested. Each sport is different, so the amount of students needed to sign up differs. So for those who are interested get up, talk to your friends, and help make something happen here at Hollywood!

SPoRTS edIToRIaL

EDUArDO UMANA

Why don’t we have more sports at Hollywood?

After weeks of practice and hard work, Hollywood High’s Track Team becomes yet again the Southern League Champions for the 4th year in a row. According to the track coach David Loera, “the Sheiks were represented well at the LAUSD all- city track and field finals at Birmingham High School. Once again, your Sheiks were very competitive on the track and field.” For the boys track team, Cesar Zelaya missed qualifying for the state track meet by 2 tenths of a second and placed 4th in the 3200-meter race. Also in 4th place came Y’shua Ortiz and Andre Carne placed 7th in the pole vault competition. As for the girls’ track team, Asha Gomez was claimed the champion in the girls shot put and just missed setting a new record. Elizabeth Bosch placed in the pole vault and placed 6th for the 100-meter hi-hurdles. Diandra Beckles placed in 5th and Inousca Kayombo was placed in 8th in the high jump competition. Unfortunately, not all athletes made it to the city prelims. The athletes who qualified for the city prelims are Cesar Zelaya,

Chris Pittman, Rykiel Morales, Daniel Munoz, Arthur Papazyan, and Andre Carne. The relay team Arthur Papazyan, Chris Pittman, Rykiel Morales, and Daniel Munoz almost beat the best school record by only 0.6 seconds. Many Hollywood High fans were outraged but the same time surprised. Constance Caldwell, a member of the softball team here at Hollywood, sympathized with the track team’s loss. “It hurts to be so close to victory, yet be moments from achieving it,” she said. Taking the girls track team, Betty Bosch, Flor Cardenas, Bernice Ortiz, Jessica Perez, Starla Oyeneke, Megan Salazar and Daniela Sendejas also qualified for the city premiums. Betty Bosch put her game face on and took two first place victories on 100-meter hurdle and the Pole vault. She was also placed in second for the 4 by 1 100-meters and the 300-meter hurdles. To celebrate their victories, the Sheiks will have their banquet on Tuesday, June 16th at 5pm in the school cafeteria.

Hollywood High’s varsity baseball team made its third playoff appearance since Coach Cauley has been the varsity coach in the last four years. What made this team different? “This season by far is the best since I’ve been here,” said Coach Cauley. The mighty Sheiks were by far the best team in the last four years, having a record of 19-8. However, that was not enough for Hollywood to beat Hamilton High in the May 20 playoff game, losing 8-4. The game tested the Hollywood Sheiks for what they had been hungry for, a shot at a league championship. The coaches held strong expectations for their teams because there were excellent talents within them. Though trying to stay composed in the game, the first couple innings were the most crucial for the Sheiks. Hollywood High committed crucial errors that cost them runs that later on,

and eventually the game. Hollywood, though down by 8, tried to make a comeback. They knew that this game was decisive, and they wanted to make the best of what they could do in order to try and back get in it. Freshman catcher Jose Chavez started off a rally with a triple and senior third baseman contributed with a 2-run base hit. Hollywood then cut Hamilton’s lead by four, showing the Hamilton Yankees that Hollywood will not go down so easily. However, despite the attempted come back, Hollywood ran out of time, and he final score was 8-4 in favor of Hamilton. Hollywood’s seniors were among the most frustrated as they were the ones that executed the most errors. Hollywood relied on their star pitcher, Robert Rodriguez, who was voted pitcher of the year in the Southern League, but the errors cost him and

the rest of the team the game. Surprisingly, the underclassmen were the ones who stepped up for Hollywood. Coach Cauley prepared his team mentally and physically prepared, but the pressure of a play-off game was overwhelming and affected the game’s outcome. Coach Cauley felt disappointed about the loss. “Anyone who wins 19 games would be happy, but our expectations were high because of the talent we had on the field,” he said. “We had four first-team, all-league players and three second-team, all players, so of course our expectations would be high.” Though disappointed, Coach Cauley felt that this year’s varsity team was the best he has coached. Despite losing, the Hollywood Sheiks fought hard, and fighting hard was something they did best throughout the year as they once again finished with a 19-8 record for the 2009 baseball season.

EDUArDO UMANA

ADrIEL VIOLA

Hollywood hosts golf tournament

Swim team place in City Finals for the first time in 5 years

Baseball highs and lows

ADrIEL VIOLA

TRAcK TEAM MAKES LEAgUE cHAMPS

FASHION10 JUne 2009

STUdenT SPoTLIGhT

Hollywood High boasts a mix of eclectic fashionistas and sartorialists. Here, a look at the latest spring fashions cropping up in the quad.Photos by Boston Alba.

HEALTHJUne 2009 11

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most frequent type of skin cancer. Is usually not life- threatening, and is the most easily treated if detected in time. They are white, pink, or red bumps that bleed when you pick at them.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most recurrent form of skin cancer. Can also be treated if detected on time, and generally not life threatening.Open sores and small scabs that never heal or go away can be this type of skin cancer.

Melanoma is the most serious kind of skin cancer. It can be life threatening in some cases. This form of skin cancer looks like large moles that change in shape or size. The borders of these moles are a lighter color than the mole.

Is it Skin Cancer?You may be surprised to know that there are many types of skin cancer, and every day sun exposure is the leading cause of these forms of skin cancer. According to WebMD below are three cancerous moles. If you are worried about an unusual mole or scab anywhere on your body, get it checked out by a dermatologist-better safe than sorry!

Aries: (March 21-April 19) This summer will inspire you to take on a challenge! You won’t be afraid to pursue that cutie that you think is out of your league, but don’t get too attached because in the end the actual guy/girl won’t be as interesting as you thought.

Taurus: (April 20-May 20) This month will add sparks to your love life, and you’ll gain courage to ask your crush out! Show your crush your artsy side by inviting him/her to an art museum or concert.

Gemini: (May 21-June 20) You’ve been extremely busy lately and your family feels neglected. Take a day off to hang out with them to avoid

any family drama.

Cancer: (June 21-July 22) All your spending lately has left you broke, but it’s the perfect time to make some cash! Use your creativity and communication skills to make some extra money.

Leo: (July 23-August 22) You’ve had such a packed schedule lately, from weekend trips to nights out with friends, but you haven’t been paying attention to your crush who has been trying to catch your attention! Ask your crush to hang out, and you’ll be surprised when you two hit it off!

Virgo: (August 23-September 22) You’ve been feeling gloomy

lately because of the feud with one of your closest friends. Ask a mutual friend to get both sides of the story and you’ll discover that it was just a big misunderstanding.

Libra: (September 23- October 22) Watching movies friends is getting boring. And the urge to party is kicking in. Lucky for you, school is almost over and invitations are about to come rolling in. A cute guy/girl may catch your eye at one of those parties.

Scorpio: (October 23- November 21) Love is headed your way. A Leo guy/girl will be instantly into you this summer. Have fun being flirtatious with other people, but don’t ignore

him/her because he/she might turn out to be more than just summer fling.

Sagittarius: (November 22- December 21) This summer you’ll have almost every weekend booked with parties, and that hottie you’ve been eyeing will definitely notice you. But he/she might be a little shy so don’t be afraid to make the first move.

Capricorn: (December 22- January 19) It seems as if you are the only one from your group of friends without plans for this summer. But don’t worry because ideas will soon be flying in. Your schedule will consist of things you’ve never tried before.

Aquarius: (January 20- February 18) With all the great things your friends have planned for this summer you’re going to need extra cash. A summer job will help you join in on the fun. But don’t worry because you’ll meet a cutie at work.

Pisces: (February 19- March 20) You’ll meet lots of hot guys/girls to flirt with this summer. And good thing your over your last crush because a guy/girl is headed your way that you’ll be totally into. Just don’t expect it to get too serious.

Horoscopes are created by Leslie Orozco and Kiara Hurtado and are meant to be read for entertainment only.

Photo: www.skincancerspecialists-newnan.com

Photo: at-risc.org Photo: upload.wikimedia.org

www.homeboozekit.com

www.arborteas.comPhoto: 3.bp.blogspot.com Photo: blogs.roanoke.com

www.freefoto.com

www.chilis.comwww.openzine.com

Bloated? Painless substitutions to help prevent it!Some of these common foods are the culprit for bloating. Try one of these suggestions to reduce the appearance and feeling of bloating.

Instead of French Fries Try tortilla Chips with Guaca-mole

French fries contain more salt than tortilla chips and guacamole which causes your body to retain more water creating bloat.

Instead of a Roast Beef sandwichTry a grilled chicken sandwich on whole wheat bread

The whole wheat has proteins and healthy carbs that give you more energy than a roast beef sandwich.

Instead of grapes

Try blueberries or raspberries

Blueberries and raspberries have less sugar than grapes.

All that fizz in sodas is really carbon dioxide which is a gas lead-ing to the uncom-fortable feeling of bloat.

Instead of soda Try iced tea

www.fotobank.ru

Sensitive Skin: To avoid irritation pick a sunblock that is hypoallergenic and fragrance free.Dry Skin: A sunblock with vitamins A and E will keep your skin hydrated.Oily Skin: A sunblock that is oil-free will keep your pores unclogged.

Which SPF should you use?SPF 50+ is for a day at the beachSPF 30 is for playing sports outdoorsSPF 15 for running errands

Best sunscreen for your skin type

Every day sun exposure can cause skin cancer. Using a moisturizer with SPF 15 or higher can help prevent skin cancer by applying to all the exposed areas of your body. The sun can still damage your skin on a cloudy day. Only 20 percent of the sun’s rays are filtered by clouds.

dId YoU KnoW...?

HOROSCOPES

12 JUne 2009

for Diana M. Sanchez

Babe, let me start by sayingYou’re the most beautiful thing

I’ve ever seen.And I don’t mean thing as an

object, please,I don’t mean to be mean.But it’s just that there is

nothing to compareto how gorgeous you are to me.That very cute smile is a sight for my sore eyes to

see.You’re the reason the suncomes up every morning. You’re the one who makesthe little birds wanna sing.You are a sweet angelfor you have stopped the bitter

tears.You made me better and helped me conquer all my

fears.

No matter what happenswe deal with it and never fight.All I want is to make you happy,I swear with all my might.You for me and I for you

forever;The sacred promise in our

hearts.You’re always in my heartthat way we are never far

apart.Tu eres la Reina de mi vida,I know I tell you a lot but it’s

true.It’s something I didn’t think

would happenbut all my dreams are of you.In a billion kazillion years,happiness I thought I’d never

find.But I’m always happy nowCuz you’re always on my mind.

--RykIEL MORALEs.

Always on My Mind

Strange is the fact that he wasn’t born during the summertimeFor he’s the sun itself, not just a ray of sunshineLight versus dark, yes he is blessed with such brightnessAll those residing in darkness, when he comes, are left cluelessAnd woe to the one who touches him with their filthy handsCrooks, thieves and wolves, are you even allowed in his presence?Saying this, I am solely watching from a distanceWhere are my sunglasses? His shining face causes my sight to go

blindBut the key to his heart is still there to findSo I dare look for it, have I lost my mind?He is still recovering from the pain, for me to get in its going to take some time.All the poems in the world can’t describe the way I feelAll the poems I write won’t change the way he feelsSo special is he, this why I dedicate my writing only to himSo bright is he, being illuminated, I realize no one is good for him.

--TIffANy JOHNsON

Sunshine

Sunny days and warm nightsFollowed by water balloon

fightsCold droplets graze my faceThose were the summer days

Dazed and confusedThe sunny days I once knewTransformed into ones that are

dark and dimSplashes and giggles Are now buried in the past

Rustling of the leavesFloating to the groundRed, orange, yellow and brownGreen lush is no where to be

found

In my bedroomOn the soft comfort of my bedSipping a mug of hot cocoaOut the window, the season

passes byMy eyes slowly shut and I fall

asleep

--LEsLIE OROZCO

Summer Days

STUdenT CReaTIVe WRITInG

Summer LakeJump off the wooden deckInto the cool water of the lakeThe bright summer sunReddening my skin Becoming cinnamon colorRacing everyone in sightMonica, Brian and even MomGoosebumps running down my skinThe fresh water brushing against my armsMy breaths get deeperMy speed increasesMonica is one stroke ahead of meBlinded by the water swimming so hardGrabbing the rope I see splashes coming toward meAnd a joyous yell rushes out of my mouth!

--kIARA HURTADO

STUdenT aRT