Vol. 79, Issue 7 Brea Olinda High School May 21, 2010

Brea Olinda High School789 Wildcat Way

Brea, CA 92821

what’s inside

Wildcat

News.....................................2-5

Feature....................14-15 Centerspread.....10-11

PAUL LEECo-news editor

In response to years of exceptional teaching, biology teacher Amy Welch was honored with an Orange County Teacher of the Year Finalist award on May 11 by William Habermehl, the superintendent of the Orange County Department of Education.

During what seemed like an ordinary day of teaching AP Biology, Welch was completely taken aback to find her class room suddenly flooded with people recording and snapping photos of her as Habermehl approached to present her a trophy of recognition.

“It was definitely a surprise!” exclaimed

FEATURE 15

See NEWS, page 2

THEA O’DELL staff writer

Although the weather contributed to the cool atmosphere, it was not the only thing that sent a chill up students’ spines. The screeching, skidding sounds of a car crash blared through the intercoms across campus every 15 minutes on Apr. 20, creating awareness of the effects and dangers of drunk driving to the student body.

Each car crash sound symbolized a nominated student’s “death.” Every time a student “died” during the day, a symbolic Grim Reaper came to retrieve the student from their class. To heighten the experience, the selected students

Opinion...........................6-7

Students witness effects of alcohol abuse

Orange COunty’s teaCher Of the year: (Left) Amy Welch, science teacher, was named Orange County’s Teacher of the Year during her fourth period AP Biology class. (Right) Welch stands next to her mother, Kathy Welch.

Photos by HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

In the Prom EXPO, the theme and location of the dance were revealed as students strutted on the red carpet.

Carly Juarez, junior, starts a homemade baking business, creating and decorating cakes.

A&E.......................................8, 13

SPORTS 16-19

NEWS 3

13 students experience death from driving under the influence

Sports.........................16-19

Boys’ swim finished the season undefeated and was named Century League champions.

OPINION 7

Two staffers debate whether SAT prep classes are necessary to score high on the exam.

SPORTS 16

Snapshots...................20

Welch. “I don’t do my job with the sole purpose of being recognized, so I think any of us teachers would have been surprised by such an incredible honor. I love my job and work to make sure that students learn, so being nominated for that was a surprise.”

Since Welch has only been teaching at BOHS for four years, she is still a relatively new teacher, which makes winning such a prestigious award even more extraordinary.

“When I was surprised in my fourth period class last week I think my initial feeling was shock. I was, and still am, completely overwhelmed. I am incredibly honored and humbled. I feel very lucky to be able to work with such amazing students and teachers,” said Welch as she revealed her

dJ d-wrek

SNAPSHOTS 20

initial reaction to the sudden entourage that flooded her room that day.

Looking at the amount of dedication that Welch puts into trying to lead her students to success, it becomes clear why she was selected as Teacher of the Year. She does

Welch: OC Teacher of the Year‘I love my job and work to make sure that students learn’

“I like coming out to see the fans, because they always come to see us but we never come to see them.”

realizing death: Alexandria Taylor, senior, looks at her own tombstone placed in a quad cemetery.

HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

painted their faces a ghostly white to represent their status as the dead and spent the day without talking or showing any emotions to their surrounding peers.

“It was definitely difficult to not talk, but I remembered that I’m doing it for myself and to stay committed to

Hollywood Knights play celebrity ball

See NEWS, page 4

See NEWS, page 2

ANAR BATACo-news editor

It is not everyday that television’s hottest stars are transported from television screen onto the Wildcat basketball court. On Apr. 24, Hollywood Knights, a celebrity basketball team, played against the faculty in a basketball game to raise funds for the athletic department.

“I was really surprised by all the celebrities they had there because I did not expect people that famous would come,” said Chris Karimu, senior.

Logan Brittain, sophomore, agreed with Karimu as he said, “It’s really cool that we can have something like this at our school since Brea is such a small city.”

2 NEWSMay 21, 2010

Hollywood Knights, created in 1978, uses celebrity events to raise funds for needy causes. On April 24, staff played the Hollywood Knights basketball team in order to raise money for the athletic department.

The first furlough days of the year have been set to be on May 28 and June 1 as a result of the recent budget cuts by the district.

“The choice of day was made so that it would have the most equitable impact for our teachers,” said Marjorie Sepulveda, English teacher and co-president of BOTA.

The dates were negotiated between the Brea Olinda Teachers Association and the school district, which settled in late March. As a result, two furlough days were decided upon for this year.

“Furlough days are days that teachers take a pay reduction. They are not just days off, we know that with the budget crunch, we had to help our district stay solvent,” added Sepulveda.

Paul Lee

Parent Teacher Association held an award night for students who maintained a grade point average of 3.75 or higher for three semesters on April 21.

These individuals were elected based upon their academic excellence.

“It was really cool to see the school recognizing our academic accomplishments,” said Esther Yoo, sophomore.

Dessert began with a word from A.J. “Skip” Roland, superintendent of schools, who congratulated the students on their achievements.

“It felt really good to be honored with kids who were in the same rank,” said Anish Patel, sophomore.

Afterwards, presentations began as each student was called forward to receive their award.

Paul Lee

Lettered Scholar DessertPTA

MATTHEW MAUL / Wildcat

‘A plAgue o’ both your houses!’: Anthony Kim, sophomore, along with Tommy Portugal and John Wood, seniors, acted as Tybalt, Mercutio, and Romeo in the drama production of Romeo and Juliet.

Athletic dept. hosts celeb fundraiser

Romeo and Juliet

Stars included Jesse Metcalfe from the movie John Tucker Must Die, Nicholas Braun from the television series 10 Things I Hate About You, and the muscal performing group, Brutha.

The game was hosted by KIIS-FM and the celebrities were represented by the Hollywood Knights, an organization that specializes in celebrity fundraising.

“We started Hollywood Knights in 1978 and we have played about 20 celebrity basketball games this season mostly in L.A unified, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. We’ve raised about 2.5 million dollars for schools like Brea Olinda High School doing these celebrity events,” said Michael Mirisch, the chief executive of the team.

While the celebrities have played their fair share of basketball, the staff held their own as they tied 32-32 at the beginning of half time.

In regards to the tie, Wesley Jonathan, who plays Gary Thorpe on the television series What I Like About You, stated, “Our competitors were very strong and good under the board about getting rebounds. We could be doing better, and we were going to turn it up for the second half.”

While the staff members were not winning, they did manage to wear down some players.

“The staff is really good. They had me running up and down the court, huffing and puffing for air, and I’m sure they are much better than me. I’m sitting out for the second half,” said DJ D-Wreck, from MTV’s Wild N’ Out.

Robert Hoffman of Step Up 2: The Streets was a strong player for the Knights as he scored the first points of the game and many more throughout.

“I am having fun and I have had a couple of good plays. These games are always a little tricky though because it is not like real regulation basketball. They are usually half fun, half serious,” said Hoffman.

It was stiff competition between the

Disney’s Friends for Change was awarded for its efforts at the Eco Fab Fashion Show and Gala, which was directed by Inside the Outdoors at the Newport Beach Community Center

Every year, Inside the Outdoors hosts the Eco Fab Fashion Show to encourage people to buy clothing made with environment friendly materials.

Along with receiving an award, six members were selected to participate in the fashion show.

“I am so proud of what this club has accomplished,” said Jacqueline Cortes, junior, and one of three co-founders of the first Disney’s Friends for Change Club nationwide.

“It is truly amazing how small steps do lead to big outcomes.”

Audrey Marra

Furlough DaysFriends for ChangeClubs BOTA

teams, but Hollywood Knights ended victorious as they finished the game, 78-75.

Though the teachers lost the game, they did surprise celebrities and students alike.

“We are always really amazed when we play against a high school staff because we do not expect them to be as good as they are,” said Johnny Pacar, who stars in the series Make It or Break It.

“I did not know the teachers could play like that. They were a lot more aggressive than I expected,” said Brittney Wheaton, sophomore, in agreement.

While Robert Adamson from the Disney Channel movie, Princess Protection Program, did not expect this win as he said the team was known for losing, Hoffman believed “the staff could not stand up to the Knights.”

Hoffman enjoys playing for the Knights as he stated, “I love being around the young people. It is like a second stage for me; I can come out here and make everyone laugh.”

Teachers also enjoyed playing in the game as Jonathan Quiming, English teacher, and Mike Baker, health teacher, said they had a “great time,” and Gil Rotblum, history teacher, hopes there will be more games such as these to come.

Greg Higashi, economics teacher and boys’ athletic director, organized

this event because he believed it would be a fun way to raise money.

“I chose the [Hollywood Knights] because of their history doing these types of events and I felt they had a broader appeal to students due to their affilation with KIIS-FM,” said Higashi.

Organizing the event costed about $3,500, but the money was not spent in vain.

“We actually held our own which isn’t bad for the first time undertaking such an enormous event involving

shooting with the stArs: Robert Hoffman of Step Up 2: The Streets prepares to make a shot during the celebrity basketball game on April 24. Hoffman was a starter for the Knights and scored the first basket of the game.

HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

Beginning Drama

the football boosters, the band, cheer, the Ladycats, and boys’ athletics. I would most certainly do it again.” said Higashi.

“The game was really fun and it also raised money for our school so it was a win-win situation,” said Brittain.

Mirisch continues to promote the Hollywood Knights.

He said, “The guys really enjoy these games and that is why they keep coming out. They take time out of their busy schedule to meet with fans. It really is a great cause.”

HOLLYWOOD from page 1

We are always really amazed when we play a high scool staff because we do not expect them to be as good as they are.

-Johnny PacarMake It or Break It

“

Cormier, Corp, Mattern, Valenti add additions to their familiesKELSEY SMITHStaff writer

Teaching and counseling adolescent and developing teenagers is a job that requires much time, energy, and patience. As if this is not enough, this fall will be welcoming more than a new batch of freshman, but a new batch of babies.

Leading off in the staff “baby boom,” Wade Cormier, science teacher, and Jennifer Cormier, guidance counselor, welcomed baby boy Quentin Joaquin Cormier to the world on Tuesday. The newborn weighed in at 9 lbs, 15 oz.

As the Cormier’s will soon have to balance counseling, teaching, and a baby, there are four other staff members who will soon have to do the same: Stephen and Summer Teal, economics and English teacher, Pam Valenti, vice principle, Jeremy Mattern, English teacher, and Richard Corp, math teacher.

Like the Cormier’s, Valenti knew there would be one more child in her future. Unlike the Cormier’s, the experience is not her first.

Summer Teal is also not new to pregnancy, and she feels sharing a journey so life altering as pregnancy with one’s classmates is one of the greatest aspects of the process.

Mattern and his wife had their mind set on a life without children until very recently, however, Mattern looks at the journey as apositive and interesting one.

“It’s fun to share this time in my life with students, especially former students and athletes with whom I still keep in touch,” said Mattern.

Although the new family members will bring much stress and challenges, the couples are sure that they will be positive experiences they will share with their families and students alike.

Students participated in the Prom Expo, which occured during lunch, where the court members, theme, and location were announced by ASB coordinators.

‘A Patriotic Ball’ Prom to take place at American Way Cultural Center

CLUBCORNER

Dance Club

Compiled by PAUL LEE

Dance Club allows members to choreograph new dances and practice current dance moves for their performances. Dance Club performs in concerts held at school, and will be part of the So You Think You Can Dance talent show, taking place in June. The club meets every Tuesday in the dance room.

I enjoy participating in the dance club because it provides a fun way to express myself and have a good time with my friends.”

-Jina Moon, junior

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MATTHEW MAUL / Wilcat

Ivory Sword Ivory Sword is a conservative club where students can share their beliefs and ideas on any relevant issues in the world. A topic is chosen each meeting and then it is discussed thoroughly, with all members being welcome to add their own input at any time. All students are welcome to join, regardless of their political stance and personal beliefs. The club meets every Thursday in room 233.

We want to allow all students to be open about their beliefs and ideas, but we don’t try to force anything on them during our discussions.”

– Nolan Rogers, sophomore

“

GITA

GITA is a club where students collaborate to come up with ways to utilize technology for activities such as community service. Members also help other students who are struggling in their classes to learn the material and be more successful. Another part of being in this club is to explore new methods in using computers. GITA meets every Friday in room 119.

Being part of GITA provides a good opportunity for a student to learn how to find different uses for technology.”

–Kate Lee, senior

CHELSEA YEH / Wildcat

May 21, 2010NEWS 3

MEGAN MASHALStaff writer

District budget cuts may soon affect school days as well as the ratio of teachers to class sizes.

“Our district as well as virtually all school districts throughout the state have experienced significant funding reductions over the last two years and are expecting additional reductions in the coming year,” said John Fogarty, the district’s assistant superintendent. “As a result, the district will need to make some very significant budget cuts for the coming year,” Fogarty continued.

According to Fogarty, the Governing Board is currently evaluating increasing class sizes in grades 1 to 12 across the entire district.

“Based on current budget assumptions there will be fewer teachers next year and larger class sizes throughout the district,” said Fogarty.

During this year, an estimated ten

teachers have received a letter labeled “Reduction in Force Notification.”

This letter notifies teachers that there is a possibility that they will be unable to return to the school in the following year, and there were ten of these letters sent out this year alone.

Ten notices are the most that have ever been required to send to teachers. While there is a chance some teachers may return next year, there is still a chance others may not.

According to Bob Parish, assistant principal, 80 percent of school money is given to pay employees, while the other 20 percent are used to run the school district. With the district budget becoming increasingly limited, the school may soon be unable to pay all of its employees.

The May revised budget will determine for all California schools what the budget will look like for the upcoming school year. However, the school will not know whether the situation will alleviate or worsen.

Photos by JEANNIE KIM / Wildcat

AUDREY MARRAStaff writer

Red, white and blue balloons along with a variety of streamers were scattered throughout the quad as ASB announced the theme of this year’s prom: “A Patriotic Ball.”

As revealed at the Prom Exposition, the much anticipated night is scheduled to be held at the American Way Cultural Center on Saturday.

The prom king and queen nominees

were also announced during the exposition. The court includes seniors: Christian Villanueva, Patrick Arter, Scott Purpura, Terry Kyung, George Wright, Kayleigh Barnes, Monique Chacon, Andrea Maglione, Maegen Slogget, Elizabeth Farmer, and Kelsey Harris.

“I’m expecting prom to be amazing,” said Barnes. “It’s the last dance of the year and I want [my] senior year to go out with a bang!”

Villanueva also has high hopes for

his last dance: “I’m looking forward to the energetic atmosphere of prom and I believe it will be a blast regardless of the theme.”

Chad Rabago, junior class president, explained that the dance is going to be decorated to make students feel that they are in a southern colonial setting, rather than at a Fourth of July barbeque.

“[The dance] will not be decorated with flags and eagles. It has a “Gone with the Wind” feeling,” said Rabago. “There is a big gazebo with a horse and

carriage along with a façade of colonial-style houses.”

DJ N-Effect will be playing at the dance, as well as a band and a pianist to add to the “southern colonial” theme. Along with dancing and other regular activities, students will also be able to find further entertainment through a casino and caricaturist during this year’s prom.

However, despite the anticipation many students felt for the dance, some other students were more hesitant about accepting the theme.

“This year’s prom theme didn’t sound very exciting or creative to me. But, I don’t doubt it will still be a memorable night,” said Kevin Lystad, junior.

Even though some may feel worried about how the theme will affect their prom experience, others like Lystad are confident that they will enjoy themselves.

“The American Way Cultural Center chooses the theme and the decorations for us,” said Chad Rabago, junior class president. “With everything else chosen for us, we had to come up with a name and we tried to work the best with what we had.”

ASB was planning to do a promotional video to encourage students to go to prom and eliminate any hesitancy regarding the theme. However, they fell short on time, and therefore were not able to make the video.

“People shouldn’t be worried about the theme because it doesn’t really tie into how fun prom is,” said Lauren Kelley, junior.

Aside from qualms over the theme, students are eagerly looking forward to having an enjoyable night at the titled Patriotic Ball.

“I had so much fun [modeling] in the expo...it really got me excited for prom,” said Nicole Hunter, junior.

Budget cuts affect teachers, students

wAlking the red cArpet: (Above) Elaine Yoo and Michelle Lising, senior hold up a banner stating the theme for prom. (Below) Seniors Valerie Schrepferman and Olson Walters strut down the red carpet together with arms linked. Prom will be taking place Saturday at the American Way Cultural Center.

4 NEWSMay 21, 2010

Out of 59 finalists for the Orange County Teacher of the Year Award, biology teacher Amy Welch was chosen along with four other teachers throughout the county to recieve recognition for her achievements.

Biology teacher ‘incredibly honored, humbled’

teAching At its best: Amy Welch is surprised by William Habermehl, superintendent of the Orange County Department of Education, and is honored with an award for being an Orange County Teacher of the Year Finalist. Welch will also be recognized on Nov. 30 at an annual event and will recieve a $15,000 award.

her best to remain available for anyone who may need extra help, and is continually willing to put in additional time to assist students.

“I have partnered with some programs in the community to bring biotechnology and research experiences into the classroom. I try to let my students know of the research opportunities available once they get into college. I work hard to give timely feedback to students, and try to always be available for extra help,” said Welch. She added, “I feel I am pretty enthusiastic about biology too, and I hope that my enthusiasm rubs off on students so that they can gain an appreciation for the world around them.”

“Ms. Welch is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had,” said Rahia Zaidi, sophomore. “She’s available for us before school, during lunch and after school. She’ll spend as much time with each student as it takes to make sure we all learn.”

As evidenced by her daily habits and optimism, Welch holds a passion for her job that allows her to go the extra distance in order to become a better teacher.

“I believe I am dedicated to my profession. Biology is a difficult subject to teach because it is a whole new

world of vocabulary. It is essentially like learning a second language,” explained Welch. “That makes my job challenging, yet very fun at the same time because I get to be creative in lessons and do some fun labs.”

On top of receiving an award, Welch

HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

is also scheduled to be recognized at an annual county event on Nov. 30, where she will also be presented with a $15,000 cash award. However, she is still deciding on how she will spend the considerable sum once she receives it.

“I have barely even thought about

that yet! I do know that it will help with my future master’s degree to further my knowledge of science and education. Hopefully through that I will be able to bring back some new knowledge to the classroom,” said Welch.

“Of course, I always want to travel

and bring back some great stories and pictures to the classroom as well. I would really love to go to Costa Rica someday and do something cool like work with the sea turtles or hike through the rainforest, but we’ll see.”

Despite all that she has experienced since receiving the award, Welch’s continual enthusiasm for teaching is something that has not changed in the slightest.

“I will continue to do my best in teaching and work hard to make sure our Brea Olinda students are learning biology. I am a hard worker, so I don’t think this award is going to change my work ethic or my philosophy of education. I will just continue to feel honored and carry the distinction with pride,” concluded Welch.

WELCH from page 1

I hope that my enthusiasm rubs off on students so that they can gain an appreciation for the world around them.”

-Amy WelchBIology teacher

“

Tombstones, placed in the quad, were used to represent students that had “died” during Every 15 Minutes. Valerie Mubrieta, senior, was one of these victims.

May 21, 2010NEWS 5

Every 15 Minutes raises drunk driving awareness

Lee, Choi to appear on NBC show

it,” said Sadie Reeves, junior.In addition to spending the day

walking as part of the dead, the chosen students were provided a night at the Brea Embassy Suites. However, there was one condition for their gratis night away: they were not allowed to have any contact with the outside world. Their parents were also contacted by the police like they would have been in a real situation. During the stay, students were given the opportunity to listen to a volunteer speaker’s story of a drunk driving scene on the road as an eye-opening experience.

“The speaker was hit by a drunk person [on a surface street] and the car exploded from the impact. I couldn’t believe that 70 percent of her body had burned, but it’s definitely amazing that she lived,” said Brent Lee, junior.

Upperclassmen back at school attended an assembly, which included speeches from the “dead” students as well as their parents and letters they wrote about t h e impact o f

their “drunk-driving” accidents were read. According to many of the audience members, there wasn’t a dry eye in the stands. Multiple students came back to their third period moved both emotionally and with a different

view point on drinking at parties and dances.

For the two days that the “every 15 minutes”

experience took place, the perception of drunk-driving situations has been shaken throughout the student body as well as the staff. Gravestones of students that “died”have

also been placed on the quad lawn.

Friends were able to pay their respects,

with the realization

sinking in of what m i g h t h a p p e n if drunk d r iv ing r a t e s

continue to rise.

“It was a great experience,

Photos by HEENA MORAR / Wildcatgrim AwAkening: (Left) Officer Robert Conner from the Brea Police Department acted as the Grim Reaper during Every 15 Minutes. Conner’s arrival into a classroom represented the death of a student. (Above, Below) Jessica Sheppard, senior, represented a victim of drunk driving during the assembly on April 20.

even for people who weren’t directly involved in it. After seeing my brother do it in 2001 for our school, I was really hoping I would get nominated for it. I really wanted be a part of something that students would hopefully take seriously. After all, this is a very serious issue,” said Reeves.

Staff members also had much to contribute after this annual school-wide event as they witnessed the effect it had on their students.

“I thought this was a great idea and always tried to make sure my students took the event seriously. The only thing I would change about it is possibly creating more events like this and have them more often because I have learned from my students that the best way for it to sink in to a high schooler’s mind is repetition,” said Hengameh Moshirr, math teacher.

HaileyLee

15 MINUTES from page 1

I wanted to be apart of something that students would take seriously. This is a very serious issue.”

-Sadie ReevesJunIor

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LOIS AHNCo-a&e editor

During the fall, NBC is scheduled to air a television program called, School Pride, a two-hour special that will feature the students, teachers, and parents that volunteered to help out the city of Compton, including Hailey Lee and Claire Choi, sophomores.

“I was able to have fun and at the same time, help make their school a better place for them to learn and en-joy themselves. It felt good to know that it was for students like me and a community that is less fortunate than [ours],” said Lee.

“I think School Pride’s motive is to truly express the love and con-cern that we have for those who are

less privileged than us,” she added.As Lee and Choi walked the campus of Enterprise Mid-

dle School, they saw graffiti along the walls and the paint peeling off the doors.

Hundreds of people came out to volunteer to paint the faded walls, plant flowers and clean up the campus.

“Murals were already being drawn on some of the walls and flowers were being planted everywhere as I arrived to start painting and helping out. I think that the students of En-terprise will really see the heart, effort, and time that people put into beautifying their school,” said Choi.

The Compton Initiative partnered with School Pride to re-paint and reconstruct Enterprise Middle School.

According to www.justdogood.org, The Compton Initia-tive is a 40 year commitment that will carry out a thousand acts of service, which will assist in the transformation of Compton.

Denise Cramsey, former executive producer of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Cheryl Hines, from Curb Your Enthusiasm are executive producers on the special.

Cramsey, in an interview on justdogood.org, said, “As we go around this country what we want to do is pull volunteers from the community to help us [makeover the schools]. We don’t want to be a big network television show that comes in and does it for you. We want to pull the community together and say, ‘You guys can do it for yourselves, and we want to help you.’”

According to www.thewrap.com, the project of School Pride, is designed to give local communities the ability to renovate and restore their aging school facilities.

It was inspired by a similar effort in which local activists fix school buildings in Compton. This led to improved grades and test scores. Producers are hoping for similar results for the event coming up.

Choi said, “Though the process was tedious, it was all worth it when it was over. The students of Enterprise should feel motivated for better learning as their campus was beauti-fied and given an improved learning environment. I hope the students know that there are people out there rooting for their education.”

SHERMAN UYENOStaff writer

With the increasing amount of competition and intellect in today’s high school upperclassmen, SAT prep classes are necessary for desired scores. SAT scores are an essential part of the college admission process; therefore many students want to raise their scores to increase their chances of admission.

These prep classes are beneficial for improving essay scores and mastering the three sections of the SAT: critical reading, math, and writing. Although prep classes are expensive, they prepare students for one of the most important exams of their high school careers.

“Help greatly outweighs the costs, and if you want a good score, it’s definitely worth it to spend the money,” said AJ Aman, senior.

Some SAT classes can cost over $1000 which is a large amount for most families. However, these classes are definitely worth the money because they help raise student test scores.

“I increased my score by more than 600 points. Studying for the writing portion also tremendously increased my grammar, not only on the SAT’s, but also for school work,” said Sam Park, senior.

Some people may say that other sources of help are available and work just as well as the prep classes. For example, self study SAT books explain different techniques to finish without

running out of time and include practice tests. However, these books cannot guide students in the writing portion of the test and cannot point out where an essay lacks coherency, depth, or analysis, whereas teachers in prep classes can personally analyze student essays and give specific feedback depending on the student.

“Princeton Review and Barron’s prep books are the biggest alternative source, but you can only use them for practice, not for specific guidance.Prep books cannot teach critical techniques of the writing portion that a teacher may see that you need specific help in,” said Esther Joo, junior.

For many students, it is hard to study by themselves because they do not have the mental drive to do so. They need to be pushed to suceed and many times, a student can give up, but if an instructor helps motivate him, he will be more likely to succeed.

“[Learning] depends on your personality. If you need to be pushed, the classes are helpful. You should take a short course and learn the techniques then practice on your own if you have the determination,” said Jerry Chung, senior.

SAT prep classes are extremely beneficial and crucial toward attaining the high test scores that students need for admission into competitive universities. There are some other alternative ways to study but without a teacher’s guidance and motivation, students will not be properly prepared.

Are SAT prep classes worth the money and time?Students can achieve high scores without wasting time and money on prep classes

SAT classes not only improve scores but also help students manage their time

“Yes, because they prepare you for getting a high score on standardized tests, which

is extremely important.”Akshay Verma

freshman

“Yes, because they teach you about everything you

need to know and also give you useful practice.”

Alexa Amansophomore

“SAT prep classes can’t really hurt you but reading and studying at home is

better.”Margie Sepulveda

English teacher

“I don’t think that prep classes are necessary,

but they can be helpful if you want a better score.”

Melissa Strom junior

“I think that SAT Prep classes are beneficial because they prepare you well for the test.”

Eugene Ahnsenior

OPINION6 May 21, 2010

are prep claSSeS neceSSary for

LOIS AHNco-a&e editor

Throughout the school year, most juniors and seniors anticipate taking the SAT’s, which are critical to college acceptance requirements. According to sat.collegeboard.com, the SAT is a globally recognized admission test that shows colleges what students know and how well they can apply that knowledge.

To prepare for this test, students may either purchase their own SAT preparation books for self-study, or take up tutoring programs over the summer and throughout the year.

SAT tutoring is constructive in most cases, but with the high costs and required time, it is not entirely worth it. If students are willing to put time and effort into an SAT tutoring program, then there should be no difference to the effort they would put into studying on their own individually, which is far less expensive than SAT prep classes.

The cost of these SAT classes can range from $400 to $2,500. On average, most SAT prep summer programs last around eight weeks for five to six hours a day. But with programs like Elite Academy’s that include detention, more time and commitment is required from the student.

Not only are classes time consuming, but students have tests to study for and hundreds of vocabulary words to memorize on a daily basis. Thus, if students do not get their desired scores in

the end, all that time and money they spent will seem like a waste.

“It’s your effort that counts and if you are confined to a [tutoring program] and you don’t try, then there will be no positive results, meaning you wasted your time and money,” said Daniel Chang, sophomore.

In addition, SAT prep classes can be overwhelming for many students, both physically and mentally. Therefore, using study guide booklets instead can allow students to manage their time more efficiently. It may take more motivation for students to push themselves to study on their own, but they will be saving a lot of time and money.

“Students should not take SAT classes, because they are too costly and give over-excessive cramming that does not provide real learning,” said Sean Gil, sophomore.

SAT prep classes are often highly recommended and usually guaranteed to give desired results, but the outcome really depends on the effort put into these classes. If students desire higher test scores, then taking a class or studying on their own should not be much different, depending on the effort they are willing to put into their learning.

Students should learn to push themselves individually and have self-motivation to achieve their desired scores without the intense pressures that results from a prep class.

Compiled by JUDY LEE

“SAT classes are not necessary, and independent study is enough. But, if the money is available, the classes are valuable learning resource that can help kids review subject matter.” - Anish Patel, sophomore.

NEHA ANSARIopinion editor

With budget cuts increasing every year, students and their families are beginning to pay increasing amounts for public school education. Although state Constitutions prohibit public schools from charging tuition, students are still forced to pay their own money for extra-curricular activities, sports, and other college requirements.

“If you want to get into a good college, you’re going to have pay a lot of money for things like sports and AP tests,” said Carly Bishop, junior.

Throughout their four years of high school,

students take a multitude of extra tests with charges that are recommended for college. For example, numerous students recently took their AP exams, which show how much students have learned after taking a specific AP course. For this reason, students are highly encouraged to take these exams which cost 86 dollars each. Although students can redeem college credit by passing the exam, 86 dollars is a large sum of money, especially when it adds up for students who take nearly ten exams in their high school careers.

Sports and clubs also require students to pay money for membership fees, equipment, and transportation. These extra-curricular activities,

like AP exams and SAT’s, are also recommended for college applications because most universities prefer well-rounded students.

However, none of these extra activities and tests are required by the public schooling system; they are merely recommended for competitive universities and are a student’s personal choice.

“Students always will have to spend a little out of their own pocket. But they are not forced to play sports, take AP tests, or purchase prep books. It’s entirely their decision,” said Brent Ida, junior.

Even with increasing public high school costs, private schools are still more costly because students have to pay for their own tuition. According to

councilofprivateeducation.com, the average yearly private school tuition in high schools is $10,549. Public high school students may end up spending extra money for things other than tuition, but those costs will probably not outweigh the total amount of private school tuition.

Public schooling is becoming expensive without actually charging for tuition. Although private schools continue to be more pricy, public school students still pay money for extra things that improve their college résumés. Nonetheless, the increasing costs should not make students forget how privileged they are to receive proper education, almost without a charge.

Public schooling increases in expenses

doing well on the SatS?

The Wildcat is the official newspaper of Brea Olinda High School. The opinions expressed in this paper reflect the views of our staff writers and editors. Unsigned editorials reflect the views of the Wildcat staff. The Brea Olinda Unified School District has not reviewed, nor does it endorse, the products or services advertised.

789 Wildcat Way, Brea, CA 92821 (714) 990-7850

bohs_wildcat@yahoo.comthewildcatonline.com

WILDCATBrea Olinda High School

JEAN NICOLE ORLEANSStaff writer

emember when food was just food? In times like these, how can people really trust that the food advertisements

on TV are true? How can people trust that the average consumer’s voice can be heard and not scared into silence?

Becoming aware of what our food has evolved into, and knowing what is actually used to produce our food are what will truly give us a new perspective and the ability to rise from the TV couch with a changed opinion.

Currently, consumers pay the lowest amount of money for food than ever before. This cheap food is coming to us at a high, unseen cost yet the question, “What is the real cost?” still remains. On one hand, it is great that we have so much food at such an inexpensive cost.

Herbert Hoover once said, “A chicken in every pot,” because having chicken for dinner was a precious thing years ago. Now, we spend so little on chicken only because those chickens are sick and often genetically engineered. Yet, this food is still going to the National School Lunch Program, proving how our country is being forced to eat in this unhealthy and toxic way.

“The food system is skewed towards the bad calories. Health should be the foremost aspect people should be concerned about but unfortunately financial circumstances force [them] to consume cheaper products,” said Erica Lee, senior.

The food industry’s irresponsible behavior can be changed. To eat well

Staff writers: Terry Kyung, Randy Liggins, Audrey Marra, Megan Mashal, Joey Mulock, Thea O’Dell, Jean Orleans, Ashley Pabon, Kelsey Smith

Hwa Eun KimEditor-in-chief

in this country costs more than to eat poorly. Since not all consumers have sufficient amount of money, they end up eating an unhealthy, processed alternative. The fact that two bags of chips are still cheaper than a pack of carrots and ranch just proves that something is wrong with this system.

“The fact that we are practically

forced to eat unhealthy is what keeps our country the fattest country in the world. The way our food is produced is completely dishonest about what it has become and what is sad is that most future generations won’t even recognize it; the antibiotics, hormones, the bleach,” said Natalie Pak, senior.

Today, the biggest predictor of obesity is income level. If there is a

family of four looking for something to eat, they can go to a food market and search for something cheap or go straight to a drive-thru and purchase one dollar burgers. These burgers are easier, cheaper, and more satisfying than anything else found in the produce section at the market. However, this scale of pricing is unjustifiable.

According to Food Inc., two-thirds of Americans are obese and one-third of children born after the year 2000 will develop early on-set diabetes. This shows how the food industry is changing the development of our future generations. To prevent this process from happening, the industry’s policy level must be altered. At this moment in time, we are the ones in control.

Looking at the tobacco industry, it has enormous power over public policy and that control is abused when we give concrete examples. It is a perfect model of how an industry’s irresponsible behavior can be changed. An opportunity to vote is available three times every day--breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Whether it is local or not, organic or not, that is what we vote for. What is not realized is that this food is polluting the soil, contaminating the rivers, hurting the animals, and is also unfair to ourselves, the consumers. We have to remember that the industry is only going to give what the public wants.

A month does not go by where there is not a story in the news that pulls back the curtain on how industrial food is made. The problem is starting right in front of us and we, as consumers, barely even take notice.

THINK IN INK by kathy simonetta

Staff EditorialWith AP testing finally over and the long-awaited summer vacation just

around the corner, the senior class of 2010 anticipates Prom and graduation to conclude its last weeks of high school.

Hopefully safe and sound, that is.This week, after a successful Every 15 Minutes event, PAL (Peer

Assistance Leadership) hosted Drug and Alcohol Awareness Days to raise awareness and inform students about the dangers associated with drug abuse and drinking and driving.

According to www.sadd.org, nearly 28 percent of 15- to 20-year-old drivers die in drunk driving accidents each year. This percentage will not drop without any significant effort or changes. By posting posters with fast facts around the campus and inviting guest speakers to share personal stories, the collective effort of school events is what makes a difference in students’ lives.

Rather than focusing on students as a whole, PAL allowed Drug and Alcohol Awareness Week to get students involved and participate individually. By sponsoring Casey’s Pledge, students had the opportunity to sign and pledge not to drink and drive or get in a car with a drunk person. Blue stars lined hallways representing the hundreds of students who have adopted this pledge.

Although they focused on different topics, the prime intention of both Every 15 Minutes and Drug and Alcohol Awareness Week was to emphasize the safety of students. Even more noteworthy were the positive feedback and the school participation both events received in response. By taking that extra step to grab students’ attentions, it is satisfying to acknowledge that the time, money, and effort spent to yield a response from the students were not put to waste.

But in the end, no matter how much impact or how many events BOHS hosts to provide awareness, it is ultimately up to the students to make the right choices of being “safe and sound.”

Photographers: Judy Lee, Matthew Maul, Jonathan Park, Anthony Val Verde Cartoonist: Kathy Simonetta

Connie JungManaging editor

Demise of public transportation

Matt Schade Sports editor

Jeannie KimPhoto editor

Saloni Shah Feature editor

R

Healthy food becomes too expensive for family budgets

OPINION 7May 21, 2010

Students too ‘scared’ to ride city buses

Paper blue stars line campus walls to represent the pledges that students signed and adopted to stay abstinent against drinking and driving during Drug and Alcohol Awareness Week.

Anar BataPaul Lee

News editors

Alex KoersAdviser

Neha Ansari Opinion editor

The way our food is produced is completely dishonest about what it has become and what is sad is that most future generations won’t even recognize it--the antibiotics, hormones, bleach.”

-Natalie Pak

“

KELSEY SMITHStaff writer

With gas prices, global pollution levels, and various other economic struggles greatly increasing every year, one might think that public transportation would be taken advantage of more than ever. Ironically, it seems to be moving in the exact opposite direction. “I’ve never really heard of someone riding the bus to get somewhere. It seems pretty old-fashioned,” said Makenna Christ, sophomore.

With most students polled sharing Christ’s viewpoint, one must question whether public transportation in Brea is becoming unpopular over the years among high school students due to its impracticality, or due to an unfortunate image it has acquired?

“There’s always scary people in buses like creepy older men that stare at you,” said Elaine Yoo, senior. “It’s just not really a welcoming atmosphere.”

In spite of the “scary” aspect of public transportation, many students still depend on city and school buses as a means of transportation.

“I ride the bus home from school because my parents can’t give me rides. Walking home is too far and dangerous, so the bus is the easier and safer alternative,” said Imelda Rodriguez, junior.

Although some students, like Rodriguez, are able to use and depend upon public transportation, for many it has acquired an image that it simply cannot get rid of. As many teens agree with the “creepy” factor of public transit, the practicality of it has clearly been overshadowed.

“I don’t think it necessarily was less creepy then,” said Laurel Batchelor, English teacher. “But at that time, I used [public transportation] because I didn’t have money for a

car.” With our nation’s current economic depression and high

unemployment rate, it is obvious that many families are struggling financially and are thus unable to afford cars for their teens.

“Usually it means you’re poor if you ride public transportation, and that’s frowned upon by many people,” said Alexa Vander Meer, junior. “Some people think it’s embarrassing to ride the bus.”

Due to this pressure to acquire one’s own source of transportation, using public transportation clearly alludes to the incorrect assumption that if a person does not own his own car, he must be “poor.” Nevertheless, using public transportation should not translate as a lack of money, rather it should show that a person is simply smart and resourceful.

The most unfortunate part of students not appreciating public transportation is that they do not comprehend how helpful public transportation can be. Not only is it cheap and efficient, but public transportation also benefits the environment.

According to www.publictransportation.org, traveling by public transportation uses less energy and produces less pollution than comparable travel in private vehicles. Also, public transportation reduces energy consumption and harmful carbon dioxide emissions that damage the environment.

The truth is, people everywhere are rushing to purchase reusable water bottles, hybrid cars, and environmental clothing, but they are still unable to realize how something as simple as riding the city bus can also save the environment.

With financial struggles, environmental problems, and unemployment rates all on the rise, public transportation would serve as an optimal solution to many transportation hassles. Although its image has overtime been degraded, whether or not this has occurred justifiably is arguable. The one thing that remains a fact, however, is that it is a feasible option that is often overlooked by BOHS students.

For the RecordCenterspread: On page 8, Guneet Chadha’s name was misspelled.

Lois Ahn Christopher Suh

A&E editors Charissa Kim Centerspread editor

B.o.B Circa Survive

With his album debut of “The

Adventures of Bobby Ray,” alternative

hip-hop artist B.o.B has already taken

his place at the top of the Billboard

200, debuting at #1 and selling 84,000

albums the first week of release.

The artist is critically acclaimed

by music review magazines such as

Rolling Stone and Absolutepunk.net

as “eclectic in his lyrics,” full of “vibrant

charisma,” and as a “young Kanye

West.” And how can we disagree; with

his two singles “Nothin’ on You” and

“Airplanes” dominating the iTunes

top-selling charts for weeks, this

album was already the talk of hip hop

before it even came out.

Featuring artists such as Bruno

Mars, Hayley Williams of Paramore,

Eminem, Lupe Fiasco, T.I., and Rivers

Cuomo of Weezer, B.o.B dynamically

explores different genres of hip-hop

and pop. Through his tracks, the artist

tells tales of his personal struggles

while simultaneously maintaning his

role of entertaining the public with

upbeat tones. “The Adventures of

Bobby Ray” is indeed a joyride and

highlights B.o.B’s variegated abilities.

Circa Survive has fans ecstatic

for their recent release of “Blue Sky

Noise”, the band’s long-awaited third

full-length album. With this CD, the

alternative rock band incorporates

polished and intensely layered tracks,

pushing further into their unique, post-

hardcore sound.

The tracks are familiar and keep

the same “Circa” sound as lead singer

Anthony Green unfailingly keeps

his unique voice with some added

aggression. The distinction evident in

Blue Sky Noise is due to the band’s

change of record label company to

Atlantic Records. Since the change,

it has been about three years since

a Circa Survive album has been

released. Blue Sky Noise includes

incredible lyrics and has stunning

cover artwork by Esao Andrews.

Fans of The Used, Cambria, and

Thrice will also enjoy Circa Survive.

Their 2010 tour started on April 27th

in Houston Texas and will be ending

on May 29th in Atlantic City. Fans can

visit circasurvive.com for upcoming

tour dates and information on Blue

Sky Noise.

-CHRISToPHER SUH

Recommended Tracks: “Nothin’ on You,” “Airplanes Pt. 1 & 2”Fast Fact: B.o.B. also plays the keyboard guitar, and trumpet.

Recommended track: “Get Out,” “Frozen Creek”Fast Fact: This year, the band switched to Atlantic Records, the same label as B.o.B.

-ASHLEY PABON

8A&E First summer blockbuster, Iron Man 2, dominated the box office with a total ticket sale of 133.6 million in its first week of release in North America and 327.6 million worldwide.

Shrek 4

After rescuing a princess, saving a

kingdom, and refusing a crown, Shrek

has had his share of adventures, but

it won’t end for him just yet.

In Shrek Forever After, Shrek,

tired of his new life as a father and

celebrity, searches for a return

to his old ogre lifestyle of scaring

humans and living recklessly. But

unexpected obstacles come forth for

the past-hungry ogre after he signs a

faulty contract with Rumplestiltskin.

Adventures arise as Shrek battles for

an escape from an alternate reality as

well as Fiona back as his true love.

With three successful prequels

critically acclaimed worldwide,

Shrek Forever After is the film to

end it all after plans for a fifth movie

was scratched out by director Mike

Mitchell. Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz

and Eddie Murphy return to play all

of Shrek’s major roles. The movie

shows promise as a family fun movie.

Sights such as an overweight Puss-

in-Boots and Gingy fending off animal

crackers are incentive enough for

fans to anticipate the final chapter of

the Shrek saga.

-CHRISToPHER SUH

Directed by: Mike MitchellStarring: Mike Meyers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy, Justin Timberlake

May 21, 2010

THEA O’DELLStaff writer

Since my reading list always seems

to grow, I decided to add The Last Song

by Nicholas Sparks to it. Reading the

novel has opened my eyes to its great

appeal: its original take on love, and

how a single period

of time can change a

person’s life.

In both the book and

the movie, the basic plot

chronicles a seventeen-

year-old rebel, Ronnie,

who is forced to live with

her dad for a summer.

An ex-piano playing

prodigy, Ronnie is given

a full-ride to Julliard, but

declines it and ends up falling into the

wrong crowd. When landing in South

Carolina for the summer, circumstances

change when she meets a popular

boy, Will. As the plot progresses, a

reader will discover the power of love,

learning to let go, and music, and how

all together, they are able to create one

of the best stories I’ve personally read.

Although they have the same effect,

Her final masterpiece The Last Song: book vs. movie

KELsEy smiTHStaff writer

Last month’s Dance Production

concert was not only their final

performance of the year, it was also

the debut of Cindy Hermann’s master’s

degree piece; a compiliation of

everything she has learned from CSU

Long Beach’s master’s dance program.

Hermann graduated from CSU

Long Beach with her Bachelor’s degree

in dance. However, she knew that this

would not be the end of her educational

endeavors.

The only member of her family to

receive a college degree, Hermann has

a very positive outlook on the role of

learning.

“I’m very driven by education.

It’s always

b e e n

something

that is very

important

to me,” said

Hermann.

For the

past few

summers ,

H e r m a n n

has been

i n v o l v e d

in a program at CSU Long Beach to

receive her master’s degree. She went

through an auditioning process and had

to spend her past summers working

intensely with the program.

“I’m not going to lie, it’s definitely

the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” said

Hermann.

Attending classes in dance

technique, choreography, history,

lighting, anatomy, costume design,

and music, her summers have been

completely monopolized by the

program.

All this hard work lead up to one

of the main components in receiving

her degree, and this is where her dance

production team came into play.

With a strict rubric to follow,

Hermann had to choreograph a dance,

with a seven minute time minimum,

incorporating virtually everything she

learned through her dance training.

The rubric also required the use of

at least four dancers, from which she

chose from her current dance production

team. Hermann selected Jeannie Kim

and Raquel Lopez, senior captains,

and Emily Davis and Mandy Piecuch,

sophomores, to be the main dancers in

the piece.

Although Hermann was under a lot

of stress from this project, the dancers

said the strain was hardly noticeable.

“Ms. Hermann is a really strong

person, and she never really showed that

she was stressed out. But we knew how

hard she worked on the project and how

much it meant to her, so it motivated us

more to do the best we could for her,”

said Lopez.

Hermann chose to compose the

dance as a narrative piece, thus narrating

moments in the life of a war veteran.

“There’s a lot that our military and

our veterans do for our country that

they don’t get acknowledged for, so this

was a good way to recognize that,” said

Hermann.

The piece featured a war veteran,

played by Kim, who, surrounded by a

busy world, was triggered into a series

of tragic memories of the veteran’s past.

These memories incorporated the stress

of the war itself, as well as the strain

it put on the veteran’s spouse and two

young children, played by Davis and

Piecuch.

“It taught me how to dance in an

emotional state. I had to try to relate

with all the emotions the veteran was

going through so it was a bit difficult

because I had never gone through

anything like that,” said Kim.

Although the project was time-

consuming, Hermann feels nothing but

optimism and gratitude.

“I’m just very fortunate to have

amazing, talented students that went on

this journey with me and supported me

to do well and to excel,” said Hermann.

there are differences between the book

and the movie. While both provide

tear-jerking scenes, the movie left out

essential events originally incorporated

in the book.

Certain events that occur between

Will and Ronnie in the book are vital

to their relationship, but in the movie,

they are cut out and

left for the audience

to figure out on their

own or to be mislead.

Also, Will is portrayed

slightly different. He

remains charming and

witty in both forms of

media, but in the book,

his character goes more

in depth, showing

both his stubborn and

passionate sides.

Overall, The Last Song is a tried and

true original that wins; but the book is

better than the movie. Sparks’ books are

always full of the passion and soul that

movies are never able to truly capture.

I would definitely give The Last Song

two thumbs up, not only because I like

the story line, but because it’s extremely

relatable to teenage girls.

Release Date: May 21 Released: April 14Released: April 27Iron Man 2

With total worldwide ticket sales

of 133.6 million dollars on its opening

weekend, Iron Man 2 has not only

dominated the box office, but also beat

opening sales of its predecessor.

Robert Downey Jr. plays

superhero Tony Stark with perfect

sarcasm as well as antics and humor

consistent with the first installment

of Iron Man. Downey uses biting

wit, yet stays satisfyingly true to his

womanizing, stubborn, and somewhat

antiheroic persona.

The film includes many improved

aspects such as the cleverly relatable

conflict between Stark and the

United States government as well as

depicting Stark alongside women in

dominant roles. Actresses Gwyneth

Paltrow, as Pepper Potts, and Scarlett

Johansson, as Natalie Rushman, play

their roles flawlessly, as they serve

as some of the only characters able to

stand up to Stark’s tenacity.

The heroic phenomenon ends

with an ambiguous suggestion that

only true Iron Man fans will catch, and

hints to the continuing of the Iron Man

legacy.

Directed by: Jon FavreauStarring: Robert Downey Jr., Don Cheadle, Gyweneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johannson

Released: May 7

Hermann coordinates piece for master’s degree

A veterAn’s tribute: Jeannie Kim (center), Raquel Lopez (behind), seniors, and Emily Davis (left), Mandy Piecuch (right), sophomores, perform Hermann’s master’s degree piece as figures of a war veteran’s dream.

“Staring out the bedroom window, Ronnie wondered whether Pastor Harris was already at the church.”

Photo courtesy of JILL SCHOENEMANN

weblo.comdjpause.wordpress.comproduct-review.netbancherry.com

“But alas my dear friends, we have come to the

final chapter.”

Cindy HermannDance Teacher

-KELSEY SMITH

The Best AdviceI Ever Got

Valedictorians, salutatorians of Class of 2010 share some words of wisdom

“Do whatever you want and don’t worry about what other

people think.” Since this advice came from my mom, I highly

doubt that it should be interpreted as an excuse to do drugs

or commit crimes just for fun, but rather as a reminder to not

get too caught up with the high school drama of popularity and

trying to be “cool.” In my experience, sitting through the same

five classes everyday can be extremely tedious and,

depending on the workload, even stressful. For me,

doing something silly or dumb such as “honking a bun”

can be quite fun and even helps to relieve stress.

(When a girl sitting in front of me has her hair up

in a bun, it reminds me of a clown horn so I grab the

bun while imitating a honking noise - hence, “honking

a bun,” which I don’t normally do unless the girl is

my friend). Some people probably consider me a bit

weird, but I would rather have fun than worry about

what others think of me.

Boris Chung, salutatorianUniversity of California, Los Angeles

“Michelle, discover who you truly are. Only then will you be able to choose the correct path.” Three years later, I now understand what my priest tried to convey to me then. All my life, I studied diligently, with the hope of one day attending a prestigious Ivy League school. However, I never really understood my motives for doing so. Now, I can say that I have discovered who I am, what I believe in, and what I want in life. It is not simply the prestige of an Ivy League education, as I thought I wanted for the past 17 years of my life. In fact, I quite easily turned down my offer of admission to Cornell University, for I have discovered that my reasons for wanting to attend an Ivy League school sprouted from the expectations of others, not because I truly wanted it. Instead, I have decided to attend the school that (as cheesy as it sounds) my heart belongs to. I feel good about myself, breaking free from those expectations and pursuing what I believe is right for me.

Michelle Paek, valedictorianUniversity of Notre Dame

As I sat crammed in a wet, towel-infested corner of El Modena High School’s pool deck my freshman year studying for my bio, math, lit and Spanish tests the next day, Nate Hirsch, a junior on the water polo team, walked over to me and gave me a piece of advice that I have clung to over the years. With a serious expression he said, “Scott, sometimes you just need to forget about school and take a break.” Of course, being a freshman, I didn’t really understand what he meant, so I continued to stress my way through school. Finally, after school wore me down to complete exhaustion, I took his advice and just put aside homework for a day and hung out with my friends. Although it was only for a day, it gave me the time I needed to refresh myself. It was at that point I understood the wisdom imparted to me.Scott Purpura, valedictorianStanford University

“Play as hard as you study. Study as hard as you play.” Those were my parents’ words to me when I was a sophomore. That year, honors and AP classes began to consume most of my time and effort. Oftentimes, multiple tests would be scheduled for the same day and projects piled up from procrastination. Suddenly, I couldn’t even remember the last time I went out to watch a movie with my friends. I began to realize that being too consumed with schoolwork only stressed me out more. I started to understand that is was still possible to maintain a balance between school and play. It’s nice to sometimes go out, hang out with family and friends, and enjoy time in the fresh air. But what’s important is that the amount of effort and passion put into playing is the same put into studying.

Rachel Kim, valedictorianUniversity of California, Berkeley

from left to right (top row): Kirstie

Gallacher-Ang, Boris Chun

g, Scott Purpura, and

Chelsea Yeh. (bottom row) Michelle Paek,

Faye

Mendoza, and Rachel Kim.

Photos by HEENA MORAR / Wildcat

As a student with high hopes and expections, I had many anxious thoughts about high school and college. What classes should I take? What do college admissions officers look for in an applicant? With so many details to think about, I only became frustrated with my high school career. So in my sophomore year, I took the initiative to share my fears with my guidance counselor, Jennifer Cormier. Through countless meetings, my worries were gradually replaced with confidence and motivation to become a better student. Thus, I encourage those who are nervous about excelling in school to seek the assistance of mentors, who are always willing to help students accomplish their goals. I do not believe I would have been so successful without their help.

Chelsea Yeh, valedictorianHarvard University

In the summer before my junior year, I tried to recover from the tiring months before when I pushed through my never-ending classes. Yet, at the same time, I was extremely restless - constantly wondering whether I was doing “enough.” In striving to be ideal, it is easy to lose sight of your genuine needs and desires. It is so easy to be intimidated by other high achievers and not help but feel doubtful of your own measure. There have been many times in my high school career when I wish someone had told me what to do sooner. But I believe the best advice comes when the time is truly ripe for it. That July almost two years ago, I stumbled upon a profound saying: “Run your own race.” Since then, it has become as my own personal mantra, and Ive realized that only when you embrace your own unique independence will you really endure and thrive.

Faye Mendoza, salutatorianUniversity of California, Los Angeles

The First three pieces of advice that come to mind are: First, put the pro in procrastination. Plan your procrastination; choose a date to start worrying about whatever-

it-is-you’re-avoiding-in-hopes-that-it’ll-disappear, and forget about it until then. Second, If you want something done right, do it yourself. When your teammates “allow” you to

complete the entire group project because you’re the overachiever. you’ll beneFit too. You’re the

only person who can meet your standards. Third, as for your writing, utilize a thesaurus. It will augment your argot, perplex your peers, and make you appear perspicacious.

Kirstie Gallacher-Ang, valedictorian

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

9

Wildcat Senior Staff 2010

10

Emily LiuBrown University

Faye MendozaUCLA

Terry KyungUC Berkeley

Rachel KimUC Berkeley

Heena MorarCal State Fullerton

Kathy SimonettaUC Riverside

Agne, Jan Vincent Agne, Jullian KarlAhmad, SalmanAhn, EugeneAhn, RaymondAlas, JohnAmsbury, JakeAnderson, Jacquelene Anderson, Kyle Andrews, MichelleArter, Patrick Atkins, Jerry Atkins, Trent

A UndecidedUndecidedLMU 7

UC RiversideBiolaFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeColumbia CollegeArizona StateOCC 2

UC Santa BarbaraMt. SACUndecided

B Bacher, Lauren Baran, NicolasBarboza, ShennyBarcelona, Mary JoanaBarnes, KayleighBeckman, SydneyBell, LisaBenedict, KristaBenson, OliviaBent, MelissaBermudez, TrishaBlake, KarleyBor, Matthew Bor, MichaelBordy, LyndsayBotello, Daisi Braudo, ChelseaBridges, NicoleBringhurst, Amy Broadstreet, WadeBrooks, Daniel Buczek, Breana Burks, Monique

U. of San FranciscoKansas State UniversityUC RiversideFullerton CollegeUC BerkeleySCC 3

UndecidedUndecidedSanta ClaraUC IrvineCSU FullertonCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeUndecidedCypress CollegeCerritos CollegeCypress CollegeCSU Long BeachCSU FullertonOrange Coast CollegeCSU FullertonFresno PacificTexas Southern

C Cabraloff, MichaelCaldera, Eric Camacho, KaylaCarias, Lewis Carillo, Alexander Cerjak, AmandaCervantes, DarleneChacon, MoniqueChang, DavidChapman, LincolnChase, SpencerChawla, AhmedCheng, GeorgineChifo, RachaelChoi, SangChoi, Yoonjoo Chon, JiyoungChung, BorisChung, JerryChung, JaneCiencia, Nicole Clark, DanielCole, DanielleCollier, ChristopherComey, BreannaContreras, Lisa Contreras, Jonathon Cornfield, ScottCovarrubias, CassandreCryderman, SaraCueto, LuisCuriel, Corina

U. of MarylandFullerton CollegeChapmanMt. SACUC RiversideCSU FullertonCSU FullertonMt. SACUndecidedSonoma StateBYU IdahoUndecidedFIDM 1

Marymount CollegeUC IrvineCSU Long BeachFullerton CollegeUCLAUC San DiegoUndecidedMt. SACCSU PomonaUndecidedUndecidedFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeUndecidedUndecidedMt. SACFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton College

D

E Eghtedari, Paris Ellenson, Matthew Erskine, ElizabethEssington, ChelseaEsqueda, JesusEwenike, Chidi

UC IrvineNorthern ArizonaFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeMt. SAC

F Fandino, NicoleFarmer, ElisabethFeagin, David Fierro, AdamFigueroa, OsbaldoFlora, Andrew Flynn, EvanForgette, PaulinaFrancis, AmandaFreshour, Heather Frisina, Andrea

CSU Monterey BayUSCCSU FullertonOCC 2

SCC 3

UndecidedCypress CollegeUndecidedFullerton CollegeUndecided Undecided

G Gallacher-Ang, KirstieGannaway, WilliamGarcia, AndrewGarcia, Grace Garcia, JocelynGarcia, RyanGarcia, SabrinaGastelum, SabrinaGibson, JonathanGil, GenelleGilson, JamieGimbel, DevinGodoi, AdamGomez, JavierGonzalez, AndrewGonzalez, GinoGoodson, AjiaGraciarena, ChrisGraves, AllisonGreen, AriannaGreytak, JosephGuerrero, JuanGurzi, DevonGutkowski, Matthew

CSPU PomonaUndecidedUndecidedFullerton CollegeFIDM 1

Fullerton CollegeSan Diego StateMt. SACUndecidedSCC 3

CSPU PomonaCSPU PomonaArt Institute of CaliforniaFullerton CollegeUndecidedCSU FullertonSeattle PacificSan Diego StateLe Cordon BleuCSU FullertonCSU FullertonUndecidedUndecidedU. of Colorado

H Hagen, BrookeHalbrook, Nicolle Hall, Stephen Hamilton, Ryan Harris, KelseyHarton, AllysonHattrup, Alyse Heiman, JosephHemli Munoz, MoniqueHernandez, VictorHernandez Romero, Elias Hirsh, Victoria Ho, AaronHorowitz, JacquelineHowland, ThomasHubert, KaitlinHunter, KennethHurtado, Vanessa Hyun, Eric

FIDM 1

Bryman Trade SchoolAustin CollegeMt. SACIowa StateFullerton CollegeCSPU PomonaUndecidedCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeSaddleback CollegeUC RiversideCypress CollegeUC IrvineFullerton CollegeUniversal Technical InstituteFullerton CollegeGeorgia Institute of Technology

Kang, HeatherKang, MinjungKaranzias, KellanKarimu, ChristianKattenbach, KatherineKeech, AaronKeller, RileyKennedy, EmmaKennedy, JillKern, TylerKernes, AdamKhatri, HetalKiley, BrettKim, AndrewKim, ChrisKim, JeannieKim, MichelleKim, Patrick Kim, RachelKim, Seul KiKim, Soo RimKim, Su HyunKim, Young HoonKo, KevinKoch, TarenKraft, KelseyKrallman, JacquelineKuether, AmberKvicky, JacquelineKwoun, ColinKyung, Kyubin

UC DavisParsonsSCC 3

Mt. SACFullerton CollegeUCLAUndecidedLMU 7

VanguardUndecidedCSPU PomonaCSU FullertonSCC 3

CornellSCC 3

CSU FullertonUC IrvineUndecidedUC BerkeleyPasadena City CollegeFIDM 1

CSU Long BeachIrvine Valley College PepperdineSaddleback CollegeCollege of Saint RoseU. of San DiegoMt. SACFullerton CollegeMt. SACUC Berkeley

L Lan, AlbertLane, RyanLang, Bianca Laverde, PaulineLeDoux, BryanLedesma, FrancesLee, A RaLee, EricaLee, Gee HyunLee, Hee WonLee, Hye JiLee, JaiheeLee, MinLee, Sook ChongLeiva, Monica Lemus, Mayte Le Piane, ReginaLiggins, RandyLiron, RebeccaLising, Michelle Liu, EmilyLopez, EmmanuelLopez, MiguelLopez, Raquel Lorenz-Venter, MatthewLovell, JustinLowe, KevinLundy, NicoleLuu, KennyLuxembourger, Jordan Ly, QuyenLyons, Sara

UC Santa BarbaraUndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonUndecidedSCC 3

MICA 4

UC San DiegoAzusa PacificUC San DiegoCSPU PomonaUC BerkeleyCSU FullertonCSU Los AngelesCypress CollegeUndecidedOCC 2

UndecidedNorthwesternCSU Long BeachBrownMt. SACFullerton CollegeOCC 2

Boise StateUndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonUndecidedCSU FresnoFullerton CollegeCSPU San Luis Obispo

M Macias, JasonMacias, KristalMaglione, AndreaMandel, JordanMarcano, LarissaMarin, SinarMarkman, HaileyMartinez, CarrieMartinez, DeniseMartinez, JosephMartinez, JohnMartinez, EsmeraldaMasucci, VincentMathews, LaurelMatsuo, KentaMaule, JamesMazumder, PujaMendoza, FayeMichaloff, DakotaMiller, Lynley Mishra, DiyaMoberly, RobertMontoya, Annette Moon, JustinMorales, DavidMorales, JoseMorar, Heena

UndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonSCC 3

ChapmanFullerton CollegeBostonUndecidedLBCC 5

OCC 2

UndecidedNew York UniversityUndecidedNew York UniversityCSPU PomonaUC RiversidePenn StateUCLAFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeCSPU San Luis ObispoCSU FullertonCSU FullertonBiolaCSU FullertonUSCUndecided

1 Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising 2 Orange Coast College 3 Santiago Canyon College 4 Maryland Institute College of Art 5 Long Beach City College 6 Western State College of Colorado 7 Loyola Marymount University 8 Southern California School of Interpretation

Dack, KyleDanan, DrynDang, AlbertDas, SheenaDavies, EllenDavis, Andrew Davis, KatherineDe Vries, NatalieDenker, Dylan Dewberry, Madeline Dias, NinaDickson, ChanelDiMeo, Kelly Dixon, AndrewDolmat, Colin Dominguez, TiffanyDuran, Alexis Dwyer, Joseph Dysart, Kaylee

Fullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeU. of IllinoisGonzagaFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeSanta Ana CollegeFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonUC RiversideFullerton CollegeSan Francisco StateUSCChapmanFullerton CollegeMt. SACNorthern ArizonaCSU Fullerton

I Idrees, Karem Im, Hyun KyunInagaki, Allen

UndecidedUC RiversideCSU Fullerton

JJahn, Kai ChiehJaracuaro, FreddyJarrah, ZeedJimenez, JesikaJiminez, VivianaJohnson, AlyssaJohnson, ChristianJohnson, JaymeJohnson, ShelbyJohnston, KaylenJohnston, MelissaJones, CoreyJung, Jeffrey

UC Santa BarbaraFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonUndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonCalifornia Art InstituteCSU San MarcosBaylorFullerton CollegeMt. SACUndecidedUCLA

K

11

Kathy SimonettaUC Riverside

Randy LigginsUndecided

Jean OrleansBiola University

Anthony Val VerdeAcademy of Arts (SF)

Kelsey SmithUndecided

Kate LeeUC Berkeley

Chelsea YehHarvard University

UC DavisParsonsSCC 3

Mt. SACFullerton CollegeUCLAUndecidedLMU 7

VanguardUndecidedCSPU PomonaCSU FullertonSCC 3

CornellSCC 3

CSU FullertonUC IrvineUndecidedUC BerkeleyPasadena City CollegeFIDM 1

CSU Long BeachIrvine Valley College PepperdineSaddleback CollegeCollege of Saint RoseU. of San DiegoMt. SACFullerton CollegeMt. SACUC Berkeley

UC Santa BarbaraUndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeSCC 3

MICA 4

UC San DiegoAzusa PacificUC San DiegoCSPU PomonaUC BerkeleyUC IrvineCSU Los AngelesCypress CollegeUndecidedOCC 2

UndecidedNorthwesternCSU Long BeachBrownMt. SACFullerton CollegeOCC 2

Boise StateUndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonUndecidedCSU FresnoFullerton CollegeCSPU San Luis Obispo Total out of state: 40

Private schools: 22State schools: 14Ivy Leagues: 4

Total in-state: 339Cal States: 101UC’s: 36Private schools: 45Community colleges: 157

Class Size: 478

College-bound students: 379

Most represented:Fullerton College (86)

2009-2010 SeniorsBy the Numbers

UndecidedFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonSCC 3

ChapmanFullerton CollegeBostonUndecidedLBCC 5

OCC 2

UndecidedNew York UniversityUndecidedNew York UniversityCSPU PomonaUC RiversidePenn StateUCLAFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeCSPU San Luis ObispoCSU FullertonCSU FullertonBiolaCSU FullertonUSCUndecided

OS

Sagastume, AnthonySalazar, Eva Salazar, Morgan Saldana, XimenaSalvary, DylanSalvary, JaredSanchez, ErinSandoval, ChristianSandoval, GaloSandoval, JacquelineSantos, Leo Savino, AlexandriaSavosh, RobertSawtelle, John Sawyer, AmandaSchade, EmilySchrepferman, ValerieSchweitzer, AshleySchwenke, StacySegura, Yvette Seo, Keung Serna, Ana Serna, EduardoSerna, Sergio Serrano, VirginiaShaw, Kristen Sheld, Garret Sheppard, JessicaSherman, ElyseShim, Angie Shim, Yae BonShin, Sun Hye Shinault, Tori Shore, Thomas Siazon, Kevin JohnSilva, GeovanaSilvers, Tesla Simonetta, KathySingh, Rajvinder Slater Shew, BrittneySloggett, MaegenSmith, KelseySnyder, David Solis, SamanthaSomerville, CodySong, AndrewSoria, Edgardo Soto, Christopher Spies, MatthewStark, Caitlin Steele, TheresaSteenmeijer, Mallory Stephens, HongStewart, Allison Stockler, Nicholas Stoerck, Jake Streed, JuliaStreet, ScottStreitz, Charles

CSU FullertonCerritos College CSPU PomonaCypress CollegeFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeUndecidedCSU Fullerton UndecidedUndecidedU. of RedlandsCSU FullertonCSU FullertonCSPU San Luis ObispoFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeUC Santa CruzFullerton CollegeUndecided Cypress CollegeFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeUndecidedCSU San FranciscoFullerton CollegeUC IrvineCSU FullertonCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeNew York UniversitySCSI 8

Fullerton CollegeUC RiversideCSU FullertonLa VerneBrown UndecidedFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeArizona State BostonCSU FullertonFullerton College Cypress CollegeCSU San FranciscoFullerton CollegeCSPU PomonaOCC 2

CSU FullertonCSPU San Luis Obispo SCC 2

Fullerton CollegeCSU San FranciscoFullerton College

Ocker, TaylorO’Conner, KevinOlmedo, GonzaloOlvey, AlexanderO’Neal, PatriciaOrleans, JeanOrozco, JuanaOrozco, RickyOrosco, TristenOrtiz, KatrinaOvalle, JosephOwen, Jake

1 Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising 2 Orange Coast College 3 Santiago Canyon College 4 Maryland Institute College of Art 5 Long Beach City College 6 Western State College of Colorado 7 Loyola Marymount University 8 Southern California School of Interpretation

BiolaChapmanFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeBiolaCSU FullertonUndecidedSan FranciscoCSU Monterey BaySCC 3

OCC 2

PPadore, BrittneyPaek, MichellePage, SeanPak, Natalie Parish, AlexandraPark, HeesuPark, HyePark, Jun YongPark, MooPark, RichardPark, SophiaParise, TerryPatricelli, TaylorPatterson, TylerPaysan, PatriciaPerson, AcaciaPennington, BrianPeralta, CarolinaPerez, SavannahPerez Mendoza, RobertoPham, DavidPham, ThuyPoore, RyanPortugal, ThomasPurdom, ErinPurdom, JillPurpura, Scott

UndecidedNotre DameCSU FullertonCSPU PomonaSt. John’sParsonsFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeMt. SACUndecidedWesleyanUndecidedBoise StateMt. SACUC IrvineWSCC 6

CSPU PomonaCypress CollegeCSU FullertonSCC 3

Fullerton CollegeCypress CollegeOCC 2

CSU FullertonCSU FullertonCSU FullertonStanford

Q Quattrocchi, Jake LMU 7

R Ramirez, AnaRamirez, EllyottRamirez, Rochelle Ramirez, RuthRamos, JohnRamos, MichaelRamsey, MelanieRandolph, MichaelaRanker, BritneyRangel, AshleyRazo, Thomas EltonReinholtz, JeffreyRemijio, DemiRenteria, IsaacReutter, Kasey Richesin, KyleRico, JorgeRigsby, Adam Rios, Ruby Rios, Stephanie

Fullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeUndecidedCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeBYU IdahoMt. SACCSU FullertonCSU FullertonFullerton CollegeUndecidedFullerton CollegeUndecided VanguardCSPU PomonaUndecidedFullerton CollegeFullerton CollegeFullerton College

TTave, MatthewTaylor, AlexandriaThomas, MackenzieThompson, Blair Thornton, Hannah Tousignant, Tanner Toves, Jared Travaglia, Domenic Tribe, Maximilian Tyler, Stephen

Arizona State CSU FullertonUndecidedCSPU San Luis ObispoFullerton CollegeOCC 2

Mt. SACSCC 3

Marymount CollegeUC San Diego

U Uriarte, NataliaUyemura, Benjamin

CSU FullertonFullerton College

V Valentine, Jessica Val Verde, AnthonyVan Unen, JohnVelasco, IsaacVelazquez, JoseVerhague, Matthew Villalpando, Obed Villavecer, Daniel Villicano, Denyelle

BYU-IdahoAcademy of Arts (SF)CSU Long BeachUndecidedSCC 3

Fullerton CollegeCSPU Pomona CSU FullertonFullerton College

Y Yang, HyeJeongYeh, Chelsea Yoo, ElaineYoon, JungYoon, Sung HyunYoungerman, Alyssa

Fullerton CollegeHarvardUC Santa BarbaraCSU Los AngelesCSU FullertonCSU Monterey Bay

Z Zhang, Jesse UC Santa Barbara

WWall, ZacharyWalters, OlsonWeeks, TatianaWeidner, Shannon Welch, MitchellWelsh, AshleyWest, BrentWest, KirstinWhitaker, RachelWhite, DanaeWickoff, Samantha Wiles, Jessica Wilkinson, DerrekWill, KristenWilliams, DyllanWilliams, LukeWilliamson, Corey Wilson, DanielWladyka, Courtney Wood, JohnWright, George Wyant, Michael

Fullerton CollegeUC IrvineFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonSCC 3

Saddleback CollegeSCC 3

Mt. SACFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonFullerton CollegePepperdineCSU FullertonTexas TechCSU ChicoSaddleback CollegeUndecidedArizona StateCSU PomonaNorwalk CollegeCSU Fullerton Undecided

Rivera, AlexandriaRobertson, Mark Rock, KristiRodriguez, PaulRomero, RebeccaRos, TaylorRosell, SydneyRoss, AustinRussell, AshleyRyan, Holly Ryder, Jessica

UndecidedCSU FullertonCSU San MarcosFullerton CollegeCSU FullertonCSU FullertonCSU NorthridgeUndecidedCSU San FranciscoCSU San JoseUndecided

N Nunez, George Undecided

Morris, VandenMowrey, SamuelMullins, Emma Muniz, SandraMurray, RobertMurrieta, ValerieMuniz, SandraMurray, RobertMurrieta, Valerie

OCC 2

UndecidedFullerton CollegeFIDM 1

SCC 3

SCC 3

FIDM 1

SCC 3

SCC 3

Seniors 2010Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010 Seniors 2010

Class of 2010: (1) Andrew Davis and Jared Salvary dress up for Senior Space Day. (2) Sophia Park makes a colorful jump on Halloween. (3) Daniel Wilson, Kyle Anderson, John Van Unen, and Scott Purpura take a shot for Senior Toga Day. (4) Elaine Yoo, and Michelle Lising, feel their old age on Senior Citizen Day. (5) Seniors attempt a pyramid after the Senior Mobshot. (6) Natalie Pak, Heather Kang, seniors, Esther Joo, junior, and Ellen Park, senior dress up as video game’s favorite characters. (7) Tom Howland and Thomas Shore stop for a picture on Senior Toga Day. (8) Rebecca Liron and Sheena Das slide down a mound of snow on Snow Day. (9) George Wright performs at Mr. Brea. (10) Breana Buczek, Shanee Calvo, Nicole Fandino, and Kelsey Harris pose as the only four seniors on the Ladycats.

1

312

4

5 6

7 8 9

In my musings about high school, I have found that hairstyles have the ability to act as a timeline of sorts—more specifically my own series of barbershop mishaps and somewhat passable haircuts. The scene mullet, the too-short bangs, the bowl-cut bangs. They were all personal decisions anad I swear, every time I sat down, I looked at each hairdresser in the mirror and said with confidence, “(Insert terribly trendy/horrendous haircut here).” Sometimes, it turned out how I envisioned it. Sometimes it didn’t.

Looking back at high school, I can match each hairstyle and my feelings towards it with these past years. These haircuts paired with specific high school memories, are all worthy of either cringing or laughing. But, for me at least, it’s all been an

experiment of sorts. For the last four years, we’ve been experimenting—testing

and figuring out who we are, and we who we do not want to be. It’s a bittersweet feeling, leaving the place where we faced our awkward years of discovery because there are people and feelings we want to both keep and leave behind.

Senior year is much different than I expected it to be. There were people and moments that turned out to be more than, ended up less than, and then those that just were. But as the year ends, BOHS has prepared us for something more than what we think we’re ready for. With the real world being surprisingly nothing like this eggshell we’ve lived in, we’ll look at high school as a haircut—defining and necessary to figuring out who we are or who we will be. -Emily Liu

10

A note from the editor-in:-chief

13A&EFlo Rida, American hip-hop artist, collaborated with G-Dragon, Korean pop star, on a remix of “Heartbreaker” for G-Dragon’s “Shine-A-Light” album. The two plan to perform together to connect their fans to different genres of music.

The Eagles’ legacy lives on

AUDREy mARRAStaff writer

Looking up at the cloudy sky,

threatening rain and thunder, it was

hard to predict what kind of night it was

going to be at the Eagles concert at the

Hollywood Bowl on Apr. 20.

Although there were people ranging

from all ages, most of the audience

looked to be in their mid-50s, ready to

enjoy the music in their old concert tees

from the Eagles’ previous tours.

In my seat, I had a clear view of the

stadium, and there didn’t seem to be an

empty space anywhere.

Once the lights darkened, the

audience ‘whooped’ and ‘owed’ in

excitement as Glenn Frey, Don Henley,

Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit took

the stage and began the night with an

a capalla version of “Seven Bridges

Road” and another four songs from

their last album The Long Road Out of Eden, which was released in 2007.

Frey welcomed the audience by

saying, “We are the ancient ones, and

this is the Eagles’ assisted-living tour.”

However, it wasn’t until the band

started playing one of their more

legendary hits, “Hotel California”, that

people started standing up and singing

along. They began the classic song with

a trumpet solo, in which the audience

recognized the first few opening chords

International artists unite to create universal appeal

May 21, 2010

of the original version.

After, Henley took the spotlight to

perform one of his greatest melodies

and that is when I heard the familiar

introduction to “Boys of Summer”.

I knew the rest of the crowd felt the

warm memories of summer rushing

back to their minds as they continued to

shout “oh yeah” and sway side to side

with their hands in the air.

LOis AHNCo-a&e editor

Music has always been a source of

entertainment, tradition, and culture,

but it is increasingly escaping the

confinements of its own regions. Our

generation is being opened up to various

styles and backgrounds of music as

it is making global and international

impacts.

Artists from all over the world

are driving this phenomenon by

collaborating to create music together,

mixing their unique aspects of music

to capture a wider range of audiences

internationally.

M.I.A is the performance name of

Mathangi Arulpragasm, the U.K. rapper

from London, born in Sri Lanka. In

2008, M.I.A’s songs were contributed

to the film, Slumdog Millionaire.

Although her origins are of Sri Lanka,

reelsoundtrack.wordpress.com said that

M.I.A.’s music was perfectly

suitable for the film’s scenes

in Mumbai, India. Her

collaboration with Indian

musician, A.R. Rahman’s “O

Saya,” for the movie soundtrack, was

nominated for an Academy Award for

Best Original Song.

In India, Ra.One, a Bollywood film,

is in progress and is to be released in

early 2011. Akon, an American rapper,

was willing to record a song for this film

gratis, even though it required him to

sing in Hindi. According to metrolyrics.

com, Akon said, “India is my next focus

area. I want to try different things, want

to explore - want to enjoy my work.”

Akon will not be featured in the film

itself but he is expected to be in the

music video.

B e t w e e n

South Korea

and America,

two singers are

collaborating

for a two-day

concert to be held

in Seoul, Korea,

May 21 and 22.

American rapper,

Flo Rida,

b e c a m e

well-known in Korea when Korean

artist, G-Dragon caused a controversy

regarding plagiarism over Flo Rida’s

“Right Round.” According to kpoplive.

com, this dispute was settled when Flo

Rida himself was featured in G-Dragon’s

“Heartbreaker” remix from his Shine A Light bonus second CD album. Tickets

have been on sale for fans of Flo Rida

and G-Dragon alike to see these two

stars from two

d i f f e r e n t

countries

performing together on one stage.

Many more Korean and American

artists are collaborating together and

American R&B artist Jason Derulo

and Korean singer Brian Joo agreed to

have a performance together after Joo

did a cover of Derulo’s “In My Head.”

According to www.popseoul.com,

both songs were released around the

same time and they have gained equal

popularity in their home countries.

Derulo arrived in Seoul, Korea and

shared the stage with Joo, March 18

and 19.

Korean female group SNSD, also

known as Girls’ Generation, released

their single, “Run

Devil Run,”

on March

17. A

few years

b e f o r e ,

American

pop artist,

K e $ h a ,

classicrock.about.com

ARTIST HIGHLIGHT

did a sample of this song and it

illegally leaked onto the internet

through YouTube and other websites.

There was a lot of controversy that

SNSD copied or plagiarized Ke$ha’s

song, but according to kpoptoday.com,

Ke$ha sang the song for the producers

as a sample. SM Entertainment, the

talent agency, producer, and publisher

of Korean pop entertainment, bought

the song from the producers, making

SNSD’s “Run Devil Run” the official

version.

With the rising popularity of

artists gaining fame through YouTube,

one video has attracted many. Eight

people, with five instruments, from

four different continents, speaking

three languages, collaborated for one

song, “Jam Session 2.0.” Youtube artist

Dumbfoundead collaborated with other

YouTube artists Esna Yoon and Herbal

T, along with musicians from all over

the world for their music video “Jam

Session 2.0”, which was featured on

CNN’s Viral Video segment due to its

attention gained by the media.

“I think it is crazy how music has

literally become a universal language.”

said Irwin Nhan, sophomore.

reunited Once AgAin: Joe Walsh, Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Timothy B. Schmit are the leading members of rock band The Eagles. Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the biggest selling album of all time and they were recognized in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001 according to classrock.about.com.

JEAN NiCOLE ORLEANsStaff writer

Campbell’s soup cans were a

common theme in 1950s pop art, and

even modern art sculptors had to resort

to the number of

arms a woman

gets to look

“avant-garde”

(thank you,

Picasso). But

51-year -old

sculptor Ron

Mueck, whose

solo exhibition

premiered in

Australia last

month, strays from the usual pattern.

His sculptures have an awkwardly real

feel, and portray humans on the edge of

beauty and disaster.

The Australia-born, London-based

artist has increasingly made it his

mission to turn all his creations perfect

in all angles. Pieces like Dead Dad, a

three-foot unforgettable sculpture of

the corpse of

Mueck’s father, feature the unbelievable

detail of everyday realism. Hair, pores,

discolorations, wrinkles -- no detail is

too unflattering for Mueck. The Gallery

of Victoria quotes him, “People in all

their variations and similarities are pretty

f a s c i n a t i n g .

Occasionally,

some of these

aspects come

into focus... and

I think maybe I

could capture

that.”

Like his

s c u l p t u r e s ,

w h i c h

emphasize on

unnoticed beauty, the pieces’ unnerving

sizes are practically captivating: with

15-foot wrinkled babies, humans of all

sizes feautured dead and alive, and a

four-foot-long version of his own head,

apparently asleep.

Yes, they are just sculptures of

bodies—but Ron Mueck and his

sculptures are undeniably exclusive

pieces of art.

britishmuseum.org

expectneglect.wordpress.com

Ron Mueck

pigeonsandplanes.com

“We are the ancient ones, and this is the Eagles’

assisted-living tour.”

Henley’s performance was

captivating and it is hard to believe that

even at the age of 63, he could still rock

out as if he were still in his twenties.

The band took a singing break as

Frey used the time to share how the

Dan Tana’s Hollywood Restaurant and

all the drama they encountered at the

venue inspired them to write their song,

“Lyin’ Eyes”.

Before starting the number, Frey

quickly mentioned that the performance

was dedicated to his first wife.

The lyrics to the song match up

perfectly to what might happen at a bar,

as Frey sings, “But he knows where

she’s goin’ as she’s leavin’/ She is

headed for the cheatin’ side of town.”

Because this song is one of the

classics, everybody in the audience was

singing along.

The Eagles continued to play

favored classics such as “Peaceful Easy

Feeling” and “I Can’t Tell You Why”.

Between songs, Frey and Henley

shared amusing anecdotes about being

a band in the ‘70s, beginning with lines

such as “Back when the Dead Sea was

just sick…”

The audience was reignited as the

band went on to play “Life in the Fast

Lane,” as red lights and images of young

adults in the ‘70s enjoying themselves,

were displayed on the screen behind

them.

The excitement continued through

their song “One of These Nights,”

which has a laid back, lazy guitar

introduction, then it leads into a more

steady and upbeat tempo. It is a song

that one could easily tap their foot to,

as they close their eyes, enjoying the

Eagles singing in perfect harmony.

They next sang a medley, signaling

the end of the fun, the end of the show.

The Eagles sang and performed

with definition and character that many

people probably forgot how freezing

it actually was outside. The foursome

triggered many old memories—as I

could see in the faces of my fellow

(and much older) Eagles fans—and

set everyone off with a much more

“peaceful-easy, feeling.”

worldstarhiphop.com djchaos.com

CONCERT REVIEW

14 FEATURE The Brea Police Department has been a vital part of the community since 1916, full filing the needs of residents and keeping control of the city.

Providing ‘sense of security’ May 21, 2010

Brea police dept. has served community for 90 yearsjoey mulockStaff writer

It all started with one man, George Bird, in

1916. He was also the tax collector and pound

master. Back then, the town itself consisted of dirt

streets and only had 44 registered vehicles. As the

city blossomed, so did the Brea Police Department.

It soon became a thriving organization dedicated

to helping the residents of Brea.

“In a normal day of police work, the patrol

officer would have his or her briefing [first],” said

Lieutenant Jerry Brakebill, a member the police

department.

A briefing is when officers get updated on

what happened the day or night before, and what

they should be looking out for on that particular

day.

Brakebill, as an officer dealt with crimes that

officers encounter often. In the suburban town we

live in, even though it is not the most dangerous,

most 911 calls are about house or property break-

ins. The job of a police officer is to keep the

neighborhoods safe and sound.

Although, he does not go out on patrol

anymore, Brakebill’s favorite part of being an

officer was keeping criminals off the streets. Now

as a lieutenant, his job description has changed.

“I am in charge of the SWAT team. It’s really

my responsibility to oversee the whole team on the

missions.”

The SWAT team, a designated unit of law

enforcement officers that is specifically trained

and equipped to work as a coordinated team

responding to critical incidents, was present at

Every 15 Minutes, an event produced by the Brea

happens when onedials911emergency?

Out in the field: A police officer assists with the planned arrest of Jake Fletcher, senior, during Every 15 minutes Apr. 19. The police department was a large part of this event.

HEENA MORAR/ Wildcat

One calls 911:

1. First, the caller will be asked about his/her location. Although the operator will know your location and phone number through the ALI/ANE information on the computer.

2. Then the operator will ask about the emergency.

3. Depending on the case, the operator helps the caller getting the assistance he/she needs by sending messages via the dispatch center, a communication center where the operator can receive, input, question and call for services needed, including fire trucks, ambulances, and/or a patrol officers).

4. The caller receives the help he/she needs whether the emergency involves a fire, car accident, house break-in, or other life threatening situations.

When dialing 911 make sure:1. You should answer all questions honestly to get complete help.

2. Make sure it is an emergency or call the alternate line to get help: 714 990 7911

What really

Police Department to discourage underage drinking

and driving. Students watched the football field as

a car was dismantled by these brave men.

Even though the use of drugs and

alcohol by students at school and outside is

not overbearing, but it is an important issue

of focus during the school year.

One person who has a great influence

on this topic is Officer Daniel Moon.

His job is more specific to patrol the

student life rather than Brakebill’s job

to oversee the entire city. Moon has

watched over the BOHS campus

for ten years now. Moon usually

patrols the campus including the

surrounding neighborhoods, and

searches students for any drugs or

alcohol throughout the day.

Moon plays a pertinent role

in influencing the reduced use of

illegal substances. Even parents

look to Moon for advice.

“I get around 3 to 4 calls a

day from concerned parents about

what they should be doing or that

their suspecting their child is under the

influence,” said Moon.

“I really like working with the kids. My

most favorite part about my job is when a

student who did bad things in the past changes,

because I did something to help him or her.”

“The presence of [the Brea Police Department]

gives us a sense of security,”

said Shane Dias, sophomore.

“They help keep Brea out of

chaos.”

Source: Senior Dispatcher DistlerCompiled by SAlONi SHAH

Being “healthy” has become more expensive as people turn to eating organically grown items instead of non-organic items. The Wildcat examines the differences in pricing of organic and inorganic foods.

FEATUREMay 21, 201015

Juarez follows family hobby, decorates cakesBesides being a cheerleader and AP student, Juarez runs own cake shopaudrey marraStaff writer

To earn some extra cash, students

usually tutor, baby sit, or even help

rake a neighbor’s yard. Carly Juarez,

junior, started her own homemade cake

business, called Just Cakes.

“I have been baking cookies and

cupcakes [and other desserts] for my

whole life with my sister and my mom,”

said Carly Juarez.

Inspired by Ace of Cakes, a reality

television show based in a gourmet

cake shop, Carly Juarez began to bake

and decorate cakes.

As of right now, she has produced

over 15 cakes, but because baking

business is just starting out, she has

only sold a few to family and family

friends.

“At first, my sister and I tried

making our cakes more creatively by

making them into different shapes, but

it didn’t really work out because we

weren’t very experienced,” said Juarez.

“Then we started using fondant [an

ingredient layered on top of frosting to

make a cake look more polished and

professional], which made our cakes

look better, and it just progressed from

there.”

“I’ve been friends with Carly’s

mom for several years and I first heard

about Carly Juarez’s cakes when she

had mentioned to me that her daughter’s

have been making cakes,” said Minsun

Jang, one of Juarez’s clients who ordered

a cake for her daughter’s birthday.

“[Carly’s mom] had shown me a

picture of sample ones she had made

and I was very impressed,” said Jang.

“[My daughter’s cake] was strawberry

and round with white fondant and

purple and pink polka dots of different

sizes all over it. Guests were in awe and

[the cake] was a hit.”

Even though the end results of the

cakes are appealing, Carly Juarez says

that the process is time consuming,

taking up to six hours or longer.

“First, I have to bake the cake until

it is hard because I can’t add anything on

it until it has cooled or everything will

sort of melt off it,” said Juarez. “Then,

I have to roll out and color the fondant

according to what [my

customer] wants on

it and add the other

decorations.”

Baking and cooking have

been in Carly Juarez’s family for

generations, so it was time for her to

continue with the hobby.

“My mom—Carly’s Grandma—is a

gourmet cook, so I grew up with a lot

of cooking in my home,” said Shelly

Juarez.

“My favorite part of baking is

the creative aspect. [We] really enjoy

coming up with an idea or design and

then figuring out how to turn it into

something unique, attractive, and

delicious,” Shelly Juarez said.

Shelly Juarez said that baking the

cakes with her daughters is another

way for her to bond with them as they

think of creative designs or spend a day

learning how to use fondant.

Although the business started as

a family effort, Juarez’s sister, Sarah

Juarez and their mom do not have

much time left for baking. Therefore,

Carly Juarez bakes the cakes on her

own while juggling a schedule filled

with AP classes and cheer practice.

“Baking really means a lot to me,

but homework and studying will always

come first,” said Carly Juarez.

However, even with

her plate

IngredIents for the perfect cake: Carly Juarez, junior, brings her cake to a perfect consistency while practicing for a new wedding cake order. Baking has been in her family for generations.

Photo courtesy of CARLY JUAREZ

Organic living: healthy life, expensive buysThe Wildcat compares prices of organic groceries to their non-organic counterparts

full, Carly Juarez takes orders for all

special occasions. Her next cake is for

a customer’s wedding in June.

She has started planning

the cake’s design and has

decided on a white, square,

three-tiered cake with a

black and pink-trimmed

bow tied across the

middle section of the

second tier.

“I am making a

practice cake,” said

Juarez. “So that

when I am making

the real one, I am

not stressed and

rushing.”

Despite the

praise that she

receives and the joy

that she feels when

baking cakes, Juarez

does not see herself

pursuing a career

as a baker.

“As of now,

[being a baker] is not

my main goal, but

if I continue to have

enough time to bake, I’ll

definitely keep doing it

for fun,” Carly Juarez

vs.Organic Bananas..................................................................$1.29/lb.Organic Tangerines..............................................................$2.99/lb.Whole Grain Bread...............................................................$4.5024 oz. Organic Salad............................................................$2.4924 oz. Orange Juice..............................................................$4.29 Total: $15.56

Organic nOn-Organic

thumbs.dreamteam.com, maps.google.com, bikekatytray.com

Map Of grOcery stOres

Bananas...............................................................................$0.99/lb.Tangerines...........................................................................$1.99/lb.Whole Grain Bread..............................................................$3.9924 oz. Salad..........................................................................$1.9924 oz. Orange Juice.............................................................$3.50 Total: $12.46

(Prices from Whole Foods) (Prices from Ralphs)

Compiled by MEgAn MAshAL

Organic foods are produced with almost no special modifications whereas non-organic products are not. Although an organic living is an expensive one, many prefer this alternative to lead a healthier lifestyle. Neighborhood stores have adopted organic products to help citizens reach these goals.

Organic groceries can be found at the following neighborhood stores:

1. Trader Joe’s 2. Ralphs3. Vons4. Sprouts5. Veggie Land6. Albertsons7. Henry’s Farmers Market

Difference: $3.10

SPORTS Stephen Hall, senior, competes in the breaststroke during Century League finals. The Wildcats earned League Champion honors during the meet.16 May 21, 2010

RANDY LIGGINSSTAFF WRITER

Led by Jake Fletcher and Dyllan Williams, seniors, boys’ varsity swim brought home the title as the Century League’s top squad.

With a 6-0 overall record, the Wildcats placed tenth overall in Orange County. The Wildcats were the only team from the Century League to make the top ten in Orange County.

Going into the meet against pre-season favorite El Modena High School, the Wildcats knew that they were going to pick up their performance if they wanted to secure the long-awaited title.

“Basically, we knew if we won this meet we would be favored to win the championship,” said Williams regarding the meet against the El Modena Vanguards, Apr 21.

During the meet, the Wildcats rose to a 31-15 lead. However, the Vanguards chopped the Wildcats’ lead down to 52-42.

Then the momentum began to shift back towards the Wildcats as Nolan Rogers, sophomore, took first in the 500m. Rogers came in with a time of 5:09.33.

Fletcher, Williams, Joe Heiman, seniors, and Cale Engelage, junior, combined for first in the 200 meter free relay with a time of a 1:32.31. The Wildcats then pulled away for a 96-74 victory.

Also, in the meet against the Vanguards, Ryan Lane, Stephen Hall, Williams, and Fletcher, seniors, set a school record in the 200 meter medley with a time of 1:38:8, besting the old mark of 1:39.1.

Boys’ swim earns fi rst Century League crown

PERFECT RECORD: (Left) Eric Murata, junior, takes a breath as he swims freestyle in the Century League finals. (Right) Gil Rotblum, head coach, celebrates as the boys’ swim team captures the Century League title.

Photos courtesy of BOBBY WAVE

To the team, coach support and motivation proved to give the swimmers the most impact on their performances.

“Coach [Gil Rotblum] told us a quote before the race: ‘Why settle for second when first is available,’” said Fletcher regarding his motivation to break the 200 medley record.

The closest BOHS came to being defeated this season was against El Modena, while the Wildcats’ most challenging victory came against Villa Park High School. The Wildcats tallied 109 points while holding Villa Park to 61 points.

After capturing a league championship, the Wildcats moved on to compete in the CIF-SS Division II preliminaries and finals, May 14 and 15.

The top times for the Wildcats in CIF Finals were by Fletcher, who finished second overall in the 50 meter freestyle with a time of 21.04, and Hall, who placed 13th in the 100 meter breaststroke with a time of 1:00.54.

With the symbiotic balance between the team and the coach, boys’ varsity swim was able to end the season on a good note.

Stephen Hall, senior, competes in the breaststroke during Century League finals. The Wildcats

CATCHING UP WITH...JENNIFER ESTEBAN (‘09)

Season update: Esteban helped Louisville reach the Big East Championship game where they lost to Stanford 2-1. Esteban finished the regular season with a .290 batting average while leading the Cardinals with 18 stolen bases. The Cardinals will next compete in the NCAA T o u r n a m e n t starting May 21.

Photo courtesy of BOBBY WAVE

Fletcher earns All-American honors, sets two school recordsKELSEY SMITHSTAFF WRITER

With his recent achievements and record-breaking success, Jake Fletcher, senior, has come across as one of BOHS’s most accomplished athletes this year.

Four years ago, Fletcher was second overall in the 50 freestyle at the Century League championships during his freshmen year.

“Jake was really fast, but he had really bad technique,” said Gil Rotblum, head coach.

Consequently, over the past year, Fletcher focused on modifying his technique.

“The most interesting thing about Jake is that just last year he decided to change his stroke and technique completely,” said Rotblum.

Rotblum added, “The first three years he had incredible success and was able to perform at a CIF level, but he felt like he wasn’t going to improve anymore with his current technique.”

Fletcher spent the past fall and winter completely altering his stroke, and was able to significantly drop time due to his dedication.

“I just felt like I wasn’t going to improve at all, and I knew there was something I needed to change,” said Fletcher.

Fletcher spent a lot of time working

with Oliver White (‘99) who currently holds most of BOHS’s swim records.

“It was really cool to see that alumni relationship that helped Jake improve so much,” said Rotblum.

Fletcher’s work paid off when he broke the school record in the 50 meter freestyle at league finals May 7.

Fletcher broke White’s record of 21.3 seconds with a time of 21.14.

Fletcher also participated in the 200 meter medley relay and helped break the school record by five seconds with a time of 1:38.97.

Relay team members included

Dyllan Williams and Stephen Hall, seniors, Ryan Lank, sophomore, and Fletcher.

Fletcher earned the title of Century League MVP for the season, and hit the All-American time in his 50 meter freestyle race, essentially qualifying him as top 80 in the entire nation.

Fletcher continued on to CIF at the Belmont Plaza in Long Beach May 14 and 15.

At the meet, he broke his previous record for the 50 meter freestyle and placed second overall in the event with a time of 21.04.

RECORD TIME: Jake Fletcher, senior, captures the school record in the 50 meter freestyle with a time of 21.14 at the Century League finals.

JOEY MULOCKSTAFF WRITER

Softball finished the season with a 3-7 record in Century League play.

The team dominated its first season game against Troy High School, winning by a score of 7-3.

The team, however, lost the next game 5-3 against St. Lucy’s High School.

The loss would set the tone for team’s play in Century League.

“I’ve been on varsity since

freshman year and every year league has gotten harder,” said Ashley Spadt, junior, who held a team high batting average of .435.

Losses this season included a 16-0 defeat against league foe El Modena High School.

Meagan Esteban, sophomore, said of the loss: “We need to work harder to improve our offense by picking up our batting performance and our defense has to remain solid.”

The Wildcats also fell to Canyon High School, Apr. 28, 10-0.

“League this year has been a challenge,” said Danielle Santos, junior. “We have had a few girls absent for

some of our games, but we still [fought] hard.”

The Wildcats secured a win against the Villa Park Spartans, 8-4, Apr. 29.

However, the team fell short once again to El Modena, this time by a score of 6-0 on May 11.

The Wildcats finished the year with an overall record of 9-17 with their biggest win coming in the preseason against San Juan Hills High School whom the Wildcats defeated 12-1.

Esteban, who held a .351 batting average while holding a slugging percentage over .400, added, “Overall we were better this year individually but we could not put it together as a team.” Meagan

Esteban

Softball struggles to 3-7 Century League record

2010 Top Performances100 Free 42.34

50 Back Ryan Lank

100 Back Ryan Lank

50 Breast 36.34

100 Breast

50 Fly

100 Fly

1.00.97

30.35

56.15

Jake Fletcher

Bobby Herrera

Stephen Hall

Kyle Murata

Dyllan Williams

57.05

26.27

SPORTSAndy Park, senior, helped lead the boys’ tennis team to the first round of CIF. This was the first time in ten years that the team earned a spot in CIF. 17SPORTS

May 21, 2010

ANTHONY VAL VERDE / WILDCAT

DOUBLE TEAM: Kevin Ko, senior, attempts to return a serve, as Andy Park, senior, prepares to back up his teammate in a doubles match against Canyon High School on Apr. 29

Boys’ tennis earns wildcard berth in CIFMATT SCHADESPORTS EDITOR

After finishing the season fourth place in the Century League with a 4-6 record, boys’ tennis earned their first CIF Division II berth in ten years as a wildcard entrant.

“I think the seniors felt a lot of joy in figuring that out because our team has not even qualified for CIF in 10 years,” said Irwin Nhan, sophomore. “To know that their senior year they we able to at least able to get in as a wildcard was a good feeling.”

Sherman Uyeno, sophomore, agreed

with Nhan on the teams’ excitement. “I felt that getting a chance to compete in CIF gave us an opportunity to step up to a new challenge,” said Uyeno.

The Wildcats had to compete in a talented Century League as both Villa Park and El Dorado are ranked in the top ten in Orange County.

After losing to Canyon for the second time, the Wildcats made it a priority to beat El Modena for the last league match of the season.

“It was a clearly winnable match and the whole team went out and did their ‘thing,’” said Nhan as the Wildcats went on to defeat El Modena 14-4, and

strengthen their chances of qualifying for CIF.

“Our team’s best performance this season came against El Modena because we all played solid and we needed or else CIF would not have been a possibility,” said Brandon Thillman, junior.

Both Uyeno and Thillman also competed in the prestigious Ojai Tournament this season. However, they were knocked out in the first round of the doubles tournament lsoing to Tesoro High School.

“We were disappointed with our early exit. I felt that we should have represented our school better,” said Uyeno.

The Wildcats went into CIF as a wildcard meaning that the team would have to win their first game against Crossroads High School just to qualify for the first round.

The team pulled through as they defeated Crossroads High School 12-6, and set themselves up in a first round match-up against the number three seed in Division II, Diamond Bar High School.

“We were going to have to put in our best performance and things were going to have to fall our way if we wanted to continue in CIF,” said Uyeno.

However, the Wildcats could not manage an upset of the favorite as they lost to Diamond Bar 15-3 .

“We were sad that we it ended our season, but it has been ten years since our team has even been in the first round of CIF main draw, so to make it that far was already a success,” said Nhan.

Girls’ swim 2-3 in Century LeagueJOEY MULOCKSTAFF WRITER

Girls’ swim finished league with two consecutive wins against El Modena and Tustin High Schools, 108-49 and 128-45, respectively.

“I’m really happy with everyone’s work ethic this year,” said captain Ciera Ramos, junior. “This team has really

bonded well.”As the season

progressed, the team focused on “tapering down,” which is the shortening of practice to increase the amount of

energy. This technique especially helped

the team against Tustin High School and in CIF.

The 200 relay team, which consisted of Brooklyn Jervis, sophomore, Alexis Hopps, freshman, Lauren Kelly, junior, and Kelsey Kraft, senior, qualified for CIF. The relay team broke the school record for the event.

Swimmers such as Ramos, Kylie Shreck, Kristen Shaw, seniors, and Brookie Hatch, sophomore, also qualified for CIF as alternates.

However, rather than concentrating on the competition between other opponents, the swimmers put emphasis on improving their own personal times.

“We are focused on [beating] our own times, not so much on beating the other team,” said Carissa Arroyo, sophomore. “Swimming is different from other sports.”

Danielle Castillo, sophomore, added, “If you don’t get first, you can still get points from being second or third.” More points are given to the higher places, adding to the team’s overall score.

The team also bonded throughout the season. The strong teamwork contributed much to the strong relay times. “I think we’ve worked really hard. All of the girls help each other and push each other to do their best in practice and meets,” said Carissa Arroyo, sophomore.

“Even though swim could be an individual sport, we are very much a team in how we push and support each other,” added Castillo.

Having survived a season of struggle, improvement, and some success, coach Vicki Caulum is eager for next year.

“We have a young team that works hard and is dedicated. I can see more improvement for next year,” she said.

DanielleCastillo

Tyler Kern, senior, paced the Wildcats with a team high batting average of .408. Baseball finished the season with an 8-18 overall record.

Baseball concludes season on losing streakRANDY LIGGINSSTAFF WRITER

Varsity baseball was consistently scrappy in order to keep its playoff hopes alive until they hit a nine game losing streak to end the season.

“Going into the season we set our goal on reaching CIF again,” said Stephen Tyler, senior.

However, the Wildcats’ record dropped to 8-18 during this nine game skid and all playoff hopes were shattered.

Although Canyon High School is the first place team in the Century League, El Dorado High School has been the Wildcats’ toughest competitor as they hold a 3-0 record against BOHS.

El Dorado scored 35 runs this season against the Wildcats while holding them to 14 runs.

The closest of the three games was the last game played on Apr. 23. The Wildcats rallied to earn four crucial runs and tie up the game, 7-7, in the fifth inning. However, El Dorado was able to tack on another run in the sixth. A scoreless seventh inning let El Dorado take the victory over the Wildcats by one, 8-7.

“We have a lot of depth, so I think that should help us out in the long run,” said Tyler Kern, senior. This season 10 out of the 21 players are seniors.

Kern is the team’s offensive weapon as he leads the team with 31 hits, 18

runs scored and seven doubles.His .408 batting average this year is the highest for someone who has played over 20 games in a season in the last five years. Kern also leads the team with eight steals.

Following Kern, Wade Broadstreet, senior, managed to pocket seven steals.

Broadstreet bats at a .270 average and leads the team with 12 runs batted in. Broadstreet also owns one of the two triples hit this year.

Nick Kern, sophomore, is contributed with consistent production on offense. He has a .342 batting average and is the only sophomore to play in all 26 games. He is also only one of three players on the entire Wildcat roster to play in all 26 games. Kern also hit one of the team’s three home runs this year.

Jonny Contreras, senior, has plenty of contributions of his own. He has come up big on offense this year with a .333 batting average while pitching a total of 60.2 innings with a team high 38 strikeouts.

Leading the team in home runs, Anthony Ortiz, junior, has put two long ones over the fence. Ortiz also had a respectable .276 batting average this year.

The Wildcats came up well short of their hopes as they finished in last place behind Tustin High School, losing to the Tillers 7-1 in the last game of the season.

JONATHAN PARK / WILDCAT

FROM THE DUGOUT: (Middle) Jonny Contreras, senior, prepares to throw a pitch as he looks for the sign from his catcher. (Left) Anthony Ortiz, junior, and (right) Kyle Feary, junior, look on, supporting their team.

“This whole season everything seemed to be going the other team’s way,” said Tyler. “Our team got into a slump near the end of the season and we could not recover. Though this season did not go as planned our team kept a positive mentality heading into every game.”

With nearly half of the team leaving next year due to graduation, the Wildcats’ juniors and underclassmen will have to step up to the plate to put

the team back on top with an adequate season.

Grant Bishop, junior, will be relied upon next season to hold up the pitching rotation as he returns, leading the team with a total of 31 strikeouts.

After starting off league with a 3-3 record, the Wildcats were not able to achieve the goals they had set out to accomplish in the beginning of the season, finishing up league with a 3-12 record.

TEAM LEADERSRuns 18 (T. Kern)

Hits 31 (T. Kern)

RBI 12 (W. Broadstreet)

HR 2 (A. Ortiz)

SB 8 (T. Kern)

K’s 38 (J. Contreras)Source: maxpreps.com

SPORTS18 May 21, 2010

Boys’ track co-champs in Century League

CHRISTOPHER SUHCO-A & E EDITOR

“I’d have to say that this year is one of the most successful years I’ve had coaching the track team,” said Jeremy Mattern, coach, of his team’s success, which included a perfect record in league title.

Season highlights included a triumph over Villa Park high School by a score of 84-43 on March 25, and a 71-50 victory over El Dorado on Apr. 1.

The team’s toughest competition this season came from both Canyon and El Modena high schools. The Wildcats only narrowly defeated the Commanches Apr. 15 with a 68-59 win. Against the Vanguards it came down to the final race with the Wildcats winning by a margin of just five points, 66-61, on Apr. 22.

The team wrapped up their undefeated streak in league after they defeated Tustin High School on April 28.

“Our streak of wins this year was only possible because of our domination of key events during each meet,” said

Mattern. “Our distance team is only allowing the other team to take five points out of 27, and our short track team also comes in first and second in most races as well.”

“Long distance has been doing pretty well for the team this year,” said Tom Howland, senior. “With some of our best guys, Andrew Daedler [junior], Cody Ngyuyen [sophomore], and Spencer Rodgers [freshman], really pulling it in for us.”

There were a series of record breakers on the long distance team this

year: Daedler broke the record in the 3200 with a time of 4:16.16. Ngyuyen also broke the sophomore 1600 record. Rodgers ran the 3200 with a time of 9:58.67. Of the Rodgers’ record, Mattern noted, “the first freshman to break 10 minutes since he started coaching.”

The 4x400 meter team of Luke Williams and Taylor Ros, seniors, and Tyler Baublit and Sean Witt, juniors, also threatened to break records.

“At OCC, our 4x4 team ran the fastest time ever since the 1970 record, as they were only two seconds away

from breaking it,” said Mattern. Prior to post-season competition,

Mattern said, “Finals will be tricky, because our competition will definitely be stepping up their game. So we will need to bring our absolute best as well as a huge desire to win.”

The team responded in league finals. Daedler who won both the 1600 and 3200, and Dylan Salvary, senior, was league champion in the 110 meter hurdles.

“We scored 27 points in the 3200, with Daedler, Elliott Ramirez

[sophomore], Nguyen, Jared Slavary [senior], and Ryan Hightower [junior], going 1-2-3-5-6. That was huge for our team,” siad Mattern.

Max McBride, sophomore, also stepped up in league finals winning the 800 meter.

“Our success this season came from the teams’ desire to bring back a league title to this school. After defeating every team in the dual meets this season, we were determined not to let the championship slip away from us,” said McBride., who also competed on the 1600 meter relay that just beat out El Modena for the win in the last race of the meet.

The efforts made throughout the season earned the Wildcats a co-league championship with El Modena High School, the first league title for the Wildcats since 2004.

“I am very pleased with the team effort,” said Mattern. “It takes a rare combination of talent, desire, and deter-mination to win a league title. Honest-ly, it’s very hard to win a track & field title because there are so many different events, and there are so many different personality types in this sport.”

Mattern also added that this year’s group simply wanted to win more than track teams of the past. “I am very thankful that so many athletes from other sports contributed to the success we enjoyed this season.”

One other factor came into the teams’ success this season.

“Coach [Gil] Rotblum’s swim team really pumped me up this year. Hearing about their accomplishments kind of fired up our team,” said Mattern.

Girls’ track wraps up season in CIF

Photo courtesy of ANDREW DAEDLER

LEADING THE PACK: (Right) Andrew Daedler takes the lead in the 1600m at Century League Finals. Daedler went on to take first overall in the race as he helped the Wildcats capture a Century league championship.

Daedler breaks school mile recordMATT SCHADESPORTS EDITOR

Erich Yanoschik almost cemented his name in the record books at BOHS when he set the school record for the mile in 2007 with a time of 4:18:00.

However, one year later, Andrew D a e d l e r , junior, began track as a hurdler, but realized that he wanted to commit himself to

distance running after seeing

Yanoschik’s remarkable performance. Now, only after three years,

Yanoschik’s record is gone and penciled in is Daedler’s mile time of 4:16:16.

“It was amazing. I was not thinking about the pain. I was just in shock because I was not expecting to run that time,” said Daedler, after he posted his time of 4:16:16 in the mile, placing fifth at Orange County Championships.

“The atmosphere of racing at OCC helped. It was the most competitive track race I have ever been in and the caliber of runners that I was competing against helped pull me through the race,” said Daedler.

Daedler mentioned that his focus going into the meet was not to break the record, rather he wanted to run a smart race and qualify for a top eight place earning points for the team.

Once the race began, Daedler stuck to his strategy to place in the top group as they took the first quarter of a mile out in 61 seconds.

“I was not going to let myself fall back after the first lap. If the race did not go as I planned I was not going to let that effect me,” said Daedler.

From that point on the lead group continued to keep up a fast pace closing the final 400 meters in 62 seconds.

“At big invites like OCC it is always easier to run faster because the competition is greater.”

Daedler continued to stay right with the leaders for the entire race.

“In invites I try not to think about

who is in my race. I tell myself that I can beat anyone. If you want to run fast you have to stay mentally focused on beating everyone you possibly can.”

As Daedler crossed the finish line, a new school record was being set. However, during the race the idea of breaking Yanoschik’s record did not cross Daedler’s mind at all.

“I though about it the night before, but that was not what I was thinking about during the race. I knew that if I was going to run well I had to stay mentally focused,” said Daedler.

Adding to his list of accomplishments, Daedler not only set a new school record but also became Century League champion in both the mile and the two-mile as he helped the Wildcats claim a co-league championship.

In the CIF Preliminaries Daedler posted a time of 4:25:73 in the mile, placing first in his heat and qualifying himself for CIF Finals May 22.

“Now my goal is to run a 4:14, which is the At-Large standard to make State Championships,” said Daedler.

Boysʼ Top Performances1600m Andrew Daedler 4:16:16

1600m Cody Nguyen 4:28:30

800m Max McBride 2:01:46

400m Luke Williams 51.30

110HH Dylan Salvery 15.63

AndrewDaedler

Orange County Championships

400m Jean Chow 57.72

400m Sara Kronquist 58.43

1600m Kelly DiMeo 5:18:62

200m Sara Kronquist 26.37

100HH Tana Schwarz 16.87

Girlsʼ Top Performances

SHERMAN UYENOSTAFF WRITER

After finishing the season in the Century League with a 5-1 record, the girls’ track team looks to move on by competing in CIF.

After defeating the Villa Park Spartans, the Wildcats competed against the El Dorado Golden Hawks Apr. 1 and prevailed with a score of 68-55.

Sara Kronquist, junior, scored many points for the Wildcats as she ran in the 400 meter dash, the 200 meter dash, the 4x400 meter relay, and the 4x100 meter relay.

Kronquist broke one of her personal records as she posted a time of 26 seconds in the 200 meter dash.

“I was excited to break my records and I am now only 0.2 seconds away from breaking the school record,” said Kronquist.

The team hosted El Modena high School Apr. 15 which came down to the last race of the meet as the Wildcats were able to hold on in the 4x400 meter relay to defeat the Vanguards by a score of 64-63.

Kelly Dimeo, senior, competed in the 1600 meter run and finished with a time of 5:17 in this meet.

“I felt that I have improved a lot this year compared to last year because I have been practicing harder than I have before and it is paying off,” said Dimeo.

The Wildcats wrapped up their league season as they were able to overcome the Tustin Tillers by a score

of 90-26 in their meet Apr.28. Jean Chow, sophomore, competed

in the 800 meters against the Tillers and posted a time of 2 minutes and 26 seconds.

“I had never ran the 800 meter in a race before, only once in practice,” said Chow. “I felt less nervous than I did in other races because people didn’t have expectations for me to do well. I was surprised at the end of the race because my time was 20 seconds faster than the practice race I timed.”

Jennifer Janneck, freshman, competed in the 100 meter dash against the Tillers and finished with a time of 12.9 seconds, which placed her third in the meet.

“This race all depends on how you get out of the blocks because even if you are the fastest, you can still lose if you do not get out on a good start,” said Janneck.

After finishing league the Wildcats competed in the Century League finals. Though the team was not able to claim a league title, a few individuals were able to come in the top three in their event, securing them spots in CIF.

Both Kronquist and Chow made it to CIF in the 400 meters as well as Tana Schwarz, junior, who was league champion in the 100 meter hurdles.

“Now we have to perform at an even higher level if we are looking to have success in CIF,” said Chow.

Unfortunately, the Wildcats season ended in the preliminaries of CIF as none of the athletes were able to qualify for CIF Finals, May 22.

Boys’ track ends season undefeated and earns first league title since 2004

Boys’ track co-champs inBoys’ track co-champs inBoys’ track co-champs inAndrew Daedler, junior, broke the three year school mile record with a time of 4:16:16 in the Orange County Championships. Daedler hopes to improve his time to 4:14:00. 19SPORTS

May 21, 2010

20 The celebrity basketball game, which was hosted by KIIS-FM, took place on April 24 and featured players from the Hollywood Knights basketball team. SNAPSHOTS

Take a ShotBallin’: (1) Bridget Bennet and Taylor Evertsen, sophomores, cheer on teachers. (2) Gil Rotblum, history teacher jokes with Robert Hoffman of Step Up 2. (3) DJ D-Wrek played defense on Bryan Wierzchucki, history teacher. (4) Jonathan Quiming, English teacher, defends the ball from Arlen Escarpeta of Friday the 13th. (5) Nicholas Braun of 10 Things I Hate About You blocks Rotblum. (6) Chris Karimu, senior, dances on the sidelines. (7) Alexis Robb, sophomore, is sung to by a member of Brutha. (8) Wierzchucki laughs with Jesse Metcalfe of John Tucker Must Die. (9) Students pose with Quiming.

Photos by HEENA MORAR and JEANNIE KIM / Wildcat

May 21, 2010

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