The Poly Optimist John H. Francis Polytechnic High School Vol. xcvii, No. 8 Serving the Poly Community Since 1913 December 2009 Politics ‘09 Presents from Obama Accepts Nobel Peace Prize Poly Parrot Home Poly Parrots By Karinina Cruz Staff Writer By Jizel R. Emralino Staff Writer for the Holidays oly Leadership is raising Poly staff member returns from deployment in Iraq funds to provide disadvan- Ptaged children with gifts this Christmas through the an- By Magdalena Corona nual Toy Drive. and Angel Silva “Our donations are less than Staff Writers last year, but we are not giving Internet Photo up. We are doing the best we can NOBEL: Obama next to the oly coordinator/advisor Isaac so everyone can remember the Nobel Peace Prize medallion Alatorre returned from his holidays,” said Poly Leadership second tour of duty in Iraq. Sponsor Brian LeClair. “Most of he Norwegian Nobel P Alatorre was stationed in the campus is positive and help- Committee awarded U.S. Ramadi, Iraq for almost seven ing as best as they can, but ev- T President Barack Obama months as a Platoon Sergeant for erybody feels the harsh fact and the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize, just the communications section in his reality of the economic crisis go- eight months after being sworn battalion. ing on.” into office. “We had to make sure that Poly students raise money by “I am both surprised and deep- “communication” is up all the doing house to house solicita- ly humbled,” said Obama to the time. We’re the first ones on the tions, garage sales, business let- waiting reporters at the White field and the last ones to leave,” ters and other means of fundrais- House. said Alatorre. “In addition to ing. Regardless of Obama’s learning how to properly handle “The Toy Drive happens all achievements, professional ob- different types of weapons, all year-round,” said Poly Leader- servers were surprised at the our guys are trained to use all the ship C-track president Dalia Gal- committee’s decision, as the communication equipment.” van. nominations for the Nobel Peace Alatorre left to Iraq in March “It begins in July and ends in Prize were due only about two of 2009, but started training Oc- December. Our main focus with weeks after Obama’s presidential tober 2008 at Camp Pendelton, the Toy Drive is during Novem- victory. CA and 29 Palms. ber and December after Home- Despite Obama’s relative- “The training portion was coming.” ly premature nomination, the much longer,” said Alatorre. Poly Leadership has set a goal President’s work towards global Part of Alatorre’s assignment of buying toys for 4,000 chil- peacekeeping and advocacy for during his last deployment in- dren. strong cooperation between peo- volved returning defective equip- According to Galvan, Poly ple rendered the committee with ment to the US. has fundraised a total of over much confidence to award him “Part of our mission this round $14,000 for this school year, but the prize. was to close down some of our is still open for donations. Obama himself in his accep- bases in Iraq and return our gear,” “Last year, we had gathered tance speech acknowledge that said Alatorre. Photo by Jennifer Martinez a total of $27, 000,” said Poly STAFF: Alatorre reacquaints his location in Poly he was still at “the beginning of Since the last time Alatorre Leadership A-Track president his labors on the world stage” was in Iraq, the military equip- are still continuing to update the “The first time I was there we Gabriela Burciaga. and that the world has yet to see ment was upgraded. equipment. Everything is getting had many attacks. This time it Those who donated are given their fulfillment. “This time all of our vehicles computerized.” was very calm-we had 3 indirect “Thank you” letters with a flier Such works that were men- were upgraded. The gear that But that’s not the only thing attacks, and 4 convoy attacks. stating that they are an official tioned was Obama’s endeavors in was issued to us was upgraded,” that has changed since Alatorre I think the reason was because Poly sponsor. the reduction of nuclear arsenals said Alatorre. “I notice that they was last in Iraq. [ See Alatorre, pg 4 ] “If they donate more than and in international relations. $250, we thank them publicly Since the beginning of his through the school marquee,” presidential tenure, Obama has Students Speak About Safety on Campus said Poly Leadership A-Track highlighted the problem of the secretary Karen Ochoa. threat of the dissolution of global Survey addresses student concerns about safety and security On December 21, the whole relationships between the U.S [ See Toy Drive, pg 6 ] and other nations. He also wish- By Magdalena Corona es to initiate peace agreements Staff Writer students don’t feel safe on campus among warring factions, such as ecent survey findings conducted by Poly The survey asked if the students had witnessed the Israelis and Palestinians. show that some students don’t feel safe at violent incidents in the past 5 days, or felt unsafe on Another issue that may school. campus in the morning and/or after school. evoke some skepticism towards R “We wanted to see how students responded to Ten percent of the students who took the survey Obama’s Prize that Obama also the survey, so that we can be aware of how students said they feel unsafe on campus, 14.5% reported recognized is the fact that he won feel on campus, whether they feel safe or not,” said feeling unsafe in the morning, and 7.6% reported despite the fact that the U.S. is in Poly’s Assistant Principal Lourdes De Santiago. feeling unsafe after school. the midst of two wars in Iraq and A hundred forty four Poly students in computer Ideally De Santiago wants anyone from the school Afghanistan. classes took a Safety Survey last August. The find- community to be able to express any concerns they [ See Obama, pg 2 ] ings of the survey led to the conclusion that many [ See Safety, pg 6 ]
School Twilight Rushing of Saga: for the Fear New Moon Goal
See Page 4 See Page 7 See Page 8 Comments/Campus The Poly 2 December 2009 Optimist Poly Students’ Wishlist EDITORIALS Uprising On The Horizon Most of us can’t afford to pay $10,000 more in tuition-not in this economy at least. This event could lead to millions of student dropouts because they can’t afford to stay in school. I’m pretty sure that you don’t want to pay an extra $10,000 out your pock- et, and neither do your parents. Internet Photo University students are protesting SANTA’S WISHLIST: Santa checks who gets a present. this injustice with banners and posters marching across campus and sitting in- The OPTIMIST conducted a survey side buildings, refusing to leave. asking students what they wanted Gaby Arita is a senior at UCLA who is working two jobs just to pay for her for the holidays. Five most wanted Internet Photo education and doesn’t know how she is gifts are: STUDENTS: UC students protest tuition fee increase. going to come up with the money for her graduation. The University California Board of Regents ap- I’m on my own,” she said. “I can’t 1. Money proved a 32 percent fee increase that will push UC ask my family. In this economy, no one is stable.” 2. Clothes tuition above $10,000 for all undergraduates. My neighborhood friend Armica Enriquez is UC President Mark G. Yudof is even asking stu- worried about how he is going to pay for his next 3. iPod touch dents to exploit all and any financial aid possible so year at UC Riverside. students don’t get dropped. Wow, seriously? With “This sucks man, I don’t how I’m going to come 4. New Cell phone the current economic crisis on our hands, financial up with the money-its just way too sudden” said En- 5.Laptop/ Gift Card aid is hard enough to get-let alone more scholar- riquez. ships. Is this the best the educational board has come up Worst of all, university increase in cuts and lay with to make money? Is there no other way then to By Jennifer Escobar offs leave students with less professors teaching purposely trying to get minorities to drop out? Staff Writer courses limiting the amount of classes offered to Regardless this is our future education on the line. students. Thanks a lot-now we don’t really have Will we sit around doing nothing while we let soci- t’s that time of year again, where gifts are given and wishes are much of a choice in classes we want to take. ety get worse and worse or will we stand up while granted. Students will literally be paying more money for we have a chance? I Money took the top spot this year, followed by clothes and lower quality of education. the iPod Touch and a new cell phone. Tied for fith were laptops and gift cards. Money is always a favorite, since Parrots can buy anything with it. Clothing is always a favorite to gift and to receive. Technology was a Children For Sale favorite this year, with the iPod Touch (which features music, WiFi and Child trafficking, buying and selling a child from one from one country to another through force for the more), new cell phones, and laptops. Gift cards were a new favorite as purposes of exploitation or involuntary servitude, is one of the most cruel things that can happen to any- a substitute for cash. one. Other holiday wishes include things one can’t get at a store-accep- Child trafficking has become more prevalent with the help of Craigslist, an online Web community where tance into their dream college, an end to the wars in Iraq and Afghani- people post job opportunities and items for sale. Children become those items for human traffickers. stan, health and prosperity, to be with friends and family, and to spend Craigslist facilitates this sex slave industry though many users of this site may not be aware of its dark time with loved ones. side. The OPTIMIST wishes Poly Parrots Happy Holidays and a happy The “Erotic” section on Craigslist seems to be one of the most efficient ways to post children and women New Year. for sale, for human traffickers because it’s free and millions of users visit this website. Recently, two women from Chicago were fined for selling girls as young as 14 years old on Craigslist, and forcing them to have sex with The John H. Francis Polytechnic High School 10 -1 2 men per day. The traffickers made over ten thousand dollars in 12431 Roscoe Blvd. Sun Valley, CA, 91352 one day, according to NofForSaleCampaign.org. OPTIMIST http://polyhigh.org In another case, a Boston man and his niece were charged for plot- ting child trafficking operations selling teenagers as young as 13 years Layout Editors old by selling them on Craigslist from Massachusetts to New York. Joel Hinojosa These are just a couple of examples of cases of children trafficking. News Editors Armando Orozco Photo Editors There are many cases that we are not aware of. Magdalena Corona Ron Goins Jennifer Martinez About 600,000 – 800,000 people are bought and sold across inter- Karinina Cruz Monica Sagastume national borders each year; 50% are children, most are female, accord- ing to SCTNOW.Org. Sports Editor Majority of the child trafficking victims are forced into commercial Armando Figueroa Cartoonist sex trade and prostitution. An estimated 14,500 to 17,500 foreign na- Leticia Juarez tionals are trafficked into the United States each year. About 200,000 Columnist American children are at risk for trafficking, according to the U.S. De- Gabriela Melendez partment of Justice. It’s unbelievable to see that people can be so brutal. The thought of a child being taken away from home and taken to another country to Writers be forced to have sex with strangers is sickening. Everyone can help Magdalena Corona, Karinina Cruz, Jizel Emralino, Jennifer Escobar, Daniel Martinez, Daysi reduce human trafficking by cooperating with organizations like Stop Nerio, Armando Orozco, Marylin Pocasangre Children Trafficking Now and the Not For Sale Campaign. Don’t let anymore children suffer because someone wants to make Optimist Advisor more money. Ethel Matlen Obama Acceptance Speech Letters Editorial [ Obama, from pg 1 ] To The Editor Policy According to Obama, one war is winding down, while the other was not prompted by the U.S and is supported by 43 other countries, includ- Letters to the Editor must be typed or The OPTIMIST is the voice of the Poly ing Norway. Obama did not refer to the war in Iraq and Afghanistan by neatly printed in ink and include the writ- community and accepts the responsibili- their exact names. er’s signature. The OPTIMIST reserves ties of a free press. The OPTIMIST fol- Throughout his acceptance speech, Obama elaborated on the nature of wars, such as wars between nations and wars within nations. the right to edit submissions. Send letters lows the Code of Ethics for the Society of Though Obama stated that he did not bring any definite solutions to to Rm.14 or Mr. Blau’s box. Professional Journalists. Editorials are the the problems of war, he looked on past individuals that have persisted in opinions of the staff writers. fighting for peace and urged others to do the same. The Poly Optimist Interview December 2009 3 Ex-Parrot Serves Country
By Jennifer Escobar and Armando Orozco Staff Writers
The OPTIMIST asked Poly alumnus Gerardo Arias about his recent deploy- ment in Iraq. Here’s what he said:
The Experience
Q. What was your position while in Iraq?
I was part of the Center of Command, which is where all the military operations are made.
Q. How much of Iraq did you see?
Not much-I was stationed in Ramadi, Iraq. For the most part, I didn’t see much of the city, the view was very lim- ited and there were very strict rules in place. I was in Iraq for 5 months.
Q. How did you come across Mr. Alatorre?
When I checked into my unit and received my contacts, I saw sergeant Alatorre and I spoke to him. I didn’t talk to him in high school, but I saw him around when I was a student and I was familiar with him being a Marine.
Q. Did you go into combat?
No I didn’t go into combat. As far as the base as a whole, it was attacked a few times. Other units did experience combat.
Q. How is Iraq like?
It was a desert. There wasn’t much of a big local commu- nity, just a few towns here and there.
Q. What did you get from going to Iraq?
When you are deployed, it adds to your experiences in life. You get time away from home, and you begin to grow as an individual.
THE SOLDIER Photo by Jennifer Martinez OFF DUTY: Poly alumnus Gerardo Arias returned from a five-month deployment in Iraq. Q. Where were you born?
I was born in Northridge, California and raised in here in Q. Was military training tough? Q. What are your plans for the future? the Valley. It does get pretty intense and at points it gets really tough I plan to continue school. As for my major, I’m not sure Q. What did your family think about you going to to handle. I was in boot camp for 3 months, but there was what career I want yet-I don’t even know where to trans- Iraq? still more training after that. fer. I will spend my time more wisely.
Well they weren’t too happy about it because no parent Q. Did you meet any of your friends in Iraq? Q. Would you recommend joining the armed forces to wants to see their kids go to war. high school students? No, you get separated into different units and occasionally Q. How did it feel to be away from your family so you see someone you know. Every once and a while you I don’t regret join the Marines at all, but I am not going to long? might come across familiar faces from different units. suggest that you join. It’s a great experience and you learn a lot from it, though. You get used to it, however you still miss them and miss Q. Did you appreciate the United States more after be- being with the people you are comfortable with, and it get ing in Iraq? Q. What is your opinion in the war? kind of frustrating. But, eventually you start to thinking of your unit as family. You appreciate it more when you are in basic training. At this point in the war, there’s no turning back. Even though I would like to see the troops come home, it Q. What made you join the army? Q. Will you be going back to Iraq? wouldn’t be the best outcome.
It wasn’t so much patriotism that made me join, but I felt Probably not. The main concern right now is moving to- like if I had to do it out of respect. wards Afghanistan. The Poly 4 December 2009 Campus Optimist Everyone Has One Writer Gitty Daneshvari talks to students about overcoming fears
By Karinina Cruz tors and open the door to the stairs for me,” I always liked the name Madeleine,” said Staff Writer said Daneshvari. “I was afraid of heights Daneshvari. “Lulu is named after two of and bathrooms without windows, as I was my closest friends, but I do not know ex- claustrophobic. I was also afraid of spiders actly why I named one of the characters ublished author Gitty Daneshvari and other bugs. I moved out of my NYC Garrison.” visited and talked to Poly students apartment for a week just because I saw a Daneshvari also discussed the impor- Pabout her newly released work, cockroach. tance of re-writing and editing. School of Fear, on November 16. In addition, Daneshvari hopes that the “Writing is re-writing. I would write, School of Fear was released early Sep- readers will understand the difficulty of but not set the scene, so I have to re-write tember of this year. In this book, Daneshvari overcoming one’s fears. it. Don’t be afraid of re-writing, that’s what explores a number of childhood phobias “When the book ends the kids’ fears did got me into college,” said Daneshvari. through the lives her four protagonists. not go away completely, as it is a gradual “With the School of Fear I went over many “I want people to see that most people process,” said Daneshvari. drafts in between the five drafts I worked have fears and it is normal,” said Danesh- School of Fear’s sequel will be released with my editor. It’s mostly going over a vari. “School of Fear is something that you next September. passage and it took me many times to re- can read before going to bed and it is defi- “I finished book two, which will come out write.” nitely a fun read.” next September with all four characters plus Photo by Jennifer Martinez According to Daneshvari, School of “I started the book with four kids with one new character,” said Daneshvari. “Book FEAR: Author Gitty Daneshvari explores Fear will be made into a film in the near distinct phobias who are sent to a special three will only have two of the original char- childhood phobias in her new book future. school in New England,” said Daneshvari. acters in a totally different location.” “I’m not yet sure who will be the cast, “Theodore is afraid of death and is heavily During her visit to Poly, Daneshvari read play with the ideas without being so criti- but I think the kids would probably be melodramatic, Madeleine fears spiders and a chapter from her book to the students and cal and just write it.” played by new actors,” said Daneshvari. “I bugs, Garrison has a phobia of open water, accommodated questions asked. Daneshvari added that she always have wish Abigail Breslin will play Madeleine such as the ocean and Lulu is claustropho- Poly senior Paola Leon asked Danesh- an outline as she has a tendency to get car- and Blythe Danner or Meryl Streep as Mrs. bic and wears handcuffs so when someone vari about her writing techniques and style, ried away with writing. Wellington.” would drag her to a closed space, she would such as the use of figurative language. “I had to re-write the entire second half of Daneshvari’s first published book, The just handcuff herself to the railings” “Sometimes it comes together, but most the book to get it right,” said Daneshvari. Makedown, is currently being made into a Daneshvari’s book is partly autobio- of the time I write a version and then re- Other questions asked included Danesh- movie with Ashton Kutcher and Isla Fis- graphical as she had many of the phobias write it again and again,” Daneshvari re- vari’s choice of names for the School of cher starring in the lead roles. of her characters. sponded. “Sometimes the only way to find Fear characters. “I met Ashton Kutcher, but not Isla Fis- “As a kid I was afraid of elevators and out which is the right version is to write all “Theo is named after my cousin in Paris cher,” said Daneshvari. “I visit the set, but I used to ask my sister to go on the eleva- the wrong ones. With writing, you have to who loves to eat and is also quite dramatic. not everyday. It’s quite boring.” Alatorre Talks Caught About Iraq Being Good [ Alatorre, from pg 1 ] that’s when we were establish- By Jennifer Escobar ing our presence in Iraq,” said and Jizel Ermalino Alatorre. “The second time we Staff Writer didn’t have as many attacks in our base.” oly is now promoting a concept brought Alatorre’s won’t be returning by the district about positive behavior to Iraq soon. support plan called “4 for life.” This pro- “I’m not under obligatory time. P I don’t think the Marine Corps gram encompasses four principal concepts: Be safe, be respectful, be responsible, and be on will recall any marines who’ve time. It is to give students positive incentives in completed their term. But I have doing the right thing. two years to reenlist if I want,” 10th grade center Assistant Principal Lourdes said Alatorre. “I’m undecided as de Santiago is in charge of the Four for Life pro- of right now.” gram. Ari Bennett, 9th grade assistant principal Leaving his family and espe- is working alongside in promoting the goals of the program. Photo by Jennifer Martinez “You can’t force a “The four for life is to acknowledge students UNVEILED: Poly’s Senior Glade provides space and tranquility for staff and students. country to be demo- who have a hard time doing the right thing,” said Bennett. cratic—it takes time.” Instead of focusing and punishing the stu- Senior Glade’s Shade dents for their bad behavior, this program gives cially his son was the hardest part student a positive incentive to inspire them to fornia,” said Mr. Colon as he trimmed the of going to Iraq. Last time Ala- By Daysi Nerio torre was called to serve he didn’t do well. Staff Writer edges of a cactus. Poly has tried to enforce this program year Other than the fishes in the pond, there have a son. It was tough leaving after year, but it has not been successful, due to are no animals in the senior glade. “Poly his parents, but not as tough as lack of support from the administration. ne of Poly’s less known features, used to have an animal science program in leaving his son. This time around, however, the staff is deter- the senior glade, is embedded with the 1980’s. Due to budget cuts, the program “The first time I didn’t have a mined to make this program succeed. rich history. was canceled.” son,” said Alatorre. “The model is that consistency, stick with the O According to Alatorre, the Poly was built in February of 1957 along The senior glade was originally limited program and play it out until you can see if its with the senior glade. The original poly was to seniors only. Today our senior glade is conditions in Iraq have greatly helping the kids or not , assess if it’s making a built in 1897 at downtown Los Angeles. To- used for special events. Different clubs and improved. difference in kids or either and continue or not. day the old Poly stands as LA Trade Tech. organizations from Poly use the glade for “I think we’ve made progress The longer we promote it, the more people will Artifacts such as the sun dial, benches award ceremonies and parties. Students are in Iraq,” said Alatorre. “They see the real value of it,” said Bennett. and the barbecue were brought from the only allowed in the glade as a group and have a structured military and po- Poly Parrots are rewarded with pins and pens original Poly. with a supervisor. lice force, and they’re building on with gratifying messages for every good behavior. “Back in the 1960’s and 1970’s when the Lunches and breakfasts are sometimes a democratic government.” The awards are based on a change or im- seniors would turn 18, they would come held at the glade. Most recently, the senior However, Alatorre says that provement of behavior, being responsible in back here and hangout,” stated Mr. Colon, picnic was in the glade. Iraq still needs work. class, great leadership, punctuality, and more. the horticulture teacher. The glade is maintained by Mr. Colon’s “They have a long way to go,” Bennett added, “We need to become more The glade is filled with almost every type agricultural classes, where the students earn said Alatorre. “You can’t force a contagious so we loose that negative stigma of of plants. “Cactus being a member of the to nurture and grow plants with more than country to be democratic-it takes being a school boy or a school girl.” succulent family, it does well here in Cali- love. time.” The Poly Optimist Campus December 2009 5 Three Generations of Teaching By Marilyn Pocasangre and my mother was an elementary school cisco State University where I received a Staff Writer teacher”. Bachelor’s Associate in International Re- Aside from being a professor, Kehrmey- lations and a minor in Spanish. I obtained oly English teacher Cheryl Keh- er’s father is an author and an expert in the my teaching credential from Cal State Los rmeyer has a rich past involving radiation field. Angeles a few years after my B.A,” said Pteaching and teachers. “My father has written five books on ra- Kehrmeyer. Kehrmeyer was born and raised as an diation safety and he was chosen to travel Kehrmeyer started teaching nine years only child in Alhambra and Temple City, to the Ukraine to inspect the Chernobyl ago at Marshall Fundamental High School California in a middle class community. Nuclear Accident radiation safety and af- in Pasadena where she taught for three “It was a really nice place to grow up termath,” said Kehrmeyer. years before transferring to Poly. “I was in,” said Kehrmeyer. Her father’s profession required her fam- told this was a great school to work at and According to Kehrmeyer, her fondness ily to move to Argentina in order to accom- the rest is history,” said Kehrmeyer. of teenagers drew her to teaching. modate her father’s teaching occupation. “The kids are fun and the staff is good. “Teens are on the brink of adulthood, “While in Argentina, I attended a local As a whole, the Poly community is great,” I like the experience of interacting with school where no one spoke any English added Kehrmeyer. except for the English teacher. I got to ex- When she is not teaching, Kehrmeyer’s them and learning about their future inter- Photo by Jennifer Martinez ests,” said Kehrmeyer. perience total immersion and learned Cas- SMILE: English teacher Cheryl Keh- favorite pastimes are camping, reading, To Kehrmeyer, teaching is a family tra- tellano Spanish in about three months. This rmeyer has been at Poly for six years. spending time with my kids and horseback dition. As a third generation teacher, Keh- was a valuable experience linguistically riding on occasion.. rmeyer identifies her parents as her role and culturally,” said Kehrmeyer. junior and senior year in high school. Liv- Ultimately, Kehrmeyer considers teach- models. Her experience in Argentina was not the ing with a Brazilian family for a year gave ing as one of many accomplishments. Her “They’ve been wonderful role mod- last time she would travel to South Amer- me strength and in the end I formed a last- advice to students is “Do your best and els,” said Kehrmeyer. “My father was a ica. ing bond with them,” said Kehrmeyer. don’t give up! High school is only one radiological health physicist professor at “The second time, I lived in Brazil as a “I went to Graceland University in Iowa phase of your life, and yes it does get bet- Cal State Los Angeles for sixteen years, foreign exchange student for a part of my for two years, and then I attended San Fran- ter!” Real Life Economics Poly seniors learn about business firsthand
By Daniel Martinez Staff Writer
ost economics classes teach from notes and lectures. Howev- Mer, Poly economics teacher Brad Katz does things a bit differently. In an effort to teach students the team- work need to run a business, Katz created the “Real Life Economics Project,” where students learn how to run a successful busi- ness by working together through a mock business setting. “I wanted to give the kids something different, and wanted to show them the Photo by Jennifer Martinez teamwork that is required to run a busi- MONEY, MONEY, MONEY: Students sell water bottles for a profit in Mr. Katz’s economics classes ness,” said Katz. The project consisted of a class working Officer (CEO), a Chief Financial Officer the company and is in charge of all stu- raising the money, the items were bought as a unit to sell a product. Katz’s second (CFO), managers and assistant managers, dents. The CFO manages the money and and are sold for three dollars each. period was in charge of selling keychain and workers. the managers make sure the workers are “I feel like the whole class learned the lights. Third period was assigned sports “I had to sell stocks and now I have to doing their jobs. difficult processes of running a business,” bottles. sell bottles,” said senior Hugo Ramirez, In order to raise money to buy the key- said senior Armando Figueroa. For the project, each class was assigned whose role in the company is a worker. chains and water bottles, each student had Katz’s classes will be selling their items a company president, a Chief Executive The CEO holds the highest position in to sell eight stocks for a dollar each. After up to December 15 in room 39. People to See, Places to Go Teacher Ron Lehavi seeks PhD in political science after eight years of hard work
By Magdalena Corona eling and field research. I’m evaluating and his doctorate, he enjoys reading Milton Fried- Staff Writer researching civil society in free trade agree- man’s “Capitalism and Freedom.” ments,” said Lehavi. “I enjoy the academic experience and the Lehavi has worked at Poly for 11 years and personal experience of working with high on Lehavi will be receiving a doctorate also currently teaches at Valley Community school level students,” said Lehavi. “And be- in Political Science after eight years of College. ing able to make a difference in my students’ Rhard work and dedication. “I teach AP European History and Social lives and get to see the changes made is why I “My doctoral thesis is about the growth of Science at Poly, and I teach Political Science chose to stay at Poly.” environmental civil society in super national at Valley,” said Lehavi. Lehavi expects and strongly encourages all regimes,” said Lehavi. “My first draft was al- Lehavi came to the United States after his his students to go to college. ready approved, but I have to present my the- sophomore year of high school in Tel Aviv, Israel. “The importance of going to college has sis again in February.” “I was born in Israel. Half of my high two parts to it. Number one is that is the place Lehavi traveled to Argentina and Uruguay school years were in Israel and the rest here. where you are in an environment where learn- to do field work for his doctorate. I went to Van Nuys High School, I went to ing is supported and you can immerse your- “I’m comparing MERCOSUR (a Latin UCLA to get my BA, and teaching credential self in learning,” said Lehavi. “Second, but Photo by Jennifer Martinez American Trade Agreement) with NAFTA and USC for my masters in political science,” equally important, that is the only practical POLITICS: Magnet teacher (North American Free Trade Agreement) and said Lehavi. way of ever receiving a degree that is accept- Ron Lehavi loves to teach European Union. I have to do a lot of trav- When Lehavi isn’t teaching or working on able by most careers.” The Poly 6 December 2009 Entertainment Optimist Holiday Gaming 2009 2009 was a great year for gaming but with the year coming to an end its time to decide what games to get for the Holidays. Most major franchises have released sequels, prequels and whole new fantasies into the gaming community.
By Armando Orozco Staff Writer
eft 4 Dead 2 is an action survivors one by one, the Jockey packed thrill ride leav- is flying cannonball that jumps on Ling players trenched in to the face of a survivor pulling sweat from excitement and fear, him towards the infected hordes and is one of the most fun filled and the Spitter stains walls with online experience this year. toxic acids causing damage to ev- The game is relevantly the erything in spitting distance. same as the first with minor im- Left 4 Dead 2 adds all new provements to the game mechan- items, weapons and game modes ics and flow. to the expanding franchise such The game pits all new char- as an adrenaline boost instead acters in the southern part of of pain pills and a defibrillator the U.S.A where working to- that revives falling teammates gether is once again the key to instead of a first aid kit. L4D2 survival. The game brings back spices things up even more by familiar faces, special infected adding melee weapons chain- the Boomer, Smoker and Hunter saws, baseball bats, frying pans but this time they brought some and even a katana. Best of all the friends. game has all new multiplayer The Charger is a lightning fast modes and an improved versus bulldozer that mows down the mode.
Internet Photo DEAD: Left 4 Dead 2 survivors prepared to take out hoardes of zombies.
nfinity Ward has released ly different online experience the long anticipated Call then expected. The games new Iof Duty Modern Warfare customizable kill streaks in mul- 2. Modern Warfare 2 redefines tiplayer allows players to bring in expectations bringing in some new special equipment such as a much more then before. All new small care package or even a tac- weapons, perks, attachments, kill tical nuke that ends the game. streaks and multiplayer features New to Modern Warfare 2 is giving modern warfare 2 a whole the Spec-Ops multiplayer fea- new experience. ture. Spec-Ops a two player co- The campaign is entertaining op mode that makes gamers do from beginning to end and the various tasks from a stealthy veteran mode is as hard as ever. sniper mission to a timed demo- Introducing new protagonists lition mission. There are over 60 to the game, MW2 brings back different missions to complete old characters from the previous and each one is either harder game and takes player to farthest than or just as hard as the last corners of the world from a little to complete them all takes time villa in Brazil to the frozen tundra and dedication. This first person of Russia. shooter is a must have for the The multiplayer has evolved collection and wont disappoint Internet Photo since COD4 with all new weap- long time fans of the call of duty WAR: Soldier in the midst of an epic battle between two opposing forces. ons and perks giving a complete- franchise.
FLYBOY: ssassin creed II brings back the mysterious Assassins Creed II has all the elements of great Ezio pilots Aworld of an order of assassins that silently RPG game hidden tombs, secret items, treasure box- Leonardo Da keeps the world at peace. This time around the game es and the ability to upgrade material. Vinci’s flying takes players to 14th century Italy in time of great Assassin’s creed II also enables the players to hire invention over cultural rebirth the Renaissance. mercenaries, thieves and even concubines to distract Venice, Italy Open world environments, constant exploration, guards and sneak by enemy defenses this feature and free-flow mechanics remain the best part of the is new to the game but becomes like second nature game experience and it certainly has improved since after a while. The games only major flaw is that the first game. The development of cities in the game sometime transitions from side missions to the are amazing Venice and Florence are breath taking main quest might fell a bit out order. Other then and are the most historically accurate architecture that the game is bigger, badder and better then Internet Photo seen in a game. ever.
HEART Program, so that students survey given to a larger amount of for the Toy Drive. Safety learn how to handle different situ- students. The chosen classes will Toy Drive “After buying the toys, the Fire [ Safety, from pg 1 ] ations by mediating instead of us- go to a computer lab in order for Department picks them up on the [ Toy Drive, from pg 1 ] ing violence,” De Santiago said. the students to take the survey. same day,” Barba added. The Fire have about safety issues so they But the budget is also affecting “We want to select random Leadership committee will go Department takes care of the rest, can be addressed. the amount of security on campus. classes and bring them to a com- to Tom’s Toys and spend all the such as distributing them.” “This is the first time we tried the “From June to July, we had a puter room to take the survey, money they have collected for The Fire Department gives the survey, but our goal is to expand the lot of staff leaving us, whether it because a larger amount of stu- gifts. toys to programs or institutions number of students who respond to was because they went to another dents who take the survey will “We personally buy the toys that request for them. the survey,” said De Santiago. school, or because they got laid have a greater impact,” said De and we enjoy that experience,” “For example, a local church Administration and faculty off,” said De Santiago. “Now we Santiago. said Poly Leadership B-track with children whose parents can’t members at Poly are working on don’t have as many people doing De Santiago hopes that giving president Alex Garcia. “ afford to buy toys will request increasing the security level on supervision. But we’re trying to the survey to a larger crowd of According to Poly Leadership for toys through the Fire Depart- campus to help students feel safer. do the best we can with a small students will give faculty a stron- Stephanie Barba, Poly Leader- ment’s toy program,” said Poly “We are bringing on board group of people.” ger idea of how students feel on ship works in collaboration with Leadership B- Track vice presi- mediation program, called the There is going to be another campus. the Los Angeles Fire Department dent Alex Serrano. The Poly Entertainment Optimist December 2009 7
My Lips Unsealed
Gabriela Melendez 2012:wFact Internet Photo FIGHT: Jacob ready to attack Edward. A New Phase of the Moon Or Fiction? By Joel Hinojosa Staff Writer
ew Moon is different Stewart) are both madly in love. backs away from her when he be- from other gory vampire But when Bella’s birthday party comes pre-occupied with a cult clichés out there. turns into a showdown, Edward known as the wolf pack. N leaves because he believes the The wolf pack’s Alpha dog or “There’s a feeling on a movie set when you realize you’re in- departure will enable her to live a leader is Sam Uley (Chaske Spen- volved in something special. This safe and human life. cer) and the pack is the protector is a subtle vampire movie, there The departure, however, tears of Forks from vampires. isn’t a lot of fangs and blood Bella apart and she soon becomes “Twihards will appreciate di- spurting. It’s a fun world to cre- immersed in total depression. rector Chris Weitz’s faithfulness ate, a beautiful world, a romantic “It has an amazing kind of to the source text, even as he im- world,” said Andi Isaacs, Summit emotional integrity and inten- proves on it,” said Nancy Gibbs Entertainment Head of Physical sity,” said A.O Scott of “At the of the Times, “And Weitz (with Production (New Moon Illustrat- Movies.” the help of Lautner’s abs) might Bella painstakingly lives like a suddenly find himself responsible ed Movie Companion), “We all END OF THE WORLD: Will 2012 be the year the world comes to vegetable for 5 long months but for a series of mass conversions: wanted to make a movie we could an end, as many seem to believe, or is it just a big joke? be proud of, not just a success on soon becomes awakened by a trip from Team Edward to Team Ja- a momentary level, but something with Jessica at the movies. In her cob.” that will be remembered.” trip she discovers she can hear Despite record sales, most any people believe was a solar flare deteriorating Most of the story takes place Edward’s voice in dangerous and critics would say New Moon is December 21st, 2012 our atmosphere and cooking the in Forks, Washington with an reckless situations. directed towards a fan base and M marks the end of the world. The media feeds off the exception to the visit at Volterra, Bella, in hopes of bringing nothing more. world. Others believe it is a big people’s fears and makes a quick Italy where the Volturi, where a the voice back, obtains a motor- “This movie was made for the hoax, another joke, and they buck doing so. royal family of dangerous vam- cycle and becomes friends with fans, and if you don’t get it, then laugh at believers. No one knows For example, the movie pires live. her technician friend Jacob Black you don’t get it,” said director exactly what would happen. “2012” envisioned events such as Edward Cullen (Robert Pattin- (Taylor Lautner). Jacob brings Chris Weitz. The year 2012 has become a land-splitting earthquakes, colos- son) and Bella Swan (Kristin light into her world until he too promise of chaos. People have sal tsunamis, and exploding vol- started living their lives in fear, or canoes. Coincidentally, all these their lives to the fullest. Paranoia disasters took place in Califor- sweeps the world. Personally, I nia, while the rest of the world think it’s just another doom date, was submerged in water. Another and wait to watch pointless chaos film, “Knowing,” displayed the come. possibility of global destruction Who actually believes this? via solar flare. Why are people so convinced I do not believe in 2012 be- this will happen? “Because of the cause it is completely illogical. Its Mayans.” The Mayan calendar premise is based on the Mayans. is thousands of years old, cre- What if the Mayans just stopped ated the year continuing their 3113BC. The calendar? A calendar goes I’m sure there are thousand years on for 5,125 can erase a lot years, ending people now who of history, so on December we can’t know 21st, 2012. live in fear, stock- for sure. A worldwide Also, this natural disaster ing up on sup- isn’t even the would “cleanse first time the the earth.” plies, waiting for a p o c a l y p s e Of course, the dreaded day. has been pre- this frightens dicted. Nothing people. I have happened in found websites March 1997, or that connect 2012 to flood insur- on 1999. The year 2000 went by ance, instructions on how to get smoothly, just as June 6, 2006, as Sudoku your own electricity, and emer- well as September 10, 2008-the gency survival kits. People are day that the Large Hadron Col- making money off others’ wor- lider made its first run. Use the numbers 1-9 ries. I’m sure there are people The truth is, there’s no solid to fill in each box. now who live in fear, stocking proof that anything will happen at up on supplies, waiting for the all on December 21, 2012. Brain- Use each number dreaded day. washing people by saying the end There are a lot of theories about will come is the wrong thing to only once per box. what would happen on December do. Convincing believers 2012 Good luck! 21st, 2012. One possibility is the will not happen isn’t right, ei- Solution to earth straightening itself, causing ther. Let people believe what they November’s Puzzle northern oceans to shift and flood wish. Anyone could be wrong. All the whole world. Another theory we can do is wait and see. Sports The Poly 8 December 2009 Optimist Poly Out In Second Round El Camino’s 5’10” sophomore running back Kawan Rally’s 195 yards rushing and two touchdowns highlight 31-18 win.
By Armando Figueroa Staff Writer
l Camino used a strong ground game to grind out a 31-18 win over Poly, elimi- E nating the Parrots from the playoffs. “Although our efforts were good, we shot ourselves in the foot too many times,” said Parrot head coach Scott Faer. Poly senior quarterback Miguel Zapien threw touchdown passes to Erik Martinez and Marco Hernandez and was 5 for 12 for 128 yards. Parrot junior running back Kevin Ervin, who came into the contest av- eraging 21 points per game, gained 164 yards on 14 carries but failed to score. Poly’s 238 rushing yards was well below its season average of 400. El Camino rushed for 408 yards and added 14 receiving, but total yardage for the game was a narrow 422-366 in favor of the Conquistadors. El Camino sophomore running back Kawan Rally had two TDs Photo provided by Larry Zhieler and 195 yards rushing, while senior RUSH: Poly parrot Kevin Ervin rushes past Conquistador’s defensive line Rashon Harper ran for 75 yards and spot with an 11-2, 6-0 record. a touchdown. Kicker Keon Parsa The Parrots were perfect at home added a 27-yard field goal and four this year and had a 517/234 advantage Poly Basketball Schedule points after. in points for and against on the sea- Poly failed on all three points after son. Varsity Boys Basketball Schedule touchdown. Poly junior running back Kevin 1/06/10 4:00 PM @ Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) “It wasn’t the way I expected to go Ervin had a record-setting year, rush- 1/11/10 5:00 PM @ Canoga Park (Canoga Park, CA) * out,” Faer said, “but at the end of the ing for 2297 yards. He averaged 1/13/10 5:00 PM @ Arleta (Arleta, CA) * day, this team did a great job. We com- nearly 200 yards per game and nearly 1/15/10 7:00 PM @ Van Nuys (Van Nuys, CA) * peted with everyone.” 14 yards per carry while scoring 36 1/20/10 5:00 PM vs. Verdugo Hills (Tujunga, CA) * The loss ended Poly’s run in the touchdowns and accounting for 232 1/22/10 7:00 PM vs. North Hollywood (North Hollywood, CA) * playoffs and wrapped up the Parrot’s points, nearly 19 per game. 1/27/10 5:00 PM vs. Grant (Van Nuys, CA) * best season in nearly 20 years. Ervin’s 409 yards against Granada 1/29/10 7:00 PM vs. Canoga Park (Canoga Park, CA) * “I’m definitely happy with the over- Hills set new records for both Poly all outcome of the season,” said Faer. and San Fernando Valley schools. Girls’ Varsity Basketball Schedule “It feels good to be apart of one of the The Conquistadors (12-1, 4-1), 1/13/10 5:00 PM vs. Arleta (Arleta, CA) * best Poly football teams in history.” who squeaked by Arleta’s Mustangs 1/20/10 5:00 PM @ Verdugo Hills (Tujunga, CA) * Poly’s 9-3, 5-1 season was its best 21-20 last Friday, will play Hamilton 1/27/10 5:00 PM @ Grant (Van Nuys, CA) * in a decade and good enough for a on the 11th. Only a 28-21 loss to Taft second-place finish in the East Valley mars a perfect won-loss record for *Conference Game| ** Tournament Game| League standings. Arleta took the top El Camino. Cross Country Crushes Competition
By Armando Figueroa Staff Writer
oly’s Cross Country team went undefeated this season and become league champions. P The boy’s varsity team won the league cham- pionships while girls cross county became second in the city league. The guys cross country team won eight races in a row making them undefeated this season. “They’re an amazing team,” said Poly cross country coach Pedro Valencia. “Each week they improved and every week they’re time went down.” The league win seals Poly’s 11th consecutive year at the title of league champions. “I have a feeling that this years team is stronger then before,” said consisting cross country coach Mario Rivera. Boy’s varsity made it into city finals but unfortunately fell short a couple of seconds of the participating require- ment times for state competition. Before the disqualification Poly ranked in the top five in city. Overall Poly has great expectations for next year’s Photo by Monica Sagasume Photo by Monica Sagasume team to go further then before. TRAINING: Varsity cross country prepare for city finals. RUNNERS: Poly varsity cross country.