Chatsworth High School The Clarion January 2007 How To Keep Safe On Myspace Late Kids To Sacrifice By Huong Nguyen diction among us teens, it has picious online relationship and eral harassment incidents have Staff Writer also been proven to be a danger- what can be done about it. been reported, and even tried, ous one, raising the attention of “Imagine driving down a causing parents to raise their Saturdays Type in www.Myspace. parents and administrators. major freeway, such as the 118, eyebrows upon the safety of com, log in, click “skip ad,” Thus, a PTSA meeting was held and seeing a billboard with your their child when they are surfing By Vinh Nguyen check messages, check com- to give parents and students ad- picture, name, hobbies and the net and interacting on sites Staff Writer ments then refresh to see if you vice on how to keep safe while phone number on it for every- such as Myspace. got new ones even though you on the internet, particularly on one to see. That is exactly what “I go on Myspace everyday Chronically tardy students just checked them less than a Myspace. you are doing when you are to talk to my friends but I think may soon be forced to serve a minute ago. Ms. Hazel, from the District posting your information online, its really weird when strangers two-hour Saturday detention for This is the routine of a typi- Attorney’s office, was the leader for the world to see,” said Ha- try to talk to me, because I don’t their tardies, according to a new cal Myspace addict, and sadly, of the presentation. She gave zel. even know who they are,” said tardy policy that will go into examples of real-life, worst-case With approximately 10,000 sophomore Kareem Jamal. relates to much of the student effect in the spring semester. scenarios of an online friendship profiles belonging to students During the past couple population here at Chatsworth The Chatsworth Leadership gone wrong, as well as listing to here at Chatsworth High School, years, online predators have High. Although it is well known Council developed this new pol- that Myspace is a common ad- parents some signs that may El Camino Real High School, Continued on Page 2 show their child is having a sus- and Granada High School, sev- icy after analyzing several tardy policies from Local District One and District Two high schools. Flashback 2006 Students will no longer be sent to K-78 for being late, but The End of Saddam, Korea Gets Chatsworth Had Its Share Of will instead be assigned two hours of Saturday detention on The Bomb, Iraq Far From Calm Adventures in 2006 their sixth tardy. Only students with referral forms are going to By Jasmine Liu president of Iraq was hanged on By Raeanna Shay mately 500 students stayed be sent to K-78 for disciplinary Staff Writer December 26, 2006. After his Staff Writer home from school in May to problems. Parents will be re- death, a graphic video of Hus- show the influence of the His- ceiving a letter or call home In 2006 we lost some sein’s hanging was posted on From a capsule that was lost panic community. This followed from K-78 after their child’s familiar faces (Saddam Hussein, the internet, causing an uproar. in time to freshmen in houses a walkout in April when the ten- third tardy. Teachers will still the planet Pluto, Gerald Ford), and baseballers in Cuba, 2006 sion resulting from the new pro- be permitted to have their own and there were more of the same Pluto is no longer defined as a had it all. posed immigration law broke tardy punishments such as tak- events ( Israel Lebanon conflict, planet: After many years of de- First off, Chatsworth gradu- lose. ing away points. War in Iraq). The year also en- bate, astronomers resolved to ates from 1976 returned to dig Also in May, three CHS stu- After serving their deten- compassed a variety of other demote Pluto on August 24, up the time capsule they be- dents won big bucks for their tion, students start off with a events, from North Korea’s test 2006. Pluto is now called a lieved was buried by the John F. culinary skills. Alexander clean slate and would not re- firing missiles and a nuclear dwarf planet, which is any other Kennedy plaque near the Ad- Granados, Christopher Higa and ceive another detention sentence bomb, to stricter airport regula- round object that has not cleared ministrative building. However, Loan Nguyen came straight until their next sixth tardy, and tions, and the House of Repre- the neighborhood around its or- apparently no one knew exactly from Mr. Lauten’s cooking class would receive a four-hour de- sentatives bill 4437 (The Border bit, and is not a satellite,” stated where the capsule was because to the Los Angeles Trade- tention on their third detention. Protection, Anti-terrorism, and MSNBC. gardener Jerome Thomas dug Technical College to compete Illegal Immigration Control Act New airport security meas- several holes before eventually for loads of cash. Granados won If the student does not at- of 2005). Here is a wrap up of ures: According to MSNBC, giving up. The graduates still $22,000, Higa won $2,200 and tend a Saturday detention, they some of the major events that after a terror plot in Britain, new have hope, though, and will Nguyen won $9,000. These will receive a four-hour assign- happened in the year 2006. security measures, which be- search again to find their buried Chancellors really know how to ment along with loss of student Saddam Hussein’s execution: came effective on September treasure. bring home the bacon, and it privileges until the detention Saddam Hussein, the former Continue on Page 3 A month earlier, approxi- Continued on Page 3 time is served. If the tardy problem continues, the School Atten- dance Review Team Process Remembering Tyra: 2006 Is There a Doctor in (SART) would be initiated, re- sulting in severe legal proceed- CHS Grad Passes Away ings to try and solve the prob- C-House? Why, Yes lem. This may include finding an alternative placement, refer- By Brenda Fuentes By Maggie Ghahri-Saremi sponsibilities as principal of Sun ring the parent/guardian, or stu- Staff Writer Staff Writer Valley Middle School, Davis dent to court. This new tardy could finally begin work on his policy would hopefully reduce For Tyra Smith, gradu- After 11 years of research dissertation which is “an analy- school wide tardiness. ating was the most important and dedication, a 250-page dis- sis of how to take a school that’s thing in the world. Last sum- sertation, and 3 years at one of failing and make it successful mer, she accomplished that with the “10 worst schools in the even to the point of doubling In This Issue the rest of the CHS class of state of California,” our princi- performance.” 2006. On Jan. 8, 2007 she was pal, formerly known as Mr. Indeed, test scores at Sun Find out who died, what movies laid to rest. Davis, can at last call himself Valley improved: “In one year thrived and what else happened According to prelimi- Dr. Davis. test scores were up 51 points” in the world (and CHS) in 2006 . nary details coming from her On May 11, 2007, at the and “in three years they were up See the stories on pages 1 and friends and teachers, she was University of Southern Califor- 131 points,” Davis said. 3. taken to the hospital on Dec. 21 nia, Davis will officially be- “because she wasn’t feeling come a doctor of education Davis started writing his Snow in Malibu just a few days good,” said her friend, sopho- (EdD) when he receives his di- dissertation in July 2005, when after the mercury topped 80 de- more Diamond Matthews. Two ploma. While working full-time he began working as principal grees in Chatsworth? The days later she died. She was 18. 2006 Grad Tyra Smith. as an educator and working to- of Chatsworth High. It took him weather sure has been wacky, “My grandmother told me wards his doctorate degree over years to carry out his research even by L.A. standards. Page 2 it was from a blood clot in one and mother and liked football a period of 11 years, the Univer- and gather information, and one of her lungs,” said Matthews, and basketball, Matthews said. sity granted Davis time exten- and a half years to complete his A vaccine recommended for whose grandmother was close to During her last year at Chats- sions so that he could complete dissertation. teenage girls can cut the risk of Tyra’s family. worth, Tyra was a library aid his higher education. Principal Davis’ disserta- cancer. Page 2 “She was a very sweet and also Ms. Pearson’s teacher In order to get a doctorate tion is currently being used to young lady, she was always assistant and a very good friend. degree, Davis had to complete a set an example for other educa- “Stomp the Yard” and smiling,” said Mrs. Greenberg, “I was just lucky to at least have dissertation, an in-depth re- tors to follow and includes “Freedom Writers” reviewed her counselor. “She came to my known her,” said Ms. Pearson. search paper on a specific topic methods that are now part of on page 4. office every day to make sure “She was very sweet, and a kind relevant to his educational lead- educational research. she was going to graduate. She girl. I was devastated to hear she ership degree. Davis said the experience of Three CHS football players knew she was, she just wanted had died.” Pearson was upset After three years of suc- earning his doctorate “makes were selected all-city athletes. to hear it. Continued on Page 3 cessfully carrying out his re- me more introspective.” Page 4 Tyra lived with her brother Features The Clarion January 2007 Page 2 Oh, The Weather Outside Is Frightfully Odd By Jordan Lynn Urquhart can explain why the weather in Southern Californians are January was Jan. 25, with a high pared for the cold later in the Staff Writer the U.S. has been so extreme. already used to weather having of 25 degrees and a low of 15 day. For windy weather, it is The greenhouse gas that affects its ups and downs. For exam- degrees. In Nashville, Tennes- recommended that you wear “Why is it so cold?” “Why the weather is carbon dioxide, ple, on January 9, Chatsworth see, the coldest day in January Chap Stick. Lotion is some- is it so hot?” Why is it so which is released from burning had a high of 81 degrees, which was Jan. 23, with39 degrees as thing important to remember on windy?” These are the ques- fossil fuels. All of these burn- is normal for us here in South- the high, and 28 degrees as the a cold or windy day because if tions that have been on students’ ing fossil fuels from running ern California. Just a couple of low. Augusta, Maine’s coldest your hands get too dry, they can minds lately. This winter, stu- cars are contributing to a natural days later, on January 13, we day this month was Jan. 17, at a crack, which can be quite pain- dents have had to deal with very greenhouse effect around the had a high of 50 degrees, and a freezing 6 degrees, and a low ful. Guys usually don’t wear harsh weather conditions. It is earth, trapping in heat. Since low of 27 degrees, cold enough of –6 degrees. So the next time lotion, but there is lotion that difficult to predict what the day the beginning of the industrial for snow, in California! you complain about it being doesn’t smell, and it should be is going to be like, because it’s revolution, carbon dioxide in the The weather across the ‘cold,’ remember you aren’t worn to help you in the wind. cold in the morning, and then atmosphere has increased by United States is very different even getting half of it. Students commented hot in the afternoon, or vise thirty percent, helping to make from our temperatures here in Not sure if you need mittens on how they are dealing with versa. The past few weeks 2006 the warmest year on re- Chatsworth. The coldest day of or suntan lotion? Well, there these harsh weather conditions. we’ve had temperatures be- cord so far. the month in Chatsworth was are lots of things you can have “The weather constantly tween 85 degrees to almost 30 Another reason why the January 13, with a high of 50 handy just in case. You may changes, so I never know what degrees, just within days. Many weather is extreme is because of degrees, and a low of 35 de- want to keep a coat and an um- to wear,” said Senior Brittnay theories are believed to be the recent El Ninos, which are Pa- grees. brella in your locker to be pre- Marcus. solution. cific Ocean patterns that affect If you were to relocate According to MSNBC, an weather by preventing arctic yourself and travel to Colum- increase in greenhouse gasses blasts across the United States. bus, Ohio, the coldest day of Vaccine For Sexually Transmitted Infection Also Cuts Cancer Risk

Starving for Perfection Proves By Belen Espinoza there were 500,000 new cases of Staff Writer cervical cancer worldwide, and 260,000 women died from the Fatal for Some Models New HPV vaccines are cancer. A majority of the By Raeanna Walker horrible that women do that. had been brushed up to add a being given in U.S hospitals to women were in developing Staff Writer They should feel beautiful and few pounds. Nine out of 10 prevent infection from four countries where forms of tests love their body. If they don’t males, as well as females, pre- strains of HPV. and prevention aren’t very Anorexia nervosa is not a love themselves, then no one ferred the photo-shopped model HPV, the human papil- strong. “I think it is a good thing new concept to the world or will,” said junior Dominique to the naturally rail-thin model. lomavirus, is the most common because even though it is a pre- high school students in general. Ortiz. Newsweek’s Jessica Ben- sexually transmitted infection in ventative vaccine, it is a good Many women, as well as men, Why do these beautiful girls nett states, “Genes load the gun the United States, with about 6.2 precaution to take,” said junior have suffered and died from this feel the need to starve them- and an environment pulls the million cases diagnosed annu- Melissa Chua. deadly disease. So it was no sur- selves? Some state the modeling trigger.” So more aspects come ally according to kaiseredu.org. The site also states that prise to hear that yet another industry is to blame. “The image into play than one may imagine. The name of the vaccine is the vaccine does not prevent model died from complications of modeling, yes, but there are Advertisements showing unreal- called Gardasil and is given in a against all strain types of HPV. due to anorexia. Ana Carolina many other kinds of modeling istically skinny girls wearing series of three doses. This makes Pap tests mandatory Reston died in Brazil weighing like plus size models,” said sen- popular clothes, and families Kaiseredu.org states for the detection of precancer- 88 pounds at 5' 8”. Doctors state ior Shayna Isenburg. and peers that pressure children that the vaccine is recommended ous cells because if detected this is the normal weight for a Some also think that the to stay thin, all make an impact for girls and women between early, cervical cancer is highly five feet tall, 12 year-old. pressure to stay thin comes from on young children, especially the ages of 9 and 26. The vac- treatable. The vaccine is highly Reston’s death followed the not only modeling and adver- females and those predisposed cine protects against four types accepted by gynecologists and death of Uruguayan model tisements, but from the expecta- to anorexia nervosa. More than of strains, two of which cause physicians, but is taken volun- Luisel Ramos from heart failure. tions from the men around them. we think comes into play. 70 percent of cancer cases, and tarily. Both models ate close to noth- However, some disagree. “In Reston’s mother had this to the other two, which cause 90 The cost of the vaccine ing preceding their deaths. my perspective guys are going say: “Take care of your chil- percent of genital wart cases. for three doses is about $360 but Reston died after going on a diet for the healthy-looking girls. I dren… no money is worth the There are more than one hun- most likely medical insurance that consisted of only apples and have overheard many guys say life of your child, not even the dred strains of HPV. In 2005, will cover the costs. tomatoes, according to the Her- that anorexic-looking girls are most famous child, not even the ald Sun. Ramos passed away not attractive and [that] they most famous (fashion) brand is after consuming only lettuce prefer girls who are healthy and worth this.” Clarion Staff leaves and Diet Coke for close not afraid to eat,” said Isenburg. Why are we pressuring our to 3 months. Reston died at 21, In addition, 10 guys here at youth to be thin and unhealthy? while Ramos perished at 22. CHS and 10 females were Maybe we should pour the same Adviser: Mr. Lehr So what exactly is happen- shown two images from energy into making people want Editor in Chief: Candy Wong ing behind this awful situation? “Glamour” magazine, one an to be healthy and happy as we News Editor: Jasmine Liu And what do students here at ultra skinny model and another do making them feel they need Features Editor: Jannet Torres Assistant : Jordan Urquhart, CHS feel about this? “That’s photo of the same model that to starve to stay skinny. Sports Editor: Vinh Nguyen Copy Editors: Raeanna Walker, Huong Nguyen , Candy Wong, Jannet Torres Myspace Continued from page 1 Design and Layout Editor: Raymond Wong struck time and time again, fo- concerns as far as who their kids names, and knowing your Editorials: Huong Nguyen Assistant: Belen Espinoza cusing on young and naïve teen- are interacting with, ways to child’s emails and passwords Staff Writers: Danielle Bourgholtzer, Joe Carter, Arun Dillon, agers who are more likely to go monitor their child’s internet are all suggested ways to keep Brenda Fuentes, Maggie Ghahri-Saremi, Stephanny Landaverde, along with their lies. Hazel told activity, and ways to talk to tabs on their safety. Faith Lim, Jackee Peavler, Jorrel Quirong, the audience at the meeting of a their children about how to be Little program disks were young girl who was tricked by a safe online. also being sold for $5 that “professional photographer” Complaining that the would scan the computer for Clarion’s Editorial Policy into meeting in person. After Myspace group does not take phrases that would suggest any The goal of The Clarion is to provide relevant and reliable this, he kidnapped her from action when it comes to com- suspicious activity and gave the news to the students and staff at Chatsworth High School. All sto- home and sexually assaulted plaints, parents felt like they had parents the option to delete ries are produced by students in the journalism and school newspa- her. to take matters into their own them. Students were informed per classes unless otherwise stated. The paper is subject to review According to statistics, 1/5 hands and figure an alternative as well, to always report suspi- by school administrators before publication. The newspaper is teenagers have been sexually method to monitoring their cious activity, to never meet a funded by the school and private advertisers. solicited and 70 percent of this child’s online activity. stranger in person, and to only The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the occurs within the safety of their Keeping the computer in a converse with and add those that individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the own homes. common room, knowing online they have met in real life while staff as a whole. At the meeting, parents acronyms, checking buddy lists setting their profiles on We hold ourselves accountable for the accuracy and fair- freely spoke their minds of their regularly for strange screen “private” or “friends only.” ness of our work. If factual errors are brought to our attention we will correct them in the next edition. Features The Clarion January 2007 Page 3 Icons Passed Away in 2006 Chancellors Coax in ‘07 By Danielle Bourgholtzer cause of a stingray stab through failure on Christmas mourning. Staff Writer the heart while filming a new He was 73 and one of the most with Mickey and Sushi television program on Austra- influential musicians of the past By Candy Wong tious about it. We’re also think- 2006 was a beginning for lia’s Great Barrier Reef. 50 years. He will be greatly re- Staff Writer ing about adding in some Ja- some, though with every begin- membered. cuzzi time.” ning there’s an ending. So New York Yankees pitcher, Seconds away from –Jeff Davis , principal here’s a list of all those who Cory Lidle , passed away after Former President and Vice heralding in a new year, the have passed away, but made a his plane crashed into a Manhat- President Gerald R. Ford died 1,070-lb lighted ball in New ”I was sick at home with pneu- great impact in what they did. tan condominium tower. It all on December 26, 2006 at the York City’s Time Square sliced monia.” –Lisa Weisshar , junior occurred on October 11,2006. age of 93. He was an open and into the frosty air. Decked with Coretta Scott King was the He was only 34. straightforward president who 504 Waterford crystal triangles ”We played foosball and threw wife of Martin Luther King Jr. will be missed by millions. engraved with names of the a party. When it struck twelve, she continued on with her hus- Creator of childhood shows World Trade Center attacks’ there were kisses everywhere, band’s dreams of an equal soci- Tom & Jerry, Yogi Bear and Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein , deceased, 96 high intensity poppers going off, fireworks…” ety. She died on January 31, The Flintstones passed away on was hanged on December 29, strobe lights, 90 rotating pyra- –Ana Gonzalez , senior 2006 at the age of 78. December 18. 2006, due to 2006 for ordering the murders mid mirrors, and 696 multicol- natural cause. The famous ani- of 148 countrymen and conspir- ored light bulbs… (phew, deep ”I went to my grandparents’ Steve Irwin , who made his mator was 95 years old. acy. The United States govern- breath!) it was quite a sight to house in Hollywood. We all fame through his television se- ment hopes that since he is gone behold. spoke Russian. My grandma’s ries “The Crocodile Hunter”, The “Godfather of Soul”, James the reign of terror agonizing However, while the the best cook ever and we had died on September 4, 2006 be- Brown , passed away from heart Iraq will finally be over. ball dropped in NYC, while so much Russian food. We clocks worldwide lunged for stayed up until 4 a.m.” midnight, and while resolution- –Elena Bartel , junior makin’ optimists anxiously awaited another chance for re- ”I went out to eat with my fam- Reeling in the Epic Flicks of ‘06 newal, here’s how some Chan- ily at some Italian place in the cellors coaxed in ‘07… Valley. One of my family mem- By Jackee Peavler meets some very interesting bers also threw a party for New Staff Writer characters. 7. Casino Royale -Daniel Craig “I went to Disneyland’s New Year’s Eve.” stars as James Bond, who Year’s Eve Countdown and par- –Mariah Bonilla , freshman It’s the beginning of 3. X-Men: The Last Stand - travels to Madagascar to spy tied. Saw fireworks and Minnie, 2007 and it’s a brand new year, Hugh Jackman returns for on a terrorist named Mollaka but I couldn’t find Mickey.” ”I was up at the Naval Air Sta- but what exactly happened in another amazing X-men –Vanni Gio , junior tion in Fresno for Cadet Officer 2006, movie-wise? Well, let’s movie, only this time the 8. Over the Hedge -Bruce Basic Corps, a week-long cadet go back and see what movies humans have a cure for their Willis, Gary Shandling, ”Every New Year’s Eve, my training program. On New were the most popular. Out of a “sickness.” Steve Carrel star in this hi- wife and I either bring home Year’s Eve, I was ironing my list of 100 movies on the web- larious movie. RJ a very sushi or Chinese food. This year uniform, getting it starched, and site: http://www.boxofficemojo. 4. Da Vinci Code -Tom Hanks hungry raccoon steals food was Chinese food. We also finishing up a book report. The com/, 10 movies were seen by stars in this drama, where he from his friend the bear. RJ make chocolate milkshakes, sit other cadets—they went to eve- the most teens around the world. is framed for killing a man. now has too pay his friend on the couch, and watch the ball ryone’s rooms and partied.” He travels on an adventure back before the moon is full. drop. My wife doesn’t watch it –Raoul Baldwin , junior 1. Pirates of the Caribbean 2 - with Audrey Tautou looking [drop], though—she’s supersti- Johnny Depp, Orlando for clues left by Leonardo Bloom, and Keira Knightley Da Vinci. 9. Talladega Nights : The Bal- Continued from page 1 came back with another ex- lad of Ricky Bobby-Will 2006 traordinary adventure, with 5. Superman Returns - Ferrell races in the NAS- 26, 2006, were placed for air- democrat candidates defeated Jack being made chief of an Brandon Routh stars as Su- CAR events. Ricky Bobby port security. Some of these six republican incumbents. Now interesting country, after be- perman, who’s been gone for and his friend race to get #1 main measures are preventing the Senate has a 51-49 stand, ing informed that he still has five years, and returns unex- and #2 place, but when passengers to have liquids such which is in favor of the democ- a debt to pay. Meanwhile pectedly to find out that eve- someone challenges them for as water, shampoo, hair gel, and rats. Elizabeth and Will’s wed- rything has changed. Clark/ first place, they accept and suntan lotion to be taken ding was ruined on the ac- superman has to face Lex try to keep their number 1 through security check points Freedom Towers: The Free- count of helping a pirate. Luther, who once again is spot. trying to take over the world. and having passengers arrive dom Towers is a complex that 2. Cars -Lightning McQueen, 10. The Pursuit of Happyness - two hours earlier to allow for would take the place of the voiced by Owen Wilson, 6. Night at the Museum -Ben Will Smith stars as Chris additional screening. World Trade Center in lower gets lost on the way to the Stiller as the new night guard Gardner who struggles as a Manhattan. The foundations for Death of former President: the Freedom Towers complex Piston Cup Tournament, and soon finds out that at night salesman. One day he sees a th he’s stuck in a little town the whole entire museum stockbroker, and is inspired Gerald Ford Jr. was the 38 began on April 27, 2006, and called Radar Springs. He comes to life immediately. president of the United States. the first steel columns were be- He passed away peacefully at ing installed as of December 19, CHS Year in Review Continued from page 1 6:45 p.m. on December 27, 2006. Tyra Continued from page 1 2006 at 93 years of age. Los Angeles Mayor Gains looks like they know how to The new school year she didn’t find out about Tyra’s cook it too. brought about one of the biggest death in time to attend the fu- North Korea’s missile test: Control of School: Mayor Vil- In the beginning of the year, changes here at Chatsworth neral. North Korea’s missile tests laraiagosa wanted to take con- Chatsworth switched over to High –the introduction of the “We know that this must caused a lot of commotion and trol of LAUSD to boost per- ISIS, an online attendance pro- freshman houses. The houses have been devastating for the fear for the United States and formance in graduation rates. gram that allows teachers to were designed to include family,” said Mr. Shockley, who other countries including Japan While his plan was approved by take roll using their computers smaller learning environments was collecting money for Tyra’s and China. According to CNN, the state legislature, the court and mice rather than pencils, to increase the communication family in July 5, 2006 “North Korea ruled against it. Therefore, an paper and TA’s. between the teachers and the test-fired a long-range missile appeal is pending. Following the introduction students. All incoming freshmen Tyra was loved by all her and five shorter-range rockets… of ISIS, CHS decided to deduct were grouped together into a friends, family members and but the closely watched long- Israel and Lebanon conflict: homeroom from our regular “house” with specific teachers teachers. “It’s very sad for the range test failed within a min- With a long history of war be- schedule since the need to take assigned to each group. family, it’s a tragedy every time ute, U.S. officials said,” tween the two. Israel attacked attendance became covered by Matt Dominguez and Mike this happens” said Mr. Davis Lebanon after Lebanon kid- the new online program. Moustakas made CHS proud by In a letter to the faculty, House of Representatives bill napped a few Israeli soldiers Burglars vandalized various attending a baseball tournament Davis wrote, “Tyra was a very 4437: The bill was passed on leading to a war that lasted from classrooms in the E, S, and M for Team USA, held in Cuba, sweet and polite young lady Friday December 16, 2005 be- July 12, 2006 to August 14, buildings in late February. Over making Chatsworth the only who touched the lives of many came a catalyst for United 2006 and costing numerous the weekend the thieves stole high school with two players to of our faculty, staff, and stu- States immigrants rights protests deaths and casualties. cameras, computer monitors, as attend. dents during her time at Chats- in 2006. well as 3 LCD projectors. All in Finally, November was an worth High School.” all the vandals ruined or stole eventful month for CHS. Democrats Win Control of the War, war, and more war: The $25,000 worth of CHS’ valuable Marching band won the sweep- Senate: In the elections for the war Iraq ground on its 5 year equipment. stakes award, the most prestig- United States Senate that were with the casualties reaching held on November 7, 2006, the 3,065 American soldiers dead. Sports The Clarion January 2007 Page 4

Fantasy Sports Thriving CHS Teams Well Positioned For Playoffs The girls’ soccer team, however, By Arun Dillon owners can manage a team of U. By Vinh Nguyen and is now 4-1-1, but was only half balanced team with a good of- came off a disappointing loss to Staff Writer S congress members; points are Joe Carter a game out of first place at press fense and defense. Granada Hills High School and gained by bills getting passed Staff Writers time. The boys’ basketball team It has been estimated that and approval ratings across the is currently 4-2 with a sure shot over 16 million people in the U. country. As the winter season kicks The girls’ varsity basket- for making playoffs. Seniors s- S have the power to draft and Most fantasy sports fans off, many of CHS’ sports teams ball team also has an impressive Michael Palarca and Jeffrey Os- 2 record with manage a team of their favorite have to be devoted to the team are in good standings to make start with a 3-2 record with both borne are leading their high- sport, right from their own com- they build because creating and the playoffs. their losses to Taft.. The Lady powered offense to many victo- puter. maintaining a good team can The boys’ varsity soccer Chancellors have a well- ries. Fantasy sports are an obses- take several hours to do. team is coming off an impres- sion that has been taken up Fantasy sports fans say that sive 5-0-1 start, which is due worldwide. It allows sports fans the main reason fantasy sports largely to their great forward Three Chosen All-City Players 2 with a sure to construct a team of sports are fun and addicting is because and midfield line. Their tough- By Joe Carter Eric Banuelos’ second time icons and compete against other it gives them the power to take est opponents will be league Staff Writer achieving this honor. iors Michael Palarca and Jeffrey fantasy owners based on the sta- control over their own sports rival El Camino. The boys’ var- Coach Corcoran said tistics of a player of a profes- team filled with all their favorite sity team looks very impressive he was very proud of the team sional sport. The most played players. Fans also say it feels at this point in the season and After a seasonal record and that they had a great year fantasy sports are, baseball, and almost like the real thing. will be a tough contender for the 6-4, and a disappointing loss in and a successful off season He football. Other fantasy sports Money can play a big role playoffs. The team was in first the first round of the playoffs to felt that other players like, sen- include, soccer, basketball, on how serious people take fan- place at press time, following Crenshaw, three CHS football iors Trent Jones, David Romero, golf, hockey, auto racing, and tasy sports. Some leagues cost their recent defeat of Taft. players were recognized as all- and junior Tom Franco should cricket. You don’t even have to money and some leagues give city players.. also have been recognized. Cor- be a sports fan to have a fantasy away prizes, t-shirts, trophies, The girls’ soccer team Seniors James Walker coran said he has higher expec- team. There’s also something and even money. came off a disappointing loss to and Wilmer Segura were hon- tations for next year. called Fantasy Congress, where Granada Hills High School and ored for the first time and this is Entertainment

Stomp Your Way To The Latest Dance Flick Cliché By Jannet Torres his friends are hustled by the two opposing fraternity leaders sible that this movie was able to routines, the movie focuses on Staff Writer opposing team and Duron ends realize that D.J. has what it bypass even “Alpha Dog” the modernized African American up being murdered. Unfortu- takes to join the fraternities, D.J. true story of a murdered high stepping, which is something “Stomp the Yard,” the nately for D.J., he is convicted pledges for the less popular of school student from the Valley, viewers don’t see in movies on a movie industry’s latest “on the and sent to jail for trying to save the two in hopes of helping who at one point attended CHS, regular basis. And last, but not dance floor” cliché, which came his brother’s life. them win the National Step starring Justin Timberlake him- least, there were no sex scenes out on Jan. 12 th , proved that The real plotline begins Show Championship. self. Then, comparing the acting involved. great acting and rhythm tech- when D.J. moves to Atlanta to Sound familiar? Of in both movies, audiences As for spending ten niques can beat an unoriginal attend the historically black course it does. It’s been done picked the better of the two re- dollars to watch “Stomp the script any day. Truth University on a scholar- already in music with gardless of the storyline. Yard”, movie-goers who en- A prodigy street dancer ship. Working as a gardener at “Drumline,” the girls have had “Stomp the Yard” brought in joyed “You Got Served” and from the Los Angeles area, D.J. the university, he quickly rear- their chance at nationals in $21.8 million its weekend re- “Step Up” are encouraged to see (Columbus Short), his older ranges his priorities and takes “Bring It On,” and B2K drove lease, while “Alpha Dog” only the film. Those who have yet to brother Duron (Chris Brown), up a love interest, April the ladies crazy in 2004 with took in $6.4 million. be fond of big-screen dance-off and their group of dancers begin (Meagan Good), who happens “You Got Served”—not to men- Besides the acting, the scenes should still watch the the movie by battling at an un- to be the girlfriend of a frater- tion “Step Up,” “Honey,” and film did contain eye-catching movie and will perhaps learn to derground arena for money. Af- nity brother and the daughter of “Take the Lead.” choreography. Rather than appreciate a traditional dance ter winning the match, D.J. and the university president. When It almost seems impos- watching the same old hip-hop style. ‘Freedom Writers’ Inspires You Won’t Feel Too Clean After

By Stephanny Landaverde jail. Some had innocent family Staff Writer members put in jail. Some lived An Episode Of New Series ‘Dirt’ in the streets and others with a Two-time Academy single mom. But all of them the script is too much for 60 By Jannet Torres (Laura Allen), one of the most minutes of airtime. Death, preg- Award winner Hilary Swank have lost at least one loved one Staff Writer famous women in Hollywood, stars as Erin Gruwell in the in- to gang violence. nancy, drug overdose, and sex trade off a friend’s secret preg- in just one episode is quite over- spirational movie “Freedom Knowing about the FX’s newest television nancy in exchange for publicity. Writers,” which is based on a ‘wars’ that her students fought done. If there weren’t any ran- series “Dirt,” which premiered Spiller then blackmails domly scattered sex scenes and true story. everyday, she had her students Jan. 2nd, could have ultimately McClaren into spilling more overrated drama, then maybe In 1994, Gruwell write in journals. They could proved to be the sister show of secrets for “Dirt” so that she can the plotline would be compre- started teaching at Wilson High write about the past, the future, “Nip/Tuck,” but unfortunately gain profits for the company hendible. Nevertheless, Ian School in Long Beach as a etc. The sky was the limit on the lacked pizzazz in all aspects. before her boss Gibson Horne Hart’s character keeps the series freshman and sophomore Eng- things they could write. As time Courtney Cox stars as (Timothy Bottoms) fires her. going with his schizophrenic lish teacher. She was excited to passed, Gruwell turned their Lucy Spiller, a ruthless editor of A man sells his soul for obsession with cats. At least the teach, but her hopes were diaries into a book titled “The two Hollywood celebrity gossip fame, Spiller finds sexual pleas- crazy man lets the viewers sym- brought down when she saw Freedom Writers Diary,” which magazines, who is always on the ure in celebrity gossip, a preg- pathize his with his guilt of that her students, groups of was published later on in 1999. run for tabloid news. Along with nant actress overdoses in her eavesdropping on celebrities. Blacks, Latinos and Asian gang- What made this movie her schizophrenic paparazzo bathtub, and the photographer FX is known for its sters hated her because of the so inspiring was that each of partner Don Konkey (Ian Hart), hallucinates. Although “Dirt” dramatic television shows such mere fact that she was White. Gruwell’s students didn’t even Spiller goes to immoral ex- sounds like the perfect replica of as “Rescue Me” and “Nip/ Despite the fact that think that they would make it to tremes for scandals of the enter- Nip/Tuck, it’s far from ideal. Tuck,” but “Dirt” probably has her students hated her, Gruwell 18, but she made them see for tainment industry. Perhaps all The acting is completely horren- the network producers feeling listened to her students and un- the first time that they did mat- this is due to her socially dis- dous due to its bland nature. pretty trashy. And in case any- derstood that these kids weren’t ter, and that each and every sin- turbed personal life, in which Cox may have gotten her big one would be willing to stand bad people but regular teenagers gle one of them had a story to her only friend seems to be her break in “Friends,” but alone the torment of the wannabe that had to fight never ending tell. And although this movie manic photographer. she fails to portray the rough- overdramatic series, the show wars everyday. Many of her stu- only focused on one class, the Holt McClaren (Josh edged Lucy Spiller. She almost airs Tuesdays at 10:00 p.m. Stewart), a B-list celebrity, and makes you want to scream. dents had been released from entire movie was pretty good. his girlfriend Julia Mallory Aside from the acting,