VVolumeolume 7733 , IIssuessue 1 SSeptembereptember 30,30, 20092009 Budget cuts switch up Village Nation API Cleveland administration scores soar

BY JOLENA COLLAS ment at their success. The Village Nation achieved “The point jump proved how a 92 percent pass rate in both sub- much hard work and dedication jects on the CAHSEE, and an 81 we all contributed to show the point raise in API scores for the world how smart and talented 2008-2009 school year. we really are,” Sophomore Naja Teacher Fluke Fluker and his Naomi Crawford said. fellow Village Nation co-founders Both Fluker and Village Na- have been key to raising CAH- tion member Marc Anthony John- SEE passing rates and API scores son called each student one by one among the African American stu- for a personal meeting. Students dent body. were reminded of how smart and Last year’s API scores capable each of them are. Teach- dropped 30 points, which was ers asked, “Am I my brother’s both a shock and a disappoint- keeper?” and to that students re- ment to the co-founders and plied, “Yes, I am.” This chant sig- students. This disappointment nifi ed how people are responsible became a strong motivating and not only for themselves, but also New Administrators: Shanna Sarris and Kevin Frost. photo by Haig Nalbandian driving factor, as students vowed for their brothers and sisters. to reverse the decreasing scores. “His business is your busi- BY WENDY MAO AND positions. A title reduction was sistant Principal Carlos Valdovi- Although there was not a par- ness, his success is your success, AMANDA SILVER implemented in force, lowering nos, who had to be let go at the ticular goal established, a seven and his failure is your failure,” Features Editor and the overall number of adminis- end of last year, was able to return Production Manager trators and new teachers. Half of almost immediately to Cleveland “ LAUSD’s senior staff members to fi ll Castro’s position. In my eleven years of teaching, I District budget cuts made were assigned to different jobs. As a staff member who felt over the summer have led to a When Cleveland Principal the direct effects of the budget had never seen a raise [in scores] so number of changes in the Cleve- Robert Marks announced his cuts, Valdovinos said, “It is im- land community, including a resignation in June, and with the possible for a school, any school, incredible and amazing. shakeup in Cleveland administra- title reduction program in place, not to suffer with such depletion --Teacher Jennifer Macon tion, teachers, and staff. LAUSD appointed Herman Clay of school budget [but that these Prior to the May 19, 2009 as Cleveland’s principal. Princi- changes] provide exciting and re- ” special election in which voters pal Clay offi cially assumed his freshing opportunities as profes- point raise was required. Rather Fluker said. With this approach, faced a decision on propositions role on September 4, 2009, just sionals to work as a team.” than limiting themselves to a Fluker and Village Nation fac- that could have offset a percent- fi ve days before the start of the Valdovinos also praised number, Fluker said, “Our goal ulty have instilled a system of ac- age of budget needs, California 2009-2010 school year. For the Cleveland for its achievements was simply to try our best and countability and encouragement Governor Arnold Schwarzeneg- last four years, Clay had been on in spite of the budget crisis. “It to recommit ourselves to the test between the African American ger warned California citizens LAUSD’s senior staff where he is not common [for a school] to scores.” students and teachers. of the dangers state cuts would was the director of history and have low economic status, yet The Village Nation did many The Village Nation as a whole pose to educational resources. He social sciences, though he was a still do so well,” he said. things as a group to keep everyone has grown the African American predicted there would be an addi- principal for six years prior to be- Budget cuts have also bought motivated. One signifi cant slogan student body into a family. Fluker tional $2.3 billion in budget cuts coming a senior staff member. changes to the Cleveland teaching mention by Fluker was, “one and alluded to the legendary Massai imposed on California’s public When asked if it was diffi cult staff. Teachers with less senior- done.” This slogan described how warriors and their greeting. The education system. adjusting to a principal’s duties, ity, or who were on probationary students were kept motivated by warriors learn how they are do- Under California law, by June Clay casually replied, “No. It’s status, were cut or placed at other the promise that they only have to ing by asking, “How are the chil- 30 of this year, the Los Angeles actually easier than I thought…” schools. As of this past summer, take one CAHSEE. dren?” Unifi ed School District (LAUSD) He clarifi ed that his responsibili- 17 teachers were supposed to When it became known that “If the faculty, community, had to estimate its budget from ties as a high school principal are leave, but with Title One funds, 92 percent of African American city, and country asked each other the 2009-2010 to the 2011-2012 not at all simple, but that the tran- which were not affected by state sophomores passed both CAH- and answered honestly, we would school years. For the next two sition from a senior staff member budget cuts, Cleveland managed SEE subjects, several teachers know that our youth is not doing school years, the district estimat- to a principal was not as nearly as to buy back ten teachers at near were proud. too great,” Fluker said. ed a defi cit of $1.3 billion. In an strenuous as he imagined. to their previous salaries. Title “In my eleven years of teach- The Village Nation was cre- attempt to stabilize the 2009-2010 With LAUSD relocating so One funds are given to the school ing, I had never seen a raise [in ated to get the African Ameri- budget defi cit of $869.5 million, many of its employees, former in accordance with the economic scores] so incredible and amaz- can student body to make better LAUSD superintendent Ramon Cleveland Assistant Principal status of it students. ing,” said teacher Jennifer Ma- decisions. The concept is based Cortines implemented several ac- Nidia Castro was transferred to see ‘New administration,’ con. on the African proverb that, “It tion steps, including the juggling the position of principal of Vista page 5 Students also showed excite- takes a village to raise a child.” of teacher and administrative Middle School. Meanwhile As-

Human Robert Patt inson: International Traffi cking Hot or Not? Students Opinions Entertainment Features

INSIDE Page 2 Page 6 Page 8 2 Opinions Le Sabre September 30, 2009 ‘Stripping’ it down to the facts

BY JEILA SAIDI

A young girl sits solemnly in even family members, can put a would be undoubtedly high. I see the corner of a cold plain room price on dignity. the media concentrating on what and wipes the thick grime off The sickening demand for people are buying, whom celeb- her tear-streaked face in defeat. children as sex slaves has only rities are dating, what miniscule Her body, sore from countless increased over time, especially actions they take in politics, but incidents of abuse, lays limp and in major metropolitan cities such I see nothing about the 1.2 mil- bruised against the cold wall. Her as New York, San Francisco, and lion children and adults that are red dress, provocative and dark, even Los Angeles. As a Los An- being sold. We talk about how is tattered like those of the other geles high school student I see much material goods cost but fail girls in the brothel. Dozens of hundreds of teens every day sit- to see that human beings are be- girls stand around the room; they ting in classrooms studying. As ing traded like these goods. The stand in hopeless groups waiting I look over at my peers, I cannot United Nations has estimated that for their next clients. The heavy sound of footsteps echo from the outside hall as the pimps and cli- ents make their way to the door. A group of gruff men enter and the room drops to a dead silence as photo illustration by Holland Mervis the pimp walks towards the girl in the corner. He grabs her by the arm and overpowers her meager attempts at resistance by pinning Fro-yo, the her to the wall and tugging at her hair. She surrenders as she is dragged out the door by her gaunt arms. Tomorrow she turns nine. Human traffi cking is the sec- only way to go! ond highest illegal income-gener- ating syndicate in the world. Traf- fi cking is the trading of a specifi c commodity or service and can in- BY DAVID KIM clude drugs, sex slavery, fugitives, laborers and immigrants. Over 27 Ahhh ice cream. It has been delicious treats to top and tend to million people are enslaved into around for as long as anyone can his/her tummy. With frozen yo- the world of prostitution on an in- remember, back to the days of gurt, preference comes fi rst. ternational basis. Rome in sixth century BCE with Even today, in 2009, the pop- As an adolescent female, I fi nd Emperor Nero. However, there ularity of frozen yogurt is preva- it absolutely repulsive that mil- is a new challenger that is on the lent and prominent with quaint lions of girls my age and younger rise to steal ice cream’s spot as little shops such as Red Mango, can be sold and traded like prod- the number one dessert: frozen Pinkberry, Tutti Frutti, and Yo- ucts. I feel distressed that women yogurt. gurtland, just to name a few. all over the world could be brand- photo illustration by Holland Mervis The threat that frozen yogurt The immense popularity of ed by the invisible barcode of a has toward ice cream is tremen- these shops speak to the fact that pimp. dous; it has already stolen much frozen yogurt defi nitely is gaining help but see the morbidly con- Many adolescents and wom- of the previous fans and lovers of on ice cream’s record for as the trasting image of traffi cked youth. the total market value for this en are traffi cked under the false ice cream, and not without good most popular desert. It is the era I think of how we are sitting in clandestine industry is over 32 pretenses of better opportunities reason. Frozen yogurt does have of frozen yogurt. People do not go billion dollars. its strengths. It is served as an out for ice cream; they go out for My only query is this: are we alternative to ice cream, because that tarty taste with the perfectly doing enough to abolish slavery? it is low in fat and can be either complimentary fruits and mochi. Without the facts, without the sto- I personally feel like that we are sweet or sour. Frozen yogurt has At the moment, I would have nowhere near our potential capa- ries, and without attention from the the ability to accommodate all to say that frozen yogurt is defeat- bility to end this travesty. with its wide variety of tastes ing ice cream in this dairy dessert Without the facts, without the media, these children are trapped. and toppings. Frozen yogurt also duel, and can honestly say that I stories, and without attention melts slower than its predecessor, am a frozen yogurt fan. There is from the media, these children are and its variation of recipes makes just so much that one can choose classrooms protected by the safe- trapped. We, the United States, in another country. They are prom- it extremely appealing. from, with the terrifi c amount of ty of the United States and how should utilize our resources to ised jobs as waitresses or massage One can choose however toppings available. As for myself, hundreds of children in Asia sit in free these children. therapists only to be trapped into many toppings he or she wants, I love the profusion of possibili- rooms too, rooms in brothels. Millions of people around the cruel and stomach-churning and indulge in prolifi c amounts. ties and think that frozen yogurt The numbers are staggering and the world have been stripped of world of prostitution against their For example, one can have mochi, is like an upgraded version of ice wretched, but why does the pub- their names, clothes, and freedom will. Others are sold by relatives gummy bears, fruity pebbles, cream. It has plenty of variety, lic not acknowledge this? I deeply but have not lost their hope. We to relieve personal debts or to ac- chocolate chips, and other confec- melts slower, and is healthier for wish that this had more exposure have the power to give back to the commodate ruthless greed. It is tions galore. The devourer of des- you. What more could you ask in the media because the impact victims all that they have lost. disturbing to me that people, or serts can choose from a myriad of for?

Editor in Chief: Noor Tell

Managing Editor: Judy Kim Copy Editor: Mery Hounanian Staff: Tara Atrian, Haylee Averill, Isabelle Bolla, Young Cha, Jolena Col- News Editor: Jillian Goodman Le Sabre is published by the Advanced Journalism class at: Grover Cleveland las, Alex Hernandez, Chandler Hudson, Opinions Editor: Haemin Jee High, Room D-2, 8140 Vanalden Avenue, Reseda, CA 91335. Telephone: (818) Features Editor: Wendy Mao Lucia Hwang, Adam Jun, David Kim, Entertainment Editor: Ingrid Kwon 885-2300 ext. 3648; Fax: (818) 727-0964. The newspaper is desktop published Alex Lee, Allison Li, Jenny Luong, Sports Editor: Kristie Shu by the students and printed by American Foothill Publishing. Subscriptions Sandy Mayen, Calvin Ratana, Jeila Production Manager: Amanda Silver are $20/year. Cleveland is a LEARN school accredited through 2012 and a Saidi, Armand Saroghlanian, Jonathan Business Manager: Daniel Koo California Distinguished School. Letters and guest articles are encouraged. Advertising Manager: Amna Waheed So Photo Editor: Katherine Zhang Photoshop Editors: Holland Mervis and As the staff of Le Sabre, we strive to objectively cover the entire Cleveland Staff Photographer: Haig Nalbandian Eric Tran High School community, including all small learning communities and the Online Editor: Sara Grossman diverse interests of the student body, faculty, and surrounding neighborhoods. Adviser: Coleen Bondy We aim to engage and involve the student body by providing accurate infor- mation while upholding the highest standards of journalistic ethics. September 30, 2009 Le Sabre Opinions 3 From Gowns to Stripes: Youth in Crisis

BY ISABELLE BOLLA

In today’s hyper punitive and the consequences. Young people, where is the leading light for our surveiled society, the youth of particularly minorities, can be youth? our age are constantly being sub- targeted and placed into “gang From my side of the fi sh- jected to more unjust criminaliza- databases.” These databases char- bowl, it is like this: why don’t we tion and crude punishments than acterize an individual based on stop placing millions and billions photo illustration by Eric Tran ever before. A massive hierarchal several underlying factors: the of dollars into the prison systems structure and system of social location and neighborhood the and spend it on something that and political control has fused person lives in, the neighbors of can transform these teenagers and together and thrown itself on to- the person, tattoos he or she may help them lead more constructive day’s already struggling youth. have, and clothes he or she may lives? Spoiling the The police, defunct juvenile sys- wear. Jail time surely is not work- tems and rules, and “punishment” It is almost as though the ing, and if anything these kids are institutions are only few of the system is trying to fi nd lucrative left with so little when they come various systems that have led and helped pave the way to the jarring Republican amount of juvenile committed crimes and acts of intolerance. More kids and teenagers alike are be- There is an epidemical hype spreading about jailing and gov- ing tried for crimes or “delinquen- erning kids and teenagers in ways cies” they have committed, and are Tea Party more detrimental than led to be- lieve. More kids and teenagers being setenced and dealth with unfair alike are being tried for crimes or “delinquencies” they have com- consequences. mitted, and are being sentenced BY MERY HOUNANIAN and dealt unfair consequences. Copy Editor More and more teenagers are ways to lock teenagers in, and out of jail. You don’t want to feel becoming statistics on local ju- “keep them off the streets.” Only like you were born yesterday, and Who would’ve thought that and a leg? The Obama adminis- venile websites, placed under the problem, is jail life better than no the last fi ve, ten, fi fteen years of this would ever happen? Repub- tration believes that a compre- tagline: “Another teen accused of life or street life? I think not. your life and those bars were all licans have taken to the streets, hensive reform includes reducing ‘so and so’ tried as an adult.” From police who demoral- a dream. protesting what they believe to the long-term health care costs Not only are teenagers be- ize them, probation offi cers who Because personally, I would be President Obama’s plan for for businesses and government, ing tried as adults for “delinquent survey them, prosecutors who try rather be talking and voicing out big government and a socialist re- protecting families from debt crimes,” but also for “gang relat- to sentence them, school adminis- my feelings, fears and problems public. These concerned citizens or bankruptcy from health care ed crimes.” Controversial debates trators who take no active roles in rather than mentally coping with seem to have taken a queue from costs, guaranteeing choice of doc- have been fought over this topic, their lives, teachers who humili- them behind iron clad bars and their liberal, Democratic opposi- tors and health plans, investing in propositions have been proposed, ate and dehumanize them, and tightly wound police offi cers. tion. More power to them for us- prevention and wellness, and im- and teens have struggled with parents who disapprove of them, ing their First Amendment right proving patient safety and quality of freedom of speech. of care. This will not diminish the However, I have a problem quality of doctors and health care with protesting when the protest- professionals. Shouldn’t the main ers are lacking information. The intent be to help people, regard- Taxed Enough Already (TEA) less of how much they can pay? Party Protests started in Califor- Thirdly, here I was, under Losing the gender race nia on Aug. 28 and made their the impression that people have way all the way to Washing- to spend money to jump start the ton, D.C. to show their concern economy. And of course, spend- about the direction this country ing and taxes will turn the U.S. BY TARA ATRIAN is headed in. They rallied against into a socialist republic. Social- what they think to be big govern- ism, based upon Karl Marx’s and South African track runner forced her to prove her that she sure others that they are mascu- ment, which will limit personal Frederick Engel’s descriptions, is Caster Semenya’s results are in, had a vagina, like every other girl line enough. freedoms and turn the U.S. into a a system in which production and and they are not the kind of re- running in that race (and as far The most humiliating thing socialist republic. Then we’ll be distribution are controlled by the sults a female athlete gets excited as the IAAF know, maybe they for a female to do is to prove that back in the U.S.S.R, sort of. people and operated according to about. She has just found out she should check the others, too). she is a woman. Just the plain Fringe groups that believe equity and fairness, rather than is a hermaphrodite, and her life Gender is such a big part of prosecution of gender is embar- that Obama was not born in the market principles. And this is a has come tumbling down because society. The world we live in does rassing but when the whole world country have joined the protests bad thing? of the ignorance of the Interna- not render genders equal and if a is watching you, as they did with and mixed with more mainstream At the rally in Washing- tional Association of Athletics person is of a certain sex, they Semenya, it is an emotional time groups who say that they are wor- ton, Senator DeMint from South Federations (IAAF). have to vigorously prove it. bomb just a few seconds away ried about his plans for health Carolina was quoted as telling the Caster from detonation. care reform. Health care reform is New York Times that, “This is not Semenya was It is just plain un- the focal point of these protests, some kind of radical right wing thrust into professional and im- though the stated purpose was to group.” the spotlight moral for the IAAF protest taxes and spending. Some signs protesters in when she to cause this much First off, President Obama Washington held included “Bury fl ew past oth- humiliation on such was born in the United States, Obama Care With Kennedy” and er runners in a large scale. making the assertions otherwise “Obama Bin Lyin” as well as a the 800 me- After Semenya completely foolish. Secondly, no picture of the President sporting ter race at the found out that she where in his plan for health care Adolf Hitler’s signature mous- World Cham- had higher testos- reform is there any mention of a tache (which he stole from Charlie pionships in terone levels than government takeover of private Chaplin in an attempt to get peo- Berlin. the normal female insurance. People with privatized ple to think he was loveable). Is Just be- and was a hermaph- health care will get to keep their this really necessary? Comparing cause she ran rodite, she dropped health care. I see no need for the President who has only been faster than out of a race she had people to be sick and dying, un- in offi ce nine months to a terror- all the other been planning to at- able to go to the hospital because ist and a fascist dictator? Disre- girls and had tend. they don’t have health care. It just specting Sen. Kennedy, who had broad shoul- photo illustration by Eric Tran I wonder if the seems inhumane. I, for one, am just passed away? If this is not a ders, it raised IAAF feels any sym- in support of health care reform. radical right wing group, and this a red fl ag. Girls are always trying to pathy from the deep black holes How many people can go without is the way all Republicans think, The IAAF, just waiting for up the ante on their femininity to they call hearts yet? health care, fearing that a trip to I am certainly concerned for the a scandal, pounced. They ques- prove that they are not manly, and the hospital will cost them an arm future of this country. tioned Semenya’s gender and guys are always fi ghting to reas- 4 News Le Sabre September 30, 2009 C-House celebrates C-Day School Board votes on charter and private school systems

BY JENNY LUONG

The board of the Los An- Broyles explains that al- geles Unifi ed School District though California law states that (LAUSD) settled the controver- public and charter schools are sial school choice of whether required to accept all students, charter and private organizations charter schools tend to draw the will be allowed to bid for control more motivated students and of LAUSD schools. On a six to families away from the public one vote, held on August 25, the schools. board turned over one-third of “Schools should be for ev- district schools to charter school erybody,” Kupferer said. “[Pri- operators and private organiza- vate organizations] do whatever tions. makes the most money, which is Within the next few years, certainly not good for the kids.” LAUSD plans on opening 50 new Other privately run schools schools, allowing some or even drill their students endlessly on all to be privately managed. test-taking skills to succeed. “I am very much against it,” When a public school is photo by Haig Nalbandian Spanish teacher Leslie Broyles handed over to a private orga- Red, White, and Blue: Cavs keep busy with Constitution Day activities. said. Broyles and Ricky Kupferer, nization, teachers “lose a lot Cleveland’s American Literature of control over the educational BY CHANDLER HUDSON and Contemporary Composition process,” Broyles said. “A lot of teacher, make up the leaders of the charter schools don’t have to The Land celebrated Consti- lots of student participation, and awarded for correct answers. the teachers’ union at Cleveland meet the same standards as pub- tution Day on September 17 in it really was successful in pro- “The activities were infor- High School. They, along with lic schools.” traditional red, white and black moting awareness of the Consti- mative and fun,” Senior Marisa others, are a powerful group of “Small groups are in charge fashion. Students gathered on tution.” Rader said. “Their hard work re- teachers who fi ght for their voic- and they get rid of anyone they the quad to refresh their memory The event took place on the ally paid off.” es to be heard in education. don’t like,” said Kupferer. about one of the most powerful quad and featured various games The event even inspired some “Public schools have been “Teacher’s jobs are lost.” documents in American history. and activities designed to raise philosophizing. “The Constitu- the cornerstone of our democ- Birmingham High School Constitution Day was de- awareness and create pride in tion is to the U.S. what mustard racy,” Broyles said. There has recently became a charter school signed to raise awareness about America. The festivities included is to hotdogs,” Senior David Yoo always been a preconceived no- this year, with many of its teach- the document written by the Unit- a Constitution crossword, brace- said. tion throughout the past and pres- ers losing their jobs. Many char- ed States’ founding fathers many let making, face painting, Con- Teachers and students attend- ent that charter schools were far ter schools do not have the same years ago. Teacher and Senior stitution charades, relay games, ing the event were encouraged to superior academically to public contracts with teachers as public Board Director Danielle Aucoin “know your amendments,” and wear red, white and blue to show schools, yet charter schools ex- schools. Private organizations and Career Advisor and Leader- presidential trivia. The games Cleveland spirit. The music and clude students that are more dif- are often looking for a profi t and ship Sponsor Stephanie Slaughter were designed by Aucoin’s AP technical equipment were pro- fi cult to educate. may not have the same benefi ts worked in tandem to bring fresh Government students and tested vided by Leadership. “The kids that would be for teachers as public schools. energy to the event this year. the general Constitutional knowl- “Even though it was a scorch- more costly—they want to get “The UTLA [United Teach- “I thought it was a great suc- edge of the Cleveland popu- ing day, there was a great turnout,” rid of,” Broyles said referring to ers of Los Angeles] also has the cess,” Aucoin said. “There were lace. Prizes, such as candy, were Senior Melody Medina said. ESL (English as a Second Lan- right to apply for charter status,” guage) students. “Their primary Broyles said. “We’re trying to objective is to make money.” come up with private schools Lucky break for class of 2012? “We don’t want education that would be an alternative to to become a big business,” Kup- charters.” BY JONATHAN SO ferer said.

In an attempt to increase the while the SAT I is not.” She noted with the pressures of taking the fairness of college admissions, that the school prepares students SAT IIs,” Freshman Kristen Hahn the UC Regents voted early 2009 for the SAT Subject tests, while said. She also stated that it would to exempt the SAT subject tests the SAT I is not an accurate stan- affect her positively since she as admissions factors, beginning dard of achievement and knowl- could direct her energies towards with the incoming freshman of edge. Therefore, the SAT IIs her extracurricular activities. the class of 2012. These students could benefi t students in the ad- This does not mean that the will not be required to take the missions process. signifi cance of traditional high SAT IIs in order to gain admit- On a different note, students school scores will be lowered. tance to a University of California who fall in the top nine percent of According to UC President Mark campus. the high school graduates state- Yudof, “The new admissions In February 2009, the UC wide and in-school will now be policy will increase opportunity Board of Regents made this pro- guaranteed admittance into one for students by expanding the posal to provide a larger pool of UC campus. This is a signifi cant number of applications our cam- high-achieving students with the increase from the previous four puses review, while continuing to chance to apply to the UCs. One percent policy. Those students produce a freshman class that is side effect: more high school stu- who are eligible and rank in the just as qualifi ed as in years past, dents will be inclined to apply to top four percent of their class including by the traditional mea- the UC system since it means one will, under the new policy, be sures of high school grades and less standardized test. required to complete 11 of the test scores.” Although there will be one 15 “A-G” courses by the end of Yudof adds that as long as less test, fewer students, overall, the junior year. In previous years, students work diligently and will be guaranteed admission. there was no time requirement for challenge themselves with aca- According to UC representatives, the completion of the “A-G” re- demically-rigorous courses, they since the requirement to take SAT quirements as long as they were will get to make their case for UC IIs will now be waived, more completed by the end of the se- admission. Whether or not the ex- people will apply, giving students nior year. emption of the SAT IIs is a lucky a smaller change of admittance. Whether interpreted as good break is subjective. But, the im- “I think it’s a bad idea,” Col- or bad, a new pattern is emerging portance of school scores and an lege Counselor Sharon Drell said within college admittance that fo- overall impression of balance still in resonse to this change in poli- cuses less on standardized tests remain crucial factors in the pro- cy. “I think we should keep them. and more on a well-rounded stu- cess of college admissions. The SAT IIs are curriculum-based dent. “I guess I won’t have to deal September 30, 2009 Le Sabre News 5 New administration Cleveland welcomes Principal Clay

continued from front page BY JILLIAN GOODMAN asked to come to Cleveland,” ence a smooth school opening. News Editor Clay said. “I felt good about it. I Clay plans to take the time to Cleveland has also managed to Kevin Frost, formerly an as- actually thought I was going to go become familiar with The Land fi nd enough funds to hire a few sistant principal at Chatsworth, With the start the new school to a middle school because that’s before he institutes any major new teachers, including several was named another one of Cleve- year and in light of recent budget where many of the openings were. changes. teachers who have relocated to land’s newest assistant principals. cuts, Cleveland welcomed Her- I know being a high school prin- “I’m really going to try to Cleveland from Birmingham As a result of drastic budget cuts man Clay as its new principal. cipal is a very intense job.” enhance what is here,” Clay said. High School. At the same time, at her original school, Chatsworth Clay has a diverse and col- Although Clay had not served “My philosophy is to really take Cleveland eliminated three full- High School, Frost was rotated by orful background in education, as a principal for many years, he some time to try to learn the time one part-time custodial po- LAUSD into different open posi- ranging from teaching and school said the transition was smooth school, students, teachers, and ev- sitions, as well as a bathroom tions, as they attempted to fi nd a administration to district eryone else and appreciate monitor. place for all staff members who level positions. He began all the good things.” In a related move, LAUSD could not be let go. During the his career as at Van Nuys When asked about the decided to lower the ratio of as- summer she was transferred fi rst High School, where he possible return of Fall Fest sistant principals to teachers. As a to Chatsworth, then to Kennedy served as a history, math- and the other season festi- result, 64 assistant principals with as an intervention coordinator ematics, and computer vals, Clay responded very the lowest seniority were either (teacher), then to Frost Middle programming teacher. enthusiastically. “I think let go or moved for this school School as an assistant principal, Although he moved from the Fall Festival and ac- year. Shanna Sarris was one of and fi nally to Cleveland as an as- teaching at Van Nuys to tivity days really enhance the assistant principals moved to sistant principal. working as the computer the culture and support Cleveland due to budget cuts at Frost was (in her words) “tick- literacy coordinator at the the idea of students from her former school, Sutter Middle led pink” when she learned she LAUSD offi ces, he later all backgrounds working School. She is now in charge would be coming to Cleveland. returned to Van Nuys together,” Clay added. “It counseling and the master pro- “On my fi rst day at Cleveland, I and served in various also engages the faculty.” gram at Cleveland. walked through those doors, and administrative positions, Outside of the school “Everyone’s been very wel- a young man named Brian started including dean, assistant environment, Clay enjoys coming,” Sarris said. “The stu- talking to me, asking me how I principal, and principal. cycling and going to con- dents are great, and I’m looking was,” Frost said. “So far, every- At one point, Clay was certs. However, he joked forward to a very successful year one has been just as welcoming, photo by Haig Nalbandian also an Assistant Princi- that he likes “old people here at Cleveland.” just as open.” pal at Millikan Middle School. and easier than he had thought. music” like Classical. Most recently, Clay worked “It’s been great,” Clay said. Clay hopes to remain at for the District as the director of “The fi rst day that Mr. Marks in- Cleveland for at least the next history and social sciences. How- troduced me to some of the senior four to fi ve years and might con- ever, as a result of budget cuts staff, everybody was extremely sider retiring at that point. and reduction on force, he was welcoming and helpful. That’s re- “I hope to do a good job for removed from the District offi ces ally continued.” the staff and students here be- along with many other district ad- In addition, Clay has much cause I really work for you,” Clay ministrators. Clay became a prin- high regard for the students at said. “I don’t work for me. One cipal on loan, meaning he could Cleveland. He has been impressed thing about Cleveland that every- serve as a principal in any middle so far with how the students con- one said to me that I found to be or high school in the Valley. duct themselves on campus and very true is that Cleveland’s re- “I was lucky enough to be get along and was glad to experi- ally a family.” Budget cuts don’t make the grade

BY HAEMIN JEE photo illustration by Eric Tran Opinions Editor

California’s six billion dol- the classroom, usually to provide back to teach. With his depar- Th e Land votes for iPods, lar education budget cuts, au- supplements to the curriculum ture, Cleveland cut Anstead’s thorized by Governor Arnold to help gifted students receive a Advanced Placement Art History Schwarzenegger, are leaving no more active and interesting edu- class from the schedule, as well Site Council to make high school untouched, including cation. The Gifted budget was as his popular Opera Class that Cleveland High School. also used to pay teachers over- he taught through Santa Monica Every budget is being re- time for staying after school or College. fi nal decision worked, and every small learning on the weekends for Advanced The Interdisciplinary Stud- community is feeling the effects Placement preparation with their ies small learning community BY WENDY MAO of the recent cuts. The Gifted students. will also suffer since the funds Features Editor budget that directly provides for “There’s no question [AP for buses from Title I will not teachers and members of the ad- many students’ needs in the class- scores will drop],” Basinger said. be available to provide buses for On Sept. 8, a pupil-free day, ministration, have expressed dif- room is estimated to be cut up “We have amazing teachers. But fi eld trips. teachers gathered at the Land fering opinions on the subject. to forty or fi fty percent. Instead how will you know what the “We just have to fi nd uncon- to vote on whether or not iPods Teacher Richard Posito re- of receiving fi fty dollars per stu- teacher is talking about if you ventional ways to do the stuff we would be allowed on campus. vealed he voted yes for iPods to dent, Cleveland is anticipating don’t do the experiment? Teach- have to do,” Humanities Magnet The proposal passed with an be allowed on campus. only twenty fi ve or thirty dollars ers now have to be creative about and Interdisciplinary Studies Co- overwhelming 75 percent of yes, “I don’t really care if you per student. The Gifted budget how to teach their curriculum to ordinator Gabriel Lemmon said. iPods-should-defi nitely- be-al- [Cleveland students] want to lis- has a deep infl uence on campus; go beyond the classroom.” Title I funds are now being lowed, votes. Three weeks later, ten to music on your own time… every small learning community This is a common theme in used to rehire teachers that Cleve- on Tuesday, Sept. 29, the school it’s cool…I don’t want to infringe has gifted students who enjoy the the small learning communities land would have lost without that leadership council reviewed the on the few minutes students have benefi ts of the supplies, books, at Cleveland. Teachers are forced money. The ESL community has proposition, holding its own fi nal to themselves,” Posito said. “It’s and technology that the Gifted to be more and more innovative used most of its budget money vote of whether to make any elec- not a battle worth fi ghting.” budget provides. without the money they are used to hire back teachers and hire a tronic music-listening devices le- However, not everyone at According to Wayne Basing- to having to fund extra projects. counselor. This means less mon- gal on campus. Cleveland shares the same view. er, the Gifted budget coordina- Without Title I funds to provide ey for supplies and equipment, If the School Site Council ap- One senior mentioned, “I tor, the most talented students on buses for fi eld trips, the Humani- including laptop computers. proves the policy, it will probably don’t like forbidding rights, but I campus will feel most strongly ties Magnet is looking to fund- Every student on campus can go into effect spring semester. don’t see the use. School is usu- the aftershocks of losing so much raisers to pay for the many fi eld attest to the growing class size The policy would allow stu- ally there to foster social ties, of the Gifted budget. This budget trips that have always provided and inaccessibility of counselors. dents to use music-listening de- but technology takes away from usually provided lab equipment its students with supplements to “More students in the class- vices on campus, but only before that.” for Advanced Placement science their curriculum. room mean less time dedicated to and after school and during nutri- In previous years, all elec- classes, test banks for practice The Humanities Magnet is students from teachers [and] less tion and lunch. While class is in tronic devices, except calcula- tests in Advanced Placement his- also feeling the loss of Neil An- counselors to help,” ESL Bud- session, these devices must be tors, were banished from school tory classes, and fi eld trips for stead as a teacher. Anstead, who get Director Tom Carrola said. off and hidden away; otherwise, property. The campus rule has small learning communities. In founded the Humanities Magnet, “That’s going to have some effect the teacher in charge reserves the always been swift confi scation of comparison to other budgets, ev- unfortunately had the least pri- on student learning and perfor- right to confi scate such items. these devices, if seen, found or, ery penny of the Gifted budget is ority in the budget cuts because mance.” Cavaliers, including students, as many Cavaliers know, heard. used to directly benefi t students in he gave up retirement to come

6 Entertainment Le Sabre Entertainment 7 Remembering Patrick Swayze By Is a b e l l e Bo l l a Television to Feed the Brain By Ar m a n d Sa r o g h l a n i a n I remember growing up and farwell more heart felt. is a licensed pilot and during the having sleepovers with my friends, Swayze became a heavy al- last few months of his life, made September marks the start The highly-anticipated fall Cory Monteith, (“Kyle XY.”) Join it was almost a monthly ritual to coholic after his father died at the periodic trips from Los Angeles to of school for most. It is also the comedy “Community” is sure the “Glee” Club every Wednesday revisit Patrick Swayze in the film age of fifty-seven. This led to a North California so Swayze could beginning of rising stress levels, to get big laughs. Jeff Wringer at 9 p.m. on FOX. “Dirty Dancing.” I mean, the way downfall in his career and personal receive proper treament at the Stan- all-nighters and for some, bouts (Joel McHale from “The Soup”) Not a fan of comedy? ABC is he moved, the way he danced; we life, and he was later aquitted into ford University Medical Center. of depression. Already feeling the is a lawyer who gets his degree offering a new science fiction show were young, and he most definitely rehabilitation. Despite this rough One of my favorite quotes in heat? The new fall line up will help revoked. With the support from called “FlashFoward.” The show make the transition from summer his friends, he decides to go to does not start with a ‘big bang’, vacation to the new school year Greendale Community College rather, the show opens with people smoother. and forms a study group with his working the daily grind. Suddenly, To start off this season, anoth- fellow classmates. Many famous this normalcy is broken as the en- er vampire novel is coming to the comedians make cameos on the tire human population blacks out photo illustration by Amanda Silver screen. No, not Twilight, this was show, like the comedic legend, for a little over two minutes. actually written before the Twilight Chevy Chase and even Ken Jeong During these two minutes, series and it goes by the name, from the The Hangover. Witty and people are given a glimpse into “The Vampire Diaries.” Two broth- charming, “Community” is on ev- their futures. A Los Angeles FBI Discover ‘New-Art’ ers, Stefan, (Paul Wesley of “Army ery Thursday at 9:30 p.m. agent named Mark Benford, (Jo- BY Jo n a t h a n So Wives”), and Damon, (Ian Somer- From the creator of “Nip/ seph Fiennes), along with his halder of “Lost”), are centuries-old Tuck” comes a new comedy, a mu- partner Demetri Noh, (John Cho), If you consider yourself an never fails to draw in an enthusias- ductions lack. There are no movie standards. It is hailed by the Los vampires. Stefan, the “good guy” sical simply named “Glee.” “Glee” investigate this other-wordly event eccentric indie-fan, or at least an tic and captivated crowd. Local to studios to dictate the production of Angeles Times as “L.A’s premiere of the two, tries to win the heart of is about teacher Will Schuester, and try to piece together why ex- individual daring enough to try Los Angeles, Jim Sharman’s play independent films, and many view- art house.” a girl at school named Elena, (Nina played by Matthew Morrison, actly it happened. Catch “Flash- something fresh, check out the Nu- is a must-see, providing viewers an ers appreciate this fact since they Although the normal theater Dobrev of “Degrassi: The Next who attempts to save McKinley Foward” on Thursday night at 8/7 art Theater located in the heart of accessible and enjoyable cinematic are able to watch an unadultered experience may be sufficient to Generation” fame), until Damon High’s Glee Club, while helping C on ABC. West Los Angeles. Hailed as a Los experience. and pure portrayal of a story. For- some, independent theaters like the begins to wreak havoc upon the a group of aspiring underdogs re- Luckily, this wide array of Angeles landmark since its open- As an eclectic art house, the eign films and documentaries, too, Nuart take the initiative to bring art relationship. Problems start arising alize their true star potential. The televisions shows will help take the ing in 1974, the Nuart Theater pro- Nuart is home to a wide array of have distinct styles that differ from and quality back into film. When in the town of Mystic Falls, Vir- cast includes Jayma Mays, (“Ugly edge off of school. vides its audience with a diverse independent film, documentaries, the majority of today’s movies. asked whether or not he would ginia as the brothers clash. Sure to Betty” and “Heroes,”) Jane Lynch, Find these shows on the chan- mixture of programs and films. foreign language cinema, and In addition to its collection of want to watch an independent be a hit, “The Vampire Diaries” is (Talladega Nights and “Two and nels listed or check your local tele- Independently run, the the- restored classics. One contribu- films and appearances, the Nuart film, junior Justin Hahn replied, “I on KTLA the CW every Thursday a Half Men”), as the school’s au- vision provider for more details. ater plays a wide array of films tor claimed, “The Nuart has been makes an effort to create the best would love to try watching some- at 8 p.m. tocratic cheerleading coach and Happy viewing! like its ever famous Rocky Hor- playing the best movies that you’ve experience possible. The theater thing new. It would be a refresh- ror Picture Show. The Rocky Hor- never seen …” These indie films was remodeled extensively in 2006 ing break from all the blockbuster photo illustration by Holland Mervis fulfilled his role as a noted “heart- patch, Swayze was described as a ror Picture Show is a cult hit full are productions that step outside and aside from its obvious changed films these days.” throb.” I have memories of my “kind soul,” and a “people pleaser” “Dirty Dancing” has always been : of adventure, love, hate, creation, of Hollywood’s major studios and appearance, the structure holds Past influences are making a friend and I attempting to reenact ; these qualities shine through in “I’m gonna do my kind of dancin’ and sex. From Rocky Horror, “a are created independently of major comfortable and homey reclining huge comeback, as seen through the very last scene, where Patrick his movies. Swayze had been fight- with a great partner, who’s not only sweet transvestite, from transexual restrictions. seats and THX-certified sound de- the rising popularity of techno and Swayze would lift Jennifer Gray ing the deadly form of cancer that a terrific dancer; somebody who’s Transylvania” to the confused and These independent films take vices, assuring that the sound qual- once- retired fashion trends. One in the air, with full force and un- he was diagnosed with for around taught me that there are people terrified couple, Brad and Janet, a fresh approach to creating films. ity is superb. With a mixture of way to partake in this revival? The requited passion, but our attempts twenty months. Aside from wowing willing to stand up for other people this parody of horror and science There is an advantage of indepen- new technology and classic film, Nuart Theater. never matched his. He touched our on the big screen, Swayze was an no matter what it costs them; some- films portrays a unique world that dent films that major budget pro- the Nuart Theater lives up to the hearts in “Ghost” and continued to avid Conservationist ; after several body who’s taught me about the do throughout his career. trips to Africa, Swayze was moved kind of person I wanna be.” Look- While I would like to say only by the people and did whatever he ing back on his life, Swayze lived praise for him, I feel that it is nec- could to help. Swayze met his wife out the words he spoke on the big essary to bring light onto even the Niemi when he was 19, and the two screen. A big star, with a big heart, he will never be forgotten. The Rob Debate ‘09 dark aspects of his life to make my have been together ever since. She By Ha y l e e -Ra e Av e r i l l

By Am a n d a Si l v e r “Everything about me invites Production Manager you in. My voice, my face…” says photo illustration by Amanda Silver Edward Cullen, the fictional vam- Oasis runs dry Rob Pattinson’s “good” looks appealing as disgusting. All Bella pire of the Twilight Saga, played peaked a long, long time ago. Dur- wants to do is be with Edward. by Hollywood hunk Robert Pattin- From Texas to Darfur Is this really what the world has son. In the past year, Pattinson has By Al e x Le e By Me r y Ho u n a n i a n concert at the Rock-en-Seine festi- brothers was released as a single ing Harry Potter, Pattinson was Copy Editor alright, even possibly cute, despite come to – that an extremely sexist reached limits of fame that are un- val near Paris just minutes before titled “Wibbling Rivalry”. Their history of disputes between the to build a soccer field?” The escort his oddly voluminous hair. How- series of books is seen not only as imaginable for many; he began to Tracing his steps backwards, it was about to begin. A bit of a mother, Peggy Gallagher, has been black Africans of Darfur and the told McGrady, “$1,000.” McGrady As I was waiting for my flight ever, and I’m sorry Rob Pattinson, romantic, but is insanely popular? be know as a “fantasy movie cutie” Tracy McGrady, better known as bummer for fans who spent money quoted as saying that she hopes Afro-Arabs, the violence broke immediately decided to donate back to L.A. at London’s Heath- wherever you are, but you have be- One of the newest vampire-craze when he appeared in a couple of T-Mac, decided to step out of his to see them, huh? Their European the two will reunite since they “do the Harry Potter installments, but out into an actual genocide with funds for the creation of a new row airport over the summer, idly come just plain hideous. shows is “The Vampire Diaries”. comfort zone and took a trip to Af- tour was also cancelled and a state- love each other very much.” She achieved ultimate stardom when photo illustration by Holland Mervis the rise in arms of the Justice and field. With a new mission in mind, watching the news, I was shocked First off, Pattinson’s eyebrows With a plot almost exactly the same rica. McGrady, a seven time all star ment was released saying that the also said that they did not fight as he hit the big screen as the sexy easily be put down. He has been Equality Movement (JEM) and the McGrady pounded the escort with to hear that Oasis had split up. often look monstrous enough to as Twilight, “The Vampire Diaries” and one of the best active players “group does not exist anymore.” children, only when they began the vampire Edward Cullen. picked on for not looking present- Sudan Liberation Army (SLA). questions about building swim- Wait a minute, hasn’t strangle people. has an unoriginal moral - true love in the National Basketball league, band did the two ever argue. While some people may say able when he is being interviewed These two groups accused the ming pools and recreational areas Oasis been ready to His acting skills also leave is worth dying for. took a life changing trip by travel- On Sept. 5, Liam Gal- that he is not attractive, doesn’t and photographed, but the truth of Sudanese government of support- for the children to play in. The fall apart since 1995? something to be desired. In Harry Giving up your life for a man ing to the country of Sudan in order lagher told News of the dress well, or have good hygiene, the matter is that he is dressing like ing the Afro-Arabs in favor of the escort responded that the children Why now? Potter, where the role of Cedric may seem romantic to some, but I to experience lifestyles very differ- World that Oasis will contin- I believe that those people are all a ordinary person. It is ridiculous black Africans living in Darfur. Al- did not need such worldly things The band was Digory required nothing more of definitely do not agree. Bella gives ent from his own. Upon hearing of ue despite Noel deciding to under false impressions. Robert that Pattinson is expected to wear though the Sudanese government but more necessities such as food, formed by Liam Gal- Pattinson than strutting around, up her life as a human to secure her Pattinson has thousands of women the challenges that children from quit. That’ll make for some a tuxedo each time he is in public, has denied any claims of favoring clothing and shelter. McGrady was lagher, Paul Arthurs, Twilight asks for the same. As place next to Edward for all of eter- from around the world falling for so it should not be an issue that he Darfur were facing in the refugee awkward family reunions one side to the other, it has been shocked to hear that on top of being Paul McGuigan, and Edward Cullen, Pattinson mopes nity. Romantic? I think not. him and the fact that he is mod- is merely expressing himself by camps in Chad, McGrady took up for the future, but is it any shown countless times that one underfed and unkept, the children Tony MacCarroll. around, always wearing the same After my traumatic Twilight est about it just makes him cuter. wearing what he thinks is appropri- the efforts to travel there. surprise that this happened? major perpetrator of this genocide were denied, what he believed to Liam’s older brother intense and gaunt look on his face. experience, I am beginning to see He is everything the majority of ate and comfortable. In 2007, McGrady, with the Since the band’s inception is the Sudanese military, the other be, “what the kids needed.” Noel Gallagher soon Pattinson also uses the same tone Rob Pattinson as a hideous symbol the population, myself included, Another quality that makes help of filmaker Josh Rotherstein, the two have been at odds. being the Janjaweed, a Sudanese With the release of his docu- joined the band. As of voice for every line. for the cult of misogynistic vampire wants. He is tall, has a face with Rob Pattinson hot is that he is a filmed his trip to Darfur, making Who knows what Oasis’s fu- militia group. mentary, 3 Points, McGrady hopes of this year, they have With the fame of Twilight, “I stories, which has only begun to perfectly chiseled bone structure, musician. His album is going to a documentary called 3 Points. In ture will hold, and how their 300,000 people from Darfur that many will recognize that the sold over 70 million love Rob Pattinson (aka Edward unfold. Unlike other people, who perfectly tousled hair, a smile that be released in London in the near promoting his humanitarian ef- music will be affected? melts your heart, soulful eyes, and have been murdered and an esti- effects of the genocide in Darfur. records worldwide. photo illustration by Holland Mervis Cullen)” blogs have begun to pop may see Pattinson as some kind of future, but two of his songs made forts, McGrady even changed his One can only wait and plays a character that most women it on the Twilight soundtrack. This mated 2.5 million have been forced Despite the fact that 3 Points was The Gallagher up, and many are run by women masculine god, I see him as nothing number to #3. The documentary fo- Two hours later, Noel posted hope that Oasis doesn’t suck would love to be with. musician side of him allows girls to from their homes. The Janjaweed shot over 2 years ago, McGrady re- brothers have not always seen eye- who dream of becoming Bella. but a sad sign that our generation cuses on McGrady’s treck through a message on the band’s website completely without Noel, as Liam In the movie Pattinson looks not only fall for him because he is a and Sudanese military kill without mains concious of the issues plaug- to-eye, and both have threatened to Why any woman would pos- of women has stepped backward three villages in Chad to reveal the stating that he has quit the band be- remains the only original band gorgeous with his perfect and talented actor who plays the guy of discrimination and many Darfuri- ing Darfur. He continues with his leave the band in the past. How- sibly want to identify with Bella in time. I would hope that mod- broken lives of children refugees cause he “simply could not go on member left. Arthrus, McGuigan, dewy skin and “troubled teenage their dreams, but also because he ans have had to flee as a result. humanitarian acts and is now edu- ever, this never happened until is a complete mystery. During the ern young adults, of both genders, from Darfur. working with Liam a day longer.” and MacCarroll had been replaced boy” look. But, in real life, espe- could potentially sing his way into Though people have fled cating his fellow athletes and other recently. On Aug. 28, following a books, Bella proves time and time would enjoy books that were may- In February of 2003, hundreds Oasis’s public image has al- by Gem Archer, Andy Bell, and cially on the red carpet in a tux- their hearts. to survive, the conditions in the high-profile individuals to bring fight between the Gallagher broth- again to be so entirely helpless that be just a little bit more well written, of Darfurians were forced to flee ways been colored by the rocky re- Chris Sharrock. I mean, change is edo, he looks even better. There But ultimately, there should be refugee camps that greeted them about a general knowledge of the ers which resulted in Liam break- she must be completely dependent and, hopefully, a bit less sexist. is that argument that Pattinson is no question since it is quite clear from their native homes due to the lationship between the Gallaghers. a necessary part of life but some- were of no comfort. Upon seeing situation in Darfur. ing Noel’s guitar, their manager on Edward Cullen. Bella and Ed- too pretentious to “dress-up” for that Robert Pattinson is hands- continuous attack of the Arab mi- In 1995, audio of a profane four- times sticking with the old is a what seemed to be a soccer field, McGrady’s 3 Points is expect- announced the cancellation of their ward’s characters are not so much the awards show. That untruth can down, hot. litia. While there has been a long teen minute argument between the good thing. McGrady asked, “How much is it ed to be released late fall of 2009. 8 Features Le Sabre September 30, 2009 Cavaliers From Beyond the Border

BY SARA GROSSMAN Online Editor

Cleveland halls ebb and fl ow the trees that line the streets of American schools to be nearly with the surge of students pushing Los Angeles. The large, compact as challenging as those in China, their way to class each day. The town from which he is from con- where one is expected to study un- Land overfl ows with students of sists mostly of tall buildings and til at least nine o’clock at night. all races, cultures, and sexual ori- apartments. In addition, compared to entations, but the school’s diver- Geng, who goes by “Evan”, China, Geng said that Americans sity extends even beyond that. It has already been in the U.S. for are much more talkative and out- may surprise many Cleveland kids over a year. He spent last year going. to learn that international students in Las Vegas with a host family, “[They seem] happy about roam among them as well. enjoying walks around the casi- their lives,” he said. In China, he These foreign exchange stu- nos at night. This year he came continued, “People just stay quiet dents hail from all corners of the to Southern California to be close because the [Communist] govern- photo illustration by Judy Kim. globe. From Asia to Europe they to an uncle who lives in the L.A. ment is too strong.” arrive at Cleveland seeking new area. He lives with a different Geng was not the only in- Gender Free: Male and female symbols are not the only labels. experiences and opportunities. host family—this time sharing ternational student who was sur- Leano Peters is one such stu- the house with two other Chinese prised by the American outward dent. Peters, a sophomore, came exchange students, as well as one displays of emotion. Poramat Ru- all the way to Los Angeles from from Japan. angkana, a junior from Thailand, Who needs his native Germany. He decided Geng said that the hardest said he was at fi rst taken aback to come to the US for new experi- part about coming to America when he saw two people making ences, and was especially excited alone was missing his family. out in public in the U.S. However, he came here because “It’s not socially acceptable Gender Roles? Not Pop! BY MERY HOUNANIAN photos by Haig Nalbandian Copy Editor Hello America: Exchange students, Ruangkana (left ), Peters (middle), Geng (right), smile for the camera. A Swedish couple decided everyone agrees with the parents’ when their child was born to keep decision. to come to L.A. when given the [in Thailand],” he explained. he hopes to go to college in the Pop’s (their child’s) sex a secret. Susan Pinker, a psycholo- chance to choose between going Like Geng, it is Ruangkana’s U.S. and thinks he will have a Except for a select few, nobody gist and newspaper columnist to Nebraska or California. second year in the U.S. He came better chance of getting into the knows whether Pop is male or fe- was quoted saying “Ignoring Peters started learning Eng- to California last year and attend- college of his choice by going to male. In an interview with Swed- children’s natures simply doesn’t lish in the fi fth grade back home ed San Bernardino High School. high school here. ish newspaper Svenska Dagbala- work.” She adds that “childrear- in Germany, where everyone is However, he didn’t like it so much “I also wanted to come to the det, the parents were quoted as ing should not be about providing required to learn the language. because of all the gangs there. U.S. because I saw a lot of Ameri- saying that their decision was an opportunity to prove an ideo- However, this is his fi rst visit to Ruangkana, 16, chose to stay can movies,” Geng added. rooted in the feminist philosophy logical point…” the United States. in the U.S. another year with an Both Geng and Peters said that gender is a social construc- Teacher Jennifer Macon is His favorite thing about Los aunt who lives in Los Angeles. He that people have been very friend- tion. Sex is biological and has to one of the teachers of the gen- Angeles is the amazing weather. said he chose to attend Cleveland ly to them, making it easier to ad- do with genetics, whereas gender der unit that is taught in eleventh He also loved going to the beach because it was close to his aunt’s just to their new surroundings. and gender roles are socially con- grade humanities magnet classes. for the fi rst time, enjoying the house and he had heard it was a Geng noticed a few main structed. On the topic, she says that she waves and sand. good school. cultural differences between the In the same interview, Pop’s agrees “with the notion that gen- Peters said his experience So far, Ruangkana said his American lifestyle and that of the mother was quoted as saying “It’s der is socially constructed.” She in Southern California has been experience at Cleveland has been Chinese. cruel to bring a child into the adds that there is an element of good so far, although better than at San Bernardino. His He said that many Ameri- world with a blue or pink stamp nature vs. nurture involved as he is still learning to navigate favorite thing about the school is can parents will encourage their on their forehead.” Mother and well. She says that “99% of all his way through American culture the diversity. children to do things beyond the father want Pop to grow up more violent crimes done by men is and lifestyle. Both Ruangkana and Geng purely academic freely without being forced into a nurture, not nature.” Nothing “When I came here I heard hope their experiences in LA will “Like if you want to play specifi c gender role from the out- in biology makes men violent. alcohol is bad,” Peters said “In be worthwhile. guitar they will encourage you set. Naturally, men have more testos- Germany, everybody drinks. It’s “I hope this year I will have to,” he explained. In China, Geng Pop’s parents believe that terone, which accounts for more not a bad thing. It’s just part of a good time here,” said Ruang- said academics are always the this way, Pop will be able to avoid aggression, but this does not au- the culture.” kana. main focus. preconceived notions of how peo- tomatically lead to violence. So- In addition, Peters said that He added that he has not ple should be treated depending ciety shapes and molds peoples’ the “big cars” were another huge found on their sex. perception of gender. surprise. The two-and-a-half year “In theory, this sounds “In Germany we have big old’s wardrobe consists of pants good…I think this is a very radical cars too, but not as many.” and dresses, varying upon Pop’s approach…I’m interested to see Peters was not the only inter- mood for the day. Pop knows that how this works out when the child national student surprised by dif- there are physical differences be- is school aged,” Macon adds. On ferences between California and tween boys and girls, but Pop’s raising her own daughter, Macon his native country. Senior Cong parents never use personal pro- says that “as a woman, she can be Geng, originally from the Chong nouns when referring to the child. anything.” She believes in equal- Qing province in the middle of Neighbors and peers of the family China, said he was shocked by ity, not in a gender-free life. have been supportive, though not September 30, 2009 Le Sabre Features 9 COLLEGE FOR DUMMIES: A need-to-know for all those seniors Ex Child- applying to college Soldier Visits the Land

BY ALLISON CI AND JOLENA COLLAS Beah, and a couple other child Former child soldier Ishmael soldiers, were chosen by the UNI- Beah graced the Cleveland cam- CEF men and taken to a rehabili- pus earlier this month to speak tation center. By that point, Beah about war and violence. had become a drug addict and an photo illustration by Eric Tran. The civil war in Sierra Leone extremely violent person, fi lled has devastated several families with hatred. BY JUDY KIM and lives. Yet, many are still un- Over time, however, the pa- Managing Editor aware beyond what mainstream tience of the rehab workers began media depicts. “People had a As October rolls around, col- that you choose teachers that you the form to consider the student lege applications draw nearer and have a relationship with to en- for scholarships. In this economy, the panic level rises higher. While sure that their recommendation you want as much money as pos- there are those diligent seniors refl ects who you are. But no mat- sible and take as many opportuni- that have started the process back ter who you ask, be sure to thank ties available to you so apply ear- in August, most of us still have an them for their time and effort. No ly! Go to our ever-useful college enormous pile of forms to fi ll out, one is obligated to write a recom- offi ce for information on a great essays to write, fee waivers to ap- mendation and really, all they get number of scholarships. The Col- ply for, etc. in return is your gratitude – so be lege Peer Counselors will cheer- Luckily, it is only September sure to give lots of it! fully help you select those that and there is still suffi cient time In addition to the recom- apply directly to you and try their left to make sure that we package mendation, it would be wise to best to answer any other questions ourselves in the most favorable start your college essays as soon you may have about college. light to our choice colleges. as possible. Through essays, you Finally, remember that now By now, you should’ve be- can really show the colleges who is not the time to procrastinate. gun your college search and have you are and what you bring to All your hard work is about to compiled a list of colleges that the table. It is the one part of the come to fruition and falling apart you are applying to. On this list, application that really refl ect on these crucial months would be do- track the required forms and sup- your individuality so you want ing injustice to everything you’ve plements that each college needs, to make sure that you have time done! Our dream school is only a as well as their due dates. to edit, edit and edit. By fi nishing few months away. Whatever the Also, now is the time to (if your rough draft early on, you can outcome, putting in your best ef- you haven’t already) ask your utilize all the resources available fort till the last moment will save teachers for recommendations. at school, such as your English regret later on. Most colleges ask for two teach- teacher and your counselor. ers from different academic fi elds It is wise to start the CSS/Pro- and one counselor. It is important fi le since some colleges require Good luck seniors! Females Fear Not:

Secret to Combating Dirty Public photo illustration by Noor Tell Survivor: Beah has lived through many obstacles, as mentioned in Restrooms Revealed his book. BY LUCIA HWANG twisted perception of Sierra Le- to unravel his hard exterior. He one based on the media and mov- learned to accept everything that ies such as Blood Diamond. But Cheer on! No longer do user to stay dry. distributed in collector bags, dis- had happened, learned to become there was a Sierra Leone before women have to fear those unsani- On the other hand, Go-Girl posable bags that substitute port- human again. the War,” Beah said. He spent the tary public restrooms. New and can be reused because of its sili- a-potties. After moving to America, fi rst 11 years of his life in a peace- improved inventions have been con material. Go-Girl is not at all All of these brands are used Beah wrote a book recounting ful upbringing, with many happy made for the women These de- irritating and is extremely sani- like all the other F.U.D. by plac- his life during the civil war in Si- memories and family. vices, namely Urinelle, Freshette tary. After washing it with soap ing them against the body in order erra Leone. Entitled A Long Way Beah was 12 and living in and Go-Girl, allow women to to create a leak proof Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Sol- Sierra Leone when the civil war urinate standing up. seal. Now the person dier, this book is used to spread fi rst came crashing into his life. Go-Girl was released in can direct the funnel Beah’s message of hope across From that fi rst encounter with the January 16, 2009. Sally Dil- like spout straight into the world. war, Beah embarked on a year- lon had been developing the the toilet. Almost all the “I was touched by his hon- long journey across Sierra Leone product for 20 years. Euro- portable feminine uri- esty,” says freshman Natalie in an effort to escape the war and peans have been patenting nals allow the user to be Alas. She, among many others in reunite with his family. Female Urinary Directors in a standing, sitting, or Beah’s audience, was moved by When he found them, it was (F.U.D.) for years. reclined position. After his words. He teaches great life too late. The rebels had burned The main purpose for the practicing once or twice, lessons to the students, about how down Beah’s village. Soon after- F.U.D. is to redirect the urine. the process should be privileged we are, how precious ward, he came across some men Instead of going straight like second nature. life is, and how tragic violence photo illustration by Eric Tran from the Sierra Leonean Army, down, the urine is channeled Whether for trav- is. F.U.D.: F.U.D.’s have been used in Europe. who recruited him as a soldier at away from the body. This eling, hiking, skiing, “War does not help you learn the age of 13. way women can relieve them- canoeing, shopping, or about yourself. If you do not The next few years were a selves just as easily as men do. and water, one can hide it away surfi ng, F.U.D’s will always be know about yourself you can’t blur of blood, drugs, tragedy, and Urinelle comes in a pack- conveniently in a purse or glove the perfect fi t. These devices are know about others. All you learn ruthless killing. Beah was trans- age of biodegradable bacterial. compartment made to fi t into any and every is how to seek vengeance and pain formed into a cold-blooded kill- After every use, the package is San-Fem designed the lifestyle. It even works for the and suffering. Violence is purely ing machine. discarded. Almost like paper, it Fresshette, which includes a disabled, who have to deal with destructive. You have nothing to After a couple years of this, is light weight and discreet. Also 5-inch funnel, the longest out of inaccessibility and dangers when gain but so much to lose,” said hydrophobic, Urinelle allows the UNICEF came to the rescue. the three examples. These are using the restroom. Beah at the lecture. 10 Sports Le Sabre September 30, 2009 Fall sports ‘09 at Th e Land

Captain Jill Kirkendall hopes Star players: Collins Holliday, GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL, led GIRLS’ TENNIS is off to a to lead Cleveland’s CROSS Jose Segura by co-captains Allie Moat and promising start, with a preseason COUNTRY team to victory Record so far: 2-0 Stephanie Leonard, started their record of 2-0 so far. Despite los- this year. “I think our varsity Notable new players: CA Nu- preseason on a shaky note. In a ing 5 seniors, the team-wide im- girls have potential,” Kirkendall nally, Jailyn (from Michigan) league so strong that every team provements make up for it, and said of this year’s team. Coach Next game: Arleta (Sept 30th) is considered “big competition”, is currently seems to be strong Hernandez echoes her positive they hope to improve their win/ that last year’s as a whole. Coach outlook. “I expect the Girls’ loss record this year. Lowe pointed out that “[The girls’ varsity to make it into city fi nals Coach Farr holds high ex- Captain’s goals: “To lead the tennis team this year] defi nitely this season. If the Boys’ varsity pectations for GIRLS’ GOLF. team on the court and keep every- has potential for a very successful trains well, they can also make it With experienced captains Vickie one talking and working together season.” to city.” Ma, Sandy Lee, and Pauline Shin, well.” (Moat) “To win as many Last year’s record: Won 5 meets Farr believes that this year’s team games as possible.” (Leonard) Captains: Kristie Shu and Sid- (girls’ team) is “undefeatable!” As of now, the How the team compares to last ney Becker only lost one senior, the returning Biggest competition: Birming- team holds a 1-0 W/L record. year’s: “A lot of seniors left the Goals: To beat Granada Hills and class is experienced and ready to ham and Taft. Coach’s expectations: “Every team. But the returning play- go as far as possible in playoffs; fi nally attain their goal of defeat- Notable team members: Jill year we are battling for the league ers have a lot of dedication and I “I want this year’s season to be ing longtime rival Birmingham. Kirkendall, Karmina Padgett, championship, and this year is no think it will pay off.” (Leonard) the best yet, and I know it’s pos- Melissa Moreno, Andres Hernan- different. We have the talent to Record so far: 0-3 sible,” Becker said. Captains: Valentino Vilches, Da- dez, and Leo Ibarra. win.” Star players: “Our back row is Team compared to last years: “I vid Portillo Next meet: October 1st at Pierce Last year’s W/L record: 4/1 really strong,” says Moat. Allyn feel that this year’s team is a lot Goals: To win City and go unde- College. Biggest competition this year: Urbina, Richee Manubay, Steph- stronger as a whole.” (Becker) feated, and beat league rival Bir- El Camino anie Leonard, and Michelle Hy- Star players: Sidney Becker, mingham As FOOTBALL’s Coach Any new/star players: Sally oung, and Allie Moat. Kristie Shu, Gabi Fernandez Star players: Valentino Vilches, Vaughn said, “We’re rebuilding Chung, Kristine Jermakian, and Notable new players: Katie Notable new players: Freshman David Portillo, Tal Bernard this year’s team”. Despite a win/ Lindsey Jimenez Wong Eva Vosahlo Captain’s thoughts on this loss record of 5-6 last year, rival Captains’ thoughts on this Next game: October 1 at Bir- Next game: October 1 against year’s team: “I think we are op- teams Arleta and Taft (the team’s years team: “We have veterans mingham Taft erating better as a team this year, biggest competitors), and the loss and new talent but we all have the and everyone contributes to the of many seniors, the team has high potential, and we can kick butt!” games.” (Vilches) Star players: Tal Bernard, Valen- goals: “[We aim to] beat Arleta Next match: Wednesday, Oct. 7 BOYS’ WATER POLO, as tino Viches, David Portillo and win playoffs”, says Vaughn. against Monroe at El Cariso Golf usual, has started its preseason Next game: October 1 against El “We lost a lot of seniors, so we’re Course strongly with swift victories (over Camino rebuilding the team.” Venice and Eagle Rock). Having CAVALIERCAVALIER CALENDAR:CALENDAR: EARLY OCOCTOBERTOBER

CrossCross CountryCountry Girls’Girls’ TenniTenniss - Vs. Taft - Chatsworth/Birmingham OctoberOctober 1 @ Pierce, October 1 - @ Granada Hills - Granada Hills @ Pierce OctoberOctober 5 OctoberOctober 8 - Vs. El Camino - Taft @ Pierce OctoberOctober 7 OctoberOctober 15 - Vs. Chatsworth - El Camino @ Pierce OctoberOctober 12 OctoberOctober 22 Girls’Girls’ VolleVolleyballyball FootballFootball - @ Birmingham - @ Arleta OOctoberctober 1 OctoberOctober 2 - @ Taft - @ Universit Universityy OctoberOctober 5 OctoberOctober 9 - @ G Granadaranada Hills - Vs. Chatsworth OOctoberctober 7 OctoberOctober 1166 - Vs. El Camino - @ Birmin Birminghamgham OctoberOctober 1122 OctoberOctober 23

Girls’Girls’ GolGolff - Monroe @ El Cariso OOctoberctober 7 - El Camino @ El Cariso OctoberOctober 14 - League fi nals @ El Cariso OctoberOctober 2288 September 30, 2009 Le Sabre Sports 11 Renowned WNBA pioneer to retire

BY ALEX LEE

Flash back to the early WNBA has become more popular 1990’s. If someone were to walk because of Lisa Leslie. down the street and ask, “What Senior Alexa Davison was do you think of the NBA?”, often one of those impacted by Les- times, the response was similar: lie’s achievements and was very “What is the WNBA?” surprised that Leslie had given up Women’s basketball was the sport she had loved so much. never appreciated, despite the “I was very surprised and sad be- work that these women put into cause she was such a huge part of playing basketball at the profes- the WNBA and womens basket- sional level. Lisa Leslie changed ball.” says Davison. Davison was

photo illustration by Eric Tran Upsets and comebacks a common theme in Flushing, New York

BY NOOR TELL photo illustration by Eric Tran The clock on Arthur Ashe until last point,” Del Potro said of aware of how it felt to be on top stadium had just hit four hours, how he managed to secure the since she had won the U.S open also inspried by Lisa Leslie being history as she became a renowned yet the energy was still as if not win over the defending champion. before her retirement in 2005. the fi rst woman to dunk. star in the world of women’s bas- more vibrant as it was at the With regard to his reaction In addition, she held the number “She was the fi rst woman to ketball, brining the WNBA its beginning of the match. Juan about winning, he added, “You one spot several times but lost her dunk and she was a great team needed attention and popularity. Martin Del Potro was one point know, I did my dream, and it’s un- ranking due to her two-year leave. player and contributed to the team Leslie began her journey away from becoming the next believable moment. It’s amazing After defeating opponent greatly.” when she announced that she men’s US Open champion. match, amazing people. Every- Caroline Wozniacki, Clijsters would be attending the Univer- With both fans for Del Potro thing is perfect. I can’t believe [it].” was able to share her unbeliev- To many, Leslie was not only sity of Southern California on a and his opponent Roger Federer, Just a day before, a similar able win with her two-year old a fi gure in women’s basketball basketball scholarship after high fi ve-time straight US open cham- turnout occurred in the women’s daughter Jada and husband Brian but a gleam of hope for women school. Towering at six foot and pion, cheering, Del Potro was able tournament. Kim Clijsters, from Lynch. She received the tradi- who want to play basketball. fi ve inches, she fl ourished as an to come out with the win. The Belgium, was another under- tional U.S Open trophy, $1.6 Leslie has won the WNBA, athlete and quickly became of the crowd applauded as he fell to the dog who triumphed over several million, and a 2010 Lexus IS MVP award three times, was the games best players. After her col- ground, hands over his face, para- tough opponents, including the Convertible, as did Del Porto. lege career, Leslie was selected fi rst woman to dunk in a WNBA lyzed and overwhelmed with joy. as the seventh overall pick by the game, the fi rst WNBA player to This year, the U.S Open was Los Angeles Sparks in 1997. As reach a 6,000 point plateau, a all about comebacks and over- A mother’s amazing comeback, a terribly soon as she got to the Sparks, she four-time Olympic gold medal- coming expectations for both made an immediate impact on the ist, and an eight time WNBA all- the women and men. Del Potro shocking yet delightful win over as 15- court as well as off. star, and has led her team to two was not expected to win – fi rst of time champion, this year’s US Open did Coach Carol Holton is the WNBA titles. all, he is only twenty years old girls basketball coach at Cleve- Leslie, one of the pioneers meaning he has much less experi- not disappoint in excitement. land High school and is an enthu- of the WNBA has announced that ence in regards to Federer. Sec- siastic fan of Lisa Leslie and was she will be retiring after the 2009 ondly, he was competing against season ends. Appropriately, Les- actually at the time when Lisa someone who had won fi fteen Williams sisters who she defeated The outcome of this lie gave her retirement speech at Leslie announced her retirement. time grand slam singles and is in the quarter and semi fi nals. year’s Open was a sur- the 23rd annual National Girls in “I was very happy for ranked number one in the world. Clijsters also had her own per- prise for fans everywhere. Sports Day. She has been a role her and I have come to appreci- Those stats, however, did not sonal hill to conquer since she had “[The Del Potro match] model for many women athletes, ate all that she has done for girls hinder Del Potro. In the fourth left her tennis career on hold for wasone of the greatest matches being one of the fi rst people to and the community. She was a set, when Federer only had two two years to get married and have I’veever seen. It was amaz- join the WNBA in her eleven year pioneer and really began the jour- more games to win to become the a baby. She entered the tourna- ing to see Roger [Federer] career as the franchise face of the ney for young women in playing champion, Del Potro was able to ment after USTA gave her a wild- get upset like that,” senior Los Angeles Sparks, and also em- basketball at the high school and dig deep and defeat Federer in the card, and ironically “wildly” blew Seth Eisenberg refl ected. bodied the female athlete role as collegiate level,” she said of Les- tiebreak. In the fi fth set, Del Potro theirs and her own expectations, Even the president of the she has dominated over the years. lie’s achievements. took control, using his strong blowing the crowd away with her USTA (United States Tennis As- Leslie will, by females and males Being an Leslie fan, Coach forehand to keep Federer on his defeat over Serena Williams, an sociation) wrote in his blog: “A alike, be deeply missed as a fi gure Holton took the girls basketball toes and ultimately was able to upset that will go down in history. mother’s amazing comeback, on the court but more importantly team to numerous Los Angeles pull out the win. He is now the “I just wanted to come here a terribly shocking yet delight- be remembered as one of the most Sparks games and even has a second Argentinian to have ever and get a feel for it all over again, ful win over as 15-time cham- presitigous female athletes in the poster of her in the girls basket- won a U.S open since 1977. play a Grand Slam so the start to pion, this year’s US Open did world. ball team room. Coach Holton “It was so diffi cult to keep the next year I didn’t have to go not disappoint in excitement.” believed that because of Leslie, trying to keep fi ghting [by the fi fth through all the new experiences many young women were in- set]. But one more time the crowd over,” Clijsters said. spired. She also believes that the and the fans helped me a lot to fi ght However, Clijsters was already September 30, 2009 Sports 12 For sports lovers, “Fantasy”Le Sabre takes on a new meaning

BY DAVID KIM Fantasy and fi ction over real- “owns”. For example, if Kobe “I fi nd [Fantasy Sports] re- ity and the real world? Bryant on the Los Angeles Lak- ally cathartic," senior David Yoo A large part of the teenage ers scored thirty points in a game, admits of this pastime. “When word today seems to think so, as his Fantasy equal receives those I play Fantasy Sports, I get a it embraces the world of Fantasy statistics. feeling of power you don’t get Sports. The winning team is based anywhere else.” His favorite is This form of entertainment is on overall performance. At the Fantasy Baseball, and he is also peaking in popularity in this day end of the game, the statistics of a member of a few Fantasy Foot- and age among sports lovers, and both teams’ starting fi ve players ball leagues. the appeal lies in the fact that there are compared, as well as statis- There are a lot of host web- is a myriad of different Fantasy tics of other players. Team totals sites that house the commodity Sports to suit everyone. Partici- for points, steals, rebounds, etc. that is Fantasy Sports. One can pants can choose among among are also drawn up, and all con- play on such websites as Yahoo, such sports as hockey, football, tribute to the decision of winner. head2head.com, and CBSSports. basketball, and baseball. The entire Fantasy Sports system com. Ultimately, any person with revolves around the players and Do Fantasy sports allow the access to the internet and a com- their real stats in their respective common folk to get more involved puter can play. That person just games. There are even playoffs in with the sports that they love to registers, joins a league, and then the Fantasy games, depending on watch but never got the chance to drafts players, following the exact the league joined. take part, or does it promote the process of that takes place in the This real-life sensation of virtual reality instead of the real real-life athletic world. Partici- athletics seems to fi nd popularity thing? Teenagers and adults alike pants acts as team owners or gen- predominantly among males; out seem have fallen in love with the eral managers of the team. of fi ve females at Cleveland who whole Fantasy Sports regime, Upon assembling their were asked about Fantasy Sports, and there seems to be no defi nite teams, they are ready to compete. only one had heard of it, and had downside. Fantasy Sports allow The number of participants and no interest in trying it. Howev- one to get more involved and match-ups in each league varies er, the enthusiasm that Fantasy more interested in watching the every time, and each match con- Sports lovers expressed makes up actual sports Participants also sists of two people’s teams going for it. gain more knowledge on the ath- head-to-head. “I love Fantasy Sports,” se- lete and the athlete’s abilities. The performance of one’s nior Andrew Seong says. “It’s an One thing is certain, though; fantasy team is dependent on the excellent time-spender and allows Fantasy Sports are something real-life performances of the real- me to be interactive with the thing worth trying. life athletes that the participant that I really love.” Meltdowns in athletics: understand- able or unacceptable?

BY CHANDLER HUDSON do you think his players are go- that; what kind of message are ing to react? The very nature of they getting? Sports fi gures nowadays are sportsmanship has gotten out of Today’s athletes need to under a whole lot of pressure. hand. make the differentiation between What this pressure does is cause Frenchman Zinedine Zidane “intense competition” and “com- some serious explosions, usually at the 2006 world cup fi nal actu- pletely uncalled for and inappro- verbal but sometimes physical. ally head-butted Marco Mat- priate behavior”. Take Serena Williams erazzi, a member of the Italian The problem is sports fi gures for example. Part of being a team. Granted, he was provoked are being conditioned to behave champion is dealing with those by some vulgar words spoken by like this. These are the kind of kinds of situations, which she Mr. Materazzi but he did have a actions that bring media attention obviously has a hard time doing. choice not to attack the guy. The and even draw crowds. Society Obviously we as viewers can’t event went down in world cup perpetuates the meltdown be- put ourselves exactly in Serena’s position, but most of us, even if we feel like someone’s breaking the rules, aren’t going to threaten to kill a lineswoman. “I swear to God, I’m f------going to take this f------ball and shove it down your f------throat, you hear that? I swear to God.” Serena denies the linesman’s claims of “she threatened to kill me,” but last I checked shoving a tennis ball down someone’s throat isn’t too good for their health. Meltdowns aren’t unique to tennis though, Chicago White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen had this to say after a game photo illustration by Eric Tran with the Cleveland Indians, history as a low-point in sports- “I have Konerko [White Sox manship. player] bruised all over the place. The NFL’s Plaxico Burress cause it’s entertaining to watch, Around the league, be careful be- has recently been sentenced to but is it good for sports? cause we’re going to hit people. two years in jail for shooting It’s a slippery slope; without I don’t care if I get suspended himself in the thigh at a night sportsmanship, the pure essence because I need to protect my club. Two years doing hard time of competition that is sport is de- players.” If a baseball manager, and this is the champion of the graded. We’ve got to stop shin- the supposed leader of a team, 2007 super bowl. Just think, kids ing the spotlight on the atrocities makes statements like this how are looking up to individuals like and start focusing on the good.