A Wide World of Science, Next Door Opinions Editor Democrats Barack Obama and Joe Biden Have Won the U.S

THE URBAN LEGEND The Urban School of San Francisco November 2008 Volume 10, Issue 1

Obama Wins CAlifornia Academy Reopens Urban Count As Race Ends by Sam Kronish A Wide World Of Science, Next Door Opinions Editor Democrats Barack Obama and Joe Biden have won the U.S. presidential election — at least as far as Urban is concerned. A total of 110 Urban students, faculty and staff voted in an online poll conducted by The Urban Legend from Oct. 14 to Oct. 16. The response was almost instantaneous, with nearly 100 people responding within the first hour. More than 90 percent of the responses were received prior to the final debate on Oct. 15. An overwhelming 96 percent of respondents chose Obama over Republican candidate John McCain, although only 8 percent will be eligible to vote on Nov. 4. photo by Alex Roncal Asked who they trust more to handle the nation’s economic ButterflIES welcome the New Academy on sept. 27, after A four-year remodel troubles, 95 percent chose Obama and 5 percent chose McCain. McCain scored high- by Allegra Gordon and Justine Palefsky Workers unloaded and assembled a rock-climbing wall as est on a question about who Staff Writers music played from the concourse, and dozens upon dozens would best handle the war in When the long-awaited California Academy of Sciences of portable toilets lined Music Concourse Drive. By 8:30 a.m., Iraq, with 8 percent voting for reopened this fall in Golden Gate Park, there was no stiff, cer- there were already hordes of families lining up for free tickets, McCain versus 92 percent for emonial cutting of the ribbon. Instead, children from around sponsored by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. A growing sense of Obama. the Bay Area gathered in front of the entrance and released excitement and wonder filled the air. As San Francisco Mayor hundreds of monarchs. The orange-and-black butterflies, Gavin Newsom observed in a speech at the opening ceremony, speckling against the blue sky, represented the Academy’s visitors felt “a tremendous sense of spirit and pride to live Wall Street Woes remarkable metamorphosis from old-school museum piece in a place like San Francisco.” Museum officials estimated to state-of-the-art marvel. the opening day crowd at more than 30,000. Hit Home for San Franciscans of all ages from small children to gran- The Academy’s new digs are a world apart from its past. Students, Staff parents waited in the autumn heat as the doors reopened on The new three-story building thoughtfully integrates ramps, Sept. 27, hoping to gain admission. “I’ve been waiting here underwater tunnels, and a huge glass rainforest dome into by Lizzie Logan for over four hours!” said one mother , standing uncomfort- one cohesive design. The Academy’s mission is to celebrate and Tobyn Smith ably in the 80-degree weather with a stroller at her side. life, and it seeks to show “how science and evolution are Staff Writers Luckily, the Academy was prepared for a big turnout. See ACADEMY, page 6 News of the Wall Street meltdown and the credit crisis has been in the headlines for weeks now. But it may take more time to figure out how the Active downturn in the U.S. economy Watching History Unfold Learning will affect college scholarships "You have and financial aid, according to to express Urban staff. Elections 2008 Classes Spotlight Campaign College Counselor Su- what you san Lee, Admissions Director by Alan Hsiao his students about the campaign believe," says Bobby Ramos and Business Opinions Editor almost as it happens while still teacher Clarke Let’s face it: Politicians and maintaining a structured learning Director Susan Munn met with Weatherspoon. Legend reporters to talk about their campaigns are difficult to environment, Votto said. He is one of how the economic crisis may understand. The result is a history class that affect Urban families’ ability to Luckily, however, students brings history to life, instead of three faculty pay for Urban and for college. at Urban had the opportunity to looking for it in books. According teaching this According to Ramos, Urban examine history as it was being to Michael Cirillo (’09), though the year's Elections made, thanks to three special class does occasionally shift focus families should expect little 2008 class. change in the size of this year’s classes designed to focus on Elec- — in part because politics itself is photo by tuition increase, despite the tion 2008. capricious — he is not thrown off Wall Street crisis. History teachers LeRoy Votto, by such developments. Lizzie Logan "There is usually an increase Dan Matz, and Clarke Weather- In fact, the class once “ended every year because costs in- spoon spent large chunks of their up talking about the economic crease for all the programs we summer preparing lesson plans, crisis,” which was necessary to offer," Ramos said. lectures and resource materials on understand many of McCain and Urban’s “cost of living,” the presidential race. Obama’s political stands. or what it takes to maintain Matz “map(ped) the main top- In addition to focusing on the ics,” allowing each teacher to teach See MELTDOWN, page 2 See ELECTIONS, page 2

In s i d e

Urinetown Takes Aim Letters to the PreZ Clean, Green and mean Urban's fall drama production satirizes Urbanites write to the next Segway afficionados prove polo just about everything in American society occupant of the Oval Office doesn't have to include horses – page 4 – page 8 – page 11

[email protected] my.highschooljournalism.org/ca/sanfrancisco/urban Please recycle [email protected] e w s November 2008 2 NUr b a n Le g e n d Urbanitems

A quick look at what's happening in our community

ID Cards M.I.A. Plans for new Urban ID cards with bar codes have been dropped because the production company failed to meet its end of the contract, says Charlotte Worsley, photo by Lizzie Logan assistant head for College counselor susan lee researches student loans to help college-bound seniors afford rising tuition student life. MELTDOWN: Economy crunches students

from page 1 said. Middle-income students will “There are more questions ... about likely feel the worst pinch: Low- the building and buy supplies, income students will still be able increases every year with inflation, tuition and tuition increases,” said to get scholarships on the basis helping the bard he noted. of need, Lee said, while higher- However, "the percentage of the Admissions Director Bobby Ramos income families will likely be able Teacher Cathleen increase is determined later on in to pull together enough money to Sheehan served as the year," Ramos said, and not in pay a full college tuition. response to a crisis on Wall Street ban hopes to increase this number “more people will be looking at Middle-income families, how- dramaturge for Twelfth or elsewhere in the economy. to at least 25 percent within five parochial and public schools than ever, often depend on student Night at Orinda's Similarly, Urban’s financial years. in previous years.” loans from banks, colleges or the aid budget was set last year, long As for prospective students, But it is Urban’s seniors who federal government. But credit “is California Shakespeare before the current crisis began, said the outlook is mixed. The Wall may feel the real pain of the where the crisis is,” noted Munn. Theater. The play ended Munn. Street crisis caught Urban just economy’s slide. Seniors can access scholarship For families currently receiving as it launched the fall admission If a family has put a lot of sav- information on the web at www. its run on Oct. 4. financial aid, applications for next season, with dozens of potential ings into the stock market to pay for fastweb.com, or by talking with year are not available until Decem- students and their parents visiting college, it is "a bad time to want to their college counselor. ber, so school officials have not yet the school. cash in those savings," Lee noted. Sally Scopa, an Urban senior, seen any evidence of increased “There are more questions Already, economic factors are is applying to UC schools in part demand. during this 08-09 process about causing seniors to look at a wider because they are cheaper. Urban’s tuition increased 5% tuition and tuition increases than range of schools. She is relatively confident that percent last year to $30,750, in- I remember during 07-08, and “More people are applying to her family will be able to afford cluding books and fees. Currently, (more) questions about financial (the University of California and college costs, but realizes that times the number of students receiving aid,” said Ramos. CSU campuses) because they are uncertain: “Maybe I shouldn’t financial aid is 22 percent, but Ur- He added that he expects don't know what is going on.” Lee be so comfortable." new policy According to a new policy, Urban students ELECTIONS: Students watch race unfold will be allowed to use only their own from page 1 cessfully taught at Urban for nearly school at Lick-Wilmerding High came in with strong opinions are calculators on all math a decade, other schools have yet to School, added that Lick “(does) now leaving with a better idea minutiae of campaign news, offer a similar class. not have a specific course on elec- of why they believe what they quizzes and tests. Weatherspoon teaches students Eric Castro, chair of the social tions or government, but our U.S. believe. about “government function, the science depart- history classes are all doing a lot “I have learned a lot about electoral process, campaign is- ment at Saint of work on the candidates and the process,” said sues, and the role of the media,” Ignatius Col- election right Amelia Koster (’09), adding that factors that remain constant lege Preparato- “I have learned a lot now.“ for her, the class “reaffirmed my throughout the election season. ry in San Fran- about candidates By its very na- passion (for) Obama.” Urban offered the first Elec- cisco, says that ture, a politics Unfortunately, Urban's elections class in 2000. Now-retired a government ... (the class) the class is diffi- tions class will end when a new history teacher Peter Schulman class “spends cult to teach. occupant takes residency in the began discussing idea of having a significant class “reaffirmed As Votto says, Oval Office. However, the class an elections class that would amount of time elections and will culminate with a special worm bin teach students about political covering elec- my passion (for) politics, par- schoolwide election on Nov. 4. Put your compostable fundamentals while tracking the tions issues,” Obama.” ticularly this There will also be an election elections process. but there is year, “matter so party on Nov. 4, with students, products (except meat, Since then, Urban has offered no class that much” that it is faculty, staff and parents all invited dairy, and greasy paper) numerous variations on his origi- is dedicated to – Amelia Koster ('09) difficult for him to watch the returns. nal class. Urban offered an elec- to completely Beginning at 5:30 p.m. on elec- in the Green Team’s a current elections class in 2003, when Gavin tion. hide his political affiliations. tion day, “we will have a big screen worm bin to help create Newsom was elected mayor of Talia Berson, a sophomore at However, Matz says that on CNN or NPR, and simultane- San Francisco, and in 2004, when though teachers are not apolitical, ously (we'll) have some projectors natural fertilizer. University High School, said that the Bush-Kerry race focused on ” they have found a way to teach looking at elections results on the her school has no specific course photo courtesy of national security concerns. on elections. without bias. Internet,” says Matz. MCTcampus.com Even though it has been suc- Karen Eshoo, assistant head of ” What's more, students who Urban, get ready for history! [email protected] e a t u r e s November 2008 3 F Ur b a n Le g e n d ShoutOut! Has your view of China changed since you watched the summer Olympics?

Absolutely! "I definitely was impressed .... I got the Olympic 'rush' whenever I watched it. And seeing the Olympics makes me

photo by Madeleine May want to go to China." JEnnifer Addams, 40, and Susan Shetterly, 45, enjoy their first minutes as a legally married couple on Louise McCune Oct. 2. There were 2,708 such marriages between June and September 2008 alone in the San Francisco County ('09) Same-sex couples hurry to marry by Madeleine May Sodonis, who was married to his Staff Writer partner, Will Hocker, in October, Domestic partnership "feels like credits Urban’s Gay Straight For Robin and Sylvia Brook, Alliance (GSA) with motivating traveling to San Francisco to get second class, separate but equal" him to take the next step. married was just another step - Algis Sodonis , science teacher Robin and Sylvia Brooks say Not really ... in their journey to becoming a marriage will open doors for "(T)he competition was legally recognized couple. them. “It makes adopting a lot more favored towards The couple had already gained that “only marriage between that, although “gays have a easier,” says Robin. domestic partnership in their a man and a women is valid right to their private lives”, Despite the heated battle, (China)." native Florida and in Canada. But or recognized in California.” changing the “definition of many same-sex couples are Samantha Lucas with this union, they were able If passed, it would overturn marriage for everyone else” is hopeful that Prop 8 will be ('11) to establish themselves as wife- a California Supreme Court unconstitutional. They warn that defeated. and-wife in the United States. decision on May 15 that allowed schools will be required to teach “It would be hard to take Casually dressed in blue gay and lesbian couples to students about gay marriage away rights from someone when jeans and blouses, and grasping marry. rights. you have already granted them” each other’s hands, the couple Opponents of Prop 8 argue Many gay couples want says Jennifer Addams, who was showed no signs of uncertainty that it would take away civil stronger legal ties than at City Hall to marry her partner, about the commitment that they rights. The “NO on 8, Equality for those offered by domestic Susan Shetterly. “We aren’t were about to make. All” campaign compares same- partnership. Algis Sodonis, threatening anyone,” added After Nov. 4th, other gay sex marriage to the freedoms of Urban science teacher, says Jennifer. couples may not enjoy the same speech and religion. domestic partnership “feels like Said Sylvia Brook: "We want experience. Proposition 8 states Supporters of Prop 8 believe second class, separate but equal.” the same things." Good Show “(T)he Chinese put on a good Olympics Students react to Palin daughter's news -- quite extravagant ... the Chinese showed by Céline Buehl women worry that the American Most of the Urban students work for her own daughter,” said that they could be and Sarah Maccabee interviewed expressed disap- Jessica Tom (’09). public is mishandling adolescent recognized." Staff Writers pregnancy by sensationalizing and proval at having Bristol Palin’s Some students said that Palin’s Is Bristol Palin’s pregnancy glorifying Bristol’s situation. pregnancy play such a large part abstinence policy already crossed Henry Klingenstein in the election. the line between public and pri- a legitimate news story, or are On Sept. 1, ('10) reporters who cover it invading Alaska Gover- However, one vate, so reporting on her daugh- the privacy of a 17-year-old who nor Sarah Palin "I think voters student said ter’s pregnancy is acceptable. should be left alone? announced that that Bristol Pa- ”Palin’s plan on interfering on Urban students had mixed re- her daughter need to weigh lin’s pregnancy the lives of Americans seems like sponses to news that the daughter Bristol was five her private reveals a fun- a pretty big invasion of private of Sarah Palin, Republican candi- months’ preg- damental flaw life, so at this point, I say that her date for vice president, is pregnant nant after blog- life, although it in Sarah Palin’s personal life as well as that of her with her first child. While teen gers alleged that support of ab- family is fair game,” said Katie pregnancy has always been con- her fifth child, shouldn't be a stinence-only Bentivoglio (’09). troversial, seeing it in the context Trig, was in fact sex education. Others said that Palin’s private of a presidential election made it her daughter’s priority in voting." “I think that life should not be a major factor much more personal. son. Fearing the it plays in as in choosing the next president. “I Starring Role “I think calling teen pregnancy potential dam- – Ali Arnold ('09) evidence that think voters need to weigh her pri- "Yes .... It gave me a an American reality is terrifying age that could abstinence only vate life, although it shouldn’t be a and sick,” said Ali Arnold (’09), have resulted policies aren’t priority in voting,” said Arnold. different idea of what one of several 17-year-old girls from the online accusations, the effective,” said Amelia Koster The general consensus appears China's situation on the campaign decided to clarify the (’09). Students questioned whether to be that, Bristol’s life must factor who were interviewed for their world stage is." views on the Palin story. Arnold situation. In the statement, Sarah or not Palin can lead the country into our perception of Sarah Palin Palin and her husband, Todd, as- when she was not able to imple- because it gives the American pub- believes teenage pregnancy should David Boddy not be accepted as the American serted their unconditional love and ment her policy views at home. lic insight on the candidate, her ('09) norm. Like Arnold, many young support for Bristol. “ “Obviously, (abstinence) didn’t potential, and her ideals. The Urban Legend November 2008 Arts 4 Novel pits teens vs. terror Orwell's classic 1984 gets remake FALL production OPENS NOV. 5 Director in book about SF teens who fight Wendy Parkman sums up the plot of Urinetown, Urban's fall for free speech amid war on terror play: "It's a neo-Brechtian, absurdist, melodrama musical. There's something in by Sarah Maccabee change. Their mutinous battle cry there for everyone." Staff Writer rings out over the Bay Area: “Don’t trust anyone over 25.” This cry Kelly Ngai ('09) and Many of us were witnesses to reflects not only a teen uprising, the horrific events of 9/11, but but the realization that youth are Sam Tygiel ('09) in other than going to airports, we the future. rehearsals for Urinetown. don’t experience the day-to-day "Winston" also is a reference Tickets will be available at the impacts of the war on terrorism di- to George Orwell's well-known door ($5 for students, $7 for rectly. What if all that changed? novel, 1984, which is also a look adults). For Marcus Yallow, the protago- at a future world where fear and photo by Isabel Moore nist of the novel, Little Brother, this terror are used as excuses to take is exactly the away the civil rights case. of an entire society. A tech- Little Brother fol- savvy 17-year lows Marcus’ In- old, he sneaks ternet civil rights a w a y f ro m rebellion and the school one day actions he takes to to participate secure his freedom in an ARG, a as a citizen. And kind of alter- the idea of tying nate reality the relevance of po- game played litical events to our through the space-age technol- Internet. ogy is clever as well But as he as informative. r o a m s S a n Not only does Mar- Francisco, the photo by Isabel Moore cus resist the gov- Bay Bridge is ernment, he does bombed, plac- LITTLE BROTHER is it through an in- ing the city un- available as a free download geniously devised der immediate online community. for Macs and PCs at http:// lock down. Working with his Soon, the craphound.com/littlebrother/. small band of tech- Department The audio version can be savvy friends, Mar- of Homeland downloaded for $20.00. cus gathers thou- Security takes sands of young sup- over the streets, porters citywide, throwing people into trucks and who share his fervent desire to end breaching the privacy of each the unjust roundups, beatings and and every individual. Everyone, intrusive surveillance tactics that photo by Isabel Moore including Marcus, is a suspect. are being used in the name of the Marcus himself is appre- War on Terror. it proves its authenticity with wants the book to be available for and detail of a classic novel. I hended, interrogated, beaten and After many twists and turns, thoughtful and clear writing. The free so that more people can read agreed with the points made, but abused. He is a prisoner of the the teens turn to a journalist for author, Cory Doctorow, is an avid it. He also dedicates the book in considered the use of language United States. He emerges from The Bay Guardian to help them blogger, and what makes the story part to the Booksmith store on generic. In other words, it’s more the situation with body broken, uncover the illegal prison that authentic is his knowledge and Haight Street, where he often buys of a commercial fiction rather than and his emotions shaken up. How- has been constructed by the De- depiction of the world he writes books. a distinguished novel. ever, his imprisonment sparks the partment of Homeland Security about. I found this book informative Still, I appreciated the over- beginning of a rebellious intent to on Alcatraz. Ironically, it is an old One unusual aspect of this and highly relevant to situations riding message of Little Brother: resist the powers that be. school print journalist, and not a book is that it is available as arising from the war on terror- Beware of losing freedom in a Marcus, or w1ns5t0n as he high-tech blogger, who finds a way a free download. Readers can ism. fearful world, but if you’re going calls himself over the Internet, to outwit terror. find it at Doctorow's website, at Having said that, I am not the to secure freedom, you must be assembles a group of vehement This book may appeal to the http://www.craphound.com. In most ardent science fiction reader. absolutely dedicated to achieving young supporters, all eager for technologically adept. However, a preface, Doctorow says that he Little Brother lacked the sweep your goal. Fall flicks to consider: Quantum of Solace, The Spirit

by Sebastian Gutierrez some cast (in- I give you solace: Quantum is the On the minus side, the color The Spirit looks to be, if nothing Special to the Legend cluding Leon- first true Bond sequel, picking palette looks too gray and de- else, one entertaining, visually ardo DiCaprio up about an hour where Casino pressing, the performances seem arresting film. With movie tickets going for and Russell left off, in mourning for a lady really wooden, and the fact that Hey, if it doesn’t work out, it’ll the price of an entire pizza, these Crowe), consis- love who drowned in a Venetian it’s another play on Beauty and provide some nice comic book days it pays to think ahead before tently reliable palazzo while he looked on, unable the Beast doesn’t help. violence until Watchmen comes you head over to the multiplex. director (Ridley to save her. Still, who knows? This could out. Which movies are worth your Scott), and a Gutierrez Daniel Craig is sure to de- turn out to be the greatest fantasy Five: Valkyrie. Don’t get me cash? Here are my recommenda- story worthy of liver another great performance, movie since Lord of the Rings, but wrong: This movie actually looks tions for five fall flicks. All will be in a Tom Clancy coupled with all the bone-breaking my money’s staying in my pocket good, but that fact that it has been Bay Area theaters this November novel. Combine all these things, action that made Casino utterly until I actually see it. delayed so many times casts a dark and December. and you have a contender for one addictive. The Bond necessities are Four: The Spirit. Remember shadow of doubt over this Tom Number One: Body Of Lies. Oh, of the most exciting and thought- there as well, including stunning Sin City? Remember the really Cruise vehicle. joy! A spy thriller set in a post-9/11 provoking movies to come out in locales, beautiful women, and a cool art style and the visual effects Besides, this looks to be one of world. No, seriously, Oh, joy! I a good while. nefarious villain. that made you feel like you were those historically accurate movies don’t think we're getting enough Two: Quantum of Solace. If you Shaken? Stirred? I hope so. in a graphic novel? Then, ladies that takes the accuracy and throws of films that take a serious look were of the camp that thought that Three: Twilight. I confess, I and gentlemen, you're likely to be it out the window. That and the eye at the war on terror and what it's Casino Royale was a sub-par James never read the book. The movie moved by The Spirit. patch. Ooooo, the eye patch. done to the national psyche. Bond film, get out, because there looks interesting, I’ll admit. But, Directed by Frank Millar, the Catch more of Sebastian's . Body of Lies looks to be at the is no talking to you. after seeing a trailer, or two, I’m brain behind Sin City, and adapted reviews at http://detailedcriti- forefront of the Oscars with its awe- For the rest of you sensible folks, not that excited. from a line of comics by Will Eisner, cisms.blogspot.com/. November 2008 The Urban Legend Ar t s Can art disappear? Not if you can capture it by Justine Palefsky Staff Writer It’s not your typical art gallery. Since its closing in 1981, the abandoned Public Health Services Hospital has served as a haven for inspired trespassers and renegade artists. The crumbling Presidio landmark is filled floor-to-ceiling with awe-inspiring murals, vibrant graffiti, and untouched artifacts. If you want to see all seven stories of this urban museum, however, you’ll have to get there fast: By this November, the hospital is set to be demolished and rebuilt into rental apartments. But if you can’t make it, don’t worry. Thanks to Urban senior Erin Wallace, this is not a case of art today, gone tomorrow. Last May, Wallace launched into an ambitious project to document the decrepit halls of the Public Health Services Hospital before they came down. A Presidio resident herself, Wallace grew up hearing ominous stories about the “haunted” hospital, but that never stopped it from intriguing her. “It’s a really pretty building,” Wallace explained. “I wanted it to go in there to do gang tagging,” she Wallace found everything from as flikr.com are host to hundreds security guards patrolling 24 hours be represented in a better way.” said. But in fact, “a lot of people do dead birds to makeshift beds to of PHSH photos, and many daring a day, not to mention a $100 fine. After contacting the Presidio amazing seven-foot-tall murals, or noose-hung baby dolls along the photographers enter illegally to see Wallace’s photos were shown in Trust, Wallace worked through huge stencils that they put a lot of peeling halls. Occasionally, it got the hospital for themselves. the Thoreau Center Gallery at the a student initiative organization time into.” creepy. Due to the demolition plans, Presidio for more than a month, but called Youth Funding Youth Ideas In May and June, Wallace took “The basement is blocked of however, that will change. “Dur- were taken down this September and drew up a proposal. After re- thousands of photos and uncov- all light,” Wallace said, and “you ing construction, there will be ad- to make room for new exhibits. ceiving a permit from the Presidio ered countless artifacts that had can’t see anything except in the ditional security to protect the site, However, Wallace still retains Trust, Wallace became one of a few accrued with all the other deserted split-second of your camera flash. construction materials, and equip- hundreds of photos of PHSH. The people legally permitted to explore and forgotten things that inhabit You can still go in the morgue . . . ment, as well as for public safety Legend has created a digital photo the remarkable hospital. the rubbish of a building frozen in and slide out the body trays.” and the prevention of injury,” gallery including several of Wal- According to Wallace, the time. Among these were the tags The eccentric, forsaken beauty warns Clay Harrell, spokesperson lace's photos. See them online at artistic talent hidden inside the and identification of past hospital of the Public Health Services Hos- for the Presidio Trust. Trespassers http://my.highschooljournalism. hospital is mind-blowing. “A big invalids, and a stack of love letters pital has attracted photographers now face a locked fence, padlocks, org/ca/sanfrancisco/urban/). misconception is that people just written to a hospital employee. for over a decade. Websites such several internal alarms, and two Berkeley Rep play spotlights race, culture, free speech

by Lizzie Logan Staff Writer the Jacket’s well-intentioned staff boredom. The others, including is at a loss for what to do, with Ben Freeman (Avi), an editor try- Students with strong opinions. Ari, the editor-in-chief, trying to ing desperately to stop the boy- Teachers with agendas. Class- reconcile his privileged upbring- cott; Shoresh Alaudini (Damien), mates just trying to figure out ing as a white, middle-class Jew a gang member working to figure how to get along despite their with his desire to cover the con- out the system; and Amaya Hal- differences and, maybe, because troversy in a way that will satisfy lifax (Alexa), accurately reflect of them. A fish tank in a hallway. everyone. the turmoil at Berkeley High. The And a high school newspaper try- Meanwhile, his relationship only weak link is Jahmela Biggs ing to cover it all. Sound familiar? with his girlfriend is tested as (Ms. Robbins) whose portrayal of Well, maybe not the fish tank, but she juggles what she thinks is fair a hyper-correct teacher borders the rest is part and parcel of the and what other people tell her is on cartoonish. Bay Area high school experience, right. The Berkeley Rep invited high and one school in particular. The beauty of the play is that, school journalists in the Bay Area Yellowjackets, which kicked off while based on the author’s high to a special performance on Sept. the fall season at the Berkeley school experience, it is not auto- 5. A question-and-answer session Repertory Theatre and closed biographical. The play does what was revealing: Apparently there Oct. 19, was written by Berke- we in real life cannot: It sees the were a lot of last-minute script ley High School alumnus Ita- story from every angle possible. changes. This is understandable mar Moses. It is set at his alma Each character is given a back- considering the complicated plot, mater during the mid-1990’s, ground and a motivation, making but the dialogue was genuine. In but touches upon still-relevant it nearly impossible for the audi- fact, I heard snippets of lines that themes. ence to choose a ‘side.’ As Urban I swear I have heard in the hall- The play features an ensemble student Amrit Khalsa (’10) put ways at Urban, especially during cast of economically, racially and it during intermission, “I want one monologue where Ari tries to socially diverse students and good things to happen to every- figure out where the Holocaust teachers, whose views and life- body … everybody is right.” fits in compared to slavery and styles are tested when the school The artistic choices were inter- his girlfriend’s Hispanic heri- newspaper, The Jacket, publishes esting, particularly the casting. tage. a racially sensitive story that Each actor played both a student I would highly recommend contains a reference to “track- and a teacher, and pulled it off Yellowjackets to anyone who has ing,” or separating students into brilliantly, though it felt like half ever dealt with issues of race, classes based on academic abil- the cast was missing during the free speech, stereotyping or a ity. final bow. A fence and a wall less-than-understanding author- The article serves as a catalyst covered in graffiti served as the ity figure. And that would be ev- for previously hidden racial and story’s backdrop; both became eryone. The play confronts some social tensions, as both teachers instrumental to the plot during of the issues we shy away from in Photo courtesy of kevinberne.com and students question whether the second act. our daily conversations. Whether tracking is academically sensible Editor vs girlfriend (Left to right) Amaya Alonso The plot began to border on you are an editor looking for facts or just another form of racial Hallifax and Ben Freedman confront beliefs that threaten their repetition at one point, but Kevin or an outcast looking for under- segregation. relationship in the world premiere of Yellowjackets at the Rep Hsieh (Sammy), who plays a fed- standing, Yellowjackets is relatable After a teacher announces that up sports writer, saved me from and thought-provoking. she is boycotting the newspaper, Photo illustration by Virgil Taylor

high-quality video begins. The opening program Planetarium Offers is called “Fragile Planet,” and it will guide you through the impossible - floating through Galaxy Quest space. An Academy scientist will explain the im- ages created from NASA’s data, beginning with Take A Walk Take a seat at the Academy’s the Academy’s own living roof, then zooming planetarium, and prepare to be out to examine planet Earth. Suddenly, you’ll taken on a digital ride: In an be flying all the way out of our own solar sys- IMAX-like setting, you’ll be tem and even out of the galaxy in a quest to surrounded by comfortable find possible planets that can support life. Af- chairs that seat 290 peo- On The Wild Side ter a 30-minute adventure, you’ll leave with a ple per showing, and the new perspective, having learned that Earth is screen is tilted by 30 indeed the only planet known to support life. from page 1 percent to enhance And what better place to realize all this than fundamental to understanding the amazing viewing quality. the world’s largest all-digital planetarium? Then the lights --Allegra Gordon diversity of our world and what we can do to dim, and the save it,” as Christopher Andrews, director of pretty museum, down version of the mu- public programs, told The San Francisco Chron- seum until the new build- icle. Thus the Academy boasts a collection of pretty big price ing was complete. masterpiece exhibits, including a simulated Moving back into the swamp complete with an albino alligator; the Bill Patterson, chair- Academy’s original loca- man of the California tion in Golden Gate Park deepest artificial reef of any museum in the Academy’s board of trust- required the cross-town world; a three-story rainforest; a planetarium; ees, Called It “the great- shipment of hundreds of and a living roof paved with soft humps of est, most magical public live birds, insects, fish, rep- earth and sustainably grown native plants. building anywhere.” The tiles, and other critters. In order to get the public interested in sci- new Academy certainly The Academy even grew its has made a big splash, own Philippine coral reef ence and the values it can teach, the Academy amazing the public for a period of three years is offering many opportunities for San Francis- with everything from while the renovation was co residents to experience this state-of-the-art architect Renzo Piano’s underway, in order to keep museum. PG&E will regularly fund admission- inventive design to its the environment authen- seemingly flawless in- tic for its fish. free days, and all 4th and 5th graders in San tegration of green Change as careful as this Francisco public schools will be able to attend technologies. But comes with a big price tag: science days at the Academy through a pro- creating the new- To be precise, $484 mil- est beautiful, pro- lion. In 1995, San Fran- gressive, and cisco voters approved a green addi- $29.2 million renovation tion to San bond, and an additional Franciso was $84 million in 2005. neither easy But that left the Acad- nor cheap. emy with another $370 The renova- million to find. A ground- tion was a breaking effort pulled in complicat- the money, with dona- ed process. tions outpacing any In 2004, the other cultural project Academy’s delicate exhibits, including live speci- in San Francisco his- mens, were packed up and tory. moved to a storage facil- --Allegra Gordon ity on 875 Howard Street, and Justine Palefsky which doubled as a scaled-

Aquarium Fish, Divers Dazzle The Academy of Science Aquarium is a combination of California aquatic animals and ma- rine animals from other regions. With more than 100 tanks filled with an assortment of fish, amphibians, and underwater invertebrates, along with many other forms of aquatic life, the aquarium will inspire anyone stuck in a terrestrial rut. The aquarium includes several exhibits. Once every hour, the “Water Planet” transforms into a 360-degree theatre that plays a five-minute movie about the importance of water. The California Coast Aquarium displays a giant octopus along with countless of other California creatures in 100,000 gallons of sea water. Another attraction is the hands-on tide pool exhibit, where patrons can hold hermit crabs and starfish. a Philippine coral reef includes more than 4,000 fish. Divers give presentations on each of the exhibits. Alongside the high-tech additions is one of the few relics of the old Academy: The alligator swamp, which holds two American alligators, one albino. Living among the real alligators are several alligator snapping turtles, usually hidden in the bottom depths. --Alex Roncal

82 25 2,500 100,000 212,000 degrees F in rainforest acre green roof fish in the Academy gallon lagoon in rainforest gallon coral reef light. Up On The Roof With 1.7 million plants, the Academy’s Liv- ing Roof is the largest concentration of na- Native Bay Area foliage stretches over 2.5 tive plants in San Francisco County. Already, acres of rolling hills in one of the Academy’s it’s a resource for local wildlife, with birds, most unique exhibits: The Living Roof. insects, rare butterflies, and even honeybees Engineered by a roller coaster designer, the creating new homes in this slice of earth 36 flowering humps provide not only a remark- feet above the ground. able view, but sustainable insulation and air As of opening day, there were nine differ- conditioning for the Floors beneath. Visitors ent species of plants living on the roof, but Aren’t allowed to walk on the hillocks, but the changing exhibit will expand, focusing they can experience their beauty from an ob- on flowers that sustain native insects. Main- servation terrace. The six inches of buffer soil taining an ecosystem on a roof seems like a absorb about 98 percent of the rainwater that lot of upkeep, but the Living Roof is actually hits it,, which scientists estimate will prevent highly sustainable in itself — it behaves in up to 3.6 million gallons of storm water run- the same way as natural Bay Area land, and off from carrying pollutants into the ecosys- requires no artificial irrigation or fertil- tem each year. Depending on the weather, automated sky- ization. In fact, the Living Roof is quite lights open or close to vent the building, and capable of outliving humans: Scientists are strategically placed to provide the coral at the Academy estimate it will last for reef and living rainforest with natural sun- about 400 years. --Justine Palefsky

A Rainforest That Just Won’t Quit Within the 90-foot glass dome of the California Academy are Take A Walk three majestic rainforests, sectioned off by a spiraling pathway. The exhibit is astonishing, with scenery that not only captivates but educates. First comes Borneo, with thin, tan trees and lush leaves. Next is Madagascar, where monarch butterflies chase onlookers and a rich, potent smell of wildlife fills the On The Wild Side air. Displays of geckoes, frogs, and chameleons of Madagascar line the pathway, guiding viewers to gram called “Rock Kids,” which is designed to the final floor, Costa Rica. There, tiny birds fly “bring students and science closer together,” around freely, like the butterflies in Madagas- car. The chirping and buzzing of insects and according to Newsom. Students will get a free animals overtakes all of the senses. “Rock Kids” T-shirt, which grants free entry to Automatic steamers control the climate the kids and their families any time they wish of the three different rainforests. The to return. heat and humidity increase with each step The renovated Academy of Sciences seems upward, capping at a steamy 85 degrees. The environment can take some getting destined to become an invaluable resource for used to, but the forests provide plenty Bay Area residents and one of San Francisco’s of enticement. Tiny birds fly around crown jewels. Though it is a repository of scien- freely, and the chirping and buzzing tific knowledge, the building’s interactive de- of insects and animals overtake the senses. sign and the many accessible exhibits indicate In reality, traveling to Borneo, that it is meant to be appreciated, cherished, Madagascar and Costa Rica would and explored. Opening day was a clear exam- mean criss-crossing the globe at a ple of how San Franciscans are reacting so far: cost of thousands of dollars, not Spacious halls were bustling with families, and to mention time. But at the Acad- emy, you can visit all three places, everywhere there seemed to be a young child in a single afternoon. playing with one of the many new interactive --Scott Lucas exhibits. Architect Renzo Piano said it best: Af- ter 10 long years, “(the Academy) is yours.”

News, With A Twist

Journalists often run into obstacles when reporting stories. but we managed to slip past the long lines at the Acade- my in an unusual way — by “Do you want to volunteer?” Giorni asked us. wrangling snakes. We jumped at the chance: Quickly, we put on Thanks to the Academy, editors Alex neon orange Tree Frog Trek hats and Acad- Roncal and Justine Palefsky had press emy T-shirts, and draped ourselves with a credentials, enabling them to enter couple of pythons. and tour the Academy along with the “What exactly did you have professional press. to do to get this job?” a cu- But we weren’t so lucky. Without rious woman asked. We just credentials, we were merely part of smiled. One hour later, at 9:30 the general public. With lines a.m., the doors officially snaking out to JFK Drive, we opened. We slithered in, thought we’d never get In. eventually returning Then, opportunity knocked our snakes to Giorni – or rather, hissed. While so that we could go walking to the end of the and write our sto- line, Scott noticed a man ry. holding an albino python. Just like any oth- He was curious about the er journalists. snake, so he got closer to --Allegra Gordon take a look. and Scott Lucas Suddenly, Scott recognized Photos (clockwise the man holding the python —it was Chris Giorni, the di- from top): Alex Ron- rector of Tree Frog Treks, a cal, Alex Roncal, science education program. Allegra Gordon, in middle school, Scott went on Justine Palefsky, daylong trips with Giorni. Alex Roncal. 212,000 484 10,000 20,000,000 gallon coral reef million dollar renovation feet of exhibit space specimens in Academy collection [email protected] p i n i o n s November 2008 8 O Ur b a n Le g e n d Letters to the Next President We asked Urban students, faculty and staff "There is no From education to healthcare to our excuse for the to write letters to the next occupant of the state of our public standing as a world citizen, the letters Oval Office. Below are their responses. schools ..." express a common hope ... for change.

'A multicolored Dear Mr. President, Dear Mr. President, to the development of nuclear Dear Mr. President, I want to know how you are go- The issue of educational reform America is not weapons in Korea and Iran. Make sure gay marriage becomes ing to make economic progression is one that each administration unpatriotic ..." -Suzanne Forrest legal and stays that way. Get our if we spend so much money on the grapples with and then fails to Assistant Head for Academics troops out of Iraq before we do war in Iraq and other costly gov- successfully address. Geoffrey "There's much to any more damage. Let abortion ernment programs such as Medi- Canada and his Harlem Project Dear Mr. President, be a choice made by the person do if you become care and Medicaid. How are you have shown results and this model Please make this the beginning who is carrying the baby, not going to ensure that Americans needs to be scaled throughout the president ..." for all of us. Make this a new day everyone around her. Treat.all. will still have a reasonable income nation. There is no excuse for the when each of us, regardless of race, people.equally! The prejudices and without subtracting thousands of state of our public schools. creed, class, or criminal history, can customs from before the civil war dollars through taxes? While gas Secondly, the American people come together as one people and haven't yet worn off. All people are prices and other necessities get need to be told and need to realize share the fruits of our labors as one. equal: women, men, adults, chil- more expensive, the American the truth about the economy and Make this the dawning of a new age dren, foreigners, emigrants and people seemed to be getting taxed the dangers of free capitalistic of compassion and the right to do citizens, people from any national- more and more. How will you fix markets; about the environment whatever you like, whenever you ity. Spend more time trying to bring this problem? and the damage we will further like, with whomever you like, in about peace, than commissioning, -Noah Howland ('10) create should we continue to live whatever location you like. Today building and training weapons, according to the “more is better can mark the final day of an age of aircrafts and troops. Act the way a Dear Mr. President, mantra;” and lastly about the "Please make this fear, an age that lasted far too long. beautiful, diverse country such as I may have voted for you, and diverse ways of life and beliefs the new beginning You can make today the first day of ours, should act. And if your name I may have voted for your op- of not only the world around us, a new age of hope. is McCain or Palin, get the hell out ponent. Now that the election is but in the very states and cities in for all of us ..." -Samantha Kostick ('11) of the White House! over, however, it doesn't matter. which we live. A multicolored, -Oona Robertson ('09) What does matter is that we come multi-faceted America is not an "I've voted for the Dear Mr. President, together as Americans to recognize unpatriotic one. Green ticket (to When you, as the leader of this Dear Mr. President, the enormous problems that we -Piya Kashyap express) my political country, mandate that the United Have you ever been to a base- face, beginning with the racism English States recognizes itself … that it ball game? If so, you've heard the that infected the last days of the beliefs ..." faces the genocide, rape, torture, national anthem, which ends with campaign, to the greed that has Dear Mr. President, murder and essential destruction the words, "land of the free and destroyed Wall Street as well as You assume the presidency at a "You assume the it birthed itself from…when you home of the brave." the dreams of first-time homebuy- watershed time in human history, presidency at a try to right those wrongs ... In recent years, President Bush ers, to the national illness that is and I support you initiating the watershed time in When you ensure that my has doubted the bravery of the uninsured health care, to the en- processes and policies that could human history ..." daughters’grandfather and every American people and used our vironment that we have used for transform the United States from one of the political prisoners in fear to take away our freedoms. too long without understanding the largest (per capita) consumer your own country is free ... when Wire-tapping and color-coded how it will affect our children. and polluter in the world to the "America needs to Palestinians can find their country terror levels come to mind. Can you bring us together to most committed and productive (become) a world on a map, their land in their hands, Without dwelling on the past, I solve these problems? That's engineer of technologies and citizen ..." the names and pictures of their would like to ask you to take our my hope, and whoever you are, strategies for sustainable practices murdered children in the news ... anthem seriously. Be brave. Make you'll have my support as long as in energy, agriculture, medicine, When real people will not die the bold decisions. You are presi- you work constructively towards and education. of starvation, of curable diseases, dent now, so do the right thing. consensus. -Jonathan Howland of thirst … from Gaza to Haiti to Scared of anti-gay backlash? -Beatrice Motamedi English Oakland … when you flex your Too bad. Be brave. Give homosexu- English power for justice – not just here, als the freedom to marry; you are Dear Mr. President, but everywhere around the globe … their president too. Scared of criti- Dear Mr. President, America needs to reestablish then and only then will I consider cism? Too bad! Be brave! Preserve There's so much to do should itself as a good world citizen. I want respecting you as a just leader; then citizens' right to free speech with- you become President. I barely to see you engage productively and only then will I fight for you. out questioning their patriotism. know where to begin. Certainly, with leaders of all NATO nations "Get our troops out Meanwhile, I've voted for Contrary to popular belief, the your plan to create greater energy around problems in the Middle Cynthia McKinney on the Green president is supposed to make of Iraq before we independence can do a lot of good East, Africa and South Asia, and ticket. decision that help the people, not here and relieve some international affirm (America's) commitment d o a n y m o r e She won't win, but my vote control them. While sometimes pressures. We'd also do well to to confront inhumane, repressive damage ..." expresses my political beliefs and these two overlap, that isn't an generate some good will in the and/or dangerous regimes, by voices my dissatisfaction with the excuse to exercise undue powers. world by closing Guatanamo and taking a more active role in stop- "Be brave! Preserve two-party system. If I can be brave enough to exercise leading with more humility. ping genocide in Darfur, finding -Kihana Ross my freedoms, you should be brave citizens' right to free -Greg Monfils ways to provide aid to the people Director, Service Learning enough to let me keep them. English of Myanmar, and taking an even speech ..." Play ball! more assertive stance with regard -Elizabeth Logan ('10)

Th e Le g e n d he Urban Legend is a vehicle of student freedom of expression and a public Editors in Chief Photo forum for The Urban School community. It is produced several times per Justine Palefsky Isabel Moore and Lizzie Logan T year during the academic term by the journalism class. We also publish Juan Alexander Roncal III an online version of the Legend courtesy of the American Society of Newspaper Managing Editor Spread Editors at http://my.highschooljournalism.org. Nora Lalle Allegra Gordon We welcome feedback about our articles and we also encourage readers to Opinion contact us directly with tips or ideas concerning future coverage. Alan Hsiao and Sam Kronish Staff Writers The Legend publishes letters on topics of concern to the Urban community. News Taylor Bostwick Letters must be signed; requests for anonymity will be considered on a case-by- Lizzie Logan Justine Palefsky case basis. Letters may be sent electronically to [email protected]. Sarah Maccabee Hard-copy letters may be sent to the Legend, care of The Urban School. Guest Features Madeleine May opinion colums also may be submitted electronically or in hard copy. We reserve Celine Buehl Tobyn Smith the right to edit for space and language. Arts Adrienne von Schulthess Signed articles or opinion pieces represent the views of the writer only. Un- Phoebe Winn signed editorials reflect a consensus opinion of the newspaper staff. Adviser Sports Beatrice Motamedi Scott Lucas and Alex Roncal 9 November 2008 The Urban Legend Op i n i o n s

Game changers The Legend Endorses Obama for President It’s time for a change. After eight years of war, a failing economy, corporate scandals, and damage to our reputation overseas, we need a president who will bring new solutions to Washington. Senator Barack Obama understands that real security comes from having more friends

Editorial and fewer enemies. An international war on terror is not a fight that we can win alone, and our allies have made it clear that they would embrace Obama as president and help turn the page on a rocky era of difficult relationships with our closest friends. The minute Obama takes office, we will have taken giant steps to repairing our dam- aged reputation and relationships abroad. His critics speak of a lack of experience, but Obama was one of the few to foresee accurately what lay ahead in Iraq. In 2002, when it was considered unpatriotic to question the march to war, Obama wisely warned against “an occupation of undetermined In Politics, Laughter Often Wins length, with undetermined costs, and undetermined consequences.” by Adrienne von Schulthess a sewage plant after George W. independent voters away from Staff Writer Bush. McCain with her parody of Sarah Moreover, Obama is committed to issues Political humor is as American I believe that political humor Palin. that we at Urban care greatly about, such as as hot dogs. It occupies every part has given us insight into just how At the same time, comedy of the media: There are political crazy politics has become. The New helps retain Americans’ interest education, healthcare, the environment, and television shows, such as The Daily Yorker cover demonstrated how in politics and gives politicians social and economic justice. Show; political cartoons in The ridiculous it was to insinuate that a chance to become real people. New Yorker and other magazines, Obama was a terrorist. Thanks to Leroy Votto, a history teacher at Obama's personal story is unique and and even books such as Steven Stephen Colbert, I laughed after the Urban, says that humor “help(s) compelling. With tough economic times Colbert’s I Am America (And So Republican National Convention, to demystify candidates … (it) is Can You!). Political cartoons are instead of being angry about the good because it makes them more ahead, we need a president who understands nothing new; no matter how old views expressed there. I suppose human.” the struggles of both the middle class and you are, chances are that even your the real test for me will be how I'll In a democracy, it's essential parents saw political cartoons. As react if someone names a sewage for citizens to be able to criticize the less privileged. Obama has been a part of early as 1765, Paul Revere pub- plant after Obama. When it comes people in power. After all, freedom both groups, and it's clear that he is pulling lished a famous cartoon resisting to political humor, the real question of speech is guaranteed in our the Stamp Act, and during the is, can we take a joke? Bill of Rights. Political comedians for the little guy. 1970’s Watergate scandals, Doones- Like it or not, humor has a should not be limited in the content As the generation that will pay for the bury published a famous cartoon major influence on politics. The of their cartoons or jokes. about stonewalling. Daily Show is incredibly popular, Restricting humor would go debt, the pollution, and the other conse- Recently, however, people reaching 1.5 million households, against our principles and lead quences of the past eight years, we believe have started to wonder where to influencing younger voters and is to a boring election. I don't know draw the line between funny and becoming a main source of news what I would have done without that Obama’s approach is the only way to offensive. Critics labeled The New for a growing number of Ameri- the comic relief of Tina Fey and recapture the American dream before it dis- Yorker “tasteless” last summer cans. Stephen Colbert to lighten a long when it published a front cover For the first time, The Daily presidential campaign. Without appears. with presidential candidate Ba- Show’s reporters were granted the essential element of humor, I Given the issues we face, and the stark dif- official access in August to the am sure that we would have the rack Obama and his wife dressed ferences between the candidates, we endorse as Islamic terrorists. Other critics Democratic National Convention. lowest voter turnout in history. have attacked a ballot measure in A survey by The Washington Times And that would be no joke. Barack Obama. San Francisco that would name found that Tina Fey helped to sway

Focus: Parent notice law a bad idea his November, the would usually have a positive impact on her self-esteem. issue of parental Removing a pregnant girl from her normal routine notification before could diminish her mental capacity to make the right T abortions for mi- decisions for herself and her child. If a girl wants to nors makes its third ap- have an abortion and her parents will not allow it, she pearance on the ballot. may become desperate. “Teenagers who do not wish to P r o p o s i t i o n 4 4 tell their parents about their abortion may have a good would require hospitals reason and may end up attempting illegal procedures," and schools to notify the warns Chapin Boyer ('10). Those girls who think that parents of teens seeking by Madeline May they cannot capably raise their child will continue to abortions. Also, a 48-hour find ways to terminate their pregnancies, whether or waiting period would be not the procedure is safe. Since when has the mental and required before a minor could receive an abortion. physical safety of teen mothers been a debatable notion? The issue of teen abortion is different from most Pregnant girls do not need regulations and require- other initiatives because those who would be the most ments — they need support. California should enact a affected by the proposition are not old enough to vote. proposition that requires teen moms to receive support, As a high school student, I believe that teens are en- including unbiased and reliable medical care. Instead of titled to more control over their decisions, not less. focusing on the stigma of teen pregnancy, schools should The sad fact is that some parents do not have the best create more opportunities for teens to learn about safe photo by Isabel Moore interests of their daughters at heart: If told about their sex, with objective education about contraception and the daughter’s pregnancy, some parents might not support realities of childbirth. Prop. 4 does nothing to prevent girls Urban students can't vote on Prop. 4 but will be their daughter in the way she needs. They might punish from becoming young mothers or to help them if they do. among those teens who are most affected by its outcome her or isolate her from friends and other activities that Give young mothers a chance to make their own decisions. 10 November, 2008 p o r t s [email protected] S Ur b a n Le g e n d

Blues 1 0 Urban Blues UHS 0 1 University Devils By the 01 01 NUMBERS Urban Ties Uni 7 Boys' soccer team is fierce in rivalry match Number of goals Jonah Williams ('09) has scored this season as of 10-18 18:53 Minutes and seconds it took Sean Judkins- Boeri ('11) to run the Stanford 5k

12 photo by Isabel Moore andrew Leddy, Urban number 6, battles a University player in a closely fought 1-1 draw, played on Uni's home turf Seniors who are playing a fall by Allegra Gordon and Alex Roncal Varsity sport Staff Writers feel intimidated. of really positive energy.” round playoff game against Drew With Urban’s first move, how- Heading into halftime, Urban The 17 boys’ soccer players School on Oct. 27. ever, the feeling changed. displayed momentum, excitement Urban defeated Drew by a score who walked out onto the field for The game began with an Urban and perseverance. However, the Urban’s Bay Counties League play of 2-0. The first goal was scored kick past the team missed on a corner kick, which was then opener against University High midfield line. a few oppor- School on Sept. 24 had more on headed in by Andrew Leddy ('10) Within the first tunities to run midway through the second half. their minds than just one game. 10 minutes, Jor- up the score, Last year, Urban’s boy’s var- Jonah Williams ('09), who crossed dan Calhoun with several the ball to Leddy for the first goal, 14 sity soccer team made it to the (’10) crossed off sides calls bended in the second goal unas- North Coast Section tournament, the ball to Cap- destroying the a first time for a team that has not sisted from the corner box. Number of Varsity tain Scott Lu- surge. Univer- The Drew game proved even been among Urban’s strongest cas (’09), who sity pounced soccer players who squads. more physical than the one against scored. on the oppor- Uni: Urban received four yellow This year, after losing eight Urban con- tunity, scoring shaved their heads seniors, including four starters cards and Drew received two. trolled the ball within the first As of press time, Urban was set for the first game from last season, and hiring a new for the rest of 20 minutes. coach, Antony Reyes, players wor- to face Marin Academy in the sec- the first half, Goalie Tom Biba ond round of the BCL playoffs. ried about the transition. w i t h L u c a s (’09) stepped The question on their minds In a statement, Boddy said that stealing the up his game this year has been a building year, was: Could new athletes bond, ball and then and saved some become a team, and score victo- and that the team will likely be getting tackled crucial shots stronger next year. ries? from behind by during the sec- Even before the match against “The players on the varsity a Uni player, ond half. But squad have learned a lot this year," 590,550 University, Urban's soccer team who received a despite his ef- Boddy wrote. "The younger and had two barbecues, giving athletes yellow card. Above: The soccer team pre- forts, the game a chance to get to know each other less experienced players especially Number of inches The game pares for battle and stands ended with a have grown into smarter, more as people and not just players. strong on the soccer field was physical tie. composed, and generally more Sam Kronish has Players also shaved their heads, from the start. The Blues were Below: Coach Tim joins the capable players on the field." using it a team bonding experi- University re- not defeated, run in three cross ence. huddle in a team meeting Boddy added that the game is c e i v e d t w o but after com- as much mental as physical. “Shaving the heads created uni- yellow cards. ing so close to country races this ty, because (now) everybody is the Players “must not allow nega- Reyes was not victory, they tivity and excessive criticism fall same,” said Jonah Williams (’09). coaching from were under- But the question remained: Could within the team to dampen spirits the bench this game because he had standably disappointed. during matches,” Boddy wrote. this group work as a team? received a red card in the previous “We were not able to maintain In Uni, Urban faced a formi- And if that means shaving game against Marin Academy. the focus and concentration nec- heads again next year, he believes dable foe. The school typically “At halftime, we were pumped essary to hold Uni to a shutout,” fields strong soccer teams, and it that the team will make the sacri- up, because we had never tied Boddy said afterwards. fice. has always been a powerhouse in University (by then), or beaten Over the next few weeks, the the league. Despite their efforts “For team unity, yes, that could them,” said Co-captain David Blues compiled a 1-6-3 record in (happen),” Boddy predicted. to come together as a team, the Boddy (’09). “So there was a lot league play going into their first- Urban players couldn’t help but Urban Legend November, 2008 11 Sp o r t s

FAST FACTS Clean, green and mean ... polo? Jordan Calhoun, Varsity soccer Segways replace horses in a high-technology twist on a classic game forward, has his pilot's license

Becca Atkinson, Varsity tennis by Scott Lucas player, has her driver's license Sports Editor A triumphant war call and a TELLING NUMBER raised mallet let everyone know who was the champ: After scoring Number of seniors on a beautiful goal, Ted Perry was sur- Varsity soccer who have rounded by his teammates, who played since freshman year 4 gave him high fives and pats on his FIVE KEY RETURNEES gold, spray-painted bike helmet. In any other polo game, Perry Tom Biba would not be playing, much less Four-year starter as Varsity goalie scoring goals. At age 65, suffering from diabetes and a wrist problem, Chandler Tang it’s fair to say that Perry would Four-year Varsity lebaro be on the sidelines, sipping wine while watching others compete. Tommy Wong But thanks to his Segway, Perry Two-year Cross Country Captain is back in the game. His wide grin said it all: “It just Sarah Marver seemed like it would be fun!” Sister of Jeff (alum) and Julia ('10) Perry and other polo players gathered in Golden Gate Park on Jeanne McPhee Sept. 14, 2008 for Polo in the Park, Varsity Girl's Volleyball Co-Captain an annual celebration sponsored COACH’S CORNER by Horses in California, Inc. On a cold, foggy Sunday, in- Boys Varsity Soccer Coach stead of the usual middle school athletes running around kicking Antony Reyes soccer balls, it was men and women riding horses and Segways. Play- ers ranged in age from 15 to 69. “The fan support has been Ted Perry and the Sacramento excellent this year. I’ve been Gold Rushers played a vicious really happy with the amount match against the San Jose Polo of fans that have come. They Bears. The Gold Rushers main- have been loud and really tained possession of the ball, with helpful for the team. When Perry’s goal giving his team a 1-0 there is a game far away its lead after the first quarter. understandable why students But the Polo Bears struck back. aren’t there, but parents are The Gold Rushers were playing without a goalie, using the extra always there, cheering our player as an attacker to help Blues on. Ur- maintain possession. The Bears photo by Isabel Moore ban, keep up took advantage, and scored a Above: Polo in the park on Sept. 14 featured several polo games, but only one the good work goal within the first minute of the was played on Segways. Below right: Ted Perry of the Gold Rushers prepares for a match and I hope second quarter. you come sup- Now the pressure was on. port us when Down 2-1 late in the game, the Violent swinging and chaotic plays for the Gold Rushers, said he we are in the Gold Rushers scored another goal cramming set the tone for the next hopes Segway polo grows. But he Antony Reyes playoffs.” in a full-on attack, and scored again 30 minutes. There were hardly any added that he does not think high moments later. The final score was breaks between scrums. Horses schools should adopt Segway polo 3-2. constantly bunched up around as a sport because “high school SCORECARD After the games, players of both the polo ball, and riders drove the students are not as mature as you Urban Team W-L-T polo persuasions said that the two horses into each other to push each would think” and Segways might Boy's Varsity Soccer 4-8-3 sports are completely different, other away. not stand up to teenage abuse. with traditional polo emphasizing By contrast, Segway polo A brand-new Segway costs Boy's JV Soccer 1-5-2 physical contact while Segway seems to favor the youth who can $15,000, though players said that Boy's Cross Country 2nd Place polo focuses on finesse. balance standing up while hitting used Segways can be found online Girl's Cross Country 2nd Place Alexander Anolik, 69, of San a ball with a mallet. Whacking a for $5,000 or less. Girl's Varsity Volleyball 12–8-0 Francisco, said that classic polo polo ball 25 yards down the field Although Segways have re- Girl's JV Volleyball 5–2-0 is more aggressive and physi- while moving 12.5 miles per hour defined polo, the sport is still Girl's F/S Volleyball 1-1-0 cal. His own match was a good takes tremendous hand-and-eye extremely exclusive, and old ways Girl's Varsity Tennis 7–3-0 example: Anolik and his fellow coordination. die hard. riders saddled up and raced their Douglas Molina, a 15-year old As Anolik put it: “It’s not polo Girl's JV Tennis 6-5-0 horses onto the field. sophomore from Sacramento, who — it’s Segway polo.” photo by Isabel Moore Athletics outlook: Varsity round-ups look forward

What’s the outlook for the Blues this seem impossible just a few years TENNIS VOLLEYBALL year? We asked several captains and ago. Those far-reaching goals are Girls Varsity tennis is having This season, the Urban volley- key players to fill us in on how their now within the team’s grasp. Both a strong season, despite the lack ball team started off strong, losing teams are doing and what the future boys and girls run exceptionally of fans who come to games. As of only one game in the preseason. may hold. well. They are able to consistently Oct. 25, the team is 7 and 4, having Granted, in some of our games, challenge experienced runners in beaten Drew, Lick-Wilmerding, we didn’t feel challenged. But this CROSS COUNTRY rivaling schools. Convent of the Sacred Heart, resulted in some great practice. As Urban’s cross country team In the Bay Counties League T. Wong ('09) J. McPhee ('09) and Bay School, and losing close we began the regular season, we has gone through some massive meet on Oct. 21, Urban boys games to University and Marin struggled to beat the tougher teams changes this year, fortunately for and girls placed second, slightly Academy. We are working on im- in the league, such as University proving team spirit, so we recently and Marin Academy. However, we the better. We now have a new behind Marin Academy. In the Athletics Online coach, Bill Cirocco, who was the girls’ race, Sally Scopa (‘09) came purchased sweatsuits and went to had two tournaments in which we www.urbanschool.org/ co-coach for University’s cross in third, Caitlin Iglehart (‘11) came lunch as a team before our match placed second and third. country team. We also have our in fourth, and Emma McCune (‘12) page.cfm?p=5 against Marin. Our skill level is We have a large team this year longtime coach, Mary Schaezlein, came in seventh. In the boys’ race, improving significantly, and with with five seniors, seven juniors and who has been working with us for Tommy Wong (‘09) came in fourth, Athletics Office playoffs underway, the entire team a solo sophomore. We are excited to seven years now. Mary and Bill in- Sean Judkins-Boeri (‘11) came in 415 593 9530 is working very hard during prac- keep playing, and we hope to see spire the team through experience sixth, and Alex Wu (‘12) came in tices. We’re a great team to watch, you cheering us on throughout the and leadership; they effectively ninth. so come and see our next match! rest of the season and playoffs. motivate new and returning run- for more information ners to reach goals that would —Tommy Wong (‘09) —Becca Atkinson (’10) –Jeanne McPhee ('09) November 2008 a b o o s e [email protected] C Ur b a n Le g e n d

Fall Picnic (Below and left) Urban students partake of food, sun and fun at the annual picnic on Sept. 6 in Golden Gate Park.

photo by Isabel Moore photo by Isabel Moore

photo by Stefan Martinez BTSN On Sept. 20, Back to School Night introduced parents and family members to the inner workings photo by Derek Harwell of Urban School Yo Yosemite teaching. The Outdoor Program's fall backpacking trip to Yosemite was a blast. Geoff Ruth even decided to embrace the September air by climbing into a tree. photo by Derek Harwell Secret Life of

MARI ORAM An ongoing series on Urban life and people

of Latin dancing to be an athletic thrill; salsa gives her a Maybe. Right now, “I’m going through (salsa) with- here are many things that students know about kick she doesn’t experience anywhere else. drawal,” Oram says. “But I dance in my room.” Meridith “Mari” Oram: She moved to San Fran- “I go into a zone,” she explains. She even claims that --Allegra Gordon and Alex Roncal cisco on Aug. 1, she lived in Guatemala for three in her former life, she was a pro salsa dancer. In salsa, the years, and she is fluent in Spanish. male usually requests his partner to join him in a song. Not T Graduating from Pennsylvania State Univer- surprisingly, as a language teacher, Oram finds the best sity, Oram joined Urban as the new Spanish teacher in dances are with native speakers. September, replacing Ana Maria Lasala. However, there “It is not the same energy with a bunch of (non-native is a secret side of her life that many students do not see in speakers),” Oram says. Plus, she can speak Spanish, which the classroom. makes for “the whole experience.” Oram confesses that she’s “addicted to salsa dancing.” Unfortunately, since starting work at Urban, Oram hasn’t She began dancing in college, when she was in a summer taken to the floor. Instead, she finds herself scrambling to program in the Dominican Republic. deal with Urban’s high-tech culture. However, she did not start dancing salsa until a subse- Will her salsa skills come in handy when her SMART quent visit to Spain. Oram found the high- intensity style Board stops working? photo by Isabel Moore